Luxury Celebrity Shopping on Capri Island

Carthusia Perfume, Canfora Viva Sandals, Capri Pants, Designer Label

Jun 4, 2009

Capri island is studded with luxury boutiques catering to an exclusive clientele of pop stars, supermodels, actors, sports celebrities and royalty.

Just 20 minutes from Sorrento by fast ferry, Capri is a popular haunt for day trippers. They enjoy the magnificent views but soon head for the prestigious boutiques strung with designer labels. Carthusia perfumes, Canfora or Viva sandals, Capri Pants or that just affordable silk shawl, few return to the mainland empty handed.

Many hope to spot a celebrity or two, such as supermodel Naomi Campbell, but the rich and famous rarely venture out of their villas before the ferries depart. For those lucky enough to spend a night on Capri, this is the best time to look for that special treat or star-quality gift. All is quiet, relaxed and discretion is the norm.

There are two shopping areas, Anacapri tucked in the hills at the far end of the island, the ultimate escape for the crème de la crème, and Capri Town above the marina. There, Via Camerelle guarantees temptation every step of the way.

Carthusia perfume is the very essence of Capri, named after the 14th century monks who discovered the formula. It comes in eight fragrances and is worn by models such as Naomi Campbell and George Clooney.

Rosemary is favoured for men’s products and wild carnations for women’s fragrances. Perfumes range from the sensuous Aria di Capri, based on mimosa, iris and jasmine, to the energising Mediterraneo, scented with lemon and green tea, or the sophisticated Originality with a touch of wild fig.

There are body wash, lotion and hand made soaps and sprays, diffusers and candles for the home. Customers can place orders for personalised items.

Capri sandals have enjoyed celebrity status for over 50 years in the footsteps of Maria Callas, Sofia Loren, Jackie Kennedy and more recently Naomi Campbell. The sandals are hand made from local leather, with designs constantly updated to reflect new trends. Among the most sought after are those by Antonio Viva in Anacapri and the Canfora family in Capri town.

The hallmark of the famous Capri sandals is freedom and luxury. Freedom means just sole and strap while luxury knows no limit, each item enhanced with prestigious jewellery, turquoise, coral and more. Prices are high but glancing at the oversized gems and celebrity clients pictured on the walls, it all seems worth it.

Capri Pants and Designer Labels

Once worn by Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe, the Capri Pants, or long shorts, remain popular both for men and women. They can be bought in many outlets, among them the luxury prêt a porter Parisienne Boutique, offering designer wear by Roberto Cavalli and Fendi bags, including the famous Baguettes.

Gucci, Armani, Versace, Louis Vuitton, Pucci, Dolce & Gabana, the list goes on in a long string of designer labels. Those in the know head for the Amina Rubinacci Boutique, the Queen of Cashmere, the Mariorita in the Capri Palace hotel, for haute couture and exclusive craft, or La Perla Gioielli for gems and gold.

The copyright of the article Luxury Celebrity Shopping on Capri Island in Italy Travel is owned by Solange Hando. Permission to republish Luxury Celebrity Shopping on Capri Island in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.