Italian Inspiration

I happened to be shopping at J.Crew over the weekend.  (What else is new right?)  While flipping through the new catalog I came across Part III of their Made in Italy series.  It was especially interesting because it dealt with their trip to Ratti and Canepa mills in Como, Italy and perfect timing since I had just posted about textile designer Sonia Delauney.  There used to be many mills in Italy but much production has moved to China so it's comforting to know that J.Crew is supporting these old Italian mills.  I especially loved their look into the archives at Canepa and the artisans painting the prints at Ratti.  I highly recommend watching the accompanying video.  I'm off to figure out how I can get myself invited on the next trip! Ciao!

The Bag That Keeps on Giving

SURevolution has collaborated with J.Crew to produce eight hand-made sisal bags in the Kathuma Village in Kenya.  SURevolution is a company that believe in creating sophisticated products for the luxury market that honor artisans' traditions, craftsmanship and our natural resources.  J.Crew looks at each of their collaborations very carefully but Marissa Webb, Head of Women's Design, was already familiar with SURevotion and thought it was the perfect partnership.  When I asked why only eight were produced, she told me, "it takes a long time to produce each one. Every detail is made by hand and there is care taken in each stitch." She especially liked they are giving back to the community and keeping these artistic traditions alive.  The bags are $150 each and will not be available online.  Four will be available at the Malibu Lumber Yard store (310-456-6760) and four at the Lincoln Road store in Miami (305-673-9806).  Please visit or contact the stores if you would like to purchase one.  It really is the bag that keeps on giving!

Photos courtesy of J.Crew

Heat Wave

A few readers asked about the coral colored lipstick from the J.Crew Spring 2011 presentation.  It is Heat Wave from Nars.   I'd start stocking up now because it looks like it's going to be the hot color for next year!

For the Boys: J.Crew Men's Spring 2011 Preview

Just so my male readers don't feel left out, here is a lookat J.Crew men's spring 2011 preview.  The collection was inspired by the pastel colors of artist Cy Twombly and landscape painter Windslow Homer.  Frank Muytjens and the design team visited Prouts Neck, Maine and were inspired by the color of the sea. Looks good to me!  Bon Weekend!



 

Photos courtesy of J.Crew

Sneak Peek: J.Crew Spring 2011

I'm off to an early drapery installation but I'm leaving you with a sneak peek at the Spring 2011 looks from J.Crew.  Big thanks to new President Jenna Lyons and the head of Women's Design Marissa Webb for putting on a fabulous show.  I've already picked out what I am dying to wear so let me know what you love! 

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic