Hey now, Thursday. It's all gloom and doom outside but I'm content and inside, listening to an Otis Redding anthology and feeling peaceful. We'll see how long that lasts...
Before I went to bed last night, I watched some amazing home movies of the Kennedys on the History Channel. Not sure if anyone else caught this fascinating glimpse into the "real" lives of American royalty, but it was beyond fascinating, and I couldn't turn away. Though I was not alive during the Kennedy years, it's hard not to be amazed and floored by how mythic JFK and Jackie were, with such a tragic end. It's unbelievable how beautiful they both were, and the style factor was sort of out of this world. There was Jackie- in a dark bubblegum pink sleeveless shift, on Hyannis Port, looking like a billion dollars- and there's JFK- in his fantastic wayfarers, looking every inch the perfect American President and sportsman. I also got to see the beautiful children, John John and Caroline, adorable beyond. Sure I know Mr. Kennedy was not exactly the model family man and that his pops was not above board, but watching these old clips confirmed one thing- the Kennedy era represented American style and ideals at its finest- it must have been magic to have been around in those heady times- the hope, the glamour, the glory, cut way too short. I really could look at Jackie all day...there will simply never be another like her. She was simply perfection- tanned, toned, and composed. Pure American glamour. Was there ever another woman in American history that had her influence on the way women wanted to look? I've talked to my mom about it, and she too was swept up in Jackie mania, and all things pillbox and perfection.
Having missed that era and having grown up in the Reagan years, it's hard not to be cynical about the aristocracy that surrounds the American presidency. Ron and Nancy had the "it" thing, it's true- but were way too old to capture the imagination of a country looking to grow up- that's what was so striking about JFK- there was a real opportunity for that dynasty to grow up right along with the country, yet it was not to be- American dreams gave way to American tragedy.
The Obamas have that Kennedy thing in a way, but not nearly as iconic, if you ask me. Though Obama's campaign was epic and glorious and hopeful, I feel like he needs to recapture our hope, our dreams, and our imaginations. Can you really reach royal American status through a Twitter town hall? Of this I'm not sure, though these are different times. And Michelle tries to channel Jackie in her clothes, but I feel it doesn't work for her- I wish she would just dress in a manner appropriate for the strong, muscular, powerful woman she is. Enough of the vintage silhouettes and wasp waists for daytime. Night time she seems to excel, but alas, she's no Jackie. I like her in her own right, but I don't want to dress like her.
If you have a chance to catch those home movies, do. Even if you are a hardened cynic and think the American dream is a bunch of bullshit, you can't help but get enraptured by this insider look at our past, and wonder how you too can channel Jackie- even if you're not a preppy girl, you can't help but love her classic beauty and style. There's a little Jackie in all of us, non? Or at least we wish there was. Was nice to be inspired right before bed- I truly was floored.
And that's what's up this all American Thursday in the MIA. XO
Here's a Reuters piece on the program:
http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/07/06/us-kennedy-idUSTRE7657KR20110706
Hi, Wednesday. It's a rainy Summer day in Miami and it's reminding me of those July mornings in the Northeast when I was a little girl, and had to go to camp in the rain, hunkered down in a cabin on dreary afternoons with some Elmer's Glue, some glitter, and construction paper. (That doesn't sound so bad actually...)
In any event, I loved those arts and crafts days back then- informed my lifelong interest in art. I've already talked about my love for the Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of my favorite museums of all time. When I heard about Cy Twombly's passing yesterday, I immediately recalled his stellar permanent installation "Fifty Days at Ilium", taken from Homer's poem, at said museum. I remember as a girl loving these enormous scrawlish masterpiece, inspired by mythology and an epic sense of scale. It was from those works that I wanted to study mythology, incessantly, which I did as a girl. What I now realize as a more seasoned member of the human race is that Twombly's works were early demonstrations of graffiti- think of the Lascaux cave drawings and think of Cy and his combination of words and forms, and you can easily see the roots of said movement. A contemporary of Jasper Johns and Rauschenberg, Twombly served time as a cryptologist in the army- cryptology, according to Wikipedia, is the practice and study of hiding information. Interesting gig for an artist, non?
Cause that's what's up this scribble of a Wednesday in the MIA. RIP Mr. Twombly and thanks for the inspiration. XO
So I'm channeling (or trying to) this fabulous Tommy Ton shot during the men's shows in Paris- it's pretty impossible to want to stay home in an outfit such as this, and I want that confidence to invade my day, in fact, I need it to. And I am a huge fan of a seamed stocking, who isn't really? It doesnt' get much sexier in the gam department than that. And I adore her walk- that saunter, that I'll get there when I want to, merci beaucoup kind of thing she has happening. And although we don't see her face, we get the attitude, don't we? Loving the wristlet bag too, dangling casually from that elegant little wrist. It sure beats a work tote full of worky stuff, doesn't it? And that mix of red, blue on the hat, and lavender suede on the shoes? Divine. It's many different things, but it all works- that's true style and sexy bravado, children. She is so owning it.
