Dance Life
358 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow (914) 372-7575; dancelifeapparel.com
“When you get the chance to sit it out or dance” (thank you, Lee Ann Womack), this boutique, owned by dancer Debralyn Press, hopes you do, indeed, dance. But if you don’t, no problem! In addition to leading dance labels for women and kids, like Capezio and the hard-to-find, sophisticated Suffolk from London, you’ll find brands like LAmade and Nation LTD, perfect for looking chic when you’re just out and about. Planning to hit the gym, stop by The Westchester, and then meet up for a girls’ night out? Check out its easy-to-layer transitional pieces by Hard Tail, Elan, and Love Quotes—perfect for dressing up or down.
G. Willikers
29 Katonah Ave, Katonah (914) 232-0706
With nary a screen or licensed character on hand, this delightful new toy shop in the center of the charming village of Katonah specializes in “the best of classics old and new that encourage creativity through play and imagination,” says proprietor—and mom of three in-house toy testers—Meghan McGrath. Its bestsellers? Eco-friendly, kid-powered playthings, such as eco-dough, and fun, family-oriented alternatives to electronics, like games from Blue Orange. Offered in the toy-box-like space is everything from original, high-bounce pinky balls ($1.95) to a life-sized stuffed sheep from Hansa ($400) to Djeco art kits and handcrafted wooden puzzles from Melissa & Doug.