By Emily Glynn
BEST FRAGRANCE SELECTION AND BEST SHOE SHOPPING: Saks Fifth Avenue
This posh shopping destination hardly needs an introduction. Heralded worldwide for its unparalleled service and extensive inventory, Saks Fifth Avenue, found locally at Biltmore Fashion Park, retails merchandise for men and women from the best of European and American designers. The clothing and shoe departments, both of which carry exclusives from hundreds of designers, speak for themselves, but the fragrance department deserves a few extra words. Aside from scents by Alexander McQueen, BVLGARI and Bond No. 9 New York, the store carries the full and highly coveted Kilian collection. saksfifthavenue.com.
BEST EMERGING FASHION DESIGNER: Marisa Mike
Meet Marisa Mike, who attended The Art Institute of Phoenix for fashion marketing where she learned about branding. From there, she became a self-taught designer whose groundbreaking collection is introducing the fashion world to the beauty of her Navajo culture. (She is inspired by the Navajo creation stories.) Since debuting her designs as an Emerging Designer at last year’s Phoenix Fashion Week, Mike’s indigenous patterns have received ample praise from the local community and beyond. marisamike.co.
BEST HANDBAGS AND ACCESSORIES: Alixandra Collections
This neighborhood boutique has locations in Arcadia and Scottsdale, both of which are consistently stocked with the season’s trendiest items. Apart from clothing, apothecary and gorgeous high-end designer jewelry (as well as baubles to cover all price points), Alixandra Collections also carries B. Alli Designs, a delicate jewelry brand handcrafted in Scottsdale. With new merchandise arriving daily, local patrons return to this local gem time after time to keep on top of the fashion scene. shopalix.com.
BEST LOCAL APPAREL DESIGNER: 224 Apparel
224 Apparel, founded on Feb. 24, 2010 (hence the name), is making a bold statement on college campuses from coast to coast with its adorable custom-made gear. Whether you’re in search of personalized tees, hats, bags, tumblers or beach towels, the 224 design team has access to an unlimited range of resources to make both big and small dreams become reality. The brand specializes in typography and handcrafted designs specifi c to any business or organization. The referral-based apparel company works with more than 400 collegiate chapters throughout the U.S. and Canada, but also proudly caters to Fortune 500 companies, small businesses and everyone in between. 224apparel.com.
BEST LOCAL JEWELRY STORE: London Gold
Carrying merchandise from more than 20 exquisite designers from around the world, and with three locations in Scottsdale, Arrowhead and Chandler, London Gold lives up to its unabashed slogan: “It’s the best!” The repeat winner is known for having the finest and largest collection of jewelry in Arizona, including a very large selection of GIA-certified diamonds available in all shapes, beautiful gemstones, and exquisite gold and platinum pieces. London Gold also offers custom design services with 3D printing and state-of-the-art technology, as well as a large estate collection and pre-owned Rolex watches. londongold.com. Also a 2016 winner!
BEST LOCAL MALE JEWELRY DESIGNER AND BEST LOCAL WATCH SELECTION: Randy Coffin, Coffin & Trout Fine Jewelers
Coffin & Trout Fine Jewelers was founded in 1984 by Randy Coffin and the late David Trout, two ambitious men dedicated to creating a line of fine jewelry worthy of life’s most precious moments. Always at the forefront of innovation, the Coffin & Trout family continuously push the envelope in both production and design, working hard to carry on the vision and legacy of its dear friend and business partner. Earlier this year, Coffin received a commendation for his design of the Pearl, Garnet and Diamond necklace, a breathtaking piece featured in Coffin & Trout’s Masterpiece collection. coffinandtrout.com. Also a 2106 winner!
BEST ANTIQUE, VINTAGE OR SECONDHAND STORE: Everything Goes
Everything Goes, founded in 1995, combines friendly customer service, stellar prices and genuine passion for timeless, one-of-a-kind treasures. The store’s 4,000-sq.-ft. shopping space is brimming with home furnishings, antiques, collectibles, garden furniture, décor and jewelry from more than 20 unique vendors. When customers tire of sifting through vintage goodies, the EG Market Café provides rejuvenation in the form of hot and cold coffee, iced tea, baked goods and a selection of other items from local purveyors. everythinggoesaz.com. Also a 2016 winner!
