FASHION MAGIC

Maris DeHart boutique mixes classic and cutting-edge fashion with fun

by ROBIN HOWARD / photography by HOLGER OBENAUS

For nearly seven years , the Maris DeHart women’s boutique has been a vibrant staple in the Exchange District, just steps from Charleston’s iconic waterfront and Rainbow Row. Opened when the founder, Alden Haviland, was just 24 years old, the store carries timeless and cutting-edge pieces, shoes and accessories from a range of designers. The boutique’s elegant window displays are always a delight for locals and travelers alike.

Our Clients Say It Best...

Suzie was the most professional and knowledgeable real estate agent I have ever worked with. She went above and beyond to make sure every aspect of my home buying experience was the best it could be. She is very smart and has great resources even after the deal is done! I would give her 6 stars if I could!

— J. Baldinger

Haviland got her start in fashion retailing working at Henri Bendel on 5th Avenue in New York City. During her time at the famous department store, and during various fashion internships, she learned the foundations of visual merchandising, customer service and how to buy just the right mix of products for her customers. At 21, she spontaneously moved to Charleston, where she worked as an assistant manager in retail and launched a social medial company, Rutledge Social, before opening Maris DeHart. As of summer 2022, Maris DeHart welcomed store director Cricket Cope and creative director Morgan Linét, who have worked since as a tightly knit team. Because of its prime location, the boutique attracts customers from all over the country. “The Maris DeHart woman is chic, representing the ability to gracefully transition her look with the ever-changing trend cycle at any age,” Haviland says. “We get visitors from major cities, such as New York, Boston, Chicago and Washington, D.C., so I aim to carry items that are wearable everywhere.” Haviland has also worked hard to create a store that appeals to all ages. “With our location, we love to sell something to all three generations of women,” she adds.

“From 18 to 80, we pride ourselves in having an assortment for everyone.”

Recently, the boutique expanded across the hall to create Amused, a pop-up shop within a boutique, for the young at heart and those who prefer more trendy pieces. “Amused is our new addition to Maris DeHart. You’ll find amusing, colorful and trendy pieces and have fun in our Y2K-themed girls’ playground,” Haviland says. “Make sure to check out the art by local female artists represented by Miller Gallery, including gummy bear sculptures by Olivia Bonilla, lips by Angela Chrusciaki Blehm and the hand-painted mural by Savannah artist JuLu.”

While the Maris DeHart buyers watch trends and set their own, Haviland and her team also attend markets in New York, Atlanta and Miami several times a year to stay up to date. She also finds inspiration in what her younger customers are wearing or asking for. “Beauty is everywhere, so I keep my eyes open,” she says. “I find inspiration in architecture, street art and what other women are wearing.”

Many of the boutique’s most popular lines can be found exclusively in-store, but there is also an expansive website that is updated with every social media collection drop. The boutique also carries local brands. Whether it’s brightly colored bracelets from Holst + Lee or handmade semiprecious stone bracelets from Snaffle Bit Bracelet Company, Maris DeHart has pieces that bring local color to your ensembles.

Maris DeHart also has an exclusive relationship with Eleventh Hour sunglasses. “We love carrying Eleventh Hour because we’ve built trust in the founder ’s manufacturing and quality, and they have the perfect flow of new shapes and colorways,” Haviland says. You’ll also find clothing and accessories from