It’s hotter than ever out there and we’re craving cool refreshments to style out balmy summer evenings in the garden. Here’s our current favourite – a gin-based sundowner that has enough ingredients to warrant cocktail status, but is so easy to make you’ll be serving it in your sleep. And, if you’re in need of […]
FOOD & HOME
Meet the Photographer: Linda Wit
If like us, you’ve found yourself planning a trip to Ibiza as a result of seeing our latest campaign photography, then you have Linda Wit to thank. Linda’s ability to capture the atmosphere of this island through authentic caught moments is the reason we were so keen to work with her. Originally from Amsterdam, Linda moved to Ibiza with her family with the intention of staying just a year. Find out why, five years later, she still calls the White Isle home, and how living there has changed her outlook on work and life.
You were born in Amsterdam but always itching to travel. Why do you think that is?
From a very young age, I loved to listen to the stories of my grandpa about his travels. My parents had their own organic supermarket for more than 30 years and didn’t have that much time to go on holiday. In my dreams, I was travelling already. From the age I could go by myself, I started to travel and explore. Since the children were born, we’ve taken them everywhere, travelling in the desert of Oman or helping an island biologist in the Maldives with his turtle logbook – they love it too. It’s a privilege to let them grow up like this and explore humans, animals, flavours and religions from all over the world. To see the world as one with all its different sides.
What did you find in Ibiza that made you want to stay put?
We always had the dream to go for one year with the children when they were little. Five years ago, we decided to go for it. To live for one year more barefoot in nature, enjoying the slow life. After this first year, none of us wanted to go back to Amsterdam. It’s the magic of the island, you love it, or you hate it. If you go for the ride, the island gives you so many beautiful lessons, and if you take them, the magic is there. We’re enjoying the South European lifestyle, the mañana mañana mentality, the nature around us, the sun, and the high quality of life.
What’s it like to bring up a family here?
We tell each other daily how grateful we are to bring up the children here on the island. Ibiza is like her own mini globe, with all the nationalities and different people. When our children grow up, they will have friends all around the world. They go to a French school where they speak and learn French, Spanish and English. When I see how easily they switch languages, I’m more than proud, and see this as a big present for them. It’s like, six months a year they walk barefoot, it’s easy to stay a child and play outside, and they are really part of the lifestyle. Everyone brings their children everywhere, summer nights are not just for the grown-ups – even small children are a part of this gathering together. They’re not surrounded by rushed people, and I feel so grateful to see how they can look to and enjoy nature, and how close they are to all animals.
Have you found living on the island sparks your creativity?
For sure! Because of the slow life and the nature around me, I got back a little sparkle. Running around in Amsterdam and being on socials made me work with pictures in my mind. When I moved and skipped socials for 18 months, I started to look at the world again. To create things from my own eyes, to see magic everywhere – the light, the movement of nature, the raw part of nature – and my creativity came back. Creating things from outside of myself, not wanting to make something perfect but to see the perfection in imperfection. Exactly how it is, to keep things simple and real. Following this made me create my own signature and I keep moving in that direction, just doing the things I love to do. To continue playing every day and to look at the world as a little child looking for miracles.
What do you feel most passionately about right now?
Real stories, a glimpse of someone’s life. Just as it is. Local people everywhere around the world, to see their big smiles no matter what conditions they live in. Not the perfect magazine story but real happiness. It makes me so inspired.
What makes an amazing photograph, in your opinion?
The light. The little moment. You have to see it. You cannot force it. It’s there. The movement or smile. The imperfection, the realness. The raw picture. It doesn’t matter what camera you use – if it’s an expensive one, the perfect lens or just an old crappy phone, it’s all about what your eyes see, how you go out of your mind and let your eyes see the magic.
What’s been the highlight of our shoot for you?
We had such a nice women-only team! To see everyone doing the things they love and creating something beautiful together. And to capture the artisans on our island, listen to their stories and see their creativity was a really nice thing to do. Inspiring.
Why do you think people describe this place as magical?
I’m sure it’s the energy. There’s this female island energy. If you let go, if you jump on the ride of this island, the island gives you so much magic and love back. I’m sure about that. But if you go for the ‘dark’ side, using the island to make money or not seeing the lessons it gives, it will be too much and the island can really bring you down. It’s like the force of Star Wars, the light side and the dark side. They say the first year is a test year, if you love it you can stay forever but keep learning, and if you hate it, you will leave the island before the year is finished.
