Michelle Shannon is the VP of Marketing for Center City District (CCD) but fashion is her passion. Over the past eight years, she’s been at the helm of a retail attraction campaign for the district and since 2013, over 40 national retailers have opened up shop there. But that’s only part of the story.“What makes us stand out from the suburbs is a really strong mix of local, one-of a-kind boutiques where you can get something you’re not going to see anywhere else,” she says.Shannon gives us the scoop on a few of her favorite under-the-radar retail gems in Center City, covering everything from accessories to evening gowns to menswear.Verde108 S. 13th St. verdephiladelphia.comThis adorable boutique on 13th Street is owned by Valerie Safran and Chef Marcie Turney, the restaurateurs behind Philly staples like Barbuzzo and Lolita. “The kind of brand there is quirky and comfy. If it’s not handmade, it feels handmade,” says Shannon. If you’re looking for cute hats, socks and jewelry, this is your place. There’s also a chocolate shop onsite in case you need a sugar fix. Happy November!!??? #shoplocal #shopphilly #midtownvillage #weheartphilly #welove13thst #novemberbaby A photo posted by Verde (@verdephilly) on Nov 1, 2016 at 1:12pm PDT Bella Turka113 S. 13th St.bellaturka.comSuffer from constant wanderlust? A visit to Bella Turka will take you around the world through jewelry — no passport required. Their stock changes constantly. Shannon notes, “They have an incredible selection from talented young designers. The pieces are handmade and inspired by ancient designs from Greece and Turkey. A photo posted by Bella Turka Jewelry (@bellaturkajewelry) on Mar 22, 2016 at 3:00pm PDT Lapstone and Hammer1106 Chestnut St.lapstoneandhammer.comLet's hear it for the boys — because they need some style love, too. For contemporary menswear, Lapstone and Hammer on Chestnut St. carries a mix of national and local brands, including Common Project, Diadora and Divine Lorraine Hotel. “They opened in 2015 with an emphasis on quality, innovation and craftsmanship,” Shannon adds. From sneakers to leather jackets, their showroom style store is an experience in itself. Which of three new Puma x Rihanna Fenty Creepers in velvet is your favorite? Available now in limited quanities in-store. #puma #rihanna #pumafenty #fentycreeper #lapstoneandhammer A photo posted by Lapstone & Hammer (@lapstoneandhammer) on Dec 9, 2016 at 8:54am PST Kimberly Boutique123 S. 16th St.facebook.com/kimberly-boutiqueIf you’re looking for clothes for the office or even special occasions, Kimberly Boutique is a must-try for women’s fashion. “She has been my go-to boutique for many years,” confesses Shannon. “It’s the kind of service you don’t see in regular stores.” Offering brands like Alice and Olivia, the collection is updated regularly. Views?✨✨ A photo posted by Kimberly Boutique (@kimberlyboutiquephilly) on Dec 8, 2016 at 7:59am PST Sophy Curson122 S. 19th St.sophycurson.comSophistication, quality and superb customer service have kept Sophy Curson a Philly staple since 1929. The high-end boutique carries designers from all over the world, including Didier Ludot from France and Dusan from Italy. From evening wear to hats to coats, expect to find it here. Holiday preview #gowns #deluxe #blueandblack #gala A photo posted by Sophy Curson (@sophycurson) on Oct 26, 2016 at 1:53pm PDT
