Columbus
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If you thought Columbus was all football and tech-talk, think again. Sure, it is most famous for being the birthplace of the award-winning Ohio State University (#GoBuckeyes) and it has recently become a ‘tech hub’, housing offices and data centers for Amazon, Facebook, and Google widely due to its centralized location and affinity for connecting recent graduates with start-up companies. But did you know Columbus ranks third in the nation for its number of resident fashion designers after New York and Los Angeles and was named “one of the country’s chicest capitals” by USA Today? With its diverse lineup of emerging designers and a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, Columbus is quickly gaining recognition in the fashion community and the world is taking notice. In 2021, Ohio native Yohannan Terrell launched The Columbus Fashion Alliance, a non-profit that aims to connect big retailers with start-up designers, teach and train local residents for jobs in the industry through internships and sewing classes and is on track to become a fully functioning fashion district in the near future. Today, we highlight several Columbus-based boutiques that offer women’s clothing, accessories, homewares, lifestyle items, gifts, and more.
Vamp Official
If “chic” were a place, it would be Vamp Official. Known for its neutral, minimalistic streetwear aesthetic, Vamp has become an instant favorite amongst young women seeking the latest trends at an affordable price. The brand was founded in 2016 by Ellen Shirk, an Ohio State University grad, as an online boutique which led to pop-up shops before officially opening its doors in July 2017. Vamp also values community through its campus rep program and annual clothing donation drive and resale initiative: Recycle | Revamp where the proceeds are gifted to the Columbus Chapter of Dress for Success. If looking good and doing good is your thing, check out Vamp at Short North Arts District.
Address: 969 North High Street , Columbus, Ohio 43201
Phone Number: (614) 358-6377
Hours: Sun-Sat : 11am-7pm
Price Range: $$
Website: www.vampofficial.com
Pivot
There is power (and beauty) in transformation which is the driving force behind one of Columbus’ newest boutiques, Pivot. The owner, Nicci Harrell, is a wife and mother who pivoted from her career as a lawyer to pursue her dreams of owning a retail store proving that life is not one-dimensional. Pivot opened in 2022 and showcases designers like Tracy Reese, Loeffler Randall, and Simone The Label. The design is bright with lots of natural light and super modern. It offers everything from clothing and accessories to home and beauty. Whether you’re looking for the perfect party piece or your everyday essential, Pivot has got you covered. You should definitely add this one to your trip checklist, it won’t disappoint!
Address: 718 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43215
Phone Number: (614) 219-9419
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-6pm, Sun: 12pm-4pm
Price Range: $$
Website: www.shopatpivot.com
Small Talk
Small Talk is a woman-owned lifestyle boutique that specializes in size-inclusive apparel, home goods, accessories, and art from indie designers. Small Talk is co-owned by Suzanne Riska and Chloe Crites with the goal to provide beautiful, ethically made items for women of all shapes, sizes, abilities, and ages. They pride themselves on being a “slow fashion” brand that advocates for sustainability and ethical practices and carry brands such as Sugar Candy Mountain, Hello Zephyr and Corinne Collection. If you're looking for something special and unique that is also environmentally friendly, shop here.
Address: 3337 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43202
Phone Number: (614) 725-0701
Hours: Mon-Sat : Wed-Fri: 12pm-5pm, Sat-Sun: 11am-5pm
Price Range: $$
Website: https://small-talk.co/
SAMSON, A Men’s Emporium
Walking into SAMSON, A Men’s Emporium is “like shopping in a friend's well curated living room”. This is the challenge that owner, Travis Samson, set out to achieve when he opened the retail store in 2015. From the looks of things, I’d say he accomplished his mission. The store design is complete with family photos, framed quotes, and antique furniture that give the space a unique touch and represents the strong family values that SAMSON embodies. Customers who visit Samson Men’s Emporium will find an expertly-curated selection of clothing and accessories, grooming and barware for the modern man. The store also hosts monthly Speakeasy events where customers can drink and shop while enjoying rare discounts and giveaways. SAMSON Men’s Emporium also participates in Gallery Hop, a festive night when shops stay open late on the first Saturday of every month. Located in the heart of Columbus’ Short North neighborhood is where you’ll find this ultimate men’s shopping destination.
Address: 694 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone Number: (614) 504-8038
Hours: Mon-Sat : 11am-7pm, Sun: 11am-5pm
Price Range: $$
Website: https://samsonmensemporium.com/