James at Riverside Park

I often find myself in a real quandary over which parties, galas, openings, etc., to go to – and while, as you know, I do like a good party, sometimes hitting all of them can seem like a second job!

In fact, contrary to what you may have concluded from reading WIJW, it’s often the simplest of things that bring me the most pleasure and peace – say for instance a Saturday stroll through a gorgeous park. In fact, when I’m in the city, I consider my park time integral to my well being. Whether I’m already in a good mood, or I’m looking for a psychophysical bump, the quiet, natural, beauty of one of our parks can go a long way toward turning a less than stellar mood into one of appreciation and love.

I’m pictured here at Riverside Park on Manhattan’s Upper West Side enjoying a leisurely stroll in a casual ensemble – Navy cotton pique jacket by Gucci, navy and white silk micro dot pocket square by Battistoni, navy cotton t-shirt by Alternative, white jeans by Diesel, chartreuse python belt with silver double horse head buckle by Gucci, Tom Ford woven olive suede espadrilles, sunglasses by Lanvin white leather bag by Gucci, Cartier “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram and my fragrance is Creed Bois de Cedrat.

James Andrew with a Hildestahl bag. Photo by Lars Stephan.

Beyond the obvious functionality of a good bag, it’s an accessory that can really pop up a look – in fact, I really don’t think an outfit is complete without one!

I recently had the pleasure of connecting with the super chic Jens Hildestahl to speak a bit with him about the inception of his line. Briefly put, his bags were born from the general lack, he tells us, of acceptable aesthetic and functional qualities available in men’s bags – and so he decided to create his own line! And thus the Hildestahl brand was born.

Hildestahl’s mission has been to create the ultimate bag for the cosmopolitan man. His designs draw inspiration from 60′s and 70′s fashions and the lux boheme aesthetic that was quite popular amongst young aristocratic types of that time. Fittingly crafted by the finest artisan workrooms in Italy, the result is an exceptionally well made bag with unusual details rarely seen in men’s bags. And did we mention these bags are as beautiful on the inside as they are on the out? – a perfect metaphor for a perfect brand.

Of course these are rather unique – furthermore women seem to covet them as much as men – so do secure one straightaway.

I’m pictured with the “Valfrid” tote which received non-stop compliments as I dashed about town.

I’m wearing a silk and cotton jacket in a white and black window pane plaid from Gucci, Richard James shirt in black and white cotton stripes and contrast white collar, shell and multi-colored coral beads cufflinks by Seaman Schepps, Cartier “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram, sunglasses by Lanvin, and my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.

Not seen – purple skinny jeans by Diesel, Gucci black patent leather belt with silver trim and grommets, and black and saddle leather loafers by Tom Ford.

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.

Scott McBee's large scale painting of the Conte di Savoia.

I’m pleased to celebrate the work of the brilliant nautical artist Scott McBee. Featured now at the ultra chic Chinese Porcelain Company on Park Avenue in NYC, McBee’s stunning large scale ocean liners transport one to a time when traveling in ultra style was just as important as arriving at one’s destination. It goes without saying that McBee’s work, which is also now on exhibit at the South Street Seaport Museum in lower Manhattan and can be seen as well in the permanent collection of The Master Works Foundation in Bermuda, has developed a substantial following, and of course many of his fine commissioned yacht portraits now reside in private family collections. I can’t think of a better gift than a McBee for the man (or woman) with a passion for fine yacht design!

Inspired by McBee’s painting ” Conte di Savoia,” I’m wearing a red Gucci leather biker jacket and custom made kelly green shirt with french cuffs, Seaman Schepps black pearl cuff links, white skinny jeans by Diesel, black patent leather belt with silver leather trim and grommets, Dior silver leather sneakers and sunglasses , Cartier vintage “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram, my fragrance is Creed Bois de Cedrat.

James Andrew and Frankenthaler.

My clients look to me when it comes to selecting art for the interiors that we create together. I love art and make a point of knowing what is available – it’s always a pleasure to help my clients find that perfect picture or object – something to enhance and elevate their lives while bringing an interior to that truly sublime level. On a recent reconnaissance mission WIJW spotted some exceptional resources at “The Art Show” here in New York City – Certainly one of the highlights was the John Berggruen Gallery and two spectacular Helen Frankenthaler paintings – Bride’s Door and Orange Underline. Clear, colorful and unencumbered, these iconic works would resonate perfectly with my signature design mix, which incorporates both fine contemporary and well selected classical elements.

If you are a fan of Frankenthaler as I am, you’ll be happy to know that the John Berggreun Gallery will be having an exhibition of Frankenthaler’s paintings ( 1961-1973) April 1 to May 22,2010 – Now that may be worth a trip to the lovely city of San Francisco!

Posing in front of Bride’s Door, I’m wearing a Gucci dark bottle green paper thin leather bomber jacket, tartan cotton shirt with contrast collar and and french cuffs by Turnbull and Asser, black pearl cuff links by Seaman Schepps, black skinny jeans by Diesel, black patent and silver leather belt with grommets by Gucci, silver leather sneakers (not shown) by Dior, fragrance is Creed Vintage Tabarome, red leather gloves are Sermoneta, necklace with tartan pen knife is by Cartography.

James Andrew at Tillet and Rauscher - photo by Nicholas Turner

It’s becoming more and more challenging to find unique textiles that are actually made by hand. The subtle variations inherent in a hand-screen process can imbue a fine fabric with that bit of soul that we at WIJW not only love but require when creating a spectacular interior.

