Hellenic
Aesthetic
30-91 31ST
ST., ASTORIA
HELLENICAESTHETIC.COM
@HELLENICAESTHETIC
SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 1 I BOROMAG.COM 15
nirs,” Vlachos said.
The Astorian first started designing
graphic T-shirts based on vintage
tourist T-shirts her family would
wear, as well as travel posters. Vlachos
now designs 14k gold jewelry
as well, and everything she creates is
inspired by Greece.
“When I was a kid, my grandparents
wanted to give me something that
would help me remember the islands.
They bought me a necklace that had a
medallion with the islands etched in it
with my name engraved on the back,”
Vlachos said.
Whether you’re browsing online
or in-store, Vlachos’ inspiration from
Greece and her culture is evident.
Vlachos carries beautiful, dainty gold
jewelry similar to her sentimental gold
medallion necklace that was gifted to
her as a child. Included in the offerings
are necklaces with etched medallions,
gold chains that have a delicate evil
eye charm or white gold rings with patterns
commonly seen in Greek fashion
and architecture.
“I am often inspired by the people
who shop with me. I get to see how
they dress and how they style their
jewelry with clothes they bought
from me. While everything in Hellenic
Aesthetic is a nod to Greek
culture, there is something for everyone,”
Vlachos said.
Vlachos was set on making her shop
a totally immersive experience, and
she carefully selected the store’s location,
interior design and products. She
settled in a space located close to the
Greek Orthodox church, St. Demetrios,
and just a stone’s throw away from the
Greek eatery, Boulis Cafe.
“I still feel like Astoria has such a
neighborhood feeling. It’s a lot less
Greek than it once was, like when my
grandfather was here in the ‘60s, but
I live in Astoria and love it. It’s a nice
place to start a business. Everyone
rallies around local businesses and
it’s so wonderful,” Vlachos said.
The brick-and-mortar store was designed
by two Greek architects who
are from Athens but studied architecture
in New York. Just from looking at
the storefront, passersby can tell that
Hellenic Aesthetic is not your typical
New York boutique. Aside from the
warm white and bright atmosphere
and sprinkles of light blue, Hellenic
Aesthetic contains museum-like cubbies
within the walls, giving a sense
you are looking at something precious
but within reach.
“Greek culture guides us in a lot
of ways and it has been a common
theme in my life,” Vlachos said.
Currently, Hellenic Aesthetic is
shop by appointment only, but Vlachos’
online shop is open 24/7.
Aesthetic
/HELLENICAESTHETIC.COM
/BOROMAG.COM
