With an epic election cycle behind us and Thanksgiving just hours away, my thoughts have been focused on all that I am grateful for in this wild and unusual year.  It has felt very "through the looking glass" to me, and without lots of holiday guests to consider or an enormous and varied menu to plan, I have felt a bit unmoored.  While I am very much looking forward to creating a cozy feast for the four of us, I am missing the anchor that Thanksgiving planning on a grander scale usually provides.  Thankfully we are all healthy, safe, and together which is the biggest gift of all.  However small the gathering, the goal is to bring some festivity and beauty to the holiday, and I encourage you to put on your holiday best, and ENJOY.  Wishing you all a wonderful day filled with so much love and lots of delicious treats.

On the topic of treats, we are excited to offer special pricing on select items through Sunday, November 28th, 2020.  I am more appreciative than ever of my incredible clients.  Thank you for keeping us all going during this challenging time.  I am indeed truly grateful.  No code required, items priced as marked online, and all marked down items are FINAL SALE.  I look forward to helping you choose the perfect gifts this holiday season.  It is always a sincere pleasure, even in the best of times.  If you have something custom in mind, such as a family constellation necklace, or one of our numerology bands, please let us know sooner rather than later so we have plenty of time to work on these future heirlooms.  Knowing that you are giving something both unique and precious is a wonderful feeling, one I am delighted to help you achieve. 

I am very excited about the new Liberty prints in store now, and especially about the cotton pieces.  These will become staples for those who love the prints but prefer cotton over silk.  I personally love them both, especially the new Marlayne slip with French lace.  We have another new slip we call Ava too.  I hope you'll make an appointment to come try them on.  We spend a lot of time and energy perfecting the fit of every piece, and I'm especially proud of these two.  When I began designing our collection of slips, one of the features I wanted to make sure to get right was the back.  It seems obvious, but getting the angle and line of something just right can be ridiculously tricky.  They'll be online soon, but until then...here's a little preview.

If you are looking for a little holiday treat for yourself, have you seen our beautiful new cameo earrings?  I find them incredibly charming and light, and love the way they look, especially their blackened sterling silver setting, which adds a bit of cool to the classics.  

We also have a group of lovely new beaded necklaces, perfect for making holiday additions to your collection, or for sending to someone special as a gift.  Some of them are already online if you'd like to have a look.  I absolutely love this one and this one, and think they look especially good together.

As for Thanksgiving dinner, we have decided to forgo a turkey altogether and roast a duck.  I must say that I will miss gathering our friends and family together to eat at a long table all together, and also the incredible feast that accompanies it.  Paring down feels right however, in light of the current situation at hand.  I hope everyone can be safe and sound this year, and find true comfort and gratitude in a decidedly more simple holiday celebration.  Next year we will hopefully be back in action all together, enjoying a truly epic feast filled with all the celebratory spirit that this sweet, joyful holiday can inspire.  

Since I have been cooking nightly for so many months now, it becomes challenging to find something new or different to make.  I think we all feel more or less the same in this regard.  Keeping it simple is key, and I think that applies to Thanksgiving as well.  Tradition is important in our house, so of course we will be making Persimmon Pudding for dessert.  I've had many requests for the recipe again this year, as I always do.  So here it is!  It is decadent and delicious, and easy to make.  The persimmon crop this year has been outstanding, so it's nice to take advantage of the season.  Another important idea is to support our local restaurants by ordering for take-out or delivery.   After cooking a feast, it will be nice to have one cooked for us, and to support the restaurant industry in any way that we can.  I'm personally drooling over the menu at Bavel. I'm also making sure to support the incredible farmers who are impacted so greatly by all of the pandemic restrictions on restaurants.  You can order boxes from my beautiful friend Lauri Kranz at Edible Gardens LA, or from County Line Harvest.  

Wishing you all the healthiest, happiest Thanksgiving possible.  Take good care out there!

Persimmon Pudding (from Emily Luchetti)

Serves 8

3-4 large ripe Hachiya persimmons 

3 large eggs

1 cup granulated sugar

4 ounces (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted and cooled to warm 

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

2 cups of half and half (or 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream)

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter a 9-inch square baking pan.  Remove the stems from the persimmons and cut the flesh into pieces.  Purée the persimmon flesh in a food processor until smooth.  Strain the purée through a medium-mesh sieve to eliminate any bits of skin and seed.  You should have 2 cups purée.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until blended.  Whisk in the melted butter.  Sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves onto a piece of parchment paper or into a bowl.  Add the salt.  Stir the dry ingredients into the egg mixture.  Slowly pour in the milk and cream, stirring until combined.  Stir in the persimmon purée.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan.  Bake until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, 40 to 45 minutes.  Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.  The pudding will sink as it cools.  Serve the pudding warm, scooped into bowls with loosely whipped cream, sweetened with a couple of spoonfuls of maple syrup.  If you have anything leftover, you can reheat it in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes.  

