Award of Excellence: Atelerie
What makes a store great? It’s got to be an attractive marketplace, but that’s just the start. The truly great ones have something rare. A story to tell. The Reid Street emporium had its beginings in Heather Macdonald’s apartment in 2009, and since then Atelerie has become a leader in Bermuda retail. Stocking homewares, fine jewellery, party supplies, stationery and shelves of cutting-edge beauty-and-wellness products, it upped the Hamilton ante. Last year the space went through a major renovation to reveal a shiny new showroom—more art gallery than ladies’ boutique—but just as it found a new stride, social distancing was introduced and the doors were forced closed.
Pivoting to adapt to this brave new world, the Atelerie team created a website as beautiful and functional as the two-storey space the store inhabits. The site offered all the home comforts with safe, curbside delivery. When our judges contemplated their decision, they decided that, ultimately, “It has to be Atelerie.” This is a shop that could have taken many categories. Their quality products, marketing and business development, social media prowess and customer service make for a winning formula that can’t be beat.
Men’s Business Wear: English Sports Shop
An industry stalwart, The English Sports Shop beat out the competition for its quiet ease. There’s inherent value in a store that can solve your wardrobe dilemmas effortlessly: get you the navy dress socks and striped button-down you need and get you going. “There’s no other place, suit to nuts,” one judge said of the Front Street institution, his go-to for ties, shirts, and suits from classic brands, including Hugo Boss, Profumo and Alexandre of England. And shoppers can even order suits made-to-measure! 49 Front Street, Hamilton. 295-2672 www.theenglishsportsshop.com
Men’s Casual Wear: Banter & Steel
“Cool, innovative, creative,” was our judges response to this newcomer on Reid Street. Banter & Steel is one of those shops making you rethink the way you dress, quickly considering that lilac suit or corduroy bucket hat. Owners Lianna Masters and Kaitlyn Simmons are attentive both to their youthful clientele and the details in their hip space—shared with Luxury Cuts barbershop—with its selection of contemporary clothing, accessories, gifts and grooming products, and its eye-catching prints (the “Banter”) with a corporate edge (the “Steel”). 51 Reid Street, Hamilton. 261-7464 www.banterandsteel.com
Ties: English Sports Shop
Windsor, half-Windsor, Prince Albert, Italian—however you tie it, The English Sports Shop has you covered. Our judges all agreed that this City of Hamilton mainstay took the crown “by a mile.” The broad selection of traditional, narrow, bow ties, and even clip-ons, of paisley, striped, and patterned club ties, was more than enough to sway the votes. 49 Front Street, Hamilton. 295-2672 www.theenglishsportsshop.com
Women’s Fashion: Atelerie
While impressed by the choice at Atelerie—a store that continues to expand their line of womenswear to include industry favourites Zimmerman, Ulla Johnson and Ganni—our judges gushed about the high standards of service, saying the store “has done a phenomenal job of delivering an experience.” The team at Atelerie are as on top of their inbox as they are on fresh brands, responding to customers’ queries and accommodating individual requests such as ordering-in special shoe sizes. Our judges love the extra steps the Atelerie team take to accommodate their customers’ needs, and enjoy shopping where “they know your name.” 9 Reid Street, Washington Mall, Hamilton. 296-0280 www.atelerietheshop.com
Women’s Business Attire: FH for Her
Founder and businesswoman Miranda Conway has perfected the lifestyle of her target market in this bright space. An offspring of Luxury Gifts Bermuda, FH for Her’s collection of international luxury brands such as Theory, Elie Tahari and Alexis will take you from executive meetings to happy hour, while high-end basics, accessories and designer denim are perfect for casual Fridays. Located in the retail arcade of the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, the shop earns bonus points for convenient parking. Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, 76 Pitt’s Bay Road, Hamilton. 298-6095 www.luxury.bm
