Art to Heart: Olivia Meyer of Banniere
Photography Credit: Christina Cernik
I am so happy to share that my collaboration with Banniere Co. is live! I was first introduced to the brand, founded by Olivia Meyer, through some of the artists I’ve followed and befriended on social media over the past few years. Olivia partners with local artists from different cities around the world to design hand-rolled silk scarves that are printed in England. She has worked with some of my favorite artist friends, including Alyssa Harris, Meredith Hanson, Lydia Marie Elizabeth, and Ashley Begley, so I was over the moon when she initially reached out to me about creating a DC-inspired scarf design.
Although I’ve lived in the DC area for almost fifteen years now, I am constantly finding new inspiration in the city, so coming up with the scarf design was so much fun. The DC scarf features a whimsical watercolor map of the city surrounded by the cherry blossoms and tulips that pop up throughout the area each spring.
Olivia is as charming and lovely as the scarves she creates, and I loved getting to know her through our Art to Heart interview!
What is your elevator pitch for your business?
Banniere works with local artists in cities around the world on designs for silk scarves. Each scarf is specially crafted and packaged with a story about the artist’s connection to the city, art background and inspiration behind the design.
How did you decide to start your business? Can you speak a little about your background prior to founding Banniere?
I decided to start Banniere after traveling the world and falling in love with the unique and varying styles and cultures in different towns and cities. I had a background working in Fashion for other companies such as Stubbs and Wootton and wanted to start something on my own that combined my love of travel, art and fashion. Through Banniere, I was able to work with these local artists and come up with designs that emanate these different cultures and turn them into wearable art: a silk scarf.
How did you decide on a scarf as your primary product (vs. other products that could display the designs like handbags or clothing)?
I wanted to do something that wasn’t overly saturated and come up with an idea that would be unique with a meaningful process that brings me and the artists I work with, Joy.
4. When finding artists to partner with, what do you look for? Is there a particular style you are typically drawn to?
Honestly, I am drawn to so many different styles having lived in London, New York, Rome, Charleston and now Palm Beach that I like to wear bright and whimsical designs sometimes, and more edgy and modern styles other times. That is reflected in the Scarves Around The World collection as the style and color palettes differ from town to city. I find these artists by word of mouth, research or they reach out to me. It's a very enjoyable and rewarding process.
5. As a life-long Palm Beacher, how do the rich aesthetics of South Florida inspire you in your business? What do you love most about Palm Beach?
I was born in Palm Beach and have always loved not only the natural beauty of the beautiful beaches, Palms and Via’s, but also the network of people from all around the world that come to stay. We constantly are having amazing events with big artists, speakers, photographers and designers from around the world, especially now with the influx of new residents since the pandemic. I love and support all the local businesses that have been here for generations.
6. Your scarves are not only designed by incredible regional artists within the United States, but you also offer patterns inspired by international cities. Do you have a favorite location from your travels?
Its so hard to say… I’d probably say the Porto Ercole Design.. It's a town on the coast of Italy outside Rome where our family members have a place. There is no place that brings better memories than coming off the boat on the Mediterranean into the Port of Porto Ercole to get a pizza or pistachio gelato. The artist behind the design who is local there, captured the essence perfectly with her mesmerizing watercolor of the port. Just behind the Port is the hotel Il Pellicano where the scarves were sold.
7. As you look forward, what are you most excited about in your business?
I am always most excited to travel and meet new artists in different cities as well as expand my line into some clothing and accessories. The scarves are always my favorite to do. Next I'm dreaming of a vivid design of Rio, a Moroccan tile design, or a stunning view in Greece. Stay tuned!
Just for fun…
A traditional design and a new trend you love.
I love a puffy sleeve and a good midi length dress. I really like the designs and fits that Cara Cara comes out with.
Favorite item in your home or closet.
My many Stubbs and Wootton shoes for sure. I wear them everywhere, even the beach!
Can’t entertain without…
Making a big bowl of pasta! I love making a homemade pesto or spaghetti vongole for a big crowd.
Favorite 5pm drink
A Prosecco or Spritz. I love bubbles.
Go-to hostess gift
A Hazelnut Gianduia cake from Sant Ambroeus; There’s nothing better...
Travel destination
Always love Italy as a whole, preferably by the sea.. Everything about it: the food, style, people, way of life etc.
Favorite way to tie your scarves
As a halter top with a high waisted pant or skirt. That way it really shows the design off and since I live in Florida, it gets hot!
Go to source of inspiration
Walking around cities all over the world taking in the architecture, art and styles. I love a good old fashioned black and white film.
Currently reading
Savage, a memoir by Barbara Savage, a wonderful lady I met at one of my pop-ups. She started the Tribal Trust Foundation preserving projects to support the indigenous tribes around the world and leads incredible trips. She lived within these various tribes in India and across Africa studying their culture, spirituality and ancient medicine. We had talked about making a tribal scarf design for the Foundation.
Describe your home in 3 words
Dogs & Alfresco Dining