Designer

Arts November 9, 2023

Catching up with Jessica Bird at The London Edition Hotel

In the midst of all the fashion week madness, Team Coco made our way to the London Edition for a 15 minute portrait sesh with the amazing Jessica Bird. Underneath the London Edition’s breathtaking neo-classical ceiling; we catch up with Jessica Bird and chat about her journey into fashion illustrations, her impressive designer collaborations, and what makes London fashion week so damn special.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background — what drew you into illustration?

Originally from Scotland, I moved to London 3 years ago having graduated from my BA in Fashion Design at Grays School of Art. I then worked across design, press and sales for multiple design houses before becoming a full time illustrator. I’ve been drawing from a very young age and continued weekly life drawing classes throughout my time in the fashion industry as a way to unwind. When I started to combine my love of drawing and my background in fashion by illustrating collections that inspired me I found my niche.

Why did you choose chalk pastels as a medium?

There’s something about the freedom they give you, it’s spontaneous and quite raw like charcoal but it gives you a huge spectrum of colours to work with.

What usually inspires your art? Talk us through your creative process

I’m hugely inspired by colour, and in particular unique and interesting colour combinations so designers like Roksanda who play with this heavily in their collections tend to influence my work more. I tend to be focus on the upper body – I love a look with interesting make up/hair/accessories — anything that allows me to have some fun with fluorescent paint or silver chalk i’m sold!

You’ve worked with some of the world’s leading luxury brands including, Delpozo, Huishan Zhang, and E.Tautz. Could you tell us a bit more about these collaborations?

Delpozo reached out to me, after seeing my work on Instagram, to live illustrate at their first LFW show having relocated from NY. Instagram is quite incredible in the sense that your work can reach these huge design houses/editors etc very directly. For E.Tautz I created a series of 4 menswear illustrations for their flagship store in Mayfair and did a live window illustration, the following season I drew live at their LFWM presentation. Huishan Zhang invited me to draw from the front row of their show and then I developed these into larger scale illustrations for their social media.

Could you tell us about your current residency with the London Edition?

I’ve been invited to illustrate VIPS and guests live from the beautifully grand Lobby Bar in the hotel — you’ll be able to find me there from 6-8:30pm each night of LFW sketching quick 15 minute portraits up until the end of London fashion week.

What do you think differentiates LFW from the other fashion capitals?

The people! The whole scene is a bit more daring in my opinion, the street style is amazing! Also London has got the perfect mix of exciting new designers like Molly Goddard and Richard Quinn etc and the bigger luxury houses like Roksanda, Christopher Kane, & Victoria Beckham.

What advice would you give to our readers to are looking to pursue a creative career like yourself?

Work hard, welcome every opportunity, and BE NICE. It is about who you know and timing. I’ve worked for free and i’ve done a lot of rubbish seemingly ‘irrelevant’ tasks but I persevered and what I have gained from those experiences is a network of amazing creative and talented people. All this has lead to opportunities to collaborate and work with these people now and further down the line.

What’s next for Jessica Bird?

Who knows, I’m still figuring it out, but everyday is exciting at the moment and i’m just enjoying every second! I never imagined I would be doing this for a living but now I cant imagine doing anything else!

The London Edition

Accessories November 9, 2023

Designer Spotlight: Emilee Troulan on capturing breezy Barbados Style

Waking up to the pristine coastlines and white sandy beaches of Barbados is an absolute dream; and it is from this island paradise that Emilee Troulan has taken inspiration from for her brand – Tru. Team Coco catches up with Emilee right off her latest pop-up at Topshop in Oxford Circus. In conversation with Emilee, we chat about her love for Barbados, the fantastic support she gets from the local community, the inspirations behind her latest collection – and of course, what it takes to kill it as a GirlBoss.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background, what inspired you to start Tru?

Growing up in Barbados has made me always think bigger, because although life here is great, there is so much more out there and so much more room for growth as an individual. I always had a thing for retail, so I started work at age 16 in the UK and thats when I learned that I loved the retail world and I wanted to own my own store one day.

Coming back from the UK after three months, I managed a new boutique here in Barbados and that lead to meeting a Bajan designer, who I then opened a store with in Barbados a year later. After meeting her, I realised that maybe I should take a swing at creating my own brand because I always found myself looking but never finding clothes that really suited my lifestyle here. There was a void in the market that TRU has now filled. The great thing about TRU is that nobody wears the same pieces in the same way.

