• TODAY’S HOURS: 11 AM - 9 PM
0 %
Fashion News

Step into Summer at Scanlan Theodore Bal Harbour

Scanlan Theodore, an Australian staple since the late ‘80s known for well-crafted designs that empower women, has opened in Bal Harbour Shops. Owned by two powerful businesswomen formerly in finance, Sarah Blank and Melinda Robertson, the brand has embraced women’s individuality for more than 30 years. Here, we take an inside look through their eyes—as they began their journey in Australia and eventually landed in New York City, where they decided to make a bold move from finance to fashion.

Scanlan Theodore’s Silk Pony Print Dress features a gorgeous plunging neckline and nipped waist, that’s as seasonless as it is effortless

Model in Scanlan Theodore’s Silk Pony Print Dress features a gorgeous plunging neckline and nipped waist, that’s as seasonless as it is effortless

Given this unique moment in time, which we are all experiencing together, what are some of the most important things you’ve learned during these past few months? 

On a business level, it’s been quite demanding for us to adapt to the current times. As human beings, we are not meant to live alone in isolation, and we need social interaction to survive. So, while sometimes we love to wear lounge attire or exercise gear all day long, we also love to dress up and go out. Having to adjust to the present limitations has been particularly challenging for retail, but hopefully, we are on the other side and can safely open the boutiques and continue providing our clients with our staple wardrobing solutions. The key learning for us during this time has been that growth should not be prioritized over profitability. Whilst slower sustainable growth requires an immense amount of patience, it also enables you to build a business that has a greater chance of withstanding an immense external shock.

Inside the newly opened Scanlan Theodore Bal Harbour on Level 2 of the Shops

Inside the newly opened Scanlan Theodore Bal Harbour on Level 2 of the Shops

What serves as the inspiration for the Scanlan Theodore brand?

Our inspiration is the Scanlan Theodore woman who leads a multifaceted life and requires a wardrobe that carries her through all elements of her day. We constantly push ourselves to provide solutions that take the pain out of dressing for our clients–women who need to look amazing without having to think about it.

Scanlan Theodore’s Navy Cravat Dress as seen on Meghan Markle

Scanlan Theodore’s Navy Cravat Dress as seen on Meghan Markle

Why was opening in Bal Harbour Shops so important for the brand?

We have always viewed Bal Harbour as one of the premier luxury shopping destinations in the Northern Hemisphere. The exquisite atmosphere and curation of brands and restaurants have led to a unique shopping environment, which we have wanted to be part of since we launched the brand in the U.S. Our boutique was designed with the Miami client in mind, focusing on luxury accents and sumptuous fabrics, and creating a beautiful space that allows for the complete Scanlan Theodore experience.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Scanlan Theodore repurposed its factory in Fiji to manufacture Personal Protective Equipment

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Scanlan Theodore repurposed its factory in Fiji to manufacture Personal Protective Equipment

During the pandemic, what motivated you and your team to “pivot your factories to produce much-needed protective clothing for our healthcare workers in hospitals in New York?”

Within a week of shutting down the boutiques, our focus shifted away from sales toward adapting to the needs of our community and clients. We understood that, for the time being, our clients were not necessarily focused on wardrobe solutions, so we discontinued our marketing efforts and focused our energy on doing what we could to help those on the front lines.  Given our extensive and high-quality supply chain, which has been established over the last 30 years, we had the capacity to produce PPE in an expedited manner and it just seemed like the right thing for us to do.

The newest summer must-haves at Scanlan Theodore Bal Harbour

The newest summer must-haves at Scanlan Theodore Bal Harbour

What are some of the key pieces that every Bal Harbour shopper should have in their wardrobe? 

Definitely our dresses, which are timeless pieces that are both memorable and easy to wear. Each design is crafted to transcend traditional fashion, for garments that can be worn for years to come. Our summer collection focuses exactly on this—sumptuous European fabrics in unique and wearable designs that are elevated and versatile enough to be worn throughout the year.

How did Scanlan Theodore become known for providing “wardrobe solutions for corporate women”?

It’s really important for us to listen to our clients. In doing so, we have learned that professional women require a wardrobe that is feminine, boardroom appropriate, travels well, and exhibits an achievable price point. Consequently, we focus on designing effortless clothes that will stand the test of time and can be effortlessly paired with items from previous and future Scanlan Theodore collections.

The Tweed Jacket/Pant Azure is the epitome of a classic silhouette, elevated with premium Italian tweed

The Tweed Jacket/Pant Azure is the epitome of a classic silhouette, elevated with premium Italian tweed

What’s been the key to your success in expanding the brand from Australia to the U.S. market?

Resilience and patience. Building a brand takes time and presenting a storefront in one of the most beautiful. There are no shortcuts.

Outside Scanlan Theodore Bal Harbour’s new storefront

Outside Scanlan Theodore Bal Harbour’s new storefront

Can you describe the Scanlan Theodore shopping experience at Bal Harbour Shops?

We are excited to be able to provide a safe and exclusive retail environment for our clients in Miami. We know that everyone has been on lockdown for an extended period, and the thought of getting out of the house and being able to shop safely is very appealing. Our team is extremely focused on implementing our safety protocols rigorously, so our clients in Miami can shop with peace of mind. For our clients throughout the country where lockdowns are still being enforced, we have made online shopping a more seamless and cohesive experience, and we are also launching Scanlan at Home, a new online initiative offering exclusive products. Make sure to follow us and stay in touch for all the information on the latest from Scanlan Theodore.

One Comment

Joel Gordon June 26, 2020 at 12:23 am

Mens Capri Jean’s Waist 32 what the lowest price and what sales do your store have?

Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


@balharbourshops

follow us on instagram
We’re all set. Davidor’s L’arc de Davidor collection of rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings might just be our perfect match. We understand if you don’t want to wait until your next visit to the Shops, click the tags to have Davidor delivered straight to your door.
There are people who like to fade into the background, and there are people who like to make their presence known. For the latter, we bring you DSquared’s Gothic pumps and preppy high socks.
We will never stop finding ways to bring you new, stunning retail experiences. Here’s a quick look at our latest fantastic destination at the Shops, Daum - Haviland. Have a full look yourself on Level 3—and click the link in bio for a behind-the-scenes look at the brand.
Smooth calfskin. Versatile wearability. An array of spring-appropriate hues. There are so many reasons to want to make Loro Piana’s Bale bag yours to have and to hold.