Handbags & James Nares paintings - a match made in heaven

When I first moved to New York, 15 odd years ago, I was lucky enough to come into contact with the artist James Nares.  I instantly fell in love with his paintings, they made me feel relaxed and energized all at once, in the way that a trip to the beach might.

While I haven't seen James in years, I was so thrilled to see this video in the NYT about his collaboration with Coach. What a treat to get a little peek into his world and his inpirations.

If, llike me, the idea of your favorite art ON A HANDBAG is too much to bear, check out the edition collection of canvas bags at Coach.   I'd be hard pressed to pick just one!  How about you?

Classic Americana with a European twist? Look no further.

I was so excited to learn that renowned Creative Director, Claudia Bruno has opened the doors to her own agency that I wanted to spread the news.

I’ve known and worked with Claudia over the years and her ability to divine the true essence of a brand is what makes her work so memorable.

With the experience of an industry veteran, the relationships to create the perfect team and a never ending supply of enthusiasm and inspiration, Claudia has put he skills to work for clients that include Tommy Hilfiger, Kate Spade, Dockers, Banana Republic, Target, Dwell Magazine, Piperlime and many more.

Claudia also knows a great wordsmith when she sees one and has collaborated with Plum’s very own copywriters, Courtney Saunders, Mark Welsh and Dimitri Ehrlich.  Didn’t I say she had great taste!

To see more of Claudia’s work, please check out her website.

 Tommy HIlfiger - Denim Advertising Fall 2011Hilfiger Denim DriveHilfiger Club BrandingKate Spade - AdvertisingDockers - Advertising

Piperlime - Advertising 

"What would Michelle do?" - Illustrated by Meg Hess

Those of you who are fans of the lovely Meg Hess' work know that capturing the all out glamour of icons, past and present, is something of a speciality.

In a recent collaboration with author Allison Samuels and Penguin, Meg turned her hand to our very own first lady, Michelle Obama.

We love the outcome....how about you?

You can pick up your copy here.

ROYAL OAK 40 YEARS: From Avant-Garde to Icon

I’ve come to the conclusion that Sebastien Agneessens is either a time management ninja or just doesn’t feel the need to sleep - such is his ability to conceptualize and produce stunning installations for a host of clients while simultaneously building his profile as a songwriter, performer and recording artist.   

In the interest of my not writing a never-ending post, we’ll save his music for another time and focus on a current project, a traveling exhibition for the luxury watch brand, Audemars Piguet.

In collaboration with MA3 Agency Sebastien was charged with conceptualizing and designing a traveling installation that would showcase the heritage and innovation of the Audemars Pigeut brand.   The occasion? The 40th anniversary of the Royal Oak collection - the first luxury sports time piece and industry game changer.

Inspired by the Swiss landscape that surrounds the brand’s headquarters, Sebastien collaborated with fellow artists Quayola and Dan Holdsworth to create and environment that included sound sculptures,  photography, film and several  ‘fragments’ - structures that housed 100 iconic timepieces, memorabilia and a watchmakers area (with real life Audemars Piguet craftsmen!)

The result is a truly unique, beautiful and inspiring experience - a perfect reflection of the collection and brand. With a few destinations under it’s belt (New York, Milan and Paris) the tour will continue to Beijing, Singapore and Dubai where it will be open to the public for a few days only.  Click here for dates and if you find yourself in that neck of the woods (hey, you never know), stop by and check it out.

‘Black Feather’ limited edition prints by Meg Hess

I’m so excited to share illustrator Meg Hess’ limited edition print collection ‘Black Feather’ with you.

This gorgeous collection of 8 prints was inspired by the feather’s ability to be both dramatic and fun (have you ever noticed how women take on a whole new persona when they wear them)?

I was so inspired that I got my (lucky) sister one for a Christmas/housewarming gift.  I was totally torn, but knew my sis would love any one of them so I went with the gorgeous creature with the opera glasses (the first one below). 

There are 25 limited edition prints of each. To view the collection please visit Meg's website