Don Cornelius started the show Soul Train in 1970. It ran for over 35 years.
This week Don committed suicide. According to news reports he was very ill and in a lot of pain. His son found the body.
As a kid I watched American Bandstand and Soul Train every Saturday morning.
I do remember seeing Elton's performance in 1975. One of my favorite songs.
Okay the shoes on the first guy dancing in the clip below, look like something Lady Gaga would wear today. Every time I hear this song I think of "Pulp Fiction."
The Commodores used to be funky back in the day. I miss this kind of music.
I might have seen this episode during the height of my "I'm going to marry Michael Jackson when I get older" mania.
Wishing everyone, peace, love, and soooooooooul this weekend. RIP DC.
Showing posts with label Style Inspiration. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Style Inspiration. Show all posts
Friday, February 03, 2012
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Get Your Cocktail On: Caffè Propaganda
I do drink more wine and fewer cocktails since moving to Rome. However, sometimes I like to have something other than a glass of wine, prosecco, or an Aperol Spritz.
Caffè Propaganda is a newish place that opened up in the Celio neighborhood. I don't think I will be eating dinner there any time soon after reading Katie Parla's review (maybe in time the kitchen's kinks will be worked out) but for cocktails... oh hells yes.
My friend Erica and her friend met up with me and two of my friends last Friday. We got there on the early side and sat at the bar.
The décor is gorgeous. The zinc bar and the chandeliers are from France. Stunning. I happened to see an interview with one of the architects on Leonardo. I think she also designed the restaurant 'Gusto.
The music was fantastic. I heard one of my all time favorites, Stevie Wonder's "As" and a version of Marvin Gaye's "I Want You" that I've never heard before. I thought I'd heard them all. Bravo, Mr. DJ.
The crowd was very different from the Piazza Navona/Campo dei Fiori Triangle, no students or tourists. It was older, late 20s and up. There was a couple sitting next to me at the bar who might have been, stop the presses, in their 40s.
Of course none of this matters if the drinks suck. Thankfully, that was not the situation. The two bartenders, Emanuele and Desirè, broke it down.
Emanuele worked in New York City and Desirè in London. They really know their stuff. I could watch them mix drinks for hours. Their seasonal cocktails were inventive and delicious. All night we kept asking them, "what drink is that?"
The bartenders were attentive and friendly, even as the bar started to fill up later into the evening. We spoke Italian to them and they spoke English to us so they could practice.
We did get a few antipasti which were yummy.
My friends and I had a great time and will return. I have to try their Moscow Mule. I wonder what the crowd will be like once high season starts.
Caffè Propaganda
Via Claudia, 15
06-94-53-4255
Caffè Propaganda is a newish place that opened up in the Celio neighborhood. I don't think I will be eating dinner there any time soon after reading Katie Parla's review (maybe in time the kitchen's kinks will be worked out) but for cocktails... oh hells yes.
My friend Erica and her friend met up with me and two of my friends last Friday. We got there on the early side and sat at the bar.
The décor is gorgeous. The zinc bar and the chandeliers are from France. Stunning. I happened to see an interview with one of the architects on Leonardo. I think she also designed the restaurant 'Gusto.
The music was fantastic. I heard one of my all time favorites, Stevie Wonder's "As" and a version of Marvin Gaye's "I Want You" that I've never heard before. I thought I'd heard them all. Bravo, Mr. DJ.
The crowd was very different from the Piazza Navona/Campo dei Fiori Triangle, no students or tourists. It was older, late 20s and up. There was a couple sitting next to me at the bar who might have been, stop the presses, in their 40s.
Of course none of this matters if the drinks suck. Thankfully, that was not the situation. The two bartenders, Emanuele and Desirè, broke it down.
Emanuele worked in New York City and Desirè in London. They really know their stuff. I could watch them mix drinks for hours. Their seasonal cocktails were inventive and delicious. All night we kept asking them, "what drink is that?"
The bartenders were attentive and friendly, even as the bar started to fill up later into the evening. We spoke Italian to them and they spoke English to us so they could practice.
We did get a few antipasti which were yummy.
My friends and I had a great time and will return. I have to try their Moscow Mule. I wonder what the crowd will be like once high season starts.
Caffè Propaganda
Via Claudia, 15
06-94-53-4255
Thursday, December 01, 2011
World's Oldest Interior Design Intern Strongly Recommends "Restoring A Home In Italy" by Elizabeth Helman Minchilli
I wrote about Elizabeth's book Italian Rustic.
RESTORING A HOME IN ITALY is one of her earlier books, written in 2001. I LOVED it and know I will be using it as a reference for a long time.
It's a gorgeous book. Very inspiring. It's a perfect gift for anyone who has an interest in home decor/design, Italy, or beautiful photography.
Twenty-two homes are featured from all over Italy. Elizabeth has divided the book in areas; Northwest, Northeast, Tuscany, Umbria, Rome, and the South.
