I Used to Hate on Florence, Italy.
I went to Florence for the first time during my second vacation in Italy. I stayed for a couple of days.My second trip was a few years later during the first month I lived in Italy. I couldn't wait to leave both times. The second trip was over nine years ago and I believed if I never visited again, it was okay with me. Never mind that at some point I would need to return for work. My plan was to get in and get out.I loved the art and thought the city was beautiful, so what was my damage? I couldn't get a read on the city, no sense of place. I had visited during the months of May and April respectively and couldn't walk down the streets. It was that crowded with tourists. Florence felt like a Renaissance amusement park.A friend in Los Angeles was dating a chef in Florence and she suggested I go to his restaurant for lunch. He couldn't have cared less. Our mutual friend, had the same experience. She has spent a lot of time in Italy (from top to bottom) and shrugged at his rudeness saying, "Florence."Earlier this year, I was having drinks with a friend and his dear friend who grew up in Florence. She told me I needed to return to the city. That the energy in the city is completely different from my last trip. My friends who live in Florence said the same thing. I was skeptical.I decided to go on my birthday to see what my Florentine friends were raving about. August is blazing hot and still high season, but I found an excellent same day fare on Italo.This is how I felt after my day in Florence.
No, it's not because Rome is a trainwreck right now (please get it together Mayor Raggi). It's because I completely misread Florence.Man, I used to talk so much smack about Florence. In my defense, I wasn't the only one. A friend from NYC, who comes to Italy every year, emailed me during her first trip to Florence and said she was in the seventh circle of hell. She was there during the height of the high season.Yes, Florence is very popular with tourists and American exchange students. Since my two earlier trips, friends have moved to Florence and their version of the city is not what I experienced back then. How could it be? I was there for four days max. They live there. They know Florence. Their version is the side I was able to see during my trip last month.I had been to all the museums before and I didn't have a crazy itinerary this time. I wanted to see the Boboli Gardens and friends who were in town but otherwise left my schedule open to just walk around.I speak Italian now. When I walked into a store and the salesperson automatically spoke English to me, I responded in Italian. Their mood changed. Except for one dude at a handmade paper shop. I was looking for a birthday gift for a friend. I walked in and gave my best, "buon giorno". He looked at me and then proceeded to ignore me. Hello, even in Rome they will at least give you a salty, "buon giorno", or "salve" in return. I'm sorry that he had to work during Ferragosto while the vast majority of his peers were at the sea or in the mountains. Perhaps he should've closed his store during August?I had lunch at Osteria dell'Enoteca. I didn't know what restaurants would be opened during Ferragosto. Thankfully, Georgette (aka Girl in Florence) had a post for that.Georgette and I finally met in person when she was in Rome earlier this year. I think Florence's tourism board should give her a medal and a lot of money. I always forward her blog to friends, and friends of friends, who are visiting Florence.I find Tuscan cuisine a bit heavy. These ravioli were light and delicious. The waiters were lovely. It was the perfect birthday lunch.
I met Veronica in Rome through friends at my favorite store Chez Dede. She saw my Instagram post about the Boboli Gardens and suggested I stop by their store And Company. I'm thrilled that they were open during Ferragosto. It's my kind of place. I was so busy talking and looking at everything, I didn't take any photos. I did post a few videos on Instastories.Betty Soldi, is one of the owners and a very talented calligrapher. I want all her cards. Her new book dropped this month and I cannot wait to read it.
I met Melinda at Ditta Artigianale for some iced tea and air conditioning. Melinda, an American, used to commute between Paris and Florence. Currently, she lives in Florence full-time. The last time we saw each other was in Rome years ago. We had a lot of catching up to do.The Boboli Gardens were one of the many highlights of the day. It was extremely hot. I wasn't able to take it all in. I must return in fall so I can spend more time exploring.
This was my first time visiting the church San Spirito. No pictures are allowed inside. Trust me when I say it's worth a visit.
