As 2024 comes to a close, we find ourselves musing on color. This has been a jewel-toned year after all, it’s only fair we celebrate it with equal verve. Come the big midnight, you can find us heralding the new year in rich combinations, such as topaz and ruby or emerald and gold (with the appropriate shimmer to match, of course.) Work from designers such as Biyan, Scrives, and Stephanie Albertson pairs well with Avant Toi silks. We’re wearing Dries Van Noten with Prounis and Marséll, and mixing Sabina Savage with emeralds from Tenthousandthings and Greig Porter. In sapphire and cobalt we love Daniela Gregis’ washed silk coat with Annie Fensterstock’s Sapphire Scallop Earrings.
Following the rare black opal, boulder opals are the most coveted varietal of their stone, and among the most difficult to find. As opposed to developing in veins that can be mined with a pick, boulder opals form within massive ironstone boulders—hence the name—that need to be cracked open to reach their prismatic ore. Working from her Colorado studio, Margery Hirschey has used this gem in her latest collection to create a one-of-a-kind pendant.
In 22K gold, the opal itself is a slice of the night sky. Hues of blue, green and lilac wash together in an aurora of color, buffeted by slivers of dark ironstone from the gem’s earthy origins. The surface, though polished, is naturally irregular, making the glossy highlights read as stars in their own miniature constellation.
Of note is the bezel that cradles the stone, which has been carved and shaped to fit the stone’s original curvature without the need to alter the stone.The asymmetric, fluted presentation is simultaneously opulent and humble—it could as easily evoke the framed paintings in a museum’s Renaissance wing as it could the markings on a hand-whittled ornament.
In addition to the pendant, we have received a few more pieces from Margery, including a stunning emerald ring and a pair of boulder opal chandelier earrings. Each is as unique as Margery herself, who is an unbridled creative force in the world of fine jewelry.
From Greig Porter’s storied collection of jewelry, a spotlight on two pieces in particular: his 5-Strand Keshi Pearl Necklace and his matching Seed Pearl Mini Chandelier Earrings. Seed pearls are very small, off-round varietals of this natural gemstone, favored for their delicacy and soft color.
Keshi pearls are a particular subset of this species from Japan with a high luster. While historically these stones have been used as embellishments in Baroque artwork, they make a divine bead for contemporary jewelry. By stringing together dozens of this gem, and punctuating their creaminess with 18K gold, Greig Porter creates unique, elegant jewelry with impact.
“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.”
In the headiest, busiest time of the year, anything not decked to the nines and dripping with tinsel can be a breath of fresh air. In the midst of hanging lights and wrapping boxes, we have received a small, textural collection from Kaval. In the delivery are gifts for the senses, such as cashmere shirting, blanket stitched coats and a cheeky tufted vest made from sheep and reindeer fluff—all rendered in deep earth tones.
Kaval is a studio that marches to the beat of its own drum. Rather than being tied to a traditional fashion calendar, this small, Japanese studio sends their collections to us as they are completed (to be obvious, after carefully hand-making each piece with their antique sewing machines.) This particular, slow method is so intrinsic to not just their garments, but who they are as a label— a studio as thoughtful and studied as they are special.
With your help, this year we were able to donate and support the following causes both at home and abroad. We gave to a variety of local and international non-profits, focusing primarily on areas of critical humanitarian need and global sustainability.
The entries here followed by a star rating have been vetted and assessed by Charity Navigator, an organization that evaluates the transparency, efficacy and impact of non-profits worldwide. Each charity they assess is assigned up to four stars based on the aformentioned criteria.
Planned Parenthood – $10,000
★★★★ – Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for all people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With nearly 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect, and without judgment, striving to create equitable access to health care.
★★★★ – 1 in 7 New Mexicans experiences food insecurity, a lack of consistent access to healthy foods. The Food Depot’s partner nonprofits and innovative hunger-relief programs provide food and support services to 40,000 people experiencing food insecurity. In 2023, The Food Depot’s fleet of vehicles traveled over 400,000 miles across nine counties. Our specific donations go to their Food 4 Kids program, which provides meals to children whose parents are unable to provide food for them at home.
