The Unstated Guide to | Festive Gifting

The festive season is in full swing though this year it's slightly different than usual for most of us. With restrictions on gatherings and travel one thing that gives this season a sense of tradition is gifting (and of course, food). 

Giving our loved ones something special is a way to show gratitude and appreciation, but it can, on occasion, become a stressful task to fulfil, and so we've put together a guide to help you give your friends and family something special. 

ENSEMBLE ADDITONS

Jewellery and accessories are great gifts as they don't require the knowledge of someone's clothing size, and they're additions that compliment the pieces one  already has in their wardrobe.  

Ruslan Baginskiy's sought-after hats and Cornelia Webb's sleek contemporary jewellery pieces will add modern flair to any look, while KOVA Jewels delicate, keepsake pieces will add an elegant touch. 

ELEVATED BASICS

Wardrobe basics are great gifts. They're functional pieces that we often find tiresome to buy for ourselves, but appreciate when we receive them, and elevated basics are even better gifts! 

BEVZA's knitted bodysuits are form-fitting, ribbed and cut high at the leg for a modern take on a classic piece. Worn with mid or high rise-trousers or skirts; it appears to be a simple base piece, but worn with low-rise pants slithers of the hips will peak through. 

Litkovskaya and Ingorokva have a variety of elevated basics from roll-neck sweaters to denim. 

SPECIAL SERVICE

If you're not sure exactly what to get your loved one an experience or service is the way to go. Try gifting them lessons for something that they enjoy, MasterClass has great online classes with industry professionals and Rosetta Stone will help them learn the language that they have been interested in for a while. 

TOSHI's 'try before you buy' and 'on-demand delivery' services are great gifts, as the person you're gifting will be able to have a full shopping experience and it takes away the pressure of deciding on a clothing item and size. Find out more about our TOSHI service here. 

READING MATERIAL

As most of us have been based at home and found lots of free time, we've turned to reading and cooking to past the time, so a book – be that novels, recipe books or non-fiction – is a great gift this festive season. Scroll through our Journal for our suggestions. 

Woman of the Week | Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Our 'Woman of the Week' series celebrates the women of the past and present that epitomise The Unstated woman. Resilient, benevolent, progressive and inspirational, these women are pioneers of the modern age. 

One of the most influential women (and people, with all genders inclusive) in politics, Ruth Bader Ginsburg has served as a figure of esteem and adulation for several generations. She is mostly recognised for her work as a justice associate at the Supreme Court of the United States, where she dedicated 27 years of her life fighting for equality for women and people of colour. 

Born Joan Ruth Bader on March 15th 1933 in Brooklyn, New York to a mother of Polish Jewish descent and a Jewish father for Odessa, Ukraine (which was then part of the Soviet Union), Bader Ginsburg new up with the duality of a community and outsider, immigrant experience. Her family were part of a conservative Jewish synagogues and she attended Jewish summer camps, but studied it ethnically diverse New York public schools – notably James Madison High School, where U.S senators, Bernie Sanders and Chuck Schumer, and many writers, actors, athletes and musicians attended. 

After graduating from high school, Ruth Bader Ginsburg went on to study a BA in Government at Cornell University, New York. While studying at Cornell, Bader Ginsburg met fellow student and her future husband, Martin D.Ginsburg; who Ruth expressed encouraged her career pursuits, rather than attempting to suppress them, which wasn't uncommon at the time. They had a mutual respect and admiration for each other's intellect. The pair married a month after Bader Ginsburg graduated. At 21, Ruth worked as her as a Social Security Administrator in Oklahoma, where she was demoted after becoming pregnant with her first child, Jane. A year later, Ruth Bader Ginsburg enrolled at Harvard Law School – a male-dominated institution with only nine women in a class of 500 men – and eventually transferred to Columbia Law School when her husband took a job in New York City. 

Ruth Bader Ginsburg excelled at Columbia Law School and became the first woman to be in two major law reviews (Harvard and Columbia). Though she gained a strong recommendation from her professor at Harvard, she was turned away from several posts at law firms due to sexist policies and protocol. Eventually she was offered a position as a law clerk at the U.S. District Court for  the Southern District of New York. 

In the years that followed Bader Ginsburg went on to work on many significant cases regarding equality before being nominated for the role of Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court in 1993 by then President, Bill Clinton. She was the second woman and first Jewish woman to be a Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. 

Ruth Bader Ginsburg swiftly became a prominent member of the political institution fighting for the rights of women and against gender discrimination throughout her career; with cases like United States v. Virginia, 518 U.S. and Roe v. Wade, 410 U.S. Her longevity within her career (working until her passing in September 2020 from pancreatic cancer) can be attributed to her resilience, work ethics and progressive perspective of life. She was a vocal supporter of contemporary movements like Me Too and Black Lives Matter, becoming a cultural icon to millennials and younger generations.

The legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg will undoubtedly be enduring. With numerous books written about her – most notably 'Notorious RGB: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg' – and films about her – namely drama, 'On the Basis of Sex' and documentary, 'RGB' – she will continue to inspire future generations.

