Ermie

Love

2012-02-14T17:01:00.000-08:00

Love: Swiss Chocolates, Chocolate Stout Cake, my husband, Gary Oldman (Tailor, Tinker, Soldier, Spy --a great movie--anyone who can play Sid Vicious & George Smiley is A-OK in my book), my friends, family and my new Godson, A.P.J. born today 2/14/12!!! *

* not necessarily in that order ;)

YHBHS: Jason Koharik

2012-02-13T10:26:00.000-08:00

"Making the lamps are to me making a sculpture. I cannot "mass produce" them, nor do I want to."

"So much of what I do I feel is collecting. Even the way I learn to do it, (it) is a collection of mistakes and breakthroughs."

- YHBHS: Jason Koharik in conversation with David John.

Some outtakes from the shoot I did for my friend David John's wonderful blog, You Have Been Here Sometime . It was a pleasure to shoot Jason Koharik's beautiful & thoughtful work. Thank you David & Jason!

2012-02-12T10:31:00.000-08:00

2012-02-11T16:41:00.000-08:00

More Love Hours Than Can Ever Be Repaid

2012-02-10T15:46:00.000-08:00

I visited the Mike Kelley Memoria l today on Toland Way.

It was moving and peaceful; quiet.

I never met Mike Kelley. I wish I had. Gone too soon.

2012-02-02T17:21:00.000-08:00

Outtakes from a photoshoot I did yesterday for my friend David's wonderful blog. We were shooting the studio and work of a local painter/lighting-furniture-interior-designer. So fantastic--the opportunity to photograph the creative space of someone I had just met was a bit nerve wracking at first, but the shoot was so much fun. A real treat. I'll share more images and links once David posts the story next week.
I hope to do more shoots like this in the future.

Yarn Bomb/ Flower Bomb

2012-01-30T11:21:00.000-08:00

Someone has been yarnbombing Highland Park and Eagle Rock and it's awesome.
Looks nice with all of the blooming flowers in the 'hood, too.

ERMIE SS '12 Sneak Peeks

2012-01-27T11:38:00.000-08:00

ERMIE Silk Tee in the "Mexico" Print in Azul.
100 % Silk. Slips on, no closures.

ERMIE Tank Dress. 100% washed silk. Slips on, no closures, comes with a matching belt (not pictured). Shown here in an as of yet untitled print, a collaboration with artist Tomory Dodge, in the "Light" colorway. There is a "Shadow" (darker) colorway as well.

ERMIE Short Sundress. Shown here in the "Prism" Print in Ultraviolet. 100% Silk. Hidden side zip, back keyhole hook and eye closure. Pockets, fully lined.

Textile designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge & Tomory Dodge 2012

ERMIE Midi/ Maxi Sundress in the "Prism" Print in Infrared. Hidden side zip, back keyhole hook and eye closure. Pockets, lined bodice. Shown here in the Midi Length.

Photos 1-3 Linen Skirt by Mociun.

Jewelry worn throughout: Hand Painted Clay & Wooden Bead Necklace by Vanessa Samp/ Old Lawrence.

Fox Claw necklace & Silver Arrow bracelet by Odette NY.

Multi-colored beaded bracelet by Dull Diamond, available at Myrtle.

Some show and tell for this Friday! I hope you enjoy these warm weather looks from the upcoming ERMIE SS '12 collection. There is much more to come, including some accessories collaborations, and pieces in linen. I'll share as I start to receive more samples back!

Have a great weekend!

P.S. The meeting went well yesterday! It was with a (very sweet) rep from Anthropologie!
I'll share more info as the project (hopefully) progresses. Thanks everyone for your supportive comments!

P.P.S. : Wow! My Tumblr was named one of the Top 20 Fashion Tumblrs on Ecosalon Today!!
Thanks, Ecosalon!

What's Up

2012-01-25T22:21:00.000-08:00

Hi!
I've been very busy preparing for an important, exciting meeting that is taking place tomorrow! I really wish I could say more...but I'm: a. Superstitious and b. Will hopefully have more to actually tell you (eventually ;) after the meeting. So, if I owe you an email, a call, a piece of writing, a thank-you note...please bear with me: I will try to be in touch as soon as I can!

My friend Emilyn (a really, really, good egg, that one) generously allowed me to temporarily take over her studio space for my meeting so I could have more room to spread out and not stress about cleaning my house (my tiny studio is located within my home). Emilyn is a textile junkie like myself, and I snapped a few images of some of the interesting & beautiful objects in her space.

Also: I still plan on selling a few one-offs/ samples/ scrap yardage from ERMIE FW '11 here on this blog, starting next week.

And

Good News: If you missed out on the After Party dress pictured above, there are a few After Party print dresses at Myrtle that are similar to the pictured dress, but with a one- length hem instead of the bi-level hem!

Images 1-3: Textile designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2008-2012

2012-01-23T19:23:00.000-08:00

Shibori Print Dresses (an exclusive design) going Here.

Alice is also carrying the now sold-out Yarn Print Dolman Dress in Mojave, the sold-out Silk Tee in the Yarn Print (Big Sur colorway) and exclusive Silk Tees in the Ave 51 Print. All great pre-spring transitional pieces!

Experimenting with some digitally printed linen for spring. The above is a fragment of a new ERMIE SS '12 print on Belgian Linen. Washed and dried several times to soften the linen.

This fabric is interesting--at first I was disappointed because there were small patches of ink that were lifting off of the linen, due to the limitations of the ink with penetrating the thick, nubby texture of the fabric...but the more I washed it, the more I liked it. Especially when combined with this predominately blue print...the fabric resembles old Japanese indigo dyed textiles.

Natural Phenomena

2012-01-18T10:32:00.000-08:00

The ERMIE Solstice Print Dress is featured in the current issue of Standard Magazine. The Solstice print is actually developed from an iPhone photo of holiday lights reflected in a frosty window, taken on the date of the winter solstice in 2010. It also intentionally resembles a starry night sky!
Created by Kelly La Plante, Standard Magazine features sustainable and eco-conscious design.
It's chock full of beautiful design and inspiration. Please take a look!

To coincide with this, I am offering the made to order version of the Solstice Print Dress at 25% off plus free shipping in the shop for a limited time!

Thanks Kelly & Jenny!

Other natural phenomena: Red, red poinsettia.

Cracked fruit in the front yard:

The above pic reminds me of a Stan Bitters Birdhouse (the pomegranate even has a little bird poo on it).

The Tiniest Habanero peppers from our garden. I'm tempted to pop one of them in my mouth whole and see what happens (Note to self: probably a bad idea).

Myrtle

2012-01-15T13:28:00.000-08:00

Last week I visited the lovely new Echo Park boutique, Myrtle. Owner/proprietress Whitney Bickers opened the boutique (named after her grandmother) late last year as a showcase for female indie designers & makers such as Dusen Dusen , Dull Diamond**, Shabd, Hetterson, MCMC Fragrances, and Mary Meyers, just to name a few. The store carries a carefully curated selection of products including home goods, books and periodicals, vintage and new clothing and accessories. There is an intentionally varied price range amongst these products, ensuring that there is almost certainly something for everyone's budget.

Whitney was an early supporter of my line, and actually donned an ERMIE skirt from my first full collection just for the occasion of my visit (so sweet & thoughtful). It makes me so happy to see someone following their dreams and Making. It. Happen.

If you are in L.A., please stop by Myrtle and support this fantastic new business (and perhaps you'll be seeing a little ERMIE at Myrtle sometime soon ;) .

Congratulations, Whitney!

MYRTLE

2213 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles 90026

213.413.0004

Tues-Sat 11a-7p, Sun 12-6p

** A Dull Diamond bracelet (and a super-cool vintage jacket hand selected for me by Whitney) came home with me from Myrtle. If you haven't already, you should also take a look at Dull Diamond's blog (gorgeous photography & fun layout) and colorful creations.

Melanie Nakaue for Poketo

2012-01-14T10:21:00.000-08:00

Photos 1,2 Courtesy of Poketo.

Photos 3,4 (details) by Kate Miss.

Artist Melanie Nakaue, who was kind enough to agree to being my model (she did a stellar job) for my F/W+ Holiday 2011 collection, is currently featured on the Poketo blog. She discusses her art practice, and the limited edition jewelry collection she designed for Poketo.

Here are a couple of shots from the ERMIE look book shoot featuring similar designs by Melanie.

Congratulations Melanie!

