Whether you're going back to school or just sprucing up your late summer wardrobe, August is always a great time to shop. From appointment-only shops that get you a custom look to new, hip boutiques, this month's where to shop is loaded with hot-ticket items.

Akola
Visit this Deep Ellum boutique to check out the new fall collection, which combines a new mix of beautiful materials with the brand's signature accents — hand-cast metals from recycled artillery shells, naturally-shed ankole horn, Kenyan sea glass and paper beads — to transform these elements into bold pieces to complete your look.

Binzario Couture
First it was wedding dresses and formal gowns, and now the custom design duo is taking on the cocktail dress. Named Visions of White, the collection debuts at an August 13 Roundup for Autism event. Like what you see once the reveal is live? Make an appointment to come into the stylish studio and a custom creation can be made for you in either black or white. It's the perfect custom piece for the upcoming events season.

Front Door Fashion
This personal styling service delivers custom-created looks, via mailed box or in-studio, and is celebrating two years of success. Join the celebration August 13 at the party that is showcasing the evolution of the studio, which now features style lounges by Trina Turk and DL1961.

Grange Hall
Do you lust over the luxury products that line the shelves here but can't seem to pull the trigger? It's time to make your move, because now through August 15 shoppers can enjoy the first-ever Grange Hall sale with select items listed for up to 75 percent off retail price.

H&M Denton
One of the world’s largest fashion retailers, known for offering fashion-forward apparel and quality basics, is opening a new store at Golden Triangle Mall in Denton on August 6. The new location offers collections for ladies, men, maternity, sports apparel, plus-size, children and newborn.

J. Crew Mercantile
This new store at The Shops at Park Lane is the first of its kind in the country. The brand's new concept features value-driven merchandise for women, men and children. Basically it's a J. Crew Factory Outlet store that appears in non-outlet mall setting, but it's still sophisticated yet accessible fashion that warrants a visit.

J. Hilburn
Head into this handsome men's custom shop to check out the two new collections. Men can't get enough of the 11 new non-iron shirting fabrics. The shirts are treated so that moisture is absorbed and evaporates quickly. The brand is also rolling out 24 new custom shirting fabrics that feature rich jewel tones, classic plaids, chambrays and more.

Kit and Ace
The family of Lululemon founder Chip Wilson launched this brand, which has recently opened a boutique off Henderson Avenue that is all about "luxury performance wear." The clothes are created using a term trademarked by the company called Technical Luxury that reduces maintenance without sacrificing quality. We suggest checking out the cashmere that is washing-machine friendly because if you're like us, you'll have to see it to believe it.

Ylang23
Check out one of Dallas' premier jewelry stores as it rolls out new merchandise from European designers as well as young up-and-comers. New designers offered this month include Yannis Sergakis, Kataoka, Melissa Kaye, WWake, Martin Margiela Heritage and more.

Zsofia's Fine Lingerie
Fashion designer and store owner Zsofia Mezey opened this boutique in the Dallas Design District with the promise to make shopping for intimates a luxurious experience. Brands to look out for include Simone Perele, Mimi Holliday, Luca Lingerie, Fleur du Mal, Fleur of England, Lise Charmel, Cache Coeur, Cheek Frills, Addiction, Linda Hartman, Lou, Fantasie, Salua Loungewear and Heidi Klum Intimates.

Kit and Ace is now open off Henderson Avenue next to Houndstooth coffee.

Photo courtesy of Kit and Ace

Kit and Ace is now open off Henderson Avenue next to Houndstooth coffee.