Paris - Hong Kong - Mumbai

Guest blogger and designer Saloni's blog, brought to you by Vogue.com. Fashion as it happens, reported direct from the team in Vogue House. <a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/05/11/paris---hong-kong---mumbai" title="Paris - Hong Kong - Mumbai"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/SLodha_v_11may12_2_SL_320x480.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Over the course of the last few weeks i have been a little bit all over the place. The first stop was a weekend break in Paris at the supremely elegant Saut Hermès event at the Grand Palais, Paris. A true visual feast to see the world's finest horsemen and women demonstrate their brilliant skills.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Next was Hong Kong, where a few work meetings happily coincided with a visit by my friend Charlotte who was in town with her fun team for a very successful event at the beautiful On Pedder store.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Last stop was back home in Mumbai for few weeks. I have recently found my true calling…becoming a florist. I am now officially obsessed with early morning 5am visits to the Dadar flower market and, in particular, with a certain stall's mogra flowers - these fresh flowers are beautifully hand woven into bracelets with brightly-coloured threads and I can't have enough of them. It's great fun trying to find exotic flowers and bargaining for them in this chaotic market.</p> <p> </p> <p>These trips have successfully cheered me up and prepared me for the hard work back in London at the studio!</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/saloni/full-length-photos"> SEE SALONI'S LATEST COLLECTION HERE</a></p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/05/11/paris---hong-kong---mumbai" title="Paris - Hong Kong - Mumbai">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:86621 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/05/11/paris---hong-kong---mumbai Fri, 11 May 2012 11:52:53 +0100 Paris - Hong Kong - Mumbai <a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/03/20/jodhpur-jackie" title="Celebrating Jodhpur Jackie"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/SLodha_v_15mar12_17_SL_cp.jpg#768812_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>As most of you will have probably already figured out, I love to let my imagination run wild - I guess this is one of the real perks of the job. In February, I was lucky enough to be able to fulfil a long-standing dream - to make a movie! Making the movie was a true labour of love for all those involved. It was definitely the most exhausting, as well as rewarding, few days of my life. I cant wait for all you to see it.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>The short movie called <em>Jodhpur Jackie</em> was directed by the legendary Ellen Von Unwerth and shot on location in Rajasthan. The short, which is based around the inspiration behind the SALONI autumn/winter 2012 collection, had its first private screening at a super-fun party at Le Baron during Paris Fashion Week.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Le Baron organised a tattoo parlour by BLACK BANDITZ from LA, Irina Lazereanu's band performed, Belvedere sponsored the drinks and it was a great celebration! Here are some fun pictures from the evening..</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/saloni/full-length-photos"> SEE SALONI'S LATEST COLLECTION HERE</a></p> <p> </p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/03/20/jodhpur-jackie" title="Celebrating Jodhpur Jackie">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:85645 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/03/20/jodhpur-jackie Tue, 20 Mar 2012 17:08:09 +0100 Celebrating Jodhpur Jackie <a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/02/09/indian-enlightenment" title="Indian Enlightenment"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/SLodha_v_8feb12_1_SL_320x480.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Now that i am finally getting to spend more time in India, I have decided to travel as much as I can within the country to fulfil my curiousity and seek out inspiration.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>For my first trip I decided to take a few days to visit some of the better known sites which I had yet to see: the beautiful temples of Kajurao and the town of Varanasi.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/saloni/full-length-photos"> SEE SALONI'S LATEST COLLECTION HERE</a></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Kajurao is famous primarily for its erotic temple sculptures while Varanasi is one of India's holiest sites for both Hindus and Bhuddists. I was not aware before visiting that this was where Buddha gave his first sermon after reaching enlightenment.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>There is so much history and diversity in India that I hope I can stick to the plan of getting out of Bombay and exploring more of India!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/02/09/indian-enlightenment" title="Indian Enlightenment">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:84769 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/02/09/indian-enlightenment Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:54:35 +0100 Indian Enlightenment <a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/01/17/kenyan-adventure" title="A Kenyan Adventure"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/SLodha_v_16jan12_3_SL_cp.jpg#714150_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>It was on my honeymoon a few years ago on the island of Sumba that I first heard about this magical place called Campi ya Kanzi from a very passionate author who was writing a book about eco lodges around the world. A few years later, my friend Veronica mentioned she was on the board of Campi's trust. The author and my friend were simply in love with this place but agreed that words couldn't describe it, so when it came to celebrating my big 3-0 I decided to go there.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Campi ya Kanzi is in Maasai communal land 40 kms from Mount Kilimanjaro in Kenya. It was developed and is run by a most inspirational and passionate Italian couple, Luca and Antonella. It is not just a safari camp in a game reserve, it is something much more special. It's like staying a week at the bush house of friends and being looked after and involved in the Maasai community which lives around you. The nature is stunning as it lies just under the Chyulu Hills with their surprising lava floors and cloud forest. You can witness the Maasai villages and the wild animals coexisting, which is a part of the conservation project that Campi ya Kanzi has fostered.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>I loved my time here and even found time to jog with a Maasai warrior who had run the New York Marathon to raise awareness for the Campi ya Kanzi conservation project. Great way to enter my 30s!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2012/01/17/kenyan-adventure" title="A Kenyan Adventure">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:83993 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2012/01/17/kenyan-adventure Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:35:20 +0100 A Kenyan Adventure <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/12/8/yummy-comfort-food" title="Yummy Comfort Food"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/SLodha_V_5dec11_1_SL_cp.jpg#703063_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>The time has finally come to move the studio into a larger space. We have decided on a great space in Ladbroke Grove. Untill the end, I had however hoped to find a space close to my favourite source of comfort food - the cheekily named Phat Phuc Noodle Bar.</p> <p> </p> <p>I have now been living in London for seven years and this is probably the one place where I have eaten lunch more often than in my own home. It is located in a small courtyard just off the King's Road. Phat Phuc makes Vietnamese noodle soups that are super healthy and delicious and only the fact that we are currently based in North London stops me eating there every day.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.phatphucnoodlebar.com/" target="_blank">www.phatphucnoodlebar.