Prague Is a Fairy Tale Come to Life

One of the most picturesque and romantic cities in Europe. It’s easy to get lost in its Baroque architecture, Gothic cathedrals, cobblestone streets, cafes and the Castle Complex, the largest in the world. Stroll over the Vltava River on the Charles Bridge linking Mala Strana (the old town) with the 600-year-old New Town. Then stroll over again.  It will never lose its magic!

Prague has emerged as a major tourist/shopping destination. Visitors from Europe, Russia and Asia come to Prague for its Czech Cut Glass, Crystal, Bohemian Garnets and trendy cutting edge fashions all at prices designed to make Parisians weep.

The Trends

Edgy, flamboyant, bohemian, daring and artistic; Prague designers have their own distinctive style. Reflected by its medieval streets and the influence of classical music (Chopin, Mozart & Beethoven have lived and composed there) fashion presents a mix of history with modernity. From luscious furs, hats, mixed fabrics, over-sized outerwear, asymmetrical hemlines and romantically inspired Czech jewelry, Prague has something for everyone.

The Malls – Shopping Under One Roof!

• Cerna Ruze (Black Rose) – A gorgeous Baroque façade belies the modern mall inside. This landmark arcade connects fashionable Na Příkopě and Panská Streets.  Pasáž Černá růže, Na Příkopě 12, Praha 1
• Arkady Pankrac – With 125 stores, this modern mall even includes a children’s playground. Na Pankráci 86, Praha 4
• Atrium Flora – Hop on Metro line A to Flora station and shop where the locals shop.
• Four levels offer 130 designer fashion shops and the largest Cinema City multiplex with a 3D IMAX screening room. Karlova 18 Prague 1
• Palladium – Once a converted army barracks now a modern mall in Central Prague. A few minutes walk from Old Town and Wenceslas Square this 18^th century building houses over 170 stores and 30 restaurants. Namesti Republiky 1, New Town
• Fashion Arena Prague Outlet – Catch their shuttle bus to the largest outlet mall in Prague offering over 200 national & international brands. We all love a bargain! Zamenhofova 440, Praha 10

The Streets

• Pařížská Street – Often compared to the Champs-Elysee, this exclusive, tree-lined boulevard offers luxurious designer brands. Adjoining the old Jewish Quarter it affords an opportunity to combine history with shopping. Meander the cross streets to find unique local designers & less familiar international names. Look for Kara, a fabulous fur & leather store and Pinko, for woman’s Italian contemporary fashion.
•  Na Příkopě – This major shopping street features chain stores, independent retailers, restaurants and malls.   We loved Deliberti shoes. 110 00 Praha 1-Staré Město and for the men, Fashion Therapy, 957/23

The Designers

• Hana Havelkova – Run by two sisters, colorful, affordable & timeless. Vlasska St 13
• Dusni3 – A multi brand concept store carrying international designers. Dusni #33
• Tatiana – One of Prague’s top designers, feminine & elegant styling with a sexy edge
• Blanka Matragi – Mixing art w/fashion, her gowns are worn by royalty. (by special order) For mere mortals she offers fashions embellished with tulle, lace and pearls with accessories to match  U Prasne brany 2
• Botas 66 – It would be a grave omission not to mention this concept sneaker store, a local hipster brand with a cult-like following.  Skořepka 4 Praha 1 – Old Town and Křížkovského 18 Prague 3 – Žižkov
• The Room by Basmatee – Not to be left out, international designers for the man in your life. 7, Skolska
• Prague Fashion Museum – A vintage shop and a museum! Stupartska St. 3

Interior Design

Fashion lends itself not only to clothing but home furnishing. Head to the showroom Lasvit, a glass installation, sculpture and lighting company.  Note the glass leaves that adorn the Aria ceiling.

Upcoming Prague Events

Where to wear these fabulous outfits? Here are a few reasons to book your ticket to Prague in 2017/2018

• October 12-15 – Prague After Dark where building come alive in Technicolor
• October 20-November 9 – Strings of Autumn, the 21^st International Music Festival
• December 2-January 6 – The Christmas Market (furs and long johns required)
• January 19 – Australian Ball – Time for glamour, long gowns & waltzing the night away

By now you’re exhausted.  Time to head back to Aria, settle into the gorgeous library, have a cocktail and recharge for a fabulous dinner at their CODA restaurant!