Cocktail/Evening Wear: Boutique CC
Cast your mind back to a time when the word social meant anything but distant, face masks weren’t de rigeur and you had a reason to get dressed up. The buyers at Boutique CC made sure every day was an occasion with ever-revolving gowns displayed in their windows in an optimistic palette and vibrant prints. Bringing in only a couple of dresses in each style, Boutique CC makes sure you will never be caught out wearing the same thing as your neighbour. 1 Front Street, Hamilton. 295-3935
Boutique: Urban Cottage
“Inspirational at every turn” was the phrase our judges used to define Nicole Golden’s eclectic lifestyle boutique. The stylist transformed two floors of the historic Somers Building to fit her singular aesthetic, furnishing the space with antique Bermuda road signs, old photographs and vintage furniture—on which she displays her wares, everything from apparel to locally made teas, bath and beauty products. But it was her support for local artists and artisans that secured her the vote, with works by photographer Meredith Andrews, sculptures by Stratton Hatfield, and Rebecca Little jewellery, among others. 11 Front Street, Hamilton. 296-3039 www.shopucbermuda.com
Fashion-Forward Finds: Urban Cottage
Vintage-lover Nicole Golden’s nostalgia goes only as far as her interiors. Her fashion-forward apparel is perfectly presented among the vintage luggage and curios. From edgy ladies’ wear and menswear to underground accessories, she’s always got something intriguing in stock. Check her Facebook or Instagram feeds for regular updates. 11 Front Street, Hamilton. 296-3039 www.shopucbermuda.com
Local Clothing Designer: Rochelle Nicole
Having interned with legendary fashion and textile designer Zandra Rhodes and British brand Mother of Pearl, Rochelle Minors founded her eponymous label in 2014. She hand sews everything in her made-to-order line of luxury streetwear—think colour-blocked tracksuits and motorcycle pants in upcycled denim. Bermuda Fashion Festival veteran, she showcased her line at New York Fashion Week in September 2018. But this year the former Miss Bermuda and resident advisor with Ignite Bermuda applied her design skills specifically to her community when she fashioned face masks for Bermudians to face the pandemic safely and in style. www.rochellenicole.co.uk
Local Jewellery Designer: Alexandra Mosher Studio Jewellery
The public vote was “overwhelmingly” rooting for Alexandra Mosher. Oft imitated but never equalled, her pink sand resin jewellery is the hallmark of her brand, but her design chops extend further offshore. Alexandra crafts her designs from the depths of her imagination, handcarving in wax sculptural pieces inspired by the textures of Bermuda, from bubbling boiler reefs to rugged limestone. 5 Front Street, Hamilton. 236-9009 www.alexandramosher.com
Plus-size Fashion: Curvy Queens Boutique
Curvy Queens stocks the brands which refuse to forfeit style, celebrating the female form with a range of flattering and sexy looks that won’t hurt your budget. Our judges were unanimous in their decision for this mobile boutique that features fashionable plus-size clothing from denim to wrap dresses and evening wear in sizes 1X–3X. Search Facebook: Curvy Queens Boutique VIP, to browse available merchandise and join a private Whatsapp group for shoppers. www.curvyqueensboutique.bigcartel.com
Thrifty Fashion Finds: Orange Bay Company
While the word thrifty once had less desirable connotations, Orange Bay Company is not your grandmother’s second-hand shop. This designer consignment store is rigorous about authenticity and knows what’s in style. You’ll find a plethora of previously loved, quality items at unbeatable prices in this gallery-like destination. 45 Victoria Street, Hamilton. 295-5400 www.orangebaycompany.com
Workout Wear: Sportseller
Whether you’re looking to lift some weights, run the Railway Trail or simply up your sneaker game, with more than 40 years in the business and the best variety in functional and stylish fitness apparel for running, swimming, yoga and the gym, the staff at Sportseller will fit you with the perfect gear. Our judges agreed that Sportseller has “got the product, got the know-how, got the expertise.” Washington Mall Lower Level, 9 Reid Street, Hamilton. 295-2692
Lingerie: Gibbons Company
