Award of Excellence: Atelerie
Atelerie often feels more akin to walking into an Architectural Digest photoshoot than a Bermudian boutique, as owner Heather MacDonald’s keen eye for art, design and fashion transcends the space. From high-end clothing, fine jewellery and stemware to stationery, this ever-so-chic concept store curates an “elevated” experience on all fronts. And what’s more, a visit to Atelerie feels like a veritable mini-vacation. “You go in there and you’re not in Bermuda,” the judges agreed, marvelling at the rare sense of escape Atelerie offers.
Charting its humble beginnings from Heather’s apartment in 2009 to comfortably commanding two storeys of its corner of Reid Street, Atelerie’s growth is a testament to its unparalleled popularity and pioneer-status in the island’s retail industry. According to our judges, “They’re the most aspirational that Bermuda has,” with another chiming in to add, “they’re leaders in their field.” In terms of its unmatched interiors, style, shopability and customer service, the judges deemed Atelerie “the whole package.”
9 Reid Street, Hamilton; 296-0280; www.atelerietheshop.com
Men’s Business Wear: Waterfront Man
Riding the wave of its well-deserved win in 2023, Waterfront Man secured its spot as this category’s frontrunner for another year running. Inside its doors, you can trust the uber friendly and knowledgeable sales staff to outfit you from head to toe for your nine to five. Special kudos are due to their buying and sales team for keeping the shelves stocked with high-quality classics, as well as exciting newcomer brands like Mizzen+Main and Untuckit.
29 Front Street, Hamilton; 299-0610
Men’s Casual Wear: Flatts Menswear
Opening its doors in 1979 as a shop for touristy trinkets with a small menswear section, they’ve evolved into a “community staple,” stocking quality, affordable everyday menswear. There isn’t a better place to stock up on trusty brands like Dickies, CITYLAB and Hanes on the island, and loyal clientele can attest to the “great selection with reasonable prices” coupled with their “friendly and helpful staff.”
13 North Shore Road, Flatts Village; 292-0360
Men’s Fashion: TABS
TABS—The Authentic Bermuda Short—pays dutiful homage to a 110-year-old style solution to our summer heat, modernising the Bermuda short into a fashion statement. The judges praise the business as a pioneer behind the garment’s tenure and nod to its equally impressive menswear collections, which have received international attention in Conde Nast Traveler, GQ and on the Today Show—to name a few.
12 Reid Street, Hamilton; 704-8227; www.tabsbermuda.com
Ties: The English Sports Shop
Seldom has this category seen another winner in the last decade, with The English Sports Shop boasting consecutive wins since 2017. Accessorising its dapper clientele with the widest assortment of colourful and quirky cravates on-island for over a century, this Front Street cornerstone triumphs again as a unanimous winner amongst the public and judges.
49 Front Street, Hamilton; 295-2672; www.theenglishsportsshop.com
Women’s Fashion: Gibbons Company
As far as our judges are concerned, Gibbons checks all the boxes for supplying general womenswear for all the ladies in your life. “It caters to everyone,” one judge confirms, offering “more versatile” options for kids, teens and adults. You don’t need to take a trip to the States to shop popular brands like Mango and Gap, you can find them conveniently housed within Gibbons’s impressive three-storeys on Reid Street.
21 Reid Street, Hamilton; 295-0022; www.gibbons.bm
Local Clothing Designer: TABS
While the Bermuda Short isn’t particularly novel to us Bermudians, the judges praised TABS founder and designer Rebecca Singleton for its renaissance, “taking an old thing and making it new.” With over fifty shades of shorts for sale, TABS can outfit you in a different colour for every day of the month if you so wish! From men’s shorts and shirts to designing looks for the whole family with stylish women’s and kid’s lines, Rebecca continues to impress our judges with the exciting addition of a storefront in the Cayman Islands as another testament to her brand’s success.
