2019 BEST SHOPPING in CHARLESTON SC
Apartment Complex
The Standard James Island
thestandardjamesisland.com
Laid-back living with an indie spirit, The Standard’s convenient location to Harris Teeter, shops and the beach offers an urban feel alongside its natural views. Its edged by rivers and salt marshes and close to boating, biking and farmers markets. Select from studio, one- two- and three-bedroom floorplans and enjoy amenities like the resort-style saltwater pool, outdoor TV lounge, grilling stations, 24/7 fitness center, yoga studio and more. Availability is limited, so schedule your tour today.
Appliance Store
Signature Appliance Center
signatureappliances.net
Adulting isn’t easy – nor is it cheap. But appliance shopping doesn’t have to be a chore, especially if you head to Signature Appliance Center. They appliance experts can help you find the perfect fit of more than 100 appliances for your home. Need a fridge, washer and dryer, dishwasher, oven? Shop from the widest selection of the country’s favorite brands (think Sharp, Samsung, Whirlpool and more) all at competitive pricing that won’t break the bank.
Art Gallery
Mary Martin Gallery
marymartinart.com
Consistently named one of the Best Galleries in not just the area, but all of South Carolina, Mary Martin Gallery features artists who are recognized for excellence – artists who have been selected due to their unique creative work in a variety of media. Discover artists who forge new ground and explore their originality and beauty when you visit one of the two downtown galleries either for an ongoing exhibit or as part of Charleston’s First Friday Art Work.
Bike Shop
The Bicycle Shoppe
thebicycleshoppe.com
Whether cycling or cruising, The Bicycle Shoppe has the two-wheeler for you. Charleston’s leading bike shop since 1986, the family-owned business – specializing in both service and retail – is one of the top 100 bicycle stores in the country. Visit the amazing staff in person to test their inventory, or hop online for their Biker Portal that features safety tips, trails and maps! Not from around here? They offer rentals to take in historic Charleston at your own pace.
Blinds, Shutters & Window Treatments
Budget Blinds
budgetblinds.com/charleston
The Lord said, “Let there be light,” but for the times you crave a little shade and extra protection, Budget Blinds is here for you with style and service for every budget. They offer free in-home consultations and professional installation from Awendaw to Kiawah and just about everywhere in between. Their products are child-friendly, eco-friendly and energy saving and whether its blinds, accents, shutters, shades, solutions, drapes or exclusive brands, they’ll install it all for you!
Boats
Palmetto Boat Sales
palmettoboatsales.com
What’s coastal living without a watercraft of your own? Palmetto Boat Sales on Savannah Highway has a team of highly experienced salesmen and staff who will help you find your dream vessel, whether new or used. Check out their online inventory to see their 2020 models, brands (Sea Fox, Cobia, Maverick, Spyder, Pathfinder, Hewes, Cast & Blast, and Regulator) and specials, or pop in Monday through Saturday to speak to the friendly staff in person.
Bridal Boutique
Maddison Row South
maddisonrowsouth.com
As if Southern Protocol Bridal has not been busy enough this year with the marriage to Maddison Row Bridal Chic (a past “Best Of” winner 4 years in a row), a move to 8 Vanderhorst Street and the creation of a new name and logo- Maddison Row South- they were selected as “Best Of” by our readers. Since opening in 2014, brides have consistently expressed their love of the classic gown designs, quality selections and extraordinary personalized service at the downtown boutique.
Bridal Registry
Vieuxtemps
vieuxtemps.net
When it comes to registering, anyone can sit online and click generic dishes from department stores. But where’s the joy in that? Instead, step into Vieuxtemps where you can hand-select elegant pieces that will last a lifetime. Vieuxtemps has the largest selection of China, silver and crystal in the Lowcountry, and you could get lost for hours, admiring every piece. Add in luxurious SFERRA linens, delicate Annieglass, or artistic expressions by Mario Luca Giusti and you’ll create a list your guests will love to shop!
