Somehow it's already summer — and with it, the daunting task of trying to reconfigure things like your summer wardrobe and skincare routine. So with a new season in motion, Neiman Marcus took the liberty of outlining some of their best summer picks through an informative (and highly entertaining) series of workshops, experiences and activities at a camp-themed retreat for a small group of editors and influencers.
The getaway at Inness, a Hudson Valley country retreat and cabin compound in upstate New York, took everything that's great and nostalgic about summer camp and elevated it through Neiman Marcus' luxury lens. The Dallas-based retailer invited several of their small and established brands to take part in the curated festivities, including Missoni, Zegna, Studio 189 and Blue Sky Inn.
Here are some of the best and discoveries from the three-day Neiman Marcus summer camp retreat.
Missoni
Some members of Missoni's team, including President and CEO Giacomo Missoni and wife Silvia Torrassa, were on site to host a late-night campfire complete with smores, smore-martinis, and of course, Missoni throws, pillows and blankets with their iconic zigzag prints. Guests got to take home a Missoni Home Collection Throw (with hints of rust, blue and wisteria) and an Izmee for Missoni Water Bottle. This Aida Throw from Missoni Home is the perfect accessory for any camp or outdoor activity.
Neiman Marcus Cashmere Collection
One of the best activities was taking part in dip-dyeing class with The Stoop, a new venture from Brooklyn-based creatives Abbie De Castro of Smalls Studio and Ashta Hunter of The Playground. Using cashmere sweaters provided by TSE Cashmere, like this recycled gray one, guests got to work with a bright spring color palette for the cashmere dyeing: a special process in which you dye garments at room temperature and set the dyes with high heat.
Mignonne Gavigan
The custom jewelry making class with Mignonne Gavigan founder and designer Maggie Smith introduced guests to some of her best pieces, including her Irina Pearl earrings, Isla Hoops and the Paloma Drop earrings seen here. Campers had the opportunity create a custom design, along with several best-selling styles available to take home. The brand works with partners in India and Asia and they create modern designs informed by 100-year-old heritage techniques.
Studio 189
Studio 189 co-founder Abrima Erwiah (Rosario Dawson is the other partner) hosted a gourmet dinner where we learned more about her Made-in-Africa label, which works with artisanal communities that specialize in various traditional craftsmanship techniques including natural hand-batik, kente weaving plant-based dye indigo, like this high-low fringe dress.
Juliska
Campers received the Field of Flowers Chambray Mug (exclusive to Neiman Marcus) from home and table-wear brand Juliska as part of a candle making workshop with the Laterne Candle Lab. The mug is made of ceramic stoneware and is dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe.
Hous of Bo Fragrances
One of the more informative sessions in the itinerary was a "Destination: Beauty" segment led by Neiman Marcus VP and GBM of Beauty, Tatiana Birkelund, Neiman Marcus Beauty Buyer, Kim D’Angelo, and Neiman Marcus expert Esthetician, Lindsay Stutts. There was so many new fragrances we learned about, but my favorite one was the La Mar from House of Bo. The cap is made from natural reclaimed marble stone that is individually hand-sculpted by local Mexican artisans.