Journal

Exciting news everyone, we’ve been chatting to Laura Orchant, one of the most talented luxury scarf designers we’ve ever had the the pleasure of meeting. Those of you who’ve been by our blog recently may have already seen that the new Laura Orchant SS18 scarves collection appeared in our January Brand of the Month spot – and well-deserved it was, too. But, ever since these beautiful scarves arrived at the store, we’ve been dying to ask Laura some one-on-one questions about her work – so we did. So without further ado, here’s what this lovely lady had to say: #1 - Hi Laura, wonderful to be chatting to you. So let’s start at the very beginning of the Laura Orchant story: When did you first realise you had a talent for drawing? From a very young age I have always loved to draw! You’d catch me doodling on every piece of paper I could get my hands on, and I’m still doing it today! # 2 - We heard you created your business plan while still studying – that is no mean feat! How did you fit your plans in around your college work? I was fortunate to have a great relationship with Rebecca, my business partner. I began speaking with her, and when we realised we had similar ambitions we were able to support each other and start materialising a plan together. # 3 - And what gave you the idea to focus on scarves? I have always had a love of scarves! My grandmother was a collector and I used to dress up in as many scarves as I could possibly wear as a child, so the appreciation was always there. Then, while studying fashion I realised my true love of print design, so I started to apply my work in a way that could stay timeless and yet be playful, exciting and rejuvenating to this wardrobe classic. #4 - Are there any designers out there who have influenced you along the way? I love Emilio Pucci and Dolce and Gabbana for their bold design style, as well as Elie Saab. I truly appreciate so many designers in all their individuality, and I get really inspired by even the smallest details. #5 - Speaking of inspiration – where in particular do you find most of yours? As I mentioned above, it can be anything, from the smallest leaf to the structure of a building. I find the mundane is often interesting and unexpected, so I have been drawing from all sorts of unnoticeables recently and am loving what I’m seeing! #6 - When it’s time for you to begin a new season collection, where do you start? Could you give us a little insight into your incredible creative process? There really is no rhyme or reason – it is quite hard for me to put into words but I’ll do my best. I usually start by looking through my design archives, going to an exhibition or visiting a show. I tend to take a lot of photos, collect books and jot ideas down all the time, so really it’s about sitting down with a pencil and paper and sketching. From there I get my colour ideas and medium inspiration to play around with and create. #7 - What is your favourite stage of the design and production process? I love to draw! That is a true passion of mine. But I also love choosing fabrics in Italy to reflect the designs, seeing my ideas come to life, and seeing the collection worn by someone and how it could transform someone’s confidence – can I say all of the above? It is not without a lot of hard work, but it does have its rewards. I am involved in all aspects of the business, including negotiating, printing, and meeting like minded people. There is a real joy from walking away from a potential client who is equally as excited for the prints as I am, knowing you have made a difference – however small it might be. #8 - We hear you’re going to be working with Universal Music to produce a range of Take That scarves this year following the success of your Rolling Stones range back in 2016; how exciting! What will this project involve? In this project I have been working on a subtle play on the famous Take That logo, creating a hypnotising 3D effect. Take That and their fans are very passionate about the band, so it was a real honour to be asked to come up with a range of designs that would do justice to the logo and, most importantly, please the band and their fans. The launch of the scarves has been timed to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the band, and fans are awaiting news of a 25th anniversary tour, the line-up of which has still not been confirmed and is causing a frenzy of speculation. Exciting stuff! #9 - You currently have an exciting resort wear collection in the pipeline; what made you decide to expand into clothing? Did it present many new challenges compared to scarf design? Scarves will always be at the core of Laura Orchant , as this allows an entire complex print to be showcased in a simple form. However, because the prints are so vibrant and playful, I felt resort wear including kimonos and ponchos are a natural fit for the designs and the organic next step for us. Quality is something really important to me, so every piece we create is carefully considered. I like to find shapes that will be flattering, fashionable and bold, ensuring we can print and produce everything to the highest standards. #10 - Do you have a favourite piece from the current SS18 collection now on sale at Stanwells? The supernova is a really magical print that I enjoyed creating. It feels new and exciting in terms of design, but still keeping the Laura Orchant essence of style. #11 - Excellent choice, we love that one too! So what’s next for the Laura Orchant brand? Do you have any new products or ventures in the pipeline? This year we have a few exciting collaborations in the pipeline as well as a focus on our international markets with new partners in Canada and the US. #12 - That sounds exciting! And last but not least, we have to ask – who is your ultimate style icon? I would have to say Audrey Hepburn. She always appeared so beautiful and classy, and there was an effortless elegance pouring from her as if she was just made that way. My Grandma had a similar demeanour, a timeless classic of a lady if you like. Thanks so much Laura for taking the time to chat to us, we’re so excited to have the new Laura Orchant SS18 collection here at Stanwells! Take a look at the full Laura Orchant scarves collection here.

