Audrey Grace Boutique

SUPERCUTE! Shoot for Audrey Grace

2012-03-03T16:28:00.000-08:00

Recently, I had the privilege of styling the adorable band, SUPERCUTE! who are performing at the NYC Audrey Grace Opening Night Event.. (March 23rd at 8 at the Highline Loft- mark your calendars if your in NYC!) It was a fun, sunny morning at Farmacy in Brooklyn with the photographer Daniel Silbert and the girls. SUPERCUTE! toured with Kate Nash last year and she produced their debut album. Look out for it- they will sing about dumb dumbs, boys, and loads of other cool stuff.

Photography: Daniel Silbert
Photo Assistant: Julian Barbarossa
Styling by me
Models: Julia, Rachel and Olivia of SUPERCUTE!
Shot on location at Farmacy, Brooklyn

(From the left to right), on Julia: Rachel Antonoff dress, vintage necklace, on Rachel (center): Jill Stuart dress, vintage necklace, on Olivia: Orla Kiely dress, Jennifer Oulette headband, vintage ring

Rachel's shoes by Miu Miu

Rachel's dress by Sretsis, vintage necklace, ASOS shoes

From left to right, on Julia: vintage ring, Lady Petrova dress, on Rachel (same as above), on Olivia: Kelsey Genna for Audrey Grace London dress

From left: (on Olivia): vintage tiara, Wayward Daughter for Audrey Grace dress, on Rachel: vintage necklace, Lady Petrova dress, on Julia: Ysterike dress, Lulu Frost necklace

Olivia wears Lulu Frost bangle, her own shoes, Rachel in shoes by Bass by Rachel Antonoff, Julia in her own shoes

Preview of Audrey Grace Photo Shoots

2012-03-01T20:25:00.000-08:00

I think I have worked on six photo shoots the past week! Some of them I pre-styled, some of them I was present for- which made it so much easier! But I loved collaborating with all of these photographers and models. Here are previews from three of the photo shoots I styled! All of these pieces are for sale, so please contact me at jbethany@fordham.edu if you would like more information on any of the pieces you see in the photos below. More photos to come!

The Dollkeeper
Photography by Micaela Hoo
Styling by me
Model: Amy at Starworks
Hair and Makeup: Elizabeth Chang
Styling Assistant: Paula Renee Chambers

Dress by Meadham Kirchoff, Alex & Lele earrings, model's own shoes

Dress by Lauren Moffatt

SUPERCUTE! (who will be performing at the NYC opening)

Photos: Daniel Silbert

Photo Assistant: Julian Barbarossa

Models: Julia, Rachel & Olivia

Shot on location at Farmacy, Brooklyn

Styling by me

On Julia: Rachel Antonoff dress, vintage necklace, on Rachel: Jill Stuart dress, vintage necklace, on Olivia: Orla Kiely dress, Jennifer Ouelette headband, vintage ring

Ballet Shoot with Claire Huish (photographer)
Styling by me
Model: Whitney at Premier
Hair and Makeup by Michelle Dacillo

On the left: top and skirt by Kelsey Genna, on right: headpiece by Loulou Loves You

Photo on right: dress by Alexandra Grecco, tights by Topshop, on right- dress by Kelsey Genna for Audrey Grace

La Belle Nuit

2012-02-25T17:08:00.000-08:00

Some very exciting things happening! Below is a preview of a video shoot styled by myself and shot by the lovely Serena and modeled by the always precious Katy. There is also an original song that will be featured in the video. I don't want to give too much way, but the video will be used to promote the NYC Audrey Grace pop up shop, and from what I have seen so far it's going to be magical.

Headband by Ban.do, vintage dress both available at Audrey Grace

New Shoot!

2012-02-21T12:21:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have been missing lately. I have been so busy with fashion week and planning the NYC pop up shop. I went home this past weekend to be interviewed and style a shoot for a local magazine called VIP. Below is a preview from the shoot. The ad will be used for promotion for the boutique in Jackson. I love the way the photos turned out! I also have two shoots and one video shoot this week! Special thanks to my adorable models- my cousin Honey, the adorable Caroline (who is an employee of Audrey Grace) and the beautiful Avery who is total high fashion model material! Enjoy the sneak peek below!

(Left to right) Honey wears vintage dress and Nikki Montenegro dress and ring with Cynthia Rowley shoes, Avery wears a Judith Suer dress, Ban.do headband and Kate Spade shoes, Caroline wears a Kelsey Genna dress, Electric Eccentricity necklace and Kate Spade shoes

I am wearing an Erin Fetherston dress and Lulu Frost ncklace

Photos by Allison Muirhead for VIP

Interview with Claire Huish!

2012-02-12T15:55:00.000-08:00

I was recently introduced to the beautiful photography of Claire Huish when she emailed me about a month ago and wanted to collaborate with me. Of course I was excited, given that Claire is so talented! I am styling a ballet inspired shoot for her, the results of which will come out later this month. Check out my interview with Claire and her photos below. For more information on her work, check out her website here.

Tell me a little bit about yourself, what you do, and your photography. Your photos are stunning!

Thank you! I'm 21 years old and from the UK. I'm currently based between my home, a tiny village in the idyllic Oxfordshire countryside; and Bournemouth, where I'm in the final term of my degree. I'll be moving to London in the early summer. My photography is fashion focused and I generally shoot on location and always with natural light, I am also currently working on some personal work which is more interior/exterior/still life based, working with themes of home and nostalgia.

Where are you originally from?

I was born in Oxford and lived there until I was seven.

What is your most treasured childhood memory?

Summer holidays in Ireland with my family. These memories are actually forming the foundations of my final major project at university.

Tell me about your most recent shoots.

I've been working in some really beautiful locations, such as the rugged cliffs near Bournemouth, a lavender farm & Brighton seafront, and with some incredible "props" such as a 1970s gypsy caravan and a vintage baby blue Bugatti!

What is your most favorite shoot you have done so far?

I can't single it down to one, but I always enjoy shoots the most when I have a fantastic creative team who work very well together, luckily this is true of most of my shoots!

Do you have any dream shoots or ideas that you'd love to work on?

Many that I'm working on at the moment, so I don't want to give too much away. But in time, I'd love to shoot further afield when I have a budget which will allow for it! My grandparents lived in Japan for a few years when they were younger & I always find seeing their pictures and hearing their stories about the culture there very inspiring, so it'd be a dream to shoot there. I'd also love to shoot in St. Petersburg & the colours of India are wonderful. Stunning locations are pivotal to my work and I'd love to push this further by shooting abroad. My final major project will be the start of this!

What are your favorite places in London? (shops, cafes, neighborhoods, etc.)

I love Kentish Town where I've been working recently, everyone is so friendly and it's just down the road from Camden. I am obsessed with Topshop so the flagship store on Oxford Street is always a must-visit for me! I also love Covent Garden for places to eat.

What are your favorite magazines, blogs, books and films for fashion?

Lula, British & Italian Vogue, Fashion 156, ones2watch, Material Girl are my favourite magazines and blogs. A couple of books that I find very evocative & make me want to shoot fashion stories are the Night Circus by Erin Morgenstein, and Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger. My favourite film for fashion is Breakfast at Tiffany's, which I have seen a million times! Any film with Audrey Hepburn is always fantastically stylish, I also love Sabrina and How to Steal a Million. I've just seen The Artist which is phenomenal, too - Berenice Bejo's wardrobe is full of feathers, beads and fur and I'd wear all of it!

If you could photography any celebrity or model, who would it be?

It would have been fascinating to photograph Lily Cole when she was just starting out, and I'd love to shoot portraits of Lana del Rey.

What publication would you love to see your photos in?

Lula and Vogue.

Who is your style icon?

Audrey Hepburn, Kate Moss in the late 90s/early 2000s & most currently, Olivia Palermo.

Who are your favorite designers, artists, and other photographers?

I love what Sarah Burton is doing for McQueen; Mary Katrantzou; Inbar Spector... My favourite painters are Degas, Klimt and the Pre-Raphaelite brotherhood. I'm a huge fan of the fashion photographer Deborah Turbeville, who I had the chance to interview last year, and also Paolo Roversi.

What is on your Spring fashion wish list?

One of Mary Katrantzou's dresses for Topshop launching in February - I've been saving up!

What was your favorite SS12 show?

I loved all the 1920s inspired clothes the best - the Ralph Lauren Great Gatsby-esque dresses and flapper caps, and Gucci's drop waist art deco dresses. On an entirely different note, I love the candy pop madness of the Meadham Kirchhoff show, and the huge tulle creations of Inbar Spector, one of which I was lucky enough to shoot just before Christmas.

Tell me about the shoot you are planning with Jaclyn and what are your inspirations for the shoot?

The concept is inspired by ballet; my inspirations include Degas paintings, the Lumiere Brothers' hand painted film of a woman dancing and Sarah Moon's colour palette.

What can you see yourself buying from Audrey Grace?

I love the Holly Golightly 1960s party dress you're currently selling! The pink is perfect for S/S and the feather details nod to the 1920s flapper trends this season.

What does the future look like for you and your work?

I hope moving to London will open a lot of new doors - it would be an honour one day to shoot for some of the publications I like reading the most, and I want to keep dreaming up imaginative concepts and pushing my work further.

All photos courtesy of Claire.

Hannah + Agnes + Jaclyn for Audrey Grace NYC

2012-02-08T12:07:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, Audrey Grace is popping up in NYC March 23-31st. I am beginning to work on a series of shoots to promote the shop. Here is the first one- a wonderful collaboration between photographer Agnes Thor, the lovely Hannah Metz and myself styling. I hope you enjoy.

Dress by TBA

Dress by Rodarte

Dress, vintage Jill Stuart, top by TBA, and shoes by Alice + Olivia

Dress by Jill Stuart vintage, TBA top, necklace by Lulu Frost

Dress by ASOS Salon

Shoes by Miu Miu

Dress by ASOS Salon, Top by TBA, Headband by It's Okay My Dear

Dress by Sretsis, Headband by Lunatic, Necklace by Lulu Frost

Dress by Sretsis, Headband by Lunatic, Necklace and bracelet by Lulu Frost

Dress by TBA, Socks by American Apparel (Hannah's own), shoes by Miu Miu

Vintage necklace, Lunatic Headband, TBA dress

Dress by Sretsis, boots by Rodarte, socks: Hannah's own

Bracelets by Lulu Frost, Dress by Sretsis

Shoes by Rodarte, socks, Hannah's own

Photography by Agnes Thor

Styling by Jaclyn Bethany

Model Hannah Metz

Valentine's props from Myzel's Chocolate Shop, NYC

Thank you to the amazing Agnes, Hannah for letting me use her house, Parlor showroom and Lulu Frost.

My Styling

2012-02-04T17:15:00.000-08:00

A very exciting preview of a shoot photographer Marie Zucker shot for Audrey Grace with me styling! It's so beautiful, I am so honored to be a part of the shoot.. More coming soon!

Model Katharina wears dress by Lady Petrova

Interview with Kristin and Claire of BLOW UP

2012-01-31T16:13:00.000-08:00

As many of you may have heard, Audrey Grace will be popping up in NYC March 23rd-31st at the Highline Loft. For the NYC pop up shop we have organized some really exciting work and events. First up, I am working with the girls of Blow Up! on event styling. Kristin and Claire truly have the same taste in fashion and decorating as me. They love Lula mag, Mulberry, puppies, and are frequent contributors to NYLON. I don't want to give too much away, but they are planning a beautiful, whimsical setting for Audrey Grace's NY space. Check out their work, inspiration and an interview with them below, plus a sneak peek of what they are planning for Audrey Grace's NYC takeover. So yeah, Kristin and Claire are the cutest. Check out there amazing blog here.

Tell me a little bit about yourself and your company BLOW UP! What you do, and your art work, designs, prop styling, etc.
We met a few years ago and instantly bonded over our love for design and DIY. We officially started our studio BLOW UP! almost two years ago. We have diverse design background from one another which helps bring different perspectives to our projects. Claire comes from a background in interior design and Kristin worked as a designer at Nylon Magazine. Collectively we tackle everything from art direction, set design, visual identity and prop styling.

What are your favorite places to visit in New York? (shop, cafes, etc.)
We like the free stuff new york has to offer. We try to take advantage of the “free” nights at museums, pop into openings at galleries, and ride our bikes everywhere looking for inspiration! Our favorite place to ride to in the summer is Fort Tilden Beach. If we ever get a day off, you can find us there :)

What are your favorite magazines, blogs, books and films for inspiration?
Mags:

I love you magazine
Apartmento

Movies: Beetlejuice
Twin Peaks

Blogs:Cat party blog
The cat scan tumblr

Who are your favorite designers and photographers?
Tim Walker, Guy Boudin, Ryan McGinley, Leslie David

What was your favorite SS12 show?
Louis Vuitton’s SS12 show by far! Just check out the LV inspired video I collaborated on with the talented stylist Michelle Reneau. http://blog.blowing-up.com/?p=1972

What has been your favorite project you've worked on?
That’s a hard one! Each project is so diverse and special in it’s own way. All of our projects signify a milestone, learning process, and challenge that are not comparable to each other.

What does the future look like for you?

We have no idea but we have BIG plans ;)

Tell me what y'all are working on for the Audrey Grace NYC pop up shop.

We are working on making it BLOW UP! :) Our paws will be on everything from the store layout, design and concept, props, color pallet and styling of merchandise.

What were your inspirations for this project and what is the theme?

The theme is inspired by chic, soft femininity. Picture dramatic floral’s, over-sized balloons, pretty pastels, cupcakes, blown up paper swans, bunnies, and fawns. It’s going to be girly and fun!

What type of girl do you see shopping at the Audrey Grace pop up?

A dreamer (with a sweet tooth ). The pop up shop will be like walking into a whimsical day dream.

What are some of your favorite things that are for sale at Audrey Grace?

We love the curated collection of illustrators and colorful artwork.

