Award of Excellence: Lili Bermuda
This year we recognise a true Bermudian brand that captures the allure and romanticism of our beautiful island; that is the embodiment of history and authenticity; and that emphasises quality and exclusivity above all, despite international acclaim. Congratulations Lili Bermuda for capturing our hearts with your timeless collection of signature fragrances for men and women. Carefully handcrafted since 1928, Lili Bermuda’s highly sought after bouquet of perfumes highlights nautical, botanical and cultural aspects of island living. Popular scents feature notes of bright blooming florals, fresh salt spray and heady Bermuda cedar wood. Even the packaging is a treat to behold with engraved name medals, delicate, hand-tied ribbons and labels reminiscent of old Bermuda stamps.
Lili Bermuda is based out of the historic Stewart Hall in St. George’s where each and every sensory experience is handcrafted under the direction of resident perfumer Isabelle Ramsay-Brackstone. Be sure to stop in for a tour; visitors to the Bermuda Perfumery have the rare opportunity to go behind the scenes of their unique production and bottling process. Recently, Lili Bermuda opened a retail store on Front Street.
5 Queen Street, St. George’s, 293-0627; 67 Front Street, Hamilton, 296-2885
Men’s Business Wear
A. S. Cooper Man
Update your wardrobe and dress to impress with an impeccably coordinated ensemble from the comprehensive selection of business wear at A. S. Cooper Man. Whether you’re shopping for a sleek suit or a casual Friday khaki pant and sweater combo, this popular men’s store consistently stocks the best name brands at competitive prices.
29 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-3961
Men’s Casual Wear
MenCo
Modern urban wear meets contemporary comfort in this edgy boutique at the corner of King and Reid Streets. MenCo showcases a carefully chosen repertoire of the latest styles in men’s casual street fashion, including distressed jeans, comfortable plaid button-ups and acid-washed crewnecks. Whether you’re buying for yourself or as a gift, their selection makes it easy to put together an outfit that looks and feels good.
66 King Street, Hamilton, 238-6366
Ties
A. S. Cooper Man
Dress it up or keep it casual with a choice piece of neckwear from this year’s tie king: A. S. Cooper Man. Long ties, short ties, bow ties—there are dozens upon dozens of premium styles to choose from for any occasion. Whether you’re pairing with Bermuda shorts, complementing a business suit or matching with a significant other, we’re confident that you’ll find exactly the right pattern or shade of silk.
29 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-3961
Women’s Fashion
French Connection
Sophisticated fashionistas in search of bold and stylish everyday apparel look no further than French Connection. This Reid Street boutique showcases the latest fads from the UK—think cheeky and eye-catching—while keeping clothing accessible and affordable for a wider audience. Our judges love the frequent storewide sales and highly recommend the oft-overlooked discount section downstairs.
15 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-2112 ext. 113
Women’s Business Attire
Gibbons Company
Gibbons Company boasts an all-encompassing selection of women’s business attire from a wide portfolio of leading international brands including Nine West, Kasper and Tahari. High-heeled executives with a flair for fashion will love the variety of cute work dresses and the recently updated shoe section.
21 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-0022
Cocktail/Eveningwear
Boutique CC
Our judges agree: Boutique CC is the place to shop for glamorous, fresh-off-the-runway eveningwear at every price point. Stand out this season with an elegant floral gown or flaunt your curves in a risqué cocktail dress. Lacy or racy, floor-length or above-the-knee, their selection of high-profile European and North American brands will make finding the perfect outfit effortless and enjoyable. And since Boutique CC only brings in one size of every dress, you’re guaranteed to stand out in a crowd.
1 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-3935
Boutique
Atelerie
“They are the definition of boutique” were the words one judge used to describe our French-inspired favourite, Atelerie. Located at the end of the Washington Mall on Reid Street, this store charms visitors with beautiful displays, artistically arranged jewellery and carefully curated styles selected individually by owner Heather Macdonald. With clothing from over 50 noteworthy designers, including Diane von Furstenberg and Rebecca Taylor, we dare you to leave this magical store empty-handed.
9 Reid Street, Hamilton, 296-0280
Local Designer (Fashion)
Weddings by René / René Hill Originals
After launching a very successful line of handmade clothing and accessories in 2011, former senior lifestyle writer René Hill has recently expanded her business to include bridal attire and formalwear. Weddings by René fills a niche in the market for custom-designed dream dresses for local brides-to-be. René also offers tailoring services including alterations to gowns, men’s suits and even curtains.
Second Floor, Hamilton House, 10 Queen Street, Hamilton, 535-0154
Local Designer (Jewellery)
Davidrose
Founded in 2009 by husband and wife duo, David and Rose, Davidrose has quickly earned a place in our hearts with their stunning array of statement pieces and luxury jewellery. Our judges absolutely love the island-inspired colours, featuring sunset yellow sapphires, ocean turquoise cat’s eyes and Bermuda pink sand rose golds. Commemorate your special occasion with a custom piece that pushes the boundaries of craftsmanship and design.
