The wedding season seems to be fast approaching and with a record number of weddings to attend this year I have been trawling through the internet in search of dresses, hats, shoes, you name it I was a girl in need of inspiration. But what I discovered was there are so many wonderful pieces out there I thought given I have put in all the leg work I should share my finds with you.
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Paula Bianco ‘Romantic Embellishment’ Blush Pink Satin Wrapped Crystal Detailing Papillon Hair Bow.
- Max Mara silk chiffon dress from is so delicate and right on trend for this summers soft neutral tones.
- Teamed with the Christian Louboutin sequin clutch makes for a very feminine look.
- Rag & Bone contrast strap cocktail dress from Matches.
Alexander McQueen, snakeskin peep-toe pumps.
- Eugenia Kim Panama Fedora.
Tiered Cream Kersey Crop Jacket from Top Shop.
Belle by Sigerson Morrison are a much needed alternative from my traditional French Sole ballet pumps.
- Delicate silk scarf necklace from Anthropologie.
Vivienne Westwood Table Cloth
It was with great pleasure I accepted an invitation from Charles Finch to attend last months ICA Gala Dinner at Koko in Camden. As a patron of the ICA I am delighted the evening raised over £200,000 .Dinner passed by so quickly as I was in deep conversation with Vivienne Westwood and Tracey Emin about the state of British craft & fashion. My delight continued as I was successful in my bid for a Vivienne Westwood table cloth which uses a print from her 2006 GOLD LABEL. It is currently being framed and I look forward to hanging it in our fabulous new retail store opening in Mayfair in Autumn 2010.
Kevin Baker
This post was written by Kevin Baker, CEO and founder of Thomas Lyte
This week Clem and I decided to make the most of the British summer sun and got out on the market to see what baggage the men of London are carrying. I cannot help but think Vivienne Westwood whoosing past on her bike at the start of the excursion was an omen for the interesting finds to come….
We happily discovered that increasing amounts of men are removing the straps and carrying their bags by hand, good men!- it makes a refreshing change and is infinitely more confidently appealing than the old faithful canvas messenger or, even worse, the sports rucksack.
We met some inspirational people, got some fabulous shots of great pieces, a slight tan and excellent research for the new man bag! A great day all in- sun, and men of London, please keep shining!
My husband and I spent a long weekend in Paris and much to our disappointment the sun didn’t shine and the birds didn’t sing, so what does one do when you cannot promenade along the Seine, you hide in the many museums Paris has on offer. Our feet pounded the many rooms in the Louvre and the Musee d’orsay and inspired we went on to take in Lucian Freud at the Pompidou and Yves Saint Laurent in the Petit Palasis. And, as is always the case for Paris, not only do you get to see some great art, but it is also exhibited in some great buildings, oozing history and tradition.
Lucien Freud: L’Atelier (the studio) is as Jonathan Jones wrote in the Guardian, not a chronological retrospective but much more poignant, it is an examination of Freud the master at work. From the striking banners that lavish the exterior shafts and girders to the beautifully hung paintings in this spacious contemporary space the viewers feels as though they are part of Paris celebrating a living master. It felt like we were being exposed to the painters inner sole, as we progressed through the gallery we kept asking ourselves, whilst there is no doubt of his painterly ability, can we love his oversized challenging nudes? And the answer can only be categorically, yes. The textual beauty of the densely worked and scraped surface draws attention to itself as just that – painting as material presence.. Or as the master says, ‘I want paint to work as flesh. As far as I am concerned the paint is the person’.
The display is divided into four themed rooms – Interior/Exterior (workshop interiors/countryside and townscapes), Reflection (self portraits), Reprisals (Freud’s re-interpretations of the Masters) and As Flesh (portraiture). It is the last room which I was overwhelmed by. These powerful yet enigmatic paintings of key models I took to be Freud’s own history paintings.
This is without doubt a city in love with our great master. And I have to confess I am too.
The 3rd Anniversary gift is traditionally leather. Leather is known for its durability, strength, longevity and flexibility, all qualities that you strive for in your marriage. Who doesn’t like leather? It’s sturdy, luxurious and not to mention it smells amazing! Good quality leather also lasts for years to come so you can splash out on an investment piece.
- Something to buy together – Tailor Made Bespoke Leather Furniture
English company, Distinctive Chesterfields, offer a bespoke manufacturing and customised furniture service. You can rest assured that your new furniture piece will be hand built by their highly skilled, British craftsmen to Crib 5 standards (suitable for both domestic and commercial environments), ensuring that they are of the highest quality.
Bespoke Leather Sofa
- For Him – Bremont Limited Edition EP120 Watch with Leather Strap
The watch is limited to 120 pieces only, all hand-crafted using exceptional amounts of skill, timeand effort to include original parts of the Spitfire EP120 saved during restoration. These Spitfire parts form thechronograph dial on the front of the watch, and also the rotor on the reverse of the watch that can be seen through its sapphire back. This is truly an investment piece.