What is it like living in Barbados? Tell us about what an average day is like for you?

Living in Barbados is like nothing else! I haven’t travelled as much as I’d like to yet, but from the places I’ve been, there is really nothing like Barbados. Life here is the definition of being on ‘island time’ — which can be good and bad.

An average day for me is waking up and having a coffee on my balcony which looks out to the west coast. (yes, I see the sea from my home, yes it’s amazing and yes you can be jealous) I sit and enjoy my coffee and think about what I have to do that day, I say some morning affirmations and have some alone time to just wake myself up, get into the right mindset, and inspire myself to see beyond Barbados. It’s very easy to just settle here, but I’m not like that – I crave more for myself and my brand.

I also meet up with fellow business/brand owners for a coffee and have a brainstorm session on growth, brand identity and everything in-between. I am so grateful to be surrounded by like minded people, it has really helped me grow as a person and a brand. No day is the same for me, because one day I may feel super creative and bang out a new collection, new blogpost, plan my social media for the month, plan an event, plan the next pop up. I’m always on the look out for something new and exciting that can better TRU. I usually end my day with some exercise and at night I like to make my list of things that I need to do the next day. Other nights I binge watch Netflix until my eyes burn, it’s called balance!

In what ways does island life in Barbados inspire your designs?

I would say I get inspired by the way people feel and look when they’re on vacation here. There’s a certain style for a Barbados holiday, it’s effortless and laid back. There is something about dressing minimalistic but making it look so clean and put together, like as if the outfit was thought about the night before. For example; the MARI tank — this tank top is in the colour Coconut Milk – which already makes you feel like you’re on holiday, pair with our denim shorties and a lace bralette, and head to the East coast to explore. It’s just pure island style, no doubt.

Congratulations on your recent pop-up with Topshop! What was it like working with such a big high street giant like Topshop?

Thank you so much! It was such an amazing experience, and I’m still lost for words. It was so interesting to see how people shop in London, because it’s totally different to how people shop in Barbados. In Barbados people want your opinion, they want to learn about the brand — in London however, everyone had their earphones in and were simply just buying things that they liked! It was great to watch people just come and pick up my designs. I was a bit nervous when I was first faced with how people shop, because there is a story behind each piece and so many ways to wear everything. I did however meet many people who were shocked at the fact that I designed everything and it was my own brand. Most people just thought I was hired to work the booth! So this was fun to see their jaws drop as I talk about TRU and how it all started and life in Barbados. I will definitely be back, it was so amazing and really opened my eyes on how TRU can grow internationally.

Talk us through your latest collection, the inspiration behind it, and if you have a favourite piece?

From a personal level, I designed this collection to have a bit more variety. Yes, TRU is known for luxury tees because that is how the entire brand started, but it was time to grow the portfolio and create a collection that really touched every part of what you will need on your Barbados holiday.

That is how I designed Island Breeze. I wanted to create a collection that included pieces that you could wear so many different ways, to make packing an Island Breeze (see what I did there? Yes, I’m super cheesy) — plus when I travel, I take an absurd amount of shoes, so this creates even more ways to wear everything! I would say from the entire collection that my favourite piece is the TESSA dress — this dress is like, wow, it can be worn so many different ways and it’s not just a holiday essential, but a life essential! When I got the sample, I played with it so much and came up with so many ways to wear this piece.

What advice do you have for women who would like to become a GirlBoss like yourself?

1. Set goals. I start with writing down a major goal and then I write a list of things I need to do in order to make that goal/dream become a reality. Also make sure to add a timeline — this keeps you on track.

2. Be careful who you share your goals and plans with because not everyone will be supportive, you’ll be told that it’s not possible, to proceed with caution, or that it’s too risky. But one thing that I’ve learned is that I can reach any goal that I set my mind to, I just need to keep at it and work towards it.

3. Always believe in yourself – I know this all sounds very cliché but it’s the honest truth. Girl, if you don’t believe in yourself, who will?

4. Another important tip is to always have a backup plan — if one way doesn’t work, don’t give up, just find another route — there’s always a way and trust me you can do it!

5. Be prepared to work, all day, everyday, work towards your goals. I have been running this brand solo from the start so that I learn about every aspect of the business so that I know what’s going on and what should be done and how it should be done. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had many breakdowns when it all becomes too much and I want to just give up, but persistence is my friend. It’s important that when it all becomes too much, to take a step back, go for a run, a walk on the beach, a swim, anything that can distract you for a bit and come back. Work will always be there and although you set a timeline, it’s okay and sometimes it’s actually best to sometimes have to reschedule, you’ll feel a hell of a lot more productive!

