Whenever I want to improve my mood, I close my eyes and try to conjure summer. The sunshine, the smell of sunscreen, the sound of flip-flops slapping on a sidewalk: It all makes me instantly happier. When merely thinking about my favorite season isn’t enough, it’s time to visit Summer Girl, an eclectic North Fork emporium that’s a serotonin boost of a store.
Off the beaten path of Main Road, Summer Girl is the lone retail shop in the “downtown” area of New Suffolk, at 775 First St. on the waterfront. In the windows, you’ll find mobiles made of seashells and sometimes a napping dog and/or cat. Inside, you never know what you’ll find.
Meander through the space and you might discover colorful scarves and sarongs, pretty silk bags, lavender- and sea-scented candles, Danish clogs or cheerful tees for kids and adults. In addition to new merch, there are also dainty vintage items like postcards, vanity sets or teacups. Once they sold a player piano.
Summer Girl is open Fridays and Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Owners Kim and Danny Petrie keep the shop open on weekends through December, in case you ever find yourself needing a dose of July in winter.
