November 30, 2009
L.L. Bean Signature Collection
L.L.Bean, Inc., the classic American label that was founded in 1912 and originally only sold the Maine Hunting Shoe, is now coming out with a Signature Collection in March 2010.
The company hired designer Alex Carleton, the founder of Rogues Gallery, as its creative director. In March, it will introduce the line including light-weight tailored linen blazers, buffalo plaid and madras shirts, nubby shawl-neck sweaters and a new version of the field coat for men. The women’s collection will feature a belted camp jacket, a denim line, madras shirtdresses, wrap skirts and new chino styles. Carleton will also create a new twist on L.L. Bean classics such as the Boat and Tote Bags. They released that the Signature Collection will not be priced much higher than the basic product line.
Images from the above launch party credit to L.L. Bean.
November 27, 2009
Holiday Decor: Gilded Pinecones
This is no big news, but Martha Stewart has some really classic and chic holiday decor ideas. I love the way these pinecones have the perfect Midas Touch and the bow that holds them together is just as stylish. Easy to make and elegant to look at:
1. In a ventilated area, line a surface with plastic and then paper. Secure a rod across an open cardboard box.
2. Insert a screw eye into base of each pinecone. Attach a 10-inch-long wire to each screw eye.
3. Stir gold paint. Wearing gloves, dip pinecones to coat; hang on rod in box. Let dry (at least 1 day).
4. Remove wire; thread with a thick silk ribbon
All photography credit to Martha Stewart Living
The Sartorialist: Alessandra Colombo, Milan
Alessandra Colobo, an Italian fashion designer, poses for Scott Schumar's Sartorialist. I love the way her style is completely androgynous yet still so chic. Not much of what I wear is very girly and trendy (I just can't pull it off) but I admire those who can! I would definitely wear any of these pieces Alessandra has on.
Personal Style Quirk?:
"I always buy trousers (with creases) at least two sizes bigger than my size - in order to style them my own way."
Your Next "Must-Have" Purchase?:
"A vintage yellow gold Rolex Chronograph."
Favorite Book?:
"Alice in Wonderland."
"I always buy trousers (with creases) at least two sizes bigger than my size - in order to style them my own way."
Your Next "Must-Have" Purchase?:
"A vintage yellow gold Rolex Chronograph."
Favorite Book?:
"Alice in Wonderland."
All photography credit to The Sartorialist.
November 26, 2009
Before and After: A Manhattan Bedroom
"Your bed should always be ready to
catch you as you fall into it."
Sunday mornings are for spending in bed (and then running off to brunch with friends). But until then, I can be found with The New York Times Online, my laptop, coffee and books. Rita Konig, a decorator based here in New York who has written about style for British Vogue, The Telegraph and Domino, agrees.
Her New York City apartment rental is very similar to my previous apartment- room for a queen-sized bed and not much else! Beds are obviously the center of bedrooms, but this bed is even more so, since it takes up most of the room. The bedroom above only measures 6.5 feet by 8 feet, which doesn't leave much room for the imagination.
The window makes a world of a difference when it comes to not feeling so claustrophobic, but she notes that the feminine wallpaper made an enormous difference, as well. She adds that when looking for a place to live, use the windows as a guide. If they are good, and the room is a good shape, you will always be able to make it lovely. Click the image above to enlarge.
Konig's tips and necessities for making your bedroom a dreamy haven:
- European (square 27") pillows are a must for a complete look
- Standard down pillows for sleeping, plus a few decorative ones
- Mix textures and weights. It gives everything a longer life because if you can mix things in a slightly different way each week, you won’t tire of what you have so quickly. The main thing is to keep everything soft. Anything that spends too much time on the floor, like heavy bedspreads, or cushions, really belong on a chair or sofa
- Most importantly, sheets. Your sheets and duvet cover should feel crisp and clean and gentle on the skin. Collect them over the years so you have your favourite styles and fabrics. Look at them as a collection. Once you have many sets, it's fun to mix and match to make the room truly your own (favourites include D. Porthault, Yves Delorme and Leontine)
All photography credit to The New York Times, The Moment
Elizabeth Gilbert on Nurturing Creativity
Does artistry always lead to anguish? Elizabeth Gilbert asks this question in her 20-minute TED talk. She confronts the issues of managing the inherent emotional risks of creativity and the relationship we all have with our creative instincts. This is a funny and humbling video that is worth the watch.
November 25, 2009
Libations: Pinot Noir
My family loves good wine, and this Thanksgiving holiday "week" has been no exception to tasting and trying out what we love. I was recently on a Malbec kick, but I've listed below the Pinots I've been faithful to for some time now (that are nicely priced). The new addition to the list, Aquinas, was tonight's libation. I can't wait to try it again!
Aquinas
2007 Napa Valley Pinot Noir
(Earthy and juicy cherries)
Au Bon Climat
2007 Santa Barbara Pinot Noir
(Plums and strawberries)
Clos du Val
2005 Napa Valley Pinot Noir
(Black cherries and spices)
Artist Spotlight: Sally King Benedict
I recently came across Sally King Benedict's artwork after reading about her in Coastal Living and I ran to her site to learn more about her. Her work can be described as chic and beautifully relaxing. It's no wonder why most of her works are sold out on her site!
Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, SKB received her BA from the College of Charleston in December 2007 with a concentration in painting and printmaking. Her preferred mediums are oil on canvas, linen and paper, and ink and guache on paper.
It is enlightening to see an artist that is my age doing what she loves- and doing it so well. I've recently been contemplating trying my own hand at painting- working out colour schemes, sizes and the approach I would like to take. I think SKB's paintings below will serve as my inspiration!
The artist's statement:
"Loose lines, layered color, and spontaneity have taken precedence in creating my most recent works. Recollections of simplistic thoughts, scribbles, and feelings have begun to dictate the palettes’ intensity or perhaps the lack there of. The lines are varied, intersecting, and contrasting with great influences ranging from organic forms from nature and found objects to the collection of text from the old letterpress in my studio. I rarely start a piece with a plan because having the liberty to be free and to experiment makes the process that much more meaningful and unexpected. With this latest approach, I hope to portray energetic compositions that are approachable and relevant."
Learn more about Sally King Benedict here.
Oil and charcoal on linen, 40x40
Oil and charcoal on canvas, 48x60
Gift It: Book Guide
Below are some of my favourite coffee table books that would all work as great gifts this season. Whether it be fashion, interiors, cooking or art, all of these publications would be the perfect addition to any design-minded home.
All of the books listed below can be found on Amazon.com, but if you're here in New York and in the mood for a fruitful adventure, head over to Ursus Books in the Carlyle Hotel for rare books and prints, or try old faithful Rizzoli Books.
Phaidon's Sempe: Panic Stations (Jean-Jacques Sempe explores some of his favourite themes, such as unspoken truths, failed communications and hidden talents.)
November 23, 2009
Holiday Gift Guide: For Him
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