What is fashion? Fashion encompasses more than just clothing and accessories. It reflects a person’s cultural, social and personal identity, and can even highlight an individual’s values and beliefs. Many use fashion as a tool for self-expression. It can be an avenue for driving home important political statements or a means to promote social activism. Ultimately, it distinguishes us from one another, maybe even more than our given names.
There are at least 50 women-owned boutiques in Charleston. Located everywhere from downtown Charleston, to the surrounding islands, to popular suburbs like West Ashley and Mount Pleasant to Charleston’s little sister, Summerville, these establishments could compete with any Rodeo drive or Madison Avenue store. Many local shop owners have been in fashion for decades, whether working in other chain stores or creating their own collections. Guaranteed, there is at least one boutique near your home. Next time you want to go shopping, why not try a locally owned boutique? Chances are, the owner will be there to greet and assist you, offering insight on how to put together classic looks. Here are some recommendations, a few favorites in the sea of many, for your next shopping experience.
DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON
• Holst + Lee, 17 State St.
Holst + Lee is a unique jewelry store that makes custom and handmade pieces within their studio. Each season the collection evolves and draws inspiration from a wide range of unexpected characters and cultures.
• Millie Lynn Boutique, 336 King St. and 1608 Palmetto Grande Drive, Mount Pleasant
This boutique has a wide range of styles but focuses on chic, stylish clothing with colorful features such as bows and textures. They are known for girly, trendy clothes. It’s a beautifully decorated store with pink shopping bags and cost effective items.
Also check out: Beckett, 409 King St. #101, Jean-Pierre Klifa, 214 King St.
DANIEL ISLAND
• The Cove, 260 Seven Farms Drive, Suite C
The Cove is a brand-new stylist boutique from owner Britt Schmidt. It’s a sanctuary of understated elegance, a celebration of femininity and an oasis of airy simplicity. They are a high-end casual boutique. Unique to this boutique, you can reserve a private appointment with Britt to shop at her store. Walk-ins are welcome, but treat yourself to a private shopping session and really take in the fashions of The Cove.
• House of Sage, 186 Seven Farms Drive and 51B G Born in 2009 by a dynamic husband and wife duo Chris and Erin Abagnale, House of Sage is a chic boho boutique that offers affordable, unique pieces. You’ll find rompers, jumpsuits, crop tops and skirts among other must-haves. They also are coming soon to West Ashley.
Also check out: Paisley of Daniel Island at 194 Seven Farms Drive #600A
JAMES ISLAND
• Lounge With Us, 520 Folly Rd. #130
Lounge With Us is Charleston’s premier online and in-person boutique delivering comfortable loungewear and lingerie. They also are owned by a bra specialist who can help you find a perfect fit.
Also check out: Tres Carmen Boutique at 1175 C, Folly Road and Rhodes Boutique 92 Folly Road Blvd.
JOHNS ISLAND
• Showroom Kiawah, Freshfields Village, 249
Gardners Circle Founder and buyer Erica Hanks’ mission is to simplify workwear with a curated edit from established and emerging brands. Her team showcases fashions that are both ethical and environmentally conscious. They work exclusively with brands that champion fair labor rights and mindful manufacturing.
Also check out: Tina Stephens at 475 Freshfields Drive, or Downtown at 285 King St. and Johnny Was at 574 Freshfields Drive
WEST ASHLEY
• Styledwell Boutique, 1662 Savannah Highway #220
The new owner Mayra Arena has transformed the tried-and-true boutique for the modern women. Featuring local and regional designers and creators, Styledwell has everything you need for a complete collection.
Also check out: Ellington at 1722 Ashley River Road, Suite 5, Reinvented Upscale Resale at 847 Savannah Highway and Bashful Boutique at 36 Windermere Blvd.
MOUNT PLEASANT
• Subtle & Sass, 3530 Park Ave. Blvd., Suite 102
Owner Renee Smith wants you to know that you should wear what makes you feel good. “I love when I style a customer and see her confidence is radiating. Just belting a dress can change the entire look and help show off those gorgeous curves,” Smith remarked.
Also check out: Two Brunettes at 616 Long Point Road and 835 Coleman Blvd., Mulberry & King at 1223 Ben Sawyer Blvd. and Bits of Lace Fine Lingerie at 453 W. Coleman Blvd.
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND
• Abovo, 216 Middle St.
Established in 2019 in a college student’s basement, Abovo started out as an online store. From dresses, tanks, pants, jumpers and more, Abovo is a beachy Charleston sample you must try.
• Bennie + Coco, 2213 Middle St.
Established in 1980, Bennie + Coco wants you to have an effortless casual look. Inspired by the Lowcountry coastal lifestyle featuring a clean, cool and relaxed aesthetic, this boutiquw carries brands such as Celia B, Shack Fancy, Alix of Bohemia, Aviator Nation, The Great and more.
• Goldbug, 2205 E. Middle St.
In April of 2016 Ashley Reid Martin established Goldbug. This beautiful beach boutique located in the quaint business district on Sullivan’s Island carries jewelry, natural beauty products, candles, swimsuits, resort wear and more. All Goldbug’s jewelry is designed and handmade in South Carolina by Martin.
SUMMERVILLE
• FLY Modern Apparel, 114 E. Richardson Ave.
Fly offers a unique style. The interior is an industrial-glam-pop-art theme, which is the perfect backdrop to their mix of casual, classic, retro, boho, rock and glam styles. Also, check out the new vintage section upstairs.
• Louise, 103 S. Main St. Suite C
Louise is a brand-new boutique that just opened this past May in the heart of the historic district. Offering chic tops and bottoms, dresses, accessories and select men’s styles, Louise is a must-see. You can also book private shopping parties at the store.
Also check out: Skin Solutions Day Spa & Boutique at 130 W. Richardson Ave., Sassy Shortcake at 405 N. Maple St. and Collaboration Clothing at 113 W. 2nd S St.
On the next shopping trip, instead of walking into a known chain or big box clothing store, try a local women-owned boutique. The owners are as well-versed and knowledgeable of the fashion world as any but are also your neighbors. They will give you the personal customer service level you’ve dreamed about while thanking you from the bottom of their hearts.
By Maurice J. Frazier
