What's Black & White...

I've heard that Bronson van Wyck and Lela Rose throw fabulous parties.  Stories don't compare to experiencing in person the black and white extravaganza that the pair threw to celebrate Celerie Kemble's book Black & White (and a Bit in Between). On a rainy night, I headed down to Tribeca where I was blown away by not only Lela's beautiful home but how party planner extraordinaire Bronson van Wyck had turned her dining room into a chic tent with black and white striped fabric. With help from Jo Malone London who have partnered on Celerie's book tour, the party not only looked amazing but smelled amazing too. 

The entry table was covered in Celerie's own black and white fabric for Schumacher and was a perfect complement to the black and white photography hung above. 

The menu was inspired by Jo Malone London fragrances and we were treated to multiple yummy course. Lime Basil & Mandarin inspired the seared scallops and Nectarine Blossom & Honey was the jumping off point for cinnamon pancakes. Did I mention that the table pops up out of the floor?  We sat on pillows made of more Celerie Kemble fabric with out legs dangling below.  Talk about chic!

Some party planners suggested unscented candles for a dinner party but that's really no fun especially when you can burn such gorgeous smelling candles.  

Celerie was kind enough to sign books for everyone and wore a chic black and white dress by Lela Rose of course. 

More amazing Jo Malone London products.

I tried not to get too excited when I spied Law & Order SVU actor Chris Meloni in attendance at the party. 

Gift bags containing a copy of Black & White (and a Bit in Between) and a lovely smelling candle from Jo Malone London. You can read more about the party and see more photos in the March/April issue of Veranda magazine. 

Chic in Madrid: Lorenzo Castillo

The "Lady Luxe" spread from yesterday's post was shot in two places designed by Lorenzo Castillo.  The Hotel Santo Mauro and his showroom/home in Madrid, Spain.  I really need to learn Spanish so I can read more about this talented interior designer but from what I can gather, he is also an antiques dealer and this particular space serves as his home and showroom.  Some of these photos are old so you can see from some changes from the fashion layout.  For those lucky enough to understand Spanish, there is also a video from 2009 via Nuevo Estilo you can watch here. It's actually worth watching even if you don't know Spanish. I love the entire space but I think the brass trimmed bathroom is my absolute favorite room and will definitely be going in my personal inspiration file.  I also think Lorenzo Castillo might just be my new favorite designer. 

Lady Luxe

While we're on the subject of Mario Testino, how chic is this "Lady Luxe" spread he shot for the March issue of British Vogue. Let's not get caught up on the fact that model Karlie Kloss seems to be floating or falling in every picture.  If you lived in a place that spectacular, you wouldn't want to sit on the furniture either. It was actually the decor that first caught my eye.  I was very excited that they gave the designer Lorenzo Castillo credit.  We'll take a closer look at his work tomorrow. It deserves a day unto itself.  Later skaters. 

Photos by Mario Testino

Molto Mario

I love the opportunity to peek into the homes of people whom I admire.  As my photography hobby becomes more important in my life, I am always looking at the work of others as inspiration.  Mario Testino is a photographer who is not only talented but seems to really enjoy himself as witnessed in The September Issue.  His new home in the Hollywood Hills not only reflects his lust for life but also his world travels.  Mario Testino grew up in Peru and many of the textiles come from his home country and complement his amazing art collection.  As is the case with many creative people, he didn't work with a designer and therefore the entire space feels incredibly personal.  It certainly doesn't hurt that the light is amazing in Los Angeles which is why he kept the walls white.  To see more, pick up the March 2012 issue of Vogue or click here.