Award of Excellence – Orange Bay Company
In 2023, our judges all agreed that the Award of Excellence winner had to provide an experience that engaged the senses. They wanted to highlight a store that made customers glad they hadn’t succumbed to the ease of online shopping. Orange Bay Company is a pioneer in creating ambiance. They routinely make some people’s trash look like others’ treasures, with joyful ease. The consignment store expertly weaves together a tapestry of second-hand finds – from furniture to Ferragno heels – that can entice even the most reticence shopper inside.
Orange Bay Company was commended for bringing life into a whole other part of Hamilton and drawing shoppers to different parts of the city. Another judge recognized the owner Delight Morris “gives back to the community in a big way.” The retailer not only promotes the philosophy of cyclical fashion as a sustainable option, but they also give locals who consign with them extra revenue streams – a benefit that can’t be ignored in the current climate, both ecologically and economically.
45 Victoria Street, Hamilton; 295-5400; www.orangebaycompany.com
Men’s Business Wear – Waterfront Man
It’s high time that men’s wear in Bermuda comes into its own. Our judges commended the store for filling a hole in Bermuda’s market that was desperately needed. Opening a brick-and-mortar shop post-COVID “takes guts,” another judge said. But the risk has definitely paid off, and the relatively new Waterfront Man is raising the bar for men’s fashion in Bermuda. The welcome addition to Front Street gives tourists and local businessmen an opportunity to peruse well-known menswear brands like Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, and Hugo Boss on the rack.
29 Front Street, Hamilton; 299-0610
Men’s Causal Wear – Choices Menswear
Choices Menswear may be tucked away in the Bermudiana Arcade, but their streetwear picks are far from low-profile. Men who are unafraid of bright prints and bold patterns are well-catered for at this Hamilton locale. We’d recommend hunting out Choices if you’re in the market for outfits that make an impact. Men struggling to get creative with their outfit choices need not fear – Choices’ Instagram features daily pre-selected combos of shorts, shirts, and trousers that shoppers can purchase in full for those with decision fatigue.
27 Queen Street, Hamilton; 296-9943
Men’s Causal Wear Honorable Mention – Linez Apparel
Shopping these days is all about creating an experience. And, in Flatts Village, Linez Apparel delivers. We think this may be the only place in Bermuda where men can get fresh clip and a fresh ‘fit all in one place. This barbershop and menswear boutique offers an extensive selection of hoodies, cargo pants, and graphic tees, that can also be found at their new Reid Street location.
20 North Shore Road, Flatts Village; 296-1362
Ties – The English Sports Shop
Martinis, sausage dogs, and tiny Bermuda triangles are just a few of the wonderful assortment of patterns that adorn the Sports Shop’s ties. They were congratulated by the judges on having the “broadest range” of ties on the island. An English Sports Shop tie can most likely be found in your daddy’s, granddaddy’s, and nephew’s closet, making this Bermuda institution hard to beat.
49 Front Street, Hamilton; 295-2672
Ties Honorable Mention – The Island Shop
Our judges wanted to highlight The Island Shop’s ties for “bringing it back to Bermuda.” Local designer Barbara Finsness has repurposed her most popular designs onto beautiful silk for the island’s tie-wearing population. Our judges’ favorite was the tie that celebrates Bermuda’s most famous iconography – moon gates, onions, tree frogs, and palmettos – all in one place.
3 Queen Street, Hamilton; 292-5292
Women’s Fashion – Urban Cottage
The “cool vibe” of Urban Cottage invites Bermuda’s shoppers in, but it’s the boutique’s high-couture selections that make it difficult to leave. The judges were impressed by their ability to “always find something” in Urban Cottage, whose stocks span clothes, accessories, homeware, and beauty products. Owner Nicole Golden has found her name-sake in this category, routinely taking home the gold for bringing high fashion options to the Front Street catwalk.
11 Front Street, Hamilton; 532-1152
Women’s Business Attire – Marks & Spencer
Colloquially known as Marks and Sparks, this high-street label definitely adds sparkle to the women of Bermuda’s Monday-to-Friday attire. One female judge was quick to state of M&S: “If I need a suit, that’s where I’m going.” When shopping for workwear, the department store offers a range of styles and sizes, without breaking the bank – a difficult feat on our shores. Being reliable and accessible won this shop the top tout.
