Ringing Bell'occhio.

One of my favorite hidden spots to shop in the city is Bell'occhio. Bell'occhio is a tiny little specialty shop known mostly for their amazing collection of new and vintage ribbons, trims and unusual collectibles produced by historic ateliers. Owners Claudia Schwartz and Toby Hanson seek a wide assortment for their store including teas, sweet boxes, gorgeous stationary, handmade silk flowers, candles, chocolates, perfumes; anything a girly girl would want. Bell'occhio focuses its attention on the truly beautiful, from their lovely merchandise to their presentation. So make sure you go when you have a lot of time - if you buy anything they will lovingly hand wrap every item with beautiful ribbons and paper. Here's a fun assortment of what you kind find in their shop as well as Bell'occhio online.

Clockwise from left to right: Eiffel Tower Pen Nibs & Pine Pen Holder with its vintage nib in the shape of the Eiffel Tower comes with a simple pen holder in smooth pine. Set, 1 of each is $8.00.

These cute Wooden Tags are slivers of bois véritable . They've a smooth, lustrous finish which looks best when inscribed with a Sharpie. Sets of 6, in Aspen, Cherry and Cedar from $4.00 - $6.00.

Plan de Paris à vol d'Oiseau Ensemble, these plan papered boxes with the very fancy name are illustrated with the streets of Paris. Black and white with pink or red trim. They come in a wide assortment of sizes and shapes from $12.00 to $36.00.

And my personal favorite, Marie Antoinette, is immortalized in this miniature figurine with gown and powdered pouf which, when removed, reveal her simple shift and shorn tresses. But the best part? You can eject her head by pressing the button on her back and relive history. Truly imaginative! And at the Hameau, Marie enjoyed playing shepherdess, leading sheep and goats about the grounds on pastel ribbons. Recreate your own pastorale with Marie, Ewe, Ram, Lamb, Nanny Goat, Billy Goat and Kid. The whole menagerie is $40, or you can get them individually at $12.00 each. Off with her head!

I also love this Accidents Maison Poster. Let this be a lesson to you; this traditional French educational poster warns against classic accidents in the home. Post at every staircase. Le Accidents Maison is $48.00. Trés bon!














And lastly, but not least the Twig Tapers Times Two. The pair of these twig tapers will illuminate your baggette and escargot! Two tapers at 11-1/2" long with two twiglets, $24 for the pair.