Matchbook Magazine, October 2013

Susan Feldman & Alison Pincus welcome us to

one kings l ane!

Issue No. 33

october 2013

2

matchbook

oct. 2013

i s s u e N o. 33

THE matchbook girl takes the entrepreneurial leap. collects needlepoint belts. carves a Nancy Drew pumpkin. loves her cozy knits. splurges on burgundy dahlias. is Suzy Bishop for Halloween rereads the Victorian classics. makes a name for herself. proves them all wrong.

one kings lane

Co-founders Susan Feldman and Alison Pincus at their SoHo office Photography by Emily Anderson

matchbook

3

c o n t e nt s

Oct. 2013

7 DATE BOOK 8 NOTE FROM

KATiE + JANE

10 EDITOR’S WISH LISTS

Stark Contrast Close-Knit Leather Love

92 JUST MARRIED 94 odds & Ends

history

50

26 PORTRAIT OF A LADY

Against All Odds

28 Kindred spirit

Dorothy Dandridge

4

matchbook

32

38

culture & 16 Gadget Girl

Savvy and chic gadgets

18 MAY WE SUGGEST...

Book and Film Reviews

22 art gallery

Autumnal Tones

30 Kid At Heart

A studio visit with the whimsical Todd Oldham

44 fox fodder farm

Inside Taylor Patterson's Brooklyn f loral wonderland

56 An American Classic

Behind the scenes with the founding brothers of J.McLaughlin

72 Dynamic Duo

A morning with Susan Feldman and Alison Pincus, founders of One Kings Lane

6

matchbook

da t e b o o k 2 013

October 1

2

Yosemite National Park is established (1890)

Henry Ford introduces the Model T automobile (1908)

11

12

14

Eleanor Roosevelt is born in New York, NY (1884)

The Executive Mansion is officially renamed the White House by President Theodore Roosevelt (1901)

Columbus Day

15

20

21

Australia's Sydney Opera House opens (1973)

The Guggenheim Museum opens in New York Cit y (1959)

22

24

25

Catherine Deneuve born in Paris, France (1943)

Richard Burton buys Elizabeth Taylor a 69-carat diamond ring (1969)

Pablo Picasso is born in Mál aga, Spain (1881)

27

29

30

Emily Post is born in Baltimore, Maryl and (1872)

Societ y photographer Slim Aarons born in New York, NY (1916)

Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibilit y is published (1811)

I Love Lucy premieres on CBS (1951)

5 Breakfast at Tiffany’s movie released in theaters (1961)

31 Happy Halloween!

matchbook

7

N o t e from

Katie + Jane

2013

October

As budding entrepreneurs ourselves, it is incredibly exciting

to have two groundbreaking female businesswomen on our October cover. Fewer than five years ago, Susan Feldman and Alison Pincus went out on a limb and tried something new online -- today One Kings Lane is a thriving marketplace with a community of over 6 million shoppers. We love their brand's style and admire their founders' savvy. Our time with Susan and Alison at the company's gorgeous Tribeca office left us dizzy with inspiration. It is an honor to share their adventure with you.

From autumnal flower arrangements to jewel shaped crayons, this issue is packed with stories and products that simply make us smile. In the following pages the lovely Taylor of Fox Fodder Farm will share her favorite blooms, designer Told Oldham will warm your heart with his passion for bringing art to young hands, and Kevin and Jay McLaughlin will have you wishing you owned more needlepoint belts. We found each of them kind, inspiring, and endearing -- for our Matchbook readers we wouldn't have it any other way.

Break out the pumpkins Katie + Jane 8

matchbook

Contributors

Emily Anderson

Carol Dronsfield

Scott Wade

Photographer New York, NY

Photographer New York, NY

Writer New York, NY

THE

Matchbook Team Katie Armour

co-founder editorial director

Jane Lilly Warren

gail early

co-founder creative director

global sales sales@matchbookmag.com Clare Whitaker

editorial intern

Sarah Gordon

editorial intern

Jordan blaser

design intern

cathy higgerson

copy editor

matchbook

9

1.

2.

Stark Contrast K atie Armour, Editorial Direc tor

a black and white autumn

3.

6.

5.

7.

4.

8.

9.

1. Love Cushion, Calypso St. Barth, $175 2. Chevron Salt and Pepper Shakers, Williams-Sonoma, $30 3. Cameo Stud Earrings, Shopbop, $28 4. Lucia Armchair, Industry West, $89 5. Shimmer Black Pillow, Room & Board, $109 6. Artwell Pottery Side Plate, Toast, ÂŁ20 7. 2014 Black Desk Calendar, Sugar Paper, $52 8. Joie Day Dreaming Loafers, Shopbop, $185 9. ZAC Zac Posen Shirley Wallet, Zappos, $95 10 matchbook

E d i tor's

wish list

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

1. Skull Candles, Crate & Barrel, $10 for 3 2. Kenneth Jay Lane Earrings, Charm & Chain, $164 3. Nate Berkus Marble Print Tray, Target, $25 4. Marc by Marc Jacobs Rock Chronograph Watch, Nordstrom, $350 5. Onyx Place Setting, West Elm, $39 6. Bien Fait Sweatshirt, Madewell, $75 7. 3.1 Phillip Lim Tricolor 31 Hour Bag, Shopbop, $795 8.