Print-lovers, this one’s for you. Laura Orchant has landed at Stanwells with the most beautiful prints you will ever see, and we’re so excited to show you the new season collection. Laura Orchant is the queen of print design, famous for her collections of stunning luxury designer scarves that she designs by hand. Made using only the finest silks and super soft modal blends, Laura Orchant women’s printed scarves are unrivalled in their beauty and quality, and her new SS18 collection is steeped in both. Believe it or not, Laura’s thriving business actually began before she even left college. Together with her friend and business partner, Rebecca Lewis, Laura had drawn up a business plan for her scarf design venture during her final year studying fashion design at Ravensbourne College in London; an incredibly impressive feat, we think you’ll agree. Drawing her inspirations from the natural world around her, Laura begins by drawing her intricate designs by hand, before scanning and digitally manipulating them. Since launching her business, Laura has gone on to design some very special scarves, including a range for the Rolling Stones, and will soon be releasing a collection for Take That. Want to see something pretty? Here are our favourite picks from the new collection of Laura Orchant accessories here at Stanwells: The Athena’s Garden Scarf in Green Modal Blend Vivid greens and blues dazzle the eyes in this stunning scarf themed around Athena’s Garden. As the Goddess of Wisdom and the creator of the olive tree, this is how Laura Orchant imagines Athena’s Garden would look, with vibrant green leaves and vivid florals. Aside from the peacock-pretty colour scheme, this beautiful rectangular scarf is made with a super soft modal blend fabric, making it feel wonderful against the skin. Perfect for tying at the neck during the last few chilly evenings of spring and just as beautiful when used as a light shoulder wrap over the summer months, the Athena’s Garden scarf is one of our absolute favourites in this collection. The Dizzy Daisy Print Silk Scarf in Yellow Remember those seemingly endless summer days sitting in parks making daisy chains as children? Those sunny memories are all wrapped up in this gorgeous Dizzy Daisy silk scarf. Perfect for the new spring/summer season, this scarf is made from 100% pure silk, giving it a truly luxurious, lightweight feel. This is one of Laura Orchant’s many classic square scarf designs, easy to drape around the neck and add a burst of garden-inspired colour to any new season outfit. Butterfly Kiss Print Scarf in Pink Modal Blend This truly is summer in a scarf. The vibrant pinks, greens, blues and golden yellows of the Butterfly Kiss print scarf conjure up images of bright summer gardens, where the butterflies dance across the flowers on sunny afternoons. The soft, lightweight modal fabric blend is ideal for both the spring and summer months, and looks especially fabulous when contrasted with white or black outfits. Whether tied at the neck or draped over the shoulders, this stunning scarf is bound to attract admiring attention every time you wear it. We picked out these three beautiful scarves with great difficulty, as the entire Laura Orchant accessories collection is simply to die for. Laura’s creations are truly the height of luxury designer scarves; you won’t find designs like this from any other label. If you want to know more about this incredibly talented designer (and why wouldn’t you?) then watch this space. We’re running a special Q&A with the lovely lady herself very soon, where she’ll be telling us all about how she creates these wonderfully unique printed scarves. Until then, enjoy the collection!  

