James Andrew at the Ocean Club

When at Lyford, a visit to the famous Ocean Club is a must. Once the private estate of A&P heir, Huntington Hartford II, the Ocean Club is now a world class hotel possessing the most spectacular gardens and boasting architecture by the legendary John L. Volk. You may remember the Ocean Club from in the critically acclaimed 2006 remake of Casino Royale, starring the oh so gorgeous Daniel Craig.

Do take a leisurely stroll through the Versailles inspired gardens while there and grab lunch at Dune. A Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant, Dune is perched atop a white sand beach with sublime ocean views and serves an innovative blend of French-Asian cuisine infused with touches of local herbs and Bahamian influences.

The Ocean Club gardens.

Blissed out (top) after the loveliest lunch, I’m sporting a Gucci navy cotton pique jacket, navy suede loafers and sunglasses, Uniqlo white slim jeans, pale blue linen cotton shirt with contrast white collar and cuffs by Simon, pearl and pale blue sapphire cufflinks, purple alligator belt with silver buckle by Ralph Lauren, pocket square in pale blue and white silk retro print by Charvet and my fragrance is Creed Original Cologne.

James Andrew at Lyford Cay

When traveling, it is always inspiring to explore local architecture and notable interiors.

Fortunately for me, my gracious friends knew everyone in Lyford and happily arranged several house tours, showcasing interiors by major design-world icons like Mario Buatta, Mark Hampton, Jansen, and Colefax & Fowler. I took tours of all the best homes in Lyford as well as the magnificent Lyford club itself, which has been re-imagined by the brilliant Tom Scheerer who successfully managed to preserve the best of the old club while investing all with an updated and decidedly chic new twist.

I was particularly taken with one house—a marvelous tropical design by famed architect, Henry Melich, which had been abandoned for over a decade and yet still remains in surprisingly good condition. While it is a small 3 to 4 bedrooms house, it gives the impression of a much larger villa complete with an expansive drawing room and plenty of outdoor space—all, absolutely perfect for entertaining.

My tropical fantasy villa by architect Henry Melich

Perhaps it is just the romance of ruins, but I was instantly smitten and am now possessed of the idea that I simply must have this house. It is the personification of all my tropical house fantasies, and if you know me at all then you will know that I’ve already started to imagine how I’d design the interiors and garden, as well as how I’d entertain there. What a romantic retreat it would become!

I am not ashamed to admit that I AM one to entertain some rather elaborate imaginings. I find that allowing myself to dream can really help to put me into that joyful place where all kinds of crazy and magical things can (and often do) happen!

My fantasy garden.

James Andrew at the Chinese Porcelain Company — photo by Gabriel Everett

The effect I like to create in my interiors is one of eclectic contemporary elegance—indeed this has become the James Andrew Interior Design hallmark. Of course to accomplish this look one needs fine objects, and often my prime go-to resource is the incomparable Chinese Porcelain Company. There I always find the most marvelous assortment of pieces in a wide range of styles and periods; from museum quality French furniture to Chinese ceramics and contemporary Asian art. On a recent visit I was drawn to a brilliant arrangement comprised of a 19th century mahogany library table, and a modern Zao Wou-Ki ink painting flanked by the most beautiful pair of 18th century Louis XV Gilt painted fauteuils (attributed to L. Cresson) upholstered in a terrific French tiger silk velvet. It’s all about mixing the best of the best from different periods to create fresh and exciting combinations and contrasts.

PAIR OF LOUIS XV GILT PAINTED FAUTEUILS early to mid-18th century attributed to L. Cresson

A MAHOGANY LIBRARY TABLE c. 1800

INK PAINTING BY ZAO WOU-KI (b. 1920) ink on paper, 1984

There is an incredible versatility in Asian art that seems to compliment all periods and styles.

My friend, photographer Gabriel Everett captured me contemplating the perfection of this arrangement at the Chinese Porcelain Company sporting a Tom Ford “Snowdon” suit in lilac rose silk wool linen melange twill, lilac cotton over check shirt and black and saddle loafers, pink silk pocket by Charvet Paris, purple alligator belt with sterling buckle by Ralph Lauren, vintage moon stone cuff links and my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.

James Andrew. Photo by Gabriel Everett

The inspirational words of Marianne Williamson have been incredibly useful to me in helping me to embrace and celebrate myself—encouraging me to step forward into the light so to speak. I thought to share with you one of my favorite passages here, in the hopes that you might be touched by her powerful words as well.

