Street Scene: Charleston

MARY NORTON, a fashion designer who runs a shoe and handbag label with boutiques in Charleston, SC, and Los Angeles, has recently seen her creations worn by A-list celebrities at the Oscars, Grammys and other red carpet events. A Charleston resident since 1989, she says that shopping in the King Street Fashion District is "like shopping on a street in Paris. It has great architecture, art and classy people. It's such a treat - I don't know if I want everyone to know about it!" In the end, she did reveal her favorite shops:

1 WORTHWHILE
268 KING ST
"Ask for Robin. She has some of the neatest eco-friendly stuff that I've ever seen. [Worthwhile] was green before it was cool." www.shopworthwhile.com

2 SERMET'S CORNER
276 KING ST
For Mediterranean food, Sermet's is a local favorite. "Not only is the food extraordinary, the guy who owns it - Chef Sermet Aslan - is amazing. He used to be a part of the Israeli secret service. He's an amazing artist, and his art is up inside as well." 843-853-7775

3 STELLA NOVA
310 KING ST
"You can find the greatest spa stuff: shampoos, lotions and potions. Ask for Lauren - she's very knowledgeable. She's the one who helped me start my company 11 years ago." www.stella-nova.com

4 BITS OF LACE
302 KING ST
On Norton's block is this fine lingerie shop. "They have extraordinary lingerie - French pieces, all kinds of amazing things." www.bitsoflace.com

5 LUNA
334 KING ST
Further up on King St is this clothing store, offering young, hip styles for the twentysomething set. "My daughters absolutely love Luna." 843-853-5862

6 HAMPDEN CLOTHING
357 KING ST
Voted 2008's "Best Boutique" by the readers of the Charleston City Paper, this store carries designer labels and runway fashions that are "beautiful and modern." www.hampdenclothing.com