12 Reid Street, Hamilton; 704-8227; www.tabsbermuda.com
Local Accessory Designer: Courtney Clay Studio
Local print and textile designer Courtney Clay has made a name for herself since launching her first collection of printed scarves back in December, with the drop selling out in under two weeks. Pulling inspiration from the island’s natural beauty, as seen in the bright floral patterns of her “Bermudiana” and “Hibiscus” styles, Courtney’s artfully designed scarves are the perfect pop of colour for any outfit, handbag or hairdo. You can find them at Cassine, but hurry, each collection is limited edition and sure to sell out fast! @courtneyclaystudio on Instagram
Women’s Business Attire: Marks & Spencer
Another Reid Street mainstay, M&S has been outfitting the hardworking women of Bermuda with affordable, well-made pieces since the 1960s. Don’t just take it from our judges; take it from one happy customer who, impressed by M&S’s “timeless pieces that blend with your more ‘upscale’ wardrobe,” gushed, “The styles keep surprising me.”
18 Reid Street, Hamilton; 295-0031; www.marksandspencerbermuda.com
Boutique: The Shops at The Princess
When one hears the word “boutique”, the mind’s eye can’t help but picture exactly what The Shops at The Princess promise—an elegantly charming, colourful, carefully curated luxury experience. Housed within the ground floor of the Hamilton Princess hotel, The Shops offer not one but three stores to peruse: Princess Resort Shop, Pink Cabana and Blank Canvas. Our judges sang its curator and buyer Lorraine Shailer’s praises for the “amazing job” she’s doing, evolving The Shops into the quintessential “boutique” experience.
76 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; www.hamiltonprincessshops.com
Local Jewellery Designer: Davidrose Studio
Our judges were thrilled with Davidrose’s win, a deserving feat after celebrating twelve years in the business. Capturing Bermuda’s natural colours and charm in dazzlingly unique, hand-crafted pieces, Davidrose curates the perfect finishing touches to elevate any ensemble. The craftsmanship and passion of dynamic owner-duo, David and Rose, emanates from each piece and collection, earning them 70 five-star reviews online full of kind words and testimonials from happy customers.
47 Front Street, Hamilton; 295-7673; www.davidrosestudio.com
Local Jewellery Designer (Honourable Mention): Earz Da Jeweller
Our judges wanted to ensure local jewellery designer Earz Da Jeweller got his rightful recognition too, commending his dedication to “trying to do something different.” A quick glance through his Instagram feed proves just that, flaunting beautifully bespoke pieces that spare no attention to detail. From custom pendants, earrings, signet and engagement rings, bring your wildest vision to life with a coveted commission.
@earzdajeweler on Instagram
Fashion-forward Finds: Atelerie
Another notch in Atelerie’s (surely chic!) metaphorical belt—the judges agreed that “they have their ear to the ground about what’s going to be popular.” When it comes to keeping their finger on the “trends” pulse, the team behind this year’s Award of Excellence continues to prove why Atelerie is simply “a step above most.” With racks of trendy and timeless styles from the hottest namesake brands, like Ulla Johnson and Anine Bing as well as cult favourites Ganni and Agolde, it’s practically impossible to exit empty-handed.
9 Reid Street, Hamilton; 737-1700; www.atelerietheshop.com
Plus-size Fashion: Modblu Boutique
Modblu prides itself on size inclusivity, and just a quick glance at their Instagram bio confirms, proudly touting “Inclusive Boutique in Bermuda. Carrying sizes XS–3X.” Stocking fun colours, prints and patterns to fit women of all sizes, the judges commend owner Kristen Carreiro for sourcing “trendy,” size-inclusive pieces, so no one has to sacrifice style to look and feel the absolute best in their body.
