Charmed Life

Style File: A La Mode Boutique

We get to know Amie McCaslin, owner of A La Mode Boutique in Sykesville and Ellicott City.

Historic Ellicott City is a no doubt a hot spot for unique boutiques. Some of our favorite shops (we’re lookin’ at you Sweet Elizabeth Jane) reside on EC’s Main Street strip. When we stumbled upon A La Mode Boutique‘s second and newest location (their original shop is on Main Street in Sykesville), we jumped at the chance to chat with owner Amie McCaslin. From its exciting array of jewelry—some handmade by McCaslin herself—to its Lily Pulitzer stash, A La Mode is a little bit of kitsch mixed with a whole lot of cute. Check out what McCaslin had to say about statement jewelry, Sandra Bullock, and Inspector Gadget (yep, you read that right).

1. How would you describe your boutique in one sentence?
Amie McCaslin: With the name A La Mode, we like to say it’s topping off your wardrobe with the latest accessories and gifts.

2. If you could have one super power, what would it be?
Probably go-go gadget legs, like Inspector Gadget. Because now that we have a second store location there’s times when I need to be in two different places.

3. Who is your style inspiration/icon?
I love Audrey Hepburn, but I’m also much more modern and up-to-date so my modern day icon would be Sandra Bullock. She’s everyday casual because she always looks so pulled together. Even if she’s in jeans and a T-shirt, she’s adorable.

4. What is your favorite item currently in your collection?
It changes daily, but today it’s this little wristlet. I love the gold and silver because I love the idea of mixing up the metals.

5. What is the most embarrassing fashion trend you used to love?
General ’80s was kind of embarrassing but fun. So like Swatch Watches and anything that was acid wash.


Photo: eBay seller

6. What is your guilty pleasure?
I’d have to pick jewelry. Even though I’m surrounded by it, I love it. I can never have enough. I have literally mounds of it on my armoire at home. And then on top of that I make it, too.

7. How did you get the name for your boutique?
A La Mode has two meanings and a lot of people don’t realize that. Most people know a la mode as ice cream or topping on your dessert but it also means to be current or trendy.

8. No outfit is complete without…?
It has to be jewelry. If I leave the house without accessories I feel completely naked.

9. What are you current favorite and least favorite trends?
I’d have to say the statement pieces. But I still haven’t been able to get into mixed patterns. I love it in home decor when it comes to that shabby chic look, but when it comes to my outfit I just can’t put floral and plaid together.

Our top three picks:


(Handmade Wax Seal Fresh Water Pearl Necklaces, $20 each; Black and White Cascade Vest, $52; Emerald Reversible Mini Tote, $65)