Hunter Regent Savoy, Zappos, $195

matchbook

11

close-knit jane lilly warren, creative direc tor

to keep you cozy through sweater weather

2.

1.

4.

5.

3.

7.

6.

1. MiH School Sweater, Shopbop, $225 2. Revlon CustomEyes Eyeshadow - Metallic Chic, Target, $8 3. Peacock Alley Veneto Sham, Calypso St. Barth, $115 4. David Yurman Double X Crossover Ring, Saks Fifth Avenue, $425 5. Oeuf Knit Eiffel Tower Toy, Barneys, $78 6. Tory Burch Noah Fair Isle Knit Sneakers, Saks Fifth Avenue, $195 7.

12

Emilio Pucci Otto Printed Wool Scarf, Bergdorf Goodman, $495

matchbook

E d i tor's

wish list

3.

2.

4.

1.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

1. Telluride Throw in Camel, Serena & Lily, $128 2. Two-Tone Knitted Pouf, World Market, $80 3. Leaves Sweater Weather Cable Knit Candle, Bath & Body Works, $18 4. Acorn 'Novella' Slipper in Pink Flower, Nordstrom, $58 5. Fur-Cuff Fingerless Cashmere Gloves, Bergdorf Goodman, $100 6. Cinderhouse Knit Trousers, Madewell, $75 7. How to Knit, November 24, 1941, Art.com, $70 8. Vintage Life Size Sheep with Horns, 1st dibs, $3500 9. Anna Sui Embellished Crochet-Knit Owl Hat, Net-A-Porter, $235

1.

3.

2.

leather love Jordan Bl aser, Design intern

soft, textured classics for fall 4.

5.

7.

6.

1. Robert Abbey Mary McDonald Spence Cinnamon Table Lamp, LampsPlus, $360 2. The Jane, Feral, $88 3. Gold Date Book, Paper Source, $40 4. 1938 Leather Butterfly Chair, CB2, $339 5. Leather-Trim Peplum Top, Madewell, $90 6. Janae, Sole Society, $60 7. Leather and Suede Satchel, J. Crew, $298 14

matchbook

E d i tor's

wish list

2.

1.

4.

3.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

1. Leather Pyramid Stud Bracelet, Sole Society, $40 2. Linen and Leather Pillow Cover, Dot & Bo, $115 3. Collection Fluted Skirt In Leather, J.Crew, $595 4. Current Elliott The Soho Coated Cotton-Blend Biker Jacket, Net-A-Porter, $368 5. Robinson Zip Wallet, Tory Burch, $225 6. Leather X Bench with Aged Brass Nailheads, Ballard Designs, $429 7. Baggu Medium Leather Shoulder Bag, Nordstrom, $160 8. B-Low The Belt Leaf Belt, Shopbop, $110 9. Beatle Boot, Marais USA, $152

CULTURE CLUB

Gadget girl W hy shouldn't electronics and their accessories be as stylish as they are useful? A roundup of gadgets that are both savvy and chic.

matchbook's tech smart picks HeartBeats Lady Gaga Headphones, Nordstrom, $100

Harrison Stripe USB, Kate Spade,

$50

Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Instant Camera, Urban Outfitters, $100 You've Gato a Call Phone Stand, ModCloth, $22

Dottie Rockin' Alarm Clock, PBteen, $149

16

matchbook

iHome Mini Wireless Speaker, Urban Outfitters, $40

Bowknot Backup iPhone Battery, Anthropologie,

$38

Frends Taylor Headphones, Nordstrom, $200 Portable USB Turntable, Urban Outfitters, $160

Aphrodite USB Hub, Burke Decor,

$44

matchbook

17

Culture Club

m ay w e s u gg e s t. . .

Our picks in books and movies this October

on our shelf...

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt (Little, Brown and Company, $22) Available October 22

Some works are so complex that it’s nearly impossible to do them justice – The Goldfinch

by Donna Tartt is just one of those works. As we discover the tortured world of Theo Decker, a 13-year-old Theo’s mother dies and it sets in place a life of obsession.

As he turns to the art and antique worlds in New York, the mystery of one painting becomes a fixation that turns him toward a life of alcohol and loose morals. As this page-turner continues, Theo becomes one of the most complex and interesting characters to appear in quite a while.

18

matchbook

Chickens in the Road by Suzanne McMinn (HarperOne, $17) Available October 15

The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert (Viking, $17) Available now

Popular blogger of chickensintheroad.com, Suzanne McMinn shares with us this lovely memoir that is part romance and part Little House on the Prairie. As she runs away from her tired suburban life, she heads to West Virginia with her three kids, and finds a whole farm full of new pets.

Through it all she learns about living a natural life and finds herself a new person and a new love. Lucky for us, placed throughout are simple recipes and crafts for the rural spirit in us all.

The Signature of All Things is a novel of remarkable scope from Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love. Set primarily in Philadelphia, the novel moves from Peru to Tahiti and Amsterdam. Moving between the 19th and 20th centuries, we are first introduced to the richest man in Philadelphia, Henry Whittaker, as his daughter Alma inherits his fortune.