With dependable brands such as Calvin Klein, Spanx Maidenform and Wacoal, this Hamilton staple carries quality undergarments from sexy, seductive lingerie to cozy sleepwear and durable shapewear. The multi-brand floor in Gibbons Company has long been the go-to spot for Bermuda’s women looking to upgrade their collection. 21 Reid Street, Hamilton. 295-0022 www.gibbons.bm
Children/Baby Wear: Blukids
In fashion, Italian is synonymous with quality and style. Italian designers have long held the position of being the best in the world. Though too young to get a seat at Fashion Week, the best-dressed kids, from newborn to 14, can get their fix at Blukids in the Washington Mall. Our judges were convinced by the high-quality stylish clothes in one-hundred percent cotton, at remarkably low prices, for play dates, slumber parties and Sunday best. Phase 1, Washington Mall, Hamilton. 292-5065
Baby Gear: Nest Maternity & Baby
Our judges chose this Reid Street shop as the best place for baby gear, stocking everything you need including car seats, furniture, onesies, teethers, toys and strollers. Owner Lara Leite selects only well-made, non-toxic items for Nest—good for both planet and baby. And with racks of adorable clothes, it’s impossible to leave without something that’s not on the list! 44 Reid Street, Hamilton. 296-6378 www.nestbermuda.com
Shoe Store: Lusso
Some say you can never have too many, but quality, not quantity, was the deciding factor when our judges chose Lusso. The only place for luxury names like Fendi, Jimmy Choo and Ferragamo, as well as popular brands like Moschino, Ted Baker and Coach, expect elaborately printed platforms, embroidered velvet slippers, and whimsical designs. This Front Street boutique works hard to keep its position as the best on-island with exemplary customer personal service and chic fashion events. 51 Front Street, Hamilton. 295-6734
Scents-ational Scents: 59 Front
The slightest whiff of a particular scent can be a trigger, instantly transporting you to another time and place, conjuring up memories from long ago—or maybe just the last time you hit up duty free at Gatwick. Our judges chose 59 Front, the Brown & Co.-owned space on the ground floor of A.S. Cooper, especially for its Jo Malone perfumes, candles, bath products and room scents. The knowledgeable staff make it easy to narrow down your choice of fragrance—but you don’t have to choose just one! 59 Front Street. 279-5429
Coolest Shades: Sunglass & Watch Shop
In Bermuda, sunglasses are a year-round essential. From customer service to selection and labels, the judges all agreed that Sunglass & Watch Shop has it all. You’ll find noteworthy eyewear trends in oversized and overtly chic to futuristic wrap-around styles inspired by the ’90s revival, and a wide variety of designers, including Tom Ford, Celine and Dolce & Gabanna, not to mention the perennial Ray Bans and hardwearing Oakleys. 13 Reid Street, Hamilton. 292-7933
Handbags: Lusso
What’s a fine pair of shoes without a bag to go with? Lusso remains strongest in this category with a range of bucket bags, top-handles, and hobos as versatile as your everyday tote. Our judges took note of the popular brands in their catalogue—Ted Baker, MCM, Coach, Kate Spade and Eugenia Kim—declaring there was no other place to get such high quality in a range of prices. 51 Front Street, Hamilton. 295-6734
Fine Jewellery: Astwood Dickinson
Since settling into a new space opposite the ferry terminal in 2015—after one-hundred years in another Front Street location—Astwood Dickinson “have gone into another dimension,” say our judges. Their sleek storefront seems poised for a sparkling future. Choose from their Hearts on Fire diamonds, Italian artisanal Vendorafa or the iconic Original Bermuda Collection and you’ll own something that will survive every season. Orbis House, 25 Front Street, Hamilton. 292-5805
Contemporary Jewellery: Atelerie
Long considered a relic of a more formal age, fine jewellery is enjoying a fashionable renaissance—and Atelerie is the new vanguard. Find future classics from Suzanne Kalan, modern heirlooms by Foundrae and celestial talismans by Sofia Zakia, and from French jeweller Gigi Clozeau, delicate chains with colourful resin beads which now come with Bermuda gold charms. Scattered all around the lofty space, you’ll see unique pieces that won’t break the bank. 9 Reid Street, Washington Mall, Hamilton. 296-0280 www.atelerietheshop.com