★★★★ – The Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) believes that the welfare of human beings is deeply linked to nature — to the existence in our world of a vast diversity of wild animals and plants. Because diversity has intrinsic value, and because its loss impoverishes society, CBD works to secure a future for all species, great and small, hovering on the brink of extinction. CBD does so through science, law and creative media, with a focus on protecting the lands, waters and climate that species need to survive.
★★★★ – Doctors Without Borders is an international medical humanitarian organization that provides aid to nearly 60 countries. Their primary focus is people whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect or catastrophe primarily due to armed conflict, natural disasters, epidemics, malnutrition, or lack of healthcare infrastructure.
Zeitz Foundation and Segera Wild Life Refuge – $10,000
The ZEITZ foundation creates and supports projects promoting an inclusive, holistic paradigm of conservation that enhances livelihoods and fosters intercultural dialogue while achieving long-lasting positive impact and sustainability. One of their projects, and home to the ZEITZ foundation, the Segera Conservancy is a 50,000 acre wildlife refuge in the heart of Laikipia, Kenya. The ZEITZ foundation, Segera and The Long Run share a holistic “4C” philosophy balancing Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce, geared towards delivering tangible and sustainable benefits for land, wildlife and rural communities.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees provides services that encompass education, health care, relief and social services, camp infrastructure and improvement, microfinance and emergency assistance, including in times of armed conflict.
★★★★ – Food is essential to life every single day, all over the world—and it is more important than ever in a crisis. The World Central Kitchen’s work is guided by the belief that food is a universal human right. World Central Kitchen teams across the world are deeply committed to serving delicious, chef-prepared meals to people with the dignity they deserve.
Also known as Pete’s Place, the Santa Fe Interfaith Homeless Shelter offers a safe and secure place for the homeless as they overcome adversity and stabilize their lives. As the only minimal barrier shelter in Northern New Mexico, they provide a much needed respite for the most vulnerable and oft overlooked members of our community. In addition, they offer a range of support services, such as assistance with SNAP, health care, applying for work and substance abuse counseling.
★★★★ – The Campaign for Female Education is tackling poverty and inequality by supporting girls to go to school and succeed. Their model focuses on inequality and encourages wider social movement in the communities they serve by unlocking the benefits of girl’s education. Over almost 30 years, their education programs in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, Tanzania and Malawi have directly supported more than 3.3 million students and provided an improved learning environment for more than 5.7 million children.
★★★★ – Rainforest Action Network preserves forests, protects the climate and upholds human rights by challenging corporate power and systemic injustice through frontline partnerships and strategic campaigns. RAN works toward a world where the rights and dignity of all communities are respected and where healthy forests, a stable climate and wild biodiversity are protected and celebrated.
Breakthrough Santa Fe supports motivated public middle school students whose identities have been historically excluded from higher education on their path to college. In addition, the program provides high school and college-age young adults with a rewarding experience as teachers and mentors.
★★★★ – Advocates for Trans Equality fights for the legal and political rights of transgender people in America. A4TE was founded in 2024 as the National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) and Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund (TLDEF), two long-time champions for the trans community, merged together as one organization. A4TE builds on their successes to boldly imagine a world where trans people live our lives joyfully and without barriers.
★★★★ – The New Mexico Wildlife Center connects people and wildlife through conservation education and rehabilitation because a world with wildlife is a better world. NMWC’s wildlife hospital treats between 650 and 900 injured and orphaned wild animals of more than 120 species annually, returning as many as possible to the wild.
★★★★ – As one of Africa’s oldest wildlife charities and a leading conservation organisation, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) embraces all measures that complement the conservation, preservation and protection of wildlife. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust operates the most successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program in the world.
