Q1: The Spring clothing season is upon us. There’s a notion out there that most women love to shop for clothes and you would think that that is the case when you notice all those female clothing stores around.

For women, shopping for next season’s wardrobe is a challenge you either look forward to or face with apprehension. Some of you may be mall rats, who circle and circle ready to jump on the next big thing. Then there are the rest of you who go in and grab something in the short time you have, perhaps with friends to help you out. Then there’s another group that carefully searches to find just the right things.

Q2: For women who really dread malls, what options can you offer?

You must learn to shop the small discount shops. When buying in them you will get more bang for your buck as they have figured out how to lower their overhead and pass savings on to you.

Secondly, rewarding your efforts for having made it there, you will always receive great service. Remember what that was? The sales people in these private shops are the owners themselves. They really care if you buy and what you buy – they are not just hired for the hour to tell you that you look wonderful in everything.

Q3: So how is shopping here different?

It’s a win-win for personal service and discounted prices. In order to pay their bills, they need you to come back again. They are forming a relationship even a friendship with you which must continue for them to survive.

Shopping in these stores is like having a personal shopper. They know how to pick clothes for customers’ preferences and they know what is hot. This is perfect for all those young working  women who don’t have a lot of time to shop.

Q4: Okay let’s hear about a few of them…

People who have a preconceived notion of what a discount store might look like would be quite surprised by lovely Boutique Avantage around since 1983. They offer great service and are fully stocked (4-18) with those labels you love – Gerry Weber, Rab, Spanner, Junge, Conrad C., Lyse Spenard, Laura Lebek and Vex.

Scarves, purses, hats and high fashion jewelry can finish off your look and make this one stop shopping. It’s comfortable shopping here as they remember who you are so you always feel connected. They pay all the taxes included for all purchases.

Location: 1264 Beaumont St, Town of Mont-Royal
corner: Rockland Rd.
Phone: 514-733-1185
Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6, Sat 10-5 and by appointment

Boutique Mary Seltzer is a family run business, and was probably the first discounter in Montreal 66 years ago. The shop has always been known for great pricing, highly personalized service (going to housebound regular customers) and clothes that breach the gap from office to casual.

You can get 30% or more off on famous names like Simon Chang, Alison Sheri, Vex, Spanner, Conrad C and more. Shopping here is like having a personal shopper who knows your look and tastes. Young professionals would do well to shop here to save time and money.

Location: 7380 ch. Cote-St-Luc
corner: Robert Burns
Phone: 514-369-1579
Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5 and by appointment (early morning or evening for working gals).

At Boutique Emerance , the deal is that some on the spot alterations and taxes are included in the price. Women’s fashions in sizes 4-22 can be bought with labels like Joseph Ribcoff, Spanner, Steilmann, Betty Barclay,Vex, Simon Chang, City Girl and Tahari, along with some bras (Chantelle), undies, belts, scarves and jewelry.

Location: 3195 Notre Dame, Lachine
corner: 32nd Ave
Phone: 514-634-1037
Hours: Regular