Find some great fashion right in your neighborhood
Whether it’s a few new pieces or a wardrobe overhaul you’re after, Charlotte’s fashion retail scene has hit the point where there’s an abundance of locally owned shops to pick from in practically every corner of the region.
Sure, we’re at no loss for national fashion retailers at every price point, from Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom to H&M and outlet shopping at Charlotte Premium Outlets. But if shopping at locally owned stores is what you’re after, try one of these picks, grouped by neighborhood.
With so many good choices, this is just a taste of what the region’s fashion retail scene has to offer:
Uptown
Abbeydale
Custom, made-to-measure suits and shirts are the specialty at this men’s clothier, but casual, ready-to-wear pieces also round out the offerings. Big-name local athletes shop here, as do uptown businessmen and travelers in town on business. Accessories and custom-made shoes are also available, and owner David Watkins and his staff helpfully dispense style tips in their handsomely laid-back space. 116 W. Fourth St. houseofabbeydale.com
Plaza Midwood
CLTCH (Collectible Objects of Desire)
This fun, funky shop in Plaza Midwood is full of unique, you’ll-only-see-here treasures for both men and women, from leather goods and jewelry (many from local artisans) to local art and home décor. Owners Linda Martinez, Scott Weaver and Lesa Kastanas, all Charlotte style and culture veterans, have their fingers – and funky rings – on the pulse of what Charlotte’s dare-to-be-unique customers want. 1512 Central Ave., @cltch on Twitter and Facebook.
Myers Park
Doll - A Boutique
If an L.A.-inspired, celebrity vibe is what you’re going for, Trish Bennett’s boutique on Selwyn Avenue is a "doll" of a find, offering looks that range from the bohemian to the rocker chic. You’ll be able to pull together a complete look here, from hats and handbags to locally made jewelry from hot brands Melvin and Twine & Twig. 2902 Selwyn Ave., dollaboutique.com.
Dilworth
Revolution
This shop for both men and women has some of the city’s best window displays, so just driving by is a treat. Inside, you’ll find a "sexy, sophisticated" style (in their words), with super trendy brands alongside denim big-names like Hudson and Joe’s Jeans. 227 East Blvd. shoprevolution.com
Ballantyne
The Cheeky Bean
This trendy womenswear shop has a young, colorful vibe, with many pieces under $100. Owner Justine Young and her crew are avid Facebook and Instagram posters, so followers are treated to the new and hot-selling items (many buy online or over the phone). The bright and airy boutique expanded with a move across the street in the bouncing-back Ballantyne Village shopping center. 14835 Ballantyne Village Way, The Cheeky Bean on Facebook.
SouthPark
Taylor, Richards and Conger
The SouthPark neighborhood, easily regarded as the region’s shopping capital, is home to dozens of must-hit stores. Menswear upscale menswear store Taylor, Richards & Conger is one of the crown jewels, celebrating 30 years of top-notch customer service, both off-the-rack and made-to-measure offerings and names like Brunello Cucinelli and Eton. Shoppers with a smaller shopping budget will enjoy visiting to get inspiration, and there’s a sister womenswear shop next door, TRC Women. 6907 Phillips Place Court. trcstyle.com
Fort Mill
Page 6 Boutique
Cleverly named for the New York Post gossip page, this Baxter Village boutique has a fast-changing, trendy inventory with lots of pieces well under $100. The helpful (although nicely not-hovering) staff is quick to help shoppers put together a look if desired, and it’s easy to see what’s in stock before visiting through the shop’s well-updated web page and social media sites. 936 Market St., Fort Mill. shoppage6.com
Lake Norman
Luna’s at the Lake
This upscale shop for men and women tucked in a Cornelius shopping center offers everything from jeans and cozy cotton Ts to dresses worthy of a big night out. Owner Chris Rinkart spotlights the work of local jewelers and fine artisans as well as offering big-name fashion brands. Michigan-made hand-dyed Brightly Twisted scarves (around $95) are a big seller. 19732 One Norman Blvd. lunasatthelake.com
Cristina Bolling writes about style and fashion for the Observer.
This story was originally published August 31, 2016 at 9:56 PM with the headline "Find some great fashion right in your neighborhood."