★★★★ – VERA challenges racial and economic injustice and is committed to protecting basic human rights for the most vulnerable people in American society. They provide legal representation to those who have been illegally convicted, unfairly punished or abused in state jails and prisons. They also provide re-entry assistance to formerly incarcerated people and ensure their assimilation back into society is smooth and complete.
There is a rare meteorological phenomenon known as diamond dust, where microscopic ice crystals will fall from the sky on an otherwise clear day. While it occurs most often at high elevations or the poles, it can happen anywhere the temperature ducks below freezing. Perhaps you have experienced it firsthand… found yourself suddenly surrounded by a glimmering flurry suspended in air. It was surely a moment to savor, as if the entire world were frozen in time. We find gemstones much the same, a tiny miracle to carry with us (maybe just a bit more literally).
Key Piece
DIAMOND DUST: A stand-out for both shape and character, Lauren Wolf’s Salt & Pepper Snowflake ring shines among a collection of already exceptional diamonds. Part of our first capsule delivery from the Bay Area designer, this piece features a brilliant, kite-cut varietal set in platinum, flanked by a halo of champagne teardrops.
MORNING GLORIES: A favorite in-store, Greig Porter’s collection is most coveted for its devotion to color. In this single-strand necklace, dozens of emerald beads slowly graduate forward, punctuated by an array of 18K gold beads. An echo of royal collars of antiquity, this style emphasizes elegance.
POLAR PEARLS: Last, but far from least, a spotlight for Jean Prounis’ Tahitian pearl collar. Classically set, this piece features a 22K, Mycenae-inspired fibula closure so detailed you may be tempted to wear it clasp-forward. A particularly dark and iridescent varietal, these pearls glow like the sky in moonlight.
A treat for the weekend: new arrivals from Shanghai-based Ziggy Chen. This small capsule collection centers around a sophisticated palette of merlot– a warm, earthy tone perfect for the colder months. With just six new pieces, texture rises above the rest… and Ziggy Chen certainly doesn’t disappoint in rich cotton velvets and lustrous vegetable silk. The soft, tactile nature of the velvets in particular contrasts well against the collection’s minimalist lines and subtle tailoring.
Planning a getaway? Finishing the year always tempts us to take a break. Whether around the globe or around the corner, a getaway provides the rare opportunity to be carefree… and perhaps find renewal in intimate spaces, unique places and new faces. Gilda Midani’s light, layerable pieces are perfect for a midwinter skip to your own sun-soaked somewhere. Easy to pack and even easier to wear, they might be all you need to make a great escape.
When thinking of Denise Betesh’s jewelry, the first thing that comes to mind is her choice of stones: a devoted jeweler, her gems are not only conflict-free but of impeccable quality and character. The second is her metal—a distinct 22K gold handcrafted in her Santa Fe studio. These elements work together in easy harmony: the stones catch the eye, while the gold holds its attention. Paired with her seamless designs and keen sense for color, Denise Betesh harnesses the rare qualities of a prized heirloom: trendless, timeless, and like no other.
Core to jewelry collection is a selection of stackable rings set with richly colored stones such as tangy tsavorite and chocolate star sapphire. The latter is of particular note—not only is this a rare varietal within Denise Betesh’s collection, but the cabochons hide a secret star that is revealed with direct light.
With softly rounded edges and a rubbed matte finish, the stone settings ultimately lend an air of antiquity to Denise Betesh’s rings and earrings. Her forms are classic and layerable, all intended to subtly fit together like a predestined puzzle.
“What’s important is making jewelry that’s not a fashion statement, but something to be cherished and honored.”
For over 20 years, Irit Ehrlich of Irit Design has been designing focal, patina-forward jewelry from her Malibu studio. A self-taught designer, she balances edge and elegance by drawing inspiration from historical iconography. Ancient Viking bracers, Maltese crosses and Victorian starbursts all have their place in her stylistic vocabulary. In this first capsule delivery from Irit Design, find a small selection of stand-outs: from fishbone-esque dangles and tahitian pearl pendants to a studded diamond cuff reminiscent of the night sky.
