persimmon: Black Crane and Momoko Suzuki

April 12, 2013

Black Crane and Momoko Suzuki

A while ago Totokaelo featured a designer and the designer's home on their blog. I had never heard of the woman, Momo Suzuki, or her line Black Crane, but I loved her house! And her whole look! Her Serge Mouille wall sconce is one of my favorite light fixtures of all time. As are her Charlotte Perriand leather and chrome chairs. You can read about her whole background here on totokaelo's blog but I will sum it up short and sweet. Momo is from Japan, lives in LA and designs beautiful, simple clothes with quality materials in a small color palette and wonderful drape (or at least it seems so from the photos) and everything is made in LA too. And lots of pieces are 100% cotton, something I think is very underrate - washable, better with kids, etc. And simple details like raw edges and seams down the middle.

The prices are great too, even items under $100 (i know, what!) But some things do seem rather basic. Especially when lately I have limited funds with which to invest and really try to use them wisely, i.e. on key, striking pieces that are unique and special...not just a basic tee.

Momo with her Perriand chairs and a Platner table.

The Serge Mouille sconce and Momo Suzuki.

Momo on her cool couch in very cool sandals (more on those another day.)

Her closet. So simple - utterly cool.

That said, I have since seen Black Crane all over the friggin' place -- Mohawk General Store, Myth and Symbol (in Houston), Machus (in Portland), Totokaelo of course, and now even No.6 is carrying her stuff. I have had my eye on the Wide dress. It's sort of like a long t-shirt stretched into a dress with kimono sleeves. I think it would be great when it's worn slightly oversized (not tight) and then there are some jumpers and several different slouchy pants and shorts. And a few great dresses. The tees cross a line into being too flow-y slash boxy. Not sure about them but you be the judge. Below are some highlights: