Five in Five
Enjoy a summer stroll to discover some truly fabulous finds at five must-visit shopping destinations within five easy blocks of the St. Regis New York.
By Regina Molaro
During the summer season, New York City remains abuzz with the sounds of life. While many New Yorkers head out of town to their weekend beach escapes, tourists flock to this style metropolis to experience a less populated, more laid-back city scene. During their stay, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll throughout the posh neighborhood that surrounds The St. Regis New York. It’s an ideal location for uncovering a chic dress, impeccably tailored suit or singular gift to bestow upon family or friends back home.
One of the leading fashion capitals of the world, New York City is a destination for discovering timeless treasures, from glittering gems to classic well-crafted apparel and rare “objets d’art.” Maria Wittorp-Dejonge, chef concierge of The St. Regis New York recommends five upscale specialty shops, each with a personality of its own, to explore this summer. These “fab five” boutiques are within five easy blocks of the St. Regis, just a short walk away from uncovering the unparalleled fashion scene in the city that never sleeps.
Anne Fontaine
Luxury and simplicity effortlessly fuse together at Anne Fontaine’s elegant shop in Rockefeller Plaza. Renowned for a classic and crisp white shirt, Anne Fontaine’s first collection debuted in 1993. The southern bank of Paris, Rive Gauche, was the setting for Fontaine’s first shop, which opened in 1994. What began as a chic shirt collection has evolved into a complete lifestyle brand that celebrates femininity, timelessness and elegance. The brand has amassed more than 75 boutiques worldwide, including flagship stores in Paris, Tokyo and New York City.
“I had the idea that the white shirt should be the key piece in all women’s wardrobes, as it’s a piece [that] can work across all occasions and with all kinds of clothing pieces and accessories,” Anne Fontaine says. “I’m all about femininity, elegance and timelessness, while still maintaining comfort. This concept is at the heart of my designs.”
The Anne Fontaine collection now includes stylish shirts and knits, as well as classic outerwear, great accessories and handbags—all with a feminine flair. “All my pieces can be worn together with the range of accessories to fit every occasion and personality,” Fontaine adds. “The materials are also soft and durable. With good care, an Anne Fontaine shirt can go a long way.”
For fragrance and beauty aficionados, the Anne Fontaine label offers a home fragrance collection and an exclusive cosmetic skincare line. In 2007, a retail/ spa concept made its debut at the flagship store in Paris. Concierge Wittorp-Dejonge says, “At Anne Fontaine, women can find a great dress, belt or piece of jewelry that stands out and makes them feel both feminine and edgy. I personally love the shop because it’s so unique. The blouses are almost one-of-a-kind, and guests love the variety that Anne Fontaine offers.” Located in Rockefeller Center, Anne Fontaine is just five short blocks from The St. Regis New York. (610 Fifth Ave.; 212-489-1554; annefontaine.com)
Armani 5th Avenue
Italian designer Giorgio Armani’s contemporary concept store on Fifth Avenue offers the world of Armani all under one roof. Less than one block from the hotel, this sleek, high fashion store serves as a one- stop shopping destination for apparel, accessories, beauty, home and beyond. Renowned for his clean, tailored looks, Armani has created a fashion empire for both women and men, and has also introduced a line exclusively for juniors. Armani 5th Avenue’s ultra-modern space, which opened in 2009, offers style, impeccable service and convenience all within one design-conscious setting.
While Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani and Armani Jeans offer day and evening looks for women and men, the store also has a complete collection of accessories to accent any look. From contemporary apparel to sleek and chic designer wares for the home, Armani 5th Avenue carries a special selection of exclusive product, including the full line of Giorgio Armani cosmetics and fragrances, as well as Crema Nera skincare and anti-aging products. A must-see destination for design aficionados, the focal point of Armani 5th Avenue’s hip interior is a stunning sculptural staircase that artistically winds its way throughout the entire space.
“This store is Mr. Armani’s masterpiece and it has all things Armani—from Armani Prive to beauty to Armani Junior to chocolates,” Wittorp- Dejonge says. “Armani 5th Avenue’s concierge Mechel Thompson’s passion for the Armani brand and the concierge community are two reasons why I love this store so much.”
“Personalized service is at the heart of the Armani experience,” Thompson adds. “Among the services offered are in-house tailoring, special appointments and VIP services.” Armani 5th Avenue is also the ideal destination for selecting stylish gifts, offering a range of fine chocolates, preserves, teas and other delicacies, all beautifully packaged and perfect for gifting.
