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It should come as no surprise that a neighborhood like Montrose would have so many places to shop. Traversing the streets, lined with boutiques, specialty stores and cafes could easily take up an afternoon, if not a full day. Storefronts are generally close to one another, so walking around is easy and enjoyable. During Pride Week there's a lot to see and do and many of the stores here take part in the festivities.
Black Hawk Leather
711 Fairview Street, Houston, TX 77006; Tel. 713.522.1414
This specialty shop has everything you need in leather – from sharply designed jackets and skin-tight pants, to sexy goods for more private use. After you've chosen just the right hide, make sure to browse the supplies section to stock up on what you'll need to keep your new leather from losing it luster. Show it all off Ripcord (715 Fairview Street), the men's leather bar just a few doors down.
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Dare Ware
9019 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77063; Tel. 713.953.9393
A store like Dare Ware could only exist in Montrose. With an enormous selection of leather, lace and latex get-ups, this isn't exactly the type of store you'd expect to find inside a suburban strip mall. The clothes are outrageous – designed specifically for making a statement (a bold one that is) at the next fetish ball or in the bedroom. After you've picked out just the right outfit, be sure to browse the accessories to find just the right finishing touch to complete your new naughty look.
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Eros 1207
1207 Spencer Highway, Houston, TX 77042; Tel 713.944.6010
It may be a far drive from Montrose, but once you get there Eros has some pretty racy gift ideas for you or for two. Boasting 10,000 square feet of store space, it's all but guaranteed that you'll be able to find what you looking for at this adult emporium, whether it's a bustier for her or boxers for him. Toys for two, in addition to body jewelry, leather gear, videos and much more stock the shelves, and the clothes you'll find here are just what you need for looking good on the beach or in the boudoir.
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Liquid
1417 Westheimer, Houston, TX 77006; Tel. 713.524.3960
This clothing shop is very popular with the Montrose community, especially the 20-something male set. Expect to find the racks at Liquid filled with clothes that make a statement – whether it's a flashy set of threads sure to draw attention in the clubs at night or turn heads on the street during the day. A vast selection of designs and colors to suit a variety of tastes make it likely that you'll find something, but there's a lot here so it's best to take your time and look carefully.
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M2M Clothing
3400 Montrose, Houston, TX 77006; Tel. 713.521.0804
This ultra-chic, ultra-trendy designer emporium is not for those susceptible to sticker shock. Clothing at M2M can be pricey, though if you're in pursuit of that must-have name-brand piece, chances are it will be here. Both men's and women's clothing adorn the racks that are filled with styles ranging from classic to trendy threads. Stocked anew each season, whoever is in charge of merchandise at M2M obviously knows what's hot and makes sure it can be found at this small boutique.
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Metro His Spa
2606 Grant Street, Houston, TX 77006; Tel. 713.526.3876
As an exclusive upscale men's only spa in Montrose, Metro His Spa offers an array of services that are typically considered to be reserved solely for their female counterparts. The clientele consists of more than just the gay men of the neighborhood – expect to find a few straight patrons looking to loosen up, relax and be pampered here, too. Treatments and services encompass the usual fare such as full body massages, facials, waxing (in just about any place you could imagine), sunless tanning, manicures and pedicures.
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The Chocolate Bar
1835 West Alabama, Houston, TX 77008; Tel. 713.520.8599
Satisfy your cravings at The Chocolate Bar, where the sweet stuff comes in every combination, shape and size imaginable. Deliciously rich chocolate-dipped fruit, bon bons and novelty items and other treats are all available here, but the biggest draw is the homemade chocolate ice cream that's prepared on site – a must have during any visit. Pick sweets by the piece or have a basket arranged in any size you choose. If you're hankering for something sugary but prefer that it's chocolate-free, visit Candylicious next door.
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—Houston gay-friendly shopping reviews by Joy Howard
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