#TheUnstatedWoman

As Worn By You

There isn't just one way to style our pieces and we love to see and showcase the many manners that you are wearing them with #TheUnstatedWoman. Here's an edit of some of our favourite looks from The Unstated community.

Tijana Tamburic

Co-founder of 'Female Narratives', the effortlessly stylish Tijana Tamburic wears Mykke Hofmann's Haava Trousers with a silky vest and white blazer for an elevated desk-to-drinks look. Swap the vest for a roll-neck sweater and sandals with ankle boots for a more autumnal look. 

Heloise Agostinelli

Tactile textures make model, Heloise Agostinelli's cold-weather look refined and contemporary. Ruslan Baginskiy's electric-blue Embellished Satin Baker Boy Hat (coming soon) is embellished with rhinestones that compliment the luxurious appeal of her faux fur coat. 



Woman of the Week | Yayoi Kusama

Our 'Woman of the Week' series celebrates the women of the past and present that epitomise The Unstated woman. Resilient, benevolent, progressive and inspirational, these women are pioneers of the modern age. 

This week we explore the life and work of one of contemporary art's most influential figures, Yayoi Kusama. Born in the city of Matsumoto in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan to an affluent family, many would expect Kusama's beginnings to be simple and facile upbringing, however, Yayoi Kusama's early years were fairly troubling. Her parents turbulent marriage and her mother's abusive behaviour was traumatic, and this alongside the vivid hallucinations that she began experiencing from the age of ten were a prominent influence in Yayoi Kusama's work. Described as "flashes of light, auras, or dense fields of dots" but Kusama, the hallucinations are comparable to her most distinguishable art pieces. She also had visions of flowers and patterns in fabrics that she was accustomed to seeing – both of which are evident in her works. 

At the age of 13 Kusama worked in a military factory sewing parachutes for the Japanese army. Air raids and the engines of passing American fighter planes were a daily melodies for a young Yayoi Kusama, who expressed that the events of the war and constant reminder of mortality encouraged her to value freedom and creative expression. 

Yayoi Kusama's work initially gained recognition and accolade in Japan in the early 1950s with her abstract paintings of natural forms using an array of paints from watercolour to gouche and oil on paper. Eventually Kusama's paintings like the confines of a piece of paper and her canvas became whole rooms, covering floors and walls with boldly hued dots (that she is best know for today). This new style of self-expression lead to international interest, where a Seattle art gallery held and exhibition of her works. Kusama eventually moved to New York, corresponding with artist Georgia O'Keeffe for advice on navigating the art scene in the bustling city. 

Kusama spent most of the 1960's in New York, pushing the envelope on her art practice and capturing the attention of the art-world and beyond with eccentric happenings in the city's hotspot such as Central Park and Brooklyn Bridge. These happenings were in protest of the Vietnam War. These public art performances were a catalyst to Yayoi Kusama's public art performances towards the end of the decade, with 'Grand Orgy to Awaken the Dead at the MoMA (1969)' being her most well-known performance from that period. 

Eventually Yayoi Kusama moved back to Japan, but continued to work internationally. Through the years her work has gain increasing accolade, resulting in retrospectives major galleries across the globe, as well as collaborations with fashion and beauty brands such as Lancome, Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton.

Yayoi Kusama is now one of the most celebrated artist of our time, her avant-garde works are some of the most sought-after and recognisable, a testament to Kusama's ability to metamorphose endeavours into art through creative expression.

#TheUnstatedWoman

As Worn By You

There isn't just one way to style our pieces and we love to see and showcase the many manners that you are wearing them with #TheUnstatedWoman. Here's an edit of some of our favourite looks from The Unstated community.

Tina

The Berlin-based creator of the fashion and lifestyle blog, Style Appetite styles Natia x Lato's statement Serpent Earrings with a satin two-piece for an understated, yet refined look that would transition effortlessly from daytime duties to evening drinks. 

Klaudia Kedziora

Content creator and founder of PR and communications agent 'Klaudia Cloud Comms', Klaudia Kedziora serves a less in wearing oversized silhouettes in Litkovskaya's Prince Trench Coat; pairing it with a simple black tee and Mykke Hofmann's White Haava Trousers. 



Playlist 0.4

As the starts sun sets earlier and the temperature drops, we swap our sundresses for sweaters, al fresco dining for candlelit dinners and uptempo living for a slower, cosier pace. Playlist 0.4. is the perfect soundtrack to ease you out of summer and into the new season. 

TRACK LISTING

0.1. Ordinary Lover - Daddy Was a Milkman

0.2. She Don't Dance - Everyone You Know

0.3. Safe - Monkey Safari

0.4. NYC - Wallice

0.5. Back To Her - STORME

0.6. All Eyes on You - Active Child

0.7. Through Your Soul - Sworr. 

0.8. Where U Are - Rina Sawayama

0.9 Baby Don't Make Me Weep - Motor Sales

10. Ungodly Hour - Chloe x Halle

11.  ROCKSTAR - Baby Jesus (DaBaby) feat. Roddy Ricch

12. Misanthropulsar - Dumbo Gets Mad

13. D'Evils - SiR

14. LIKE I WANT YOU - Giveon

15. Come With Me - Black Coffee feat. MQUE

16. Can't Stop Your Lovin' - Poolside feat. Panama

17. Phenomena - Atsushi Asada, Hiroyuki Kajino 

18. Shibren (El Búro Remix) - Bukahara

19. Holdin' On -  Pascal Junior

20. Embrace (Black Coffee + Aquatone Remix) - Agoria, Phoebe Killdeer

21. Out Of Sight (Extended Mix) -  Lane 8 & Hexlogic

Behind the Brand | Kova Jewels

We spoke to the founder of Kova Jewels, Katie Kova about the inspirations behind her namesake contemporary fine jewellery brand and running a business during a global pandemic. 

