Masks.  Masks?  MASKS.  Why is this such a loaded issue?  I honestly will never understand.  For me, wearing a mask is really not a big deal.  It's important to remember that mask wearing is about protecting oneself and others, and what could be more simple than that?  We are truly all in this together, which is something I most certainly appreciate.  As with everything I do both professionally and personally, I want things to be as beautiful as they possibly can be while also being purposeful.  With that principle in mind, and much love and appreciation for the mask wearers out there, I am proud to introduce you to our beautiful collection of masks.  If we are going to wear something on our face, to face the world as it is, day in and day out...it should be absolutely beautiful.

We perfected the pattern which includes expert tailoring, with a wire across the nose bridge to allow for the most flattering and comfortable fit.  This ensures that you still have a visible jawline (very important, I think!), along with extremely soft Japanese elastic ties that can be worn either tied in a bow or knotted around your ears.  If you prefer, they can also be tied behind your head.  Either way, you will be able to customize the fit to your individual face, and wear the mask in the best possible way for you. 

In addition to being extremely comfortable, our masks are made with a multi-layered construction using 100% cotton and/or 100% silk, with a silk/cotton voile layer next to the skin for maximum softness and breathability.  Numerous studies cite 100% cotton and 100% silk as being the very best fibers for non-medical grade masks.  The cotton acts as a physical barrier, while the silk holds an electrostatic charge that traps particles.  In combination, this is an excellent option for keeping safe during your normal life, along with social distancing and avoiding crowded indoor spaces. 

Each mask also has a pocket stitched into the innermost layer for placing a removable filter, if you so desire.  We include two activated carbon filters with each mask purchase, and it's easy to find more online. 

In addition to the Liberty of London printed silk and cotton masks, and the Japanese and Italian men's shirting cottons, we also have made a limited edition of French lace masks that are truly exquisite.  All of our masks, as with everything we make, are made by hand, atelier style in Los Angeles.  Our skilled artisans are perfectionists in the best sense of the word, and we are profoundly grateful to work with such talented individuals.  The pride, love, and skill present in every creation is something that never ceases to inspire me, as I hope it does you.  

Speaking of inspiration and expert tailoring, have you seen Gianluca Migliarotti's documentary, O'Mast?  It's one of my all-time favorites, and as a reviewer wrote, "A documentary about a mysterious world, immortalized in the splendor of its authentic beauty." which sums it up rather perfectly.  I can't recommend it highly enough.  I think you'll see why I am so obsessed with fine tailoring and custom made garments, which I'm beyond thrilled to be able to design and create locally.  The romance of something so beautifully made will always be what I am most inspired by.

It is a privilege to be able to make beautiful things in the best of environments, and it feels even more so given the current state of affairs.  With all of the events shaping the current climate, we are committed to doing our best to support the organizations out there who are doing the difficult work to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.  We have chosen to donate a portion of sales to No Kid Hungry, an organization that strives to end childhood hunger in America.  I hope you'll learn about and support the incredible work this organization is doing to help the most vulnerable amongst us, the children who depend on school meals, and who are especially affected by the current crisis.

With the end of summer now upon us, I hope you have a lovely Labor Day weekend ahead of you.  Have as much masked and socially distant fun as you can manage, and stay cool.  The upcoming heatwave looks like it means business!  To that end, I've made a batch of "Magic Shell" which I'm sure you've heard of.  If not, it's that delightfully crunchy shell of hardened chocolate that elevates any kind of ice cream or other frozen treat.  It is ridiculously easy to make, and I suggest you give it a try, if you've never.  It's HEAVEN on a hot summer's night.  On the subject of ice cream, have you discovered Negranti Creamery yet?  They have lots of delicious flavors, but the Fresh Mint Chip is the one I love the most.  

Chocolate "Magic Shell" 

3 tablespoons coconut oil

200 grams dark chocolate, broken into pieces

Melt the chocolate and coconut oil in the top of a double boiler and stir to combine thoroughly.  Pour into a jar, and let cool before pouring over ice cream or dipping in a frozen banana (or any other kind of fruit you fancy).  If it solidifies in the jar, you can always return it to liquid by placing the jar out in the sun, or in a bowl of warm water.

Enjoy,