Chic Peek: 3.1 Phillip Lim

We scoped out the New York brand’s first Hawai‘i boutique.

Photos: Aaron K. Yoshino

Oh nooo, I thought as I stepped into Waikīkī’s new 3.1 Phillip Lim boutique. There went my paycheck. Just a few seconds in and I was already mentally unpacking my closet to make room for all the minimalist goodness hanging from the racks.

Helmed by designer Phillip Lim, the New York-based brand has a knack for turning out clothing and accessories that are magically both pared-down and detail-rich at the same time; clean-lined but with clever twists. In other words, exactly what I want to wear all day, every day.

Surprisingly, the Honolulu location is only the brand’s fourth stand-alone U.S. boutique. At 1,100 square feet, it’s not a giant space by any means. But, like a glimmering jewelry box, it lures you in with its crisp white walls, modern brass racks and luxe marble fixtures, the starkness tempered by sprays of vibrant, tropical flowers.

Near the entrance, a coral-colored stone niche houses some of the brand’s biggest hits. Cult favorites the Pashli satchel and 31 Hour tote appear in a multitude of hues. On the opposite end, a staircase-style shoe display showcases studded snakeskin sandals, chic slides and recent blogosphere obsession, the pearl-trimmed Hayett combat boot spotted on Gigi Hadid.

Pearls also make an appearance in the women’s clothing mix, placed cheekily on high necklines and corseted sleeves, as part of the Spring/Summer 2016 theme—Victorian era meets punk meets London club culture. Even the humble white tee gets the corset treatment. Along with the collection’s sharply cut silk bombers and patchwork shirt-dresses, I can’t wait to dive into the brand’s new denim pieces—light wash minis and cropped jeans crafted with playful asymmetric seams and off-placed zippers, all perfect for a quick summer wardrobe refresh.

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3.1 Phillip Lim, International Market Place, (808) 797-2556.

READ MORE STORIES BY BRIE THALMANN