Brady Drake
When it comes to shopping local, the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo area punches well above its weight. Boutique owners here are curating confidence, creativity, and connection. Each shop has its own personality, from the effortlessly cool and minimalist to the bold, bohemian, and unapologetically glam. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect denim, a locally made accessory, or something that simply makes you feel good, these boutiques prove that shopping small means finding big style.
Absolute Style Boutique
Q&A with Absolute Style Boutique Owner Erica Hilde
What inspired you to open your boutique, and why here in the FM area?
I’ve been interested in fashion my entire life. I graduated from the apparel & textile fashion program at NDSU and went on to study business at Minot State University, where I completed a master’s degree. With my educational background combined with my retail experience throughout high school and college, I felt confident in starting a career in the industry. I’m originally from Moorhead and always recognized the lack of apparel stores in our town. There is also no sales tax on clothing in Minnesota, so Moorhead seemed like the best opportunity to open up shop.
How would you describe The personality or style Of your store?
Our boutique style balances comfort with trendiness. We carry stylish pieces that women can actually live in. Think everyday wear with a polished, put-together feel. I only bring in fabric and styles that I personally love and would wear myself.
How do you see your boutique fitting into the Fargo–Moorhead–West Fargo fashion scene?
I find that we’re different from other boutiques in the area because we carry small batch designs from other small businesses across the United States. You can find some of the most popular boutique brands in our store but also unique styles you won’t find anywhere else in town.
Do you collaborate with other local businesses or makers?
Yes! Supporting other local, women-owned businesses is important to us. We carry products from two Fargo makers: 521Handmade and Homemade Cards by Melissa. You can also shop a collection of our favorite clothing items at Hair With Care salons in Fargo and Vibrant Salon in Halstad, MN. We also print some graphic t-shirt designs right here in Moorhead at Personal Touch Marketing & Manufacturing.
What kinds of clothing or designers Do you focus on bringing in?
We prioritize quality and comfort. We’re always bringing in soft knits, flattering fits, and easy layers that feel stylish without trying too hard.
How do you balance timeless pieces With fast-changing fashion trends?
Swapping out your entire closet each season isn’t sustainable! I always start with pieces that feel classic and wearable, then mix in fun, trending details each season. It’s about finding that sweet spot between longevity and on-trend. We carry styles that feel current but that you’ll still love for seasons to come.
What’s been the most popular item or style this year?
Coordinating sets have been huge this year! Anything that combines comfort and versatility. Our matching lounge sets and cozy sweatshirts have been popular pieces at the checkout counter.
What makes shopping at your boutique different from a big-box store or online retailer
Our team is small and sociable. You’re likely to shop with the same stylist again during a future visit, and they’ll get to know your personal style and fit. We offer honest, friendly advice and love helping women find pieces they’ll actually wear and love.
How do you get to know your Customers’ style and needs?
Due to the small size of our store, we’re lucky to spend time with each customer. Over time, we remember what they’ve loved and what styles fit them well. We can even add customers to our “incoming styles” list and send them a message when something they might like comes into the store.
What do you hope people feel when They shop here?
I hope they feel comfortable, confident, and appreciated. There are many places in the FM area where they could spend their money. I am so thankful they are supporting my local small business, and I want them to know how much we appreciate it.
What’s your personal favorite item in the store right now?
Our jean collection! One of the most popular items that customers mention wanting to try when they walk in the door is a new jean style. I’m honored that they come to us first and feel comfortable trusting us when it comes to trying something new. I’ve personally been loving the wide leg jeans—stop by and try on a pair or two!
Where do you find your own style inspiration?
I love sourcing new styles at market! Seeing what other buyers are wearing and what new styles are featured with our favorite brands. I also find inspiration from the women who shop here. Seeing how our customers style pieces in their own way always sparks new ideas.
