FAWN RICHES

Ah London, it's always a fun visit and Autumn in the city doesn't disappoint. We visited Richmond, witnessing all the colours the season has to offer. A cluster of sprouting branches stood in the distance, adorned with jewel tones of ruby, citrine and peridot. ​Walking up a gently rising hill led us to a peak. coming to a view of the Thames meadow. What a spectacular view it was. It has been immortalized in​ many paintings; also inspiring the artist J.M.W Turner.  ​

The trees leave remnants of summer across the floor, yet does so beautifully. A sense of continuous renewal. The floor makes a perfect canvas for mottled leaf patterns. I love how each one is unique, and how the imprints would leave a different mark every time, pressed with paint upon paper. A ​few were collected from various trees to create a little art... I'm looking forward to blending the individual pieces.​

Created by Charles I in the 17th century, Richmond Park is the largest of London's Royal Parks. Known for the many deer who call it home, we spotted them in the distance and carefully made our way closer. There is an enchanting feel about the woodlands. All the enthralling books read when younger seem to spring to mind. I thought back to my visit to a park earlier this year, where I was invited in by many a towering tree. A ​dreamscape surrounded by the majestic animals captures the feeling... with a little Elie Saab gown inspiration. 

As the weather changes and surrounded by Rudolph's entourage, the anticipation of Christmas is here. The beautiful fallow deer allowed us to come close enough to admire their speckled fur. There's a calm feeling in the forest, watching nature just be. I remember seeing the horse-chestnuts fall from the tree when younger, intrigued by how the smooth surface contrasts with its spiky shell. Roasted chestnuts are delicious this time of year.​

As a big fan of vintage fashion, the trusty sewing machine was used for tailoring the shoulders and pleats of my blazer. Knee-high boots were perfect for strolling through the grassland. With many amber-leaved trees creating an overhead canopy, I was reminded of wen I painted one on the studio wall. Feeling at home in the long grass, it's safe to say it felt like I was in the Outback, especially in the snap above. 

Noses to the ground, the deer sniffed for berries and chestnuts for the entire duration. I tried to take a photo of the stag with his antlers ​standing tall, yet he was completely unfazed... conkers were calling of course. Well, when food is on the mind, there's no room for anything else. It was a joy to see the red and fallow deer up close. Maybe Bambi will make an appearance on another visit.​

A much welcome burst of sunshine illuminated the leaves. The natural glow allowed the spindly branches to create layers and entwine against the sky. On the walk back, we spotted some artists taking in the picturesque scene, carefreely painting away -. a little reminder to take the easel next ​ time. It would feel like you have all the time in the world. Back in the studio, those rich garnet hues come to life in a leaf-tail gown. Golden leaves double up as expansive skirts to swirl in. 

Walking on Richmond Hill, the landscape was one I couldn't have imagined and it's clear to see why it's such a renowned viewpoint. The meandering in the Thames actually inspired the namesake city in Virginia, U,S, after the founder saw a curve in the James river (who wouldn't have a ​ Pocahontas moment up here?) The stunning colour palette of Richmond was captured in rich bursts of evergreen, red and fawn. 
 
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