FASHION | LIFE | DESIGN
DORM ROOM DECOR
EDITOR Michaela Bechler
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dora Sison
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Sandy Stein
SALES Lauren Cunningham, Alyssa Hauptmann, Bennett Geston, Abigail Bordelon, Kelly Sonnier, Charlie Thomas
CONTENT PRODUCER Marigny Lanaux
CONTRIBUTORS Lauren Trostorff Robinson, Mariah Walton Bencik TRAFFIC MANAGER Jason Whittaker
SENIOR CONTRIBUTING CREATIVES Emma Da Via, Tiana Watts CONTRIBUTING CREATIVES Maria Boue, Gavin Donaldson, Scott Forsythe, Jasmyne White
Dimitria Jacket ($692)
Merle Palazzo Pants ($224).
PHOTO BY KAT KIMBALL
PHOTO BY KAT KIMBALL
Th is September issue lands in your hands or device over Labor Day Weekend which marks the unofficial start of fall, especially in New Orleans with football, festivals, and fun! In this edition, we wanted to embody the freshness of the season: updated desk accessories and essentials, a game day refresh, and of course, plenty of new fashion all found at local boutiques. From our beautiful cover featuring the always chic Mariah Walton Bencik and her fabulous style tips in Word of Advice to the fun fads in Now Trending that can easily be incorporated into an existing wardrobe, we think you’ll find this issue both entertaining and helpful.
Currently reading:
Gwyneth: The Biography by Amy Odell and The Art of Vanishing by Morgan Pager. Let me know if you have any spooky recommendations for October!
Join us:
The 8th annual NOLA Dogs Race to the Rescue 5K for Animal Rescue takes place on Sunday, October 12! The race welcomes both runners and walkers and takes you through Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery (which is perfect for the month of October). Come early for a parade and a special blessing of the pets and stay for great vendors and food. All proceeds are donated to local animal rescues!
Registration is limited to 1,000 participants, so be sure to snag a spot on nolagirl.org/events.
B e sure to start with New + Now which has information about the 15th season of New Orleans Fashion Week (taking place September 12-20) organized by Tracee Dundas. This year, renowned photographer Nigel Barker will take the stage in a special discussion that anyone who loves fashion, watched America’s Next Top Model religiously (me!), or is interested in breaking into the industry absolutely must attend. If you’re feeling inspired, be sure to check out Behind the Seams , highlighting wonderful boutiques, designers, and other fashion creatives in the city. This issue also features Lauren Trostorff Robinson of Vibrant Market and her thoughts on switching over to clean beauty in She Says . Plus, another wonderful Shop Dog that loves to sunbathe in the windows of her Magazine Street shop.
T h ank you for reading and supporting The Pearl ! We have some really exciting issues coming up and are always covering events, businesses, and interesting people on Instagram, TikTok, and our website and newsletter. Give us a follow to stay in the loop in between issues!
- Michaela Bechler
BREAKFAST
LUNCH SHOPPING COCKTAILS
ANDSMALL BITES
Ne w +Now
BY MICHAELA BECHLER & MARIGNY LANAUX
F IND You r Flow
Calling all yogis! Celebrate movement, mindfulness, and community at the inaugural New Orleans Yoga Festival happening September 25-28 at the Republic NOLA. Attendees can expect yoga classes of all levels, workshops, guided meditation, ecstatic dance, inspiring lectures, live music, local food vendors, and more. Weekend passes are available, or you can opt for a day pass. The fourday festival benefits Shuck Cancer, Split Second Foundation, and Nirman Varanasi.
828 S PETERS STREET
SPILL th e Beans
A playful twist on the Cajun legend of the Rougarou, Rougabrew is a specialty coffee trailer that has been serving up drinks around town since February 2025. The pop-up’s inventive and Southern-inspired drinks — like the Cookie Couyon topped with cookie butter cold foam and the limited-time Dubayou that’s a take on the trending Dubai chocolate bar — have formed long lines and attracted quite the fanbase. Growing so quickly, owners Vinh and Courtney Le decided to expand by adding a second trailer operated by Vinh’s brother and sister-in-law, Thanh and Collying Le.
Vinh and Courtney decided to trade in their 9-to5s to pursue Rougabrew full-time, and their passion is shown through packed weekly schedules and a creative menu. “We’ve always had a love for good coffee and the feeling that comes with it. Growing up in Lafitte (a small fishing town with no coffee shop), we wanted to give folks a spot to gather, sip something special, and start their day off right,” the two shared.
