GREER’S BEST BUYS:Hipster boutique without pretension

Mauve is just the answer for hipsters looking for underrepresented or undiscovered brands in a wide range of prices. The Newport Beach boutique is casual and unpretentious. Mauve’s been compared with the Closet, another great trendsetting store for men and women. Owner Joshua Ritchie seeks out niche brands and limits quantities to keep apparel fresh. It’s a great place to find upscale casual and premium street wear for men.

Hot sellers include Stussy for men, Rogue Status, Mighty Healthy, Atwater and Obey. For women choose from stylish T-shirts, zip hoodies, denim, tanks, jackets, dresses, and more. Eclectic brands include Quail, Jet, Bilingual and Jenny Han.

And check out the Quail trunk show from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday. Meet fashion-forward Quail designer Michelle Nguyen for the debut of her spring collection. Quail combines luxury fabrics and simple designs. And it offers modern women a twist on timeless classics. It’s a niche line launched to provide beautifully inspired clothes with an affordable price.

Mauve, 3305 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach is open noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday; noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (949) 675-3191 or go to www.mauveonline.com .

HEY, LOOK

The Look at Fashion Island in Newport Beach celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, no small feat for an independent boutique. Co-owners Arlan Flaum and Kirsten Strahl carry fashion-forward apparel for men, women and kids. The Look offers a premium denim bar, embellished T-shirts and hoodies, cashmere sweaters, accessories and more.

Hot-selling denim lines include 575, Tommy Lee’s line, Serfontaine, Allen B., and Robin Jeans. And popular collections include A&G;, Raw Seven, and 151 — its recently launched private label, an edgy rock-’n’-roll-influenced apparel line for men and women.

“We always carry hip, exclusive lines that can’t be found in other stores,” Flaum said. “That’s what sets us apart…. The Look caters to a body-conscious customer who wants to look great and have fun with their style.”

Flaum is a third-generation retailer who opened the Look when he was just 20 and had already run his own stores in Corona del Mar, Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley since he was 17. The Look has enjoyed a loyal following for many years.

“Fashions may change, but we are always at the forefront of the trends,” Flaum said. “The Orange County customer is more sophisticated and fashion-conscious than ever.”

The Look, which is in Fashion Island’s Atrium Court, is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

For more information, call (949) 644-2400.

KID PRINTS

John L. Blom Custom Photography in Corona del Mar offers a children’s portrait special — 50% off sittings through April. The award-winning photographer has captured beautiful images of children for more than 30 years. John works with his protege, Lisa, to capture a child’s beauty and record his or her personality. Sittings can take place at their studio, in their recently renovated garden, at the beach, or at customers’ homes. A portrait consultant can help customers decide which setting works best for a child. And they can suggest props and clothing too.

Schedule an appointment to see samples for more ideas. John L. Blom is at 3732 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar. For more information, call (949) 675-3130 or go to www.johnblomphotography.com .

NOT TOO SHABBY

Some confuse the Shabby Chic name with flea market finds transformed into romantic vintage looks, but the Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic store at Fashion Island is far from that. Shabby Chic offers classic-style furniture, which buyers can get custom-sized and slipcovered in specially designed fabrics. You can also pick up bedding, handmade lampshades, and vintage and reproduction chandeliers.

Ashwell selects Venetian and wood-framed, over-sized mirrors; cotton and silk rugs; and a great sleepwear line. Fabric patterns change twice a year, and sales are almost nonexistent.

And fresh for spring, Ashwell launched three new bedding collections: Gypsy Rose, Floral Ikat and Driftwood. Gypsy Rose evokes an eclectic bohemian vibe, inspired by over-dyed fabrics, shawls and florals. Floral Ikat is a bit more sophisticated in luxurious washable silk dupioni and soft feminine prints. Fittingly, the Driftwood collection has a beachy feel.

Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic, 401 Newport Center Drive, No. 207 in the Atrium Court at Fashion Island in Newport Beach, is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (949) 219-0663, or go to www.shabbychic.com .

writes Best Buys for the Daily Pilot each Friday. She’s the founder and president of www.greersoc.com, a free daily e-mail service that provides the latest in Orange County fashion, dining and trends.