When conventionality won’t do, we find solace in objects and items that conjure a sense of freedom from the mundane. While we may be placed firmly within the boxes of our everyday obligations or society’s norms, references to far flung places in fabrics, embellishments, details, textures, color and taste activate our senses and provide a mental escape route to freedom in the unfettered, wild unknown.
Read MoreIn 1856, the extensive and culturally inclusive book The Grammar of Ornament, by Owen Jones, revealed a wide selection of decoration and design – from Maori tattoos to the motifs and architecture of the Alhambra – via folio-size color lithographs that dazzled audiences who had not previously been exposed to a wide swath of humankind’s obsession with making beautiful things, through history. One notable takeaway from Jones’ book (that has never been out of print), which emerges as a primary message across his thirty-seven axioms…
Read MoreWhen was the beginning and what did it look like? 5 billion years ago the earth was an incandescent ball, crusts and crevices formed in the cool down, the atmosphere evolved. The timeline as we know it, of the evolution of life on earth is deep and mysterious, dotted with ice ages and warmings, with billion year old bacteria, 500 million year old plant ancestors in the form of mosses and liverworts, deep sea gardens swarmed by multicellular animals existing in a simple paradise. We can only reach so far back scientifically (Darwin’s dilemma), and while we may not know for sure, we can imagine life forming, adapting and evolving and what it may have looked like. The primordial state in our mind’s eye is full of magical stones, metals and crags, tangled roots and sacred geometry, raw forms and oozing surfaces…maybe we remember.
Read MoreAesthetic Movement (A/M) is a think tank for smart collaborations and a harbinger of style. With permanent showrooms in New York, Atlanta, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, A/M represents a curated selection of wholesale-to-retail manufacturers that specialize in unique, design-driven objects. Their team of dedicated sales associates build relationships with retailers across the country, and their New York studio develops a broad range of comprehensive creative solutions for people, brands, and companies. A/M’s distinct position at the intersection of design and commerce gives them a 360° interdisciplinary approach.
Read MoreShoppe Object is pleased to welcome The Foundation showroom, longtime friends from (some of) our former careers in fashion. The Foundation joins Shoppe On with four standout brands in the home and gift space, with this market being a new focus and proven strength for the group. Founded in 2007 by Antwain Freeman, Dre Hayes, Ari Langsdorf, and Daniel Yadgard the group is comprised of a team of innovative brand architects that build and develop operative business strategies for both emerging and established brands within the fashion and lifestyle industries. The group has a keen understanding of the business blocks necessary to build brands monetarily while simultaneously enhancing their reputation. The Founders aggregate their expertise to deliver success, and have a reputation for a high level of customer service and an eye for what’s next.
Read MoreThey don’t call it the great outdoors for nothing. Spending time in nature, especially in green spaces, is a fast track to a lifted mood and improved health. Scientists agree that sunlight mitigates pain, plants boost immunity and simply being outdoors relieves anxiety and increases focus and creativity. From sun worshipping vitamin D junkies or mellow types who crave a silent, shady forest bath, mountain climbers to sea gazers – outdoor enthusiasts all share knowledge that connection with Mother Earth brings joy. So even if you’re just wandering back and forth from indoor to outdoor living room or heading to the park for a picnic – experts agree, it’s important to get out there. And while you’re at it, bring along some outdoorsy accessories and toys to make every day a beautiful adventure.
Read MoreShoppe Object is pleased to welcome Karen Alweil’s industry-leading, multi brand showroom to our digital platform Shoppe On. Karen Alweil Studio launched in 1993 with a vision to bring exceptional products to the retail market. Today, KAS represents companies nationally and has established solid relationships with the finest retailers worldwide. KAS has since broadened its product mix to include all forms of design and lifestyle related goods, including personal care, travel, music, tabletop, children’s, gifts, art and furniture. With 22 brands on board for Shoppe On, KAS brings a little something special for everyone.
Read MoreGrandmas, Nanas, Abuelas, Pau-Paus and MeeMaws always seem to have a slight floral or sandalwood scent, pockets or purses filled with wrapped candies or gum, well-worn clothes that have carried them through the years, the softest delicate skin, and of course, a singular kind of love for her grandchildren unique only to that special relationship. Grandmothers carry the wisdom of age, depth of experience and are freer to do as they please. Stereotypes have them socializing over hobbies like puzzles and bingo, or working fastidiously, carrying on and perfecting old traditions like cooking or craft. But times have changed, and modern grandmas (including those of our own children!) are playing tennis multiple days a week, are super tech savvy, still work, and sometimes party like it's 1999…
Read MoreThese are revolutionary days. There is no better time or way to contribute to the dismantling of the systemic racism that has worked against Black people in myriad ways, than putting your money toward progress. Black-owned businesses have suffered mightily in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, with a staggering 41% shuttering since February of this year, according to a report from the National Bureau of Economic Research. This is on top of the already deeply rooted and seemingly insurmountable racial wealth gap, and the everyday discrimination and hurdles that Black-owned businesses face…
Read MoreWhether climbing rocks on the shore, turning soil and planting vegetables, stopping to smell the lilacs on a woodsy stroll or simply bringing home a bodega haul of tulips for your city apartment’s kitchen table, there is great comfort to be found in the natural world. Nature displays itself across a full spectrum, from beautiful chaos to perfect order, and the questions it asks of us as humans are myriad yet completely free of judgement. For simple pleasures in uncertain times, turn your face to the sun or stars, get barefoot in the grass or place a single, leafy treasure at your bedside.