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/12/8/yummy-comfort-food" title="Yummy Comfort Food">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:83201 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/12/8/yummy-comfort-food Wed, 07 Dec 2011 19:34:36 +0100 Yummy Comfort Food <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/11/15/team-spirit" title="Team Spirit"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/Saloni_v_14nov11_12_SL_cp.jpg#697819_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p><br /> <em>Princess Beatrice and I</em></p> <p> </p> <p>We showcased our spring/summer 2012 collection in the classic 1930s art-deco opulence of the RIBA Gallery at the Royal Institute of British Architects.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/saloni/full-length-photos"> SEE THE ENTIRE COLLECTION HERE</a></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Charlotte Dellal</em></p> <p> </p> <p><em><br /> Kate Lanphear</em></p> <p> </p> <p><em><br /> Poppy Delevingne</em></p> <p> </p> <p><em><br /> Rebecca Corbin-Murray</em></p> <p> </p> <p>The collection and set we created evoked the floating, evanescent world of Ukiyo-e woodblock prints and the Japonisme movement they influenced. The set was further brought to life through our collaboration with artists Emma Rios, Dan and the Jotta team to create life size paper foxes and paper trees. The collection was further enlivened by our first footwear and hat collaborations with Charlotte Olympia and Piers Atkinson. It was such a fun afternoon here are some of pictures.</p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Piers Atkinson</em></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Origami paper fox by Emma Rios and the Jotta team </em></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>India Standing and Sean</em></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Charlotte Olympia shoes</em></p> <p> </p> <p><em><br /> Fuscia Kate Sumner and Francesca Versace</em></p> <p> </p> <p><em><br /> Saloni print nails by Mik Pocock and Nailrock</em></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Getting ready for the presentation</em></p> <p> </p> <p><em><br /> Emilio de la Morena</em></p> <p> </p> <p><em><br /> Lara Bohinc</em></p> <p> </p> <p><em><br /> Me with Imran Ahmed</em></p> <p> </p> <p><em><br /> Gianluca Longo and Charlotte Dellal of Charlotte Olympia</em></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/photo-blogs/charlotte-dellal/charlotte-dellal---day-1"> SEE INSIDE CHERLOTTE DELLAL'S WARDROBE</a></p> <p> </p> <p><em><br /> </em></p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/11/15/team-spirit" title="Team Spirit">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:81868 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/11/15/team-spirit Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:22:59 +0100 Team Spirit <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/10/13/my-indian-summer" title="My Indian Summer"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/SLodha_v_13oct11_6_SL_cp.jpg#690516_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p><br /> <em>Me with Ruth Chapman and Mark Fast </em></p> <p> </p> <p>A true Indian summer is how I would describe this year's sunny and unseasonably warm Paris Fashion Week.</p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Dominic Jones</em></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Nicholas Kirkwood</em></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Tomoko Ogura, Peter Pilotto and Christopher De Vos </em></p> <p> </p> <p>Although we had all horribly misjudged our packing, the fact that we were there selling our spring/summer 2012 collection meant that we could just plunder the rails of samples we had brought - a real lifesaver!</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/saloni/full-length-photos"> SEE SALONI'S SPRING/SUMMER 2012 COLLECTION</a></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Louise Gray and Henry Holland</em></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Gloria Baume and Daniella with Osman</em></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p><span class="Apple-tab-span"></span></p> <p> </p> <p>Samantha Cameron, Harold Tillman and the British Fashion Council hosted a beautiful evening at the British Ambassador's House in Paris. Here are some of my favourite pictures of the evening.</p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Patrick Grant </em></p> <p> </p> <p>The other photos are a motley selection of moments that I had fun capturing. My personal favourite is Natalie Joos looking fab in a Peter Pilotto dress!</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/spring-summer-2012/ready-to-wear/peter-pilotto/full-length-photos"> SEE PETER PILOTTO'S LATEST COLLECTION</a></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Natalie Joos, wearing Peter Pilotto</em></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Rebecca Corbin-Murray</em></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/10/13/my-indian-summer" title="My Indian Summer">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:77306 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/10/13/my-indian-summer Thu, 13 Oct 2011 16:32:01 +0100 My Indian Summer <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/09/29/saloni-girls" title="Saloni Girls"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/d_f/ERoberts_V_23sep11_pa_b_320x480.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p><br /> <em>Emma Roberts © PA Photos</em></p> <p> </p> <p>We recently received this picture of Emma Roberts wearing Saloni autumn/winter 2011-12 on the red carpet. She looked amazing, and kept it young and fresh with a little black dress. SJP was also spotted wearing the necklace during the press junket for her latest film, <em>I Don't Know How She Does It</em>.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/video?category=exclusives&id=10666"> WATCH OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SJP HERE</a></p> <p> </p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/09/29/saloni-girls" title="Saloni Girls">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:76914 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/09/29/saloni-girls Thu, 29 Sep 2011 16:54:33 +0100 Saloni Girls <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/09/my-happy-place" title="My Happy Place"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/Saloni_v_2sep11_1_SL.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Just a few manic weeks to go now before our presentation during London Fashion Week. When the opportunity to attend a friend's combination christening and marriage blessing came up, I absolutely jumped at the chance.</p> <p> </p> <p>The beautiful country house in Berkshire, amazing catering, sensational wine and - surprisingly - sunshine were a truly welcome break from the bustle of the studio.</p> <p> </p> <p>The late night dancing, swim in the self-cleaning eco pond (with neutered trout), and the croquet battle will definitely be my "happy place" until this month is over.</p> <p> </p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/09/my-happy-place" title="My Happy Place">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:76173 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/09/my-happy-place Fri, 02 Sep 2011 17:43:56 +0100 My Happy Place <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/08/22/strictly-ballroom" title="Strictly Ballroom"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/Saloni.jpg#487929_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>We showcased our autumn/winter 2011 collection with a presentation during London Fashion Week, in the ballroom of the Savile Club.</p> <p> </p> <p>Created by May and Walter Burns in the 1890s, and reconstructed by an eminent firm of Parisian architects and decorators, the ballroom provided French opulence and a romantic backdrop to the presentation. Yann Arthus-Bertrand's photographs from the book <em>Earth From The Air</em> inspired a journey to explore the changing colours of the sky and aerial views. The Northern Lights (aurora borealis) provided the inspiration for the dreamy sky prints.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/08/22/strictly-ballroom" title="Strictly Ballroom">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:75863 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/08/22/strictly-ballroom Fri, 19 Aug 2011 08:00:00 +0100 Strictly Ballroom <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/08/08/bombay-continued" title="Bombay Continued"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/SLodha_v_3aug11_1_SL_b.