Coincidentally, the top she is wearing in the first photo is on sale in the shop, as is the dress version. The silk tee in the Spectrum Print (3rd photo) is also on sale & still available!

2012-01-12T10:01:00.000-08:00

Our jade plants have busted out their spring time blossoms in January. While crouching down to photograph them in the evening light, I was surrounded by the Cleveland Sage we had planted last summer--the scent of the sage was incredible!!

Beautiful Highland Park.
Speaking of: you should check out this blog by designer Lizz Wasserman and her husband- they are designing and building their own home right here in HP! How cool is that?

Big & Small

2012-01-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

Loving both: Big cast metal pendant by Ilana Kohn...

...small silver Arrow Ring by Odette NY (I ordered a gold & black diamond version of this also).

Both are pieces from each designer's upcoming collections.
I feel incredibly fortunate to know such talented and generous people.

Thanks Jennifer & Ilana!

Desert Gear

2012-01-10T10:58:00.000-08:00

When we were in the desert, I brought many articles of clothing. I like to be prepared for the sometimes dramatic shifts in climate the desert brings (and I'm just not a light packer. I wish I were! ) I ended up wearing my own designs. A lot. Which is great--they really were the perfect items for this climate and occasion.

Such as the ERMIE Topanga Dress:

Above cardigan: Primoeza.
Below: Pendleton sweater from Beklina, Dealtry scarf.

The dress is made from a nice thick knit fabric in organic cotton. Cut roomy and away from the body to stay cool during the day, yet long and warm enough to cozy up in once the sun went down, or if the wind picked up as it did above at Giant Rock.
My favorite moment on this trip while wearing this dress occurred at a rest stop. An elderly gentleman, (who was casually attired in a bright purple polo shirt and khaki's) approached me and said "That's quite a colorful outfit! Why, I like it!"

(yes!)

Also worn: the ERMIE Huipil Dress from last Spring:
(shown below with the Yarn Print Scarf in Mojave)

I plan on making a few a versions of this dress for SS '12. I love how Joslyn modified the neckline on hers, showing a little more skin.

&

For dinner at night: red lips, my sparkly Isabel Marant Jacket (gotta have some sparkle in Palm Springs) with the After Party Print silk chiffon scarf. Last I checked, Platform had a couple of these scarves left in stock ;)

Also in heavy rotation on this trip, jewelry by Dream Collective, shoes by Beatrice Valenzuela, and bags by Clare Vivier.
I love the design that is happening here in L.A. !

I didn't forget my East Coast gals, though. Besides Helen's scarf, there's a ring by Jennifer and a necklace by Ilana that I've been wearing frequently while away and at home. I'll show you those tomorrow.

Also in wearable news: I placed selected F/W '11 items on sale in the shop.
One-off items and some scrap yardage will be on sale here soon on this blog.

* Photos 2-4 by Tomory. Tweaked by me. (I hate having my photo taken by other people...I freeze up and make strange, unflattering faces...you pretty much have to catch me unaware to get a good shot. Even when I take my own photo, I have to discard 10 until I get 1 acceptable shot! )

Integratron & Giant Rock

2012-01-09T16:23:00.000-08:00

I think one goes to the California desert to either to find yourself, or to lose yourself.

Sometimes, it's hard to tell the difference between the two.

I love the California desert. So much so, that when I die, I want my remains cremated and scattered to the desert winds. Preferably cast by a loved one from some point in Joshua Tree National Park...atop a large rock formation, or from the lookout point at Key's View.
The desert, and Joshua Tree National Park in particular, makes me feel both a sense of unity with the natural world, and infinitesimally small and insignificant in the grand scheme of things. I feel comforted, and also a sense of awe in that any of this (life, the universe, everything) ever came to be. How? Why? I do not know.

I love the weirdness, and the wildness of the desert. I love the weird and wild people it attracts.

George Van Tassel, who built the Integratron, was one of those people. A former aeronautical engineer, Van Tassel spent 18 years constructing the Integratron purportedly based on Moses’ Tabernacle, the writings of Nikola Tesla and telepathic directions from extraterrestrials.
According to the website the Integratron is a "one-of-a-kind building... 38-foot high, 55-foot diameter, non-metallic structure originally designed... as a rejuvenation and time machine. Today, it is the only all-wood, acoustically perfect sound chamber in the U.S."
We went to receive a Sound Bath there, and it was truly a unique experience. Even if you think Van Tassel and his theories were/are looney -tunes, it's still worth visiting the Integratron just to hear the acoustics of the site. After our session I felt totally relaxed yet happy and energized.

Just a few hundred feet from the Inegratron is a dirt road that you can take out to Giant Rock- a huge, freestanding boulder out in the middle of nowhere. Taking some kind of truck or vehicle with 4 wheel drive is a must. We didn't --and were lucky we didn't get stuck in the sand!
This site was once considered sacred by the ancient indigenous peoples of the area. So sacred, only the shamans of the tribes were allowed to approach the area. Sadly, the site is now a party spot for kids --covered in graffiti, littered with broken glass and beer cans. Even though this was a bit depressing to see, this kind of thing is also a part of the desert experience: abandoned sites and structures, decay and disintegration. I wish we could have spent some time in the Park, but by that point we were ready to hit the road back to L.A.

Next time.
For more on the Integratron and the Soundbaths offered there check out this beautiful post on the Sphinx and the Milky Way, a new-to -me blog I have been enjoying of late.

Desert

2012-01-08T14:08:00.000-08:00

Just back from a restorative mini- trip to the desert. We went to the Integratron & Giant Rock but mostly just hung around the hotel (the Ace...which was nicely, surprisingly quiet & empty...I'm guessing because our stay there took place during the week). More pics to come this week, but for now there are a few more on my Tumblr.

I hope you all had an enjoyable, restful weekend!

12 Months

2011-12-30T10:06:00.000-08:00

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

Goodbye 2011, you've been quite a year.

Taking a little blog and shop break: Over the next couple weeks I won't be posting too much here (although I'll probably still post some stuff on Tumblr), and I'll temporarily be closing the shop to new orders. During this time I hope to solidify some new projects, wrap up some old projects, work on ERMIE S/S '12, & generally get my head together and develop some healthier habits.

...and sneak a desert trip and a Sound Bath in there too, somewhere.

When I return, I'll place select items in the shop on sale, and have some one-off designs and fabric remnants for sale on this blog as well.

I'll see you in 2012!
Happy New Year!

2011-12-26T14:43:00.000-08:00

Around II

2011-12-23T16:15:00.000-08:00

Getting into the holiday spirit! Our house is filled with family, flowers, food.
Last night, Alex and Satoko made us an amazing meal of miso glazed halibut, vegetable-tofu miso soup, & kinpira gobo (stir-fried burdock root) with steamed rice and a green salad.

Some sweets from Japan.

3 lbs of pecans from Oklahoma were gifted to us. What should we do with them (pralines? pecan pie? roast them with olive oil and herbs?)? For now they are sitting around in my handmade bowls for snacking. I'm liking this little bowl more, despite it's odd glaze.

A beautiful silk twill scarf by Dealtry, which I have been wrapping myself in quite frequently, keeping things cozy.

Happy Holidays from ERMIE

2011-12-22T09:13:00.000-08:00

A few more photos from Switzerland, with a couple from Rockefeller Center and Greenpoint, Brooklyn thrown in for good measure.

Wishing you all a happy, healthy, safe and merry holiday season!

xx
-Jennifer

Around

2011-12-20T10:08:00.000-08:00

Holiday Shimenawa from Satoko.

Hadley's Pillows with textiles from Joanna.

Our Christmas Tree with Marc's Painting.

A silk scarf from Deb, on a table made by Tomory, with pottery from Phi and Angela, and an Indigo plant from Britt.

(Dirty windows make pretty pictures.)

So fortunate to have all these wonderful people around and in my life who create, seek and appreciate beauty.

Details

2011-12-19T18:24:00.000-08:00

**Also: Please check out my friend David's beautiful essay he wrote for Apartamento #8!

A Walk...

2011-12-18T10:12:00.000-08:00

...around Lake Staz with Tomory & Monica on the outskirts of St. Moritz, on the day before we returned to Zurich. We made a 20-30 minute hike to the restaurant of the Hotel Lej da Staz for lunch. I had Gluhwein, Gerstensuppe, a salad of various lettuces, thinly sliced roast beef dressed in an onion vinagrette, and a slice flourless chocolate torte (I ate a lot on this trip! I did split the salad & torte with Monica and Tomory). We then hiked back to our car after lunch and drove into St. Moritz itself and visited the small but lovely Segantini Museum.

