Though a far cry from the shoppers' haven that is New York City or Los Angeles, Baltimore does offer its shopaholic residents a fix for their addiction.
Whether you are a fashion-phobic repulsed by the thought of keeping up with the latest trends or someone who derives more pleasure from purchasing a pair of shoes than can possibly be healthy, the array of options afforded to Hopkins students is enough to satiate any type of shoppers' tastes, be he the practical type, the eclectic, rebellious shopper, or the fanatic.
For the most basic type of consumer -- the pragmatist setting out to fulfill his or her yearly quotient of wardrobe staples like jeans, t-shirts, and sweaters -- there are several local options.
Just 20 minutes from the Homewood campus is Towson Town Center, the most "complete" shopping experience available to the local Baltimorean. Composed of four expansive floors, this large mall houses both conventional and upscale retail stores, from Wet Seal and Abercrombie and Fitch to Nordstrom and Coach. Moreover, this nearby shopping mecca is easily accessible by the free Collegetown Shuttle, which travels to and from the Hopkins campus several times each day.
If in the mood for a more urban and touristy shopping excursion, or simply livid from the fact that J-Crew is the only basic brand not found at Towson Town Center, head to the Inner Harbor Gallery shopping mall. Here, shoppers will find a bustling setting and a population of more out-of-towners than local residents, in addition to stores like Banana Republic and, yes, J-Crew. About a 15-minute taxi ride from campus, the Inner Harbor and its shopping options are best saved for family excursions or a day of leisurely shopping with friends, perhaps including a bite to eat at the nearby Cheesecake Factory overlooking the harbor.
For the more individualistic shopper -- one who shops recreationally, cares slightly more about the clothes he or she wears, and is incessantly seeking that perfect vintage tee or funky, out-of-the ordinary pair of shoes -- there is Hampden, located only a few blocks from campus. Famed for its eclectic atmosphere, Hampden is to Baltimore -- on a much smaller scale -- what SoHo is to Manhattan: a funky area composed of vintage stores and '60s-style record shops.
Here, Hopkins students can browse the racks at Oh! Said Rose and Fat Elvis, two Hampden boutiques featuring clothes far more unique than those found at the local malls and sure to distinguish one from his peers.
Finally, for the more label-conscious, truly dedicated shopper -- those for whom shopping is not only a hobby but also a form of exercise, therapy, and an integral part of daily life -- there are a couple of offerings. Most locally is Nordstrom, located in Towson Town Center, which carries brands from Juicy Couture to Dolce and Gabanna and Kate Spade. Any fashion-obsessed student will sooner or later make his or her way to this trendy department store for a quick designer fix. And, if searching for the perfect party dress or sleek suit, there's no better option close by.
However, if more accustomed to the likes of high-fashion brands like Escada, Fendi, and Gucci, fashionistas can make the 45-minute trek to Mazza Galleria in Chevy Chase, Maryland, home to ultra-trendy department stores like Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. While in the area, be sure to check out the boutiques in Georgetown, only a 10-minute cab ride from the Galleria.
Whether shopping for basics, on the look-out for unique vintage fare, or intent on rounding up your Jimmy Choo shoe collection to an even number, Baltimore and greater Maryland have got the goods. And, if still dissatisfied, there's always the internet!
