I’m REALLY excited for today’s post because I asked top Baltimorean bloggers to spotlight their favorite local boutiques in honor of the holiday season. If you’re looking to get your shop on, these stores are an absolute must. I work with big brands fairly often, but I’m passionate about supporting small businesses so this guide means a lot to me. So, definitely make sure you guys check out each and every one of these places for unique gifts that will seriously impress.
Beautifully Together: Indigo Octopus
In a time where boutiques pop up left and right, but often offer similar selections, Indigo Octopus is a seashore breeze of fresh air. You can find Indigo Octopus in Fenwick, DE, but this holiday season the beach-side store is popping up inside the Shops at Kenilworth in Towson, MD. This carefully curated shop has quickly become one of my favorite spots to check off my Christmas shopping list.
The store carries apparel from Mumu, Retro Brand, Levi’s, Rails, Misa, Free People, and CP Shades, to name a few, coming together in a winter collection that’s full of texture and cozy luxury. If you are still looking for the perfect holiday outfit – this is the one-stop-shop to get it. Dainty gold jewelry, trendy resin accessories, Cult Gaia handbags, and divine smelling candles add the finishing touches to displays and make perfect gifts for moms, girlfriends, coworkers and friends. Need a few extra stocking stuffers? Lip scrubs, hand lotions and velvet hair accessories make the perfect additions to your shopping haul. No matter your budget, Indigo Octopus offers affordable and beautiful options for every gal on your list!
Follow Shae Li on instagram and facebook. Photography by Marqel Allen.
Land of Pleasant Eating: Poppy & Stella
One of my absolute favorite (and OG) boutiques in Baltimore has to be Poppy & Stella! They started out as the #1 shoe boutique in 2008 and have since expanded into two locations with clothing, accessories and gifts!
Other than delicious leather boots, you can find their new Gift boxes which range from their Holiday Gift Boxes a Boss Babe Gift Box! Each box contains several trinkets, customer favorites and a personal card for $45! Other than their gift boxes, i’d recommend gifting some of their affordable earrings, candles and cozy socks! You can’t lose when shopping at Poppy & Stella!
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Lifestyle by Anna Elizabeth: Rachel Mulherin
Rachel Mulherin is not only an incredible jewelry brand, but the woman behind the glittery pieces is a true icon in the Baltimore community. She has a captivating presence and is one of the hardest working women I’ve met in the creative industry. When I took part in her holiday shoot at the Four Seasons in Baltimore for her annual Holy Glam party, I was blown away by not only the runway-ready jewelry she handmade herself, but by her vision while directing an entire team for the campaign.
Rachel created a jewelry line that helps women feel beautiful and glamorous, even if they are simply pairing the piece with a t-shirt and jeans. The chain and gemstone wrap bracelets and statement earrings are her signature pieces, and you can spot them from a mile away as Rachel’s distinct designs. She has created a brand that is recognizable and aesthetically branded.
I wore her White Adalyn earrings on my wedding day, and I love giving her layered necklaces and wrap bracelets as gifts to the special women in my life. If you are looking for a unique gift this holiday season (for yourself or someone else) and want to support a local brand and female-founded business, I highly recommend checking out her collection! You can shop directly online or at the Four Seasons in Baltimore where it is exclusively sold. My 3 favorite pieces right now: (1) CZ Evil Eye Pendant Necklace, (2) Magnolia Neutral Earrings, (3) Leesa Neutral Bracelet.
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Living Alexis: Punch
One of my new favorite local shops in Baltimore is Punch! In Federal Hill. I had heard good things about it but stumbled upon it on Small Business Saturday. From the minute, I opened the door, I was immediately dawn to the Pink aesthetic. (I literally asked the cashier where some of the furniture was from because I wanted to buy it.) They have a wide array of clothing, jewelry, and fun gift items. And the prices vary so you can really knock anyone off your list. I got two things for myself that day but will definitely be back to get some things for my sisters and nieces. They also just opened a second location in Washington DC!
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Sarahbeth Ramsey: The Codex Club
I’m a huge fan of local products and shops, that’s why I really enjoy visiting the Codex Club, a store that features local Baltimore products and can be found inside of Arundel Mills Mall. Owner Andrea Chen took the time to show me around the store a few weeks ago, and she has so many local goodies!
Some of my favorite products include items from Tiny Dog Press (think cute & unique holiday cards or host cards), Mount Royal Soaps – which make great gifts and/or stocking stuffers, as well as Counter Culture Coffee, which currently features a winter blend. I also went ahead and bought a few holiday dresses here, one with sequins and one that is a red bodycon type dress that I cannot wait to wear! But it doesn’t stop there, the Codex Club also features home items like pillows and ornaments, that are perfect for this holiday season. There is something to find for everyone on your list- and you’ll be helping the Baltimore community and makers at the same time! Win win.
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Shoptini: Sassanova
Follow Kristi Stevens on facebook, twitter, pinterest, and instagram.
Stylishly Taylored: Bottle of Bread
Bottle of Bread is a cute, locally-owned vintage boutique with the coolest selection of eras, styles, and sizes. Located in Mount Vernon, it’s one of my personal favorites because 1) it’s where I bought my favorite denim jacket and 2) they also sell goods from other local vendors and designers. If you’re looking for a holiday gift — any gift, for that matter — check out their selection of unique clothing, jewelry, and home goods. Follow them on Instagram to keep up-to-date on what’s new in store and/or on their e-commerce, Etsy shop! See something you love aren’t in Maryland? They ship!
Follow Taylor on instagram, facebook, and pinterest. Photography by Phyllis Langley.
The Primpy Sheep: Hello Addie
This Federal Hill boutique carries the latest trends as well as classic staples, all at mid-range price points averaging $75-$150. Brands include ASTR the Label, J.O.A. and Pistola denim, making it an ideal destination for everything from the perfect pair of jeans to a dress for a special event. Hello Addie differentiates itself from other Baltimore retailers by its commitment to clothing that fits – all purchases can be altered for free usually within 48 hours! No more worrying about whether that romper will fit your sister just right – she can bring in her gift receipt and have it altered for the fit perfect.
The Primpy Sheep modeling a beautiful blazer dress from Hello Addie.
Mint + Major
This local online retailer is known for its fun pop-up events and drool-inducing jewelry collection. Owner Melissa Bona has her finger on the pulse of what women love in both everyday and statement jewelry – you can find everything on their website from delicate gold vermeil and semi-previous stone necklaces, to bold oxidized metal and wood-and-enamel earrings. A luxe selection of makeup and beauty products, designer candles, and other covetable gifts round out the selection. Shop them online or check their Instagram for the next pop-up.
The Primpy Sheep modeling jewelry from Mint + Major.
Arrow Clothing
Another local online retailer, Arrow Clothing is an excellent destination for gifts with a selection of contemporary clothing that will satisfy your trendiest friends. From teddy-bear jackets to textured sweaters and faux-leather leggings, this boutique will leave everyone on your gift list (and your wallet) happy.
The Primpy Sheep wearing Arrow Clothing from head to toe.
Follow Vanessa Ulrich on her blog, facebook, twitter and instagram.
And that’s a wrap for today! I hope you all enjoyed reading about the best boutiques in Baltimore. A huge, HUGE thanks to everyone for contributing – definitely make sure you guys check them all out and give them a follow. Until next time, friends. Happy shopping!
