When it comes to shopping, there's no better place to spend your time and money than at a small business or boutique. These shops often make their own wares or source small batches from other brands or artisans, resulting in unique looks and objects with plenty of personality.
This rings true in fashion, kitchen goods, home decor and art, so whether you're looking to treat yourself or give a thoughtful gift, consider shopping local first. Here are 16 Columbus shops and boutiques we love!
MEN'S AND WOMEN'S CLOTHING
716 N High Street
Photo courtesy of Ladybird
You can't leave the Short North District without visiting Ladybird. This fashion destination has been around for years, offering a diverse assortment of effortless yet fabulous pieces for those looking to stand out on the streets of Columbus! And the shop itself is almost as beautiful as the styles it carries (read: almost).
Vernacular is run by Chelsea and Kris, a husband-and-wife team who decided to pursue their dreams after college. This womenswear, lifestyle and home brand merges East Coast Classic with the more chill West Coast Vibe, resulting in something truly special. Explore one of the four locations across Columbus!
761 N High Street
Photo courtesy of Jason Dowell via Artisan Deluxe
Artisan Deluxe welcomes passersby on High Street with its sleek design and chic casual fashions from high-end designers. You'll find men's clothing, women's clothing, accessories and gifts from your favorite brands!
1285 Grandview Avenue
Fashions at THREAD range from vintage bohemian to minimalist, but as varied as the styles are, they are all equally fabulous. Owned by fashionista Miranda Boyle, the boutique offers items for women and men, and brands that no one else carries.
726 N High Street
Photo courtesy of Eye of Storme Productions via the Chunky Armadillo
Chunky Armadillo is just as quirky, colorful and fabulous as it sounds, boasting bold styles and locally made gifts for those who are wild at heart. The fashion mixes southern sass, country charm, new bohemia and urban chic.
718 N High Street
Photo courtesy of Rowe Boutique
Rowe has served the Columbus area for more than 10 years now, offering a unique collection of contemporary and emerging designs for the modern woman. Owner Maren Roth is actually a Columbus Native who has lived in Spain, New York, Minnesota and Wisconsin! Ask her about her travels when you stop in.
988 N High Street
Photo courtesy of Marc Desrosiers via Kiln Mercantile
For men's fashion and gifts that stand out in the best way, step into Kiln Mercantile on High Street. The shop opened its doors in May 2017, but is already off to an incredible start! The shop exudes effortless style, and includes classic European looks that are difficult to find anywhere else.
772 N High Street
Focusing on sophisticated yet casual looks, SAMSON features an incredible selection of men's fashion, barware and more. The space, which conveniently sits in the heart of the Short North District, harkens back to days gone by. After all, classic never goes out of style.
GIFTS
787 N High Street AND 749 N High Street
Tigertree is known across town as one of the best one-stop-shops around. Featuring hip men's and women's clothing, quirky gifts, colorful housewares and accessories, the shop is nearly impossible to depart empty-handed.
Just next door, Tigertree's sister store, Cub Shrub, boasts colorful shelves filled with children's apparel, gifts and toys from your favorite brands. There is truly something for everyone here!
223 E Kossuth Street
The Red Stable is your go-to stop for a thoughtful, Ohio-made gifts. The Red Stable is actually housed in an old red barn in the German Village that was built in 1872. Over the years, the barn has held many businesses, including an auto repair shop, a wagon repair shop and a coal storage facility. Nowadays, however, it boasts a gorgeous art gallery and shop with goods from more than 100 local artists and vendors.
ACCESSORIES AND HOME GOODS
3171 N High Street
Photo courtesy of One Six Five
One Six Five offers up the latest and greatest in handmade jewelry, accessories, home goods and just general knick-knacks to lift your spirits — all with affordable price tags. Stop in to buy a cute gift and card for your gal pal, or simply treat yourself to something shiny.
You can never go wrong with a good candle. The Candle Lab offers pre-poured natural soy candles in more than 100 fragrances, but also the chance to customize your scent. Find what suits you in one of the store's three Columbus locations, and then pour your own candle to take home (or give to a loved one).
847 North High Street
Photo courtesy of Red Giraffe Designs
Owned by an Ohio University graduate with a passion for jewelry-making, Red Giraffe Designs (or RGD for short) boasts statement-making pieces at an affordable price. Though the collection is available online, we highly recommend stopping by the shop on High Street!
3284 N High Street
Lovers of old, classic styles should not pass up Vintage Toast. This newer boutique on High Street features vintage fashions, homewares, jewelry — all of which make it easy to kick it old school.
992 N High Street
Happy Go Lucky is actually two stores in one — Home and Her. Happy Go Lucky Home features custom furniture by LEE Industries, home décor, gifts and jewelry. Venture under the archway to the sister store, Happy Go Lucky Her to find an eclectic assortment of apparel and accessories to fit every style!
Happy shopping!