The lion’s share of Irit Design’s jewelry collection is either one-offs or limited editions. Her designs are more like works of art than standard wearables, each infused with distinct and unshakeable personality.
Among the cultural luminaries who adore Irit Design’s jewelry, those with a penchant for rock and roll rise above the rest— Irit has coyly shared that Ringo Starr is often photographed wearing her diamond peace sign.
While Irit Design’s jewelry is highly sculptural—one needs look no further than her layered chain necklace to feel immersed in scale—they possess an innate sensuality. Perhaps it’s the play of mixed metals and diamond, perhaps it’s the organic, interlocking shapes. Something about her work feels spontaneous and tantalizing—a glimmer that remains in the mind long beyond first impression.
“My pieces suit a spectrum of humans, ages and lifestyles…complement[ing] the stylistic freedom of our lives and times.”
Finally, the time is here for us to break out our finest, because this weekend is for decorating. In the next few days, we will head to the woods to forage for pine branches. Natural elements and vintage glass ornaments alike will scatter Workshop’s tables, and strings of small, twinkling lights will wink through our windows. Come next week and find our stores fragrant with apple, cinnamon and clove. Should you find yourself walking the Santa Fe Plaza in the coming days, we invite you to Workshop for a bit of cider and cheer.
Mood-Setting Scents
Housed in their signature cast iron vessels, Mad et Len delivers candles of the moment. Mad et Len scents are delicate and exceptional, crafted from unusual aromatics such as champaka and mandarin tree. For something off the beaten path, try the amber potpourri in best-selling Spirituelle.
Tonal Textures
The season’s richest pieces are here to delight the senses—plush cashmere sweaters from Avant Toi, brushed suede handbags from Marsèll and handmade leather hats from Horisaki.
Miranda Hicks’ handwrought sterling jewelry is great for a bit of textured sparkle. Her works are refined while still being substantial enough to stand out among the heavier layers of the season.
From snow-crunching boots to cocktail party flats, Marsèll bridges the gap between rustic and sleek. With a range of handbags to match, these pieces can be worn with anything for years to come.
Where would we be without cashmere in winter? Nathalie and Terry-Ann of Frenckenberger deliver some of the the softest sweaters in a palette of calm neutrals.
Miranda Hicks’ jewelry embodies the untamed spirit of the American Southwest, blending rugged, natural elements with a bold, contemporary edge. Made primarily in sterling silver, Miranda Hicks honors the traditional silversmithing techniques that have long defined our region, while still bringing a fresh sensibility to the medium. Working from her studio in Santa Fe, Miranda Hicks’ jewelry collection captures the strength and beauty of our high desert home.
At the heart of Miranda Hicks’ designs lie an earthy humility. Triangular, circular, and trapezoidal studs are cast and carved by hand, and then hammered and oxidized to create Miranda Hicks’ signature patina. The neutral-toned sterling silver offsets rare stones, such as black garnet, spirit quartz and apophyllite–all chosen for their raw, natural beauty.
Though grounded in traditional craftsmanship, Miranda Hicks’ earrings channel an aesthetic that is strikingly modern. Delicate yet powerful, her designs challenge the conventions of classical jewelry, embracing asymmetry and rough-hewn stones for an organic and spontaneous feel.
What makes Miranda Hicks’ work so distinctive is her approach to wearability. Her jewelry is as comfortable as it is captivating. With her earrings and cuff bracelets, Miranda Hicks quietly transforms appearances and spirits both– a testament to the power of art and nature in true harmony. Her pieces aren’t just accessories, but talismans… each crafted with its own story.
If Biyan Wanaatmadja’s spring was a lush symphony, his fall delivery is its resplendent crescendo. The Indonesian designer has deepened his visual foundation, layering sweeping silhouettes, vibrant prints and fascinating texture into his already maximal approach. Biyan’s palette oscillates from rich emerald and cobalt to luminous pink. The silk fabrics are smoothly embellished with gold and silver filigree. In celebration of this feast for the senses, please enjoy our lookbook of Biyan’s most incredible works for the Fall/Winter 2024 season.
