From Kim:
The joys of Capri and Amalfi are innumerable, but here are a couple of my favorites. On a hot day there is nothing more refreshing and delicious than a lemon gelato, and the one pictured here is my favorite because of the extraordinary presentation, a couple scoops of a perfect mingling of sweet and sour nestled in a frozen lemon shell. This comes from a tiny stand on a narrow path bordered with a stone wall and trellis festooned with blooming vines on the way to Giardini di Augusto in Capri.This region is well known for their bountiful lemons which are made into scrumptious concoctions from Lemoncello to lemon gelato and pastries. Another favorite stop on the way to the panoramic gardens is the laboratory and boutique of Carthusia Pefumes of Capri. In 1948 a prior from the local Certosa, a Carthusian Monastery, re-discovered the formula of a 14th century perfume. With a license from the Pope, the laboratory has been in this location since 1953 where they have created magical fragrances and products ever since.
]]>From Kim:
Being the textile junkie that I am, I was beside myself in Uzbekistan, home of the most extraordinary hand embroidered textiles called "Suzani". Traditionally, these large textiles decorated the interior walls of yurts which many nomadic people in Central Asia made their homes. There are regional distinctions in both style and color, an incredible the array of variety. You can see regional differences between the textiles shown above, bold and more solid embroidery and the piece pictured here, smaller motifs with a more visible ground incorporated into the design. The antique pieces are very valuable and extremly rare. The new ones, like the one I'm admiring here, are just as fine and beautiful as the old ones yet entirely different. These textiles are very versatile and can be used on beds, walls, tables or made into clothing, pillows and upholstered furniture. The most incredible thing to me is that each piece is unique and one of a kind. Yes, there are recurring motifs and designs, but each artisan expresses them in many different ways in many different color combinations. They are endlessly fascinating and beautiful!
]]>From Kim:
I'd wanted to travel to Andalusia for years. Growing up in Santa Barbara, I was surrounded by “Spanish Revival” architecture and longed to see the source. The revival genre is inspired by the architecture of southern Spain with its ancient and interwoven Roman, European, Arab, Muslim, Jewish and Christian heritage. This spring I took a holiday with Santa Barbara Museum of Art titled “Southern & Central Spain: Moorish Palaces of Andalusia & Museums of Madrid” where we saw many of the long dreamt of wonders including the Alcazar, Alhambra and Mosque of Cordoba. The photo at tip top is an image taken at sunset in the gardens of the Alcazar in Seville. Our small group had the palace and garden to ourselves, it was an extraordinarily rare moment with the voice of a peacock contributing to the spell. In addition we saw other incredible palaces and places that one doesn’t hear about until you are on the ground and introduced. The photo here is the interior courtyard of Casa de Pilatos, and another beauty is Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija.
]]>From Kim:
What treasures we enjoy here in Santa Barbara - between the architectural gems, cultural history and events, the incredible landscapes and vistas, we are blessed beyond compare. Growing up here, I appreciated this lovely environ because I was taught to notice and appreciate it by my mother, a teacher who loves art, nature, fashion and the textile arts, and my father, an architect and music lover who settled our family here. My roots in retail started long ago when Wendy Foster hired me for a summer job in High School. After working there for many years and getting my degree in Art History at UCSB, I moved to Washington DC and then to San Francisco where I lived for years before returning home to found MAISON K 17 years ago. Given this background, is it any wonder I do what I do?! Now I marvel all the more at our sweet city; the year round flowering bushes and trees all over town, the gorgeous sandstone walls, bridges and pavers, the tile roofs and whitewashed walls, the sunsets over the sea. Pictured here is Arroyo Burro Beach, the terminus of Arroyo Burro Creek, also known as Hendry's Beach where in my youth I spent many happy days in the surf and sand. Thanks to my grand daughters, and the hours we've spent in the waves each summer, I've reconnected with my love of the beach and the sound of the sea - it's timeless, ageless motion restores me!
