Paper City Article

The Little Bird

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:30:19 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Keele Loyd.

Feathering this Nest: If you%26rsquo;re an Aspen habitu%26eacute;, you%26rsquo;ll recognize the name of this luxury consignment shop on Post Oak Boulevard near the Galleria. Owner Keele Loyd%26rsquo;s 3,200-square-foot space is designed in a vintage motif, with retro bookshelves to display product and mod chairs in the sitting area. Prepare to preen with covetable, collectible fashions and accessories by such high-end designers as Chanel, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior and more. We hear a fabulous navy-blue Herm%26egrave;s Birkin was recently in the window. Who told us? Oh, just a little bird. 1735 Post Oak Blvd., 832.767.4483; thelittlebirdinc.com.

Image: The Little Bird

Un Deux Trois

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:25:46 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owners Colin and Bev Shorkend; manager Kim Hernandez.

Stocked Goods: With the opening of Un Deux Trois, stylish young tweens have a new one-stop hot spot for on-trend shoes, dresses, jackets, suiting and accessories. The 3,000-square-foot space is the second Texas location for this California-based boutique, which draws in the hip offspring of famous names such as Johnny Depp, Heidi Klum and Reese Witherspoon to its four Los Angeles%26ndash;area locations. The store isn%26rsquo;t all about Hollywood, though. Owners Colin and Bev Shorkend tapped local designer Lisa Pope-Westerman of the firm Gensler to design their West Ave space. %26ldquo;As a Mom of pre-teen girls and a designer, I felt like a perfect fit to design this shop. We are Un Deux Trois%26rsquo; target demographic,%26rdquo; Pope-Westerman says. %26ldquo;We used matte white for the casual area, glossy white for the separates and glossy black for the formal wear, all with splashes of the brand%26rsquo;s signature pink.%26rdquo; In addition to Un Deux Trois%26rsquo; private-label clothing, the mix includes well-edited selections of Betsey Johnson, BCBG and Sue Wong, plus shoes by Steve Madden, Nina and Stuart Weitzman, as well as a vast array of accessories. 2600 Kirby Dr. in West Ave., 942.9949; udtfashion.com.

Image: Un Deux Trois. Photo by Patrick Bertolino.

Octane Refuels its Fashion Tank

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:21:05 GMT

Think of Knox Street shopping, and we bet you summon a laundry list of household wares: a Jonathan Adler table, a gorgeous vase, a cheese grater, even an iMac. Here, furniture and home goods still rule the roost, save for fashion Valhalla Forty Five Ten. But, in between your trips to crates and barrels, barns, galleries and nests, consider popping into Original Octane for a little apparel therapy. The contemporary men%26rsquo;s and women%26rsquo;s boutique from Ort Varona %26mdash; the man behind former stores Octane, Premium 93 and LFT %26mdash; is part deux to Varona%26rsquo;s first venture, the beloved Octane, once in West Village. The new store is in an 1,800-square-foot, stand-alone space along Knox Street that Quatrine Custom Furniture once called home. %26ldquo;This is what Octane was always supposed to be,%26rdquo; Varona says, %26ldquo;a great neighborhood store with well-edited product.%26rdquo; What%26rsquo;s on Original Octane%26rsquo;s racks? For women, patterned, blousy tops; bright dresses; and slouchy, cowl-necked sweaters. (There are sunglasses and jewelry, too %26mdash; we had our eye on an oversized black-and-gold cocktail ring.) For men, it%26rsquo;s cashmere jackets, colorful scarves and checked button-down shirts. And don%26rsquo;t miss the denim: You%26rsquo;ll find it in droves here, from lines Prps, Current Elliott, RVTS and colored skinnies from Neuw Denim. As an extra perk, Varona has secured an actual from-the-factory-floor sewing machine, for in-store hemming %26mdash; gratis %26mdash;%26nbsp;on any pair of denim purchased. But, true to its Knox Street address, there are oddball finds for the home here, which certainly shake up the avenue%26rsquo;s usually polished offerings: vintage chandeliers, mounted rams%26rsquo; skulls, a marching-band bass drum, even a meat cleaver, solidly slammed into a block of wood. There
goes the neighborhood %26mdash; and how. 3120 Knox Street; originaloctane.com.

Image: Original Octane. Photo by George Fiala.

Miu Miu

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:24:21 GMT

Keys to the door: Manager Crystal Yang.
Stocked goods: Fun, flirty and gilded in gold, the first Miu Miu boutique in Texas has opened at the Galleria. Miu Miu, the tad-younger collection designed by Prada%26rsquo;s Miuccia Prada, is housed in a dynamite 3,000-square-foot space designed by Roberto Baciocchi. It%26rsquo;s modern style with a twist: Think clean-lined counters, shelves and tables to display the candy-colored bags, shoes and accessories, emboldened by baroque gold-leaf paneling in the windows, mirrored furniture and damask wallpaper. Peruse the whimsical and diamante-encrusted accessories in the front two rooms, as well as the limited-edition python-print handbags (hurry %26mdash;%26nbsp;there are only five) sold exclusively in the Houston boutique. In the final room, you%26rsquo;ll find the Resort and Spring 2012 collections. We can%26rsquo;t wait to shop the lighting-bolt, gingham and jewel-tone party dresses Miuccia Prada premiered for the early spring season. If that much color is too sweet for your tastes, look for the more demure patchwork-print and ladylike lace looks for spring. Galleria 1, between MaxMara and Hugo Boss, 713.623.7850; miumiu.com.

Prada

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 11:33:47 GMT

Stocked goods: The first Prada boutique in Texas has opened at the Galleria. The 5,000-square-foot space, designed by Roberto Baciocchi, is dedicated to men%26rsquo;s and women%26rsquo;s collections of ready-to-wear, bags, accessories and shoes. The sophisticated older sister of Miu Miu, Prada still carries quite a bit of wit and whimsy in its collections, as seen in both the resort and spring lines now available in-store. Inspired by the %26lsquo;50s, resort features Elvis%26ndash;style jackets and June Carter%26ndash;inspired shirts, windowpane and polka-dot print dresses and a resurrection of Miuccia Prada%26rsquo;s iconic lip print, circa 2004. The trend continues into spring with %26rsquo;50s pinup-girl swimsuits, schoolgirl pleated skirts and crochet coats, plus flame and American-hot-rod prints on leather, coats, dresses, skirts and shirts. Men will find mid-century-style shirting, suits, scarves and candy-colored saddle-style golf shoes to match their pretty pinups. Meanwhile, the women%26rsquo;s handbags collection for spring focuses on braided madras totes. Keychains in letter-jacket letters are a fun find as well. Galleria I, next door to MaxMara; prada.com.

Image: Prada

A Rose is a Rose (Especially in HP Village)

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 01:46:43 GMT

How%26rsquo;s this for a fashion-forward homecoming. When we received word that Dallas-bred, New York%26ndash;based fashion designer Lela Rose was coming to town to open her first namesake boutique, we found it only fitting that she chose one of the highest-profile addresses in all the land, Highland Park Village. It was an excited e-mail from Dallas decorator Ashley Tripplehorn Hunt of Tripplehorn Hoak Interiors that first alerted us to the shop%26rsquo;s soft opening, at the tail end of November. (Hunt and design partner Dee Dee Hoak were tapped to design the store%26rsquo;s interior.) Just as our December issue was going to press, we got a first peek at the charming digs, wedged seamlessly between Billy Reid and Molto Formaggio. As Hoak and Hunt will tell you, the store is like Rose herself: %26ldquo;Sophisticated but approachable,%26rdquo; they say. %26ldquo;Always fun, never stuffy.%26rdquo; The 600-square-foot shop is an elegant melting pot of colors, textures and whimsy, with unexpected faux-wood linoleum flooring, works by local artists and a bold, Italian brass Sputnik chandelier from John Gregory. Of course, the fun and luxurious environs are intended to complement Rose%26rsquo;s fanciful collections of women%26rsquo;s ready-to-wear, inspired by everything from The Neon Museum in Las Vegas to the oeuvre of artist Gerhard Richter to the style of Katharine Hepburn. It%26rsquo;s all here: cocktail dresses, jackets, knits, pants, jewelry and accessories. There%26rsquo;s even a dose of Dallas hospitality %26mdash; iced tea and Rose%26rsquo;s homemade biscotti are generously served to shoppers. Certainly, %26ldquo;home sweet home%26rdquo; has never been this well-dressed. 69 Highland Park Village, 214.599.6283; lelarose.com.

Images:

High-style homegirl: designer Lela Rose.

Lela Rose Spring 2012

Hello, Prada. Hello, Miu Miu.

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 01:41:47 GMT

Italian fashion house Prada and her equally chic little sister label Miu Miu will open mid-month in Galleria I. For Prada, architect Roberto Baciocchi has designed a 5,000-square-foot space next door to MaxMara to display the brand%26rsquo;s collections of ready-to-wear, bags, accessories and footwear for both men and women. Miu Miu will occupy a 3,000-square-foot space between MaxMara and Hugo Boss; expect ready-to-wear, bags, shoes and accessories for women. Miuccia Prada, who designs both collections, is renowned for her intelligent, directional designs that set trends and seem to always have a sense of humor. We can%26rsquo;t wait to see fashionable Houstonians cruising from party to party this spring in Prada%26rsquo;s zippy car-print dresses paired with high-heeled sandals sporting colorful tail fins. Looking for something more reserved? Miu Miu%26rsquo;s spring collection of traditional feminine frills, fichu collars and stoles tied with velvet ribbons are as sweet as can be. Watch the January issue of PaperCity for updates.

Images:

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Prada

Miu Miu

L.K. Bennett

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:20:32 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Dian Johns.
Stocked Goods: Does the name L.K. Bennett ring a bell? Well, if you%26rsquo;re a royal watcher focused on what Britain%26rsquo;s new Duchess of Cambridge is wearing, you know that H.R.H. is quite fond of L.K. Bennett%26rsquo;s collection, as Catherine apparently frequents this upper High Street boutique for smart pumps, wedges, pink bowed sandals and affordably priced frocks. (Even the royals watch their euros.) Entrenched in the UK, the burgeoning brand is branching out in the U.S., with its fourth boutique opening in the Galleria this month, joining 130 stores throughout Great Britain %26mdash; a number L.K. Bennett%26rsquo;s operators want to match on our shores one day. Parisian-born creative director Annick Gorman, who put in her hours at C%26eacute;line, Cacharel and Galeries Lafayette, has fashion fans on both shores talking about her veddy British sensibility. Set in soft powder-pink, mirrored and %26lsquo;50s Swedish%26nbsp; surrounds, the Houston outpost stocks the complete collection of ready-to-wear and accessories. The Galleria, Level 2, 713.961.9218; lkbennett.com.

