Have countries that were my icons of style lost their allure?
Sunday, June 13, 2010
The democratization of style (akin to the Big Mac's success abroad) and tourism blurs my previous notions of where I can see great style except on the Sartorialist blogspot. When you travel amongst throngs of tourists you must be aware that they don't necessarily represent the citizens of the country you visit. I tried to constantly guess whether a person of interest was a native or a tourist. Style-wise the world has definitely changed in the last 25 years--but not for the better. The words "Ugly American" are no longer (if ever ) attributable to Americans. Today most countries and their cities suffer from visual blindness, and there are only enclaves within cities and certain towns that you can still witness real style worthy of a double-take . Without disclosing where I just travelled, I will say that the first destination was not a country I expected any style --and was not surprised by the lack of it (with the exception of a visual oasis of French wealthy tourists staying at one of the most high end hotels in the city). The second country, where I've visited often --I'm wondering if there too they are on a downward spiral. Perhaps the strong 80s influence in fashion is part of the problem? That, coupled with the casualization of style equals the "perfect storm". As I've noted before, and recently in a NY Times interview Jil Sander (a longtime favorite designer of mine that has a new line with Uniqlo) also implies--with no cohesive style guideposts (and anything goes) people run amok.
At the airport line waiting to re-enter this great country was a long line of a surreal and motley crew. I fantasized about a special re-entry "style" passport prerequisite. I took a few incriminating photos (in one a woman of about age 65 with a figure that should have benefitted by Spanx--wore tight and shine-y black spandex lace edged tights in lieu of pants, a stretch top with a loud Peter Max-like print , a big black sunhat, all her jewelry at once, and neon multi-colored sneakers)--but hesitate to publish them for obvious reasons.
The good news? I enjoyed our trip, made new friends and learned much about world history. I also returned to our home neighborhood in NYC--where there are luckily many young, stylish people that make me feel hopeful about my work and it's relevance.
Now in my next post I'll discuss some positive resurgence of classic and comfortable styles.
Whether sightseeing or walking on cobblestone roads at dinner time, you want to be comfortable--but lookin' good. Here I have some suggestions for ageless items that are hip, packable (crease resistant and fold flat), sturdy (rubber soled shoes) and versatile. Add a neutral pair of Nikes, and some workout basics ( like white and gray T tops or polo shirts and black workout pants ) and you're well on your way!
When I turned forty-(-exactly on the dot!) I needed eyeglasses. Rather than despair--I was happy. Since I was a little girl I wanted --long hair (finally did it at 40-ish) pierced ears (accomplished at age 16), and believe it or not--glasses!
Today I go shopping every few years (my husband in tow for his opinion) for an "everyday pair". I do this for clients as well--because selection, and observation by a critical and stylishly fluent consultant (hopefully me) --sure helps. They know that their glasses may be the first accessory people notice--for obvious reasons. They will either enhance features or detract from them--it's all in the (often expensive) choice. They may also compromise a "sexy" look for black-tie---so contact lenses are a handy alternative.
Some folks stick with the same pair for decades--because they are associated with their persona or their professional field (i.e. Swifty Lazar, Carol Channing, Liz Claiborne, Sally Jesse Rafael, Phillip Johnson, Le Corbusier, I.M. Pei). But generally--I believe --we need to look attractive and observing of what's modern ( trends definately exist). Certain styles spell "instant old"--and it shifts often for women. Yet nothing says "modern" better than the perfect glasses.
FabOverFifty is running a contest for Ann Sachs (yes, she has a fantastic tile company too!) eyegasses. I love several pairs on her site. Other favorite brands are Oliver Peoples, Paul Smith, and Matsuda.
New "green" materials are being used along with metals and plastics.
I just blogged about the exhibit--but had not mentioned seeing the gorgeous Lena Horne, on the "big screen" in her prime, as one of many accomplished women flashed on the walls of the Met. Oddly, as I looked up and saw her I thought "where is she today--is she still with us?"
I remembered working with Lena at the start of my costume design career, while I was still in my 20s. To project professionalism--I pretended to at least not to be in total awe of this legend-- as I took the task of dressing her for a project. I remember her favoring a caftan and turban. Truthfully she would have looked beautiful in anything. In some ways I wish I was the age I am today working with her then. There is lots to be said for experience and "walking the walk" (knowing what it feels like to get older).
And as you did, I learned she has died at 92--just a day later.
The Metropolitan Museum’s “American Woman” is all about style!
Saturday, May 8, 2010
It's a "must see"! What a treat to see such an extraordinary collection of mostly high-end evening wear designs from the late 19th century into the mid 20th century (also included were sport outfits and suffragette skirt suits). It was reviewed and compared with a complementary exhibit now at The Brooklyn Museum, in a NY Times article recently. The exhibit was a testament to the art and craft that is involved in executing exquisite garments, then and still today. The textures, the colors, the details were extraordinary. Exposure to the art of style is as important as the Picasso exhibit across the hall. Especially in these times when casual style and comfort reigns--it's great to see examples of a standard of dress that may be truly become --a thing of the past.
It’s good to know “Steal This Style” continues to inspire quality, long term style goals!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Recently, Grace shared this with me-Just wanted to share this with you... I've been looking for a nice (not-too-trendy) military-inspired jacket (which can be worn as a blazer) for what seems almost a year now. After I saw the page in your book where you styled the military look I thought it was such a hip, universal and yet classic look that it would definitely be worth the investment.
I found a beautiful one from Talbots. It's a viscose/linen jacket with great tailoring, very thin shoulder pads and a drawstring waist with hidden buttons down the front. It has a classic blazer (notched collar, v-neck) neckline, but buttons high enough so it could be worn on its own.
It's a $200 jacket that I got for $75 through a couple of discount promotions. I love it. It's a deep army-green color (called Bay Leaf) Fits like a glove. I can wear it year 'round.
Why am I sharing? So I can thank you - for giving us such wonderful examples of quality and tailoring and timeless style in your book. Had I not seen that example I probably would have settled for something more trendy and of less quality and probably would have not had it around for long.
Want to add a touch of color to your casual style?
Saturday, May 1, 2010
I'm always searching for stylish (and non-kitchy) ways to make a classically simple outfit (too often taken as "ho-hum"!) like say--a classic boat neck by St James, sailor srtripe top, paired with navy or white jeans /or city ( almost to the top of the knee, close to the thigh) shorts and then a pair of these (LOVE them!)...
Mary Marino of Flashionista.com also likes substance with style!
Friday, April 30, 2010
We share that philosophical goal. Mary just posted an introduction to me, my books--and-- also in time for Mother's Day, a post that included my services as a style consultant.
The Flashionista, sends you great information twice a week--enjoy!
Fab Over Fifty’s Geri Brin, lauded “Steal This Style” in her blog….
Friday, April 30, 2010
I was thrilled to get such positive reaction and review of my most recent book, just in time for Mother's Day, by the woman who founded "Fab Over Fifty". Her site is fabulous indeed--and has the joyful, sophisticated and modern vibe I long to see more of for boomers and all of us as we try to age well.
Well-finally--I think the "sea may have parted" for many who have been rightly so concerned about job security, their stocks plummeting, homes not selling and the daily news and malaise of the past year and a half (at the least!). Of course we're far from full recovery--and some are better off than others.
I was recently interviewed, and quoted on this subject of pent up spending--which ties, perhaps umbilicly, to the work I do. Here's the article, in USA Today.