]]>From Kim:
In 2011 we visited Istanbul for the first time where I discovered exquisite jewelry, textiles and clothing for the store. I had been buying things from importers in Europe for some years, but to go straight to the source was a dream come true. After several days in Istanbul, we visited friends who have a seaside home in Alacati and stayed in the charming inn pictured above. Turkey has a fascinating and complex history (like every country) and exploring a few of it's cities and experiencing the culture and history was very moving. At the crossroads of East and West, Turkey has been home to a number of diverse peoples and religions. The Temple of Hadrian, shown here, is located in Ephesus, a Greek colony founded in the 10th century BC eventually becoming the second most important city in the region after Constantinople. From pre Christian times when Cleopatra visited, through biblical times and today, the region is full of fascinating sites. The apostles Paul and John as well as the Virgin Mary lived here and made their mark. Centuries later in the 14th century the tides turned when the Ottoman Empire gained control over the region and further into central Europe. I recently learned that coffee culture was introduced into Vienna after the Ottomans were defeated in the 17th century; in retreat they left coffee beans behind. Coffee was an important beverage to middle eastern cultures, believed to have been discovered by a 15th century Sufi mystic in Ethiopia.
]]>From Kim:
I started collecting Astier de Villatte ceramics when I lived in San Francisco many years ago. I still adore the first piece I ever bought, a small serving dish that is still cherished. At the time I was a buyer and product designer for a large retailer and we would go to Maison & Objet, (a stellar trade show in Paris) twice a year. Our team would walk by the beautiful Astier booth and I would swoon and swear out loud "someday I will sell this in my own store!" And so it came to be. Each piece is made by hand in their Parisian atelier. The clay is dyed a rich cocoa brown and put into molds. Once out of the molds, each piece begins to morph into it's unique identity. Once dry, every piece is hand dipped into a white glaze and then fired; each a masterpiece! In addition to the ceramics we sell their wonderful candles, created by a famous french perfumer, and traditional Japanese incense, which is a huge hit. Ma Vie a Paris is the perfect book for those who appreciate unique Parisian businesses. We recently received a large shipment, come discover your favorite pieces!
]]>From Kim:
The two vintage photos above evoke the mood and style of the stars and jet set of the sixties and bring to mind many great films of the era. I think of La Piscine with Jane Birkin, Last Year at Marienbad with Delphine Seyrig and Ieri, Oggi Domani with Sophia Loren. These sensational films, shot on location in France, Czechoslovakia and Italy, respectively, are filled with beautiful people in beautiful places getting into a fair amount of trouble! I love anything that reminds me of this bygone era of European elegance, chic and nonchalance. The photo of the seaside pool and umbrella-studded terrace overlooking the mediterranean sea was taken at the grand belle époque Hotel Imperial in Santa Margharita, Italy, not far from Positano. One half expects to see Marcelo Mastroianni, Alain Delon or Rock Hudson saunter up to the poolside bar for a cocktail. Not far from there, another favorite movie of mine, Come September, was filmed. I can't go back in time, but I can sport some of the timeless fashions that made this era so endearing and beautiful!
]]>From Kim:
I love the pepper trees, agave and California oaks that grace our community. No better place to enjoy a beautiful landscape and stunning vistas with stellar sea views (pictured) is a walk from Butterfly Beach up the bluff winding around to the Music Academy of the West. Along the way you'll see brilliant hummingbirds and butterflies enjoying the nectar of the blooming plants. A perfect evening would be a sunset cocktail at Four Seasons Biltmore, a walk to Coast Village Road for dinner at Tre Lune, then circling back to an event at the Music Academy. This institution hosts students of incredible musical talent from all over the world. Another wonderful evening is a stroll around the Santa Barbara Mission followed by dinner on the terrace at Belmond El Encanto Hotel which overlooks all of Santa Barbara with views of the Channel Islands. Afterwards, head across the street to the wonderful SBIFF Riviera Theatre. They always have marvelous films, shown in a newly renovated theatre, located in an historic building. And they serve the best popcorn in town!
]]>From Kim:
Introducing our new collection of luscious cashmere wraps and woven leather bags, the majority of them made in small workshops in Tuscany. Wear them and you'll radiate the timeless chic of Italy. Versatile and elegant; casual or dressed, these pieces go everywhere with ease and style, whether home or away. If in Florence, enjoy a stroll through the Boboli Gardens and a light lunch on Via de'Tornabuoni. One of my favorite spots, pictured here, is Procacci, a jewel box of a bar where prosecco and truffles rule. From my little bar stool, I savor a delectable salad topped with finely shaved truffled cheese and croutons, enjoying the site of impeccably groomed locals popping in for petite truffle sandwiches and some bubbly. Other favorites on this shopper's dream street are Loretta Caponi for extraordinary lingerie, Parenti for exquisite tableware, and Richard Ginori for hand painted china, among the jaw dropping flagship stores of legendary Italian luxury brands. Don't forget the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum as well!
