
Ocean swims, vibrant blooms, fresh vegetables picked straight from the garden…we know how much nature inspires our close friend and collaborator Bibi van der Velden. Spending her time between Amsterdam where her brand’s studio is based, and Portugal where she now lives, the jewellery designer has a deep appreciation for artisanal products that not only look beautiful but are also practical and environmentally conscious. From our Straw Tote Bag as the ultimate market-day companion, to the finest olive oil that brings out the flavours of her fresh homegrown produce, Bibi’s wish list reflects her holistic philosophy of living well.
A long-time guest of Hotel Il Pellicano which she describes as a “place where you collect stories and memories,” Bibi always inspires us with her discerning eye for shape, colour and detail, especially when observing the magic of the natural world. Read on to discover which ISSIMO treasures Bibi is wearing, using and loving – from dinner parties at her home, to surfing Portugal’s beaches, and beyond!
ISSIMO X LISA CORTI
Bougainvillea White Veronese Stripes Square Tablecloth
This beautiful piece perfectly embodies my love for hosting friends and family at home in Portugal, especially during our lively barbecues. The vibrant design of this tablecloth, with its bougainvillaea pattern and elegant Veronese stripes, adds a touch of sophistication and warmth to my gatherings.
ISSIMO
Straw Tote Bag
This Straw Tote bag is a perfect companion for my weekly trips to the local market in Cascais, Portugal. Every Saturday, I head to the market to shop for fresh organic fruits and vegetables, and this bag allows me to effortlessly combine practicality with style. It ensures that my Saturday market trips are as delightful as the fresh produce I bring home.
ISSIMO X LISA CORTI
White Veronese Stripes Sarong
This sarong is an easy choice for me. In my free time, I love heading to Guincho Beach or any beach in Portugal to surf. This sarong is perfect for those beach days, combining practicality with style. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and ideal for wrapping up after a session in the ocean. The beautiful design reflects my love for the sea and makes my beach outings even more enjoyable.
Fish Design by Gaetano Pesce
Spaghetti Red Vase XL
The Fish Design by Gaetano Pesce Spaghetti Special Red Vase is a perfect creation for one of my passions: collecting flowers from my garden. Being from Amsterdam, a city renowned for its flowers, I wanted to bring that same floral beauty to my home in Portugal. My garden is now filled with a variety of blooms, like dahlias, that I love to gather and display. This vibrant vase not only complements the colourful flowers, but also adds a unique touch to my home, making it a delightful centrepiece for my floral arrangements.
ISSIMO
Bowl
The ISSIMO Bowl is another easy choice for me because I strive to live as organically as possible and prioritise recycling. Plastic is a no-go in my household, and I avoid it whenever I can. This bowl fits perfectly with my eco-friendly lifestyle. I love inviting family and friends over and cooking meals using fresh produce from my vegetable garden. The ISSIMO bowl is ideal for serving fresh produce from my vegetable garden, and for serving home-grown dishes. It makes our gatherings more sustainable and special. It’s a beautiful addition to my kitchen that aligns with my values and enhances the joy of sharing meals with loved ones.
ISSIMO
Extra Virgin Olive Oil Deciso
Its robust flavour enhances my cooking, whether I’m preparing a simple salad with ingredients from my garden or a hearty meal for friends and family. I appreciate its high quality and the care that goes into its production. This aligns perfectly with my preference for organic and sustainable ingredients. This olive oil not only adds depth to dishes, but also reflects my commitment to enjoying wholesome meals with loved ones.
BITOSSI HOME
Jug Pink
This pink Bitossi jug is a wonderful addition to my gatherings with friends and family. I love preparing flavoured water with fresh ingredients like cucumber, and this jig is perfect for serving in style. Its beautiful design adds a charming touch to my table, making our get-togethers even more special. Whether it’s a casual brunch or a festive dinner, this jug complements my love for hosting and sharing delightful moments with loved ones.