I loved this little store. They had so many fun items with three different rooms. There is a little bit of everything from all different cultures. I really loved the lavender body oil And lotion candles. Prices ranged was reasonable to a little high. Staff were very helpful and friendly. There is street parking and also paid parking. read more

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Pura Vida caught my attention as I walked by and I couldn't help but walk in. There was so much to look at and I wanted it all! There's things for children and adults alike. I loved all of the dreamcatchers and crystal sun catchers. There's also price points for different comfort levels. The jewelry is also so pretty. If you find yourself in the area, Pura Vida is a must. read more

Nice store in the heart of Noda. You can find street parking. Upon entering we were greeted owner was open and inviting. The door was locked when we arrived the owner said she forgot to unlock it, but was kind. There are several handmade items-clothes, jewelry, books, etc. The owner was very knowledgeable and able to explain variations of sage to us along with properties. It was personable. It was cluttered neatly the store evolves as you walk through it. I enjoyed my experience hope you enjoy yours. read more

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This store is so beautiful! Huge selection of things from all over and everything is sooo beautiful! I've come here to past 2 Novembers for the paper mache marigolds for día de los muertos! The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable about where everything is from. You have to check out this place if you're in NODA! read more

Pura Vida Worldly Art - Paper mache marigold - Women's Clothing Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

It was a friendly store to visit. There was something for everyone. The manager or owner was a special person . Gracious and welcoming. No pressure but made the shopping experience fun. read more

This came up as a shop to visit in NoDa for unique gifts and items around the world. It is located near Ruby's and another shop that specializes in spiritual and healing items. Like many of the businesses in NoDa, you will need to find a lot to park and pay for or street parking if you get lucky. I managed to find a spot within walking distance from the Smelly Cat and it didn't have a limit on timing. As I visited during the pandemic, they used a chair to block the entrance to the shop so they could keep track of the number of people in the shop at a time. A gal counted the number of people coming in and kindly showed us where we could wash our hands before exploring the offerings in the shop. They had a natural soap at their sink they directed us to, which I think was one of the options offered for sale. (It was nice that they tied in a product you could purchase in store if you liked it.) Their store offers a bit of everything from clothes, accessories, toys, and a few cooking ingredients and snacks from all over the world. Everything seems to have been made or sourced ethically, which is cool. Nothing caught my eye, but it's an interesting space to shop for unconventional gifts. read more

Beautiful shop with Bohemian likes and worldly charm. Support other countries with handmade items such as earrings, handbags, dresses, and home decor. Sage for burning, singing bowls, body oil, and other spiritual items inside. Wish I knew about this place before. Hidden gem of Charlotte! read more

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Super cute shop! We were walking by to head on over to Smelly Cat and the window display caught our eye. They had a ton of awesome and unique cards hanging in the window, definitely way better their your standard Hallmark greeting. When we went in they had quite the eclectic mix of items from jewelry, to clothing, books, to baby shoes. It does really seem like a great spot if you are looking for a gift and not sure what to buy. We loved the variety of children's books they had, super diverse and really what you should be seeing at all book stores. The prices weren't cheap, but they weren't outrageous for a locally owned boutique shop either. Really great spot to wander around in and pick up some unique holiday gifts! read more

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Kind staff and beautiful products! I loved everything in the store and so appreciate the wide representation in coloring books and dolls!!

Such a cute place! My daughter saw a bracelet she wanted so we decided to pop in. The lady was so helpful. I didn't get her name but she was older and so sweet. She explained to us what each bracelet meant and helped my daughter find the best one for her. read more

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I honestly haven't found a whole lot of places in the country as awesome as Pura Vida. I walked into the second room and I'm like "they have a shrine!?" Epic. It's a shrine for those who have passed but I've always managed to find myself stuck there praying on the mementos that tell the story of others. There is a lot of meditative stuff to be found here. Buddhist prayer beads and brass bowls that ring. Literature on various spiritualities and religious movements. Lots of cool stickers and buttons with sayings like "coexist" on them. Jewelry that looks to have a major South American influence. African drums and decor. I've even seen saris and skirts with Indian designs here too. The shopkeeper is friendly and knows her stuff. It was great to just chat for a while about the subject matter of the store. This place boasts zen, peace, love and a warm fuzzy feeling inside! read more

