Lucy Loves: June
My monthly edit of the things to know, including must-see art, a festival of ideas and a giant wedding cake by Joana Vasconcelos
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Hi everyone,
May was a whirlwind of activity in both London and Istanbul. I tuned into the coronation and the Chelsea Flower Show from afar but managed to whip back to London for the opening of Carlotta, Big Mamma’s latest foodie venture, the rehang of Tate Britain and my own mamma’s bday celebrations. Such a joy.
In Istanbul, meanwhile, the rooftops are abuzz, the Renzo Piano-designed Istanbul Modern has finally opened and everyone is waxing lyrical about Merve Dizdar’s win at Cannes.
The start of June means summer is nearing (finally) which means I’m in full-blown holiday planning mode. If you’re in the same boat and need a little destination inspiration, here’s my recent round-up of the best hotels along the Turquoise Coast. I’ll be going back to Birdcage 33. You?
Below, you’ll find my monthly edit of the things to know in the two cities I call home. Plus, the fashion collaboration everyone’s talking about. As ever, please tell me what you’d like to see more of by sending me a DM or commenting below. Thank you again for joining me on this cultural adventure from London to Istanbul. Your support really does mean the world to me.
Love Lucy Xx
THE MUST-SEE LONDON EXHIBITION…
The V&A’s long-awaited summer blockbuster is almost here. Opening on 24 June, DIVA celebrates the powerful and personal stories of creativity, ambition and resilience of such iconic performers as Tina Turner, Elton John and Marilyn Monroe through more than 250 objects spanning fashion, photography, design, costumes and music. Tickets are selling like hotcakes so book yours now. I’m pleased to say I’ve nabbed mine already.
EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT….
The new Sézane x Farm Rio collaboration — and I can see why. The 40-piece limited-edition capsule collection marries Sézane’s relaxed silhouettes and Parisian-casual vibes with Farm Rio’s bright prints and joyful colour palette. I love it all but I’m particularly obsessed with this pretty floral dress and swimsuit. You?
WHAT I’M EYEING UP…
Assouline’s new Travel From Home Scented Candles created in collaboration with renowned perfumer Jérôme Epinette. The fragrance of each of the six candles is said to encapsulate the spirit and story of its eponymous destination. With my first trip to Greece in the pipeline, I’m rather taken by the so-called Mykonos Muse, with notes of almond, green fig and tonka bean.
HAVE YOU HEARD…
Joana Vasconcelos’s extraordinary Wedding Cake, a 12-metre-tall ceramic sculptural pavilion in the form of a three-tiered cake, is going on display at Waddesdon Manor from 18 June until 26 October. Inspired by the exuberant Baroque buildings and decorative ceramic traditions of Lisbon, where Vasconcelos lives and works, Wedding Cake is the artist’s most ambitious commission to date.
Go in it, up it and around it, before scoping out the gardens and Waddesdon’s magnificent permanent collection of 18th and 19th-century fine and decorative arts.
MY NEW GO-TO…
Manu Atelier, the Istanbul-based accessories brand founded by sisters Beste and Merve Manastir. Since launching in 2014, Manu Atelier has garnered a cult international following and now counts A-listers, stylists and tastemakers like Elsa Hosk, Jen Ceballos and Camille Charrière among its famous fans.
The draw? Its laid-back style and focus on simple shapes and structures. Not to mention the brand’s artisanal approach and emphasis on sustainability. The geometric Kesme bag with eye-catching gold hardware (I’m obsessing over this one on Vestiaire Collective) is an elegant companion to any day-to-night look.
THE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY IS REOPENING ON 22 JUNE…
With a special festival of activities, talks and events for adults and families. The First Look Festival will provide opportunities to enjoy the transformed building and its new spaces, the redisplayed collection and new exhibitions, as well as the Gallery’s shops, cafe, bar and restaurant. Speaker highlights include Paul McCartney, Tracey Emin and the Gallery’s Director Dr Nicholas Cullinan.
In addition to the First Look Festival, the NPG is staging an exhibition of photographs by Paul McCartney and a show of recently discovered works by Yevonde. The pioneering British photographer spearheaded the use of colour photography in the 1930s and captured some of the most famous faces of the era, from George Bernard Shaw to Vivien Leigh. Go, Go, Go.
AND FINALLY….what are your thoughts on Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig’s live-action Barbie film? I’ve watched the trailer and am honestly lost for words.