Reference for the Senses · Founders Edition

The Fashion

A visual lexicon of technical components and aesthetic terms across high-end domains — designed to refine the precision of expressive vocabulary.

Selvedge
apparel · Textiles

Selvedge

The self-finished edge of a piece of fabric which keeps it from unraveling or fraying. Derived from 'self-edge'.

Gusset
apparel · Tailoring

Gusset

A triangular or rhomboidal piece of fabric inserted into a seam to add breadth or reduce stress from tight-fitting clothing.

Princess Seam
apparel · Construction

Princess Seam

Long rounded seams sewn into women's garments to add shaping or a tailored fit without use of darts.

Entablature
architecture · Classical

Entablature

The upper section of a classical order that rests on the columns, consisting of the architrave, frieze, and cornice.

Oculus
architecture · Elements

Oculus

A circular opening in the center of a dome or in a wall, often allowing light to enter.

Fenestration
architecture · Composition

Fenestration

The arrangement, proportion, and design of windows and doors in a building.

Glaucous
botany · Texture

Glaucous

Having a waxy, bluish-gray or pale green bloom or coloration on the surface of a leaf or fruit.

Pinnate
botany · Structure

Pinnate

Having leaflets arranged on either side of a central axis, like the vanes of a feather.

Quenelle
culinary · Technique

Quenelle

A small, oval or egg-shaped scoop of soft food, such as mousse, ice cream, or chopped meat.

Brunoise
culinary · Knife Skills

Brunoise

A culinary knife cut in which the food item is first julienned and then turned a quarter turn and diced again, producing cubes of about 3mm or less.

Swizzle
bartending · Technique

Swizzle

To churn a cocktail with crushed ice using a multi-pronged tool (a swizzle stick) to create deep aeration and frosting on the glass.

Expression
bartending · Preparation

Expression

The act of squeezing a citrus peel over a drink to release the essential oils across the surface and rim.

Patina
museum · Conservation

Patina

A green or brown film on the surface of bronze or similar metals, produced by oxidation over a long period; or a gloss on wood from age and polishing.

Provenance
museum · Curation

Provenance

The record of ownership of a work of art or an antique, used as a guide to authenticity or quality.

Marquetry
homemaking · Cabinetry

Marquetry

Inlaid work made from small pieces of variously colored wood or other materials, used for the decoration of furniture.

Bouclé
homemaking · Upholstery

Bouclé

A heavy fabric woven from curled fibers, typically wool, giving a knotted or looped appearance.

Porte-cochère
hospitality · Architecture

Porte-cochère

A covered entrance large enough for vehicles to pass through, typically at the front of a hotel or grand residence.

Tessitura
music · Voice

Tessitura

The range within which most notes of a vocal part fall.

Rubato
music · Expression

Rubato

The temporary disregarding of strict tempo to allow an expressive quickening or slackening, usually without altering the overall pace.

Sillage
perfumery · Performance

Sillage

The trail of scent left by a perfume when it is worn, often described as its 'wake'.