Georgette has posted a few cocktails from Irene on Instagram and she said the next time I came to Florence we had to meet there. We did. The cocktails were on point and the food was great too.
I went to the bar super early because I was basically melting in the heat. The bartenders couldn't be more friendly despite the fact that I only ordered water to drink, while watching Instastories, as I waited for Georgette and her friend.Irene is the hotel bar/bistrot for the Hotel Savoy. I loved the vibe with its fantastic interiors and the crowd was a mix of locals and guests of the hotel. It's located right on Piazza della Repubblica in the heart of the Historic Center. The space is named for Rocco Forte's (the owner) mother.
I took the fast train home. Florence is only an hour and a half train ride away.
There are a lot of day trippers, via cruise ships, in Florence. Once the sun goes down the city does empty out a bit. If you can stay longer than a day, I highly recommend it.I definitely felt a different energy during this trip. A buzz, a sense that exciting things are happening on the creative front.I left Florence feeling inspired by all the creative and talented people I met. I cannot wait to return.
Photos: Me and my iPhone unless otherwise noted.
Io Adoro - E' Stile Bookstore
I'm still getting to know my neighborhood. One Sunday morning, I jogged past an interesting store window and made a mental note to check it out.Oh man, this place is going to be an issue. E' Stile is a concept bookstore focusing on art, fashion, and interior design/architecture.They have a GREAT book selection. I do order from Amazon sometimes, especially English language books but nothing beats going to an actual bookstore. Yes, it's more expensive. However, I believe it's important to support small shop owners. I like to browse and speak with the salespeople about the books. You can't duplicate that experience with online shopping.E' Stile also carries Chez Dede bags, products from brands like Kartell and Alessi, and there's a gallery space downstairs.
Photos: Me and my iPhoneE' Stile BookstoreVia Chiana, 15+ 39 06 8555337
Life in Rome - This Time I am Ready for Ferragosto
First, I've just returned to Rome from a business trip to the States and the Caribbean. Below are some random observations:Los Angeles traffic continues to get worse. How is this possible.Target is great.J.Crew. What is happening? I've been a fan since the 80s. Something is amiss.Why is Ben and Jennifer's former nanny in the press so much? What is her end game? Reality show?Speaking of reality shows, what the heck is Hollywood Cycle?Ina Garten. Adore.Guy Fieri. Why so many shows, Food Network? Why?!My friend Erica posted this TIME magazine article that said Americans dressing like slobs equals freedom. Perhaps I have lived in Italy too long or I am turning into my Caribbean parents because I think that's absolutely ridiculous. Freedom? From what? The tyranny of Dior?The GOP debate. Fascinating. Trump was peak Trump.The flight attendants on Air France were very friendly and cheerful. It's a long flight from St. Martin to Paris (8.5 hours). Meanwhile, the American Airline attendants on the Miami to St. Martin flight (only 3 hours) not so much. Why?Portions in America are too big. I couldn't finish a single meal.The newish Restoration Hardware showroom in West Hollywood is odd. I don't get it. Is it just for the trade? Who thought it was a good idea to have a 40,000 sq ft store where you have to buy everything online or from the catalog? The scale is huge. How can any shopper, who doesn't live in a castle, envision that massive furniture in their home?It would never occur to me to combine these two things:
Second, in the past I have written about my Ferragosto issues. Despite living in Italy for seven years, I was very American when it come to vacations and/or taking a break from work.I said, "was" not "am." Finally, this year I get it. I cannot wait for August 15th. Truly.My trip was intense. I recently signed a Los Angeles based client and flew to Los Angeles direct from Rome. I have NEVER in my life been so happy to sit in a freezing cold plane for a thirteen-hour flight. The six week heatwave in Rome was warping my brain. There were rumblings about Alitalia striking that weekend. Thankfully, they didn't and I got an upgrade to Business Class. Nice.That upgrade made a huge difference. I had horrible jet leg during my trip to Los Angeles back in May. This time it was much better. I think it also helped that I walked to the Century City Mall shortly after arriving and stayed up until 10.30 p.m.While I was running around Los Angeles with my client, I had deliveries and construction happening in Rome for another client. Given the nine