Image: L.K. Bennett.

Urban Retreat

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:08:11 GMT

Keys to the Door: President Saira Ali and COO Mike Butte; manager Joan Turley.
Say Spa: It%26rsquo;s hard to believe it%26rsquo;s been 21 years since Francie Willis opened the doors at Urban Retreat, a luxury salon and day spa just outside River Oaks. Even after two decades, the salon has remained a Mecca for rest and relaxation, but the actual salon space just couldn%26rsquo;t keep up. New owners Saira Ali and Mike Butte decided it was time to build, and last month Urban Retreat opened its new doors just around the corner, in River Oaks Shopping Center. The nest of a salon is perched four floors up, with unobstructed views of downtown Houston. The 8,000-square-foot space is pure beauty, with soft white marble floors, gray walls with complementary granite and crystal chandeliers. Following the hallway path, you%26rsquo;ll pass the treatment rooms, a curtained makeup station manned by Edward Sanchez, a mani/pedi room and the hair salon. Further around back, you can relax in the waiting area or outside on the veranda. A new spa-treatment menu debuts this month; the biggest change is that all the massages will now be remedy driven, rather than generic, such as the soothing muscle massage, with special products that target muscle fatigue, and the tranquility massage for those in need of deep body rest. Two new manicure and pedicure services, the 70-minute Hand Heaven and the 80-minute Pedi Paradise, debut this month as well. There are six estheticians on staff to perform all the facial and laser services, led by staff physician Vernon F. Williams, who administers Botox. Spending the afternoon at the salon? Plan for lunch, with a special menu crafted by Americas chef David Cord%26uacute;a. River Oaks Shopping Center, 2034-A W. Gray, 713.523.2300; urbanretreat.com.

Image: Urban Retreat team. Photo by Jack Thompson.

Roberto Felisati

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:07:35 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Roberto Felisati.
That%26rsquo;s Amore: Cavalli. Ferragamo. Versace. Armani. Our list of Italians We Love just got longer, now that hairstylist Roberto Felisati has swooped into town to open his second eponymous salon %26mdash; his first inside the U.S.; his other is in Monterrey, Mexico %26mdash; on Oak Lawn Avenue next to fitness temple Equinox. Why you should go: the Milan native%26rsquo;s proprietary hair-cutting techniques (with intriguing names such as Torchon, Masai and Crochet), all designed to allow more movement and volume and to make it a cinch for you to style on your own; the no-foil, freehand Shatush coloring method; an all-natural henna treatment; and Felisati%26rsquo;s own line of hair-care products. What we loved: A few mists of the Keratin Repair Reconstructor on our dry, too-many-blowouts-for-fabulous-parties locks and we noticed the shine was back and the straw-like feeling arrivederci. Ciao bella, indeed. 4023 Oak Lawn Ave., 214.521.4422; robertofelisati.com.

Image: The Roberto Felisati salon in Monterrey, Mexico. Photo by Samuel Catherine.

Frédéric Fekkai

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 04:57:01 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Jamie Moreland.
Fekkai%26rsquo;s New %26rsquo;Do: Talk about a megawatt makeover: Fr%26eacute;d%26eacute;ric Fekkai at Highland Park Village has relocated within the Village from its original second-floor salon to a glamorous first-floor storefront just between Diane von Furstenberg and Carolina Herrera %26mdash; a most convenient address for popping in after your next ball-gown fitting. The new Fekkai is smaller and more intimate than before (it brings to mind Fekkai%26rsquo;s quaint-but-chic NYC salons) but has maintained its signature look with ebony floors and a cozy reception area furnished with dark leather seating, freshly cut flowers and an impressive collection of coffee-table tomes. The new digs also boast a bit of new seating: swoon-worthy massage chairs at the shampoo bar. But what%26rsquo;s the real reason we%26rsquo;ll be regulars here? Beauty multitasking. On a recent visit, nail technician Joe %26ldquo;Joey%26rdquo; Flores gave us a manicure with one of the myriad Chanel colors he keeps on hand, while we simultaneously received a cut, color and blowout. And should you be there during your lunch break, a Fekkai stylist will have your favorite Mi Cocina bites delivered. Talk about A-list treatment for you and your tresses. 30-B Highland Park Village, 214.219.3600; fekkai.com.

Image: For well-coiffed gift giving: Fekkai%26rsquo;s Chez Moi gift set $50, at the Fr%26eacute;d%26eacute;ric Fekkai salon.

Q Clothiers %26 Rye 51

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:41:16 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Raja Ratan.
Custom Suits You Well: Rows of sleek suits, shirts and slacks greet customers as they enter Q Custom Clothiers, the men%26rsquo;s-clothing shop that recently debuted in West Ave. This is the fourth Q Custom Clothiers for owner Raja Ratan %26mdash; the first two locations are in Dallas, with a third in Tulsa %26mdash; so he has the custom tailoring concept down well. Choose from hundreds of fine Italian fabrics by Zegna, Dormeuil, Loro Piana and Scabal for your custom-made suit. While you%26rsquo;re being fitted, have a dress shirt (Thomas Mason would be nice) tailored to your liking. And choose a set of cuff links to go with it %26mdash; through a unique partnership with cufflinks.com, Q Custom Clothiers offers the world%26rsquo;s largest selection and can have your order to you in one day. The shop also carries dress shoes by Santoni and Di Bianco, plus ties by Robert Talbot, Dolce Punta and Valentino. Can%26rsquo;t break away from the office? In-office appointments are available.%26nbsp;
Whiskey Business: Ratan goes beyond the boardroom with a new retail concept: Rye 51, located next door and connected to Q Custom Clothiers. Rye 51 not only stocks a carefully edited selection of denim and sportswear by John Varvatos, Diesel, 7 for All Mankind, Wings %26amp; Horn and Levi%26rsquo;s Made %26amp; Crafted, but also taps into Q%26rsquo;s custom mentality with house-label casual dress shirts that can be customized in the buyer%26rsquo;s fabric of choice. The decor complements the concept with polished-concrete floors; exposed brick from the streets of Chicago; recycled whiskey barrels from Kentucky that serve as fixtures; industrial finishes and reclaimed-20th-century wood that Houston interior design store Ch%26acirc;teau Domingue procured from France. Oh, and as the name suggests, Rye 51 stocks a vast selection of whiskeys, so stop by when you have time for a pour. 2800 Kirby in West Ave, 713.523.8222; qcustomclothier.com; rye51.com.

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Raja Ratan at Q Clothiers. Photo by Jack Thompson.

Image: Rye 51. Photo by Jack Thompson.

Original Penguin

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:34:53 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Patrick Canales.
On the Racks: A supremely soft pima cotton golf shirt, originally released in 1955 and aptly called %26ldquo;The %26rsquo;55,%26rdquo; put this iconic brand on the map, with celebs Arnold Palmer, Dean Martin and President Nixon sporting the stylish weekend-wear. The Penguin %26ldquo;%26rsquo;55%26rdquo; golf shirts are just as iconic today. In fact, they feel a bit Mad Men-ish %26mdash; and they pair well with the brand%26rsquo;s trousers, suits, sweaters, shorts, watches, bags, belts, hats and shoes. Shop it all at Galleria 1 in the Original Penguin boutique, a 2,300-square-foot shop in the former Metropark space, next door to Billy Reid. In addition to the men%26rsquo;s offerings, the store stocks looks for little Penguin boys, infant to seven years. Penguin femmes can also shop the racks; the offerings are primarily polos and denim at the moment, but a capsule collection for women arrives later this fall. Galleria 1, 713.888.0722.

Willow

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:32:39 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Jill Faucetta.
Stocked Goods: This summer, the PaperCity girls were positively giddy when we heard that style maven Jill Faucetta was reopening her accessories boutique Willow. We%26rsquo;ve felt bereft of bold, statement-worthy jewels, belts, bags and even home accessories since Faucetta took a two-year hiatus from retail; now we know where to go again for pieces with punch priced $50 to $700. We adore Willow%26rsquo;s new black-and-white jewel-box incarnation inside the Brownstone Gallery (you can enter through that space or around the corner on Virginia Street). With editorial-like vision, Faucetta curates a collection of indie designers ranging from Deepa Gurnani (burnished-brass and silver cuffs and bejeweled appliqu%26eacute;s intertwined to create bib-like necklaces) to Clara Kassarina (Moroccan-inspired jewels and door-knocker-size rings). Faucetta brings a rock edge to her collection, too, with Milliana%26rsquo;s python cuffs and skin-and-faceted-stone bracelets with magnetic closures; Viktoria Hayman%26rsquo;s ebony-wood necklaces; and Ellen Arthur%26rsquo;s braided-leather-rope pieces with oxidized chains. And it looks like her sense of style runs in the family: Gray, her pretty 10-year-old daughter, has a hand in buying jewels for the tween set while mom creates caftans for all her little friends. 2803 Westheimer Road (inside Brownstone Gallery), 713.870.0270; shopwillow.com.

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Image: Jill Faucetta. Photo by Jack Thompson.

Hugo Boss

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:27:18 GMT

Keys to the Door: Store Manager Geraldo Villarreal.
On the Racks: Gentlemen, say auf wiedersehen to your style woes, as the Metzingen-based behemoth Hugo Boss arrives at the Galleria this month. It%26rsquo;s the German design haus%26rsquo; third stand-alone boutique in Texas, after Dallas and San Antonio. Situated between MaxMara and Miu Miu in Galleria 1, the 3,000-square-foot space caters exclusively to men, stocking all the Boss lines plus shoes, accessories and fragrance. Offerings include top-of-the-line off-the-rack suiting from Boss Selection (with in-house tailoring); the classic, contemporary silhouettes of Boss Black; the younger and edgier denim of Boss Orange; and the masculine sportswear of Boss Green. Galleria 1, 713.850.1053; hugoboss.com.

Calypso St. Barth

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:30:16 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Jenn Self.
Stocked Goods: For nearly 20 years, Calypso St. Barth has embodied the beachy, laid-back resort vibe of the islands and embedded itself in the chicest locales the world over. The brand opens its latest shop (the 34th, to be exact) this month in Highland Village Shopping Center, in a portion of the former Tootsies location. Calypso%26rsquo;s simple, timeless pieces %26mdash; which have made loyalists of celebs Jennifer Aniston and Kate Beckinsale %26mdash; are all here: easy-to-wear clothing from Calypso%26rsquo;s own label, shoes and accessories for the boho-chic woman, as well as a well-edited selection of furnishings and home decor that channel the timeless Calypso St. Barth vibe. And we can%26rsquo;t help but name-drop a few of the design houses involved: Chan Luu, AG, Ambre Babzoe, Juliette Jake and Heidi Merrick, while Houston-born and -bred designer Lauren Bush debuts her first home collection: Lauren Pierce for Calypso. See it here set amidst a backdrop of light white floors, glimmering capiz-shell surfaces and a glass-mosaic-tiled wall with the Calypso logo woven subtly through the design. Highland Village Shopping Center, 4035 Westheimer Road, 713.963.9996; calypsostbarth.com.