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>I had really been meaning to document the incredible range of modes of transportation that are still on offer in this wonderful city of extremes. To be honest however, apart from a few furtive snaps from inside the car, my life has really been taken up by my autumn/winter 2011-12 deliveries.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>My remaining free time has been spent trying to furnish our new apartment here. I must say that, since I last tried to do this in 2001, the choice of contemporary furniture now available in the city has improved tremendously. Previously the only real alternative for anyone wanting to steer away from the truly tacky was the infamous Chor Bazaar (Thieves Market) a collection of alley ways packed with some old,  reproduction and "real fake antiques".  Since my last visit, the hidden treasures have dwindled somewhat although I was able to pick up the frames of these two wood and brass chairs which the shopkeeper assured me be could restored to their former Art-Deco glory. Incidentally, over dinner a fine art specialist mentioned that Bombay is still very much the place for Art Deco so I am looking forward to her hot tips in this regard. If you never see a picture of these chairs again you can assume my experiment proved to be a bit of a disaster.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>In keeping with the extremes to be found in the city, the contemporary Indian furniture stores that have sprung up do offer some beautiful things - but they are insanely expensive . I have therefore resorted to the traditional Indian solution - employ a craftsman and have them make you a piece to your own design. This of course is far more time consuming and stressful but it really gives me the chance to flex my creative muscles and to do a lot research which I thoroughly enjoy. At this moment I am officially in love with everything on the antique furniture websites as inspiration. Thus far I have been in contact with a bone-inlay and mother of pearl specialist in Rajasthan. I am  very excited about giving these Indian classics my own contemporary twist. Fingers crossed</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/08/08/bombay-continued" title="Bombay Continued">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:75539 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/08/08/bombay-continued Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:01:05 +0100 Bombay Continued <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/07/22/bombay-the-city-that-never-stops" title="Bombay: The City That Never Stops"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/Saloni_v_22jul11_bombay_SL_b.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>I am in Bombay right now working on my new collection and moving into my new apartment. As can be imagined, the combination of both is super stressful. I haven't been back to India during the monsoon season in years. I always try and avoid it as the constant rains make me so lethargic, and the traffic becomes even more insane than usual.</p> <p> </p> <p>The people of Bombay, however, remain as energetic and enthusiastic as always regardless of the rain, traffic or the recent terrible terrorist attacks. On the way to our factory, I saw this man carrying thousands of bangles on his motorbike which reminded me that no matter the obstacle, people here always manage to get things done - excellent inspiration!</p> <p> </p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/07/22/bombay-the-city-that-never-stops" title="Bombay: The City That Never Stops">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:75123 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/07/22/bombay-the-city-that-never-stops Fri, 22 Jul 2011 17:00:06 +0100 Bombay: The City That Never Stops <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/07/12/pre-spring/summer-2012" title="Pre Spring/Summer 2012"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/SLodha_v_12jul11_1_SL_cp.jpg#642972_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>I just shot my pre spring lookbook. The beautiful images below were shot by David Dunan. With a great team on board it was a great day. Leah Clough's detailed illustrations take her months to draw in ink and pen add amazing depth and life. Here are some of my favourite pictures!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>David Dunan</em></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Leah and her amazing illustrations</em></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <em>Angelo Seminara</em></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/07/12/pre-spring/summer-2012" title="Pre Spring/Summer 2012">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:74802 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/07/12/pre-spring/summer-2012 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 16:25:26 +0100 Pre Spring/Summer 2012 <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/06/los-angeles" title="Los Angeles"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/Saloni_V_29Jun11_SL_bt.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Drive from Santa Barbara to LA</p> <p> </p> <p>I was recently in New York for the Saloni pre-spring sales meetings, and since I had some meetings booked in LA, I decided to spend a week in California as it was my first time ever on the West Coast.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Katie Hillier and Jeannie in Satine</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Yummy lunch at The Little Door</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Inside Hillary Rush's boutique with Slone and Katie Hillier</p> <p> </p> <p>I spent the first few days in Santa Barbara at a friend's house for some serious relaxation. The drive back to LA along the coast was really beautiful. If you don't have a driving license (like me), in LA you are at the mercy of friends to drive you around since taxis are rare and distances are considerable. My friends were super sweet and drove me around a lot and when I needed to be independent I found Reza. He drives a super-kitsch town car and was a hilarious and fun companion to drive around with.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Confederacy</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>JF Chen Furniture store</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Reza and his car that drove me around town</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Tom Binns in his Venice studio</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Having dinner with Katie at Sunset Marquis</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Outside Maxfields</p> <p> </p> <p>I enjoyed the great shopping on west 3<sup>rd</sup> street at Satine where we stock, next door at Hillary Rush where she kept us entertained at her store. Joan's on Third and The Little Door are yummy places to eat on the same street. I found unique things at Mohawk General Store in Silverlake, Confederacy, and at Opening Ceremony. I also went to the Tom Binns studio in Venice, and the street Abbot Kinney in Venice is fun to eat and shop.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Shareen Vintage</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Driving through Rodeo Drive</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Art in the Streets exhibit at MOCA in downtown</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>The best way to get an amazing view of LA is definitely through a hike or you can go to the Griffin observatory which has an amazing view as well. My resolution before I visit LA again is definitely to get a driving license!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>With Kate Sumner inside the Cosmic Room with my Tom Binns necklace</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Baci at Free City store.</p> <p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/06/los-angeles" title="Los Angeles">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:74390 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/06/los-angeles Wed, 29 Jun 2011 19:14:38 +0100 Los Angeles <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/06/13/modern-goddesses" title="Modern Goddesses"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/g_j/HChristensen_V_9jun11_rex_b_320x480.