The following are shops that don’t specialize in mass-produced generic fashion. They sell original, handmade pieces and repurposed clothing created by local designers and entrepreneurs. In other words, these are the places to go if you “buy local.”
Albisia’s Jewelry Looking for a handmade but tasteful and unique bracelet, earrings or necklace? Albisia’s is the place. Owner Albisia Ipek and her team design and handcraft each piece of jewelry from raw materials. Their focus is to create “simple, timeless yet modern jewelry that can be playfully mixed together.” 1623 W. Snow Circle, Hyde Park. albisiasjewelry.com.
All Sewn Up “I love your dress, where’d ya get it?” That’s what you’ll hear when you shop at All Sewn Up on Central Avenue. Edgy, bohemian, hipster, hippie shoppers can find their favorite one-of-a-kind piece. Denim, dresses, custom shoes, and brands like Motel Rocks, Upper Playground, Kill City and more. The purchasers shop smart — they only buy one size in each item — so you can have the satisfaction of knowing you’re one of the few who owns the piece. Plus, the store treats students and those in the hospitality industry to a 10 percent discount on Mondays and Tuesdays. 621 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-289-7034, allsewnupboutique.com.
Anarchist Closet Sheena is a punk-rocker now, and that means she’ll need some punk-rock threads. If you’re less punk and more goth, Anarchist Closet has something for you too. Gently used rockabilly, punk, and goth garb for the devil in all of us. Even if you’re only wading into the shallow waters of the alternative lifestyle, there are plenty of “everyday” clothes, with an emphasis on full-figured ladies. Get your platform books, corsets, and fetish gear here, too. Prices are extremely fair and they have a great selection of accessories too. 12830 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace, 813-280-9805, anarchistcloset.com.
Black & Denim Tampa-based fashion brand Black & Denim aims to create apparel that embraces a bold, cool, and most of all, timeless image. The menswear line features stylish crew T-shirts, V-necks, woven shirts, and denim jeans with classic Americana appeal. Hoffman Porges Gallery, 1907 E. Seventh Ave., Tampa. 813-333-6905. blackanddenim.com.
ArtPool Marina Williams's carefully curated selection of vintage fashion, handmade jewelry and collectibles is augmented by a full service home décor shop, vinyl record store, and café serving delicious treats and craft brews (there’s an outdoor patio, too). The shop also features evening art parties with a wide array of art, fashion, performance and music. Coming up just in time for holiday shopping: the Crafty Fest Winter Shopping Spree Spectacular, Dec. 21-22 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 2030 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-324-3878, artpoolrules.com.
Baubles & Bubbles/Bella Moda Two boutiques have partnered up in one space in the heart of Beach Drive. Bella Moda sells trendy new threads from top Brazilian designers like Morena Rosa, while Baubles & Bubbles offers up a beauteous array of fine jewelry and timepieces, including the distinctive creations of local designers Spathose. 30 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-623-9981, lovebellamoda.com.
Bijou’s Boutique Browse a balanced selection of sleek clothing and accessories at this Crislip Arcade shop, which has a sister location in Orlando. Open 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon.-Sat. 645 Central Ave., Unit 8, St. Petersburg. 727-209-6506, facebook.com/BijousBoutique.
The Chameleon Located south of the Skyway, this shop offers an array of tops, dresses and other pieces made of natural fibers, plus unique jewelry and accessories. 2801 Manatee Ave. W, Bradenton, 941-747-4477, thechameleonboutique.com.
Classic Gentlemen Boutique Snazzy fashions for men with unpredictable pairings that make a debonair statement. 5407 N. Florida Ave., Tampa. 813-234-3459. classicgentlemenboutique.com.
Cozette’s Boutique Anchoring one side of the Crislip Arcade, Cozette’s carries an eclectic mix of local and international fashion. Find k.hendrix clothing and jewelry by Albisia Pojani hanging alongside fashion by emerging Parisian designers and brilliantly colored pieces from India. 645 Central Ave., Unit 1, St. Petersburg, 813-317-1241, cozettesboutique.com.
Couture Shoes A Tampa boutique specializing in new and gently worn, high-end designer shoes. Owners claim a savings of up to 75 percent on Prada, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, Guesippi Zanotti, Diane Von Furstenberg, and many more. The boutique is approximately 600 square feet and decorated in highly contrasting colors with crystal chandeliers. 4025 Henderson Blvd. (intersection of Henderson and Neptune), Tampa. Shop page on Facebook; 813-398-8080; Coutureshoez.com.
Disco Dolls Studio Whimsy, fun and function epitomize the Dolls’ designs. Sisters Kristine Bush and Leigh Anne Balzekas, and hairstylist Nikki Rice create new looks in the studio, an artistic space equipped with hair, styling and tailoring services. Made entirely of vintage and recycled fabrics, their new collection marries style and sustainability. Whether you’re looking for vintage cocktail dresses, colorful tees or gypsy skirts, the Disco Dolls have you covered. 408 N. Howard Ave., Studio A, 813-641-4367, thediscodolls.com.
Don Me Now This is where you’ll find staples every woman should own — black trouser pants, fitted blazers, women’s Shapewear, gold hoops, etc. You can also find pieces designed by Elizabeth Carson Racker, a featured designer in the 2013 CL Style Issue. Personal shopping guides, private parties and other services are offered. 1627 W. Snow Ave, Tampa. donmenow.com.
