Fashion in Motion Offers a 'Boutique on Wheels'

As shoppers at the Libertyville Farmers Market wandered through the St. Lawrence Episcopal Church parking lot June 20, it was clear they didn't know what to think when they encountered the large, pink truck parked in the lot.

But Libertyville resident Gina Lilja was quick to explain: the truck is a boutique on wheels, offering items like clothing, jewelry and handbags.

"I just have a passion for it," said Lilja. "I just think this is the next best thing—meeting people where they are. The whole idea is the convenience."

Lilja started the Fashion in Motion truck just four weeks ago. She works in sales and marketing in the corporate world and has found that it's tough to find time to shop for clothing at boutique stores.

"People are time-starved. So we can go to you," said Lilja. "It's like a food truck, but we're a fashion boutique."

Shoppers are greeted by wood floors and decorative lighting. Jewelry and other accessories from designers like Kathy Horton and Swiddles, Inc., are displayed on white shelves. 

The clothing, which is displayed on black hangers, is all hand-selected by Lilja. 

"I buy from all over the country," said Lilja. She has a wholesale license and travels to shows, looking for unique items that are "sophisticated, fun and funky."

Lilja buys just six to eight of each item "and after that, they're gone." Customers can try on clothing in a curtained-off dressing room in the truck.

"I love seeing people buying some really unique items," said Lilja. 

The Fashion in Motion truck is available to visit places like corporate offices, private parties and other events. 

"We're in Libertyville today, but tomorrow it could be Schaumburg or Buffalo Grove or Lake Forest," said Lilja. The Fashion in Motion truck has been at the Bodyworks Fitness & Health Spa in Libertyville from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each Saturday this month and will be there again June 29. Bodyworks is located at 510 1st St. 

Shoppers can monitor the truck's whereabouts on the Fashion in Motion website or on Facebook. 

Lilja added that the truck is also available for fundraisers.