hour time difference, things were a little hectic. I was only in Los Angeles for a few days and on my client's schedule so I didn't see many friends or "do meetings".Then I fly to Miami. It was my first trip to the city. I need to return and see more of it. I really liked the vibe. I stayed at the Viceroy which was fantastic.Unfortunately, the design district is shrinking after LVHM bought out several blocks. It was still a productive trip. I sourced some great items for my Anguilla project.From Miami I flew to St. Martin. I said hello to my parents, and the next day took the ferry to Anguilla.After all the flying, unpacking, repacking, shopping, meeting with contractors, painters, carpenters, project managers, receiving texts from clients in Rome about things we need to do ASAP, etc. etc., I hit the wall on Saturday.While packing (again) I watch Flipping Out. Can we talk about this show? I have so many questions. I wish Bravo aired in Italy.I'm not complaining but a very strange thing happened during this trip. I do not feel guilty about looking forward to August 15th. Not one bit.Of course I'm not going completely cold turkey. There are quite a few back office things I need take care of during the break and meetings I must attend.I bought a stack of shelter magazines in the States and the book The Bee Cottage Story. I'm going to cut way back from the Internet and chill. I know September is going to be off the charts busy. Everyone returns to town and I'm looking for a new apartment. The latter will be an interesting process.I may not be able to Dolce Far Niente for two weeks but can try for at least two days. To prepare I need to put together a killer playlist which will include one of my favorite summer jams from August 1990.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzoEK545j64Buon Ferragosto!
Life in Rome - Chez Dédé Opening Party
A few years ago I wrote about how much I adore the boutique accessories label founded by Andrea Ferolla and Daria Rein, Chez Dédé.There has been a lot of retail space turnover in our neighborhood. Antique stores, artisans, etc., are shutting down and Subway fast food restaurants, and other weird sandwich shops are taking over. There have been some great additions, like the Suppli spot but for every one of those there are four or five places that leave locals scratching their heads.Via Monserrato is one of the prettiest streets in Rome. When I saw the large for rent sign where Ilaria MIani's showroom used to be, I became very nervous. What kind of janky business would set up shop on this street?Then I saw this:
YAS!The store had its opening last week. Erica and I walked over and bumped into a bunch of our neighbors. One of our favorite bartenders, Fabrizio from Pierluigi, made the Kir Royales.Unfortunately, for me, the store is stunning. I should just leave my wallet there and let them take my money. All of it.Erica completely fan-girled LInda Rodin. I don't blame her. Ms. Rodin is a style icon for a reason. She was so gracious and didn't give us the side-eye for geeking out.I think I need to treat myself to a nice Grand Sac bag for my birthday. It's a big one (no, I'm not going to say which birthday it is as I still work in Hollywood). I haven't decided which bag yet. The island of Salina is one of my favorite places in the world but I also love the colors/style of the Portofino, Kenya, and Dubai bags. I haven't been to any of those places, so I think I should go with the Salina bag.Below are photos from the opening. Grazie mille, Daria for the invite!EDIT:Okay, I wrote this yesterday with the plan to publish today. I like to proof read before publishing yet, some typos still make it through. Grrrr.On Saturday my friend Courtney called me and said she had to speak with me urgently on Sunday. I asked what was wrong. Why couldn't she tell me over the phone? I was working all day on Sunday but said I would meet her in the afternoon. Erica wanted me to stop by her daughter's lemonade stand. I said I was on my way to meet Courtney but would stop by. I was worried about Courtney. Erica said she was too and hoped that everything was okay.I show up at Etablli. Courtney sends a SMS saying she's on her way and she asks me to order her a glass of wine. What the heck was going on? Was her news so heavy she needed to have a drink in hand?She walks in and Erica (!) is right behind her. They say, "Happy Birthday" and then this happened:
I had no idea they were planning this! Erica thought I was going to buy the bag before my birthday so she and Courtney went into action over the weekend. My birthday isn't until August 26th.I was/am floored. I am not an easy person to surprise and they totally got me. Well played ladies, well played. I love my bag.