“I find inspiration everywhere around me… and mostly in the rich heritage [of Indonesia]. My forte is combining the richness of my culture and infusing that into modern wearable designs.”
Our latest delivery from Sabina Savage includes several pieces from her archive, specifically from Mýthos and A Tale of Tibet as well as a few more pieces from her latest Escape Into Edo collection. These scarves, shawls and even a velvet duster make beautiful gifts and they are also a beautiful expression of the self. Sabina’s storytelling is as timeless as it is human. As you explore, you may find one story or image resonates with you. This is part of Sabina’s true magic: a personal kinship with the animals and the silky dreams she spins.
For Monies, each piece they create is a story—a narrative forged in precious stone that spans far beyond its time in the studio. Among their favorite materials to work with include 12 million-year-old geodes and in their most recent delivery, fascinating slabs of deep green malachite. Each stone is deliberately selected to heighten attention on both macro and micro levels.
At the Monies workshop in Copenhagen, they begin creating their one-of-a-kind necklaces by tiling flats of stone. They fit disparate shapes together as if they were making a mosaic. While some pieces develop effortlessly, led by the natural character of the material, others require a fiercely focused approach. It is not uncommon for the Monies family to spend hours poring over one composition, arranging and rearranging, cutting and recutting the stones to create the perfect collar necklace.
Monies works to honor the natural origins of their components while still carving space for intense artistry and expression. With each of the Monies statement pieces, color and shape spark an enchantment of the senses. For this malachite necklace, the undulations of mint and emerald provide a canvas for the stone’s natural inclusions and fissures. With each one-of-a-kind piece, Monies embellishes upon the material’s everlasting story, its stunning wearability an invitation for the next chapter.
As cute as the name sounds, “super baby alpaca” does not come from young cria roaming the Peruvian highlands while wearing colorful capes. The term, also known as royal alpaca, refers to the finest grade of alpaca fibers, harvested from the soft, downy undercoat of this species. Soft as cashmere but without any lanolin, this is a material favored by designers for its durability and plush hand feel. In Lauren Manoogian’s latest delivery, she weaves super soft baby alpaca into a collection of dreams: indulgently cozy knits perfect for fall’s most languid days.
While her garments come off as effortless, Lauren Manoogian herself is something of a scientist. Her attention to textile is obsessive and precise—a focus on micron weight and minute adjustments akin to an organic chemistry. This attention reaps reward in multitude. The unmatched loftiness Lauren Manoogian achieves far surpasses those with only a passive respect for the material.
Aside from her unflinching minimalism, a hallmark of a Lauren Manoogian sweater lies in its palette. Lauren Manoogian’s penchant for neutrals comes from both a practical and an ideological place. In Lauren Manoogian’s own words, “If you’re super-focused on color and brightness, you can’t have insane texture.” In line with her respect for base materials, Lauren Manoogian’s preference is to use undyed woolen yarns. By doing so, she relies on the alpaca and sheep from whom the fiber once grew—a soft, dynamic color presentation that shifts subtly from one inch to the next.
There is an art to dressing in the cooler months. Aside from the obvious temperature regulation, it can be difficult to strike a balance of just the right layers. Mass-market labels often sacrifice style for warmth and coverage, forgoing the satisfaction of good design for convenience. Enter a slow-and-steady studio practiced in the antithesis of this model: Asciari. Based in Sicily, this family-run clothing label has perfected the union of form and function with an old-world twist.
Designed by Pietro, Federica and Marta Mazzettini, Asciari’s collections feel like a favorite pajama despite their tailored cuts and clean silhouettes. Part of this magic comes down to the structure of the garments. Their jackets, dresses, and shirts are informed by centuries-old heritage of atelier design. Along with Asciari’s preference for exquisite Loro Piana fabrics this collection is greater than the sum of its parts. Asciari challenges contemporary notions of comfort over polish, arguing not only that you can have both, but that every occasion can, and should, be met with style.