Who are the women you’re inspired by?
Women who choose for their own happiness, who can see and feel their happiness. I did a lot of volunteering in Greece and saw women with many children living in a little tent with nothing but making the very best of it. And smiling with a real smile. I could feel their happiness and gratefulness. It made me cry. They looked happier than many other women in my life. If you can feel this and choose this for yourself, you are a hero in my opinion. And women who choose to do what they love, not choosing what to do out of fear, but from their heart and passion. For themselves, for others, for nature. It´s not about making a career but following your path.
Discover the Back To Origin Collection.
Midsummer sounds
Our lightest and warmest days are officially here, and with midsummer comes the opportunity to harness the sun’s power and to re-charge mind and body. Feel the positive vibrations with our playlist and take a moment to honour your achievements.
To mark this year’s summer solstice, we created a playlist of laid-back tunes that provide the perfect soundtrack for watching the sunset or sitting around a campfire with friends.
Now’s an opportune time to look at how our lives have unfolded since January, to acknowledge how far we’ve come, and to express our intentions for the rest of the year, whether in the form of a sketch, collage or written affirmation.
To shop the looks featured here, head to our high summer collection.
Meet the Model: Vanessa Breuer
This summer, we returned to Ibiza, the birthplace of the Monsoon concept, and the inspiration for a collection of beautifully detailed, unstructured pieces. And who better to channel the bohemian spirit of our designs than one of the island’s own residents? Here, we get to know a little more about campaign model Vanessa Breuer.
Thanks for welcoming us to your beautiful home for our shoot today. Family life in Ibiza seems blissful. Having lived all over the world, do you feel settled here?
Actually, I really do. I think this is the first time I ever felt totally at home. I always felt slightly uneasy in the town I grew up in, and although I loved living in New York, Sydney and San Fransisco, I knew they were just temporary. We only wanted to stay one or two years on the island, but it’s been seven now, and I can’t really imagine living anywhere else.
What’s the most precious thing about life on the island?
Life seems slower here. I feel less stressed and more in balance with nature.
Do you find being here feeds your creativity?
Yes, for sure. I act on my creativity in the kitchen. When I’m home, I love cooking and baking and could spend hours doing that. I also enjoy arts and crafts with the kiddos.
You’ve been to culinary school too – what’s your current favourite dish to serve?
Oh, that’s a tough one – I love so many different things depending on my mood. I really love roasted sweet potatoes with a tahini sauce and some spice. Anything with tahini really. I’m also a big fan of Italian cooking. Simple and fresh. I usually go to the farm once a week, get a mixed veggie box and get inspired by the ingredients of the season.
And how are you finding growing your own veg?
It’s not as easy as I thought! When we just moved here, I was really passionate about the garden, but lately, I’ve been working more and haven’t given it much attention. Plus, there are so many amazing farms here that just do it better than me! Maybe I’ll just do herbs and some strawberries this year.
What are your top tips for families visiting Ibiza – any hidden gems?
Ibiza is a beautiful island for families. Spanish people are very child-friendly and you can take your children everywhere and feel welcome. The beaches in the north are less crowded, I love going there with the kids. No party people up here! We actually wrote a little guide ‘Ibiza for families’ that you can find on ouribiza.shop.
How would you describe Ibiza in three words?
Mesmerising, lush, and fun.
What are your favourite looks from the shoot?
Oh, there are so many! I love how flowy and light the Ikat Print Smock Dress is. I can see myself living in it this summer. The kids’ clothes are absolutely gorgeous as well – Evie’s favourite is the Embroidered Bardot Summer Dress and Luca’s is the Butterfly Embroidered Dress.
Who are the women you’re inspired by?
I get inspired by independent, strong women who have a mind of their own. Women who stand for their beliefs and follow their dreams.
Discover the Back To Origin Collection.
3 easy ways to entertain the kids this Easter
Running out of things to do over the Easter break? We know the feeling, which is why we’ve compiled our list of quick wins to keep the kids entertained beyond hunting for chocolate.
Get crafty
These colourful kits give little ones everything they need to create Lots of Lovely Art over the holidays. As well as providing all the practical supplies, LoLA kits educate children about the artists and artistic movements that inspired them. You’ll be hanging these masterpieces on the wall without a moment’s hesitation.
