En-chant-ing

Best Independent Woman's Clothier
House of Chants

Fashionable Ferndale has begun to give Royal Oak a run for its money in the arena of hip, one-of-a-kind clothing boutiques. With notables such as Cinderella’s Attic, Dragonfly and Mother Fletchers, Nine Mile is well on its way to becoming “the new Main Street.” Then there’s our readers’ pick for the best source of unique women’s clothing, House of Chants.

Owned by the jovial Robbins sisters, Linda and Cindy, House of Chants is a charming little slice of urban chic and vintage style. It’s the modern Zen of accoutrements — become at one with yourself and your accessories. The space is airy and open, the store bright and cheery. The sales staff is highly sociable, pleasant and helpful; they tell it to you straight (and nicely, of course) if that outfit doesn’t fit right or really isn’t you, and will assist you in picking out something that works. What a refreshing change of pace.

They’ll also help you select the perfect jewelry and accessories for your new ensemble — how about a delicate, ruby-and-silver choker? Or a pair of tiny, sparkling, jeweled barrettes? Or a smart little handbag in which to stuff all the phone numbers you’ll receive once you hit the town in your new outfit? Which brings me to the clothes — a trendy, tasteful, cutting-edge collection of hot labels and looks ranging from raver chic to classic batik. House of Chants also offers a small selection of quality, stylish, vintage clothing, saving you the hassle of digging through piles of hideous ’70s polyester crimes against fashion in order to find the perfect retro gem. So, if you want to look like everyone else, go to Old Navy. If you want a distinctive and striking look that complements your personality, get thee to House of Chants.