Andrea is a very talented illustrator.
Linda Rodin. Fabulous.
Erica and Linda.
So true.
Photos: Me and my iPhone
Life in Rome - The Flaminio Flea Market
Borghetto Flaminio is not as well known as the famous Porto Portese market. The latter has more furniture but Flaminio is the market to check out for authentic vintage/used designer clothes and interesting tableware.As with any flea market there could be some fakes, but this market has a good reputation. Many of the vendors are regulars. If they were selling fake Prada, Gucci, Hermès, etc. the word would get out pretty quickly.Borghetto Flaminio is tiny. I suggest getting there early. It's packed with fantastic finds. I hadn't been there in years so when my friend, artist and florist Marta, suggested we check it out, I was ready.A cool tea set from the 40s.
Lovely monogrammed vintage linen.
A taste of Hermès. This was the most popular vendor in the market. They also had some drop dead gorgeous vintage Gucci, Valentino, Prada, and Fendi bags.
Love this Murano glass set from the 60s.
Marta was VERY excited about this patent leather Prada bag.
Sundays (except holidays)Piazza della Marina, 32Sundays, 10AM – 7PM€1.60 entrance feeFrom mid-September to mid-July
Weekend Inspiration - All of the Lights - Campo de' Fiori
For me the day after Thanksgiving has nothing to do with shopping. It means I can start playing Christmas carols.This probably comes as a shock to people who don't know me well, as I appear to be a person who loves to shop. It's even part of my job.However, the whole Black Friday thing always left a bad taste in my mouth. While Short Hills Mall is one of my favorite places in America, I'd rather listen to Izzy Azalea on a continuous loop than go there on the day after Thanksgiving.We don't have such a thing in Italy and I don't see it happening anytime soon. The concept of standing/waiting in line is completely foreign, even in places (like the post office) where we're supposed to.One thing that is also popular here, are street lights. This week crews were putting them up all over town.In my neighborhood, Campo de Fiori, we have these:
I adore the simplicity of them.Now, I'm off to play some of my favorite holiday jams.Buon weekend!
My Fall/Winter 2013 Wish List
I know there is a huge difference between want and need. Many times I catch myself making statements such as, "that skirt needs to be in my closet."Hello, no it doesn't. I would like it to be there. That is a want.I have written before about my lack of clothes for cold weather. Now that I no longer spend the majority of my working hours in my house writing scripts, I really need to step up my fall/winter wardrobe. I cannot meet with clients or vendors looking bananas.Thank god I live in a city that is not as casual as Los Angeles. If I wear a dress or a skirt to a meeting in Rome, nobody asks me why am I so dressed up. Sometimes, wait for it, I even wear thigh-high stockings!There are many things I would like to purchase this year but have narrowed down the list to five.Long leather gloves. I'm thinking black or chocolate brown. Why does Olivia Pope look so sad here?
Photo: ABC/Danny Feld
Ankle boots with heels that can handle cobblestone streets.
I have a pair of ankle boots with a narrow heel. They have been destroyed. RIP.
A LBD.
Love the cut of this dress from J. Crew.
A camel hair coat.
i do need a new winter cloth coat but I think I can get another season out of my current one. This will go in the want column. Max Mara's coats are classic.
Photo: People
Last but not least, I do need a short winter sports jacket. I look like the Michelin Tire Man in puffy jackets. I like the lines of this one.
What's on your list?