20 Water Street, St. George’s, 293-7673
Fashion-Forward Finds (Women)
Jazzy Boutique
Nowhere can you find a more head-turning outfit than at Jazzy Boutique, located upstairs in the Washington Mall. Their clothing spans every style imaginable with only one requirement: it must test the limit of contemporary fashion. Complete your getup with a pair of snazzy leopard-print flats, daring gladiator sandals or show-stopping knee-high boots. Jazzy frequently has blowout sales to make room for this season’s latest and greatest.
Upper Level, Washington Mall, Hamilton, 295-9258
Fashion-Forward Finds (Men)
Choices Menswear
There’s no store that can top the selection of fashion-forward attire available at Choices Menswear, tucked away upstairs in the Bermudiana Arcade. This well-kept secret is keeping it fresh with the hottest urban apparel, from jean jackets to statement hoodies to paint-splattered shorts. Guys will love the bold new arrivals from brands such as Born Fly, DGK, Nike and Smoke Rise Denim.
27 Queen Street, Hamilton, 296-9943
Trendy Wear – Teens
Gibbons Company
Teenage fashion is a whole different world, a world that we confidently entrust to this year’s teen favourite, Gibbons Company. Their youth section is a veritable one-stop-shop for the younger demographic, carrying this season’s most-talked-about styles like jean shorts and tribal prints. Casual, bright and, most importantly, fun—this department store is our top pick for Saturday shopping excursions with your teen.
21 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-0022
Plus-Size Fashion
Jazzy Plus
Jazzy Plus is making a splash in Bermuda’s fashion community for its selection of seriously cute clothes that fit every budget and waistline. Their plus-size section curates some of the hottest name brands on the market, showcasing everything from fringe bathing suits to sleek formalwear. The shop is located upstairs in the Washington Mall, opposite its two sister stores, Jazzy and Jazzy Too.
Upper Level, Washington Mall, Hamilton, 295-9258
Thrifty Fashion Finds
Orange Bay Company
Newly relocated to Victoria Street, Orange Bay Company is as unique and delightful as ever. Their boutique-style inventory is always being refreshed with newly consigned items—furniture, home goods, apparel—it’s so eclectic you never know what you may find. Deal-hunters love the unusual pricing model, which decreases the ticketed value by 15 per cent every 30 days, encouraging shoppers to drop by regularly.
45 Victoria Street, Hamilton, 295-5400
Workout Wear
Sportseller
Calling all fitness fanatics! Sportseller has just the workout wear to kick-start your exercise routine and help you look great at the same time. Motivate yourself with a pair of tie-dye capri leggings or stock up on a new pack of cushioned running socks. They also offer a comprehensive sneaker-fitting service to make sure you walk out with exactly the right shoe.
Lower Level, Washington Mall, Hamilton, 295-2692
Dry Cleaner
Paget Dry Cleaners
Our judges had only the highest of praise for the helpful staff at Paget Dry Cleaners, saying, “They’re amazing” and “The ladies at Paget are so nice.” Rest easy knowing that they’ll take perfect care of your most delicate of garments, and expect a speedy and reliable turnaround every time.
2 Lovers Lane, Paget, 236-5142
Jeans
Gibbons Company
Men and women of all ages appreciate the range of drop-dead denim available at Gibbons Company. Cutting-edge styles from names like Levis and Celebrity Pink Jeans accentuate all the right areas without breaking the bank. Need a second opinion? Knowledgeable sales staff are on call to make sure you’re looking good from all angles.
21 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-0022
Lingerie
women’secret
Beautiful, sensual and functional—women’secret has Bermuda’s best selection of ladies’ lingerie and sleepwear. This store carries a broad range of bras and panties as well as the “cutest pajamas,” according to one of our judges. Surprise your partner with a sexy silk number or dress for comfort with a matching flannel set. Shopping for intimates has never been easier.
14 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-2112 ext.150
Children/Baby Wear
Blukids
For adorable clothing that can withstand your child’s active lifestyle look no further than Blukids, a recent addition to the Washington Mall. Since opening in late 2015, this Italian-inspired store has amassed a loyal following thanks to its selection of quality products aimed at newborns, infants and children up to around age 14. You’ll find everything from cute PJ sets to cozy outerwear to fuzzy socks, all at a price that’s hard to beat.
Lower Level, Washington Mall, Hamilton, 292-5065
Baby Gear
Nest
Edging ahead by only a handful of votes is this year’s best baby gear supplier, Nest. We’re pleased to recognise this kid-friendly shop not only for its well-chosen stock but also its commitment to helping parents succeed. Make traveling a breeze with one of their new hybrid car-seat strollers, invest in a folding playpen or pick up a formula feeding to-go bottle. Nest’s clothing essentials, like baby moccasins and magnetic-close onesies, are the ideal gift for an expectant friend.
44 Reid Street, new address? Hamilton, 296-6378
Shoe Store
Trends
Situated on one of Hamilton’s busiest streets, Trends entices passersby with its irresistible window displays and giant “Sale!” signs. High-fashion high heels, summertime chic beach sandals and sexy wedge boots are just the beginning. This small shoe shop is packed with the latest must-have designs, from casual to formal, by name brands like Nine West, Sam Edelman and Franco Sarto. There’s even a section for men’s sneakers, boating and dress shoes in the back.
