Baltimore isn't exactly a shopping mecca. This becomes clear after a few trips to Towson that end in disappointment and failure.
There really is a limit to how creative you can be at Gap, Abercrombie & Fitch and Banana Republic. Sometimes it feels like those ubiquitous chain stores are your only option for clothing yourself.
Rest-assured, there is at least one store in the Baltimore area that stands out from the pack of conformity -- and that store is Shine Collective, located in Hamden just moments from the Homewood campus.
While Shine Collective has been open since 2002, it used to be located off the main drag of "the Avenue" -- Roland Avenue that is -- which is the center of the Hampden retail boom.
In the last year the store has relocated to its current, more visible location right on the Avenue. Now it is only a matter of time before droves of Baltimoreans are making their way to this shopping destination.
Inside the store, you almost get the sense that you have been transported to Nolita, a neighborhood in downtown New York known for its unique boutiques that spotlight up-and-coming designers.
The range of items in Shine Collective make it a great place to pick up a great pair of earrings for that special night out, a gift for a friend's birthday, or one of their famous graphic T-shirts.
Because of the array of items in the store, it is a great place to roam around and explore. Start in the front of the small store, where you can browse through several racks of clothing by indie designers.
One of the best pieces they have in for fall is blue and white striped balloon skirts that mirror the volume trend that has been sweeping New York.
Their graphic tees are also something that shouldn't be missed. T-shirts have turned into a must have for the college student, but why resort to wearing one of the ubiquitous tees from Urban Outfitters with sayings like "C is for crunk"?
You could end up arriving at a party and be among ten others wearing the same exact thing. Shine Collective has some great alternatives.
Their T-shirts come in both women's and men's styles and in a myriad of great colors. Pick up one of their "Baltimore -- Greatest City in America" tees that are so adorable you almost want to believe it. They also have great tees featuring retro images of women's faces.
The store is especially great for accessories. Of-the-moment jewelry from fashionista favorite Lee Angel lines the wall. Pick up one of their charm necklaces to complete your fall look.
They also have great and unique bags that won't break the bank. Have you been craving a Chlo5f paddington bag but balk at the $1400 price tag? Give one of Shine Collective's Gnippos bags a try.
You'll have everyone thinking that you splurged on that designer handbag, and really no one will be the wiser. They also stock a brand of sneakers called Gola, a trendy British import.
Don't leave Shine Collective without picking out some gifts. A vintage Led Zeppelin record is sure to make a classic rock fan giddy.
Jack and Lulu stationary would also make a great gift, although it may seem that is just too cute to write on. And they also have great pillows made by local designers that are perfect housewarming gifts.
It is easy to make a day out of your visit to Shine Collective. Hampden is jam-packed with fabulous vintage stores, reasonably priced antique stores, speciality boutiques and great cafes to grab brunch.
Me Petite Shoe combines shoes and chocolate in an adorable store on the Avenue fulfilling every girl's fantasy. Fat Elvis is a great place to look for vintage duds for both sexes.
Paradiso has a great mix of home furnishings, including decorative pieces and period furnishings. Considering the quality and selection available, this store is incredibly reasonable.
After a long day of strolling the Avenue, you're probably going to be a tad hungry. Cafe Hon is one of your best bets. Order a heaping plate of pancakes and a mimosa and stuff your face silly.
On your way out of Hampden, make sure to make a stop at the Wine Source. This massive wine and cheese store is truly impressive. Stock up on reasonable bottles of shiraz and riesling, and make sure to utilize the incredibly knowledgable staff.
Wine Source also offers weekly wine-tastings with everything from California whites to Italian reds, and the greatest thing is that a lot of them are free.
Shine Collective is a true stand-out amidst the drab options of Baltimore. It is a must-see shopping paradise while in Charm City. So head to Hampden to shop at this truly fabulous store.
Whether you are buying holiday gifts, or shopping for that perfect outfit to impress a date, Shine Collective is sure to have something that will meet your needs and then some.
Shine Collective is located at 1007 A. West 36th St. in Hampden. The store is open Tuesday through Sunday. Call (410) 366-6100 for specific store hours.
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