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In conversation with: Tessa James

Tessa James is a creative director, mother of four, and the founder of The Art of Living, a conversation series exploring what it truly means to live well, from wellness and perspective to motherhood, creativity, and reinvention.

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Today, I'm carrying ...
My RYLAN Tori, obviously. Sunglasses, headphones, a notebook, lip balm, liner, keys and, inevitably, a collection of snacks for my kids. And, of course, wet wipes - because what did I ever do without them? I like a bag that looks even better once it’s been lived in a little.

Today, it's taking me to ...
School drop-off, coffee, a few meetings, then a very long list of pick-ups and after-school activities. Basically, everywhere.

Right now, I'm wearing ...
It’s hot where I am, so I’ve been living in Albus Lumen, Beare Park cotton and Jil Sander T-shirts. Easy, light and nothing that needs too much thought.

I never leave home without ...
Lip balm and an eyebrow brush. The two things that can make me feel vaguely presentable in thirty seconds.

Something I reach for everyday ...
My phone, unfortunately. Headphones, sunglasses, lip liner and balm are never far away either. Music can completely change the pace of my day.

Something that has travelled everywhere with me ...
A set of vintage Louis Vuitton suitcases that were a wedding present from my husband 15 years ago. They’ve travelled everywhere with me since, and I think they’re even more beautiful now because of it. I love things that show where they’ve been.

Something purely practical ...
A lint roller. I am never without one. With four kids, it’s less of a beauty item and more of a survival tool.

Something purely sentimental ...
My watches. I have one for each of my children, bought around the time they were born, and each one has its own story. I also love old photographs - anything that holds a little piece of a person or a place.

The accessory I couldn't live without ...
A great bag. I need mine to be slightly Mary Poppins. I want to be able to carry everything, but still feel chic walking out the door. The right bag makes even the most chaotic day feel a little more pulled together.

What I'm reaching for lately ...
Anything that makes me feel good from the inside out. Fresh skin, hydration, nourishing my body, the ocean, good skincare, movement and sleep whenever I can get it. I’m drawn to things that feel simple and restorative rather than overly complicated.

For the home …
Books, flowers and a candle burning all the time. I live with four boys! I love a home that feels collected rather than decorated - things with history, books everywhere and nothing feeling too contrived.

For dinner …
France-Soir in Melbourne, always. And Fratelli in Sydney - such a classic.

For a cocktail …
A martini. Somewhere you can sit at the bar for hours, uninterrupted, with really good friends.

For a holiday …
I live somewhere coastal, so I actually find myself craving the city - a long weekend or even a day trip, just for a change of pace. Greece is one of my favourites, and Italy is always a yes. Paris too. I have far too many.

Lip colour …
Hermès Rose Tan. My forever go-to.

A track on repeat …
Usually whatever my kids are asking me to play in the car. At the moment, it’s Michael Jackson, which I’m very happy about. It could just as easily be Post Malone or Alex Warren.

When I’m alone, it’s country - Luke Combs, Garth Brooks, Cody Johnson. Four kids means I sometimes need music that keeps me calm rather than adds to the chaos.

Podcast …
I love conversations with people who have built interesting lives. Emma Grede and Jay Shetty are two I always come back to. I love hearing how people think, work and build things.

Substack …
I’m always looking for ones with a really strong point of view. Blackbird Spyplane, The Strict List and NEVERWORNS are a few I keep coming back to - fashion, travel, culture and the kind of recommendations that make you want to book a flight immediately.


Featured
...
Tessa wearing the Tori Parchment Tote (Sold out). Available in Dark Brown below.

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