Opening

2011-12-17T14:43:00.000-08:00

For Janis

2011-12-16T10:56:00.000-08:00

Translation of the above:
"It is within our own soul that we human beings make a heaven or a hell."

Perhaps my favorite Sgraffito in Zuoz? It is really impossible to choose--but this house reminded me so, so much of my friend Janis Anzalone and her beautiful work. Janis and I have never met in person, but one day I am confident we will. Janis' blog was one of the very first I stumbled upon when I started blogging in 2008. I still read it, and find beauty in each of her posts. If you aren't already- do yourself a favor and follow her blog.

Monica De Cardenas Galleria

2011-12-15T18:14:00.000-08:00

The reason I was in Switzerland was for my husband Tomory's art opening at the Monica De Cardenas Gallery in Zuoz.

The gallery itself is amazingly beautiful: it is an Engadin (Engadinian?) farmhouse from the 15th century, formerly known as the Chesa Albertini, which was renovated and modified by the architect Hans-Jörg Ruch. Not only did we have the pleasure of experiencing Tomory's paintings in the space- we also stayed at the gallery itself in one of three cabin-like rooms located on the 2nd floor of the gallery.

I'm still very jet-lagged so I am having a difficult time describing the comfortable, elegant, rustic beauty of this space. So I'll just let these images & the links speak for me...

ERMIE at BEKLINA

2011-12-15T11:36:00.000-08:00

Textile Design © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Photographs courtesy of Beklina.

A little break from the Switzerland photos for a big announcement:
ERMIE is now at Beklina!!

As long as I have had this blog, I have been a huge fan of designer Lina Rennell and her online boutique Beklina. In fact, I'm not exaggerating when I say this is actually a dream come true for me to have my work included among beautiful the goods offered in her store.

For Beklina I have created an exclusive design- the After Party Print in a simple tank dress with a matching sash (I love this dress so much, I made one for myself and wore it to Tomory's opening in Switzerland). It's the perfect dress to ring in the New Year with a little wrap or cardigan, and will transition easily into the warmer months yet to come.

Worn here with French Enameled Lockets, also available at Beklina.

~~A very limited edition. Don't miss out!~~
Sold Out! Thanks Everyone!!

2011-12-14T17:56:00.000-08:00

We spent most of our trip in Zuoz...a tiny town located in the Upper Engadin region of the canton Graubünden.
We were told by our hosts that this area was considered a sacred area, special -unlike any other in Switzerland...mystical in a sense...dotted with burial grounds dating back to the Bronze Age. Renowned for the special quality of light.

In the words of Ferdinand Hodler, a Swiss painter:
"I have never seen light as it is up here..."

Yes.

Travels

2011-12-14T04:46:00.000-08:00

I just returned from Switzerland last night (yes, I have jet-lag and should be asleep right now).
Get ready for some major photo-dumps of images from my trip over the next few days here on this blog...Switzerland was one of the most stunning and magical places I have ever been to.

ok...now back to bed!

2011-12-04T11:15:00.000-08:00

We have been eating Blood Oranges from the tree in our yard. We planted it when we first moved into our home in 2007. This is the first year that it has borne fruit. They are so delicious.

I'm proud to announce that I dropped off a small order of scarves yesterday at Platform! I love this store, and I feel so lucky that they wanted to include my work in their shop. They will be selling scarf styles exclusive to their shop (the Big Chiffon Scarf in the Solstice Print) and silk crepe de chine scarves in the Zuma, Talitha, and Ikat (SS '11) Prints, the Yarn Print Chiffon Scarves in both the Mojave and Big Sur colorways, plus the Magic Marker and Ave. 51 Print Scarves in silk crepe from ERMIE SS '11.

Read more about Alex & Sarah and their store here and here.

The blog will be kind of quiet here over the next week or so. I'll be away for a bit. I stated this here, but please note: if you order a ready-made item from my shop (scarves) between now and 12/13/11 your order will not ship until 12/14/11 due to my travel schedule.

Happy December!
xx

Come Darkness *

2011-12-02T13:26:00.000-08:00

* This post has no actual connection to this show, which I'm sure is fabulous (& I wish I could see in person)... I just really liked the title :)

Oh my!
The last 24 hours have been quite crazy here in Los Angeles, especially in the Highland Park neighborhood where I live. We had severe Santa Ana's on Wednesday night. The winds were hurricane force and in Mt. Washington, the neighborhood adjacent to us, clocked in at 90 miles per hour. The wind was so strong- at one point it pushed our (metal!) porch furniture around like it was made of paper.

We were very lucky that the damage to our home ended up being relatively light...our wooden fence in our back yard split into a couple of chunks, and our yuccas out front lost several large branches--fortunately they didn't smash any cars. The winds knocked out power over much of the city. Ours was down for over 24 hours, and just came back on this afternoon. (If I owe you an email or a text...now you know why I'm a little more behind than usual...I will try to get back to you in the next couple days!)

Last night while the power was out, we cooked a big pot of veggie minestrone on the stove (we could still light the gas, even though the stove is partially electric), shared some nice bread and a bottle of good red wine and talked, sketched, read and wrote letters by candle light. It was actually really nice...

Coincidentally, this beautiful candle that I ordered in the mail arrived yesterday afternoon, and really came in handy last night (that's it pictured in the 5th and 12th photos)!

The last pic is a photo of the After Party print in a silk chiffon scarf...I had a few made. Email me if you are interested :)

Lastly, I promised Arlie that I'd post about the Holiday Sale she organized. So many talented ladies are participating...and a lot of beautiful items are still available. Please check it out!

xx

Blue, pt. 3

2011-11-30T00:42:00.000-08:00

The Last of the Indigo Workshop posts. Britt was a wonderful instructor- patient and positive the entire afternoon, encouraging us to dye just about any natural material! She'll be leading more workshops in the future, so keep your eyes peeled!

See all of my photos from the workshop here.

Blue, pt. 2

2011-11-28T19:34:00.000-08:00

As excited as I was about working with natural indigo and learning how use it as a dye, I was equally excited about where the Indigo Workshop was being held: the home of Beatrice Valenzue la -- designer, hairdresser, gourmand extraordinaire, and all- around creative goddess.

I met her briefly at a party this past summer, and was immediately smitten. As my friend Hadley once said about Bea (paraphrasing a bit here) : "She has a knack for bringing creative people together; everything seems a little magical when you are around Bea."

One can tell she and her partner Ramsey, with whom she shares the Echo Park home, have a mutual appreciation for art and all things handcrafted.

As a part of the workshop's fee, both a light brunch and late lunch were provided.
Beatrice made a delicious, brothy, pork soup and served it with nuts, fruits, a baguette, and cheese. Cardamom laced coffee was prepared: warm when we arrived in the morning, and iced with cream in the afternoon.

The entire afternoon was full of warmth-- due in equal parts to both the sunny weather and Beatrice's hospitality. I feel pretty confident in saying that I think we all felt that it was the perfect setting for the perfect afternoon. Thank you Beatrice!

(I love how many of the workshop participants wore their Beatrice Valenzuela shoes, myself included, as a tiny homage to our hostess.)

Blue, pt. 1

2011-11-28T12:11:00.000-08:00

This Holiday weekend I had the extreme fortune and pleasure to attend an Indigo Dyeing Workshop led by artist Britt Browne (be sure to check out her gorgeous blog, Growing Indigo ), and hosted by the gracious and talented Beatrice Valenzuela at her cozy Echo Park home.

I was blown away by the talents of all of the workshop participants--which made it very difficult for me to edit my photos down! Therefore, I'll be posting images from the workshop over the next couple days.

(Unrelated to the workshop, but in keeping with the theme of "Blue" ;
Tomory and I saw Melancholia this weekend, which I really enjoyed, and I finally purchased this book.)

Just a few more...

2011-11-27T18:33:00.000-08:00

A few more pots that I made. I think the one that is at right in the topmost photo is my favorite of all of my ceramic creations so far...although the deep green pot with incising and wax resist has an elegant crudeness to it.

2011-11-27T18:13:00.000-08:00

We always try to go to the beach the day after Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T17:57:00.000-08:00

In addition to Hadley's delicious Pecan Pie and Thomas' juicy, perfectly cooked turkey, we ate home made foie gras crafted by Max and his son (accompanied by pickled cherries and frisee). So rich (delectable, but almost difficult to finish. Somehow I managed) !