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Readers can enjoy 15% off their purchase when they mention this article in-store or on online orders with code: MeetFargo15
Absolute Style Boutique
901 Center Ave
Moorhead, MN 56560
absolutestyleboutique.com
Facebook | /shopabsolutestyleboutique
Instagram | @shopabsolutestyleboutique
Olive Street
Q&A with Olive Street Owner Maura Havig
What inspired you to open your boutique, and why here in the FM area?
I wanted to create a space where women could discover pieces that feel both effortless and elevated. We love the kind of wardrobe that works for real life but still feels special. Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo has such a strong sense of community and creativity, and I felt there was room for a store that brings a modern, curated perspective to the local area.
How would you describe the personality or style of your store?
Sophisticated but not too serious—think minimalist silhouettes, refined neutrals, and textures that make even simple pieces feel luxe. Olive Street is for women who appreciate classic style with an elevated, modern twist.
How do you see your boutique fitting into the Fargo–Moorhead–West Fargo fashion scene
We love a blend of big city style mixed with Midwest warmth. Our goal is to offer pieces that feel modern but are still very wearable for everyday.
Do you collaborate with other local businesses or makers?
Absolutely. We love partnering with other local brands and creatives on events that include popups, wellness events, and DIY events. We love to connect with the community through shared creativity.
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What kinds of clothing or designers do you focus on bringing in?
We focus on elevated basics and statement pieces that feel modern yet timeless. Many of our brands emphasize quality fabrics, clean lines, and a neutral palette.
How do you balance timeless pieces with fast-changing fashion trends?
We build our collections around timeless foundations. We start with wardrobe builders such as basic layering pieces, beautiful knits, and classic outerwear. We then layer in seasonal trends through texture, color, and accessories. That way, our customers can evolve their style without starting from scratch every season.
What’s been the most popular item or style this year?
Our customers are gravitating toward pieces that feel cozy but polished. We are loving the button cardigans and suede jackets this season.
What makes shopping at your boutique different from a big-box store or online retailer?
We love the personal experience. We take time to get to know our customers and offer help if needed. We also try not to add any pressure as we want our customers to take their time, try things on, and leave feeling confident in what they choose. There is a genuine connection that you cannot replicate online. Also, everything in the store is carefully edited so you can avoid the endless scrolling or overwhelming racks.
How do you get to know your customers’ style and needs?
A lot of it comes from conversation. We love when someone comes in with a specific need, such as a vacation, family photos, or just something to refresh their closet. Over time, we get to know their preferences, and it becomes like styling for a friend. We also love to connect with our community over social media (Instagram and Facebook). We love getting feedback from our customers on polls and posts.
What do you hope people feel when they shop here?
Inspired, relaxed, and seen. We want everyone who walks into Olive Street to feel completely welcome and at ease. I know boutiques can feel a little intimidating, but our space is intended to be warm and down-to-earth.
What’s your personal favorite item in the store right now?
I love this puffed bomber—it is such a fun silhouette and the faux suede feels very fall.
Where do you find your own style inspiration?
I find inspiration in so many things, from interior design to movies, but I am always finding new things to save on Instagram and Pinterest. They are both such great sources for fashion inspiration.
Olive Street
835 23rd Ave E
West Fargo, ND 58078
shopolivestreet.com
Facebook | /shopolivestreet
Instagram | @shopolivestreet
Laurie’s
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Q&A with Laurie’s Owner Lynn Motteberg
What inspired you to take over the store?
I’m proud to say I’m the third owner. The store originally opened in 1980, and it was actually my husband’s idea for me to take it over!
How would you describe the personality or style of your store?
It’s so much more than clothes. We’ve built amazing friendships along the way, and we truly have something for everyone.
How do you see your boutique fitting into the Fargo Moorhead–West Fargo fashion scene?
We like to say, “Let Laurie’s dress you for all of life’s occasions.” From casual looks to weddings and galas, we have the perfect outfit to help you look and feel beautiful.
Do you collaborate with other local businesses or makers?
Yes, we love collaborating! Two to three times a year, we host our Joseph Ribkoff trunk shows, where the rep brings in new pieces not yet on the floor so customers can place special orders. We also team up with other shops at Blu Water Creek for community events—one of the biggest is the annual Blu Water Bash in September.