69 Front Street, Hamilton; 261-3250; www.modblubermuda.com
Thrifty Fashion Finds: Hidden Treasures
As the name reflects, Hidden Treasures is the place for thrifty fashion finds, with new pieces added each week. With a business ethos built around community and a focus on “reusing, repurposing and recycling,” Hidden Treasures transforms preloved pieces into one-of-a-kind, fashionable finds at affordable prices. Be sure to make a pit stop at their T.N.Tatem location; they’re open every Saturday from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
60 Middle Road, Warwick; www.hiddentreasuresbermuda.com
Workout Wear: Active by Dais
Born from the mind of personal trainer, Shadé Simmons-Wolffe, Active by Dais is the buzziest new athleisure brand for women on the island. Branching into designing workout wear was a natural next step in Shadé’s journey helping her clients feel their best, with each piece crafted with comfort in mind and a little added sexy flare. Whether you’re opting for one of the buttery-soft two-piece sets or their “Not-So-Average” curve-hugging bodysuit, Active by Dais promises you’ll look just as good as you feel.
www.activebydais.com
Lingerie for Everyday: Marks & Spencer
Marks & Spencer is the most reliable outlet for all of your quotidian essentials—including lingerie. From cotton and cosy everyday undergarments to lacy and racy sleepwear, M&S’s lingerie selection is one of the largest on the island.
18 Reid Street, Hamitlon; 295-0031; www.marksandspencerbermuda.com
Lingerie for a Special Occasion: Eve’s Garden
Tucked snuggly away in the Emporium Building on Front Street, Eve’s Garden is the place to find the perfect “little something” to slip into for a boost of confidence in the bedroom. The judges agreed that you’re in good hands when you step inside their doors, greeted by helpful staff primed with “a world of knowledge” about all things intimacy.
69 Front Street, Hamilton; 296-2671; www.evesgardenbermuda.com
(Tie) Children/Baby Wear: Klassiq Kidz
With four wins in four years, Klassiq Kidz is an undeniable hot spot for sourcing the latest fashion for your trendy kids and tweens. Family-owned and operated since 2014, you can rest assured that you’ll be in good hands with owner Lee Lee and her friendly team.
57 Court Street, Hamilton; 295-5439; www.shopklassiqkidz.com
(Tie) Children/Baby Wear: BLUKiDS
From tots to teens, BLUKiDS is devoted to outfitting your little ones until they’re not-so-little anyones, stocking sizes for ages zero to fifteen. One judge applauded their door-to-door registry service; as a bonus, “they’ll wrap the gifts for you and send them to your shower!”
46 Reid Street, Hamilton; 478-2312; www.blukidsbermuda.com
Baby Gear: Nest Maternity & Baby
What could be cuter than your newest little bundle of joy? Their teeny-tiny clothes, of course! And Nest has all the baby gear, layette and toys you’ll need to keep your newborn cuddly and cosy; from bassinets to plush onesies to magnetic booties and bibs, the judges agreed that this is the island’s top one-stop shop for all things baby.
44 Reid Street, Hamilton; 296-6378; www.nestbermuda.com
Best Sneakers: OneLife Sneaker Plug
Having recently unveiled a brand-new storefront in the Washington Mall in March, OneLife Sneaker Plug has quickly become a top competitor on the island’s sneaker scene, selling hot commodities from Jordan 1s and Dunks to recently resurged New Balances. One judge commended OneLife on how “clean and tidy” their store is, with an equally eye-catching online storefront to match.
The Washington Mall; 777-3411; www.sneakerplugbda.com
Handbags: Lusso
The judges attested that Lusso was the “clear winner when it comes to bags,” offering customers the best selection of luxury handbags on the island. Whether your taste is more understatedly quiet luxury or commandingly loud luxury, Lusso has the largest collection of handbags to score your newest accessory obsession from stalwart brands like Ted Baker, Coach and Kate Spade.
51 Front Street, Hamilton; 295-6734; @lussobermuda on Instagram
Scents-ational Scents: 59 Front
There’s something so comforting about finding your own scent! Whether you’re drawn to musky and woody, sweet and sultry or fresh and floral, 59 Front can certainly help you discover yours. With an extensive selection of high-end perfumes and colognes, a purchase from 59 Front guarantees a few sniffs, head turns and compliments to ensue.