Get baking
Bringing you all the fun of baking at home with the family, minus the prep, Craft & Crumb kits are a dull-day rescue. Not only do kids get the satisfaction of creating their own sweet treats – there’s a papercraft element in every kit, too. We particularly love their pizza biscuits complete with a miniature takeaway box. Yum.
Get outdoors
Let’s face it, whatever plans you have for holidays in the UK, there’s always a chance it’ll rain. Get out there regardless and make sure you have the right gear – Grass & Air’s wellies are super durable and have extra-comfy teddy-fleece linings. And, just when you thought puddle splashing couldn’t get any more fun, they added magical colour-changing designs – you’ve got to see it to believe it.
The school holidays are often our reminder that the kids need a wardrobe refresh. If you’ve found that’s the case for you too, check out our adventure-ready new-in styles.
February: Monsoon’s Journal
As we firmly find ourselves in 2022, February is the month of Valentine’s Day, half term, and library appreciation. Embrace it all and more with our top tips for things to do this February, think self-care, Chinese New Year celebrations, and rediscovering your love for the theatre to get you started this month.
This Valentine’s Day we are focusing on self-care with brands we love. Taking time out for yourself with Moonchild and Yogi Bare to practise yoga, or having a low soak in the bath with bath salts from Palm of Feronia, you can discover all the me-time products you need. Valentine’s Day isn’t the only one this month where you can show yourself some kindness, with Random Act of Kindness Day being 17th February – find a gift for yourself or a loved in our wellbeing and beauty edit.
Make the post-Christmas break just as fun with a little help from the Southbank Centre. Take a trip into London for the Imagine Children’s Festival with 160 events to choose from including free ones, to keep them entertained! Have them dressed for the adventure too with our new in collection.
February the 1st was Chinese New Year and welcomes in the Year of the Tiger. A symbol of power and lordliness in Chinese culture, tigers are often associated with bravery. With ways to celebrate happening throughout the UK, find ones near you with the help of Country & Town House.
Visiting the theatre is now back on our agenda. With so many shows to choose from, we know it can be hard to narrow it down. Find the top picks for this month from Wuthering Heights to To Kill a Mockingbird, with a little help from Time Out.
This month is National Library Lover’s Month, so this February we encourage you to show some love to your local library and at the same time tick off some of the books on your to-read list. Find your local one with a little help from the Gov.uk website.
Our Top Five Sustainable Wedding Tips
We’re embracing 2022 as the year of the wedding. As a brand who is on a journey to become as sustainable as they can be, we wanted to share some of our tips on making your wedding as eco-friendly as you can. With so much planning to do it can be hard to know where […]
Monsoon: Brands We Love
Introducing the brands we love, an edit where you can discover new, sustainable, and creative brands. From focusing on your own wellbeing and self-care to gifting friends and family, we’ve curated a selection from our favourite brands for you to shop with us.
Sustainable luxury nightwear from Luna & Noon, bespoke handmade slippers from Onaie, natural beauty products from LA-EVA, UpCircle and Palm of Feronia, beautiful jewellery from Orelia London, calming scents from P.F. Candles and clothing and accessories made for yoga with Moonchild and Yogi Bare. Each one was picked out by us, and we are proud to hero them, we know you’ll fall in love with them too.
Moonchild
Inspired by the colours and lights of the Scandinavian nature, Moonchild Yoga Wear was started by founder, owner and creative director Louise Wang Nielsen in Denmark. Produced ethically and responsibly with carefully selected fabrics, Louise was inspired by her eye for fashion, love for yoga and passion for the environment to create her award-winning brand. Moonchild also works with selected charities and organisations who do amazing work around the world, including Action Child Aid and Women for Women International, by donating part of their proceeds from their clothes and yoga gear.
Yogi Bare
Founded by Kat, who has studied and taught yoga all around the world, Yogi Bare is her physical manifestation of the concept of yoga being for everybody and every body. A range of eco sensitive products, find yoga mats, accessories, and bundles inspired by self-expression, that will make you fall in love with your yoga journey.
Luna & Noon
Travelling, relaxation, good sleep, positive thoughts and giving back are some of the values Luna and Noon live by, and we can really relate. Created with sustainable fabrics, hand-painted prints inspired by places they’ve seen, and made in small quantities that exceed in quality, they create pieces that will last for years, with the added benefit of biodegradable qualities for when those years of wearing them is up. So, wind down and stay comfy in styles that are extremely soft too.