Tell us a bit about the initial concept behind the brand.

Guided by the legacies of Russian Suprematism and Constructivism, Kova explores the many geometric forms that surround us, from simple triangles and circles to more complex lines and curves. Using this universal language and keeping our core values in mind, we create effortlessly wearable and covetable pieces. Our aesthetics is clean, compelling and hopefully timeless.

What are the ethos and values of KOVA Jewels?

Since the very beginning, our key goal was to develop a collection of fine jewellery that is elegant yet understated. The lines and shapes that we work with reflect a new generation of gender-neutral jewellery, one with timeless appeal and a clean, compelling aesthetic. 

Your current collection is based on the ‘four elements’ could you tell us more about it?

There is a strong belief that placing crystals on your body helps to promote physical, emotional and spiritual healing. Crystals supposedly do this by positively interacting with your body's energy field or chakra. But I wanted to create something even more personally meaningful, so I came up with the idea of a line that would revolve around the four elements and the people who belong to them. 

In a signature twist, we moved away from the stones typically associated with each particular sign and instead selected gems that correlated with the understanding of each element's core personality in order to identify what is lacking for them to achieve inner balance and harmony.

How does the natural world influence your brand and collections?

With colours, shapes and forms that surround us every day. 

How have you coped with the pandemic? Has it changed the way the brand operates?

The biggest for the business challenge in the pandemic was and still is the logistics, it had slowed things down big time. However, right now I can’t say it was a bad thing. The pandemic has taught me the importance of relevance. I have always tried to create something that would not follow the trend but be a core piece in ones jewellery collection so I will just continue to do so.

How would you describe the KOVA Jewels woman?

Stylish and trend aware, but not dictated by it; Active schedule divided between career, friends, creative outlets and social activities; Forward-thinking, part of the ‘new creative class.'

Woman of the Week | Katherine Johnson

Our 'Woman of the Week' series celebrates the women of the past and present that epitomise The Unstated woman. Resilient, benevolent, progressive and inspirational, these women are pioneers of the modern age. 

This week we commemorate the life and momentous achievements of mathematician Katherine Johnson, who calculated the exact trajectories that would lead to Apollo 11's successful landing on the moon in 1969 and safe return to Earth. 

Though one of the most significant mathematicians of the last century, Johnson's achievements were overlooked for decades due to both her gender and her race. 

Born Creola Katherine Coleman on August 26, 1918, in West Virginia to middle-class African-American parents, Katherine Johnson was set with racial adversities from a young age; Greenbier County of which her family resided did not accept African-American children into public schools past the age of eight which lead Johnson's parents to enroll her in a school in the nearby unincorporated community of Institute. The school that she attended in Institute was the West Virginia State College Campus, where Johnson eventually attended and took every maths course that the college offered. As a predominantly and historically African American college, Katherine Johnson's natural flair for maths was nurture by her tutors and she had several inspirational mentors such as Angie King Turner. Graduating at the age of 18 with a degree in Mathematics and French it's evident that Johnson was a talented mathematician from a very young age. She went on to become the first African-American woman to graduate from West Virginia and was the only woman out of three African-American students to be selected to integrate the university. 

Following this Katherine Johnson decided to embark on a career as a research mathematican but struggled to find work as this was a very difficult field for both African Americans and women to break into. She worked as a teacher until finding work as a 'computer' – a term for people who computed mathematical calculations before the invention of the computer – excelling in this position, she then worked as an aerospace technologist at NASA. 

One of very few female and non-white employees at NASA, particularly mathematicians, Johnson faced several trials during her time at the institution; simple tasks such as going to the bathroom were arduous due to the segregated restrictions – the 'coloured' lavatories were a long distance from the office she was based in – and her employees enhanced the segregation with their personal ill-treatment towards her. However, none of this discouraged Katherine Johnson or stopped her from carrying out her tasks and to an exceptionally high standard. During her time at NASA Katherine Johnson calculated the trajectory for the Alan Shepard's (the first American in space) May 1961 space flight, his Mercury mission in the same year and the Apollo 11 flight to the moon in 1969. 

Johnson eventually gained respect from her colleagues and eventually recognition for her contribution to some of America's most noted scientific and aeronautics feats. 

In 1999, Katherine Johnson was named West Virginia State College Outstanding Alumnus of the Year and in 2015, Barack Obama awarded her with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She was also cited as someone "who have made outstanding contributions to flight safety and mission success" by NASA and was included in the BBC's list of '100 women of influence' in 2016. In the same year, a book titled 'Hidden Figures' by Margot Lee Shetterly was released. The book chronicled the lives and achievements of Johnson and two other African-America mathematicians who worked at NASA (Mary Jackson and Dorothy Vaughan) and was followed by an award-winning film adaptation, which made Katherine Johnson's accomplishments become recognised to a vast audience. 

