Life

material matters

November 26, 2018

When I picture cement, I see floors, roofs, stairs, pillars and roads. And a massive concrete mixer. It’s not a sophisticated material, but these vases certainly are. They’re elegant, simple and bold. I picture a cluster of them on this fantastic terrazzo table. The vases are handmade in Greece, and can be used inside or out.

a room of one’s own

November 23, 2018

This here is a beautiful room. From the windows to the tiles, to the play of colour and light, there’s nothing I don’t like. Rooms like these aren’t designed all at once, they come together over time. The books, the magazines, photos and flowers; given the chance to walk around for a minute or two, I think one could learn so much about the person who lives here.

autobiography

November 23, 2018

I’m drawn to the simplicity of Caroline Popham‘s paintings and collages. There’s a subtle movement to them that I really enjoy.  I read that Popham’s work acts as her visual journal, that she takes mundane moments and routines from her everyday and re-imagines them in her paintings . “Human habits, routines, and observations are denoted using abstract forms, gradations, and sequential rhythms while color translates mood and action.” Take a look Popham’s work. It may resonate with you, too.

fashion folk

November 20, 2018

I’m a fan of Mirka Mora‘s work; it’s zany, weird and original. The Australian artist died this year, but no doubt, she’ll continue to inspire for years to come. Take a look at Aussie label, Gorman’s latest Mora-inspired collection of printed blouses, dresses and jumpsuits. The accessories, like this colour rich tote and silk scarf, are a statement unto themselves. Take a closer look at the prints –– foxes, bunnies, bosoms and blossoms –– it’s all so wonderfully bizarro.

vamp shade

November 19, 2018

Whenever I see a wild wallpaper, or whimsical light, my mind immediately travels to the loo. The guest loo. These fabric chandeliers, hand made in Britain made from the finest dupion silks, are destined for the powder room of my dreams. They’re deco, they’re boudoir, they’re divine. It’s this Hibiscus pink one that I want, but the shades can be made to order in any colour (or colour combination) of the rainbow.

November 19, 2018

How fabulous is this ivory extravaganza of a bow? I know bows not for everyone, and this one could never be taken out to dinner, but just to try this blouse on would make me happy. I think I’d wear it with black tuxedo pants and bare feet and then dig into a bowl of spaghetti Bolgnese, just to see if I can pull it off.

plated

November 19, 2018

So. I’m potty about these plates from La DoubleJ Housewives’. I just love the brilliant colours and whimsical designs. The original toile de Jouy print that appears on the Pavone collection was designed in the late 1700s, and inspired by the Mantero Silk Archives in Lake Como. The plates are too decadent for anything but foie gras and petit fours. Just don’t serve together, perhaps.

entomology

November 19, 2018

I love the idea of embroidery, although I can’t imagine I’d have the patience for something so intricate. “The time consuming nature of hand embroidery has developed a certain appreciation in me as opposed to other art forms,” Humayrah Bint Altaf tells The Creators Project. “Embroidery increases me in patience and forbearance, as nothing can be hastened or hurried. Each bead, each piece of leather, each metal is stitched with concentration and much deliberation.” The London-based artist studied at the Royal School of Needlework and uses jewel toned silk threads, beads and metallic leather and silver lace in her creations. Take a look at Bint Altaf’s dragonflies, beetles and butterflies. They really are precious.

retrofit

November 12, 2018

It’s a certain girl who’s drawn to Susie Cave’s line. Cate Blanchett, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Florence Welch are all fans of The Vampire’s Wife. The fabrics –– Liberty florals, jewel toned velvets and disco shimmer –– all whisk me back to the 70s. I picture kidney shaped velvet love seats and chintzy arm chairs. I picture English pubs and electric discos. I like this dainty floral pattern paired with metallic silk ruffles, and I can’t imagine a more fabulous Christmas dress than this one made from shimmery red silk metallic chiffon.

abstract expressionist

November 10, 2018

Colour and print always stop me in my tracks. And I love this look from Chitose Abe. It’s Sacai Spring 2019 ready-to-wear, and while I wouldn’t rock this get-up head-to-toe, I admire that she can. This dress is a walking work or art. And this top is a sophisticated, (beautifully crafted) take on something I might have made as a child. Have a look. You may be inspired.

All rights reserved © La Parachute · Theme by Blogmilk + Coded by Brandi Bernoskie