She becomes obsessed with botany and her new love, Ambrose, who is a true artist. As Alma studies the world of evolution, the book shows itself as an amazing study on art, love and the power of flowers.

at the box office ...

12 Years a Slave In theaters October 18 The Circle by Dave Eggers (Knopf, $17) Available October 8

One Summer: America, 1924

by Bill Bryson (Doubleday, $17) Available now

At this point, one would be expecting Dave Eggers to have a false note or two, but he keeps surprising us with new and thrilling works. In his latest, The Circle, he takes on our tech world as ambitious Mae Holland starts her career at a Silicon Valley giant.

With raging parties and famous artists entertaining workers, the motto “Privacy is theft” and “Secrets are lies” become ubiquitous as the company works to combine bank statements, social media, and email in a universal operating system. Eggers takes on our dystopian figure with the bravery of Orwell and his own signature snark.

There are few historians around that combine the spirit of a time and pure entertainment the way that Bill Bryson can. In One Summer: America, 1924, the reader is transported back to a time of heroes.

With Babe Ruth smashing his way into the record books and Lindberg’s solo flight, this very important summer changed the landscape of America. Not to be outdone in the icon department, Al Capone continued his grip on his business of vice and Al Jolson gave us the first talkie in “The Jazz Singer.”

While history sometimes seems to move at a glacial pace, some seasons open up a new world.

Chiwetel Ejofor stars as Solomon Northup, a free black man from upstate New York that is kidnapped and sold into slavery in the 1800s. Based on an astonishing true story, the film was directed

by Steve McQueen and includes Brad Pitt and Paul Giamatti among the starstudded cast. .

Blue is the Warmest Color In theaters October 25

This new film has made headlines for its sexual explicitness and won widespread praise for its mastery storytelling. In it French darling Léa Seydoux stars as Emma, a confident art student that falls in love with the younger, inexperienced Adèle. An honest story of heartbreak and self-discovery. matchbook

19

Culture Club on the web...

Lancome Paris Rendezvous with Making Magique Launches October 15th

Our favorite American in Paris, Haleigh Walsworth, is launching a new lifestyle blog with iconic beauty brand Lanc么me. We can't wait to Haleigh's posts about culture, fashion, and beauty in Paris.

20

matchbook

SwellCaroline ADDICTIVE COSTUME JEWELRY

victorian moment

Art gallery

Slightly spooky ar t with a hint of r oman tic char m.

1 2

4

3

22

1. Botanical No.5521, Kari Herer, $30 2. Comb Print, Rifle Paper Co., $24 3. Custom Silhouette, Crafted by Kerstin, Price Upon Request 4. Charlotte Bronte Quote, Yardia, $15

matchbook

matchbook

23

art gallery

5 6

7 8 24

matchbook

9

10

12

11

5. Victorian Shoes, Belle Maison Art, $10 6. The Room 34 Suite Boxed Set by Wes Lang, Exhibition A, $950 7. Victorian Rose I by R. Guillot, Art.com, $20 8. Young Woman in a Boat, or Reflections, by James Tissot, Art.com, $50 9. Lady Randolph Churchill, Art.com, $30 10. The Dance by Elle Moss, Society 6, $18 11. Scissors 1 by Pru Kemball, Saatchi Online, $38 12. Skull with Burning Cigarette by Vincent van Gogh, Art.com, $55

matchbook

25

Portrait of a L ady

D o r ot h y Da n dr idge

Against All Odds

I

f there’s such a thing as star quality, Dorothy Dandridge had it.

The magnetic African American starlet was born in 1922 in Cleveland, Ohio to actress Ruby Dandridge. Dorothy’s mother was determined to see her daughters become stars, practically pushing Dorothy and her sister Vivian onto the stage. The two young girls spent their childhood being shuttled throughout the South performing as a song-anddance duo named “The Wonder Children.”

Eventually the family made their way to Hollywood with dreams of breaking into show business. The talented Dandridge Sisters performed with Cab Calloway and the Jimmy Lunceford Orchestra and began to win small rolls in several motion pictures. In 1941 Dorothy appeared without her sister in the Sonja Henie musical Sun 26

matchbook

Valley Serenade. In the film she had a fantastic tap dancing routine with actor Harold Nicholas that had to be edited out of the film for Southern audiences.

Dorothy experienced segregation daily in the entertainment industry -- she would often sing on a venue’s glamorous stage only to be banned from their restaurant.

Dorothy fell for and married her co-star Harold Nicholas. Sadly, they had a turbulent marriage that became a dark cloud over the actress’ budding career. Their one daughter, Harolyn, was born with severe brain damage.

Dorothy ensured that Harolyn had 24-hour private care and divorced Harold in 1951, slowly making her way back to the stage. The audiences had missed her. Dorothy became a worldwide star performing as a soloist at nightclubs from Rio de Janeiro to London. She also made a return to the

silver screen, winning her first starring role in the 1953 film, Bright Road.

Her next role would make history.

Dorothy’s performance in the 1954 film Carmen Jones earned her an Academy Award nomination for best actress. She was the first African American to earn the nomination and while many thought the Oscar belonged to her, Grace Kelly won for The Country Girl. Dorothy went on to star in various other films (the most successful of which was Porgy and Bess), but none matched her moment in Carmen Jones. For years the talented actress struggled to find dramatic roles with plots that weren’t based on the color of her skin.

