‘Tis the season to put on the glitz. Whether you are looking for a special accessory or a head-turning dress, the shops of Chestnut Hill offer the selection and service you will not find anywhere else. Take your time and browse. Every shop is unique.

J.McLaughlin, 8401 Germantown Ave.

Stepping into J.McLaughlin is like having your own personal stylist. Their collection is displayed in a way that takes the mystery out of what-goes-with-what. Black, red and white separates and dresses are interspersed with a new spin on black watch plaid pants and shirts. To add a touch of luxe, manager Daryle Hanlon suggests a red mandarin collar puffer jacket or metallic gold vest and a turtleneck in red cashmere that begs to be touched.

“We have had a great year,” she said, “The community has been very supportive.” 

If you have a fashion-resistant spouse, bring him along. J.McLaughlin also carries classic menswear for the Ivy League set.

Sara Campell, 8409 Germantown Ave.

If there’s one shop that knows its customer it’s Sara Campbell, which features traditional styles with a touch of whoa! This season, besides the usual taffeta wrap and velvet dresses, there is a dark blue sequined mini with a feathered hem that is sure to get second glances. If you have the legs and the nerve – go for it!

For a more subtle entrance, consider a neutral toned cashmere wrap in a chain print trimmed in faux fur which would look elegant paired with a dark brown suit or a cream knit dress.

Jonesy’s Accessories, 7916 & 6338 Germantown Ave.

How do you choose between this shop’s two locations on the Hill? “You have to shop at both,” said owner Stephanie Jones. “Because you will not find the same styles in either.” 

Just as some shops rely on a customer who is locked into a certain look, Joney’s is for those who are always on the prowl for something different. This customer doesn’t want to fit in. She wants to knock ‘em dead. 

Here is where you can find rainbow patterned wrap dresses and lacy tops that turn any skirt into a statement. While we were there, a frequent flier snapped up a silky, loose fitting, midi dress in a bold print with a hand-painted look, like a work of art. She also purchased a two-piece ensemble in lavender. When asked, “What’s the occasion?” she replied, “I have no idea. But I’ll find one!”

Between Friends, 7833 Germantown Ave.

Warning: This little boutique can be addictive. They feature a variety of dresses, pants, tops that come alive when paired with cashmere blend wraps featuring French Impressionist prints. Imagine, wrapping yourself in Van Gogh’s Starry Starry Night. (This writer did and bought one.) Or a faux fur trimmed poncho. Plus, an intriguing assortment of contemporary necklaces and earring that turn any outfit into a special occasion. Want to sparkle plenty for the holidays? Consider black leggings bedazzled from ankle to thigh.

El Quetzal, 8448 Germantown Ave.

Now located next to Kilian’s Hardware, following the fire that destroyed its original location across the street, this Chestnut Hill landmark has risen from the ashes. Their holiday standout is a silky, midi black, slip dress. Jean Harlow would’ve worn this with nothing underneath. We suggest pairing it with a long-sleeved bodystocking, cashmere cardigan or oversized blazer.

TC Unlimited Boutique, 8518 Germantown Ave.

The black, bedazzled, body-hugging sheath in the window is a clue to what awaits inside, including faux leather, studded bustiers, leather-look leggings and all things designed to show off curves. More modest, but equally eye-catching, items include lightweight, puffy trench coats in black, bright yellow and floral prints. Mark your calendar for a Faux Fur Sip ‘n Shop, Tuesday, Nov. 22, 11am-7p.m., with give-aways and special deals!

Artisans on the Avenue, 8440 Germantown Ave.

A magnet for fashion-forward shoppers, Artisans carries unique, edgy, designer brands that update your wardrobe every season. Right now, they feature a rack of black and white contemporary separates to be coordinated with brightly colored tops, plus coats, wraps, hats and gloves. Best bet for the holidays? A loose fitting, three-quarter length, button front, cranberry velvet shirt to be paired with slender velvet trousers, jeans or leggings.

Noble Goods, 8436 Germantown Ave.

For the holidays, Nobel Goods has added splashes of color to its usual classic, neutral-toned collection. Check out a silky midi dress and quilted jacket in a print reminiscent of a Morris Lewis painting in shades of mauve, indigo and caramel. If you’re a shoe collector, slip on a pair of faux fur, platform shoes with wood block heels in black or green.

Windfall Gallery, 8419 Germantown Ave.

This is where you’ll find loose-fitting, ethnic inspired separates and dresses that add style to the holidays while maintaining your comfort. Our favorites include a 100% heavy cotton, button front, three-quarter length coat dress that looks as if it was hand-painted and wide-legged, black, gaucho pants you won’t find elsewhere. Plus, jewelry, wraps, hats and gloves.

Villavillekula, 8419 Germantown Ave.

This magical emporium of children’s clothing, toys and accessories puts infants and toddlers in the holiday mood. Choose from embroidered and velvet frocks, reindeer and snowflake cardigans and capes, plaid flannels and kiddie-sized Santa caps. Plus, infant-sized Eagles onesies.

Style By Blain, 8433 Germantown

Nothing updates a man’s wardrobe like a new pair of shoes, especially if they are from Style By Blain. Owner/designer Voltaire Blain specializes in hand-sewn, exclusive brands, including Alden, Paraboot and Gaziano & Girling made in New England, England and France. “I don’t follow trends,” said Blain, whose top selling shoe this season is one of his own designs, a two-toned, wing-tipped spectator shoe. Yes, Blain carries women’s shoes too.