French Quarter FASHION
Open now on Royal Street, The Rising Son offers stylish options for men in the heart of the French Quarter. The new store comes from a local brother-and-sister team who are continuing their family’s legacy in retail and are curating collections that reflect their hometown’s soul: resilient, bold, and full of character. Whether local or visiting, the men’s store will offer everything from timeless classics to modern essentials to great gifts.
528 ROYAL STREET
Besides finding the trailer for a cup of coffee in the local area, Rougabrew is also available for private event bookings! Follow along on Instagram (@rougabrewcoffee and @rougabrew2) to see where they’re stationed around the city and for future updates on a brick-and-mortar location.
One-of- aKind F INDS
Fans of New Orleans Auction Galleries are in for a treat when visiting its new retail shop located just one block away. Curated offers handpicked art, jewelry, antiques, vintage, specialty goods, and more at an accessible price point without sacrificing any of the elegance the renowned auction house is known for. From costume jewelry to large scale artworks, Curated might just carry the piece your wardrobe or home has been craving.
328 JULIA STREET
Get your fashion and style fill when New Orleans Fashion Week returns September 12-20! Now in its 15th season, NOFW offers nine days of fashion experiences, presentations, and runway shows featuring everyone from emerging designers to industry leaders to local retailers. This year also reintroduces a dedicated showcase celebrating children’s fashion with a family-friendly fashion show at Lakeside Shopping Center on Sunday, September 14. Events will take place across the city and tickets can be purchased online at neworleansfashionweek.com.
PHOTO BY MICHAELA BECHLER
PHOTO COURTESY OF ROUGABREW
WALK th e Walk
Each fall, New Orleans Fashion Week promises engaging conversations and activations for the region’s most fashionable set to attend. This year, renowned photographer and TV personality Nigel Barker will make his debut on Monday, September 15, at Longue Vue House & Gardens for a special conversation titled Through the Lens
Nigel brings 35 years of unique fashion perspective starting with his time as a model walking the runways in London, Milan, Paris, and New York. He later transitioned to behind the lens as a photographer before collaborating with Tyra Banks and Naomi Campbell on shows like America’s Next Top Model and The Face
During the discussion, Nigel will explore fashion as both an art form and a thriving business ecosystem while also offering attendees interesting pathways available in the industry’s expansive landscape. “This isn’t just a talk about fashion — it’s an invitation to reimagine your creative potential and discover how your unique vision can contribute to fashion’s ever-evolving narrative,” he shares. “Come ready to be inspired, challenged, and equipped with the knowledge to turn your passion into purpose.”
And while this is Nigel’s first NOFW, he is no stranger to New Orleans. “The South has always held a special place in my heart, and New Orleans sits like a jewel at its center. My wife Cristen hails from Fairhope, Alabama, which has given us countless opportunities over the years to discover this magical city. Whether we’re flying in or taking the scenic route by car to visit her family and friends, New Orleans has become our treasured waystation — a place where we instinctively know to slow down, breathe deeply, and let the city’s intoxicating rhythm wash over us.”
To learn more about Nigel, his takes on trends, advice for breaking into the industry, and why he started his own espresso martini company, visit thepearlneworleans.com.
Through the Lens
PHOTO BY NIGEL BARKER LLC
She SAYS:
Clean
EAUTYB
BY LAUREN TROSTORFF ROBINSON
BY KAT KIMBALL
Vi brant Market was born from a lifelong passion for wellness and health optimization that began at an early age. At just 13, I turned to health books and clean living, sparking a curiosity that grew into a deep love for nutrition, skincare, biohacking, and functional medicine. Over the years, I realized there wasn’t one place to access the very best products and modalities — and in 2016, I set out to create it. Inspired by pioneers like Dave Asprey, I envisioned a beautiful, intentional space that brought together high-quality skincare, supplements, and biohacking tools under one roof. Vibrant Market became that dream: a one-stop resource for clean, effective, and elevated health.
My passion for clean beauty grew out of an obsession with optimizing both my skin and my health. But I quickly saw a disconnect. Many conventional products I trusted — like dermatologist-recommended hydroquinone and even early Botox — were filled with toxins that could be harmful. That realization pushed me to seek alternatives that were not only safe, but also luxurious and efective. In the early days, “clean beauty” often meant products that felt too earthy or “hippie,” but I knew performance and luxury didn’t have to be compromised. Today, I’m passionate about curating nontoxic skincare that truly works, empowering people to protect their health
PHOTOS
SHE SAYS
while enjoying elevated, beautiful products. For me, clean beauty is the ultimate alignment of wellness and self-care.
