Old has made a comeback in a big way this century. It's the height of sophistication for the home to be furnished with inlaid period furniture. The older it is, the better. Ornate, intricate, hand-crafted, and chiseled are the different kind of designs that appeal to the masses today. There are various stores that make dead ringer copies but nothing can replace the charm of the real McCoy. Imagine caressing the smooth, polished surface of a Beidermeier and realizing that the piece once graced a stately lord's mansion and now, you possess it.
Jewelry, furniture, knick knacks, time pieces and other artifacts from a bygone era are available for sale in this haven for art dealers and connoisseurs. If you're a collector or would simply like that perfect boudoir set, then this is where you need to look. The helpful staff will make your treasure hunt easy and exciting.
There's no need to be shy when shopping for intimates at Basics Underneath. Uptown's upscale lingerie boutique specializes in fine lingerie, loungewear, and shapewear from brands like Wacol, Spanx, Chantelle, and Hanky Panky. Women can feel comfortable checking out the high-quality intimates, gifts, and accessories in this professional shop. Whether you're looking for sexy sleepwear or the perfect bra for a backless gown, this store has the proper solution. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to help women select the best products to improve the woman's figure and comfort—in addition to making the client feel beautiful, fashionable, and sensual.
Pick out a pot or throw your own at Hands in Clay. This Uptown store and studio allows visitors to shop handcrafted ceramics and pottery or to learn to create a work of their own. Day and evening classes are available for artists at any skill level—beginners included—who are ready to get their hands dirty to create their own works of art. For those who aren't ready to learn this art on their own, Hands in Clay has a variety of decorative and functional pieces, made in house, that are available for purchase.
Swap: The Exchange Boutique gives frugal fashionistas the opportunity to buy designer digs for less. This Uptown consignment shop stocks high quality, like-new clothing and accessories for re-sale. Those looking for a deal can browse the bags, accessories, dresses, pants, and shirts from top designers like Coach, DKNY, BCBG, and Theory. The shop also stocks staples from mall favorites like Ann Taylor, The Limited, Banana Republic, and J Crew. Swap: The Exchange Boutique also invites those with gently worn high-end items to bring those pieces in for re-sale. - Bethany Culp
Bookworms can satisfy wordy cravings at Octavia Books. This well-stocked Uptown bookshop offers a wide variety of fiction and non-fiction from national and local authors. Patrons can peruse the isles for an old favorite or for a new read, or stop by for one of the shop's many events. Octavia Books frequently invites shoppers to come into the shop for special events like readings, book signings, musical performances and book club discussions. Knowledgeable and well-read staff members are always on duty to help point shoppers in the right direction. - Bethany Culp