Skiing season is here and everybody is heading to the slopes for downhill thrills and après-ski. But while most will be heading to ‘The Big 5’ – Switzerland, Italy, France, Austria and Germany – there’s a whole world of pristine slopes to explore beyond the mainstream destinations, and they’re all amazing. So pack up your equipment and your warm winter coats and jackets and give these alternative skiing season destinations a go in 2018: Åre, Sweden - Home of the saunas Image source: Wikimedia Commons If you love luxury as much as you love the mountains then Åre in Sweden needs to be top of your list this season. This pristine, soft-peaked alternative to the Alps is well-known for its relaxing hot tubs and saunas; the perfect way to unwind and socialise with your fellow skiers after a long day on the slopes. After you’ve enjoyed the outstanding ski opportunities and facilities, simply wash it all down with a glass or two of traditional Swedish schnapps and you’ve got yourself the perfect skiing experience without the crowds. Bansko, Bulgaria - A snowboarder’s paradise Image source: Wikimedia Commons If one of your party favours snowboards over skis, Bansko in Bulgaria is the place to be for ski season 2018. Hailed as the ‘New Andorra’, Bansko ski resort is nestled at the foot of the breathtaking Pirin mountains and boasts sweeping ski runs and an extensive snowboarding infrastructure. And, if you’re all about the après-ski, Bansko will not disappoint with its unique array of off-piste attractions. From its many mehanas (traditional Bulgarian taverns) with roaring fires and local food, to its dazzling casinos and lively bars, Bansko will easily keep you excited and entertained for the entire trip. Poiana Brasov, Romania - The best night skiing destination Image source: Wikimedia Commons If your ski skills are leaning towards the novice end of the slope, Romania’s exquisite Poiana Brasov is a great alternative to the slightly more intimidating mainstream resorts. Regarded as the best ski resort in Romania, Poiana Brasov is home to an impressive Olympic run, however it is generally more tailored to beginner and intermediate level skiers. But the real pull of this stunning resort is the night skiing opportunities, which offer truly spectacular moonlit views of the mountains while you zoom down the runs. Davraz, Turkey - The ultimate hidden treasure Image source: Wikimedia Commons Yes, Turkey! Who knew? Davraz is, after all, one of Europe’s best kept skiing secrets. Here you can enjoy all the snowy delights of the traditional ski resorts while also having access to the stunning Mediterranean coastline; so it’s two holidays in one. Complete with both beginner slopes and challenging black runs for experienced skiers, Davraz is nestled between three shimmering lakes and offers truly magical views. Be quick and visit before the word gets out, as Davraz is rapidly becoming popular with skiers the world over. What to Wear No matter where you go, you need to be ready for the snow. Sweden’s northerly location unsurprisingly means occasional icy winds, and all mountainous regions are prone to challenging weather, so you’ll need the best quality clothing to see you through. Luckily there are brands out there that combine the cold-weather practicalities with high end fashion, so you can tackle the slopes in style. If you’re looking for high-tech professional arctic gear with a stylish military aesthetic, Parajumpers is the brand for you. Inspired by the tough, courageous folk of the Alaskan 210th Rescue Squadron, Parajumpers coats are designed to withstand the harshest conditions while maintaining a classic outerwear style that you’d be proud to wear. If you’re looking for something a little more playful, Moose Knuckles is the home of super stylish men’s and women’s winter coats. Moose Knuckles parkas and bomber jackets are lined with luxurious feather and down to keep you snug and warm on the snowy slopes, even in the coldest temperatures. The super soft fur hood linings and playful pom pom details add an extra layer of fun to your sartorial ski ensemble, and the quality fabrics used by Moose Knuckles ensure you get a coat that will stand the test of time. And what about your feet? Stomping through deep snow for a week demands a sturdy pair of boots to keep your feet warm and dry, and Montelliana boots tick all the right boxes. Crafted from strong leather and lined with fur, these are the perfect footwear choice for all of your après-ski activities, and are just as ideal for lots of your outdoor adventures even after you leave the slopes. Now that you’re clued up and kitted out for skiing season, all that’s left to do is pick a resort and enjoy.