What we put on our skin and breathe in through fragrance matters just as much as what we eat. Our skin is our largest organ, and many conventional beauty ingredients — like parabens, phthalates, and hidden fragrance chemicals — are absorbed into the body, where they can disrupt hormones, stress detox pathways, and contribute to chronic inflammation. Choosing clean, transparent formulas helps reduce toxic load, safeguard long-term health, and lets us enjoy beauty without compromise.
And in today’s world, where injections, fillers, and surgery are often seen as the default path to beauty, embracing clean beauty feels like a radical act of self-care. It’s about choosing products that nurture skin health rather than compromise it and honoring long-term wellness over quick fixes. Clean beauty proves that results and luxury don’t have to come at the expense of safety. In fact, clean often means more active ingredients and fewer fillers, delivering true performance. With the right products, we can age gracefully, radiantly, and confidently — while still protecting our health. And hey, if you decide you want a facelift one day, go for it. But in the meantime, aging with care and intention is beautiful.
VIBRANT MARKET IS LOCATED AT 3811 MAGAZINE STREET
Lauren Trostorff Robinson at Vibrant Market.
1
Olimpia Zagnoli Notebook $18, The Garden District Book Shop gardendistrictbookshop.com
2
Bow Arch Tabletop Mirror $38, Susie’s Boutique shopsusiesboutique.com
3
Decoupage Glass Trinket Tray $43, Hazelnut hazelnutneworleans.com
4
Mini Globe $14, Iron Horse ironhorseclothier.com
5
Ceramic Pink Boot Vase $28.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com
6
Mod Desk $1,450, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net
7 Bistro Tin Candles $16 Each, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
8
Rifle Paper Co. Embroidered Journal $40, Hazelnut hazelnutneworleans.com
9
Addison Ross Alarm Clock $80, Maisonette maisonetteshop.com
t o 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10
10
Bookshelf Lamp $225, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net
1
Mini School Canvas
$29.99 Each, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com
2 Make a Decision Notepad $9.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com
3
LEGO Brick Erasers $17.95, The Garden District Book Shop gardendistrictbookshop.com
4
Raymond Desk Chair $1,460, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net
5
Castello Letter Stand $325, Tyler + Tate tylerandtate.com
W ORD OF A DVICE:
Every DAY DRESS UP IS A CHANCE TO
BY MARIAH WALTON BENCIK | PHOTOS BY KAT KIMBALL
Be in g a transplant to New Orleans, in my mind I’m always on vacation! So, I get dressed up. Also, as a retailer I know that every opportunity out on the town is a chance to show a piece of our collection and make a new friend. I use every outing, every meeting, and every day to show off West London Boutique (WLB) or Le Marais.
My go-to uniform is a pair of well-fitted, wide-legged jeans, a tank, and a good blazer. However, on more specific days, you’ll catch me in a dramatic full-length dress, a flirty midi, or a silk set. So, I’d say as far as styling goes, I can’t say the cliché “wear what makes you happy.” Instead, I’ll say, “wear what’s appropriate for the event or venue you’re attending.”
For example, anyone who knows me knows that I’m a huge advocate of dressing up for the airport. For me, this is where I initiate my “uniform.” People should show reverence for travel and respect the privilege of traveling. Get dressed for goodness’ sake! As much as I travel, I like to think I’m an expert on this matter. I’ve gotten upgrades, tons of compliments from appreciative flight attendants who’ve made my flights much more enjoyable, and have turned fellow passengers into clients. It literally pays to get dressed to fly, and it’s not expensive to do so. Pop on a long, non-fitted dress, or a cropped trouser with a matching jacket for layering, or again, denim with a tee and a jacket. Easy! Avoid pajamas, slippers, and robes. There, you’re styled.
As for any other style situation, meet us at the shop of your choice: WLB for effortless and casual and Le Marais for all things unique and showstopping. We’re happy to help guide you in your journey to reaching your style destination.
Mariah Walton Bencik inside Le Marais.
Pocket-Sized Tips:
1 2 3
Double Duty
Can’t find a top? Wear a scarf! There are tons of ways to style a scarf into a top. Put a jacket on top and you’re good to go.