]]>From Kim
An orange tree is perfectly evocative of our golden state. California is so fertile and full of life, nurturing thousands of acres of citrus, particularly here in Santa Barbara County. I'm reminded of an amazing dessert I just had in Marrakech. It was striking, simple and delicious - pealed and sliced oranges, beautifully arranged on a plate with a light dusting of cinnamon on top; an unexpected and refreshing closure to the meal. Closer to home, I recall another sunny dish. Years ago I lived in San Francisco. Since I rarely watched tv I didn't bother getting cable so I had just a few stations to chose from. Once in a blue moon I'd watch Chinese opera, but one particular evening I tuned into an obscure cooking show. The host talked luxuriantly about how to create an "Insalata de Soleil" - he instructed his viewers to choose any fruits available in the colors of the sun - think yellow, orange, coral and red...I think he combined mangos, oranges, papaya and pineapple - but any combo would do. This golden hillside in Montecito is further inspiration. Adding a few freshly washed edible nasturtium blossoms to the salad would bring a whole new dimension to "Insalata de Soleil."
]]>Pack your bags for a "vacances sur la côté", a "holiday on
the coast". Whatever seaside town you visit, a simple wardrobe
of snappy stripes, timeless navy and bright white will take you
from day to evening in impeccable style.
Take a cue from the French Navy and make
your own waves this summer!
From Kim:
There are a wide array of incredibly picturesque seaside towns and cities on the coasts of France. Each is the expression of the people, commerce and resources particular to that area. On the "côté ouest" is the harbor of Honfleur (pictured above), an ancient port town in Normandy near the English Channel. The architecture is enchanting, many buildings are constructed in half timber, or the native slate. On the "côté sud", Marseille is situated on the Mediterranean Sea. Founded in 600 BC as a Grecian colony, it has always been an epicenter of maritime trade and commerce, with diverse influences from all over the vast region. Pictured here is the interior of "Notre Dame de la Garde" a 19th century Roman Byzantine Basilica which rises skyward on the highest hill in the city. With a commanding 360 degree view of the sea and city, La Garde (The Guard), has been an observation post since Roman times. Years later, a small Christian chapel was built there, where from time immemorial, fisherman, sailors and families have prayed for safe voyages. To honor the miracles of safe passage, centuries of seamen have created ex-votos to display in the church; either miniature boats to suspend from the ceiling, or paintings or plaques to hang on the walls to commemorate their salvation from the sea. "if you want to learn to pray, go to sea" is a well known maxim in Marseille. This basilica is a stunning homage to fortitude, faith, family and fraternity.
]]>From Kim:
For many years I'd imagined what St. Tropez might be like. Growing up with "Bain de Soleil for the St. Tropez tan" ringing in my ears, I imagined a lovely seaside place with bronzed, beautiful people. Later I'd learned St. Tropez was overrun with party boats and glitz, so I stayed away, preferring to keep my rose colored fantasy of this imagined village intact in my mind. But two years ago friends fell in love with the village, bought a home there, encouraged me to visit, and I did. I was immediately smitten. Yes the massive yachts are still in the harbor, but not far away the small fishing boats bob in front of the pastel hued buildings on the quay. Steps off the busy port are precious lanes and shaded alleys colored in the palest hues of rosé, butter, griege, ivory and moss - the colors are exquisite, the old buildings drip with flowering vines - it's all beyond charming. There is both a simplicity and old world sophistication that is utterly beguiling. Take a cue from the village palette, and enjoy a cool glass of Côtes de Provence Rosé and dream!
]]>From Kim:
I don't think there's ever been a time I've been in Paris and not visited Palais-Royal. Spring, Summer, Winter or Fall I'm always beguiled by this 17th century palace and garden, built originally for Cardinal Richelieu in 1639. Each season holds a special beauty and enchantment. For much of the year you can have an aperitif or dine outside breathing in and soaking up the "je ne sais quoi" of Paris. Or in winter, you can cozy up inside and admire the crisp rigor of the bare, pruned lime and chestnut tree allées. Before long the roses are in full bloom and people lounge around the fountain. After all my racing around working, there's nothing I love more than a slow saunter through the colonnades, window shopping at Didier Ludot, Serge Lutens, Maison de Vacances - just a few of the stunning boutiques lining the arcades. For a casual lunch, I love the vegetarian plate at Villalys. For an extravagant lunch, dine where Colette did at Le Grand Véfour. You will find yourself swept back to a more grand and gracious time in the blink of an eye.