Ilana and I wore the same dress on Thanksgiving. Perhaps Joanna did as well? It's perfect for feasting (roomy, comfortable; ah!) !

SHOP

2011-11-23T01:28:00.000-08:00

Hi!
The Shop is now open for previewing. It will re-open for sales this Friday, November 25th, 10:30 am PST.

If you celebrate, I hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving!

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: After Party Midi/Maxi Dress

2011-11-21T13:14:00.000-08:00

Last but not least...
I hope to have the shop open in the next day or so. I'll let you know!
xx

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011
Brass Drops Necklace: For Me, For You
Bite Mark Bracelets: Friends of Similar Size
Shoes: SSWTR

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

Short sleeves, pockets. Slips on, no closures, unlined. Elastic waistband. 100% Silk Crepe de Chine with matching sash. May be ordered as a midi length dress or as a maxi dress (as shown here at 51" from shoulder to hem...customizable to your specifications). Featured here in the After Party Print.

$370-385 (depending upon length).

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Cheryl Cambras for ERMIE- Pom Pom Belt

2011-11-21T12:12:00.000-08:00

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011
Bite Mark Ring: Friends of Similar Size/ Melanie Nakaue.

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

Cheryl Cambras for ERMIE Pom Pom Belt: A crochet flat tie belt composed of 100% Wool Yarn, punctuated with playful pom poms at either end. Handcrafted one at a time by Cheryl Cambras.

$75

Worn here with the Topanga Print Maxi Dress.

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Cheryl Cambras for ERMIE- Color Block Belt

2011-11-21T11:58:00.000-08:00

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

Cheryl Cambras for ERMIE Color Block Belt: Crochet multi-color tie belt with wooden yarn-wrapped rings. Made with Wool, Cotton, Angora, Cashmere, and Alpaca yarns. Fully reversible, the belt is backed with the Yarn Print in Los Padres in a 55% Linen, 45% Combed Cotton Blend fabric. Handcrafted one at a time by Cheryl Cambras.

$120

Worn here with the Silk Tee in the Yarn Print (Los Padres).

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Cheryl Cambras for ERMIE- Chevron Belt

2011-11-21T11:14:00.000-08:00

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011
"Royal" Ceramic Necklace: Juliet Gorman

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

Cheryl Cambras For ERMIE Chevron Belt: A playful tie belt made of contrasting 100% Wool yarns, complete with braided tassels at either end. Handcrafted one at a time by Cheryl Cambras.

$90

Worn here with the Free Sleeve Dress in the Canyon Print.

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Cheryl Cambras for ERMIE- Embroidered Belt

2011-11-21T10:49:00.000-08:00

Directly above: Photo: JPD

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Handwoven & Leather Bracelet and Brass Drops Necklace: For Me, For You
Bite Mark Bracelets: Friends of Similar Size
Shoes: Rachel Comey

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

So excited about this project! I asked my good friend, artist Cheryl Cambras to create some belts that would compliment the new collection. You are now looking at the marvelous results!

Pictured here: The Embroidered Belt, made with wool, cotton, angora, and cashmere yarns-complete with a copper buckle. The belt is fully reversible, backed with the Yarn Print in Mojave printed on a 55% Linen, 45% combed cotton blend. Completely handcrafted one at a time by Cheryl Cambras.

$ 150

Worn here with the Dolman Sleeve Dress in the Yarn Print (Mojave).

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Big Chiffon Scarf

2011-11-20T13:38:00.000-08:00

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

36 x 72" scarf in 100% Silk Chiffon. Delicate but surprisingly warm. A versatile piece: it looks wonderful worn with jeans or as a light wrap for more formal occasions. Available in (from top to bottom images) the Spectrum Print in Venice, the Yarn Print in Big Sur, and the Yarn Print in Mojave. Worn here with the Dolman Sleeve Dress in the P.C.H. Print in Moonshadow,
Silk Tee in the Yarn Print (Big Sur), and the Canyon Print Knit Top.

$175

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Triangle Dress

2011-11-20T13:26:00.000-08:00

Cast Silver & Bronze Bling Necklace and Bite Mark Bracelets: Friends of Similar Size
Shoes: SSWTR

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

Comfortable shift dress in an A-line shape. 100% Silk Crepe de Chine. Unlined, slips on, no closures. Wear as shown or as a tunic over pants. Shown here in the Yarn Print, Mojave colorway. Also available in (not pictured) the Yarn Print in Los Padres (green), and the Yarn Print in Big Sur (grey, teal).

$325

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Zuma Print Midi/Maxi Dress

2011-11-19T00:29:00.000-08:00

Bite Mark Bracelet: Friends of Similar Size/ Melanie Nakaue

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

Short sleeves, pockets. Slips on, no closures, unlined. Elastic waistband. 100% Silk Crepe de Chine with matching sash. May be ordered as a midi length dress (as shown here at 43" from shoulder to hem) or as a maxi dress (customizable to your specifications). Shown here in the Zuma Print, Surf Colorway

$370-385 (depending upon length).

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Silk Tee

2011-11-18T23:02:00.000-08:00

Ceramic Woven Necklace: Kate Miss

"Royal" Ceramic Bead Necklace: Juliet Gorman

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

100% Silk Crepe De Chine in a loose, boxy fit- same style as the Silk Tee from ERMIE S/S '11, but a little longer in length (24" from shoulder to hem) & with longer, elbow length sleeves. Pulls on, no closures, unlined.

Shown here in (from top to bottom image): the Pixel Print in Morro, Yarn Print in Big Sur (also pictured in the very last image), Yarn Print in Los Padres, Spectrum Print in Ojai, and the Talitha Print.

Also available in (not pictured) the Zuma Print (vertically striped).

$175

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Canyon Print Knit Top

2011-11-18T18:10:00.000-08:00

"Royal" Ceramic Bead Necklace: Juliet Gorman.

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

100% Organic Cotton top in a thick knit. 3/4 length sleeves. Pulls on, no closures. Cozy- feels more like a sweater than a top! Available in the Canyon Print (Sunrise).

$120

Bottom Photo: ERMIE Yarn Print Big Chiffon Scarf in Mojave: $175

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Canyon Print Dress

2011-11-18T17:36:00.000-08:00

Hand Woven & Leather Bracelet: Kate Miss
"Royal" Ceramic Bead Necklace: Juliet Gorman.
Shoes worn throughout: Rachel Comey.

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

3/4 length sleeve knit dress in the Canyon Print (Sunrise Colorway). Slips on, no closures, unlined. Gentle scoop neckline in front; may be worn reversed- dress 'back' has a slight v-neck and single a center pleat. 100% Organic Cotton in a substantial knit with beautiful drape & movement. Hem falls above the knee.

$275

Top Photo: ERMIE Yarn Print Big Chiffon Scarf in Mojave: $175

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Topanga Maxi Dress

2011-11-18T16:16:00.000-08:00

Necklace by Melanie Nakaue

Woven Necklaces, bracelet: Kate Miss
Bite Mark Ring: Melanie Nakaue

Hand Woven & Leather Bracelet: For Me, For You/ Kate Miss
Bite Mark Ring: Friends of Similar Size/ Melanie Nakaue.
Shoes worn throughout: Rachel Comey.

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

Short sleeved knit maxi dress in the Topanga Print. Slips on, no closures, unlined. Slight scoop neckline in front; may be worn reversed- dress 'back' has a slight v-neck and single a center pleat. Short sleeves hit just above the elbow. 100% Organic Cotton in a substantial knit with a beautiful drape. Shown here at 52" from shoulder to hem. Length may be customized.

$325

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Free Sleeve Dress

2011-11-17T20:14:00.000-08:00

"Royal" Ceramic Necklace: Juliet Gorman

Cast Silver & Bronze Bling Necklace and Bite Mark Ring: Friends of Similar Size
Shoes: Rachel Comey & SSWTR

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

Same body as the Dolman Sleeve Dress, but with shorter sleeves that have not been bound in elastic. Hits slightly above the knee. Elastic waistband. Scoop neck & pockets. Slips on, no closures, unlined. 100% Silk Crepe de Chine with matching sash. Available in the Canyon Print (Sunset colorway, first 3 photos) and in the Solstice Print (blue dress).

$350

ERMIE Look Book F/W '11: Dolman Sleeve Dress

2011-11-17T18:33:00.000-08:00

Okay : Here we go. The ERMIE F/W '11 Look Book! I'll be posting look book images over the next few days.

The shop will re-open next week. I'll announce exactly when here on this blog.

