For your eyes only; Gems

* enter the world of FYEO

Nov 13, 2024

FOR YOUR EYES ONLY no.1

Now it’s time for you, my valued subscribers, to get something extra — and I’m so happy to finally share it with you! Around mid-month, you’ll receive a special edition of Arts & Tea straight to your inbox, just for us. And the best part? There’s a Q&A in the comments, so we can chat directly and explore even more together.

What makes this so special? Here, I’m sharing all the drafts and ideas that felt a bit too personal for the main newsletter — my “killed darlings,” the links I’d normally only send to close friends. Think of it as a more private take on the topics we’re exploring, a mini think tank where you can see exactly what’s been capturing my attention lately. Big step, right?

I’m so glad you’re here, and I’d love to hear your feedback as you read. This is very much a work in progress, and you’re the co’art directors. I genuinely want to know what you think — even if we don’t always see things the same way. You get it. Just one of the benefits of being a paid subscriber!

Kindly note: This For Your Eyes Only, is rich with inspiration and may be on the longer side. If your email platform shortens it, please open it in your browser to fully appreciate every detail.

This may contain: an open book with the word act i printed on it's page, in black and white

Arts & Tea Paid Subscriber acces

Arts & Tea Monthly Release – Published on the 7th of every month, Arts & Tea dives into a new theme each time, exploring fresh perspectives and insights on the art of; -”-.

“For Your Eyes Only” Deep Dive – Mid-month, paid subscribers receive an exclusive deep dive into the month’s topic, offering a more personal, behind-the-scenes perspective.

AQ&A (Arts, Questions, and Answers) – Along with the “For Your Eyes Only” post, you’ll have a full 3 days to submit your questions, sparking a dedicated conversation around the month’s subject.

Subscriber AQ&A Responses – Your questions, answered! I’ll publish a response whitin the week after AQ&A are closed, diving into your queries and continuing the conversation.

Arts & Tea Book Club – As a paid subscriber, you’ll have access to our book club, via our closed chat every two months to discuss the selected book. I’ll also share some starter questions to spark our conversation, helping us dive right in.

Subscriber-Only Comments – You’ll have the privilege of commenting on all posts, both open and subscriber-only, allowing you to connect more closely with the topics and each other.

WISHLIST - FYEO

*This segment includes affiliate links

That Croco Bucket Bag from Toteme makes my heart skip a beat, just like the first time I saw a Kelly 28.
The slouch boots from Massimo Dutti add a touch of Working Girl flair to any outfit—a subtle nod to that effortlessly cool, professional vibe.
On the hunt for the perfect short jacket? I am, and I think I’ve found it over at LIBEROWE. But if that slips through my fingers, this one from Arket is an excellent backup—truly, it’s just right.
COS’s fringed oversized scarf is my go-to for when the chill hits; it’s cozy and stylish, ideal for those of us who feel the cold down to our bones.
This ceramic pot room scent from Santa Maria Novella brings the true essence of fresh linen—unlike anything I’ve experienced. I keep it in our laundry room, and trust me, it gets more compliments than you’d believe!
Straight and oversized is my go-to for corduroys, and this pair from Arket is simply perfect.
For work dinners, theatre nights, or just about any event, I’m reaching for this cape-inspired blouse from By Malina. It reminds me of the cape I wore on my wedding day, bringing a touch of nostalgia to every wear.
This belt from Déchante is both classic and modern, with contrast stitching that adds a refined touch to its timeless look.
And finally, a book that resonates as powerfully today as it did decades ago: Bruegel - The Complete Paintings 40th Edition. Bruegel’s art defied idealization, confronting the issues of his time with unflinching honesty, critiquing religious warfare and challenging the authority of the Church. An essential read for anyone drawn to art that captures history's raw truths.

KILLED DARLINGS

I'll admit, I'm as guilty as the next person when it comes to getting caught up in the language and categorization of style. Assigning labels - sporty, boho, preppy, and so on - can feel like a helpful way to define and express our personal aesthetics. And let's face it, these formulas are often carefully crafted marketing strategies designed to shape our consumer habits.

Me wearing By Marlene Birgers Opera Coat

But lately, I've been questioning how much this constant need to define and redefine ourselves through appearance is truly serving us. Are we, consciously or not, subtly shaping everyone around us to fit the same mold? And in the long run, are we sending the message that we should all look, think, eat, drink, and even sound alike?

I've come to realize that thinking conceptually about my personal style has actually helped me connect with myself in a deeper way - one that goes beyond just the surface level of how I present myself. It's about choosing pieces that feel timeless, practical, and well-made, rather than constantly chasing the latest trends.

Me wearing silver Chanel ballerina, Levis 501:s, Gray Harris Tweed jacket, Toteme knit and bag.

Of course, I still love the creativity and self-expression that comes with categorizing different aesthetics. But there's something unsettling about the excessive labeling and pressure to define ourselves that's happening right now. It feels like a constant need to fit into neat, marketable boxes.

And yet, here I am, creating a newsletter with its own specific labels and monthly "best-kept secrets." I see the paradox in that. But perhaps it's in these small confines that something unexpected and transformative can emerge. Maybe it's in the tension between formulaic branding and individual expression that we find our truest selves.

Wearing Stenströms White shirt (as always) rest is Toteme.

So with that in mind, I invite you to explore a daring approach to refined style—embracing classic, streamlined pieces in a way that feels uniquely yours. Just because I lean toward timeless, polished fashion doesn’t mean it has to be boring. It’s about finding the thrill in subtle details, pairing pieces in unexpected ways, and making the classics feel fresh and personal.

Vintage treasures from SUMO

Me in leather coat by Toteme and polo in Kashmir by Stenströms, runway is Michael Kors FW 13

Speaking of wardrobe essentials, I've recently been inspired by the timeless sophistication of Michael Kors' Fall/Winter 2013 collection. There was something so effortlessly chic about the tailored suiting and polished separates that graced that runway

If you, like me, are on the hunt for authentic vintage '90s suit pieces to channel that aesthetic, I have the perfect recommendation for you - SUMO. This online vintage retailer has an incredible selection of the real deal, from structured blazers to pleated trousers.

Like this DIOR HOMME By HEDI SLIMANE F/W 2007 "Navigate" Runway Suit

I stumbled upon SUMO a few months ago and have been utterly smitten with their curation ever since. The attention to detail and commitment to quality is simply unparalleled. Each piece feels like a true one-of-a-kind treasure.

Whether you're looking to invest in a standout power suit or simply want to sprinkle some retro flair into your wardrobe, I can't recommend SUMO highly enough. The prices are more than fair, and the thrill of scoring a vintage gem is unbeatable.

A Vanity jewel from Chanel

Chanel lipstick and Cherry sculpture by artist Lothar Vigelandzoon

Chanel has truly outdone themselves with their latest lipstick launch - 31 LE ROUGE. Inspired by the legendary Art Deco mirrors that line Gabrielle Chanel's apartment on rue Cambon, the faceted, square case is the most irresistible lipstick packaging I've seen from the brand.

For my personal taste, I'm utterly smitten with the shade 11 ROUGE COROMANDEL. It's a rich, dark red that borders on brown, without a hint of unflattering lilac undertones. The color is simply divine against my fair complexion.

Beyond the captivating design, what I love most about this lipstick is Chanel's commitment to sustainability. The sleek, glass container comes housed in a stylish, tweed-inspired holster. When the lipstick is finally used up, you can simply refill the case - no need to toss the entire component.

This lipstick truly feels like a vanity gem - the perfect marriage of timeless elegance and modern sensibility.

Hats Off to Cozy Chic

Me at Toteme trying out the shearling pillbox hat

For some time now, I've had my eye on a particular piece from the Totême collection - their sleek, structured pillbox hat. I recently invested in their long, dark brown shearling coat for the autumn, and I'm eagerly awaiting the release of the coordinating brown hat in stores.

However, as luck would have it, I stumbled upon an unexpected alternative that has quickly stolen my heart. While browsing BARTS I discovered the most divine black fur hat with a softly feminine silhouette. I simply had to have it, as it pairs perfectly with my black opera coat from By Malene Birger.

This new Barts hat has a slightly smaller and more supple shape compared to the Totême pillbox, offering a distinct but equally chic look. It's the perfect balance of cozy and sophisticated - a lovely complement to my existing cold-weather wardrobe. I saw that Viktoria Chan is making it up on the list as well.

Me in fur hat from BARTS

Pamina fur bonnet from Viktoria Chan

A Little Fashion Secret

As is the case with many women I know, I’m inspired by the timeless elegance of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Her style possess an undeniable sophistication, yet maintain a sense of approachable, everyday luxury.

