Summer Souvenirs
Seas the day — and the luxury accessory.
Summer is the season to embrace your best self. Whether you’re stepping off a plane into a whole new country, or making the most of being OOO — this is time for you. Why waste it on what’s drab and lacklustre? Our resident brands have dropped some of their most splendid and sparkling pieces to date. So go on and treat yourself.
Speaking of sparkle, British legends Boodles’ new National Gallery collection has made waves in the global gemstone scene. Drawing inspiration from personal encounters with masterworks, each piece recreates the intimate joy of gallery-going. It’s perfect for artlovers, those seeking souvenirs of the city — or if you wish to take away a little piece of home. We particularly love this Brushstrokes Opal Yellow Gold Necklace, which depicts the micro-detail of brushwork in some of the greatest paintings of the world.
Drawing on Hermès’ rich equestrian heritage, this oh-so-summer Cordage bag in rope and Clémence bullcalf will bring a sense of the carefree to your outfit. Isn’t it wonderful? Built using artisanal ropework techniques, its long leather handles allow for slack, easy over-the-shoulder wear — supported by a luxury leather base signed in Chaîne d’ancre motif.
Perfect for both the city and the shore.
For those holidaying in colder climbs to taste snowsport adrenaline (and apres-ski fun), this bespoke piece from our resident fashion pop-up Goff Courtney is a must. The Collage Travel Scarf is a classic collage strip wool scarf with a reverse side featuring Moschino print. Created from repurposed joggers, the material depicts bygone travel labels in juxtaposed overlays both classic and punk. Additional features include vintage patch embellishments and a zip pocket from a 1960s ski suit. Retro, daring — and one of a kind.
Travel is hard on the shoes. You’ll need proper footwear, sturdy enough for a day spent on your feet and yet stylish enough to pass in Europe’s great fashion capitals. Can we suggest, then, a trip to Horatio’s “shop for City boys”, where you’ll find shoes built both to last and impress. Like these Dartmouth Adventurer Loafers, with the brand’s all-important Goodyear Welt. Built to withstand the trials of travelling — and still effortlessly cool.
Montblanc is a name that guarantees durability, style and heritage. This summer, do away with those tinny headphones you’ve been meaning to replace, and invest in a pair that will bring your beach audiobook to life. The MTB 03 In-Ear Headphones are just the thing. With “a sound signature created by internationally renowned acoustics experts,” these are sleek, elegant, modern — and functional.
Our penultimate suggestion this month is for a trip itself. We’d love to invite you to make the journey to The Royal Exchange’s Bremont boutique, and choose a timepiece to take on your summer travels. The brand’s store in our iconic building is welcoming, relaxed and with a distinct club-like feel that is the perfect way to start your holiday. As Bremont explain, “our highly trained staff are experts in the workings of each watch as well as the stories behind them.” Pushed for time? The label is able to offer remote consultations, as well as a free concierge service by a boutique specialist who will hand-deliver your watch within Greater London.
And what better way to end our summer picks than with the wonderful Aspinal Of London, whose renowned British bags exude summer itself. We direct you to The Eternal Summer Collection, which “showcases designs that define timeless elegance — creating a summer of endless style.” Here you’ll find woven and natural rafia styled in serene, natural shades accentuated by popping, joyful colour: for instance, Dove Grey and Cornflour Blue against Candy Pink.