What is next for you and Tru Wear? Any new & exciting projects or collaborations in the pipeline?

I have so many plans and goals for TRU – some things are a little too soon to share details but I will say, you’ll be seeing us doing more pop ups around the world in the coming year! We are also going to be working with a really cool company from the US which actually specialised is working with micro brands to help them stand out and start strong with wholesaling their collections! This will be coming in 2019 and I am so excited about this. We have connections with some brands from Barbados that we are always collaborating with like Something Samarah, The Loft, & Sea Reinas. We always have ‘meetings’ that turn into brainstorm sessions on how we all can grow the ‘Barbados Brand’ name and image. I can’t explain how great it is to be surrounded by like minded people who think bigger than Barbados.

Catch up with Emilee and Tru on trubarbados.com

Accessories November 9, 2023

GBOGB: Loveness Lee on building a jewellery brand from different timezones

Meet Loveness Lee. A jewellery designer that combines art, science, and nature to create wonderfully unique hand-crafted statement pieces that are truly out of this world. Here at House of Coco, we’re all about that laptop lifestyle, and this is exactly what Loveness Lee built her eponymous brand on. Working with creatives and buyers from all over the world, Loveness Lee has built her business on different languages and timezones making her a GirlBoss that is not only forward thinking and global minded, but is also winning at the jewellery game with her latest eclectic trans-natural collection. Young, dynamic, and absolutely inspirational, Loveness Lee is a GirlBoss that is definitely Team Coco approved.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background, what made you fall in love with jewellery design?

From an early age, I developed a keen interest for the natural sciences, in particular chemistry. Also, my mother is an architect, and this fostered in me a passion for art and design. For me it made sense to be a jewellery designer, because I can enjoy the best of both disciplines! I am able to research and experiment with different materials like a scientist does, and also craft beautiful objects like an artist.

Tell us about Loveness Lee – what is your aesthetic all about?

Serendipity plays a key role in my design process: I am drawn to natural shapes, colours, and textures; which are impossible to pre-determine yet remain consistently familiar. I see the ‘trans-natural’ concept at the heart of my jewellery as a collaboration between nature, science, and art — three distinct methods working in unison. My fascination with organic materials compels me to investigate the interplay between different substances in my jewellery, to understand their properties and potentials without imposing limits upon them through my designs.

Before starting your eponymous brand, you trained as a jeweller and silversmith for seven years. How have these foundations helped you with your approach to Loveness Lee?

I want to create jewellery that is art. Years of studying and training not only helped me to perfect my skills of hand-making, but also helped me discover my design style and concept. Jewellery is a channel. A way of elevating the quotidian by creating beautiful physical objects. The world through my eyes is formed of stunning shapes, amazing textures and vibrant colours. In a way, my jewellery is a small interpretation of the world as I see it. For me, this is the point of art. My life and experiences are a constant source of inspiration and intrigue. Transforming my imagination into something tangible brings me so much joy. I want to translate my passion for living into jewellery, to communicate it for the whole world to see.

Since launching Loveness Lee in 2016 – what has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a businesswoman so far?

The biggest challenge is managing the communications between the team members — essentially HR. Since I started my brand, I have been very fortunate to have international employees and work with photographers, models, makeup artists and graphic designers etc from all over the world. The advantage of having such international team members is not only easier communications with international buyers in France, Morocco, and Korea, but also to bring unique ideas from different cultures. The disadvantage is the language barrier and cultural differences.The time differences between everyone can be challenging. Everyone is artist and passionate about their creations, so sometimes communication is really the key.

Talk us through your latest collection, the inspiration behind it, and if you have a favourite piece?

Trans-natural is an eclectic collection which, as its name suggests, goes above and beyond nature, in its pursuit of daring, statement jewellery. The pieces in the collection are inspired by the unpredictable, organic processes that order the world around us. Specifically investigating the role that decay and rebirth play in the circle of life. Science, art, and nature combine once more in the pieces: coiled, undulated shapes are partially gold-plated to represent the unhurried, gradual movement of being and time. Uncompromising but contemplative designs transform the fragility of nature and the limits of traditional jewellery, into strong statement pieces. They are the ultimate accessory for modern women who possess a thoughtful and bold outlook on fashion. I have always included statement hoop earrings in every collection of mine — as they are my favourite.

