The 2,800 sq. ft. flagship store of
Kelly Wearstler in a late Deco era building on a nondescript corner on Melrose Ave. in LA is a study of contrasts. Ebony and Ivory, raw and refined; all rooted in regency high style glamour.
Kelly's aesthetic as it applies to her clothing, accessories, interior design, the architecture and design of the building, to her licensed products for
Sferra,
The Rug Company, and
Pickard, as well as collaborations with
Schumacher and
Lee Jofa, among others, all have one very identifiable voice.
See my post
here on her accessories line from when she introduced it a year ago; it's timeless. The mixed metals, dark woods, moody vibe injected with gold, minerals, and marble look absurdly glamorous, just like Kelly.
The entrance to the store, and especially the stone encrusted pull, give way to a treasure trove of riches beyond.
Upon entering the store, it is a visual feast for the eyes. You are immersed into a total lifestyle experience.
Kelly describes the woman she designs for as one who is a "risk taker, soulful, with a spirited sensibility. She loves life, art and travel. She puts unexpected things together and pushes boundaries. She's curious and being curious-that's what keeps people challenging themselves."
Custom crystal light fixtures wrapped with iron are show stoppers!
All things co-exist beautifully, each enhancing and informing the other. The art mannequins posed gracefully around the store look as if they are enjoying their surroundings as much as I was.
I was told the fashion and decor change constantly to keep things fresh and exciting.
Kelly is inspired by everything from surrealism to the 1940's thru the1960's. Kelly recently researched bands like The Clash when dressing her boys and their band mates (they are 9 and 10) for a gig. They are called The Negotiators. Isn't that cute? That British punk rock vibe looks like it made its way into her ready to wear line as well.
Heading to the dressing rooms ~ every corner an opportunity to WOW
Kelly's attention to detail did not go unnoticed. Kelly's aesthetic translates to everything she does. From a branding standpoint, she is adept at maintaining consistency ~ from the clothing racks and hangers, to the architecture of the store, to the details of her accessories. Kelly has created a unique world, and we all want a piece of it!
Kelly's unique furniture and high style signature accessories can also be purchased thru her storefront on
1st Dibs
Kelly, who just finished her 4th book,
Rhapsody, has multiple interior design projects in the works, more product development in the pipeline, and plans on opening several stores, the next being New York in the not too distant future. How does she do it ??
MIND BOGGLING ~
ph: 3,5,7,9,11 Samuel C. Frost: remaining CLI unless otherwise noted.
