Whole Hog
If you hear the phrase The Fine Swine and are immediately besieged with a mental image of a pig in a top hat and monocle, congratulations. John H. Hickman IV’s brainchild is not a Southern-style BBQ joint, but instead a haberdashery specializing in the intersection of “New England Prep and English Country.” The space, which recently opened in Cross Keys, is home to staples like Bills Khakis, Harris Tweed and more, as well as more whimsical options like embroidered pants, home décor and classic books. Hickman also hopes to focus on custom engraving and other options for corporate and event gifting. So stylish. 86 Village Square, thefineswine.com
From the Flood
Savvy can’t begin to imagine the difficulty of rebuilding after a catastrophe like the flood that ravaged Ellicott City nearly two years ago. But after a recent trip to Historic Main Street, she was pleased as punch to see that her favorite Howard County haunt, Sweet Elizabeth Jane, is going strong in its post-flood locale. The charming boutique/gallery/gift shop moved up the street into a roomy, two-floor space adjacent to one of the main parking lots, but hasn’t lost an ounce of charm. Savvy’s still dreaming about the delightful window displays and one particularly twee toss pillow. She’s sure to be back soon. 8289 Main St, Ellicott City, 410-465-6400, sweetelizabethjane.com
Sparkle and Swag
Oh, how Savvy loves a carefully curated boutique, particularly when it’s outfitted with all of her favorite things, and Quarry Lake’s new Raina Dawn certainly checks her boxes. To start, there were rows of delicate, trendy designs perfect for a girls’ night out, including chic labels For Love & Lemons, Saylor and Misa. Savvy couldn’t tear her eyes away from one pair of Schutz gold lame ankle booties, but was quickly distracted by another of the store’s sparkly offerings: gorgeous geodes serving as coasters, wine bottle toppers and more. Rock on, Raina. 2582 Quarry Lake Drive, 410-602-1200, rainadawn.com
Crazy Cozy
Savvy always did have a soft spot for Glyndon’s petal-pretty Tickled Pink, but she’s still wearing her rose-colored glasses when it comes to homespun, the space’s latest tenant. The revamped shop brings muter tones and plenty of local love, with beloved brands like Chesapeake Bay Candle, Sykesville’s Serene Lavender Farm and City Charm (purveyor of Pandora-like beads for your most Bawlmer bracelets). The store is also one of few Maryland retailers licensed to sell “Love Your Melon,” the much-loved brand of philanthropic beanies popping up on noggins across the nation. There’s a nice selection of clothing, too, including local favorite Erin Draper. As owner Susan Seaman says, “We want an Anthropologie vibe, but almost all local.” 4825 Butler Road, Glyndon, 410-526-0559