More is More
Don’t forget! According to Tom Ford, dressing well is a form of good manners. You’re dressing well when you dress modestly. Long sleeves, high necks, and floor lengths add richness, regality, and confidence to your look.
Not-So Basics
Invest in these closet cornerstones: a good quality white blouse, cotton wide-legged pants in khaki or black, and a pop of color with a cardigan or blazer in a primary color like red, yellow, green, or blue. Finish with layers of jewelry in mixed metals of gold and silver and enjoy instant elevation.
$9.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com
$11.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com
SEAMS t he Behind
LOCAL STYLE STAPLES TO KNOW
BY MICHAELA BECHLER AND MARIGNY LANAUX
Menswear an d Beyond
Since 2015, Iron Horse has steadily delivered a friendly shopping experience in its rustic yet upscale Metairie store, while adding new specialty brands that appeal to the expanding clientele. “Not only do we ofer everything from sportswear to special occasion formalwear, but we also house men’s accessories from socks and belts to shoes and leather goods,” shared Ti f any Caldarera. “We also carry multiple full lines of apothecary, and complimentary alterations done by onsite tailors are available for all clothing purchases.”
Iron Horse sells GenTeal, Tom Beckbe, Martin Dingman, Kenny Flowers, and Schöfel and will add new apparel lines just in time for the holidays! There is also something for the ladies with Steele, the shop’s women’s section. It’s the perfect place for women to browse while shopping with the men in their lives and an easy spot for anyone to pick up a gift for a loved one.
Vintage Vision
O fering a special approach to fashion, Trashy Diva not only sells gems from past generations, but this brand also manufactures monthly collections in sizes 00-26. “Each Trashy Diva vintage-inspired piece is designed in-house, drawing inspiration from the same vintage pieces that make their way to our vintage shops’ racks,” designer and owner Candice Gwinn shared. Thirty years in business, she oversees Trashy Diva’s six local storefronts featuring three distinct divisions: clothing, lingerie, and vintage.
When shopping for vintage, Candice recommends knowing your measurements since sizing can vary, not skipping over the accessories, altering a piece if you love it, and buying an item if it’s a perfect fit. “I always buy something if it fits me perfectly, even if it isn’t 100 percent my style; you can’t go wrong with a perfectly tailored piece in your wardrobe.”
CLOTHING: 2048 MAGAZINE STREET | 537 ROYAL STREET
LINGERIE: 2050 MAGAZINE STREET | 712 ROYAL STREET
VINTAGE: 1920 MAGAZINE STREET | 733 ROYAL STREET
Standout Style
Playful, bold, and expressive accessories are Rahya Jewelry Design’s specialty. Founder and designer Rahya Blackwell started the brand in 2011 after completing a BFA program in metals and jewelry at the Savannah College of Art and Design. “I basically spent my entire life dressing up since I was little. Growing up in New Orleans, as we all know, there are always events and parties and a million excuses to get dressed up,” Rahya shared. “I think my brand is a continuum of this but really creating accessories that translate this ‘dressing up’ culture into everyday wear.”
Metallic pom pom earrings, neon bolo tie necklaces, bedazzled sunglasses, and elaborate headpieces made of faux flowers just scratch the surface of what Rahya creates. Her designs cater to those who love to make a statement, turning heads and boosting wearers’ confidence. “These are pieces that people love wearing, love being photographed in, [and] love the feeling they get out and about in the city.”
Recently, Rahya has noticed that more people are seeking unique pieces and being adventurous in their styling. “I’m really loving how expressive people are in their style these days. Looking like everyone else is so out!” Stay tuned for the holiday season when the designer will be hosting pop-ups and exploring the possibility of releasing her own DIY crafting book.
RAHYAJEWELRYDESIGN.COM
Material Girl
Laura Fenner worked for Chateau Sew for years as a part-time employee before purchasing the decade-old business in November 2024. Growing up in a creative household, Laura noticed that the very common skill of sewing has declined in recent years. “I bought Chateau Sew, in part, because I fully believe that sewing is so much more than a hobby or a domestic chore…it is an outlet to be creative, and a pathway to independence, sustainability, and even revolution,” Laura shared. “And especially in the city of New Orleans, where we are known for our creativity and our unique approach to life, we need a place to keep these skills, not just alive, but thriving.”