Her personal troubles returned. Dorothy was married and divorced again, this time to a man named Jack Denison who

in a few short years lost a great deal of her money.

She was forced to return to the nightclub circuit and began to drink too much.

Unable to cover the costs of her daughter’s medical care, Harolyn was placed in a state institution. Devastated, Dorothy had a nervous breakdown and was found

dead in her Hollywood home on September 8, 1965. She had overdosed on anti-depressants.

Though Dorothy’s story has a tragic ending, the ground she broke for African American women in show business was truly extraordinary. Her talent

and perseverance opened the doors of Hollywood to other actresses who had been overlooked due to race and proved to audiences around the world that great talent wasn’t reserved for the fair-skinned "Audreys" and "Graces" of the world -- it belonged to Dorothy from Cleveland, Ohio too. matchbook

•

27

Kindred spirit

R e i ma g in e d f or a Ne w A ge

Dorothy Dandridge 1.

3.

2.

4.

5.

6.

7.

28

matchbook

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

1. Michael Kors Faux Fur Coat, Farfetch, $632 2. Kate Spade Steal the Spotlight Necklace, Shopbop, $278 3. Julie & Company Pave Crystal Earrings, Shopbop, $30 4. Subtly Striking Dress, Modcloth, $110 5. Brightspot Avenue iPad Sleeve, Kate Spade, $145 6. Tom Ford Lipstick in Scarlet Rouge, Saks Fifth Avenue, $49 7. Nine

West Austin, Zappos, $69 8. Ben Amun Crystal Bracelet, Shopbop, $240 9. Cafe Capri in Antique Floral, J.Crew, $228 10. Silk Panel Top, Madewell, $118 11. Kate Spade Directors Cut iPhone Case, Zappos, $35 12. Kate Spade New York Steal The Spotlight Triple Strand Necklace , Zappos, $278 13. Anya Hindmarch Ebury Soft Handbag, Shopbop, $1450 matchbook

29

30

matchbook

KID AT

HEART

TEXT BY KATIE ARMOUR PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROL DRONSFIELD

You may know Todd Oldham as a fashion designer, television host, interior designer, or author –

These days Todd’s many creative pursuits are headquartered in a spacious Tribeca design studio where he works alongside his partner, Tony, and their newly adopted pup, Eve. The latest of his projects is a children’s art supply collection at Target based off his book, Kid Made Modern. Hardly your average arts and crafts, Todd’s designs feature jewel shaped crayons, necklace making sets, and for holiday, special treats such as an advent calendar. He set out determined to create high-quality art supplies for children and he’s certainly succeeded.

Matchbook paid Todd a visit to get the scoop.

the truth is, he’s all these things and more.

When did you move into this great space?

We’ve been here about three years now. We were in Soho for ten years.

I’d moved there when I was more involved in fashion design. When I moved on to other adventures it was less important to have a fancy address.

I just wanted a great space. It’s such a luxurious office because it’s the first time I got to design an office to suit what I do.

What’s a typical day like here?

Every day is a different adventure here.

We work with lots of different people on lots of different projects. We shoot in here a lot -- everything for the Kid Made Modern books is produced in 32

matchbook

house. It’s a very active studio.

How did you first come up with the concept for the Kid Made Modern?

People are less involved with all of their fingers these days, they’re mostly just involved with their thumbs. I wanted to try to think of some things that would celebrate all of your fingers. Something that would allow young people to open a door into creativity. It was shocking to me that there weren’t artist quality materials available to children. Why can’t we figure out how to bring the best quality we can to these young hands and eyes? I wanted to give kids a really satisfying creative experience right from the start.

matchbook

33

34

matchbook

When did the idea come about to collaborate with Target?

We actually prototyped every single thing and then Target came in and said we want this in all stores, right now. I’ve never seen an entire line be so fully welcomed. It was a dream come true.

just made stuff. I remember making forts in the backyard that had proper framing. We were encouraged to kind of go as far as we could with things. I was very lucky.

Who in your family has inspired your creativity?

As a kid were you into arts and

My grandma is my hero. Along with my mom and dad, they’re all three my heros. My grandma just turned 93. She lives in New Mexico. She just got her drivers license renewed. She looks like a million bucks. She’s so funny and fun. She spent her whole life having the best time she could.

crafts?

And what do your parents do?

Do you have a favorite piece in the collection?

I really love the supplies. Our pencils are as good a quality as pencils that cost $4 a pencil at an art supply store. I was excited to get to work with the manufacturers to try to get fantastic quality at great prices.

Constantly. It’s all we did all day long. We

I work with my mom. She, Tony, and matchbook

35

36

matchbook

I have been partners in the company for many years. She’s amazing. She’s one of the strongest, smartest people I’ve ever met. I feel the same way about my father who unfortunately, is a linear in a sea of non-linears. Dad has all the leanings, he’s just a little more calm. The rest of the family is a little more out there.

Do you have nieces and nephews?

Tell me more about the crayons.

One of our crayons has 64 colors in it.

We tried to think outside of the box.