Take a peek at behind the scenes pics of the look book shoot here.
Enjoy!

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Handwoven & Leather Bracelet and Brass Drops Necklace: For Me, For You
Bite Mark Bracelets: Friends of Similar Size
Shoes: Rachel Comey & SSWTR

Photographed by Kate Miss, Modeled by Melanie Nakaue.

100% Washed Silk Crepe de Chine dress with matching sash. Dolman sleeves. Scooped neckline. Elastic waist- -band & 3/4 length sleeves with elastic cuffs. On-seam pockets. Slips on, no closures, unlined. Hem falls slightly above knee. Available in the P.C.H. Print in Moonshadow (blue dress) & the Yarn Print in Mojave (red dress).

$350

Crochet & Embroidered Belt worn with the Dolman Dress in Mojave: Cheryl Cambras for ERMIE : $150

2011-11-16T18:46:00.000-08:00

A break from the clothing...
A new bowl. Pictured left in the topmost photo.
White glaze on the outside, pale bluegrey celadon on the inside...mixing occurring between the two glazes throughout the surface. A bit of ribbed texture near the bottom.

I keep making bowls that are the same size. Inadvertently.

I am liking this bowl more and more.
They are nice companions.

More pottery...I love this and these.

Peek pt.3

2011-11-15T13:26:00.000-08:00

Photographs by Kate Miss
Model: Melanie Nakaue
Styling: Dodge/ Miss/ Nakaue
Textile Designs: © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

A couple of photos by Kate Miss, from the ERMIE F/W/ Holiday '11 Look Book shoot that occurred yesterday.

I knew when I asked her to document this collection her photographs would be amazing, but damn (if I do say so myself)!

Also: A little bird told me both the Handwoven and Brass Drops Necklaces pictured above will be for sale in Kate's Shop update taking place this Saturday 11/19!

Edit: Wowee! ERMIE on Hunter Gathererer! I love how Ashley edited my photographs...so interesting!
(thanks Ashley <3)

Peek pt.2

2011-11-14T21:13:00.000-08:00

A few more photos I took while Kate and Melanie were hard at work.
I can't wait to show you the final product!

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Handwoven & Leather Bracelet and Brass Drops Necklace: For Me, For You
Ceramic Bead Necklace: Juliet Gorman
Reversible Crochet & Fabric Belt with Copper Clasp: Cheryl Cambras for ERMIE
Cast Silver & Bronze Bling Necklace and Bite Mark Bracelets: Friends of Similar Size
Shoes: Rachel Comey & SSWTR

Peek...

2011-11-14T17:21:00.000-08:00

...of the photo shoot today. Some behind the scenes snapshots I took. More to come!

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

2011-11-13T17:50:00.000-08:00

Last night, Culver City.

Simple

2011-11-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

Some simple things that I am loving lately:

Czech Army "Bread Bag" purchased this summer in Seattle at the Army-Navy Surplus Store to use as a camera bag. I've started using it as my go-to day to day purse. $14. I'd love to make a version of this in leather. Or out of canvas printed with one of my designs!

Our revamped compost bin, built by my husband. I think it's cute how he painted both the little door and the support green.

ERMIE rubber stamps. For stamping envelopes & packages that I send out to my customers.

Platform

2011-11-11T15:48:00.000-08:00

I stopped by Platform yesterday--such a colorful place! They have a lot of fun, affordable, interesting items in the shop at the moment...perfect for the Holiday season.

In addition to the retail shop, there is a Trend Library located on the premises that you may peruse for a small fee . I did so a few months ago, and it was very cool. Sarah, one of Platform's owner's, gave me a little peek of some of the latest additions to the library yesterday--let's just say I'm itching to get back there and use the library again.

If you are looking for something to do this weekend, Martin Rusch has an opening (Sat 11/12 at 7pm) for his lovely photos at the shop. I wish I could make it, but my friend Whitney also has an opening across town which I'm very excited to attend.

The end of the year always gets so busy, doesn't it? So much to see & do!

2011-11-09T17:23:00.000-08:00

Another little pot that turned out strangely. The outside was supposed to be a matte pale green, the inside a pale blue transparent celadon. The copper in the outside glaze reacted with drips from the inside glaze and turned the pot a strange gray/green/pink. I like the texture, I like how the inner glaze brought out the deposits in the clay...but that pink color...I don't know.

Oh well. Looks cute with the crabapples I bought at the market.

2011-11-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

Paintings (detail shots): Tomory Dodge

Getting ready to send things to Switzerland!

2011-11-08T23:12:00.000-08:00

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

A couple of special projects:
Big silk crepe de chine scarf in the Spectrum Print (Malibu).
Silk Tank Dress (an ERMIE S/S '12 style) in the After Party Print. Cloudy Day Open Cardigan by Primoeza.

2011-11-07T17:07:00.000-08:00

Images from the past few days.

That last one is a little peek of a belt made by Cheryl Cambras. It's one of several that she created for the ERMIE F/W collection!

Other info: Thanks to everyone who has Blogged, Tumbld, Pinned and Re-pinned the After Party Print Midi/Maxi Dress! I'm so happy that you are enjoying my work.

The F/W Lookbook photo shoot is happening in 1 week...which means the store will be reopening soon-ish!

2011-11-06T17:28:00.000-08:00

Dark and Stormy on the outside, warm and cozy on the inside...

Wintry

2011-11-04T11:58:00.000-07:00

3/4 length sleeve Silk Tee in the Pixel Print (Morro).Chiffon Scarf in Yarn Print (Big Sur).

Short Sleeved Maxi Dress in the After Party Print.

Free Sleeve Dress in the Solstice Print.

win·try (w n tr ) also win·ter·y (w n t -r ). adj. win·tri·er also win·ter·i·er, win·tri·est also win·ter·i·est. 1. Belonging to or characteristic of winter; cold.

As I'm putting this post together--the clouds hang low and it feels like it could rain at any moment (our version of Winter here in L.A.).

Have a warm weekend!

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Random Winner, Random Post.

2011-11-03T02:23:00.000-07:00

Without further ado:
The winner of the Scarf giveaway is Norelle K.!
Congratulations!
I loved, loved, loved reading all of your comments about where you picture yourself in 3 years. Positive and inspiring.
Thank-you all!

Speaking of pictures, (eh, lame segue way )...I hate posting without images...so I searched my files for some of my photographs that I'm pretty sure I haven't posted here before:

In the process of looking through my files--I rediscovered the images below that I have been meaning to post on this blog for awhile. I initially Tumbld across these images months ago, and I kept thinking about them as I was designing the ERMIE F/W '11 collection. Especially the last photo; all of those warm colors & textile goodness!
The photographs were all taken from an editorial in Life Magazine, about craft in America, via Google Image Search. The original link to these images is somewhere on my Tumblr, but I'll be darned if I can find it!

Lotfi F/W '11

2011-11-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

A beautiful scarf from Shara's new collection.

Every item of clothing that I seem to buy or trade for lately is either neutral in color, or is some kind of "classic" item like a striped shirt.
I still love prints, patterns, & color, but I appreciate a good basic (like the Samet Shirt I'm also wearing in this post)!

2011-11-01T05:35:00.000-07:00

EDIT: I posted this really early this morning due to insomnia (too much Halloween Candy!). I wasn't up to putting words to this post then; I am now!

The Fantastic Mr. Fox is actually my godson, GG.
His dad, Gian-Martin, made his amazing costume from scratch. All of my friends will agree- besides being one of the kindest people on the face of this earth, Gian-Martin can make anything. Need a wedding ring (he made ours)--no problem. Custom made furniture? Bass Guitars? Yep. He can do that too. He needs a website, no?

Tomory was a ghost (wearing what we thought was a pretty lame last minute costume at first--but the kids were terrified by it! Nice to know a sheet with holes cut in it can still strike terror in the hearts of small children.).

I was a fortune teller. No pics unfortunately -since I'm the one who is always behind the camera! One picture exists, taken by my husband, but I had neck-face, so you won't be seeing that photo here. I wore lots of ERMIE chiffon scarves, the Free Sleeve Dress in the Canyon Print, pretty much all of my jewelry and heavy gold and deep purple eye make up. I looked like David Bowie in the Blue Jean video.

The little paper ghost in the top pic is by my bud Cheryl Cambras, and the caramel apples (featured on the ETSY Tumblr today--thanks, Etsy!) were made by our friend's neighbor.

The sausages (yum) are from Schreiner's.

