Calypso St. Barth @ Marin Country Mart

One part of my job I just love is exploring new shopping areas, especially when I can do it with my dear friend and colleague, Jen. Tuesday was one of those days, so we headed north over the Golden Gate Bridge to the Marin Country Mart. While I was expecting the hustle and bustle of the Brentwood Country Mart in southern California, which is stocked with fab stores and eateries, Marin was very quiet and there were many open shop fronts available. But I do think there’s a lot of potential there. It’s lovely, has a nice layout, and it has a truly prime location right near the Larkspur ferry. The BIG draw for me was Calypso St. Barth, one of my fave resort-inspired shops, including some drool-worthy jewelry.

Walking into the inviting store, I loved how everything is laid out by color, including the jewelry. The first tray that caught my eye was this grouping in emerald, teal and lime green.

The color is HOT for spring!
The color is HOT for spring!

The cut crystal pieces by DanniJo are a little bit vintage, yet a little bit rockin’. I also loved the delicate beaded quality of these earrings by another designer. Here’s a close-up of the earrings.

The teal transcends seasons -- great all year long.
The teal transcends seasons — great all year long.

I next headed to an area where neutrals were the story — cream, tan, beige, and white. This selection of baubles would be very versatile!

What diversity!
What diversity!

My favorite is the collar on the bottom left. It’s by London designer Fiona Paxton. I think it would dress up a basic, solid-colored sweater or tee, or enhance a cocktail dress!

This tray of boho-inspired necklaces drew my eye (I know you’re not surprised!), and I was a bit envious that Jen went home with the camel necklace with the leather tassel by Hipchik Couture. I wonder if she’d let me borrow it….

Yum!
Yum!

The visual delight continued as you went to the cash desk. There, you were greeted with a plethora of colorful bracelets, from designers ranging from Chan Luu to Julie Rofman.

Arm candy!!
Arm candy!!

After all the shopping, of course we had to eat lunch. We dined at the Rustic Bakery, and we were not disappointed. Though I think on our next visit, we should each get our own (giant) chocolate chip cookie, instead of splitting. 😉