Savvy Shopper: Charlie's
Charlie’s has been open in Springfield for 30 years, and it keeps going thanks to little details like formal wear registration.
THE SHOP: Charlie’s, Fremont Center, 1326 E. Battlefield, Springfield, 417-887-2438. (Mon.–Sat., 10 a.m.–6 p.m.)
ATMOSPHERE: Relaxed, casual and friendly sum up the atmosphere and the staff at Charlie’s.
Piano bar-type music was playing in the brightly lit store, which had plenty of room to roam amid the racks of gorgeous clothing. I was offered a peach tea upon arrival and I started to feel like I was shopping with friends.
KEY PEOPLE: Owner Chuck Brown started his career at J.C. Penney and left when the company wanted him to relocate. He decided to open Charlie’s, and manager Patti Miller was one of the first people he hired. They’ve been going for 30 years, and there’s no end in sight. Both of them love what they do, know their customers well and do all the buying for the store.
WHAT YOU’LL FIND: I admit it has been almost 20 years since I shopped at Charlie’s, but Patti recognized me the minute I walked in the door. One look at a wall filled with animal print dresses and tops, and I knew I was in for a shopping adventure. “If you don’t want to be noticed, don’t shop here,” Brown says with a laugh. I agree.
Things I LOVE About |
Although I’m admittedly not in love with animal prints, I adored a gold and black python print trench coat ($148) by Think Tank. I then turned around and was greeted by a sleeveless animal print dress in shades of turquoise, chocolate and white ($218) by Joseph Ribkoff. By the time I got to a chocolate and white giraffe print wrap dress ($138) by Mesmerize, I had forgotten all about my distaste for animal prints. I was in love!
It was raining the day I visited, so I couldn’t help but notice the bright rain jackets ($178) by Irene Allison. The cotton jackets are coated to repel water but be breathable and comfortable in any temperature. Try one in yellow or turquoise for a pop of color in your fall wardrobe. For the savvy traveler, Charlie’s carries jackets and jogging suits by Mycra Pac. They come in a variety of colors and prints, are reversible, pack well, repel rain, are breathable and wash great. A must-have for the traveling fashionista.
This fall ruffles are hot, hot, hot. I found the perfect addition to my wardrobe with ruffled tops ($128) and dresses ($168) by Frank Lyman. Patti was sporting a top in turquoise the day I was in, and it looked adorable. Add a pair of black trouser jeans ($128) by AZI, and you’re ready to hit the town.
A trip to Charlie’s (and your outfit) wouldn’t be complete without accessories, and the store has hundreds in stock. The belt selection alone can keep you occupied for hours. I loved a funky, tribal design ($68) by Zevar, which I envisioned pairing with a white blouse and jeans. Or add a spark of color with a red crocodile print belt ($58) by Brighton. The selection is amazing. If you’re looking for truly unique accessories, check out the belts and jewelry by Anthony Alexander. The leather belts ($90) are embellished with stones and metal and come in so many colors it was hard to choose a favorite, although I did like the bronze and mother-of-pearl set. Patti and Chuck hand-select each color scheme and stones to coordinate with the season’s hottest hues. Necklaces ($68-90) and earrings ($38) are designed to match, making it easy to finish off any outfit.
417 VERDICT: A friendly staff, variety of accessories and many one-of-a-kind pieces make Charlie’s a must-shop for any one who wants to stand out in the crowd. If it’s been a while since you’ve been in, maybe you should revisit this classic store.
Savvy Shopper
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