In Chantal’s new location at 229 Commercial Street, we find owner and uber fashionista Chantal Young, huddled over her computer with two shopkeepers, ogling a new Botkier bag in Metallic Mermaid that is en route to her shop. (Update: It has officially arrived in store and is “worthy of the hoopla.”)  Chantal has been a shop owner in Portland since 2006. Originally from Madison, Wisconsin (“it’s like a mini Portland”) she has no formal experience in fashion – just a great eye and style running through her blood.

She graciously gave us a tour of the huge new space and pointed out lots of stuff she thinks will be popular for Fall. I gravitated towards a Rebecca Taylor faux fur vest and skinny cargo pants by Blank. Another stand out was a chunky-knit crop sweater, also by Rebecca Taylor.

“Leggings will continue to be big,” says Chantal – only in place of classic black, now there’s leather and jeggings (jean leggings) that customers can pick up. She also thinks military-inspired pieces and mixing textures, like cotton striped with lace, will continue to rise in popularity. Her wall of accessories has grown to include an amazing array of handbags like Twelth Street by Cynthia Vincent, Treesje and Botkier in slouchy hobos, studded patterns and suedes – oh my.

Though Portland ain’t no Milan or New York (and we wouldn’t want it to be), it’s impressive that a boutique like Chantal exists, bringing style savvy pieces to Mainers that appreciate the finer fashions in life. Be sure to check out Chantal’s newest location on Commercial Street or shop her boutique online. (A HUGE thanks to Chantal for letting us shop and talk!) 

Pictured Above: Chantal outside her store-front/ Faux fur vests by Rebecca Taylor/ Couldn’t resist a quick try-on/ Cropped sweaters by Rebecca Taylor/ Showing off her new handbags/ Wall of accessories