By Julia Szabo
From the magical monkey wallpaper of his design, and candles and other decor, to the sexy soundtrack (his signature resort music mix), Alex Vinash’s exuberantly curated store, his first in the Hamptons, recalls the heyday of Henri Bendel. And it’s not every designer emporium where you’re guaranteed to find the namesake in the house every day—which makes Vinash’s warm presence all season long as refreshing as the bar at the back of the boutique. “When you come here,” says Vinash, whose giant-bowed tops are beloved by Martha Stewart and many more, “I hope you feel like you’re on a real vacation!” 25 Hampton Road, Southampton
There are many who believe the two essentials of East End summer chic are bronzed skin and fine gold jewelry. Gorjana’s Southampton store provides all that glitters, including initials from the Alphabet Collection, in necklaces, bracelets, charms and studs for the ears. 19 Main St., Southampton
Your tanned toes are jewels, and Manolo Blahnik’s internationally glamorous heels are the perfect setting to show them off against metallic leather. Solimaso is a strappy mule with a kitten heel, perfect for aerobic shopping, in rose gold and silver; Solisa is a high-heeled strappy sandal in gold or dark bronze. 52 Main St., East Hampton
Architect Toshihiro Oki has created a heavenly Hamptons summer home for the very urban Derek Lam 10 Crosby. The light-filled minimalism of this inviting jewel box is the perfect backdrop for the brand’s eco-conscious denim, a big draw for its intergenerational clientele; see the genius jeans lounging languorously on metal rails in the “specialty denim bar.” 20 Newtown Lane, East Hampton
If fashion history is your thing, Morphew is for you: With its expert curation of vintage high fashion and inspired remastering of heirloom textiles and laces—like the signature silk “Cocoons,” born of antique piano shawls—this sustainably soigné brand provides a shopping experience like no other. It’s akin to a fantasy night at the museum—the Metropolitan Museum’s Costume Institute, that is. 56 Hampton Rd., Southampton
Channel your inner artist with the boho-chic brand Johnny Was, whose wares travel with ease from gallery openings to museum galas. Responding to customer demand for its killer kimonos—no two are alike—the Main Street store offers resplendent specialty silk specimens ($2,600 for long, $1,800 for short). Make some fashion waves in the water, too, with Johnny Was patterned beachwear, including wet suits. 48 Main St., Southampton, 631.353.3975
Priding itself on conscious luxury, Brochu Walker promises, “Sustainability is always on our minds.” Recycled materials, organic fibers and new eco-yarns are the elements of this brand’s sophisticated style. “Opulent Voyage” is the theme of this season’s collection, one gorgeous highlight being the casual-chic Serena Belted Dress, a luxe navy sundress, cinched fisherman-style with natural cotton rope. 11 Main St., Southampton
All the world’s a beach, and Sydney, Australia-born brand Zimmermann makes itself at home on every shore with items for every imaginable seaside occasion, from a weekend getaway to a wedding. This season, the label renowned for its signature ruffled, cuffed blouses, expands its futuristic-Edwardian repertoire with tiered skirts, lace pants and irresistible butterfly-shaped sunglasses with rose-colored lenses. 27 Newtown Lane, East Hampton
Project Hamptons sets up shop in the space adjacent to the Bridgehampton Citarella (2183 Montauk Highway). Watch for 100-plus curated fashion and lifestyle brands, 50-plus shopping experiences, and many exciting shopping fundraisers that will give a percentage of sales to worthy local charities (the inaugural event, for Mother’s Day, benefited the Children’s Museum of the East End).
With its handy, interconnected model of digital and in-person shopping, Nordstrom Local pops up in Southampton from May 27 until September 7 to offer easy-order pickups and returns, alterations,and gift wrapping. Plus, they’ll accept clothing donations to be directed to Housing Works, and offer a lovely initiative called BEAUTYCYCLE: “Bring in your empties to help us take back 100 tons of beauty packaging to be recycled by 2025.