There is something to be said about entering a store with its unique branding, atmosphere, and smell — yes, that wonderful scent wafting through the air is not a coincidence — that makes shopping in real life just plain fun. Shoppers can get an up-close look at designs, touch fabrics, and try things on, alleviating worries about incorrect sizes, lengths, or fits. While it might be easier to add to cart on phones or laptops, brick-and-mortar stores have long been upping their game to compete with the convenience of online shopping.

Houston boutiques and national brands are attracting shoppers away from their phones by adding a bevy of fashion hot spots to the city's retail landscape. April is a big month for savvy consumers because, just in time for the spring and summer buying frenzy, Houstonians have several new shopping destinations to choose from. It is time to put down the phone, step away from the laptop, and walk through the eight newest shops in Houston.

Eight One
Known for its trend-setting lifestyle offerings, including hats, shoes, clothing, and accessories, Houston-based Eight One recently opened an outpost in M-K-T Heights. Eight One's flagship brand, New Era, and other notable names like Mitchell & Ness, Saucony, and Vans will be available for purchase.

Frock Shop
Houston-based apparel and accessory boutique Frock Shop opened its second location in M-K-T Heights. The boutique, founded in 2019 by Selina Standford, offers elevated luxury brands and ready-to-wear pieces. Notable designer brands at the M-K-T boutique include Xirena, Nation, Staud, Farm Rio, Ulla Johnson, ALC, Tanya Taylor, and Cleobella.

HeyDude
Summer is the perfect time to stock up on the newest comfy "it" shoe from HeyDude. Now open in Houston Premium Outlets, HeyDude offers airy slipper-like shoes in several styles, including the iconic Wendy and Wally shoes.

Maria Tash
Fine jewelry designer and luxury piercing expert Maria Tash will open her second Texas location in the Houston Galleria this month. Favored by Taylor Swift, Blake Lively, and Gigi Hadid, Tash is known for her unique stylings and Curated Ear collections. In the Galleria boutique, shoppers can look forward to eye-catching travertine details, leather and metallic accents, and beautiful lighting to enhance Tash's jewelry.

Psycho Bunny
Its iconic logo and bright colors are the hallmarks of New York-based brand Psycho Bunny. Its latest outpost in Houston Premium Outlets offers a range of men's clothing and accessories, including polo shirts, tees, and outerwear that combine classic styles with an edgy touch.

Simply Southern
It is hard to believe that Simply Southern, the all-American preppy lifestyle brand, has been around for over a decade. Usually found in boutiques and big box stores like Academy, Simply Southern has a new store in Houston Premium Outlets. Shoppers can find the brightly colored shirts and sweatshirts the brand is known for.

Solaris
Get the latest trends in sunglasses at the newly opened Solaris in Houston Premium Outlets. The boutique offers classic, fashion, and luxury brands catering to every kind of sunglasses fanatic.

Tommy Bahama
Renowned for its relaxed approach to luxury, Tommy Bahama combines refined styling, island-inspired designs, and high-quality materials. Tommy Bahama fans can now live the island life at the brand's newest store in Houston Premium Outlets. The boutique offers tropical-themed men's and women's apparel, beach gear, or home décor.

Photo courtesy of Frock Shop

Frock Shop recently opened its second location in M-K-T Heights.