Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Hannah Bean - Swanky Setting for Scene Stealing Style


Santa Ana,
Orange County
Boutique Pique

By: April Madigan @ Boutiquing

The saying goes, the best things come in small packages...Hannah Bean is a true testament to that. Unassuming and quietly spearheading the up and coming Santa Ana style scene, this adorable jewel box of a boutique caused me to drop everything and drag Erin up to see it...maybe not drag, more like suggest...so glad we did! The minimal exterior gave way to swanky and shiny surroundings glistening like the pave cut stones of a vintage cocktail ring. Walls covered in the most beautiful silver and white brocade wallpaper are balanced by clean lined white shelves and a major collection of my favorite "boutiqey" designers around.

This boutique is on the street level of the new crop of live/work spaces in the Santa Ana City Place. This scenario is like something out of every little girl's dreams, living in a beautiful loft above the boutique you own - reminds me of when I used to dream of getting locked inside a department store at night just so I could try everything on...I haven't changed much!

The scene set in this shop is one of old Hollywood glamour, where beautifully made clothing by designers Nanette Lepore, Rebecca Taylor, Theory, BCBG, and Trina Turk mingle seamlessly together, reminding me of my own closet...only SO much better! Lining one side of the splendid shop are casual yet fashiony tees by Signorelli and Mati Collection, I admit I am not a tee and jeans girl, yet these were tempting and terrific. Settled in the sleek white shelves were stacks of denim so darling by Dittos - sailor inspired with black and gold button detail, and a pair with pockets set in the perfect place - somehow flattering for any body type, and a wear with everything dark wash. Also on hand, Frankie B and William Rast, and Degaine. This boutique offers some chic denim, and an equally chic tailor, Original Hems by Make It Fit, is just a few doors down...seriously, you have to check out the decor in the waiting room...and they do jean hems in 5 minutes!



Fashion possibilities aside, Hannah Bean has paid some serious attention to the customer service they are offering. Not only were Erin and I greeted immediately, we enjoyed ice cold pink lemonade and chatted with sweet and seasoned boutique salesgirl Dominique. She was a doll, and in a place this intimate, it is refreshing to see the special attention paid to their clientèle. We left not only with our fantastic finds...soaps by Saipua and a Rebecca Taylor blouse that is me in a blouse, we also received a handful of samples from their amazing apothecary line Chymia. The body butter melts into your skin, and leaves behind the most fresh and subtle scent.

Hannah Bean not only feels like a little gift, it is the perfect place to pick up a little gift. Among their incredible bath and body products are the most adorable fashion books - they look like children's books until you open them and take in the artistry, perfect for fashioistas who have it all. The selection of jewelry is small, yet mighty and I spotted a few things I had never seen before, like a turquise beaded necklace adorned with a vintage looking dragonfly - perfectly off beat and outfit making. The friendly and fun little atmosphere here made me want to stay awhile, and from my most recent experience there, I am sure I will be "suggesting" plenty of trips up to Hannah Bean.

Hannah Bean
111 E City Place Drive
Santa Ana, CA 92705
714.881.1115

Hours:
12-6
Seven Days a Week


www.hannahbean.com

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