The Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Richmond

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Just large enough to have a stellar art and culture scene and just small enough that the cost of living is low, Richmond is a hotbed for small, independent artists and designers, from jewelry makers to ceramicists to knife manufacturers, and you’ll find their wares sprinkled in shops all over the city. It doesn’t hurt that one of the nation’s top-ranked university art programs is located here, too, meaning there’s a seemingly never-ending supply of young jewelry and fashion designers, artists, and creative entrepreneurs graduating every year and adding their freshness and energy to the market.

The most exciting shopping to be found here is of the independent, locally-owned variety: small vintage shops, mobile flea markets, record stores, and boutiques carrying a handful of carefully selected apparel and accessories. An abundance of local pride translates to lots of support for Richmond-based artists and designers as well as a sense of camaraderie between shop owners, all of whom you’ll find are friendly and excited to welcome you to their city and share what it has to offer with you. — Laura Sant

The Best Boutiques to Shop

From menswear brand Ledbury to a vintage streetwear shop, Richmond has amazing and varied roster of independent boutiques. See the map.

Need Supply Co., Richmond's Biggest Success Story

The brand that launched as a tiny denim retailer has grown into a fashion brand with a global following, uplifting Richmond’s sense of style and community of makers in the process. Read the story.

Meet the Richmond Fragrance Line Carried by Some of the Country's Coolest Boutiques

Na Nin started out as a vintage shop, but the real draw is owner Kate Jennings' handmade collection of perfume oils, candles, and incense — which you might recognize from some of your favorite boutiques. Read the story.

Photo: Justin Chesney

Vintage Shopping Tips from Rosewood Clothing Co.

A visit to Ashley Carruthers’ downtown vintage store Rosewood is a bit like an appointment with a personal shopper. Here she shares her best tips for different body types, finding quality pieces in a hurry, and more. Get the tips.