James Andrew at Sebastian + Barquet. Photo by Thorsten Roth

As an interior designer I’m constantly looking for the most spectacular pieces to definitively set my interiors apart from the rest, and one of my favorite go-to places for just such pieces is the Sebastian + Barquet Gallery. Here you’ll find museum caliber pieces by such major modern masters as Gio Ponti, Jean Prouve, and Charlotte Perrinand just to name a few of my favorites, and all is displayed to utmost effect in the super chic Enrique Norton designed S + B Chelsea gallery and showroom.

James Andrew at Sebastian + Barquet. Photo by Thorsten Roth.

I’m particularly enamored with the sculptural “Chicago” chair by Krueck & Sexton in mirrored stainless steel – clearly taking some of its material cues from the likes of the Mies van der Rohe Lake Shore Drive buildings which Kreuck & Sexton recently restored, the design’s undeniable formal elegance belies a chair that is also quite comfortable as well – it’s equally chair and sculpture. I could see this piece contrasting nicely in a traditional architectural setting for one of my trademark classic minimalist interior.

James Andrew at Sebastian + Barquet. Photo by Thorsten Roth.

Both this exquisite chair and the beautiful Sebastian + Barquet showroom provided our photographer extraordinaire Thorsten Roth with the most perfect future-past environ to produce the scintillating images we have here today. Whether he is photographing celebrities, artists, socialites, etc. – making portraits or producing editorial magazine work – he manages to imbue all with a distinct vision that is at once highly stylized and at the same time, hugely energetic – perfectly capturing the dynamic, sometimes frenetic, quality that life presents us with today, while hinting at the possibility of a gleaming escapist (but thoroughly workable) future just around the bend. For more fine images from Roth, please do have a visit to his site!

For our Sebastian + Barquet showroom shoot, I’m wearing a black linen denim jacket with suede elbow patches, black and white silk hounds tooth pants and silver chain link belt all by Gucci, bottle green micro check shirt with contrast white collar and french cuffs by Turnbull and Asser, Charvet green and white silk retro print pocket square, Seaman Schepps gray pearl cuff links, Tom Ford black and saddle leather loafers, sunglasses are by Lanvin and my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.

Photos by Thorsten Roth.
Hair and make up by Andrew Sotomayor.

James Andrew in a Jean Nouvel space.

I approach my interior design projects as a couturier. I tailor a concept for each client that fits their taste and lifestyle as I would the most perfectly fitted garment – luxuriously comfortable custom designed upholstered furniture – custom designed fabrics and carpets – every detail, highly considered. I bring together brilliant artisans, builders, painters and valuable resources I’ve collected over the years to create truly bespoke rooms. It really gives me such immense pleasure creating these spaces for my clients and seeing the transformation that takes place.

I recently had the opportunity to visit the most spectacular penthouse. My friend, and Douglas Elliman agent, Philp Tabor (who works with the brilliant Holly Parker team) gave me a tour of this master piece by Jean Nouvel – the perfect blank canvas – ready for me to take to that sublime level! More about Nouvel Chelsea in an upcoming post as we bring some of the most important real estate to WIJW.

I’m sporting a mint green cotton twill suit by Gucci, Tom Ford shirt in pale blue cotton with french cuffs and contrast white collar and brown suede tasseled loafers, Seaman Schepps cuff links are silver pearls with pale blue sapphires, python belt with silver buckle by Gucci, pocket square in white linen with pale blue embroidered borders from Baumons my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.

Ngo Okafor and James Andrew - photo by Matthew Dean

Some of you may know the story of how WIJW came to be – the cat calls I’d receive at the gym for my usual (slightly over the top?) outfits – I’d come in with my citron yellow jeans or a dusty rose suede safari jacket and there’d always be a “Hey Jimmy – whatcha got on today?” Of course I’d be tickled by the response I was getting, but I didn’t really see the opportunity I had until I started fitness training with the amazing Ngo Okafor. It was in fact Okafor who, with huge foresight, suggested I make a blog based on my fashion sense. It did take some friendly insistence from him over the next month or so, but I eventually called on Alex Scott to help create what we now know as What is James Wearing?! Tonight’s post is a tribute to Okafor’s persistence and the push he gave me to get this all to happen!

He is a two-time heavyweight champion winning back-to-back Golden Gloves (and yes we saw him knock a fellow out at The Garden not long ago).

