As I walk down the streets of Colonial Williamsburg or along the waterfront at Yorktown Beach, I cannot help but notice everyone’s attire. Throughout the country, every region has a different sense of fashion, just like we have different languages or dialects. Walking through the busy streets of New York City, you will see a wide array of fashion items, from couture looks to pajamas. For me, fashion is my self-expression, which tends to fall along the lines of glittery blazers, bright and bold dresses, and shoes with big bows and fun patterns. I used to think you must live somewhere like NYC to dress boldly, but that is no longer true. Color is in, and so is allowing your personality to shine from the outside. When I visit an area, I like to see its locally owned shops to get a sense of its “style.” If you feel the same way about shopping, our region has so much to offer.
For those who love bold fashion like me, Williamsburg has shops like The Shoe Attic, owned by our “Kerry Bradshaw,” Brittany Rolston. At The Shoe Attic, you will find one-of-a-kind styles that will make you sparkle in the office, grocery store, or any party you attend. Great clothes are meant to be worn, not just admired from the hanger! Brittany also carries a great selection of jewelry, spunky hair clips, backpacks, temporary tattoos, gifts, and more. This is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves color, quality clothing, and shoes. Colonial Williamsburg also just welcomed the Monkees store, and they have made a splash. Monkees is a store I have always traveled to Virginia Beach or Fredericksburg for, but now we have our very own. Owned by Christina Wallace, Monkees offers mid- to high-end brands of clothing, shoes, purses, and jewelry to sophisticated shoppers. If you have not been, you have to stop by!
And while you’re exploring the area, don’t forget to check out The Playful Educator, which recently opened just outside of Colonial Williamsburg in the Williamsburg Crossing shopping center. This delightful shop offers kids' toys, treats, and accessories from babies to young teens. A local educator, Rachel Salmon, opened the shop to provide educational supplies for teachers and parents, making it a sweet little stop for families in the area.
After visiting The Playful Educator, you can continue your fashion journey by heading down the way to the fun Ladybug Consignment & Boutique. Ladybug has been a staple in the Williamsburg area for a while and is run by Theresia Barnes. She consigns new to lightly worn items from brands such as Louis Vuitton to David Yurman and Lilly Pulitzer. I have stopped to buy gowns for charity galas and even winter boots.
If you are more into vintage clothing and unique consigned finds, add Parker and Peony Boutique in York County to your itinerary. The vivacious owner, Janice Chisholm, will greet you at the door. Her vast array of clothes, shoes, purses, and other accessories instantly delight you, from designer goods to more casual styles. Parker and Peony has items for all budgets and ages, so this is a place to bring all the gales into the family.
Southern hospitality is one of the many reasons people flock to the historic triangle, and our boutiques take this very seriously. These women-owned shops are all about helping their guests and making them feel like part of the fabric that makes this community unique. Whether you love new gear or consigned gems, this community has much to offer to those who love shopping!