18 Reid Street, Hamilton; 295-0031; www.marksandspencerbermuda.com
Boutique – Atelerie
Our judges defined the winner of the category as a store that was “unique” and focused on “curation,” creating a hot competition among local businesses. But Atelerie’s effortlessly cool and impossibly chic shopfront captured the hearts and minds of our judges and Bermuda’s public. One judge said the two-story concept store had “transformed the Mall” after its immaculate renovation. Routinely bringing in styles fresh off the runway from Copenhagen and New York, Atelerie is the “It-girl” place to shop.
9 Reid Street, Hamilton; 296-0280; www.atelerietheshop.com
Boutique Honorable Mention – The Shops at Hamilton Princess
Sprawling across the echoing marble thoroughfare of Bermuda’s most iconic hotel, the Shops at Hamilton Princess attract tourists and locals alike. Notes of espresso float through the air from the neighbouring Duchess Cafe emphasizing the storefronts’ decidedly Parisian aesthetic, which our judges felt embodied a boutique experience.
76 Pitts Bay Road; 295-3000
Local Designer – Inclusive Identity
The judges were unanimous in their decision to appoint Inclusive Identity as the winner of this category. By name and by nature, this brand advocates for greater diversity, acceptance, and inclusivity in fashion. Their campaigns often feature unrepresented groups and their eponymous “Identity” t-shirts are made in collaboration with Spectrum Designs – a printing company that employs people on the autism spectrum. Our judges loved this local brand’s aim to make a global social impact.
www.inclusive-identity.com
Local Designer Honorable Mention – Yaya Apparel
Established in 2011, Yaya Apparel has set the standard for Bermudian streetwear for over a decade. For lounge sets in eye-catching colors, to beachwear that raises the temperature – be sure to check out Yaya Apparel, stocked at 1609, next time you want to turn a look for the culture.
@yayaapparel on Instagram
Local Jewellery Designer – Raw Island Jewels
Reminiscent of Bermuda’s jagged shorelines, Raw Island Jewels are known for using colorful uncut semi-precious stones that “light up from the inside,” according to the designer’s website. While dainty rings put Courtney Busher’s shop on the map, she since branched out into earrings, glittering pendants, and hand-stamped gold-filled pieces. Our judges loved this designer because her jewellery offers something “unique” and local while remaining wearable.
www.rawislandjewels.com
Local Jewellery Designer Honorable Mention – 1609 Design
You can often see 1609’s founder Joanna Stapff hand-making jewellery onsite at her Reid Street store. The bohemian boutique stocks something special for every budget, from fun tassel earrings to a collection of 24-carat gold pieces. What started as one of the most popular stalls at Harbour Nights, is now one of Bermuda’s most beloved jewellery brands.
12 Reid Street, Hamilton, 336-1326; www.1609design.com
Fashion-forward Finds – The Things We Love
Catapulting the sleepy side streets of St. George’s into the 21st century, The Things We Love is setting the style agenda in Bermuda. If the shopping scene in Bermuda’s oldest towne is having a revival, then this women’s wear and home store is leading the pack with its SoCal beachy vibe and laid-back looks. The judges believe this storefront is doing something the people of Bermuda haven’t seen before – which clinched them the win.
16 Water Street, St. George’s; 533-2359; www.thethingswelovebda.myshopify.com
Plus-size Fashion – Rype Curves
Rype Curves was applauded by the judges for picking up the slack for the “lagging” plus-size fashion options in Bermuda. Their selections are fresh, and most importantly, varied – no longer relegating plus-sized fashion to a small rack at the back of the store. From sexy cocktail dresses to well-tailored corporate clothing, Rype Curves are ensuring that Bermudian women of all sizes can find an outfit they feel confident in.
16 Quarry Hill Road, Warwick; 799-3773; www.rypecurves.com
Thrifty Fashion Finds – Orange Bay Company
Not a year goes by where the consignment store stalwart Orange Bay Company doesn’t make it onto this list. Sustainable, affordable, and exceptionally curated, owner Delight Morris is keeping this generation of Bermudians impeccably dressed, with the next generation of Bermudians in mind. With circular fashion at the forefront, here you can find designer pieces or high-street brands, all at discounted prices.
45 Victoria Street, Hamilton; 295-5400; www.orangebaycompany.com
Workout Wear – TriMik
Athleisure, popularized by off-duty models like Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner, is now a genre of fashion in its own right – and no one on the island is doing workout wear better than TriMik. Founded by two Bermudian women, Damika Swan, and her best friend Tri, this online retailer is best known for putting the “set” in trendsetting with their three and four-piece matching sets.
