The Platinum 100 2016: Gifts & Lifestyle
This downtown shop offers artisanal and farmhouse cheeses in every price point from across America and Europe. Expert cheesemongers assist customers with their purchases, including pairings with the shop’s well-curated small-batch jams, honeys and pickles. Enroll in a cheese class, pick up a signature cheese board for your next party (complete with crackers, fruit and nuts and a cheese board to borrow), or partake of the farm-fresh lunch menu. 1310 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 951-7860.
Foodies flock to this purveyor of worldwide delicacies like charcuterie, Russian caviar, teas, coffees, chocolates and imported cheese. Among its most popular items are a four-year-aged Fondo di Trebbiano white balsamic vinegar from Modena, Italy, and Alpha DME organic, extra-virgin coconut oil hand-pressed from fresh coconuts in the Solomon Islands. Custom gift baskets are available. 49 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, (941) 373-1839.
From organic dog treats made in-house by a bakery chef to high-style collars, leashes and bedding, this specialty boutique is all about pampering the well-loved pooch. And their owners, too, with dog-themed art, jewelry, books and stationery. 6650 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, (941) 251-5984.
Where the spiritual set has loved to shop since 1991. Gifts, music, crystals, incense, scented oils, jewelry, greeting cards and inspiring books that center on the themes of well-being and spirituality are beautifully displayed. A full schedule of guest readers and speakers, too. 1273 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, (941) 361-3006.
Unique home décor and personal wares handcrafted by more than 70 gifted artisans. Check out the jewelry collection of one-of-a-kind sea and land creatures created by Dr. William Kovel—seahorses, dolphins, ladybugs, honeybees and more—handcrafted of rhodium-plated sterling silver and 18K gold with opal and other gemstones. 7 S. Boulevard of Presidents, St. Armands, (941) 388-1939.
It’s always fun to browse this colorful downtown department store, which caters to the casual Sarasota lifestyle: tropical print women’s clothing by Katherine Way, David Cline and Jude Connally; stylish men’s leisure wear by Rodd & Gunn and Faherty; bed fashions, textiles and rugs from Dash & Albert, Pine Cone Hill and Matouk and more. 1468 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 373-0475.
One-of-a-kind housewares showcasing Italian craftsmanship and artistry. Proprietor and Parma native Maria Alberta Borri, a.k.a. Malbi, personally selects tableware that is both artistic and functional, such as hand-blown glass water pitchers and dishwasher-safe wine decanters in animal motifs. Customizable Italian ceramics and table linens of exceptional quality, too. 127 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, (941) 953-3113.
Marianne E
From elaborate custom seashell-framed mirrors to French soaps, Foo dogs, enchanting antiques and luxury home accessories, every item in this treasure box tells a beguiling story thanks to Marianne Eriksson, the decorator and owner whose keen eyes ensure a selection of only the most distinguished pieces. Custom high-end silk floral arrangements, too. 56 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, (941) 373-1260.
The shopping experience at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is as luxurious as your stay. Choose an indulgence for yourself, personalized gifts for those you love, and smart travel fashions. The spa stocks a wide range of celeb-endorsed beauty products like Jane Iredale, Kérastase, luxe Parisian hair care products and a couture styling collection. And the Golf Shop offers coveted signature items. 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota, (941) 309-2000.
Locals and visitors know you can depend upon this boutique for everything you need to create a beautiful tablescape, from dishware to flatware, glassware and cutlery for the well-dressed table by top-quality brands like Alessi, Mariposa, Bodum, Reidel and Chilewich. Gourmet foods and gift baskets, too. 205 W. Venice Ave., Venice, (941) 485-0319.
A family of locally owned Anna Maria Island boutiques. Browse The White Egret for all-natural Mariposa and Root candles, C&F coastal inspired table and bed linens and more. The Egret’s Nest has Crabtree & Evelyn fragrances, classic Spartina handbags and Fresh Produce and Oh My Gauze casual women’s apparel. The Egret’s Landing offers coastal furniture and home accessories and interior design services. 10006 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, (941) 778-3782.
From whimsical MacKenzie-Childs kitchenware to women’s clothing lines perfect for the Florida heat like Oh My Gauze and Flax, this chic Lakewood Main Street boutique offers an ever-changing array of gifts, accessories and items for the home. 8111 Lakewood Main Street, Lakewood Ranch, (941) 907-9125.