Vanity Fair

2012-01-25T19:33:00.000-08:00

Natasha Thompson of The Secret Tea Party for Audrey Grace. Check out more of her amazing work here!

Style Icon: Berenice Bejo as Peppy Miller in "The Artist"

2012-01-24T18:50:00.000-08:00

I saw The Artist last night at the romantic Paris cinema across from The Plaza Hotel. I loved this film so much, definitely my favorite film of this past year. I was transported to another era entirely and longed to live during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Everything about this film was brilliant- the music, the performances, the story, etc. And also the fashion, especially the beautiful 1920s boudoir belonging to up and coming film star Peppy Miller, played by Berenice Bejo. Peppy pranced about in sequins, drop waist dresses, feathers, furs, pretty hats, sailor dresses, red lipstick and a curly little bob. How it made me long to walk around the streets of Beverly Hills in my best outfit and gaze at the enormous houses while spotting film stars! I especially loved the last tap dance sequence with Charles and Peppy, her dress and hair pace was exquisite! This morning, The Artist received ten Oscar nominations. Berenice received one and with her lanky limbs and kookiness, she plays Peppy to adorable perfection.

Interview with Alix of The Cherry Blossom Girl

2012-01-21T11:53:00.000-08:00

I have been the biggest fan of Alix's for a while now. Her styling is perfect, and her photography beautiful. She truly has a dream closet- all the Miu Miu and Chanel a girl could ask for! She lives a dreamy life in Paris, and is incredibly sweet. Last month, Alix and I collaborated on a post in which Alix wore one of the custom Katie-Louise Ford pieces for Audrey Grace. You can check out the post here. Thank you Alix for everything and I hope this is the first of many collaborations between us!

Hello Alix, tell me a little bit about yourself and your blog The Cherry Blossom Girl.
I was born and raised in Paris, where I still live. It seems like I've always been attracted by beautiful things in this world. Most of all, I love to create things, and admiring other people's creativity.

When I was a kid, I first wanted to be an illustrator for children book, then drawing cartoon, then being a car and furniture designer, and finally ended up studing fashion. I got a Haute Couture degree, and specialized in embrodery and tailoring. I worked for some of my favourite brands, such as Alexander McQueen and Chloé, and really loved it. Then I started my blog in 2007, because I wanted to share my passion for fashion, others than my family and friends.The name of the blog comes from a song by french band AIR. The first time I heard this song, it felt like I was hearing my inner voice. It was perfecty expressing what I love: Romanticism, feminity, everything dreamy and beautiful.

Who are your favorite designers and artists?

I have many! But my favourite brand at the moment is Valentino. I'm really fond of Miu Miu also, Sonia Rykiel and Chloé ( I have something like 20 pairs of shoes from them). I also love Stella McCartney, Charles Anastase, Erin Fetherston, Marchesa... My favourite artist is Odillon Redon. Being more and more interested by photography, I admirate a lot Irina Ionesco, Ellen von Unwerth, David Hamilton, Tim Walker, Wendy Bevan, Sarah Moon... to name only a few!

What do you love about living in Paris? And what are your favorite places in Paris?

Paris feels like home. When I'm away from the city for a long time, I really miss it. I love it because it's a large city but not too much, and there's so many new things to discover everyday! It offers a lot of possibilities, such as museums, parks, nice cafés and restaurants, stores and bakeries... I've been living here for 20 years now, and I probably only know 10% of the town. I don't know if I have a favourite place, but I love hanging around in Saint Germain, walking along the seine, have a picnic on the Pont des Arts at spring time. Also I love to go outside Paris, and spend some lovely week end in Versailles, Fontainebleau forest, Bagatelle gardens and Chateaux de la Loire. There's a Paris guide on my blog where I listed all my favourite Paris addresses.

What are your favorite films for fashion?

My favoutite movie of all time (all time!) is The Virgin Suicides. The first reason why I watch a movie isn't because it's fashionable, but if characters are well dressed it's even better. Other movies I love: Harold & Maud, Picnic At Hanging Rock, The Piano, Marie Antoinette, Rosemary's Baby, Taxi Driver, Funny Face, Ghost World, Cry Baby, In The Eyes of Laura Mars, Valley of the Dolls, Une Femme Est Une Femme, Disney's Snow White and Sleeping Beauty.

What magazines and books do you read for inspiration?

My favourite book is "L'écume des jours" by Boris Vian. I never loved a book as much as this one after reading it.

Also I find " Le petit Prince" utterly charming (and sad!). I love everything Maupassant wrote (which makes him my favourite author I guess), and poems by Jacques Prévert. I'm inspired by fairy tales and novels. I read many books by Roald Dahl when I was a kid, and stories by la Comptesse de Ségur and Pierre Gripari.

For magazines, Lula is probably my favourite. I also read Jalouse, Vogue and ELLE UK.

Your photos on your blog are stunning. Do you take them all yourself?

I take most of the photos myself, using a tripod and a remote. I'm used to working like this since the beggining.

When it's photos taken in the streets of Paris or on holidays (when there's other people around), friends or sisters give me a hand and snap a few shots..

It seems like you have had some amazing travels as I can see on your blog. Which place has been your most favorite and why?

It's hard to name a favourite! But usually the most exotic (and far away) it is, the more I love it. It's probably the reason why I loved Japan, Kenya, Tahiti, Bali, China and Australia so much.

I love the shoes you designed for Farfetch and your lingerie line for Etam. Will you do some more designing in the future? Perhaps launch your own line?

I would love to launch my own line, but at the moment the blog takes so much time that I hardly can. Doing some lingerie for Etam has been an incredible exprerience. Nice bra and panties are as important as a pretty dress in my sense now!

Tell me about the collaboration with Audrey Grace. What could you see yourself buying from the shop?

I loved to collaborate with Audrey Grace! I would buy photographs by Nicky Peacock, and romantic dresses in pastel colours.

What does the future hold for you? Hopefully lots of exciting things!

We will see! Travels, discovery, exciting things and new friends I hope!

All photos courtesy of Alix. For more on Alix check out her beautiful blog here: www.thecherryblossomgirl.com

Interview with Marie Zucker

2012-01-15T18:40:00.000-08:00

Readers of this blog may be familiar with the work of the amazing, young photographer Marie Zucker. Marie is a Berlin based photographer and creates beautiful, fairy tale like photos. I am so excited to style my first shoot with her. Hopefully this will be the first of many more collaborations between us. Check out her beautiful photo here. Enjoy the interview and Marie's photos below.

Tell me a little bit about yourself, what you do, and your photography.

I am a neurotic cat lover and aspiring fashion photographer. I am a bit shy and unsocial and enjoy staying in with a good cup of lady grey in my hands. Apparently someone just told me i am a 20 year old trapped in the body of a 40 year old. Nice huh? Pretty much sums up my way of life!

What do you love about living in Berlin?

It's cheap and not overcrowded with tourists. a little dirty, not as posh as Paris or London. I grew up in a village not too far away from it so it just feels a bit like home to me.

What are your favorite places to visit in Berlin? (shop, cafes, etc.)

For shops I would recommend Soeur Berlin, they have good second hand clothes. Fräulein Frost is my most favorite place to buy ice cream, their poppyseed ice is so good! Manouche is also a really nice place if you crave something sweet (their crepes are scrumptious) and I love the chén chè teahouse..

What is your most favorite shoot you have done so far?

The last one I did in the greenhouses of the botanical gardens which I haven't published yet, Katy Smail is going to edit the pictures with illustrations and I am very excited about the results. The shoot itself was fun, too, because I really like the model (Hannah Kuessner) she was sleeping at my place before the shoot and we tried on the clothes until 1 am and discussed about what to wear with what.. usually the models aren't even interested in the clothes I pick.

Do you have any dream shoots or ideas that you'd love to work on?

I currently have two dream shoots in mind, the first one would be a mermaid shoot by the sea and the second one a darker shoot in the forests around schloss neuschwanstein (really old pretty castle in the south of Germany), apart from that I have lots of other ideas I will work on or am already working on!

What are your favorite magazines, blogs, books and films for fashion?

Lula, Russh, Oyster, Vogue Paris - Italia & Nippon, NYLON, Frankie, Material Girl, LOVE.. for blogs I love Katy's blog "Thistledown Spirits" (http://thistledownspirits.blogspot.com/), "Rookie" (http://rookiemag.com/) of course and "Cake with Giants" (http://cakewithgiants.blogspot.com/)

If you could photography any celebrity or model, who would it be?

I would love to photograph Vlada Roslyakova.

What publication would you love to see your photos in?

Lula!

Who is your style icon?

Not sure if I really have one.. Chloe Sevigny maybe?

Who are your favorite designers and other photographers?
The Rodarte sisters, Meadham Kirchhoff, Miu Miu, Erdem.. Chadwick Tyler is my favorite photographer at the moment I think. I also admire the work of Stacey Mark, Wendy Bevan and Yelena Yemchuk.

What is on your Spring fashion wish list?

I want banana heeled shoes (love these babies here: http://www.thecorner.com/de/f%C3%BCr-sie/ankle-boot_cod44357832wn.html) and lots of Indian jewelery.

What was your favorite SS12 show?

I rather found the Chanel "Paris - Bombay" pre fall 2012 show really inspiring.. I've been thinking about doing a shoot in an Indian garden so this is the perfect inspiration.. looksie: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWtOvbQHFIM I love the jewelery and the embellished clothes!

What can you see yourself buying from Audrey Grace?

Loved the pale blue dress by Katie-Louise Ford you were wearing in pictures and the collages by Miss Likey.. I'm sure that if i had the chance to get to the shop I would probably need to rent a truck to transport all the things that I'd love to buy!

What is the future look like for you and your work? (some work with me, I hope! )

I am starting to do little fashion films now, I am already organizing the first which is scheuled for the end of January.. I also want to do more collaborations (might be doing something with Caitlin Shearer) and I am very much looking forward to be shooting with you in London!

All photos, courtesy Marie. Thank you so much Marie!

Interview with Jessica Silversaga

2012-01-13T18:41:00.000-08:00

Continuing on my love of all things Scandinavian, I recently contacted the talented Jessica Silversaga. I have loved her photography for a while, it's so beautiful and whimsical. Jessica also runs a great blog here, where she blogs about her collection of fairy tale dresses and many other precious things. She also runs an Etsy shop where she is selling some beautiful vintage dresses and her first photography book. Check out the shop here. Jessica seems just as busy as me! She agreed to answer some questions for me, where I chatted to her about her work and style- which you can check out below. I really want to visit Stockholm- and when I do, I will have to collaborate with Jessica. Enjoy!

Tell me a little bit about yourself, what you do, and your photography.

Hello, my name is Silversaga and I love making pictures, I cant imagine my life without that. As a little girl I dreamed of being a writer and tell stories about love. Soon I started to feel as I could tell more with photographs than words. I still enjoy writing and work as both a journalist and photographer. I have been photographing for a couple of years now and use both new and old cameras, I prefer working with film. I like having my camera instead of writing a diary, so my work is many times an emotional reflection of my surroundings and the people I meet. I also love photographing fashion.

What do you love about living in Stockholm?

Everything I need is here at this moment. Everything that I love. I have only lived in Stockholm since October last year and this year I feel as it is time for me to go out and make everything happening. My dream is to work as a photographer, or work with photos in some other ways. I hope this will happend during 2012.

What are your favorite places to visit in Stockholm? (shop, cafes, etc.)

I really enjoy vintage shopping, so that is a great thing to do in the city. My favorite store is Old Touch at Upplandsgatan 43. One other great thing is to put on the dancing shoes and go to Chicago at Hornsgatan 75 and listen to jazz and swing music. Even if you don't dance, you can pick up some great moves from the other dancers!

What is your most favorite shoot you have done so far?

Oh, hard question but I think it is the one I did with Malin for Heart Magazine. I love everything about that photo shoot, the summer and light blue sky. Here red hair in the wind. The green green grass. Just the feeling of being light and happy, which I think summer is for me in so many ways. (http://www.silversaga.se/heartmag.html)

Do you have any dream shoots or ideas that you'd love to work on?

I have many dream shoots in my head. Especially I would like to take portraits of female artists and actors this year.

What are your favorite magazines, blogs, books and films for fashion?

I love Lula Magazine and would love to make a photo shoot for them some day. I don't read so many blogs, but my favorite books are almost everything by the amazing Haruki Murakami. "Norwegian Wood" was so beautiful. I would love to put that book into photographs. My favorite film directors are Tim Burton, Sofia Coppola and Jean-Pierre Jeunet.

I see your a fan of Alexandra Grecco. She is stocked in my shop. What do you love about her designs?

Yes, she is amazing. Hopefully we will work together in the future. What I love about her clothes are many things, her way to work with colors and choice of materials. Her eye for shapes and cuts. I love the femenine and light design. I would love to have more pieces of her work in my closet, right now I have the Scalloped esh blouse and The northern alps halo.

If you could photograph any celebrity or model, who would it be?

Oh, I would pick Kirsten Dunst. Many people says that I look a little like her. I really like the softness of her apparence, so it would be a beautiful shoot, for sure!

What publication would you love to see your photos in?

Lula Magazine. I must be published in that magazine in this life. It is one of my biggest dreams.

How did it feel to be featured in a beautiful magazine, like Little Thing?

I felt very honored and happy. The next issue will have a longer interview with me and more photographs. Thank you Little Thing, I love you.

Tell me about your book of photography.

Yes, "01 - Where no endings end" is part one in a series of self published art books. The pictures in the book is selected from my seven years as a photographer. I have plans to make a new book every year. The debut book is very limited, only 250 copies and every book is signed and numbered. It is almost sold out, so everyone interested should get one copy. There will be no more editions and this year I will make the 02 - book!

Who are your favorite designers, artists, and other photographers?

