How I Go Columbia: Fashion designer AnnaBelle LaRoque Babcock
Like a lot of girls, Charleston native AnnaBelle LaRoque Babcock became interested in fashion at a young age.
Babcock’s passion for fashion never subsided, however.
After graduating from the University of South Carolina in 2005 with a degree in retail and public relations, Babcock began using her family’s antique sewing machines to make skirts for friends and family members – even though she had a job in corporate sales. Six months later, Babcock quit her job to focus solely on clothing design.
Her then-small line of skirts quickly drew the attention of Southern Living, the New York Times and Fox News. The LaRoque clothing line is now available in 50 boutiques nationwide and was picked up by select Belk stores last year. Her full collection – including her newly released Fall 2015 line – can be found at LaRoque Boutique on Devine Street.
Babcock lives in Columbia with her husband, Jeb, and their 1-year-old daughter, Emerson.
EAT: “Cantina 76 is my go-to. I love the Peruvian shrimp tacos and the fresh guacamole. It’s the perfect place for a family night or a girls’ night with my friends. My new favorite for spot for sweet treats is the Silver Spoon Bakeshop on Devine Street. They make the most beautiful bite-size desserts. You can sit outside on the front porch and enjoy a cup of tea; the ginger peach is my favorite.”
DRINK: “So excited that Craft & Draft opened two doors down – what a fun place to grab a craft beer. It’s a great neighborhood spot with a laid-back and casual atmosphere. My favorite is the Conquest Artemis Blonde. My husband and I love stopping by to get an assorted six-pack to go. Andrew and his staff are always so helpful and friendly.”
LISTEN: “My favorite local group is the Reggie Sullivan Band. We love them so much we booked the group for our wedding in Charleston. Catch them every Tuesday night at Pasta Fresca from 6 to 9.”
PLAY: “We love to take family trips to the Farmers Market on Saturdays. It’s been amazing to see the group of local vendors since the market has moved to Main Street; there is always something new to see. The smell of sweet treats that fills the streets never disappoints. I just can’t leave without getting a cookie from Blue Flour Bakery.”
SEE: “What I’m most excited to see is the Andy Warhol exhibit at the Columbia Museum of Art. I love all the fun events that the museum hosts throughout the year. So exciting to be able to see one of my all-time favorite artists here locally. Also looking forward to seeing the Gamecocks back on the field for football season.”
This story was originally published August 27, 2015 at 4:58 PM with the headline "How I Go Columbia: Fashion designer AnnaBelle LaRoque Babcock ."