Our basics are jewel shaped. They’re pretty objects, but they’re really that way because they have great ergonomic control in little hands. Kids will often grab pencils and they’ll snap because of the tension -- these won’t.

Will they be receiving Kid Made

Why do you think your’e so

Modern items this holiday?

passionate about the project?

Yes, now I have really good uncle gifts!

One of my favorite things about the holidays is the joy of ritual. I grew up with an advent calendar and now I’ve designed a new one that feels modern and looks bright.

This is a calling to me. Kid Made Modern is something to be protected.

It’s about our decision to make the best thing we can make. It’s been really fun. I feel more protective and rigid about what matchbook

37

I would allow to happen to Kid Made than anything else. It’s a big responsibility. We don’t want to get in the way of kids finding joy in a life of art and creativity. Everyone can benefit from creative expression.

Who are some artists that have inspired you?

Charlie Harper has been a lifelong inspiration well in advance of my knowing his name. My peculiar color sense was really informed and inspired by Charlie’s peculiar color sense, but it was the one I grew up with so it didn’t seem strange. I love many contemporary artists. I’m art possessed. Wherever I am I make sure I 38

matchbook

have a couple hours to go to whatever museum is in town.

Do you have a favorite place to travel?

Wherever I am at the time. I lived in Iran as a kid. My parents took us all over the place so I don’t long to be somewhere else. I’m present wherever I am. It works out pretty well. There’s something interesting everywhere.

matchbook

39

40

matchbook

matchbook

41

42

matchbook

FOLLOW TODD

website

facebook twitter

pinterest matchbook

43

fox

F O D D E R FA R M

TEXT BY KATIE ARMOUR PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROL DRONSFIELD

Growing up on acreage in Brandywine Valley in Delaware, florist Taylor Patterson learned a thing or two about Mother Nature. After the family’s chickens were eaten by foxes her mother humorously deemed their land Fox Fodder Farm. In 2011 Taylor continued the family legacy in Brooklyn, New York, founding a floral and garden design studio by the same name.

The flower-filled space boasts inspiring views of the East River and teems with rustic charm. When she’s not out designing gardens for her clients, Taylor can be found in the studio creating oneof-a-kind floral designs for special events. We booked it to Greenpoint to see Taylor work her magic and find out what was abloom. matchbook

45

46

matchbook

What was it like growing up on Fox Fodder Farm?

It was a lot of fun. I spent a lot of time playing outdoors and exploring.

Horses were a big part of my family and my life growing up as well. I had this really fat pony named Missy that tried to kill me every chance she could.

My cousin lived next door so we would take our ponies on adventures and generally do our best to disappear and get into trouble. My parents never seemed that concerned. Even if we were gone all day, we always showed up around dinner time. A kid’s gotta eat. It wasn’t actually called Fox Fodder Farm when I was a kid. My mom didn’t come up with the name until I was in my twenties.

What inspired you to launch your own floral design business?

It isn’t something I really thought about doing until it was happening.

I was working for another florist and slowly started doing some of my own stuff on the side. My boyfriend at the time was really encouraging and that definitely gave me the courage and motivation to start my own thing.

When did you move into your studio space?

I’ve been in this studio for about a year and a half now. It’s a great space, but we’re eventually going to have to move. We currently share the space with an industrial designer and a

ceramicist. While it’s awesome sharing a creative environment with two people who I really admire, we’re all getting bigger and there’s just not enough space!

what we will focus on more and more as time passes, but I also enjoy doing installations where you can let your imagination get a bit wild. Photo shoots are always fun for that reason.

Who taught you all you know about flowers?

I learned about plants from my parents.

Both are garden geeks so it was always something that was a big part of my life.

What is one of your most memorable projects?

Last year we were asked to create a wildflower field in a warehouse for Honor’s SS13 runway show. It’s still one of my favorite projects we’ve done.

Do you have a favorite bloom?

I love checkered fritillaria.

What types of projects do you enjoy working on most?

I think my heart is in gardening. It is 48

matchbook

What plants or flowers are you looking forward to this autumn?

I love the grasses that you can get in autumn. So many colors and textures.

I also love the Japanese anemones

50

matchbook

52

matchbook

and toad lilies that come around fall time.

Is there a specific garden somewhere that you find particularly inspiring?

I love High Line. It’s no secret spot, but it is really special and amazing.

What is your favorite book on flowers?

I can’t say that I have one favorite, but Nicolette Owen put out a beautiful book last winter, Bringing Nature Home. And rumor has it Saipua is working on their own as we speak. That is going to be amazing.

What’s next for Fox Fodder Farm?

Right now we’re finishing up our first venture into the product world with a line of perfumes, scented candles, and soaps. We also have a number of collaborations in the works with different designers of various industries, such as Farrah Sit of Light + Ladder.

Together we came up with this idea that we’re calling plant bondage. I can’t really explain it. You’ll just have to look it up.

