Central Ohio—and all of the world—is undergoing a distinctive change when it comes to fashion. Warmer colors, classic styles and sustainable solutions are emerging out of Central Ohio’s boutiques, reflecting what’s happening around the globe.
With Columbus being the heartbeat of so many fashion brands, dozens of entrepreneurial designers and boutique owners, such as Xantha Ward of Xantha and Stephanie Tersigni of Jolie, thrive here. Shoppers need not look far outside the city for some of the most current trends on the market. Whether it’s shopping at one of Vernacular’s three boutiques in Central Ohio or strolling the Short North to stop in at Samson’s, White Lemon and others, it’s easy for those who need therapeutic shopping to sate their appetites.
Headlining this season’s fashion shift is an influx of warm colors. Vibrant shades of pink and brown or tones of green and yellow infuse wardrobes with bright—even neon—colors that draw attention, declaring that fashion society is alive and well. Layer those fresh new looks into a classic wardrobe—even if you’re still wearing last year’s relaxed, elasticized slacks and jeans.
Flared pants, flowing sleeves and hemlines, feminine suits with long, fitted jackets over midriff tops, and well-ripped denim—keep these fashion thoughts on your radar as you enter the new season.
Jolie Occasions
Columbus native Stephanie Tersigni launched Jolie Occasions in the Short North five years ago and moved to its spacious corner location at 867 N. High St. just before the pandemic. Unapologetically feminine, Jolie carries women’s clothing that is light and colorful, and the store’s design reflects that feeling. A leader among Short North business owners, organizing fashion parades and such, Tersigni has also delved into design, creating her own clothing collection last year and making some of Jolie’s accessory products.
What’s the must-have item for this year’s fall fashion? Vintage-inspired cropped cardigans
Is there a hot color for fall fashion? Shades of green
What’s the biggest style trend wrapping up the year? Blazers with matching bottoms
Facebook and Instagram: @jolieoccasions
Samson, A Men’s Emporium
Travis Samson opened Samson, A Men’s Emporium, back in 2015 after being a resident of the Short North for over 20 years. Today, he thinks of it as a classic, yet casual men’s clothing store, but also as a general store, offering accessories, men’s grooming and beard care, as well as carrying an extensive line of barware. Steeped in a tradition of the hard work he witnessed by his grandfathers, Samson channels energy from both—one was a dairy farmer in southern West Virginia and the other bolted from his coal miner’s job into the role of a successful Maytag salesperson. Samson recently moved to 694 N. High St. from its original spot at 772 N. High St. The new space provides more storage and a delectable backdrop for the boutique’s social events.