Loeffler Randall’s Founder Takes Us Shopping

Fashion brand Loeffler Randall is beloved for its high-end take on craft. Here, founder Jessie Randall shares her distinctive sense of style and a few Chairish favorites.

SHOP JESSIE RANDALL’S CHAIRISH FAVORITES >>>

How would you describe your style? What’s the brand ethos behind Loeffler Randall?

I would describe my style as very personal to me, a true external expression of the interior me. It’s feminine, a bit modest, a mix of dressy and casual, thoughtful. It represents a desire to quietly stand out amongst the crowd with taste and style. I’d describe the ethos behind Loeffler Randall in a similar way.

You’re known for creative footwear and fashion that’s crafted in small batches and feels very curated. What are some of the ways you translate your commitments to thoughtful design and responsible materials into home decor?

I love things that are unique and feel very personal to me—the kinds of things no one else could have. This definitely translates into the interior design of my spaces. Especially in the choice of special fabrics, objects from my travels, items made by artisans, special custom items that are totally unique, and also my love of vintage and antique items.

Tell us about your approach to vintage and antique finds. How does that come into play when it comes to designing a space? How do you like to incorporate vintage/antiques?

I’m always on the hunt for special vintage and antique items. I keep a list of search terms in the ‘Notes’ app on my phone and look them up when I have time. Every weekend, I go to an antique shop in Sag Harbor New York which is very curated and well priced. I also have lists of shops I like to pop into when I am traveling. I visit charity shops whenever I see them. This mix of old items with newer ones in my home creates a personalized space. I especially love older items because they have a history and can never be replaced.

How has artisanship guided your design sensibility? Not only in fashion, but especially in the stores and interior spaces you’ve created.

I love to work with my hands. I’m always crafting—knitting, making a quilt, cross stitching, learning to make baskets. And my love of all things tactile translates into my design work, especially in the handmade aspect of our products and the craft techniques we use to create items that are luxurious and special. In terms of my spaces, I think artisanship comes through in the handmade items I’ve collected on my travels like ceramic plates, vases, dishes and bowls, as well as, in the items I hand-make myself to decorate my spaces. For example, I bought beautiful linen fabric in Sweden and then sewed it into a little skirt for under my kitchen sink. I have zellig tiles from Morocco in my kitchen and bath and these tiles are beautiful because they are made by hand and have colors that vary—no two tiles are exactly alike. I also collect vintage handmade baskets. The mark of hand work and craft is everywhere in my spaces.

Details are so important to your designs, whether it’s a moiré bow on a shoe or a pleated detail on a clutch purse. What details matter most to you in your home?

The details that matter most to me are the ones that make my space unique, the little ideas I have and choices I have made that no one else could have. Some examples of details I love in my spaces: the candle rack in my kitchen, the pleated fabric light over my dining table, the tiles in my kitchen, the way I used ruffled block printed bedspreads as slipcovers for my couch.

ON CHAIRISH & VINTAGE PIECES

What do you find most compelling about Chairish? 

I like that the app is easy to use and the images are consistent. I think there is a lovely edit of vintage and antique items that are well priced.

How does sustainability factor into your design choices and love of vintage? 

Of course! I love finding something antique or vintage instead of buying something new.

A FEW DESIGN FAVORITES

Favorite way to create a statement-making moment in a room?

I sewed a little skirt to cover an ugly coffee table I have and now I love the way it looks. Anything gathered or ruffled or hand sewn I love.

Favorite paint color? 

I have so many favorites. I really love the color I recently painted my front door by the beach—Crete Countryside by Benjamin Moore. Most often I use Farrow and Ball colors, though. I love any green. I am never without my Farrow and Ball swatch book.

Favorite piece of decor in your home? 

I think the giant island in my kitchen by the beach is such a statement maker. It was designed by my friend Zoe Feldman. I love the little scallop detail along the edge. 

Favorite style icon? 

My grandmother Harriet who wore bright red lipstick, colorful cashmere sweaters, and had teeny tiny feet.

Design destination every creative should visit at least once?

Marrakech blew my mind. I think it is the most inspiring place I’ve ever been.

A FEW LIFESTYLE FAVORITES

Favorite vacation destination?

My favorite vacation is always a beach vacation. We have a little apartment we like to rent in St Barth’s and I love it there.

Favorite hotel that’s inspired your work while traveling?

Hotel Peter and Paul in New Orleans—a different color gingham on every floor!

Favorite host (or thank you) gift?

Anything from Nickey Kehoe.

Favorite flower?

Peony or ranunculus or geranium.

Favorite entertaining essential?

A craft project! I love to have my friends over and make something together while we chat.

Lead Image: Jessie Randall of Loeffler Randall, Image Courtesy of Loeffler Randall.