Good afternoon, Thursday. It's just shite outside and I'm feeling a cold coming on so laying quite low.
So I've been going to my local bookstore a lot of late as I really enjoy scoping out beautiful new books (I'm a sucker for pretty pictures you know)- I bought this gorgeous monograph on Loulou De La Falaise, infamous bohemian chic muse of YSL and amazing beacon of French style. I've pored over the book and can't get enough of her chic more is more approach that somehow never looks overdone. Some pics to validate my undying devotion to this style icon:
And since I have some time off, I've been doing a lot of thinking about inspiration- and from where it comes and how it starts. For me, it's always been a rather happy accident. For instance, I bought the book on Loulou and then found myself in Prospect Heights for lunch with a friend and her gorgeous baby yesterday. Amidst the cold, damp weather, I happened upon the most fabulous vintage store, called 1 of a Find. They had the most fabulous stuff and I was glad I was early to meet my pal and could spend some time there, amidst loads of gold threaded boho dresses and pieces from the 70s that channeled my love of all things Loulou. I didn't buy anything, but I loved that feeling of inspiration served- happening upon a store by chance that was a full on homage to someone I had just recently rediscovered. The store had a great vibe and lots of fun pieces- the girl in the shop had studied fashion design in Florence and we chatted about the joy of small dogs and she told me great stories of Italy. I recommend this shop and moreover, I'm intrigued by this very cool neighborhood I've known little about. I'll be back for sure to check it out.
And as all of that was happening and as I sit here feeling less than perfect, I can't help but feel that you can't push inspiration or force it to happen, and I'm taking that approach to my life too. I'm going to keep doing what I'm doing- exploring, discovering, unearthing and know that soon, all of these happy accidents will form something great. I feel lucky to have a bit of time to check out new neighborhoods, read some books, and rediscover the things that make me tick. Inspiration can come from everywhere- it just can't be forced. And as I look to figure out how to start my own business, I'm going to think of Loulou and her effortless approach to inspiration- my spirit enjoys feeling free. This much I know. I may be dressing more minimalist these days, but I'm the free spirit I've always been and feel like there's good stuff on the way.
Cause that's what's up this inspiration is everywhere kind of Thursday in rainy day Brooklyn. Yours, in taking my time. XO