My favorite designers are so many. I love the work of Marc Jacobs and Miu Miu. Last year I totally fell in love with TBA - To be adored. I bought three dresses from their collection. I hope that they can read this and ask me to work with them. I have fallen totally in love with their style. I often get the question which one are my favorite photographer and I dont really have one. I don't get so much inspiration from other photographers. I think my biggest inspiration comes from everyday life. Dreams. People that I love. Sometimes I also get inspired by watching movies and of course, fairytales!

What is on your Spring fashion wish list?

More vintage dresses, a leather satchel and maybe a cute coat.

What is the future look like for you and your work?

Hopefully bright and happy. I will have a large exhibition in Stockholm during 2012 and I will also release my second photo book. And I will never stop dreaming.

If you enjoy Jessica's stunningly beautiful photography, check out her website!

Thank you so much for your sweet time, Jessica!

Interview with Linda Portman

2012-01-09T18:50:00.000-08:00

Lately, I have become obsessed with all things Scandinavian- and specifically Swedish. After seeing the new version of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo on Christmas Day, I began reading all of the books. Seriously, how amazing was Rooney Mara? Anyway, it gave me the urge to travel to Sweden, and specifically Stockholm one day. There's also some great, sleek Swedish brands- Acne, anyone? I imagine myself in a black leather jacket and jeans from Acne pounding the streets of Stockholm in some awesome pink Swedish hasbeens. I've also heard Sweden has excellent vintage shopping. I've always admired the work of Swedish born, London based stylist Linda Portman, and then discovered the amazing work of the Stockholm based photographer Jessica Silversaga. You can check out Linda's website here. She styles amazing fairy tale like shoots for publications such as Material Girl, and styles the lookbooks for TBA, which Audrey Grace stocks. She's also in the process of launching an online magazine herself, which will be called Coquette Journal. The website will be here. Below, enjoy beautiful photographs of Linda's styling and a lovely interview with the lady herself.

Hi Linda! Tell me about what you do and how you first discovered fashion.
I work as a stylist but I too have a blog called Alice in Wonderland (http://alicewonderland2.blogspot.com) and take photographs. Not really sure how I discovered fashion, it just grew from being music and dance obsessed.
What is a typical day like for you?
Each day/week is different.
Your shoots have been featured in some of my favorite magazines, like Material Girl. What do you do in order to get ready for a shoot and come up with a concept?
Each season I look at the shows and find what inspires me, I start with this and then I collaborate with the photographer on themes/ ideas for the shoot. When this is ready I start to request clothes that fits the theme and hope that I get my favorite looks. For each shoot I try to find special things that adds an extra touch to the styling.  Ideas comes from magazines, films, children's books, art, a certain color, books etc etc.
What would be your dream magazine to style for?
Vogue Italia with Tim Walker or Paolo Roversi being the photographers.
Which celebrity would you love to style for an event?
Dakota Fanning!
Who are your favorite designers?
Alexander McQueen and Marc Jacobs (including his work for Louis Vuitton) have always been loves of mine. I usually like Miu Miu, Rochas, Comme des Garcons, Nina Ricci, Prada, Chanel, and Valentino too. And I did love Tao.
Who are your favorite artists and photographers?
I have so many.....!
Photographers: Paolo Roversi, Deborah Turbeville, Sally Mann, Francesca Woodman, Irina Ionesco, Sara Moon, Steven Meisel, Tim Walker.
Artists: Renoir, Waterhouse, John Currin, Lisa Yuskavage, Annie French among others.
Where are you originally from?
Uddevalla, Sweden.
What are your favorite places in London? (shops, neighborhoods, etc.)
Maison Bertaux, Sketch, The Swedish Church, Ritz Hotel, The Victorian Cemeteries, The Churchill Arms, The English Restaurant, The Albion are a few places I love.
I see you travel alot.. What has been your favorite trip this year?
My New York trip that I took in late September. The weather was amazing and I really loved seeing my friends again.
What was your favorite SS12 show?
I really loved Comme des Garcons!! Then also Chanel, Rodarte, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs and Prada.
Do you have a dream shoot idea? Anyone you'd love to work with or a concept you'd love to shoot?
This would be a secret!
I love your collaboration with the illustrators featured on your blog! Tell me a little bit about that.
The artists I have worked with so far are Jenny Tallberg and Polina Barskaya. We have collaborated in the same way I do with photographer's, only they paint instead of taking photos.
I see you style the TBA lookbooks. What do you love about those designs?
The clothes are adorable. When Bin Bin started her label "To Be Adored" there was a gap in the market for sweet clothing, perfectly made for an affordable price and it did set her apart from everything/ one else.
What are your favorite blogs?
I have one I read every day, Nio till Fem.
What are your favorite films for fashion?
I don't really have one. I did like Polly Maggo. I do have millions of movies I love though, but they are not technically fashion films.
What's your favorite decade for vintage?
I have a few! Turn of the century and then the 60's and 70's.
Tell me about the website your developing, Coquette Journal?
It is a platform for fashion of the times in a lovely Coquettish Manner.
I love this quote by Anais Nin: "I disregard the proportions, the measures, the tempo of the ordinary world. I refuse to live in the ordinary world as ordinary women. To enter ordinary relationships. I want ecstasy. I am a neurotic — in the sense that I live in my world. I will not adjust myself to the world. I am adjusted to myself."
What does the future look like for you?
I do have a couple of shoots in January and the rest of mine time I will give to my Coquette & Alice in Wonderland. I do have bigger plans for 2012 but don't want to talk too much about them. I do want to learn more about photography and then travel more. Do some more painting.

All photos, courtesy of Linda Portman. Thank you so much, Linda!

Interview with Josie of Frances Baker

2012-01-04T14:03:00.000-08:00

A few months ago I discovered the designs of the talented designer, Josie, behind the label Frances Baker. She worked on three lovely custom dresses for the shop, inspired by Luella and Lula magazine. She just launched her first made to order collection for SS12, which is inspired by adolescence and filled with beautiful fabrics and Peter Pan collars. If I lived close to Josie, I think we would be great friends. We both love Nadinoo, Rookie Mag, and The Virgin Suicides. My conversation with the lovely Josie follows below. And be sure to check out her blog and online store here.

Hello Josie! Tell me a little bit about your day today.
Today I am working on an order for a customer in Sydney. I work in my tiny studio apartment in Melbourne where I live with my boyfriend, and I am constantly getting distracted by the sunny day outside and watching the people down in the street!
What inspired you to create a fashion line?
I have wanted to start my own label for a very long time. The idea to make Frances Baker as the label it is came partly during my travels overseas, where I gathered a lot of inspiration and honed my personal style and interests a bit, partly from my enthusiasm for ethical and handmade fashion, and I was finally pushed over the edge when I decided I simply couldn’t handle working in a job that wasn’t creative anymore! So I took the plunge, not really knowing what would happen, and even though it’s still early days I would definitely say the satisfaction I’ve gotten from it so far makes it is the best thing I’ve ever done.
Where does the name Frances Baker come from?
Frances Baker is the name I came up with for my blog when I first started it about 3 years ago. I sort of came up with it on a whim, combining my middle name Frances with the last name of Josephine Baker, who I’ve had a long running fascination with (partly because I share her first name too). I like it because the name Frances itself means free woman (according to a name book I have at home!) and Josephine Baker was also quite the free, independent and very impressive woman, with a really wonderful flamboyant style to match. She was a civil rights activist and also assisted the French Resistance during World War II, among other things. I’m really inspired by her amazing style as well as her strong convictions and self belief. I’m pretty happy to have a label that pays tribute to someone like that, and I like to think that Frances Baker clothing would appeal to ladies with similar values!
How long have you been designing?
I only started doing it professionally when I started Frances Baker just over two months ago! But I have been sewing since I was in Primary School, and creativity has played an important role in my life since I was very young.
Have you always loved fashion?
Definitely, though in my case I think it would be better to say that I have always loved clothes rather than fashion. I love clothes as a means of creative expression, and the way they make you feel. I like how certain memories can be attached to certain outfits, or the way certain garments can inspire a mood. Clothes are costumes, and they can make you feel confident, change your mood, or help you to express who you feel you are inside to the outside world. A lot of my favourite clothes are inspired by nostalgia. I like to design clothes that remind me of how I felt as a child, or the way I felt when I watched a certain movie or read a certain book. I guess my love of clothes was why I started sewing so young, to try and make the clothes I had in my head! I remember being incredibly inspired after reading The Secret Garden for the first time, and desperately wishing I had a little button up green wool coat, which I was sure would make me feel like Mary Lennox setting off into the mist for an adventure!
What do you love about living in Melbourne? (I visited there twice over the summer I loved it so much.)
I think I like the fact that it feels like there is a lot of creativity going on here! Maybe that's just because a lot of my friends are creative so I'm getting a biased point of view. The cafe and bar culture is also really lovely, there are so many amazing place to go out for breakfast, which happens to be my favourite meal to eat out! Since travelling though, I do sometimes dream about moving to some of the amazing cities I visited for a longer period of time. I love that feeling of starting fresh, being lost in a big city and knowing there is so much to discover.
What are your favorite places in Melbourne?
That is incredibly hard! I am living in the city at the moment which is amazing but I do kind of miss the creative community/student-y vibe of living in Brunswick and the northern suburbs. I have so many favourite cafes and bars but at the moment living where we live we are spending a lot of time eating bagels at Jungle Juice, getting bentos at Ramen Ya and rice paper rolls at Miss Chus. Most of all though I just love to be at home! Can't beat it.
What's on your fall wish list?
Well at the moment here it is Summer so I am pretty distracted by sundresses and the like but lately I have been finding myself drawn to corduroy for cooler weather.
What are you looking forward to doing over the holiday season?
Hopefully making some things! Doing Christmas craft is a very long standing tradition with my sister and I and it's ridiculous how much I enjoy it. I am also hoping to spend lots of time at the beach this Summer, because that really makes it feel like Christmas holidays for me, but I don't usually find the time to fit a swim in very often.
Australia is known for the arts and has a really strong fashion scene. What do you think of all the up and coming designers out of Australia and who is your favorite?
Well Lover and Secret Squirrel are pretty lovely, but I have to be honest and say that most of my favourite labels from this part of the world are from New Zealand. Labels such as Twenty Seven Names, Juliette Hogan and Karen Walker. I have a bit of an obsession with New Zealand, I just really want to go on a road trip there this Summer and visit the beautiful beaches and see all the amazing landscapes. I'm sure I'll make it one day, it's not exactly far! In terms of the fashion scene though, I think Indigo Clarke gave a pretty interesting description of Antipodean style in her interview on liebemarlene.com (a really great interview, definitely worth checking out!): “Perhaps because Australia and New Zealand are so removed from the rest of the world, and are seasonally opposite to the fashion centres of London, Paris, NY, our style is somewhat unique ... I also put it down to antipodeans having a real understanding, and need of, a quality lifestyle – we love nature, beaches, the outdoors and the way we dress reflects this – we tend to wear comfortable, practical but also interesting and optimistic clothing and colours. So our clothing is very much reflective of the way we live, not just aesthetic taste.” Though I'm not sure if Australian fashion is terribly unique or not, I found that comment really thoughtful, and I do think the way I dress is very much influenced by my lifestyle here.
Who are your favorite designers?
I am always really inspired by Orla Kiely and Dear Creatures, they're amazing! I also love Nadinoo's use of pattern in her designs. TBA make some pretty incredible clothes, and Family Affairs, and lately I have been coveting the Goldie London collection.
What was your favorite SS12 show?
Karen Walker.
If you could see any celebrity wearing your dress who would it be and why?
I have no idea! I guess it's hard because I don't really have any celebrity muses. The people who inspire me are other bloggers whose style I admire, people on the street, characters from film & TV, etc. Oh no wait, I have a definite girl crush at the moment on Hailee Steinfeld. I would probably lose my mind if I ever saw her in one of my dresses!
Who is your style icon?
I am utterly inspired by Hannah Metz, I think her style is incredible. I have also been quite enjoying Tavi Levinson's outfits of late. Other than the blog world I really love Anna Karina, Mia Farrow, Brigitte Bardot and of course Josephine Baker is an old favourite.
What are your favorite books and magazines for inspiration?
The Secret Garden is a really big influence for me in terms of books. I don't know why it's stuck with me so much, but it has! My favourite magazine to read is The Gentlewoman, which I find inspiring in so many ways. The photos in Lula are incredible, and I also read Russh and Frankie on a pretty regular basis, depending on the issues. Having a taste for children's style, I've lately found myself drawn to the editorials in a children's fashion magazine called Papier Mache.
What is your favorite fairy tale?
The Paper Bag Princess!
What are your favorite films for fashion?
I love a lot of French New Wave films, such as A Woman is a Woman and Breathless. French New Wave heroines were all about embodying a simple, natural style in comparison to older actresses of the time. I love how young and fresh it feels. Lately I have been inspired by The Virgin Suicides, as well as Reality Bites, Little Women, and How to Make an American Quilt (I've been on a Winona Ryder kick!)
What are your favorite Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly films or looks they have worn?
Of Audrey's film I really love Charade, and though I find Funny Face horribly sexist I do love the beautiful outfits (plus I have a soft spot for musicals). For Grace, I would definitely have to say Rear Window.
What is the future like for you and your line?
At the moment I'm working on a collaboration with a shoemaker friend of mine, which I am incredibly excited about! I've also just released my Summer collection for this year, which is made entirely from sustainable fabrics: hemp and beautiful soft bamboo textiles. I guess I'll see where it goes...!

All photos courtesy of Josie- featuring her SS12 collection and one adorable photo of the lady herself!

Art by Madame Lolina

2012-01-01T13:00:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! I just wanted to share a few custom illustrations that were done by the shop by the very talented Madame Lolina. She drew some of my favorite style crushes from the Hollywood Film Awards- Elle Fanning, Emma Stone, Felicity Jones, Carey Mulligan, Elle Fanning, Andrea Riseborough, Michelle Williams and Elle and Dakota Fanning in their stunning W Magazine spread. These lovely prints are available at Audrey Grace, so email me if you'd like to buy one! My email is jbethany@fordham.edu.. Also be sure to check out Madame Lolina's website here. Her drawings are so whimsical and beautiful. A perfect start to the new year!

