Cafe Love: Grace

Have you ever had one of those days when you were suppose to be doing something totally work related then got distracted? Well, I had one of those last Thursday! 

I was walking down Rose Street, in Fitzroy on a complete mission to take photos of people for  a 'your style street style' blog post, but  it was TOTAL FAIL and the weather was not to blame, it was the cutest cafe on Rose Street by the name of Grace

I think the number one reason why I walked into Grace was because it reminded me of the cute cafes I would sometimes stumble across during my time in Japan. These Japanese cafes were usually down some little lane way or hidden in old buildings that involved taking a ride in a VERY OLD lift. I think this is something that is going to happen more & more in Melbourne as rents on streets with high foot traffic increase.

Grace is a place for delicious food, having a quiet chat with a friend and for getting away from all the noisy cafes on Brunswick Street that EVERYBODY goes to. Be sure to check out their courtyard too with the shipping container! Oh, and it's on the way to the Rose Street Market.

Cakes: My weakness.

Details:
Grace
76 Rose Street, Fitzroy

Mon - Fri: 7:00 am - 4:00 pm

Sat - Sun: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

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Melbourne ceramic artisan: Sophie

Today on the Bleecker Street Vintage blog I'd like to introduce ceramic artisan Sophie, who creates functional pieces inspired from Japanese & Danish design. I was very excited when I met Sophie at the recent Finders Keepers Market in Melbourne as I have a love for Japanese ceramics, after studying it part-time myself whilst living in Japan.


 We had a great discussion (whilst drinking tea from one of Sophie's handmade teapots) about Japan, ceramics, clay types and the importance continual study of any art form. One thing really liked talking about was the slow movement in Japan & how the Japanese pottery town of Mashiko follows that philosophy.

Sophie took some time out from her busy schedule to allow me to visit & answered a few questions for me.

Tell us your story. How did you end up owning your own business making ceramics?

I did ceramics at art school (VCA) 20 years ago and then over the years have done various short courses.  When I left art school it's not like I went straight into working as a potter.  The reality is there aren't many pottery's out there anymore and I was a little to pragmatic.  I got a real job!

Then 8 years ago I set up the beginnings of a pottery studio in the laundry and it's just sort of grown from there. In the last couple of years it's become a full time thing.  It's been a very natural evolution.  It's something I love doing so I haven't approached it in a particularly hard nosed business way.  

How would you describe your style and who has influenced it?

I'm really into simplicity.  I'm not a big decorator, pots feel more honest when they're not all dressed up. And I'm obsessed with form, that's really what it's all about for me, making pots that you want to hold and feel. I love it when I'm at a market and someone will make a bee-line for my stall and start picking everything up, that makes my day.

There are loads of other potters that are an influence.  My mentor Gary Healey has been a huge influence and inspiration.  I love the work of Phil Elson and Prue Venables, they both do absolutely amazing things with clay. 

Could you let us know about your design process? 

I'll usually spend a few days thinking about a new shape and how I want it to look and be finished and then the rest of the process happens at the wheel.  It's more direct to just make it at the wheel and see if it works.  Tonight for example I was trying out some new ideas for cups and made about 15 cups and then recycled them all once I figured out what I was trying to do.  So the process is very active, there's not a lot of naval gazing.

Teapots waiting to be fired

Sugar bowsl: On my want list!

From start to finish how long does it take to make a collection?

I'm always making new designs and trying out new ideas so I don't really have a collection or range as such.  Usually I'll make maybe 30 of an idea and then move on.  But the process probably takes around 2 weeks.  It gets thrown, turned, handle attached then it has to dry for a few days, get bisque fired and then glazed and fired again.  It's a bit of a drawn out process and the throwing part is only one small aspect.

And finally what are your plans for the future? 

To make better pots.  And in the next year or two I'd like to have a show of my work.

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Industry Talk with Anthony - Et Al

Founded in 1987 by Christine and Les Doughty, Et Al has since cultivated a reputation for their unique signature aesthetic of relaxed tailoring worked back with the fluidity of soft drapery. Et Al manages to find the balance of cutting-edge designs with extremely wearable garments with a focus on refined workmanship and quality fabrication.

In 2008, Et Al introduced designer Anthony Capon to the label. Capon was the winner of television phenomenon Project Runway Australia Season 2 and the prestigious Emirates Melbourne Cup Design Award in 2010. His innovative androgynous designs and bespoke creations have built a cult following by enthusiasts globally.

The success of Doughty and Capon's collaboration is evident as Et Al continues to push their creativity by producing statement pieces with construction challenges, subtle yet well-considered detailing and garment wash treatments.

With an androgynous touch to their designs and following from the success of the womenswear collections, it was a natural progression for Et Al to launch its menswear range due to demand from male clients.

In 2013, Et Al showcased internationally for the first time as a part of Fashion Palette New York. Seven Australian designers including Akira, Aurelio Costarella and Nicola Finetti showcased their spring/summer 2013 collections at Pier 59.

Currently with five concept retail stores in key shopping precincts in Australia as well as an online store, Et Al is fast gaining recognition as a serious fashion brand; Colin Mathura-Jeffree from New Zealand's Next Top Model has worn several Et Al garments on-screen, and gowns were featured on the 2013 cycle of the Australian version.

 

Co-designer Anthony Capon took some time out to answer some industry questions.

Can you pinpoint the moment you knew fashion was the direction for you?

Since I was young I have always been quite creative. I always thought I'd be a Graphic Designer. I deferred my course for a year and the idea of Fashion intrigued me. I completed my Fashion Design degree in 2005 and have worked in the Industry ever since.

What would you name as your proudest professional moment to date? How has this moment advanced your career?

We (as in Et Al)  recently just showcased for the first time Internationally in New York which was very exciting. It was great to see our collection showcased on an international stage and there are lots of things coming from that to be announced soon. But we are also very proud of having our five stores in Melbourne. We have fantastic clients who love what we do and we are lucky to have such loyalty.

How do you think the internet and/or technology has changed the landscape of fashion, and the way we buy and consume?

We have an online store which is convenient for a lot of our clients. But for our business, many of our clients still love coming into store to try things on, to feel the fabrics and to get great customer service.

What are the top garments you gravitate to, when in a hurry, or dressing for a stock-standard work day? 

I always go for an oversized black blazer. It is comfortable, goes with everything, is trans-seasonal and always looks smart even if you aren't feeling inspired or creative. The other thing is great shoes! Shoes always complete an outfit.

Let us in on a secret - any secret. 

It’s OK to go up a size!!! Most people squeeze themselves to get into garments which don’t fit them. Garments that fit are always far more flattering, even if the number on the tag is bigger than usual.

Et Al has also expanded their clothing line by producing Limited Edition accessories, footwear and a sleepwear range.

Et Al

Anthony's blog

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Your Style = Street Style: Chapel Street South Yarra

  Emma: Producer

Wearing: Vintage dress purchased on Smith Street, housemate's trench, brother's hat, space monkey badge & $$$$ boots 

Matthew: Performer

Riki (right): Singer
Alex (left): Music producer


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Shop Love: Feathered Arbour

Living in Brunswick makes my little family of three spoilt for choice when it comes to cafes.
Depot de Pain located on Rathdowne Street, Carlton North is one of those places, and is my current favourite. Their open toast with mushrooms is something I just can't go past ordering and their brownie goes down well too!  

Further down from Depot de Pain & on the opposite side, is a homewares store by the name of Feathered Arbour. It's playful window displays have always drawn me in to take a look, but I have never gone inside, as up till now, I have only been past there when it's been closed.

I had a window of opportunity this week when having lunch at Depot de Pain (don't tell my partner) to take a sneaky look & quick chat to Julie, one of the store owners before heading back to do work at home.  A few days later I went back again to take photos of the store to share with my readers & customers.

Colourful placemats. Perfect to add colour at Christmas parties.

Imagine using these on a picnic or for a children's party.

Feathered Arbour is one of those stores where you can spend hours browsing and come out with a few nice pieces for the home or for a gift. 


They also have a great range of tribal bags in great colours. Plus tempting scented candles.

Towards the back of the store is a little nook, filled with toys & bedding for children. I thought the 'make your own volcano kit' would make a good present for my son at Christmas. I just need to figure out a place to hide it before then.


Thank you Julie & Sophie for allowing me to take some photos of your store. 






















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Support Small Business Day

October 19, 2013 is Support Small Business Day in Victoria. Small businesses do a lot for this great city of Melbourne and for the state of Victoria. They provide employment for young people, support the artisan & young designer community and because many of these stores are owner operator, they provide great customer service too. Another reason why small business is ace is because they contribute to one of the many reasons tourists love coming to visit Melbourne again and again.

Cafes, retail stores and other service providers will be using this day to give special discounts to customers who support small business in their local area in Melbourne & Victoria.

Please use this day not only to buy from small business, but to personally say 'thanks' for making your local area cool!

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Scarves at Bleecker Street Vintage

Just arrived this week are scarves to assist in the battle against those nasty spring winds!
The first lot of scarves I have named Miss kitty because of the cat textile print. Miss kitty would be a good accessory for a halloween party! Be quick as there are only 5 of Miss kitty in stock.

Next are fun spotty scarves! There is only one in each colour, so if you are doing your christmas shopping early, then it's best to come in and get one this week. I prefer the spots on black, how about you?



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Shopping Fix: Clemente Talarico

Customer modelling a jacket for me.

You know those times when you walk into a store & know it's going to become a regular shopping haunt, well I had one of those at Clemete Talarico last week. Luckily I was armed with my DSLR to make this a blog post, plus the store owner was kind enough to let me take a few photos.

Loving the cacti!

The store & style of the clothes reminded me of Ralph Lauren, but unpretentious and accessible. I was told each style is produced in a short run, which is a plus for me, as I like to limit the amount of mass produced clothes in my wardrobe.

 I ended up purchasing a comfy check flannel shirt that has a denim panel on the back & nice  patch pockets details on the front.

Clemente Talarico jackets are on my want list!

The fitted jackets were fine too, made from quality linens & wool, but were not on my shopping list.

The Details:

Clemente Talarico
Retail store:
174 Chapel Street, Windsor VIC 3181 Australia, ph 9521 7042
Online store: www.clementetalarico.com 
Email: stores@clementetalarico.com 

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New Product - Necklaces

A new range of necklaces arrived last week for our store at SO:ME Space, South Melbourne Market.

The necklaces are made from acai seeds which have been painted in pretty colours for spring.

They are long enough to worn different ways & look best when worn with a few necklaces.

I hope to get them on our online store sometime this week.


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