BEST LOCAL BOUTIQUE: VIDA | MOULIN
One jaunt through the doors of VIDA | MOULIN will have you yearning for summer. The local boutique caters to the boho beach lifestyle, stocking its shelves with apparel, accessories, shoes and décor from independent brands from around the world. Hop online for 24/7 shopping (free shipping and returns within the U.S.) or mosey on down to the boutique in Uptown Phoenix for cheeky swimwear, trendy rompers and an array of other bohemian must-haves. vidamoulin.com.
AFM FAVE: BEST NATIONAL JEWELER: Shane Co.
Shane Co., America’s largest family-owned jeweler, was founded in 1971 with its customers at the forefront. The company, which specializes in exclusive designs dreamt up by Shane Co.’s in-house and top international designers, boasts the most generous diamond upgrade policy in the industry, as well as free lifetime warranty. Scottsdale was blessed with its own location in 1999, giving Valley dwellers direct access to the largest selection of bridal and fashion jewelry in Arizona. When he’s not busy heading up the company, founder Tom Shane can be heard on the radio, giving jewelry-challenged young men tips for gifting their loved ones. shaneco.com.
BEST PERSONAL SHOPPER: Shannon Campbell
Shannon Campbell, a graduate of the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, has been blazing trails since moving to the Valley from her native Pennsylvania. The multitalented wardrobe stylist, style reporter and personal shopper has quite the repertoire. Not only has she assisted backstage at NYC Fashion Week and worked alongside celebrated designers like Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera, Campbell also makes regular appearances on Fox 10 News, imparting her fashion expertise to style-starved viewers. Currently, she works with celebrity designers Rocky Gathercole and Eli Madi. shannoncampbellstylist.com.
BEST PET SHOP: Oh My Dog! Boutique + Spa
Pampered pooches are head over paws for Jackie Griffin’s specialty boutique, hotel and spa, located at Southbridge. (Oh My Dog Boutique Hotel is opening Spring 2017 in Old Town Scottsdale.) Aside from an inventory brimming with local dog cookies, organic treats and fashionable accessories from top designers, the shop boasts a state-of-the-art daycare and boarding facility with luxury accommodations and spa like environment where pups can enjoy a social setting without the confines of a cage. ohmydogboutique.com. Also a 2016 winner!
BEST POP UP SHOPPING MARKET: Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market
When Lindsey Holt and Coley Arnold hosted their first neighborhood market out of a friend’s backyard, they had no idea it would blossom into the shopping phenomenon it has become today. Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market is now Arizona’s premier vintage market, an event designed to inspire creativity and appease attendees in search of antique treasures and unique statement pieces. This year’s three-day event, which is anticipated to draw a crowd of more than 35,000 shoppers, will take place at WestWorld of Scottsdale the weekend of April 28 to April 30. junkinthetrunkvintagemarket.com.
BEST EYEWEAR: Tatum Eyecare
Tatum EyeCare is located in Phoenix and known as “Arizona’s Best Optical.” The optometry staff goes the extra mile for their clients, whether they are in need of an annual eye health exam or are experiencing an eye emergency. Eye exams are available onsite for glasses and contacts, and most insurance is accepted. Prescription eyeglasses and non-prescription sunglasses are available from some of the most popular designers, including Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Tiffany, Persol and Tom Ford. tatumeyecare.com.
BEST SHOPPING CENTER: INDOORS: Scottsdale Fashion Square
With premier shopping, dining and entertainment and more than 200 exceptional retailers, Scottsdale Fashion Square has long been recognized as one of the Valley’s top shopping centers. The posh destination will solidify its reputation with a luxury expansion and mixed-use redevelopment that is currently underway, slated in phrases over the coming years to include enhanced services and amenities (including high-end valet services, delivery and shipping services, and a platinum-level concierge). fashionsquare.com. Also a 2016 winner!
