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From Green Hills to Buckhead

Posted by Mandi Coleman (02.18.07, 8:56 AM)

Here’s the scenario: I wanted a new bag. A gorgeous, one-of-a-kind, creamy leather handbag that could go with whatever outfit I threw together. Where did my friends and I turn to? Atlanta.

This actually happens a lot. Nashville is great, but where do you turn when you need a fix of something unique and classy, something that not everyone else owns? Don't get me wrong; I love some of the boutiques the area offers, from Franklin to Belle Meade. And you can absolutely find some great Christian Lacroixs without having to travel, but you'll also be paying more than Neiman Marcus charges for that same pair of shoes.

Of course, I’m a small-town, southern girl. I love having my “regular” shops, where I know I'll find something I adore at the last minute. That's what I want here in Nashville! I want to be able to take a quick drive down the street when a craving hits for a pair of new shoes, or even a new sweater. Cravings may be an understatement when friends pile in together for a day trip with just this purpose! So where are these hidden gems in Nashville? Not the trendy, urban shops that come in a plethora of shapes and sizes—the classy, timeless stores that offer what the pages of Vogue hold. And when will our malls be able to compete with the legends?

Comments on "From Green Hills to Buckhead" (4)

Mandi is right on target with her comments. Why is it so hard to find that one of kind, can't live without, willing to eat rice and beans for a month kind of item in Nashville. Don't get me wrong, I love a good road trip with the girls, but sometimes you just want to be able to drive down the road to find just what you are looking for.

Comment by Rese (02.19.2007, 07:22 AM)

I beg to differ with you gals! All you have to do is some research..how many of you have ventured down to Bird & Vine in the Gulch, or across town to East Nasvhille to V Gifts? Or Sugaree's in Murphreesboro? Or even Razz Kirk in West Meade for shoes? While they may not be "the classics" like Jeffery in Atlanta/NY, Barney's or NM or our local Jamie and Gus. Thier offerings often allow for the consumer to reflect more personal style than the cookie cutter pages (must have items for spring, etc) of Vouge etc, and that most always is more attractive on a woman. I am a guy who knows the perils of shopping for great guy stuff with very few options here in Nashville, so it is oh, so hard for me to empathize for you gals when complaining about options.(smile) But, like you, I love a great trip shopping in Chicago, NY, or LA..or even Atlanta--too bad those shops in those cities no longer deliver the level of customer service and just plain Southerness that local Nashville shops usually do and I'll pay more for that any day!

Comment by Mike (02.19.2007, 11:20 AM)

Thank you Mandi Coleman for writing this blog! Since moving to Nashville from Dallas – I have become a frustrated shopper. Don’t get me wrong, I love Nashville but where is Chanel when you need it? Did you know that not a single store in all of Tennessee carries Chanel handbags? Even better, where can you find a size 5 shoe in this city? I recently made a trip to a very well know shop located in Belle Meade – I had to be buzzed in the front door. What? Once inside, a sales lady followed me around as if I was going to put something in my purse and take off running to the local crack house. Please my handbag costs more than your entire outfit. Someone please call Neiman Marcus and get these people some training.

Comment by Veronica (02.19.2007, 01:35 PM)

Fantastic article, Mandy! I'm interested in reading more about the unique shops my neighbors prefer— I can't bring myself to walk into Dullards (ahem, Dillards) one more time!

Cheers!

Comment by Dr. Dashing (02.21.2007, 03:49 PM)