Sisters Unique Boutique, a favorite spot on Dearborn Street in Englewood, is closing its doors on May 20, 2026. For Arlene Bechtold, the owner, this moment brings a mix of emotions.
Sitting down with the Englewood REVIEW, Arlene reflected on the journey: “I opened May 17, 2018. Now, I’m just winding down, selling off my merchandise, clearing out the fixtures, that sort of thing. I didn’t sell the business itself; I’m simply closing up.”
When asked what’s next on the horizon, she broke into a laugh. “Well, I’m definitely taking the summer off. I’ve got family in Nashville and Indiana, and I have two little Frenchies. We’re just going to bounce around, spend time with everyone, maybe see new places. I have a boat here in Englewood, and I plan to actually get out on the water now. I’ve spent enough days stuck inside wishing I was out there.”
Arlene has a wide variety of choices as to what direction she’ll choose in the long run. “There’s a lot I could do. I still have my real estate license, and honestly, I don’t know if I want to leave this industry completely. It’s bittersweet letting this place go. Some days I think I’ll miss it too much to walk away entirely.”
She’s not done thinking about business, either. “I’ve talked with others in this industry, and maybe I’ll sell online. Then I wouldn’t need so much inventory. That side of things gets to be a lot, tracking everything, ordering the right products. Sometimes you hit it right and everything sells; sometimes, not so much. But I think I’ve got a good eye, and my customers have been loyal. They’re not happy to see the boutique close.”
When asked what she’ll miss most, Arlene didn’t hesitate: “The people, without a doubt. My customers, the friends I’ve made on Dearborn, the other merchants—it’s a genuinely happy place for me. Sure, summers are quiet, and people are off enjoying vacations or boating, but the rest of the year? It’s lively, and there’s great energy.”
Traveling for business is something she already misses: “One of the best parts has been the trade shows. You meet all the reps, check out new lines, see what’s trendy, talk through ideas with people in the know. It’s a wonderful break—you stay at nice hotels, eat out, hustle between booths. I actually canceled one this past weekend and thought, ‘Why go? I’m not buying anymore.’ But it’s in my blood. I’ll miss that feeling.”
Arlene’s eye for style spans generations. “My market is broad, from 30 up to 70-plus. Women still want fun and fashion-forward clothing even as they get older—no one wants to feel frumpy. I’ve always picked things that work for everyone, and it’s fun to find those unique pieces. Tempo Paris, one of my favorite lines, is always a hit.”
She smiles when considering the idea of an online boutique: “I could see myself picking out special stuff just for my loyal customers, using Facebook or something. But I really need this summer off to figure it out. And yes, income-wise, the store’s been great. I could keep going, but I’m ready for a real break. If I start something again, I want to do it differently, maybe smaller, maybe smarter.”
When I asked her what she was most ready to leave behind, she didn’t hesitate. “Definitely the responsibility, the inventory. Honestly, sometimes I just don’t want to be here. I feel like I deserve a change of pace. I’ve always taken breaks when I needed them, and now’s another one of those times.”
She lights up talking about her customers and staff: “It’s been amazing; so many wonderful people and true friends. The social part is what I’ll hold on to. I’m thankful for it, and I really do hope to stay connected with everyone, wherever things go next. And my girls are sassy, and that’s what makes the whole thing fun. The boutique has always been about that sisterhood, just sharing a little joy.”
Sisters Unique Boutique has lived up to its name. Arlene’s warmth and style have shaped a little piece of Dearborn Street. She’s taking her well-earned break, but she isn’t disappearing; just keep an eye out for what comes next.