9 Lusher Hill East, Warwick; 705-6452; www.trimiksports.com
Lingerie – Eve’s Garden
Eve’s Garden is an Eden for those looking to get in touch with their more sensual side. Lacy, strappy or supportive, owner Liz Adderley has been providing locals with moderately priced intimate apparel that’s anything but modest. The boutique also stocks an array of bedroom supplies encouraging sex-positivity and consensual adult fun.
69 Front Street, Hamilton; 296-2671; www.evesgardenbermuda.com
Make-up Artist Tie – Ráel Iman
Operating under the business name Iman Artistry, Ráel Iman can turn her hand at make-up for any occasion. This local entrepreneur is in high demand on the wedding circuit and the commercial photo shoot scene. A quick scroll down her Insta feed, and it’s not hard to see why Bermudians can’t get enough of Raél’s sleek cat eyes and sickening contour.
@iman.artistry on Instagram
Make-up Artist Tie – Alana Dowling
Of Alana Dowling, one judge said “I’m always trying to book her, but she’s so busy – that must be a good thing.” On an island as small as Bermuda, reputation is everything and Alana’s perfect scorecard precedes her. Her Instagram is a highlight reel of cosmetic home runs where each client’s natural beauty has been glossed, shadowed, and blushed to perfection.
@alanamakeupartistry on Instagram
Make-up Artist Honorable mention – Brittany Mederios
Brittany Mederios often veers into the more creative and cutting-edge side of make-up, making our judges question whether she deserved a category all of her own. However, one judge made a point that “Brittany always gets my complexion right,” and her talent is undeniable.
@_brittanymedeiros on Instagram
Bargains, Deals, and Discounts – Hidden Treasures
This second-hand storefront embodies vintage in its decor and its prices. The checkerboard vinyl floor and brightly colored walls transport our island’s most thrifty shoppers back to the 1960s – the last decade you could buy a whole outfit in Bermuda without needing a second mortgage. Our judges agreed at Hidden Treasures ‘X’ marks the spot for designer deals and jaw-dropping bargains.
60 Middle Road, Warwick; www.hiddentreasuresbda.com
Children/Baby Wear – Klassiq Kidz
Klassiq Kidz is a veritable emporium of fun that will delight even the pickiest toddler and most sullen teenager. Owner Joleesa Holdipp, or “Lee Lee” to friends and loyal customers, has a knack for knowing exactly what kids want, at prices adults can get behind. While her stock seems to be “please, put that back” resistant, it’s her outstanding customer service that’s won the parents of Bermuda over. 57 Court Street, Hamilton; 295-5439; www.shopklassiqkidz.com
Children/Baby Wear Honorable Mention – BLUKiDS
If you have a child under the age of 14, there is nothing – and we mean nothing – that BLUKiDS can’t offer you. From diaper bags to back-to-school backpacks, this Reid Street staple has you covered for every step of your children’s journey.
46 Reid St, Hamilton; 478-2312; www.blukidsbermuda.com
Baby Gear – Nest
For the frazzled parents of our island’s smallest residents, Nest offers an almost Scandivan shopping experience that emanates a much-needed sensation of zen. The exciting baby innovations on offer whisper sultry promises of one less thing on a new parent’s to-do list. A judge with a young baby highlighted that Nest provides gear for both babies and mamas alike. And all could agree Nest is a luxury parents deserve.
44 Reid Street, Hamilton; 296-6378; www.nestbermuda.com
Shoe Store Tie – Della Valle Sandals
Bespoke, hand-crafted leather sandals, and now loafers, are the speciality of this gorgeous hole-in-the-wall shop on Queens Street. Keeping the beloved tradition of Italian leatherwork and cobbling alive, Vincenzo Della Valle apprenticed with two master sandal makers in Capri, Italy, before relocating to Bermuda 20 years ago – and the women of Bermuda have been undyingly grateful ever since.
19 Queen Street, Hamilton; 236-7263; www.della-valle-sandals.myshopify.com
Shoe Store Tie – OneLife Sneaker Plug
OneLife Sneaker Plug does what it says on the tin: provides all the sneakerheads of Bermuda with a local one-stop shop for the hottest sneaker drops on the island. Whether it’s the latest colorway of Jordans, AirForce 1’s, or Dunks, this St. Georges storefront has you covered. They also provide a sneaker clinic to revive your most well-worn kicks.