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p>Helena Christensen in the Apsara Dress © Rex Features</p> <p> </p> <p>The Apsara dress from our spring/summer 2011 collection has been very popular this summer. All our dresses have names, but this one in particular was inspired by the divinely beautiful and curvaceous celestial maidens of Hindu mythology.</p> <p> </p> <p>Apsara is a female spirit of the clouds and the waters. Originally water nymphs, they emerged from the ocean and became renowned for their charm and youthful elegance as celestial dancers to the Gods capable of stealing the hearts of spectators. Sometimes compared to the Muses of ancient Greece, the name seems to ideally suit this dress.</p> <p> </p> <p>Samantha Cameron and Helena Christensen both look absolutely divine in their Apsara dresses.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/06/13/modern-goddesses" title="Modern Goddesses">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:71310 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/06/13/modern-goddesses Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:40:00 +0100 Modern Goddesses <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/05/06/a-trip-to-beijing" title="A Trip To Beijing"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/Saloni_V_5May11_SL_b_320x480.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p>Patrick Grant.</p> <p> </p> <p>Since my husband is finally moving out of Seoul, I made my last trip to say goodbye to all our friends there and to pack up the house. Co-incidentally the lovely Katie Hillier and her boyfriend Patrick Grant were visiting at the same time, which made the trip even more fun!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Saloni spring/summer 2011 cashmere scarves at Boon The Shop.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Stunning installation at Boon The Shop.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Katie Hillier and Patrick.</p> <p> </p> <p>I took a few days off with my hubby to travel to China as I had never been to either Beijing or Shanghai. Beijing provided the contrasting vision of hutongs (courtyard houses), and narrow lanes alongside the rapid development of modern buildings. The Forbidden City was absolutely rammed with domestic tour groups when we visited during the weekend but was nonetheless spectacular.</p> <p> </p> <p>In Beijing, I received a kind, last minute invitation from Karla Otto for a DVF event on our first night there. Diane von Furstenberg and her team were all there to open the Journey of A Dress exhibition at the Pace Gallery. There, I unexpectedly ran into a few familiar faces like Tom Chapman of Matches, who kindly looked after us and treated us to a delicious dinner at the Aman in the Summer Palace - along with Hal Rubenstein of InStyle, Jessica Alba and the entire DVF team.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Forbidden City.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>DVF event at the Pace Gallery.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Installation by the Chinese Artist.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Guests at the event.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Exhibition.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Tom Chapman.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Franca Sozzani of Italian <em>Vogue</em>.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Diane dancing with her husband.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Christian Louboutin with his fans.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Dinner at the Aman with DVF team and Jessica Alba.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Hal Rubenstein.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>City of red lanterns.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Beautiful bookstore.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>The Great Wall of China.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>The next day we headed to Shanghai. It was a magical experience with its art deco buildings on the Bund and great dining. The DVF team were in Shanghai before coming to Beijing and recommended the Peninsula hotel, so we changed our reservation in time to enjoy the spectacular views of the river from this art deco paradise. The visual contrast between the two cities is something I had not really prepared for. Here are some of the moments from this trip.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Old image of Shanghai.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>View from the Peninsula of Shanghai.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/05/06/a-trip-to-beijing" title="A Trip To Beijing">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43058 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/05/06/a-trip-to-beijing Fri, 06 May 2011 15:27:00 +0100 A Trip To Beijing <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/03/23/dressing-up-is-soo-real" title="Dressing Up Is Soo-Real!"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/TIW_V_23Mar11_SL_b_320x480.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p>Margo Stilley</p> <p> </p> <p>NSPCC 's Surrealist Ball was a visual feast. I found a gift voucher from Paul Edmonds which I had in my bag since my birthday in Dec for a mani-pedi-blow-dry so I went and pampered myself before the event. Lots of amazing costumes and hats (especially by designer Piers Atkinson). I was lucky to get few pieces on a last minute request from him. I added some feathers to my McQueen dress and put an egg on my head (of course not a real one). Roland Mouret saved my life when the lace of my dress kept getting stuck in my heel he draped the fabric around my belt - genius! Also his advice was wear platforms next time with a dress like that!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Roland Mouret and Sojin Lee</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Sarafina (in Piers Atkinson hat) and Dimitri</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Charlotte Dellal and my new favourite eagle ring I found in the market</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Atmosphere</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Lulu Guinness</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Change of headgear</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Tracey Emin in front of her work she donated</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>I love my Piers Atkinson hairband!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Valentine Fillol-Cordier</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Dean Stephen</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Kim Hersov</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Lulu's glowing bag</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Our table.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/03/23/dressing-up-is-soo-real" title="Dressing Up Is Soo-Real!">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43061 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/03/23/dressing-up-is-soo-real Wed, 23 Mar 2011 15:52:00 +0100 Dressing Up Is Soo-Real! <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/03/21/paris-fashion-week" title="Paris Fashion Week"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/Saloni_V_21Mar11_SL_bt.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p>With Katie Hillier at Costes</p> <p> </p> <p>I arrived in Paris two days before my showroom started to treat myself, shop, eat and walk around this amazing city. It was super fun I found an amazing Marie Mercié hat, Dries Van Noten Seventies powder blue jeans and stunning pair of vintage ear rings - great props for dressing up during the week. After the showroom started I didn't leave the Hotel Lotti much. Having other showrooms like Tom Binns, Charlotte Olympia, Horiyoshi and Emilio de la Morena in the same hotel, there was never a dull moment!