There’s always something new to discover in Birmingham, and quite a few local retail spots have popped up around the Magic City this year. From “permanent jewelry” stylists to a cozy neighborhood bookstore, get acquainted with these new shops around town, and be sure to check them out!
The Burrow Bookstore
Neighborhood: Leeds
More Info: theburrowbookstore.com
The Burrow Bookstore opened its doors in downtown Leeds in June and has enjoyed a fun-filled calendar of community events since. It sells new and gently used books, games, puzzles, and all the adorable “bookish merch” you could want.
Owners (and Harry Potter enthusiasts) Andi and Josh Argo hope The Burrow will be a welcoming space for the local community. “We welcome people to come work, study, read, or meet together with others in our space,” Andi tells us.
One important rule: They only offer books that rate 3.5 stars or higher on Goodreads. “Life is too short, and my TBR (To-Be-Read) list is too long to waste time on a bad book!” Andi says.
Head to The Burrow to find your next favorite read, bring the kids for story time, work on the always-present community puzzle, or relax with a cozy cup of tea.
Carver Jones Market
Neighborhood: Fairfield
More Info: carverjonesmarket.com
Carver Jones Market is more than a new local grocery store; it’s a vision to provide sustainable, affordable access to fresh foods while empowering local communities. Founder and CEO James Harris chose the City of Fairfield for Carver Jones Market so he could address food accessibility issues in the area. The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce and all the grocery staples at a convenient location.
Happy Links
Neighborhood: Lakeview
More Info: happylinksjewelry.com
Get in on the permanent jewelry craze at Happy Links. Owners Sabrina Smith and Hannah Stallings style permanent jewelry and provide curated ear piercings from their salon boutique in Lakeview. “Our permanent jewelry is custom-fit and unique to each customer,” Hannah tells us. After ensuring the perfect fit, they secure your jewelry with a specialized micro-welder (With only the tiniest spark!) so your bracelet, hand chain, necklace, or anklet stays put without a clasp. The jewelry is made of high-quality gold-filled chains or sterling silver and lasts for up to three years of constant wear.
“We fell in love with permanent jewelry on a girls’ trip we took four years ago and wanted to bring that experience we had in Colorado to Birmingham,” Hannah explains. “Getting permanent jewelry is such a special experience and we love bringing that to each customer that comes to Happy Links.”
Plenty of Vino
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: plentyofvino.com
At Plenty of Vino, nothing pairs with an elegant bottle of wine like a beautiful houseplant. The plant and wine gift shop opened in Hoover in 2021 and moved to its new space on 2nd Avenue North in March. With a curated selection of wine, plants, and gifts, plus a helpful staff who knows their stuff, it’s your go-to for that perfect gift. They also put on a ton of fun workshops and rent their space for private events.
Goodies Toy Store
Neighborhood: Homewood
More Info: goodiestoystore.com
Across from Central Park in Homewood, Goodies takes the joy of a toy store to a new level. This play-concept shop puts kids in control by letting them fill their Goodies pail with small trinkets and treasures, which line the walls in clear plastic tubes — similar to a candy shop, but with toys! After filling their buckets, kids can play with their toys in the designated play area … and grown-ups can enjoy complimentary coffee and relax.
Mizzen+Main
Neighborhood: The Summit
More Info: mizzenandmain.com
Mizzen+Main is a men’s clothing wear brand that sought to design the perfect men’s dress shirt — one that’s as practical and comfortable as it is stylish. Moisture-wicking, wrinkle-resistant, and machine washable, the shirts have taken men’s fashion by storm. The Dallas-based chain opened its first Birmingham store at The Summit in May. Whether you’re looking for casual wear, a golf ensemble, or wear-to-work styles for him, you’ll find it at Mizzen+Main.
Dear Emmaline
Neighborhood: Vestavia Hills
More Info: shopdearemmaline.com
Dear Emmaline is a classic children’s clothing boutique that has been a fixture in Vestavia Hills since 2021, and it just moved to a new space off Highway 31 in August. Sizes range from infants through big kids, with brands like Feltman Brothers, Lila+Hayes, Little English, and many more. It also carries the sweetest collection of children’s gifts, keepsakes, and books. Whether you’re looking for adorable holiday outfits or a unique baby shower gift, Dear Emmaline brings you high-quality clothing and unique finds.
Style of the South
Neighborhood: Chelsea
More Info: Instagram
Stop by Style of the South if you’re in Chelsea and need a unique gift. This home decor and gifts boutique offers specialty items you won’t find anywhere else. With a background in event planning, Owner Beth Holsonback started selling home goods and gifts at The Mercantile in Brook Highland Shopping Center and opened the Chelsea storefront in February. The shop carries a variety of seasonal and timeless treasures for any space or occasion, and Beth is happy to help you find that one-of-a-kind gift.
16th Cross Pearson
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: 16thcrosspearson.com
Believing everyone deserves to dress with a “runway mentality,” 16th Cross Pearson Wearable Art Gallery brings high fashion to the Magic City. Following its grand opening in July, it provides a platform for commissioned local creatives to collaborate and develop their unique brands, offering style consulting and event space rentals to the public.
“At 16th Cross Pearson Wearable Art Gallery, we believe in celebrating the intersection of art and fashion, offering a unique space where creativity thrives and community connects,” Founder Tanya Pugh-Johnson tells us. She also serves as the Gallery Director. “We invite everyone to explore our collections and participate in our vibrant events!” she adds.
Magic City Mercantile
Neighborhood: Avondale
More Info: magiccitymerc.com
Magic City Mercantile has been dressing Birmingham in unique vintage streetwear since 2022 and just relocated to its new home in Avondale over the summer (right by Seasick Records). It boasts a highly selective collection of vintage clothing, including graphic tees, headwear, sneakers, and more. It also showcases hand-picked vintage finds and custom upcycled looks from local sellers with its Rent-a-Rack program. Swing by next time you’re in Avondale and see what’s new at The Merc.
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