]]>I've traveled near and far, yet until recently, hadn't visited the native home of my ancestors. Ireland had been on my radar for years, but it wasn't until this past September my husband and I took a holiday there with the SB Museum of Art. What made the trip titled "The Emerald Isle, Land of Saints & Scholars" so memorable was the fact that we were visiting and staying in private homes and castles, having tea and supper with people who care passionately for their ancestral homes, the legacy of their history, and the future of their country. Highlights included dinner with Lord Erne at Crom Castle,(staying in the room Prince Charles once did), wine with Madame Fitzgerald at Glin Castle, dinner at the magnificent Abbeyleix House with John O'Connell, (the go-to designer for restoration) and several nights at Ballyfin. Like every place in the world, the history and stories are rich, complex and fascinating, shared with irrepressible charm by Marianne Gorman. The memories of these people, the luxuriant green landscapes dotted with windswept castles and wooly sheep will long dance in my mind and heart. (Pictured above, a place for repose at Lough Erne, the Nature Reserve at Crom Castle managed by the National Trust.)
]]>From Kim:
With both cars packed, we headed south to escape the horrific fires and unbearable conditions in our beloved Montecito. We gave ourself the gift of fresh air and sunshine, momentary relief and rest. While keeping abreast of the news, the "Serenity Prayer" was on autoplay in my mind and heart. Even so, I needed to be distracted, bathed in beauty and light. In LA, there is no better place to find that than the Getty Center. Almost floating, like a cubist cloud above the 405, acres of travertine and staircases, outdoor rooms, gardens, sculpture and art (plus an extraordinary dinning room with views to the sea), this gleaming oasis lifted my heart for several good hours. Naturally, I visited the Wright S. Ludington marbles on loan while our own Santa Barbara Museum of Art is undergoing renovation. I grew up with that collection and somehow it was comforting to visit these figures, all of us, temporary refugees from home.
]]>Warm colors in luxurious tones and textures will keep winter at bay and inspire dreams of exotic destinations
1 Marrakech Signature Candle made in US $42.00
2 Antelope suede shawls from Italy $895
3 Quartz, baroque pearl and brass bead jewelry $95-395.00
4 Suede fringe drawstring purse from Marrakech $395
5 Two tone scarf from Paris $95
6 Silk velvet ikat pillows from Istanbul $245
From Kim:
The shades above evoke the warmth of a dessert landscape and sun swept sand dunes. Closer to the city, these varied and rich earth tones create the beautiful exterior colorations of buildings in the ancient city of Marrakech. Inside, the central courtyards and gardens offer lush contrast and cool relief. The vibrant city sounds disappear and there is calm, a three dimensional balm for the senses, a dedicated place for tea, reflection, an engrossing book. Marrakesh is a veritable mecca of exquisite, small hotels known as riads, with extraordinary architecture and decor, impeccable service and beautiful meals. Some of my favorites include Dar Housnia, pictured above, L'Hotel, pictured here, Riad Camilia and Talla 12. We just received two giant crates of decorative hand carved tent posts, decorative pots, rafia placemats and more; create your own oasis wherever you call home.
]]>Come fall and winter, at home or abroad, there are several clothing accessories you will never find me without:
From Kim:
This stunning apartment building was my home away from home for a couple of nights on my most recent buying trip to Paris. My dear friends and hosts epitomize artistic flair and Parisian chic, qualities I aspire to! With balcony views over Jardin du Luxembourg, and beyond to Sacre Coeur, this perch above La Closerie des Lilas, exudes the joie de vivre of Montparnasse. During the 10's, 20's and 30's this area was the heart of intellectual and artistic life in Paris. Hemingway, Cocteau and Picasso were part of a dynamic, international crowd who created iconic works of literature and art of the 20th century. Several of the cafes they gathered in still exist and have an authentic charm not to be missed. Closer to the river, La Societe, pictured above, interior by Christian Liaigre, is a contemporary brasserie to enjoy as well.
]]>Step into Fall with style! Our simple, striking, versatile collection includes a luxuriously soft tasseled cashmere poncho, a sumptuous leather tote, a luminous baroque peal necklace all handcrafted in Italy, topped off with our best selling straw hat from South America.
From Kim:
Santa Barbara is a blessed place in the world with dramatic mountains gently tumbling down through oak and sycamore trees onto soft beaches with cool blue seas. In addition to our extraordinary topography and Mediterranean climate, we have a plethora of architectural gems that meld beautifully into this landscape. We see the Spanish/Moorish vernacular in the stately COURT HOUSE, EL PASEOand ARLINGTON THEATRE.