This past summer, I stumbled upon the most divine pair of sunglasses while browsing at Massimo Dutti. They've quickly become a closely guarded secret of mine - simply because I don't want them to sell out the moment a new color drops! However, I've decided it's time to share this hidden gem with all of you. After all, you deserve to discover these exceptional shades for yourselves.

Trust me, you'll thank me later.

PLAYLIST - FYEO

As someone who finds music just as captivating as visual arts and cultural events, I believe our musical tastes can offer unique insights into our personalities and experiences. With that in mind, I'd like to share 10 of my personal favorite songs - a soundtrack to accompany this newsletter, and perhaps the days ahead.

I find that music has an incredible power to evoke emotion, transport the listener, and shed light on one's inner world. These 10 tracks offer a glimpse into the diverse spaces of my musical heart and mind. I hope you enjoy this personalized playlist!

THINK TANK

In this section, I'll be sharing topics, garments, actions or things that I foresee will be of growing interest in the near future. Even if my predictions don't all come true, you can be sure these are the things that are on my mind.

First up, I have a strong feeling we'll be seeing a resurgence of jacquard fabrics with lush fringing details. There's something so effortlessly elegant and romantic about that interplay of intricate patterns and soft, cascading movement. Also the thin long scarves is gonna be here for a while, i find it a versatile way to integrate this tactile trend.

Toteme V-neck brocade dress

Veronica Beard Mazzy Chasmere turtleneck, Silver earings and braclet Toteme, Polo Burgundy Sweater Veronica De Piante

I’m also sensing a revival of paisley, bringing its intricate, eye-catching patterns to all sorts of garments and accessories. I keep imagining ways to transform pieces like my husband John's suit ties into dresses or rework my father's silk shirt from the early '90s. There’s something timeless about paisley that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Stenströms, Sofie corderoy shirt

I have a feeling we’ll see a shift toward rich, moody colors like violet, burgundy, and lilac. These deep, regal tones add depth and pair beautifully with gleaming silver accents or a cool mint contrast, creating a sophisticated look with high impact.

Burberry silk slippers, from Vestiare

In the realm of botanicals, I have a hunch that carnations will make an unexpected comeback, offering a fresh spin on classic floral motifs. And in a nod to the natural world, I foresee rhodedendrons spilling out of decorative buckets as a charming accent.

This may contain: a painting of white flowers in a glass vase

White Carnations 1904 | Henri Fantin Latour

Finally, I'm intrigued by the enduring appeal of the bolero jacket and other cropped suit jackets. There's something so polished yet effortless about layering these shorter, more structured pieces.

LEMAIRE Belted jacket - Heavy cotton satin

I'm curious to hear your thoughts on these emerging trends. What are you most excited about, or skeptical of? I'd love to get your perspective!

ARTS & TEA - BOOKCLUB

Welcome, I'm thrilled to introduce our new book club, where we'll explore captivating stories while diving into the worlds of culture, art, and fashion history.

For our first selection, we'll be reading "The Friday Afternoon Club" by George Dunne. This intimate memoir promises to offer a unique window into the high-brow intellectual, crazy creativ souls and cultural scene at the 1980s

To allow everyone in this book club to fully engage, regardless of busy lifestyles, we'll be reading one book over the course of two months. I'll present the next selection when we've finished the current one, keeping you on your toes!

Please join us for our first book chat on December 19th at 8pm CET. I'll be serving as a friendly moderator, guiding the discussion and making sure no one's voice gets left behind. This will be a wonderful opportunity for us to get to know each other better through the lens of art and literature.

I’m thrilled to build The Friday Afternoon Club together with you and can’t wait to hear your unique perspectives—see you in the chat! And if you're looking to explore even more in the world of literature, my dear friend Carolina Storm hosts a wonderful book club over at Storm Journal. It's a great space to connect and dive into new reads.

Join Arts&Tea’s subscriber chat

Available in the Substack app and on web

AQ&A - FYEO

I’d like to create a space for us to connect, and I think this could be a great way to do it! You’ll have the opportunity to ask me anything that comes to mind, and I’ll respond at a designated time. Does that sound good to you?

You’ll have three days to submit your questions in the comments below, after which the portal will close. This will allow me to provide thoughtful, well-researched, and personal answers. Please keep in mind that I’d prefer you to focus on one question or topic at a time, so I can dedicate fair time to each of your inquiries.

I’ll publish my responses just for you on Monday, November 18th, at 8 AM. If this format resonates with you, I’d love to make it a monthly event!