Life is a beach to Kirsten Ehrig-Sarkisian. Not only does this LA-based designer live by the ocean, but she also happens to be the founder of high-end swimwear line Belusso. The former lawyer has often been quoted as saying, “I insist on the best from all of my accessories, why wouldn’t I expect the same from my swim and resort wear?” As a result, Belusso tunics and cover-ups are always made from the best imported silks, cottons and cotton voiles from Italy and around the world. The designs are more fashion than beach and are certainly not an afterthought thrown into a swim collection, as happens so often with swimwear companies. “Every time I was at Club 55 in Saint Tropez or Club Marbella, or the like, the women looked so effortless chic. My clients take this section of their expansive closet just as seriously as having the latest handbags or shoes,” says Sarkisian. “Whether they are leaving to Saint Barths or headed to a dear friend’s yacht moored off La Plage Pampelonne, they know getting ready is as easy as having the latest collection delivered to their door.” FYI: the name “Belusso” was inspired by a private tour of Steve McQueen’s automobile collection. Sarkisian fell in love with one in particular; the Lusso Berlinetta. When she found out that “lusso” means “luxury” in Italian, she knew she was close to the perfect name…then she added the letters “bel” from the world “belezza” – Italian for beauty – and the rest is history. Here, the Los Angeles Ballet supporter shares her desktop essentials with Haute Living.
- White orchids – They’re truly beautiful and remind me of Halston. Orchids were his ne plus ultra flowers and he surrounded himself with them.
- My Elsa Peretti paperweight from Tiffany – I’m constantly inspired by her graceful designs. She was always inspired by nature, as am I.
- My iPad – I have countless subscriptions to magazines on Zinio and Newsstand. I love Vogue Paris, Vogue Australia, British Vogue, Air France Madame and of course Haute Living.
- Adobe’s Creative Cloud Suite on my laptop – I couldn’t do my job without either of them!
- My collection of Hermès reference materials – I keep their recent lookbooks, scarf catalogues, history books on the company and what makes it so special. And, of course, if need be, I can always pull out “les carrés” from my Grandmother’s and Mother’s collections to be reminded of their brilliant color combinations!