Happy 11-1-11!
xx

2011-10-31T12:52:00.000-07:00

"I pray for the Angel of Uncertainty to visit..."
-Sally Mann
...in this wonderful documentary speaking about happy accidents that occur in her process.

(Thanks, Natasha).

I often like 'mistake' photos better than the photos I intended to take...

3 Years of ERMIE & Scarf Giveaway!

2011-10-27T10:16:00.000-07:00

ERMIE Big Chiffon Scarf, Yarn Print in Big Sur.

Spectrum Print in Venice.

Yarn Print in Mojave.

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Time flies! This coming Saturday, this little old blog turns 3 years old!

A lot has changed in my life since I started this blog in 2008. I got married, changed careers, met amazing people I never would have otherwise. I've definitely learned how to take better photographs! I never imagined I'd be doing what I'm doing now, when I posted my first post. I find it remarkable that things that I have created, have made their way to Australia, Great Britain, Germany, Singapore! All because of this blog.

I'm not the best writer, or the best at responding to all of your wonderful comments for that matter, but I just wanted to take the time to thank you for reading & visiting this blog. Thank you for participating in this process, and for your support. I do appreciate it. So much.

To celebrate: I'm giving away a Chiffon Scarf from the upcoming ERMIE collection.
It comes in 3 different prints/colorways, as pictured above. 36 x 72." (a $175 value!)
Just leave a comment under this post: you could tell me your best possible scenario for yourself in 3 years, or just say hello :) ...whatever you'd like to say.

You have until 11/2/11 Midnight PST to enter. I'll draw the name of 1 person at random on 11/3/11. You choose which scarf you'd like. I'll ship it anywhere in the world free of charge!

Good luck, and here's to the next 3 years!

2011-10-26T14:17:00.000-07:00

Another pot. This one is so funny. The inside looks like mold or lichen. The outside is mostly bare, unglazed. My instructor declared this one "earthy."

My friend Cate sent me an excerpt from a poem by Kate Tuthill:

At night the heavens are starry and black
up here on top of the world across the sky,

northern lights dance

reds and greens a-twirl.

The Inuits say don't whistle, when the
lights are high, lest they swoop to
earth and carry you up to the
luminescent sky.

-Kate Tuthill
"Labrador in Winter"

Besides being a lovely bit of writing, I thought it matched my Solstice Print nicely. The Northern lights were intense on the evening of 10/24/11. They could be seen as far south as Georgia in the States. We could not see them in Los Angeles. Did you see them?

For Eve: the recipes for Max Cambras' Oven Roasted Potatoes and Roots & Cream as seen here.

Oven Roasted Potatoes

Ingredients (works with any quantity):

Red potatoes, all of similar diameter ~3”

Full head of garlic

Salt

Black pepper

Olive oil

Butter

Par-boil potatoes until tender, set out to dry, cut in half.

Cover bottom of heavy oven pan with 1/8” of olive oil (glass, ceramic or anodized—will not work with thin non-stick baking pans). Set potatoes jacket side up in the pan in a single layer & brush jackets with olive oil. Bake at ~400 degrees until oil has been absorbed and pan-facing side is crisp, about 30min. Cut heads of garlic in two, brush with oil and put in pan. Flip potatoes and bake until jackets turn crisp—add more oil if necessary. Stir and bake 10-20min more, being careful not to burn garlic.

Remove from oven and stir with a knob of butter. Salt and pepper to taste.

Roots and Cream

Ingredients:

~20 Pearl Onions

2 cups cubed turnip

2 cups cubed parsnip

4tbls sweet butter

1.5 cups whole milk, room temp

.5cup cream, room temp

1/8-1/4 tsp. mace

Salt

¼ tsp. cayenne pepper

Fresh parsley

Cut parsnip and turnip into ½” to ¾” cubes, keeping size as similar as possible. In a large covered pan, melt butter at medium heat. Add onions and salt (1/2 teaspoon). Sweat onions for 15min covered, careful not to brown at all. Add cubed turnip and parsnip cook covered for 5min, careful not to brown. Add milk and cream—raise temp, but do not boil. Turn down to simmer and cook for ~1hr.

After ~30min add Cayenne pepper and mace. Check to make sure all vegetables are fork tender, and milk has cooked down. Adjust seasoning and serve. Tip: if it is too dry, finish with a little more cream.

ERMIE Holiday 2011

2011-10-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

ERMIE Holiday 2011: A bit of a misnomer, really, since both Fall/Winter and Holiday items will be officially released in the look book and shop simultaneously (Soon! Yes. Just a couple more weeks. Promise!). Plus, you can pre-order any of the garments and prints that I've previewed here on the blog right now!

Photos 1-5.
Solstice Print. Not actually the starry night sky, but a photograph I took with my iPhone last December of holiday lights reflected in a frosted window.
This print will be featured on the "Free" Sleeve Dress. Perfect for all of your seasonal festivities.

Photos 6-10.
Is it possible that I have a favorite out of all of the prints I've made so far? Maybe. This one certainly comes pretty close. The After Party Print. From a photograph taken on this night, after my friend Jay's art opening, at (you guessed it) his after party in the Hollywood Hills.
This print will be featured on the Short Sleeve Midi/Maxi dress.
(It would look lovely on the 3/4 Length Sleeve Silk Tee, too.) Ring in the New Year with this print! Elegant and unexpected.

Both will be printed on 100% Silk Crepe de Chine.
As always, please drop me a line at helloermie (at) gmail (dot) com if you have any questions at all, or would like to place an order!

xx

2011-10-23T12:12:00.000-07:00

Autumn Meal:
C. was a wonderful hostess (& wore Uroko Gata).
H. & T. Brought colorful & tasty hor d'oeuvres.
M. made delectable potatoes, parsnips, roasted chicken, and more.
N8 played and had a smile on his face.
G. Caught a bee.
S. had perfect aim, and made her famous Party Salad.
T. wore a wig (not pictured, he would kill me!)
I was a shutterbug.
We all had a good time!

Kneeland Co. Moroccan Slippers

2011-10-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

Love, love, love my new slippers from Joanna!
Handmade in Morocco. Colorful, comfy leather--beautifully embroidered. You could snag a similar pair to by going to her blog and entering her give away! Go here for more details & to enter. Good luck!

(Thank you so much Joanna :)

Tadayuki Kawahito (+ READ BOOKS, Eagle Rock)

2011-10-21T10:29:00.000-07:00

More used Books! These two I found on separate occasions at Read Books in Eagle Rock.
This is a great little bookstore. They carry an assortment of new magazines, a few new books, and have a truly eclectic selection of used books. You have to dig a little, but there are some gems in there for sure.

Tadayuki Kawahito is a photographer whom I had never heard of before I found these books; I still know very little about him- the information on him on the internet is extremely scant.

This book below, Mellow, from what I can tell, documents a trip that he took to California (some of the photos are of Los Angeles) to visit the Self Realization Fellowship's Lake Shrine Temple in Pacific Palisades. The book is in fact dedicated to Sri Paramahansa Yogananda.

Why I like actual books (as opposed to a Kindle, etc.): details like this. If you remove the book's dustcover, it reveals a delicate imprint of a leaf.

Okay. This is pretty crazy. Mellow was published in 1989. The above photo is of a Missile Test from the book. The painting below is by my husband,Tomory, and was made in 2003, in response to an actual Missile Test (a Minuteman III ICBM launch from Vandenberg AFB) we saw in the early evening of Sept.19, 2002. The launch wasn't widely publicised prior to it's occurrence, and apparently, most launches of this type take place in the middle of the day or night--rarely at dusk. It was a total surprise to us: it was in the months leading up to the Iraq war, it was only a year after September 11th, international tensions were high, and when we saw this on our way home from the grocery store- it scared the shit out of me (T. was inspired to make a series of paintings- ha !).
One of the paintings that resulted from that series (pictured below), if memory serves, was actually the very first he ever exhibited at ACME in Los Angeles.

Above: Tomory Dodge, Night Test, 2003, oil on canvas 72 x 60 in.

Below: Pyramid, also by Kawahito. Published circa 1983.

I loved the font that was used so much on the cover of Pyramid, that I gave a picture of it to Katie (my muse and model from S/S '11!) for inspiration when I asked her to design the ERMIE logo.

Obviously documenting a journey to Egypt.

I found this book first, before Mellow. I love how intentionally underexposed many of the photos are...I feel like it makes you examine the photos more closely to pick out all of the details.

When I started my Tumblr last year, some of the first images I posted were from this book.
They just went so well with the very first image I posted to Tumblr- Ermie on a camel in front of the Pyramids!

