Up On The Roof

Venice’s modern roof-top gardens originated in the 16th century as secret lounging areas for courtesans. Here they exposed their hair to the sun to create the golden tresses immortalized in Renaissance paintings. Which JV pieces might they have chosen to wear “up on the roof?”
In Gardens of Venice, (Rizzoli, 1989), Mary Jane Pool describes how the courtesans, behind drawn curtains, created their sun-streaks. Wide-brimmed straw hats protected their complexions, while their hair was pulled through the open crowns and spread out on the brims. Then, it would have been time for gossip and a nap. The spidery frames of the platforms where they sat, called “altane,” continue to give the Venice skyline a distinctive look.

Listen for the caw of Adriatic seagulls, as you imagine a high-altitude scene of silky robes and filmy negligees. Aromatique gets the picture with the Tenjuku Robe of billowy whisper-weight cotton in choice of pansy purple or black. Its capacious ankle-length is accented by a unique open back and high side slits. And underneath? Well, not much, perhaps just Yuvi Kawano’s seductive Noontide Bralette Set in strappy black lace.

If the sun’s warmth is challenged by a sea breeze, consider Aromatique’s ultra-fine one-size Wool Sweater Dress in black. This cozy long-sleeve beauty is fitted at its top and becomes looser as it descends to the ankle. Its charming cut-out can be worn front or back, because the dress is reversible!

The tradition of Venetian color and pattern, influenced by the East, lives on in the exotic prints of Karma on the Rocks. Their contrasting patterns in pajama sets and robes would be decorative above The Grand Canal. We love the generous fit and Japanese-inspired lantern print of the Chochin Aqua Isa Pajama in shades of blue silk charmeuse. For a romantic robe, we might choose the Lagoon Silk Velvet Robe to match, in saturated teal, beautifully embellished with a pop of coral geometric embroidery. A shorter alternative would be the Navy Hanten Jacket, silk velvet on the outside, quilted pale blue silk lining on the inside. Its silver and blue embroidery makes it a perfect complement to the Isa Pajama. 

Amidst any gathering of loveliness, there is usually a queen bee, off in a corner, the most compelling of all. This image comes to mind as we gaze at Merle Noir’s Aamiya Robe in black silk, embellished with Leavers lace appliqués of gold and rose gold. It is the work of two artists: Céline Marie for custom design, and Merel Zwart for finest couture construction techniques. The invisibly stitched Aamiya will coordinate with any of the lingerie pieces from Hervé by Céline Marie. Yet, like the goddess in the corner, it will stand out.

Take a little time to be kissed by the sun, in dreams from Jane’s Vanity.

More Posts

Search Jane's Vanity