When it comes to insanely cool worldly goods, Pura Vida has 'em. This store really reminds me of Madison, WI...a handful of culture, a strong dose of interesting and cool, a lot of handcrafted items, and just a touch of hippy. If I were to describe all the types of items you can find here, I'd likely run out of room. Thus, it's best that you just go in and explore. I was particularly drawn to the beautiful beaded necklaces, unique cards, and gorgeous scarves. Most, if not all, of these items are hand crafted and feature a specific worldly view unlike that of the USA. For the spiritual types, there is a smattering of literature and a shrine to those who have passed - both interesting and heart aching just to walk past it. If you're walking around NoDa, definitely stop in at Pura Vida, there's nothing quite like it in Charlotte! read more

I had found this place through a Facebook suggestion, and although I don't live in Charlotte, I was hopeful to visit it when I got in to town. I live outside of Asheville, so it's a bit of a drive. I had read a review on Yelp from a shopper who felt that one of the staff members was following them around, as if to check them for shoplifting. Someone also followed me around the entire time, asking questions and what not.. almost exactly the same as the review.. however, I do not believe she was doing this to watch me for shoplifting. It seemed like she just had a genuine interest in helping me find what I was looking for. She was very kind. I don't think this woman was the type to insinuate anyone was doing anything of the sort. Everyone there seemed genuinely very nice and helpful! Overall I loved the shop. The only two reasons that I am giving this 3 stars vs 5 is because .. A). I used to volunteer at Ten Thousand Villages and another fair trade shop. There are quite a few identical items in this shop as those others, but they are considerably more pricey here than at their competitors. and B). I asked several questions about one piece online, to which I was offered to have the item shipped to me rather than having to drive the two hours. That would have been awesome, but when I attempted to follow up with the purchase, no one contacted me again. I even tried to ensure that the item would be in the shop when I got there, but no one ever answered me and it wasn't there when I arrived. I understand that people are busy and don't always have time to answer every online question, but if you're going to offer to help someone with something - then follow through. I can also see that the messages are being read (on Facebook it offers some sort of mini read receipt) so I'm quite sure that the messages were received. read more

If you have ever doubted the richness and authenticity of Mexican culture you should take a gander in Pure Vida. There are many great pieces of art dedicated to the Mexican Day of the Dead; I loved the bathroom mirror enclosed in dancing and playing skeletons. I just don't think it would match the décor of my very American bathroom. The store clerk, Alina, let my nephew and I know that over forty countries are represented in the store. Books pay homage to artists like Frida and Riveria. There is also a gypsy lounge in the back that holds concerts every Sunday afternoon at 2:00pm. Next week will be an instrumental band called Actual Proof. They will be serving up some jazz and funk flavors equipped with strings and xylophones. Before entering the gypsy lounge, there is an art exhibit. One photo of a lonely man playing an accordion on the street really struck my fancy. Everything in the store is Fair Trade besides the literature. The store is a sweet surprise, because the gifts it has to offer are ambiguous from the street corner. read more

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This gift shop is very eclectic. I was looking for a belt and the choices were a bit limited. What they did have were very unique. I always enjoy the selection of clothing. It is very colorful. They do carry some adorable children's items. They have original art work as well. read more

Pura Vida Worldly Art - Clothing - Women's Clothing Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

I love skulls and skeletons, so I'm thrilled to have a shop that specializes in Day of the Dead gear. It's a pretty small store, but it's the kind of place where you can spend hours and hours exploring. I hit Pura Vida hard when I was getting stuff to decorate my Zen Den in my house. They have a wide selection of spiritual goodies, from Tibetan prayer flags to meditation gongs to all kinds of incense and candles and such. It's the best place in town to find the materials you'll need to get in touch with your inner goddess. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, which is impressive in a place with so much stuff. It would be forgivable if they didn't know the stories behind everything, but I've found that they know a lot, and they're eager to share. I wish we had more places like this one in Charlotte! read more

Pura Vida Worldly Art - From Pura Vida's Website - Women's Clothing Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

What a great store with so many wonderful items from all over the world. Located in the NoDa neighborhood of Charlotte and has some very eclectic and fun items. We spent a good hour in the store looking at everything. The two individuals working there was very helpful and friendly. Definitely recommend visiting if you are in the area. You are bound to find something you cannot live without. read more