•

54

matchbook

FOLLOW fox fodder farm

facebook twitter Instagram

An

AM ER ICAN classic

TEXT BY Katie Armour PHOTOGRAPHY BY Carol Dronsfield

matchbook

57

More than thirty years ago two brothers decided to launch a new American sportswear brand that reflected their own timeless style. Today, founders Jay and Kevin McLaughlin continue to create classics and business is still booming. The company, which first

opened shop on New York’s Upper East Side, now has charming boutiques on main streets throughout America and has become known for their colorful palette and playful prints. We love their understated take on fashion (The only visible logo is your initials, should you choose to have them monogrammed.) and their exciting, fresh new take on fall. Join Matchbook at J.McLaughlin’s sprawling new Brooklyn headquarters to get a preppy peek behind the curtain.

58

matchbook

matchbook

59

60

matchbook

matchbook

61

62

matchbook

What inspired you to launch your brand thirty-f ive years ago?

We found a dearth of places that we wanted to shop. We were looking for classic clothes with a current relevance and we wanted to shop for them in a welcoming residential environment. Always entrepreneurial, we set out to fill an underserved niche in the marketplace.

Did you grow up wearing classic American sportswear?

Yes, very much so. Of course, we didn't know it at the time – to us it was just clothes.

Was your family particularly stylish?

Our mother had great style and loved the legendary Fifth Avenue nameplates – many of which, regrettably, no longer exist.

What was your inaugural collection like?

Our inaugural collection more or less defined "The Preppy Handbook." The collections have evolved significantly – taking on a more modern classic sensibility with a very sophisticated use of color.

Who came up with the trademark J.McLaughlin blue hue?

We liked the idea of blue as a signature color because it connotes trust and loyalty. We've always loved summers and the beach – the particular shade evokes the sea, sky, and swimming pools.

You are also known for your fun prints. Is there a popular favorite?

There’s a bamboo pattern

that's been in our repertoire almost since the beginning.

That said, it's always one of the newest motifs each season that strikes a chord.

This season, we are liking the abstract impressionist feel of our Metro print.

Which classic pieces do your designers return to season after season?

Leather and tweed jackets in fall and winter, spare

matchbook

63

64

matchbook

matchbook

65

66

matchbook

matchbook

67

68

matchbook

dresses and streamlined capris in spring and summer, and color-saturated accessories year-round.

We love your new fall collection. How has the brand managed to stay so fresh and relevant after all these years?

Some of it is an inherent gut sense but a lot has to do with research – our archives, museums, and galleries – plus a healthy dose of looking at what's on the street and evolving ideas into our zone.

What do you love about your new Greenpoint headquarters?

It is very much like the brand – an unpretentious, old world building with good bones and great light, adapted for today with streamlined accoutrements and a strong use of color and imagery.

What is a typical day like in the off ice?

The mornings entail the usual – meetings, emails, phone calls. Then the fun part begins in the afternoon when we review product, color palettes, print development, and store design.

What's next for J.McLaughlin?

We are always evaluating new ways to extend our reach with new products – expanding our accessories line, growing outerwear, and evolving the men's collection.

Geographically, we just entered Texas with stores in Dallas and Houston and are looking to expand our footprint in that state.

And lately we've been taking some heed from Horace Greeley and looking westward.

•

matchbook

69

70

matchbook

FOLLOW

J.McLaughlin facebook twitter instagram pinterest

72

matchbook

Dynamic Duo A n i n s piri n g mor n i n g at O n e K i n g s L a n e ’ s s tyli s h M a n hatta n offi c e

T e x t by K ati e A rmour I P hotography by Emily A n d e r s o n I Styli n g by a n dr e w s t e wart

matchbook

73

74

matchbook

C h a n c e s a r e y o u ’ r e fa m i l i a r w i t h t h e b o o m i n g o n l i n e m a r k e t p l a c e O n e K i n g s L a n e . P e r h a p s y o u wa n d e r e d o n t o t h e i r s i t e l at e o n e e v e n i n g a n d s n at c h e d u p a m e ta l l i c M o r o cc a n p o u f o r f e l l u n d e r t h e s p e l l o f a g o r g e o u s ta b l e l a m p o r t w o. L a u n c h e d i n M a r c h 20 0 9 b y e n t r e p r e n e u r s S u s a n F e l d m a n a n d A l i s o n P i n c u s , t h e s i t e m a d e wav e s i n t h e e-c o m m e r c e w o r l d a s t h e f i r s t f l a s h s a l e s i t e f o r t h e h o m e . S u s a n b r o u g h t t o t h e ta b l e y e a r s o f m e r c h a n d i s i n g e x p e r i e n c e a n d A l i s o n t h e d i g i ta l m a r k e t i n g e x p e r t i s e .

One Kings L ane now has a communit y of over 8 million members and did a w h o p p i n g $200 m i l l i o n i n r e v e n u e i n 20 12 a l o n e . T h e y ’ v e a l s o b u i lt ( a n d b e a u t i f u l ly d e c o r at e d !) o f f i c e s i n S a n F r a n c i s c o, L o s A n g e l e s a n d N e w Y o r k t o a cc o m m o d at e t h e i r m o r e t h a n 450 e m p l o y e e s . W e b o o k e d i t d o w n t o t h e c o m pa n y ’ s s t y l i s h T r i b e c a h e a d q u a r t e r s t o s e e t h e d y n a m i c d u o i n a c t i o n .

L e t ’ s s ta r t at t h e v e r y b e g i n n i n g .

