Decorative objects and apparel created by artists are nothing new, but the creativity found in top Sarasota stores focused on art-inspired products often ranks right up there with painting and sculpture. From the ingenious architectural cut and fit of an art-to-wear evening dress to the revival of ancient European guild crafts, we are seeing a global cultural movement toward a world in which fashion, interior design and art collide. It’s already happening in Sarasota; here’s a sampling.

Sarasota’s haven for art-to-wear, Dream Weaver presents ingeniously crafted fashions from Mashiah Arrive (Ran jacket, above, $950) of Berlin, in addition to an unparalleled selection of apparel and accessories by American artisans. Dream Weaver Collection, 364 St. Armands Circle, (941) 388-1974.

Designer Anna Rabinowicz of RabLabs imbues everyday objects with artful intrigue, fusing precious metals with semiprecious gems. Agate coasters in a choice of lavish colors are gilded in 24K gold or silver ($140 for a set of four). Envie Home Decor, 1411 First St., (941) 366-7027.

Potter Christopher Spitzmiller’s hand-thrown lamps are crafted in classic forms, but their highly glazed ceramic and rich colors have earned cult status with top designers (shown is Cameron in burnt orange with 23K gold water gilt base, $2,290). Pecky, 100 Central Ave., (941) 957-0300.

Named for the world-famous resort town, Biarritz food-safe bowls by Italian design source Oggetti are crafted with simple contemporary lines and finished in antique silver metallic leaf (each $130). The Sarasota Collection Home Store, 622 Central Ave., (941) 955-8313.

Celebrating the ancient European art of tooled leather, this purple belt by ETRO is patterned in a paisley motif in relief. A bold unisex touch of color both day and night ($290). The Met Fashion House Day Spa & Salon, 35 S. Boulevard of Presidents, (941) 388-3991.

Coveted for its elegant combination of pewter and ceramic, Match pewter dinnerware (plate and soup bowl, each $110) and pewter knife with forged stainless blade ($60) are from a food-safe collection handmade by Italian artisans using antique molds. Black Bird Home Gallery, 1540 Main St., (941) 366-0941.

Stella McCartney’s stare-worthy wool Falabella tote with chain handles is printed with a trio of hauntingly beautiful faces designed by English artist Gary Hume ($1,845). Saks Fifth Avenue, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, (941) 364-5300. 

German rug designer Jan Kath’s Erased Heritage collection displays synergy between contemporary minimalism and Old World craft in his wool and silk Mamluk Kensington Pleasure rug. Order at Art to Walk On, 16 S. Palm Ave., (941) 951-5454.

For even more Sarasota shopping finds, click here. >>

This article appears in the August 2014 issue of Sarasota Magazine. Click here to subscribe. >>