109 Mullet Bay Road St. George’s; 777-3411; @onelife_sneakerlife on Instagram
Scents-ational Scents – Scents-a-lot
The judges said the customer service at Scent-a-lot, the scented body oil retailer tucked away in Paget, is as sweet as their fragrances. One judge mentioned the owner is always “super-helpful” and, if you fall head-over-nose for one of Scent-a-lot’s scent profiles, they can even get it made into bath products. In range and prices, Scents-a-lot is coming up roses.
2 Lovers Lane, Paget; 238-3360
Coolest Shades – Sunglass and Watch Shop
Protecting your eyes from Bermuda’s beating sun is no small feat. The sheer selection of frames, tints, and lenses available at Sunglass and Watch Shop is unmatchable. You can opt for designer show stoppers from Celine or Tom Ford, or more practical pairs hailing from brands like Oakley and Ray Bans. No matter the occasion, here your optical choices are optimally covered.
25 Front Street, Hamilton; 292- 5805; www.sunglassandwatchshop.bm
Coolest Shades Honorable Mention – Tropix
“Young” and “local” were the epithets used to describe the sunglass brand Tropix. With the tagline “We bring the heat,” it’s clear to see why the judges wanted to nod to this retailer sourcing the hottest styles of the season for reasonably cool prices.
@tropixbda on Instagram
Hand Bags Tie – Lusso
Leather beauties from Coach, Ted Baker, Kate Spade, and MCM line Lusso’s shelves, enticing the most frugal shoppers to splurge on a special piece. This retailer relies on the reputation of iconic heritage brands that guarantee exceptional quality. Our judges could not deny that Lusso is the only place on the island where you can purchase a high-end brand-name handbag, which landed them the top spot.
51 Front Street, Hamilton; 295-6734
Hand Bags Tie – Bermuda Born
These intrinsically Bermudian bags are shaped by hand on the island by owner Patrice Morgan, before being shipped to artisan leather makers in Portugal. The judges loved the variety of styles and colors offered on Bermuda Born’s website, all hosting the brand’s unmissable gold longtail logo.
www.bermudaborn.com
Fine Jewellery – Astwood Dickinson
Astwood Dickinson is far from a diamond in the rough. This shop provides customer service and a luxury retail experience as polished as its gemstones, thanks to over one hundred years as Bermuda’s premier jewellers. One of our judges said when they walk into Astwood Dickinson’s glittering new storefront they “feel like a millionaire.” With opulent labels like Hearts on Fire and Cartier keeping shoppers company, it’s not a difficult image to conjure.
25 Front Street, Hamilton; 292-5805; www.astwooddickinson.bm
Everyday Jewellery – Satori Notes
Of Satori Notes our judges thought this was “jewellry with a mission” made to “empower” the people who wear it every day. 18-karat-plated gold and silver bangles and rings are embossed with inspirational messages that encourage self-love and respect. The messaging of this brand is baked into its prices with most pieces costing less than $30, so everyone can afford to spread the word. www.satorinotes.com
Watches – Crissons
The judges named Crissons the winner of this category for their commitment to stocking high-quality watch brands like Rolex and Movado. The time-honored tradition of catering to customers across the spectrum of horological needs was not lost on the judges. The shop also offers more affordable labels like Michael Kors and Casio.
16 Queen St, Hamilton; 295-2351
Make-up – Cassine
At Cassine, coral is not just a blush, and aqua means more that an eye-shadow shade. This eco-friendly apothecary advocates for ocean protection by stocking clean beauty products that have been rigorously vetted. Reef-safe sunscreen and refillable cosmetics are the standard here, not the exception. A shift in retail that is more important than ever, one judge was keen to remind the panel.
25 Reid Street, Hamilton; 400-5013; www.cassine.shop
Skin Care – Enzuri Beauty
Enzuri Beauty’s founder Kisha Tyrrell cultivated her love of skincare from a young age by experimenting with local natural ingredients like aloe, hibiscus, and seaweed. She now shares her passion with the rest of the island through her high-end line of skincare products inspired by Bermuda’s bounty. The product range may be paired back, but customers know this speaks to the efficacy of each glass-bottled potion.
www.enzuribeauty.com
Social Media Presence Tie – Shonia Turini
The Bermudian cover star Shonia Turini’s reign as the island’s supreme social media maven continues. Turini rose to Hollywood royalty as the costume stylist on the Emmy-winning HBO series ‘Insecure’ and blockbusters like ‘Queen and Slim’. She’s landed major brand deals with La Mer, Dior, and Tiffany & Co., often ensuring her A-list partnerships feature content shot locally.
