I visited the hidden luxury shopping location where everyone in the know in NYC is purchasing Missoni and Valentino.

      Before my visit, I had heard about Belmont Park Village. A number of fashion insiders I know in New York had shared their experiences, revealing remarkable designer finds from the likes of Thom Browne and Vivienne Westwood. Others had attended Billie Eilish concerts and hockey games there. Being only a 30-minute drive from NYC, it was a place I intended to explore, and then I received an invitation to visit myself.

      Months earlier, to gain a deeper understanding of the vision for Belmont Park Village, I visited Bicester Village in Oxfordshire, just an hour from London. Although it opened in 1995, when I arrived, it felt as if it had been established only recently. The entire venue appeared fresh and immaculate. The shopping center was spotless, and its personalized services were exceptional. To say it was the opposite of any outlet experience I had previously encountered would be an understatement; it was luxurious in every sense. Below, I’ll share more about my experiences at both Belmont Park Village and Bicester Village.

      Upon my arrival at Belmont Park Village, I was ushered into ‘The Apartment,’ where I met with a concierge who informed me about special services such as personal styling and hands-free shopping, where your purchases are delivered to you at the end of the day, eliminating the need to carry bags around.

      I discovered some amazing pieces at various brands, including Sunglasses Hut, where I found Tom Ford frames, and Rene Caovilla, where I spotted a stunning pair of crystal-embellished heels with a coiled ankle strap.

      Notable designers such as Valentino and Missoni feature among the standout stores at Belmont Park Village, attracting fashion-savvy individuals from New York. This is fostering a new level of outlet store experience in America.

      At Bicester Village, the shopping experience was as exceptional as the encounters outside of fashion. I enjoyed a meal at Cecconi’s and visited Max Mara, Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and Prada, walking away with some unique items that will remain in my wardrobe forever.

      In Bicester Village, I recognized the vision for Belmont Park Village—a destination with similar services, aspirations, and an approach towards creating a new standard in luxury outlet shopping in the U.S.