Hi everyone! After spending the winter in Los Angeles, I flew to DC last Tuesday for a week of special events. Of particular note, on Thursday I attended the private commencement fête for the Hermès Festival des Métiers. This exhibition is a rare opportunity to witness the work of the Hermès craftsmen up close and personal. Featuring artisans flown in from Lyons, the live exhibit will only travel to three cities in the continental United States. The exclusive event afforded me the opportunity to meet Hermès' President and CEO, Robert Chavez. Because quality has been such an important part of their success, I was curious about the steps the company will take to guarantee quality control for the next 25 years, especially as the luxury world embraces globalization. He confidently replied that Hermès will continue to appreciate and care for their craftsmen, as was evident that evening, following their almost 175-year tradition of hand-made excellence. Thank you to everyone involved for the invitation and for being so gracious. It was a beautiful and educational presentation.
I am back in LA for a few days, attending some exciting functions which I will soon share. Here are pictures from the National Arboretum taken by my talented friend Paul Gallegos, as well as the Hermès Festival des Métiers.
Jean Paul Gaultier Dress
This stole was a present from my dear friend's grandmother. She brought it from Italy decades ago. Cinched with a 1920s vintage pin.
Christian Louboutin "Lady Daf" Mary Janes; they are more than perfect.
The original 1828 columns created for the United States Capitol. Speechless.
Hermès Birkin 35 in Lagoon; Chanel Sunglasses; Hermès Collier de Chien Bracelets
On my way to the Festival!
With kind host, President/CEO Robert Chavez. His initiatives on educating consumers and the public alike on Hermès' fantastic history is truly commendable.
It takes one month to make each colllier de chien bracelet like the one I am wearing, and one month to set the diamonds. Here, the craftsman shows me, under the microscope, how each precious faceted gem is set.
Making a Kelly Bag! Each artisan trains for years to get every stitch and detail right.
Hermès' first client, the horse, gets special treatment with this custom made saddle.
The highly involved screening procedure to create the legendary silk scarf images.
Have a great day!
