New York's Printemps Fashion Debut Blends French and American Styles
Venture Down the Fabled Broadway for a Dash of French Elegance
Step into the New-Age Parisian Paradise: The monumental One Wall Street building now dons a French feel with the arrival of Printemps New York, enchanting the Big Apple as the new tenant. Kickstarting the spring season, this French-flavored paradise officially opened its doors, and just like its inspirational city, it's more beautiful than ever. Bonjour, New York!
Champagne, Art-Nouveau, and Haute Cuisine: Jean-Marc Bellaiche, chairman of the Printemps department store group, hosted a VIP event on Thursday, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, co-hosted by the legendary Anna Wintour. Party-goers embraced the elegant soirée with champagne flowing, Printemps-branded ice sculpture raw bars, and an exquisite spread by none other than Haitian American chef Grégor Gourdet. Guests wandered through Laura Gonzales' mesmerizing Art-Nouveau design, appreciating the attention to detail and modern touches. Forbes.com caught up with Bellaiche before the evening, where they chatted about the stunning transformation, from introducing Noah Cyrus to escorted tours with Parker Posey and Katie Holmes.
Culinary Delights, Stronger Than Ever: Bellaiche revealed that the New York location's culinary offerings are a defining factor, unlike the Paris flagship, which boasts a more expansive space. This increased emphasis serves up five unique dining experiences curated by Grégor Gourdet. "It is different, and it's the same. It's different because the size is much smaller, but the focus on food is stronger. We have a robust food offering in Paris, but it's so big. To have five restaurants in the small space is something else," Bellaiche elucidated. But don't let size deceive you, as the 43,000 square foot space is just a taste of what Printemps New York has to offer.
A Stroll Through the Halls of Printemps New York: Entrepreneurial spirit radiates through the space, as Bellaiche acknowledged the challenges encountered in opening a new establishment in a foreign country. Yet, the construction process went smoothly, as mentioned by Jeffrey Yachmetz of Dilmon LLC in a welcoming speech later during the festivities. The journey between the first floor and the rest of the store is an up and down escapade via escalators or elevators. Former bank aisles are undetectable as the store realizes Bellaiche's vision of a an open, meandering path; a retail, art, and cuisine experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.
A Tribute to Paris, In Every Corner: Bellaiche highlighted the many similarities between the New York and Paris stores, sharing the architectural elegance and the dedication to aesthetics. The introduction of a fresco by Atelier Roma from France can be found within the space, and Paris-inspired origami birds grace the windows. "There are many similarities-the attention to aesthetics, the architecture. Paris is the most beautiful store; this one is even more beautiful, and there is a lot of tribute to Paris here," Bellaiche noted. Truly, Printemps New York is an enchanting accomplishment that merits respect, as its undertaking is nothing less than a Herculean task.
Lively, Welcoming, and Full of Surprises: The designers and associates of Printemps New York welcomed guests with open arms, displaying friendly, approachable demeanors. The resemblance to early-Aughts snobbish retail associates was nowhere to be found, as was the case with Jeffrey. The empathetic fashion experts moved seamlessly between departments, even showing off their dance moves to the DJ stylings of Francesca Keller. As celebrations continued late into the night, it was clear that Printemps New York was not just setting the bar for retail—it was raising it.
Eagerly Awaited Arrival, Lifetimes in the Making: As Printemps New York prepares for its grand opening on March 11, it promises a unique blend of French sophistication and New York vibrancy. The culinary experiences, intimate setting, and revolutionary layout set it apart from the sprawling, historic Paris flagship. For those looking to immerse themselves in the intertwining cultures of France and New York, Printemps New York is more than just a store; it is a taste of Paris in the heart of NYC.
- Jean-Marc Bellaiche, chairman of Printemps department store group, oversees the rental of the Printemps New York space.
- The culinary displays curated by Grégor Gourdet form a significant part of the Printemps New York experience, offering five unique dining experiences.
- The Art-Nouveau designs created by Laura Gonzales enhance the displays within Printemps New York, echoing the elegance of Parisian aesthetics.
