Florence Broadhurst

The story of the enigmatic Florence Broadhurst's life is almost as colorful and fascinating as her beautiful prints.   Her many reincarnations, from musical comedian in South East Asia, India and China in the 1920's to proprietor of a successful dress shop on Bond Street in the 1930's, she finally settled in her native-Australia as a painter and established the exquisite hand-print wallpaper business for which she is best known.  Until recently her work was overshadowed by her untimely and mysterious death. Sydney-based, Signature Prints, bought the commercial license to the Florence Broadhurst design library and her prints are once again in hot demand.  Rights to select prints have been snatched up by the likes of Marc Jacobs, Stella McCartney and Carly Simon. Here are some examples of her incredible textiles.  

*image 1 via The Sydney Morning Herald; image 2 gorgeous clutches featured on design.style.color; image 3 via Pippa Jameson Interiors; Image 4 via Katy Elliot: Image 5 via DeTnk

Christmas Shopping Countdown

Everything on my wish list this year happens to be in preparation for my Christmas holiday to Sri Lanka....

These items will be perfect when sitting surf-side in Hikkaduwa!

Mesi Jilly Moonstone Ring available at Kirna Zabete

Lanvin Flower Brooch available at Kirna Zabete

Rajana Khan earrings available at Kirna Zabete

Classic Missoni bikini available at Net-a-porter

Tory Burch tunic available at My Teresa

Inspiration: photography of Slim Aarons

As I begin to source product for ilhabela boutique nothing comes as a greater inspiration as the sun-drenched photography of Slim Aarons.  The lifestyle, the sun, pools, parties and fashion conjure up a by-gone era of opulence and living life to the fullest.

*all images by Slim Aarons

Dreaming of kaftans, bikini's and 'La Piscine',  otherwise known as 'champagne on ice', the preferred afternoon cocktail  at the beach clubs of St. Tropez.  

Entertaining on a budget

I randomly stumbled upon a site called Luna Bazaar and instantly needed an excuse to throw a dinner party.  The site is full of fun, cost-friendly solutions for decorating - paper lanterns, parasols, votive holders, party favors and much more - all for next to nothing!  You can even search through the multitude of offerings by color or theme. 

Here are some of my favorites....

Paper fans for party favors, beautiful floral votive holders and colored vintage glass jars for flowers

*image 1: table setting Cliff Brunk via Luna Bazaar; Other images product shots via Luna Bazaar 

I've always loved dreaming up themes for parties and this website will inspire you 

to get creative....

All that's left is a guest list and menu!