Katherine Johnson sadly passed away earlier this year in February at the age of 101 and was described by NASA administrator, Jim Bridenstine as "an American hero", stating that "her pioneering legacy will never be forgotten" and it certainly will not be.

Playlist 0.3

It's the season for iced coffees, long evening strolls, sandy feet, alfresco dining, Aperol spritz and sunkissed skin, so we've put together the perfect playlist to accompany you through summer days and nights. 

TRACK LISTING

 0.1. Billy - DRAMA

0.2. Canopée - Polo & Pan

0.3. Zonnestraal (MÖWE Remix) - De Hofnar

0.4. Klanga (De Hofnar Remix) - Gostan

0.5. Woods - Mac Miller

0.6. Embrace (Black Coffee & Aquatone) - Agoria, Phoebe Killdeer

0.7. He Don't Love Me - Winona Oak 

0.8. tonight - LIE NING

0.9. I Fold You - Elder Island

10. Imprint - NBSPLV

11. Right Wrong - Ivan Dorn, Victor Solf

12. If I Ever Feel Better - Phoenix

13. Music Sounds Better With You - NEIL FRANCES

14. What's The Use - Mac Miller

15. Ananas - Bleu Toucan 

16. Come To Me - zalagasper

17. Sonate Pacifique - L'Impératrice, Isaac Delusion

18. Holding on - Julio Bashmore, Sam Dew

19. Flash - Lewis OfMan 

20. Hanoï Café - Bleu Toucan 

As Styled By: Tina | Style Appetite

Hi there! I’m Tina and based in Berlin, Germany. Actually I was born in the north of Germany in a small village next to the Baltic Sea – a lovely space for holidays by the way. I’ve moved to Berlin around 10 years ago to study Business Administration, since then I have worked in different jobs such as a marketing manager, and lately as a business analyst.

How did you get into fashion and why did you start ‘Style Appetite’? 

My aim behind 'Style Appetite' was mainly to have a personal space and outlet for my creativity. 

After finishing my studies and working in different areas of marketing and economics, I realised that my love for fashion was not fulfilled with my office job. I have always been interested in fashion and design, as well as travelling and discovering my own beautiful city of Berlin.

What inspires you; both creatively and in life?

I'm inspired on a daily basis, I’m of course getting inspired by Instagram and Pinterest. There are so many inspiring women and profiles out there! Also, I’m a big fan of coffee table books as well as visiting museums and art galleries – there are plenty of spaces in and around Berlin to discover. In life generally, I’m definitely a family person so they always come first. I want to be known as a postive-minded person that is kind and supportive. 

What advice would you give anyone interested in starting a fashion blog or looking to create creative content?

Get an idea of what your concept should be about and then start immediately! It doesn’t have to be perfect right away, you’ll figure out which way to go and what the details will look like. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help. There are lovely people out there who can help you and build your network as you go along. 

Creating content is easy when you have a clear visual strategy. Decide which style and images you are going for and feel free to try new things, especially on Instagram there tends to be certain trends on how a feed should look. Don’t get confused by this – you do you! 

How have you been coping with social distancing? Have you had to adapt the way you work?

For my business analyst job, it definitely changed a lot. We've all been working from home since March and I haven’t been to our Berlin offices ever since, I guess it won’t go back to normal that soon. Regarding my social media and blog, I’ve mostly adapted to do my photoshoots at home or around our apartment. Unfortunately, fashion weeks and blogger events won’t happen that soon again, so I‘m definitely missing the networking part of my job. 

Are there any core values that you apply to your work and life?

Always treat others with the same respect that you would expect from them. This might sound lame but, good manners are never out of fashion! Being on time and replying to mails etc, are such small and easy things but will always show that you care and that you’re respectful. 

What does womanhood mean to you?

I think our image of women has changed a lot during the past years; finally women are free to shape their own way of living and how they want to present themselves. For me, it’s not about how a woman looks or dresses but the way she carries herself and if she’s comfortable in her own skin. But I also have to say that your favourite dress or pair of shoes will always make you more self confident and this will show to the outside world, too.   

What are you looking forward to wear next season?

I’m definitely a fan of flowy, airy dresses. In summer, I’ll pair them with flats or heels for a night out and in winter I’ll wear them with over-knee boots. You can never go wrong with this combo. 

Apart from that, a good suit will always make me feel powerful and fierce. I’m looking forward to statement shoulders, asymmetric drapes or volume – these small details that make a difference. 

Woman of the Week | Maya Angelou

Our new 'Woman of the Week' series celebrates the women of the past and present that epitomise The Unstated woman. Resilient, benevolent, progressive and inspirational, these women are pioneers of the modern age. 

The first in our series is the late revered poet, writer and civil rights activist, Maya Angelou.

Most know for her landmark book, "I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings", a lyrical autobiography that chronicles Angelou's childhood experiences in the Jim-Crow era St Louis, Missouri. The novel is an astute and vulnerable exploration into trauma, racism and the resilience and fortitude that Maya Angelou developed through it all due to a love of literature. 

