Local Business Owners Offer Jewelry, Clothing Tips for the Holidays

Michelle Meltzer and Ranny Lawless know a thing or two about what women want this holiday season.

Meltzer owns Michelle's Jewelry Boutique and Lawless owns Elizabeth Lee Boutique. Men, if you don't know about these Wayland spots just down Route 20 from Weston, ask your wives/girlfriends/daughters ... they know about them.

Patch talked to both ladies about what's hot in their particular stores this holiday season, and they were happy to share some tips.

Bookmark this article and use it as your shopping guide.

Jewelry

"The trend is looking for something different," Meltzer said. "Department stores are everywhere, and they’re inundated with the same thing. The boutiques are really catering to a larger price range."

Meltzer said that, in particular, layering is big when it comes to jewelry whether you're talking about necklaces, bracelets or rings.

Multiple bangle bracelets are a classic gift that you can pick up in just about any price range, Meltzer said.

Meltzer also said that mixing metal tones is becoming fashionable in the northeast, so consider some pieces featuring a mix of yellow, white and rose gold.

When it comes to the younger set, layering "dainty" necklaces has become a trend, Meltzer said, explaining that a tiny chain with a single charm such as a horseshoe or flower can be layered with a similar necklace featuring a different charm.

And broaches are back for the business set, Meltzer said. If there's a career woman in your life, consider a great statement broach to be worn with her favorite business suit.

Whether you shop at her store or somewhere else, Meltzer said to keep in mind that you don't have to spend a fortune, but if you're looking for fashion jewelry, quality matters.

And don't forget to ask about the return policy wherever you buy. Meltzer warned that many jewelers won't accept returns.

As far as holiday specials at Michelle's Jewelry Boutique, on Dec. 6 from 5 p.m.-9 p.m., Meltzer will donate 20 percent of all purchases to the new Wayside Theater Company.

Clothing and Other Gifts (and dressing for those holiday parties)

Over at Elizabeth Lee Boutique, it's all about the leather, lace, sparkle and cashmere.

Lawless said the "little black top" is back in a big way and, when paired with a dark denim, makes a great outfit for many holiday house parties. She said to look for detailing like leather trim or sequined accents.

While black is always popular, Lawless said not to be afraid of color. The tones are saturated this season and a little red top will pair just as well with dark denim as a little black top.

At Elizabeth Lee, they keep a database of what they're customers have purchased before, so don't panic if you aren't sure about a size or style. Employees at the boutique can always look it up and take the guessing game out of picking a size.

If you just can't bring yourself to pick out pants for the lady in your life, than consider a great cashmere wrap (Lawless said they're flying off the shelves), texting gloves or perhaps skip the apparel all together.

There are chic iPad cases (faux leather and the real thing depending on your price point), as well as great purses and other items.

"We really try to cater to a wide price range," Lawless said, adding that she rarely sees customers come in who don't leave with some purchase.

Lawless is participating in Small Business Saturday and is running a sale at the moment offering 10 percent off one item, 15 percent off two items, and 25 percent off three or more items.

"Support your local businesses," Lawless said. "That's where you find creativity and uniqueness."