Louis Vuitton SS12

2011-12-27T10:33:00.000-08:00

If there was one collection ever that totally defines my style it is Marc Jacob's Louis Vuitton SS12 collection. It's perfect pastel colors, feathers, and sparkles are the epitome of my style. The presentation of the collection with the amazing carousel and the finale with Kate Moss just continues my obsession. This collection definitely gave Chanel a run for it's money. A few days ago the campaign photos leaked, which features two models in pastel confections in an ice cream shop. How perfect! The makeup and hair looks also are dreamy. Lovely 60s bouffants with dewy skin and pastel colored makeup. I have a feeling I will be purchasing an accessory from this collection- a parasol, perhaps? The whole collection is very Catherine Deneuve in Umbrellas of Cherbourg, although I have no idea if this was one of the inspirations behind the collection. The celebrities who have been wearing this collection are some of my favorite style makers- Elle Fanning and Cate Blanchett. I can also see Kirsten Dunst, Michelle Williams and Zooey Deschanel wear the pieces. Awards season, perhaps? I would so love to stock this beautiful collection in Audrey Grace. I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and is looking forward to New Year's! Enjoy these beautiful photos of the Louis Vuitton spring collection! Oh, how it makes me wish I was in Paris..

Interview with Helen Martin, the editor of Lionheart Magazine

2011-12-23T10:21:00.000-08:00

It's true that Audrey Grace is the only United States stockist of Lionheart Magazine. I just read the first issue of Lionheart myself, and it was very inspiring! Congratulations to Helen and her team for compiling a beautiful magazine brimming with illustrations, essays, and feel good fashion. I suggest you pick up a copy! Helen's website is here. I also had the pleasure of interviewing Helen about her special magazine below. Also, the photos are a sneak peek of who is profiled in the first issue. Maybe you'll recognize some of them? Enjoy!

Hi Helen- tell me a little bit about yourself, what you do, where you grew up, etc.

Hi there, my name’s Helen/Hels, I am 27 and the Editor and creator of Lionheart Magazine. I grew up in a little village in the green hills, just outside of Brighton. I loved it there, it was very quintessentially English, but with a mighty twist - that being Brighton. I adored the Georgian city and went there as often as I could to meet my friends, walk the seafront, sit in the coffee shops and observe everything going on around me. It’s now in a romantic, rose tinted part of my memory.

It was also a bubble!

I left and lived in Australia for a year, coming back via Bali (heart), Fiji, NZ etc. then went to university by the wilder coast of Cornwall. This is one of the best places in the world, full of brilliant people, incredible scenery and a zest for life.

I now live in Bristol, in the middle of a four- legged spider: London, Brighton, Cornwall and Jersey (an island by France, an hour or so away by plane), where Charlie, my boyfriend is from.

Tell me about the magazine you are starting, Lionheart magazine.

It’s a beautiful collection of talent; interviews, inspiration, illustration, craft, gardening, style and a grasping of the wonder of life as we have it. As opposed to aspiring for more, the magazine encourages learning, growth and dancing!

What can girls look forward to in Lionheart?

Witty editorial, honest accounts, brilliant interviews, great style, wonderful illustrations and a positive, true outlook. Issue one will have an interview with Bleubird Vintage, a piece by BBC presenter, Cherry Healey and style chat from the recent winner of Cosmo’s Best New Fashion blog award, Olivia Purvis. It’s 96 pages, printed on thick, matte paper and the perfect size for your handbag.

What made you want to start a magazine? Were you inspired by independent British magazines such as Lula?

I wanted to create something that people would keep, something inspiring, peachy good and a real reflection of their lives, interests and desires. Lula, Oh Comely etc., I really like, but Frankie Magazine, from Australia, was the magazine that really struck a chord with me. It’s brilliant. That said, Lionheart Magazine has its very own, distinct voice and style. You’ll see what I mean I hope, it’s definitely a unique publication, covering a multitude of topics.

What do you love about living in Bristol?

I love the Georgian architecture, creative community, easy access to amazing mountains and sea, and how I can get everywhere on my bike - no need for public transport or the use of a car.

Who is your style icon?

Grace Kelly had something that went beyond just incredible style, she was so elegant, stunning and inspiring. I think she’s a timeless icon, absolutely. I went to an exhibition of her dresses at the V&A and was mesmerised by the pieces, but it’s when you see her in them, that her true icon credentials become apparent. As regards to modern day icons, there are so many blogs full of them! Bleubird Vintage’s”Miss” James, is obviously a stylish lady.

Since your magazine will be stocked in Audrey Grace, what can you see yourself buying from the boutique?

Oooh, I love everything so much! Vintage styles are my favourite and you’ve collected brands from around the world, so it’s a dream shop! I love Rachel Antonoff, Katie Louise Ford and Her Pony, so pretty.

What are you favorite magazines, books and films for inspiration?

Books: Brave New World - Aldous Huxley, A Staggering Work Of Heartbreaking Genius - Dave Eggers, The Loved One - Evelyn Waugh and Great Gatsby - F. Scott Fitzgerald, Tess Of the D’Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy.

Magazines: Frankie, VOGUE, Another Magazine.

Films: True Romance, Me, You and Everyone We know, Somersault, Shooting Fish, Drive and From Paris With Love.

If you could travel anywhere in the world and stay for an indefinite amount of time, where would it be and why?

That’s a really tough question! I’m always keen for an adventure, I’d miss my cat and friends, but a travelling life persistently beckons. I’d love to visit Stockholm, Vancouver, Costa Rica, Brazil, New York and Portland. I’d also like to live in France at some point –Charlie’s family have a little, simple cottage there and it’s such an escape - I guess, as far as where I’d live for an indefinite time though…well as long as I’m with Charlie, I have blankets, the potential to bring Francois the cat, Charlie has surf and I have paper and pens to write, I would be happy in many places. I’m happy here for now.

What is the future like for you and Lionheart?

Well, I hope, hope to be continuing to create Lionheart Magazine for many years. It means so much to me and I believe it’s something that will continue to grow and hopefully become a staple in people’s lives, like their cornflakes in the morning. I hope people see it as the breath of fresh air they’ve been waiting for. It’s beautiful, I promise.

All images www.lionheart-mag.com

Thank you so much, Helen!

The Cherry Blossom Girl

2011-12-20T19:27:00.000-08:00

On Sunday evening, I was beyond excited to see the beautiful Alix (www.thecherryblossomgirl.com) wearing a Katie-Louise Ford for Audrey Grace dress on her blog. This has to be one of my favorite dresses in the shop. It perfectly suits Alix and her styling of the dress is amazing. There is also a photo of the lookbook Caitlin Shearer did for the boutique. Alix's blog has been one of the most inspiring things I have found in recent years. I love her styling, photography, travels, etc. She has amazing taste, and I was so proud to collaborate her for Audrey Grace. Hopefully this will be the first of many collaborations between us. Both the lookbook and dress are for sale through me. The lookbook retails for $53 and the dress for $350. I have the dress available in a US size 6 and 8, although it runs small. Please don't hesitate to contact me at jbethany@fordham.edu if you are interested in purchasing either of these items. How could you resist with Alix's beautiful styling? Enjoy the photos.

All photos by Alix Bancourt (www.thecherryblossomgirl.com)

Audrey Grace Boutique Opening Night!

2011-12-18T20:24:00.000-08:00

So it happened- Audrey Grace has officially opened. And I loved every minute of it! Here are some lovely pictures of the opening night. I wore a beautiful Lucy in Disguise "Chaplin" dress, which I kept, and a headband by Ashley Cheeks. If you see anything you think you might like from these photos, please don't hesitate to email me- jbethany@fordham.edu. I can provide more information on the pieces. All the art and photography is also for sale.
Enjoy the photos, and let me know what you think about my lovely little shop!
P.S. We are in the process of opening up an online shop- so stay tuned!

Interview with Alexandra Grecco

2011-12-16T18:54:00.000-08:00

One of the first discoveries I made for the shop was the beautiful designs of Alexandra Grecco. I remember meeting Alexandra in the West Village at Tea and Sympathy, and our first meeting just warmed my heart. I knew our work together would be incredibly special. I am stocking many of Alexandra's designs from her main collections, and she has also done some very special custom pieces for the shop. Everything Alex created for me was really inspired by the style of Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly. Plus, we did some fun quirky pieces like a dress with hand-painted cats! Anyway, Alexandra is a beautiful in person (both inside and out) as her designs. She's has had a big week, she's currently hosting a trunk show at Bloomingdales in Soho of her holiday collection, so if your in New York, stop by! I predict an amazing future for this girl. Check out her inspiring blog here: Alexandra Grecco. Tomorrow is the opening night of the shop and after a long day of work I think the shop is nearly ready to open! I wish Alexandra (and all the other designers, artists, photographers, etc.) who made this shop amazing could attend- but know you are in my thoughts and I am eternally thankful. Please enjoy the interview with Alexandra below.

Bloggers Louise (Miss Pandora) and Alix (The Cherry Blossom Girl) wearing Alexandra Grecco SS10

Northern Alps Halo and Scalloped Blouse

Alex on holiday in Montana

A look from SS12

Hello Alex, tell me a little bit about yourself, what you do, and your line.

I currently live in a lovely neighborhood in Brooklyn where I work on my womenswear line, Alexandra Grecco which I started about 2 years ago. I created my company with the intention of making quality garments with detail reminiscent of Old Hollywood and the deco period. I'm so happy being a part of a field where I get to meet and collaborate with so many talented people.

What can my customers expect to see from your line that will be available in Audrey Grace? (Tell me about the custom pieces, collections, etc.)

Jaclyn picked some of my favorite pieces for the shop! Some are from my upcoming SS12 collection, and others are best-sellers from previous collections. We also did quite a few custom designs exclusive to the boutique, including some hand-painted frocks, embroidered stockings, floral crowns and jewelry! So much fun!

How would you define the type of girl that wears your clothes?

I've discovered that there are many different types of gals from many parts of the world who wear my clothes, so I don't know if it's possible to come up with a definition. I have to say that all the customers I've ever met or conversed with online has just been so lovely!

What is your favorite decade for fashion?

I'm always torn between the 20's and 60's, so I'm going to name two!

What are your favorite places in NYC (and Brooklyn)?

I love my neighborhood in Brooklyn and the surrounding neighborhoods as well. I enjoy secret escapades to Dough in Bed Stuy very much! Prime Meats in Carroll Gardens or Vinegar Hill House are two places I would dine every night if I could afford it. I'm always reminded of how magnificent the city is when I just wander the streets and people-watch on a lovely day.

How does it feel to see style icons like Sarah Sophie Flicker wearing your designs?

Pretty wonderful! I've been a long-time admirer of hers and she's been so lovely and supportive.

Who would be the ultimate celebrity you would love to see wearing your designs?

I recently gave a few pieces to Michelle Williams, including the "If I Only Had a Heart Dress" which she was particularly fond of. She's such a tremendous talent and down to earth, so, I'd say her!

What are your favorite magazines for fashion?
Lula and Frankie!

Who is your vintage (and modern) style icon?

I admire anyone who is visibly comfortable with what they are wearing and how they carry themselves...I don't mean sweatpants, just incase that was ambiguous.
Who are your favorite designers?
Miuccia Prada, Lyell, Rodarte.
and photographers?
Gosh, I have quite a few, but to name a couple: Wendy Bevan, Alex Prager, Dan Estabrook, Ellen Von Unwerth.

What is on your Christmas list?

A new pair of boots! I'm notorious for wearing the same pair everyday until the soles wear thin. Running around the garment district ruins shoes!

What can you see yourself buying from Audrey Grace?

Most everything, especially the mural by Katy Smail!

Describe an ideal day for you.

A day with no plans.

Are you designing a holiday collection- or working on AW12?

Finished with holiday, onto AW12! I'll be releasing a vintage-inspired bridal line in 2012, so I'm working on samples for that too.

What does the future hold for you and your line?

Whatever it is, I'm excited to see it all unfold.

Sarah Sophie Flicker wearing the Violetta headband

Alex with some of her beautiful dresses

Paper doll design- Natasha Thompson (http://thesecret-teaparty.blogspot.com/) for Audrey Grace Boutique

All other photos courtesy, Alexandra Grecco

Audrey Grace Gift Cards

2011-12-11T20:28:00.000-08:00

These delightful Audrey Grace gift certificates will be available in the shop for any amount you wish to purchase them for! They were designed by the lovely and talented Ale of Rosaspina Vintage- check out her beautiful blog here: Rosaspina Vintage. Ale has created several lovely things for the shop and I have gotten to know her over the process of setting up the boutique and can say she is truly an Audrey Grace girl!
Do you want a gift card to Audrey Grace for Christmas?

Interview with Anabela from Fieldguided!

2011-12-08T14:47:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I did an interview post on the blog. Looking back through my emails, I have found the perfect interview. You probably already know about Anabela's beautiful line of tote bags and accessories (which she designs with her boyfriend, Geoff), and her blog: Fieldguided. I always enjoy looking at Anabela's blog for inspiration. Not only is she a designer, she also takes amazing photographs. It is clear she is an Audrey Grace girl- she's a fan of Lulu Frost, Lula and all things vintage. Audrey Grace is stocking her tote bags as well. I think her tote bags would be a perfect Christmas gift. She also makes adorable cat calendars, which are featured in the photos at the end of this post. I interviewed the lovely Anabela a while ago and I am finally getting around to posting her interview here on the blog! Hope you enjoy!

P.S. Audrey Grace opens in nine days!!! I just went by the Lulu Frost studio here in New York to pick up my order. They were having a holiday sale and everything was so beautiful! So excited to be stocking so many amazing designers.

