In a world of margarine, be butter.
an ode to the spring season must-have.
Welcome to the new home for Studio Dayze.
After a turn of events, I’ve seemingly got a lot more time on my hands and rather than staring at a wall and questioning the meaning of life, I’ve decided to use this platform to provide me with a space to share with you my expert advice on all things trends, products and cultural musings.
If you're wondering, "Why would I be interested in what you have to say?" – good question.
Having worked in the retail industry for 13 years across a very diverse range of categories with brands such as Topshop, ASOS and Not On The High Street creating both products and trends, I’m hoping I might have some useful insights to share with you. My career has taken me from mocking up nipple tassel ideas for Ann Summers to dressing Cara Delevingne at Fashion Week.
In my time working across fashion and homewares, I’ve come to realise that trend content is not very accessible and my aim with this newsletter is to share bitesize content and expert advice as well as a dose of inspiration and product finds.
Back to butter…
For my first article, I’ll keep it relatively simple but wanted to pay homage to an underrated colour which is gaining exposure this spring.
I first fell in love with the buttermilk tones when working on Topshop Unique AW14. The collection featured a tonal variety of Nappa leathers, tactile Mongolian furs and a spongey Italian jersey adorned with beading; across a range of saturated buttermilks, softer tones and sherbet lemons.
I will never get over not getting hold of that jumper in the sample sale.
In the realm of catwalk, where trends reign supreme and innovation is lauded, a spectrum of buttery yellows appeared as a key hue for the SS24. Aside from the prevalence within notable collections (look to Loewe and Louis Vuitton among others), credit is due to the formidable tastemaker Laila Gohar for her pioneering forays in revitalising the creative potential of food sculptures through butter art. In 2023 we also saw butter candles dominating social channels. The resurgence of food art and these dairy-centric masterpieces, for me, evokes a feeling of nostalgia and comfort. I can’t help but think of my Nan – the ultimate butter aficionado – and her ability to spread the thickest slathering of salty Welsh butter onto a crusty slice of bread.
Perhaps then, as societal upheavals and existential uncertainties loom large on the horizon, this resurgence of butter within both fashion and food taps into our primal instincts to find solace through playful and familial comforts.
A serene and versatile hue, it’s no surprise we see frequent revivals of this gentle tone throughout spring, therefore it stands to reason that investing in this alternative neutral, either for your home or closet, could prove to be a considered purchase you can sport from season to season.
When considering how to pair other colours with a buttermilk tone, it can be a bit daunting. If, like me, you're feeling akin to the doughy visage of 'Poppin' Fresh' post-winter, it doesn't always seem like the most appealing colour to turn to. However, I've created some tonal pairings which are ideal for spring, as well as a transitional palette from the colour Queen herself, Tekla Evelina Severin.
Buttermilk has a gentle and understated appearance, making it ideal for lightweight fabrics as it doesn't overwhelm the fabric's delicate texture. Silk satin, crepe de chine or a lightweight-plissé material could be the perfect surface to host this hue. As a textile designer, I would also consider printing onto something like an organza which can be overlaid onto a heavier-weight fabric to create more tonal diversity.
Now for the fun bit – my 5 favourite buttermilk finds.
I've always had a penchant for homewares, though my friends might jest that it's more about burning a hole in my pocket, full stop. Years spent in product development and trend roles have rendered me susceptible to FOMO; seeing someone sporting something you’ve been eyeing up on mood boards for months triggers an irresistible urge. Thankfully, my bond with Vinted has blossomed, satisfying both my Del Boy-esque inclinations and providing a tidy sum to reinvest.
That said, if you’re in a position to buy something new and would like some buttery recommendations – look no further.
TEKLA X BIRKENSTOCK LIMITED EDITION NAGOYO SHOES.
£410
The ultimate shoe for spring and the perfect counter-seasonal mules, these do come with a hefty price tag but, deservedly so. You’d almost certainly want to avoid muddy park walks with the pooch, and rainy weather (which, let’s face it, is most days in the UK), not to mention making a beeline if any children come hurtling towards you with ice cream or any other general stickiness; but, if you’re lucky enough to live in a country where the sun shines and you can promenade – you’re probably going to want to invest. Featuring Cazador suede and shearling, which explains the price, they’d almost feel like butter clouds on your feet.
ROOP - FUROSHIKI BAG IN BUTTER
£52
I’m in love with this bag and even more is its reasonable price tag of £52. Featuring a pale butter taffeta fabric and the shape takes inspiration from the Japanese art of wrapping: Furoshiki. Another perk is the brand uses only remnant, dead stock or vintage fabrics so you can not only look the part but do your part as well. A versatile little outfit addition that will be sure to turn heads.
OK, so this one has another hefty price tag but as an investment for your home and if you’re one to appreciate artisanal homewares – it’s worth it. A hand-painted earthenware base made by artisans in Portugal and featuring a cotton fabric shade, its soft palette and hand-crafted aesthetic will elevate any home and the craftsmanship ensures durability.
PALOMA WOOL - CAMELIA MESH TOP.
£68
Paloma Wool is the ultimate go-to for understated and simplistic style. I love this versatile and lightweight mesh top which is perfect for spring and moving into summer but could also easily enhance a winter look through layering. A delicate sheer material with an embroidery detail at the bottom, this top provides a great solution to add a subtle note of colour in place of a traditional neutral.
LINDA FARROW - ATTICO BERTO OVAL GLASSES
£220
If you’re not one to fully embrace wearing buttermilk then accessorising with it is another solution. Made from polished yellow acetate and an oval shape that works well on a lot of face shapes, these are the perfect spring/summer accessory that tap into this trend. Made in Italy, this brand is well known for its enduring high quality and you can just imagine sipping a chilled limoncello during golden hour sporting these.
So that’s my first little dose of inspiration via your inbox and I hope you’ll at least leave feeling a little more inclined to invite buttermilk into your life. I’ll be covering lots of different topics across Fashion and Lifestyle so please do subscribe if you want to stay up to date.
Thanks,
Nico