What kinds of clothing or designers do you focus on bringing in?
We focus on unique pieces you can’t find just anywhere. Many of our vendors support small businesses and don’t sell directly online. We also buy in small quantities to keep everything extra special. Two of our top-selling designers are Joseph Ribkoff and Elliott Lauren.
What’s been the most popular item or style this year?
Wide-leg denim! It’s been a huge trend this year—not just in jeans, but across all pant styles
What makes shopping at your boutique different from a big-box store or online retailer?
The customer experience, without a doubt. We want everyone who shops here to feel like part of the Laurie’s family
How do you get to know your Customers’ style and needs?
By building real relationships with our customers and keeping notes on their preferences so we can help them find what they love.
What do you hope people feel when they shop here?
Beautiful and loved.
What’s your personal favorite item in the store right now?
Our school sweaters! My personal favorite is the Deacon sweater.
Where do you find your own style inspiration?
From market trips, magazines, and social media.
Laurie’s
265 45th St S Fargo, ND 58104
lauriesfargo.net
Facebook | /lauriesfargo
Instagram | @lauriesfargo
Proper
Q&A with Proper Owner Teresa O’Day
What inspired you to open your boutique, and why here in the FM area?
I’m from Fargo and have always loved this community. It felt like the right place to start my business and bring a fresh, unique style perspective to the area. I’ve always seen personal style as a form of selfexpression, and I wanted Proper to be a space where people can explore that and feel like themselves.
How would you describe the personality or style of your store?
Proper is modern, approachable, and a little unexpected. It’s stylish but easy, with a mix of timeless and trend-forward pieces in a really welcoming space.
How do you see your boutique fitting into the Fargo–Moorhead–West Fargo fashion scene?
When Proper opened 15 years ago, there wasn’t much like it in Fargo, and it’s been so fun to watch the local fashion scene grow since then. We’ve always aimed to stay a step ahead by bringing in pieces that feel cool and current but still easy to wear.
Do you collaborate with other local businesses or makers?
Yes! We love collaborating with others in the community. We’ve hosted pop-ups with local artists and makers. And even partnered with Cat’s Cradle for a kitten meet and greet! We also enjoy taking part in Downtown Community Partnership events, which are always a great way to connect with other downtown businesses and the community
What kinds of clothing or designers do you focus on bringing in?
We focus on offering pieces that are high quality but still at an accessible price point. Our selection ranges from effortless loungewear to dresses for special occasions, with plenty in between. I love discovering new brands and interesting styles, but we also work with many lines we’ve carried for over a decade. It’s a balance of introducing something new while keeping the favorites our customers have come to love.
How do you balance timeless pieces with fast-changing fashion trends?
We keep a strong foundation of timeless pieces and layer in select trends that feel fresh but lasting. It’s all about choosing which trends will have staying power and mixing them with classic styles our customers can wear season after season.
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What’s been the most popular item or style this year?
Cardigans have been a favorite all year! From classic shapes to unexpected colors and patterns, everyone’s loved how easy and versatile they are.
What makes shopping at your boutique different from a bigbox store or online retailer?
We have a local touch, and you’ll see familiar faces when you walk in. We’re genuinely excited about what we carry and love helping people find something new. It’s a personal, connected experience you won’t find at a big-box store or online.
How do you get to know your customers’ style and needs?
We get to know our customers by paying attention to what they love and how they shop. We keep a close eye on what’s resonating and try to stay a step ahead of the trends and styles they’re looking for next.
What do you hope people feel when they shop here?
I hope people feel like they’re shopping with a friend. We want everyone to feel comfortable and welcome, never intimidated or pressured. Most of all, we want it to be fun! A place where you can enjoy clothes, feel inspired, and leave feeling good.
What’s your personal favorite item in the store right now?
Currently, I’m loving a faux leather bomber jacket we have in the shop. It has a vintage feel with a modern twist, and it looks so good paired with something classic like our satin polka dot skirt.
