Posts from ‘June, 2010’

WIJW is off to the Amalfi Coast!

Jun 22nd, 2010

James Andrew making selections for his Italian romp - Illustration by Scott McBee

After some pretty extensive planning, research, and shopping, we’ve finally sorted out a fantastic trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, and we’ll be spending the next ten days in some of the most heavenly places on earth including Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and Ravello.

I have my rolling rack out, and I’m orchestrating some amazing outfits – can’t wait till you see what I’ll be wearing! I’m pulling together a brilliant collection of whites, blues and pinks in silks, linens, and cotton – casual shorts and slacks with interesting shirts and sandals for daytime fare, and for the evening, wonderful jackets and slacks, and of course the right shirts, pocket squares, belts, sunglasses, cuff links etc. etc.

We will be off until the 3rd of July- so just sit tight and get ready for some ridiculously fabulous posts when we return!

In the interim I’m leaving you with this brilliant illustration created for us by our very own ultra talented Scott McBee.

Ciao for now!

Oscar de la Renta

Jun 22nd, 2010

by WIJW.

10 comments

James Andrew and Oscar de la Renta

Anna Wintour aptly pointed out that the fashion industry is “…devoted to the…notion that life can be sunny and glamorous around the clock.” Of course this is nearly an impossible order to fill, but it hasn’t slowed Oscar de La Renta in his ceaseless efforts to create clothes that make women feel fabulous – in fact he’s been at it for over forty years, all the while maintaining an optimistic vision that epitomizes the aforementioned devotion Wintour speaks of.

And now happily de la Renta is bringing that same joie de vivre to a new line of luxurious and unique interior fabric designs in silk, linen, velvet and cotton, in a splendid array of brightly colored floral and ethnic-inspired prints. Having been captivated over the years by the many articles and photographs of the de la Rentas’ fine homes, the only thing that surprises me about this major move into the world of interior fabric design is that it has taken so long! His fabulous collection will be available at Lee Jofa showrooms this summer, and so you can expect to see some of these dreamy prints working their way into upcoming fine WIJW interiors in the not so distant future!

Attending a party at the uber chic Oscar de la Renta boutique on Madison Avenue at East 66th Street, I had the great pleasure of chatting with Mr. de la Renta about his new collection which was displayed to great effect amongst his as-always spectacular couture pieces – and of course you must know by now that we here at WIJW do love a good mix of fashion and interior design!

Dressed for the occasion I’m wearing a navy cotton pique jacket and woven silk tapestry skinny pant both by Gucci, Turnbull and Asser navy cotton shirt with contrast white collar and french cuffs and silver silk pocket square, Seaman Schepps black pearl cuff links, silver chain link belt and navy leather cap toe shoes both by Gucci, sunglasses in hand by Lanvin, my fragrance Creed Zeste Mandarine Pamplemousse.

ILevel

Jun 18th, 2010

by WIJW.

19 comments

James Andrew, Montauk.

My surf-shack-chic Montauk project is progressing rather nicely – most of the important pieces of furniture have been delivered, wallpapering and painting is complete, and so it’s time to arrange our collection of art and mirrors to really make these walls speak. Its always an exciting moment during a project when a design starts to look like the homes I’ve envisioned.

When one wants to get that perfect arrangement it really pays to do things right the first time. To this end I always call my friends at ILevel – they specialize in art placement and installation – in fact they’ve elevated it to an art in itself, and they’re all artists themselves so one can really count on them to bring the sort of sensitivity required in what can potentially be a very delicate balancing act. I’m pictured here with a small indication of the fantastic things we were able to do with an unusual space and a varied assortment of work. I think our arrangement really captures the imagination and accentuates the wonderful height of the space.

I’ll be bringing you more on this project as we continue to progress! – getting lampshades etc….

I’m wearing a navy cotton jacket by Gucci, Michael Bastian red and white striped cotton seer sucker hoody, Diesel jeans and silver leather sneakers by Dior, my fragrance is Creed Zeste Mandarine Pamplemousse.