There's nothing I love more than spending time exploring Providence. I love the historic homes and buildings, grabbing a coffee at a one of the cute cafés and popping in and out of unique shops. I've been living In Rhode Island for eight years and it has made me have such an appreciation for all the local independently owned shops. It truly makes Providence so vibrant and special.
There are many cool neighborhoods in Providence and shops can be tucked on side streets, so it's always good to explore. However, there are some areas that are more concentrated with stores such as Hope Street, Wickenden Street, Wayland Square, Westminster Street in downtown and South Main Street. I highly recommend to plan on doing some walking and exploring. And, while you shop, don't forget to stop into one of Providence's funky coffee shops or restaurants that dot these vibrant areas.
Wayland Square
A recent new arrival to Providence is Coco Goose located in Wayland Square, which has been an exciting opening. Coco Goose has a sister store in Manchester, Vermont and they carry chic women's clothing with designers such as Ulla Johnson, Nili Lotan, A.L.C, Z Supply and more. They also have beauty products such as the lovely high-end all natural line, Tata Harper, as well as bags and jewelry. For undergarments, I'm a fan of Mrs. Robinson's Fine Lingerie, which has been around for over thirty years. The shop carries a few brands that I swear by such as Natori and Cosabella. J. McLaughlin is a chain, but worth mentioning as they always have dresses, pants and tops that are more coastal inspired right on the corner of lively Wayland Square. Wendy Brown Home is a must visit for beautiful tablescape ideas, candles and diffusers, luxe bedding, pajamas and the most adorable baby clothes.
Wickenden Street
When I first moved to Providence, I spent a lot of time in this area. It's close to College Hill, Thayer Street, the east side and Main Street. Some stores, are off on the side streets, so make sure to walk around and explore. A recent new addition is AsterFields right off Wickenden Street, which has cool jewelry and accessories, colorful glassware, women's clothing and artwork. Nava carries more boho-inspired home decor and clothing with some funky accessories (they have fun earrings and affordable sunglasses) and so much more. Benefit Street Antiques is always worth popping in for some unique treasures you can't find anywhere else. The Matchbox, has local Rhode Island t-shirts, sweatshirts and other items for both kids and adults. Lastly, LORE, which is on a side street off Wickenden Street, is a fabulous store stocked with sustainable products from local makers and afar. You can always find a great gift here.
Main Street
I'm a big fan of Capucine on Main Street for elevated items such as cute tops, designer denim and dresses. The owners stock the store with a variety of the latest fashionable brands such as Mother, Trovata, The Great, Xirena, Clare V. and much more.
Hope Street
Known as the neighborhood on the "East Side," this strip of independent stores is a lot of fun to pop into. My favorite has to be Stock Culinary Goods, which has the best gifts for home cooks and great local finds from food to cookware. Other favorites include, Frog & Toad for everything from t-shirts to fun quirky home decor and local items. Love their fun local artwork, too! Evolve Apothecary, for all clean beauty products and an on-site spa; Kreatelier, for seasonal goods, baby gifts and so much more. And, J.Marcel for fun jewelry and denim.
On lower Hope Street in College Hill, the Stewart House, which recently opened, and carries beautiful tabletop, pillows, artwork and high-end home decor. And, it doesn't carry clothing, but I love the adorable market Hawes Fine Foods on lower Hope Street, which features cool gourmet items such as cheeses, meats and fruit as well as unique beverages.
Westminster Street
This strip is one of my favorites in the city and pretty much cuts through downtown Providence. Queen of Hearts is a fun boutique featuring clothing from brands such as Z Supply, Free People and O'Neil. They have great accessories—the jewelry and sunglasses are my favorite. Their sister store, Modern Love, is another great one for gifts and home finds. Craftland is a colorful shop featuring a variety of local designers where you can find artwork, gifts and t-shirts. More gifts for everyone on your list can be found at Homestyle and The Vault is a fun spot to browse vintage finds from a variety of collectors.
Let me know if you have been to any of these Providence, Rhode Island stores in the comments and if I left any off the list.
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