Textile Swatches

The hats and the whimsy!

 
 
Hats, used primarily as head coverings, have been around for a long, long time. Women, from the early days were expected to have their heads covered by veils, hoods, etc. It was not until the end of the 16th century that women's structured hats started to be seen, and in the late 17th century women's headgear started to be seen as fashion. The word, 'milliner', a maker of women's hats originated from the city of Milan, where the best quality hats were made in the 18th century.

The hats at the Royal Wedding were fabulous and so whimsical. Here are some of my favorites...

Anthropologie launches new 'Decorator Concept Shops'

Anthropologie launches12 new 'Designer Concept Shops' within existing Anthro stores. They are workshop style spaces that are open to the public, offering access to sample books, magazines and decorating assistance. They will showcase an eclectic mix of curtains, rugs, wallpaper, lighting and furniture. This concept is also available online as a new feature, named 'The Decorator Shop'

The 12 lucky locations to get studios are: Beverly Hills; Corte Madera, Ca; Denver; Atlanta; Chicago; Houston; Nashville; New York; Wayne, Pa; Westport, Ct; Miami and London  (what about Boston?)

Is this the beginning of a trend we will see more of? More 'decorator'/ DIY products at retail?

Exhibit: CHANEL Mobile Art

                 

After it's stops in Hong Kong and Tokyo this mobile exhibit arrives in NYC, Rumsey Playfield at 70th street in Central Park. October 20- November 9, 2008.

Chanel commissioned London architect, Zaha Hadid, to create the traveling exhibit structure to house works by about 15 contemporary, international artists. Each was asked to create a work that was atleast in part inspired by the identity of the classic Chanel quilted-style chain handbag.

A traveling exhibit, with admission free to all, will circulate around the world for two years.

Admission is free, although visitors are advised to book timed tickets at Chanel Mobile Art.

Next stops... London... Moscow... Paris.

Suzanis

Suzanis have been a trend in Home textiles for at least the last year. They've gained in popularity and there's been a remarkable revival of this traditional art form... I think they are here to stay! Like the paisley, I think Suzanis have become a category of textile that remain of interest to us.

So what is a Suzani?

 

'Suzani' is the Persian or Farsi word for needle and connotes needlework. It is synonymous with the glorious embroideries of Uzbekistan, in Central Asia and refers to textile panels embroidered with silk thread. The suzani was an integral part of a woman's artistic expression. Traditionally, as soon as a girl was born her mother would start embroidering the suzani for her. As the daughter grew older, she would join in the process. The suzani would eventually become a part of her dowry and be used to decorate her home.

If you have an interest to purchase antique or reproduction suzani pieces, check out Tessera

Some contemporary fabrics inspired by suzanis can be seen in the collection of Schumacher. 

As in the Konya Suzani

And Usak weave

Anthropologie too has bedding inspired by suzanis. The Kapali bedding set-

   

And ABC Carpet and Home in New York city is a great resource too