Car Dealership
Baker Motor Company of Charleston
baker.mercedesdealer.com
You may not be a car enthusiast, but you’ll become one when it’s time to buy. Cars need to be safe, reliable, well-crafted and, admit it, you’d prefer stunning, too. That’s why you won’t be able to resist Baker’s inventory of all-new and certified pre-owned models of Mercedes, Infiniti, GMC, Buick (and the list goes on) that fit every budget. Visit their website and pick your dream year and model or head to Savannah Highway to test drive today.
Clothing Kids
Southern Belles
southern-belles-609373.shoplightspeed.com
Parents can only pick out their children’s clothing for so long, so savor those moments by shopping at Southern Belles. Specializing in fashionable clothing, brand-name footwear, and accessories for infants and children since 1982, the local clothier sells traditional clothing that fits today’s style. Sizes range from preemie to 16 – and monogramming and complimentary gift wrapping are available. Shop Sophie & Lucas, Smiling Button, The Proper Peony and more as you browse dresses, overalls, swimsuits and Christening gifts.
Clothing Men
Berlin’s for Men
berlinsclothing.com
Those who think men don’t have as many fashion options as women, clearly don’t know where to shop. The colors, the patterns, the materials: Berlin’s for Men offers an impeccable variety of sportswear, men’s suits, formal clothes, hats and quality accessories – and has been since 1883 when it was founded on the belief that quality and good taste are timeless. Pop in, make an appointment to shop, or let a personal shopper complete your wardrobe.
Clothing Women
Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant
gwynns.com
Shop for an occasion or simply for the joy of buying beautiful fashion at Gwynn’s. Designer clothing at old-school service, Gwynn’s of Mt. Pleasant is the only independently and locally owned luxury department store in the tri-county area offering men’s and women’s designer clothing and accessories, shoes, cosmetics and skincare, upscale gifts and home accessories. Find brands like Jimmy Choo, Loro Piano, Escada, Ermenegildo Zegna, Brunello Cucinelli, Lafayette 148, Tory Burch, Trish McEvoy, Tom Ford and more.
Consignment Furniture
Next to New
nexttonewsc.com
Consignment shopping is an adventure. Finding a bargain, uncovering a treasure, knowing it’s one of a kind. Inventory changes daily at Next to New, which means there’s always a reason to pop into Mt. Pleasant’s 5,000-square-foot furniture and home décor store. Choose from an array of sofas, dining sets, coffee tables, linens, dinnerware, lamps and more for every style. Don’t see what you’re looking for? The friendly staff will add your request to their “Wish Book.”
Fabric Store
Aiden Fabrics
aidenfabrics.com
Aiden Fabrics has hundreds of indoor and outdoor fabrics to choose from – which makes picking the fabric potentially harder than the project itself! Select from the largest local inventory of in-stock fabrics, whether you’re seeking modern, coastal or delightfully colorful; or check out their blog for fabulous ideas, tips and tricks and fabric guides. Not the DIY type? No big deal. The Mount Pleasant shop also offers area rugs, designer and custom furniture, porch swings and custom fabrication.
Furniture Store
Celadon
celadonathome.com
Charleston's long-established destination for global home furnishings and one-of-a-kind finds, Celadon is your first stop for an inspired home. Select furniture, candles, quilts, lighting, mirrors, and more over on Johnnie Dodds Blvd. or visit the 12,000-square foot North Charleston outlet, which features overstocks and scratch & dents, tons of cool stuff, and huge markdowns. The Navy yard location also hosts the most incredible flea markets on the last Sunday of the month.
Garden Center
Hyams Garden Center
hyamsgardencenter.com
Whether it’s greener grass; vibrant, decorative flowers; or a complete overhaul of your landscape, Hyams has you covered. They’ve been lending their green thumbs to local gardeners with exceptional service and quality education since 1981, and the garden and accent store has a superb collection of trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, tropical, vines and accents. Best of all, experienced staff is beyond friendly and knowledgeable about each plant, when to sow it and how to grow it.
