Cefinn Siren - Genevieve Harris
This summer we were lucky enough to step into the world of Genevieve Harris, the creative force behind the beloved @mrs_trufflepig, where everyday moments carry a quiet elegance and natural charm.
From her beginnings in luxury fashion to her present life growing and cooking her own produce, Genevieve’s aesthetic centres on ease, movement, and a sense of confident femininity. Whether arranging freshly picked blooms or hosting friends beneath the trees, her wardrobe reflects this philosophy: clothing that feels as good as it looks, with a soft yet purposeful flow.
We caught up with Genevieve as she made the final preparations for our co-hosted summer garden party to talk about her style, why she chooses Cefinn, and her tips for curating an unforgettable British summer celebration.
Fluid Femininity with Purpose
Genevieve’s approach to style is thoughtful yet unpretentious. She seeks clothes that allow freedom of movement while making her feel poised and polished. Our Lucy dress in Navy is exactly that, the do-it-all dress, perfect for the office or more relaxed days.
“I want to wear pieces that flow with me, not restrict me. They should feel comfortable and natural but still have a presence, it’s not an easy balance to strike, which is why I’m so happy to have discovered Cefinn!”
“I tend to choose natural fabrics that move easily like soft silks and lightweight cottons; pieces with fluid lines like this cotton co-ord. It’s the perfect throw-on-and-go outfit, lightweight with an easy silhouette for Summer days.”
“Cefinn designs strike a perfect balance. They’re elegant without feeling rigid, feminine without fuss. Each piece feels considered with huge attention to detail, and that shows in how they wear throughout the day. I love the versatility of so many of the pieces, and with a swap of a shoe, bag or piece of jewellery, it can go from day to night.”
Genevieve first came across Cefinn through a friend and was immediately drawn to the impeccable and ultra flattering cut, thoughtful design, and blend of simplicity with sophistication.
“The brand makes dressing effortless. Their pieces carry you seamlessly from morning coffee to an evening soiree.”
Her current favourite is the new Julietta Silk Maxi Dress in Blue & White- a fluid, full-length silhouette printed with a playful, graphic lips motif.
“The cut reminds me of an ultra feminine 1940s tea dress”
Curating The Perfect British Summer Garden Party
We were thrilled when Genevieve suggested co-hosting a summer garden party with us. We knew she’d be the perfect partner to curate a welcoming, relaxed, and authentic atmosphere.
“I start by thinking about how I want guests to feel: comfortable and relaxed, yet inspired and celebrated. Everything else flows from that intention.”
We watched as she expertly dressed the table in antique linens from her vast collection layered up with wildflowers and seasonal greens freshly picked before the guests arrived. The garden was filled with delicate music, mismatched antique China, and touches of natural spontaneity.
Genevieve’s top garden party design tips
We were thrilled when Genevieve suggested co-hosting a summer garden party with us. We knew she’d be the perfect partner to curate a welcoming, relaxed, and authentic atmosphere.
“I start by thinking about how I want guests to feel: comfortable and relaxed, yet inspired and celebrated. Everything else flows from that intention.”
We watched as she expertly dressed the table in antique linens from her vast collection layered up with wildflowers and seasonal greens freshly picked before the guests arrived. The garden was filled with delicate music, mismatched antique China, and touches of natural spontan
Laidback Elegance, Inspired by Nature
Lean into softness and texture with nods from the past – think antique lace linens, sun-faded bunting that moves in the breeze, vintage crystal champagne coups and antique painted teacups.
Let nature shine – forage for wildflowers, fresh fruits and even beautiful vegetables to scatter down the center of the table to create a unique and seasonal display.
Keep things light – simple sharing platters of unfussy yet delicious salads set a relaxed tone. Informal, comfortable wooden chairs and benches encourage lounging and conversation.
“It doesn’t have to be perfect – it just has to feel right.”
More than a stylist and creative, Genevieve took the reins on designing the entire lunch menu for the event, bringing her signature blend of fresh, seasonal ingredients and approachable elegance to the table. Seasonal produce and local ingredients were at the helm of every dish and they were styled with edible flowers and herbs from her garden to complement the atmosphere – light, inviting and full of flavour – just like the gathering itself.
Courgette & Ginger Soup
Preparation time: 45 mins | Cooking time: 10 mins
Serves: 6 people
Ingredients
- • 900g courgettes
- • 1 tbsp sea salt (gros sel)
- • 2 tbsp olive oil
- • 1 small onion
- • 4 spring onions
- • 3 small shallots
- • 5cm root ginger
- • 1 tbsp sugar
- • 1 litre chicken/vegetable/nutritional yeast stock
- • 2 tbsp crème fraîche or crème fluide (optional)
- • Salt & ground white pepper
- • Chopped chives or a little salsa (to serve)
Method
Clean and cut the courgettes into batons. Place them in an enamelled sieve, sprinkle with sea salt, and mix. Let them drain for 45 minutes.
Rinse the courgettes, wrap them in a tea towel, and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Set aside.
Peel and finely chop the onion and shallots, and chop the spring onions. Peel and grate the ginger.
Warm olive oil in a large frying pan and sweat the onion, spring onions, shallots, and ginger over medium heat for about 5 minutes (without colouring).
Add the courgettes and sugar. Stir and soften for a few minutes.
Bring the stock to a boil and pour it into the pan. Remove from heat.
In batches, blend the mixture into a velouté using a liquidiser. Pour into a large jug or bowl and cool it quickly by placing the bowl in ice water.
Once almost fully cooled, stir in the cream (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning.
Refrigerate until ready to serve. Top with chopped chives or a spoonful of salsa before serving.
Thank you to @thegeorgeinrye for the dreamiest stay. We laughed, we feasted, we sipped the most delicious British wines from @oxneyorganicestate. Gorgeous photography by @ellecalveycreative.