In the words of Angelou, 

"You can only become truly accomplished at something you love."

And this sentiment is perhaps how she became of the most acclaimed writers of a generation. "I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings", was followed by a series of sequels that do not only recount Angelou's life experience but unveil a woman of wisdom, altruism and principle, which was discernible in many aspects of her life. These are, “Gather Together in My Name” (1974), “Singin’ and Swingin’ and Gettin’ Merry Like Christmas” (1976), “The Heart of a Woman” (1981), “All God’s Children Need Traveling Shoes” (1986) and “A Song Flung Up to Heaven” (2002).

From her warm, soulful, melodic manner of speaking and earnest accounts of anguish to her civil rights activism, Maya Angelou was an eloquent voice for people (particularly women) who had similar life experiences but were unable to express themselves, and spoke to the hearts of those who hadn't. 

Before writing Maya Angelou explored her other love; dance, working as a professional dancer in the clubs of San Francisco, including the celebrated cellar club 'The Purple Onion' (said to be an influential establishment during the Beat era of the 1950s and 60s), where she sang and danced to calypso music. Her affinity with calypso music followed her throughout her life and career; in 1957 Angelou recorded a calypso album titled "Miss Calypso", which was re-released as a CD in 1996, and appeared in a Broadway play that inspired the 1957 film "Calypso Heat Wave". A Tony-award winning stage actress Angelou acted in other stage produces, such as "Porgy and Bess" on Broadway. 

The duality of joyful calypso and the heavy hardships of Maya Angelou's life nurtures the notion of optimism and buoyancy that makes Angelou an immutable figure of inspiration. 

One of her most-quoted poems "Still I Rise" (extract below), taken from her 1978 anthology of the same name, overtly explores the theme of resilience, as well as the poem " On the Pulse of the Morning", which Angelou first read at the auguration of Bill Clinton in 1993 and won a Grammy for 'Best Spoken Word' in 1994. 

Maya Angelou garnered many awards and prestigious nominations throughout her life and career, however, it isn't kudos that makes Angelou one of the most honoured women of our times, but spirit and soul. 

Still I Rise (Extract)

How We're Working Out At Home

With gyms closed and most of us social distancing, our workouts are taking place in the comfort of our homes. For some, motivation and enthusiasm for at-home workouts are plain-sailing, but for many of us, it's challenging – perhaps you're struggling to find a good routine, you're without access to equipment and machines, you're unable to push yourself in the same way an instructor would. We understand that exercising at home can be challenging, so we've put together a list of workout plans, apps and trainers that we would recommend.

Apps

Alo Moves 

If you're looking for a wide collection of online workout classes; from HIIT to yoga, pilates and meditation, Alo Moves is perfect for you. There's a subscription fee of $20 a month, however, the free trial allows you to test it out before committing, and the lessons are so thorough you feel like the instructors are right there with you.

Sweat by Kayla Itsines

Kayla Itsines has been transforming the body of women and men across the globe since 2008, and her Sweat app allows you to use her methods at home. A variety of 28-minute workouts that sculpt, tone and get your heart pumping are perfect for those who don't have time for one-hour routines. There's a monthly fee of $19.99. 

Nike Training Club 

With a broad selection of targeted workouts, Nike's Training Club app is perfect for those who like to mix up their routine and isolate areas of the body. Alternatively, there is the option of personal plans that guide you, whilst adjust to your progress and schedule. One of the best things about this app is that it's free!

Instagram

Bodyism 

Notting Hill members-only fitness club, Bodyism has made their acclaimed workouts available to all with daily live workouts. The routines are easy to follow and the instructors teach in a way that caters to every ability level. 

Digme Fitness 

From dance cardio and bum-sculpting workouts to morning yoga, Digme Fitness offers a wide range of daily workouts via Instagram live. There's more than one workout a day, and they're saved in case you missed your favourite. 

Youtube

MadFit 

Ballet-dancer come fitness enthusiast, Maddie Lymburner of MadFit's three to four-minute song workouts are perfect for those who enjoy moving to music, while her longer more targeted videos are perfect for building strength and muscle while remaining long and lean. 

Yoga With Adriene

The internet's most-loved yoga teacher, Adriene Mishler has encouraged many to stretch, breathe, and mindfully create healthy bodies and minds. Her daily yoga videos are easy to follow and varied. There are routines that will help you sleep and others that will tone and increase flexibility, so you'll learn how extensive yoga can be. 

The Style Guide | What We're Wearing At Home

As most have been confined to the comfort of our homes whilst social distancing, we've lost the need to dress well, resorting to cosy, easy-to-wear pieces instead of aesthetically pleasing looks, but style and comfort aren't mutually exclusive. 

Here's our selection of nonchalant, yet stylish pieces that we're wearing while social distancing. 

One of the brand's most-loved pieces, Bessarion's Script Sweatshirt decorates a stalwart wardrobe with Georgian script - a nod to the brand's heritage. Crafted from 100% cotton it's comfortable and cool, perfect for lounging around the house in. Liven up your day with the red version. 