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>We love stripes! Alexandra Eagle at the Joseph cocktails</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Designer Carolyn Roumeguere and Joseph cocktails</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Anna Dello Russo looking fab in Mary Katrantzou and Charlotte Olympia shoes</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Laure Heriard Dubreuil from The Webster Miami</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Bruce out and about (Charlotte Olympia autumn/winter 2011 collection)</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Loved the sign at Ferdi</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Amazing art at Tom Binns</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Cristina (business partner of Tom Binns) outside their showroom</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Robert Forrest and the team of Horiyoshi The Third</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Olumpia Le Tan's showroom</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Emilio de la Morena and Kara</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Fendi bags at lunch</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>How amazing is this piece by Betony Vernon? (She made pieces for Alexander Wang's show)</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Max and Erin of SUNO in my showroom</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Daniella Agnelli (<em>Telegraph</em>) and Gloria Baume (<em>Teen Vogue</em>) having fun with the owl brooch and scarf from the new collection</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Misha Nonoo with another owl brooch and of course the Nonoo jacket</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Martha from Harvey Nichols Istanbul looking fab in the bird scarf</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Biggest diamond spotted in my showroom - 8 carat heart shaped diamond!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Outside Derrièr on rue Gravilliers in the Marais</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Rike Feurstein cosy and colourful scarf that stylist Sebastian Kaufmann was wearing</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Charlotte Olympia fruit shoes at Colette</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Shoe designer Paola Bay - loving the leopard print with those tights</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Anne Slowey's adorable little daughter</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>My amazing team!</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/03/21/paris-fashion-week" title="Paris Fashion Week">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43063 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/03/21/paris-fashion-week Mon, 21 Mar 2011 18:11:00 +0100 Paris Fashion Week <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Elizabeth Von Guttman.</p> <p> </p> <p>Joseph hosted a dinner at Joe's café and Browns had an amazing event in the basement of Royal Academy (my new favourite venue!), for Club Monaco. It was a fun evening and exactly the celebration I needed after my presentation!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Karla Otto</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Sarah Harris and Olivia Palermo.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Pat McGrath.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Derek Blasberg.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Karla and Derek with Lyle Maltz.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Andre Saraiva.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Kate Sumner with Caroline Burstein.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/02/22/the-post-show-party" title="The Post Show Party">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43066 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/02/22/the-post-show-party Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:07:00 +0100 The Post Show Party <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Bird Cupcakes</p> <p> </p> <p>I just showcased my autumn/winter 2011 collection with a presentation at the Savile Club. Created by May and Walter Burns in the 1890s and reconstructed by an eminent firm of Parisian architects and decorators, the Ballroom provided French opulence to the presentation. The collection was inspired by the Northern Lights (aurora borealis), and city grids and lights as if viewed from the air - so the ballroom was perfect as its ceiling feels like a sky. Collaborating with artist Kelly McCallum and Pianist Rosey Chan, the presentation had a romantic feel to it. Here are some of my favorite pictures taken by Nick Harvey and Mark Makela.</p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Artist Kelly McCallum who collaborated and worked on the amazing flamingos.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Rosey Chan on the piano.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Panos working his magic.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>French opulence at the Savile Club.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Lydia Forte</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Poppy Delevingne and Josephine De La Baume.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Sara Byworth.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Charlotte Olympia in our cashmere scarf.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Miranda and Emma.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>My team Georgina Graham, Panos Papandrianos and Serena Mattar.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Rebecca Corbin Murray.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Carmen Borgonovo</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Arnaud Baumberger with Rosey.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/02/22/aw11-presentation" title="a/w11 Presentation">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43067 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/02/22/aw11-presentation Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:04:00 +0100 AW 11 Presentation <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/02/07/fashion-break" title="Fashion Break"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/g_j/I_D_fressange_v_07feb11_pr_c_320x480.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p>Ines de la Fressange and Rami Mekdachi.</p> <p> </p> <p>I have been cooped up in the studio working on autumn/winter 2011 as our presentation is in less than two weeks during LFW. I was looking to take my mind off work this weekend and two great invitations came my way. First was for an early afternoon on Friday to meet the super chic Ines de la Fressange along with Rami Mekdachi, the fragrance artistic director for Roger Vivier. It was an intimate afternoon in their store and a real pleasure listening to Rami about the fragrances he had created inspired by nature- Iris, Néroli, Rose, Sandalwood and Amber each one of them unique. The second was from my friend Guillaume to go and watch the iconic French director François Truffaut’s <em>Les Quatre Cents Coups</em> at the BFI as they are doing a retrospective on him. Thoroughly enjoyed these inspiring distractions and now back to the grind until Fashion Week!</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/02/07/fashion-break" title="Fashion Break">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43069 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/02/07/fashion-break Mon, 07 Feb 2011 18:36:00 +0100 Fashion Break <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/02/07/star-fan" title="Star Fan"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/Saloni_v_7feb11_sl_b_320x480.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p>The Daina dress, as worn by Hailee Steinfeld.</p> <p> </p> <p>We were very excited to find out that Hailee Steinfeld chose to wear Daina dress from our spring/summer 2011 collection at her press conference. Check out this video on youtube, <em>Hailee Steinfeld Reacts To Her 2011 Oscar Nomination</em>:<br /> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLZQe_QBpuo&feature=youtube_gdata_player">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLZQe_QBpuo&feature=youtube_gdata_player</a>. </p> <p> </p> <p>The SS11 collection is available at Harvey Nichols, Browns and Matches in the UK.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/02/07/star-fan" title="Star Fan">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43070 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/02/07/star-fan Mon, 07 Feb 2011 18:31:00 +0100 Star Fan <a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/01/17/wish-you-all-a-very-happy-2011" title="Wish You All A Very Happy 2011!"