Enjoy,

How wild has October been so far? I know the planets are up to a lot of mischief, and Mercury is officially turning retrograde this evening. The world itself seems to be on fire, with wild news from all corners of the globe. Frankly, it all makes me want to hibernate a bit, and come out when we are through the thick of it. Anyone else feeling the same way?  I imagine many of you are, and while I cannot provide you with the solutions to all of the ills that plague us literally and metaphorically, (though VOTING will clearly be the most important step you can take!!!) I can most certainly steer you towards something that will definitely make you feel better: ROBES.  

Yes, robes, dressing gowns, dusters, housecoats, whatever you like to call them, they are just what the doctor ordered, and we have an exceptionally beautiful selection at the moment. There is something about being enveloped in something beautiful, soft, silky, and comfortable that truly soothes the soul.  I've long felt this way, and now I feel it even more so. Whether it's in the morning, all night (if the nights are cold, I sleep in my robes), or just at the end of a seemingly endless day, wrapping up in a silk robe seems to be the equivalent of a much needed time-out.

The very first robe I designed was inspired by a beautiful silk kimono-style beauty that I found in a vintage shop in San Francisco when I was about eighteen years old. It was a deep pink chinoiserie print that I absolutely loved, and wore to shreds. I never found anything exactly right to replace it, so alas...our Asteria robe was born.  Of course only the finest silk would do, which led me to a long favorite of mine, Liberty of London.  Our Liberty print robes have always been our best selling pieces, perfect for treating oneself, or for gifting to someone special. This next collection of robes is print blocked, pairing up two or more prints in a bold symphony of color and pattern. 

I think this collection is my most favorite to date.  I especially like the super saturated colors of the Jemma Rose print, and can't wait to see the pajama set that is currently in production. As the new collection trickles in, I hope you'll make an appointment to come see it in person or call us to schedule a virtual shopping experience.  As always, these are limited edition. With the holidays on the horizon, I suspect we will sell out quickly, so if a particular print speaks to you, let us know soon.

We also have a selection of pieces in Liberty print cotton fabrics that are particularly lovely.  This French lace trimmed camisole is perfect for the warm weather, and is something pretty and practical to wear now. It looks great paired with jeans, or worn underneath a sheer blouse. Liberty cotton slips, robes, and pajama sets are also in the works, set to be in store before too much longer.  I know some people prefer sleeping in cotton, so there will be plenty to choose from if you fall into this camp.

Aren't these little hoop earrings perfect for a little colorful treat for yourself or someone special?  Both the coral and turquoise beads are vintage, and have been part of my collection for a long time. I love seeing them worn together, but they are also very nice on their own. 

Rings have always been front and center in my collection. This charming little snake ring joins our carved labradorite scarab ring, and our favorite little elephant friend, expanding our collection of little creatures with great symbolism.  

In the spirit of rings with symbolism, I've been delighted to fill so many orders for wedding bands over the last few months.  I'm not sure if more people are getting married this year, but it certainly seems so, and it has been an honor to have so many couples choose our Classic Band to represent their commitment to love and to each other. This soft, thin, and slightly irregular band is extremely comfortable (important especially it seems for the men who have never before worn a ring at all!), and has a handmade feeling to it that sets it apart from the more traditional wedding bands we are used to seeing.  Of course, you don't have to get married to appreciate this versatile band.  We can make you one in any size, or color of gold, and as always, can engrave something special on it for you, as we have done with our poesy bands.

In addition to wrapping myself in these gorgeous silky Liberty prints to self soothe and keep my sanity, I've really been into tending the garden.  Have you heard of Kokedama?  It's remarkably easy, and deeply satisfying.  You can learn more about it here. I've got a little collection going, and I think I'll make some for friends too.  The process is incredibly therapeutic, and the end result is quite beautiful.

Of course after the garden, comes the kitchen.  What have you been making lately?  Please share.  At this point after so many months of daily cooking, I think we all need a little shared inspiration. Travel has always inspired my cooking, and while staying home has had its virtues, I desperately miss the inspiration of a good trip.

I especially miss Rome, one of the best food cities in the world.  Happily, our local farmer's market has had puntarelle on offer this year, so I can get my fix of cucina alla Romana here at home.  My dear neighbor hosted a lovely dinner party back in February, and served a puntarelle salad that was divine.  She then gave me one of the traditional tools used in the cleaning and preparation of puntarelle, which I learned how to use after watching this.  Finding the giant heads of Italian chicory at the market last Sunday was a treat, and reminded me of that wonderful evening spent with friends before the pandemic truly hit home. The salad is bright and crunchy, and perfect served with something hearty, like the lentil and sausage soup that I made the other night!  

Puntarelle alla Romana

One head of Puntarelle 

bowl of ice water

Peel off the outer leaves, and slice the hollow heads into thin matchsticks using a knife or a puntarelle cutter.  Soak in a bowl of ice water for at least an hour to remove bitterness.  I usually put the bowl in the refrigerator and sometimes leave it up to two days, which is also completely fine.

Drain well, and then dress lightly with a vinaigrette made with 4 anchovy filets, a tablespoon of red wine vinegar, and three tablespoons of the best extra virgin olive oil that you have.  Mash the anchovy well, and add a few grinds of fresh black pepper to taste.

