I spent a few days in Charleston this fall with Erin and the Navy Bleu team while shooting my new collection, and it turned into such a fun little getaway. Between capturing content, catching up with friends, and wandering the charming streets, we managed to sneak in some incredible meals and discover a few local gems. Charleston is one of those cities that always has something new to offer, yet it feels timeless each time you return.
Where We Stayed
We checked into The Palmetto Hotel, and it couldn’t have been a better home base for our trip. The Palmetto feels quintessentially Charleston — elegant yet approachable, with interiors that mix historic charm and modern polish. The lobby is the kind of place you want to linger, with beautiful design details and a welcoming atmosphere, and the rooms are plush and thoughtfully designed, the perfect retreat after a busy day.
The location was one of my favorite parts — right in the historic district, which meant we could walk almost everywhere. Whether it was slipping out for coffee in the morning, heading to a shoot, or grabbing cocktails at sunset, everything felt close by. The Palmetto struck the perfect balance between tucked-away charm and being right in the middle of the action.
A Visit to The Dunlin
One afternoon, we made the short drive out to The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection, for lunch and a walk around the property — and it instantly went on my list of places I’d love to return to for a longer stay. Nestled along the Kiawah River, it feels worlds away from the bustle of downtown Charleston, with sweeping marsh views, a slower pace, and the kind of Southern coastal setting that makes you want to exhale and linger.
Designed by Amanda Lindroth, the interiors are every bit as inspiring as the setting: airy, fresh, and layered with the sort of coastal charm she’s known for. Natural textures, playful details, and perfectly chosen colors make the spaces feel both relaxed and elevated. I left wanting to bring a little piece of that home with me — I’ve been scheming about what I could paint at home in the gorgeous farrow and ball breakfast room green used throughout the property. It was one of those design details that stuck with me and made the whole space feel grounded in the landscape.
Even just spending a few hours at The Dunlin gave me a glimpse of what makes it special: thoughtful design, incredible food, and that signature Auberge sense of place. It’s the kind of property that would be perfect for a quiet weekend escape, and I can’t wait to go back and experience it more fully.
Where We Ate
Charleston’s food scene is reason enough to plan a trip, and we were lucky to hit a few favorites:
- 167 Raw – A Charleston staple with some of the freshest seafood around and a lively atmosphere that’s always buzzing.
- Citrus Club – Perched on top of The Dewberry, this rooftop has the best views in the city. Sunset cocktails here are a must.
- Sorelle – A newer spot that feels instantly timeless. Cozy, elegant, and one of those meals you’ll think about long after.
- Slightly North of Broad (SNOB) – A true Charleston classic, blending Lowcountry flavors with an elevated, welcoming atmosphere.
Where to Shop
Charleston has no shortage of charming shops, and wandering King Street (and the surrounding neighborhoods) is always a highlight. A few favorites worth popping into:
- Hart – Colorful, playful accessories and jewelry that add a little fun to any outfit.
- Beau & Ro – A lifestyle boutique with clothing, handbags, and accessories — they even have their own line of beautiful woven bags.
- Madison Mathews – Known for their easy, breezy block-print dresses that are perfect for the Lowcountry climate.
- Lake Pajamas – The softest, chicest sleepwear, born in Charleston and loved everywhere.
- Croghan’s Jewel Box – A true Charleston institution for fine jewelry and heirlooms, tucked inside a pink townhouse.
- Juliska– The most beautiful shop full of timeless tableware, glassware, and home pieces that make everyday meals feel like a celebration.
- Etu Home – Thoughtfully designed European-inspired home goods and kitchen pieces that make the perfect souvenir.
- Julia Amory – A stop for timeless block-print clothing and tabletop linens that feel as at home in Charleston as they do by the beach.
- And of course, I carried my Breck and Grier tote — it fit right in on Charleston’s colorful streets and was perfect for shopping days.
On My Radar for Next Time
A few days is never enough in Charleston, so I already have a running list of spots to try next:
- Breakfast & Coffee
- Harken
- Babas on Cannon
- Second State Coffee
- Harbinger
- Weltons Tiny Bake Shop
- Restaurants
- Leon’s
- Chez Nous
- Vern’s
- Chubby Fish
- Renzo
- Post House (Mount Pleasant)
- Winebar and Drinks
- Seahorse Bar (a new speakeasy)
- Graft
- Tippling House
- Babas on Cannon (I have heard they have a great aperitif)
What to Pack
Charleston’s charm calls for easy, polished pieces — think breezy dresses, comfortable shoes for wandering, and a tote that transitions seamlessly from day to night.
