The Darkroom: My Favorite Store That I’ve Never Visited

I’m sure that I’m not alone in my love for the Darkroom, an itty-bitty design shop in London’s Bloomsbury neighborhood. I’ve never been, but that doesn’t stop me from being an adoring fan. I even sent a scout back in December 2010. "I stopped at Darkroom in London," he wrote. "Very cool spot. We should chat about it." The chat revealed that he too was smitten, making a $300 impulse buy in the process.

The overall concept is tricky to describe - modern, graphic, artisanal—all tied together by a strong undercurrent of worldly, tribal flair. While it may be hard to find the words, the visual cohesion is unmistakable. It’s like that indefinable mojo. Darkroom has got an It factor, and I, for one, can’t get enough!

I subscribed to the Darkroom newsletter shortly after my friend’s report, and review it with great detail whenever it enters my inbox. This morning was no different – a perfectly curated grid of eye candy that begs to be bought. In fact, it was the Tweedmill Picnic Blanket that inspired today’s post. Summer in DC means lots of outdoor activities (i.e., sitting on the grass), so it seems like a perfectly justifiable purchase. This may be the moment I finally shop the Darkroom (even if it’s only a virtual visit)!

Images: The Darkroom

Glam it up: Objects by Alexander Wang

I’ve always had a fascination with home, but wanted to take it step by step. If I can’t start with a couch, at least I can start with a coaster. - Alexander Wang

Perhaps it was my last post on bad girl Naomi Campbell or the preceding one about Jennifer Fisher’s edgy surroundings, but I’m all about attitude as of late. So, when I came across Alexander Wang’s OBJECTS, I simply had to share. The fashion designer’s collection of 14 lifestyle accessories (coasters included) is just the bit of anti-establishment swagger that every home needs.

Hat tip to Lonny Magazine for putting this on my radar!

Images: alexanderwang.com

Interiors: Inside the World of Jennifer Fisher

There are certain names you should simply know by now - one of which is jewelry designer Jennifer Fisher's. Her pieces are worn by the most fashionable of celebrities, and after a finalist nod by the CFDA Fashion Fund, there's no disputing her design stardom. Jennifer's work has a definite edge (or as she describes it, "individual, empowering, diverse, edgy, and eclectic"). This design sensibility is on full display at work in her Soho office and at home in her Tribeca loft.

JENNIFER AT WORK VIA MATCHBOOK MAGAZINE

Jennifer loves photography and uses it as inspiration for her work. Photos can be found framed, tacked up, or bound in coffee table books. Kate Moss, her girl crush, makes repeat appearances.

JENNIFER AT HOME VIA THE COVETEUR

Jennifer continues the rocker chic aesthetic throughout her spacious Tribeca loft, but with accessories rather than large scale design elements. "I’m comfortable sticking to a neutral environment and getting creative with the accents."

Images: (At Work) Rima Campbell for Matchbook Magazine, (At Home) The Coveteur

Glam it up: Kelly Wearstler's Fantasy Dinner Party

In a post for Vogue Daily, Kelly Wearstler sets the table for a fantasy dinner party using pieces from her tabletop, home accessory, and jewelry collections. Her approach to creating the perfect table includes personalizing each place setting right down to the chairs! As for the fantasy guest list, Kelly selects Martin Margiela, Christian Louboutin, Dries Van Noten, and the legendary Alexander McQueen.

Just last week, I posted Kristen Nix's fantasy guest list of Tory Burch, Kelly Hoppen, Celerie Kemble, Aerin Lauder, Randy Powers and her mother. Though a common question, I’ve never thoughtfully completed the exercise...

Who would you invite to a fantasy dinner party?

Images: Denise Crew, Vogue

Glam it up: AERIN At Home

As hoped, Aerin Lauder’s collection of decorative accessories, AERIN At Home, is just as glamorous as her living and work spaces. Although much of the attention has been directed at her beauty line, Aerin’s tabletop accessories, objet, and candles are just as noteworthy. “Beauty is my heritage, but home decor is very much my passion.” And it shows! Gold-toned and lustrous, each piece will add a bit of glamour to any space. Here’s just a sample:

What can be more chicly ironic than a heart made of fool’s gold?! It would also make a luxurious paperweight. Each heart is hand-carved from a single block of pyrite.

Every glamorous home needs a geode, especially one trimmed in 18k gold!

Keep your matches looking classy in the solid brass, Round Match Striker—
perfect for lighting an Aerin candle!

Home accessories are just the beginning. Next spring Aerin’s collaborations will include a fabric collection with Lee Jofa, furniture with E. J. Victor, and lighting with Visual Comfort & Co. Definitely looking forward to it!

Images: Aerin.com