In any event, this little Colette of a creature is making me happy today- and the theme of this post Independence Day Tuesday is confidence and simply owning your own personal vibe, whatever that may be today, even though we would all most likely rather be taking a stroll in Paris. I'm simply going to channel and summon that today, as I slog through. I suggest you do the same. Be brave, get your swagger on, and be sexy all the while. Cause that's what's up this I gotta be me and you'll wait for me to get there kind of Tuesday in the MIA. XO
Good morning, Friday...'tis the 4th of July weekend and many of us are looking forward to a long weekend celebrating our many freedoms, our love for bbq, horseshoe games, and beer. I feel very lucky to live in this country, regardless of how completely insane things have become...I realize living here is still a privilege, regardless of the economy, the wars, and Charlie Sheen. I still believe we can. Call me crazy...
I myself am going off the grid this weekend, needing some down time and a much needed shut down...I hope wherever you are, you are celebrating your heritage or at least enjoying some sunshine with friends and family and loved ones. May you light up the sky with positive vibes. Boom.
All the love- enjoy your freedom this weekend. Cause that's what's up this constitutional right of a Friday in the MIA. Happy 4th, friends. I've posted the below photo of the gorgeous Kate Bosworth at Coachella before, but take some cues from her this weekend for a sexy all American look wherever you go. XO
Good morning, Thursday..I got my vinyasa on this am so feeling ready, even more so after I finish this coffee and post.
There was an article on CNN when I woke up about what is beautiful, in response to an exhibit in LA called The Beauty Culture, with photos of beautiful people, etc. The article is called "What is Beauty and Who Has It"? and regales us with tales from ex models (Veronica Webb) and the agents who get rich off of them, Bethann Hardison. The piece talks about (surprise) diversity is in, and that women of all colors are, wow, beautiful. NO SHIT CNN. Is that really news????
Here's my point, if you need CNN to tell you what or who is beautiful, you've got problems. My advice- skip the article about Carmen Dell'Orifice who at 80 is a "working model" , an albino chick, and whether or not a symmetrical face is still the ideal, and just look in the mirror. Because you are beautiful, and that's that. Who's beautiful? You are. yes you. I don't mind talking about who is beautiful, but can we stop trying to define it? It's boundless, really.
PS- I find it interesting that men are not measured by beauty- it's a rare moment that a man is called beautiful...curious, that. And that's what's up this let's just be beautiful and shut up about it already kind of Thursday in the MIA. I'm all for talking about potions, lotions, and powders but the obsession with defining beauty is beginning to wear on one of my few remaining nerves. Next. XO
It may say something like this:
Hello, you. Yup, I'm the Proenza Schouler PS1 bag. Uh huh. Yes maam. Here I am dans le flesh. I'm the fucking ONE.
I see you staring at me, all giddy and depraved. In truth, I'm used to it but your particular brand of bloodlust is almost uncomfortably pure. Maybe it's my perfect color (smoke), or the fact that I come in many colors to suit your moodiness. Is that desperation in your eyes? Are you trying to figure out how to have me? I can almost see your gears turning, in a steroidal haze of wishing, hoping, and scheming to somehow make the money to buy me. You know you have to take me home, don't you? If you don't today, you will leave the store, deflated, and probably click on a million websites to try and figure out how to buy me for cheap.
But that's the thing, darling. Can I call you darling? I'm not cheap, and I never will be. I don't go on sale. I'm THAT perfect. Maybe it's my modern take on schoolgirl fashion that has you agog. Or my simple silhouette that would work well with everything from jeans to dresses. And that the size of me will magically fit all of your crap, as well as make your hips look smaller. OK, now you're drooling. Don't stand so close to me. I don't like to get wet. Do you want to touch me? Go ahead.
I know you want to fill me. Stuff me full of lipsticks, makeup, keys, a wallet, maybe even your gym clothes in a pinch. I'm great for traveling, absolutely amazing for it. And I'm way too good for your candy wrappers and discarded tissues. You'll want to keep me pristine. I'm a grade A piece of leather, sweetheart. Know that.
Oh and don't even think of telling your husband about this, as in slipping it into conversation over Chinese food later how you saw me today, and how if you could have me you would no longer need to eat or buy toilet paper or buy any Kiehl's products, like, for a long time. . He will never understand why you would even want me as much as you do, and that I cost a couple bucks shy of two grand (PS have you seen me in suede and all those colors I mentioned before? Not sure you will be able to take it, you've been warned. You should start with just me, though. Let's take things slow).
