Jenny Walton’s work exudes a sense of romanticism. Known for her extensive collection of archival Prada, the illustrator, painter, and Vogue contributor is celebrated on Instagram for her whimsical interpretations of daily life, such as a mid-week breakfast adorned with Marchesi sweets and pastries. Her newly released Monacelli/Phaidon book, Jenny Sais Quoi: Adventures in Vintage and Personal Style, offers a captivating mix of watercolors and essays that go beyond typical coffee table books, inspiring readers to embrace Walton’s lifestyle. However, it is intentionally not a guide.
“I didn’t want to create a guidebook, especially in 2026, as prescriptive directions like ‘wear this’ or ‘do this’ are outdated,” she explained to Vogue at a cocktail party in the presidential suite at The Carlyle Hotel. Instead, she aimed to encourage creative thinking. The book features essays such as Flow State Fashion, which invites readers to play with their wardrobe like a child’s dress-up box, and Off The Algorithm, which emphasizes the importance of time and research in developing personal taste beyond social media influences.
Walton was joined by like-minded friends including Christopher John Rogers, Tommy Ton, Leandra Medine Cohen, and Vogue’s Lisa Aiken and Lilah Ramzi. Together, they admired the stunning view of Central Park and enjoyed a cake resembling Walton’s dog, Aurora, crafted by Lilli Maren.
Also present were charming waiters from the renowned Bemelmans Bar, wearing their iconic white coats and serving martinis in the hotel’s Art Deco glassware. The team from Vestiaire Collective showcased Walton’s own ready-to-wear pieces and accessories in the expansive walk-in closet, featuring brands like Hermes, Chanel, and, naturally, Prada, which are now available on their site.
Walton’s next engagement is a talk at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, coinciding with the new Schiaparelli exhibition. Following that, she plans a trip to California as she prepares to move from Milan to Santa Barbara with her fiancé, Nick, affectionately referred to by her followers as “the plane guy.” Their romance began on a flight from New York to San Francisco last year, and they have been inseparable since. “We discovered this house from the ’70s on a peaceful cul-de-sac, and I thought, ‘Why not?’” Walton shared. “Let’s embark on a new adventure!”