Pictured here is a portion of the interior courtyard at El Paseo. Long ago there were charming boutiques here, followed by private offices. Today the area is alive once again with beautiful tasting rooms open to passers by bringing life and joy to this magical area. Stop into my favorite MARGERUM WINE COMPANY for outstanding CA wines made with the finesse of European traditions, the best of both worlds. Cheers!
]]>One can almost imagine the nonchalant figures pictured here, breaking their plaster confines and reclining casually on the chaise and chairs pictured above.
Places of reflection and relaxation are always welcome and necessary for me, especially during a buying trip, a balm for all I see and must sort through, a breath from the thought processes that go into selecting things for the store.
A moment of quiet can be found in a museum, a garden, or a quiet corner of a hotel. Last spring I saw mention of a Balenciaga exhibit being held at Musee Bourdelle, in Paris. I was not familiar with the institution, so it was all the more a treat to savor Christóbal's "L'Oeuvre au Noir" in situ with huge sculptures, artwork and studies created by another great artist, Antoine Bourdelle. Monsieur Bourdelle was a pioneer of monumental sculpture and an influential teacher to many artists. What is now a museum was once his home, studio and garden, an unexpected oasis in Montparnasse!
]]>From Kim:
There is something so enchanting about dining al fresco, surrounded by trees, flowers and the open sky. This is easy to do in Santa Barbara, even if that means wearing a down sweater and UGG boots for an evening supper.! Not long ago I met a friend for dinner near her apartment at Gramercy Park. We dined at Gramercy Tavern. It's a classic and has been around a long time but I had never been before. I loved the ambiance the moment we walked in. Huge plate glass windows, high ceilings and larger than life floral arrangements with tree branches and flowers greeted us. A sideboard, pictured here, was layered with masses of roses, daisies, mounds of squash, piles of miniature clay pots and a large glorious cheese board. Our table had tiny vases filled with rosemary arranged in a wooden tray and even the "toilette" was festooned with numerous floral arrangements. A city style al fresco experience in the heart of New York!
]]>From Kim:
The tree canopies in the forests of the Sierra Nevada create a similar affect of the lanterns above. The sunlight filters through a myriad of limbs and branches - casting shadows all around; falling upon the berries and wildflowers, on the forest floor covered with pine needles and cones. Our annual road trip this year included Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia. Each park has an abundance of glorious, jaw dropping sights - but the relative emptiness and calm of Kings Canyon and Sequoia really spoke to me. Each evening at check in,
we were informed of the proper etiquette around bears - we were prepared - now where were they? On our last morning, we took the beautiful, grand Congress Trail in The Giant Forest and there they were, the ultimate visual reward, a cinnamon colored mama bear followed by her 2 precious cubs on a walk-about through the ferns.
]]>From Kim:
I am such a Francophile, yet my first European love was Italy, and I'm still smitten. The craftsmanship and artistic traditions are so rich - like the pewter above, or the architecture and sculpture pictured here at the Campidoglioin Rome. Then there are the textile traditions, the food, the operas - the artistic permutations go on and on. Many years ago, as an art history major in college, I spent a semester abroad in Rome. I was awed by this ancient city and it's proud citizens, the clash and fusion of eons and a myriad of traditions. There is nothing I love more than discovering people plying their trades and bringing it home to share. I make a point of staying in a different hotel and area each visit, as it's only in wandering do I discover new things. It's a bit like having to get lost to be found and that works perfectly for me!
]]>From Kim:
The scarf above would be a great accessory to wear to a luncheon in Montecito or on a private patio in Morocco. The lovely arrangement pictured here, beckons to be enjoyed! There is something so classic, versatile and enduring about white furniture. Here in the interior courtyard of Riad Dixneuf La Ksour, Marakech, the old world elegance of white wicker, paired with the creamy walls and earthy tile, is both unexpected and luscious; an invitation to lounge on the chaise, enjoy a glass of mint tea and read a book with the soothing sound of trickling water from the pool nearby. This is a sanctuary of sorts, a beautiful spot for repose and relaxation. Wherever we are, that is a gift we must give ourselves - whether a beautiful escape far away, in our own backyard, or even in the boundless realm of our dreams and imagination.
]]>From Kim:
Pictured here is a window at the inimatable Astier de Villatte on Rue Saint Honore in Paris. The boutique is located in an 18th century building, in a shop once occupied by "Le Singe Violet" - The Purple Monkey - as Singerie
was very chic and in vogue then. Today the stunning antique shelves are lined with gleaming white ceramics (also available here at MAISON K), whimsical gifts, and books including Astier de Villatte's newly published english version of My Paris Life, soon arriving at MAISON K. The everlasting bouquet here is made up of handmade paper flowers - a beautiful melange of colors and shapes which echo the exotic and higher than high hairdos of the 18th century. Today the most amazing hair dresser is Julien d'Ys - he creates other worldly coiffure for exhibits and shows around the world.