H o w d i d y o u g e t s ta r t e d ?

Susan: I had lived in New York my entire adult life. About eight years ago we moved to Los Angeles and bought a house in West Hollywood. I became a lunatic -- I

couldn’t decorate and entertain enough. I loved going to home stores, but found it frustrating that online there wasn’t a great destination to shop for interesting products for the home. Nothing felt unique. At the same time the flash sale model was happening only in apparel and it got me matchbook

75

76

matchbook

thinking, “Could the flash sale model work for home?”

H ow did you m e e t A li s o n ?

S: I needed a partner that understood marketing and digital media to complement my merchandising skills. A mutual friend introduced me to Alison by email and we began corresponding. She was living in San Francisco. We were so energized and there seemed to be great chemistry. It was like a blind date. I joke that I’ve had two great blind dates in my life -- my husband and Ali. T oo fu n n y. W h e n did you fi n ally meet in person?

S: Eventually, Ali got on a plane. I had

to google her to see what she looked like to pick her up at the airport! Sometimes things are just meant to be. We talked all day. We kept brainstorming. She went home and we came up with a game plan.

D id your hu s ba n d s w e igh i n o n th e v e n tur e ?

S: Ali’s husband gave us a great piece of advice. He said, “You need to move as fast as you can so you’ll be first to market with a vertical for home.” My husband also gave us a good piece of advice. He said, “Just make sure whatever you do is authentic.

It will resonate through the brand.” We’ve been able to execute both those things.

D id you rai s e mo n e y ? H ow did you g e t s tart e d ?

matchbook

77

S: We didn’t raise money. We decided to bootstrap it because it was the height of the recession. We opted to outsource everything. So, worst case we could walk away, best case we could scale with the people we’d decided to outsource with.

So you lau n c h e d th e e n tir e c ompa n y v irtually ?

S: We did! I was still in Los Angeles, Ali was in San Francisco, and the first person we hired was in New York (she’s our VP of Merchandising now). There were three of us in three cities working out of home offices. I would wake up in the morning and put a headset on and be on the phone for almost 12 hours every day. We formed the company in November 2008 and we 78

matchbook

launched March 2009. We were moving at the speed of light.

W hat wa s th e fir s t y e ar lik e ?

S: A blur! Once we opened the gates it was like crazy town. At the end of the first nine months we had a team of ten people. Every time we had enough money we would hire another buyer. It was so much fun. It still is.

Y ou al s o trav e l a gr e at d e al . W h e r e hav e you go n e r e c e n tly ?

S: This last trip I went to Peru for ten days with Nate Berkus and his fiancé Jeremiah. It was such a powerful trip for all of us -- Nate and Jeremiah actually got engaged there on top of Machu Picchu!

We went into small villages to meet local

matchbook

79

craftspeople and shopped in the local flea markets. The people were wonderful and their crafts were so inspiring. We found spectacular things for our customers.

W hat oth e r d e s ti n atio n s al e s hav e you do n e ?

We could have done it much earlier, but we wanted to make sure the timing was right.

It’s a bedding and bath line called Celandine and it’s all about color and texture and detail.

I’m super excited about it. I’m a bedding and bath addict.

W hat do you admir e about A li s o n a n d

S: I went to India with Nathan Turner, your part n e r s hip ?

Morocco with Kathryn Ireland, Belgium with Bunny Williams... Thom Filicia and I S: We have an amazing partnership because went to Italy which was so fun. We try to do we complement each other incredibly well. at least four a year.

We play to each other’s strengths. We both work like crazy to make this happen and You’ve also been venturing into we’ve always got each other’s back. Ali proprietary product! Tell me about the has so many amazing qualities, but the collection launching November 11th. one thing that jumps out is that she is the We felt we had enough of a foundation for quintessential networker. I have never met our brand to start building our own product. anyone who can network like that girl! It was 80

matchbook

matchbook

81

82

matchbook

so great when we were starting a business and she was fearless about jumping on the phone and calling vendors or asking people for advice. She’s an incredible people person and it’s such a gift.

O kay A li s o n , n ow it ’ s you ’ r e tur n .

T e ll m e about your n e w proj e c t.

Alison: I’m the founder of Hunters Alley which is launching this fall. It’s our new peer-to-peer marketplace. It’s going to be curated and will provide a new solution for people who are looking to sell and buy vintage, antique, artisanal, and pre-owned products.

H ow e x c iti n g . H ow i s it u n i q u e from oth e r o n li n e mark e tpla c e s ?

A: We have a team that is going to review the listings and make sure that when someone like yourself comes on you have a great experience. They’ll make sure you’re not digging tirelessly, but are able to come to a page and find a variety of great things that are appropriate for you. The marketplace will be open to individuals and businesses -- it will be an interesting mix.

I c a n ’ t wait to c h e c k it out. L e t ’ s talk about Sa n F ra n c i s c o - what do you lo v e about it ?

A: The size of the city. I live in Russian Hill.

You can go from being at the Ferry Building to the Mission to the Presidio to the water -everything is in such close proximity. It’s 7x7 matchbook

83

84

matchbook

miles for a great reason. It’s small, but robust.