One of the very few studios offering fantastic hand screened fabric is Tillett and Rauscher. They continue the legacy left by DD and Leslie Tillett who designed fabrics for iconic clients like Jacqueline Kennedy and Babe Paley. It’s no wonder that my design mentor Albert Hadley still creates dazzling interiors using Tillett fabrics and I myself can’t resist using their fresh colors and playful patterns in everything I do. – In fact I used their beautiful faux bois pattern for my own drawing room curtains and will certainly turn to Tillet when making my next interior.

Tillett and Rauscher textiles.

Happily, along with many more recent offerings, all of the classic hand made patterns produced by DD and Leslie Tillett are still available. And If you are not finding exactly what you want, you may choose to have your selection custom colored or you may opt to have Tillett and Rauscher create something entirely new, something truly bespoke. The Tilletts were also well known for their fabulous fashion designs, and so for all of you young couturiers, may we suggest that you put Tillett and Rauscher at the top of your resource list!

I can’t wait for my next Tillett and Rauscher visit! – I’m pictured here at their studio fascinated by the beauty of all these wonderful fabrics – I’m wearing a blue corduroy jacket and plum feather weight cashmere turtleneck sweater both by Gucci, this gorgeous Etro scarf inspired by the work by the artist Sonia Delaunay, “Thanaz” jean in blue/gray denim by Diesel – aubergine suede “Eton” boots by Yves Saint Laurent and my fragrance is Royal Water by Creed

James Andrew viewing works by Eduardo Garza

Extasis - rock crystal matrix and gold by Eduardo Garza

Goddess of Flowers - pink agate necklace by Eduardo Garza

Lucite Box by Eduardo Garza for Berdorf Goodman

I’m wearing an Aubergine velvet peaked lapel jacket by Gucci, Tom Ford fuchsia silk pocket square and blue end on end cotton French cuff shirt with contrast white collar, silver pearl and pale blue sapphire cuff links by Seaman Schepps, over-sized silk paisley scarf by Etro, shocking pink jeans by Dior, silver chain link belt and navy blue cap toe shoes both by Gucci, KVA glasses by Oliver Peoples.

James Andrew 2010 - photos Lars Stephan

In New York,
Concrete jungle where dreams are made of,
There’s nothing you can’t do,
Now you’re in New York,
These streets will make you feel brand new,
The lights will inspire you,
Lets here it for New York…

From “Empire State of Mind,” by the brilliant Jay-Z and Alicia Keys.

It’s no wonder this is the music used for the upcoming “Sex in the City 2” – such a celebratory ode to this fantastic city!

When I was a boy, I constantly fantasized about living in New York City – watching classic television shows like Green Acres with scenes of Eva Gabor on her Park Avenue terrace, or Family Affair with all it’s fabulous New York City imagery, I knew one day I’d make NYC my home.

This time of year we often become introspective – reflecting on what we have accomplished, the joys, the sorrows, where we need to make improvements in our lives etc.. When I think back on all the circumstances that brought me to where I am today, it was a lot about creating my own reality – imagining what that reality would look like, and taking action to achieve those dreams. This New Years, I’m taking time to recapture the same excitement and enthusiasm I had back then, and I’m planning on having the most spectacular new year. We at WIJW trust this year finds you well on your way towards realizing your must outrageous dreams and desires as well!

CHEERS!

Dressed to celebrate the holiday, I’m giving slightly formal attire a bit of a twist. Harking back to some of those old Ralph Lauren ads, I’m wearing my super chic shearling coat by Gucci, with a black wool dinner jacket, black wool pants, black and white silk polka dot bow tie, silver chain link belt and black patent leather shoes all by Gucci, Richard James shirt in white and black cotton stripes with French cuffs and contrast white collar, Seaman Schepps black pearl cuff links, Charvet white silk pocket square, pale blue peccary gloves by Sermoneta and KVA sunglasses by Oliver Peoples.

Photos by Lars Stephan.

James Andrew, Winter 2009

I trust you all had a few marvelous days filled with love, family, and friends! I had a splendid Xmas eve dinner with my dear friend Adrianne and my Scott McBee at the Park Avenue Winter restaurant. Then on to a simple Xmas day spent with McBee opening presents under a nicely decorated tree – a Rigaud Cypress candle burning, the smell of paper whites, and a celebratory bottle of Dom Perignon uncorked – Bliss! Gift boxes were wrapped in a red and white faux bois print and among the offerings therein were a few well selected items from some of my favorites – Tom Ford, Hermes, and Alexander McQueen. Among all of these lovely gifts, I was very happy to receive a divine set of antique ruby crystal water goblets, and I’ll be sure to work them into a future post.

Particularly thoughtful, and perhaps most appreciated, were two modest books given to Scott and me – “The Magic of Thinking Big” by David J. Schwartz, Ph.D. – a wonderful lesson in not selling ourselves short, belief in our own potential to succeed, and removing the fear and negativity that can interfere with achieving of our dreams; and the other book we received was Norman Vincent Peale’s “You Can If You Think You Can” – a treatment on making the seemingly impossible possible. So some good reading and some fine thoughts to kick off the New Year!

As you might have gathered by now, I’m not one to settle for little fantasies, and I’m expecting miracles in 2010! What miracles will you be creating?

I’m wearing a forest green leather bomber jacket and dove gray cashmere turtleneck sweater both by Gucci, purple jeans by Diesel, black leather “Windsor” loafers by Yves Saint Laurent, black leather tote by Gucci, purple leather gloves by Sermoneta and glasses by Dior.