I will admit to sometimes bringing a little bit of California to the table by adding slices of avocado.  While obviously not in keeping with the traditional recipe, is quite delicious.

Enjoy,

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, 

Hello, hello!  We've missed you so much. I'm sorry I haven't written. What a time this is. Hard to believe really, yet here we are in the subtle glory that is the middle of the season. Despite current distressing news and events and the struggle it takes to remain hopeful in light of them, I am decidedly an optimist by nature.  I happen to love summer, the longer days, the gardens (and the gardening!), the gorgeous light here in Southern California, and the slower overall pace of life.  Of course nothing about this particular summer is remotely normal, nor is life at all for that matter.  How are you faring out there?  I hope everyone is staying safe and sound. It is becoming increasingly challenging to stay well, and by that I refer of course to the physical, emotional, and psychological components of that challenge. I have found tremendous solace in turning to nature, and to the practice of gardening. I'm becoming quite devoted! I am not sure if I am alone in treating my first rose bushes like a new baby, but I do know that growing such beautiful flowers gives me great joy. I rush outside in my nightgown to check on them first thing in the morning, noticing every little overnight development like a new parent. 

Another source of great joy is simply being in the boutique on a more regular schedule. We have truly have missed seeing you, so please do make an appointment to come for a visit, if that appeals. We have been open by appointment (masked and distanced, of course) for a little while now, and it's been absolutely delightful to see people one by one.  Here are the guidelines we are following, and updating as the situation warrants.

The store is remarkably easy to social distance in, with plenty of fresh air wafting in, and of course our 100% beeswax and essential oil candles burning to help purify the air.  On the candle front, we are happy to announce the arrival of an edition of travel-friendly sizes of our most signature scent, Frankincense.  They are 1.7 oz each, burn for 12 hours, and are available to purchase singly in the boutique for $12 each, or in sets of three or six online. 

We wear masks, and have found a hand sanitizer that is both effective and doesn't make our hands feel like lizard skin. Speaking of masks...YES, we are making them, and YES, they are coming soon.  YES, it has taken a long time, but we always take a long time making sure things are right.  Since we will be wearing masks for the foreseeable future, we know that having a mask that is both beautiful, comfortable to wear, and functions effectively will be increasingly important.  We will be offering them in both cotton and silk crepe de chine Liberty prints, as well as Italian and Japanese men's shirting cottons in plaids and stripes.  Let us know if you're interested, and we can put one aside for you. We will also have a stunning French lace and silk chiffon version, which of course I am most looking forward to.

We've done lots of research on the most safe and effective attributes, and have incorporated them into what we feel is not only a beautiful mask, but one that actually does what it is designed to do beautifully.  We use a triple layer construction using 100% cotton, 100% silk, and a silk/cotton voile that all work together to filter out the particles we don't want to breathe.  The cotton is both comfortable, and an efficient physical barrier, while the silk has an electromagnetic charge that traps particles. They also have a sleeve for inserting a 2.5ppm carbon filter, if you so desire. Together, and along with being socially distant, they are your best bet for being out in public in a safe manner.

Since being out in public is greatly curtailed at the moment, I'm enjoying what I can from home, as we all are.  My dear friend Gregory Parkinson sent me a link to a marvelous film of Pina Bausch's The Rite of Spring, performed on a beach at dusk in Senegal by 38 dancers from 14 African countries. The piece is a collaboration between The Pina Bausch Foundation and École des Sables. It's only available through Sadler's Wells digital stage until the end of the month, so I hope you find the time to watch it before it is gone.  It was filmed as the world was descending into lockdown, and captures what is the performers' last time rehearsing the piece together.  The urgency and intensity of the choreography is quite heightened by the reality of the global situation, and the beauty, strength, and love of the dancers for their craft is incredibly moving.

photo by Zabo Babilée 

I also hope you'll find a moment to join the Mindful Awareness Meditation on Thursday July 30th, the weekly livestream hosted by the UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center.  In normal times, this event is held at the Hammer Museum's Billy Wilder Theater. Seeing as how these are not normal times, they are now offered online.  You can RSVP to participate here.  The 30 minute sessions are free, held weekly, and no prior meditation experience is necessary. 

My version of meditation lately has been in the kitchen.  I know that for myself, and for many of you out there, cooking has been both a gift but also a bit of a grind during this intense period of lockdown. I've been relying on the gorgeous produce available from County Line Harvest that I pick up in the neighborhood on Friday afternoons, and inspiration wherever I can find it. Lately, inspiration has come from my lovely neighbor Ruth, who is gifted with a decidedly green thumb.  She has generously shared her bounties of shiso leaves, tomatoes, and zucchini. Subsequently, I've made a delicious tomato risotto, and a shiso leaf chimichurri that was excellent on grilled yellowfin tuna steaks the other night. I know not everyone has a lovely neighbor growing shiso leaves, but if you're lucky enough to have a bunch, I'm happy to share the recipe if you ask.