For those who wish they knew how to upcycle an item from the thrift store, quickly hem a skirt, or create their own garment from scratch, the studio’s Beginner Sewing Series is a great starting point! The class occurs about every six weeks and is a good opportunity to properly learn how to use a sewing machine. Besides classes, Chateau Sew carries an array of fabrics, thread, and patterns for whatever project you have in mind. For beginners, Laura recommends starting with something you want to make, as well as a woven fabric that isn’t too slippery. “I find that people aren’t going to want to work on something that they aren’t excited about.” If you’re searching for inspiration, a few currently popular practices in the sewing world include making quilted garments, patchworking, repurposing clothes, and utilizing natural fibers like cotton and linen for breathability and sustainability.
1512 ST. CHARLES AVENUE
523 METAIRIE ROAD
Dressed t o Express
For fall, the ALG Style team has noticed incorporating more autumnal hues, especially burgundy (assistant stylist Greer Cordora suggests pairing it with lime green for a modern twist!); fringe on everything from jackets to cowboy boots; and double-breasted suits for men. Owner and lead stylist Aimée Gowland started ALG Style — a local image consulting, wardrobe styling, and public speaking company — in 2007 to encourage people to “dress their best selves.”
“I have spent the last 18 years rooted in the belief that the way we present ourselves visually is one of the most powerful forms of communication,” Aimée shared. “Whether running a quick errand to the grocery or stepping on stage to deliver a TED Talk, our appearance is a tool that projects confidence, credibility, and authenticity in every setting.”
When working with a new client, Aimée starts by asking, “What do you want to say when you walk into a room without speaking?” Whether the answer is wanting to look professional, stylish, or simply more put-together, this helps narrow down wardrobe choices. After all, everyone’s needs are different, and this is seen through Aimée’s diverse clientele of Mardi Gras royalty, CEOs, athletes, and musicians.
ALGSTYLE.NET
Wardrobe Worthy
Since 2016, Sosusu has continued to deliver unique pieces from global brands. “We make every e fort to travel for markets in search of unique brands that have not saturated the market,” owner Susu Stall shared. Some of her favorites include Erdem and Reem Acra for luxury pieces; Rosantica and Strathberry for jewelry and handbags; and Tata Naka for something quirky.
The shop ofers everything from elevated everyday pieces to wedding guest dresses to complementary accessories. The boutique also provides exceptional customer service in an inviting environment, making it the perfect Uptown spot for clients to mingle or drop in to say hello. “We have developed amazing relationships with clients, and many have come to rely on us for personal styling.” In the spirit of shopping and socializing, Sosusu also frequently hosts trunk shows for visiting designers and brands. Stop by Tuesday, September 16, for a special Stacy Nolan and Shuck Cancer event where a portion of the proceeds will be donated.
3427 MAGAZINE STREET
Modern Artifacts
Gurleen Rai of Zim + Teemo began making clothes as a teenager before studying fashion design and working in a fabric store. While it wasn’t the most glamorous job, it encouraged her to have a solid understanding of textiles. After taking a break from fashion for a few years, Gurleen returned to clothing and bag design in 2023 by experimenting with upcycled fabrics and unconventional materials. “My current practice really took shape in New Orleans, where I began working with natural dyes from foraged plants and reimagining waste as something beautiful. The city’s landscape where nature collides with human-made structures has become my greatest inspiration.”
Gurleen is currently developing new textiles in her Bywater studio and exploring more sculptural forms with repurposed materials that are made to last. “A friend once told me she looks at photos of her mother when she was young and wishes she could have the clothes her mother wore. She imagines that one day her daughter will look at photos of her wearing my pieces and be able to inherit them. I design for people who want to cherish their clothes, to collect artifacts that hold memory, meaning, and beauty, things worth passing down.”
ZIMTEEMO.WORLD
Southern Style
For more than 40 years, Ballin’s has blended a deep Southern heritage, personalized service, and a commitment to the modern lifestyle. Founded by Wendy LeGardeur in 1981, Ballin’s has grown to include six stores across Louisiana and Alabama. From everyday essentials to gowns for life’s special moments, Ballin’s carries a wide range of renowned designers like Iris Setlakwe, Caballero Collection, and SHAN that are not available anywhere else. It also has its own private label brands including Lilli Sucré and Amélline, which are created by French designer and partner Marjorie Perard. Ballin’s also frequently hosts trunk shows and has Canadian-based designer Lucian Matis bringing in stunning eveningwear, bridal, and special occasion attire starting Friday, September 19-Saturday, September 27.
