Away from the thrill rides and mouse ears lies a shopping lover’s mecca. From luxe fashion powerhouses such as Chanel and Jimmy Choo, housed at the dazzling Mall of Millenia to the savvy shopper’s sanctuaries, Orlando Premium Outlets, there’s no shortage of options for style connoisseurs. But, if you really want to dive into one of a kind finds away from the masses, these boutiques are the city’s hidden gems.
TUNI
Park, Shop, Store
Courtesy Tuni
A go-to among the well heeled residents of Winter Park along with “high profile customers” passing through, this trendy and chic, upscale boutique located in the heart of Winter Park’s chi chi Park Avenue, houses high-end brands from both known and emerging designers. From playful lace jumpers to distressed denim, if you are looking to turn heads, this is the place to suit up. Complete the look with lace up gladiators or sexy Schutz stilettos, and don’t forget the accessories, que funky clutches or a classic Zac Posen Pearl Embellished Convertible Handbag. Expect to pay designer prices, but the limited quantities’ and head-to-toe ensembles make this a must for the forward fashion thinker. Whether you plan on being out on the town, or simply stopping by a nearby cafe for a midday aperitif, this is the place to don your designer duds.
Self-dubbed “Orlando Grown”, stylist and shop owner Brandy Tezak carefully curates each piece of designer vintage clothing, locally handmade accessories and vintage décor in the Mills 50 District fashion boutique. Those who have a fondness for art and history, will revel in the boutiques selection and quality. One of a kind men’s and women’s pieces are brought back to life with Tezaks loving care. Not to fret, if you can’t personally visit the brick and mortar shop, check out the Etsy store online.
If you wander Winter Park and find stylishly dressed tots, chances are they will be donning duds from the well-known local boutique, Tugboat & the bird. From newborn to teens, limited quantities of designs from local merchants as well as national brands such as Petit Bebe, Halabaloo, and Anavini draw customers into this whimsical boutique with the signature yellow door. The store’s layette department includes their own private label in addition to well-known brands. So, whether you want to pick up a classic for your cutie or bring back a one of a kind toy or trinket, stop by this long-standing Winter Park jewel.
Walk into this swanky boutique and its evident why the store not only has a mass following, but has graced the pages of national magazines Harper’s Bazaar and InStyle. From the moment, you step foot into the chandelier clad Zou Zou, you get a sense that owner Wendy Ricci, who by the way is just as stylish, has a keen eye for on point fashion trends. One of the pioneers of the Orlando boutique science, who made a name for herself back in 2001 with her Thornton park store, Ricci took a risk when small indie stores in central Florida were scarce. The risk paid off and her vision of unmasking a unique and fun shopping experience has manifested into two locations where fashionistas of all ages flock to for spectacular customer service and haute trends.
It’s hard not to get excited over this locally owned boutique right of the aforementioned Park Avenue. The charming little nugget is as delightful as the stores owners. The Grove offers everything from candles, to home décor to stunning apparel. Bring home a piece of Florida with the stores’ exclusive honeysuckle jasmine candle and instantly remember your sunshine filled vacation, or even a cute notepad bearing the signature zip of Winter Park, 32789. Sure, there are original art prints, but they may be a bit harder to fit into the suitcase. So, treat yourself to a cute little sundress, fedora and designer shades, and take a piece of sunshine with you.
If you do find yourself in the middle of the tourist attractions, you’re in luck. Tucked beneath the busy Universal Orlando City Walk sits a refreshing alternative to its kitschy t-shirt mecca neighbors. Think bright vibrant colors synonymous with the sunshine state in easy to wear styles for all sizes. Flowy trapeze dresses to carefree tunic. Coastal inspired attire is cool, both literally and figuratively and alluring to just about any age. Pick up a cute tote, the Happy Reversible Tote beckons to go home with you, or opt for the beaded sea life stretch bracelet. For only $20, this versatile trinket makes a great yet useful souvenir.
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The Pink Chalet
From baby to bridal, this little gem in Southwest Orlando has a little something for everyone. Fun finds like the Lily Pulitzer agendas for students, blue tooth fairy doors for toddlers, and of course the ultra-stylish apperal in the likes of Michael Stars, Simply Southern and Mudpie to ensure the entire enclave will come out smiling. Living up to its reputation, the 2016 Winner of Best of Southwest (Orlando), prides itself on customer service and unique gifts.
Located at the historical entrances of Park Plaza Hotel, not only does Coralia Leets specialize in fine jewelry, the store offers highly customized service. Customers looking to update an existing piece of jewelry can meet with jewelers to bring their inspirations to life. The boutique offers everything from fine jewelry such as a Chocker Nugget Pave Diamond Necklace to trendy and unique pieces like the statement piece Sacuanjoche Single Flower Ring. Of course, the boutique carries its own namesake design, which has graced the pages of Elle Magazine and Self to name a few. So, if you’re looking for that special bling, this is your place.
Let this charismatic little dress shop, a local favorite since 2004, give you a reason to visit the vibrant small town of college park. Residents flock here for the “buy local, shop local” attitude along the Drive, but fashion savvy tourists in search of that fab find delight in the stores hand selected styles. Fun and feminine and best of all reasonable, finds range from office ready to date night and everything in between. Boho jewels and one of a kind clothes exude charm in this local fave.