Whew! Thanks for bearing with me-long post. I hope you enjoyed it, and I hope that it illustrated how inspiration can come from very unexpected sources.

Have a great weekend.

2011-10-20T01:03:00.000-07:00

Pots, food, clothing (and some books) that's all I seem to be posting about lately! It is what it is.

There's been a lot going on with me personally this past year (it's all good), but I haven't felt like divulging too much here. When it comes to writing on this blog, I favor a less is more approach. I envy other bloggers who can write very well. Kate (whom I consider to fall into the aforementioned category) ironically, posted about this same subject earlier this week.

The above photos are more shots of Kent Rothman's work (I posted some iPhone pics on my Tumblr a few pages back) which is currently on exhibit in a group show at Xiem, and a couple shots of the drying-waiting- to- be- fired- or- glazed area in the back of Xiem.

P.S.The top photo is not of a big rock, but a ceramic sculpture made to resemble a big rock! Photo #2 is a detail shot of the same sculpture.

2011-10-19T09:05:00.000-07:00

Finally received my new Botins from Beatrice Valenzuela.
After seeing them on my friends Hadley & Thomas for over a year, I decided to get a pair of my own.

I love the leather, and the stitching- especially with the orange thread.

I also love the simplicity of her packaging: the boots came wrapped in a piece of muslin, tied at 2 ends furoshiki style with her name branded into the cloth.

Oh, and those flaps of leather on the back of the boots- I always thought they were an odd decorative touch, but they actually help you pull your boots on!

I'm already planning my next BV purchase: her Brazil Shoes, but in the Colbalt Blue, as pictured here on Megan's lovely blog.

Inspiration: Alias Books

2011-10-18T11:45:00.000-07:00

All of the used books featured below, I purchased from Alias Books- from both their East & Westside locations. Like so many good things that have recently appeared in my life, I have Joanna to thank for turning me on to this wonderful resource.

I look at blogs, magazines, nature, gallery and museum shows etc. for inspiration. But my favorite source for unexpected inspiration is a good used book. I really enjoy going into a used bookstore, with no preconceived notions of what I am going to purchase, and just allow myself to be intuitively drawn to a book. A book that I am attracted to can come from any section, any subject. Most of the time, I am initially unaware of why I am compelled to choose a particular book from the shelf. I'm often unsure if a book will be of any use my design work. Sometimes it does prove useful; sometimes I purchase a book seemingly for the pure enjoyment of it, and it ends of having nothing to do (consciously) with my work. Bookstores that sell just new books are nice too, but I find the quirky selection of used book stores to be more surprising.

Here are a few recent purchases:

I've wanted a pair of Martin Margiela Tabis since the 1990's. Wouldn't it be fun (and more affordable) to make your own? The tabi's pictured with the circles are especially nice...very Cosmic Wonder Light Source.

I purchased this book to help with my pottery technique. But who knows? The textures and forms pictured in this book may end up influencing my textiles. In addition to being an instruction manual, this nice little text includes photos of ceramic works by Lucie Rie, Gertrud and Otto Naztler, and Ettore Sottsas, among others.

I have only been to Death Valley once. I want to go back. I love the desert, I do. I find desert landscapes endlessly beautiful, spiritual, and haunting. This guide book was initially published in the 1950's and is illustrated with photographs by Ansel Adams.

Perhaps my favorite recent find: Sally Mann, At Twelve. These are just detail shots of her beautiful photos...if you can, try to find the book to get an accurate sense of the gorgeous complexity of these images. My interest in photography has become stronger over the years...but I know that I purchased this particular book for reasons beyond a surface interest in photography.

I'll show you a couple more books later this week...

2011-10-17T11:24:00.000-07:00

A good weekend. We didn't make it to the High Desert Test Sites as originally planned, but we made up for it with other activities.

Friday: Taco Night with H, T, and J.

Sat. : Stopped by ACME to see the Monique Prieto show. I always love taking a peek in the back office, too: Pics 1,2-- Matt Merkel Hess ceramic trashcans (he'll be closing out the year with a solo show at ACME--very excited about this one), a gorgeous Caitlin Lonegan painting with hydrangeas.

Saw Bryan Ferry at the Greek. Love that man.
The way to go to the Greek & avoid nasty stacked parking: Park your car on Hillhurst or thereabouts, get an outdoor table at Little Dom's (not as noisy), and walk up to the Greek after dinner. Easy peasy.

Sun: Yoga, errands, cleaning, reading, & dinner with good friends at brand new Highland Park Restaurant Maximiliano (3rd pic). Finally! A good, casual, affordable Italian Place in our hood. Brought to you by the same folks as the Oinkster.
We tried a lot of different things- all good. Especially Recommended: Spaghetti and Meatballs, Tagliatelle with Bolognese Sauce, any of the pizzas, Olive Oil Ice Cream with Sea Salt Caramel.

2011-10-14T02:33:00.000-07:00

Textile Design © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Side Slit Maxi Skirt in PCH Print (Cambria) Colorway. 100% Organic Cotton Sateen. Available by special order.

Silk Tank (preview of an ERMIE S/S '12 style) in the Spectrum Print, Venice colorway.

Spectrum

2011-10-12T19:28:00.000-07:00

Textile Design © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Poor little Spectrum Print...I just haven't been able to give it the proper focus it deserves.
So, here...

This Triangle Dress featuring the Spectrum Print in Malibu is available via special order. Please email me for more information.

For ERMIE F/W: I will feature the Ojai Spectrum Print (multi- color reds, browns, yellow, green) on the Silk Tee, and the Venice Spectrum Print (plum, violets, hot pink, rust) on a silk chiffon scarf...see the various F/W '11 prints in their different colorways here (scroll to bottom of page).

Silver Arrow Bracelet & Amuletum Necklace by Odette NY.

ERMIE in Paris...

2011-10-12T13:57:00.000-07:00

Blouse: Textile Design © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Photo: Milena Silvano

...as worn by Milena, who recently exhibited her work there!
I just love the juxtaposition of patterns here: the old, detailed floral wallpaper with my somewhat simple digital design.

I can't wait to see her entire F/W '11 collection!
Thank-you Milena.

Talitha Print

2011-10-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

Talitha Print in Fes.

As of now * I plan to feature this print on just the Silk Tee (last 2 pics...worn with my Rowena Sartin Skirted Shorts!).

This print was developed from a fragment of a vintage Berber weaving that I purchased from Joanna. I just love the colors of this print, and they are in fact quite different from those of the original textile. Joanna brought the original weaving to Los Angeles all the way from Morocco. It seemed somewhat fitting to name this print after jet-setter Talitha Getty, who resided in Morocco for a period of time, and was married to John Paul Getty Jr.

I love that this textile from thousands of miles away somehow ended up in my hands. Who was the maker? Man or woman? Could they still be living? What were they thinking about when they made it? I'm sure they never imagined in their wildest dreams that some woman living in Los Angeles would give their textile new life through the technology of digital printing. Would they approve of what I've done? I'm not sure.

But, I am intrigued with the idea of taking something traditional, beautiful, old, fragile and unique (that in it's current state would perhaps be used for decorative purposes or carefully stashed away, unseen) and transforming it into something modern, useful, more durable, that many individuals might enjoy and hopefully still find beauty in.

Necklace worn throughout: Dream Collective/ Kathryn Bentley. Available here.

(*But if you like it as pictured on the Dolman Dress, please let me know-and I can make one for you.)

2011-10-10T12:02:00.000-07:00

Waiting to be glazed.

Little turquoise pot next to the pot that was supposed to be the same color!

Celadon glaze on the inside.

So tiny, but I like this one a lot.

It's interesting, this ceramics revival. Sort of like the knitting revival that occurred about a decade ago. I wonder what the next craft trend will be. I think it all has to do with technology fatigue...wanting to get away (for a little bit at least) from our computers and phones and feel something tactile and tangible. To step into the role of maker, instead of our usual role of consumer.
"Consumer" may be an impossible role to break--even though I am making pottery, textiles, clothing- I still have to buy my materials, and pay for my pottery class, pay my seamstress for her hard work.
Computer technology is so seamlessly integrated into our culture. I think it's funny that I still want to take digital photos of my pottery and show you these images via blogging & the internet!

Maybe it's all just nostalgia. My house was filled with ceramics, textiles (macrame!) growing up in the 70's...

thoughts?

2011-10-09T17:46:00.000-07:00

Textile Design © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

ERMIE F/W '11 Preview Page is now up. The perma-link is to the right.

