By Tara Stanzione | Managing Editor
Festive pumpkins are displayed in the window of Michael Hayes fashion boutique alongside the newest, warmest fashions of the season. These include men’s chocolate brown jackets and women’s snug powder white coats.
Inside a mannequin is dressed in a golden blonde colored trench coat paired with a shimmering belt. The stairs are lined with pictures of models dressed in equally exclusive clothing, including styles by Samuelsohn and Canali. A clerk at the front desk folds cashmere sweaters in shades of caramel and mocha. Another upstairs organizes vibrant Eton ties of all colors, in patterns such as paisley, checked, and geometric.
A friendly black and white shih tzu with a Puppia vest harness shuffles down the stairs in curiosity, scurrying over to greet new customers in delight.
Located on historic Bellevue Avenue, Michael Hayes is one of Newport’s elegant boutiques. Crisp russet, navy, ash, and charcoal suit jackets line the upstairs walls of Michael Hayes, costing approximately $1,000 to $2,000 by designers such as Hugh Boss and Hilti. Most jackets are adorned with a bright eccentric scarf or pocket square in colors like apricot and amber.
Back on the main floor women’s styles can be bought by designers such as Carmen Marc Valvo, Marc Cain, and Calypso. The last brown and black plaid Calypso fox fur cashmere shawls hang inside the shop at $210 each.
New featured items include designs by Levy and Burch. Dawn Levy’s bronzed wool boyfriend coat can be bought for $599; while Tory Burch’s Marion quilted small shoulder bag can be bought in emerald, auburn, or dusk for $475.
A few times a year trunk shows showcase specific designer’s pieces, their latest being Jude Connally this past July. Her summer and pre-fall collection consisted mainly of sophisticated, yet comfortable dresses in lively floral prints.
Not only does Michael Hayes have remarkable items for adults, the shop also has clothing and toys for kids. These include Angel Dear fleece, Corolle dolls, Kinderfeets bikes, and an assortment of watches and books for all ages.
Christmas is coming and Michael Hayes is starting to prepare by getting stocking stuffers ready for the whole family. Hugh Parson’s cologne, Linda Richard’s fur scarves, Melissa & Doug’s Whittle World fire truck play set – all are available to be bought to unwrap on Christmas day.
As if this wasn’t enough, women’s jewelry, hats, and men and women’s shoes are also sold at Michael Hayes. These additional purchasing options came with time. Hayes started the upscale business 30 years ago with his brother Christopher, and has provided the latest fashion trends and styles of clothing to his customers. He and his staff continue to search for the best designers and believe that they only bring the finest pieces into his shop.
Michael Hayes doesn’t stop on 204 Bellevue Ave. His second Newport location is on 19 Bowen’s Wharf. Its hours of operation are Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
