A selection of our summer must-haves.
Some would say Jersey is an Island paradise, and we would simply have to agree. Those warm summertime evenings, sea swims in the sunshine, picnics at the beach. Obviously, a non-exhaustive list of the many activities that make summers in Jersey so very special, of which many joys will be individual experiences or summertime family traditions. And of course, could Jersey summers really be Jersey summer without the shared event of the inevitable sunburn when the weather first changes? The universal experience that we all have fallen foul to at some point.
We at Harriet and Rose have a somewhat love-hate relationship with the summer. If you’ve been in the shop recently in this hot weather, you’ve probably seen us clinging to our fans for dear life. Old buildings and heat are not a match made in heaven…at all. Whilst that side of the summer is ‘hate’ for us, the shopping side is firmly ‘love’. In store, we have a carefully curated, yet widely varied cornucopia of summer essentials for every person, gift, and event this summer.
Starting strong with our beach essentials, for those that sea swim, surf, or generally enjoy being down the beach. Beach powder is a summer staple for sandy feet. We appreciate that sand is one of those marmite things, of which you either love the feeling of it in between your toes, or the feeling is very much the opposite. Talcum free, natural, and safe for the environment, it’s perfect to prevent sandy socks and shoes!
For those that enjoy a quick dip but aren’t so keen on the chill afterwards, our Danish made Sitting Suits provide a lightweight, windproof layer. They are roomy enough to get changed in (without any embarrassing mishaps) as well as airdry in fifteen minutes, drying on you, meaning no faff with wet clothes! Of course, it wouldn’t be a Harriet and Rose essential unless it was also sustainable: made from 100% recycled plastic bottles. We like to choose brands that reflect our ethical principles, so you can feel both warm (and chic!) in our Sitting Suits without compromising your values. Something to note across all our ranges, however, is that we only order limited numbers of stock. This is so that there is only a few of everything on island (no accidental matching with our Sitting Suits).
We couldn’t possibly write about summer and not include our ‘wet bags’ for swimming costumes and wet beach wear alike. Quickly achieving ‘cult’ status here in the shop with both staff and customers, our wet bags fly out as fast as we can restock them. All the way from Australia - a place that knows a few things about swimwear and hot weather – our Somewhere Company wet bags come in a range of stylish colours and patterns with a waterproof inner. Simply wipe the inside once you are finished and away you go! In both personal and family size, they are a perfect summer gift for someone you love (or yourself – we never judge).
And of course, summer simply isn’t summer without eating outside. Whether it is takeaway or picnics at the beach, or simply al fresco dining at home, the summer weather encourages us all to take advantage of the long evenings and dry days! Whichever option takes your fancy, we are proud to say that we fulfil our ethos of original gifts, not only for those most impossible to buy for, even in the summer!
Our large picnic rugs (also from the Somewhere Company) are ideal for all the family at 1.5m by 1.5m. Waterproof and lightweight, with easy to carry straps, they make beach days that bit more colourful without having to worry about the daunting journey carrying it back up those seemingly endless Portelet stairs! For children and adults alike, our versatile insulated lunchboxes can be used for school lunches and picnics. We may have chosen the colours and patterns (and therefore be a little biased) but there is certainly a colour and style for everyone.
From the very beginning, we have championed beautiful table wear. Not only are we passionate about a uniquely dressed table, but we are also always on the lookout for new, original table wear to add a touch of Harriet and Rose sparkle in your homes. Whilst we have our staple tablecloths and placemats in stock year-round, the shop has recently been stocked with some of our gorgeous colourful melamine. As exclusive retailers in Jersey for our French melamine plates, platters, serving spoons and bowls, you are guaranteed something unusual (but always practical) for your summer hosting. In three different but equally inspiring patterns, we would like to say that there is a pattern for everyone!
At Harriet and Rose, we are all not-so-secret shopaholics. This we’re sure is not new news to you, our customers. That’s what drives us to find new and exciting lines to ensure you have the best shopping experience you can have. We love nothing more than helping you find the perfect gift, surprise for a loved one, or treat for yourself. And, as unapologetic shopaholics, we are always on hand to help you with any queries, ideas for those people who simply have everything, or even just a chat. If any of our summer favourites have piqued your attention, or caught your eye, we are always on hand to help (10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday, and now 11am to 4pm on Sundays).
Thoughtful gifting for those you love (or yourself!) this summer, made simple.