It's not for men to understand these things, but I understand you, and that's why you want me. That and I am cute, classic, edgy, practical, and glamorous all at once. I mean, how many times in life can you come across that? Oh, now you're starting to justify my existence- you're in your head- thinking about all the outfits I would go with- yes, a black sheath dress and strappy platforms would work really, really well with me. Oh yea, and so would your Alex Wang tees and skinny jeans. I actually make any of your outfits look better, that's how sexy I am. And yes, yes, and yes- you really would have me forever, and yes my hardware is subtle yet substantive and amazing. And I agree that an investment piece is the way to go for the Fall, just ask any of the magazines- they would all tell you to buy me. You must love me. Oh wait, you already do...yes, I am an OUTSTANDING neutral, it's true. I'm smoky and hot for you. I know I can make you happy, if only for a season or two, though you are wanting me for a lifetime.
Woah- you're walking away? You mean we're over before we even began? Wow, baby- that's brave. We had a bright future together. Remember how you passed up that LV Griet bag a few years ago and lived to lament that? Uh huh. Thought so. You really are walking away, huh? Oh well, I'm too good for you anyway, and I will most likely taunt you in your dreams tonight. I have no doubt you'll be back tomorrow anyway, scheming and plotting and sweating over how you can have me. See you then, bitch.
http://www.lagarconne.com/store/item.htm?itemid=11840&sid=903&pid=648#
Greetings, Tuesday...seems like most of us are sweltering, so it stands to reason my mind goes to Fall. What is it about Fall that makes me so happy? I always adored Fall weather- growing up in the Northeast and spending most of my life there, I can't help but hold a torch for that season- its colors, Thanksgiving, the crisp air, the end of the heat. It's such a fantastic time- if not for a switch up of wardrobe alone. I can remember how excited I used to get to pull out the scarves, fall colors, and snuggle into something chunky and handknit. In Miami, we don't get to do that much.
And reading July's Vogue, I sensed a trend towards a ladylike moment happening for Fall 2011. It's not like lady style ever went away, it just took a respite in favor of what Vogue calls "the model off duty" look- you know the type- Alexander Wang seperates, boots from All Saints, menswear inspired hats, slouchy silhouettes- all in black, grey, olive, or brown. I remain loyal to that look myself- what I love about it is that you can always feel cool, ready, and effortlessly sexy. My deal with super feminine clothes is they tend to feel fussy, prissy, or uptight. I hate those three adjectives, don't you?
But Peter Lindbergh's story featuring the drop dead hot Lara Stona and the even drop dead hotter Alexander Skarsgard (that deep V on the first episode of True Blood the other night was, well, wow) restored my faith in ladylike silhouettes. The looks in this story are super femmed up, but with a sexy edge that feels more Zelda Fitzgerald/spy in Berlin than lunch at Le Cirque. My favorite look, by far, is the Miu Miu dress with the gold embellishment and the fabulous hat, pictured below. If I was spending my Fall in Europe, I would most likely have to have this- so very perfect for a transcontinental adventure, non? And there's good news for you cloche types out there- hats are having a moment again this Fall- I myself am obsessed with headwear so good news for me. And that lilac fur coat? Genius.
In any event, if you're feeling in the mood for some feminine looks this fall, I'd go for it. I may have to retire my massive collection of Alex Wang tee dresses in favor of a more romantic ideal.
And that's what's up this deliciously feminine Tuesday in the MIA. It's fun being a woman in 2011, especially if you have cheekbones like Lara Stone. More photos below.XO
Good morning, Monday. It's hot and soupy in Miami, but what else is new?
As I watched the news of gay marriage being a go in New York State this weekend, my heart swelled. It's no secret that I am a huge fan of the gays, as well as an even bigger fan of New York. I am so proud of the state that was once my home (and in my heart still is)- I'm thrillled for all my friends and extended network of people that can now love each other, on their terms, and fight over which furniture to buy in Ikea, now with wedded bliss. As a girl who grew up in a family that had gay cousins and uncles, I could never understand why people could not simply choose to love who they want to love, because a love without love, recognized how you want to recognize it, is kind of a shitty deal. I always felt very lucky to come from a family that was so accepting and tolerant in that regard- my grandfather was one of the butchest manly men around, but had no problem with having a gay son. Plus, my family had some very fun parties in the 70s- disco in the backyard and such.
