In business since 1996, the Libyan-born Marie-Hélène de Taillac has always loved color and gorgeous gems—in fact, stones of every stripe have consistently fascinated her. When she opened her first shop on Paris’ Left Bank in 2003, it was important to her that each piece of jewelry be displayed as art—jewelry, in her mind, should look as fetching and enticing in a display case as it does on a body. “My collections are often inspired by incredible stones, which are at the start of the designing process, and my jewelry is built around them.” In her new Gotham treasure-chest of a shop (it is her third boutique; the second is in Tokyo), she has fashioned a petite salon—created with mirrors, subtle colors, and unusual design—in less than 300 square feet. “A store in New York is a dream-come-true and the Upper East Side is where I would live if I moved to the City.” De Taillac was raised in both Lebanon and Paris, and while she is still calls the latter home, we are happy to say her inimitable bijoux are here to stay. Prices range from about $1,500 for earrings up to $50,000 for major-league necklaces. 20 East 69th Street (Fifth/Madison Avenues); 212-249-2397; mariehelenedetaillac.com

Cotélac

 Around the globe, the nearly 20-year-old Cotélac is a recognized brand, well-known for its hip fashions for both men and women. With well over 50 boutiques in France alone—and dozens more in Japan, Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, and Germany—it’s surprising that Gotham has had only one Cotélac, in SoHo; but that is about to be remedied, when the brand opens up a second shop on the Upper East Side in September. (There are also shops in Boston, Chicago, and San Francisco.) The line is designed by Raphaelle Cavalli, who has a passion for fabric and visual effects. Her inspiration comes from the arts and her environment—musicians, painters, and travel—and she designs Cotélac’s garments to be casual, relaxed, and fluid; the textiles she uses underscore the youthfulness and freshness of her designs. (Fall dresses range from about $300 to $450, and jackets from about $435 to $550.) The shop on Lexington Avenue will offer women’s wear and the full line of accessories (belts, shoes, bags), while most shops vend the men’s line, as well. 983 Lexington Avenue (71st Street); cotelac.fr/en

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