The tomato Ruth grows is the Hungarian Heart variety, which couldn't be more perfect, as what could be more lovely than a homegrown tomato from a neighbor?  I riffed on a David Tanis recipe for Tomato Risotto that I found in the NYTimes Cooking section, using crushed tomatoes in the risotto, with the sliced and roasted tomato on top with basil and lots of Pecorino Romano cheese.  

Tomato Risotto

1 large onion, diced

1 leek, thinly sliced

1.5 cups arborio or carnaroli (I like Acquerello)

2-3 garlic cloves

1/2 cup dry white wine

750 g chopped tomatoes (approximately 3 cups)

4 cups hot broth (vegetable or chicken, I've made it with both)

1 cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese

1-2 large tomatoes, sliced thinly and roasted for garnish

Handful of basil leaves, dill, parsley, chives or any soft herbs you prefer

Extra virgin Olive Oil

Red chile pepper flakes

1 tablespoon butter

Sauté diced onion and leek in about 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, season with salt and pepper until soft, about 5-7 minutes.  Add minced garlic and rice and continue cooking until rice is coated with the oil, and begins to turn translucent, but not at all brown.  Add the white wine, and allow it to bubble and become absorbed by the rice before adding the diced tomatoes, along with the red chile pepper flakes.

Once the liquid has evaporated, begin adding the hot broth. Start with 2 cups, and stir gently as the rice simmers and absorbs the liquid.  Once the risotto begins to seem dry, add another cup of the broth, and gently simmer another 5-6 minutes.  Once the risotto is cooked through but still al dente, I stir in another 1/2 cup broth, a tablespoon of butter, and 1/2 cup of the grated cheese.  Put the lid on the pot for 1'2 minutes to allow the butter and cheese to melt, and for the flavors to combine. Stir gently, and taste for seasoning, adding salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer to a shallow serving bowl, layering the roasted tomatoes, herbs, and a bit more cheese over the top.  

Enjoy,

First of May, May Day... or MAYDAY!, as in the classic international distress signal. It's kind of both, really. I hope you and yours are doing well, navigating the lockdown and it's attendant anxieties. The cooking, cleaning, worrying, working remotely, distance learning, the hoping everything doesn't fall apart (including one's own self). There is certainly a lot to manage, therefore it is even more important to take good care out there. Look after yourself, and those who need looking after. For me, this is a time for moving a bit more slowly through the day, more mindfully, and with an even greater generosity of spirit. With that in mind, I think it is especially important to properly celebrate the mothers in our lives on Sunday, May 10th.  

I know that I feel especially lucky to have my mother around to celebrate. Because of her age, we won't be able to give her big hugs and kisses, but we will be able to bring her flowers, and stand across her patio at an appropriate distance to tell her how much we love her. She's been a mother for most of her life, and she's really perfected the art. She is a huge inspiration not only to me, but to everyone who has the pleasure of meeting her. 

Even in the best of times, Mother's Day is a wonderful opportunity to show gratitude and share your love with the women who mean the most to you. In this time of quarantine, every gesture feels even more special. How are you going to celebrate this year? We have ten days to make plans, source a bit of joy, and make sure that the mothers around us feel supported and appreciated. My mother loves beads, so I plan to give her one of our hand made, one-of-a-kind necklaces.

We also have a few new pair of earrings, that feel especially perfect for a Mother's Day treat.  If earrings aren't her thing, bracelets also make wonderful Mother's Day gifts, as would this striking 18k gold necklace with an oxidized sterling silver and grey diamond pendant. I love the contrast between the darkened silver and the matte, hand-finished 18k gold.

We do have other less precious, but quite lovely options for gifts, as ever.  Our beeswax candles can be delivered locally, as can anything ordered from our website. We are also able to ship in time for Mother's Day, as long as you place your order by Wednesday, May 6th. I am planning to treat myself to a new slip for Mother's Day, since I wear one every single day, both to sleep in and to layer under dresses. I'm thinking about these three, and trying to decide which one will suit me best.

Of course, who wouldn't love a new ring to add a bit of cheer during this extraordinary time. The bright pink tourmaline cabochon is an instant mood elevator in the brightest of times, which is something we can all use a bit more of now.

There has been an enormous amount of loss around the globe this year, and we are all affected by it. The Ancient Egyptians had an entire culture and set of rituals surrounding death and the afterlife. It has been a source of fascination for me for as long as I can remember, so when I found this beautiful carved labradorite scarab, I immediately knew it would make a beautiful ring, and a special memento for someone to treasure. A scarab was placed over the heart of a body before mummification, in order to protect and provide luck for the journey to the afterlife. I just love that symbolism, as well as the energy surrounding the idea of transformation and immortality. We are all transformed by this shared experience in some way, and will emerge from it very different from the way we entered it. It's impossible to have an experience like the one we are collectively having, and remain unchanged. I'm hoping for a safe and protected journey for all.  

One lovely journey to take is through Exhibition on Screen: Painting the Modern Garden: Monet to Matisse through the Royal Academy in London's website. It documents the 2016 exhibition, and is a lovely way to spend an hour or so, if you are like me and swoon at the sight of a beautiful garden.  