@shionat on Instagram
Social Media Presence Tie – Shantia Seymour
Local marketer and stylist Shantia Seymour has been recognised for her street style in Essence and the late fashion blog Manreppeler. Her Instagram displays bold, bright outfits and perfectly curated lifestyle shots reflective of what it means to be young and beautiful in Bermuda. Our judges commended Semyour’s creative hustle stating they “always see her on set” styling local campaigns. @shantia.aiyanna on Instagram
Sustainable Fashion finds Tie – Coral Coast Clothing
Swim trunks made out of Repreve, the gold standard of recycled plastic material, are at the centre of Coral Coast’s rebrand “Coral 2.0.” Each pair of stylish trunks has rescued at least five plastic bottles from landfills. Bermudian founders Adam and Sam have set out to provide reinvigorated clothing that celebrates a change in purchasing habits, and our judges are here for it.
15 Front St, Hamilton; 707-7729; www.coralcoastclothing.com
Sustainable Fashion Finds Tie – Tuck Shop
Tuck Shop started out as a small-batch organic bakery in Heron Bay but has since blossomed into a well-heeled concept store offering some of the best sustainable fashion pieces on the island. Championing quality over quantity, you can count on finding slow-fashion mainstays like Pink City Prints and LC always in stock. Owner Alicia Tucker always delivers on good taste, in more ways than one.
235 Middle Road, Southampton; 238-8825; www.tuckshopbermuda.com
Bermuda Made Beauty Product Tie – Dove & Butterfly
One judge said Dove & Butterfly, the local purveyor of natural body butters, oils, and whips, was not just a skincare brand, but a “self-care” brand. Another judge said she “loved the simplicity of ingredients” in each product – which are predominantly vegan and natural. Our judges universally agreed that this sell-out brand is raising the bar on Bermuda-made beauty.
92 Harrington Sound Road, Smiths; 533-2776; www.doveandbutterfly.com
Bermuda-Made Beauty Product Tie – Sade Milan
Taking the reigns on Bermuda’s inmate skincare and feminine products, Sade Milan has carved out a necessary space for this once-taboo corner of the beauty industry. Founder Ashleigh Simmons started tinkering with local ingredients to treat her own ingrown hairs during lockdown. Now, customers fight tooth and nail to secure their bikini-line oils, body polishes, and dark spot treatments in hotly anticipated product drops.
www.sademilanskin.com
Bermuda-Made Clothing Tie – Aqua Designs
Mother of three Nicola Lucas hand paints all the Bermudian-inspired designs for her resort and kids’ apparel. Lucas first made a name for herself sewing one-of-a-kind wedding dresses and ball gowns, before turning her hand to more accessible silhouettes. You can nab your own Aqua Designs ready-to-wear garment at Island Outfitters in Dockyard, or book a try-on session in their private showroom.
www.aquadesignsbermuda.com
Bermuda-Made Clothing Tie – Bermunitees
Bermunitees are the t-shirts that give back to the community by donating a portion of every sale to a local charity of the brand choice that changes every year. The brand’s original t-shirt with the simple-yet-effective imagery of the outline of Bermuda and the statement “Home.” captured Bermuda’s heart immortalizing Bermunitees in the Bermuda merchandise cannon.
www.bermunitees.com
Hair Accessories – Isabella Artuso
Danielle Paynter has thrown her hat, or headband, back into the ring to launch another business inspiring people to shop small and local. This time, the entrepeneur-turned-influencer has launched an artisan headband line with her mother, Patricia, to celebrate the colors of Cupmatch and the women of Bermuda. The bands, which take up to 5 hours to hand-make, are the perfect finishing touch to any outfit.
www.isabellaartuso.com
Accessories – Touché Bermuda
Islanders in the know flock to local boutique Touché to secure an accessory that will set them out from the crowd. Whether it’s a statement necklace or bedazzled baguette bag, our judges loved how, more often than not, the pieces available in this cozy storefront are completely original, meaning there’s no chance of playing adornment snap with another Bermudian.
8 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-4585
Judges
Belinda Barbieri – Chief marketing officer, MEF Ltd.
Abstained from voting in Shoe Store category
Alana Dowling – Make-up artist
Abstained from voting in Make-up Artist category
Kisha Tyrrell – CEO and founder, Enzuri Beauty
Abstained from voting in Skin Care category
Chyna Cyrus – Owner, Satori Notes Jewelry
Abstained from voting in Everyday Jewelry and Local Jewelry categories
Katrina Simons – Underwriter, AIG