BEST SHOPPING CENTER: OUTDOORS: Desert Ridge Marketplace
With 1.2 million feet of retail space occupied by everything from specialty retailers and beauty salons to upscale eateries and fast-casual cafés, Desert Ridge Marketplace is your one-stop shop for everything under the Arizona sun. Whether or not you’re in the mood to shop, the outdoor shopping center is the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon or evening. Warm your hands by the outdoor fireplace, watch the little ones squeal with delight in the splash pad or stop by for free live music, offered every Friday and Saturday from 7 to 10 p.m. shopdesertridge.com. Also a 2016 winner!
AFM FAVE! BEST SHOPPING CENTER: OUTDOORS Scottsdale Quarter
In an area of the Valley reminiscent of Beverly Hills sits Scottsdale Quarter, a luxurious, open-air shopping destination known for its designer boutiques, specialty stores and gourmet dining options. The Quarter also serves as a place of community, with a lush, parklike gathering space, the largest pop-jet fountain in the region and free seasonal events. Throughout April, the center will host Design Within Reach, a lecture series on modern desert architecture featuring some of the area’s most reputable architects. scottsdalequarter.com.
BEST NATIONAL JEWELER: Kendra Scott
It didn’t take long for Kendra Scott to earn herself a matchless reputation as one of the country’s top jewelry designers. Since founding her namesake brand in 2002, Scott has captivated customers with natural stones and custom-designed shapes. Breathtaking jewelry aside, the company is serious about giving back. In the past year alone, Kendra Scott has raised $2.7 million and donated 65,000 pieces of jewelry to various philanthropies. In addition, in 2016 Kendra Scott entered into nail lacquer, bridal and the home goods world. kendrascott.com.
BEST LOCAL FEMALE JEWELRY DESIGNER: LISA GARBER, GALICIA FINE JEWELERS
New York native Lisa Garber is the mastermind behind Galicia Fine Jewelers, a luxury brand known for its iconic collections and fashion-forward statement jewelry. The GIA-certified gemologist pays meticulous attention to detail when creating her show-stopping pieces, always infusing her designs with confidence, style and feminine strength. Whether you’re in the market for delicate stud earrings or an armful of bangles, trust that anything designed by Garber will awaken your unique inner beauty. galiciajewelers.com. Also a 2016 winner!
FAST FAVORITES
BEST ATHLETIC GEAR: Yoga Ninja, yoganinja.com.
BEST BOUTIQUE: NATIONAL OR INTERNATIONAL: Ted Baker London, tedbaker.com.
BEST COSMETICS AND SKIN CARE: Citrine Natural Beauty Bar, citrinenaturalskin.com.
BEST DENIM: Stephanie’s, shopstephanies.com.
BEST DEPARTMENT STORE: Nordstrom, shop.nordstrom.com. Also a 2016 winner!
BEST DISCOUNT STORE: Last Chance, shop.nordstrom.com.
BEST GIFT SHOP: The Paper Place, thepaperplaceaz.com.
BEST LOCAL FASHION DESIGNER: Angela Johnson, angelajohnsondesigns.com. Also a 2016 winner!
BEST MOTORCYCLE DEALER: Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale, hdofscottsdale.com.
BEST OUTLETS OR DISCOUNT SHOPPING CENTER: Phoenix Premium Outlets, premiumoutlets.com.
BEST PLACE TO BUY A COSTUME: Mardi Gras Costume Shop, mardigrascostumeshop.com.
BEST PLACE TO PURCHASE A BIKE: Tribe Multisport, tribemultisport.com.
BEST SWIMWEAR SHOPPING: Beach Bunny Swimwear, beachbunnyswimwear.com. Also a 2016 winner!
BEST TECHNOLOGY & GADGETS (TIE): Apple Store, apple.com; Best Buy, bestbuy.com. Also a 2016 winner!
BEST YEAR ROUND RESORT WEAR: Ralph Lauren, ralphlauren.com.
Buy your copy of Arizona Foothills Magazine Best of Our Valley 2017 Collectors Edition issue here.
