Suneri Boutique

Local booty of global beauty

By CHRISTINE LIU

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In all honesty, I probably wouldn't have known this boutique exists if I didn't walk by it constantly on my way to and from home. In a location previously occupied by a Dahn Yoga studio, it lies along a roadway characterized by restaurants, spas (both kinds) and a smattering of retailers, but it's by no means a commercial bustle. Suneri's frequently updated window displays, featuring breezy summer ensembles and double-take-inducing accessories, piqued my interest ever since their opening in May. In a fit of curiosity, I poked inside; the eclectic, feminine boutique proved a marvel find. As one would have thought, the draw has been healthy—and particularly local.

"Everybody's happy about having a lot of boutiques [in Davis Square]. It's been great—college students, young professionals, all age groups," says Suneri assistant manager Jeong Kim, who has been-there-and-done-that among Boston's more highfalutin shopping districts. "I really like this neighborhood—quiet, friendly, close to my place," Kim says, smiling. "We feel very welcome."

The independent shop goes in many creative directions, all of which focus on lesser-known labels, natural fabrics (like linen, cotton and silk) and international designers. The three sisters who co-own the store—Sudha Bhatnagar, Neena Mathur, Ritu Gorczyca—coined the name Suneri as an amalgam of their names; incidentally, the word also means "golden" in Hindi. Certainly a glow resonates here in all forms, including gorgeous Goka shoes by Providence-based Brazilian designer Alessandra Gold, and embellished pieces by high-end Indian fashion label Linarika ("It definitely has Indian taste, but is very wearable in America," offers Kim).

"We prefer carrying smaller designers," says Kim, who also does some buying. "We're very careful and picky, as we search and search ... " Unfamiliar labels may be risky, but a distinct collection is a priority as Suneri continues to finesse the right balance of styles, designers and price points. LA-based Michele Dahan's "Gold Hawk" silk dresses and Montreal artist Anne-Marie Chagnon's striking pewter-glass-horn jewelry are serious standouts. And for the jean whores, more denim—possibly Japanese—is on its way.

"Customers look forward to seeing our windows on the way home," says Kim. And if I'm any measure, it's totally true. We'll just see how long it lasts as this block's little secret.

[67 Holland St., Davis Sq., Somerville. 617.440.3559. suneriboutique.com]