The countdown to Christmas is officially on and this year we’ve turned our attention to one of our favourite festive pastimes: hosting. We’ve invited some of our favorite women to share how they’ve mastered the art of hosting, all whilst wearing our festive-appropriate attire.
Next up in the series is ceramicist and jewelry designer Anissa Kermiche. Known for her beautiful, tongue-in-cheek pieces, Kermiche’s work is a celebration of the female form. She welcomed us into her London studio to talk traditions, table-dancing, and dressing for the moment.
What makes the perfect dinner party?
“I think keeping the stomachs [of your guests] really full. It might come from the traditions of where I come from, I’m Algerian and our language of love is food. It’s all about sharing, so there’s always a mountain of food. I love music so I always make sure I work on a playlist beforehand, so that everyone keeps dancing. I also love a twist on decorations, putting something unexpected on the table as a conversation opener. I recently decorated a cake with edible sugar eyes, people didn’t expect that!”
Tuxedo Layering Shirt + Tie and Deep V Layering Jumpsuit + Belt
What do you serve?
I like to make a traditional tajine, the recipe comes from my grandmother. It's called tajine zitoune, it’s chicken with preserved lemons and olives. Now that I’m a bit older I really love nutritional food, things that feed your soul and your body. I’m very inspired by my travels. I used to go to Morocco and I was mind-blown by the food in Israel and Lebanon. I like very spicy, flavorful food.”
What’s your ideal hosting wardrobe?
“It has to be comfortable because I always end up dancing or going to a club, so always flats. I’ve tortured myself my entire life with uncomfortable shoes! What I tend to do (because I’m always last minute), is jump in a tailored dress, something quite minimal, because then I’m dressed head-to-toe and don’t have to think too much. I accessorize with my jewelry so I barely have to wear makeup and some ballet pumps with a little detail.”
Silk Statement Swing Blouse and Fluid Pleat Front Satin Man Pant
What’s your favorite part of the festive season?
“I think it's the fact that we are forced to pause, but also to give and receive. I’m quite good at giving gifts! I buy things during the year and have them saved. So giving gifts, taking the time to exchange little intentions, I think it’s lovely. It’s helpful that I have my work to gift as well! Jewelry, homeware, whatever makes people happy.”
What does Christmas look like to you?
For the holiday season I’m usually in France with my family. It’s become a lot more fun now we have kids running around. We’re a family of mostly women. We dress up, we wear red, as cliché as it sounds (I still remain like Morticia and wear black, with a little touch of red). I might wear more jewelry – it’s funny because my mum isn’t into piercings, she calls my ears the Christmas trees!”
Ultra Sheer Silk Tuxedo Blouse and Patent Faux-Leather Midi Skirt
Finally, do you think you’re a good host?
“It would be pretentious of me to say but… if you ask my friends, they do love coming together when I organize something, so yes, I would believe so!”