Summer is in full swing and like many of New York’s fair-weather residents, ME+EM is taking the opportunity to head out East for the season. Yesterday, CULTURED Editor-in-Chief Sarah Harrelson joined founder Clare Hornby in celebrating the opening of the brand’s new Hamptons outpost alongside a coterie of guests at advisor Jessica Chestman’s private residence.
ME+EM, named by The Sunday Times as one of Britain’s fastest-growing companies last year, was founded by Hornby in 2009. The luxury brand has since become known for its breezy and elevated garments tailored for women on the move. Their East Hampton location also highlights the brand’s recently launched swimwear line, ideal for those hitting the East End beaches this season.
At Chestman’s art-filled, sun-soaked home, guests sat for a lunch courtesy of chef Chris Kronner. Around the table, one could spot Shop For Justice founder Tamu McPherson, White Cube’s Courtney Willis Blair, Nordstrom VP Rickie de Sole, Baxter Street’s Michi Jigarjian, the Art Production Fund’s Casey Fremont, collector Debbie August, stylist Sarah Clary, artist Maayan Zilberman, entrepreneur Joey Wölffer, and more.
To mark the occasion, CULTURED caught up with Hornby to learn more about the brand’s expansion, and her plans for making the most of the summer season.
What is the inspiration for the Hamptons store?
The polished take on coastal living in the Hamptons is very unique. This clash of elegance and sophistication with the laid-back feel that the sea evokes felt like something we had to celebrate, which comes through with the whitewashed floorboards contrasting a high-gloss desk in a vibrant mustard.
How does the design of the space reflect the ethos of ME+EM?
We’re very proud to be a British brand, so working with British creatives on our U.S. stores felt important. There are some beautiful pieces—including lighting from PINCH Design, fabrics from Rose Uniacke, and custom ceramics from ceramicist Tina Vaia.
What was your first Hamptons experience or impression?
There’s something about the Hamptons that reminds me a lot of home. It’s a mix of Notting Hill elegance with the charm of the Cotswolds and style of Ibiza.
What does an ideal summer day look like for you?
Spending time with my two daughters, good food, wine, and conversation are the key to a perfect day. We might go to the River Cafe, which is one of our favorite London restaurants. The food and wine are unbeatable, and the setting, particularly in summer, is perfect.
What are you excited about for summer 2024?
I’m a big fan of short stories and love the Irish writer Claire Keegan’s work. I also really enjoy Elizabeth Day’s podcast How To Fail [With Elizabeth Day]. She’s a great interviewer, and her conversations are always a lesson in resilience.