721 DANTE STREET | 2917 MAGAZINE STREET
Treasure Hunt
Inspired by the mysticism of New Orleans, Porter Lyons creates fine jewelry that does all the talking. See the glittering selection in the French Quarter flagship while also perusing one-of-a-kind vintage pieces and other special touches, making the store feel like a cabinet of curiosities. This fall, Porter Lyons will debut “Superstitions,” a new collection that dives into the mystical unknown and the symbols people cling to for luck, meaning, and protection. “Expect everything from dice and horseshoes to talismanic figures reimagined through the lens of modern design,” says founder and designer Ashley Porter. “It’s a collection rooted in storytelling — a little mystical, a little rock and roll — and very much Porter Lyons at its core.”
Ashley recently returned from Bali where she apprenticed with a master stone carver to create a series of fine art sculptures. “They’ll debut in 2026 and feel like the next evolution of the brand — tactile, symbolic pieces that echo the same spirit as our jewelry but on a larger, more elemental scale. We’re celebrating preserving nature, the wild we all harness inside.”
623 ROYAL STREET
Luxury f o r Less
Frequently mistaken for a consignment store, U.A.L ofers meticulously curated and handpicked designer pieces that are all 100% brand new and 70-90% of the original retail price. Expect contemporary brands like Mother Denim, Rag & Bone, and Isabel Marant alongside luxury brands such as Balenciaga, Givenchy, and Saint Laurent. “Each store ofers a unique shopping experience,” shared Stephanie Cohen, U.A.L.’s Creative Director. “The original Chartres Street location boasts the most extensive selection of luxury designer merchandise among all our Louisiana stores. In contrast, the Magazine Street and Metairie locations feature a curated selection of luxury items, primarily focusing on contemporary fashion.”
Stop by any of the four locations daily for a large selection of denim, a wide range of designer shoes, and oneof-a-kind hats, and be on the lookout for chic new coats from a recent Paris buying trip. One of the best parts of frequenting U.A.L.’s stores is never knowing what you’re going to find. “We are retail therapy at its best!”
518 CHARTRES STREET | 621 CHARTRES STREET 3306 MAGAZINE STREET | 3319 SEVERN AVENUE
For th e Modern Man
For being over 100 years old, Rubensteins knows what the modern man needs in his wardrobe. The store ofers styling sessions which can help men find something specific, home in on their personal style, or make some upgrades. “Whether it’s shopping for something in our stock or creating something of your own, we begin by finding out the “who, what, where, and why?” Allison Marshall shared. “Why are you shopping, what do you like, where are you wearing this, and who are you (tastes, style, likes, etc)? Next, we pull things for you to try on, mark the merchandise for any needed alterations, and create a unique experience for you.”
Rubensteins carries a curated selection of brands like Brioni, Stile Latino, Grail, Etro, and Maurizio Baldassari. They also have several trunk shows happening this season throughout October and November. And if you haven’t been to Rubensteins in a while, prepare to be amazed by its transformation. “We did a complete renovation of the selling space and added 40 hotel rooms on the upper floors. This keeps with our 101-yearold tradition of bringing our best and the world’s best products and people. Even with all the changes, we still have the same fantastic staf you have come to know and love. We have employees who have been here for 10, 20, 40, and even 50 years, and we have free valet parking!”
102 ST. CHARLES AVENUE
Forever Pieces
Candias Smith founded her jewelry brand Iris 1956 out of her love for artistry, heritage, and the idea of creating modern heirlooms. “Growing up in New Orleans, I was always inspired by seeing Black women adorned in the most beautiful jewelry — the history, the symbolism, the way each piece carried presence,” Candias shared. “That, combined with my natural love for style since childhood, led me to create a space where jewelry and lifestyle pieces carry both meaning and edge.”
After launching in 2017, the brand has evolved into a full concept shop and creative house. Each item is made to last, featuring ethically sourced metals and gemstones. “Every piece I design carries a story, and watching people make it their own, seeing a ring become part of someone’s everyday ritual, and the fact that it will be passed down someday as an heirloom is the most rewarding part.” This fall, Iris 1956 is expanding, introducing new capsule jewelry collections, exclusive in-store experiences, and collaborating with local artists.