As a model, Okafor has worked with major superstars like Gisele, and Mary J. Blige, and he’s currently featured in a huge Under Armour campaign. Okafor has acted in several TV shows as well, including Six Degrees, The Rebound with Catherine Zeta-Jones, and he has just finished work on an upcoming feature film, “Jeremy Fink and the meaning of life.” Okafor is currently at work on a feature-length documentary, which chronicles his journey from Nigeria to the top of the boxing world. “I really want the film to inspire people to dream big and work hard,” says Okafor. “That’s always been my mantra and so far so good.”

Be looking for his 2011 calendar which will be out soon, with proceeds going to raise funds for up-and-coming boxing stars in Nigeria.

So to my dear friend Ngo – thank you for pushing me to become a better version of myself and for being so completely inspirational to us all – may your star continue to rise!

I’m photographed in the ring sporting a Gucci cotton, wool and silk white and black window pane plaid jacket, silk black and white hounds tooth pant, black patent belt with silver leather trim and grommets and black and white silk bow tie, Turnbull and Asser shirt in red and white cotton stripes with contrast white collar and french cuffs and grey and black silk polka dot pocket square, Seaman Schepps black pearl cuff links, Tom Ford black and saddle leather loafer, Cartier “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram and my fragrance is Creed Aventus.

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 at Le Sirenuse.

When I travel, I always search for accommodations that will capture the essence of a region. Having been to Le Sirenuse, I’ll now simply always equate the Amalfi coast with this most perfect of hotels. Le Sirenuse is in fact quite possibly the finest hotel that I’ve ever been to. And you needn’t only take my word for it – Le Sirenuse rates among Europe’s best hotels, and continues to draw in an ever impressive array of famous guests who most certainly share my opinion.

Le Sirenuse hotel.

Le Sirenuse was originally built in the 18th century for the Marchese Sersale as a family palazzo. Upon opening its doors to the public in 1951, it quickly became one of the most glamorous hotels on the Amalfi Coast. Everything here is highly considered – the antique furniture, fine cotton and linen fabrics, and the art – all chosen with a chic sensibility and awareness of place – a refined honesty and heightened attention to detail very much in keeping with the property’s aristocratic legacy.

The Sersale family crest.

Oh and when you go to Le Sirenuse, do venture to Carla Sersale’s super chic Emporio Le SIrenuse! Be sure to pick up several of the Sersale Eau d’Italie scents. Inpsired by the fragrant Mediterranean, the Paestum Rose became my scent of choice for the remainder of our holiday. One hint of it now plunges me into the most delicious of reveries.

Left to right. Antonio Sersale, James Andrew, and Carla Sersale.

When all is said, it really is the Sersales that create the magic in Le Sirenuse. McBee and I did have the privilege to dine at La Sponda with the exceptionally creative husband and wife team, and over a magnificent eight course meal we shared thoughts on many fronts – from ideas regarding opportunities in hotelier consulting (we’d certainly take the Sersale’s invaluable advice on this subject) to ventures in creative writing. Indeed, we hear there is a new Sersale blog in the works! We’ll of course be sure to keep you apprised.

We are gushing on a bit here, we know, and we make no excuses – you see, its just that we’re suffering from a sweet but terribly painful love hangover since our return to NYC – with the only possibility for relief being in a swift return to the heavenly realm of Le Sirenuse!

I’m pictured (top) at La Sponda sporting a royal blue cotton sateen jacket , medallion print cotton pant in blues and turquoise, brown leather sandals and a python belt all by Gucci, Turnbull and Asser turquoise and white herringbone cotton shirt with contrast white collar and french cuffs, Seaman ScheppsCharvet, Cartier “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram.

James Andrew in the town of Amalfi.

A cute Amalfitano.

There are a few compulsory musts in the town of Amalfi. Certainly one should observe an evening passeggiata through the charming town center, and perhaps one should steal a moment’s respite on the steps of their grand Duomo di Saint Andrea in anticipation of the substantial meal you’ll be having. And oh yes, there are some exceptional restaurants here! Among the best, we can recommend La Caravella, – a well preserved fifty year old art gallery meets fine dining establishment where many among the Amalfi social elite mingle over an exquisite lemon soufflé. Or for something a bit more casual, one would certainly do well to go to Lido Azzuro – located in the harbor of Amalfi, one is sure to find an excellent menu of the very freshest seafood. Mention is also owed to Trattoria da Gemma – located in the center of town, it affords some unforgettable views of the Piazza Duomo. Be sure to save some room though as you’ll want to walk off your gustatory efforts with a cooling gelato and perhaps, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to meet an adorable Amalfitano Kitty!