Onaie
Bespoke handmade slippers from Onaie, for wearing while unwinding at home after a long day. An independent brand, these slippers are handmade in Poland by a team of craftswomen. Plush wool, soft leather uppers and intricate embroidery, these are specially made with love.
UpCircle
Sustainable, vegan and cruelty-free, UpCircle is a small brand that rescues by-products of wasteful industries and provides a new and luxurious life for skincare, with the help of organic and kind ingredients. Face masks, body creams, face serums, body scrubs, the list goes on and on, these products will have you ready to stay focused on your wellbeing and self-care routine.
Palm of Feronia
Luxurious and organic, Palm of Feronia is a self-care brand that focuses on the ancient principles of aromatherapy and crystal healing. Small batches of serenity, find products to introduce to your daily routine with bath salts, creams, and oils made for your own time relaxing, and gifting to those that need some pampering too.
P.F. Candles
Fill your home with the soothing scents from P.F. Candle Company. This small brand is vegan, cruelty-free, and phthalate-free, while also being crafted by a close-knit team in sunny Los Angeles. Choose from charcoal-based incense or 100% domestically grown soy wax candles in our edit of their collection.
LA EVA
Where senses meet self-care, combining luxury, simplicity, beauty, and art, LA EVA is made from natural ingredients and in small batches to create high quality, but luxurious, ethically conscious products. From oils and bath salts to hand wash & lotion sets, discover your new favourite ‘me-time’ products with LA EVA.
Orelia
A jewellery brand made for everyday styling, Orelia and their recycled collection represents some of the things we love the most. Made from recycled sterling silver and plated in pale gold, these pieces are affordable and beautifully designed.
January: Monsoon’s Journal
It’s the start of a new year, and though the last few have been tough, we are feeling optimistic about what 2022 has in store. We’ve got a few suggestions to get you started with your January plans, from taking a look at our new collection to joining a book club, you’ll find some inspiration for the new year…
Find new things to love with our latest collection, perfect for layering up and then taking into the spring – denim is at the top of our list.
At Monsoon, we love being inspired by celebrated artists and discovering new art. Find all the top exhibitions to see in 2022 with a little help from the Art Fund.
One of our favourite things to do during the lockdowns was reading a good book. We all want to be able to share our thoughts and insights once a book has come to an end, and that’s where book clubs come in! You can find a local one, set one up with friends, or join one online via Good Reads – a great place to keep on top of your reading list too!
With so many weddings having to be put on hold over the last few years, this year is hopefully the one we will find full of celebrations. Whether planning your own, part of the bridal party or on the guest list, our collection has the outfits to make memories in.
January has become known for vegan food, with new menus, recipes, and tips circulating, it’s an exciting time to go plant-based. Whether you’re joining in for the whole month, looking for some inspiration for meatless Monday or a vegan who wants some more inspiration for meal planning, Veganuary’s website is the one to visit…
Christmas Crafts with the Kids: Marlenka
The Christmas holidays have started and with all the gift wrapping and card writing you have on your list, it’s time to keep the children occupied with at-home crafts. This season we’re inspired by decorations, and Marlenka has put together a handy how-to guide with garlands and baubles made from things you can easily find in your home.
Wooden Beads and Clay Stars Garland
This is such a simple and yet satisfying activity. I must admit Florence loved joining in. We just sat there talking and threading the beads and stars. It was so relaxing.
We started off with rolling out the clay, flattening it with a rolling pin.
We then cut out star shapes. You can do any shapes you wish.
Before leaving it to dry for a day or so, I made a horizontal hole, using a toothpick.
Once the clay stars have dried, we then threaded them onto a piece of string alongside wooden beads.
You can just use your imagination here on what you’d like the pattern to be.
Cupcake Case Baubles
All you need is:
Cupcake cases
Glue gun
Glue sticks
String
How to:
Flatten a single case and fold it in half and repeat.
Once you’ve folded all of them it’s time for the glue gun.
Open a single case that you previously folded in half and apply glue from the middle moving outwards.
Repeat on all of the cases.
Once you’ve done that, apply two lines of glue on the outside of the case and stick another case on top of it. Repeat the process with all of the cases.
Once all the half circles are glued together, attach a string with glue.
Apply glue to the side of the cases and join both sides together creating your bauble.
Visit our instagram for a how-to video guide >