We spent August traveling by car through France, the Alps and through to Italy and Tuscany.  Retail design in Italy still retains a strong connection to it's regional, decorative traditions.  Take a look at these delight shop fronts we found in Florence, Lucca and Siena.

A Taster

For those of you who have requested a preview I am posting a few images to give a feel of the Belle Lettres style. I have a long standing in interest in historical styles. As a child I was obsessed by period fashion -- not just vintage but everything from greco-roman drapery and jewelery to renaissance tapestry and neck ruffs through to Victorian paisley shawls and broderie petticoats. Many years later I find that these latent interests have been rekindled and found in expression here at Belle Lettres. Close at hand is the V&A museum which is a constant source of inspiration. For those of you with similar interests I suggest you try a new website that is launching called Creative Spaces - http://vna.nmolp.org/creativespaces/ I was researching French 19th century ballet costumes the other day. Marvelous!

Green Shoots

The plan was to go live with our lovely e-commerce site this spring but illness, continued development on the website and life in general has slowed progress.  We are seeing the light at the end of the development tunnel.  We now have 10 approved design suites for letterpressed and embossed foil wedding designs ready to go to press.  Designers Joanna Truite Dalton and Janet Brennan have joined our roster; Jo with her intricate floral bower design and Janet with a flamenco folk inspired piece.  More on both these designers later.