MATSU

From France to Florida

Traveling amazes me. You never know what you will learn, experience or find. The sense of adventure is always a surprise. I like that. Traveling with your mind wide open enables this to happen.

 
I have just returned from Paris, buying scouting and searching for new trends, classics and staples such as music and wine. This was for the Spring 2010 fashion and accessory market.

My photos will explain some of my experiences and discoveries. I invite you to take a virtual stroll through my weekend in Paris ! I am thrilled to share this with all of you. It gives you some secret insights into what stimulates me and the origin of my frolic-ky mindset . Play. I sometimes don't know when to stop. Not a bad place to be when I think about how I allow myself this mental emotional and soulful freedom ! Think of the alternative. Being locked up inside.  NO !  Never ! 

I am between one trip and nearly ready for the next, being tomorrow. I am flying to Sarasota with my bags overstuffed with all sorts of finds such as stones, diamonds, wood and relics. These components are what will become the next edition of my jewelry line Nymph. Stay tuned folks. You will be seeing the next series of photos, and the jewelry will be available  by the weekend of October 16 Th. There will be a party kick off preview showing at Boldfacers studio at Fort Point Channel !  Check their website for details.

I am altering my blog releases beginning this week. I will send out a tiny e mail blast announcing each release. I hope you enjoy reading  and receiving the news. This is a new strategy. I was asked to send an awareness e mail out to drive people to the blog since they would never know otherwise what is happening.
Many have asked me why I am no longer at Matsu full time, and anyone in business knows what kind of effort and energy, not to mention stamina it takes to run a business and keep it fresh all the time. My wonderful staff supports me, and this has given me an opportunity to generate other delightful things and projects, such as Nymph, for you. I am grateful to everyone supporting me in this.I hope you enjoy these photos. Stay tuned for what's next. Yours in joy and spirit, Dava

The old and the new.

I often catch myself teetering to and fro with how searching, scouting and discovering plays into my life and career. The hunt. The adventure around it all. Merchandise, furniture, scarves, jewelry. They all serve a purpose, but my deepest commitment is to share, spread and stage what I find onto the plateau of retail.  The real goal is to tap into people's hearts as well as their spirit.

I am consistently inspired to seek. Despite my state of mind, or the physical state I am in, which covers New York, New Hampshire and Vermont most recently. I am drawn to beautiful things both old and new.

What this teaches me is bringing a style, a flair and an appeal to the collection that is housed at Matsu. The choice is key. The editing is the most challenging part of scouting, shopping, seeking and discovering. The choices that result in this creative process I would like to think are what  motivates and also inspires our clientele to keep coming in for more.  The feeling  experienced along with the haunting scents create the ambiance and the memory., I would like to think this; the culmination of  where the old and the new merge is the result of what triggers the senses of anyone that walks in the front door, hopefully. There is such a feeling of achievement once the decision to choose an item is made. Most likely, because of the heap it was discovered in, or the condition of it. My imagination is stimulated because I can really feel the possibility of success and the potential pieces have. Removing them from their original environment and creating a new one is the key sharing it's potential. I am speaking of a chair that may have been hiding in a large pile of junk, or a cashmere scarf that is hanging with another 40 colors. Just the mere choice of discovering one piece in the mass is what I consider to be the most rewarding feeling. Then to share it on a larger scale, makes me feel so good, and then to have that spread into the lives of many, is so rewarding.

These are just some of the thoughts that trickle through my mind,and I share the process of how one gets merchandise to the state that it is discovered in by you, at Matsu.  I include some of my recent discoveries, and the state they were found it. It is astonishing how the before and the after transcend.

 

I hope you are all curious now, and will indeed visit us soon ! This makes my heart and mind smile, I am here sharing it with you, and hope you experience it too !

Yours in joy,

Dava

Life after Florida with Spring approaching

Whew !!!   Just the break  I needed.  Well deserved, and grateful for it.

The visit to Sarasota, was an early in the season one, or late  depending on where you reside. For us New Englanders, late in the winter season, just when we begin to wake up from the long hybernation. Long dark cold days, nesting and nurturing the soul. Roasted foods, soups and stews. Comfort food. Soothing our lives indoors. That is what winter brings to my mind. 

The early part ?  That would be how the Floridians consider their climate at the moment. My  daughter and I ... obviously from the North; few of the only ones on the beach. Who cares?  The visit was all about life cycles, my dad ailing, my mom struggling and Aya and I visiting.  My attempt to nurture my family came through by cooking for us all, and during the day trying to soak up the sun, sea, sand and sky. Ahh...    Such a relief from the winter we are all experiencing, and I know we are all done with it. !

 How do we prepare for this upcoming over due Spring ?  Think Spring ! Colors, lighter clothing, longer days. The food shifts to more greens, Seasonal  artichokes, asparagus, arugula, yum.