There’s a tremendous amount going on in the Bay Area at large.

tabletop. It’s super inspiring. I’m inching my way into china.

Y ou ’ r e v e ry s tyli s h . W hat i n s pir e s

about h e r , a n d your part n e r s hip ?

Sp e aki n g of Su s a n , what do you admir e

your p e r s o n al a e s th e ti c ?

A: There’s so much mutual respect. I admire A: I find inspiration all over -- design, fashion, her in so many ways and look up to her. She travel. I’m a very visual person. I’m always has such integrity in everything she does. It’s looking. I’ve been super passionate about art so important to trust your business partner since I was in high school. As a teenager I -- we are always able to have incredibly honest remember driving myself up to LACMA and conversations.

MOCA. I love contemporary art.

L a s tly, what do you thi n k it i s that

W hat wa s th e la s t it e m you pur c ha s e d from O n e K i n g s L a n e ?

A: It was last night. I bought two different sets of goblets for my table and some vintage highball glasses. Plus some basic, pretty tabletop -- bowls, plates, and mugs. It’s so fun to go to Susan’s house -- she has a whole closet of

mak e s O n e K i n g s L a n e s o s p e c ial ?

A: We’re really proud of the team and the culture. There are so many amazing, talented, hardworking people here. There are so many opportunities out there and we’re just so grateful they’ve chosen to be with us.

•

matchbook

85

86

matchbook

matchbook

87

88

matchbook

Introducing Celandine!

O n No v e m b e r 1 1 t h

O n e K i n g s L a n e w i ll l a u n c h t h e i r f i r s t l i n e o f p r o p r i e t y p r o d u c t , t h e C e l a n d i n e c oll e c t i o n . T h e c olo r f u l b e d d i n g a n d b a t h l i n e n s a r e i n s p i r e d b y t h e c o m p a n y ’ s w o r l d ly t r av e l s a n d a r e b o u n d t o m a k e a c o z y a d d i t i o n t o a n y h o m e . L u c k y f o r u s , t h e y a g r e e d t o g i v e M a t c h b ook r e a d e r s t h e f i r s t g l i m p s e !

matchbook

89

90

matchbook

follow one kings lane website I n s ta g r a m twitter Fa c e b o o k pinterest

matchbook

91

Just Married

Holly & Nathan E asle y

The location... Hidden

Valley Music Institute in Carmel Valley, California We met... in a cafe that I worked

at in college. He was visiting from out of town and I thought he was adorable so I asked him for help on my crossword puzzle.

The proposal... took place

in a gorgeous historic park overlooking the St. John's River in his hometown.

We were on the way to my birthday dinner..

My dress… was custom made

for me from Etsy seller BridalBlissDesigns.

It felt very "us" because… we

trusted our amazing vendors and just let loose!

It felt intimate and silly and perfectly "us" -- our hilarious friends, the phenomenal band, and the free-flowing margaritas probably helped too!

We honeymooned in…New post-

grad school jobs meant no time off right away! We are planning a larger trip to Kona, Hawaii for our first anniversary.

92

matchbook

Photography by: B&E Photographs

matchbook

93

Just Married

Ale x andr a & David Eriksen The location... Within Sodo

in Seattle, WA

We met... at a BBQ and were

friends for years. When we eventually fell in love a few years later. Nobody was surprised.

The proposal... was in a

gazebo in a rose garden on a rainy Seattle day. My best friend helped orchestrate and photograph the whole amazing experience.

My dress… was by Watters

and I bought it in Houston, TX with my mom. I loved the sleeves!

It felt very "us" because…

our English bulldog Clementine served as our flower girl, my mom made a quilt as our guest book, and everyone we loved was there!

We honeymooned in…

Negril, Jamaica.

94

matchbook

Photography by: Tonhya Kae

matchbook

95

O d d s & En d s

4K atie

& Jane5

share their latest obsessions...

Jonathan Adler Brass Elephant Bowl, Zinc Door, $68

"He would be perfect for holding paper clips and other desktop tidbits." jane

SWANS: Legends of the Jet Society by Nicholas Foulkes, Assouline, $195

"Was blown away by the Irving Penn exhibit at Pace Gallery." katie

"I can't wait to dive into this fabulous new tome." jane

Michael Kors Jeslyn Smoking Slipper, Neiman Marcus, $350

"Essential for fall." katie

skillet blueberry cobbler with a cheddar biscuit crust

96

matchbook

"Each fall, I try my hand at crumbles and pies.This looks delicious." jane

Wrap Session Scarf in Yellow Picnic, ModCloth, $10

"So thankful to the Mary Boone Gallery for introducing me to the work of Robert Polidori."

Katie

"Tie this over your sweater or blouse for a playful, vintage touch." jane Greeting Card, Dream in Plastic, $5

"Spotted this card at Kate's Paperie and had a good laugh."

Katie

Pierrot Le Fou Poster, Criterion, $25

"Mid-century movie posters are the best kind of inexpensive art." jane

Laura MercierCrème Smooth Lip Color in Palm Beach, Nordstrom, $26

"A rosey lip is a seasonal signature." jane matchbook

97

See you next month!

e

In the meantime, we hope you’ll join us on our adventures on

facebook, twitter, tumblr, pinterest a n d instagram!