IRIS1956.COM
Refined & Ready
In its first year of business, Ted and George has helped young men purchase their first suit or tuxedo; pointed tourists towards New Orleans climate-friendly pieces; and made fans for life with its logo featuring two labs modeled after the owner’s childhood pets. Located inside The Rink, the men’s shop sells premium brands that are made to last like Faherty, Scott Barber, Turtleson, Rains, Rodd & Gunn, T.B. Phelps, and Relwen. Conveniently located in the center of the Garden District, Ted and George ofers covered parking and is open daily, making it convenient to shop any time. For styling help, manager Larry Grice and associate Peter Christenson (also a local fashion legend) are happy to lend their expertise. “We are proud to welcome every man at Ted and George Men’s Shop. We often hear men say, ‘I would wear every piece in here.’” Be sure to visit the store on Thursday, September 25, for a special selling event with a percentage of sales benefiting Shuck Cancer.
2727 PRYTANIA STREET
À La Mode
Le Marais came about when Mariah Walton Bencik was looking for a larger location for her popular store West London Boutique. The new location was perfect, but it was still not large enough to house all her merchandise. “We realized we’d have to have two shops, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise as a second location allowed us to showcase our love for all things Parisian, hence the name Le Marais which is named after my favorite arrondissement in Paris.”
Le Marais embodies the whole of what Mariah experiences while visiting France: luxe lingerie, outlandish and courageous attire, and indulgent shopping experiences heightening all the senses. She describes the shop as artistic, adventurous, and avant-garde a.k.a. the perfect contrast to her first boutique baby. “Le Marais is designed for the woman who takes risks with her wardrobe. She already has all of the basics. She’s now looking to graduate her style by adding fun, unpredictable, and wearable art to her wardrobe.”
1
estern tyle W S
Renaissance Turquoise and Baroque Pearl Necklace
$338, Mignon Faget mignonfaget.com
2
Tarak Dress
$130, Wildflower NOLA wildflowernola.com
3
Cait Suede Top $44, Wildflower NOLA wildflowernola.com
4
Partlow Cami Boots
$1,395, Angelique Boutique shopangeliqueboutique.com
5
Zadig & Voltaire
Heavy Suede Jacket
$798, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
6
Sensi Studio Texas Cowboy Hat
$240, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
7
Peter Millar Vintage Washed Denim
$200, Iron Horse ironhorseclothier.com
8
TWP Fifi’s Shirt
$525, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com 9
Chocolate Brown
Piper Shoulder Bag
$94, Hazelnut hazelnutneworleans.com
ShopDog
BY MARIGNY LANAUX
Sister L ucca
Age: 2 years old | Breed: Whippet Store: Tara Shaw
Bo r n with a keen eye, Tara Shaw began her career as an importer, launching her namesake brand in 1994. She is specifically enamored with European finds, whether it’s something antique, mid-century, or contemporary. “It’s in my DNA. When I was seven years old, I was allowed to design my room, and I had a mid-century banquette covered in animal print and a black fur bedspread,” Tara shared. Her taste has only evolved, now operating a full-service design firm with a bespoke furniture line that attracts patrons from all over the world. Her Magazine Street showroom is crisp, clean, and full of natural light, creating the perfect backdrop for her curated selection of décor.
As a professional furniture poser, Sister Lucca also piques the interest of customers and passersby. The sweet pup is named after Lucca, Italy, and received the name “Sister” as she is Tara’s first female whippet and the successor to Brother Lucca. She can often be found sunbathing in the shop’s front window, testing out a new piece of furniture, or sleeping, as she impressively does so for 18 hours a day.
When Sister Lucca is not busy scoping out new furniture shipments or welcoming visitors, she is either playing with her dad Robert Walsh (they’re always attached at the hip!), fetching tennis balls, meeting her friends for a playdate at Audubon Park, or somewhere within walking distance of the shop — she isn’t a huge fan of car rides. Besides Tara Shaw, her favorite stores to frequent are Jefferson Feed on Magazine Street and Petco on Tchoupitoulas Street.
Tara shares that Sister Lucca brings her joy, as does working with beautiful things every day. From gorgeous art and decorative pillows to lighting and kitchen upgrades, the showroom is filled with Tara’s hand-selected finds that can elevate any space. Pay the shop a visit to meet Sister Lucca and beautify your home — the canine consultant is happy to give her seal of approval.
Nicknames: Sissy, Sisalicious, Beauty Child
TARA SHAW IS LOCATED AT 5833 MAGAZINE STREET
Favorite treat: A twisted freeze-dried salmon roll
Favorite Tara Shaw product: Her curly lamb throw
Zodiac sign: Cancer
