Shop 'Til You Drop: Hamptons Labor Day Shopping Musts!
Jean Cocteau’s oft-quoted words, “Style is a simple way of saying complicated things,” couldn’t be truer. Your style is a personal statement that you make to the world, reflecting personal choices. Here’s another good fashion quote: “Dress for the job you want, not for the job you have.”
That’s great, but sometimes cost is a teeny factor. This is why, when I want to be wearing Dolce & Gabbana shirt suits with Manolo Blanik pumps to work, instead of heading to Saks, I head to Collette. Not only is it closer (right here in Southampton and Sag Harbor), the worn-once-if-that apparel at Collette ranges from vintage to last-season, meaning that you can really get creative and have fun perking up your wardrobe. Best of all—right now they’re having a summer sale! Check out Collette Designer Consignment at 80 Main Street in Sag Harbor or in Southampton at 22 Main Street and 23 Hampton Road. Call 631-287-5100 or visit colletteconsignment.com.
Sometimes style requires sacrificing comfort, as in the case of aforementioned Manolos, but there are times when comfort is an absolute must, especially if you’re on your feet all day. For those instances when sneakers aren’t an option, might I suggest Alegria Shoes. I tried a pair of “Lana” sandals, in Fuschia Classy; heaven for weary feet. Teachers and doctors especially should visit alegriashoes.com and get some comfort with pizzazz.
This month’s weather has been all over the place—one minute you’re in a wool sweater, yes, it’s still summer, and the next you’re blasting the AC in your car in an effort to not melt on your way to work. Constant and unexpected flux like this wreaks havoc on my skin. I’ve come up with a system that seems to be working: on the hot and balmy days, I reach for Blue Cleanse. Customized for problematic, oily and acne-prone skin, it washes away makeup and impurities using the power of glycolic acid, which removes dead skin cells. The rose hip seed oil and seaweed extract soothe and moisturize, too. Available at silkn.com. On the chillier days, I treat myself to a little pampering with Elemental Herbology, a skincare line based on Traditional Chinese Medicine. A great gift, the Moisture Replenishing Starter Kit comes with travel-size tubes of the Purify & Soothe Cleansing Balm (to die for!), Cell Plumping Facial Moisturizer, Facial Glow Radiance Peel, and the Facial Souffle Overnight Crème. It’s like having your very own luxurious at-home spa. All Elemental Herbology Products are available at elementalherbologyus.com.
Have you been searching for the perfect brush? Earth Theraputics Krome is a fantastic one—designed with a smooth handle, a soft cushion base to soothe the scalp, and rounded tips to prevent breakage. Look for them in pink, purple, gold and silver, at major retail outlets and online at earththerapeutics.com.
SALES!
For Labor Day weekend, Corner Closet will have a final clearance on all spring and summer designer apparel, shoes and bags. On Saturday, there will be a trunk show of kaftans and scarves by Theodora and Callum. 108 Main Street, Sag Harbor. 631-808-3005
But just because fall is around the corner doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite summer activities. Fellow Dan’s Papers editor Kelly Laffey says: With East End waters at their warmest at the end of the summer—and if we’re lucky, well into September—stand up paddling is a great, accessible fall activity. Global Surf Industries is an international distributor that carries several brands of surfboards and SUPs, distributing to many of the Hamptons surf shops including Main Beach Surf + Sport. I recently tried the 10’ 2” Coco Mat SUP, a great option for flat water and out on the ocean with smaller waves. The board is made from coconut husk, a byproduct from the coconut industry, which is naturally durable and hydrophobic. The board’s stability is noticeable—perfect for people of all fitness levels, including aspiring SUP yogis. I tried my hand at ocean paddling for the first time over the weekend. The strong ocean sweep pushed me far to the right, and the board kept me balanced and upright as I battled against the wind and currents on my way back. Highly maneuverable, I easily kept myself moving parallel to shore. About 40 feet offshore, I met a fellow swimmer who grabbed on the board for a little rest, and it didn’t sink at all when taking on the extra weight, proving that it has an “unparalleled strength-to-weight ratio.” At 11.6 kg, the board is relatively light, especially compared to its size, and I’m easily able to bring the board from beach to car and back again, aided by an easy-to-grip handle. When the weather turns and a dip in the ocean makes you feel too much like a polar bear, grab a windbreaker and paddle around the calm, sheltered bays and estuaries. For more info and to find your perfect board, check out surfindustries.com.
Take a bath! Jump into a tub of warm water and Kniepp’s Enjoy Life Bath. The refreshing herbal bath is made with may chang and lemon essential oils to invigorate the senses with encouraging and motivating properties while promoting a cheerful demeanor for a better mood. Sounds good to me! kneippus.com.
NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK:
Made Makeup Lounge opened in Water Mill! Whether you’re heading to a beach bash, dinner date or a big benefit, Made will complete your look with professional makeup application in 30 minutes for $40. The Pop-Up Shop at 760 Montauk Highway will be open through Labor Day weekend. Enjoy 20 percent off by pre-booking appointments at 631-726-0808.
Fekkai is coming to the Hamptons! The brand is partnering with celebrity favorite and local boutique Haute Hippie in East Hampton to offer guests a complete head-to-toe makeover by the experts for one exclusive day. Shoppers are invited to try on just-in fall looks curated by Trish Wescoat Pound, Haute Hippie’s Creative Director & Founder, and to meet Fekkai stylist, Stefanie Francois, for hair consultations and light styling. Guests will also be able to purchase Fekkai haircare at Haute Hippie to re-create their custom style at home. Haute Hippie is at 20 Newtown Lane, East Hampton. Fall Preview Event is on Sunday, September 1 from 1–5 p.m.
What says style more than a Florentine Leather Atelier? Now in Westhampton Beach, Jennifer Tattanelli is offering personally selected items, including shoes, belts, accessories for the home and the leather collection of jackets and handbags. Jennifer Tattanelli is located across the Hamptons Theatre, 77A Main Street, Westhampton Beach. 631-998-0731 jennifertattanelli.it
Don’t miss the eye-candy at Beyond the Beaten Path in Eastport. Browse through the unique collection of great purses, scarves, jewelry and accessories creatively displayed amongst the fabulous home furnishings. Consignments welcome from contemporary to antiques. 495 Main St., 631-325-2105, beyondgifts.net.
Christopher Kaufmann Special Event: Debuting the collections of WYS Jewelry, Friday, August 30 to Sunday, September 1. Champagne served daily, and gift with all WYJ purchases. 45 Main St., Southampton. 631-204-9790.
Happy Labor Day, shoppers!