Billy Reid

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 06:52:18 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Dave Gates.
Alabama Jubilee: By now, you’ve got Billy Reid’s number: Easy, breezy southern dressing, be it deep-vee tops and belted jackets for her, or slim suits and houndstooth trousers for him — all of it imbued with an aw-shucks, casual luxe. What you may not know is that Billy’s got some brand-new digs, moving from NorthPark Center to a retail world away in Highland Park Village. The new shop is pure Reid: Vintage apothecary shelves and painted beadboard galore, surrounding beat-up furniture that could’ve been dragged right out of Grandmother’s big plantation house — and probably was. Even the walls by the fitting rooms have patina and pedigree: They are reclaimed planks in multiple finishes from multiple sources, shuffled like a deck of well-worn cards. (Whiskey poker, anyone?) But enough with the Tennessee Williams mood-setting: Reid is nothing if not modern. His collections are cut for contemporary Blanches and Stanleys, and his accessories are urban-cool, not country-corny. (His men’s roper boots are architectural enough for sauntering through MoMA, and his women’s platform espadrilles would do well at the society-packed Mi Cocina just down the sidewalk.) We aren’t the only ones who think Reid exemplifies down-south chic: The Florence, Alabama–based designer is a CFDA award winner, and just last year, GQ put him in its sartorial pantheon, anointing him the best new menswear designer in all the land. High praise, indeed, for an aw-shucks kind of guy. 70 Highland Park Village, 214.346.0010; billyreid.com.

Image: Photo by Stephen Dux.

Pop-Up Over! H%26M Makes It Permanent!

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 01:50:53 GMT

It was the collab coup of the century %26mdash; Lanvin for H%26amp;M %26mdash; and we Dallasites missed out on all the fun. (We%26rsquo;re still reeling over how good that belted zebra-print trench for $199 would%26rsquo;ve looked hanging in our coat closet.) But finally, after much speculation and those teasing television commercials, the time has come: We have an H%26amp;M to call our own. Yes, Hennes %26amp; Mauritz, the Swedish retailer famous for its fast-fashion steals and coveted designer collaborations (think Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, Viktor %26amp; Rolf) is set to open its first-ever store in Texas, a whopping 23,000 square feet over two levels inside NorthPark Center, near Macy%26rsquo;s. Though some details are still under wraps (will the fall Versace collab hit our store?), the official opening date is rumored to be mid-month %26mdash; we%26rsquo;re hearing whispers that you might want to clear August 17 or 18 of all social obligations. Watch papercitymag.com for updates as they come.

Image: Photo by Andreas Sj%26ouml;din.

Pop-Up Over! H%26M Makes It Permanent!

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 01:37:15 GMT

Image: Photo by Andreas Sj%26ouml;din.

Trina Takes Up Residence

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 01:27:16 GMT

Calling all Trina Turk girls: Yes, you modern-minded Twiggys and Lee Radziwells. The vibrant California designer known for her bombshell %26rsquo;60s- and %26rsquo;70s-inspired ready-to-wear and home decor has at last opened her first Texas shop, in our own Highland Park Village. Design firm MR Architecture + Decor (the interior brains behind NYC boutiques for Tory Burch, Christian Dior and Takashimaya) dreamt up the 1,300-square-foot store that houses Turk%26rsquo;s clothing, accessories, swimwear, even a carefully edited selection of Turk%26rsquo;s coveted and colorful residential collection %26mdash; pillows, rugs, trays, you name it. The look of the place is an updated homage to HP Village%26rsquo;s iconic Spanish-style architecture: The garden-courtyard feel and elegant arched alcoves recall those groovy, Mai Tai-fueled patio parties of 1960s Southern California that so inspire Turk%26rsquo;s aesthetic. As for the shopping? There%26rsquo;s something for every jet-setting gal: Turk has dubbed her Fall 2011 collection %26ldquo;Come Fly With Me,%26rdquo; with a stewardess-chic Pan Am coat in a vintage-inspired plaid print and the must-have Vanetta dress with scalloped bell sleeves. One trip to this boutique and you%26rsquo;ll be the best-dressed on the private jet. 93 Highland Park Village (next door to Vince), 972.201.3330; trinaturk.com.

Image: Nubia dress $328, at the Trina Turk boutique.

BHLDN

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 06:58:10 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Samantha Rutledge.
Behold BHLDN: The stylish e-boutique catering primarily to brides-to-be and those who catch the bouquet has chosen Houston for its first freestanding shop. Located in Highland Village, this 6,500-square-foot salon gives the newly engaged a world of gorgeous gowns, styles for her maids, hair accessories, shoes, jewelry, lingerie, gifts and event decor, all capturing the essence of the vintage-inspired, bohemian style that BHLDN%26rsquo;s sister store Anthropologie has made so popular. Wedding gowns are showcased in a runway-like shape with each dress available in sizes 4, 8 and 10, making the try-on experience a bit easier. No plans for a trip down the aisle? Shop the party frocks in the front of the store that include not only designs by BHLDN%26rsquo;s label but also from designers Anna Sui, Tracy Reese and James Coviello. Stop in the Accessories Room and explore the wall of charming hair accessories, bins of jewelry and tables of shoes (many exclusives to the store) by Melissa Joy Manning, Erickson Beamon, Twigs %26amp; Honey, Ban.do and Repetto, as well as vintage pieces. Then swing into the Decor Room, which is packed to the brim with such pretty party accoutrements as papered posy garlands, precious cake-to-go boxes, vellum invites, baroque cut-out paper chandeliers, nubby willow lanterns, letterpress note cards and more. Full-service bridal wardrobe and wedding decor consultations are available, and while appointments are suggested, walk-in brides are welcome. 4056 Westheimer in Highland Village Shopping Center, 713.599.1917; bhldn.com.

Enticingly Chic

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:01:35 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Jennifer Diehl.
Stocked Goods: In a space just a tad larger than a gracious walk-in closet stands Enticingly Chic in River Oaks Shopping Center. Cute 20-something Jennifer Diehl opened the boutique for those bright young things who find themselves atop many a party list and are challenged to find fun frocks that won%26rsquo;t break the bank. With an edited selection of mainly breezy dresses, tops and their go-withs, Diehl has stocked the racks with small lines, the likes of which include Hunter Dixon, McGinn, Britt Ryan, Sea New York and girly established lines such as Tracy Reese, Cynthia Steffe and Corey Lynn Calter. 2015A W. Gray St., River Oaks Shopping Center, 713.942.9999; enticinglychic.com.

Image: Photo by Jenny Antill.

A Bientôt

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 07:52:15 GMT

Keys To The Door: Owners Betty Newton and Cristiana Anderson.
Stocked Goods: Every lady loves A Bient%26ocirc;t, the over-the-top accessories boutique that has grown to stock chic baby duds and fun fashion clothing. Blame it on owners Betty Newton and Cristiana Anderson%26rsquo;s severe shopping addiction %26hellip; As luck would have it, just as they ran out of space for all their goods, a larger spot opened up around the corner on River Oaks Boulevard %26mdash; the former home of Indulge, which was consolidating locations at its Saint Street space. With just a fresh coat of paint, A Bient%26ocirc;t moved right in, stocking Jack Rogers sandals, J. McLauglin prep wear, Greg Fourticq's Times Two collection and scads more fashion and accessory collections, along with a private label that%26rsquo;s in the works. 2501 River Oaks Blvd., 713.523.3997; shopabientot.com.

Image: Cristiana Anderson and Betty Newton. Photo Jenny Antill.

Milad Bridal Boutique

Fri, 27 May 2011 12:15:28 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Mila Arzu.
For Better or Purse: A down payment on a starter house or a five-figure wedding gown? Hmmm %26hellip; Why not rent a Vera Wang for the nuptials? Or buy a gently worn Monique Lhuillier instead? Enterprising bride Mila Arzu, a former auditor for a Fortune 200 company, searched locally for such options during her own engagement, found none and carved out a niche: Milad Bridal Boutique %26mdash; the perfect source for fashionable Houston brides on a budget. Search the online gallery for a gown that you (or your bridesmaids or flower girl) adore, and schedule a fitting at the Upper Kirby boutique. Rent your big white dress for five to eight days, and Milad will have it dry-cleaned upon its return; such rentals generally cost $100 to $700. Ready to sell a designer wedding or bridesmaid gown? Visit the Web site to find out how. (Sure, you%26rsquo;d love it if your baby girl walked down the aisle someday in your Lazaro or Badgley Mischka %26mdash; but given how styles change, what are the odds?) You can even consign your dress to rent, if you can%26rsquo;t bear to part with it completely. 2600 Persa, 713.726.4598; miladbridal.com.

Eye Impact

Thu, 26 May 2011 01:40:10 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Gary Nguyen.
Stocked Goods: If the letters on that eye chart are looking fuzzy, get yourself to optometrist Gary Nguyen, who stocks some of the coolest frames around. Nguyen, who lives above his Washington Avenue retail shop and practice space, stocks eyewear you won%26rsquo;t see coming and going. While the style set might have their eyes on Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs and Dior%26rsquo;s latest specs, the serious eyewear geek will revel in Paris-based Gold %26amp; Wood frames made of exotic woods (tanganika, maccassar, bubinga) and water buffalo horn. Green girls and guys can feel good about eco-conscious lines such as Linkskin and ECO, which use recycled glass, metal and plastics to craft their products (ECO even plants a tree for every pair sold). With demand growing for vintage styles, this is the place to find Carrera%26rsquo;s retro looks, along with Jono Hennessy, an Australian brand with rims that gives you a look without getting all Peggy Guggenheim on you. 5601 Washington Ave., 832.319.7732. eyeimpacthouston.com.

Image: Tom Ford at Eye Impact.

