Back in May, we broke the news about Kaleidoscope, a new boutique coming to the former Matthew Izzo space at 151 N. 3rd St.  We hadn’t been able to uncover many clues about the new spot, and none of our sources really knew what kind of place it was going to be or when it would arrive. With the psychedelic graphics covering the storefront, we would have guessed some sort of vintage store, or perhaps an establishment with a hippie-ish vibe. We’re pleased to say that we’ve finally uncovered the scoop on Kaleidoscope Boutique- owner Irina Mitchell contacted us and filled us in on what exactly the plans are for the Old City space.

Kaleidoscope will be a fashion forward, high-end boutique for the woman of Philadelphia, featuring a shoe salon, a vintage Chanel collection, and evening and casual wear. An aspect of Kaleidoscope that should set them apart from other retailers in Old City will be their exclusive rights to a number of private jewelry labels.

The 2,700 square foot space will be divided up, using half the space for sales and half for inventory. It’s located on a prime block in Old City, in a space where the previous tenants had success. With an abundance of other boutiques in the area, both bridge and higher-end, we are pretty hopeful about the future of Kaleidoscope. Oh, and as an added bonus, Cafe Ole is just a few doors down.

Since we’ve heard nothing about the store for months, we asked about the apparent delay in opening, to which Mitchell responded, “We believe in being fashionably late, but won’t keep Philadelphia waiting much longer!” Kaleidoscope is set to swoop in right after the holidays with an opening set for February 2012.  We’re anxious to see the finished product and will likely be doing a follow up with exclusive interior shots before Kaleidoscope Boutique officially bursts onto the scene. Stay tuned!

–Kaitlin Bostwick