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Fabulous Finds : Hermes Shawl

10/26/2019

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As an avid second-hand shopper for more than 20 years, I have found my fair share of amazing pieces.  Still, I have my favorites. This silk-cashmere, Hermés shawl is one of my greatest buys of all time. 
I found it at a secondhand, warehouse sale, where everything was in chaos and the bins were overflowing.  This particular warehouse (which is now unfortunately closed) was near my hometown in Oregon.  I went there 2x a week during college, to wander and clear my brain and hunt for additions to my costume and vintage collection.  I knew the in's and out's of this shop.  I reached into the scarf section and knew to look underneath- because the heaviest and highest quality fabrics often sink to the bottom.  I could feel the cashmere before I saw the Hermés symbol.
The Hermés Marine Naive scarf depicts the life of Henry F. Smith, an English sailor in 1880, was created in 1992 and never re-issued. Big ships sail an Impressionistic sea in lovely colors. Jet black border adds drama to these beautiful scenes.
It is 65% Cashmere and 35% silk, and an absolute pleasure to touch.  
This shawl is 140 cm x 140 cm and is the perfect wrap to take on flights and road trips.  A little research on the item revealed its $1,200 original price tag .This  Marin Naive pattern was designed by Philippe Dumas and is mainly khaki and black in color with painterly depictions of ships to the center. It is marked, “Henry F. Smith Sailor” on a banner within the pattern, “Hermès” on the upper right and “PhD”as the designers signature. The edges are rolled and hand-stitched.
Recently, I have framed this massive piece, and it is now on display at Sala1
in Rome, Italy.  From the floor of a warehouse, to the wall of an art gallery .... a fabulous find deserves to be celebrated.
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6 Steps to Sustainable Style

10/1/2019

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Making a good impression in the world today requires us to make smart choices in how we spend our time, energy and money.  A well organized wardrobe, and a sanctuary that reflects one's lifestyle, will increase daily efficiency, build self confidence, and reduce spending. 
A change in lifestyle requires action, here are my professional recommendations for sustainable style:

1.  PAUSE BUYING
It is time to observe yourself. What do you already have that is made well and is of high quality? What is your 'go-to' outfit for important events?   What no longer suits you, that can you donate to a good cause?  What are you holding onto for sentimental value that you could up-cycle?  What do you continue to buy (in variations)?  

2.  Make Lists 
What are you missing in your home or wardrobe?  What could you add to your life that would bring you joy or tranquility?  What do you already have that could be altered or repurposed? Finally write down your dream pieces; everything you want is possible, if you know what you're looking for.

3.  Build your TEAM 
Find people that you trust, who are highly skilled in repairs that you are unable to complete.  These people will work with you to perfect the pieces you already own.  You will be putting your money into a craftsperson's pocket, and keeping unworn items out of landfills.  A tailor and a leatherworker are an essential part of a eco-friendly and fabulous wardrobe.

4.  Find NEW ways to shop
The clothing and textile industry is the 2nd largest polluting industry in the world.  If you do not yet know what "Fast Fashion" is, please watch the documentary 'The True Cost' (on Netflix). For low-impact consumerism, I recommend shopping at Vintage, Charity and Consignment shops, Flea Markets, Clothing Swaps, small businesses in your area, friends and acquaintances you want to support. 


5.  Shop with purpose
Bring your lists and an extra set of eyes.  Hiring a Stylist can save you money in the long run.  A stylish friend who agrees to go with you is a treasure!  ALWAYS TRY ON YOUR PURCHASES. Moving in your clothes gives them life and eliminates surprises and wardrobe malfunctions.  Aim to buy natural fiber, high quality clothing as an investment in yourself and the planet.

6.  Play "1 for 1" 
For every new item you bring into your home, you must get rid of something you already own.  Find clever ways to donate ; give art supplies and plastic containers to your local school or give old winter clothes to a Refugee Center.  

Making changes to your habits takes time, and everyone's path is different. Go slowly, and contact a professional if you want to speed up the process.  

Happy Thrifting!


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Poncho-turned-waterproof skirt created by The Sewing Cooperative.
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Reflecting in Mexico City at the home of Frida Kahlo.


MY TEAM IN ROME, ITALY: 

Stylist:  Désirée Marie Townley
www.thecutandthecloth.com
www.facebook.com/thecutandthecloth

Assistant Stylist: Jade Lonoce
www.instagram.com/jade_the_baker_girl_/?hl=en


Tailor: The Sewing Cooperative 
lydia.witt@gmail.com 
https://www.facebook.com/thesewingcooperative/

Leatherworker: Stefano Simone
Via Santa Croce in Gerusalemme 15, Roma Italia
https://stefano-simone-bottega-artigiana-roma.business.site/
​​

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    Désirée Marie Townley

    A native Oregonian, Désirée is currently living in Rome, Italy.  She started working as a Costumer and Makeup artist in the Opera and Theater industry after receiving her degree in Dance in 2008.  Work offered her the opportunity to travel beginning in 2009 and she hasn't stopped since.  Everywhere Désirée goes, she seeks out artists and crafts people as a means to understand new cultures.  Through their art and their voices, she finds stories worth telling.  

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