Atrium

Thu, 26 May 2011 01:38:59 GMT

Keys To The Door: Owner Luvi Wheelock.
Stocked Goods: You need not fret that someone will be wearing the same frock if you find yours at Luvi Wheelock%26rsquo;s new fashion boutique, Atrium. Located inside her luxurious bridal atelier Casa de Novia, the 500-square-foot boutique not only carries many designer collections exclusive to Houston (such as Prabal Gurung, Viktor %26amp; Rolf, Vera Wang and Jason Wu), but most of the couture creations were ordered by the proprietress in one single size that is tailored to fit, thus guaranteeing you won%26rsquo;t be seeing double at your next society soir%26eacute;e. 3331 D%26rsquo;Amico St., 713.520.0206; atriumrtw.com.

Images: Atrium. Photos by Jenny Antill.

This Just In: Trina Turk!

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 02:28:31 GMT

In staging the best West Coast%26ndash;chic wardrobe to match your Palm Springs-y bungalow, you must consult the collections of California-based designer Trina Turk. In the nick of time for resort-going, the designer opens her first namesake boutique in Texas at Highland Park Village, slated for this summer. What to covet? Dozens of Turk%26rsquo;s ethereal dresses, bold swimsuits, turquoise-embellished rings and preppy canvas totes. Should you be decorating that Cali-style getaway, look for Turk%26rsquo;s cheery collection of pillows, fabrics and more splashed with her colorful, signature prints.

Chick %26 Chica

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:21:53 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owners Sharon Haynes and Lupe Pozas.
Stocked Goods: When the spot beside her Tacos A Go-Go eatery came up for lease, owner Sharon Haynes had an idea. She and her sister-in-law, retail-merchandising whiz Lupe Pozas (the %26ldquo;chica%26rdquo;), plumbed their diverse cultures to create a funky Tex-Mex collaboration that blends clothing for mother, child and even a few tees for him with home accessories, jewels and gifts. Some of our favorites in the colorful shop %26mdash;%26nbsp;which shares the same pocket of Main Street in midtown (or Mid-Main) as The Continental Club, T%26rsquo;Afia, Sigs Lagoon and Richard%26rsquo;s Antiquities %26mdash; are polka-dot aprons with retro appliqu%26eacute;s for mother ($32) and daughter ($24) and breezy white Mexican embroidered dresses ($54). And who can resist the soft onesies by Baby Burrito with declarations such as %26ldquo;I heart Novelas%26rdquo; and %26ldquo;I Speak Spanglish,%26rdquo; all wrapped up like burritos in aluminum foil and brown paper sacks ($25 each)? Yummy! 3710 Main St., 281.888.4676; chickandchica.com.

Image: Chick %26amp; Chica

Reserve Supply Company

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:11:31 GMT

Keys to the Doors: Owners Jason and Heather Bruen.
Stocked Goods: Louisiana native and skateboard enthusiast Jason Bruen is bringing a bit of that carefree skater air downtown to a funky industrial-feeling men%26rsquo;s spot on Washington Avenue. His new store, Reserve Supply Company, blends his love of skateboarding with what%26rsquo;s often a natural progression for the boarder bunch: a fascination with motorcycles %26mdash; in his case, British bikes such as the Triumph. Bruen encourages his customers to stay awhile, too, and peruse the racks for American-made selvage denim that ranges from $60 to $175 and includes Tellason and Railcar, as well as soft vintage-inspired tees by Retro Brand. He also stocks flannels by Pendleton, hats and clothes by Brixton, and Ray-Ban sunglasses. And he%26rsquo;s happy if you want to hang out and grab an ice-cold drink from the funky old fridge, or pick up a paddle to play a little ping-pong in the back while a nearby rack of Nike SBs, Chuck Taylors and Red Wings tempts you to slip on a pair. And if you%26rsquo;re interested in equipment, Bruen stocks colorful skateboards and couple of prop cycles that might make you consider moving from four wheels to two. 2205 Washington Ave., 713.750.9582; reservesupplycompany.com.

Image: Reserve Supply Company. Photo by Clint Shuttlesworth.

Kidville

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 06:16:32 GMT

Keys to the Door: Franchisees Charmaine Tang and Amy Zicarelli.
Romper Rooms: The happiest place on earth is a relative term. For us, it%26rsquo;s a front-row seat (next to Ms. Wintour, of course) at a Tom Ford runway show. For a youngster, it%26rsquo;s likely a day at Kidville, the pint-sized playtime and entertainment place where tots get a taste of music, dance, gymnastics and art via specialized classes. %26ldquo;Think of it as a club for kids,%26rdquo; says Charmaine Tang, who, along with Amy Zicarelli, decided to open KV in Preston Royal Village after meeting %26mdash; where else %26mdash; at a school playground (Lamplighter, in fact), where their sons were classmates and buddies. %26ldquo;We were both stay-at-home moms,%26rdquo; says Tang, %26ldquo;and we knew there was a void in Dallas for an upscale place for young children.%26rdquo; Bye-bye void: From the bright primary colors and cushy fall-if-you-want-to flooring to the zip line and rock-climbing wall, Kidville has spared no expense. Another playtime perk? Tang and Zicarelli devoted an entire room to a small-scale grocery store, diner, mechanics shop, beauty boutique with plenty of pink dress-up accessories and %26mdash; what made us giddy %26mdash; a mini McKinney Avenue Trolley. For your budding socialite, you must commission one of Kidville%26rsquo;s fully themed parties, where your little one gets to be a superhero, princess or sports star for 90 minutes, complete with balloons, pizzas, party favors, even a cake %26mdash; while you do practically nothing, as KV even handled the mailed invitations for you. The coolest kids in town? They%26rsquo;re hangin%26rsquo; here. 6025 Royal Lane in Preston Royal Village, 214.378.7777; kidville.com/dallas.

Image: Kidville. Photo by Nicholas McWhirter.

Emilio Pucci

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 06:13:20 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Georgina Mesta.
Pop Goes Pucci: A mere 642 square feet was all Emilio Pucci needed to carve out its own pop-up palazzo in an enviable slice of Highland Park Village, packed with modish eyewear, handbags, shoes, accessories and ready to wear. Next to shoe-repair mecca Deno%26rsquo;s of Highland Park, Pucci is greeted with many buongiornos from Dallas jet-set types seeking the Florentine fashion house%26rsquo;s exuberantly printed silk jersey dresses, statement-making evening gowns and fluttery sportswear for summers on the Mediterranean. The temporary shop, planned to be open only through 2011, recalls smart summers from Saint Tropez to Sa%26otilde; Paulo, Moscow to St. Moritz. So just what must you snag before embarking? 1) A headscarf printed with Pucci%26rsquo;s signature swoops and swirls, in a rich cerulean blue. 2) Leather gladiator stilettos with glistening gold heels. 3) And a duo of dresses, one to wear by day (crocheted, peek-a-boo maxi dress) and another by night (we love the wispy orange silk gown). See you at H%26ocirc;tel du Cap-Eden-Roc. 60 Highland Park Village, 214.559.6162; emiliopucci.com.

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Photo: Emilio Pucci Spring 2011 collection

Drybar

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 06:09:57 GMT

Keys to the Door: Dallas owner Shannon Williams, co-owners Alli Webb and Michael Landau.
Beauty, Blow by Blow: The concept couldn%26rsquo;t be any simpler: no cuts, no color, just bombshell blowouts with clever cocktail-inspired names. Shimmy up to Drybar, the chic and cheeky blow-dry shop now tousling tresses on the Oak Lawn/Highland Park border. The extra cherry in your Manhattan? Every blowout %26mdash; from the va-va-voom Southern Comfort to the messy, beach-infused Mai-Tai %26mdash; is just $35. The formula for Drybar%26rsquo;s locale in The Shops of Highland Park hasn%26rsquo;t strayed much from its early days in L.A., where sibling co-owners Alli Webb and Michael Landau opened their first blow-dry spot. You%26rsquo;ll find a white interior with pops of sunshiny yellow and a long bar lined with stylists%26rsquo; chairs instead of the usual mirrored stations. In fact, the main mirrors are behind you, not in front. %26ldquo;When your stylist is finished,%26rdquo; says Webb, %26ldquo;he or she turns you around for the big reveal. It%26rsquo;s a bit of a risk, but women love it.%26rdquo; Making sure women love their DB experience is key for Webb%26rsquo;s operation: From the ability to book online to the gratis mimosas and wine to the Dry on the Fly (for $75 an hour, the stylist comes to you), it%26rsquo;s the ultimate in attentive service. Other gussy-up garnishes? Hair Shots (nourishing L%26rsquo;Or%26eacute;al treatments), Floaters (10-minute scalp massages during your shampoo) and monthly memberships, aptly named The Barfly and The Regular. Who knew going to the bar could be so flattering? 4222 Oak Lawn Ave., 214.989.6136; thedrybar.com.

Image: Drybar. Photo by Nicholas McWhirter.

Polished Day Spa

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 05:45:21 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner and spa director Sharia Castillo.
Services rendered: The first thing you notice when you breeze into the elegant gray surrounds of this new day spa is what you don%26rsquo;t smell: acetone. Owner Sharia Castillo, a stylist and alum of Jacques Dessange and Kai Spa, offers an immaculate, largely chemical-free zone where organic products are favored. While I prefer natural-looking buffed nails and the Shine Manicure ($25), Polished also offers the popular Shellac Manicure ($35), which promises no drying time, a high-gloss finish and no chips for 14 days. Nothing is better, however, than the indulgent Polished Stone Pedicure ($50). Sink into an oversized dove-gray wing chair and pamper your toes with the requisite hot soak, exfoliation and vigorous callous work before a%26nbsp; paraffin peel ($10 extra, but highly recommended), followed by a long, relaxing Polished Stone foot and leg massage. There%26rsquo;s even a master pedicurist on staff who specializes in the care of cancer, diabetes and dialysis patients, whose nails require even more TLC. Reserve a couple%26rsquo;s room for you and your significant other for a deep-tissue massage. Or bring all the bridesmaids in for a mani-pedi party. Other services include customized facials and wax. 3910 Kirby Dr., 713.521.9292; polishedhouston.com.

Image: Photo by Hamy Pham.

Times Past

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 05:41:45 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owners Donae Cangelosi Chramosta and Rob Chramosta, manager Alma Wofford.
What%26rsquo;s Stocked: Look beyond Times Past%26rsquo;s 1,700 square feet of vintage and estate jewelry, early 20th-century American and French art glass, rare coins, fine watches and other collectibles, and you%26rsquo;ll find an 800-square-foot, newly opened nook devoted to the art of the handbag. The walls are slicked Louis Vuitton chocolate brown and hung with saucy fashion illustrations and vintage black-and-white shots of Parisian streets. Against this backdrop is a jewel-box display of vintage purses from luxury purveyors we know and love %26mdash; Louis Vuitton, Herm%26egrave;s, Prada and Chanel, circa 1960s to more recent, and many limited editions %26mdash; as well as a selection of vintage Herm%26egrave;s scarves. It%26rsquo;s all the vision of Donae Cangelosi Chramosta (wife of Times Past prez Rob Chramosta), whose passion for fine handbags goes back to her childhood, when her father used to gift her with a Gucci bag upon his return from the quarries of Italy. Cangelosi Chramosta%26rsquo;s other job? President of Cangelosi, a family-owned stoneworks company. She finds her bags for Times Past on buying trips to Europe, plus a few select domestic sources, and translates her LEED AP certification in her day job to the concept of recycling these classic treasures. 6222 Richmond, 713.977.7296;
timespastcollections.com.

