In the late 1890’s industrialists and socialites began flocking to a beautiful little sliver of paradise called Palm Beach. Henry M. Flagler, a prominent industrialist, brought the glitter of the gilded age to the little island by developing two opulent hotels – the Royal Poinciana and The Breakers, the later was an instant hit due to its proximity overlooking the beach.
At any given time, the guest register read like a “who’s who” of early 20th-century America: Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, Astors, Andrew Carnegie and J.P. Morgan, vacationing alongside US presidents and European nobility. Fast forward to 2019 and there is no faded grandeur here – the grand halls and guest rooms feel fresh while still transporting you to a bygone era – exactly my type of place.
While I definitely prefer cold weather climates during the holidays my 24 hour trip to Palm Beach was unforgettable. I flew in to join my friend Rita at a fundraising gala and had a little time to explore our beautiful old hotel and the shops on Worth Ave around the event. We didn’t venture far for meals: lunch at the nautical chic Seafood Bar on property and breakfast at the hotel as well but reveled in how festive everything looked leading up to the holidays.
It was nice to break out some of my warm weather clothes for the short trip including this floral shift dress that works year round and this cashmere shirtdress that is just so cozy but also feels festive in red, especially paired with this darling pearl clutch Pamela Munson sent over for the trip! (You can find my complete Palm Beach packing list here.)
A few favorite shops around town:
- FS Henemader Antiques – chinoiserie heaven with a healthy mix of campaign furniture and coastal inspired antiques.
- Lycette – I came in hoping to pick up a project but everything I loved looked too advanced for me. However tons of inspiration for the needlepoint lover!
- Amanda Lindtroth – Rattan and Wicker everything fill this tiny store by the Bahama’s based designer. The perfect place to pick up a little something tropical to remind you of your vacation.
- Stubbs and Wootton – So much bigger than their UES store, the PB flagship will have you eyeing numbers pairs!
If I had time I also wanted to check out Circa Who, a vibrant vintage furniture destination that I follow religiously on Instagram.
Your taste is classic, ageless and exquisite! I’ve enjoyed leaning about quality and craftsmanship of the items you share with your readers as well as the places you’ve travel to in the world! Thanks for living out dreams many of us have had, but haven’t come to fruition!