New pieces for our wardrobe. Adorning our bodies. Yes. The newly arrived Lilith  Spring collection pictured here. The clothing tones look like the buds in the spring on the trees, and their shapes like poetry on a page.  We welcome you to come into Matsu.  We know you're out there.  Slowly emerging from the winter slumber.  Enliven your soul, visit us soon.

yours, in joy,

dava muramatsu

Paris, Here After

 I love the feeling that I have once returning from this flight from Paris to Boston. Aka... Jet Lag. What it does is heightens my awareness due to my body and eyes opening at 5 am. Rather than allowing my mind to race, I act on the thoughts that are generating as I lie in bed. 

 Paris always has an inspiring effect on me, and depending on my state of mind, where I take the thoughts are often spontaneous. There is something about the City of Lights that energizes me from the inside out, from my Psyche to my heart.  My mission is always to bring some of this back here, to Boston through thoughts, words, feelings emotions, photographs and then generate the creative end through the merchandise and flowers in my life and at Matsu.

This is all about what inspires me, and since I am so easily seduced by anything that triggers MY senses, my goal is to trigger yours as well. Don't be afraid. I know, to some it is scary, but don't be.  Anyway we are approaching Halloween, and if nothing else, that alone can give you permission to experience the world through these words.  I experienced many adventures, but would like to edit some and share them with you here.  I spent Friday evening at dusk ,photographing some of the Aero space exhibition on the Concorde, and near the American Embassy. The black bat like looking American spy air craft especially caught my eye. I found it sensual in shape, and no wonder, it was designed to hover and hide in the sky. Just look at this ! It looks like matte rubber! I have never known myself to particularly enjoy airplanes, but this just blew me away. The other photo is a French Fighter Jet. Just look at the nose of this gorgeous piece of machinery !

On to Buddha Bar. Yes, a tourist attraction, I know but I may as well share my secret here.  I met the DJ, Sam Poppat about 4 years ago at the first Buddha Bar to have opened. I walked right up to his booth.. ( courageous ) Tall very dark, Indian, and intimidating... Little did I know at that moment how this aquaintance would alter my mind in music for a long time. He was the producer of the 8th edition of the world reknown music CD series, and as the talk of opening in New York City, came about , he traveled there to DJ. It was here that we began this dialog that I understood, and absolutely became enthralled with his music style, choices and the energy of the music. He then cut several CDs for me, and this past weekend, one more. I can honestly say that his style, and  flavor of  music just sends my heart spinning. At Matsu, this music is often played, and my newest addition has yet to be released here. I am enclosing a shot of Sam Sipping Bordeaux at midnight in Paris is like drinking water here. Healthy, and clean. So, shortly thereafter, I departed back out doors in to the city that never sleeps.  And, being there I barely did as well.

The Spring Summer Collection 09, of Comme des Garcons was carefully chosen and edited for my wonderful clientele on Friday morning. More romantic than I have seen in the past seasons, and my selection will be available come this March. Soft fluid light weight velvets in rich bordeaux and Charcoal greys, as well as sensuous silk chiffons. I was pleasantly surprised, Rei Kawakabo's look is usually very graphic, heavy and often a bit stiff, therefore in working with it from season to season, I  place you all in my mind, and myself as well in forecasting What would I like to wear next Spring ? what is fresh ? what feels good ! and there you have it.

On Saturday evening, my last in Paris, the annual White Night was held. The museums in Paris are open all night long. I did not attend, but will say the energy in the air was so high, and buzzing. I was treated to a wonderful dinner by Chan Luu, the designer known for her multi wrap bracelets that nearly everyone owns, and if not, should.. Dinner was divine, down an obscure street in the Left Bank. Italian food. I had calamari, served in it's black sauce absolutely like a fanatasy. ( for foodies ). This dinner was proceeded by a strut in the Jardin de Tuilleires. You will see the photo taken of me running around in a scarlet TuTu. yes, my favorite.. brings out the child in me.  All I wish to do is play, while wearing one.  They dared me to wear it, so I did.  You know, when in Paris.. anything goes.  So I did.  Another highlight.  It was sad to have the evening come to a close, but with all of my discoveries, including my re visit to the designer, Jamin Puech for Spring..... what an adventure that showroom alone. The theme, folks was Africa.  Gorgeous bags... take a closer look.  This collection is due in Matsu in March.

So, as I reflect, my trip was divine, and now I am here back in Boston and am working on the creation of our next fashion show, Taste. Held in Weston this coming Tuesday at Off Center. The inspiration from my prior trip certainly a boost to this production. Hope you can make it. It will have an Autumn theme, and I will be showing over 18 looks. With Hair and Makeup a focus as well.

That's it for now.  Can't wait to see you all.

Yours, In Joy,

dava

Pre Paris, End of September

Hello, to you all !   Those following my blog can experience the travel of time through the senses.  I am preparing for my up coming Paris trip. The seasons departure is this Wednesday, October 1st.  In Prep, I look around and see the terrain surrounding us begin to brown, age, and reflect the little chill we have experienced so far. The leaves colors will only become vivid as the Chill appears.  We have not yet had that, only rains and warm weather.  No new coats yet.  They are arriving at MATSU, and the sweaters and scarves that we seem to love to wrap our bodies up with also await the cooler weather.

