Yesterday, I posted on The Edit's issue this week and after mentioning that the piece on Aerin Lauder was a must-read, I received several notes from C&C readers, expressing your adoration for her (one an old male suitor of hers!) and the success she has rightfully earned with her own brand and vision. In this piece, she discusses her initial desire to start her own lifestyle and beauty brand, despite her role as Creative Director at her grandmother's beauty company, Estée Lauder (now a $11B company). She emphasizes the importance of breathing her own authenticity into the company's identity, while acknowledging the complexity of her life as mother, wife, philanthropist and business woman. AERIN has expanded in short time into a lifestyle company, with product offerings from a beautiful shade of rose balm lipstick, to high end home decor and objets. If you spend time on her website, you'll understand quickly that not only is Aerin Lauder's palate inherently elegant and simple, she is able to beautifully craft a narrative for each product such as this release of her new scent Rose De Grasse.
The '70s Are Having a Moment
This week's The Edit is spectacular. From sultry suede à la Gucci worn by Malgosia Bela in her editorial photographs (see here), to the spotlight on this saddle bag, the '70s are quietly having a moment. A must read in this issue? The piece on Aerin Lauder and the making of (another) Lauder empire. Read here.
Tassel
I love a good one piece, not to mention proper placement of a tassel. This little number by Eres does the trick. Shop here.
Next Week
Looking forward to next week's The Edit piece with Carolyn Murphy, courtesy of Net-A-Porter. This photograph took my breath away and Carolyn is always a vision. I always love seeing the natural landscape as a background in portrait photography.
Jakobs of Gotland
I think I've met my match.
My trip back east allowed me to relish in many simple pleasures I missed. As I return to my routine, I find myself day dreaming of another escape. This restored farm house on the Swedish island of Gotland is nestled among 2 acres of green gardens, a bike ride away from the sea and thoughtfully dusted with beautiful interior pieces in true Scandinavian style. Known as Jakobs of Gotland, this property is available for rent by the long weekend in winter, or week in summer.
Naturally, my stay at Jakobs has already been sorted out in my head. I have visions of reading on the terrace in a white chemise, only glancing away to watch the branches on the trees sway in the morning breeze. In the late afternoon, I'll bike ride to the sea for a long swim before supper, returning to visit the sauna in the barn. Then, I'll retreat to the garden to pick herbs, flowers and produce for supper outside and dine with acquaintances I've met in the nearby town of Visby. When the laughter and dim candlelight subsides, I'll retreat indoors for a glass of scotch or port, my eyes fixated on the glow of a hearty fire...It seems every day at Jakobs is a verse out of a pastoral poem.
Learn more about Jakobs of Gotland here and be sure to see Net-A-Porter's feature as well! Owners Anna and Andi are lovely as ever and available via email to address your inquires.
(Photography credit: Ken Kochey and Katarina Grip-Höök’)
Switching Off
A great reminder to take time away from both the workplace and technology courtesy of The Edit. Arianna Huffington often gets a lot of scrutiny but I really adore her.
(Click on the image to zoom).
More Than Just Margaritas...
NET-A-PORTER's THE EDIT does a fantastic job of showcasing new travel destinations. The latest? A nod to Isabel Goldsmith-Patiño who is behind the vibrant beach resort in Mexico called Las Alamandas. The private suite-only resort is painted in a palette of tropical sorbets, the property dotted by palm trees, jasmine and lush gardens. The property lends to vitality in spirit and landscape - one that will certainly make my "Mexico Must" list.
Below, a few packing options to get you on your way (all available on NET-A-PORTER, naturally)...
Oscar de la Renta's Embellished silk kaftan via 
Kenneth Jay Lane Hammered gold-plated earrings via 
Alexander McQueen Punk Skull embellished satin clutch box
Charlotte Olympia's Triton embellished metallic leather sandals via 
Karla Colletto Rosettes appliquéd underwired swimsuit via 
Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato tote via 
Hervé Van der Straeten's tiered hammered gold-plated brass necklace via
Lisa Marie Fernandez's Poppy Bandeau swimsuit via 
Marni gold-tone tassel clip earrings via