Gift Store
Carolina Girls
You could get lost for hours in Carolina Girls – and like a trip to Target, you can never “just browse.” Jewelry, local candles, Toms shoes, totes, children’s gifts, the perfect sundresses, bags and more await you in this charmingly Southern store. Shop for a friend, or just for a mid-week pick-me-up that is sure to excite you. The staff will greet you at the door, making you feel like you’re shopping alongside your closest friends.
Home Accessories
Lavender Hill Designs
lavenderhilldesigns.com
If giving gifts is your language of love, head to Lavender Hill Designs to find something unique and meaningful. If you’re anything but a gift giver, well, still pop in! This Mount Pleasant shop offers something special for everyone with gorgeous home accessories and gifts straight from Europe – browse beautiful home accents, furniture, linens, jewelry, and vintage items that have that je ne sais quoi! It’s relaxing, charming and the next best thing to a trip to Europe!
Jeweler
Diamonds Direct
diamondsdirect.com
Visit Diamond Direct’s sparkling showroom, whether you’re browsing, building a wish list or looking for an extensive, one-on-one diamond education. They’re dedicated to helping you find the perfect ring for that perfect someone, no matter the celebration: engagement, anniversary, birthday or just because. Their unparalleled selection of fine jewelry – rings, necklaces, earrings and watches – will be a gift to remember. See it in store or make your own custom design; everything comes with a lifetime warranty, complimentary cleaning and maintenance.
Lighting Store
Candelabra
shopcandelabra.com
To find the light fixtures and furniture that fits your home best, locals turn to Candelabra in Mount Pleasant. Shop for trendy and modern lighting, furniture and home décor. If you don’t have an eye for design or the ability to bring your vision to life, the featured designers will help with ideas. Pop into their shop or head online to see their extensive selections, wall art, textiles, brands you love, what's new and more!
Lingerie
Bits of Lace
bitsoflace.com
A lace bra is a fashion staple and every woman deserves the perfect one—with the perfect fit to match her style. At Bits of Lace, their bra specialists have been personally fitting Charleston women for over 38 years. Feel amazing in their elegantly enhancing Empreinte Cassiopee collection or Conturelle Provence’s gorgeous plus-size line. Hand-pick something that makes you feel special—because you are—be it bras, underwear, sexy lingerie, sleepwear, or the bridal collection.
Liquor
Pence’s Liquor & Wine
penceliquors.com
There’s no shortage of fine wine or liquor at this 3,000-square-foot warehouse on East Bay Street. Eager to try a new Scotch or bourbon? Stop by on a Saturday for a liquor tasting from 4 to 7 p.m. and stock up on all your favorites. And Fridays here are for wine tasting, so gather up the co-workers or bachelorette squad and add this downtown Charleston stop to the itinerary. But don’t just sample once; make it a weekend habit, since the samples change weekly. Also, shop for local fare to pair with that special spirit.
Mall
Mt Pleasant Town Center
mtpleasanttownecentre.com
With more than 60 restaurants and stores, Mt. Pleasant Towne Centre is the premier mixed-use lifestyle center in Charleston. Belk; Bed, Bath & Beyond; Barnes & Noble; even a movie theater – there isn’t anything you could need that Towne Centre doesn’t provide. There’s even a wine shop and a pet boutique – fitting since so many of the shops are dog friendly! Head online to see which ones, find sales and peruse all the upcoming events!
Motorcycle
Harley Davidson
lowcountryharley.com
At 66,000 square feet, the Lowcountry’s Harley-Davidson motorcycle sales and service center is the largest in South Carolina. Operating since 1979, the showroom includes a 4,800-square-foot section dedicated to selling Harley Davidson motorcycle memorabilia. Inside, you'll find both new and pre-owned Harley-Davidson motorcycles on the floor, in addition to other brands, as well as a full line of the latest MotorClothes apparel, collectibles, novelties and tees. Come by for a test ride!
