Because I speak Hungarian, sometimes I feel closer to my Hungarian heritage than my Finnish heritage. But then I spot a Marimekko print in a shop window or see bloggers go gaga over Iittala birds and I feel a rush of pride. I’m a devoted fan of Finnish design because I love pretty (and good quality) things, but also because it’s in my blood. Which is why we went on a day trip to Minneapolis last week, purely so I could check out Finn Style, a store I had been aching to visit after I read about it in the July 2011 issue of Lucky magazine.
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| The Lucky Mag article that led me to the store. |
It was definitely worth the drive.
Finn Style is a must-see shop for any style connoisseur (Finn or otherwise). This spacious shop boasts impressive collections of Marimekko fabrics, linens & clothing, Iittala glassware, Arabia porcelain and Kalevala jewellery. Plus, you’ll find fun & funky Aarikka jewellery, coveted Iittala glass birds and, of course, delicious Panda licorice (that’s a staple snack in our household). But for those shopping for something a little more unusual, this shop also sells more exclusive items, like the Vallila pillows my mom scooped up (I’ll post photos soon).
Take a look at just some of the goodies sold in store and online:
Marimekko Fabrics
Marimekko Towels (& other goodies)
Iittala Products
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| You knew I’d drool over the Alvar Aalto pieces . . . |
Kitchen Accessories, Linens & Arabia Dishware
Clothing & Accessories
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| Funky Aarikka jewellery |
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| Marimekko Change Purses |
The selection, and prices, were fabulous and my mom and I definitely enjoyed a little shopping indulgence, each leaving with bulging bags. I even bought the same dress featured in the Lucky article that led me to the shop (steeply discounted because it is a summer piece). Even my dad bought himself a mug and Hubby filled his pockets with licorice. I’ll show you all of our Finn Style goodies later but here’s a sneak peak of what I bought, in the form of a hint:
Need a better hint?
From table settings to upholstered pieces, the shop is chock full of smart and stylish ideas, which made us buzz with creativity. Check back to see what we whip up and take a peak at some of the inspiration.
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| Gorgeous Tablescape |
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| Upholstered Chair – Marimekko Unikko Poppy Upholstery Fabric |
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| Upholstered Chair – Marimekko Kanteleen Kustu Upholstery Fabric |
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| I really, really like this chair. |
See the Finn Style website for more info (if you can’t make it to Minneapolis, you can also buy online). I’ll be sharing photos of what we bought this week or next.
P.S. A quick note to new blog friends: I’m only blogging about this store because I loved it so. I haven’t been perked or paid.
Wow! Thanks for sharing the scoop on Finn Style! I'm definitely adding this to my to-do list for my next trip to the area. p.s. Love your photos of the Duluth house as well. Last summer, I visited a good friend who lives there. We had the best thrifting adventures while there!
Wow. That place looks amazing. All the gorgeous fabrics. I will not dare ask how much you spent in there.
So glad you ladies liked this post. I spent most of my shopping time snapping pics, because I was so excited to report back.I spent a bit . . . I'll post specific details soon.
I love all the colors and bold prints everywhere!! My hubby probably wouldn't agree and let me buy them, but I love them non the less! 😉
Maybe a little snippet of bold, patterned colour? Could you sneak in a pair of oven mitts or tea towel?:)
What an amazing store! How did you not buy everything? Emiliewww.liveeatsmile.blogspot.com
It looks like an amazing shop. There is a Marimekko store in Yaletown in Vancouver in case you ever make it out this way. We could spend hours drooling over the wonderful finds together:)
Emilie: Not buying everything in sight was a tad easier with Hubby shopping with me. He keeps me focused on not bankrupting us. Carol: That would be so much fun!!!
Oh wow! All of that color. I would be in shock. How did you narrow down what to pick? Can't wait to see it all.
Can't wait to see your purchases. I didn't realise you were half Finnish either. Anyway, that shop looks like dangerouse territory for any marimekko and iittala junkie!! xx
Kid in a candy store, living vicariously thru this post!
i wouldn't want to leave and wouldn't know what to choose. the colors are a.ma.zing. those fabrics are fabulous.
SO loving those patterns and colors!!
I always wondered if I was crazy in thinking that liking a certain style was in the blood. I have a lot of Norwegian in me, and I love a lot of the Scandinavian decorating. Your blog is super.
Great post and photos. I live fewer than two miles from the store but I haven't been there since they moved out of Gaviidae downtown. It looks like it has greatly expanded. I know what I'm doing this weekend.
Don't they just do a great job on their stores! As you could imagine we have Marimekko stores in all the shopping malls here in Helsinki, the downtown store is just wonderful happy fun!There is even an outlet of over run fabrics and what-nots tucked away here.If I'm having a bad day I wander into a Marimekko and get an attitude adjustment.Panda candy! It is yummy!Have a great day!Tracie