What advice do you have for women who would like to become a GirlBoss like yourself?

The beginning of being a girl boss is hard, but don’t let this stop what you love to do. Once you get used to it, it will get easier. I feel very privileged doing what I love every day.

Loveness Lee

Arts November 9, 2023

#WomenWorldwide: Paulina Hernandez Carvajal promotes her Mexican culture with Kan By Paulina

Everything about KAN lives and breathes the spirit of Mexico. At 27 years old, Paulina Hernandez Carvajal, has found her calling; and it is to share Mexico’s beautiful heritage to the world with her fashion brand, KAN By Paulina.

Every item in KAN is made with love and is inspired by Mexico’s unique culture and history. The Temiqui Collection was inspired by the culture of Wirrarikas or Wixaritari; an indigenous Mexican tribe who also create the stunning embroideries that adorn Kan’s beautiful pieces. By working with the Casa Huichol Foundation, who provides medical care to indigenous Mexican tribes; Kan also helps to provide sustainable livelihoods for tribespeople in recovery. Kan is not only a beautiful, colourful, and fascinating fashion brand, but also one with a heart and soul that is proudly Mexican.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what inspired you to start Kan by Paulina?

My name is Paulina Hernandez Carvajal, I´m 27 years old, and I am a Mexican fashion designer. I love art and the sea, and what inspired me to start Kan was this passion for these two things. Kan comes from love; love to my country and our ethnic indigenous cultures, our traditions, and our colours.I want to show Mexico and the world, all of the richness that my country has to offer. To share the peculiar cosmo-vision that all the ethnic Mexican groups have; and taking people on a magical journey into their unique regions; inspired by their enchantment and seduction.

How important is your Mexican heritage to the ethos of your brand? How does your culture influence your designs?

My Mexican heritage is everything to the ethos of brand, it’s the DNA of Kan. Every single design of Kan screams Mexico, you won’t find anything like our products anywhere else. The dynamic colours of each piece come from my country; from its deep blue seas, to its green jungles and forests. From our pink and purple cover tables that bring family dinners to life, to the colours of a piñata that exemplifies our traditions.

Every single piece that is embroidered by the hands of the Wixaritariis all about art and love. At the heart of Mexico is Kan.

Could you tell us more about your collaboration with the Casa Huichol foundation?

The Temiqui Collection is inspired by the Wirrarikas or Wixaritari culture, and we work with their communities. They do all of the embroidery for the swimwear and clothes; without them Kan wouldn’t exist. They are the magic in this project.

Casa Huichol Foundation, is a place where the Wirras can come to the city can seek medical help, and also a place to stay while in recovery. At Casa Huichol, we work with the patient’s family so they can earn an income while staying in the city, Kan seeks to empower the indigenous and create sustainable livelihoods for them.

Kan is made up of all the different Wixaritari communities that we work with, from Casa Huichol to communities in the Highlands, andor our main Artist Guadalupe Hernández. They make every design in this collection unique, a piece of haute couture. They work hours by hand embroidering each piece, giving us a piece of art, love, heart,culture, and tradition; but most importantly a piece of every single artist that has worked in this process.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced as an entrepreneur so far?

The biggest challenge that I have faced to not give up and keep believing in myself and this project. Thingsrarely go as you imagine, and oftentimes plan change and you encounter difficulties in your journey.

What advice do you have for women who would like to become a GirlBoss like yourself

The best advice that someone has given me is to ‘dream big, if your dreams don’t scare you then they aren’t big enough for you.’

Always work for what you believe in and never give up on your dream. No matter how difficult the journey may seem, or what people say, you have to work hard for what you want, and also enjoy the ride. You need to take in every single moment. Enjoy the tears, the happiness, the moments of loneliness, and the moments with the ones you love. Enjoy the falls,because if we don’t fall we won’t be able to learn. Enjoy the critics because they are the ones that will help you become better and grow. Enjoy every single achievement along the way,because they are the reminders that you are doing good and that your work is paying off. Most of all whatever you do, do it with all your heart. Because when you put your heart and love in every single thing you do, you can achieve the impossible.

www.KanbyPaulina.com

Accessories November 9, 2023

Girl Bosses of Great Britain: Talking Feminism and Jewellery with Elina Farschou of PHINE

Strangely enough, Elina Farschou’s passion for jewellery began in her father’s dentist’s office. After a few years working as a lawyer, she eventually realised her true calling and started her Scandi-inspired jewellery brand – PHINE.

