I had the pleasure of spending some time in Brunello Cucinelli the other day while on the lookout for some gifts for a client. What I thought would be a quick stop in turned out to be one of the best 30 minutes I’ve spent in a boutique in ages. Are you familiar with Cucinelli? His collection is the ultimate (both in price point and value). Cucinelli’s collection is luxurious in the true, simplistic form of the word. Known for using the finest in cashmeres in the world,  his collection is the ultimate in quality and quiet luxury.

Cucinelli’s pieces are created in Solomeo, a midievil Italian village with a population of 436. I can imagine the residents of the village working to create these pieces, keeping Italian traditions alive. The necklace below is made of an incredibly soft, powdery leather.

I’m a sucker for a beautiful linen – even better when beaded and paired with suede and leather. The displays in the shop had me swooning as well – old books with worn pages, wooden baskets holding dried bundles of flowers, soft linens, cashmere and cottons casually displayed in every corner.

This multi strand, woven leather necklace stopped me in my tracks. There is so much hand work in this piece, yet it still feels simple.

This beautiful little situation was casually hanging on a hook in the corner. A crisp, soft, white oxford underneath a super-fine cashmere sweatshirt – and that sporty jacket with the drawstring collar is a paper weight, buttery leather. Totally no big deal – not freaking out or anything.

I can’t think of one outfit that I want to wear this Summer that wouldn’t be made more chic with those shoes. Oh, or the weightless cashmere wrap below.

Hand knit cotton knit lampshade anyone? And that little bag you see in the corner there? Monochromatic whites – stunning.

I loved the shape of this knit. Boxy, slouchy, relaxed and considered all wrapped up in one.

I am still thinking about this purse below (and those sandals, hello). Cucinelli’s collection is so simple and so rich at the same time. His minimal palette, fine materials, and classic yet on point shapes have put him at the top of my want list. Affordable for few but absolutely loveable by anyone who appreciates ultimate quality and fine artistry.