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/Saloni9_V_17Jan11_S_bt.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p>Ellen von Unwerth and Rebecca Corbin-Murray.</p> <p> </p> <p>I ended my 2010 desperately trying to finish deadlines and my new collection, and by going to some fun pre-Xmas parties and dinners. My favourite was definitely dining with the incredible Ellen von Unwerth. It was an immense pleasure meeting her as I am huge fan of her work. I went to visit my in laws for Xmas in Cairo and was extremely lucky to be on one of the few flights that left when the airports came to a standstill. I have been to Cairo few times but this was the first time I went to Khan el-Khalili, an old market in the centre of Cairo. The beautiful architecture surrounding the narrow streets of the market selling knick-knacks is a beautiful and contrasting vision. I came back to London for New Years and my friend Charlotte hosted a small intimate dinner with hilarious props. Here is a random mix of photos of the end of 2010. Looking forward to many more adventures in 2011!</p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>With Nicolai Von Bismarck at their Christmas Party.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Khan el-Khalili.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>In the market in Cairo - inspired by Subodh Gupta.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>The making of the traditional hat - the 'fez'.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Back in London after New Year's celebrating with Charlotte in her shoes.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2011/01/17/wish-you-all-a-very-happy-2011" title="Wish You All A Very Happy 2011!">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43073 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2011/01/17/wish-you-all-a-very-happy-2011 Mon, 17 Jan 2011 15:39:00 +0100 Wish You All A Very Happy 2011! <a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/11/30/pushkar-camel-fair" title="Pushkar Camel Fair"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/Saloni_V_blog_30Nov10_2_S_b_320x480.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p>Pushkar camel fair.</p> <p> </p> <p>I am in the midst of a crazy India trip and have a few days left of sunshine before I head back to London.</p> <p>The trip was part holiday, part research, and mostly overseeing production. I have been planning to go to the Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan for about ten years and never made it. This year with some earnest planning, and help from my friends at Natural Mystic, I made it and invited some friends to join me for few days. Pushkar, the sacred town of the Hindus, takes great pride in being a site to the only temple of the God of Creation, Brahma. With over 400 temples and 52 bathing ghats, it is indeed a very holy town. The fair has been held here once a year for a (very) long time and livestock owners from all over Rajasthan come here to trade their camels (over 50,000 !), as well as other animals. It also marks the time when thousands of devotees flock to the holy lake of Pushkar to take a dip. Here are some pictures to give you a glimpse of this unique festival and the rest of my travels. As our production is spread across a few cities in India it gives me a great excuse to see family and friends along the way. You can see some fun moments captured during the trip. As I am getting ready to leave, I received a sweet message from a friend to buy her a camel and bring it back to London - but the logistics turned out to be harder than I thought so I have had to give that particular adventure a miss!</p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Me with Veronika Borchers at the camel fair.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Arriving at the Royal camp in Pushkar owned by the Maharaja of Jodhpur.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Peaceful setting at the camp.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Driving to Narlai with some friends we picked up on the way.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Rawla Narlai the 17th-century fortress of Maharaja Ajit Singh.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Beautiful ceiling of my room at Narlai.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Morning traffic on the way to Jodhpur.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Hotel Rass in the old city of Jodhpur.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>View from the Meherana Fort.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Delhi dinner in Arjun's beautiful home.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Pia Sharma.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Veronika.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Researching Katha fabrics.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>The office of my cashmere supplier.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Stripy morning.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Excited by our new scarves.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Last night in Delhi at Olive.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Morning mist in Mumbai.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Buying vintage lace in the market.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Researching embroidery material for autumn/winter 2011.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Bumped into New York based designer, Elise Overland, at a dinner.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Debbie Bismarck.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Talking with Cecila Morelli Parikh about the launch of her new boutique.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Bandana Tewari from Indian <em>Vogue</em> at a dinner for Anish Kapoor.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Swimwear designer Tara Matthews.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Roohi Jakishen at the Anish Kapoor dinner.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/11/30/pushkar-camel-fair" title="Pushkar Camel Fair">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43077 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2010/11/30/pushkar-camel-fair Tue, 30 Nov 2010 16:28:00 +0100 Pushkar Camel Fair <a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/11/03/art-discoveries-in-asia" title="Art Discoveries In Asia"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/Saloni_blog_3Nov10_2_S_b_206x137_cp.jpg#552523_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p>Tsang Kin-Wah's installation at Leeum Museum.</p> <p> </p> <p>I went to Seoul to visit my husband after Paris Fashion Week (he has been working there for the last 18 months). I love arriving in Seoul in autumn as the weather is just perfect. This trip turned out to be very arty and inspiring. I went to one of my favourite spaces - the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art and was pleasantly surprised to find the exteriors of the museum covered in artist Tsang Kin-Wah's work. I remember meeting him eight years ago at the Hong Kong Biennale and he charmed me with his creativity and I ended up buying one of his works. Seeing him in Seoul, I felt very happy to see what he had achieved and how far he has come. I also visited the amazing gallery of my friends Patrick and Wonjae called Oneandj Gallery to see the work of artist Kim Yunho. After all the art exhibitions I got inspired to paint my new collection prints so went to Insadong - a neighborhood full of antiques and art shops. I stocked up on traditional rice paper at a shop that was so beautiful and unique that I would have bought the entire shop if I could have.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Louise Bourgeois' spiders at the Leeum Museum.</p> <p> </p> <p>The last stop before heading back was Hong Kong as I had to see some cashmere suppliers (it was also a great excuse to visit friends from when I lived there in 2002-3). My friend Claire Hsu runs the Asia Art Archive and they were hosting a talk with Tehching Hsieh, the Taiwanese performance artist. The talk was entitled <em>One Year Performances</em> and he discussed his experience when he locked himself inside a cage for an entire year. Another year of his life he spent methodically punching a time clock every hour on the hour. Another year he lived completely outdoors, one year he conducted his life while tied to another artist with an eight foot rope without them ever touching, and for an entire year he did no art. WOW! That's called patience and endurance!