Outdoor Furniture
Outside Is In
outside-is-in.com
In the South, your outdoor living space requires just as much love and upkeep as your indoors! Shop for outdoor furniture, such as benches and swings, chairs, tables, sectionals, deep seating and chaise lounges. Outside Is In also offers design consultation, restoration, and customization, where they help you create furniture designs that fit your space and personal lifestyle. It’s not too late to start designing, matching and personalizing with their help! They deliver, too!
Outdoor Outfitters
Half Moon Outfitters
halfmoonoutfitters.com
Even if you’re not outdoorsy, this store will inspire you to hike, get out on the water or just be present in nature a whole lot more. Find clothing, shoes, jackets, bathing suits and more for men, women and children in the brands you love, like Patagonia, The North Face, Chaco, Arc’teryx, Smartwool, or even the Half-Moon collection. The shop sells everything you need for your adventures so follow them on Instagram and visit their three locations daily!
Pet Store
Dolittle’s
dolittles.com
Helping to improve the relationship between pets and people since 1994, Dolitte’s offers only wholesome selections in their three locations in West Ashley, Mt. Pleasant and Kiawah. Each food item is carefully researched and they only carry foods with whole ingredients that are safe and healthy for your furry loved one. Not sure what’s best for your pet? Dolittle’s staff is made up of a knowledgeable team of vet techs and students, dog trainers and educated pet professionals.
Shoe Store
Phillips Shoes
phillipsshoes.com
Phillips Shoes has been serving the Charleston area since 1967. Its knowledgeable and friendly staff are committed to helping you find the right fit of athletic, dress and casual shoes for your feet and providing that personal customer service that has gotten lost in our digital world. They offer competitive pricing on more than 60 popular name brands, including Birkenstock, Brooks, Clarks, Dansko, Ecco, Merrell, New Balance, Teva, Toms, and more. Visit one of their four locations!
Surf Shop
Odyssey Board Shop
odysseyboardshop.com
Charleston’s only real “old school” surf and skate shop, Odyssey is your local, family owned surf shop and paddle boarding destination. They buy and sell new and used surfboards, skateboards, paddleboards, bodyboards, and skimboards and even provide lessons, guides, and rentals. Looking for a custom ride? You can shape, make, build, or create your own board. Odyssey takes pride in being grounded, local and honest. Come see what it means to be “old school!”
Swimwear
Las Olas
lasolascharleston.com
Swimwear has evolved over the years, and Las Olas’ selections continue to change with the times. Stylish one pieces, cover ups, board shorts – get ’em while it’s hot! After all, here in the South, you need a bathing practically year round! After you select your swimwear, accessorize with watches, bags, Mochillas, hats and any other beachwear guys or gals could need. Find them on King Street, Kiawah Island and Mount Pleasant and enjoy the beachy vibes!
Seafood Market
Crosbys Fish and Shrimp Co.
crosbysfishshrimp.com
This wholesale seafood market, one of the largest of its kind in the area, is more than just a destination for fresh, local coastal critters; it’s a family business, with humble beginnings dating back 40-plus years. Founder, Capt. Horace Crosby, set up the shop as a simple place of respite for parking his vessel and selling shrimp and tackle near Folly Beach. Other fishing gear and seafood were added over the years along with a downtown location. Today, it’s a staple site for locals and visitors alike to find any marine life they crave.
Wine Store
Crushed Fine Wine
crushedfinewine.com
All about small, independent producers and customer service, this niche wine shop—owned by a couple that includes a sommelier—is unlike any other in the area. That’s because the selection, stemming from around the world, isn’t duplicated in grocery stores or other wine stores. Come marvel at the wall of wine—bottles displayed throughout the facility in a horizontal fashion—and see what bottle needs to be added to your collection or gifted to a friend for a special occasion. For just $40 a month, join the wine of the month club and each month receive two different bottles of wine.