“You can have anything you want in life if you dress for it.”
From the iconic triple-strand necklace of Jackie Kennedy to the opalescent collar of Audrey Hepburn, pearls loom large in our collective lexicon of style. They have been historically designated the “queen of gems,” favored across continents for their elegance and poise. Contemporaneously, pearls are sought for their versatility… a jewel at home on silk and denim alike. Designers of all stripes have integrated this gem into their jewelry collections, however none as memorable as Denmark-based Monies.
This studio, run by the Monies family, is known for designing bold jewelry that is simultaneously organic and striking. While they design for the fearless, Monies’ pearls are an emblem of pure inspiration—teasing out the intrinsic tenacity in us all.
With Monies’ earrings, bracelets and necklaces their approach is sculptural, effervescent. In some pieces, bubbles of seed pearls float around larger, round counterparts. In others, freshwater nacre studs the wrist for a bit of upscale classicism. The most dynamically-shaped baroque pearls are strung as a pendant on a signature black leather cord.
“How could you reach the pearl by only looking at the sea? If you seek the pearl, be a diver.”
Mieko Mintz’s love affair with vintage and antique fabrics started in her youth—a passion nurtured by the artisanal garmentry of Kyushu, Japan. With time, this interest blossomed into an ultimate vocation: her passion spanning three continents, thousands of hours and eventually catalyzing in her self-named line. Twenty-five years later, she delivers collections defined by equal parts heritage, education and inspiration: a presentation of globally-informed, wearable artistry for all seasons.
Mieko’s special bond with India’s kantha technique is core to her identity as a designer–even her contemporaneous works echo the subtle rippling of the “simple running stitch.” While traditional kantha is characterized by its punctuating brightness, Mieko pioneered the concept of using tonal thead to complement the patterns across the cloth. Her works are undoubtedly stylish, manifesting in a contrast of clean lines and vibrant prints. Each piece is designed to be reversible, finished with pockets on both sides and a complicated overstitch that simultaneously blends into the design while emphasizing the lines of the garment.
Few designers understand the intersection of feel and form quite like Kaval. Across fiber and fabrication, Kaval’s small, Japanese studio practices a devotion to texture like no other. Cashmere and sable knits, softly woven woolens and a special-fleeced cardigan made of pure silk yarn… You will find within Kaval’s collection the textiles of dreams. Though their designs read austere at first blush, the construction is lush and humble. So much so, you may be tempted to wear Kaval for all your daily doings… be they work, pleasure or even just a nap on the couch.
Kaval’s latest delivery focuses primarily on coats and jackets for the cooling weather, with a small selection of pullover knits for layering. Warmth without weight is a hallmark of good Japanese design and Kaval diligently pursues this tenet. Their designs foster a fluid, natural way of autumnal dressing more closely akin to the buttery linens of Palermo than the downy parkas of Calgary.
This atelier works slowly, almost completely detached from seasonal trends. They do not adhere to a traditional “fashion” schedule, instead sending batches of their work as they are finished. It is worth noting that all Kaval pieces are made in-studio using only antique sewing machines, often with special textiles made in house. Waiting for these small deliveries are worth it, if only to sink our hands in their latest cashmere knits. With unflinching patience, Kaval distills a universal truth: convenient novelty may be momentarily thrilling, but tender loving care lasts a lifetime.
November is upon us, and with it the anticipation of festive entertaining to come. There is little as special as a holiday meal–not only is it an opportunity to be creative with our table, but the setting can form the backdrop of our most cherished memories. Carefully glazed to resemble antique porcelain, the works of Astier de Villatte are particularly suited for this time of year. Simultaneously nostalgic and modern, these pieces are elegantly sensitive while still being design forward. With over ten different motifs to mix and match, the possibilities are limitless.