The secret to the world of fashion is to always be prepared! This is why, while we’re wrapping up warm for winter in our favourite coats and scarves, we’re also keeping an eye firmly on the styles the coming season will bring. When it comes to fashion buying you always need to be a good few months ahead of the game. This is exactly what our very own Julia Aitken was doing this week in Paris. We joined her on a jam packed day of appointments to reveal exactly what goes on in the world of a fashion buyer, as well as a sneak peek at the fashions in store for us in summer 2018… After a very early start and early but very convenient flight from Southampton airport I hit the ground running in Paris at 8.30 am. On a mission to do three appointments in a day, all started well until I decided to ditch the typically chaotic Parisian taxi driver that was making me feel sick on the outskirts of the city. I headed for the nearest Metro and disaster, no glasses and trying to read the small map was impossible! So, like a child I followed the route map by colours and to my surprise landed a short walk from my first appointment at the Aeffe showroom on Faubourg. Delightfully decadent, in true Parisian style, the showroom was bustling with a mix of buyers, models and glamorous showroom staff. I was greeted by the elegant Sylvia, a long standing member Philosophy sales team. She was a vision in turquoise and black, offering an early starter breakfast of coffee and croissants; she was my saviour. The Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini collection is always one of my favourites and summer ’18 was never going to disappoint. Fortuny pleated pants and 20’s style ruffled tops gave a flavour of 1920’s Deauville; the floral prints in pink red and black were more typical of the collection styled in feminine dresses but hot red satin midi dress with over-sized black cuffs sent a vibrant shock through the collection. I peeked into the Moschino Couture collection for a reminder of what the fashion runways theatrical best is about, and have a few sneak shots of the winged dress and rose floral skirted frock that had graced the Moschino catwalk a few weeks before. Onwards toward the Marais district I ran, down St. Honoré spotting the fashion chicks en route with loaded admiration for Parisian style…. Next stop IRO , located near Montparnasse. Their uber-cool simplistic showroom was busy, but with a quieter vibe than Philosophy’s showroom. Ice queen model's, edgy looking buyers and a super green, super healthy salad and health drink for lunch made the fashion frantic Philosophy showroom a very distant memory. So familiar with the IRO collection, the buy was easy: a mix of old favourites such as the leather biker jackets and new silk chiffon prints. Sprinting off to the Marais towards the fashion loaded Rue Charlot, I had a quick peek into Mes Demoiselles relaxed, Bohemian chic boutique. Easy on the eye and effortless, I wanted to be dressed like the store manager in a paisley chiffon skirt and off the shoulder top and cowboy boots; she looked SO cool, as only the Parisian girls do… Next stop Jerome Dreyfuss; for those who don’t know, Jerome is the accessory designer husband of Isabel Marant. His collection oozes everything about Parisian style at this moment; casual, relaxed and subtle. None of those big label branded handbags with their name across the front, a JD handbag is all about understated style in super soft leather or suede. Choosing was easy, as Florence, Jerome’s in house expert showed me the best picks of the collections: tan suede shoulder bags and the hot new style for summer, the circle bags in salmon pink. All done, taxi booked I set off for Charles de Gaulle with satisfaction that the day had gone well and could relax with a coffee whilst waiting for my flight. I was back in Lymington to pick up @Minifashiondog who had been the safe hands of Stanwells super sales girl Nikki; Minnie was fast asleep in the shop unaware of mums day away!