March 29, 2020

Shopping Day in Highland Park Village, Dallas, Texas

My first trip to Dallas certainly wouldn’t have been complete without a shopping day at Highland Park Village, the FIRST shopping center ever built in America, which opened in 1931. Granted, this is not your typical American mall. Rather, it’s a sophisticated open-air shopping area created in a square, typical of town centers found in Europe. With its Mediterranean details – tiled roofs and painted tiles, exploring the village is a real treat.

highland park village dallas shopping

My first trip to Dallas certainly wouldn’t have been complete without a shopping day at Highland Park Village, the FIRST shopping center ever built in America, which opened in 1931.

I arrived on a Friday at lunch time, and to say it was bustling is an understatement. I tried to score a table at the Honor Bar, but it was maxed to capacity…an hour and half wait. My stomach would certainly not wait that long! Luckily, I was able to enjoy a lovely meal at Mi Cocina.

After refueling, it was time to explore. The center is anchored by the charming Village Theater, which opened in 1935. It warmed my heart to see it still active, and not torn down and replaced with some modern cinematic interpretation.

Granted, the village is home to many of the main brands, from Tom Ford and Harry Winston to Valentino and Celine. But…when in Rome… I stopped in the Chanel store (which will soon go through renovations), and I couldn’t decide which of these bags I liked better. Which would you choose?

I was completely enamored with this festive print vest at Etro. I’ve always been a fan of their use of color and design – a sophisticated bohemian vibe.  I think it would look fab with everything from jeans to over a dress, don’t you? And, I think it could work year-round in California, making it a very useful piece indeed!

I’ve always been a fan of their use of color and design — a sophisticated bohemian vibe.

But I digress. There are also a number of intriguing independent stores that drew me in. Dallas-based Forty Five Ten was a little jewel box of delight. Both these silver Miu Miu’s and these Carmen Miranda-esque multi-colored Loeffler Randall slides had me asking for my size. And what about these bold earrings from Begum Khan? Quite the statement. (Plus, you know I have a thing for scarabs!)

A friend had recommended I stop in the home store Madison, which recently moved into a new space in the Village. I can see why she said it’s the perfect place to pick up a gift for yourself or a friend. Endless shelves were filled with frames, tableware and a multitude of décor items, including some eye-catching modern acrylic pieces from Alexandra von Furstenberg. I also admired the “pantry” filled with a variety of China patterns and glassware.

If you’re someone with a preppier style, then Hadleigh’s will be right up your alley. While I was familiar with their Italian-made logo slippers, I was surprised to find you can get them made with a custom design, from your own initials to a sketch from your children. In addition, they have bespoke menswear and lovely dresses for women. Who knew? I was impressed seeing the extensive brand this husband/wife duo have created.

In need of a little sugar rush, I went to BIRD bakery for a little pick-me-up. Everything is made in house from scratch. No wonder the sugar cookie melted in my mouth! This is the brainchild of Elizabeth Chambers and her husband, actor Armie Hammer. This is definitely more than just a sweet spot – you can also enjoy a full breakfast or lunch here.

I was there at just the right time to experience the La Vie pop-up store, which was running for a limited time. Founded by Lindsey McClain and Jamie Coulter, this one-size line of caftans and kimonos is just bursting with color and print. I think my favorites were the no. 381 and the no. 289. And no worries if you don’t catch the pop-up, as they have a fab e-commerce site.

Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon at Highland Park Village. It’s an ideal place to shop, eat, and get a glimpse of Dallas society. In fact, one of my featured stores is located here! Which one, you may ask? If you want to see my exclusive little black book for Dallas, just click here to become a member.

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