Where do you find your own style inspiration?
I find inspiration everywhere, from traveling and seeing different styles around the world to social media and the people around me. My staff and customers inspire me every day with how they put things together and make each look their own.
Proper
313 Broadway N Fargo, ND 58102
proper-shops.com
Facebook | /Proper.Shops
Instagram | @proper.shops
Carmine & Hayworth Vintage
Q&A with Carmine & Hayworth Vintage Owner Courtney Schur
What inspired you to open your boutique, and why here in the fm area?
I’ve always had a love for fashion and history, which led me to start selling vintage online to help pay my way through college. Growing up in Fargo, I wanted to create a space that showed my specific point of view when it came to vintage fashion.
How would you describe the personality or style of your store
I would describe the style of the shop as playfully timeless. Fashion should be fun, but not temporary. I want people to find something they love that they can keep forever.
How do you see your boutique fitting into the Fargo–Moorhead–West Fargo fashion scene?
That’s the twist. I don’t see us fitting into the local fashion scene because we march to the beat of our own drum. Instead of following trend forecasts, we stick to styles and items that catch our attention regardless of whether they’re “in” or “out.” Fashion to us means not fitting in, but creating our own space.
Do you collaborate with other local businesses or makers?
Collaborating with local businesses and creatives is what has made this little shop survive. We do styled shoots with local shops and photographers that show off our unique interpretation of style. My belief is you should never stop learning, and I always learn so much from the people I work with.
What kinds of clothing or designers do you focus on bringing in?
Carmine & Hayworth Vintage is a space where I want everyone who comes in to be able to experience the love and passion for what I do. I carry vintage from the 1940s to the 1990s and incorporate new fashion from other small businesses. The Indie brands we work with create garments that stand the test of time and also provide inclusive sizing for more people to enjoy. We are currently offering ethical lingerie from a New York City-based Indie brand that specializes in sizes XS- 5XL, which has been a breath of fresh air for our customers.
How do you balance timeless pieces with fast-changing fashion trends
I don’t follow trends because it’s a never-ending cycle. The trap of fast fashion is that it’s meant to be discarded once a trend is out. I have always picked what I am drawn to for the shop and go with it. My customers are encouraged to buy what they love and what they can see themselves having for a long time.
What’s been the most popular item or style this year?
Airy, flowy, and free are the words that come to mind when thinking of our most popular styles we’ve sold this year. Our customers have wanted to maintain their style while also having comfort. From vintage to new pieces, we’ve seen a lot of flowy skirts, blouses, and dresses fly out the door. It’s hard to preserve style when wanting comfort, but the great thing about carrying pieces from a span of decades is that there’s a lot to choose from
What makes shopping at your boutique different from a big-box store or online retailer?
Being a small shop, you really get to know your customers, and that’s what makes the shop feel like a community. I would rather lose a sale than have a customer go home with something I knew they weren’t completely happy with.
How do you get to know your customers’ style and needs?
Conversations are the best tool I use to get to know my customers. I want to hear about their experiences and frustrations when shopping because it helps me tailor their experience. Some people like to be left alone, and others want a partner to bounce their ideas off of. That’s what I’m here for!
What do you hope people feel when they shop here?
I want people to feel like they left their worries at the door. I want time to stop here, so they can enjoy and immerse themselves in the experience I’ve created. I have garments owned and worn by Elizabeth Taylor and Debbie Reynolds, so it’s hard not to be transported when you’re in here.
What’s your personal favorite item in the store right now?
My favorite item in the shop is this 1950s sheer ruffle blouse. I love its versatility and how it can be layered.
Where do you find your own style inspiration?
I find inspiration everywhere. I’m really inspired by people who create their looks and outfits. Almost like they’re putting together a puzzle. Finding what fits the look they’re trying to create.
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Carmine & Hayworth Vintage
901 Center Ave Moorhead, MN 56560
carminehayworth.com
Facebook | /CarmineandHayworth
Instagram | @carmineandhayworth
