Swans & Croquet
Croquet is quite dangerous—not for the reasons one might think—it is highly addictive, and has been known to bring even the least competitive person into a full on rage. There is simply never enough daylight to satisfy your craving for hitting a wooden ball with a mallet through a wicket, that much is true.Back in the 1800’s croquet became popular with the ladies, as it was a sport that could be played outdoors in the company of gentlemen, while looking quite smashing in a chic outfit. A sport that is obviously more about skill and cleverness than physical strength.
Apparently hitting the ball deep into the brush wasn’t the worst thing that could possibly happen during a croquet match: Allowing the gentleman to search with his lady for the ball, a perfect opportunity for a little snogging.
The sport originally came to England by way of Ireland…or France, it doesn’t seem like anyone is quite certain. Regardless of how it arrived in England, the British undoubtedly excelled and mastered the sport like it was their own. The All England Croquet and Lawn Tennis Club was formed in July 1877, with the first championship being held in none other than Wimbledon.
It just so happens we were lucky enough to have the company of a British gentleman by the name of Anthony Archer, straight from Wimbledon to teach us how the sport should be played. Mr. Archer schooled us on the dexterity it takes to truly master croquet—of course it does not hurt to have a passion for winning.
Mr. Archer, one of the most clever of gentlemen, with his quick wit and keen eye: The acumen of lawn sports running through his blood like bourbon through Karol Marie’s veins, giving the rest of us an unfair disadvantage.
Eventually "croquet" was removed from the title (The All England {Croquet and Lawn} Tennis Club) as tennis seemed to be more of a money maker, and just around this time croquet began to gain steam in America—one of the first clubs being established in the regal and refined Newport, RI. I could absolutely imagine playing an afternoon match atop the sprawling lawn of The Breakers (Vanderbilt summer cottage) while gazing out at the open sea. . . .
With all of the beauty found in the outdoors of the Hamptons it is no wonder that this perfectly fashionable pastime found its way to these gorgeous parts. A visit to the Hamptons would simply not be complete without a game (or 10) of croquet and a tall glass of Whispering Angel to wash down the fresh garden fragrance between strokes. All victory laps shall be taken via inflatable swan.
All Photos shot with film (Contax 645) by Judy Pak
Makeup by Sara Strand of PopBeauty
Andrew was wearing: "Get High On Colorado" Vintage Tee from What Goes Around Comes Around NYC; Jeans by Williamsburg Garment Company; Shades by Ray-Ban. Special thanks to Andrew for expertly staging our croquet course.
Karol-Marie was wearing: A Vintage Wrap Dress by Roy Rogers for Emilio Pucci from What Goes Around Comes Around NYC; Shades by Betsey Johnson; Vintage Pink Bow Shoes by Betsey Johnson.
Peter was wearing: A Vintage Button-Down Shirt by Salvatore Ferragamo from What Goes Around Comes Around NYC; White Shorts by Club Monaco; Shades by Prada.
I was wearing: Vintage Button-Down Dress by Roy Rogers for Emilio Pucci from What Goes Around Comes Around NYC; One-Piece Gold Bathing Suit by Norma Kamali; Braided Wedges by Stuart Weitzman; Shades by Miu Miu.
Cat Cameo = Jonsey—rescued four years ago from an alley in S.E. DC, she had obviously been neglected for several years by her previous caretakers. Jonsey took to the Hamptons like bees to honey, definitely her preferred lifestyle. It was pure joy to see her so happy.
