M Penner

In most places, big box stores dominate the retail scene, but Houston is fortunate to have a handful of family-owned boutiques still doing business. M Penner is one such shop. Started by Morris Penner and taken over by his son Murry, the upscale boutique caters to the well-dressed man with lines such as Paul Smith, Canali, Luigi Bianchi and a dedicated Z Zegna shop-within-a-shop. Women are also pampered with designers such as Badgley Mischka, Pink Tartan and Zanella. Custom suiting, men's footwear and a jam-packed schedule of trunk shows, charity events and Penner parties keep this potentially staid shop fresh and exciting.

Karen Penner does double-duty as boutique owner and baker. Her brownies are legendary and especially popular on Saturdays when she always has a fresh batch ready.