Finding a great boutique in which you can satisfy your personal style goes beyond the brick, mortar, and racks of high-end merchandise. It requires developing a personal relationship with a proprietor and/or designer: someone who will understand your needs, challenges, the professional context in which you work , and the social perimeters in which you play.

The designers and boutique owners featured on these pages put a distinct focus on comfort, fit, fabric, and communicating style--classically and with an edge. Shopping for clothes doesn't have to be a chore. In fact, these fashionistas promise to make it a pleasure, if not an experience.

Paris europa

Philadelphia

Proprietor: Tom Cooke

Designer: Anthony T. Kirby

Client: Gar Giles, attorney

Price range: Trousers, $150-$495; Ties, $75-$105

Anthony T., the exclusive line of haberdashery designer Anthony T. Kirby, is among the private label and Italian luxury apparel featured at Paris europa. Kirby's collection has recently expanded to include classically styled trousers in Super-120 wools and wool cashmere blends. "They have an outstanding selection," exclaims attorney Gar Giles. Paris europa also offers full line of luxury sportswear and accessories for men. For more information call 215-893-1115,

Everett Hall

Washington, D.C.

Designer: Everett Hall

Client: Collins Spencer, Anchor, CNN Headline News

Price Ranges: $1,295-$3,500

Using the best Italian yarns and fabrics, Everett Hall provides athletic-cut suits for the modern day professional. "They are extremely comfortable for my build," says anchor Collins Spencer, who owns 30. Thread count per square inch ranges from Super-110 to 180 and the boutique offers Complimentary alterations. New models include the high three-button and asymmetric with fly front. For shopping information call 202-362-0191.

Gigi Hunter

Dearborn, Michigan

Designer: Gigi Hunter

Client: Judy Bridgeman, software department head, Ford Motor Company

Price Range: $200-$600

"Her designs are professional, yet feminine, and still contemporary at the same time," says engineer Judy Bridgeman of Gigi Hunter's new line of unconventional knit suits made from ribbon and slinky yarns. Known for her sexy evening knits, Hunter admits, "this is really fun for the woman who wants something different." Call 313-271-9044 for more information.

The Sole Kitchen

Harlem, New York

Designer: Etu Evans

Client: Denise E. Ross, visiting assistant Professor in special education at Columbia University, Teacher's College

Price Range: Shoes, $400-$700; Boots, $900-$1,300

"They're stylish and comfortable." That's what Denise Ross says attracts her to Etu Evans' ultra modern line of shoes. Evans calls it feminine fanfare. Fabric designs include tapestries as well as had beading, stenciling, and embroidering. The designer also offers an eye-catching line of handbags that also serve as professional organizers. For shopping information call 212-281-6940.