THE JOURNAL

The Journal is a space for thoughtful living—where style, comfort, and care come together. Each entry explores a different aspect of how we dress, move, and maintain the pieces we rely on daily, with an emphasis on intention over excess. These journals are designed to be read slowly, revisited often, and applied in ways that feel personal, practical, and considered.

THE FRENCH COUTURE JACKET

Close-up of hands working the raw edge of navy and gold tweed fabric pinned to a dress form — After Stilettos Making a French Couture Jacket by Hand

MAKING A FRENCH COUTURE JACKET BY HAND

Eight days, one quilting line on the machine, and a lot of very slow, very deliberate hand-stitching.

MAKING A FRENCH COUTURE JACKET BY HAND

Eight days, one quilting line on the machine, and a lot of very slow, very deliberate hand-stitching.

Ornate Italian fresco interior with elaborate painted walls and decorative architectural details — After Stilettos French Couture Jacket Workshop

INSIDE A FRENCH COUTURE JACKET WORKSHOP IN ITALY

Inside an eight-day French couture jacket workshop in Italy — nine participants, hand-stitching, and the discipline of learning by repetition.

INSIDE A FRENCH COUTURE JACKET WORKSHOP IN ITALY

Inside an eight-day French couture jacket workshop in Italy — nine participants, hand-stitching, and the discipline of learning by repetition.

Hands pressing layered couture fabrics including tweed and floral brocade on a worktable — After Stilettos French Couture Jacket Technique

LEARNING THE FRENCH COUTURE JACKET TECHNIQUE

Eight days in Arona, learning to build a jacket entirely by hand — tailor tacks instead of chalk, five-centimeter seams, and a lot of unlearning shortcuts.

LEARNING THE FRENCH COUTURE JACKET TECHNIQUE

Eight days in Arona, learning to build a jacket entirely by hand — tailor tacks instead of chalk, five-centimeter seams, and a lot of unlearning shortcuts.

Thoughtful choices; made slowly, worn often, and cared for over time.