Stylish Simplicity - Paola Navone for Crate & Barrel
One of my favorite American stores has recently announced their collaboration with the incredible, Milan-based architect/interior designer, Paola Navone. To say I'm a fan of her work is a huge understatement.I would like to buy so many things in this collection. The darker blues remind me of Rome at dusk or the color of the sky above the mountains in St. Martin.I wonder how much it would cost to ship a few items to Rome. Okay, I need to stop. I once had to pay €40 to get a pack of Girl Scout cookies out of customs that my sister had sent to me. I love Samoas but come on, that's bananas.I will have to appreciate this collection from afar. It's the very definition of Stylish Simplicity.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXCQo62VWXs&w=420&h=315]For more information about Paola and to see the entire collection, HERE is the website.
Weekend Inspiration - Tuscan Wrapping Paper
I really enjoy choosing gifts for family and friends.To me, the wrapping paper is for said gift is just as important.
Love this print and the color.Buon weekend!!
Work In Progress - Trastevere - Rome, Italy
Great news here at AGD.The house in Tuscany is almost done and I've signed two new clients.For one project, I'm helping my client redo his terrace.The other project also includes working on a terrace and collaborating with my client to furnish her new apartment.Both apartments are in Trastevere.One thing I love about this type of work is that each project is unique. My other Rome project is understated glamour.The apartment I'm working on in Trastevere is contemporary with a very streamlined palette, white, black, gray, and some pops of red. A few pieces came with the apartment and most of the additional furniture will be custom-made.My client would like a home that is minimal, light, and yet cozy. Minimal decors can be cold so I'm all about texture and natural materials.I have an inspiration board for the apartment on PInterest.For the terrace project, we are going to redo the plants, buy new furniture, and make the space flow better. My client entertains often and it's important that his guests feel comfortable.My landscaper is amazing and I cannot wait to see how the terrace will look once the plants grow in a little.I real enjoy working with my clients. I know this something not every decorator can say!
Buon Viaggio - Bologna, Italy
I've been to Bologna once before for a very quick day trip with friends. This time I went for work.Bologna is consistently rated as one the most liveable cities on the planet. The cuisine is amazing, there are many companies based in the area in a variety of sectors, and a well educated population (the oldest university in the Western world was founded in Bologna).I knew this before I started researching my trip. I didn't know, however, that there were so many fantastic stores for interiors. I was in décor heaven and I could not get over how friendly everyone was.My sister's former colleague, John, is in Bologna writing his dissertation and we had lunch at Drogheria della Rosa. It was just as delicious as I remembered and it's one of John's favorite restaurants in Bologna.John was kind enough to bring me a bunch of shelter and cooking magazines from the States. Later I met up with the lovely Tina for an aperitivo before catching the Italo train back to Rome. It was a nice way to end a long but productive day.I hope I will be able to return to Bologna soon.Here are three of the showrooms I adored:
BORGO DELLA TOVAGLIE
Housed in a former furrier's workshop, this store blends design, art, and fashion.Borgo delle Tovaglie began as a tablecloth manufacturer in the early '90s. In 2005 Valentina Muggia and her husband Giuliano Di Paolo bought the company. Today the brand is internationally known for it's quality and style. This is their first store and it's a beauty. They carry a variety of brands in addition to their own. There was so much to see (and buy). I loved their plates in a bucket. Very clever and useful.Borgo delle TovaglieVia Farini, 10+39 051-330938www.borgodelletovaglie.com
CAMERA CON VISTA
This store is located in the very pretty Piazza Santo Stefano. Owned by Matteo and Rebecca, here you find one of kind objects from Italy, France, Spain, Sweden, and other countries.They carry jaw-dropping antiques and stunning modern pieces that have been refurbished into furniture.There are always new pieces coming in. You never know what you might discover during your visit.Camera Con VistaVia Santa Stefano 14/2a+39 051-22468www.cameraconvista.biz
FABRIZIO COCCHI
Interior designer Fabrizio Cocchi's showroom has an elegant, glamorous vibe. It's bold and full of color. The photo below is of the neutral section. When I first walked in, there was a lot of orange and red.Cocchi also had quite the collection of design books. I would have gladly sat on one of his custom sofas and read for the afternoon.Okay, that would've been weird and rude as it's a store not a library.