Hi Anabela! How has your day been and what did you do today?

Hello! My day has been pretty nice. The weather was moody and I liked walking to the bus in the wind before the rain. I got a sample of perfume that I love in the mail, and my boyfriend made me a delicious lunch, so lots of good things happened.

Tell me a little bit about yourself, and your line Fiedguided.

I live in Toronto with my boyfriend and our two cats. I work in a university library during the day. Geoff & I started Fieldguided sort of haphazardly, mostly selling things that I had also made for friends. They would sometimes say things like "You should sell this," so I tried it for myself. We haven't developed the line as fully as I would like, but we do things slowly.

What type of girl do you see carrying your totes?

I'm pretty lucky in that I see a lot of girls around town carrying my bags, and let me tell you, they are always the coolest girls, just really well put together, with a laid-back and fresh sense of style! And I just know they have an incredible book in their tote.

Have you always been interested in fashion and art?

Yes, although I think that my interests have changed and become more focused as I've gotten older.

What books, magazines, films etc. do you find inspirational?

I love so many books that it's hard to say, but right now I'm really loving short stories by Mavis Gallant. My favourite magazines are The Gentlewoman, Lula, Russh, and Acne Paper for fashion and design, and Frankie for the jokes and cool vibes. I love to flip through them with a clear mind and let ideas come to me (it happens sometimes, but not always, but it's always enjoyable!). My favourite movies are any of the Six Moral Tales by Eric Rohmer. He created the most beautiful worlds in those movies.

Tell me about your cats, they are so cute!

Thanks! They're both girls. Oreo is a tuxedo cat and Pony is a calico. Oreo came from a shelter and Pony came from a litter of feral cats we found in our yard. Oreo is very laid back and fairly inactive, but Pony is a little rocket, so feisty and never still.

What is your favorite fairy tale?

The Little Mermaid, but the scary/creepy original version. I saw a cartoon that was more faithful to the original story when I was in kindergarden and it scared me and made me become obsessed with mermaids.

What are your favorite places in Toronto?

I love visiting the Toronto Islands in summer. You can have a picnic on the beach and while it's kind of a dirty beach, it's such a nice escape. I also love a lot of the coffee shops and restaurants in my neighbourhood. I don't have to travel too far to find a nice place to hang out.

What are your must have beauty products?

I don't really commit to things and always change it up but I always have to have some kind of moisturizer for my face and neck. I love washing my face with charcoal soap, and these days I'm really into using brow pencil with a heavy hand!

Your photography is so beautiful and inspirational. Tell me about your photo process.

Thank you! To be honest I feel as though I don't really know what I'm doing, but I think it helps to have a camera with me all the time and allow inspiration to hit me wherever I am.

What was your favorite SS12 fashion show?

You featured Ginny Branch on your blog, because she sent me a link to the Jill Stuart show and said it reminded her of me. I was so flattered by that, and she was so right -- I loved it.

Do you admire vintage style icons, such as Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly?

Oh yes, of course.

What could you see yourself buying from my boutique, Audrey Grace?

I love love love work by Alexandra Grecco, The Loved One, and Up the Wooden Hills, so I think it would be hard to choose!

Who is your style icon?

Phoebe Philo, with a dash of the Lula girl.

Who would be your ultimate celebrity to photograph or see carrying one of your totes?

Hmm, well, they're not celebrities per se but maybe The Lisbon Sisters from The Virgin Suicides, if they hadn't killed themselves and were around in their 20s and 30s.

Describe your personal style.

I love clothing that is soft, delicate, and pale in colour. I'm happiest in a cream silk blouse, pleated dusty pink maxi skirt, and tan leather oxfords. Just really feminine and pretty.

What is the future like for you and Fieldguided? Any exciting projects or collaborations?
I hope the future will be bright but we're at a sort of transition period a the moment! There are a lot of things I want us to be able to do, but only time will tell if they will happen... I like the potential, though.

Thank you, Anabela! All images courtesey, Fieldguided.

Introducing Audrey Grace by Genevieve Godbout

2011-12-05T19:36:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I asked the very talented illustrator Genevieve Godbout to draw a fictional illustrated girl named Audrey Grace wearing some of the dresses that will be available in the shop. Our little Audrey Grace turned out so cute! Genevieve mentioned the illustrated Audrey Grace resembled me! Anyway, Audrey Grace modeling these clothes is the perfect emblem of how the Audrey Grace girl fits into today's world. These drawings will be available as prints in the shop come December 17th. And all the clothing you see in these drawings will be available too!

Audrey Grace wears Up The Wooden Hills

Audrey Grace wears Wayward Daughter

Audrey Grace wears Lady Petrova

Audrey Grace wears Lucy in Disguise

Audrey Grace wears Jill Stuart

Thank you Genevieve!

Portico Jackson

2011-12-01T20:15:00.000-08:00

I was featured in Portico Jackson's December issue. Portico is a local magazine is Jackson and distributed throughout Mississippi.. My dress is made by Kelsey Genna, and my necklace is by Les Nereides. Both brands are stocked in Audrey Grace! That's my little dog, Roxy, and my Liberty bicycle.

Article and photos from Portico Jackson

Jaclyn Bethany
Audrey Grace Pop-Up Shop

By Mary Straton Smith
Photo by Aaron Phillips

Native Jacksonian and current resident of the Big Apple, Jaclyn Bethany caught the acting bug as a kid the first time she watched Annie. Frequent family visits to New York City only fueled the desire she had to become a performer in her own right. After some time at Millsaps College, Jaclyn left for Fordham College at Lincoln Center, a creative collection of students and faculty where she is currently studying acting.

And as it turns out, acting is not her one and only passion. Inspired by her impossibly fashionable, designer clad grandmother Ella May East, Jaclyn grew up admiring her grandmother’s extensive shoe collection as well as her closet, filled with items by Escada, St. John and classic Chanel. Out of this merging of Jaclyn’s love of film and fashion has evolved Audrey Grace Boutique.

“I’ve always loved Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly, the sort of classic movie stars,” she explains. When thinking about a name, that was an obvious choice. Every woman can relate to them.” The pop-up boutique, opening December 17 at Lakeland Square Plaza in Jackson for about six weeks, will be an eclectic mix of pieces from designers Jaclyn encountered during her summer spent in London and Australia, with vintage items and accessories as well as art and photography.

Audrey Grace will feature a very specific aesthetic, based on Jaclyn’s favorite things and lines she feels embody the “Audrey Grace Girl.” Stocked with pieces from her favorite lines and several one-of-a-kind dresses, Jaclyn also has commissioned over 100 pieces of custom artwork for those customers that want a little whimsy on their wall.

Her exposure to the world of fashion has enabled her to source beautiful items from all over the world. Expect designers from England, France, Thailand and Spain, as well as Los Angeles and her beloved New York. But not all pieces will carry the designer price tag. Jaclyn is bringing high-end items as well as affordable pieces to her Mississippi home.

“I chose to bring the store to Jackson as opposed to New York because I wanted to bring it back home and have my family and friends be a part of it.”

At only 23, Jaclyn Bethany has had more interesting experiences than most women twice her age, and has the fashion sense to prove it. Even after the doors close on Audrey Grace Boutique in January, it might not be the last time you’ll see Jaclyn’s name alongside Hollywood royalty. In the words of Ms. Hepburn herself, “Opportunities don’t often come along. So, when they do, you have to grab them.” Leave it to a Mississippi girl to make Audrey proud.

Catherine Parr for Audrey Grace

2011-11-25T21:05:00.000-08:00

I have had the privilege of working with the wonderful artist Catherine (Cate) Parr, on some commissioned paintings for the boutique.. Sneak peek below.. Can you take a guess at who these lovelies are?

Hollywood moodboard

Helena Bonham Carter in A Room With A View

Lula moodboard

Franco Zeffirelli's Romeo and Juliet

Saorsie Ronan in VOGUE December 2011

Cate Blanchett

Natalia Vodianova as Alice (VOGUE)

Kirsten Dunst as Marie Antoinette

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T18:14:00.000-08:00

I am currently at home in Jackson preparing for the shop opening! So much to do, but it's all so much fun. I have some truly stunning pieces for the shop. Tomorrow I am planning on hanging all the art and photography. Jackson is so beautiful and sunny, totally different from freezing New York! Below is a photo of me on the way to Thanksgiving lunch.

Wearing Sretsis AW11 and Miu Miu glitter shoes

Interview with Nadia from Nadinoo!

2011-11-21T21:31:00.000-08:00

I discovered Nadinoo earlier this year, and I am so happy I did. The designer, Nadia, manages to design the most dreamy collections season after season. There is truly something for every girl with Nadinoo. Nadia's designs are hand made, and she uses the most beautiful Liberty fabrics for her designs. She designs for three fictional girls who represent the Nadinoo brand- Fleur, Pixie and Lula. Needless to say, I own much of the spring and fall collections! I interviewed the lovely Nadia below..

Nadinoo's Winter 2011 Collection

Tell me a little bit about you and your line, Nadinoo.

My name is Nadia and I’m a British designer based in Manchester. I set up Nadinoo three years ago with aim of creating lovely handcrafted clothing that would be adored by the ladies who wear them.

What inspired you to create a fashion line?

I think it’s every fashion designer's dream to one day have their own collection to showcase their love and passion for clothing. I was always in love with the process of making a garment so setting up Nadinoo was a perfect way for me to get fully involved.

Where does the name Nadinoo come from?

Nadinoo is my nickname.

Have you always loved fashion?

I’ve always loved clothing from as far back as I remember, I don’t think I really knew what Fashion was until much later. My mother made most of our dresses as children which I’m sure were very unfashionable at the time but I loved them to bits. Was always thrilled when allowed to select fabrics, lace and other trims to adorn them.

What do you love about living in Manchester and what are your favorite places there?

I’m only just starting to know the Manchester I love, my experience living here as a student was much different so I’m happy I’ve been able to come back and rediscover the city. My studio is on the edge of the Northern Quarter, which has most of my favorite shops and cafes. You are likely to find me hiding away on a rainy day in the Tea Cup or Home Sweet Home with a pot of tea and huge slice of carrot cake. This area is where most of the independent shops are located and the Craft and Design center where I’m hoping we can soon open up our first Nadinoo shop. I love that Manchester is constantly evolving with new places opening and events happening each month. Visiting the Artisan market once a month under the old railway bridges in Castlefield is a definite highlight for me. I love seeing people selling product and produce that they are so proud of and always fun to hear the story of how it’s made.

What's on your fall wish list?

I think I’ve already done most of my winter shopping, been pretty excited about the cold this year which is first for me. I have stocked up on woolly tights so I can carry on enjoying all my dresses. I found some beautiful Wellington boots from Kurt Geiger that are nicely fitted to look more like a regular boot in a shimmering brown colour. Some nice black patent lace ups from Office with a comfy heel to go with my new Orla Kiely checked coat I bagged at their sample sale in London. Also grabbed myself a pair of lovely navy tailored shorts from Kooples at the weekend so I can wear all my Nadinoo shirts this winter. I think my look is much smarter this season, I’m sure that is reflected in the Nadinoo collection. Wow that feels a little like a confessional although I know there is still more.

What are you looking forward to doing over the holiday season?

I’m looking forward to finding the perfect tree to decorate with all our many wonderful handmade decorations, drinking plenty of mulled wine with friends while roaming the Christmas markets, picking out silly stocking filler presents for my husband to make him laugh and enjoying time off with friends and family eating roast dinners galore.

Who other designers, photographers and artists do you admire?

At the moment I’m admiring smaller labels like TBA, Colenimo and Dear Creatures who have managed to successfully create beautiful clothing via the small production rout. I hope one day I can find the right factories I trust who will help produce our collections on a bigger scale. I don’t have as much time these days to scour the net for inspiring photographs, but the photographers I have been admiring lately are Jamie Hooper (http://jamiehopper.com/) Simon Filip (http://simonfilip.com/) and Jessie Adams (http://www.jessielilyadams.com/) All producing dreamy photographs that take me somewhere beautiful!

If you could see any celebrity wearing you dress who would it be and why?

Zooey Deschanel has been my answer to this question from the start so and I’m going to stick with her until she has no choice but to give in and wear nothing but Nadinoo. The girl is amazing I think we are all a little in love..

What are your favorite books and magazines for inspiration?

I love reading books that calm me or take me places I’ve never been, I read a really cute book recently about a young Chinese girl who moved to New York with her mother, it was such a sad but inspiring little story.

The magazines I like are a little more predictable Frankie and Lula have set the bar pretty high, would love for another mag to pop up that rivals them..

What is your favorite fairy tale?

At the moment I’m a little in love with Red Riding hood. I think I’m just eager to make a red cape to run through the woods in..

What are your favorite Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly films or looks they have worn?

I’m have a huge soft spot for Audrey, her style is timeless. I loved her pixie haircut and most the outfits she wore in Breakfast at Tiffany's. All her films take me to a happy place, especially on a rainy hangover day. Grace Kelly I’m not so familiar with, what films would you recommend? (All of them, but especially Rear Window and To Catch A Thief!

What is the future like for you and your line?

I really have no idea what will happen with Nadinoo from one collection to the next, I just hope we continue to grow and keep the amazing following we have gained so far.

Thank you so much, Nadia! Check out more lovely designs from Nadinoo below!

Interview with Nicky Peacock

2011-11-16T17:29:00.000-08:00

Nicky Peacock is a very talented artist living and working in England. You may recognize her work from Lula magazine and the Lula scrapbook. She runs her own blog full of inspiration here. Nicky's beautiful photography will be part of the Audrey Grace photo exhibit. The boutique opens in one month, I am getting so excited! Enjoy my interview with Nicky and a selection of her work below.

Hi Nicky, tell me a little bit about yourself- where you’re from, where you grew up, and how you became and interested in art and photography?

