Issue No. 11
Welcome to The Flairhunter Edit, where I share all the flair on my radar each month. If you love what you see, forward the flair to a friend!
SPRING! Finally.
I used to think my mood wasn’t affected seasonally, and I just did my best to trudge through the darker winter months, but now I’m starting to wonder about that. When March and April roll around every year, bringing snowmelt, baby birds, and the start of new buds on the trees, my mood measurably brightens. It really does! In hindsight, I feel like winter makes me melancholy or maybe just a bit less…joyous. I never seem to notice this in real-time, but when the days get longer and my mood improves, I realize the difference, and how the change positively affects my energy levels, creativity, and productivity.
Spring brings a tighter focus, shining a brighter lens on my projects for the year, along with a discernible shift and a desire to organize my office or my closet, even though weeding things out isn't naturally a strong suit for me. But this time of year, I actually get excited about doing this! I put on a playlist or audiobook I’m loving, set a timer for an hour, and dive right in. Well, dive may be too strong of a word...maybe I just procrastinate a bit less. Anyone else out there feel the same?
During this season, since I'm already embracing a natural surge of creativity, physical energy, and an uplifted mood, it's no wonder I’m extra excited about the growth and incredible opportunities ahead at The Flairhunter! Keeping you in the loop, I want to share a glimpse of what the team and I currently have in the pipeline.
We are expanding our offices and welcoming more dynamic, experienced (delightful!) new staff members. We are tackling new and ongoing residential design projects throughout California - Napa, Palm Springs, Newport Beach, and Los Angeles - along with Manhattan, Philadelphia, and Austin, Texas! We also have several international private aviation design projects and a large-scale commercial project we're working on. And, of course, if you know me, the months ahead will involve plenty of travel! I’m giddy about attending an upcoming international private aviation design conference in Germany next month and an educational decorative arts event at Winterthur, the Dupont estate, in Delaware later this Spring.
With so many talented designers and e-commerce, product design, podcast, and marketing professionals who found their way to us, I’m gobsmacked by all the incredible players I have on my team. I think I should officially rename my loyal crew the Flair Force! While the design studio remains the main focus and foundation, it’s now part of a larger, growing brand evolving in multiple creative directions.
Whether it’s a new project, idea, or opportunity, I’d love to hear what’s fueling your energy and inspiration! What are you excited about?
Steph
Home With Flair
We’ve been bitten by the spring cleaning bug and an urge to organize and springify (is that a word?) our spaces over here at TFE!
DESIGN TIP: Trade out heavy dark accents for lighter ones in natural materials. Use storage baskets and trays to keep your spaces organized, and add plenty of fresh flowers around the house!
Click the links below the collage to shop favorite items for spring.
wall hooks / 2. subscription flower service / 3. metal bin / 4. pantry baskets / 5. leather organizer / 6. throw pillow / 7. secrets canister / 8. keychain set / 9. storage barrel / 10. doormat / 11. floral tablecloth / 12. vase / 13. candle / 14. jewelry organizer / 15. coffee station / 16. decorative tray
Travel: Flair in the Air
Paris, France - Revisit
This month we’re revisiting Paris, adding to what I shared in a past Substack issue almost one year ago. I’m adding my recent Paris recs since I was there not once but TWICE in January. My very favorite city deserves this round 2, and probably a 3, 4, 5…because there is always more to share!
My grandparents lived there during my childhood, and in college when I studied in Switzerland I would take the TGV there, the fast train (the year it began!), and I have gone annually for work-related events and sourcing over the past ten years. I can’t even count the total number of visits, and I’m not saying that to brag, but rather to say that every time I get a bit cocky and think, oh hey, I totally know this city and all there could possibly be to know and do, I realize I don’t know sh** because I keep learning about new things, and about the old things that I never knew about. It’s a city that will likely continue to unfold for me every time I visit - if I’m lucky enough to go until I can’t physically get on a plane any longer. And, maybe even then, someone will row me in a boat.
A quick shout-out to my pal Vanessa Cella for several of these latest recs. She is the most amazing Flair Sleuth and travel advisor! In the comments section, let me know if you’d like her contact info!
Where to Stay
Laurent Paris - a perfectly Parisian blend of modern luxury and classic charm. Located in a prime location, this boutique hotel is known for its elegant design, personalized service, and proximity to iconic landmarks.
