Fodor's Expert Review Maison Halaby

Lebanese designer and artist Gilbert Halaby was featured in fashion magazines like Vogue and created jewelry for Lady Gaga before giving up the rat race and opening his own shop, where the ethos is all about slow fashion. His boldly colored leather handbags incorporate suede, python, fringe, raffia, or jeweled handles, and his silk scarves are printed with his original watercolors, some of which are also on sale. The small, homey boutique—with a velvet sofa and lots of books, plants, and art—is mainly open by appointment, but if you pass by, ring the bell, and if Gilbert is there, he might just invite you in for coffee or Campari.