Pearls & Pastries

Culture Chanel Exhibit; MOCA Shanghai 

I always find it interesting to go in to the minds of other designers to discover their influences and inspirations. It does not take much to affect a designer and especially after the John Galliano and Alexander McQueen incidents of late, demonstrate that we are "fragile artistic creatures"  prone to snap under stress or flourish within recognition.  This year, Chanel came to Shanghai and displayed her wares at the Shanghai Contemporary Art Museum in People's Park.

Below are some of my favorites:

Karl Lagerfeld "Coromandel" coat inspired by Chinese screens 1996-1997 Fall/Winter

Coromandel Eye shadow Palette 2005

Mosaic Encrusted evening gown

Variations on the Classic Wool Jacket

Costume Design

Afterward, contrary to the exhibit, I met some coworkers for dinner at an industrial style restaurant. Table No.1 is housed within a renovated warehouse cum hotel called the Waterhouse by local design firm Neri & Hu. It was Shanghai "restaurant week"---whatever that means because we didn't exactly eat at discounted prices, but none the less it was nice to have a taste at a special menu. All in all it made for a very French night. 

Lobby at Waterhouse

Lobby and Lobby Bar at Waterhouse

Reception Desk at Waterhouse

Table No. 1 Restaurant; clockwise from left:
Me, Miki, Santi, Genny

Starter Course: Duck Foie Gras 

Second Course: White Fish and Squid Ink Rice

Miki's Second Course: Steak Tenderloin and Potatoes

Third Course: Some type of Sorbet and fruit

Genny's Third Course: Pineapple, Cream, and Carmelized Sugar