Accessories: Touché Bermuda
Small in size, but large in impact, Touché consistently hits the mark with its chunky chains, modern pearls, oversized hoops and a resurgence of rhinestones. This tiny, Reid Street boutique has floor-to-ceiling shelves stocked with the latest trends in bags, sunglasses, hairbands, hats, scarves, bracelets. Whatever you need to complete your look, you’re guaranteed to find it here. 8 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-4585
Watches: Astwood Dickinson
The allure of the wristwatch, it seems, cannot be destroyed by the digital age. With heavyweights like Cartier Longines, TAG Heuer, Omega, Tissot, Bremont and Breitling, you’re sure to find a beautiful timepiece to suit your personality. Beyond all that, our judges say the customer and watch-care service is “amazing” at century-old Astwood Dickinson. Orbis House, 25 Front Street, Hamilton. 292-5805
Cosmetics/Makeup: Cassine
As we all look to create a better world, this online shop run by mother-daughter duo Jennifer Page and Mia Chambray impressed our judges and captured their hearts. Their tagline “Beauty and the Reef” is a plea to connect what we consume with what we put out. A champion of local talent, they collaborate with Bermuda’s artists to deliver dreamy campaigns and makeup tutorials, using sustainable products from RMS, a veteran in the clean beauty sector, Province Apothecary, and reef-safe suncare from Green People. Cassine dedicates a portion of all sales to the Living Reefs Foundation, and they deliver islandwide in reusable cotton tote bags. www.cassine.shop
Makeup Artist: Oneka Trott, O’Faces Makeup Artistry
Oneka’s bio reads “Published, Certified, Professional” but it’s a modest list for a woman of such remarkable talent, whose makeup journey began in the late ’70s as a dancer with the Greg Thompson Follies. Scroll through her Facebook page, O’Faces Makeup Artistry, and you’ll see why she’s the best, offering a range of styles from natural to dramatic—and special effects for Halloween. The public vote was undeniably in her favour for her carnival makeup for band Nova Mas. She is available for parties, weddings, recitals and fashion shows, and also offers consultations and makeup workshops. Instagram: @makeupofaces
Beachwear: RESORT Life + Style
It’s no secret that Bermuda’s residents like to look good on the beach. RESORT carries a wide range of swimwear, shirts and coverups that would rock even if you were nowhere near the water. For the men, you have the likes of Orlebar Brown, Southern Tide and SWIMS waterproof shoes; for the ladies you’ll find popular beachwear brands like Melissa Odabash, Tori Praver and L*Space, as well as local swimwear designers Novah, Factor and TABS. Kids can get in on the action too with racks of adorable beachwear. Throw it all in their Bermuda-branded totes and you’re good to go. Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, 76 Pitt’s Bay Road, Hamilton. 298-6095 www.luxurygifts.bm
Best Fashion Blog/Social Media Presence: The NAB App (Danielle Paynter)
Long before the Covid-19 pandemic threatened the local economy, Danielle Paynter had made it her personal mission to save Bermuda retail. Her Instagram feed is a living lookbook of great fashion and lifestyle finds from all over the island proving to followers that better deals can be found at home. A winner in the 2019 Rocket Pitch competition, her goal is to develop an app that aggregates Bermuda’s merchandise, so that residents can see what’s available in a few clicks without having to look overseas. Instagram: @thenabapp
Bargains, Deals, Discounts: Marks & Spencer
It’s such a reliable staple in the Bermuda community that it’s easy to overlook Marks & Spencer. But this heritage company may just be Hamilton’s best-kept secret. Our judges credited buyer Lorraine Shailer for breathing life into this establishment’s clothing section with fashion-savvy buys for kids, men and women, and high-quality $40 denim and $10 white tees—and they offer regular buy-one-get-one-half-off deals and seniors’ monthly discounts. Head to the back for their food and wine, and a selection of beloved British teas, treats and biscuits. 18 Reid Street, Hamilton. 295-0031
