Crimson Mim Focuses on Emerging, Local Designers

Christine Campbell opened Crimson Mim in downtown Los Altos on Valentine’s Day five years ago.

It’s the kind of place you rejoice to find. Its unique pieces, such as the glamorous, yet simple, shoes by Butter, are carefully selected by Campbell to add a whole new dimension to your wardrobe—and a smile to your face when you look in mirror.

Although Crimson Mim began primarily as a shoe boutique after Campbell found it difficult to find fashion-forward footwear and apparel outside of New York, today the boutique offers apparel from the collections of local designers as well as emerging designers. The styles are timeless, and the fabrics luxurious. “It’s all about beauty, which is different to each person,” Campbell said.

I discovered several pieces by Trina Turk, one of my favorite designers, who has a boutique in Burlingame. The garment that stood out to me most was an A-line dress with a black and white rectangular print that was bold and modest at the same time. Reminiscent of something from the AMC hit show Mad Men, this dress hints at a former era but doesn’t forget the future.

It would be perfectly paired with a pair of black peep-toe pumps, and could be dressed up for the office with a black blazer but later transformed into a casual outfit by pairing it with a simple, smart cardigan.

The fabrics in the store are of such quality that they will last for years, making your purchase an investment to your wardrobe. The versatility of the clothing allows you to transform a couple signature pieces into a stunning outfit, casual or formal.

If you like something, don’t wait too long, though, because there is only one size available of each piece displayed.