Decorate for spring with finds from local boutiques

Scarlett Alley

241 Race St., www.scarlettalley.com

Why we love it: This warm Old City shop is one of Philly’s quintessential boutiques. Its thoughtfully curated mix of products spans many categories, but there’s a focus on upscale home goods, with dinnerware that tends to be especially striking. Plus, the salespeople couldn’t be more friendly or welcoming while helping you decide.

Spring must-have: ROOST Twinkling Willow Wall Lights ($94.95 to $114.95)

Whether brightening a backyard fence or bringing some starlight indoors, these twinkling lights are striking on any surface. The branch-inspired design brings a naturalistic look to the piece, and flexible-wire construction makes it fully customizable.

Home

1815 E Passyunk Ave., www.facebook.com/HOMEphilly

Why we love it: This South Philly shop is full of statement pieces for your dining room, denor kitchen, but with more style and energy than what you’d find at a mass-market retailer. Also unlike the chain stores, Home has staff eager to help you plot out a design vision, however large or small.

Spring must-have: Chive Bird Vase ($25)

What says springtime more than birds and flowers? In addition to celebrating the trappings of the season, this petite porcelain vase is more versatile than it looks, with multiple small holes that let you switch up arrangements to your heart’s content.

Omoi Zakka Shop

1608 Pine St., www.omoionline.com

Why we love it: This quiet shop on Pine Street blends into the urban landscape, but inside it carries the most unusual selection of home goods in town. From products for gardening to cooking (to looking fly while doing either), fun and unexpected items are in abundance here – including many from Japan, where the owner did multiple stints as an exchange student.

Spring must-have: mt CASA Shade Washi Tape for Windows ($28)

So many city windows look onto brick walls, or show a bit too much to neighbors. This tape is a functional and stylish solution in a variety of patterns, letting springtime sunshine in while blocking UV rays (and any wandering eyes).

The Little Apple

4353 Main St., Manayunk, www.thelittleapplestore.com

Why we love it: This Manayunk shop is as cute as can be, with a product mix to match that includes bath products, unique glasswareand a heap of unexpected gift options, including many that run heavy on Philly pride. Plus, the vibe is warm and welcoming, from the staff’s smiles down to the puppy who holds court in the back of the shop.

Spring must-have: Philadelphia Neighborwood Coasters ($36)

These engraved cedar coasters are rugged enough for whiskey, but chic enough to hold their own under wine coolers as well. Each of the four in this set has a different sketch of the city’s intersecting neighborhoods.