This season welcomes the harvest, with apples, pumpkins, squash, and fresh figs.  I am still excited about slicing the figs and treating them with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. I  included them with fresh baked salmon the other night. What an unexpected treat!

This blog session will be short and sweet as I prepare to explore the banks again of Paris, and visit the shows. I will be searching for treats for you all for Spring 09, this trip. I mainly go to buy the collection very carefully with you in mind, of Comme des Garcons.  I am open to other goodies I may find, a fabulous bottle of wine or two.

Stay tuned, and for now  I invite you into MATSU. It is truly warm and juicy in the environment. Both visually and realistically.

Reunion, Rejoice

The absence of my presence in my blogging is the result of new experiences, great weather and just life.  Sorry about this. I am back to share, and to apologize for the long silence. It was this past April that I last wrote.

Welcome back! and as this Glorious Summer moves around us, along with the wonderful abundance of Vitamin D in the sky. Time to Rejoice. As we have gone through the months of Aires, Taurus, Gemini , Cancer and approaching Leo, we begin to feel the slight hint of fall in the air..... Not yet. although the full moon this past Friday sets the tempo of the times to come.

I urge you all to celebrate the Summer Weather in your hearts and soul. Soaking up the heat is stimulating and internally inspirational, as we should use this to replenish our "inner wells".

I am going to share a few photos of my Summer Trip , my first, to North Carolina.  Nothing too fancy, certainly not an area of sophistication. Just down right earthy beautiful vegetation, lots of mountains and an occasional relic. In celebration of my sister's 50th this July, I traveled to Black Mountain and into Asheville.  Somewhat, to me a time warp. It made me realize and truly appreciate the North East. ... Yes, folks, The Boston Area.  The metropolis of the North East...... by comparison, that is.  Not necessarily a trip worth making for the food, nor any creative inspiration other than the terrain.  Mountain climbing was fun, great excercize, but the rhythm down yonder was something to adjust to, and by my return, I had. Delighted to arrive back in Boston, however. 
I will include some photos here.

On another note, MATSU ( one of my sanctuaries  ) is celebrating the closing of one season and transitions into another with final markdowns on all Sale Merchandise. Creating new feelings for the up coming seasons.  New jewelry arriving as well clothing. You will be seeing some new products on our e mail blasts, so stay tuned. !

I commit to sharing my experiences with you weekly.  No more lapses !! Promise.

 

joy,
dava

the Floridian Break

The Sunshine Florida offers along with the never ending clear weather is so rejuvinating to me. A state not that far, yet with the floozy air fares, making it difficult at times to travel. My family lives there now. My mom, dad , sister and brother. Sarasota, on the Gulf of Mexico. A wonderful place to visit, but living there full time from New England ? Don't think so. The ocean is therapy for me. The sand, the sun and the water all rolled into one big burst of relaxation. I was there with my teenager and as she has grown, I find her company more and more stimulating, and fun. I am thankful for having her, and for the time we were able to share ,down south.  NOT to mention the sand, unlike anywhere else in the world... white powder..

Post Paris.

Upon my return to the States, I find happiness and peace. I thrive on the prior departure from Boston. I allow my mind to open, accept and search for any new sign of adventure.  The unknowing of what possibilities lie ahead in another country, always tantalize me. This recent trip to Paris was short, but fulfilling nonetheless. The sights, the smells and the sounds were very inspiring. It is second nature for me to be so stimulated due to the richness of life I experience here, in the Boston Area. My subconscious goals remain the same and that is to trigger my own senses...... all 8 of them.  :).

This trip energized me in many ways. Hearing new music, drinking red wines, selecting new merchandise for Now, and for Fall 08.  Here we are, barely reaching Spring... Long overdue, yet the nature of my industry is for casting ahead.In this case, for the upcoming Fall season, come my favorites, Jewel Tones.  Rich deep purples, reds, Fuchsia, Moss and Olive greens, and regal golds.... aah.. such a refreshing palette, especially after all of the subtle tonality of the clothing from the past seasons.

This is a great time of year to invite the current tones of Spring into your lives... don't know how? Visit the produce department at Whole Foods..... Any one of them.... The colors of artichokes and asparagus are enough to want me to paint a wall..... (of course, for those not having been in Matsu recently, you will be delighted to see our newest shot of invigoration.... a new tone on all walls).  On a more personal note, are you stuck? Overwhelmed? Not knowing where and how to begin ? I encourage you to come into Matsu, and try on new silhouettes, new colors, and of course....... Hire me !!! Did you know that was an option ???  You owe it to yourself, to have a closet filled with only treasures you love.  Close your eyes, and choose.. It really is possible.. It is liberating not only for you, once it is completed, but also for me.  Immediate gratification......  I promise.

If you are unable to fly away, I hope you find inspiration here and now. You will see some of my experiences here, and upon visiting Matsu, you will find many products including clothing, jewelry, candles and our olive oil soaps - exclusive to Matsu, hand carried by me, from Paris.

joy,

dava