The Hoxton - vibrant, stylish, and located in the 2nd arrondissement, this hotel blends 18th-century elegance with modern design. Housed in a historic townhouse with chic rooms, energetic communal spaces, and a stunning courtyard. If you want to see Paris in a fresh, contemporary way, this hotel with a trendy vibe and great location is the way to go!
Les Bains - day or night, Les Bains is quintessential Paris. A 5-star boutique hotel with a spa, legendary bar, avant-garde scene, mythical club, and concept store!
Where to Eat
There is never a shortage of places to eat in this city. This was a new find for me that I've added to my favorites list!
BeauCoCo - a captivating vibe reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties, this restaurant has a ton of flair! Art deco interiors, plush velvet seating, and fabulous seasonal dishes blending traditional and innovative flavors.
What to Do
Every time I visit, I find more and more shops and places to explore. Here are a handful of ideas from my last two trips in January.
Joseph Duclos - incredibly crafted handbags with their signature brass horn clasp, Joseph Duclos is a luxury boutique in Paris specializing in exceptional leather goods and home accessories. A mix of traditional French craftsmanship with contemporary design, each creation has a timeless elegance and is made using sustainable practices.
Lemaire - a boutique known for its minimalist and timeless designs, offering elegant ready-to-wear collections for men and women that prioritize quality craftsmanship, subtle details, and functionality. Understated and luxurious!
Odetta Vintage - nestled in the heart of Paris, this curated vintage fashion find is known for its chic selection of high-quality pieces and an eclectic mix of designer clothing, accessories, and unique treasures from the 20th century. Looking to wear your flair? You’ll definitely find it here!
L'Atelier 55 - this shop is as if Jonathan Adler had a French twin but with a combination of really special original vintage pieces and reproduction midcentury whimsical pieces. Colorful throughout! Still obsessing over their wicker palm tree standing lamps. This store makes me want a home or at least a project in Paris so I can source pieces from here. Manifesting…
Paris Sewer Museum - this intriguing journey through the city's underground network falls under the category of sounds weird but is super cool. Learn about its history, architecture, and modern utility. It’s an immersive experience, offering a rare glimpse into the fascinating underworld of the City of Light. Is it just me, or is everyone picturing the underground sewer scene from Les Mis...?
Montparnasse Tour - spectacular panoramic views of Paris looking out over the city at night from its 56th-floor observation deck. It's the only skyscraper in Paris and on a clear day, you can see for miles.
Street Art Spotting - there is art literally everywhere in Paris. For a leisurely day, head to the Canal St Martin neighborhood to take in some street art. You can book a tour or just meander around the arrondissement. Stop off at a bar or restaurant for lunch, or maybe a picnic by the canal!
National Library of France Tour - the massive Bibliothèque Nationale de France houses one of the largest collections of printed material and can trace its origin back to 1368 when it was founded by Charles V. It’s still one of the largest libraries in the world. And the architecture? Magnifique!
Wear Your Flair
Spring has sprung, which means it’s time to freshen up your style for the laid-back days ahead. From head to toe, our denim edit highlights the perfect pieces you’ll need for the season. We like to save our splurges for foundational accessories like bags and shoes; then fill in the gaps with mid-priced staples. Click the links below to shop!
Spotlight on Flair
Spotlight on Flair is a feature where we shine a light on inspiring innovators, change-makers, and creators from diverse backgrounds. Each month, we offer a personal glimpse into the minds of those who embody that undeniable flair factor and individuality with a few fun rapid-fire-style Q&As.
This month we’re featuring the uber-cool Bell Hutley, a London-based artist and designer. She is known for her darkly romantic aesthetic and whimsical illustrations inspired by nature, children’s books, and folklore. She grew up reading Brothers Grimm stories and playing in the woods of her childhood home where her love for fairy tales and nature was born. Her storytelling through art transports you into her world of the forest floor to escape everyday life for a little while. And, here’s a bit of tea…we’re working on an exciting collaboration together! Can’t wait to share more, but for now…. let’s get to know Bell!
What’s an unexpected thing about you no one might know? I love making miniatures. During the lockdown back in 2020, I made miniature forest floor scenes with dried flowers, moss, painted wooden mushrooms, and pieces of bark. Hours would pass, and I was so happy getting lost in those micro mushroom worlds.