I’m dressed for dinner wearing a Tom Ford “Spencer” sport jacket in rose silk linen basket weave, blue and white stiped linen pants by Gucci, white cotton shirt with French cuffs by Tom Ford, Seaman Schepps cuff links in silver pearl an pale blue sapphire, Charvet retro print silk pocket square in blues, python belt with sterling buckle by Gucci, Tom Ford ivory suede loafers, Cartier “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram and my fragrance is Creed Zeste Madarine Pamplemousse.

James Andrew and the Villa Cimbrone's Terrace of Infinity.

Each new discovery at Ravello seemed to somehow surpass the previous one. Every path, stair, and winding road revealed some new and utterly captivating treasure, and a walk through the Villa Cimbrone gardens on our last day in Ravello was unquestionably the most uniquely memorable discovery of them all!

The Avenue of Immensity.

The Temple of Ceres.

I’m photographed here (top) amongst the Renaissance busts that border the aforementioned “Terrace of Infinity.” Do you suppose these folks were so overwhelmed by the beauty of the place that they turned to stone?

I’m dressed for dinner in a navy cotton pique jacket by Gucci, Ralph Lauren cotton voile paisley pocket square in pinks and blues, Tom Ford shirt in navy blue end on end cotton with french cuffs and contrast white collar and palest pink silk pants, silver pearls with pale blue sapphire Seaman Schepps cuff links, Gucci silver chain link belt and navy suede loafers, Cartier “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram and my fragrance is Creed Zeste Mandarine Pamplemousse.

James Andrew at Frederick P Victoria. photo Lars Stephan

I love going to artisan workrooms and warehouses when I’m dreaming up spectacular interiors for my clients, and one of my all time favorites is Frederick P Victoria - they have a veritable treasure trove of important historical items, and as you all might have gathered, I do love a good story behind what I place! Equally useful though are their many new incredibly well crafted pieces created to reflect a more modern sensibility.

Directoire style commode created for Lord Mountbatten and circuit boy lacquer coffee table both at Frederick P. Victoria.

I’m in the process of putting together a fantastic Frederick P. Victoria collection for a super chic client – a marvelous mix of high style traditional with a contemporary vibe – as you know, this is a JAID trademark look. What a glamorous and vibrant interior this collection will create for my client!

Elsie de Wolfe table in nickel and parchment.

Victoria tub side chair.

Seated in a Victoria tub side chair enjoying these beautiful furnishings which include an Art Deco style obelisk, a Serge Roche style venetian mirror, and a Jacob model officers chair, I’m sporting a smashing mint green cotton twill jacket by Gucci, lavender end on end cotton shirt with french cuffs and contrast white collar by Tom Ford, Seaman Schepps grey pearl cuff links, light weight pale grey wool pants by Paul Smith, python belt with silver double horsehead buckle by Gucci, pocket square in grey and white silk by Charvet Paris, Tom Ford saddle leather loafers, Cartier vintage “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram and my fragrance is Creed Bois de Cedrat.

Photo by Lars Stephan.

James Andrew and Samoth Mott Chairs at David Dncan - photo Lars Stephan

My magnificent Montauk project is coming along quite nicely. A truck load of the most gorgeous things is on its way and I’m looking forward to a day of decorating!

In preparation over the past week, I’ve been visiting all my favorite dealers to fill in the missing pieces. I nearly fainted at the David Duncan gallery when I saw the set of chairs Duncan found for my self described “Surf Shack Chic” project. It goes without saying my client snapped them up right away! I love when things run so smoothly! These Samoth Mott chairs will be positively perfect for the rather large seaside deck we are designing.

David Duncan Antiques is always one of my first resource stops, as he indubitably has the right thing for me, whatever the stylistic direction a project might be taking.

I look forward to sharing some wonderful images of my Montauk project in the not too distant future – we’re planning another major photo shoot on location with the brilliant Lars Stephan.

I’m wearing a pale beige silk, linen, wool jacket by Gucci, Tom Ford brown end on end cotton french cuff shirt with contrast white collar and brown suede and leather tasseled loafers, Charvet brown and blue retro print silk pocket square, Seaman Schepps pearl cuff links with pale blue sapphires, python belt by Gucci, pale blue jean cut pants by Uniglo, sunglasses by Lanvin, Cartier vintage “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.