Good afternoon, Monday.
I've been so absent on the blog and it's really my own fault, and my own exhaustion. I was on a whirlwind production which went really well but took up almost every second of my time and every last lick of my energy. And as we wrapped that shoot, I left the very next morning for the Hamptons, to hang with a friend in Montauk for a much needed four day weekend/respite.
So the Hamptons. Sigh, I love it there. Because besides the inevitable douche parade that is in town from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Montauk still has magic powers to this very day and that, my friends, is that.
I absolutely loved the rugged coastline, the dunes, the beach. I love watching the sunset at the Montauket, to the strains of "Beast of Burden"- we all know Montauk has major cred for having hosted the Stones, Warhol, and other luminaries back in the day. I love a beach iced coffee in the morning that's just a bit too light and sweet. I love getting a lobster salad at Lunch that's way too expensive but worth every delicious penny. If you can simply ignore the inevitable douchery, you'll be just fine. It's such a special place in my heart and will most likely remain there forever. Montauk is an energy center for me- like Jamaica and Manhattan and Scotland. There's just something so "there" there. I think everyone who goes out East has a place they call "my Hampton" and mine is most definitely Montauk, and that's that. It's true that Navy Beach and Crow's Nest sunsets are marred by girls stumbling around in wedge heels while sea planes land, but that view is just sensational, and with the rose flowing, it's hard not to get sucked into the beautiful ritual come nightfall.
But if you happen to be in Montauk and are not as versed in the Hamptons arts and need a break from the beach, be sure to make a stop in Amagansett- it's a great little town with much to offer. From fabulous shops to good coffee to fun places to grab an unpretentious drink or meal, I'd say Amagansett retains the chill vibe of Montauk but has some of the glam of some of the other spots along Montauk Highway. Here are my favorite spots there:
Rube: Located in cute Amagansett Square, this shop has lovely, beachy, flowy numbers that would be just as at home in Brooklyn as in Montauk. I love the well curated collection of gauzy basics and the kick back vibe. Think gypset chic, albeit in a more minimalist package. Fab.
Lazy Point: Just down a touch from Amagansett Square is the lovely Lazy Point, a variety store chicer than your wildest dreams. Owned by a Brazilian and Australian couple, the store stocks everything from mala bead necklaces to impeccable home furnishings to wonderful art, all found on their travels. And their Jack Russell/Poodle mix is the most chill guy who will be happy to have you pet him as you browse all the fabulousness. There's room after room of stuff you wish you had, in a store you wished you owned.
Beach Stop Henry Lehr: A Hamptons mini chain (there also used to be an outpost in Nolita), Henry Lehr has everything for basic loving boys and girls. Think awesome cotton drawstring beach pants in fatigue colors for guys and wonderful Christina Lehr tee shirt dresses for girls, as well as all of your Petit Bateau and chunky sweater needs, as well as loads of CP Shades. Incredibly chic and almost Californian in its beachy vibe- this shop would be just at home in Malibu as it is in Amagansett Square.
Love Adorned: Also in the Square is the fab Love Adorned, who stocks fabulous vintage and contemporary jewelry (I had my eye on some beetle wing earrings), and standout candles from Lola James Harper, who crafts scent from memories of far flung places like Parisian recording studios and sweet shops in Barcelona- the store also has locations in Santa Monica and NYC. It's a great spot for a bit of quirk.
Ganeaux: Just down the road from all of the above, this great store has fabulous silk pieces from John Patrick Organic, amazing perfume from new fragrance crush Le Premier Parfum, and wonderful minimalist pieces for guys and gals looking for items that won't fight the beautiful beach backdrop and glorious sunsets over the bay.
Tiina the Store: Close to Lazy Point is a fab spot called Tiina where you can find subtle chic in the form of Dosa judo pants and Parisian labels like 32 Paradis and sandal brands like Ancient Greek (incidentally every stylish girl in the Hamptons was wearing some form of these flat sandals, in neutral nude and taupe tones). They also have an excellent collection of Scandinavian housewares and beauty products from Rodin and Susanne Kaufmann. Extremely well appointed store for post modern arty types.
Meeting House: You may be shopped out now, but there's always room for some food. My friend and I checked out the Meeting House for dinner and were not disappointed by the fresh selection of appetizers like tuna tartare and lush crab and avocado on greens, as well as a fabulous kale salad with strawberries. And the service was downright friendly- a big plus in a place like the Hamptons where too much 'tude can have one running for the hills. Sit at the bar and watch the people. Excellent spot with lovely food.
Jacks Stir Brew Coffee: You may know of them from the city, but they do make a nice cuppa. I'm also a big fan of their Sweet Mary bev- a combo of chamomile tea, soy milk, honey, and cinnamon. Delicious.
Innersleeve Records: Yum. Vinyl. Vinyl while tipsy on rose and sunshine, yummier. Excellent selection of the classic and obscure. Not the cheapest, but a fun time.
The Stephen Talkhouse: Fun spot in town for live music just about every night. Saturday night was an annoying scene with a steep cover, but during the week this place is chill and just as a beach bar should be- loud, casual, and local. I saw Big Sam there last Fall and it was a blast.
As much as I love my Montauk, there's simply something about Amagansett that is so chic, laid back, and cool. It has a bit of a more grown up hippie vibe. Yes, Gwyneth lives there. Hate her or love her, she knows what's up.
And speaking of such, that's what's very much up this post Hamptons Monday back in the 212 and thus completes this round up of my new favorite town. Yours, in good vibes and great shopping, with some fab food for some added fun. XO