Lauren Wolf’s love for gold and platinum began in the mountains of Mexico, while learning traditional metalsmithing—an earthy and tactile experience that permeates her design sensibility today. Crafted in her Bay Area studio, Lauren Wolf’s one-of-a-kind jewelry is unusual and personal in the best way—a collection akin to private, miniature works of art for the body. Her diamonds are particularly exceptional, with a focus on rare, inclusive-flecked species in large carat weights.
Lauren Wolf practices an artform called cire perdue, also known as lost-wax casting. The technique has been perfected by small sculptural workshops since the early Bronze Age, used most often to capture intricate designs in precious metal.
For each piece of jewelry, Lauren Wolf hand-carves a small model in wax, which is then immersed in a vessel of plaster. When the plaster is fired in a kiln, the wax melts out and is “lost,” leaving a perfect replica of the original sculpture. This technique is particularly suited for Lauren Wolf’s design style, resulting in glossy, complex designs that best allow the stonework to glow.
There is a funny connection between jewelry and sweets—you’ll often hear our staff referring to the jewelry display cases in Santa Fe Dry Goods as the “candy shop.” Flares of pink and orange sapphire most obviously draw this connection, but the motif holds strong in Lauren Wolf’s neutral realm as well. Across this small, introductory selection of Lauren Wolf’s necklace and rings, find mouth-watering diamonds that boast evocative varietal names like brown sugar and champagne.
Lainey Keogh has often been referred to as the “undisputed queen of cashmere.” A native Dubliner, Lainey Keogh got her start working in the bedlam of haute couture: an experience that sharpened her taste as much as it dampened her spirit. She has since rejuvenated by escaping to the Wicklow Mountains, a lush landscape of wild heather and bilberry in the heart of eastern Ireland. Here, the natural splendor nurtures her studio and mind, providing an endless well of inspiration for her self-named line.
Lainey Keogh’s knits are indeed undisputed: one only needs to glance at her garments to recognize the rarity of their construction. To feel the fibers is akin to sinking one’s hands into soft moss—a cloudlike fleece achieved by Lainey Keogh’s unconventional handknitting approach.
Lainey Keogh describes her techniques as “break[ing] all the rules on felting.” By working the fibres by hand, she relaxes and tenses the yarn to achieve an unbelievably lofty finish. Working with a tight group of local home-knitters, her designs are slowly developed to innovate and preserve Irish crafting traditions.
Lainey Keogh’s inspiration reads like a library— an expansive palace of the mind gained from over 40 years in couture and a lifetime exploring the Irish countryside. Her motifs range from the shape of blooms in her mother’s garden and classical fashion details to sacred geometry and the spectral presence of rainbows. Lainey Keogh captures this melange in a process described as “coloring color with color,” felting cashmere in layers to enhance its natural essence and blend the tones in subtle and unique ways.
Working from his studio outside of Venice, Italy, Marsèll footwear designer Marco Cima envisions shoes through their components. His notebook is a flurry of notched seams, stacked leather heels, burnished toes, oiled finishes. With every concept, Marco breathes life into familiar silhouettes. Elevated past their origins, each Marsèll shoe and boot becomes a hallmark of the modern wardrobe: inventive, polished and ready for just about anything.
In a range of dark earth tones, Marsèll’s selection for fall is defined by reinterpreted classics: ballerinas, derbies and boots all rendered with a deft hand and a discerning eye. Notable about a Marséll is just how unbelievably soft the footbed is. Lined with silky lambskin, you may be tempted to skip the socks no matter the temperature.
In our opinion, suede is often overlooked in fall footwear for its unearned reputation for being delicate. However, this material is much more durable than assumed. A quick brushing after rain or snow exposure will keep a favorite suede pair looking fresh for years. Similarly, leather in lighter hues will also endure without issue. In all finishes, Marsèll crafts their shoes to withstand whatever path they may travel.
“Simplicity carried to an extreme becomes elegance.”