Image: Rob Chramosta and Donae Cangelosi Cramosta. Photo by Jenny Antill.

Azur West – A Shu Uemura Salon

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 06:05:38 GMT

Keys to the Door: Co-owner and general manager Nick Brines; co-owner and creative director Greg Decker.
Services Rendered: Chop, chop, ladies and gentleman: Azur West, Azur Salon%26rsquo;s second Houston location, has been designated one of only three Shu Uemura Art of Hair Sanctuary Salons in the States. The 2,000-square-foot, Peter Millard%26ndash;designed salon space is home not only to many of the best hairstylists in town but also to the Shu Uemura Art of Hair care and styling products, with private Shu Uemura hair and scalp treatment ceremony rooms. Mirroring the values of the Japanese tea ceremony, these luxury hair treats are choreographed to the needs of each client%26rsquo;s hair. We can%26rsquo;t wait to try the Purifying Ceremony, a clarifying cleanse that purifies the hair while moisturizing and revitalizing the scalp. Hail to the hair! 2800 Kirby Dr. in West Ave, 713.400.2987; azursalon.com.

Elaine Turner

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 05:54:54 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner/designer Elaine Turner; manager Anne Errerra.
What%26rsquo;s in Store: Designer Elaine Turner%26rsquo;s happy-go-lucky handbags and shoes are favored by Hollywood starlets and local socialites alike. Small wonder she%26rsquo;s just opened her second Houston location: a 1,500-square-foot chic pink boutique at CityCentre. The space, designed in collaboration with Droese Raney Architecture, channels 1960s Palm Springs via mid-century patio decor. Also in store are tabletop gifts from Two%26rsquo;s Company, jewelry by Amanda Sterret and Kendra Scott, plus the ever-popular Claridge + King Boyfriend shirts. 800 Town %26amp; Country Blvd. in CityCentre, 713.255.9095; elaineturner.com.

Images: Photos by Julie Soefer.

Hanky Panky in Highland Park

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 01:19:46 GMT

When Trousseau of Dallas closed its West Village doors last summer, we heard a collective gasp all the way up McKinney Avenue and back again. And no wonder: The purveyor of silky and slinky unmentionables had been in that locale for six years, outfitting lingerie-loving lasses in everything from Le Myst%26egrave;re to La Perla. But Trousseau fans, fret not: Owner Nasrin Hormozi is back, and this time she%26rsquo;s taken her collection of saucy bustiers, frilly bras and bridal nighties to a sophisticated space in The Shops at Highland Park. Of course, the one-on-one bra fittings and top-notch service that made Trousseau famous are still its main assets. The boutique is divided into three simple-to-shop sections: bridal, limited-edition fashion lingerie, and foundations and shapewear. And for those size-unaware, gift-giving gents? Hormozi has simplified the process by keeping an inventory of personalized profiles for every woman who%26rsquo;s been measured. How fitting. 4266 Oak Lawn Ave., 214.520.9333; shoptrousseauofdallas.com.

Image: Pretty little underthings at Trousseau of Dallas. Photo by Nicholas Laird.

Tenenbaum %26 Co.

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 03:01:29 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owners Louis and Kim Tenenbaum, Tony Bradfield and Kevin Black.

Stocked Goods: It%26rsquo;s a small, small world. Twenty-two years ago, Tony Bradfield got his start in the jewelry business working for the Tenenbaum family; now he and partner Kevin Black have moved back to Houston and merged their successful vintage jewelry business in San Antonio, Charles Anthony Jewelers, with venerable Houston jeweler Louis Tenenbaum, a staple in the vintage jewelry world for 35 years. The new company with a tweaked moniker, Tenenbaum %26amp; Co., continues to occupy the original boutique on Post Oak. But while Louis Tenenbaum was known for gobstopper jewels and luxury labels such as Tiffany %26amp; Co., Cartier, Buccellati, Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels and David Webb, the new Tenenbaum %26amp; Co. stocks all the above, as well as the spectacular inventory from the San Antonio store and a broader range of estate pieces at all price points. And if you love the art of a good deal, check out the case where everything is under 2K. Coming soon is tenenbaumandco.com, where you can browse throughout the digital boutique and see everything in the store. 1801 Post Oak Blvd., 713.629.7444; tenenbaumandco.com.

Images: Owners Tony Bradfield, Kevin Black, Kim and Louis Tenenbaum. Diamond and pink sapphire butterfly brooch/pendant $12,500, at Tenenbaum %26amp; Co.

Retail Restoration

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 12:33:45 GMT

When two of our beloved Highland Park Village shops temporarily shuttered for renovations, we knew the upgrades would entail much more than just a fresh coat of paint. Here are the deets:

%26#8226; Hadleigh%26#8217;s: Nearly a year after opening the doors to their atelier, Hadleigh%26#8217;s owners (and husband and wife) Gable and Ed Shaikh have dandied things up. Now, their berth in one of HPV%26#8217;s elegant 1940s structures (in Suite 74, just above Menchie%26#8217;s Frozen Yogurt) is what Ed describes as %26#8220;modified and modernized,%26#8221; where their men%26#8217;s and women%26#8217;s finery is now tucked into closets fronted by chrome and glass doors and lined with Hadleigh%26#8217;s signature gray flannel fabric. The dressing-room curtains and window treatments? They%26#8217;re Hadleigh%26#8217;s signature fabric, too %26#8212; cashmere to be precise. There%26#8217;s also a sleek bar, with walnut and granite cabinetry, a Mi%26#232;le espresso maker and bottles of 25-year-old scotch. Clever suspended shoe hooks are fastened to one of the store%26#8217;s exposed-brick walls and stocked with Hadleigh%26#8217;s collection of made-to-order slippers in the most divine color combos. New Note: Sharing closet space with the finely tailored suits, shirts and tuxedos for him is Gable%26#8217;s recently launched collection of custom eveningwear for her: think stunning beaded gowns and intricately ruffled cocktail dresses %26#8212; new couture just in time for The Crystal Charity Ball.%26nbsp;%26nbsp;%26nbsp;

%26#8226; Jimmy Choo: Around the corner, Jimmy Choo has reopened its shiny glass doors after its fancy facelift, allowing space for more boots, pumps, sandals and stilettos, including the Choo 24:7 collection of eternal classics. The updated space still boasts a muted taupe color palette and its original crystal chandeliers, but is now dappled with a dozen new mirrors for spotting yourself trying on heeled beauties. New Note: There%26#8217;s more news at Choo, too, as the luxe line just added boots to the Choo 24:7, a perfect range of everything from ankle boots to knee-high looks. Bring on the winter wonderland.

Image: Hadleigh%26#8217;s updated Highland Park Village showroo. Photo by Erin Borough.

DeVille Fine Jewelry

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 12:36:56 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Elizabeth Glanville.%26nbsp;
Stocked Goods: Her CV includes glittering tenures at both Cartier and Bulgari in the Galleria, as well as bringing Ashford.com (the once booming Houston Internet behemoth) into the realm of fine jewelry and gifts. Now Liz Glanville is hanging her own shingle in a showroom in Tanglewood, where her DeVille Fine Jewelry is showcased in quite a different way. Gone are the foreboding locked glass cases, which can discourage touching and trying on. Instead, the atelier displays its jewelry collections in frosted acrylic cubes. You won%26#8217;t find designer labels here, as the collections are made in small boutique workshops in Europe, Asia and the States, where custom pieces are also created. Since she started doing trunk shows in the city 2 %26#189; years ago, she has quietly garnered a reputation for keeping her retail prices reasonable, preferring to forgo wholesale clients and deal directly with those who will wear the jewelry instead. Open Wednesdays and by appointment only. 5700 Woodway, Suite 250281.501.3810; devillefinejewelry.com.

Image: DeVille Fine Jewelry

Haut Chocolat

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 12:19:36 GMT

Fashion and chocolate %26#8212; many a lady%26#8217;s first two loves %26#8212; come together at Linda Cunningham%26#8217;s new Houston boutique, Haut Chocolat (Cunningham also owns Linda Cunningham boutique). At Haut Chocolat, shop contemporary collections from Robert Rodriquez, Catherine Malandrino, Ali-Ro, Poleci and Robbi %26amp; Nikke, and boost your energy with chocolate bars made especially for the atelier and emblazoned with memorable quotes like the ones that grace the walls of this inspiring 3,017-square-foot boutique that was designed by Cunningham. In the chocolate and lime-colored space,%26nbsp; you%26#8217;ll find delicious jewelry by A.V. Maxx, Danielle Stevens, David Aubrey and Deborah Grivas; belts by Sandy Duftler; and evening bags by Moyna and Santi. River Oaks Shopping Center, 2001 W. Gray St. 713.523.3400; hautchocolat.com.

Image: Haut Chocolat.

Helen Ficalora

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 02:24:37 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner and designer Helen Ficalora.
A Charmed Life: Pretty young things in the Hamptons love her. Starlets in Hollywood can%26#8217;t get enough of her. Who is she? Puget Sound native Helen Ficalora, the woman behind the surge of alphabet-engraved charm necklaces, best worn by It girls Gwyneth Paltrow and Eva Mendes %26#8212; and coveted by our city%26#8217;s own society sweethearts. Much to the delight of local PYTs, NorthPark Center is being added to Ficalora%26#8217;s list of namesake boutiques, which already includes a bevy of shops in glamorous zip codes: SoHo, Bridgehampton, Beverly Hills and more. (We hear Ficalora herself will be staying near 75225 for the rest of the season, working at the store.) The pieces are pure and simple: Designs range from her original trendsetting charm necklaces engraved with letters to gold-stud earrings shaped like cherry blossoms or Montauk daisies.%26nbsp;The store is sparkly and bold: Sumptuously sandwiched between Burberry and Louis Vuitton, Ficalora fits into the neighborhood splendidly, with opulent crystal chandeliers, pearly marble floors and rich, fuchsia-colored walls. But the gleam doesn%26#8217;t end there: Ficalora designs charms for charity, too. Should you support Jacob%26#8217;s Cure, The Michael J. Fox Foundation or breast-cancer initiatives, there are benevolent baubles just for you. NorthPark Center; 214.265.1500; helenficalora.com.