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Inside the Leeum Museum.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Osang Gwon and Jackson Hong's work.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Osang Gwon's work.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Wonjae and Patrick in front of Kim Yunho's work.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Wonjae and Jeena.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Saloni with the creative director of 'Boon the Shop' and Wonjae.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Art store in Insadong.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Traditional paper shop in Insadong.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Ian with his friends.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>The view from IFC in Hong Kong.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Having lunch at Isola with Chomwan.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Scott Thompson.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Shopping with Chomwan at Lane Crawford.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Claire Hsu with the artist Tehching Hsieh.</p> <p> </p> <p></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/11/03/art-discoveries-in-asia" title="Art Discoveries In Asia">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43079 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2010/11/03/art-discoveries-in-asia Wed, 03 Nov 2010 15:27:00 +0100 Art Discoveries In Asia <a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/10/11/paris-fashion-week---feeling-fruity" title="Paris Fashion Week - Feeling Fruity"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/Saloni_blog_7Oct10_1_S_b_cp.jpg#547904_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p>Paris showroom.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Charlotte Olympia's showroom next foor.</p> <p> </p> <p>Arriving in Paris for the sales is always so much fun especially if you have neighbours like Charlotte Dellal and Emilio de la Morena.</p> <p>During the quiet moments you can try on beautiful shoes and amazing dresses, while after work it feels like you are with family away from home. I was obsessed with Charlotte's new fruit shoes as they go so well with my new tribal prints that I ran around in them for the whole Fashion Week.</p> <p>I didn't leave the showroom very much this season as our appointments ran for more than 12 hours every day which was exciting and exhausting! Went to the Marc Jacobs store, to the Fendi party to see Duran Duran perform, to the Givenchy party to hear Courtney Love sing (unfortunately no photos as my batt died!). The last night in Paris was my fave evening - we started at Caviar Kaspia for the Giambattista Valli for Moncler dinner. I sat between Omar Amanat and Coco Brandolini. It was a beautiful dinner talking about babies and poets. After hearing that one of my fave authors is Rabindranath Tagore, Omar recited a whole poem from memory - genius! So much to do in one night we were sad to miss the amazing Browns dinner which was at the same time so ended up at a late Brazilian dinner with a last stop at Montana. The morning after I felt sad to be packing up the showroom and saying goodbye to Paris.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>I am obsessed with Celosia Cockscombe flowers.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Charlotte and Andrea Dellal.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Our Lotti gang.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Night view of Place Vendome.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Dinner after work.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Marathon runners in Place Vendome.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Outside the Marc Jacobs store with Sarah Hay from <em>I.D</em> and Bandana Tewari from <em>Vogue</em> India.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Bip Ling.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Dominic Jones.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Bandana Tewari meeting Emilio de la Morena.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Feeling fruity.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>On the balcony of our showroom.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>At the Fendi party with Duran Duran perfomring.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Simon Le Bon performing.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Rebecca and David Dunan outside the Fendi party.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Federick from Webster Miami with Rebecca.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>At the Moncler dinner with Charlotte.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Margherita Missoni and her sister Teresa who made the amazing mask.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Eduardo and Charlotte.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Margherita Missoni and Anouck Lepere.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Me, Charlotte and Omar Amanat.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Shala Monroque.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Alexia Niedzielski.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Omar and Charlotte with Karolina Kurkova.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Carlos Mota.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>With Bruno, Carlos, Andrea and Charlotte.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Carlos Souza.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Michael Roberts, Andrea Dellal with Eduardo and Charlotte.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Derek Blasberg.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Outside Montana.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Dancing with Louise Gray.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/10/11/paris-fashion-week---feeling-fruity" title="Paris Fashion Week - Feeling Fruity">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43082 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2010/10/11/paris-fashion-week---feeling-fruity Mon, 11 Oct 2010 15:02:00 +0100 Paris Fashion Week - Feeling Fruity <a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/09/21/london-fashion-week" title="London Fashion Week"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/saloni_blog_21sept10_19_s_b_cp_1.jpg#530824_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Serena Matter and Saskia working the exotic flowers.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>I showed our spring/summer 2011 collection with my first ever presentation during London Fashion Week, in the Map Room at the Royal Geographic Society. This room was originally part of the 1930’s neo-classical extension and is hung with portraits of African explorers and a unique 17th century map of the world. We were very honored that the society let us host the first ever fashion event there! I had an incredible team on board so the preparations seemed effortless and we had so much fun getting the room ready for the presentation. As the collection is inspired by the African continent we converted the pillars into exotic trees and had exotic flowers and bugs. It’s sad its gets over so fast and you don’t see the team for the next six months until the next fashion week! Missing everyone!</p> <p>Saloni xx</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>The beautiful Amy Drayton.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Casting director Luke Foy and Serena.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Bugs from the collection.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Saloni cupcakes.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Press releases.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Georgina Graham and the MAC team did the make-up.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Backstage.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Martin Raviraj compiled the music.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>My team made these.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Models line up before the presentation.