Hello! I’m an artist and curator living on Teesside in the United Kingdom. I grew up in the suburbs of North East England. It’s a tough town at times but it has a certain charm and eccentric quality to it which I appreciate and the coast, hills and moors are only a stone’s throw away. I have always been compelled to create – I used to orchestrate photo shoots with my dolls and cat – put a bonnet on him and a tea cup near his paw. I called them set-up’s. I also used to design shoes and dresses and make rose petal perfume and design labels for the bottles. I was always up to something.

The world of fashion is full of amazing artists and photographers. Who are some of your favorites?

Annette Messager, Sophie Calle, Susan Hiller, Miranda July, Tim Walker, Madame Yevonde, Guy Bourdin, Mike Brodie (Polaroid Kidd), Ellen Von Unwerth & Nina Büsing Corvallo. Not all fashion based but some of my favourites.

And who are your favorite designers?

I have loved the work of John Galliano since the 1980’s and rarely use the word genius but might in this instance. It’s obviously not a fashionable time to be a fan of him in light of recent personal events, but for me – his design work is flawless. Lately, I am loving Haider Ackermann and the sculptural pieces at Jil Sander – as I get older, my tastes are shifting from the cute and dreamy aesthetic into a sharper, tougher look. I spent the whole of my 20’s in vintage dandelion yellow day dresses it seems – but I just can’t pull that look off anymore!

Your work reminds me of my childhood. In your work there is feeling of something very sweet, innocent and dark at the same time. Do you often look towards childhood memories when photographing or drawing?

Absolutely. Almost all of my work is inspired by my childhood. I spent a lot of time away from school as a child and quickly fell in love with the notion of living in my own world. It was a kind of twilight existence where I had enough freedom to experiment and create as I pleased. I spent hours watching 1950’s Technicolor movies, drawing my cat, designing letter headed notepaper for an imaginary perfume empire, making my own magazines or incense and spells and listening to Kate Bush and pretending I was a teenager. When I became an artist I knew right away that the feeling I was trying to evoke was that feeling. The feeling I had when I was trying to summon some kind of magic for myself, to keep me entertained or comforted or to pretend that my life was something other than a sick little girl at home with permanent tonsillitis. It is important for me that there is always a certain kind of darkness – it makes the light all the more beautiful. I make images but I feel more like a storyteller.

Tell me about the work you did for Lula magazine.

Leith asked me to contribute to a photo editorial in the first issue, it grew from there and I worked on 5 issues. I was an artist-in-residence I guess...that always how I approached it. My role was to interpret the muses from each issue and create imagery that reflected them, through photography or assemblage and illustrations usually. I liked to imagine what the muse’s personal space might look like and create an atmosphere through the use of objects or images...to tell a story about them or create a fictitious landscape for them.

When the first issue got delivered to my house, I couldn’t believe how lucky I was to be involved in such a thing of beauty. Lula has a very distinctive and clear voice which, in the ephemeral world of fashion, is a brave and treasured thing.

What do you love about living in England?

I love the countryside, English breakfast tea, the wild and windy moors, the down-to-earth people, the dramatic coastlines, the folktales, the eccentrics, the crumbling mansions, stately homes & ruined castles, the humour, the fashion and the fact that all my loved ones live there.

England is known for edgy fashion and eccentric, independent fashion designers. Who are some of your favorite Brits?

My current favourite is Holly Fowler. She’s a recent graduate from Central Saint Martins. She hand paints silk dresses – they’re phenomenal – they look like medieval bronze treasures and porcelain bells – so powerful.

What films do you study for inspiration?

The Red Shoes, Valerie & Her Week Of Wonders, Daisies, Tales Of Hoffman, Innocence, Rosemary’s Baby, vintage Hammer Horror, The Royal Tennenbaums, The Wizard of Oz, Be Glad For The Song Has no Ending, Grey Gardens, Paheli, Picnic At Hanging Rock, Carousel, Cul-De-Sac, Black Moon, Young At Heart, Suspiria...oh this could go on and on so I’d better stop!

If you could have tea with anyone, past or present, who would it be and why?

Leonora Carrington, Grace Coddington and all her cats, Doris Day, Sophie Calle & Vali Meyers. We would be the best coven ever. I would make English tea and serve lavender scones with wild blueberry jam and clotted cream.

Tell me a little bit about the work of yours that is going to be displayed at Audrey Grace.

Small, delicate photographic prints on my favourite German etching paper. Some of the imaginary stories I was just telling you about...

What could you see yourself buying from Audrey Grace?

I really love Lisa Marie Andersson’s Liberty print dresses and also the gorgeous Wayward Daughter white custom collar with the little pin stripe.

Have you ever been to the south? (in America)

Not yet, though I’ve always wanted to visit. I’m a big fan of Angeliska Polacheck’s blog and her images and descriptions of New Orleans are completely bewitching. It’s definitely on the list.

What does the future look like for you? Any exciting collaborations/projects/exhibits?

Yes, this has been an incredibly busy year for me. I divide my time between working on my own personal practice and curating for myself and others. I also manage and curate a project that provides creatives with temporary pop up residencies in town centre spaces which is one of the loveliest jobs I’ve ever had. Earlier this year I produced my third international exhibition, called Love Letter, Love Letter. I was lucky enough to work with some of my favourite artists on the show: musician Suzy Mangion, film maker Maximilla Lukacs, photographer Dan Estabrook, fine artist Tabitha Kyoko Moses & Minutemen legend Mike Watt – it was a dream to curate a show like this and the book & DVD that accompanied the show will be for sale at Audrey Grace Boutique along with my prints.

Next month sees the release of an album that I worked on with UK collective Detective Instinct. It’s called A History of Headaches and it’s on the Third Uncle label. I have 2 songs on the album and I also contributed to the cover art so I’m really excited to finally see it! I’ve just started work curating a retrospective exhibition and gig for a post-punk outfit called Shrug – who have been together for 26 years...so that will be a whole lot of research!

Next year will see my book Haunt Me finally published – it’s a collection of photographs, drawings, collages and writing along the lines of my blog of the same name. I love being busy so it suits me fine – oh and today I found out that I was chosen as a Video Art Curator at the 2012 Santorini Biennale of Art so I’m a very happy bunny – I’ll get to do what I love and spend the whole summer in the Greek Islands which is kind of dreamy I imagine!

Thank you so much, Nicky!

Misslikey collages for Audrey Grace Boutique

2011-11-10T09:43:00.000-08:00

A few months ago I contacted the lovely Nina of Misslikey. I was totally amazed by the beautiful collages she made for her blog. Nina's style and content is simply impeccable. I asked her to create many special collages for the boutique, a preview is below. All are going to retail for $30, please contact me at jbethany@fordham.edu if you'd like to purchase one. Which one is your favorite? They are all so wonderful, I can't decide!

Double feature: Rhiannon and Lauren

2011-11-08T17:51:00.000-08:00

If you are familiar with the blogging world, no doubt you have run across Rhiannon's blog: Liebemarlene, and her sister Lauren's blog: Blooming Leopold! Both girls currently live in the south, Rhiannon in Atlanta, and Lauren in Nashville. I already feel such a connection to them as a fellow Southern girl! In addition, Rhiannon and Lauren both run fashion businesses. Rhiannon has an online shop called Silent Sundays. She stocks beautiful independent designers (Secret Squirrel, TBA, Family Affairs, etc.) and vintage. Rhiannon is going to be selected some vintage pieces especially for Audrey Grace! Lauren runs, Blooming Leopold, her own handmade line. Every piece is so special and pretty. Blooming Leopold will be stocked in Audrey Grace. I am so excited to have these stylish sisters as a part of the boutique. Enjoy my interviews with them below!

Interview with Rhiannon of Liebemarlene!

Rhiannon wearing TBA, a label that will be stocked in Audrey Grace

Tell me a little big about yourself, your blog Liebemarlene, and your shop Silent Sundays.

I started blogging over four years ago in the days when I was selling vintage on Ebay. In those days I wasn't sure about blogging (didn't know if people would care enough to read the stuff I wrote and still don't) but I loved it, especially the chance to babble on about the things I loved and was inspired by. I sold vintage on Ebay, then Etsy, and eventually set up an online store with my friend Jamie Hopper. She's my favorite photographer in Atlanta, and I can't think of anyone I'd rather work with. We both choose what we want to sell--lots of vintage, and each season we have a small collection of things from some of our favorite independent designers.

Where did you grow up?

In the midwest--I grew up in northern Illinois is a pretty small town, then went to college in an even smaller town in Indiana. When I lived there I used to knock it, but it's really not so bad, and sometimes I start missing things about the midwest, like its amazing summers and taking weekend trips to Wisconsin.

What do you like about living in Atlanta?

I like that Atlanta's a city with lots of things to do and see and eat--whenever people come to visit us there's always a new restaurant to go to or good stores to shop at. It's a really diverse place, and pretty liberal for the south (which I like). I like that there's always at least one contestant from Atlanta on each season of RuPaul's Drag Race--makes me proud. Also Ludacris lives here.

What do you love about living in the south? Do you find it to be a magical place?

Mostly I love that it's different from what I'm used to. I grew up in a place with mostly cornfields--no hills and not many trees. A lot of the south is physically beautiful and has a ton of history, which living here has made me super passionate about. I love that after three years of living here I'm still excited about site-seeing and I'm still checking out nerdy books from the library about southern history and culture. The south is magical to me sometimes--depends where I am. Atlanta isn't magical (unless in funny ways) but cities like Savannah and Charleston are probably more romantic than any other city I've been to in the States.

How do you think Audrey Grace will contribute to the retail scene in the South and specifically, Jackson.

I don't know much about Jackson except that Eudora Welty lived there, and I went to Mississippi once with Jamie and fell in love with it. The parts I saw of it were beautiful and old-fashioned, and I think that the romantic clothes at Audrey Grace will be a hit there.

What could you see yourself buying from Audrey Grace?

I'm in love with Up the Wooden Hills and Alexandra Grecco, and I hear something about Blooming Leopold selling at Audrey Grace?

Tell me about the work Silent Sundays is doing for Audrey Grace.

Jamie and I are putting together a capsule collection of vintage pieces that we think will fit the Audrey Grace spirit. And we might put together some photographs too.

Who are some of your favorite designers, artists and photographers?

For the last few years I've really been into designers from Australia and New Zealand--Lover, Secret Squirrel, Juliette Hogan, and Twenty-Seven Names are always favorites. I love TBA and Nadinoo a bunch. I'm very ignorant when it comes to art, but usually in art museums I like things from the late 1700s best. As for photographers I like Jody Rogac a ton for fashion stuff-- Jamie Hopper too! And photographers like William Eggleston and Clarence John Laughlin make me glad to live in the south.

What are your favorite books and magazines to look through for inspiration?

Lula, Bullett, Frankie, Rush, and The Gentlewoman are my favorite fashion magazines, and I love Garden and Gun and Georgia Backroads for southern tourist stuff. I can't really read fashion related books anymore (burnt out and don't really care about Coco Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld, etc.) but I like history books and biographies and novels. Just finished Deborah Mitford's memoirs and it made me want to move out to the country and start over. Or just move to England so I can be her friend.

What are your favorite blogs?

My sister Lauren's blog Blooming Leopold, Foxtail & Fern, Jeana Sohn, Olive My Love for fashion. I love Forgotten New York for history stuff and food blogs like Lottie and Doof and Smitten Kitchen.

Your recent wedding was so beautiful! What advice can you give to those planning a stylish wedding? And where did you find your dress?

Thank you! I'm not big on weddings so don't think I'd be good at giving advice; I just wanted something really low-key and simple and outdoors. We lucked out on our venue--an old farm community that had prettiness to make up for our lack of decorating, etc. My dress is actually an old one by Lover that I found on Australian Ebay.

Describe your personal style.

I used to dress in very romantic things, but since I'm getting older (thirty-one this month!) I'm trying to tone some of that stuff down--fewer bows, frills, peter pan collars, even though I think it's all adorable. Right now I like pretty simple, boring stuff--plain velvet dresses and tights and ankle boots pretty much make up my fall uniform.

Who is your style icon?

Silent film stars like Marion Davies and Mabel Normand, Joan Crawford, Julie Christie. And I like modern girls like Leith Clark, Alexa Chung (of course), Michelle Williams, and Kirsten Dunst.

What are your favorite places in Atlanta and across the South?

In Atlanta I love this new Korean taco place called Takorea, Star Provisions for sandwiches and desserts, Octane for coffee, Antico pizza. Favorite places across the south: Rock City in Chattanooga, Back in the Day Bakery in Savannah, the whole city of Charleston, and where my parents live in Tennessee.

What are your favorite films for fashion?

Busby Berkeley musicals, Julie Christie in Darling, and Picnic at Hanging Rock. Lately I really like Joan Crawford's costumes in '30s movies like Sadie McKee--sort of over the top, but beautiful.

What do you love about your sister's collection, Blooming Leopold?

I love that it's so Lauren--I could see her wearing every single thing in it, and I love that she puts her own touch on everything. I already have my eye on one of the dresses--it has the most perfect sleeves.

What is your favorite decade for vintage?

Probably the '30s and '70s, especially '70s versions of '30s styles. I love art deco elements and flutter sleeves, anything in silk.

What does the future look like for you, your blog and Silent Sundays? Hopefully lots of exciting things!

Thanks! Well I'm bad at planning things. For my blog I want to change it up a little--write about more than fashion and write about other things I'm interested in.. more history posts, for one thing. We just released our new fall lookbook and collection for Silent Sundays, so I'm still thinking about that and not really sure what's next. Excited to get shopping again for our next release!

Thank you, Rhiannon!

The beautiful fall lookbook for Silent Sundays, shot by the amazing Jamie Hopper

Interview with Lauren of Blooming Leopold!

Tell me a little big about yourself, your blog and your line, Blooming Leopold.

