Owen’s thoughtful compilation of men’s and women’s wear in rich jewel tones, dark neutrals, and complex, highly textured knit, leather, and fur, make it a worthwhile addition the high-end boutiques in the meatpacking district. Phillip Salem, Owen’s enthusiastic, 25-old-owner, handpicks every piece―his lofty goal is to ensure that each pick is both statement-making and timeless.
Looking to spend your day shopping? What about a nice glass of wine with an ocean view? Well, if you think you have to pick one or the other, you clearly haven’t visited Santa Monica Place yet.
This new shopping and dining compound is the newest addition to the Santa Monica area, offering everything under the sun, and more.
Let’s talk retail: Santa Monica Place is quickly becoming known for their amazing shops, that include Kitson, Bloomingdales and high-end boutiques such as Tory Burch.
And just when you made the rounds and worked up an appetite, don’t expect your average mall food court (even though they do have that). You can also head right to the top and visit a number of fabulous restaurants, including Sonoma Wine Garden, a restaurant that has quickly become popular for their cheese plates, pizza and selection of wine.
So drop those bags, grab a glass of wine and put your feet up as you soak in the sun – Sonoma’s patio has a breathtaking view of the water.
Welcome to paradise – we mean Santa Monica.
395 Santa Monica Place
Santa Monica, CA 90401
http://www.santamonicaplace.com/
Located in the Larchmont shopping district, Noni Boutique definitely stands out when it comes to high-end women’s fashion and designs. Whether it is that perfect cocktail dress you are looking for or a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry, Noni only carries the best and can offer some styling guidance and advice for the girl who can’t seem to make up her mind.
The racks at Noni are filled with big names such as Vivienne Westwood, Anna Sui and anyone else who is major in the fashion industry. Though Noni is considered to be one of the trendiest stores on the block, it also combines art and fashion to create a one-stop-shop for the fashion and art enthusiast. Many gallery viewings and art openings have occurred in the store so patrons can enjoy art and fashion in one viewing.
Even though some of the items at Noni are on the pricier side, be sure to attend their famous Semi-annual Sidewalk Sale that happens as a part of their “spring cleaning.”
For anyone living in Studio City who cares about fashion and the latest trends in over-the-knee boots, eclectic jewelry and the like, know to visit Dari Boutique for all their fashion, jewelry and accessory needs.
Though other stores have come and gone, Dari Boutique caters to those craving high-end brands, unusual jewelry finds and anything else you could possibly imagine. Ever since their opening, Dari has treated their loyal clients like family, knowing them by name as well as their likes and dislikes as soon as they walk through the door.
Even though the store has a Zen vibe, some of the items that fill the racks may force you to break the bank. If you love Dari but can’t always afford to spend big, the big blowout sale has some amazing deals on designer finds and expensive accessories.
If you are looking for your “go-to” store or just looking to find that “go-to” dress, the lovely women at Dari Boutique are always ready to lend a fashionable hand.
After Intermix called the Malibu Lumber Yard home, Malibu locals and those craving a little bit of high-end fashion came running to the opening. Featuring top designers such as Stella McCartney and popular brands such as Citizens of Humanity, this Malibu store has become a popular destination for those looking to scoop up some designer duds and accessories.
Though the Malibu store is packed with everything you could possibly want to find, if you can’t find in on the shelves and racks, head over to their website. Not only does the website feature clothes, shoes and accessories foud in and out of the stores, intermixonline.com features different sections such as a Lookbook, a must list and what they are obsessed with currently. International customers are now also able to shop the website, when they aren’t free to jet over to the Malibu location.
If you visit the website and subscribe to the Lust List, you can get 15% of your very first purchase.
It’s hard to believe the once infamous nightclub Limelight-that was once an Episcopal church turned into a scandalous late night party house- is now a chichi mall. There’s a doorman in a marble lobby of the new Limelight Marketplace, a chandelier on every ceiling, and exquisite – read, expensive – designer pajamas available from Olatz that you can wear in bed, while you eat artisan chocolate from Mariebelle Cacao Bar & Cafe.
On the first floor, formerly the main dance floor, there are Havianas and Hunter boots in every color imaginable, on the balconies there are flower arrangements from Barbara Scott (that might break the bank if you’re not careful), and rows of dainty handmade jewels from Tina Tang. And in the once co-ed bathroom that posted naked pictures of porn stars, you will find classy Brocade home furnishings fit for a modern princess.
In short, the Limelight Marketplace has it all for the ultimate upscale New York, however ironic, shopping experience. But lost on this irony the Limelight Marketplace is not. Many of the boutique stalls are set up around little bars that serve wares instead of alcohol: at Alexander West you can order a custom (bespoke!) men’s dress shirt and at Petrossian you can order ten different types off caviar – if that’s what you’re into. There are mannequins dressed as club kids on the main floor and there are antique bobbles from Old Hollywood on display in front of an enormous stained glass tryptic on the balcony. Shopping at the Limelight Marketplace is truly a unique experience – especially if you have experienced it in its former gritty glory.
Looking for a sophisticated night out? Head to Cady’s Alley in Georgetown where L2 Lounge, hidden discreetly in the Alley’s central courtyard, mixes an international flair with premier club status.
Catering to DC’s young elite, L2 is known for its exclusive and trendy vibe – perfect for those looking to have fun in style. Dress to impress and make your way to this hidden gem for a hot night out. With beautifully exposed walls, and an eye for modern minimalism, the chic décor competes with that of club’s around the world and creates a perfect backdrop to let attractive guests decorate the space. So sip a chic cocktail or two and turn your nose up a bit – with an international lounge like this, you may wonder if you’re even in DC.
Although Va
lentine’s Day comes once a year, Aricie Lingerie has been adorning women with sexy undergarments everyday since 1982. With most of the merchandise coming from Europe, you’ll find fabulous French designs from Aubade, Chantelle, Rien, and Nina Ricci, and invigorating Italian trends from R. Crescentini, Parah and Valery.
Half the fun in shopping at Aricie is pretending you’re fluent in a romance language, with designs like Fleurs de pommier Demi Bras and Signora di Quadri G-Strings. You’ll look so good in Aricie’s collections, your partner won’t care what you say when you get home! Of course, for that extra boost at work, you’ll feel confident knowing what’s underneath that stiff professional exterior. So, skip the chocolates and clichéd Victoria’s Secret black lace and get something you’ll feel gorgeous in all year.
This year, pencil in a little “me” time and treat yourself to some pre-holiday pampering at The Spa at MINT, a high end fitness center and spa, nestled in eclectic Adam’s Morgan. This urban retreat, known for its quality services and zen-like atmosphere, features a variety of spa offerings to keep you looking and feeling your best amidst all the holiday rush. MINT offers everything from acupuncture (for the brave!) to traditional bodywork, facials, and other aesthetic services – all under a calming pastel roof, situated just beyond bustling, iconic U Street.
For a truly customized experience, be sure to take advantage of MINT’s seasonal, organic facials. The current autumn concoction – a revitalizing blend of fresh cranberry, nutmeg, honey, rose and cornmeal – will leave you buffed and glowing, without breaking the bank ($60 for a 35-minute treatment). For out-of-towners looking for total body & soul rejuvenation, check out MINT’s exclusive spa packages: The Weekender features a 50-minute facial or Swedish massage, paired with complimentary lunch and an all-access weekend pass to the coveted fitness club.
Insider Tip: Try MINT’s Tranquil Tuesdays facials and massages. Each 30-minute service is only $49 (Voted Best On-the-Go Spa Service by the Washingtonian)!