Chic at Smythson

I had the pleasure of attending the Autumn/Winter 2010 preview at Smythson recently and I suggest you start saving your pennies because I saw a lot of chic accessories that you are definitely going to love.  I don't have an ipad yet but the new Smythson ipad case makes me want to go out and buy one tomorrow.  Unfortunately, they won't be released until October. Vogue loved it too as you can see below.  The fuchsia color called Damson and the ochre color called Amber are new for fall.  The embossed leather can be found in a myriad of items, some with contrasting shagreene closures.  They are also offering a lot more fun titled books with cute gold stamped sayings on the front such as "Blah Blah Blah", "O.M.G.!", and "J'Adore".  I've already suggested that they add "Blog Notes" to the selection for spring.  (In my signature orange please!)

Smythson has been a purveyor of ‘First class stationery, leather goods and cabinet work’ since 1887 and the highlight of my visit was the display in the bespoke stationery section of the store that highlights just a few the famous and powerful clients they've had over the years.  They include kings and queens, movie stars like Katherine Hepburn, and even the Kennedys.  I'd like to think they'd all have Smythson ipad cases if they were around today.  Happy Shopping!

 

 

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic and Vogue.com

Flower Girls

After you have Queen Quills Calligraphy address your wedding envelopes, you can hire the lovely ladies of Saipua to create all your flower arrangements. I found these photos of a wedding they designed this past weekend at The Bowery Hotel on Milk and Mode and couldn't help but want to also post them. They are beyond gorgeous! The illustrations on the menus, table numbers and programs are by Rifle Design. These resources are definitely going in my future wedding file. Now if anyone knows any eligible bachelors, send them my way!

Letter Perfect

My computer troubles have me longing for the days of pen and paper. I love technology and all but there is nothing like discovering a hand addressed letter in my mailbox to make my heart sing. I would probably be singing very loudly if I ever received an envelope hand addressed by Queen Quills Calligraphy. Some of the styles remind of something Jane Austen would have sent out in her day but yet they also look fresh and modern for today. They are beautiful works of art that are perfect for parties and weddings and even better for love letters! Just make sure you choose your recipient carefully! You definitely don't want to waste this prettiness on just anyone!

In Memoriam: Mrs. John L. Strong

I first heard the rumor that the luxury stationery firm of Mrs. John L. Strong was closing from Meg of Pigtown Design and today the rumor was confirmed by An Aesthete's Lament. I bought a beautiful desk calendar and a few note pads for my bachelor pad project and I always thought they were a nice finishing touch. I guess he's going to have to use the easel for something else after the year over. I was hoping to pick up a few things for myself before they closed the doors but I was too late. The entire shop has already been removed from Barneys. If anyone hears of a final sale online, please let me know. I love sending handwritten notes but apparently I might be the only person left who does. Stupid technology!