August 26, 2008
The Greek Islands are a constant favorite for those seeking some summer fun. While Mykonos is known for its gorgeous beaches and thriving night life, Santorini is known for its picturesque sunsets and romantic views. I couldn’t get enough of Greece this summer!
What to Pack: While the islands are not too formal, Greeks do like to dress up, especially for a dinner. Dresses and heels always work (beware of the cobblestones, you’ve been warned!) and white jeans are great for summer. The meltemi (winds that sweep the Aegean in July and August) can be strong and make evenings chilly, so bring a sweater for nights out, particularly if you are on a boat. For the day time, beachwear can be fun and flirty as most beaches have a little bit of a party scene or at least a few tavernas for lunches and drinks. Guys can wear button front shirt or polos with jeans and loafers. Dressing for the beach can be as simple as a suit and a t-shirt with sandals.
Where to Shop: Luisa is the place to get designer lines in Athens and Athenians go here to glam it up. Think fall’s Lanvin collection (complete with accessories, of course) mixed with DVF and Stella McCartney. There are 4 locations in Athens, I suggest visiting the one in Kolonaki, a fashionable neighborhood filled with boutiques and cafes to continue a day of shopping. In Mykonos, you can find Luisa Beach at Psarou, which has the same glamorous vibe but with a bohemian flair (SYLA, K. Jacques, Anya Hindmarch). In Santorini, Fira is known for its high-end fine jewelry shops but I prefer Oia, a small ‘traditional’ town that is filled with local arts and crafts, high-quality souvenirs and typical jewelry.
- Lucia Marcelle Tait
August 1, 2008
Simone Gabor, a collaboration between Valerie MacCarthy and Vanessa Destaing, is the newest import of lux accessories to come state-side. Inspired by their many travels, Valerie, a native New Yorker who has graced the stages of Paris as a celebrated opera singer and Vanessa, a Parisian financier, came together to create Simone Gabor’s elegant baubles.
Named after the designer’s Grandmothers, Simone Gabor designs are made from the highest quality jewels including citrine, amethyst, topaz, aquamarine, pink and smoky quartz, coral, turquoise, chalcedony, tourmaline, moonstone and pearls, to name a few, found throughout the world and forming unique and distinctive creations.
Favorites include the Feu Follet, which gives the illusion of glowing stones floating in a medallion setting. Ondes, inspired by Vivaldi’s Four Seasons includes four necklaces evoking shades of Summer, Spring, Fall or Winter. And finally Gemini, a ring consisting of two stones set in 18K gold that seem to ‘float’ on the hand which look even more lovely when stacked.
To view the entire Simone Gabor collection, please visit: www.simonegabor.com.
May 22, 2008
Grove, lifestyle boutique du jour, recently opened bringing fresh home décor, fragrance and florals to the West Village.
This charming store introduces home décor at it’s finest with a rare collection of glassware, tableware, cashmere throws and one-of-a-kind vintage scarves, which Grove has transformed into luxurious throw pillows. You can even bring in your own Hermes or Pucci to be reconstructed into a fabulous accent pillow for your home!
The hallmark of this enchanting boutique is the Flower Bar. Customers select from a seasonal assortment of fresh flowers, specially prepared by Sarah herself or in-house designer Bobby. Arrangements are made to order while you shop, or if you prefer, can be delivered anywhere in Manhattan. Our choice gift is their signature crate filled with a gorgeous array of flowers accompanied by a Grove candle (pictured below).
From travel accessories to home décor, fragrances to florals, you’re sure to find a special gift or beautiful addition for your home.
Grove NYC
617 Hudson Street
Between Jane St. and Little West 12th St.
www.grovenyc.com
T: 212.673.8300
- Amanda Doll Sheppard
May 20, 2008
The weak dollar and slowing economy doesn’t mean no shopping, it just means smart shopping. Our top tips:
1. Shop with a Mission: Don’t wander around aimlessly to stores; have a goal in mind when you leave the house such as new jeans, black tie, or beachwear.
2. Shop in Your Hometown: You won’t be bringing back much from Europe this summer so spend those hard earned dollars here on a great vacation wardrobe!
3. Shop High/Shop Low: I’ve been shopping alternately at Bergdorf Goodman and Target! BG satisfies my taste for luxury and investment pieces while Target fills the need for get-it-now trends.
4. Shop for Accessories: Transform your current wardrobe with an of-the-moment accessory or take this opportunity to invest in a classic.
5. Shop in Boutiques: Small stores are having more sales and markdowns than usual so don’t count out old favorites. You will also avoid shipping costs by purchasing items in-store as opposed to online.
6. Shop Sample Sales: When you are craving designer goods, head to a sample sale to get the look for less. A recent cocktail party outfit dilemma was solved by picking up a gorgeous Catherine Malandrino dress from the sample sale and pairing it with a $9.90 belt from H&M!
- Lucia Tait
April 28, 2008
Wunderbloc.com is a super-fashionable shopping site and online community for both shoppers and boutiques, which brings the intimacy and authenticity of great shopping neighborhoods to a worldwide audience. We use it as a resource for finding new boutiques and checking out street style. If you own a boutique, you can log on and claim the profile. Shoppers can create their own profile, list designers they love, discover new shopping destinations and even write their own blog! www.wunderbloc.com
