This week’s notes include me asking you for recommendations in Florence, news from Hermès, and an introduction to an artist who may not be on your radar.
TRAVEL
If you follow me on Instagram, you know I’m currently traveling. I’m in one of my favorite cities, Florence. It’s been over ten years since my last visit. Aside from the museums and iconic sites, I’d love suggestions on shopping, eating and touring. Please let me know in the comments section if you have any recommendations.
ART
2. It turns out, one of my favorite Australian bloggers, Tash Sefton, is also a quite talented artist. You may be familiar with her on Where Did Your Style Go? or the website They All Hate Us. Tash and her sister, Hayley Segedin, produce a range of original, affordable art under Sefton Segedin, including a series of illustrations dominated by simple brushstrokes. The above ink on paper, Portrait, comes in four sizes ranging from $120 to $355 USD and ships internationally.
FASHION
3. A great example of wardrobe essentials being put to good use. I’ll use these looks at home and certainly for travel. The blazer, jeans, and tee match up never gets old. photo: Mytheresa
BEAUTY
4. Hermès announced this week they’ll be joining other luxe brands in the beauty business launching skincare and makeup in 2020. The collection will be manufactured in France and Italy and use plastic-free packaging. The formula for providing aspirational customers with entry price point products has proven to be a huge success as seen with other brands like Dior and Chanel.
FASHION
5. Mary Jane inspired flats are a great way to introduce a feminine note to an outfit. I have the above flat from Tabitha Simmons in a black linen with embroidered little flowers. I can be wearing the most basic of looks and the shoe makes the outfit. They’re comfortable too. So, when I spotted the newest version in white, I had to take a closer look. Pretty, aren’t they? The style has been a success and seems to be re-invented each season.
FOOD
6. Pamela Salzman always provides the best, fail-safe, healthy recipes, so when she gave this one from The Clean Plate her approval, I bookmarked it. I often crave the crunch and texture of a cracker, but they’re usually loaded with unhealthy ingredients. The Grain-Free Seed Crackers are made with flaxseeds, black and white sesame seeds, pepitas, and arrowroot powder…no flour.
Liz Velasquez
Next to NYC, Florence is my favorite city. One of the most memorable times was getting a private tour guide, preferably an art history major, especially when visiting the Uffizi.
The great thing about Italy, in general, is that a good meal can easily be had at any price point. One small restaurant we visited twice was San Lorenzo Trattoria via Borgo San Lorenzo 53r not too far from the Duomo. I am gluten free, but my family kept raving about the tortellini with the truffle sauce so much so that we had to go back. Another not to be missed visit is The Basilica of Santa Croce. Outside, but still part of the church complex, is the school of leather. All the beautiful leather goods are made by students and a big plus is that you can have whatever you purchased engraved. The huge Mercato Centrale is fabulous for picking up olive oils, balsamic vinegars,etc..or just sitting down for a meal. Enjoy!
Deborah Shoflick
Cocktails overlooking the Arno River and Ponte Vecchio before sunset at the fabulous Hotel Lungarno. MAGICAL!
Cindy McCarthy
Don’t miss the animals in fashion exhibit at the Pitti Palace if it is still there. Also, the Ferragamo and Gucci museums are great fun.
Karima
Yes! Thank you.
Mary Ann Haly
I know you love scarfs. I found a small shop with the most beautiful scarfs called Faliero Sarti.
Karima
They are beautiful! The shop is around the corner from my hotel.
Zivile
Maria Santa Novella pharmacy is not to be missed when in Florence.