“My goal,” explains Miss Jamaica Universe 2009 Carolyn Yapp, “was to create a space that was modern and contemporary, yet comfortable, warm and fun!” It’s no idle boast! The beautiful Yapp, who studied design at The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale and further honed her skills working at high-end retail stores in the United States like Neiman Marcus, DCOTA (Design Center of the Americas), Minimilista (Kartel dealer) and Beauty Stuff, has created a pretty impressive beauty boutique. In addition to developing a greater eye for detail Yapp was also schooled in the science of customer service.

A graduate of the University of the West Indies (Mona), Yapp tells SO that she realised that her “passion was helping people feel good about themselves and also to create spaces that would conjure up excitement, luxury and comfort. My dream job did not exist in Jamaica, so I decided to start my own store that would provide a variety of high-end products that I personally use and to afford shoppers value for their money. I believe there’s no better feeling than walking out of a store knowing that you got your money’s worth and the goodies to prove it.”

The Design of Nylorac

“I had the dream in my head of how I wanted the store to look but needed a contractor who could not only help me realise the dream, but execute it in the shortest possible time. The decision was made to retain Millard Development, a company known for constructing some of the most luxurious apartments in Kingston in the shortest possible time. We worked closely with Michael Millwood’s son Greg… I’m thrilled, in fact, that the store was basically built by young people with fresh ideas.”

The Pink Wall

“The inspiration for the pink wall basically came out of frustration. I was tired of hearing people saying that pink is for little girls… The pink for my focal wall is sexy, intriguing, bright and bold.”

More Stylish Details…

“The chandelier mixes the traditional (lampshades) with modern (chrome). The sofa and chairs are ultra-modern, yet comfortable (SO gives these two thumbs up).

“The sisal rug was chosen simply because it reminds me of a villa I stayed in once in Ocho Rios. I wanted to add a familiar/local touch.

“The pop art of Audrey Hepburn and the classic black and white picture of Marilyn Monroe pay homage to two of cinema’s sexiest women.

“The vaulted ceiling designed by Greg Millwood adds further opulence to the store.”

The Philosophy

“Nylorac’s philosophy is to allow customers to try the products (if they are new to them) before any purchases are made. This will, we’re certain, keep our customers happy and satisfied, as they’ll know that we’re not just pushing a sale.

“The hope is for Friday shopping to become a mini after-work jam where customers can come and sample products, do some shopping, drink our signature Jungle Punch, listen to great music and network. The South Beach vibe will be very easy to achieve as a lot of people already say they felt like they are in a club when they step into the store.”

Brands inside the store:

Mixed Chicks, Komenuka Bijin, Teax, Alfaparf, Le Compagnie de Provence, Mistral, Dermalogica, Pacifica, Fairytales Haircare, Real Men Go 24/7, Cute As Hell, Miso Pretty, Dirty Girl, Blue Q, AG Hair Cosmetics, BabyLiss Pro Hair Stylers, Satin Smooth.

En Route

Young Blood Mineral cosmetics.

Style Buzz…

Manicure and pedicure by Janice.

Xtreme lashes by the lash guru Patricia.

Threading and make-up by Paul March.

Dermalogica facials and massages.