Emily and Ernie Vallorano are all smiles now that their second 27 Miles store is open in Montecito.
Emily and Ernie Vallorano are all smiles now that their second 27 Miles store is open in Montecito. Credit: Judy Foreman / Noozhawk photo

When a new store opens in Montecito, the news travels fast — especially to me.

The retail community buzzes with excitement: “Did you hear what’s opening in that old Legacy shop?”

Well, the only way to know was to stop in at 27 Miles and check it out, which I did.

First question: What does 27 Miles mean, I asked owners Emily and Ernie Vallorano. It’s the length of Malibu along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Fifteen years ago, the Valloranos discovered Malibu’s enchanting coastline and, like so many before them, fell under its spell.

They decided to move to California and establish new manufacturing roots.

Emily’s father brings experience as a sunglass manufacturer, while Ernie’s father and grandfather have long imported Italian fabric and suiting in New York.

Combining their shared passion for quality manufacturing, they created 27 Miles.

Montecito — at 1137 Coast Village Road — is the duo’s second store, joining their shop in San Marino.

The day I dropped in, Ernie was still getting settled but gave me a great tour and an espresso — instantly transporting me to Florence, Rome, Lucca, Milano and cashmere heaven.

A rack of sweaters in gorgeous colors outside the storefront lures you in to discover what’s inside.

The aroma of coffee, the genuine warmth of chatting with Ernie, and their English bulldog, Mochi — who greeted me enthusiastically — made the atmosphere incredibly inviting.

The beautiful, uncluttered space features tables displaying cashmere sweaters for men and women, gentleman’s suiting, women’s jackets, Italian-made shoes and fine Italian jewelry.

With an eye toward custom tailoring, the Valloranos hope to make it available to everyone, not just top-tier customers.

  • Newly opened 27 Miles features cashmere sweaters for men and women, gentleman’s suiting, women’s jackets, Italian-made shoes and fine Italian jewelry.
    Newly opened 27 Miles features cashmere sweaters for men and women, gentleman’s suiting, women’s jackets, Italian-made shoes and fine Italian jewelry. Credit: 27 Miles photo
  • 27 Miles is located at 1137 Coast Village Road in Montecito.
    27 Miles is located at 1137 Coast Village Road in Montecito. Credit: 27 Miles photo
  • Emily and Ernie Vallorano are all smiles now that their second 27 Miles store is open in Montecito.
    Emily and Ernie Vallorano are all smiles now that their second 27 Miles store is open in Montecito. Credit: Judy Foreman / Noozhawk photo

From Oct. 16-24, two Italian tailors — Nicola and Salvatore — will be on hand to provide expert fittings, allowing customers to personalize suits, jackets, shirts, pants and sport coats with meticulous detailing.

They’ll work with premium fabrics from Loro Piana, Zegna and other exclusive Italian suppliers.

27 Miles is holding a grand opening celebration from 4 to 7 p.m. Oct. 16-18.

Ciao!

Judy Foreman is a Noozhawk columnist and longtime local writer and lifestyles observer. She can be contacted at news@noozhawk.com. The opinions expressed are her own.