Beyond the premier shopping, the store’s top floor features Armani Ristorante—a destination for unwinding with a cocktail and some great Italian fare. “Armani Ristorante has my favorite table in the city—it’s a corner table overlooking Fifth Avenue,” Wittorp-Dejonge explains. (717 Fifth Ave.; 212- 339-5950; armani.com)
Gallery 55
Located right beside The St. Regis New York is Gallery 55, a charming shop filled with rare treasures and fine antiquities. In business nearly 40 years, this family-run antique emporium has a history that traces back to another era. An illuminated window on 55th Street spotlights a fine collection of glittering jewels and unique home accents. The four-story shop is situated in a lovely townhouse that offers fine decorative pieces, mantel clocks and rare artwork that hails from America, Europe and the Orient. Its expansive collection includes everything from sparkling diamond, jade and pearl jewelry to fine rare furniture and unique Art Deco sculptures. A decorative winding staircase on the ground floor invites collectors and art appreciators upstairs to explore even more floors filled with unexpected treasures. “The ambiance and uniqueness of having a townhouse in this location is our number one draw along with our relationship with The St. Regis New York,” says Steve Fallas, president of Gallery 55. (16 E. 55th Street; 212-956-2228)
Wempe
Located on Manhattan’s iconic Fifth Avenue— just steps away from the St. Regis—is Wempe, a specialty shop filled with exquisite timepieces and jewelry. Dating back to 1878, Wempe is New York’s premier destination for fine watches. Its elegant European-style salon setting offers a selection of the world’s finest brands, from Patek Philippe to Rolex, Cartier and beyond. Wempe also boasts an impressive collection of 18-karat gold and sparkling diamond jewelry. The shop’s attentive staff aims to convey a true sense of elegance in a comfortable yet inviting atmosphere. “We strive to turn every visit into a memorable experience,” says Ruediger Albers, president of Wempe.
“Wempe’s wonderful staff is friendly and knowledgeable,” Wittorp-Dejonge says. “The store sells nearly all brands of watches, so guests have many options to choose from. They have beautiful, unique jewelry as well and we always recommend Wempe when guests are looking for a truly special gift.” (700 Fifth Ave.; 212-397-9000; wempe.com)
Stefano Ricci
A stunning Florentine-style mansion is home to Stefano Ricci’s luxurious Park Avenue men’s shop, which offers stylish apparel, cuff links, ties, fine leather goods and decorative home accents exclusively for him. Made in Italy, the Stefano Ricci collection is synonymous with classic tailoring, superior quality and a keen attention to detail. Refined and elegant, the brand follows the Old World traditions of Florentine artisans. Exceptional workmanship is at the core of the brand, and Stefano Ricci’s well- tailored shirts are cut individually and sewn together by masters of the trade. Stefano Ricci’s handmade cuff links offer a classic design aesthetic; some are adorned with diamonds and semi-precious stones.
“I’m not selling fashion, but a culture of tailoring,” Stefano Ricci says. “I design for the man who already has everything. Excellency of product means using selective materials and a high tradition in finishing and styling.”
Robert Geist, assistant chef concierge at The St. Regis New York, says Stefano Ricci is a personal favorite for special neckties or cuff links: “The quality of the clothing and materials used are all made with real Italian craftsmanship.”
For those who yearn to usher a sense of style into the home, Stefano Ricci offers the Royal Suite Collection. Celebrating the fine art of setting an elegant table, the collection includes crystal and ceramic dinner services, silverware and luxury linens, as well as leather goods and other unique pieces that are ideal for gift giving. “We love to send our guests to the Stefano Ricci shop because we’re ensured that they’ll receive the utmost personal care by a highly professional staff, which includes the store manager, Santo Costarelli,” Geist says. Shopping at Stefano Ricci is ideal for St. Regis guests because of its close proximity just two blocks away from the hotel. (407 Park Ave.; 212-371-3901 stefanoricci.it)
Regardless of your sense of style, recommendations from The St. Regis New York’s expert concierge team ensure you’ll uncover something truly fabulous. While visiting the city, be sure to embrace the season, the style and the vibrant fashion scene that New York offers by taking a peek at these unique must-see shops. Happy shopping!
