By Ray Rogers
The recent arctic blast throughout much of the country has us longing to leave the winter blues behind and head to the sunny Palm Beaches. Kick off the season in style, with some last-minute holiday shopping or personal retail therapy at the Bal Harbour Shops Pop-Up at CityPlace in West Palm Beach. Since 1965, the iconic Bal Harbour Shops has been a global leader in luxury retail, attracting a star-studded following from around the world. This year, in advance of its 60th anniversary, they’ve headed up the shore for an eight-week residency in West Palm Beach. The aesthetic here is tropical meets classic—with a chic black-and-white palm motif adorning the shipping containers that make up the luxury pop-up.
It’s not just Worth Avenue that’s drawing discerning shoppers this season: Find your favorite luxury brands here, including Balmain, Dolce & Gabbana, Lanvin and Tiffany, plus plenty of gifting ideas at Santa Maria Novella and Assouline. Italian luxury line Elisabetta Franchi opened its first boutique at Bal Harbour Shops Miami this month, and the designer has a curated boutique at the Palm Beach pop-up as well. She happened to be present when Purist visited, showing her glamorous tailored pieces to shoppers. “I am truly honored to bring Elisabetta Franchi to the Americas, beginning with the prestigious Bal Harbour Shops, a destination that perfectly reflects our brand values and aesthetic,” Franchi commented about her first foray into the American market. “This opening marks an important milestone in our journey, and we are excited to share our vision and passion with a new international clientele in Miami.”
Considering Bal Harbour Shops Miami has such excellent dining options (favorites include Le Zoo, Makoto and the stellar Mediterranean fare at Aba), it’s fitting that the pop-up features a delicious restaurant. Stop for a refreshing zero-proof or craft cocktail and alfresco lunch in the palm tree-framed courtyard at The Whitman, which takes inspiration from the luxury Miami hotel The Whitman by The Sea. The all-day menu features Latin-inspired flavors and healthy options like catch-of-the-day ceviche and baby beet salad. Or try out neighboring spots like Sourbon or Bar Capri for sunset cocktails, or Elisabetta’s Ristorante for indulgent Italian fare. A perfect reward after a day at the shops. And if you want to be within walking distance of the pop-up, consider a stay at the nearby Hilton West Palm Beach, and bask in the sun by its impressive, palm-tree lined pool.
550 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach, Florida; balharbourshopspopup.com