My name is Lauren Winter and I'm the girl behind the Blooming Leopold blog and shop! I began the blog as a means to chronicle my personal style adventures and it grew into a love of sewing and a handmade line in 2011, which I couldn't be more excited about.

Where did the name Blooming Leopold come from?

Blooming Leopold is a play on the name of Ulysses' main character, Leopold Bloom. I was on a James Joyce kick the summer I started the blog! My husband and I even named our dog after the character - Bloom.

What do you think is so special about having handmade garments? This is obviously a very important aspect of your line that I love!

Sewing a handmade garment and shipping it to someone is a much more personal experience for me than selling vintage. You put a piece of yourself in everything you sew- with all the added time and effort, and especially since the garments were designed by you, your collection kind of becomes your baby. It's scary to release it into the world, almost, but also extremely rewarding when it finds a home.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in northern Illinois in a very typical midwestern town, surrounded by cornfields. Growing up, I just wanted to get away and find a place with more beauty. Now that I have grown up and moved away, I think the Midwest - with its flat expanse and endless farmland - has its own special brand of beauty that I really couldn't appreciate when I was little.

What do you like about living in Nashville?

I love Nashville! The southern states seem to have a lot of history and personality to me. Living in a city in the south means you still have the life and universal feel of a city while being close to the old plantation homes and well-preserved culture of the south. Nashville has the sweetest people I've ever met, beautiful weather, and awesome coffee shops (Crema, Dose, and Roast Inc. are our current favorites).

How do you think Audrey Grace will contribute to the retail scene in the south and specifically, Jackson?

With the variety of designers and vintage stockists heading Jackson's way, I think Audrey Grace Boutique will leave an indelible mark on the fashion scene around the area! Designers from all over will be selling their wares at the store, including several designers that are only available in large cities like New York and London. What a treat Mississippi has to be able to shop these collections locally!

What could you see yourself buying from Audrey Grace?

Everything! My favorites have got to be TBA, Silent Sundays, and Rachel Antonoff.

Tell me about the vintage pieces you are sourcing for Audrey Grace.

I'm lucky to not only be providing my handmade collection but also vintage found here in Nashville! Pieces I'll provide for the boutique include dreamy holiday garments - 1940s velvet dresses in rich jewel hues, sequined tops, and assorted lace and chiffon pieces in pastels.

Why do you think Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly's style is relevant today?

To me, Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly embody a classic sort of beauty that never really goes out of style. The shapes and fabrics they wore can generally be found in the garments of today- holiday dresses in brocade, wool suit sets and simple black dresses. Not to mention, both women were stunning and confident.

Who are some of your favorite designers, artists and photographers?

Aubrey Beardsley, Edward Gorey, JW Waterhouse, David Hamilton, TBA, Family Affairs, many more!

What are your favorite books and magazines to look through for inspiration?

Umberto Eco's History of Beauty and Lula Magazine! I love looking through illustrated books from the 1920s or older, too. I have a turn of the century copy of the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam (I think I picked it up at a yard sale when I was little) that has these beautiful color images, and a collection of children's fairytales that's about 90 years old now.

What are your favorite blogs?

Liebemarlene, Hannah and Landon, and Hello Mr. Fox are definitely my top three favorite blogs! I love Always, Sometime, Anytime as well. The Selby is a website I've been visiting a lot lately too, we just bought a house and I'm in desperate need of some interior design inspiration.

Describe your personal style.

I don't know how to describe my personal style because it's always changing.. right now, I'm in a 70s meets 90s phase - boxy blazers, cut off shorts, grunge-y maxi dresses, Gunne Sax, floral wreaths, lots of velvet. I'm addicted to this pair of chunky platform lace ups I found at a thrift store last year.

Who is your style icon?

My style icons are my sisters! They never fail to be themselves- they both have very distinct styles and I love them for it.

What are your favorite shops? Do you shop locally or online?

My favorite shops are thrift stores, preferably out in the country around Nashville or in Madison, TN. I try to keep my shopping local at nearby vintage stores like Local Honey and Goodbuy Girls, and I buy a lot of stuff from American Apparel in town. When I shop online for clothing, it's either on Madewell, Topshop, or Etsy (but that's mostly dream shopping).

What are your favorite films for fashion?

I think I get more inspiration from films than from books- films like The Red Shoes, Pretty Baby, Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, and Amadeus. I revisit my favorite films often. The best films for fashion are movies that try to capture another time period, like Picnic at Hanging Rock or Badlands, because inevitably they leave some of their own decade's (or century's) style in the film and the mix can be beautiful.

What do you love about your sister's vintage collection and her shop, Silent Sundays?

I love looking at Silent Sundays' wares and instantly thinking of Rhiannon and Jamie - their shop is reminiscent of their own personal fashion, and that's how a shop should be! How every piece is styled and the professional quality of their lookbooks, too.. have you seen their latest one? Their vintage is always classic but still manages to be current - a line suede skirts, brown velvet mini dresses, sheer polka dot tops. I'm always bragging about their shop to people!

What is your favorite decade for vintage?

If you looked at what I wear, you'd probably say the 90s, but the 1940s are my favorite. The elegance and cut of clothing are so unique and instantly recognizable. I think that decade was very flattering for men and women. And everyone wore a hat - we need to bring that back.

What does the future look like for you, your blog and Blooming Leopold? Besides collaborating with Audrey Grace, of course!

I'm currently putting together a handmade and vintage holiday collection, to debut at the Audrey Grace Boutique and online in late November or early December! Stay tuned.

Thank you, Lauren! Below are photos from Blooming Leopold's AW11 collection. So excited the line will be stocked at Audrey Grace!

Meet Talita Zoe of Koh Samui!

2011-11-03T18:38:00.000-07:00

Around five years ago I studied abroad at Oxford and made numerous trips to London. I this trip was the time I fell in love with London. I remember wandering around the streets of Covent Garden and discovering all the amazing shops and cafes in the seven dials. I wandered into a gem of a boutique on Monmouth Street: a place that resembled a luxury pastel colored dollhouse that was filled with all my favorite designers, along side beautiful vintage. This shop was Koh Samui. Ever since I visited this boutique, I knew I wanted to open my own shop. The trip to the shop was so inspiring. I bought a green lace Marc Jacobs dress with a black velvet bow that I still wear. Sadly, a few years ago Koh Samui boutique closed. However, I knew it would not be gone for long. Koh Samui's creative directors Talita Zoe and Paul Sexton recently relaunched their business and are currently creative consultants for designers and stores. In case you were wondering, they named their boutique after their favorite vacation spot. They also run a beautiful website, here. I contacted them about doing some consulting for Audrey Grace. I was so thrilled that they agreed. Ironically, their vintage business is named My Beautiful Vintage, and I remember visiting some vintage markets in London last summer and their stall was my absolute favorite! So ironic. Talita and Paul are sourcing beautiful vintage pieces for Audrey Grace. I am so thrilled to be working with them and excited to see the pieces they source! I have seen one dress so far, and it is stunning. Some photos of Koh Samui and my interview with the lovely Talita follows below.

Interiors of Koh Samui Boutique, London (above and below)

Interiors of Talita and Paul's home

Hi Talita! Tell me a little bit about yourself. Your shop, Koh Samui in London was my absolute favorite boutique in the world. What are you doing now? Is your company now an extension of the boutique?

Paul and I opened Koh Samui in Covent Garden and Knightsbridge in London when there really weren’t stores that stocked both established designers like Balenciaga together with young unknown designers. We both always loved beautiful objects and having your own fashion store gives you total freedom of expression to create something special.

We had no formal training, so no pre conceived ideas of how things should be, it’s always been very visual. We only ever stocked what we loved and our tastes are the same so it worked extremely well. We always had fun meeting the designers and visiting their studios.

We were the first boutique to mix designers together; the unknown with the established, at first some designers didn’t like the idea of this, but when they saw the way we were able to create such a beautiful store, they soon changed their minds. All the stores would keep the designer collections separate so each had its own rail. We always found this boring, which is why we would merchandise by colour and not designer, this way keeping it interesting and special for the customer.

We are consulting as buyers for small boutiques to international department stores. We are also creative directors for designer brands.

Having worked with some of the most influential global fashion companies, we have a feel for what styles, shapes and colours sell.

We also have two websites, kohsamui.co.uk and kohsamui.us.com as we specialize in the UK and US. Our websites are about Fashion, Vintage, Lifestyle and Interiors. Outside the UK most of our customers are from the US, we have spent a lot of time in the US sourcing Designers and Vintage.

We would love to design our own Koh Samui womenswear collection, which is something we have always wanted to do.

Your displays and designers you had in store will always so original and wonderful. How did you source all the stock and ideas?

We went to the student fashion shows and had creative staff with friends who were designers and artist. We would see their collections and if we felt they were right for the store then would showcase them. We travelled far and wide to places that other buyers wouldn’t even think of travelling to find designers. These designers we could have exclusive collaborations with, as we have always strived to be different. This was reflected in all our displays, they had to be eye catching, quirky, wearable and amazingly beautiful.

Who was your favorite celebrity client?

Koh Samui's celebrity customers include Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Moss, Katie Holmes, Scarlett Johansson, Beyonce, Liv Tyler, Vanessa Paradis, Keira Knightley, Kylie Minogue, Natalie Portman, Penelope Cruz, Kate Hudson and Uma Thurman. On one occasion, Goldie Hawn came into our store, she tried on this beautiful fitted dress and looked wonderful of course. When it was time for her to change, the zip got stuck so I had to try and help free her. It was all very funny and she was laughing and joking, we ended up cutting her out of it.

What are your favorite places to shop and eat in London? Do you have any favorite places for inspiration?

For shopping I love to go to Kempton Park outdoor market where you can pick up vintage jewellery, furniture, vintage household goods, old iron gates, just about anything you can think of.

One of my favourite places to eat in London is Les Trios Garcons in East London; we took our Koh Samui staff there for one of our Christmas Party’s when it first opened. The restaurant is French, that looks quite Victorian from the outside and has an amazingly 1930s decadent interior and is just a fabulous place to go for a special evening out.

Inspiration: Nature and Architecture

Who are your favorite designers and artists?

One of my favourite designers has to be Balenciaga, we were the first store in London to stock the collection by Nicolas Ghesquiere. I love the way he uses modern fabrics and yet always seems to take the classic Balenciaga shape, which never dates but just look so sophisticated. We would buy the collection in Paris and always ended up having the last appointment of the day. The champagne would come out while the collection was being modelled for us as we were very good friends with the sales director, it was always a great appointment. Fashion should be fun!

Artists: Edward Hopper, Gustav Klimt. Photographer Robert Capa.

What films are you inspired by?

All About Eve, Amelie, One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest, The Godfather, It’s A Wonderful Life, House of Flying Daggers. The L Shaped Room.

If you could style any celebrity who would it be and why?

Florence Welch, I like the way she is happy to experiment with clothes and try new young designers.

What are you looking forward to about this holiday season?

Christmas morning I go for an early morning walk over Hampstead Heath, I collect fern, holly and ivy for the table decorations and the wreath for the door. I always dress the table for dinner, so lots of candles, glitter, and greenery. It’s my favourite time of year, I love all the preparation and decorating, going to parties, and having friends over. I enjoy baking when I get the time and for Christmas I like to give close friends and family something I have made myself.

What is on your holiday wish list?

I don’t have a wish list and my family and friends know that I like beautiful old things so they tend to rummage round the flea markets or vintage shops and will end up buying me something weird and wonderful...I don’t mind what I get.

Tell me about the work you are doing for Audrey Grace.

Paul and I are sourcing amazing vintage for Audrey Grace, we are looking for beautiful dresses that are feminine and sexy from the 1920’s, 30’s, 50’s and 60’s. Having seen the Audrey Grace Website it's was clear to us that Jaclyn has very similar taste to us, it’s beautiful and very creative.

What do you think will be special about Audrey Grace Boutique?

I think the Audrey Grace Boutique will be special because the feeling you get from the website is elegant, beautiful, ethereal, fresh, new and feminine. I love the way the pages are styled and the creative people you have interviewed. You have a strong vision of what you like and want, which is important when you have a boutique you need to have a strong identity.

Talita in the shop

Thank you so much Talita!

Marie Hochhaus

2011-10-31T19:56:00.000-07:00

Marie's photography is probably one of the most amazing things I have discovered in the past year. This girl is so incredibly talented. The Ophelia shoot, a preview of which is below, is based off of one of my all time favorite Millais paintings. I am so excited to announce her work will be on display in the Audrey Grace gallery, although her prints will not be available to purchase. Nevertheless, customers will be able to view these amazing images in person in the shop. I had the chance to speak to Marie about her work while discussing the exhibit, her answers follow below.

"Ophelia"

Photography by Marie Hochhaus

Model is Helen from MD Management
Styling by Jana Krentzlin
Hair and make up by Tan Voung/Basics Berlin
Assistance by Franziska Ebert

Where are you based?

Hamburg, Germany

What is your favorite.....

Childhood memory?

Santa Claus because he was the guy who always had presents!

Fairy tale?

The Little Mermaid.

Designer?

Alexander McQueen.

Tell me about your most recent Ophelia shoot. It was so beautiful!

Thank you! To do this shoot was the idea of talented Tan Vuong, who did the makeup. We waited all summer to come together, but the weather was horrible in Germany this year. During the last weekend in August we thought "now or never".I was really excited to do this shoot because it was the first time Iworked with Jana as a stylist and because we had planned it for so long. In the end it was a very cold day, and I just had about four hours to shoot, but Helen (the model) was the bomb, she laid patiently down on the ground while spiders wandered all over her legs and arms, and she even went into the water. You can't imagine how cold it was!

Tell me about your work for Material Girl.

My work for material girl is not commissioned. I did the shoots for my portfolio as free projects. I sent the photos to material girl and was very happy that they printed them in their beautiful magazine.

Who are your favorite photographers and artists?

I guess I've got very popular taste: I love Tim Walker and Gustav Klimt.