Bremont Ltd Edition EP120 Watch - Front
Bremont Ltd Edition EP120 Watch - Back
Vintage Boucheron Ladies 18ct Gold Watch
- For Her – Alexander McQueen Leather Peep Toe Pumps
Alexander McQueen’s brown leather peep toe pumps with gold-tone signature skull are a luxurious footwear choice. Pay homage to one of England’s finest designers by investing in one of his fabulous pieces, she’ll love you for it!
Leather Peep Toe Pumps - Alexander McQueen
• For a Matching Couple- Invest in a piece of luxury and begin a life long love affair with your leather coats.
Burberry Leather Aviator Jacket
Burberry Double Breasted Shearling Coat
- For Him or for Her – Woodvale Weekender Leather Bag by Thomas Lyte
Whisk your beloved on a romantic weekend away, with the Leather Weekender Holdall from Thomas Lyte. Handcrafted in the finest vegetable tanned Breuninger Grained Leather, it is lined with luxury silk. A distinctive zipped flap provides practical and stylish access to an interior which features a large zipped pocket.
Woodvale Leather Weekender Bag by Thomas Lyte
- For Him – Monogrammed Leather Wallet by Thomas Lyte
A man’s wallet is an essential part of his every day life. Because of its constant use, it is imperative that the product be well constructed and of excellent quality. Each Thomas Lyte leather wallet is hand made using the finest selected skins. All pockets are fully lined in luxury silk and the turned edges are hand inked, paying exceptional attention to detail. To make this essential leather item even more personal why not have it monogrammed with your husbands initials?
Men's Leather Billfold Wallet by Thomas Lyte
- For Her – Patent Leather Henshaw Tote and Zip Around Purse by Thomas Lyte
No doubt after 3 years of marriage, you will have noticed your wife’s penchant for expensive leather handbags. Instead of feigning slight interest at her latest addition to her wardrobe, why not compliment her collection with an indulgent tote bag. Not quite a hand bag this far more practical accessory, which is lined in luxury waterproof silk, can be used for everything from Shopping to paperwork or as a holiday pool or beach bag.
Black Patent Leather Henshaw Tote by Thomas Lyte
Black Patent Zip Around Wallet by Thomas Lyte
Last winter I bought a granddad cardi. I found it squashed under piles of junk at the back of my favorite vintage shop in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. It was just as the trend began to start (and let’s face it, it never really flooded the market in quite the way it was predicted to). Non-deterred mine was dark blue, thick proper wool, (the itchy kind) with brown leather buttons and compacted areas of matted wear – I loved it!
I’m not sure if I’ve just noticed due to the recent re-discovery of ‘Big Blue’ (who had sneaked his way into a flatmate’s wardrobe) or if it is in fact an ‘underground trend’ but I have noticed increasing numbers of people knitting on the tube. I don’t think they’re doing it because they read the BBC article “Knitting ‘can delay’ memory loss”, and if they did I certainly hope that they have better things to do than sit at home and play computer games (no offense if that’s what you do do but at least you will remember this moment we have shared and seemingly I won’t!).
I think it’s more the fact that knitting is becoming more acceptable to the younger generations, those living in a fast paced world where watching a TV and going out to get drunk and squander men just simply doesn’t cut it anymore. Young up and coming women feeling the need to move forward with their lives constantly, feeling the need to do something productive like make, sculpt and craft, the satisfaction to turn your tube journey into a productive time. It’s not a bad plan actually, hats (knitted of course) off to them.
You may think it’s strange that the clocks have turned back, summer is ‘officially’ here and yet the knitting is out- not so. Knitting is cool. It is I swear! Even in small details for the spring and onto summer evenings too- try J-gloves from Lily Cole’s North Circular brand which look great with a ¾ sleeve leather jacket.
J Gloves
Now check this out- THIS is the ultimate cool: Patrick Frey’s ‘Gregor Calendar’. If anyone wants to get me a present this is it please!
Gregor Knitted Calendar
Each week we will suggest Anniversary gift ideas starting from year 1 throughout putting a contemporary twist on the conventional.
The 2nd Wedding Anniversary is traditionally cotton. Cotton signifies durability and prosperity which is significant when you have achieved your first year of marriage, believed to be the hardest. So besides the obvious gifts of Egyptian Cotton Linen or Monogrammed Cotton Towels, what else is there to gift on this very special anniversary?
- Cotton Scented Soaps & Candles
Christy, who is synonymous for quality and luxury (They gave Queen Victoria her first set of towels!) have been around for over 150 years and also do a lovely ‘Cotton Scented’ bath and candles range. Starting from £10.