59 Front Street, Hamilton; 279-5429; @fiftyninefront on Instagram
Shoe Store: Trends
When it comes to variety, affordability and unmatched customer service, the judges and public agreed that Trends comes out on top. Whether you’re looking for a stylish summer sandal, office flats or a chic dress shoe—or popping in to peruse their highly anticipated seasonal sale bins—the perfect pair awaits at Trends!
22 Reid Street, Hamilton; 295-6420
Designer Shoe Store: Lusso
It’s undeniable that luxury and Lusso go hand-in-hand, and their designer shoe selection is especially top-tier. With high-end styles from beloved brands like Coach, Kat Maconie, Kate Spade and MCM on display, Lusso stocks the hottest footwear for men and women in an equally luxe retail space that somehow makes a splurge feel not only necessary but justified.
51 Front Street, Hamilton; 295-6734; @lussobermuda on Instagram
Coolest Shades: Gold The Label
A Toronto-based brand founded by Bermudian creative Perri Furbert, the selection of trendy, maximalist glasses on-offer from Gold The Label particularly impressed the judges this year. Anything but boring, GTL’s selection of bold, retro shades in a rainbow of colours ensure you’ll be UV-protected and effortlessly chic all summer long.
www.goldthelabel.com
Fine Jewellery: Crisson Jewellers
Scoring big with the judges and the public vote this year, this Hamilton holy grail for fine jewellery has been operational since 1957! Crisson has a robust selection of the world’s finest brands and you can trust you’ll be taken care of by the expert crew at Crisson, with a resident jeweller on staff and highly experienced diamond and precious stone merchants who can provide expert recommendations and appraisals on-site.
16 Queen Street, Hamilton and Clock Tower Mall, Dockyard; 295-2351; www.crisson.com
Watches: Astwood Dickinson
While luxury watches might seem more like a lavish accessory than a practicality in the digital age, there will always be something unabashedly attractive about an analog timepiece. And Astwood Dickinson continues to provide an unparalleled shopping experience for your wristwatch needs. With stunningly timeless collections of luxe brand names like Cartier, Tag Heuer, Breitling and Longines, every customer is treated like a VIP inside AD.
25 Front Street, Hamilton; 292-5805; www.astwooddickinson.bm
Makeup: MAC Bermuda
Whether you’re into dewy “no makeup” makeup or luminous full glam, MAC is the island’s go-to for sourcing high-quality products to achieve your beauty goals. Our judges implicitly “trust the makeup artists,” who are eager to colour-match, test and help build out your collection. No matter if you’re a newcomer or a loyal brand fan, MAC products make for great staples in your beauty regimen and are sure to be repurchased time and time again.
53 Front Street, Hamilton; 295-8843; @gibbons.macstore on Instagram
Makeup Artist: Brittany Medeiros
“She can do everything,” applauded our judges, especially impressed by the creative range of local makeup artist Brittany Medeiros. From flawless wedding makeup to avant-garde face art, her creativity and skill are truly unmatched. Whether you’re looking for soft glam or a full face, Brittany is your go-to beauty guru.
@creativeartisme on Instagram
Makeup Artist (Honourable Mention): Slayed by Cin
Taking the local beauty scene by storm, Slayed by Cin is certainly a name to keep an eye on, with her bold and beautiful makeup looks—perfect for a night out or special occasion when you’re looking for a little extra glam. The judges would be remiss not to recognise her growing popularity, specifically amongst “younger, GenZ” audiences.
39 King Street, Hamilton; @slayedbycin on Instagram
Skin Care: Salt + Cedar
Founded by nutritionist Andrea Fubler in 2016, Salt + Cedar is rooted in sourcing clean, natural products, so you don’t have to “sacrifice efficacy when choosing clean beauty and skincare over conventional, department store brands,” her website promises. Whether you’re shopping at their prime Front Street location or online, you can find popular green and clean skincare brands like Mad Hippie and Lovefresh that will leave you and your skin feeling supple and safe.
