A few weeks ago, at Justina Blakeney's book signing in Berkeley, I met Lisa Fontaine, co-founder of Ginger, a line of caftans (loose fitting tunics) made in San Francisco that are soon becoming our Bay Area's go-to-attire. During our chats, Lisa and I bonded over our love for 70's fashion and our entrepreneurial spirit. She invited me to her Fall Trunk show at Oak Common in Oakland, where I met her partner, Nanette Mervin, and got to see how her designs are worn. Regardless of your body type, the caftan is quite flattering. Worn with leggings or without, heels or boots, any woman can wear one and rock the look. I picked up my first caftan last night and I'm pretty sure it won't be my last. Take a look at some of the images from that evening, and check out their website for autumn colors and styles.
Out And About: Elsie Green House And Home
About a year ago I joined a group of local creatives. We count among us: architects, textile designers, jewelry makers, interior designers, business owners and several artists. We strive to meet once a month to discuss our individual creative paths or to participate in a workshop as a group. This month we met at Elsie Green House and Home in Concord, Ca. The founder and owner of the shop, Laurie Furber, spoke to us about opening and owning a retail store, her business philosophy and her passion for vintage French furniture and accessories. Kelsey Cox, a floral designer and founder of Mais Oui accompanied her that evening and lead us in a class of arranging foraged botanicals. The evening was quite delightful. I'm looking forward to revisit Laurie's store and take in all her beautiful Parisian wares in detail. Take a look at some images from that evening:
Out And About: Big Sur Roadhouse
The school year ended last Thursday and, for what has now become a family tradition, we headed for Big Sur on the following morning. We had a campsite reserved for three nights along a riverbank. It allowed for endless hours of rock skipping, crayfish catching, reading and just pure chilling. Although we don't mind 'roughing it' for our accommodations, we do treat ourselves to a occasional night or morning out. We have our favorite spots, but this time around we decided to give Big Sur Roadhouse a try for an early morning breakfast. It didn't disappoint. We had delicious lattes, hot chocolates, house made bagels and the best scrambled eggs! All this in an amazingly styled space designed by Steve Justrich. The Roadhouse is a combination of rustic elegance and modern accents. Graphic art, colorful tiles, a mix of wood grains and lots of botanicals make for a cool and comfortable refuge from one too many nights in a tent. Take and look and check out just how good Max looked in the place.
Out And About: Santa Barbara
Around this time last week, Alex and I travelled to Santa Barbara. The trip was part of an extended birthday celebration/gift that included tickets to see one of my favorite artists, Banks, who was to perform at the Bowl. Two days prior to the show, we walked, ate, drank, napped on the beach and shopped a bit in this truly pretty place. Tucked in between the mountains and the sea, Santa Barbara's air is clean, crisp and a little salty. We stayed at the hip Goodland Hotel, where I admit to feeling a little out of my league, but where the laid-back, cool California vibe was quite entertaining. Among the places we visited, my favorites were the Santa Barbara Botanical Garden, The Textile Studio, Raoul's, American Ale for cocktails, and of course, the Bowl, where I danced (my-you-know-what-off) to the sounds and amazing voice of Elizabeth Banks. Take a look a few images from our past weekend:
Many thanks to NS and KT for taking such great care of the kids while we were away.
As an aside, let's all hope that the recent oil spill that contaminated the pristine Santa Barbara coast is cleaned up quickly and effectively, so that no more wildlife or plant material is lost forever.
Carla Fernandez At Heath Ceramics
Thanks to a dear friend who works at Heath Ceramics in SF, I'm in the loop about all the cool events her company hosts. Case in point, this past Saturday’s Intimate Gathering and Talk with Mexican artist Carla Fernandez. After looking into it I decided that I had to attend, not only to learn more about Carla and her work, but to also support The Edible Schoolyard Project (the beneficiary of the evening's proceeds). After a sampling of tequila cocktails and regional cuisine appetizers, the crowd met at Boiler Room to see the exhibit featuring Carla's and other Mexican artisans' works. We took in a conversation with Carla, who explained her inspiration and passion for designing clothes. Pulling ideas from the very people of Mexico, she uses bold colors, patterns and an array of materials to create pieces that are uncommonly wearable yet extremely fashionable. Each piece can be worn 2 or 3 different ways extending their functionality and interest. Presented in a contemporary manner through video, props and photography, the exhibit is a great combination of art and fashion. As you walk through the space, you feel comfortable to engage with the items on display by touching them and trying them on. The exhibit runs through May 17 and all is available for purchase on site.
It’s a must see!
The artist Carla Fernandez captivating the audience with her sense of humor and elegant presence.
Many thanks to CS for thinking of me so often!