Cover Story | Shopping

Shop 'Til You Drop

Where to get your fashion fix in southern Rhode Island

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No matter the season, retail therapy is always in style. Whether you’re buying for yourself or looking for that perfect gift, South County is chock full of signature boutiques and trendy gift shops that have what you’re looking for or didn’t know you wanted. As if you needed a reason to not shop at the Big Box stores, helping the local economy and getting to know your friendly neighborhood shop owners doesn’t hurt either. So relax, take in the sunshine and go forth and shop.

Woodees
The sister shop to Woodmansee’s, Woodees is next door and equally enhances the streetscape of historic downtown Westerly’s Broad Street. Just like its “big sister,” Woodees windows remind you of the fashion and accessories you just can’t live without (you can, but why would you?). Example: tanks and tees that proclaim, “Mermaids Have More Fun.” And “Wake up. Kick Ass. Be Kind. Repeat.” Follow them on Instagram for the latest arrivals (@woodees_boutique). Who is a Woodees girl? “One who dresses for themselves with exceptional confidence all while maintaining a youthful, flirty personality with a bit of a wild side while making their dreams come true.” ‘Nuff said.
33 Broad Street, Westerly. 596-0200, www.woodeesri.com 

Woodmansee’s
Few shops in this country can tout more than a century of experience, but this Westerly boutique, located right on the square in the heart of downtown, is proud of its heritage and commitment to brands made here in the USA. In that same vein, you’ll find fair-trade clothing, jewelry and accessories from small, artisan designers and one-of-a-kind pieces by local artists. Their picture-perfect window displays resemble a magazine cover showcasing everything from casual duds to polished ensembles for a night on the town.
27 Broad Street, Westerly. 596-2310, www.woodmanseesri.com

Crosswynds Traders
Hey, how does a curated collection of well-known brands at discount prices sound? Add to that the absence of an overcrowded mall and you have this longtime Narragansett fashion outpost featuring an assortment of tops, bottoms, dresses and accessories for women by brands like Anthropologie, Pac-Sun, Banana Republic, Fabletics, Lilly Pulitzer (you never know what you’ll find!); there’s a smaller but varied selection for men and a section for local love with “Narragansett” and “Bonnet Shores” swag. Be the first to learn about their newest arrivals on the shop’s Facebook page.
1175 Boston Neck Road, Narragansett. 782-1110, www.crosswyndstraders.com

Polka Dot Panda 
What started as an online-only operation offering handmade fashions for little ones has grown into this charming brick-and-mortar boutique in Narragansett’s Pier Marketplace. Specializing in designer, boutique clothing lines for kids, Polka Dot Panda has everything you’ll need to for your pint-sized designer diva or handsome gent. Owner Denise Navoian still offers a small selection of handcrafted items, while also offering personalized, embroidered apparel and baby gift sets.
16A Pier Marketplace, Narragansett. 792-4885, www.pdpanda.com 

Blue Hydrangea
Beware: if you love nautical treasures and life in the Ocean State or another coastal community, do not visit this shop in the heart of charming Wickford Village! You’ll bite your tongue as not to say, “OMG so cute” every five seconds with anchor-emblazoned everything (clutches, flasks, tops, cutting boards and more), sailboat-print and sailcloth totes, bath and body pleasures like sea salt soaps and scrubs from Newport’s own Shore Soap Company, jewelry and locally-inspired treasures.
2 Main Street, Wickford. 295.2583, www.295blue.com

Green Ink
If you’ve seen the whimsical commercials of ladies dancing around this shop and having a great time, you already know this is a fun place to shop. A Wickford staple since 1972 (the shop was founded by Bee Givan and is now run by her daughter Bethany Mazza), loyal customers know they’ll find a wide selection of stylish and eclectic yet comfortable, natural clothing plus comfy supportive shoes. And it’s not just wonderful wearables: you’ll also find accessories and gifts including lifestyle books and treasures for baby. Popular lines include Not Your Daughter’s Jeans (NYDJ), Eileen Fisher, Saint James, Tianello, Dansko, Oka B., Pacificotton by Bryn Walker and more. 89 Brown Street, Wickford. 294-6266, www.greeninkboutique.com

Different Drummer
With its oversized nine-pane windows at the Rockwellian intersection of Main and Brown Streets always designed in head-turning seasonal fashion, this boutique draws serious shoppers and curious meanderers alike. Handcrafted jewelry is a staple with everything from coastal-inspired pieces to Native American styles by Desert Moon, Spanish pieces from Uno de 50 and coveted Trollbeads. Paper lanterns, handcrafted pottery, stained glass, adorable Christmas tree ornaments, home décor and artful pieces, kitchen goods (who doesn’t want a whimsical Zoku popsicle mold?), cards and stationary, and artwork pepper the shop from wall to wall. Basically, everything you need to create a warm, whimsical space can be found under this roof.
7 W. Main Street, Wickford. 294-4867, www.differentdrummerri.com