Read MoreYes, we’ve watched the videos and mastered the most effective handwashing techniques, we’ve practiced complicated methods of disinfecting groceries and we’ve accepted masks and gloves as our new normal. We’re doing our very best to keep everything and everyone in our care as clean as possible, and we know that by remaining diligent and taking precautions we’re contributing to a greater good. It may not always feel like it, but staying home and staying safe helps everyone – so let’s keep it up. While you’re at it, consider some exquisite, small-batch products to help make this time more pleasurable…
Read MoreFlowers are in bloom and the leaves have woken up in chartreuse as nature ushers in a new season. While many of us prepare to celebrate this weekend, in honor of the mothers and caretakers who brought us here and nurtured us to maturity, we are also mindful of the weight of grief and mourning for lives lost to a virus that has knocked us off our feet, and out of our previous reality. Life and death, like happiness and sorrow, are bound as one — and in this knowledge we can find peace, even joy. Comfort and balance lie in collective compassion, connection, gratitude, and in the enduring, unsinkable power of love. We’re thankful for all of it(and especially for you, mom).
Read MoreIn a new period of social distance and isolation, our spirits are lifted by the Shoppe Object brands that are steadfastly working for the collective good, and to spread positivity in uncertain times. So many companies are donating proceeds to agencies in need, some are sharing knowledge by posting extensive resource pages with guidance for where we can seek and offer help, others are making inspiring things that allow us to occupy our excess time indoors in creative and productive ways. For all of them, we are grateful.
Read MoreGreat antidotes to stress come in many forms. From virtual meetups with friends or classes that keep us moving, to nourishing, cleansing and even sexy self-care rituals — we’re looking for every which way to feel good right now. Breaks from the news are a must, staying well is key, and striking some balance in our new normal requires factoring in as many uplifting moments as we can. Here, some brands to help you find your way.
Read MoreLook for the helpers, said Fred Rogers. We’ve found quite a few among the community of Shoppe Object brands who are gathering their will and utilizing their strengths to aid in the global fight against COVID-19. From making masks and PPE for friends and front-line defenders, to donating proceeds from sales to agencies of change, we’re so inspired by the outpouring of goodwill by our friends and neighbors. Here, a selection of brands making a difference right now.
Read MoreWhether tuning in to virtual meetings (looking halfway presentable) or sequestering away from the kids to bang out a few emails (in the bathroom), doing our best at working from home is the new normal for many of us right now. Though we miss the physical company of our co-workers and communities, we must take comfort in our cocoons – making productivity and a semblance of peacefulness a priority. We recommend tidying up, and a few beautiful things to surround you.
Read MoreAs we practice social distance and navigate uncharted waters, take time to find stillness in solitude. In this strange and temporary reality, remember we are all in this together. Reach out to loved ones, check in on your neighbors, and most importantly, be gentle with yourself. Here are some products to inspire a collective comfort — all available directly through the vendor websites on Shoppe Object’s community page.
Read MoreNow more than ever, our neighborhood artisans, creators, and independent retailers need our support. As we care for ourselves and our loved ones, please keep the many small businesses that cannot afford a drastic pivot in operations at the top of your mind. Whether purchasing staples from the corner store, buying online from a smaller company, committing to that special object you’ve been eyeing for months, or buying a gift certificate to your favorite (and temporarily-closed) establishment for future use — the little guys need us now! Visit our community page. Each image links out to a website where you can often shop direct.
Read MoreHey blue, ocean eyes, sky, hydrangeas and delphinium, infinity. Blue – the world’s most popular favorite color and the one least found in nature – makes a strong statement this season in the palest iterations that feel as fresh as a newborn, dark, inky, well-deep tones and everything in between. See how designers are spinning the hue of the year, only at Shoppe Object.
Read MoreArtek was founded in Helsinki in 1935 by four young idealists: Alvar and Aino Aalto, Maire Gullichsen, and Nils-Gustav Hahl. Their goal was “to sell furniture and to promote a modern culture of living by exhibitions and other educational means.” In keeping with the radical spirit of its founders, Artek today remains an innovative player in the world of modern design, developing new products at the intersection of design, architecture, and art.
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