Lots of museums have excellent online programming to feed our appetite for art.  Our very own LACMA has launched LACMA@Home with a weekly email, where you can find inspirational content, such as this wonderful short film about Betye Saar. Even though we cannot physically visit our favorite cultural institutions, it's easy to benefit from their online presence, and support them as best we can.

I've dropped a major hint about these Milla Chocolates for Mother's Day. I mean really...passion fruit hearts with 23kt gold leaf? Perfection. If I share them, it might make up for the pain and suffering I am causing while I teach myself to play this on the piano. I played daily from ages 5-17, and then never touched the piano again... so it is a bit slow going, I'm afraid. I just hope I'm not torturing the neighbors too.

As for Mother's Day itself, I think it would be a perfect excuse to make this divine looking Berry Brita Cake from Susan Spungen's newly released cookbook, Open Kitchen. It looks like a dream, and I have so been enjoying cooking from this book. Susan was meant to do a book signing at Chariots on Fire in March, and sadly it was cancelled. I look forward to seeing her in the hopefully not too distant future, and to the rescheduled signing when we can all gather again safely. In the meantime, I've got this cake on my mind...

Happy Mother's Day, and Happy May Day to all... we are here to help you find a perfect treat for yourself or the mamas in your life, if you feel like making it an extra special Mother's Day. We are extending our 25% discount on all lingerie through May, while donating 10% of online sales to No Kid Hungry. Now more than ever, our support helps the most vulnerable amongst us.

Take good care of yourselves and each other. We so look forward to seeing you all in brighter days. Almost there, I hope...

Much Love,

Here we are, April.  It is such a surreal moment in time that the passing of hours, days, and weeks doesn't quite feel the way it used to, and I imagine it won't for some time to come.  How are you doing?  Really, how are you? It's a question to keep returning to.  The checking in, the temperature taking, whether figurative or literal...the sorting out how to navigate this whole strange new world seems to be the compelling task at hand.  I miss my friends.  I miss the entire community I've created both in my personal and professional life, as I imagine you do too.  How could we not?  Everything "normal" steadfast and true has been upended indefinitely.  That is the challenge, I feel.  The part of all of this that is indefinite, which is to say everything.  So, we ride the wave and hope to make it safely to shore.  At least that is how I'm looking at it. 

Another thing I'm looking at are the beautiful gardens in my neighborhood.  The days include intermittent walks, and I try to document some of the more inspiring examples of the season.  The birdsong and the vivid flowers are such a pleasure, aren't they?  I am so grateful that this quarantine business has coincided with springtime.  I am also grateful for my team, all working remotely and whom I miss so much.  I am really looking forward to the reunions ahead of us.  I miss making lunch at the boutique, and our afternoon ginger tea ritual.  Of course I am doing lots of cooking and ginger tea making at home, where I am lucky to have such a receptive and appreciative audience.  There is a LOT of cooking and eating going on in our house, which along with being healthy is one of the reasons to be the most grateful of all.

I have always loved the spirit of generosity inherent in cooking, and in the sharing of recipes.  I'm keeping a diary of our nightly dinners, not to mention what I'm making to stock the refrigerator for lunches and snacking, so if you want any ideas just ask.   I'm keeping track of things in this beautiful notebook that one of my dearest friends gave me a couple of months ago.  I absolutely love it, and it's really the perfect gift for someone who loves to cook.

At the moment I am focused on connecting with people I am thinking of and missing as much as I can.  I've decided to watercolor a set of postcards, making excellent use of the beautiful Japanese watercolor set I received for Christmas. They were a gift from someone I cherish, so using them gives me even more joy.  So this is what my "desk" looked like this morning.  I have always liked working on the floor for some reason, and this set up seems to suit me best (after trying several, as one sharing a house with three other humans is required to do).  Of course I have one of our beeswax candles burning, and my morning hot water with half a lemon.  I can't drink coffee, so this is how I have started my day for the last 25 years or so.

You can also catch a glimpse of my Liberty Print dressing gown.  This one happens to be one of my favorites, and I think we may have one left in this glorious print, if you're interested.  I also really love the print below, and all the different ways it can be worn.  In light of the extended lockdown period we are offering a 25% discount on all lingerie, and continue to donate 10% of those sales to No Kid Hungry, helping to support the most vulnerable amongst us. The discount will apply automatically at check-out.

It is certainly tempting to stay in one's bedclothes all day, but for my mental health and well-being, I get properly dressed everyday.  It does wonders for my spirits I find, as does sleeping in beautiful nightclothes.  Now that everyone in the house is together in the mornings, I am experiencing the other side of that equation, which is the effect that seeing your housemates in lovely sleepwear has.  It is such a boost to see everyone well turned out.  I've always been a proponent for dressing for one's self, without any regard really to how it affects anyone else.  Now I see it from a fresh perspective, and it's almost a public service to put yourself together for the sake of those with whom you live.  Trust me on this.  It really does elevate the mornings.

