By { Misty Milioto
Featuring unique and upscale boutiques, art galleries and restaurants, Malibu Country Mart—located in the heart of the Malibu Civic Center—is expanding with boutiques beloved by A-list celebs. Following the center’s recent expansion with nationally acclaimed retailers Faherty and Vince, Malibu Country Mart continues to grow with the opening of White’s Mercantile and All Things Bell. In addition, the highly anticipated women’s luxury French label Ba&sh is set to open its doors in July. Whole Foods Market also just opened a 25,000-square-foot store behind Malibu Country Mart in The Park at Cross Creek (23401 Civic Center Way).
White’s Mercantile, owned by singer-songwriter Holly Williams—daughter of country legend Hank Williams, Jr.—takes its name from Holly’s grandparents, who had mercantile shops in Louisiana. Designed as a general store for the modern tastemaker, it’s a favorite of Nicole Kidman, Gwyneth Paltrow, Sheryl Crow and Taylor Swift. Her first West Coast location, this outpost pays homage to Williams’ Nashville roots with a Southern meets rock ‘n’ roll aesthetic. Here, you’ll find a beautiful curation of locally made products and items unique to Malibu with everything from accessories and home goods to baby gifts and pet essentials.
Meanwhile, All Things Bell—owned by designer Alicia Bell—features beautiful resort-wear for women and children, suitable for both the beach and a special event, making it a perfect addition along Malibu’s beachfront. Enjoy perusing a a collection of customizable, flowing dresses in a dazzling array of fabrics that have been block-printed by hand in Jaipur, India. Bell’s A-list clientele includes Oprah, Madonna, Angelina Jolie and Blake Lively. While Bell wholesales the line to more than 200 stores worldwide, this is the only bricks and mortar location.
Best friends Barbara Boccara and Sharon Krief named Ba&sh after the first letters of their first names, and this is their second West Coast location (the first being in Beverly Hills). This boutique is where glamour meets bohemian fashion, with everything from upscale and casual chic to retro clothing that can be worn for any occasion. Expect to find feminine silk dresses, floral jumpsuits and high-necked blouses. Fans include Bar Rafaeli, Charlotte Casiraghi, Emma Roberts and Isla Fisher. 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.456.7300, malibucountrymart.com