Cotton Scented Candles - Christy
Cotton Scented Body Balm - Christy
- Luxury Cotton Tent
Once you’ve experienced the luxury of a cotton tent you’ll never want to go back to stuffy, claustrophobic synthetic materials. Unlike nylon or polyester, natural fibres can be waterproof yet still be able to breathe, allowing these cotton tents to be cool when it’s hot yet warm when it’s cold, with a refreshing airy atmosphere whatever the weather. myholidaypartner.com do a great large tent for £799. So whether you and your beloved are at Secret Garden or Bestival this year make sure your “glamping” (glamorous camping) is complete with the Thomas Lyte Leather Outdoor Kit. £350
Luxury Cotton Tent
Leather Outdoor Kit - Thomas Lyte
- Antique Botanical Illustration of a cotton plant
Reproduced from a late 18th Century French engraving, this illustration is in the original colour including authentic old defects giving it a beautifully unique look. Framed with a personalised plaque, this will make a stunning memento of your second anniversary together. Prices start at £14 from zazzle.co.uk
Antique Illustration of Cotton Plant
- For Him – Cotton and Black Deerskin Driving Gloves with Strap
Treat him with something indulgent this year ( We’ll add the convertible sports car to accompany these as an Anniversary #11 gift idea – watch this space) The perforated deerskin and breathable cotton make these extremely comfortable to wear and are available at black.co.uk for £57. To keep with the driving theme you could also add a monogrammed leather Spitfire Keyring from Thomas Lyte £40.
Cotton & Deerskin Driving Gloves
Leather Spitfire Keyring - Thomas Lyte
- For Her - Maison Martin Margiela White Cotton Canvas Tote
Want her to love you forever? Then you can’t possibly go wrong with this off white cotton canvas tote that goes with absolutely everything! But more importantly it’s the perfect partner to this spring’s pretty pastel. Available at net-a-porter.com for £320. To add a personal touch you can hide a silver compact mirror from Thomas Lyte engraved with a personal message in the inside pocket. £49
Cotton Canvas Tote - Maison Martin Margiela
Silver Plated Compact Mirror - Thomas Lyte
Thomas Lyte was very proud to see 2 of its iconic trophies lifted this weekend. Congratulations to England for winning the 6 Nations Woman’s Championship and Northampton Saints for bringing home the LV Anglo-Welsh Tournament Trophy! Both trophies were created by our master silversmiths in our London workshop.
England Celebrating the Six Nations Win
This trophy was commissioned in 2006 and was followed by a second in a similar design for the Under 20 Six Nations championship. Both are made from sterling silver and feature exquisite engraving detail with the logos of the competing countries.
Women's Six Nations Trophy Designed by Thomas Lyte
The Women's Six Nations Trophy created in the Thomas Lyte London Workshop
Northhampton Saints celebrate their LV Anglo-Welsh Tournament Win
When LV= took over the sponsorship of the Anglo-Welsh tournament for the 2009-10 season, Thomas Lyte were commissioned to design and make the new trophy, having made the previous Anglo-Welsh trophies for Powergen and EDF Energy.
This unique and distinctive trophy was made from sterling silver with gilding on the inside of the trophy and it stands 50cms high.
To complement the trophy, Thomas Lyte designed and made the medals presented to the winning team, Northampton Saints, and to the runners-up, Gloucester Rugby.
LV Anglo-Welsh Tournament Trophy
TL Anglo-Welsh Tournament Trophy created by Thomas Lyte
Thomas Lyte delivered two fantastic new trophies to the RFU at Twickenham, The RFU Championship trophy and the British & Irish Cup.
They were designed and made by Thomas Lyte in their London workshop’s and are a fantastic example of the craftsmanship of our highly-skilled Silversmiths.
The designs are very unusual with the Championship trophy being constructed from individual rods of silver, and the British & Irish Cup is a five-sided trophy, totally different to classic trophies with lids and handles.
To make trophies of this kind requires great skill and expertise, and Kevin and Mick at the Thomas Lyte workshop have years of experience of making fine silver pieces.
Both trophies are being presented for the first time this year.
It’s that time of year again for selecting the new leathers for the upcoming collection!
After weeks of keeping a beady eye out on the latest colour trends and attending seminars by numerous eccentric and enthusiastic Italian lecturers I have a clear idea of which colours I’m looking for to fully compliment the new bags that we’ve been working on.
Early in the morning I gather the team together and am glad to see we all agree on the colours, we hop on the tube laden with the latest mock ups and our precious book of chosen colour swatches. Four tubes, five taxis –ok one long taxi with our amazing driver Phil who patiently waited for us outside countless leather merchants and filled us in on relationship advice to Love FM in between- 3 pairs of shoes (not to mention a nice lunch in the sun next to Tower Bridge) later we return to the office exhausted but with numerous cut-offs of the season’s latest leathers.
One sleep later we’re back in the ‘slouchy’ office equipped with coffees and a fresh view on the findings of the previous day and we’re not leaving until we have the crack down on the final decisions. Fifteen discussions on product construction and leather graining, dying and cutting techniques later and we have our wrap!
The swatches are hanging on my latest mood board and I can’t wait for the skins to arrive. Judging by the amount the team keep touching and smelling them I think the new collection will be a winner so watch this space!
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