Love. Love. Love this sweet shop in Noda. All kinds of cool cultural items. Everything from books on your chakras to bohemian clothing and trinkets. Every room had something different. They had a room of art, followed by a room of books to a room of clothing and other miscellaneous items. Definitely worth a stop if you're in the area. read more

I'm trying to do better about shopping local and Pura Vida is one of my fave places to grab children's books. I specifically come here for their assortment of ethnic children's books. It's rare to find a place that has a variety of books that feature children of color and I love it. They also have other little fun toys for kids from around the world. In addition to having a great selection of gifts for kids, they also have goodies and gifts for adults from around the world from candles to jewelry to leather bound journals. They also carry some local goods like Cloister Honey. In the back of the store, they have a room where they sell various types of crystals, sages and things to purify your home. It's an eclectic shop and I think there's something for everyone in this gem. read more

Pura Vida Worldly Art - Women's Clothing Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

I LOVE THIS PLACE. This is the first place in Charlotte I have found that really cares about sustainability and minority made products. Everything seems homemade and hand-crafted. The owner was super sweet and answered any questions we had. The prices weren't outrageous compared to many homemade/sustainably made products. They had a wide range of items to look at. The area around it is also very artsy and cute. I plan to be a long time costumer. read more

Oh NoDa, how I love your concept. This store fits right in to the cultural artsy feel of the street. Mexican culture was the main theme at this store with a little Asian too. read more

Very good vibe! This store has some fun things that remind me of various parts of the world (I guess that's where they got their name). They have various things like shoes, clothing, tinkets, books, and home decor. There's a back room with chairs in it. I didn't investigate what it is used for, but for maybe local music or like a coffee shop. Oh yeah, you can grab a cup of coffee or a latte when you enter. If you are looking for unique gifts or just want to browse some fun items, visit this store! read more

Pretty cool shop with items you won't see anywhere else. There are lots of spiritual items like bundles of sage to cleanse your house of spirits, little buddhas and catholic crosses. The owner was very friendly and I feel good knowing my money is helping her not some large chain. Its also good to know they only purchase from sellers that are using fair trade practices. This means you can rest assure you're not giving money to a sweat shop factory. I recently bought a wooden handmade brain teaser of a puzzle that is a great Christmas gift idea. Muchas Gracias Pura Vida read more

This is where I go when I can't find something at Paperskyscraper or Green With Envy. There is ALWAYS something here that is a great gift (or something for myself). The items can be a tad pricey- and I'm completely unsure if it is "fair trade" (like 10,000 villages). I am a sucker for a lot of the items. I am still eyeing a dress that has been there for over 3 years (it has never gone on sale). My friend bought the most beautiful purse there. Excellent unique items. It makes you want to travel. There is also coffee- which is always a good thing. read more

I was initially drawn to Pura Vida under the suspicion I'd be able to find some good Dia de los Muertos decorations and a few pieces to remind me of Texas - of course I did, but little did I know I'd end up falling in love with this store. To start there are plenty of Mexican art and hand crafted items to go around - tile mirrors from San Miguel, Oaxacan embroidered dresses, paper flowers, calaveras, skeleton figures and jewelry, fantastic scarves and woven table runners (if you're a fan of tesoros trading company, you'll find a good amount of items they carry here)... but this store lives up to its "worldly art" name. In an attempt to not leave anything out, we'll say it mostly covers Latin America, Asia, and Africa - highlighting Jewish, Hindu, and Buddhist as well as some Catholic/Christian religions. Candles, books, incense, jewelry, wall art - from hostess gift to baby showers, you can find something unique here (and you can also spend a pretty penny doing it). In true NoDa fashion, this is more than just a store - there's also an art gallery in the third room. In the last month I've seen two vastly different displays (one mexican-inspired paintings, one more nature photographs) so it's always nice to check in and see what's going on back there. Also, in the second room there is an altar for those who have passed on. It's a beautiful set-up of mementos, flowers, and photos and I suggest anyone who stops in to spend a moment to take it in. read more

This place is awesome. Just love the owner, so personable, friendly and knowledgeable. This is a place like you would find in Asheville, or picture 10,000 villages. Beautiful either handmade local jewelry or fair trade, and beautiful art, meditation accessories, tie died stuff etc. Great place, it goes back 3 rooms worth. Enjoy! read more

