ILORI An Optical Fantasia

A few weeks ago while leaving the Chanel boutique on West Broadway, extremely annoyed because I wasn’t able to find the perfect shades for my trip to Miami, I noticed a small optical boutique across the street called ILORI with the most beautiful sunglasses from the likes of Bulgari, Prada, Dior, you name it adorning the windows. Being a self-proclaimed sunglass connoisseur and a little desperate for the right pair of shades for my trip I just had to take a peek inside.

ILORI is derived from an African word meaning “special treasure”. The boutique is designed to resemble your favorite art gallery filled with exclusive collections and distinctive works showcased in easy-to-view displays. The poignant style consultants are like curators of fashion and can assist you in selecting your eyewear look, whether you’re shopping for eyeglasses, sunglasses or prescription sunglasses with expertise and panache.

From the moment I stepped in the door I was greeted with the outmost hospitality by Duane a handsome ILORI sales rep with the most gracious smile who escorted me through the fantasia of sunglasses ranging from the very theatrical to the classically feminine. After asking me a few questions about my likes and dislikes he came back with a silver platter of sunglasses that were perfect for my face-shape (extremely heart-shaped) and my taste level (extremely glamorous).

It was wonderful having personalized service and being introduced to eyewear collections from the most coveted designers from around the globe. I ended up choosing a pair of wayfarer style glasses from the latest Chanel glitter collection (which by the way the Chanel boutique didn’t even carry). ILORI is sunglass shopping the way it’s meant to be: Personal, exclusive and perfect.

Book your ILORI experience today via: http://Ilori.com

ILORI

138 Spring Street
New York, NY 10012-3854
(212) 226-8276

Open Mon-Thu 10am-7:30pm; Fri-Sat 10am-8pm; Sun 11am-6pm

Ladurée Arrives Stateside

Polish off your berets, slip into a pair of ballet flats and grab your favorite Chanel bag because it’s time to head off to the first outpost of the famed French bakery (and fashion obsession), Ladurée, set to open on August 22nd on 864 Madison Avenue.

Ladurée brings the finest authentic French macarons presented in the outmost beautiful boxes along with its collection of chocolates, candies, teas, ice-cream macaroons, perfumed candles and fragrances. All of which make delightful gifts and perfect self-indulgences.

The Madison Avenue Location of Ladurée is decked out in the style of a private French home, offering customers a warm and welcoming yet glamourous atmosphere where the scent of pure sweetness and the most delectable confections can be purchased as well as enjoyed.

The boutique is broken up into two distinct areas. One room is for sales and decorated with neoclassical touches such as paintings, Barbedienne lamps and plaster medallions featuring cameos. The second room is decorated in refined furniture including antique chairs upholstered in 19th century fabrics and is reserved for conversation and order taking.

According to David Holder, the chairman of Ladurée who purchased the brand in 1993, Ladurée will open an adjacent tearoom where patrons can indulge in the full range of Ladurée products.

Ladurée opened its doors in 1862, as a little bakery which was named after it's owner on 16 rue Royale. It was Pierre Desfontaines, the cousin of Louis Ernest Ladurée, who, in the mid 20th century, had the idea to stick macaron pieces together, and inject them with different flavors. "This small and pastry that is crunchy from the outside and melting from the inside, is prepared with extreme delicacy. Almonds, eggs, sugar, and a pinch of a unique know-how are necessary for their cooking, ensuring that every macaron reaches the delicate balance between flavors and textures," says a Ladurée spokesperson.

Every season, Ladurée creates a new flavor, in honor of Defontaines. More than a century later the fabulously French bakery will keep to this heritage and alive for millions of chic customers excited and anxious for the stateside launch.

Ladurée New York/ 864 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10021

Monday to Friday 9 AM – 6 PM /Saturday 9.30 AM – 6 PM / Closed on Sunday

Tentative Opening: August 22 2011