Photo: Fabriziococchi.com
Fabrizio CocchiVia Castiglione, 17d+39 051-264358www.fabriziococchi.com
Stylish Simplicity - Dolce & Gabbana Striped A-Line Skirt
I was recently in the lovely city of Bologna for work. I saw this skirt in the window of Dolce & Gabbana and it stopped me in my tracks.
Photo: Closet Candies
Stripes are huge this summer. I adore them but must be careful with horizontal stripes unless I want to look like a Weeble. I don't.
I love the black edging and think this skirt is very versatile. I could wear it to work, to an outdoor summer dinner party, or on a date to aperitivi with friends.
It's stylish simplicity.
Stylish Simplicity - Alessi E-LI-LI Espresso Cups By Fuksas
I don't even drink coffee or have an espresso maker, yet I would love to own these cups. Stylish, simple, elegant... I adore them
Photo: Amazon.uk
Speaking of Fuksas, the world renowned architects recently renovated the flagship Benetton store in Rome. I haven't stepped into a Benetton since college but I'm very curious about this building.
Weekend Inspiration - DOMAINE Magazine
The design and fashion blogosphere is buzzing this week about the debut of DOMAINE Magazine.This online publication was created by the same women, Katherine Power and Hillary Kerr, behind another favorite, WHO, WHAT, WHERE.
This site is fantastic. There are articles about home décor, fashion, and yes, even recipes (bacon mac and cheese).Plus, it's interactive. You can leave comments. Love it.I enjoyed the article about interior designers Jeffrey Alan Marks and Ross Cassidy. I've never met Jeffrey but Ross is a sweetheart. I'm not saying that just because he complimented my skirt in L.A. last year. Ross was very kind to pose in his red pants so I could Tweet the photo to my friend, Erica, a noted Red Pants Pathologist.Looking forward to checking out the rest of DOMAINE.Buon Weekend!
J.Crew - "Shiny Ponies" and Italy.
I saw this short clip about Jenna Lyons and her shoe collection and had to write about it.Jenna is the President and Executive Creative Director of J.Crew. She has been with the company for twenty years.Her aesthetic is deeply embedded in the company's DNA.They do take fashion risks but haven't forgotten their core customers who love J. Crew for its cool take on classic style. It's the only American store where I can find jeans that fit my body. J.Crew does have killer sales, which is great for some of their pricier items.In the film, Jenna briefly explains how their shoes evolve from a drawing to the store. The shoes are hand-made in Italy.[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EKTx5on6U8&w=560&h=315]Yes, you could buy knock-offs of these shoes at Zara for a fraction of the cost.While the CEO of Zara is worth 57 BILLION (the third richest man in the world) how much does Zara pay the people who make their shoes? How long would the shoes last?I doubt they are paid anything close to what the workers in Pisa, Italy are making for J. Crew. The manufacturing sector in Italy, along with other Western countries, is facing serious challenges in a global economy.However, one advantage Italy has is her artisans. There's a reason why companies from all over world chose to have certain items, like shoes, made in Italy.Fast fashion is here to stay, but I'm glad there are companies like J. Crew who care about quality and profits.
Stylish Simplicity - Bee Still, My Beating Heart - La Rochere Tumbler
I've been a fan of these glasses for ages. I saw them in Kathryn Ireland's kitchen last year and thought to myself, "I need to buy some when I move to a bigger apartment."I had to find a new kettle. I decided to go ahead and spend money on a solid one, as the cheap one I bought fell apart way too soon. Off I went to C.U.C.I.N.A. I try my best to avoid this store as every single time I stop in to buy one specific item, I get sucked into picking up a few things.It happened again. I walked past the glasses section and somehow two glasses ended up in my basket.
