Why the Mall Hangout Might be the New Trend: New Shops at UTC Mall
Over the last few months, many of the over 90 unique new shops at UTC mall in La Jolla have begun to open. This is part of a major expansion that started back in 2015 and is wrapping up in 2018. Lately, some malls have begun to overhaul their traditional layout as a new trend of mall shopping is making a comeback. Why might this be, you ask? As a recent experience to the new shops at UTC Mall has shown me, it's all about the idea of 'Concept Shopping'.
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Why the Mall Hangout Might be the New Trend
Growing up as a teen in the 90's, I had my fare share of mall meet ups with friends. Malls used to be the weekend destination to see and be seen. (Oh, hey there food court.) Malls were the place to buy that new dress for a school dance or new outfits for a new school year. Then the Internet took shopping by storm and many, myself included, started shopping online vs. shopping at the mall. It was just easier, more convenient, and took the stress out of fighting for a parking spot!
Over the last few years, malls have had to re-think the giant that is the Internet. They've had to find ways to draw consumers to shop outside the computer box. What made a change in the idea of mall shopping? Enter Concept Shopping and Concept Stores as a whole new shopping experience. Two summers ago, I spent a month in Paris (hopped up on cafe cremes) and met the owners of Merci.
Merci is a concept shop (complete with an iconic red Fiat out front) that's taken Paris by storm. One of the major beliefs they've adopted as a 'Concept Shop' is that shopping is all about the experience a customer receives when inside their doors. If you think about it, it makes perfect sense. As a customer, would you like to shop in one place that has curated goods, a place to relax, and a cafe where you can order lunch after shopping? Oui!
So what does this have to do with the new shops at UTC mall? This is just the type of concept shopping overhaul that you receive when you're there now. Taking in the new shops at the UTC mall has given me all the Merci feels. I love the layout of the new corridors that have plush seating vignettes everywhere. And they have new shops that I've not been able to shop at before in San Diego.
Aesop
Aesop has an absolute cult following in Toronto, which is where I first heard about the brand. Their new shop here at the Westfield UTC mall does not disappoint. They back their skincare and body products with plant based ingredients. Each Aesop store has a unique design and the staff always greets you with warm service and a cup of tea.
What I would buy: Their hand balms are some of my favorite, including their resurrection aromatique hand balm.
Jo Malone
I walked into the new Jo Malone shop at the UTC mall and was immediately embraced by light and openness. The shop has a open layout and their displays invite you to take a peek or sniff, if you will, of the beautiful fragrances they have to offer. If anything, you've got to swing by and check out their awesome chandelier!
What I would buy: I am obsessed with their blackberry & bay scent in both candle and perfume form. The packaging is beautiful and smells clean and delightful.
No Rest for Bridget
No Rest for Bridget is a cute new shop at UTC mall has clothing and accessories at a great price point. You can find budget friendly brands like Everly and lotions in delightful packaging. This is a great spot to pick up some lovely hostess gifts.
What I would buy: I love their selection of sweaters and women's tops.
Vineyard Vines
I'm a total sucker for gingham and plaid and Vineyard Vines has such a fun collection of both. This nautical-inspired shop has clothing for women, men, and kiddos alike. I love their preppy collection of men's shirts and their decor reminds me of boarding a yacht in Nantucket (a gal can dream, right?).
What I would buy: An adorable pair of plaid pajamas, a gingham shirt for my husband, and possibly the cutest plaid skirt for the holidays.
Saje Wellness
Another brand that I discovered when living in Toronto, Saje Wellness has become a staple in our home. We purchased a diffuser to help with sleep and ever since then I've been hooked on their essential oils. I love their roll on oil blends that help with colds, sleep, overall health. Saje Wellness prides itself on 100% natural, plant-derived wellness products.
What I would buy: I love their diffusers, especially the Aromatree Beech ultrasonic diffuser and I just bought their peppermint halo roll on for those days when I need a little pick me up.
If you have a chance to stop by the new shops at UTC mall, I'd love to hear what your favorites are. If you're like me, a map is ever helpful. But just in case you forget to map out your shops or are looking for the new shops, they have awesome interactive screens to help you find your way! Happy Shopping. Special Thanks to Westfield Mall for helping me highlight some of my new favorite shops. Oh, and the outfit, from Anthro can be found both at the mall and below.
SHOP THE OUTFIT
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