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Me and Richard Young.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Lyndell Mansfield and her team did the hair.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Samantha Conti from <em>WWD</em>.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Imran Amed and my stylist Rebecca Corbin-Murray.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Meenal Mistry from style.com.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Harriet Quick from <em>Vogue.</em></p> <p><em></em></p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Caroline Issa.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Derek Blasberg.</p> <p> </p> <p></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/09/21/london-fashion-week" title="London Fashion Week">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43087 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2010/09/21/london-fashion-week Tue, 21 Sep 2010 13:45:00 +0100 London Fashion Week <a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/09/09/bombay-to-london" title="Bombay To London"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/saloni_blog_21sept10_16_s_b_cp_1.jpg#530822_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Life is full of contrasts and I guess that's what keeps it exciting. I went to Bombay over the weekend to work in our studio there and pick up the new collection. Tuesday was my last day so decided to go to the markets to get some inspiration. Every specific thing gets its own market. Interlinked around Crawford Market these are some of the busiest and craziest streets in the world. They are like a maze where wholesalers of all kinds do some serious business, selling exotic flowers, jewellery, diamonds, semi precious stones, fabrics, embroidery, antique furniture the list goes on...<br /> Spent an entire day here doing some random shopping of things I didn't need, rushed home to pack and catch my flight to London.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Arriving on wed afternoon terribly jetlagged, I didn't know how I was going to survive Fashion’s Night Out. Few coffees later first stop was Charlotte Dellal's new store on Maddox Street which as expected was beautiful, next stop Browns - where our new collection sat beautifully in their new store Browns 24, then to Liberty to see Richard Nicoll and his collaboration with J Brand jeans, and last stop at Agent Provocateur. The contrast of the markets to the stores felt exhilarating…exhausted, feet hurting, eyes closing I headed home and to my bed at midnight.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Richard Nicoll.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Zoe Kuipers and Kate Sumner at the Hix stall outside Browns.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>At Browns.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Charlotte Dellal in her Maddox Street store.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Richard Nicoll at Liberty.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Performers at Liberty.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Josephine de la Baume and Sarah Shotton of Agent Provocateur</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Kate Sumner and Josphine outside the Agent Provocateur store.</p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/09/09/bombay-to-london" title="Bombay To London">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43085 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2010/09/09/bombay-to-london Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:00:00 +0100 Bombay To London <a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/08/26/memories-of-the-calendar-lake" title="Memories Of The Calendar Lake"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/75x113/s_v/SALONI_blog_V_26Aug10_1_S_b_cp.jpg#510784_Large+Shows_NOTFOUND" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>I was working late last night in the studio going through all my photos of African trips I have taken in the past few years to Malawi, Mozambique, Botswana etc. As my new spring/summer 2011 collection is inspired by that incredible continent, I started dreaming about the past escapes and adventures. One of my favourite places I have ever visited was the Likoma Island in Malawi. Surrounded by Lake Malawi which also borders on to Mozambique and is also known as the ‘calendar lake’ as it is 365 miles long. Diving in the fresh water lake, walking around the island picking up mangoes and hanging out with the local villagers are just some of the fun memories I wanted to share!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/08/26/memories-of-the-calendar-lake" title="Memories Of The Calendar Lake">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43090 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2010/08/26/memories-of-the-calendar-lake Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:44:00 +0100 Memories Of The Calendar Lake <a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/08/09/asian-adventures-bangkok-and-bali" title="Asian Adventures: Bangkok And Bali"><img src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/320x480/s_v/Saloni_blog_V_9Aug10_8_S_b_320x480.jpg" alt="" border="0"/></a><br/><p></p> <p> </p> <p>My pimped out BlackBerry</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Paula Taylor with her BlackBerry</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Gold BlackBerry</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Bead shop in Chatuchak's weedend market</p> <p> </p> <p>I arrived in Bangkok last week for a fun weekend en route to Bali for a dear friend’s wedding. The first thing I noticed was that everyone had glitzy Blackberrys and iPhones. I thought these might be some special models for the Asian market but soon realised that there is a big business in phone customisation. I was given a funky cover by a brand called Lucien. The alternative is a visit to the MBK mall where your BB can be transformed to any specification. My white Blackberry now has a pink diamante back and as everyone says here I have “pimped my berry”. My next stop was Chatuchak weekend market where you can buy beads, clothes, flowers, interiors - anything and everything really. There are some amazing designers in Thailand and you can find them in all the malls but my favourite store was Issue by Roj Singhakul. Beautiful design, fun prints and most importantly very well priced! I am sure you will see me in my Issue skirt soon!</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Issue shop</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Arriving at Linda Garland's estate</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Me in a white sari and my hubby</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Madeleine Thompson-most amazing cashmere designer</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Balinese singers</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Inside Linda Garland's house</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Chomwan Weeraworawit</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Jason Wintle the menswear designer and Josh</p> <p> </p> <p>The wedding in Bali was set in the beautiful grounds of Linda Garland’s estate in Ubud - the island’s cultural capital. The white and black theme made it even more special placing the guests in stark contrast to the Balinese forest surrounding them. I bumped into a few fashion friends as you can see.</p> <p>Still here for another week so will report with more pictures soon.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Some Fifties glamour</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Lara Bohinc and Chomwan</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Jeanine Hsu - the designer of Niin jewellery</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>Olivia Buckingham</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p><p></p><a href="/blogs/saloni/2010/08/09/asian-adventures-bangkok-and-bali" title="Asian Adventures: Bangkok And Bali">Continue reading...</a> urn:www-vogue-co-uk:1:docid:43092 http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/saloni/2010/08/09/asian-adventures-bangkok-and-bali Mon, 09 Aug 2010 14:44:00 +0100 Asian Adventures: Bangkok And Bali Fri, 01 Jun 2012 17:32:45 +0100 http://www.vogue.co.uk Vogue - Saloni Fri, 01 Jun 2012 17:32:45 +0100 condenet.technical@condenast.co.uk en-gb