Day hike:

More ERMIE F/W '11 Styles

2011-10-07T18:35:00.000-07:00

Short Sleeve Midi/Maxi Dress

Scoop neck, short sleeves, pockets. Slips on, no closures, unlined. 100% Silk Crepe de Chine with matching skinny sash (not pictured). May be ordered as a midi length dress as shown above or as a maxi dress. Shown here in the Zuma Print. Necklace pictured: by DB/CB Debra Baxter.

"Free" Sleeve Dress

Same body as the Dolman Sleeve Dress, but with shorter sleeves that have not been bound in elastic. Hits slightly above the knee. Scoop neck & pockets. Slips on, no closures, unlined. 100% Silk Crepe de Chine with matching skinny sash(not pictured). Shown here in the Canyon Print (Sunset colorway).
Necklaces: Juliet Gorman & Dream Collective.

Triangle Dress

Directly above: detail of dress hem.

This time in the Yarn Print, Los Padres Colorway. Slightly different here than the dress I first posted: this version is roomier, more a-line, with sleeves that are about 1" longer, and bias trim on the outside of the neckline. (When I get the Pre-Order page up and running -hopefully tomorrow , please let me know which version of this dress you prefer.)
Necklace: Mociun/Krantz.

All Textile Designs © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Sliver bracelet worn throughout: Odette NY Arrow Bracelet.

More Food & ERMIE News

2011-10-07T11:47:00.000-07:00

I did it. I made this.
We ate it just as it was featured in the webisode- with carne asada. The pomegranate seeds are a genius addition to this dish. Little, sweet, juicy, crunchy pops of flavor that go so well with the queso fresco and the charred beef. The cactus I wasn't so crazy about. It was definitely fun to cook with- but even after cooking it for 20 minutes or so- it still had a viscous quality to it...similar to okra, which, incidentally, I've never been crazy about either.

But it's fun to cook with new foods and I'm glad I gave this a shot. The dish was a nice change of pace from our usual fare...and it also gave us the opportunity to use one of the pomegranates from our bumper crop we've had this year, as well as some chilies from our garden.

Last night I made a roasted chicken- it's cavity stuffed with a cut & squeezed lemon, fresh rosemary, parsley, oregano & marjoram from our garden-the outside of the bird rubbed with softened butter, and coated with generous amounts of salt & pepper.
I added carrots, garlic cloves, & baby fingerling potatoes tossed in olive oil, salt, pepper, herbs de Provence, and a few shakes of Penzey's BBQ 3000 rub.

It's so easy. You stick that bird in a 375 degree oven and just let it sit there for a couple of hours. Covering the bird loosely with a sheet of tin foil when it's browning too quickly, and making sure to uncover the bird once or twice to toss the veggies in the juices, and at the very end to allow the skin to crisp & brown.
Could not be easier- it turned out perfectly crisp & juicy- not dried out at all. Love dishes like this where I can mostly forget about them when they are cooking, and do other things like look at all of the used books I've purchased recently from Alias (more on that soon).

Oh, I made these cookies too. Best chocolate chip cookies ever. Worth the effort & the wait.

** Other News: I'll be accepting pre-orders for ERMIE F/W '11 due to several requests to do so. I'm going to set up a page in the next few days where you can view all of the styles & prices until the official look book comes out (shooting for early November for the look-book release date). There will be a few things in the look book that won't be previewed here on the blog: chiffon scarves, hand crocheted belts by Cheryl Cambras, and a couple of prints I'm working on at the last minute.

As long as you have a Paypal account you may pre-order. Pre-orders will ship in early to mid November, orders placed after the look book is released will ship late November, & early December. Just email me if you have any questions!

2011-10-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

Rainy day photos.

Feels strange to say something about this here, but it also feels strange not to...

R.I.P. Steve Jobs and Bert Jansch.
Thank you for your creativity and being who you were meant to be.

Also: Look, Hadley's new paintings.
+
KATE & WILL'S FUNDRAISER.

2011-10-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

Raining here, which I actually like...it cleans the air, waters the garden, and when it's also cooler outside like today- gives me an excuse to wear sweaters and make cozy food like this dish.

Of course, I roasted the pumpkin seeds--don't want to waste them! This time I just sprinkled them with a little cayenne, chili powder, cumin and salt. So good!

We Never Sleep

2011-10-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

Photos courtesy of wenvrsleep.

Style: Washington Color School Necklace
Photographer: Dustin Fenstermacher
Stylist: Siri Thorson
Jewelry: wenvrsleep/Sarah Beaver
Model: Laura O. @ Commence Quest
Yarn Print Silk Tee: Courtesy of ERMIE

Sarah asked me to contribute an ERMIE piece (The Yarn Print Silk Top in the Big Sur colorway) to her F/W Lookbook shoot for her jewelry line wenvrsleep.

I just love how these images turned out.
Not to mention that lovely Washington Color School Necklace is going on my wishlist!

Sarah's collection should be be available in the next few weeks. Congratulations Sarah, and thank you!

Tops

2011-10-04T16:50:00.000-07:00

Textile design © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

More ERMIE F/W '11.

Tops.

Because sometimes you don't feel like wearing a dress...

1-2: Organic Cotton Knit top in the Canyon Print (Sunrise colorway).

3-6: Silk Tee in the Zuma* Print.

7-10: Silk Tee in the Yarn Print (Los Padres colorway).

* Elizabeth Schambelan on John Divola's Zuma in the October "Art in L.A." issue of Artforum.

Also, Patti Smith's Top 10 from the same issue.

Via Bookforum:
Excited about these Fall reads.

Wonky Pots

2011-09-28T16:19:00.000-07:00

So, I got my glazed pots back and the results were not exactly what I expected!

The glaze on the pot below did not turn out like I wanted it to at all. See that little bit of turquoise? The pot was supposed to be that color! My least favorite of the three. I'm showing you the best part of the glaze in nice lighting. The rest is a dull brown, olive color. Very, um, earthy.

This one I like. It turned out pretty much as I pictured it:

I'm on the fence about this last one. The bowl itself is funny because it's so tiny and clumsy- it looks like a pinch pot. The glaze on this was supposed to be red, but I didn't apply it thickly enough. I like the dark incised marks- I was going for that effect. The inside is nice (top photo). Maybe I'll use it as a salt bowl or something...

So, my least favorite- I took some clippings of succulents from our yard & planted them in the pot.

Now I have a nice little potted plant for our outdoor table!

2011-09-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

Break from the ERMIE F/W previews (sorry! waiting to get more samples :) ) .

Thank you for all of the positive feedback you've given me so far on the collection! It really helps me with planning and of course it's always a confidence booster to feel that my work is being well received. I appreciate all of your comments!

Our yard on an average afternoon. Pomegranates came early this year*. Big- ass garden spider **. A table & chair set that my mom painted --my parent's first dining room table. I've had it for almost 15 yrs.
Yucca blossoms.

* It was around 80 degrees here yesterday. I wanted something cool for dessert. You know what's good? Fresh pomegranate seeds over vanilla ice cream! (okay, maybe there was a square of salted dark chocolate covered caramel in there or two...)

** It's eating bees :(

Triangle Dress

2011-09-27T15:01:00.000-07:00

Textile design © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

Comfortable shift dress in a slight a-line shape. 100% Silk Crepe de Chine. Unlined, slips on, no closures. Elbow length sleeves. Wear as shown or as a tunic over pants. Shown here in the Yarn Print, Big Sur colorway.
Part of the ERMIE F/W '11 collection.

2011-09-27T00:01:00.001-07:00

Textile design © Jennifer Parry Dodge 2011

ERMIE F/W '11 Dolman Sleeve Dress in the Yarn Print, Mojave colorway.
I'm not sure I'll make this dress in this print, because I'll be using it on a version of the"Triangle" dress in this post.

However, once the F/W collection is released, and you like what you see here, I can still make it for you. I do take special orders. Just drop me a line to inquire about fabrics and pricing at helloermie (at) gmail (dot) com. If you see a style you like but you want it in a different print, I can probably do it! Don't be afraid to ask.

2nd Photo: Dress worn with one of my first knitting projects that I still love.

3rd Photo: Sweater: Kai-Aakmann. I'm slightly obsessed with this line. Really interesting basics in nice fabrics at very reasonable prices!

Jewelry: Odette Fox Claw pendant & Arrow Bracelet.
Dream Collective (multi-colored bead & turquoise arrowhead) necklaces.