While I was painting, I made a little playlist, which you can listen to if you like.  Music feels important now, as do books.  I just finished a book that I can't recommend highly enough.  It was suggested by a lovely friend in London for our Zoom bookclub.  I'm fortunate to not need to Zoom so much for work, but bookclub and the occasional cocktail hour with friends has been a sincere treat.  Back to the book, it is A Month in Siena, by Hisham Matar.  Have you heard of it?  I hadn't, but I am so delighted to have read it.  It is divine.  I now can't wait to read everything else he has written.  It was quite inspirational.

Speaking of inspiring, did you hear Queen Elizabeth's speech last week?  If you haven't, I encourage you to take a few moments to watch.  She is such a treasure. Her calm, compassionate, and wise words were a balm for the world.  The turquoise and diamond brooch worn above her heart was a reminder that beauty is always a tonic, and made me think of the turquoise and diamond ring that might be one of my all time favorite creations.

For Easter this Sunday, I think I'll make this delicious little chocolate cake. I had been trying to sort out what exactly to do with the almond pulp from all of the almond milk I keep making for Sacha, who apparently loves an almond milk latte (the effects of living in Brooklyn, perhaps?).  I made it last Sunday, and it lasted all of an afternoon.  Between the four of us, it was well finished by the end of the day.  Let me know what you think.

Chocolate Almond Cake

Almond pulp from making almond milk* (approximately 185 grams)

110 grams sugar

110 grams butter

2 eggs

10 grams baking powder

125 grams dark chocolate (I use 71% Valrhona)

pinch salt

3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 

confectioner's sugar for dusting

Melt chocolate and butter together in a double boiler, and remove from heat. In a medium sized bowl, mix together almond meal, sugar and baking powder.  Add eggs, one at a time and whisk to incorporate.  Add vanilla, followed by the chocolate + butter mixture.  Whisk to combine.  Bake in a parchment lined small springform pan for 25-30 minutes at 350 degrees.  Cool, and dust with confectioner's sugar to serve.

*If you haven't got a recipe for almond milk that you love, mine is dead simple.  Soak 1 cup of almonds overnight in water.  Drain in the morning, and add to 3.5 cups water in the vitamix, along with 3 pitted dates, a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and a dash of cinnamon. Blend for a few minutes, then strain through a nutmillk bag. The remaining pulp is what I use for the cake, though I like to let it dry out a bit overnight.

Stay well, and enjoy the silver linings of this unprecedented time.

Much Love,

It is hard to believe that it has been over a week since we've all had to adjust our lives to this radical new reality. In some ways it feels much longer, and of course in others it seems that just yesterday we were all running around attending to our myriad quotidian lives. As a team, we are no longer able to be together at our boutique on Main Street, or in our studio in DTLA. We are now working remotely as best we can, with everyone's safety top of mind. I must admit that I did pop over to Main Street to gather some things I'll need while working from home, and I was struck by how much I miss being there. I miss my amazing team and our lovely clients of course, but I also miss just inhabiting the space that I created to welcome people into the world of LFrank. I do love it there, especially in the afternoon when the gorgeous golden sunlight comes in just so.

In the spirit of helping those who need it most, we have #LINKED up with our jewelry community in donating 10% of all online sales to an amazing organization, No Kid Hungry.  They do incredible work all year long to ensure that the most vulnerable children receive access to consistent, healthy meals. There is no better time than now to help them, so if you have had your eye on a piece of jewelry, treat yourself, and do some good in the process.  Please also take advantage of a 25% discount on all in-stock lingerie to shop and support. Use code LINKED from now through April 1st, 2020. There are lots of beautiful things to help brighten your time spent at home. I've long said that waking up in a lovely slip, or donning a beautiful robe, can change the trajectory of your day, so please take me up on that and give it a try.  I suspect we can all use tools that set us off on the right foot each day during this inconceivable time of restriction.

I feel enormously lucky to love the home that I created with my family, and am grateful to have the opportunity to spend time here, even if it happens to be under such circumstances. If it is essential to stay home, then I am beyond happy to do so here, with all of us together. Staying home for me doesn't mean abandoning all sense of normalcy. On the contrary, I find it rather important to continue to do what I normally do. I still put on all of my jewelry in the morning, and get properly dressed.  In fact, I put this dress on today, for a number of reasons, not just because it's cheery and beautiful. I did a bit of research on the designer Michael Novarese, and found a Swiss article titled "Fashion that Bloom in the Spring" and describes him "...as usual, hitched to a star that continues to rise." I love that.

I also chose this dress today because it is in itself a powerful source of connectivity. I was introduced to Marie and her chic vintage shop RecessLA by my friend Susan Winget (of Marshmallow fame), when I saw a post she did on Instagram. I was able to dash over before quarantine set in, and while everyone else was panic buying toilet paper (someone please explain this to me) I decided to take home a dress that literally screamed my name from the rack. I am beyond happy that I did. I had the nicest experience in her shop, something I am obviously sensitive to, and it gave me a long lasting boost, in that the dress immediately brightened my day and the day of everyone around me, as I hope it brightens yours. Just supporting fellow small businesses feels especially good right now, so I hope you'll have a look at what Marie and Susan do, and spend a little time being delighted.  

