San Francisco - June 03, 2005

Name Dropping

Iniam Boutique

For women unlucky enough to be born with a last name like Slutsky, Hemmerdinger, or Zitgob, the thought of giving it up for their soon-to-be husband’s isn’t all that painful.

For others, it can be tough to let go.

Lisa Raja decided to keep hers. She puts it to good use with her new women’s boutique, Iniam (her maiden name, Maini, spelled backward). Though the name is a relic from her past, the store is a breath of fresh air to Rockridge’s College Avenue.

Lines like Calypso, Milly, Catherine Malandrino, and Helen Wang, as well as up-and-comers such as Christopher Deane and Rachel Roy, fill the bright, airy space, decorated 1940s retro with neutral tones. Adorable underthings from Underglam and Hanky Panky round out the mix. And don’t miss the baubles from locals Liz Hynes and Jennifer Tuton.

Raja also offers closet consultations to help you make the most of your wardrobe and add things to enhance what you already have, thereby achieving a harmonious marriage of old and new.

An art she appears to have perfected.

Iniam, 5902 College Avenue, at Chabot Road, Oakland (510-597-1558).