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High Style Takes the Spotlight

On May 16, Highlands once again comes alive with fashion, art, music, and culinary talent in a vibrant community celebration presented by Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

Written by: Marjorie N. Deal

Issue: May 2026

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Dasha Hall, Cosmos Flowers

As spring reaches its vibrant peak, Highlands prepares for one of its most stylish and spirited traditions: High Style, the annual celebration of art, cuisine, fashion, and music presented by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC. Returning on May 16, the event invites locals and visitors to immerse themselves in a full day of creativity through live performances, hands‑on demonstrations, culinary experiences, in a dynamic showcase of local makers and merchants.

Last year’s High Style drew enthusiastic crowds and quickly affirmed its place as a seasonal favorite. This year, the Chamber builds on that momentum with returning favorites, new faces, and expanded locations, offering more opportunities to engage with Highlands’ creative community.

A centerpiece of the day is the High Style Fashion Show, once again sponsored by The Laurel and hosted at The Bascom. Featuring a curated mix of returning boutiques and exciting newcomers, the red carpet runway offers guests a first look at collections that reflect Highlands’ distinctive sense of style and its blend of mountain elegance with contemporary trends.

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Doug Ramsey

From jewelry and metalwork to painting, pottery, and handcrafted goods, the day showcases the depth of talent that thrives in Highlands. Many beloved musicians return this year, joined by new artists who bring fresh perspectives to the celebration. Culinary offerings also shine, with local chefs and purveyors contributing flavors that reflect the region’s dynamic food culture.

As Executive Director Johanna Fein shares, “High Style continues to grow into a signature spring tradition for Highlands. It’s a day that highlights the best of who we are: creative, collaborative, and proud of the people and businesses that make this community shine.”

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Frank Vickery

2026 High Style Schedule

9:30 A.M.
High Style Fashion Show
The Bascom | 323 Franklin Road
A stylish kickoff to the day, featuring boutiques and designers from across Highlands. Guests are encouraged to dress to impress. Free to attend. VIP seating: $25. VIP seating available with purchase.

11:30 A.M.–1:30 P.M.
Music – Chris Kohne
Pottery – Frank Vickery
Town Square | 341 Main Street

Music – Kettle
Silver Creek Social House 537 Main Street

Music – Southern Highlands
Highlands Wine Shoppe | 269 Oak Street

Music – Matt Molesworth Trio
Ugly Dog | 294 S 4th Street

Music – Mick Mayer
Oak Square | 310 Main Street

highlands-nc-high-style-Nancy and Mel12:00–2:00 P.M.
Art – William Rogers (Metalwork)
Hudson Library | 554 Main Street

Spanish Spring Cocktail Class with Lunch
The Stubborn Bull | 445 N 4th Street
A hands‑on class featuring traditional sangria, three Spanish cocktails, and a tapas lunch. Cost: $59 per person.

1:00–3:00 P.M.
Art – Woodturners
The Bascom | 323 Franklin Road

Live Painting – Pauline Marr
Highlands Wine Shoppe | 269 Oak Street

2:00–3:00 P.M.
Floral Design Class
Cosmos | 95 Highlands Plaza
A hands‑on workshop covering essential floral design techniques, color pairing, and arrangement building. Cost: $75 per person.

2:00–4:00 P.M.
Music – Charles Wood
Jewelry Demonstration – Marci Sherwood of Isabelle Ambrose
Town Square | 341 Main Street

Music – Doug Ramsey
Highlands Wine Shoppe | 269 Oak Street

Music – Silly Ridge
Oak Square | 310 Main Street

Music – Lisa Rankin
Silver Creek Social House 537 Main Street

Music – Katie and Ezra
Ugly Dog | 294 S 4th Street

Music – Brian Aulisio & Friends
First Bank | 473 Carolina Way

3:00–4:00 P.M.
Gather, Sip & Style
Spruce Interiors, Highlands Creek Village | 468 Dillard Road
A relaxed, interactive design experience with Melanie and Nancy of Spruce Interiors. Enjoy wine while learning how to build a beautiful room and master effortless tabletop styling. Cost: $40 per person, includes a special gift.

High Style remains one of Highlands’ most anticipated spring events. It’s an invitation to celebrate the people, places, and creative spirit that make this mountain town shine. For updates, participating boutiques, and ticket information, visit highlandschamber.org/high-style or call (828) 526‑2112.

 

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