We all need a little cheer, and it is most likely not a coincidence, but rather incredibly strong DNA that had my daughter show up for our afternoon family dog walk in her lavender Gunne Sax prom dress from her senior year of high school.  Apples and trees, as the saying goes. I would show you a photo, but she would never forgive me. Suffice to say that it is lavender, frothy, and everything you'd hope it would be. We passed a few little girls on our walk (at a safe distance, rest assured) and I could see them trying to figure out how on earth we could be so lucky as to be walking with a real life princess. She should have been wearing these colorful sapphire earrings along with it.  Next time!

Is everyone cooking as much as I am?  It's quite a lot to make sure there is something for everyone to eat everyday, as we all attend to our work, school or otherwise. We can't live on Milla Chocolates alone, as much as we'd all like.  I try to make sure there is at least something fresh and appealing in the refrigerator, using whatever I've got on hand. Today it was this simple French lentil salad, and it seemed to do the trick.

French Lentil Salad

1 cup lentils du puy (cooked in 4 cups of water, then drained)

2 Persian cucumbers, peeled and diced

5 small organic red and orange peppers, diced

1/4 cup pickled red onions

1 can of organic chickpeas, rinsed and drained

1/2 log of goat's cheese, crumbled

salt and pepper

fresh dill

dressing of lime juice, two spoonfuls of pesto sauce, a few spoonfuls of extra virgin olive oil

Mix all ingredients in a large bowl, allow to sit in the refrigerator for an hour or so, for the flavors to come together.  Season with salt and pepper if needed.

Enjoy, 

What an uncertain time we are in!  There is indeed some solace in knowing that we are all in this together, and that together we can hopefully make a difference to help diminish the spread of COVID-19 in our community. While social distancing is certainly not my style, it is most definitely in the best interest of everyone at the moment. That said, I want to let you know that we are here and look forward to helping you in whatever way works best.  You can call us at 310-452-0771, email inquiries@lfrankjewelry.com, or send us a DM on @lfrankjewelry on Instagram. We will also accommodate private client appointments as necessary.  

I would also like to assure you that the health and safety of my team and our clients is my top priority, so we are taking all necessary precautions with regards to sanitizing our environment, as well as adhering to the published CDC guidelines in all ways. With that in mind and in an abundance of caution, I have decided to close the Main Street boutique to the public for the next few weeks.

You may of course continue to shop online, and we will be updating the website with new work in the upcoming days ahead.  As a small business, we are thankful for your continued support now more than ever. 

I am enormously proud of, and grateful for the sense of community we have created in Venice, and look forward to reconnecting with everyone as soon as possible. We promise to keep you updated with any significant developments. I hope that you are all safe and sound with your families, in good health, and remembering to look for the silver linings in all of this.  

We will continue to create beauty, and to post imagery that provides a welcome respite from the stress of the current moment. We will always shine a light on the beauty of the world, and invite you to enjoy. Please do keep in touch with us!  We look forward to hearing from you, even if it is just to say hello.

Please take good care of yourselves and of others who are in need around you, as we look forward to brighter days ahead.

Much Love, 

Well, the beginning of March has certainly heralded a sort of new reality, hasn't it?  What is that quote about March coming in like a lion, and going out like a lamb?  I realize that pertains to weather, but could it also pertain to the current public health crisis?  Let's all hope so.  I certainly don't have any special insight into the coronavirus, but what I do know, is that we need to take good care of ourselves and others during what is undoubtedly one of the most uncertain times in recent memory.  I'm thinking about those amongst us who might need special looking after, so let's make sure we do that to the best of our abilities. Let's also make sure to notice the amazing things happening around us in the natural world, such as the wisteria blooming, the hummingbird mamas feeding their new little babes, and beginning of a beautiful new season.

For the time being, we are keeping our regular business hours, noon-6pm Tuesdays-Fridays, noon-5pm Saturdays, and closed on Sundays and Mondays.  We are taking all precautions to ensure a sanitized and hygienic shopping experience.  We wipe down all hard surfaces multiple times per day, and after every client visit. We are hand washing on an Olympian level, and making sure that we all stay healthy.  Please feel free to make an appointment, or to have things sent to you, if you are not comfortable venturing out into the world.  Believe me, the most important thing is to take care of ourselves and to protect others, and we understand that on a very deep level. We are more than happy to be flexible and make accommodations as we navigate the current landscape.  

As for taking care of ourselves, we have lots of ways to do that here at LFrank.  Firstly, did you know that burning beeswax candles apparently releases negative ions into the air, which in turn purifies it?  In addition, Frankincense is thought to calm anxiety and have antiseptic properties, which sounds especially good right about now.  We just so happen to have beeswax candles scented with Frankincense essential oil, which will make your house smell delicious, clean the air, and lessen the anxieties of the times.  I have one burning next to me right now, and I have to say that I feel calmer than I have all week. I am also burning our Zen Garden candle, because who doesn't want a little bit of zen at this particular moment?

We also have the silkiest, loveliest pieces of sleepwear and lingerie that make even the most uncertain times infinitely nicer.  As my dear friend Natasha phrases it, we shall be "cocooning" for awhile, so let's be chic and comfortable while we do just that. I always feel bolstered by something colorful and luxurious next to my skin, hence there is no shortage of options here. We just sent out a few custom orders and I am delighted in the knowledge that we are brightening the days ahead for at least a handful of lucky individuals and those around them. There's no good reason not to swan around in something beautiful and don a jewel or two, whether to cocoon at home or to venture out for supplies.

I've also taken time to put together a new selection of our popular African trade bead necklaces. It's a particularly lovely batch, and I know that our collectors will all find something new to love. We have a few online now, and are working on getting the rest up over the next few days. 

As for the upcoming social distancing that we will all be engaging in, I hope it is possible to find the light and levity.  I'll be cooking up a storm and enjoying the unexpected time with my family. I also plan on reconnecting with my newly tuned piano (thank you Mr. Vladimir Greenberg), in between other creative projects. I am also instituting an after-dinner disco routine, something we used to do years ago, and a habit that definitely needs revisiting now that we are all under one roof again. 

I'll also be making this delicious escarole salad for as long as the farmer's market remains open and accessible.  It's the perfect accompaniment to all of the hearty and delicious stews I will also be experimenting with. It's a riff on the one from Lupa in New York.  If you know it, then you love it.  

Escarole Salad

One large head escarole

Toasted and roughly chopped walnuts

Pickled red onions (just soak them in red wine vinegar for as long as you like)

Grated Pecorino-Romano cheese

Fresh dill

For the dressing, I toss a little of the vinegar from the onions, add a spoonful of the oil from the anchovy jar, juice of half a lemon, salt, pepper, and a bit of extra virgin olive oil.  

Enjoy, and take good care out there...

Here we are, a mere nine days away from Valentine's Day. I know it is one of the most polarizing holidays we have.  There are those in the "Hallmark Holiday" camp, who resent being manipulated into buying something, and those who fully embrace any reason to celebrate love in all its forms. I am sure you can already guess what camp I fall into. With all the chaos that surrounds us on a daily basis, I am thrilled to have something lovely to think about. Any holiday that uses jewelry, lingerie, chocolates, and flowers as tools to represent love is going to be a hard favorite for me.  In honor of L O V E, we are hosting a flash sale on some of our favorite gift ideas for Valentine's Day. The sale begins today, and runs through the weekend, so don't delay. Select jewelry items are marked down online, and all sleepwear is 14% off with code BEOURVALENTINE. It's my gift to you.  

Speaking of gifts, Mother Nature has been outdoing herself lately.  Have you been lucky enough to see one of the spectacular sunsets we have been having?  Quite amazing by any measure, the sunsets this winter have been especially vibrant. I feel like they completely reset my central nervous system.  If you can find a minute to run outside around the magic hour, please do yourself the great favor and DO IT.  It does wonders for the soul, and I can feel the indescribable benefits of the experience every single time. 

Capturing views like these are one of the perks of having a boutique located a couple of blocks from the beach. Pink and orange together are one of the color combinations that I most love, so it has been absolute heaven to be able to witness this stunning show every evening.

If you need any advice on the gifting front, we are absolutely here for you, and have plenty to offer.  One of our 100% beeswax candles would make a lovely gift for your Valentine, as would a chic 100% silk Liberty Print Robe and/or Sleep Mask. We also have a lovely assortment of African trade bead necklaces that are always popular, and much appreciated.  I also would recommend a copy of Mona Kuhn's gorgeous book, Bushes and Succulents. We are lucky to have a few signed copies left.  

I've said it before, but I honestly cannot sleep without one of our Hypnos silk sleep masks.  It is so important to sleep in utter darkness, and these always do the trick. I love it when people are a bit skeptical, and then come back to rave about them and buy them as gifts. Treat yourself or someone you care about. An optimal night's rest is one of the greatest gifts of all, so anything to help someone be successful in that endeavor is truly an act of love. 

This new year has felt a bit relentless, so I've tried to keep it simple and give myself a rest from the nonstop cocktail and sweets circuit that we call the holiday season.  This juice is something that helps me reset, so I try to drink it as much as I can. You'll need a juicer to make it at home, or just order these ingredients at your local juice bar.  Ours has memorized it by now, after I've ordered it so many times.  It's completely refreshing, and I definitely feel better having made it part of my routine over the last month.    

Juice for the New Year

One head of organic Celery, tops and base trimmed

One bunch organic Italian Parsley

One bunch organic Cilantro

One large organic cucumber

One organic lemon, cut in half

One two inch piece of organic ginger

After being so virtuous in January, I am more than ready for the Valentine's chocolates that I hope are coming my way soon. Have you tried the Passion Fruit Bonbons at Milla Chocolates?  They are divine. I hope that a certain Valentine of mine will read this and pick up a box. Ahem...hint hint!

Enjoy,