Image:%26nbsp; Charm necklaces %26nbsp;by Helen Ficalora. Photo Lennon Ficalora. %26nbsp;

Calame Jewelers

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 05:31:52 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owners Jo Nichols, Joe Nichols and Steve Nichols.

Watch Out: When strolling past Calame Jewelers in Highland Park Village, the go-to repair temple for jewelry and watches, one may notice the windows have an added gleam these days, thanks to the addition of window cases packed with edgy new baubles. Step inside this jewelry institution %26#8212; it%26#8217;s been in business since 1942 %26#8212; and you%26#8217;ll see the transformation, as well as millions of dollars in sparklers via a new and notable partner, jewelry maven Kelly Mitchell. Mitchell, who most recently provided custom pieces and watches to private clients through her company Kelly Mitchell Fine Jewelry, has brought new names to Calame: Zorab Atelier de Creation, Charles Krypell, Raymond Hak, Dilamani and more. You can still drop in to have a link added to your Rolex or a bracelet catch soldered, but build in extra gazing time. 11 Highland Park Village, 214.528.2866.

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Image:%26nbsp;Zorab Atelier%26nbsp; de Creation%26#8217;s alligator ring%26nbsp;

Champagne’s Luxe

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 05:24:22 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Susan Mueller, vice president Tamara Meyer.

Va-Va-Voom: If Marie Antoinette and Tony Duquette ever embarked on an over-the-top design collaboration, they would find all the necessary furnishings and accessories here. New to West Lovers Lane, in the former Inessa Stewart%26#8217;s Antiques and Interiors space, Champagne%26#8217;s Luxe is a basilica of delicious decoration, with 20,000 square feet packed with objets and furniture fronted by a sprawling glass-window fa%26#231;ade. Here, furnishings from the likes of Swaim, Maitland-Smith and EJ Victor share the glossy marble floor with shelves of Versace fine china, Beauville linen napkins, Carrara towels from Italy and cases brimming with crystallized minaudi%26#232;res by Judith Lieber and Katherine Baumann plus jewelry by Jose %26amp; Maria Barrera. To help you piece together your palazzo, have a word with on-site decorator Roy Mitchell. And should you need respite from your shopping adventure, a tearoom (to open this month) with regal chairs and antique chandeliers is the perfect spot for Marie and Tony to sip their tea %26#8212; and champagne, of course.%26nbsp; 5201 W. Lovers Lane, 214.352.7777; champagnesluxe.com.

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Image:%26nbsp;Daniel Driensky %26nbsp;

Wellness Baby

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 05:23:19 GMT

Attention, Uptown mothers: A bouncing new boutique has been born. Wellness Baby, housed in the former Kacky and Carl duplex on Routh Street, has stocked its crib %26#8212; and its unbelievably comprehensive Web site %26#8212; with every hip, organic and modern notion a new mother needs. Stroller, highchair and travel crib from Phil%26amp;Teds? Check. Kicky Pants, Kissy Kissy and Zutano clothing? Check. Mod children%26#8217;s furniture from Argington and Dwell Studio bedding? Check and check. Owners Jinny and Ian Park (she, a former women%26#8217;s-clothing-store owner in College Station, and he, armed with a doctorate in Aerospace Engineering from, you guessed it, Texas A%26amp;M) are proud new parents of something else, too: a bouncing little boy, who%26#8217;s going to look swell dressed in adorable duds from this charming space. Besides the Les D%26#233;glingos toys %26#8212; a favorite amongst the Jolie-Pitt clan %26#8212; and the Sport Racer Pedal Plane, another darling facet of the shop is the offering of a gratis space for your baby shower. When you register at Wellness Baby, you have the option of using their sunny side room, which flows onto a patio and green space, to celebrate your future bundle of joy. 2722 Routh St., 214.969.9995; wellnessbabystore.com.

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Image:%26nbsp;The Sport Racer Pedal Plane at Wellness Baby

Gregory's

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 05:08:19 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Larry Matney, creative director Leslie Matney.
Shoe Royalty Reigns Supreme: In search of the over-the-top footwear, shoe snobs with the most opulent tastes have long stomped their stilettos in and out of Gregory%26#8217;s %26#8212; leaving, we might add, with edgy, hard-to-find pairs by Thomas Wylde, Raphael Young, Gianmarco Lorenzi and the like. Now, after more than 20 legendary years in Galleria Dallas, husband-and-wife owners Leslie and Larry Matney are packing up their trove of crystal-covered Lesillas, python-skin Massimo Doganas and architectural Nicholas Kirkwoods and moving just south to a new location in NorthPark Center. Designed by Droese Raney Architecture (Forty Five Ten, Billy Reid), the boutique is an extravagant whirl, with a new menswear section boasting sartorial shoes and boots by Caporicci, Gravati, Rick Owens and more, plus men%26#8217;s clothing from DSquared to Moschino. In addition to fab footwear, women%26#8217;s ready-to-wear from Balmain, Temperley London and Paule Ka tops our lists. Who should shop here? %26#8220;The adventurous world traveler,%26#8221; says Larry. That means you %26#8212; and your Gaga-esque penchant for all things avant-garde %26#8212; are especially welcome. NorthPark Center, 972.490.1285; gregorysshoes.com.

Image: Gianmarco Lorenzi at Gregory%26#8217;s.

Gucci

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:34:26 GMT

Keys to the Door: Store manager Brenda Gregory.

G-Force: Gucci has long lived at the top of the fashion world, with its interlocking Gs, legendary bamboo-handled bags and Grace Kelly%26#8211;caliber clientele. This month, the Italian fashion house moves into NorthPark Center%26#8217;s midway of designer boutiques, leaving its Galleria Dallas outpost behind (the closing date there wasn%26#8217;t firmed up at press time). Inside, Deco gets its moment, with smoked mirrors and glass, polished gold, and geometric shapes %26#8212; echoing Gucci%26#8217;s new look, as debuted in the refurbishment of its 1938 original boutique in Rome. Stocked are the complete collections of his and her ready-to-wear, accessories, shoes, handbags and jewelry, including fall%26#8217;s flawless fur-patched jackets, tailored trousers, dresses that boast snake-patterned lace and ostrich feathers, python heels, totes and handbags, even an abundance of smart leather baggage. In terms of prestigious real-estate placement %26#8212; which proves tr%26#232;s important in NorthPark%26#8217;s hierarchy of locations %26#8212; Gucci could not have a more golden spot: It counts Ferragamo and Versace as its well-heeled neighbors and the shop%26#8217;s flip side opens to the central garden courtyard, ready for romping in those new Gucci pumps. 8687 North Central Expressway in NorthPark Center, no phone number at press time; gucci.com.

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Image: Gucci Fall/Winter 2010.

MiniMe

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:32:03 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Carrie Barnard.

For the Chicest of Small Fries: When little Helene has outgrown her fashionable Zutano day dress (the one dotted with playing jungle animals), where does she go for a more grown-up look? Well, through the brick arch at BabyBliss and into MiniMe, a new, next-door store geared toward cool kids who%26#8217;ve reached the 24-month mark and beyond. Owner Carrie Barnard saw the need for a mod children%26#8217;s boutique, so when former neighbor A Little Artsy shuttered, Barnard jumped into the space adjoining her booming BabyBliss. Serving up tot togs in sizes 2T to 10, MiniMe stocks darling ikat dresses by Stella Industries, vintage-look tees emblazoned with %26#8220;NPR%26#8221; logos and Velcro Pumas, plus sleek toddler furnishings by Argington and bedding by Dwell Studio and Serena and Lilly. The industrial-style shelves are packed with stylish books, toys, kickboards, play tables, even vintage toys such as tin tops and bike horns. When at the register, notice the countertop jars filled with rubber bouncing balls, Yummy Earth organic lollipops and Super Bubble bubblegum, all gratis. 6719 Snider Plaza, 214.346.5401; shopminime.com.

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Image: MiniMe. Photo by Turk Studio.

Jerry Szor Contemporary Jewelry

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:30:47 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Jerry Szor.

What%26#8217;s in Szor: There%26#8217;s something quite curatorial about Jerry Szor Contemporary Jewelry, a shiny new gallery in Preston Center. The boutique %26#8212; born from a collaboration between Mark Domiteaux of Domiteaux + Baggett Architects and interior designer Lori Golman %26#8212; has a decidedly museum-like feel, displaying Szor%26#8217;s clean-lined rose gold and diamond bracelets, amethyst rings and aquamarine necklaces as works of gemological art. Custom LED lighting illuminates the display cases, which are stocked with jewels from designers Pedro Boregaard, Vaid, Vendorafa, Wendy Stevens and others, some of which are exclusive to Jerry Szor. (And you know how we love an exclusive.) 6131 Luther Lane, in Preston Center, 214.691.5400; jerryszor.com.

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Image: Turquoise and carnelian double-stone ring in 18K gold at Jerry Szor Contemporary Jewelry

Ermenegildo Zegna at Stanley Korshak

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:35:54 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Crawford Brock.

Suiting Up: When it comes to selecting beautifully tailored suits, society%26#8217;s chicest men have long looked to Ermenegildo Zegna. Now, our city%26#8217;s best-dressed gents can find the Milan fashion house%26#8217;s sharp collection of trousers, jackets, shirts, accessories and more via Stanley Korshak%26#8217;s new in-store Zegna shop. Centered in Korshak%26#8217;s capacious menswear department, the 800-square-foot, mahogany-accented Zegna shop is a trove of sumptuous Italian imports: Hand-picked off the runway by Korshak owner Crawford Brock, the luxurious cashmere sweaters, wool sport coats and calfskin ankle boots are just the thing for today%26#8217;s tycoons. 500 Crescent Court, 214.871.3600; stanleykorshak.com.

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Image: Ermenegildo Zegna Fall/Winter 2010.

