Inspired by the lifestyle and beauty of the Mediterranean seaside, Elyse Merrifield’s new Salt + Sea boutique will cater to both locals and visitors looking for a “Peconic Bay chic” look: trendy and high-end while also maintaining a subtle nod to nautical whimsy.
“The Mediterranean is my happy place,” said Merrifield. “Salt + Sea offers a curated collection of apparel and accessories from luxury clothing brands inspired by the many towns on the coast of Italy.”
Merrifield provides a relaxed environment in her store, with the walls painted a deep sea blue and plenty of natural and artificial lighting. The name of the store comes from Merrifield’s observation that many people visiting the North Fork arrive by boat.
“Many people get to Greenport after a day on the boat or at the vineyard and realize they want to go get a bite to eat, but don’t have the appropriate clothing,” said Merrifield. “We provide things like jackets and dresses for nice dinners. We’ll have you covered for all your après sea needs!”
Working in the fashion industry for the entirety of her career, it was always a dream for Merrifield to own her own shop in Greenport. Merrifield, a former co-owner of the Popsicle & Finn boutique, said she’s ecstatic to open Salt + Sea in the same location.
“I’ve been coming out to the North Fork since the 1980s and I always thought it would be great to own a business out here,” said Merrifield. “Greenport is the heart and soul of the North Fork and I couldn’t imagine having my store anywhere else.”
Salt + Sea carries seasonally-changing men’s and women’s clothing, accessories and footwear. Merrifield offers sustainable denim, organic cotton tops, high quality dresses, blouses, sweaters, handbags and sandals. The store will also feature a collection of fragrances, candles and artwork.
“When I owned Popsicle & Finn, we had many clients from these countries and they loved our approach,” Merrifield said, noting that she plans to bring back popular brands from Popsicle & Finn including Faherty, Paige, Rails, Nation LTD and Think Royln while also introducing new brands like Saint James, MC2 Saint Barth, Ellis Brooklyn Fragrances and Carmen Sol.
“I’m going to feature accessories and unique items found on my travels to faraway places,” she said.
Merrifield has created a sunny Mediterranean atmosphere to greet guests as they enter her new store. Lemon trees and woven baskets are strewn about the store and colorfully swanky 1960s inspired artwork line the walls.
Merrifield loves everything she sells in her store, especially the nautical inspired striped shirts from Saint James and the Iconic Blanket Shirts from Outerknown. She hopes to create an environment where those who visit her feel comfortable and have fun during their shopping experience.
“We will be open all year long so that our customers have consistency and a place to visit every time they’re in the village,” Merrifield said. “I look forward to continuing to be part of the Greenport community.”
Salt + Sea is located at 15 Front Street in Greenport and will open Saturday, Feb. 18 at 11 a.m. For more information, visit saltseagp.com.
