ISSUE 3
I recently had an incredible trip to New York City where I caught up with friends at Frenchette, stopped by Desert Vintage and visited a few amazing gallery shows (Eva Hesse at Hauser & Wirth and Paul Klee at David Zwirner). However, after two weeks of the city hustle, I started to dream about slow summer days spent lounging by the beach and tucking into a new book. This week I’m discussing my top three items for a refined look whether on the shores of Long Island or Southern France.
1.
THE BEACH BAG
I love the classic yet modern designs of Rue de Verneuil. The designer, Vincent Ribat, found inspiration through American tool bags from the 1950’s with a nod to the French Riviera. They remind me of a cross between a classic L.L. Bean tote and an Hermès Garden Party. This canvas and leather carry-all is the perfect piece to travel with from plane to pool.
HOW TO WEAR IT …
There’s nothing more refined than a nautical inspired look - a navy swimsuit, a crisp white shirt dress and a fisherman sandal. The sandal gives the look a modern edge and has versatility whether worn with shorts or a linen trouser. I also have to mention my next read, Once Upon A Time, the latest biography on Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy who made the nautical look contemporary for her time.
2.
THE SUN HAT
This summer I’m investing in a hat that’s packable and has a larger brim to keep my face out of the sun. Janessa Leone is my go-to hat designer. I appreciate that she never wavers from her sustainable practices and hand-crafted construction.
HOW TO WEAR IT …
I’m always searching for a vintage inspired dress like this from Suzie Kondi. It feels like something you could find in the Paris flea markets but with a refined fit. I would pair it with minimalist swimwear from Lido, an Italian swimwear brand produced in Northern Italy by Italian artisans. Add in gold hoop earrings and a Tekla towel made from organic cotton.
3.
THE TINTED SUNGLASSES
Whenever I wear my Saint Laurent tinted sunglasses from a few seasons ago someone asks me where I bought them. Tinted glasses gives a classic look more of an edge. I love this Moscot style and these from The Row.
HOW TO WEAR IT …
Brown stands out as the color of the season. I recently bought this Eres swimsuit, which looks perfect with a linen wrap dress by Cortana, a sustainable brand from Mallorca who uses natural fabrics made my local artisans. Add in brown suede sandals by Ancient Greek Sandals and a cotton and leather trim tote by Hereu.
THE DESTINATION:
HÔTEL DU COUVENT
Hôtel du Couvent opens this month in Old Town Nice, focusing on local food, community, artistry and the environment. Designed by Festen, one of my favorite interior design studios, it originally housed Poor Clare and the Salesian orders of the Catholic Church in the 17th century. In addition to the beautiful restored building and gardens, there are underground Roman baths and local food by chef Thomas Vitale.