The finest boutiques in Malta

Discover just how stylish island life can be with our pick of designer flagships and specialist boutiques.

Malta may not be the first destination that fashion-savvy travellers think of, but the locals on this idyllic island sure love to shop. Whether you need to pick up something new for dinner in the capital or are looking for chic accessories to take home, Malta has plenty of shopping potential. From designer clothing at Sarto to distinctive accessories at Pippa Toledo and fine fragrances at Stephen Cordina Aroma & Therapy, there’s plenty to discover at these premium boutiques in Malta.

Sarto

Before Sarto came along in 2012, Malta was relatively untouched by international designer labels. Since its opening, however, the high-end multi-brand store has introduced an array of premium household names to the archipelago, such as Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana. The contemporary boutique remains the place to pick up the latest collections from luxury brands, as well as clothing and accessories for men and women from world-leading labels such as Blumarine, Burberry, Valentino, Emporio Armani, Jimmy Choo and Sergio Rossi.

Charles & Ron

Charles & Ron is considered by many to be Malta’s leading fashion house. Founded by Maltese and Dutch designers Charles Borg and Ron van Maarschalkerweerd, the label is favoured by stylish residents. The brand focuses on quality, contemporary womenswear and accessories with a distinctive Mediterranean flair and a plenty of bold Maltese character. One of the best boutiques in Malta, visit Charles & Ron on Valletta’s famous shopping avenue, Republic Street, to discover the latest seasonal collections, many of which are exhibited at leading fashion shows across Europe. But if you’re staying at Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa, you won’t need to travel far – there’s a Charles & Ron boutique in the hotel lobby.

Stephen Cordina Aroma & Therapy

Stephen Cordina is Malta’s premier aromatherapist, cosmetologist and perfumer. Since 2005 he has been crafting fine fragrances for the home, including candles, diffusers and sprays. Cordina’s philosophy is to create a product which, as well as emitting a wonderful fragrance, inspires wellness, too. He does this by using a combination of carefully selected natural essential oils. Discover his collections – namely Rose & Citrus, Ylang Ylang & Mandarin, Woody & Citrus and Valletta – and a selection of beautiful bath and body products at his boutique at The Point shopping centre in Sliema. Stephen Cordina Aroma & Therapy products are also available at the Corinthia hotels in Malta.

Pippa Toledo

Pippa Toledo wears many hats: interior designer, artist and jeweller. After earning an excellent reputation in her early career as an interior designer, the entrepreneur expanded into fashion accessories, applying her creative mind to jewellery and handbag design. Toledo’s bold and colourful pieces make powerful fashion statements for those who aren’t afraid of being the centre of attention. Her latest creations, which include clutch bags, necklaces, earrings and bracelets, can be viewed at her design studio in St Julian’s.

Caroline Hili

An international haute couturier who learned her trade from the likes of Valentino and Giambattista Valli, Caroline Hili has settled her eponymous fashion boutique in Malta’s charming Santa Venera district. Her client list reads as a ‘who’s who’ of Hollywood, and she has dressed everyone from big-screen stars to royalty. Her specialty is bridalwear, with made-to-order, hand-sewn, sequinned gowns guaranteeing centre stage. Alongside these elegant pieces, discover show-stopping eveningwear for a special occasion.

Gilda

With a chic flagship in Sliema and satellite boutiques scattered across the island, Gilda champions beautiful clothes made by Maltese and Italian designers. Only the finest fabrics and sleekest styles make it onto Gilda’s rails, which are notoriously browsed by Malta’s celebrity stock. The immaculately presented Gilda herself runs the business with her daughter Valentina, and both have a clever eye for putting exquisite things together.