Paula’s Boutique

Sweet holiday memories have a knack of hanging around. For Jonathan Anderson, visiting the iconic Paula’s Ibiza boutique as a child imprinted on his imagination. The store, which was set up in 1972 by German architect Armin Heinemann and named after his daughter, offered a treasure trove of esoteric, footloose designs. Billowing dresses with water lily and hibiscus prints, marabou feather-trimmed gowns and cloth beach bags — everything was made in tiny batches and it flourished amongst the island-s laid-back clientele. “I opened the shop because I had a little money and I thought it was a good investment,” says Heinemann, who also staged “happenings” and fashion shows. Freddie Mercury and Valentino Garavani were among the devotees and regulars – Donna Summer, Boy George and Jean-Paul Gaultier were known to visit as well.

While the store shuttered in the 90s, JW Anderson keeps the legacy and the natural glamour alive in a capsule collection for Loewe — so popular it’s now in its third edition. The designer has revived the flamboyant flower and parrot prints in breezy dresses, sun hats, slouchy summer parkas, and quilted patchwork bags with Loewe’s know-how and craftsmanship. The Paula’s Ibiza prints will soon be as synonymous with summer vacations as Souleiado with the South of France and tie-dye with Baja. Just add friends, hammocks and sundowners.