HVAR: Where I found Croatian fashion amongst the yacht life and beach parties
Stelavie in Hvar, Croatia. Dress by ASOS
The second stop during my visit to Croatia was the stunning island of Hvar. Famed as the posh destination for yacht week and glamorous beachside parties, the vibe in here was very different from that of Dubrovnik, yet matched its beauty.
After a four hour catamaran ride across the Adriatic, where we were lucky to catch the breathtaking sunset, we arrived in Hvar.
Turquoise blue water against the mediterranean architecture, with a coast lined with yachts, each bigger than the next. Did I just land into a scene from lifestyles of the rich and famous?!
Hvar Island Photo by Christel Gellidon
There seemed to be a much larger tourist presence in Hvar, but it had a charm all on its own. More delicious seafood, all topped with more truffles. Lot's of pizza with a Croatian twist and all kinds of pastries filled with both savory and sweet goodness.
The crowds were both young and old, but all with one common objective in mind. To relax and have fun! Some brought their own parties as they pulled up in their massive yachts alongside the dozens of others who were there to do the same. While others, like the masses of college kids, ventured off to the beachside parties to enjoy the sunset with a drink in hand and music to set the tone.
Hula Hula Beach Bar. Photo by Christel Gellidon
My friends and I checked out the popular Hula Hula Beach Bar, known for having the best sunset view and best party scene to match. It did not disappoint. Tasty cocktails in a crowded setting along the coast, where you could choose to party hard alongside the DJ or sneak off to the amazing beach beds on the rocks and take in the sunset away from the crowd while still enjoying the music.
View from Hotel Amfora by Christel Gellidon
The view from our hotel, The Grand Hotel Amfora overlooked the Adriatic Sea and our own private beach. Five minutes walking distance to the main port of Hvar.
Photo by Christel Gellidon
Bonj les Bains. Photo by Christel Gellidon
Take a walk with me, through the streets of Hvar.
We ventured away from the gorgeous coast into the narrow and winding cobble stoned paths inside Hvar. Lined with several shops and restaurants and, this is where the true locals of Hvar were.
Croatian Fashion
I stumbled upon a charming jewelry boutique, SOVILJ HVAR, selling unique, one of kind pieces, like the resin necklace I'm wearing below. I'm so happy to have discovered a Croatian designer in this wonderful shop.
A beautifully curated collection of wearable art, the owner and designer, Mr. Nenad Sovilj, is one of few well known Croatian designers. Inspired by nature and its elements, each piece is hand crafted like a sculpture by Mr. Sovilj. He often works with resin, metal and semi precious stones. His designs are unique, statement pieces and a beautiful Croatian piece of art indeed. And while my personal budget did not allow me to bring home one of his pieces on this trip, I will definitely be coming back to purchase a piece of Sovilj art on my next visit.
Photo from www.sovilj.com