From Fashion to Furnishings: Buying What You Love
Last week I had the amazing fortune to visit Paris for Design Week. There are two big shows in one week, Paris Déco Off and Maison Objet. Déco Off turns the Saint Germain Depres area into a fabric and wallcovering wonderland! And Maison Objet brings new makers and furniture, table top and all things home together in a convention hall on the outskirts of Paris.
The Maison Objet Tradeshow did not disappoint, it was a feast for the eyes and wild with creativity. Speaking of wild, this amazing stuffed animal chair caught my eye immediately. The AP Collection, by Alexis and Pauline out of Belgium includes an array of joy inducing stuffed animal pieces - chairs, benches and poufs. Meeting Alexis made us even more happy as he shared his excitement to bring this unique collection to market. And I too am so excited as I have client that I cannot wait to present this incredible piece to.
Surrounded by Fluff!
You cannot imagine how happy this chair makes you feel. Everywhere you put your hand your holding a stuffed animal! And it wasn’t just amazing to look at - the chair was super comfy!
Now for a story of kismet and following your heart to buy what you love. Several years ago we visited the Saint Ouen Marché aux Puces, an incredible flea market rich with countless treasures. While there we found a vintage furrier and bought Don a Givenchy silver fox and had it turned into a collar on his rain coat - quite nice with his hair!
Visiting this flea market was the first order of business on Saturday. We stopped in to show the shopkeeper what we had done and tell her how happy we were with our purchase. While there I spotted this coat with fur and bright colors. I had absolutely no idea who the designer of this coat was when I purchased it, but I truly only buy what I love and this one had me at hello!
The famous ARCHE DE NOÉ TEDDY BEAR COAT, Circa 1988, by designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac.
JC/DC, as some refer to him, is a well known French Designer that brings color, humor and FUN to fashion! Photo courtesy of Jean-Charles de Castelbajac Instagram.
When we returned home from Paris, I did a little Googling and was tickled to find out that I own a JC/DC jacket. He and I share a love of color! As I was sucked in to learn more about this genius, I found his Teddy Bear Coat. Imagine my delight when just days prior I sat on that monkey chair by AP Collection! What connection to whimsy, fur and FUN. It felt completely meant to be.
I know I preach it all the time, but buy what you love, what makes YOU happy, it may just be what’s to meant to be - plus, it’s so much more fun than following the crowd!
Let’s Design for Good,
Kim
