Good morning, Asheville, Brook here. 👋 While one of my claims to fame is the fact that I am wildly productive in my sweatpants, it’s about time for me to find some different fashion since it’s now summertime. And even though the AVLtoday team has transitioned back to working from home for the time being, we trust that the day will come when we can safely return to our office downtown. Sadly, even in cooler temperatures, I don’t think my ratty old sweatpants are a good professional look, which means at some point, it will be time to resume the regimen of getting dressed for work. So whether you’re dusting off a favorite outfit or looking for a fresh look to make you feel more polished, here’s our list of where you should shop locally, based on your quarantine fashion:
If you’ve been wearing: PJs all day
🛍️ Hazel Twenty, 16 Patton Ave.
This local spot started as a mobile boutique in 2014 before launching their flagship storefront downtown. They stock everything from stylish Vintage Havana kicks and Rails rompers to luxe Capri Blue candles, and we’re here for all of it. This is the perfect store to browse if you’re looking for comfy, casual styles that can still take you from work to play. Plus, they have Maisie, the cutest French Bulldog, that you can pet + kiss while you shop.
If you’ve been wearing: Athletic shorts
🛍️ Mast General Store, 15 Biltmore Ave.
If you’re the type to hit the ground running, we recommend hitting up this shop, which has brands like Patagonia and Fjallraven + accessories and gear from local makers like Eagles Nest Outfitters as well. Bonus: they also have a great collection of old timey candies (including Editor Brook’s favorite, Goo Goo Clusters) because you’re liable to work up an appetite checking out both floors of goods at this downtown outfitting institution.
If you’ve been wearing: T-shirts and leggings
🛍️ Spiritex, 14 Haywood St., #2833
When it comes to the intersection of fashion + comfort, this downtown boutique has got you covered. Featuring a wide array of men’s, women’s, and unisex organic cotton clothing, including graphic tees, hoodies, and skirts, this is the place to go when you want reliable staple pieces that will carry you through many seasons. Protip: they also carry some of the cutest kids clothes I’ve ever seen, and have pivoted to crafting buttery soft facial coverings as well.
If you’ve been wearing: Button-down and jeans
🛍️ Scout Boutique, 10 All Souls Crescent
Want to shop simple, high end looks at affordable prices? This sunlight-filled shop in historic Biltmore Village features an unending collection of statement pieces for nearly every budget. Our pick: be sure to browse the shoes and accessories for some literal and figurative gems.
If you’ve been wearing: Suits or dresses
🛍️ Minx Boutique, 64 N. Lexington Ave.
Since 2002, this boutique has clothed Asheville’s fashionistas, and somehow their pieces manage to be both on trend + timeless. Drop in and say hi + be sure to let the staff style you in some of the most elegant pieces from the season. Bonus: they offer private shopping appointments for you and your girls so you can live out your Pretty Woman-esque fantasy, sans snotty salespeople.