Team Coco sits down with Elina to talk about her inspiring work with The Girls Network along with her latest Feminist collection — and how this was inspired by empowerment, equality, and lionesses.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background, what inspired you to start PHINE?
I was born in Stockholm, and up to today it is still the place where I can relax and recharge. Ever since I was about five or six years old, my dad taught me how to make small jewellery pieces in his dentistry office; and since then it has become a huge passion of mine.

After high school however, I studied law and even became a lawyer for a while. In a meeting with my former boss, I didn’t get the promotion that I wanted. I realised, while still in that meeting, that I couldn’t actually see myself working in this company anymore or even being a lawyer at all — so I quit right then and there. Within three weeks, I applied to study jewellery design and moved to London. During my studies, people kept asking me where my own personal jewellery came from, so I thought that there was something there — and so PHINE was born.

PHINE is a London based Swedish jewellery brand. How do your Swedish roots influence
PHINE’s design aesthetic?
The minimal and versatile aspect of the jewellery stems from my Swedish roots and are PHINE´s
DNA.

Talk us through your latest collection. Do you have a favourite piece?
I wanted to create jewellery that symbolise empowerment and equality. Usually, I start a piece by taking inspiration from geometric forms, and then work around it. This time, I took inspiration from symbols of strength.

For example, with the Lioness Necklace and Earrings; Lionesses do must of the hunting while also caring for the pride. Lionesses are a symbol for strength, courage, and royalty — a great symbol for feminism. In fact, I would say my two favourite pieces of this collection are the Lioness and Feminist Necklaces – I actually love wearing them together.

Tell us about PHINE’s Feminist Collection and your work charitable work with The Girls
Network?
The Feminist Collection is all about empowering women through Jewellery. The pieces symbolise
strength and courage — all attributes that we embody as women in 2018. The Girls’ Network is an organisation that inspires and empowers girls from disadvantaged communities, by connecting them with valuable mentors and a network of professional female role models. I believe that opportunities should not be limited by gender or background, so partnering with the Girl´sNetwork and setting out to help them fulfill their amazing vision feels like a perfect match.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced as an entrepreneur so far?
This is quite a tricky one, as there were actually quite a lot of challenges in the beginning. I think for me personally, the biggest challenge has been starting from scratch. I started the business with just an idea of creating Scandi statement jewellery from fair-trade and sustainable materials; and then evolving to that business by building awareness around it.

What advice do you have for women who would like to become a GirlBoss like yourself?
Be passionate in what you do, and never stop believing in yourself!

Designer November 9, 2023

The Capital Suite at Intercontinental Park Lane: A Business Suite like no other

On a sunny London afternoon, Team Coco heads over to the Intercontinental Park Lane to check out the much awaited reveal of the Capital Suite. While the Intercontinental Park Lane has been an luxury icon on the thoroughfare of Hyde Park for many years, the newly launched Capital Suite is truly the very definition of luxury – and is the first business suite of its kind in the world.

Designed by one of the world’s leading hospitality design practices, RPW Design, the Capital Suite is a sprawling multi-room suite located on the hotel’s first floor. With two impeccable ensuite bedrooms, interconnected luxury living spaces, two fully equipped board-rooms, a private office, and a small kitchenette for staff; the Capital Suite was designed to answer all the needs of today’s top executives. Discretion is of utmost importance here, with multiple entrances in the private corridor and a private elevator serving as an entrance to the many connecting hallways of the Capital Suite. Each gorgeous space can be used for both work and leisure, and can be simultaneously sectioned off or opened up depending on the guests’s needs. Guests can have board meetings, while their children play in the living room just next door – or host dinners while simultaneously getting some work done in the elegant private office. Every corner in the Capital Suite is designed to maximum effect, allowing for a versatile “boutique office” space, unlike anything else in the world.

“RPW Design has designed an innovative collection of spaces which cater for business meetings as well as entertaining and relaxation without having to transverse the hotel itself” – Ariane Steinbeck, Managing Director of RPW Design.

The sleek and modern design of the Capital Suite was inspired by the breathtaking Royal Parks surrounding the hotel. A calming environment that blends indoor spaces with the spectacular outdoor views of Hyde Park. Natural materials and subtle leitmotifs add layers of texture to the space, while quirky homages to Hyde Park add that quintessential British charm. For example, decorative bronze panels frame the master bed, while the park’s landscapes create the pattern for the carpets. In addition to this, world renowned art consultant, Peter Millard, sourced a wonderful selection of bespoke artworks. Each one offering a distinct vision of the suite’s running theme, without overpowering the natural energy of the space.