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light not our darkness that frightens us. We ask ourselves ‘who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

— Marianne Williamson

I’m captured here by the very talented Gabriel Everett, sporting a Gucci white and black window pane plaid cotton/ silk jacket, linen cotton madras plaid shirt in white, purple and turquoise, white. turquoise and black striped linen/cotton pant, black patent belt with silver leather and grommets, black, white and silver leather loafers (not seen) and sun glasses, turquoise silk pocket square by Charvet Paris, my fragrance is Creed Bois de Cedrat.

James Andrew at the FIT Summer Party. Photo by Scott McBee

This year’s FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) Couture Council Annual Summer Party was held at the most idyllic of NYC locations—the Central Park boat house.

With glorious views and super-chic guests outfitted in well chosen summer fineries (as one might expect!), the FIT Summer Party is held in anticipation of the upcoming awards in September honoring the incomparable Valentino which will be chaired by style icons Anne Bass, Daphne Guinness, Charlotte Moss, and Diane von Furstenberg.

I of course felt compelled to do my summery best for this elegant fête, selecting a vintage straw hat by Lock, Tom Ford “Spencer” sport jacket in rose silk linen basket weave, “Regency” pants in pink & green silk cotton madras check, white cotton french cuff shirt, bone suede loafers, pocket square in pink, and white silk retro print from Charvet Paris, vintage moonstone cuff links and my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.

James Andrew at the Frick Collection Summer Soirée.

The Frick Collection Summer Soirée was a spectacular success with over 400 in attendance, and WIJW would like to thank many of our friends for showing up in such great style!

Guests brought an elegant lawn-party vibe to the event, with graceful gals bedecked in beautiful hats and summery colors, and, lest they be overlooked, even the boys donned duds in gorgeous shades of pink, orange and green—the whole thing was just as Bill Cunningham put it, “marvelous.”

It was lovely to see such a variety of people excited about The Frick Collection, and I had so many great conversations regarding the glorious surrounds—the Russel Page garden and the spectacular Frick Collection. Furthermore I was quite moved to hear that many have found inspiration in what we’ve been sharing here on WIJW!

There are only a few truly exceptional events in NYC that have the power to elevate the spirits like a party at the Frick, but if you missed the Summer Soirée, not to worry. The Frick is a dream to experience any time! We’ll be sharing more regarding the two exhibitions currently on view, In a New Light: Bellini’s St. Francis in the Desert, and Turkish Taste at the Court of Marie-Antoinette in an upcoming post.

Beyond thrilled to be a part of such a splendid evening, I’m sporting my new Tom Ford “Snowdon” suit in lilac rose silk wool linen melange twill, a bespoke Turnbull and Asser turquoise herringbone cotton shirt with contrast white collar and french cuffs, Seaman Schepps precious turquoise cuff links, purple alligator belt with sterling buckle by Ralph Lauren, Charvet turquoise silk pocket square, purple and turquoise floral silk tie and Tom Ford saddle leather loafers are Tom Ford. For such an elegant evening, my fragrance is Creed Imperial Millesime.

James Andrew in a room by Lorenzo Castillo.

After a glorious time in the Balearic Islands we returned to Madrid to enjoy a bit more of this marvelous city. We were so taken by our spectacular suite at the Villa Magna Hotel the last we were here in Madrid that we checked right back in again!

Villa Magna.

Villa Magna reflecting pools.

Then it was off to spend some more time with the brilliant and wonderful Lorenzo Castillo, one of Spain’s most esteemed interior designers. It was truly an honor to meet him and tour his stunning home—certainly has me thinking about my own townhouse dreams. We enjoyed pre-lunch cocktails while admiring his palacio and then went for a lovely lunch at Restaurante Esteban where we feasted on delicious traditional Spanish cuisine paired with a remarkable Rioja. A stroll through the Parque del Retiro is an absolute must—once the private playground of the royal family, it is now the perfect place unwind in lush surrounds.

Villa Magna.

The glorious terraces, bar, and lounge make Villa Magna a really superb place to meet friends for coffee or drinks before dinner. We had the occasion to meet with our fabulous friend Pepa Charlton, who is doing the most interesting things with the antiques and vintage pieces she collects on her world travels—she’s got a neat sort of pop-up shop in her home she calls “My Vintage Corner.”

A brief disco nap energized us for a highly anticipated WIJW send-off dinner party hosted by my gorgeous friend Juan Moline and his partners, Jaime Mesalles and Luis Gamo. They brought together a super-chic circle of friends, artists, antiques dealers, journalists, and publicists (classic salon style) at their uber-fabulous flat. It was an evening of fantastic food, drink, and lively conversation amongst an interesting and interested group of talented people—the perfect conclusion to a flawless Spanish getaway.

Juan Moline.

