“Over the last decade, Warsaw has blossomed into one of Europe’s most compelling capitals with world-class museums, an internationally lauded contemporary art scene, exclusive hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants,” Ginanne Brownell wrote in an article published in the digital edition of the paper on Wednesday.
This growth has in part been driven by major shopping areas such as Mokotowska Street, the city's prime fashion spot, which "has morphed into a place where Varsovians — as natives are called — and expats alike know they can find gems of Polish creativity," according to Brownell.
Although global luxury brands such as Hermes, Bottega Veneta, Brunello Cucinelli and Louis Vuitton have all opened Polish outposts, Warsaw's Mokotowska Street "has remained charmingly local for the most part,” Brownell said in her article, entitled In Warsaw, Mining a Rich Vein of Polish Creativity.
“Polish fashion and jewelry designers have opened flagship boutiques there, as well as art galleries, perfumeries, bookshops, skin care and interior designers, restaurants and gourmet shops that sell everything from homemade Polish soups to imported Sicilian sauces,” Brownell said in her article.
“It’s like the old Fifth Avenue in New York when we used to have really good designers," a Warsaw- and New York-based fashion entrepreneur told the NYT.
"If you want your brand to stand out, then Mokotowska is the street to pick to showcase it," she added.
The article notes that wearing Polish brands "has become quite fashionable in certain Warsaw circles." So Mokotowska Street, though not a main thoroughfare, has attracted many young and talented entrepreneurs and designers, becoming a one-of-a-kind spot in central Warsaw.
“What is unique here is it is not fashion for the masses, it is not for everyone,” a social media influencer was quoted as saying.
“When my friends come from abroad, I always bring them here because the boutiques offer great quality, good prices and are long-term investment pieces,” she added.
The article goes on to praise the food served along the street in various bistros, patisseries and deli and wine shops that offer “delicious French-inspired breads,” “sugary pick-me-ups” as well as “soups, sauces and curries made from scratch.”
(mo/gs)
Source: nytimes.com