Stroll down West Cary Street and you’ll sense it immediately: this isn’t the mall—this is independent shops, crafted goods and retail with character. In Carytown—known affectionately as Richmond’s “Mile of Style” AFAR Media+2Carytown RVA+2—each storefront carries its own distinct vibe, and new boutiques keep popping up to keep things fresh. Take for example Richmond Olive Oil Co., a recently opened specialist that sources and lab-tests premium olive oils and invites you to taste your way through something you didn’t know you needed. Axios Or drop into Bougie Goat Boutique at 3451 W Cary St—a quirky, upscale resale boutique where vintage, designer finds and artisan-made treasures share the racks. Bougie Goat Boutique
What makes these shops stand out is more than just the product—it’s the experience. Browsing in Carytown feels casual, personal and full of discovery: a mix of handmade, locally curated, and boutique-only-here. The district continues to evolve as new concepts move into the historic shopping strip, ensuring there’s always something fresh to explore. For tourists and locals alike, the appeal is clear: instead of chain-store calories, you leave with something memorable—a one-of-a-kind piece, a local story, or a unique gift you won’t find anywhere else.
So when you visit Carytown, give yourself time. Walk past the major intersection, turn into side-streets, pop into small shops where owners greet you, smell the olive oils, finger the handmade jewelry, flip through quirky gift shops and let the retail wander lead you. Because in this mile of style, shopping isn’t just about buying—it’s about discovering.