So as I sit here and applaud New York (and my dear friend Jon Reinish, one of the smartest and funniest people I have been lucky to know, who had a significant role in pushing for this), I can't help but wonder about us straights. Recent studies show that many of us are questioning the relevance of "I Do" in our increasingly complex world of single motherdom, options for women out the wazoo, and men being energized by the glories of Viagra, and a renewed interest in sex, and maybe even going outside the marriage to get some. In fact, an October 2010 Pew study of 2,691 Americans done in association with Time magazine found that nearly four in 10 Americans think marriage is becoming obsolete. Not surprisingly,younger people are leading the way in redefining what marriage means- think of how many of their parents are divorced. Forty-four percent of those between the ages of 18 and 29 saw marriage as obsolete, compared to 32 percent of those 65 and older, in an article in USA Today.
And with divorce prevalant now amongst couples in their 50s and then some (Al and Tipper come to mind), is marriage for the male/female couples going to become passé?Does the second act now include divorce?
I'm not sure I'm qualified to answer this one, but I do know marriage was just thrown on its traditional arse by the news of New Yorkers finally being able to tie the knot. And we all know New York sets the trends for the rest of the country, so I am sure many states will follow. And as someone who has spent their life selling stuff, I can't help but wonder how the marketing community will react to this new marriage equation? Will we see more commercials featuring same sex couples and families (I know Ikea did one a bit ago and J. Crew recently featured a male couple in their catalogue but I want more)? What will all of this mean to the wedding business? How will insurance law grow to accomodate same sex unions? And most importantly, what on Earth will I wear to all of these fabulous weddings (Phillip Treacy most likely, at least on my head)?
I'm a girl who likes to watch, and this cultural shift has me excited to see what will happen to the time honored tradition of marriage. Maybe it's becoming less important for girls who like boys and vice versa, but look for same sex marriages to reinvent notions of what betrothal really is, and it's about time, and really it's about choice. Married or not, I'm glad New Yorkers are now free to love how they want, and who they want. And maybe the gays will save marriage, after all.The fights at Ikea are non-negotiable though, trust me...
And that's what's up this happy to let love rule, regardless of what kind type of Monday in the MIA. Go out there and love someone, marriage or no marriage. Just as long as it's on your terms. XO
UPDATE AS OF 1:30 PM- Just spotted an article on the Atlantic Wire that New York (and business genius) Mayor Bloomberg are going to hype the crap out of this marriage thing with a massive ad campaign targeted at gay couples. Needless to say, this will give New York City tourism a nice kick in its pants...link below. And how much do you love that New York is already finding a way to monetize this? It's all happening, mere days after. Love is big business. Smart.
http://www.theatlanticwire.com/national/2011/06/new-york-city-now-looks-cash-...
Happy Friday- has been a long week and I am v.v. ready for some weekend, I'll tell you what.
I admit it- I am a huge fan of "I told you so", bratty as I am, so I'm happy to report that back in March I posted that striped Prada dress on my blog and declared it the dress of the Spring. And guess what? It was, or is.
In my sleepless night last night, I was cruising around online and found an article on In Style, declaring the adorably sexy dress as one of great mileage on red carpets stateside and otherwise, and that even Bossypants herself (Tine Fey) rocked it. I remember pegging the black and white Givenchy striped jacket the year before that as "the" item that would be copied by the high street, and I was right on that as well. I have a sixth sense for what's coming, what's going to be popular, and what's next- fashion or otherwise. In any event, it's nice to see affirmation of something I posted months ago, on March 18th to be exact. The post went a little something like this:
"If you've been reading this blog for a while, you may remember last Spring when I picked the black and white, vertical striped Givenchy blazer as the most coveted item of the season, and predicted it would be "repurposed" by more mainstream retailers like Zara, Forever 21, and H&M. I did end up seeing this piece, in various iterations and reinterpretations, all over our American version of the High Street (the mall), so I wanted to zero in on a dress I thought was "copy" worthy as well.
I give you yet another striped number, from Prada's Spring 2011 collection. I've already sighted the long version of this by young Hailee Steinfeld at one of the various awards shows this season, but it's this shorter, sassier number I'm a bit agog over. I have a feeling this pattern, color palette, and silhouette will be the dress of the season, with retailers clamoring to think of ways to redo it. I'm a huge fan of this litle number and wouldn't mind my own little version of this dreamy dress, at my price point, of course".
I can't pretend to know what is going to happen in your love life, or what the outcome of your next job interview will be. But keep reading this blog and I promise you you'll hear about stuff that is going to trend on the high side, albeit fashion, some social phenomenon, or hot destination. That is all. I hope you have a wonderful weekend- I myself will be looking for new fun things to write about for all of you, so keep reading! (Pardon the personal toot horning, but I dig when I'm right. Just ask my husband).
Cause that's what's up this futured Friday in the MIA. XO
Here is the link to the InStyle article:
http://www.stylelist.com/2011/06/23/prada-summer-fashion-2011-magazine-covers...