Fair Trade Winds
Shopping with a conscience is easy at this cozy shop just steps from the harbor and Town Beach at East Ferry in Jamestown. Here you’ll find fair trade treasures ranging from home decor items to accessories and jewelry, personal products like solid non-toxic perfumes and essential oils, handmade notes and cards, and a lovely collection of sustainable clothing. It’s like shopping a little global bazaar right in your own backyard but you can leave the passport and TSA checks behind. This family-run retail store boasts seven locations across the country and as they say, “A visit to our store is a window to the world.”
47 Conanicus Avenue, Jamestown. 560-0564, www.fairtradewinds.net

Blueprint 5
ZZ Top is better known for their long, straggly beards than sage philosophy, but they had this one right from the beginning: Every girl crazy ‘bout a sharp dressed man. With tailored suits, sport jackets, ties, shoes and accessories from watches to messenger bags for men, it’s no wonder this West Bay boutique-for-bros with international flair already has a fan base in less than a year since opening its doors. With top quality Eton shirts, lux outerwear by Maria Louise Barbera, Holebrook sweaters, Noah Waxman shoes and sneakers, bags by Edward Armah and Kingsley watches, your wardrobe will be better traveled than you.
631 Main Street, East Greenwich. 885-2500

Gossip Boutique
Stylistas who love clothing by Free People might already know this shop – with locations in Wickford, Wakefield and Newport – carries the largest selection of the trendy-meets-vintage-inspired line in New England outside of their signature stores. Stylish jumpers, romper, tanks, denim, tops and bottoms evoke a relaxed, bohemian vibe, while a fun find for an upscale occasion or day on the job can also be found. Plus, the shoes and accessories are positively dreamy – all of the trend even if you don’t have much to spend. Private shopping parties here can be arranged if you and you best galpals want to sit back, relax and be styled head to toe, and their Instagram (@gossip_boutique) is full of fashion inspiration. 
16 Main Street, Wickford. 294-7333
94 Main Street, Wakefield. 783-2300
391 Thames Street, Newport. 849-3571, www.shopgossip.com

Le’s Isle Rose
You need a fabulous gift and you need it now – Le’s Isle Rose has what you need. Gift baskets, floral arrangements, jewelry, candles, cards and gourmet goods – it’s all here, plus books and things to keep little ones occupied in addition to luxurious lotions, bath and body products. The official gift store of Dave’s Marketplace, fab bags include a selection from Scout and Rebecca Ray, while personal goods for men like the collection of Jack Black lotions, cleansers and aftershaves promises there is something for everyone. Other treasures include accessories like hats from the San Diego Hat Co., serving platters, kitchen knick-knacks and accessories like Michel Design Works dish soap, and locally-made goods. 
1000 Division Road, East Greenwich. 885-8391, www.lesislerose.com

Zero Wampum
For more than 40 years, this much-loved gift shop on a busy road has been a South County favorite. Carrying lines including Vera Bradley, Kate Spade, Lilly Pulitzer (like the coveted Lilly agendas no proper preppy princess would be caught dead without), Scout (makers of those genius insulated “party buckets” that are fashionable and functional), Sloane Ranger (preppy purses, preppy tote bags and travel bags from across the pond) and Joules (high quality clothing designed to capture the essence of British style), alongside handmade bags and accessories (they have a dedicated “lo-cally made” section!) and fun, frilly finds, it’s hard to imagine not finding something you never knew you needed here.
161 Old Tower Hill Road, Wakefield. 789-7172, www.zerowampum.com

Pink Pineapple
Equal parts preppy and pretty, this nautically-inspired shop might be best known for its signature line of cashmere which includes super soft sweaters and tunics. Here you’ll find a robust collection of stylish dresses, tops and bottoms in addition to the covetable accessories, totes and clutches, shoes and more treasures that round out its well-crafted collection. Anchors and whale tails are just about everywhere, as are awe-inspiring accessories in dreamy pastel palettes. Need a necklace with nautical coordinates? They have it, plus lovely pieces for the home including nautical rope frames, cute cocktail napkins and more. The Newport flagship shop is a fixture in the City by the Sea while its new Wakefield location is already making a splash.
357 Main Street, Wakefield. 782-1046
350 Thames Street, Newport. 849-8181, www.pinkpineappleshop.com

The Green Door
Any home can be decorated from a big box store with generic [read boring] pieces. But if you’re looking for locally-inspired pieces that truly capture the beauty of your home and state, shopping local is where it’s at. From chic hostess gifts, nautical throw pillows, ocean-inspired jewelry, flower arrangements, seasonal decorations and cute and tasteful touches for a children’s room, The Green Door has plenty of fun and funky options. Whether you’re trying to create your own tablescape or looking to add some pizzazz to an already finished room, stop by, explore and get inspired. 
130 Main Street, East Greenwich. 885-0510, www.thegreendoorathome.com

