2 Third Ward clothing boutiques

Buorsajo Boutique & Free Bird

Maybe it's that restless end-of-winter feeling, but I've been getting out of the apartment and into Milwaukee's Third Ward more often than usual lately. It could be thanks in part to Mod Gen, a shop boasting botanical beauties & home décor — my new favorite! It keeps me coming back, and that keeps me discovering new boutiques along the way. Here are two women's clothing stores that are worth a peek. 

Buorsajo Boutique
I walked by Buorsajo on my way to my favorite non-boutique, Anthropologie. The huge corner windows beckoned as a troupe of mothers and daughters exited the place, armfuls of shopping bags in tow — a sure sign of the must-have finds ahead. Inside, the offerings would appeal to a broad range of ages. A twenty-something would certainly find pieces worth ogling, as might a sixty-something. 

Right now, there are lots of summery, resort-style dresses, bold jumpsuits, classic blouses, and frocks perfect for wedding guests — all at reasonable-enough prices. I tried on an orange polka-dot midi skirt (not so midi on my shortness) which would have set me back about $50. Overall, I'd say Buorsajo's niche is a mix of closet staples and timeless specialty pieces. Functional and fun.

Free Bird
Compared to Buorsajo, Free Bird definitely exudes a more youthful, bohemian vibe. The layout of the store is lovely, with loads of natural light streaming through the Third Ward's signature picture windows. Walking into the shop, I was immediately ooh-ing and aah-ing at the presentation and vibe of the offerings. 

Upon closer inspection, however, I felt that many of the pieces were not quite my style. The best way I can describe it might be a higher-end Francesca's — a shop I used to love, but which now feels a little flimsy and young for me. That said, college-age ladies and twenty-somethings with more boho sensibilities will certainly find a lot to love at Free Bird. And I'm sure that if I were really in a spending mood, even I'd find something worth taking home. Both Buorsajo and Free Bird can expect return trips from me!