The city with a town feel that’s home to country music stars and emerging fashion designers. On my latest excursion, I went searching for some of Nashville’s undiscovered gems and renowned stores. I two-stepped my way through each borough – from East Nashville’s local artisan shops to the uber trendy 12 South.
Check out my favorite discoveries below:
Savant Vintage
If I had a million dollars, I would blow it all at this store. And still, it would not be enough to buy all the things that my heart desired. From books to blankets, chapeaus to denim jumpers, my heart wants it all. This finely-curated vintage sore is one of the best I’ve been to.
I always consider two things when shopping: 1. Is this something that many will possess? 2. Is the product low in quality? If the answer is yes to both questions, then I refrain from purchasing. Savant Vintage carries authentic denim goods (with an extensive collection of vintage Levi’s), worn in soft flannels and leather jackets that were surely worn by legitimate motorcycle enthusiasts. Each piece is a work of art, in that it has its own story and cannot be duplicated. Truly a gem worth visiting. 2302 12th Avenue South, Nashville | @savantvintage
ROOTED
Sometimes you want the finer things in life. While I do stand for vintage apparel, when it comes to my footwear (and purses), I indulge. Growing up listening to Tupac and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, I naturally developed a preference for athletically-inspired footwear. ROOTED has perfectly curated their selection of footwear and clothing; all items are of high quality and many are limited edition pieces. The two shoes I adore the most are the Hender Scheme Manual Industrial Products 10 in a light peach leather with beautifully tanned leather matching laces and the Adidas x Raf Simons Ozweego III.
ROOTED is not only an anomaly in Nashville, but worldwide. Very few boutiques specialize in upscale footwear. A definite “must go back and buy more” on my next trip to Tennessee. 62 Hermitage Avenue, Nashville | @stay__rooted
Imogene and Willie
As a Canadian, I was taught to love three things: hockey, four-wheel drive and the infamous denim clad tuxedo. As a wardrobe stylist and denim aficionado, I’ve learned how to identify soft, good quality denim and cotton.
Finding t-shirts à la Marlon Brando in a “Street Car Named Desire“ can rarely be found at a typical “store.” The ribbed collar, lightweight feel of a cotton t-shirt is something from the past. Designers Matt and Carrie Eddmenson followed their dream and opened Imogene and Willie out of a previously owned Service Station in Nashville’s quaint 12 South neighborhood. The flagship store emulates their product – cozy, lots of character and built with love. 2601 12th Avenue South, Nashville | @imogeneandwillie
Project 615
Looking to score some Nashville swag or in need of a gift? Look no further. With tons (and tons) of styles, colors and merchandise to choose from, you’re bound to walk out of Project 615 with a few items.
From fleece hoodies to baby onesies, they make it all. My favorite items are “Love Your Neighbor” sweatshirt, “workwear” beanie and the “To Do List” t-shirt. With an emphasis on all things Nashville (think Loretta, Willie and Pasty) Project 615 truly is the one-stop souvenir shop. Co-founded by Derek Evans & Matt Blinco, Project 615 gives back to the community by hiring those coming off the street and donates a portion of its profits to world-changing causes. 1006 Fatherland Street #205, Nashville | @project615
Rich Hippies
All the pretty tiny, itsy-bitsy things! To all the mothers or soon-to-be mommies reading this: You MUST visit this store. Rich Hippies is a quaint boutique offering extremely affordable baby and toddler apparel, accessories and toys — with a few products for you to enjoy too, like sage, perfume and cremes.
If you’re not going to be in the South anytime soon, never fear. They have a just-as-charming online store. If you’re like me and prefer buying at mom and pop shops, then this Germantown haven is the place for you. 1204 4th Avenue North, Nashville | @richhippies
Peter Nappi Studio
Tucked away at the very end of Adams Street is the Peter Nappi Studio. As his name suggests, Phillip Nappi (grandson of shoemaker, Peter Nappi) is a shoemaker from Italy who opened shop in 2011 in Nashville.
Everything here is made in Italy. Like all Italian products, quality is top notch and manufactured with thought and care. Besides shoes, Peter Nappi also carries other leather goods (like purses, bags and wallets), hats and jewelry. The gorgeous studio has the feel of an Tuscan Villa with a western twist. If you are looking to invest in the perfect pair of boots, look no further. Be sure to add this to your list of “must-sees” and “must buys.” 1308 Adams Street, Nashville | @peternappi
8th Avenue Antique Mall
Located in the heart of Nashville’s Antique District, this one-stop shop quite literally sells everything. From art to kitchen tables, ostrich leather boots to electric guitars, you’re guaranteed to find a gift for your home, a friend or most importantly, yourself.
The 8th Avenue Antique Mall is the quintessential definition of Southern hospitality. They offer paint classes and, if you visit early enough, you can score a coffee and treat (quantities available while they last)! Uniting strangers, building a community and operating as a store makes this place a must on my list of discoveries. 2015 8th Avenue South, Nashville | @8thaveantiquemall
Where are your must-stop shops when in Nashville?
Feature Image via Emily Benzinger
1 comment
I love these recommendations! I’d also suggest Buffalo Exchange and Old Made Good.