The plan was to open this month's "Where to Shop" with a line about the end of summer and updating your closet with fall finds, but let's be honest with ourselves. We’ve got at least another sweaty month ahead in our bikinis and cutoffs. However, when you are ready to update your wardrobe — and home — these East Austin shops are the places to do it.
Olive
Laura Uhlir, who is also a photographer and author of the blog Rad Lady, opened Olive in 2012. The charming and cheerful white bungalow features a selection of independent designs, and some carefully chosen vintage items, all of which are effortless and fun to wear. Think basic pieces, fun prints, easy day dresses and timeless jewelry and accessories. Olive boasts an impressive collection of Charlotte Stone shoes — the ankle boots in burgundy pony hair are a must.
Traveller Denim Co.
When you buy a pair of jeans at Traveller, you’re not just paying for the finest Cone Mills or Japanese Selvedge denim, but also for the experience of custom, tailored jeans. The process starts with 25 measurements, selecting the textile, hardware, thread color and fit. A pattern is created, then you return for a second fitting and alterations until you can’t imagine life without your new jeans. Each pair is made by one or two people and designed to last and only get better with age. Traveller also makes a ready-made line of jeans for men and women if you just can’t wait to get into a pair. Also, ask to on some White’s Boots to go with your new denim — we guarantee you'll find your new fall and winter uniform.
Friends & Neighbors
Dreams do come true, folks. At Friends & Neighbors you can get a cup of Stumptown coffee, eat, and shop new and vintage finds. The shop resides in a cozy house on East Cesar Chavez, where each room in the home has a unique theme and the goods complement the function of the room. In one bedroom you will find adorable baby and kids clothes; in the bathroom, soaps, lotions and fragrances by Olo — a must-smell is the Lightning Paw scent. The living room boasts home goods, clothing and jewelry, and of course, the kitchen is where you’ll find the coffee shop and a mix of artisanal dry goods, wines, beers, juices and classic snacks for entertaining or enjoying in the Friends & Neighbors backyard.
Raven + Lily
Kirsten Dickenson and Sophia Lin created the new storefront Raven + Lily from their combined love of fashion and desire to help alleviate poverty among women. The adorable shop opened in April and carries beautiful and eco-friendly designs made by women in Ethiopia, India, Cambodia, Kenya and the United States who work at Fair Trade Wages. Their USA Collection includes casual apparel made right here in Austin by refugees. The store is located on Manor Road, conveniently next to Sugar Mama’s Bakeshop. Shopping and baked goods? Now that’s a winning combination.
Take Heart
Ceramics, jewelry and well-curated gifts mingle in perfect harmony at this thoughtful East Eleventh Street shop. The clean, minimalist layout allows you to peruse accessories, art and home decor with ease. You may stop in to find a special trinket for a friend, but we guarantee you'll leave with one for yourself, too. Hint: Check out the new Janika necklaces, handmade in Austin, that just arrived this week.
Traveller Denim Company.
