Roanoke Mill Mountain Star

When people think of style or fashion rarely does Roanoke Virginia come to mind.  But on my recent trip to the city with the bright star in the sky I found a booming nightlife and some SoHo style shopping with a southern twist.

It was Valentines day and the weather was pleasantly mild for the season.  I was only in town for two days and had to cram together seeing sites, shopping and food.

First stop was culture of course with a visit to the Taubman Museum of Art.  A mixture of old and new was enough to please any art fan or create new ones. 
Exhibits included a range of renaissance art, photography, interactive art and even an exhibit fit for any fashionista displaying crystal encrusted purses.  That particular weekend the museum was even having a tattoo fashion show to go along with their history of the tattoo exhibit.  Amazing!

Two blocks away was a farmers market with fresh fruit and vegetables but I opted for the chic coffee house to energize myself for some boutique shopping.

First store that caught my eye was Dandelion Feet with a sale on Old Gringo Boots.  Being from NYC I was unaware of these stylish boots with such southern flair...I became obsessed. 
Dandelion feet also carried Michael Kors footwear and had a cute selection of sun dresses, belts and handbags. 
The store was uncluttered and the staff very helpful.

Next stop was 310 Rosemont a boutique for both men and women.  The minute you walk in the door you are greeted and offered coffee, water or wine.  Awesome!
The store was cozy and inviting with a seating area equipped with a laptop for Internet surfing while your significant other shops

They have a great jean selection for both men and women-sevens, 1921, William Rast, AG's just to name a few.  My fave for the women was the selection of feminine dresses by Tracey Reese.

Given the boutiques and selection of clothes I see Roanoke as the perfect style mix of down south cowboy boots meets frilly sun dresses.  For the men it's more of a laid back denim and t-shirt for the just rolled out of bed but I'm still fabulous look.

So what do we do after a day of culture and shopping...we eat.

Reservations at the chic loft style restaurant that turns into a night club for contemporary American food, 202 Market, serving the best calamari I've ever had.  Excellent service and very cool art hanging from each wall.

To top off my Roanoke experience we went to Blue 5 restaurant for live jazz music.  An eclectic mix of trendy locals makes you feel like your right at home. 

Great sights, fabulous shopping, mouth watering food and good tunes makes Roanoke a definite Style Destination.

For more info visit:
www.dandelionfeet.com
www.202market.net
www.taubmanmuseum.org

310 Rosemont
208 N. Main ST
Blacksburg, VA 24060