Nestled between a series of shops, grocers and hairdressers on 17th and Sansom, Petulia’s Folly hardly belongs in the dark alley in which it is located. The soft colors and warm scents of the store lend an inviting atmosphere to the women’s boutique.
Petulia’s Folly offers whimsical apparel with a little bit of an edge — think Anthropologie’s merchandising with a department store’s labels. The store is divided into two halves: one dedicated to apparel, the other to home goods. Petulia boasts popular brands like 3.1 Phillip Lim and Alexander Wang along with an impressive collection of lesser-known designers, such as Rachel Comey and Clu. The selection plays on comfort and effortless style: the softest t-shirt dress you’ll ever own (T by Alexander Wang, $78) is on display next to a sequin blouse (Nili Lotan, $485) and a sexy halter dress (Hanii Y, $295). Here, Petulia’s folly comes at a price, and it ain’t cheap. James Jeans are a denim staple, and jersey tees are hard to miss. And, to add a little bit of personality (not to mention to take a page from Cher Horowitz’s closet), the racks are lined with Polaroids of each piece styled on a model. The lineup of accessories, while small, includes Rebecca Minkoff handbags, Rachel Comey flats, and Bing Bang jewelry.
While Petulia’s Folly only offers women’s apparel (sorry, fellas!) it does provide a wide array of home furnishings. The walls are filled with frames and random home goods, and shelves are piled high with coffee table books on fashion, art and decorating. They even offer children’s toys, if you’re ever in the mood for an “imagination mat” to complement your cocktail dress...
Like the goods, the staff at Petulia’s Folly is friendly without being overbearing. Even without making a purchase the store leaves customers charmed — not bad for a Sansom alleyway.
Petulia’s Folly
1710-12 Sansom St. (215) 569–1344
Category: Women’s contemporary apparel Price Range: $$$ Bottom Line: Whimsical merchandise with a trendy edge.
