From a lucky perch in a hip area, the new shop offers classic apparel It isn't often that we at NWsource can claim responsibility for a boutique's opening, but it's thanks to us that Monica Treacy found the ideal location for her first women's clothing shop, Ella Mon. After reading about a closing sale for Ballard women's boutique Brazillis on NWsource in June, the 25-year veteran of corporate finance visited the retail space and, within days, signed a lease. Treacy says she chose the Ballard location because it provided a "challenge to create a brand in a unique destination with a growing population." Ella Mon, which is a play on the owner's name, maintains many of the same architectural highlights that made Brazillis so charming: The filigreed pagoda still looms over the cash wrap, and the dazzling chandelier twinkles over stacks of cashmere sweaters. Tapping into her own background as a successful power player, Treacy's shop caters to urban women over 35, whom she calls "leaders, whether they may be the head of the household or the head of the board." The descriptor is fitting, as most of the fashions are classic and sophisticated rather than trendy. Classic black slacks from Alvin Valley ($250-$280), menswear-inspired looks from Jenne Maag ($128 and up) and snug James Jeans denim ($185) are a few highlights. For the holiday season, Ella Mon is giving away a sparkling evening bag with the purchase of a holiday party outfit. Later in the year, the shop will host semiannual clearance events in January and July. Ella Mon is at 5404 22nd Ave. N.W.; 206-297-2800. Visit the store online at www.ellamon.com. If you have a shop, sale, event or great product tip you'd like to share, e-mail seattleshopping@nwsource.com. Copyright © The Seattle Times Company