The InterContinental London Park Lane offers The Capital Suite for four persons from £12,000 per night.

Coco Couples November 9, 2023

Honeymoon like a Rockstar at Elton’s Franschhoek favourite, La Residence

Tucked away in Franschhoek’s vine-covered foothills in South Africa’s Cape Winelands, five star La Residence embodies the kind of levels of luxury other high-end hotels can only hope for. Set across a 30-acre wine estate, you might recognise it from the BBC series ‘Amazing Hotels’ but consistently placed among the world’s best places to stay, and a personal favourite of Sir Elton John himself, ‘amazing’ is just the beginning – as our girl Beth discovers.

With its gabled Dutch homesteads, quaint avenues, quirky galleries and sprawling vineyards Franschhoek has its Huguenot heritage to thank for its peculiarly French feel. This is the South of France meets South Africa – a foodie hot-spot where world-renowned restaurants, fine wines and an upmarket artsy scene come together. A feast for the senses, the delights of the Franschhoek Valley are all somehow distilled into our guest experience at La Residence.

Just five minutes drive from the main street, a grand driveway transports you to a tranquil haven of manicured lawns surrounded by vineyards, orchards and flowers, where grazing Springbok, Antelope and miniature ponies add to the fanciful feel.

Drawing up in our dusty rental, we spot the sienna walls of what looks from the outside, like a grand Tuscan-style manor, against a movie-set mountain backdrop.

Greeted by a beaming host of staff, you enter into a world of decadence and intrigue. A black and white marble floor spans the length of The Grand Hall, chandeliers hanging from triple-height beams of the vaulted thatch. French antiques and a vintage writing desk hold chalices overflowing with the largest floral arrangements I’ve ever seen in a riot of crimson and purple.

Ahead, a wide veranda opens up to a palm-lined avenue, a water feature leading us down the lawn to a heated half-moon infinity pool that seems to stretch right into the vineyards and mountains beyond. Yellow and white striped loungers and beanbags make for a Soho House vibe, while the odd roaming peacock adds to the whimsical.

With glasses of delicate house-grown Rose shiraz pressed into our hands, we’re given a tour of the grounds – from a private wine cellar in which you can request a personal tasting, to the palatial gardens filled with roses and vineyards beyond. As well as the 11 suites in the main building, we’re also shown around the 5 vineyard suites with private pools, better suited to those with children as the main hotel is (blissfully) an adult-only zone.

It’s all so decadent, yet with an eclectic, almost french-inspired bohemian charm – owner and interior decorator Liz Biden’s speciality. Part of the Royal Portfolio – a collection of iconic hotels and private residences in South Africa owned and run by the Biden family, art and design is deeply ingrained into the property’s character – reflecting owner Liz and Phil’s keen eye. Drawing inspiration from their travels, lavish interiors are complemented by exotic antiques and artefacts from far-flung destinations, as well as by an astonishing collection of South African art.

Even our key is extra – a huge plush tassel, I think as we open the door to our room, number 7 – The Pink Suite. Opening onto a sunny verandah with views out over the lake, it’s a treasure trove of the fantastical. From Provencal antiques to a pink chaise longue upholstered with the flamboyant tropical print, fantastic local artwork and plush Persian rugs. Our mirrored bathroom is as large as our bedroom, with a feature roll-top bath looking out over the grounds. With velvets, silks and spoiling details like complimentary wine from the estate’s vineyards as well as crystal decanters filled with dessert wines, and the rooms here were made for romance.

One of 11 suites in the main building, each room has its own distinct personality – from our girly boudoir to the palatial honeymoon suite which is decked out in white marble. The Maharani Suite’s Indian-inspired décor, dual aspect balconies and steps up to the bed happen to be Elton’s favourite. He liked the hotel so much that he gave the beautiful Jacaranda trees that surround the dam as a gift.

But the thing about La Residence is that you don’t have to be Elton John to get the rockstar treatment. In keeping with a gastronomic capital like Franschhoek, the food is world-class – with the opportunity to dine at the Chef’s table, or alternatively, a complimentary car will whisk you the five-minute drive (instead of a 20-minute walk) to reservations one of the top restaurants in town. The breakfast ‘buffet’, a huge spread laid out in the Great Hall complete with a cheese trolley and multi-tiered stands of goodies, is perhaps the best I’ve had, and even comes with an a la carte option to follow.