]]>From Kim:
Indicative of many beach side communities is the palm tree. Is there anything that says summer and sunshine and balmy breezes more than an Arecaceae - as called by the botanists? What's most phenomenal is that there are so many types - 2600 species, living within a greater geographical range than you might imagine. Palms create an incredible array of goods that billions of people depend on. From coconut meat, milk and water to wax and oil, coir and rattan, dates, nuts, heart of palm and wine - there are numerous products derived from this tree. The palms here are probably about a hundred years old and stand majestically along Butterfly Beach; they beautifully sway with any wind. The Palms in Carpinteria has photos of their young palms planted when they first opened in 1912. I don't know if the ones there now are the originals but they are sky high. An evening at The Palms is like falling into a time warp with the added fun, if you so choose, of getting to grill your own steak and halibut after a trip to their classic salad bar. Happy Summer!
]]>From Kim:
I've been fascinated with Greek and Roman art and antiquity my entire life - I'm quite sure a very early visit to Ludington Court at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art started it all. I have fond childhood memories of the museum where my mother was a docent for many years. Years later, I even met my husband there! As a lapsed Art History student, I am still enchanted by museums of all sorts; that said the MET remains the ne plus ultra - especially with the addition of the MET Breuer. This makes for the perfect trio between the MET on 5th and The Cloisters. Pictured here is a bronze sculpture in the largest of the Greek and Roman galleries, standing on a finely tessellated floor surrounded by grand columns - very much evoking an ancient villa - quite a transformation from what was once a restaurant!
]]>From Kim:
Speaking of French Finds, this is one of them for sure — "Le Jardin du Quai" in L'Isle sur la Sorgue. A multi storied, vine clad villa with ice blue shutters stands amidst a verdant garden with dining tables all about - it could not have been more quintessentially provencal - utterly charming. I love these easy relaxed meals where you linger between the courses after a long day and soak up the atmosphere. We would never have found this gem, hidden as it was behind a tall wall, but our wonderful hosts at Le Clos Violette, who have an eye for beauty and a taste for fine dining gave us all the best recommendations throughout the area. Priceless! We actually returned to "Le Jardin" the very next day for lunch and decided to eat inside - beguiled by the floor of old french tiles and vintage counter dining surrounding a grand island with an astonishing floral arrangement ringed by luscious desserts - including a regional favorite - le Tart Tropezienne. Did we indulge? Oh la la!
]]>From Kim:
Lago di Como brings to mind images of grand villas rising from the lake, parasol pines spreading their canopies above verdant gardens and red tiled roofs everywhere. Pictured here is the dreamy Villa del Balbianello, exquisite enough for James Bond in Casino Royale. We had taken a vacation in Switzerland, the last stop being one night in Lake Como. I loved being a tourist, an off duty buyer, enjoying the excursion boat tour of the lake ("....and to your right, the villa with the green shutters... is George Cluny's home..") as well as walking the steep stone steps of the idyllic, (but crowded) Italian fairy tale town of Bellagio. Wandering around during our hour long stop I spotted some beautiful silk shawls in a shop window. Little did I know that I was in the European epicenter of silk production and weaving. During the 18th century, silk was the largest export of Lombardy, with many mills near the lake. A fine silk textile tradition continues to this day. I quickly snapped up a number of pieces for the store, now long gone, but plan on bringing in a new assortment of these beautiful textiles this fall!
]]>From Kim:
I love the earthy and elegant muted tans, blush and nudes of the textiles above - a palette echoed in many of the dresses featured in "Manus x Machina" (Hand and Machine), the Costume Institute's Spring 2016 exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Like many, I (mistakenly) believed that Haute Couture was the epitome of high fashion because it was all executed by hand for a specific client. This exhibit showcases the fact that both highly sophisticated machine work as well as hand work goes into the creation of these otherworldly dresses. Pictured here is a fitted, yet frothy dress of lace and tulle from the House of Givenchy, Autumn/Winter 2011/12. There are a bevy of festive, fascinating ensembles from many different eras organized by technique: Plissè (Pleating), Dentellerie (Lacework), Plumasserie (Featherwork) - etcetera - the online overview is an interesting glimpse of the show from the comfort of your home!
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