We hesitate to call it a glow-up, since that palm tree–lined slice of El Paseo has always shone, but fashion mavens and sale seekers visiting The Gardens will notice the shopping destination has recently added some extra glimmer.
“Since the pandemic, The Gardens on El Paseo has truly come into its own,” says marketing and property manager Deja Kreutzberg. “Our vibrant mix of shops is proof of that.” Louis Vuitton and Tommy Bahama’s storefront have brand-new looks and more square footage, and several new stores have landed — or are on the way.
With the addition of popular athleisure purveyor Lululemon, fitness buffs can stock up on unbelievably soft leggings, comfy shorts, supportive running shoes, and more movement-ready apparel, accessories, and gear. And it’s soon to get an equally athletic neighbor: Alo Yoga arrives mid-October, bringing stylish, celeb-approved looks (Kylie Jenner and Martha Stewart are both fans) that transition from chaturangas straight into shopping or lunch.
Of course, some occasions call for digs fancier than nylon and sneakers. That’s where Carolina Herrera comes in. Encouraged by former Vogue editor-in-chief Diana Vreeland, the Venezuelan designer launched her eponymous brand in 1981. Since then, it’s outfitted many a first lady, from Jackie O. to Michelle Obama. Herrera’s elegant dresses, sculptural separates, and other polished pieces land at The Gardens mid-November.
Want your house to be as well-dressed as you are? Stop by Arhaus, a sleek home showroom that partners with artisans around the globe to produce furniture and décor that might just bring Architectural Digest a-knocking — think warm woods, sumptuous textures like leather and velvet, and shaggy, hand-knotted rugs.
And while The Gardens lures shoppers year-round, it’s also suited for those aiming to check a few presents off their lists for the holidays: A new Pandora location gives guests a chance to explore the brand’s endlessly customizable, charm-laden bracelets, necklaces, and other baubles in person. Or spoil your sweetheart with crystalline jewelry and watches from Swarovski. Known for adorning stars in films like Titanic and Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the 130-year-old Austrian company pretty much invented more-affordable diamond alternatives (really — its founder patented the first machines that could cut glass into crystals).
If your recipient is more into sugar than ice, fear not. Founded in 2006 by two teens raising cash for a school trip, Brandini Toffee has since become a veritable candy empire, slinging sweets at three local shops. Brandini will host a holiday pop-up at The Gardens, opening Black Friday, Nov. 29. Don’t be surprised if you walk out with multiple tins of buttery, chocolate-coated, and almond-dusted toffee — the perfect gift for everyone from your grandma to your UPS guy.
And you might as well treat yourself, while you’re at it. With so many new retailers on the block, something shiny is sure to catch your eye.