Posted 01/14/10

Carol Hannah Whitfield: Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston Magazine-Kevin Harrison/Victoria Mele

Carol Hannah Whitfield, an exciting, emerging Fashion Designer, is a South Carolina native who will always find inspiration from her hometown, the lovely and historic, Charleston. A self-taught clothing designer, Carol Hannah came onto the fashion scene in 2008, when “she quietly entered the Emerging Local Designers competition at Charleston Fashion Week–and won.” In 2009, Carol Hannah took both “Project Runway 6” and New York City by storm, with her indigenous, Charleston infused: colorful, romantic dresses, that guarantee the wearer a magical evening, like “a modern day fairy at a cocktail party.” Her notable “Project Runway” third place finish at Bryant Park, prompted Carol Hannah to not only launch a fabulous Ready-to-Wear line, but also jettison her new wedding collection, with enchanted custom bridesmaids and bridal gowns!

Please visit Carol Hannah Whitfield for retail stores carrying her beautiful designs, as well as online shopping!

The Concierge Questionnaire: Carol Hannah Whitfield,  Fashion Designer

What is your favorite word to describe Charleston? Historic.

What word best reflects the people of Charleston? Friendly!

What is the most creative, spiritual or emotional place in Charleston? Church Street. Go see why.

What is your favorite outdoor activity in Charleston? Sailing, surfing, sunbathing. My favorite beaches are
Sullivan's Island or Folly Beach.

What is your favorite indoor activity in Charleston? Eating at any of the restaurants! Charleston is known for its food for a good reason.

What is your favorite sound or noise in Charleston? The clip-clop of horses pulling carriage tours.

What is your favorite smell or taste in Charleston? Shrimp and grits with biscuits. Shrimp and grits is a classic southern meal. My favorite version is at the restaurant 82 Queen. Make sure to get a side of She Crab Soup as well. And homemade pralines on Market Street.

82 Queen: 82 Queen Street
Hours: Monday-Saturday 11:30am-10:30pm and Sunday 11am-10:30pm


Shrimp and Grits is usually a combination of sautéed shrimp, onions and butter, served over grits, a corn porridge.

She Crab Soup, a signature Charleston dish, is a rich soup, similar to a crabmeat bisque.

Pralines, a traditional southern candy, are a caramelized mix of sugars, butter and pecans.

What drink best reflects Charleston? Bourbon- it's old, southern, and classic. Or Sweet Tea Vodka...it's even made there!

Since 2000, Firefly Distillery, on Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina, has been making Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka. Today, Firefly Distillery manufactures five distinct flavors that are “not your Grandma’s Sweet Tea!”

What song or type of music best reflects Charleston? Van Morrison - Blowin' Your Mind!Brown Eyed Girl or any music you can shag to (South Carolina state dance).

The Carolina Shag, a six count partner “jitterbug” like dance, has origins in the southeastern United States during the Big Band Era of the1930s and 40s.

If Heaven were Charleston, what would God say to a visitor when they arrive at the Pearly Gates? Leave your shoes at the door!

Carol Hannah Whitfield: Charleston, South Carolina • Charleston, South Carolina • Phone: ***

Apple iTunes