SOUTHLAKE
As the soft, subtle fragrances of verbena and lavender caress your senses, you might be tempted to mistake this Southlake outpost for a quaint Provençal shop. That’s the allure of L’Occitane. Based on essential oils, fruits, and herbs found in southeast France, L’Occitane is a soothing oasis of custom-made Marseille soaps, olive oil-enriched lotions, and lightly scented bed linen water. If you think it all sounds a bit old fashioned, you’re right. L’Occitane’s line of cosmetics and body products are steeped in 25 years of European tradition. It’s a celebration of timeworn technique over mass production. Now with new boutiques open at NorthPark Center and The Shops at Willow Bend, everyone can join in the celebration. At Southlake Town Square, 1428 Civic Place, Southlake. 817-416-6208; NorthPark Center. 214-750-0475; The Shops at Willow Bend. 469-366-0080.
LAKEWOOD
Of—which stands for “Objects Found”—is the story of friends who share a passion for shopping, their neighborhood, and Mexican cocktails. Perhaps a little too much passion for that last one, explains co-owner and manager Jorge Martinez. “We were in Mexico last October on vacation, and after having a few drinks, we decided to open this store,” he snickers. The six business partners, who are also all neighbors in Hollywood Heights, felt that Lakewood needed a shop like Of, a festive and eclectic mix of home and garden accessories. Amid the imported Chinese pots, fragrant candles, and full-service floral department, Of spotlights paintings, sculptures, and jewelry by local artists and designers. Located at the intersection of Skillman and La Vista, the six-month-old Of is part of a neighborhood renaissance, including new restaurants, shops, and nightspots. “We picked a great location,” says Jorge, “and have received tremendous neighborhood support.” 1810 Skillman Ave. @ La Vista Dr. 214-887-6363.
BLUFFVIEW
Owner and manager Libby Haynes searches for the right words to describe Estancia. “It truly is a one-of-a-kind shop,” she explains. “We specialize in giving your second home a more upscale feel than the typical lakehouse or ranch.” Though most of the home furnishings sport a rustic sophistication perfect for a place in the country, Estancia’s collection of ranch resort accessories also exudes a vintage European flair. Much of the furniture—designed by local craftsmen—combines old and new wood like oak and pine. Estancia also carries imported teak furniture from Bali, fine pieces for the dinner table, and lighting options full of roughhewn charm, much like the shop itself. Estancia, 5710 W. Lovers Ln. @ Dallas North Tollway. 214-752-5890.
OAK CLIFF
“If it’s formal, unique, and really beautiful, then I must have it,” says Barb Gover about the furnishings in her new shop B. Gover Limited. It’s an eclectic mix of French, a little English, and some art deco thrown in for fun. Barb especially loves oversized, heavy furniture. “My staff keeps threatening to quit if I keep stocking these big architectural pieces,” she laughs. Her hodgepodge inventory is a perfect fit for her new home in the Bishop Arts District of North Oak Cliff. “I love the diversity,” Barb says. “Everyone in the neighborhood has welcomed me.” At the Bishop Arts District, 410 N. Bishop Ave. 214-941-4070.