High-waisted, wide-legged and deconstructed abstractly, LL by Litkovskaya's Runway Jeans are the perfect off-duty pair. The cut and fit allow for a comfortable fit so you can wear them during your next Netflix binge on the sofa, or on a grocery run in style. 

Anything from Lalo Cardigans is fitting for restful days at home, but we're in love with the Ocean Tassel edition. Handcrafted from pure wool in playful shades of blue, white, coral and yellow that evoke the colours of the ocean, and finished with feathers, the Ocean Tassel cardigan is a playful piece that will enliven any off-duty look. 

Litkovskaya's Mondrian Wide Dress is a contemporary piece that's ideal for days packed with Zoom calls, as you'll look refined while feeling snug and leisurely. The oversized piece is distinguished with a modern Mondrian-inspired print and finished with contrast silk detailing at the cuffs. 

If you're looking to update your T-shirt and sweatpants combination (the stay-at-home outfit go-to for most) Bessarion's T-shirt's are a perfect pick. They're cut from soft-touch cotton to a boyish silhouette and finished with the iconic Georgian script – Londoners will surely relate to the quotes our the pieces from our exclusive collaboration with the Georgian brand.

If staying in doesn't mean not dressing up to you Litkovskaya's Lumiere Dress will be what you're looking for. Modern and feminine, it's expertly crafted from pure white cotton to a contemporary, silhouette that's sculpted to flatter the body without hugging it.

Behind The Brand | A Conversation with Ruslan Baginskiy

We spoke to the founder of the namesake brand Ruslan Baginskiy about his inspirations and ethos, and the much-loved 'Baker Boy Hat'. 

Tell us a bit about the initial concept behind the brand. 

The brand’s story begins in 2015 when I opened a small millinery in Lviv, Ukraine. In 2016 the company moved to Kyiv and I started to create four collections per year.

The brand’s iconic design is both classic and innovative, it's also rich in memorable details: handmade embroidery in naïve styles, pearls, chains, removable pins and RB monogram.

It was also important to me to combine fashion and art in the brand’s DNA, that is why last summer I presented our first-ever haute couture collection in Paris. 

What is the ethos and values of Ruslan Baginskiy?

I want every member of my team to feel that we’re family. I will never hire a person with values different from mine, no matter what position it is. I want to surround myself with people that understand how important is to be kind, respectful, responsible, fair and loyal. Our business is not about making money; we want everyone to be happy doing their job. Did you know that all my family is in the production team? My mum, my dad, my younger brother all work alongside me, and I want them to enjoy their time at work.

Ruslan Baginskiy is a worldwide brand, but I always want to send a clear message that I’m from Ukraine. That is why my first collection was inspired by traditional Ukrainian handmade techniques. I also collaborated with two Ukrainian artists: Nikolay Tolmachev designed provocative invitations; and Maria Kulikovska, the founder of a feminist organisation Body and Borders and sculptor, created the full-height statue and six busts to serve as mannequins. 

Your designs are modern reinventions of classic pieces, how are the designs developed? 

I love vintage magazines, pictures of my grandparents when they were young, black and white movies. They remind me of the time when a hat wasn’t just an accessory, it was an essential part of the men’s and women’s wardrobe. I like to bring a new life to classic shapes. For example, I remember a picture of my mother wearing a baker boy cap in the 1990s, it was the inspiration behind our most popular style to date and a style that’s never out of fashion. 

Tell us a bit about your current collection and what is to come for Ruslan Baginskiy.

For the SS20 collection, I designed a range of styles that meet your needs for headwear completely. Night out? Satin Baker Boy Cap embroidered with crystals and the chain embellished Canotier Hat in felt. The tasseled Straw Hat and Gambler Hat with leather details are perfect for a vacation in Africa, Southern Italy, or the Greek islands. And of course, don’t forget about the new colour options of our Baker Boy Cap. We never focus on one style; we

want our customers always have a choice.

How would describe the modern/unstated woman?

I think modern women are never the same, but at the same time, she never loses herself. She can mix brands with totally different style, she can listen to pop and rap, she can read Russian classic literature and watch stupid videos on Youtube. She knows what is sustainability and doing her best to live in a better and cleaner world. She cares about politics and knows how to avoid fake news. She likes healthy food, but will not blame herself for McDonald's late-night delivery. She can be a president if she wants, or a housewife for own choice. Women and their strength are my eternal source of inspiration. 

What kind of woman is Ruslan Baginskiy made for?

It is complicated to create a portrait of only one woman when considering who our hats are made for. Ruslan Baginskiy girls live all over the world, they dress different from one another, they look different from one another. She could be very minimalistic or dressed up to the nines. My mission is to make headwear as important to a women’s wardrobe as shoes or handbags, that is why I don't know what makes me happier; seeing Madonna wearing our hats or meeting an unknown girl in Paris in my Baker Boy Cap, their both fulfilling!

How to Pass The Time While Social Distancing | Books

As many of us are social distancing and homebound due to the coronavirus pandemic, we might find ourselves struggling for ways to spend our time, so we’ve started a series of free-time recommendations. The first in the series are books that we love and think you’ll enjoy too. Some are uplifting and inspiring, others will captivate and draw you into the lives of their characters, and some will enlighten and educate. 

