St. Barth - The Fashion Flock’s Destination of Choice
By our estimation, there's just enough time to squeeze in a quick vay-cay before New York Fashion Week begins (and goodness knows you'll need it!).
So the question is, where can you escape the blustery winter weather, scope out some chic peeps (and the odd cabana boy), and get some designer shopping done? St. Barth!
Picturesque locale to many a photo shoot, including the Victoria's Secret Swim Catalogue, the blissful Caribbean island has been graced by the likes of Marc Jacobs (plus on-off boyfriend Lorenzo Martone), Rachel Zoe (with Rodger and their son Skyler), Olivia Palermo, Stephanie Seymour, Marchesa's Georgina Chapman and husband Harvey Weinstein, Owen Wilson, George Lucas, Martha Stewart, Enrique Iglesias and Anna Kournikova, and (phew!) the seemingly cozy love square that is Russell Simmons and girlfriend Melissa George along with ex-wife Kimora Lee Simmons and her beau Djimon Hounsou—and that was just over the holidays.
But before you pack those caftans, get your itinerary in order with our style-minded guide to St. Barth.
WHERE TO STAY
Photo: Pierre Carreau
Scenic route: A private infinity pool at the Villa Sibarth Wik in Gustavia
Sibarth Villa Rentals: Go big or go home! For an authentic St. Barth experience (and a luxurious stay you'll be fantasizing about for years), rent a villa with the ocean view of your choice. Sibarth Villa Rentals has some 200 dream properties to choose from, and with concierge services to help you snag that dinner reservation or book a seat on a VIP luxury charter flight with Zen Air (co-founded by Donna Karan's son-in-law, Gianpaolo Defelice) or Tradewind Aviation to or from San Juan.
And the villas? Each and every one looks like it's straight out of an airy Architectural Digest spread, including the exquisite 6-bedroom Villa Sibarth Wik (pictured above) in Gustavia, outfitted with Missoni fabrics, a fitness wall, heated pool, and wine cellar.
Photo: Pierre Carreau
Easy, breezy: Villa Sibarth Wik in Gustavia
And with off-peak rates (January 6 through April 15) running about half the price of high-season prices, we think you'll require very little arm-twisting.
Sold? Good. Now it's all about pinpointing what to see and do while you're there, from tony restaurants to designer boutiques, and, of course, where to relax with a refreshing cocktail.
WHERE TO EAT
Photo courtesy of Bonito
Fine dining: Bonito restaurant in Gustavia
Bonito: This South American-influenced restaurant is known for its west-facing terrace overlooking breathtaking sunsets. Its famous ceviche menu, cozy-chic decor, and cocktails soundtracked by a live DJ will prove just as tempting. Rue Lubin Brin, Gustavia
L'Isola: Italian food reigns supreme at this swanky jet set favorite specializing in risotto and fresh seafood dishes. Rue du roi Oscar II, Gustavia
Restaurant at the Hotel Taïwana: You might spy Patrick Demarchelier or Marc Jacobs at this trendy beachfront eatery, which is popular for lunch. If all else fails, though, there's always a mesmerizing ocean view to fall back on. Flamands
WHERE TO SHOP
Photo courtesy of Stéphane et Bernard
Retail therapy: Stéphane et Bernard boutique in Gustavia
Stéphane & Bernard: A St. Barth mainstay for 30 years, this designer destination bills itself as "the fashion capital of the Caribbean" with a stock that includes Missoni, Valentino, Versace, and Éres swimwear. Rue de la Republique, Gustavia
Lolita Jaca: Luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Hermès are a testament to St. Barth's A-list appeal, but when all is said and done, island-chic caftans and sundresses are de rigeur. French designer Faby Jaca specializes in bohemian printed and embroidered dresses that can take you from the cabana to a cocktail party, with Asian-inspired kimonos in bold graphic patterns. Les Hauts du Carré d'Or, Gustavia
Calypso: Not be confused with Calypso St. Barth (which also demands a visit), this trendy boutique is a goldmine for runway favorites like Alexander Wang and Balmain. Cult brands like The Row and Isabel Marant, accessories from Tom Ford and Jimmy Choo, and Calypso's own in-house line and range of fragrances are also on hand. Les Hauts du Carré d'Or, Gustavia
Poupette: Jessica Simpson is said to be a fan of this beachy brand known for floaty off-the-shoulder tunics and sexy printed sundresses. Add sunglasses, stacked sandals, and a straw hat to complete the tropical look. Rue de la Republique, Gustavia
Ligne St. Barth: Kate Moss reportedly swears by the skin care treats at this St. Barth beauty institution. The natural products with a luxury spa twist—ranging from coconut oil to banana hand cream—are made right here on the island in this factory/shop. Can you think of a more indulgent souvenir? Route de Saline, Lorient
WHERE TO PARTY
Photo courtesy of Nikki Beach
After hours: Casa Nikki
Casa Nikki: You might spy Diddy or Tamara Mellon at this exclusive hot spot, which is part of the international Nikki Beach chain. Famed for its bold-named clientele, late-night hours, DJ-provided global music, this is the sort of place where you might get showered by a champagne-spraying celebrity. Better bring a towel! St. Jean Bay
Bon voyage! (Oh, and don't forget to send us a postcard.)