With 11 hectares of vineyards yielding Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, the hotel also offers a total of 8 ways to taste wine, including a helicopter tour.

But the devil is in the detail. Like the staff, who remember that I like my chardonnay unoaked. Who bring a huge table across the lawn complete with flower arrangements so we can lunch while admiring the view. It’s picking up our rental to find it’s been valeted, always knowing your name, encouraging you to stay well beyond checkout and the free-flowing service from a warm, sincere staff.

We take one of the wine bottles home as a honeymoon present. It’s sat in the corner of our little London apartment, waiting for an occasion. Until then, I’ll look at that bottle of La Residence Nicole Charlotte 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon and be glad to be reminded of our time in this most special corner of the Cape, the kind of place where everyone from us to Elton, can come to feel like a rockstar.

La Residence www.theroyalportfolio.com/la-residence; rooms start from R6150 / ca. £261 per person incl. breakfast

Accessories November 9, 2023

Girl Bosses of Great Britain: Loquet London and the Story-telling of Jewellery

Laura Bailey and Sheherazade Goldsmith, long time friends and now business partners, have created something truly unique with Loquet London. Each one of their delicate charms tells a story, whether that may be inspired by their children or one of their many adventures. Stories are what drives Loquet London’s design aesthetic, unfazed by passing trends, and the frivolity of flashiness – Loquet creates jewellery that goes beyond being just pretty, but instead immortalises a piece of their customer’s life.

We chat with Girl Boss Sheherazade Goldsmith about Loquet London’s early beginnings, her partnership with Laura Bailey, and finding inspiration in the stories we tell with our everyday lives.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background, what inspired you to start Loquet London?
The most relevant part of my background to Loquet, is my love of books and travel. I love imagining who and what is behind the selection of charms that leave our office. Stories. Each of our charms comes from some kind of adventure. The meanings are all related to temples, myths and places that either I or Laura have experienced. Travel inspires the entire collection.

When I left school I worked for a company called Club 21, a wholesale and franchise group that did the distribution for numerous designer jean brands such as Armani and Guess. I was only there for a couple of years and then moved onto journalism, which was a childhood dream. A sabbatical and an MA led me to Loquet. An idea of something I wanted for myself, but couldn’t find.

How did you and Laura meet? What made you decide to go into business together?
We crisscrossed paths for most of our 20’s and then came together as friends in our 30’s. A combined love of adventures with our kids, writing, and other friends. I came up with an idea and asked Laura for some advice, she loved it so much that we joined forces and turned the idea into a concept. Laura was the perfect partner as her knowledge and experience in the world of fashion was everything that I didn’t have. We work seamlessly together, as our strengths lie in different areas. Through our friendship, we have developed a short hand which allows us to make decisions quickly and effectively. We both have busy lives, which makes our friendship the best part about working together.

What makes Loquet London different from other jewellery brands in the market?
Loquet is different because it offers our customers the opportunity to create at truly bespoke piece of fine jewellery. An heirloom that tells their story. It’s a collectable that can be worn day or night; and just as easily with jeans and trainers or lipstick and heels. It’s jewellery with an immersive experience. A combination of sentiment and playfulness; the pieces are fun and classical in equal measure. Our customers are not categorised into generations, as our jewellery accompanies its wearer throughout their lives.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as businesswomen so far?
The biggest challenge has been to innovate technologically, at a rate that a small business can afford. You’re constantly competing with huge companies whose budgets for marketing are you entire annual turnover. The whole retail experience is evolving so fast. Consumers no longer just want to make a purchase, they’re looking for an experience, which Loquet provides. Our customers are people who don’t follow fashion trends or aren’t particularly influenced by celebrity. They’re looking for something more honest; and we want to keep giving people an authentic journey.

You’ve had a number of noteworthy collaborations, including a collaboration with Dimes and with the Wild at Heart Fund. How do you go about finding the right people to partner with?
This is a completely organic process that involves businesses that I admire. I have been a long term customer of Wild at Heart; and have had several dogs from Battersea dogs home. With Dimes, it was a case of my being in New York, stumbling across their restaurant on Canal Street, and falling in love with their concept. I’m a huge food snob as I use to write about food and environmental issues. I have a deep admiration for businesses who are trying to change the system of vast monocultures. Dimes has a conscience behind their menu, and every detail of what they make is so beautifully thought out and utterly delicious. They were the perfect inspiration for making a fruit and veg charm collection.