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Evil eye wards, Luchiadore dolls, paper flowers, etc, in a new and improved space. Every town needs a Pura Vida. It's awesome that they've hauled it out to NoDa - the new paint, bright colors, and oddly broken up space looks good on 'em, and the place is even more bursting at the seams than it was back in PM. For random hostess gifts, I-don't-know-what-you-like-but-we-all-love-ethnic-chotchkeys-don't-we gifts, and for lazy day shopping, PV's got it nailed. read more

For a good while, this store was in walking distance from my house in Plaza Midwood. Then, it moved to NoDa, and appears to be right at home there as well. Pura Vida features exotic treasures from around the world: music, clothing, jewelry, crystals and spiritual material. In the back, there is an altar where one can place photos, rocks and other memorial items. The owner is always welcoming and upbeat. And, when I visited the shop a few Wednesdays ago, I found another reason to admire her. I met Meow-Meow, a beautiful tuxedo cat with the tail the size of a feather duster. He comes to Pura Vida each Wednesday and is a gorgeous and welcoming host. Meow-Meow is two years old and was rescued by the owner. It is obvious how much she loves him. Hats off to this compassionate lady! I will make my visit to Pura Vida on Wednesdays from now on so I can catch up with Meow-Meow! read more

Absolutely love this shop! Every time I come in it reminds me of my travels. I always find the perfect gift and a little something for myself ;) read more

What a delightful store. Something for every taste and interest. Fun place to "browse". I am white and do t know what it would feel like to be racially profiled. With that being said I cannot imagine the Owner or anyone she would employ being racist. I agree with other posters that her friendliness and energy were misinterpreted as racist. Can't wait to take family there over holidays. read more

Take your own little trip around the world at this Plaza Midwood store. Pura Vida is such a great, unique shop/coffee bar/art and music venue. I can't afford much of what they have there, so I've bought cheaper things there like postcard-sized prints of paintings and candle holders. Definitely check out the art shows and musicians who perform in the back lounge. read more

This shop is so cool; I know when I go what I need will be there. The vibe is very calming. My main advice is to be respectful of the shrine in the middle room, you may observe but please don't touch. read more

Great variety handmade objects and clothing, all tastefully curated. Very friendly people. If your looking for gifts for friends or beautiful additions to your home's decor, this is a good place to begin and end your search. read more

This place awakens the magic within you. I absolutely loved it. I purchased a few healing crystals and my friend purchased a beautiful dream catcher for her daughter. Visiting this shop is a must if you're in Noda. read more

This is the perfect store for the world traveler in all of us. They have art and cultural crafts from Central and South America, Asia, Middle East, and India. I really liked the clothes and purses they had. There is kind of a limited selection of stuff from these various countries, but it's still fun to go poke around. There are also cultural events to check out. The Gypsy Lounge, the coffee shop in the back of the store, plays host to all kinds of musicians. Check out the website for the most up to date info. read more

Cute place. The employees are very friendly and inviting. However the prices of their products are extremely ridiculous !

What a wonderful business. My "go to" place anytime I want to put a smile on my face. What a great assortment of clothing, jewelry and all sorts of trinkets. Plus the added bonus, if you're lucky, to get a hug from the delightful owner, Teresa. Anytime my nieces visit the first place we head is to this wonderful place. read more

This little shop embodies everything that NoDa is: inclusiveness and acceptance of cultures/customs other than your own, local entrepreneurship, relaxed positive vibes and a celebration of craftsmanship/art. A visit to this shop is like a trip around the world. The owner is an absolute delight and there is always something charming and meaningful to buy. The neighborhood wouldn't be the same without Pura Vida. read more

The owner took the time to contact me (always a plus) and let me know that they adhere to the Siesta tradition that is a part of her culture. That information can be found on their website under the FAQ's page (and Yelp -oops!) I hadn't heard of a gallery doing this so I just (wrongly) assumed they took an extended break. Anyhoo - felt it was only right to update my review. read more

A great store if you love unique, handmade products, or if you're looking to shop fair trade. An eclectic mix of items from all over the world, in an inviting space that makes you want to keep exploring to see what else you might find. A small but cute selection of clothes from Mata Traders, and great jewelry and gifts. Definitely worth checking out! read more