Park Style: Valentine's Day style

Style is an interesting word, and an interesting idea. It can be both everything and nothing at the same time.

Some people surely think they are immune to style, but might get perplexed when you suggest to them that that is a style in and of itself. We think of style mostly when referencing fashions on a catwalk, on the pages of a magazine; but, in truth, we’re surrounded by it every minute of every day.

The Beatniks had their own style, as did the flappers. Mr. Blackwell had his own naughty list for those he saw as offenders. Joan Rivers likes to go on and on about others’ style any time someone will listen. Style is just another way of saying individual taste, and you demonstrate your own in your choice of clothing, jewelry, shoes, home and home furnishings, car and everything else. That can cause some frustration when buying gifts, unless you know someone really well. But Valentine’s Day might be just a bit different. Thoughtfulness and romance, sensitivity and sincerity rule the day as you find your way to say ‘I love you.’

With the idea of individual Park Style in mind, and what that might mean, I turned to local experts and business owners for answers and ideas you or someone you love just might love as well.

Park Avenue Jewelers: I talked with Georgie Torres, who’s been open in Winter Park for about 14 years. Georgie makes his own one-of-a-kind creations, which I used for this week’s Local Luv ‘n Local with my regular column. For such pieces he was nominated for an award from the Orlando Museum of Art this time last year. He creates free-form hearts out of sterling silver in necklaces, pendants, earrings and bracelets.

Antiques on the Avenue: Maureen showed me around here and provided a number of great, interesting possibilities for Valentine’s, including several vintage cranberry-colored vases and perfume bottles from Fenton, made in Ohio. The perfume bottle had little hearts on the sides. As she pointed out, starting the evening with a great collectible vase with a rose before going to dinner and your loved one will always have a memento of the evening. In back, what do you get the guy who has everything? Top hat wine glasses made in Morgantown, W.Va., and exclusively for a hotel. They’re sharp, interesting and a definite conversation starter. Fishing more his thing? Consider a vintage lure, some of which were designs exclusive to Florida.

Le Macaron: There are some unexpected taste treats to be had here. Small strawberry caramels and colorfully printed truffles are all ideal, but if you want a macaron, consider the new rose flavor. They offered, I tried and it was hard to describe, and delicious! The color itself is striking. The guys there say their products are perfect for Valentine’s Day because they’re passionate about what they do and the products they produce, just as you are passionate about your Valentine.

Filthy Rich: This new store nearby, opens Friday, Feb. 1. I was surprised to learn from owners Mike and Pat Shurtleff that this is a Maitland-based company with licensees in 20 states and Canada. They specialize in celebrity-inspired pieces, with 85 percent coming through direct licensing agreements and 15 percent via inspirational creations. With 800 different jewelry pieces for sale, from Jackie Kennedy pieces licensed through the Kennedy Library, to golden era of Hollywood styles worn by Marilyn Monroe, Bette Davis and others, Shurtleff says, “We’re the only company in the world that pulls together this concept, mostly licensed, historic celebrity jewelry pieces. They’re all replicas, no knock-offs in the store. We do not allow knock-offs.”

Downeast: You’ll find lots of new spring items in for your big date here, including first of the season looks from Milly, Susana Monaco, Shoshana and Melly M. For the men, Downeast is the only store on the Avenue carrying Lacoste and Polo by Ralph Lauren. For outdoorsy types, consider a quality American-made bird feeder from upstairs. Don’t forget, they also carry Godiva chocolates and several varieties of Valentine yard flags.

Sassafras Sweet Shoppe: A natural for Valentine’s Day. They’ll have great Valentine-themed candy, but think about something unique, with a specially produced tin or a stuffed animal, stuffed with their favorites. Sweets for the sweet are a Valentine’s staple.

Tuni: Down for something trendy and chic, I visited Brittnie Gallo at Tuni. I commented on a Frye skull bag and she quickly assured me it could be a ‘murse,’ a bag for me. She’s quick! She then turns to colors of the moment. “Pastels. Pastels are huge. Just got a bunch of Rebecca Taylor. The store looks like pretty candy. Also for Valentine’s Day, it depends on your date, ‘cause you’re not going to be wearing a ball gown to the movies, but you might do a silk top, skinny jeans. If you’re going to go out with your hubs and you want to go really sexy, we just got a bunch of Alexis in super, sexy, pretty prints. It really just depends.”

Coralia Leets: Michon talks about drusy (stone) bangles, “Totally in right now. We have stars, clovers. They’re all adorable. Also, tear drop earrings, in various styles and stones, in root beer and moon stone.”

Tresor Gallery: If your Valentine is an arty sort, check out the heart and love-themed jewelry from local and other artists, including those inspired by both love found and lost. Yep, it might just fit any Valentine situation or memory.