I’m photographed (top) in Lorenzo Castillo’s gracious drawing room, and I’m sporting a tangerine silk basket weave jacket, pink cotton glen plaid shirt and beige suede loafers all by Tom Ford, pink and white silk retro print pocket square by Charvet, python belt and sunglasses by Gucci, Seaman Schepps cuff links in white shell and coral, my fragrance is Creed Orange Spice.

Breakfast at the Villa Magna Hotel.

Our last day in Madrid before heading to Ibiza had us wanting to see as much as we could without feeling rushed, and so we sorted out our day over a relaxing breakfast on one of the terrific terraces of the Villa Magna Hotel.

At the Museo Naval.

Our first stop was the Museo Naval, which was the perfect place for Mr. McBee to find a bit of inspiration for his upcoming portrait of the Spanish Royal yacht “Giralda.”

Next on our list was the the mansion of the Marquis of Cerralbo—it provides a perfectly preserved glimpse of the life of a 19th/20th century Madrileño aristocrat—essentially the Frick of Madrid. It was designed as both home and showcase to display the art and success of the Cerralbos. Needless to say, this is a must see!

Museo Cerralbo

Museo Cerralbo

James Andrew and Juan Moline

Scott Mcbee and James Andrew - photo Ze Cabral

On the way to meet Moline we were stopped on the street by Ze Cabral of The Lisbon Tailor. He is essentially the “Sartorialist” of Portugal and we were quite honored to be photographed for his brilliant blog!

Then we were off to meet my lovely friend Pepa Charlton for drinks at her stunning home before attending the most divine dinner party hosted by Marta Galatas. Do have a look at her lovely painted furniture. Galatas brought together the most fascinating and wonderful group of friends to celebrate WIJW in her rather splendid flat decorated with the help of legendary interior designer Duarte Pinto Coelho.

Sphinx at the entrance to Museo Arqueologico Nacional.

I’m wearing a Tom Ford “Spencer” sport jacket in rose silk linen basket weave, Etro silk chiffon paisley shirt, Charvet yellow silk retro print pocket square, Gucci python belt with silver buckle and sunglasses, Uniglo white cotton slim cargo style pants, Etro orange suede tasseled loafers and my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.

James Andrew at the Lincoln Center Theater

This past Memorial Day weekend provided us with the perfect opening to see War Horse at the fabulous Lincoln Center Theater. The date itself was quite fitting as well, considering War Horse pays tribute to the 8 million horses that died during World War I.

The essential story is that of a boy who joins the British cavalry after his father sells the boy’s beloved horse. Needless to say, both boy and horse together learn of the terrors of war. The horses are brilliantly portrayed through the use of beautifully crafted life sized theatrical puppets (it takes several puppeteers per horse) that move and gesture with an incredible attention to locomotive and expressive detail.

I’m unashamed to say that the visually stunning and emotionally stirring story had me in tears by the end of the play—it is a spectacular story of hope, courage and unfaltering faith. This is not to be missed. While one is in the area, why not have a pre or post dinner at the super chic Lincoln Restaurant—it’s a lovely place to set the mood, or perhaps decompress from an evening at the theater!

Dressed for the occasion, I’m sporting a Tom Ford “Spencer”sport jacket in tangerine silk linen basket weave,cotton shirt in blue cotton oxford melange with contrast white collar and saddle leather loafers, Charvet blue silk tie and retro print pocket square, Seaman Schepps pearl cuff links with pale blue sapphires Gucci python belt with silver double horse head buckle, pale gray wool pants from Paul Smith and my fragrance is Creed Imperial Millisime.

A special thanks must go to my friend, Euan Rellie who inspired my color choice for this outfit; when he married the lovely Lucy Sykes, he wore a pale blue waist coat and a tangerine necktie with his morning suit—I thought the effect was stunning!

James Andrew at Carlton Hobbs - Photo by Christian Fuchs

Aside from being dealers in the most spectacular and historically significant antiques, we’d like to point out that Carlton Hobbs and Stefanie Rinza devote a great deal of their time, effort, and resources to animal rescue. Certainly when one considers how many innocent animals suffer, one could easily become overwhelmed, but Hobbs and Rinza have an antidote, and that’s action! We’ll be doing a follow up piece shortly with a focus on some effective ways one might help to ensure that animals are being treated with kindness, dignity, and respect. In the meantime, here’s to our beautiful furry and feathered friends.

I’m photographed by the tremendously talented Christian Fuchs at Carlton Hobbs. I’m sporting a bright blue cotton sateen jacket by Gucci, Tom Ford long sleeve polo shirt in royal blue cotton toweling, Uniglo white jeans, Charvet pocket square, Hadleighs navy gingham tasseled slippers, Cartier “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram sunglasses by Gucci and my fragrance is Creed Erolfa.