Wendy Nichol 252

We go weak in the knees for local jewelry and handbag designer Wendy Nichol’s edgy, downtown-chic creations. With this intimate 350-square-foot studio and store, we can get our accessories fix and an education on how the items are made: Shoppers can watch the designer work behind a teak-wood desk as she paints leather and braids together her handmade pieces. Some of Nichol’s sustainable handbags are made from organic materials that are free from dyes and chemical treatments, but you’d never know by looking at her leopard-print pony hair satchels ($805), washed totes ($575) and leather belt bags ($460) with tasseled adornments that can be removed and worn as a bracelet. Dress up your ears with classic silver pyramid stud earrings ($50 each) that are sold separately so you can mix and match with spike cone studs ($50 each) for an eclectic vibe.