22 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-6420
Sneakers
Sports Locker
This year our judges split the shoes category into two in order to recognise Bermuda’s best sneaker outlet, Sports Locker. From basketball to tennis to training, this Queen Street favourite stocks footwear for the entire spectrum of physical activities. Sports Locker’s shoe-savvy professionals always have their fingers on pulse when it comes to the latest sneaker trends.
18 Queen Street, Hamilton, 292-3300
Scents-ational Scents
Lili Bermuda
Meticulously developed right here in St. George’s, Lili Bermuda’s perfumes have been recognised in Elle magazine, InStyle and even on ABC’s hit show The Bachelorette. Discover which scent you love the most by sampling perfumes in-store or purchase one of their unique gift sets, which contain miniature vials of their entire collection. The brand’s newest addition is a line of solid perfume compacts which you can slip into a purse for the ultimate on-the-go refresher.
Stewart Hall, 5 Queen Street, St. George’s, 293-0627 or 67 Front Street, Hamilton, 296-2885
Coolest Shades
Sunglass & Watch Shop
It’s unanimous: our judges love the selection of cool shades at Sunglass & Watch Shop. This Reid Street staple carries all the popular designer brands including Ray Ban, Oakley, Prada and Versace. Personable employees are more than happy to show you the current special offers, suggest the perfect fit and help you transform your look with a new pair of sunglasses.
13 Reid Street, Hamilton, 292-7933
Handbags
Lifestyles Co. Ltd.
A new name on the block, Lifestyles Co. Ltd. is selling “really classy-looking” products, enthused one of our judges. This small boutique specialises in an America’s Cup collection of durable, nautical-inspired bags, including attractive two-tone knapsacks, crossbodies and canvas totes.
129 Front Street, Hamilton, 824-5433
Hair Accessories/Hats
Accessory Box
Variety is king at the recently expanded Accessory Box in the Washington Mall. They’ve grown their selection to run the gamut of hair accessories and hats for men and women. Snapbacks to wide brims, bandanas to headbands, sporty to trendy—if you fancy a good treasure hunt, this is your shop.
Upper Level, Washington Mall, Hamilton, 295-8712
Fine Jewellery
Walker Christopher
Walker Christopher is the place to go for a strikingly beautiful statement piece that says “I love you forever.” Unique brands and elite craftsmanship form the core of this beloved shop, which is known for its quality diamonds, pendant-mounted antique coins and Bermuda-inspired jewellery. “They are real designers,” said one of our judges, and we couldn’t agree more.
9 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-1466
Jewellery, Everyday
Alexandra Mosher
Alexandra Mosher toes the line between jewellery and decoration with her internationally acclaimed collections of wearable art. Each and every one of Alexandra’s delicate creations is hand-cast, polished and finished with sterling silver and her signature hint of Bermuda’s pink sand. The delightful window displays featured in her wonderland of a store are not to be missed.
Lower Level, Washington Mall, Hamilton, 236-9009
Watches
Crisson Jewellers
When it comes to wristwatches, the name Crisson Jewellers is synonymous with selection, exclusivity and the best service in the business. They offer a wide range of elite name brands, including Rolex and Tag Heuer, as well as newer up-and-coming models. Classic or professional, rugged or sleek—a timepiece from this long-established Bermudian favourite is an investment worth making.
55 Front Street, Hamilton; Queen Street, Hamilton; Clocktower Mall, Dockyard; Fairmont Southampton, 295-2351
Cosmetics & Makeup
A.S. Cooper & Sons
Estée Lauder, Bare Minerals, Sisley, Shiseido and so, so much more—A.S. Cooper & Sons deserves an award based on variety alone. Their main store on Front Street offers the highest quality cosmetics and makeup, including skin-brightening, anti-aging foundations and the latest beauty trends. With trained in-house makeup artists available for style advice and scheduled makeovers, you’re guaranteed to leave looking fabulous.
59 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-3961
Beachwear
Makin Waves
With almost 3,000 square feet of retail space in their flagship store in Hamilton, Makin Waves has the largest assortment of beachwear in Bermuda. Swimmers, surfers and sunbathers of all ages go crazy for their selection of casual outdoor attire from brands like Roxy, Volcom, Hurley and Billabong.
11 Church Street, Hamilton, 292-4609; 5 Camber Road, Dockyard, 234-5319
Bargains, Deals & Discounts
The Barn
Only at The Barn can you find deals and steals on everything from formal dresses to school uniforms. Bermuda’s biggest thrift shop is open for bargain hunting on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
53 Devon Spring Road, Devonshire, 236-3155
Social Media
21 Fashion
Leading the pack with their effective and dedicated use of social media is 21 Fashion. This clothing-savvy company posts religiously and definitely seems to have mastered the art of attracting and retaining followers on Instagram.
Fork Lane, Southampton, 238-6457
Check out the winners in the other 2016 Best of Bermuda Award divisions here:
Food, Drink & Entertainment 2016
People & Places 2016
Shopping & Services 2016