It's okay. It makes me happy when I open up my kitchen cabinet and see these two little glasses. Once I move, I'm getting a set.In the States you can find them at Sur La Table.As for the kettle, I bought a Le Creuset that was double the price of my old one. However, this one is built to last and very pretty.
Io Adoro - Sugar Paper - Los Angeles, California
Finally, my jet lag is over.My trip to Los Angeles was fantastic. Those who know me or read my former blog know how I feel about the City of Angeles. However, this trip was different.Kathryn M. Ireland's Design Bootcamp had a lot to do with my positive experience. I will post about that later.While I was in L.A. I met up with two friend friends/colleagues at Farmshop located in the Brentwood Country Mart.I was a little early so I stopped by what seemed to be a lovely stationary store. Once I was inside, I almost lost my mind. It was Sugar Paper! I've read about this store many times but never had a chance to visit it.Remembering my luggage restrictions (and my budget), I limited myself to just two items. It was very difficult. 
Founded in 2003 by graphic designers Chelsea Shukov and Jamie Grobecker, Sugar Paper makes beautiful letter-pressed stationary. I love their stylish designs.There's something really special about handwritten notes. It's so rare to receive one these these days. Everything is online.Check out Sugar Paper's portfolio HERE.
Stylish Simplicity - Hunter Wellington Boots
Rainy season will start soon in Rome.I know Hunter Wellies have become crazy popular recently. However, unlike some other trends, this one is a classic. Hunter's boots are not just fashionable, they are well made.This Scottish based company has been making boots since 1856. While I don't own a country estate in the UK, I do need boots that can stand up to the torrential downpours we get here.I'm not sure which color to get. I love their Stylish Simplicity.
Stylish Simplicity - Moko Bulb Vase - Jonathan Adler
Jonathan Adler is one of of my favorite designers. I wish I could be so bold with my color choices and I loved his store on Melrose Avenue.Adler started out as a potter. I adore this piece.
It's stylish, simple, and yet bold. Adler's vase is perfect for a modern room or for a room with a more traditional décor.The vases are made by artisans in Peru. Adler found the workshop with help from Aid to Artisans. This non-profit organization introduces designers in America with artisans in developing countries to promote fair trade.For more information about this vase and about Jonathan Adler, check out his website. It's full of beautiful things.
Stylish Simplicity - Earrings - Me&Ro Jewelry
Years ago when I was in the middle of hell a Hollywood film development executive, I worked 24/7. I also made no money, but on my birthday I would buy either a bag, shoes, or jewelry.For a few years (until the production company I worked for shut down) I alternated between which item to get, went go to Barneys, and put down my Barneys credit card. I would pay it off immediately with birthday money I received from my family.I didn't go crazy. I would buy, say a pair of Prada shoes (back then the prices were at least $200 lower) instead of Louboutins. That said, I think Marc Jacobs bags were/are completely over priced. Can someone please explain their price points to me?One particularly heinous year, I doubled down and bought a bag AND earrings.That year I walked pass the jewelry section on the first floor and a pair of earrings, similar to below, caught my eye.
I put them on and said, "I'll take them."For a while I only wore the earrings on special occasions. Then I thought that didn't make sense. Beautiful things should be worn.I wear them all the time now.These earrings are the only Me&Ro pieces I own. I love them and look forward to buying more pieces in the future.The designer and CEO, Robin Renzi, used to be a dancer and started her company in the back of her Elizabeth Street apartment in the early '90s. Me&Ro works with recycled materials and their designs are simple and stylish. The company has really grown since the mid 00s but the quality is as high as ever.Also, I like that they still make and produce all their jewelry in Tribeca, New York City. I'm sure they could increase their profit margins if they shipped those jobs overseas. That they've been in downtown NYC all this time says a lot about the company's values.