I recently came across an article from Travel & Leisure titled, “These are the Friendliest Cities in America”. I took a look because I was certain Oklahoma had a spot in there, and we did! Oklahoma City came in #5! However, we also are at the bottom of the list in another category:
No. 5 Oklahoma City
“The folks in Oklahoma’s state capitol struck readers as having few pretensions: they ranked as the least rude and the least snobby in the nation (but, alas, also as the least stylish). But perhaps they just have a misunderstood fashion sense: some of the best shops in the artsy Plaza District have a serious streak of kitsch, like the retro boutique Dig It and the in-your-face vintage of Bad Granny’s Bazaar. To channel a little more of the city’s grandmotherly karma—and see why the city was perhaps underrated for its wild side—order a slice of Bird Dog Buttermilk (peaches, raspberries and brown sugar oat crumble) at the neighborhood’s Pie Junkie.”
Tell me, fellow Oklahomans, what do you think about being labeled “least stylish in America”? I like that T&L tried to give us the benefit of the doubt, offering us up the chance to be labeled as simply misunderstood! I imagine those outside this part of the country think of us in the “cowboy” sense. Less high-fashion, and more fringe and boots, which is probably true to an extent. But, hello? If Ralph Lauren is still considered “America’s designer”, we should be right up there on the fashion list, right? (I kid, I’m actually not a fan of RL myself, but to each his own!)
I think “outsiders” who give us a closer look will definitely find some great OKC style, and if high fashion and current styles are what people are looking for, we’ve got them! Not only do we have retailers like H&M headed to our area, we’ve got other impressive areas for shopping. Looking for some serious style in the OKC area? Here’s where to go:
Penn Square Mall
By far my favorite OKC mall, Penn Square continues to add new stores that give them an edge over the competition. Featuring stores like Sephora, Coach and Michael Kors, you can find a bit of luxe if you’re looking. They’ve also got the mall standards: Express, The Limited, Ann Taylor, J. Crew, and The Loft, as well as Dillard’s, Macy’s, and JCPenney’s rounding out the department store arena.
Local spot to check out: MUSE by Lucca– featuring chic and modern home accessories and clothing, MUSE is a great spot to find a gift or something for yourself!
Western Avenue/Classen Curve
Sure we love a bargain, but how about when we’re in the mood for a little indulgence? This is the spot. Stores like On a Whim (Splendid, Alice & Olivia), Liberté (Herve Leger, Ted Baker) CK & Company (DVF, Tory Burch), and Balliet’s (M Missoni, Badgley Mischka) provide the designers you love, with the loveliness of Oklahoma service.
Other reasons to go: Whole Foods, West Elm, Anthropologie, candy and cupcakes, more clothing for adults and kids, restaurants and more! Gil’s and The Impeccable Pig also provide lots of style options with low prices! And if Chanel sunglasses and Fendi shoes are your craving, check out Gordon Stuart to get your fix.
Midtown
Get a nice blowout at Dry/Shop and then take a closer look at the items you’ve been eyeing in the mirror while you had your hair done. I’ve never left this shop without buying something! The Beauty Lounge Boutique has some must-haves as well and is always worth a look.
Don’t miss: Chirps and Cheers: pick up a greeting card (or ten) or any number of stationary-esque items.
Plaza District
Is your style a little more downtown? You’re sure to discover amazing pieces in stores like Collected Thread, Out On a Limb, and Maverick (for the guys). Collected Thread and OOAL both feature handmade and local items, so you’ll find some truly special pieces! And if vintage and retro is your thing, Bad Granny’s Bazarre has you covered!
Since you’re already there: The Plaza features some great restaurants like The Mule. Do yourself a favor and order the Fried Cheese Curds. (You can thank me later.)
Automobile Alley
Less clothing (with some exceptions like Bow & Arrow), but definitely a great spot for home and gifts. You can quickly be sucked into Plenty Mercantile. From jewelry to home goods, food items, children’s toys, and more, there’s a little something for everyone!
Make sure you check out: Perch’d showcases the most modern of home design, all encased in a large shipping container. (Yes, you read that right.) While you’re there, head across the street to the Iguana Mexican Grill for some of the best salsa (and I know salsa)!
The Outlet Shoppes
If Outlet Shopping is your thing, you won’t be disappointed with everything from Forever 21 to J.Crew and Banana Republic. And they’re still adding on!
Edmond/Norman
Head north from OKC to Edmond for more boutique shopping as well as some brand names you’re familiar with (Francesca’s, Charming Charlie’s, and White House Black Market). Head south (and east) to Norman for local shops like Blush and Cayman’s .
As OKC continues to grow and evolve, shopping options will too! So, rest of the world, I say look out! Did I miss your favorite shopping spot for some great OKC style? Tell me!
Originally published June 2, 2015
I’ve never been there but they all look more gorgeous than what we have here in Finland. All the shops are dull here.
I have never been there before.