Christian Louboutin

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 05:32:32 GMT

Keys to the Door: Store manager Erin Malstrom.
Red, Like My Sole: There are few more revealing status symbols than a flash of crimson from your soles. Since Christian Louboutin opened his first boutique in Paris in 1992, the eminent French designer quickly burgeoned into fashion and society%26#8217;s go-to shoemaker. Now, local Louboutin addicts are rejoicing at the news of a shop dedicated sole-ly to Monsieur L: a cozy boutique in Highland Park Village. The glamorous digs %26#8212; Louboutin%26#8217;s first in Texas and only the seventh in the United States %26#8212; were designed by NYC architecture and design firm 212 Box. Chrome and glass displays show off the collections of stilettos, handbags and clutches, while design notes include a hand-blown teardrop chandelier, flaming-red carpet (of course), and a neon-red sign of Louboutin%26#8217;s famous loopy signature. Slip into silver-spiked booties, satin-ribbon peep toes or colorful Strass crystal stilettos and slink off to Bar Celine. As if we needed more reason to dash to Louboutin, an opening bash is set for Friday, September 10, hosted by Schlegel ladies Myrna, Kim, Kari and Krystal, coinciding with Vogue%26#8217;s second annual shopping frenzy, Fashion%26#8217;s Night Out, and the unveiling of two exclusive styles from Louboutin%26#8217;s Spring/Summer 2011 collection. Hot-foot it over. 27 Highland Park Village, no phone number at press time; christianlouboutin.com.

Images: Christian Louboutin%26#8217;s Miami boutique; photo by Eric Laignel. Christian Louboutin heel.%26nbsp;

Façonnable

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 05:24:13 GMT

Keys to the Door: Store manager Cheri Schwartz.
Of French Heritage: In Fa%26#231;onnable%26#8217;s new boutique at Galleria Dallas, we suddenly channel Daisy Buchanan, circa 1922, when she%26#8217;s overwhelmed at the splendor in Jay Gatsby%26#8217;s closet: We, like her, have never seen such beautiful shirts. We%26#8217;re swooning again as the 60-year-old Riviera-based atelier Fa%26#231;onnable returns to Dallas after a three-year hiatus. Amongst the hundreds of luxurious shirts for him and her is hot, hot, hot%26nbsp; French-preppy ready-to-wear, shoes, handbags and accessories. We think every gent needs the shawl-collared cardigan with wide horizontal stripes, or dozens of poplin shirts and mother-of-pearl cuff links that look wittily like, well, buttons. Les femmes? They must have the suede ballet flats, cashmere-lined leather gloves and the angora-and-wool tweed peacoat. With a design concept that evokes French designer Jean-Michel Frank, the boutique seems plucked off Cannes%26#8217; famed shopping street La Croissette. 13350 Dallas Parkway, in Galleria Dallas, 972.239.7222; faconnable.com.

Image: Fa%26#231;onnable Fall/Winter 2010.

Loop — A Shoe %26 Accessory Boutique

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 01:55:56 GMT

Keys to the door: Owner Carrie Schwartzenburg.
Stocked goods: For the past decade, Carrie Schwartzenburg ran the Rice Village boutique Raspberry Rose with her mother, Maureen Sweeney. Once mom retired and the fashionable Schwartzenburg hit her stride as a solo entrepreneur, she decided to branch out %26#8212; across the street. The area, she decided, was wanting for shoe stores, so she stepped up and opened Loop %26#8212;%26nbsp;A Shoe %26amp; Accessory Boutique, a stylish pink-and-green shop that stocks footwear with price points ranging from $50 to $200. Within the rows of flattering flats, sandals and teetering platforms, look for labels including Toms Shoes, Sam Edelman, Camper, Bernardo, Van Eli, Jeffrey Campbell, Boutique 9 boots, Seychelles, Yellow Box, and Volatile and Havaianas flip-flops %26#8212; names that won%26#8217;t make you think twice before pulling out the Amex. But that%26#8217;s not all. This shop girl knows women have a soft spot for all things fashionable, so she%26#8217;s filled out the space with tees, sundresses, handbags and jewelry %26#8212; accessibly priced goodies to grab and go, guilt-free, when the impulse hits to buy something fun. 2427 Rice Blvd.; 713.520.5511.

Image: Carrie Schwartzenburg. Photo by Jenny Antill.

Night %26 Day

Wed, 26 May 2010 12:12:02 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Jennifer Howell.

For Babies With Lavish Leanings: Should you be producing a tiny Carleton Varney or a mini Martha Stewart, his or her nursery must be dolled up with furniture from Night %26amp; Day. Owner Jennifer Howell%26#8217;s new decor venture in Snider Plaza goes swimmingly with Hip! Hip! Hooray!, her across-the-street children%26#8217;s clothing shop. Here you%26#8217;ll find luxe cribs, Bella Notte bedding, and a perfectly edited accessories collection of signed vintage Barbie sketches, engraved silver trinkets, Beatrix Potter books and more. Howell and her in-house decorator will vamp up baby%26#8217;s room from start to finish and are known to grant even the most high-maintenance custom-design requests. You%26#8217;ve come to the right, wonderfully detail-obsessed place should you prefer that baby%26#8217;s pink crib match the monogramming on her bedding, the color of her wallpaper and the crystals in her chandelier. 6816 Snider Plaza 214.369.6816.

Brahmin

Wed, 26 May 2010 12:09:58 GMT

Keys to the Door: Founders Joan and Bill Martin; store manager Brittney Francois.

East Coast Establishment: For New England%26#8217;s social elite %26#8212; the so-called Boston Brahmin, whose family trees boast founding fathers and past presidents %26#8212; there are but a few handbag lines acceptable for toting to lunch at the club or to weekends on MV. One such label, aptly named Brahmin, has opened a new boutique in Galleria Dallas, its first in Texas and only its second outside New England. Founded in 1982 by Massachusetts natives Joan and Bill Martin, the beautifully crafted collection includes satchels, totes, wristlets, coin purses and wallets in a bevy of colors, materials and silhouettes. We think the Louise Rose crocodile-embossed leather satchel, above %26#8212; or perhaps the Elle zip-top tote in lime anaconda leather %26#8212; will be snapped up by our own Southern gentry.%26nbsp;13350 Dallas Parkway (in Galleria Dallas) 972.702.7164; brahmin.com.

Shop Carrie Ann

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 01:25:04 GMT

Catch the West Coast vibe at this new Uptown Park boutique, which features casual contemporary labels such as Dylan George, Gypsy 05, Lauren Moshi, Paige, Privacy Denim, Maggie Ward and Give %26amp; Take Tees. Owned by Carrie Ann Sanders and designed by local interior designer Teresa Reissig, the shop also includes puppy accessories by Crystal Affair, Faux Paw and Dog in the Closet %26#8212; all puppy-approved by Sander%26#8217;s teacup pup, Oliver. 1151-10 Uptown Blvd., 713.492.2666; shopcarrieann.com.

Mortar Brings Edgy Vibe to Men's Fashion

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 03:32:05 GMT

If you%26#8217;re a man with concrete ideas about what you like to wear, may we refer you to Mortar. The new shop is owned by just such a discerning gentleman, Sacha Nelson, and his girlfriend/business partner, Iris Trent Siff. Realizing he and his chums bought most of their clothing while away on their travels, Nelson and Siff decided to fill a void in Houston with a well-edited men%26#8217;s shop dedicated to beautiful basics in sedate hues that focus on construction, fabric and fit. The result is a sleek, pared-down boutique with interiors that reflect the same pulled-back aesthetic as the clothing within, each of which is categorized by group (tees, shirts, pants, tops) and elegantly draped on black wooden hangers. Adding to the masculine appeal are vintage industrial pieces %26#8212; many culled from the eccentric coffers of Installations Antiques %26#8212; including a pant-crease machine with dry-cleaning origins and oxydized metal garment racks. It all complements the edgy vibe of Mortar, which offers a task-based approach to shopping that men find quite appealing. Nelson and Siff comb the world for obscure labels and have brought in a bevy of exclusives, including sheer Tysa cotton voile shirting; preppy-meets-surfer-cool double-weight gauze button-downs and shorts from Riviera Club; and French terry cardigans and easy jersey jackets with curved zippers from Kzo and Kai Aakmann of Korea. Need more reason to shop? How about basic, cozy tees by Velvetmen and Martin, or handmade flip-flops by Jutta Neuman, who takes a week to create the curved arch and cobbler details found in every pair. 1844 Westheimer Road, 713.529.0009; shopmortar.com.

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Image: Mortar; photo by Jack Thompson

Tootsies Goes West … Ave

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 02:34:17 GMT

Tootsies is packing up and moving west %26#8230; to West Ave, that is, but not until early January 2011. The chic shop, owned by Mickey Rosmarin, has been a fixture in Highland Village Shopping Center for nearly three decades, and remains open in its current location until the move. The glittering new West Ave emporium is 34,000 square feet %26#8212; the entire glass-enclosed first floor of West Ave, on the corner of Kirby and Westheimer. More on Tootsies and the new store in the April issue.

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Image: Mickey Rosmarin; Credit: Jenny Antill

Leggiadro

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 01:13:35 GMT

Keys to the Door: Founders Ann Ross, Brooks Ross.
Luxury of a Different Color: Dreaming of East Hampton, minus the pesky bourgeoisie? Plan a shopping excursion to Leggiadro, a bright new boutique in Highland Park Village stocked with luxurious casual wear. The company debuted in 1985, offering comfy daywear made of fabrics specially selected from mills in France, Italy and Switzerland %26#8212; now, Leggiadro has addresses in tony towns such as Palm Beach, Palm Desert, Naples and Nantucket. The new Dallas outpost? It%26#8217;s for you modern-day Grace Kellys, with tanks, tees, skirts and slim pants in vivid hues and vivacious patterns. Our favorites from the color wheel? Tuscan Table (brightly sketched lobsters, mushrooms and artichokes) and Bali Flowers (watercolor-y orange and yellow petals that recall Matisse). So, dear Grace circa 2010, we predict that a skirt in cobalt-blue zebra print or a long-sleeve top splashed with tiny minnows swimming amidst coral will be right at home in your palatial walk-in. 42A Highland Park Village; leggiadro.com.

Image: Leggiadro%26#8217;s Ocean Reef Club boutique in Key Largo, Florida

Love Tennis

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 01:06:21 GMT

Before an afternoon match at the club, wannabe Maria Sharapovas should replenish their tennis whites at Love Tennis. Owners Pamela King and Brittain Watson got their bug six years ago when the pals took up tennis at the Lakewood Country Club. Fast forward to today, and their obsession has manifested itself as their new Snider Plaza boutique, where you%26#8217;ll find stylish athletic wear from Lija, Fetch and Lacoste hanging alongside racquets by Babolat, Wilson, Volkl and Dunlap. Also in store, luxe leather tennis bags by LaCorte (your Tod%26#8217;s tote needs a sporty twin, after all) and tennis-themed jewelry and crystal champagne flutes, all by Silver Tennis, British purveyors of bespoke trophies. You can pick up game-day essentials here (tennies, balls, equipment) or get your racquet restrung. The fresh interior with its modern furnishings is also a score %26#8212; King and Watson clearly wanted this to be more than your average pro shop. Insider tip: There%26#8217;s even a bar in the back that%26#8217;s ready to be stocked for private tennis parties. We think we%26#8217;re in, well, love. 6708 Snider Plaza, 214.691.1540; lovetennisdallas.com.