What films and books do you watch for inspiration?

I don't watch films very often, but David Lynch and old films like The Bride Wore Black are kind of fashion inspiration.

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

Iceland. I went there two times and fell in love with the nature there, but wanderlust is something that I almost never feel.

What do you love about Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly?

Beautiful girls. I don't need any other reason to love them.

What does the future look like for you? Do you have lots of exciting shoots coming up?

Yes, but I don't want to talk about it yet. Stay curious!

Thank you so much, Marie! All photos courtesy: www.mariehochhaus.de

"Nell"

Photography by Marie Hochhaus

Model is Nell from MD Management
Hair and make up by Tan Voung/Basics Berlin

Assistance by Jan Reiser

Interview with Carrie of WishWishWish!

2011-10-29T18:43:00.000-07:00

I am so glad to be in my cozy apartment writing this post! New York City is having a massive snow storm, so strange for October! Anyway, I am sure most of you are familiar with Carrie's blog, WishWishWish. If you don't know it, be sure to check it out here. Carrie lives in my most favorite city in the world, London. She has amazing style and her blog really reflects that. Carrie is a true Audrey Grace girl. She already loves all of the brands I am stocking and also has a passion for vintage! It also seems like she loves her Alexa bag as much as I love mine! Carrie also takes beautiful photos. I loved her coverage of London fashion week, especially the Orla Kiely and Mulberry shows so much. Enjoy my interview with Carrie below.

Carrie and her beloved Mulberry Alexa

Carrie's coverage of the Orla Kiely show

Carrie's coverage of Mulberry SS12

Tell me a little bit about yourself, your blog and your work.

I'm a vintage loving twenty one year old living in London, blogging about what I get up to and the clothes that I wear!

I see your still in university, what are you studying?

I study Fashion Promotion, so we do everything from styling to creating fashion films! It's very broad.

What do you like about living in London?

It's just so diverse, everything and everyone is on your doorstep. It's a great place to hunt for vintage, and I don't feel like you could ever explore it all! There is always something new to see.

Describe your personal style.

I think I dress a bit like a little girl going to a birthday party! I'm very girly, and love to mix highstreet finds with vintage, and my favourite labels - Family Affairs, TBA, Vivetta..!

Describe an ideal day.

Sunshine, waffles for breakfast, a trip to a vintage market, a picnic, a trip to the cinema followed by seeing my favourite band!

What is your favorite type of tea? (And favorite place to get tea in London)

I don't drink tea too often as I have it with so much sugar that my teeth would fall out if I drank it every day! But I like a regular builders brew as we call it over here!

Who is your style icon?

I have a gazillion pictures of Anna Karina saved on my computer. Isn't she just perfect?

Who are your favorite designers?

I am in love with Vivetta, tba, Family Affairs, Mulberry, Orla Kiely..I love every collection from these talented ladies.

What was it like attending London fashion week? What was your favorite show?

It sounds very glamorous and exciting, but really it's a lot of hard work and the days are very long! My favourite show this year had to be Mulberry! They decorated Claridges ballrooom with hundreds of inflatable animals, it was amazing! Not to mention the pink lemonade they served up.

If you could take me shopping around London for a day where would you take me?

Okay! Firstly we'd have to hit up my favourite department store, Liberty - their stationary room is my favourite, and at this time of year, a trip to their Christmas shop is a must! I'd take you to east London where we'd hunt down the best vintage and visit shops like Caravan where the best homewares are sold. If we went on a Sunday, we'd visit Columbia Rd flower market and battle the crowds to visit the Rob Ryan store, and the wonderful Buddug (http://www.buddug.com/page2.htm).

Who are your favorite artists and photographers?

I'm a huge lover of Paolo Roversi. I love his dark style!

If you could style any celebrity who would it be?

That's a tough one, probably a kick ass girl from a band, like Alison Mosshart.

As a Londoner, are you a fan of Kate Middleton's style? Who are your favorite London girls?

I don't pay too much attention to what the Duchess wears I must admit, but she always looks very well put together. My fave London girl has to be Alexa Chung, obvious choice I know!

What are your favorite books and magazines to look through for inspiration?

My favourite magazines are most definitely Frankie, Lula, and the Japanese magazine Fudge! All such feasts for the eyes!

What are your favorite blogs?

Oh I have too many to list! At the moment, I love Mariell, who has just moved to London. (http://hjartesmil.blogg.no/) Also, Fancy Fine - Ashley's collection of vintage is so enviable! Of course the lovely Sandra of Niotillfem is one of my favourites too.

I see your a big Mulberry fan, like me. I also have their Alexa bag. What are you covering from the AW collection?

Oh my!! I'm absolutely in love with all of their bags featuring the little foxes! I love the the Fox Lock bag. I need it!

What's on your fall wishlist?

The AW Vivetta collection! I absolutely adore the whole thing! I'm also loving cropped trousers right now, so a lovely wine coloured pair wouldn't go amiss!

What are you looking forward to this holiday season?

Big warm scarves, open fires, roast dinners, long socks and family!

Tell me a little bit about your photos. They are beautiful.

I'm really into taking photos lately actually! I've rediscovered my love! It's amazing being able to capture a particular look or feeling in an instant.

What are your favorite films for fashion?

I love all the Orla Kiely lookbooks, they are always so inspiring!

What could you see yourself buying at Audrey Grace?

Everything - I'm not even kidding! I love everything stocked, it's like my dream store!

What does the future look like for you and your blog? Any exciting collaborations or projects?

I do have an exciting collaboration coming up! But I'm afraid all I can say is that it's with one of my favourite independent English labels! Watch this space!

All photos courtesy of Carrie. Check out more photos of Carrie's adorable style below!

Up The Wooden Hills A/W 11

2011-10-26T14:03:00.000-07:00

I am a big fan of Lisa Marie Andersson's designs for her beautiful label, Up The Wooden Hills. Lisa always uses the most beautiful handmade techniques in making her dresses. She also uses Liberty fabrics, my all time favorite fabric! Audrey Grace is stocking Lisa's spring collection, as well as select pieces of her AW collection, a preview of which is below. Lisa was also happy to describe her inspirations for this collection.

Lisa also created two custom dresses just for the boutique- the "Audrey" dress and the "Grace" dress. Both are exclusive to Audrey Grace. Lisa's collection of dresses and tops always have the dreamiest names- Emilia, Evie, Nora, Alice, Mirabelle and Lucy.. Which girl are you?

Lisa on her collection:

When I create my garments I usually get most of the influences from different things that are somehow present in my life at the moment. When I started to work on the Autumn/Winter 11 collection I was very inspired by children's books, fairy tales and youth literature. Mostly stories where the main character goes on a voyage, an adventure or tries to solve a mystery. I was also inspired by British costume dramas and BBC television shows like The House of Elliot (the moods, the characters, the set design, the colours and the clothes)!

Even though most of the influences for my work are from things that surround me in my every day life, I do, however have one constant inspiration or basic evaluation that I always want to incorporate in every collection: comfort and sustainability. All garments I make have their origins in traditional women's wear silhouettes and I always want them to feel comfortable, classic and beautiful - a piece of clothing that you can feel happy in, wear often in your every day life and keep for a long period of time. Something less trendy and instead more unique. I hope the new A/W collection will feel that way for people too!

All photos, courtesy Up The Wooden Hills

Which of these beautiful frocks do you see yourself daydreaming in?

Interview with Jessie Lily Adams!

2011-10-25T16:50:00.000-07:00

I have had the pleasure of working with Jessie Lily Adams on the photography exhibit for Audrey Grace. Jessie is a London resident and the photo editor of Lula. She has also done stunning work for Material Girl and the designer Charles Anastase. Jessie will be exhibiting some truly beautiful prints in the exhibit, I am sure all of which will sell very quickly! Jessie's photos are truly magical. I think her fashion photography is like a beautiful fantasy with a spot of child-like innocence. A couple of days ago I spoke to Jessie and asked her a few questions about herself and her work. Below is a sneak peek of Jessie's work and some of the prints that will be sold at the exhibit.

Hi Jessie, tell me a little bit about yourself and your work. Where did you grow up?
Hi! I grew up in Sheffield, in the north of England. Then Five years ago I moved to London, and have lived here since. I mainly take fashion images, although I do have a background in fine art photography.
Tell me about your position as photo editor at Lula- what do you do for them? What is it like to work there?
I started for the last issue, as Jenny the photo editor who had been there since the beginning had left, and they needed someone to fill in. Its great fun! The team is quite small and they are so talented. Its an honor to work there as when I first started taking pictures Lula was the magazine I dreamed of shooting for, both because of the style and content but also because fashion photography has traditionally and still is quite male dominated, and Lula shows how many incredibly talented photographers there are who happen to be women.
Tell me about your collaboration with Charles Anastase.
I first met Charles five years ago through my best friend Gary Armstrong, who was working for him at the time. I got to know him well, and he asked me to take some picture that he could draw from (he is an amazing artist). Then we also shot a look book with Valentine the creative consultant and stylist for the brand. Charles is amazing to work with, he is a genius when it comes to womenswear, I completely adore his clothes. I have got most of my work now from the fact that Charles and Valentine showed such faith in me when I had done barely any published work, and so I am very grateful.
What do you like about living in London? What are your favorite shops, neighborhoods, cafes, etc.?
I love to walk around London, especially on the embankment along the river. And I live in walthamstow, so right next to my house is a nature reserve where you can walk for hours. I don’t have a favorite neighborhood I like most of London, its hard to choose as they are all so different! I like to shop at Orla Keily in Covent Garden, Miu Miu on Bond Street, and Topshop at Oxford street is always reliable, and Cos is amazing for basics. Plus you have great vintage shops in Notting Hill. I like Cote in Soho for great steak, and the Wolseley for afternoon Tea.
What is your favorite childhood memory?
Probably when I got my first bike for Christmas when I was about 4. It was a green mountain bike.
Your work has a fairy tale like quality to it. What's your favorite fairy tale?
The Little Mermaid, is that even a fairytale? I think Disney will have had a lot of influence over that answer.
London is so great for emerging fashion designers. Who are your favorites?
Charles Anastase, I guess that’s obvious! Mary Katranzou is incredible, and probably the ultimate; Meadham Kirchoff are simply genius.
If you could photograph any celebrity who would it be?
Julianne Moore. Or Courtney Love.
What are your favorite films, photographs, books,etc. for inspiration?
Nabakov novels are great as the prose are so descriptive, classics like The French Lieutenant's Woman and lots historical biographies- lots of Novels really, as I read a lot, and I think its nice to get inspiration from stories rather than imagery sometimes as its more form your own imagination. I do always find period dramas like Downton Abbey great as I’m so obsessed with the costumes and houses.
What other photographers and artists do you admire?
Photographers like Deborah Turbeville, Yelena Yemchuk, Lina Scheynus and Ellen Rogers I admire very much. Artwise I love the work of Henry Darger and Cy Twombly.
Who is your style icon?
Ohhhhh er, I don’t really have an icon as such but I think lots of people for all different reasons look great! Ashley Olsen, Mara Wilson in Miracle of 34th Street, Rose Byrne is always chic, Kirsten Dunst....I could keep going for ages...
What are you most looking forward to this holiday season?
Just Christmas generally! I love winter and Christmas more than any other season, winter coats, Christmas markets at Chatsworth House and Columbia Road in East London, mulled wine, Christmas trees, everything!
Have you always wanted to be a photographer?
Yes.
What are your favorite Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly films?
I like Funny Face, I don’t think I have seen anything with Grace Kelly...
What will my customer be able to purchase of your work at Audrey Grace?
Some images that I did with Charles Anastase and Valentine Fillol Cordier.
What could you see yourself buying from Audrey Grace?
Most everything!
Who is your favorite Brit?
My friends.
What is on your fall wishlist?
A Miu Miu oversized clutch, a Paul Smith coat, and everything from Carven.
If you could transport to any decade and place where/when would it be?
London in the 18th Century.
What does the future look like for you? Any exciting projects/exhibits?
Lots more editorials and possibly some portraits, we shall see...

Thanks so much, Jessie!
All photos courtesy Jessie's website

Audrey Grace NYC Photo shoot

2011-10-24T17:04:00.000-07:00

On Friday, I had a really exciting and fun photo shoot with Serena, the photo assistant at Teen Vogue, who I just interviewed for the blog. We shot all around my apartment and my building. The photos turned out great, and I am so excited to share them with you! All of the clothing and jewelry is available at Audrey Grace! The shoes and sunglasses are from my own collection.

Erin Fetherston dress, Fancy Fine by Ashley ording for Audrey Grace Boutique jacket, Telesca necklace, Miu Miu heels

Katie-Louise Ford for Audrey Grace dress, Ban.do headband, Alexa Chung for Madewell boots

Kelsey Genna dress, Kelsey Genna floral crown

Manoush dress, Tom Ford sunglasses, Charlotte Olympia heel, Miu Miu heel (in background)

Katie-Louise Ford for Audrey Grace dress, Ban.do headband, Alexa Chung for Madewell boots

Alice takes A Trip Dress, Tatty Devine ring

Sretsis dress, Sretsis hat, Necklace by Telesca, Miu Miu shoes

Katie-Louise Ford for Audrey Grace dress, headband by Ban.do, shoes by Alexa Chung for Madewell

Luella coat, Telesca necklace, Dear Creatures dress, Loulou Loves You bow,

Dress and floral crown by Kelsey Genna

Sretsis hat and dress, Telesca necklace

Luella coat, Loulou Loves You headband

Manoush dress, Tom Ford sunglasses, Charlotte Olympia heels (same below)

detail on Erin Fetherston dress

Chanel sunglasses, Alice Takes A Trip dress (in background)

Photography and digital design by Serena Reynolds
Styling by Jaclyn Bethany for Audrey Grace
Special thanks to Akilah Walker and Hannah Sheen for helping out!
Shot in: Midtown, NYC