69 Front Street, Hamilton; 824-7258; www.saltandcedar.bm
Skin Care (Honourable Mention): Enzuri Beauty
With features in British Vogue, L.A. Style and more, Enzuri Beauty has blossomed into an internationally recognised brand, landing their products on Thirteen Lune, the first inclusive online beauty retailer for Black- and Brown-owned brands. At its core, Enzuri Beauty believes that skin care is self-care, and seeks to foster a sense of community amongst like-minded women.
www.enzuribeauty.com
Social Media Presence: Modblu Boutique
Modblu owner Kristen Carreiro is a pro at tapping into social trends, creating fun, light-hearted content for your feed. From sharing outfit inspo to promoting her store’s tasteful collections and inclusive message, Modblu is certainly worth the follow!
@modblubermuda on Instagram
Social Media Personality: Mikaela Ian
With over 80k followers on Instagram, the judges agreed that Mikaela Ian is a social media maven to watch. Building her brand around “luxury lifestyle,” her content charts the path for busy moms looking to create luxurious lives on their terms, without the overwhelming feeling of “mom guilt.” Using her life as the blueprint, Mikaela’s content encourages her followers to “be a little selfish,” set firm boundaries and abide by high standards, inspiring women to never settle in any aspect of their lives.
@mikaelaian on Instagram
Sustainable Fashion Finds: Orange Bay
Last year’s Award of Excellence winner, Orange Bay continues to capture the favour of our judges and its local clientele for their commitment to sustainability, raising its own bar year over year. Having recently unveiled a new storefront, across from its flagship store, dedicated to selling gently loved designer finds, Orange Bay continues to remind us that it’s never been easier to shop high-end fashion for less on the island.
45 Victoria Street, Hamilton; 295-5400; www.orangebaycompany.com
(Tie) Bargains, Deals and Discounts: The Barn
A stalwart grove of second-hand goods, it’s nearly impossible to leave The Barn empty-handed. Eco-conscious, price-conscious and just down-right fun to peruse, a trip to The Barn is truly a win-win-win. While some might say that the act of “thrifting” has become “trendy,” second-hand shops like The Barn are essential outlets in the community, providing affordable home goods, clothing, books and so much more for its loyal patrons.
53 Devon Spring Road, Devonshire; 236-3155
(Tie) Bargains, Deals and Discounts: Restart Thrift Store
Specialising in clothing, shoes, jewellery and children’s toys, Restart Thrift Store
was recognised by our judges as another worthy adversary in the Bargains, Deals and Discounts category. “Clothed in Grace,” as their website touts, proceeds from their sales go towards operating Grace Island and Word of Life Bermuda, and volunteers are always welcome!
16 Harvey Road, Paget; www.restartbda.org
Seamstress: Roseann Alick
Whether your well-worn clothes are begging for a little TLC, your bridesmaid dresses need alterations or you’re seeking fashion consultancy from a trusted designer, Roseann is your go-to girl. There’s nothing she can’t do with a needle and thread, and the judges swear by her skills to mend, alter, repurpose and refresh your garments to ensure you’re always looking your best.
REA Fashions, 734-7896; @reafashionsbda on Instagram
Tailor: Sampson’s Too Tailoring
There’s something especially luxurious about having a garment tailored precisely to your measurements, and Sampson’s Too Tailoring is the judges #1 choice for the job. Whether your trousers need hemming or you’re in the market for a custom dinner jacket, you can trust the hardworking, tactile team behind the scenes to get the job done.
46 Court Street, Hamilton; 232.8989
Judges
Maddy White – Interior designer, CTX Design Group
Serena Brangman – Community investment officer, HSBC
Morgan Simons – Social media manager and assistant account manager, Strata-G
Katie Trimingham – Wedding and event planner, All the Trimmings