Seaside Style
The name says it all – this is the kind of place where you can lose your mind and all shopping restraint. The self-described “unique boutique” specializes in “comfortable, flattering apparel” for women including dresses, nautical tops and tunics, soft palazzo pants and accessories including tons of bags from casual totes to sleek handbags, plus scarves and stunning jewelry. For the home, you’ll find elegant tableware, serveware, flatware, glassware, stemware and dinnerware (lots of fabulous “ware”) by Mariposa and more, mostly taking a cue from its location not too far from Narragansett Bay.
343A Main Street, Wakefield. 284-1551, www.shopseasidestyle.com

The Purple Cow
The funky name fits this funky place, which is hard to miss because, well, it’s purple. The “oh, hello” eggplant hue clues shoppers in that this is a shop less ordinary. There’s an impressive range of jewelry from well-loved brands including Alex and Ani, Pandora, Alexis Bittar, Ayala Bar, Patricia Locke, Ayala Bar, JoJo Loves You and countless more. Home décor includes hand-blown glass ornaments, décor with coastal flair like Bill Campbell Pottery, and lovely kitchen accessories. For fashionistas, there’s a selection of clothing, scarves and handmade goods, plus there’s a cuter-than-cute boutique baby gift section. For pampering, find a variety of scented oils plus body lotions from Thymes (plus candles and room sprays by the same line). In short, here you’ll find a little something for everyone.
205 Main Street, Wakefield. 789-2389, www.thepurplecowco.net

URE Outfitters
With more than 30,000 acres of parkland in South County, there’s more than enough “great outdoors” to see and explore – but to do so enjoyably, be properly equipped. URE Outfitters in the heart of Hope Valley stocks all your apparel, backcountry supplies and gear needs for all four of our New England’s seasons. Plus they’ll help you find your way with their array of local trail maps and guide books and footwear including a huge selection of Reef and Dansko shoes and flip flops. There’s more equipment than you can stack in a Subaru like tents and kayaks and with the second generation running this family-owned business (marking their 30th anniversary this year), you might learn about a hidden trail to discover.
1009 Main Street, Hope Valley. 539-4050

Feet First
Teach all day and need supportive footwear? They have Dansko and Clarks. Attempting the Ocean’s Run Half Marathon? They have Brooks and New Balance. Want to be stylish during a downpour? They have Hunter. Running around from patient to patient? They have Orthaheel. Preparing for a long day of shimmying and shaking at the Rhythm & Roots Festival? They have Birks and Keen. Aprés surf session? They have Reef, Vans and LAMO. Date night at the yacht club? They have Sperry. Tiny feet that need to look chic? They have Jumping Jacks. No matter what you’re doing or where you’re headed, Feet First has got what you need.
153 Old Tower Hill Road, Wake.field. 783-8074, www.feetfirstfootwear.com 

KC Shoes at the Pier
Yes, they do shoes, and they do them well Jack Rogers, Oka B. head-turning heels by Onex, ribbon sandals by Dougles Paquette (and who wouldn’t want flip flops with a tiny martini pattern on them?). But this shop in Narragansett’s Pier Marketplace has so much more: sumptuous tops and simple, classic dresses by Tees by Tina, bracelets and accessories by Kiel James Patrick, tunics by Gretchen Scott, jewelry by JoJo Loves You, John Medeiros, Anchor Me, Alex and Ani and Kendra Philip. Keep posted on KC Shoes’ Facebook page for new arrivals and secret sales!
20 Pier Marketplace, Narragansett. 788-0895


Bee Chic Boutique
If you love a glass of wine from time to time (and who doesn’t) or know someone who does, gift them (or treat-yo-self) to a whimsical Lolita painted wine glass with cute quotes on sweet scenes. This shop carries the treasured wine glass line alongside fun jewelry like bracelets by Lenny & Eva, My Saint Hero, Lokai and the bestselling expandables by Wind & Fire, Dogeared necklaces and stunners from John Medeiros and Lucky Feather and blings by JoJo Loves You. There are also more bags than you can imagine including a colorful bags – big and small – from Vera Bradley, artful signs, elegant hand-blown glass and beautiful gifts alongside home décor.
49 South County Commons Way, South Kingstown. 284-2951

Therapy
Next time someone tells you that you need Therapy, thank them profusely and head straight to this enchanting boutique. Looking to feel polished in a pinch? Twist your tresses into a simple chignon and throw on a Judy Connally dress (no one has to know how forgiving to fabulous fabric is!) or your favorite broken-in white skinny jeans with a nautically inspired Gretchen Scott tunic. Designer denim is also a staple so grab a great pair of AG, Big Star, Red Engine, Citizens or James jeans because you’re worth it. Point is, founders Candace Brown and Lauren Wells have carefully edited a collection of great designs and accessories to make being elegant look effortless.
235 Main Street, East Greenwich. 884-3130, www.therapyboutique.com (and now in The Break Hotel, Narragansett)

Woodmansee’s, Crosswynds Traders, Polka Dot Panda, Blue Hydrangea, Green Ink, Different Drummer, Fair Trade Winds, Blueprint 5, Le’s Isle Rose, Zero Wampum, Pink Pineapple, Seaside Style, The Purple Cow, URE Outfitters, KC Shoes at the Pier, Feet First, Bee Chic Boutique, Therapy, Woodees, The Green Door

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