Image: Fetch%26#8217;s Mach 5 tennis dress at Love Tennis

Matthew Trent Design Studio

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 01:07:31 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owners Lori and Matthew Trent.

New Jewels on the Block: Matthew Trent is living large %26#8212; from the strand of sizeable pearls in his window to jumbo pictures of the jewelry guru at work. The big news here? A brand-new locale, in The Plaza at Preston Center. %26#8220;We wanted to be in the middle of everything,%26#8221; says Trent, of his new and renamed Matthew Trent Design Studio. After closing up his long-standing Maple Avenue shop and moving to this spot on the corner of Villanova Street (across from Sprinkles Cupcakes and next to Corner Bakery), Trent is showing off huge windows that reveal a modern, open concept and all the handcrafted treasures inside. Designed by architect Rick Carroll, the store boasts a large central display case and zebra-print chairs and stools perched on wall-to-wall zebra carpet (somebody call Auntie Mame!). But the real show is in Trent%26#8217;s in-house atelier. Perfectly visible from behind large glass walls, patrons and passersby can watch Trent at work as he creates his one-of-a-kind pieces %26#8212; sapphire and diamond rings, black Tahitian pearl necklaces, and all manner of engagement and wedding baubles. With the new location comes a bevy of planned new wares, too: pieces in rose gold, 22K gold and silver, at some rather pocketbook-friendly prices compared to Trent%26#8217;s more luxurious offerings. Seems the move and the new digs have inspired all sorts of magic-making, indeed. 4015 Villanova St. (in The Plaza at Preston Center)214.871.9170; matthewtrent.com.

Images: Above, Matthew Trent Design Studio. Below, Matthew Trent. Photos by Heather Helen Ray.

Arend Couture Studio

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 04:51:17 GMT

2017 Elmen St.
713.523.0943
Open by appointment
Keys to the Door: Designer Arend Basile.

Stocked Goods: Roman-born Arend Basile was schooled in the rarefied world of couture by none other than Hubert de Givenchy. Basile dutifully worked at his side for more than two decades in Paris until the icon%26#8217;s retirement, then moved to the studios of John Galliano and Alexander McQueen. Now this energetic designing mind calls Houston home. He%26#8217;s installed himself in a small townhouse at the edge of River Oaks, with the bottom floor serving as his atelier. Arend%26#8217;s eponymous collection, which is produced in New York, has gained a steady following among boldfaced types in both Manhattan and now Houston.%26nbsp; Known for his elegant cocktail and eveningwear rendered in gorgeous fabrics such as satin-backed silk crepe, duponi silk and jet beading with a spot-on fit, Arend will fit a luscious piece from his collection to your body, or have him design a custom creation. (He%26#8217;ll swear not to produce it for anyone else for the foreseeable future. Imagine: no more dress doubles at your next soir%26#233;e to beg the dreaded Us Weekly

question: %26#8220;Who Wore it Best?%26#8221;) What%26#8217;s next for the peripatetic designer? Why, handbags, of course. His slinky metallic python handbags and satin evening clutches coordinate, natch, with his twice-yearly collections and swing from day to night.

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Image: Designer Arend Basile

Image: Basile's inspiration board

Photos by Jenny Antill

Bulgari

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 03:32:57 GMT

NorthPark Center
214.414.9666
bulgari.com
Glowing All the Way: It may not be Rome%26#8217;s via dei Condotti where Bulgari has resided for 125 years, but the new boutique at NorthPark Center will satisfy the Elizabeth Taylor in us all. Saunter through the brown marble entrance into the 2,500-square-foot store, where jewels and timepieces gleam. The Dallas boutique is one of the first in the world to follow Bulgari%26#8217;s new design mantra of contemporary interiors with immaculate decorative touches %26#8212; think chocolate-brown leather detailing on vitrines and a stunning optical fiber chandelier. Color bursts come by way of Bulgari%26#8217;s sparklers, of course: amethyst, blue topaz and green tourmaline gemspop against the quiet modernity. But it%26#8217;s not just the jewelry that is stealing glances. Dabble in Bulgari%26#8217;s accessories, where arm candy for her is a leather handbag of ebony python and nappa plisse with antique gold hardware. And for finely dressed fellas, we love Bulgari%26#8217;s black calf-leather briefcase with palladium-plated hardware.%26#160;

Little Bean

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 03:42:11 GMT

5308 Junius St.
214.370.9111
littlebeanshop.com
Keys to the Door: Owners Christine and Steve Visneau.
For Your Little Human Beans: We first noticed Baby Bean Vintage Daywear, a retro-inspired line of kiddie clothing made from vintage fabrics, on the racks of fashion boutique Kacky %26amp; Carl, then on the backs of celeb tots such as Suri Cruise. Now Baby Bean gets its own crib: Owners/designers Christine and Steve Visneau have opened a storefront in East Dallas%26#8217; historic Junius Heights neighborhood. There, you and the little one can find homemade togs, handcrafted toys, other clothing labels and accessories sourced from everywhere from Brooklyn to Tokyo. The front of Little Bean is artfully arranged with Christine%26#8217;s dresses, pants, bloomers and bibs, plus dolls by Jess Brown, stationery by Shinzi Katoh and hair clips by Silla. In back, pro photographer Steve has set up his S.W.V. photo studio. The Visneaus%26#8217; joint resume reads like entrepreneurs who take their fair share of Flintstones vitamins: baby clothing creators; co-proprietors of a quarterly children%26#8217;s online mag, smallmagazine.net; and parents of two small girls. With Garden Cafe to their right and a playground across the street, Little Bean has found the right pod.%26#160;

Hadleigh’s

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 03:35:50 GMT

74 Highland Park Village, Second Floor
214.770.4743
hadleighsbespoke.com
Keys to the Door: Owners Gable and Ed Shaikh.
Isn%26#8217;t That Dandy: Something tells us Jay Gatsby would%26#8217;ve shopped at Hadleigh%26#8217;s. Husband-wife stylistas Ed and Gable Shaikh %26#8212; you may remember them from their days at Ralph Lauren in Highland Park Village and their subsequent turns at Stanley Korshak %26#8212; have brought back masterfully constructed, artisan-made, tailored-to-fit men%26#8217;s and women%26#8217;s clothing and chic accessories %26#8212; just the thing for motoring about in the Rolls-Royce or for parties at the manor. For dapper gents, that means Cesare Attolini suits, hand-knit cashmere ties, Barker Black shoes, BRM watches, even handsome eyewear and luggage. For her, it%26#8217;s Hadleigh%26#8217;s tailored jackets of a silk-cashmere blend or a range of custom shirts in more than eight dozen fine fabrics. Our detail obsession? Hadleigh%26#8217;s custom-made, royal cotton boxers %26#8212; luscious skivvies and highly giftable, too. But delicious design doesn%26#8217;t end there: The appointment-only atelier, on HPV%26#8217;s second floor above Menchie%26#8217;s Frozen Yogurt, is as tasteful as its wares: dark glossy wood floors, exposed ceiling rafters and debonair architectural furniture make for the perfect studio for indulging in the art of fine dressing.%26#160;

Swag

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 03:38:19 GMT

NorthPark Center
214.691.0123
lovemyswag.com
Keys to the Door: Owner Lisa Alfieri, store manager Carol Reese.
Shop Like a Rock Star: Swag, NorthPark Center%26#8217;s new jewelry and accessories emporium, stocks an impressive lineup of designers who have made fans out of the famous %26#8212; rocker-chic celebs John Galliano and Madonna, to name just two. It%26#8217;s all about the celebrity shopping experience at this boutique. Owner Lisa Alfieri (of the Alfieris who opened The Old World shop in 1966) is stocking Pandora, King Baby Studio and Alwand Vahan. Love dangly things? Sip on a glass of wine while you gild yourself in 14K gold or sterling-silver charms %26#8212; or throw on a Virgin Saints and Angels cuff, a Thomas Sabo pendant or a one-of-a-kind Dian Malouf ring. What%26#8217;s more, amidst all the sparkling bracelets, necklaces and earrings, you can outfit your castle with the painted-glass lighting of Ulla Darni, the glittery trinkets of Jay Strongwater and the organic animal bronzes of Loet Vanderveen. You and your home %26#8212; drab to fab in no time.%26#160;

Funky Couture

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 03:03:01 GMT

2446 Times Blvd.
713.874.1865
unclefunkysdaughter.com
Keys to the Door: Owners Tonya and Ray Reed.

Stocked Goods: Tonya and Ray Reed, fresh from corporate gigs in the energy field, longed for a creative career path that would give them autonomy, as well as a company ethos that rang true to their own ethical core. In 2003, the duo founded the very successful Uncle Funky%26#8217;s Daughter in Rice Village %26#8212; a boutique with a cool, urban vibe and an attached salon specializing in natural treatments for curly-haired women and men, including their own line of natural, organic hair-care products with clever branding such as Curly Magic (their top seller), a vegan, aloe-based curl definer. Now, just two doors away, the Reeds have carved out a sweet new niche and named it Funky Couture. They liken the concept to a girly general store with a mod twist; it%26#8217;s for those intrigued by what lies beneath. You%26#8217;ll find intimates from Simone Perele, Elomi, Goddess, Spanx and Mimi Holliday, with bra sizes ranging from 30A to 56K in addition to organic beauty brands such as Naturopathica, Farmaesthetics and K. Hall Designs.

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Image credit: Jenny Antill

Smith %26 Company

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 01:20:10 GMT

Brownstone Antique Center
2736-C Virginia St.
713.524.0100
Keys to the Door: Owner Wayne Smith.
What%26#8217;s in Store: Fans of Wayne Smith%26#8217;s former antiques and jewelry store on Bissonnet (Circa, Antiques and Estate Jewelry) will be thrilled to hear that the jeweler and gemologist, after more than five years living as an expat in San Miguel de Allende and working with private clients, has returned to Houston and again opened up shop. The jewelry box of a boutique, designed by Dennis Lyons Interiors in pale purple hues with Donghia fabrics and Maya Romanoff for Donghia mica%26#8211;flecked wallcoverings, houses an impressive selection of fine jewelry by Kimberly McDonald, Rina Limor, Emsaru, Rawat and Ashley Park; custom design work; and exquisite estate baubles from such jewelry heavyweights as Bulgari, Harry Winston, David Webb and Cartier.%26nbsp;