Invisible Cities by Italo Calvino

An orthodox approach to travel literature, Italian writer Italo Calvino explores the excursions of Marco Polo through a series of prose poems, framed within a conversation between Mongol Emporer, Kubai Khan and Polo himself. 

The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera

One of Kundera's most acclaimed novels, 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being' tells the story of four lovers and a dog, whilst exploring Friedrich Nietzche's notion of eternal recurrence amongst other life philosophies.

The Wisdom of Insecurity by Alan Watts

A holistic guide to living in the present, Alan Watts looks to Eastern religion and philosophy to build a strong argument for living in the present as a means to live a fulfilling life.  

Normal People by Sally Rooney

Longlisted for the 2018 Man Booker Prize and 2019 Women's Prize For Fiction, Sally Rooney's best-selling novel is a simple yet, compelling story that revolves around the relationship between Irish teens Connell and Marianne.

That Will Never Work: The Birth of Netflix and the Amazing Life of an Idea by Marc Randolph

The founder of Netflix, Marc Randolph tells the story of one of the 21st century's most successful business ventures in digestible prose. Inspiring and motivational, the book teaches you how to face adversary and grow from it. 

Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel García Márquez

Penned by Colombian Nobel prize-winning author Gabrial García Márquez, 'Love in the Time of Cholera' is a celebration of love in all it's manifestations. Beautifully written you'll be sure to be enraptured in the lives of its protagonists. 

A Woman Looking at Men Looking at Women: Essays on Art, Sex, and the Mind by Siri Hustvedt

Composed by prize-winning writer, Siri Hustvedt, 'A Woman Looking at Men Looking at Women' is a compelling collection of essays and musings on art, neuroscience, psychology, and philosophy with a feminist undertone. 

Outline: A Novel by Rachel Cusk

A novel framed by ten earnest and candid conversations with its protagonist, 'Outline' is a beautiful escape with philosophical enrichment at every turn.

The Unstated Guide to Work From Home

With the current state of affairs, many of us find ourselves working from the comfort of our own home, which is a circumstance that some will relish in and others will find troublesome, so we’ve put together a guide to make ‘work from home’ a more natural experience. 

Develop a Routine

The most difficult aspect of working from home can be working without the set routine of wake up, shower, dress, commute and commence, so it’s important to develop a routine that you can uphold. For some this may mean waking up the same time that one would for a normal working day when working in the office and taking more time on usual on the work-day morning routine. For others, this may mean waking up later, spending the usual amount of time on the work-day morning routine, and for others your routine may be altered altogether, adding in a workout – a brisk jog or vinyasa yoga flow are our picks. 

Whatever routine is the best fit for you, it’s integral to make sure it’s achievable and sustainable. 

Designate a Workspace

It’s fair to say that not all professional workspaces are tranquil, but all workspaces are designed for work productivity and homes simply aren’t. Of course, many people have home offices (and if you have one, we recommend that work from it) however,  some don’t and if this is the case we recommend finding a private, quiet spot in your home and designate this as your workspace.  This place will undoubtedly be different for everyone; perhaps you work more productively from your bed, or the living room sofa, or the dining table. Whatever space, claim it and work from it. 

Take a Lunch Break

This is something that many of us forget to do, even when working in the office, but studies have shown that taking a break for lunch is a must to productivity. When working at home you’re presented with the opportunity to make this lunch a bit more special than a soggy sandwich or wilted salad, so even if the break away from your computer is taken whilst making a lunch that’s a little more exciting and you still eat lunch ‘at your desk,’ just be sure to step away from your monitor to give your brain a breather before proceeding with work for the latter half of the day. 

Find Your Working Soundtrack

Studies have suggested that background noise may improve focus on a task by aiding endurance, motivating and improving one’s mood, and so it’s a good idea to find your working soundtrack. Whether it’s an eclectic playlist, rap music, classic, a movie soundtrack, the radio or podcasts, finding a good source of intentional background noise, that isn’t distracting but helps you power through is discretionary but, immensely helpful. 

Keep Family and Flatmates Away Whilst Working

This only applies to people living with flatmates, friends, and family; keep your distance whilst working. Though imperative, this is one of the most difficult rules to follow – particularly for those with young children as other members of one’s household is often the biggest distraction. Though this relates to the first tip (designating a space), the best way to do this is find a space that isn’t communal to work in and setting clear boundaries with the other members of your household, perhaps using your lunch break to socialise if there’s a burning desire to. 

Don’t Fret

It’s natural to fret about your workload, more than you would at the office; communication with employees is restricted to video and audio calls, text messaging and email, you might feel as though you’re productivity levels are lower, management may check in on you more than usual. The best thing to remember in these circumstances is that you can only do your best in the given circumstances. Stay motivated, manage your workload as usual and discuss any obstacles with your employer/employees. 

The Unstated Woman | Marre Muijs

Founder and Creative Director of sustainable footwear brand ESSĒN, Marre Muijs epitomises the unstated woman. Her innovative perspective on the fashion industry and femininity, are definitely accountable for the success of ESSĒN. 

