Dan's Papers - August 29, 2008 - Shopping at the Hampton Classic

This is the 33rd annual Hampton Classic Horse Show and the crowds on the grounds were amazing. The weather was perfect and the horses were looking so good, but the highlight for me was the annual Media Luncheon and shopping the Boutique Garden at the Classic with my friends and colleagues, Barry Gordin and Tom Ratcliffe III. All the booths were filled with wonderful merchandise at affordable prices. Let's shop the Boutique Garden!

Following tradition, Barry, Tom and I stopped at Tracey Tooker Hats, as we do every year, and took a photo wearing her fabulous hats. There is a hat here for every occasion, including the Classic of course. There are feathers, suede, fur, straw, cloth, western, and custom styles for weddings, etc. Tracey is known for her glamorous styles and high-end fabrics and is the place to shop for that unique and special hat that you have been looking for. You will find her in her usual spot, the corner booth near the food stand. Stop in, try a hat on, bet you don't leave without purchasing one. Contact her at: 561-628-3494.

Khans Sports, located at 58 and 60 Park Place in East Hampton, had it all going on with tons of EH Eyewear that included Prada, Ray Ban, Nike, Ferrari, Oakley, Native, the list goes on and on. There are boogie, snow and skateboards, hats, cool clothing and lots of great accessories, something for everyone. You absolutely could not resist the bikes he had on display. I know I couldn't. He is truly a showman, stop in and see for yourself...

The Cashmere Outlet was filled with beautiful cashmere and accessories including sweaters, jackets, and the very special Italian Equestrian silk scarves ($195), that will become your favorite every time you wear it. You will also find The Cashmere Outlet on Main Street in East Hampton and on Jobs Lane in Southampton year round.

Roberta Freymann and Roberta Roller Rabbit, also in East Hampton and NYC, saddled up and strutted their stuff at the Boutique Garden with chunky knits, leather, suedes, cotton shirts, jewelry pieces and must-have accessories along with the best of the best from her Roberta Roller Rabbit hand block print collection: Kutras, beach bags, beach hats, sarongs, bathing suits and so much more.

One not to overlook is My Little Pumpkin, for some unique equestrian merchandise such as a cute horse riding kit bag, horse riding small wash bag, toile horse wall art, personalized brown horse melamine plate, personalized preppy pony melamine plate, and so much more. For full details log onto www.mylittlepumpkin.com there are so many gift items and ideas to choose from.

The Dubarry of Ireland footwear collection has waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex lined leather boots for snow, rain, mud, that are lightweight, comfy, warm, stylish and are multi useful. The line features a unique range of country/lifestyle leather boots that are suitable for a variety of uses from equestrian to gardening, hunting, shooting and fishing to stylish apres skiwear. They are located in Nottingham, Pa and can be reached at 866-658-3569 or log onto www.dubarry.us for more information.

If you really want comfort, stop in at the Kai Kai booth where you will find a large collection and selection of Kai Kai sandals in fabulous colors in suede and prints. Kick off your shoes, and put on a pair of these and you will never leave home without them. When they wear out, there is a "swap your flop" program offering you 40% off on a new pair with a trade-in of your old Kai Kai's. Can't beat that one...also located in Montauk, don't pass this one up.

Der Dau boot and shoe collection, also located in Brooklyn is the way to go if you are either a rider or watcher. Known all over the world for the softest leather and comfort gear, they can be custom made for the perfect fit. The collection also has children's boots available. Log onto www.derdau.com for more information.

Marder's, also located on Snake Hollow Road in Bridgehampton, had a wonderful looking garden booth with everything but the kitchen sink in it. All cement pottery was on sale at 30% off...wow! A sale at the Classic? First time I ever saw that! There are books, photo frames, statues, garden furniture and accessories, and birdbaths, western hats and cute little lavender stuffed lamb animals for $29.99. Tom and Barry bought me one; it is my favorite color...thanks, guys! I will treasure it forever along with your friendship!

The Boutique Garden gets bigger and better every year, with additional retail on Stable Row to suit everyone's style and pocketbook. You really need to bring a big shopping bag with you.