BLACKBURN AND SWEETZER

By Nia Tahani Davis

If all you needed in life were some decadent shoes, an eye-catching handbag, sparkling jewelry, and an opulent candle for good measure, then Parisa & Co. at Beverly Boulevard and N. Fuller Avenue (7354 Beverly Boulevard; 323-938-7300) would be it for you. The silhouetted logo in the store window is reminiscent an old cobbler’s shop, however, Parisa Akbar, the owner of this new boutique, is no old cobbler. In fact, she is the humble purveyor of those luxuries that can take a simple shirt dress from factory to Factory Girl. Highlights include shoes, handbags, and jewelry by Melanie Dizon, Christie Martin, Elizabeth Kaye, Kale, Nicholas Kirkwood, Gil Carvalho, and Strutt Couture.

A seasonal effect and one that I think earns Parisa & Co. extra credit is the witchy and seductive candle from LA-based DayNa Decker Environments. Signature botanical waxes are supported by a thick, clear crystal, painted black from the inside, thus creating the illusion of a floating candle. The EcoWood™ wick makes for a calming crackling wood sound and the four alluring scent-blends in the Chandel Couture Collection - Opponax (Tuscan roses, violet, sweet broom, sandalwood, and white woods); White Tuberose (jasmine, gardenia, ylang-ylang, nectarine, and white musk); Jarcanda Blossoms (ananas leaf, muguet, lime, sandalwood, and cider); and Sandalrose (rose de mai, peony, vanilla, sandalwood, vanilla and cashmere woods) - represent the 15% perfume content which is much higher than most candles. Priced at $72, the expense is that much more worth it when you read that each 6-ounce candle burns for 45 hours, and once you see the gorgeous, glossy black box and satin ribbon packaging.