Let’s step off the Main for a moment - just for a moment - and stroll (stylishly) over to Avenue Laurier for a peek at this particular shopping avenue’s fashion mecca, Billie Boutique.

Opened in September of 2005, Billie is the perfect embodiment of what a boutique should be; small and intimate; offering labels and garments meticulously chosen to both reflect the shop’s image and create sophisticated looks for their clientele; knowledgeable and attentive staff; and, a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes shoppers want to stay prrreeeetty much all day.

A large front window looks out upon the tree-lined Laurier and, against this backdrop, one can peruse the multitude of carefully selected labels on offer, covering feminine fashion from classic to trendy. Rifle through tees and tanks by Velvet, James Perse and Repeat neatly folded in the center dresser; choose a pair of J Brand, Hudson or Rich and Skinny jeans stacked on the side shelf; and, slip into summer and cocktail dresses by Designers Remix Collection, Graham & Spencer and Snob hanging on the side racks. Don’t forget to accessorize with jewelery by previously-mentioned Montreal designer, Claudia and shoes by Bloch (ballet flat experts), Dolce Vita and Ted Baker. Nor does it stop there - other brands and designers include Anna Sui, Filippa K, K by Karl Lagerfeld, Qi Cashmere, Tara Jarmon, Tracey Reese, Margit Brandt and Loeffler Randall. Sooo, yeah. No big deal or anything.

Such a lovely, refined space it is too. The soft colours, the beige wood, the rosy champagne satin and warm lighting in the dressing rooms that bathe you in a nice, little glow - SUCH a contrast from the usual heinous, yellow-florescent glare in most store change rooms - plus, the way in which the clothes are displayed, it’s basically like a gorgeous walk-in closet. One that I want installed in my bedroom. Immediately.

Billie is located at 141 Laurier St. W, t: 514. 270. 5415. Check out their amazing website to shop online and follow their blog at www.billieboutique.com