In Conversation with Sea's Sean Monahan and Monica Paolini

For our final edition of this year's SO Vacation Series we bring you an exclusive glimpse into the world of Sea and the New York life of its founders,

Sean Monahan and Monica Paolini.

The childhood friends whose effortless synergy infuses their collections with vintage charm and modern sophistication discuss the inspiration behind their vacation-ready pieces and tips for enjoying summer in the city.

Read our conversation below and enjoy shopping the latest styles to arrive from

Sea (as featured here) both in store and online.

Can you talk us through how a Sea collection comes to life?

Often I start out with a trip to vintage shows and shops around the world to find embroidered and other random treasures to be inspired by. I love to begin with embroideries or lace trims—that is a staple of the collection, and I enjoy the challenge of developing an embroidery into modern pieces that our girl will be newly excited by.

How has the Sea style evolved over time?

The integration of craft has become a more vital part of our voice over the last few years. On the customer side we believe people are drawn to things that are apparently designed and made by someone with a purpose. That hand-feel connects people to the pieces. And on the production side we really enjoy working with the crafts people that help us realize our styles–that’s especially true for our embroidered pieces. – Monica & Sean

Sea pieces are very suited to the relaxed lifestyle of Australia as well as vacation dressing – how do you imagine your designs being worn when you are creating them?

From the beginning, we have always been thinking about the end customer. We don’t consider our designs to be precious- they’re meant to be worn daily. We think about how are they living and what styling will complement their everyday. We design the pieces to communicate a sense of ease that is highlighted with meaningful details-this idea has always been fundamental. – Monica & Sean

What are your favourite ways to style Sea pieces through summer?

I love to style pieces like the Bente and Edwina embroidery tops with a pair of worn- in denim shorts and flat sandals. It’s an easy summer uniform that feels pulled together yet relaxed. – Monica

Where are the best places to eat/drink/shop/explore in the neighbourhood around Sea’s Canal Street studio and store?

Roman and Williams Guild to peruse a curation of beautiful interior objects

Rigor Hill for a coffee & pastry

Happier Grocery for some mid-day snacks

Frenchette for lunch or dinner - don’t miss out on the most delicious French fries

Images Left to Right: Roman and Williams Guild @rwguild, Happier Grocery @happiergrocery, ALF Bakery via Chelsea Market, Frenchette by Heidi's Bridge via Bon Appetit, Rigour Hill Market @rigourhillmarket

You have both grown up in New York – what are the places and experiences that you recommend to visitors?

ALF is our dear friend Amadou’s bakery in Chelsea Market. He has developed his own blend of art & science through bread making. He creates the most beautiful and tasty laminated baguette in addition to other delicious pastries, breads and sandwiches. It is a must for both visitors and locals. – Monica & Sean