We spoke to her about how the label, quality and craftsmanship, and her tips for dressing well. 

Tell us a bit about yourself and how ESSĒN came to be?

I have always loved shoes - even from an early age. 

Even though they are regarded as accessories, shoes are the foundation pieces of a well-curated wardrobe and a great outfit. Shoes carry us, add to our height, alter our posture and affect our confidence. I’ve always thought you can learn a lot about a person just by looking at their shoes; they hold character and allow you to play with aspects of your identity and the image we want to broadcast to the world. Many women are willing to play with their shoes in a way they don’t play with the other parts of their wardrobe. If you are wearing good shoes you can get away with just about anything. 

I founded ESSĒN as a response to a fashion cycle that overproduces more than it carefully crafts, chases trends more than it determines classics, and wastes more than it sustains. With ESSĒN, I strive to slow down that cycle so that we can focus on making every piece essential.  

ESSĒN encourages people to purchase less and choose better. I aspire to simplify women’s wardrobes, by helping them consider what they really need - nothing more, nothing less. That’s where the name comes from – essentials.

What inspired you to create your own brand?

I truly believe less is more. I encourage people to buy less, by buying better. The fashion industry has been oversaturated with disposable and poorly constructed products for far too long; ESSĒN was founded as a response. I aspired to create a brand that would uphold a more conscious pace and process, where things are made with genuine care and detail. 

Despite working in the footwear industry, I found myself searching to find sophisticated, timeless and comfortable shoes that were ethically made, without the designer price tag. A search that quickly proved that these were very difficult to find. 

After having this conversation with friends one too many times, I decided I was going to try and create the perfect collection of quality wardrobe staples myself. I’ve always thought great shoes are an investment – so for ESSĒN I combined the classic with the contemporary in the hope of creating timeless shoes you’ll want to wear for years to come.

With a conscious release of limited edition styles, the idea is to curate a range of purposely trans-seasonal pieces. This allows our customers to gradually assemble their ideal range of year-round footwear. With time, they will have the perfect pair to wear on the weekend, to work or out in the evening. 

What is the brand ethos?

ESSĒN offers timeless essentials that are aesthetically beautiful, supremely comfortable and ethically made.

Why are quality and craftsmanship important to you?

The best shoes in the world are made by craftsmen in Italy, Portugal and Spain, so that’s where I went to create the shoes. I was careful about how I sourced suppliers, and am fortunate now to work with the best shoe factories in the world – the same ones that produce much of the footwear for luxury brands. 

Because I wanted to do it right, I started small. All styles are handmade by local, family-run factories in Italy, Portugal and Spain by expert artisans who have been making shoes for generations. They are responsible for the construction of every pair we make. From the leather selection, the engineering of the lasts and the hand finishing of the shoes; the entire range is handmade by people who care about every single pair produced. It’s why I love doing this, tapping into the pleasure of knowing you are making something of real quality. In the process, I’ve become good friends with everyone involved; we’ve sat at the kitchen tables of our suppliers, shared wine and listened to their advice. 

The pieces are very refined yet, contemporary. They could be said to embody modern femininity, what does ‘modern femininity’ mean to you? 

For me, modern femininity is about knowing yourself and being true to your own individual style. My shoes & understated designs are the building blocks that complement this type of woman and allowing her to move seamlessly throughout her day. As we get older we get more comfortable in our own skin. There is nothing more stylish than a wardrobe that truly reflects who you are! 

What kind of woman do you design for?

I’m not designing for one type of woman, I’m inspired by modern women all over the world. My aim is to make women feel like their best selves. I believe that what you wear has a direct impact on the way you feel, which can have a profound impact on every aspect of your life. 

My designs are inspired by the modern woman’s day-to-day realities. My shoes are hardworking classics that are aesthetically beautiful, supremely comfortable and ethically made. They allow you to move seamlessly and confidently through your day, without compromising on style, comfort, and craftsmanship. They’re the type of shoes I believe a woman will not only feel great in but do great in day after day.

My designs are worn by women who embrace their femininity whilst pursuing their goals. It’s about giving her autonomy and allowing her to fulfill whichever role she wants to fulfill, whether that’s being a stay-at-home mum or being a creative director or lawyer. 

What are your tips for dressing well?

I’m always looking for simplicity and confidence in what I wear: classic pieces, with a twist; an outfit that gives me confidence for the day. 

By tapping into my own needs while designing the shoes, I can not only curate a more conscious collection, but also a more authentic one. One thing I never compromise on is quality. For ESSĒN,  every shoe and every decision is made with this in mind.

The Unstated Woman

Unstated (adj.)

Not stated or declared.

‘a series of unstated assumptions’

It’s somewhat futile to try to define an entity that is ‘not stated or declared’, yet we will try to describe the unstated woman.

She is a curious woman; a woman inspired by creative souls, a woman who delights in the new and unknown. 

She is an individual; she is driven to design a character of authenticity, she walks a path paved by her own inclination.

She is a progressive woman; a woman unafraid of the uncharted and undisclosed possibilities of the future. 

She is compassionate; a humanitarian with benevolence and empathy, to inspire and nurture. 

She is undefined.