For some the most awaited time of the year is just a few days away, for others it is a high-stakes, consumerist, shopping nightmare that can make or break a relationship. Valentine’s is a time when people pause to share a gesture that visibly expresses their feelings for their loved ones. They say this gesture has to be special for your loved ones, so expressing that really means picking the perfect “special” gift.
But getting that gesture right can involve planning, dedication and time. Now, with less than a week until V-Day it can turn into a chaotic confusion. But don’t fear, The Daily Star has been hard at work finding the best boutiques and emporiums for all things red and romantic. Here’s our list of Beirut’s 10 best shops for a Valentine’s gift.
The house of Aziz and Walid Mouzannar
Aziz and Walid Mouzannar have customized their Hayat Albi collection of rings, bracelets and necklaces to support a cause called Brave Heart that helps pay for surgery for underprivileged children in Lebanon with congenital heart disease. So, while showing someone special your true feelings with some choice of jewelry, you’re also helping mend a child’s heart – what could be more romantic than that? The House of Aziz and Walid Mouzannar, 01-200-756, St. Nicolas Street, Ashrafieh.
Karoline LangIf
If you are looking for a timeless piece of fashion wear, the amazing Karoline Lang is the destination of choice. The high-fashion name weaves the best mix of luxurious fabrics together to make striking and unique women’s wear. Elegance, strength and armor is visible in everything Karoline Lang produce, it’s in the DNA. Everything is made with the passion and love that you want to express on this auspicious occasion. Karoline Lang, 01-336-292, 6th floor, Mokbel Bldg., Sassine Square, Ashrafieh.
Inflorescence Flowers
Inflorescence Flowers are a go-to classic that’ll always put a smile on the lips of your loved one. Flowers have been a Valentine’s gift as long as we can remember. For the freshest roses, the brightest Azalea and the sweetest Carnations (for one’s mother of course) then head to Inflorescence. Here you’ll find nature’s beautiful bounty in all its glory, artfully arranged by a florist with a natural touch. You can never go wrong with forget-me-nots as an edgy alternative to the ostentatious cliché that is the red rose. Inflorescence, Gbeli Bldg, St. Nicholas area, Ashrafieh.
Joanna Laura Constantine
Step into the world of Joanna Laura Constantine for high-quality fashion jewelry without the astronomical price tag. The glittering collections are as diverse as the modern woman, plated in gold and rhodium, encrusted with glittering Swarovski crystals. Constantine perfects each design, down to the smallest detail. Each item is unique and is a mix of materials and colors that show clear emotion, whether are statement pieces or delicate, refined ones. Best of all you’re supporting the local craftsmen and women of Lebanon, where the jewelry is made. Nothing says “I love you” like the sound of a healthy industry. Joanna Laura Constantine Concept Store, Bustros Str., Beirut Souks, Downtown.
J.M. Weston
If you are looking for crafted leather hewn into the shape of a shoe then J.M Weston is the place to go. A traditional shoemaker, J.M. Weston is known worldwide for its iconic moccasins, a timeless classic that transcends generations. The handcrafted shoes embody French elegance. So get some smooth slip-ons for him or for her. J.M. Weston, 01-971-267, Allenby Str., Downtown.
Mukhi Sisters
The Mukhi Sisters design elegant jewelry that can be your Valentine’s keepsake. Crafted from gold and diamonds, the sisters draw on their personalities, interests and obsessions to create high-end pieces. They say that some of their favorite items from their collections are the ones that their clients tell them are conversation starters. So why not see where a conversation will lead you this Valentine’s Day. Mukhi Sisters, 01-989-188, Jewelers Souk, Beirut Souks.
Sarah’s Bag
Sarah of Sarah’s Bag has made a “Love Pill” handbag for Valentine’s. All handmade, her line of beautiful bags and accessories are made by female prisoners and ex-inmates. Sarah personally trained each of her craftswomen and today, over 150 artisans form the backbone of Sarah’s Bag. Stylish women from Tokyo to Caracas via Beirut and Paris are sitting up and taking notice. Socially conscious and able to pick out handbags – take note ladies and gents, this could just set some high expectation for your future Valentine’s gifts. Sarah’s Bag, 01-575-585, 100 Lebanon Street, Tabaris.
Trunk Concept Store
Trunk Concept Store is where you can find him the perfect gift to warm his heart on this special day. Located in the heart of Beirut, Trunk offers apparel by internationally recognized designers as well as emerging talent. Discover an electric mix of both design and fashion from a wide selection of brands from all over the world. So rather than being told off for fussily trying to dress your man, use this Valentine’s as an excuse to get him to throw out the his old slacks. Trunk Concept Store, 01-973-347, Bloc C, Mkhallsiyeh Str., Saifi Village.
Choux à la Crème
If you want to be ecofriendly and unique this Valentine’s, then pay a visit to Choux à la Crème. A boutique designer of stationery and paper goods that makes beautiful prints, notebooks and stationary. Their stationary is made with love and sold all over the world. Everything is handmade using old printing techniques – they simply can’t seem to live without their fabulous vintage Heidelberg press. Buy online at www.mysouk.com/chouxalacreme
Aïshti Aïshti needs little introduction, the high-end department store stocks all that you could want for Valentine’s. Better still there are plenty of outlets around Lebanon if you can’t get to Beirut in time. The stunning new seaside store in Antelias houses all the usual fashion icons, also a restaurant and the Aïshti Foundation. The museum has a selection of art from Tony and Elham Salamé’s personal collection.
By Mira Osseiran