If you could live in any city for a year, where would it be and why? Great question! It's got to be NYC. I have visited about 5 times and there's something about the art, music, fashion, food, and nightlife that has such grit and rizz. I get taken in by the intoxicating, fast-paced energy of it all and I always leave feeling like I've just left Glastonbury - flat broke, completely defeated, but full of some insanely good times.
If you could only paint with one or two colors for the rest of your life what would they be? Evil question!!! But very good! It's got to be green, there are soooo many different shades of green in nature, and that is my muse. And, the other...hmm. It's got to be red. I paint more mushrooms than anything, and painting a big red fly agaric makes me very happy.
If you could have any other successful career what would it be? I have two answers. One is realistic - a set and prop designer for a circus or theatre; I would love to explore that world. And, the unrealistic one is definitely a pop star. I would have loved to be a Miley Cyrus or Charli xcx, but sadly I'm pretty much tone-deaf and can't dance.
What’s your favorite show to binge-watch or podcast to listen to? This is a hard one. White Lotus is just so juicy. But Game of Thrones is perfect for pure escapism. Podcast-wise, for a highbrow listen I go to Creative Codex, where the host breaks down the world's most famous creative geniuses. And, for a more lowbrow easy listen I put on Sentimental Garbage, where the host dissects popular culture, films, and movies - it's very funny and easy.
What’s a piece of advice you’d give your younger self? Just don't worry so much and enjoy the ride, never take for granted that you get to paint, create, and design for a living.
If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would they be? David Bowie, Gandelf, and Hunter Thompson - with lots of whiskey and pipes! I reckon they'd all get on really well and it would turn into a party!
What’s one item you always have with you, no matter where you go? God, so boring but my lip gloss, for sure.
What’s a morning ritual or routine you swear by? Recently my boyfriend and I have been playing tennis in the morning, in the park, and then getting a coffee from our local cafe before work. It's heaven and gets you outside running around early. If not that, then I swear by that morning coffee over anything.
If your designs were a cocktail, what would be in it? I'd say a Penicillin, which is whiskey, ginger, lemon, and honey syrup served ice cold. Absolutely heaven, with a good kick!
What is your favorite bug? I shouldn't have favorites but I think the scarab beetle will always be the one.
Flair for Wellness
La Mer Renewal Oil - an oil I keep going back to, I use it on my face to hydrate my dry skin. A little bit goes a long way to make my skin soft and glowy, and you can also use it on your hair!
Culture & Media
I’m Mostly Here to Enjoy Myself: One Woman’s Pursuit of Pleasure in Paris, by Glynnis MacNicol - because I can never resist a trip to Paris or a book about it. If you want to feel like you’re enjoying yourself in Paris without leaving your couch, buy this book. This memoir tells the story of one woman’s five-week holiday in Paris following 16 months of living alone in isolation during the Pandemic in New York City. It’s intimate, insightful, and powerful!
My Flair Mix
Keeping the French vibe going with a French Playlist. Special thanks to the best playlist maker, Garret Brewer-Sweet, for curating this gem that can transport us to Paris anytime we choose. Just add earbuds and hit play.
The Cult of Flair Podcast
This month, Steph sits down with Elisa, Jill, and Kristi, the co-founders of Sand + Fog, a company known for transforming the candle industry. They share their journey of launching the brand, highlighting that it's never too late to pivot and take on new ventures or learn new skills. They discuss the power of collaboration and how their combined expertise has been instrumental in the company's incredible growth. Tune in for an engaging conversation about innovation, teamwork, and believing in your vision.
Five O’Clock Flair
Spring's warmer temps make it the perfect time to enjoy a seasonal favorite - a Gin and Tonic! Light, crisp, and in this case, purple, a G&T is the ideal cocktail to sip while enjoying these longer evenings. And, it’s easy to make it a mock...just skip the gin!
Spring Garden Gin and Tonic
Ingredients
2 oz Empress 1908 Gin - our favorite purple potion!
4 oz premium tonic water (we like Fever Tree!)
Juice of 1/4 fresh lime
2-3 thin cucumber slices
Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish)
Edible flower (like pansy or violet) for springtime touch
Instructions
Fill a balloon or highball glass with ice cubes
Add Empress Gin
Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the gin
Pour in the tonic water slowly
Gently stir
Add cucumber slices
Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary and an edible flower
Tip: Lightly clap the rosemary sprig before adding it to the drink to release its scent and flavor
Cheers!
Always completely in awe of your eloquent and informative edits ❤️
Love your Paris list...