10 Best Independent Boutiques in ATL (that are so worth it!)

Hi Friends,

As y’all probably know, opening a retail boutique or showroom is not easy in the age of internet shopping and post-pandemic.  Yet those who succeed deserve to be seen, recognized, shared, and shopped!  There is something deeply personal about a space someone has carefully curated to include artists they love and high-quality, heirloom pieces we’ve never seen before.  This post celebrates the individuals who have taken retail boutiques and showrooms to the next level.  These spots are places I go regularly to get inspired, talk to the owners, and see what’s new.  There are many other places besides those on this list, but these are my favorites.  

A scene from the Dixon Rye website: such handsome dogs!

1-Dixon Rye:  This is my dream boutique; it could be located in any country in the world, and we are so fortunate to have it in Atlanta!  Recently, they moved from the West Side to Buckhead, and to me, this new space is even better.  The vibe is distinctly masculine, strong, and subtle; it oozes quality yet holds so many surprises and treasures.  Run by designers Bradley and Peter Huesemann-Odom, these men take design and visual fascination to the next level.  They also exclusively carry several bespoke lines like Little Green Paint and Wallpaper, as well as high-end upholstery and case goods.  On my last visit, I purchased a beaded bird pin that captivated me! My neighbor and tastemaker, Saffron, gets some pretty snazzy collars and leashes for her doodle pups (so well dressed!).

A scene from Means Carney Home, no detail is left unattended.

2-Means Carney Home:  This Buckhead boutique is run by my friend and local designer, Angela Means, and her partner, Dana Carney.  They also curate some incredible local artists and sell art in all sizes and at many price points.  I am struck by the fresh colors, accessories like French placemats and napkins, and the feminine way they pull a home together.  This is the perfect spot for a hostess gift or for your best girlfriend’s birthday.  (They also have an adorable kids’ section for when your best friend has a baby.) The colorful mahjong sets make me want to learn and then display!  

A scene from one of Habachy Atelier’s lines: DCW Editions, Paris.

3- Habachy Atelier: This gorgeous place is located inside the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center.  Did you know you don’t have to be a designer to visit this amazing collection of showrooms that used to be designer-exclusive?  Well, Michael Habachy has taken bespoke to the next level.  Truly, he has formed relationships with makers from Mexico, France, and Spain, as well as local craftspeople who are all about texture, quality, and handmade.  I don’t know if I can swoon enough about the experience-dark, moody, yet inviting touch and imagination.  The team is ready to tell the story of the person who made what I am holding.  It is hard to choose what I love most at Habachy, but if I had to, I would say their one-of-a-kind lighting and my friend Fiore Vigilante’s sustainable, handmade florals.

A scene from City Issue in Candler Park.

4. City Issue: A mid-century Danish Modern iconic spot in Atlanta.    As you can imagine, since they moved to Candler Park, this large shop is part of Ed’s and my monthly rounds.  It is always changing, and we learn so much history.  The curation and restoration process is so well done.  I also find it to be very affordable.  We have purchased chairs, lighting, side tables, dining chairs, and desks for ourselves and clients.  They also have such cool accessories-bar accessories, little dessert plates, coasters, etc.—all from a bygone era. 

Yes, the furniture, including dining chairs, table, and shelving, is all from Westside Modern. Designed by Balance Design. Photography by Mali Azima.

5. Westside Modern: Similar to City Issue, yet the focus pulls in more French and Italian mid-century pieces.  There are still Danish pieces; however, I am loving the expanse into some pieces that are less iconic, but so beautiful!  Tanya’s curation in this small space on the West Side lets me spend a lot of time learning the history and appreciating the curvier pieces that aren’t what I expect from mid-century pieces.  I have purchased expedition chairs, rugs, shelving, and credenzas for clients from this beautiful little shop!

Favorite candle from Brick + Mortar.

6. Brick and Mortar: Okay, this may be the smallest boutique ever, but it is so good!  Located in the Westside Provisions next to Room and Board, I love popping in.   I will say it-the scented candles are the best in the city!  They are also made by some of the women from City of Refuge, a nonprofit that helps women in crisis.  They also carry surprising vintage pieces that give your home a collected feel.  

Maelu block prints are one-of-a-kind!

7. Maelu: Leaving the home design realm, I need to mention Maelu in Grant Park.  Designed by Megha Dave in Atlanta and then ethically handmade in India, the block prints are beautiful, lightweight, and completely unique.  They also sell block print pillows, jewelry, and adorable baby and kid outfits.   Over the years, I have purchased 2 shirts, 2 dresses, and 2 pillows, along with several accessories.  I still treasure them!  Let’s keep this little spot in business! And after you go, try out gluten-free Mediterranea next door. 

Just give Lucille’s a look! You won’t be disappointed.

8. Lucille’s: You know that I needed to mention this little “boudoir boutique” in Candler Park.  What does that mean?  Imagine a non-prudish Parisian boutique that sells gifts, lingerie, and even high-quality sex toys and other paraphernalia.  As Americans, we tend to struggle with this concept without thinking of pornography, but this place normalizes sex as a good thing that everyone can enjoy.  It may take a minute to get used to this beautiful store in the neighborhood, but I highly encourage you to check it out with an open mind.  I won’t share all the items I have purchased here (wink), but I have also found lovely jewelry, candles, and gifts for friends. 

My latest obsession for fall, this saffron quilted work jacket by Ann Mashburn.

9. Sid and Ann Mashburn:  Back to the West Side, this is our own Atlanta haute couture.  Maybe not exactly, but they really understand quality pieces that last forever for both men and women.  I love Ann’s dresses and the details only I notice when I wear them. Sid is for men; Ann is for women.  I bought something for Ed for a big birthday, and  I only have one dress, but I have goals!

A scene from The Modernist on Instagram.

10. The Modernist Design Collective: A booth-based bazaar on the West Side.  Several designer friends have booths there, branching out into retail and selling their “oopsies”. Several shop owners from the former Highland Row Antiques are also there (which I desperately miss).   I love taking my time, going one direction first, then reversing the route to see what I missed.  I have purchased a vintage duffel, pillows, and a Japanese kimono from the Modernist.  

If you live in Atlanta, I hope that I have inspired you to check out some of these thoughtfully curated boutiques and showrooms.  I do not think you will be disappointed!  Please let me know your favorites and any spots I missed.  I want to know!!

Until next week,

Stephanie