Finally, what advice do you have for women who would like to become GirlBosses like yourself?
Believe in your idea and be passionate about originality. Don’t be afraid to experiment or innovate, sometimes things need to change to move forward. Do one thing and do it REALLY, REALLY well. Make it better then anyone else. Build a team around you that inspires you, that you can laugh, debate, and cry with. But most of all enjoy the journey, as you’re enjoyment will reflect in everything you do.

Accessories November 9, 2023

Designer Spotlight: Martha Rodriguez of Vesti Fashion

Martha Rodrigues is a designer with roots grounded resolutely in her home country. Her stylish luxury bag brand, Vesti, features the traditional woven fabrics of indigenous Mindanao tribes. Not only does she create stunning and colourful minauderies, but each one also holds a unique story – filled with the tribal heritage of some of the Philippine’s most under-represented communities.

In recent years, floods and landslides and the recent civil rebellions have painted the Philippines’ southern region in a negative light. Brands like Vesti however, are dedicated to showing the true spirit of Mindanao – through the bold and beautiful colours of the Yakan weaves that define her collections. We catch up with Martha and chat about her beginnings, her inspiration, and how she is bringing Filipino culture onto the world stage.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background, what inspired you to start Vesti?

As a designer, I never really had a formal design course. In college, my mother imposed that I take up fashion so it was decided early on. This led me to be workin with prestigious luxury fashion brands such as Natori in New York, Gucci in London, and Adora and Rustan’s in the Philippines. I guess to be in fashion was my destiny, but I did not know I would be building a brand, designing pieces that eventually showed who I am, both my weaknesses as my strengths. I began traveling back and forth in Mindanao and stumbled upon an abandoned weaving house where I saw these beautiful fabrics. I bought them and started making bags out of these fabrics. People started noticing my designs and that really was the start of Vesti.

Vesti is really about who I am. It’s about where I come from, my insecurities, to the things that me proud. It’s embracing what is thriving and turning that into something beautiful. Our aspirations from the weavers to the skilled artisans, our love for design and fashion from sketches to final products, our obsession in making sure every detail is as carefully thought of, and of course, all the hard work we put into our bags — these are all Vesti.

How does your Filipino heritage inspire your pieces?

Definitely through all these bold, colourful, interesting handwoven fabrics woven which are passed on by our Mindanao ancestors. These beautiful pieces all have stories to share. My aspirations and dreams, marry with the patterns and colours; and it t feels that the these dreams are also shared by the weavers, the artisans, and also the customers.

How did you go about building a relationship with the indigenous tribes of Mindanao?

It is always important to get to know them. I traveled to different far-flung areas, going up mountains, and learning about them. When I heard their stories, it resonated with me because I spoke the same dialect. I grew up in the same island so it was easier to communicate. After buying fabrics directly from them, I make sure to go back to them and sharing the feature or articles that show the bags with their fabrics. They seek validation to their craft especially to an international stage.

Could you tell us a little bit more about the symbolic nature of the fabrics in your collections?

Most of the patterns are inspired by Mother Nature. What you see from our Vesti Men collection is the diamond dragon pattern that the Filipino Yakan tribes believe to bring good fortune. We love to showcase the tribes and their unique cultures through our pieces.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced as an entrepreneur so far?

Implementing the right strategies and business model for the brand. Wearing different hats and adjusting to the trends in the digital age. It is also a great challenge to get the right people for the team. I’ve been a one-woman team for four years, and expanding the brand and letting the right people handle it can sometimes be overwhelming.

What has it been like working with the Philippine Embassy here in London to launch Vesti in the UK?

It’s been a dream come true. I’ve always thought of showcasing our collections here after finishing my Master’s so I’m very blessed and happy to be able to be given this opportunity.

What’s next for you and Vesti? Any exciting new projects down the pipeline?

Definitely expanding to having a Kids Collection very soon!

vestifashion.com

Designer October 3, 2023

Silver Spotlight

While I prefer gold over silver for jewelry, I do love accents of silver. From shiny tin foil to a matte metal, silver can add the perfect amount of spark to a neutral day or night look. I received so many options for silver shoes and accessories, it only made sense to make it the focus.

Here are shoes and accessories to add a touch of shimmer to your Fall wardrobe: