Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Designer Kelly Wearstler’s favourite people, places and products: the US trendsetter draws inspiration from Frida Kahlo, Alaïa, Balenciaga, and the Venice Venice and Amanzoe hotels

US designer Kelly Wearstler’s favourite people, pods, places and products including the artist Frida Kahlo, brands Alaïa and Balenciaga, and the Venice Venice and Amanzoe hotels. Photos: Handout

From interiors and architecture to fashion, Kelly Wearstler is one of the most influential figures in the design world. She has worked on a number of luxury residential projects in the US and beyond, and is behind the interiors of hotels such as the Santa Monica Proper and the Four Seasons Anguilla.

Kelly Wearstler designed the interiors at the Santa Monica Proper Hotel. Photo: Handout

The Los Angeles-based designer has also collaborated with brands including Louis Vuitton, Maison Margiela and most recently Belgian brand Serax on a dinnerware collection.

Why architect Yvette Yan Yi Li quit her job to become a professional baker

We sat down to found out her top 10 sources of inspo from the worlds of fashion, culture, and beyond …

I’m currently reading …

Kelly Wearstler and Jay Shetty. Photo: Handout

I recently finished reading The Creative Act: The Way of Being by Nick Rubin, which is incredible, with its inspiring narrative and insights. When it comes to podcasts, On Purpose hosted by Jay Shetty is one of my favourites: he has such a diverse range of guests. Another noteworthy podcast is All In, with extensive conversations on current affairs, AI and technology. For emerging news on the latest tech innovations, I tune into the Lex Fridman podcast, while the BOF podcast is my go to for all things fashion.

The IG accounts I can’t stop checking

A work by Wangari Mathenge on the Cultured Mag Instagram account. Photo: Handout

Peter Attia for all things health and wellness; How To Spend It and T-Magazine, with their diverse range of inspiring and informative content; the exquisitely curated feed of Violet Grey, filled with the latest beauty innovations; while Cultured is an invaluable resource for discovering emerging artists.

8 biggest nail trends to know for autumn 2023, according to the experts

My top skincare hack

Skinceuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense Sunscreen. Photo: Handout

Maintaining a minimalistic approach to my skincare regimen, I rely on a select few essentials, including the SkinCeuticals tinted sunscreen, Augustinus Bader’s The Rich Cream, Dr Hauschka Lip Balm, Dior Addict lip moisturiser and Milbon hair products.

Where I shop

JF Chen in Los Angeles. Photo: Handout

Erewhon is not just a grocery store, it’s a holistic sanctuary of well-being, a community and gathering place for people who are passionate about nourishing their bodies. Every item in the store is a testament to the art of mindful consumption. Everything is locally sourced and organic, ensuring the highest quality.

For contemporary and vintage furniture, I love JF Chen. I have discovered so many spirited, stand-out furnishings and objects here.

Onpaku star Josie Ho’s eclectic personal style, from quirky fashion to art

The best of my hometown

Products from Flamingo Estate. Photo: Handout

The best souvenir is always something local, so I love to give friends products from LA vendors like Flamingo Estate olive oils, and different herbs and salts.

Heirloom piece

When our third son Crosby was born, my friend and the owner of Chrome Hearts gifted me a beautiful necklace from the brand. The necklace is such a sentimental piece to me and I love supporting businesses local to LA.

My go-to fashion labels

The Attico dress at Net-a-Porter. Photo: Handout

I love to juxtapose designs by up-and-coming artists like The Attico, Ottolinger, Christopher Esber and Patou with pieces by more established brands like Alaïa and Balenciaga. This harmonious fusion of innovation and tradition epitomises my appreciation for the ever-evolving world of design.

2 luxury hotels to check out in Tokyo in 2023 – Four Seasons and Bulgari

My favourite getaways

From the classical architecture with its rich historical detail and expansive windows overlooking the Grand Canal, to the Venetian-inspired interiors, the Venice Venice hotel is a must stay.

Located in Greece and designed by the late American architect Ed Tuttle, Amanzoe is a nod to classical Greek architecture and the landscape.

My travel bucket list

Vehicles drive past a billboard featuring Hindu deity Lord Ram and his temple in Mumbai, India, ahead of the opening of the grand temple in northern Ayodhya city. Photo: AP Photo

Travel provides endless inspiration – discovering new cultures, new landscapes, diving first-hand into history and nature. I feel very grateful that my job offers me the opportunity to travel often and create so many incredible memories with my family all over the world. Destinations currently on my ever-growing bucket list: Mumbai, Iceland and Cape Town.

Wealthy travellers are flocking to ‘quiet luxury cruise’ Explora I

My Style icon

Mexican artist Frida Kahlo (1907-1954). Photo: Archive Photos/Getty Images

Frida Kahlo is a huge source of inspiration for me. I love the self expression that shines through her fashion and art.

Fashion
  • The US-based designer’s top-tier clients include the Santa Monica Proper and Four Seasons Anguilla hotels, and fashion brands Louis Vuitton and Maison Margiela
  • Shopping for inspiration, she heads for JF Chen for furniture and the peerless Erewhon Market for groceries, while travel must-sees are Mumbai, Iceland and Cape Town