By Jeanette Scott
Looking for the scoop on shopping in Sarasota? Well, look no further because fashion blogger, shopping expert and Sarasota native Megan Zietz of The Frugalista Diaries is sharing her top five places to shop here.
1. For The Tourist - St. Armand’s Circle
St. Armand’s is a place to love, shop and of course, be seen. St. Armand’s offers some of Sarasota's best restaurants and a handful or two of unique shops like Foxy Lady, The Met and Addison Craig (Shoes, Shoes and More Shoes) along with brands such as White House Black Market and Lilly Pulitzer. And no trip to the circle is complete until you treat yourself to a little ice cream from one of the many ice cream parlors; Big Olafs and Kilwin’s are favorites of mine.
2. For The Posh - Crossings at Siesta Key
Crossings, sited at 3501 South Tamiami Trail, is the place to go if you're really looking to shop. With stores like Chico’s, LOFT, Talbots, LensCrafters, and LA Fitness, you’re bound to find something for your closet, and if you’re lucky, it’ll be on sale.
3. For The Savvy Shopper - The Shoppes At University Center
When you’re not in the mood for typical mall shopping The Shoppes at University Center (and other centers in the vicinity) is the place to go, whether you’re looking for the entire family at Old Navy, need some essentials from Target and Ulta or want to snag a steal at Marshall’s or Ross, you’ll have plenty to choose from without the hustle and bustle of mall shopping.
4. For The Bargain Hunter - Ellenton Premium Outlets
Ellenton isn’t technically in Sarasota, but it’s the place to go if you’re an outlet shopaholic. The Premium Outlets offer all the shops we love and adore, but with outlet pricing and more sales (Black Friday is May-jor here). Want brands like Saks Off Fifth, Motherhood Maternity, Kate Spade, BCBG Max Azria, Juicy Couture and Calvin Klein? You got it – that and 125 other outlet stores to browse. Be prepared to spend some time there; all that bargain Sarasota shopping is time consuming.
