Issue 64 Ageless (Digital only)

I AM DRAWN TO Georgian architecture: a flat fronted town house would be my dream. The elegant proportions and calm panelled interior speak to me of timeless beauty. I think the marriage of Georgian architecture and mid-century modern furniture is a harmonious one. These two periods have a distinctive aesthetic, and an enduring appeal. What is it about some designs that transcend their time?

Yves Saint Laurent said “Fashions fade, style is eternal” and this issue is dedicated to that excellent idea. We visit the Parco dei Principi Hotel in Sorrento, designed in the 60s by Gio Ponti. The geometric tiles and graceful furnishings were a fitting backdrop for the spring/summer collection of one of our favourite designers, Daniela Gregis. Her sympathetic shapes and sensitivity to cloth flattered our 71 year-old model Benedetta Barzini. We hope it will please Amanda Carr who shares her strong opinions on the limitations of “age appropriate” dressing in this issue and, more regularly, on The Women’s Room blog.

Looking to interiors, 2015 marks the 200th anniversary of the death of Christophe-Philippe Oberkampf, founder of the factory that popularised Toile de Jouy. V&A curator Sarah Grant explains its ongoing appeal. It’s also the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo on the 18th June and Sarah Jane Downing looks at the military influence on fashion. And, since we are talking dates, our Spring tour continues and we hope to see you at Chelsea Old Town Hall, London on the 25th April or at The Subscription Rooms, Stroud on the 16th May!

Polly Leonard, Founder