There is a range of homes from restored farmhouses to apartments in Rome.
One of my favorites is the former candle factory in Trastevere that is now an incredible apartment with a courtyard.
The book is well-written and the project notes sections are useful and accessible. You don't need to be a contractor to understand the building methods Elizabeth writes about.
I read Elizabeth's book the same week I started an internship with a prominent Italian furniture/interior designer (a big fat thank you to a certain friend for the introduction).
The timing was not great as I was in the middle of finishing my novel. The last few weeks have been a little bananas. No, make that extremely bananas.
But it's been a great experience. I'm learning a lot. Also, my Italian is improving now that I'm in an office with Italians and not at home all day writing only in English.
In a bizarre way everything has come full circle. My first job of out college was in the Buyer Executive Trainee Program at Bloomingdales. I interned in the Buying offices at the flagship store during college. After I graduated, I was assigned to the Home Furnishings division.
I've been reading shelter magazines and books since the sixth grade. My friends here thought I was nuts to bring my copies of DOMINO (RIP) and Elle Decor magazines to Rome. I wondered about that too, now it all makes sense.
I'm still writing and will continue to do so. However, my post JUMPING THE BROOM experience has been a real eye-opener.
At some point I will start a separate blog that will focus on design/decor.
In the meantime, I'm very excited about this opportunity. To be able to work in this area in Italy is a plus as many of the top textile, kitchen/bathroom design, furniture, etc. companies in the world are Italian.
So while it's difficult at times to be the World's Oldest Intern (hello, a few years ago I had an assistant), hands-on experience is important. Everything I'm doing now is laying down the foundation for my future.
Wednesday, October 05, 2011
Hermès exhibit... sigh.
There was a short-term Hermès exhibit at the Chiostro del Bramante in Rome to celebrate the opening of the new men's store on Via Campo Marzio.
It ended on Sunday. My friend C. and I made it just in time on Saturday.
I don't remember how old I was when I first became aware of Hermès. I walked into their store in St. Martin one day during a summer trip to see my grandparents.
The store was incredible. The salespeople were so chic and very nice.
My friends know I'm somewhat obsessed with Hermès bags. One friend even sends me snapshots of Birkins she sees in Rome.
I don't own a single one. Years ago I saw a used Kelly bag at a yard sale in Georgetown. I could kick myself for not buying it. Then again I was a junior congressional aide on The Hill making less than 18k a year. I doubt I could afford the bag.
I still can't afford the bags. But I can appreciate them from afar.
The exhibit was fantastic. Well curated and the write-ups were beautiful. I know they were writing about leather and bags, but it was poetry.
We were able to touch the leather samples. Like butter.
There was one display comprised of only Kellys and Birkins. My friend asked me if I was okay because it looked like I was hyperventilating.
They had bags on display that were over hundred and fifty years old. The level of craftsmanship is unreal.
The company was founded in 1837 as a harness workshop and is still family owned. However, the big multinational LVHM wants like to buy them out.
Hermès bags are made by hand, unlike some other luxury brands.
A craftsperson works on one bag at a time.
C. used to ride horses. We spent a lot of time in this room.
When I see this picture I crack up. This was in a little room to the right of the big Kelly/Birkin display. As we walked toward the room, we heard this smacking noise. It was a couple completely making out behind the display. The crazy thing is, they didn't stop when we walked past them. We were in that room for a while and when we walked out, they were still making out. Really, folks, in a museum?!
Hermès store Rue du General De Gaulle. Marigot, St. Martin, French West Indies. Where the love affair began.
It ended on Sunday. My friend C. and I made it just in time on Saturday.
I don't remember how old I was when I first became aware of Hermès. I walked into their store in St. Martin one day during a summer trip to see my grandparents.
The store was incredible. The salespeople were so chic and very nice.
My friends know I'm somewhat obsessed with Hermès bags. One friend even sends me snapshots of Birkins she sees in Rome.
I don't own a single one. Years ago I saw a used Kelly bag at a yard sale in Georgetown. I could kick myself for not buying it. Then again I was a junior congressional aide on The Hill making less than 18k a year. I doubt I could afford the bag.
I still can't afford the bags. But I can appreciate them from afar.
The exhibit was fantastic. Well curated and the write-ups were beautiful. I know they were writing about leather and bags, but it was poetry.
We were able to touch the leather samples. Like butter.
There was one display comprised of only Kellys and Birkins. My friend asked me if I was okay because it looked like I was hyperventilating.
They had bags on display that were over hundred and fifty years old. The level of craftsmanship is unreal.
The company was founded in 1837 as a harness workshop and is still family owned. However, the big multinational LVHM wants like to buy them out.
Hermès bags are made by hand, unlike some other luxury brands.
A craftsperson works on one bag at a time.
C. used to ride horses. We spent a lot of time in this room.
When I see this picture I crack up. This was in a little room to the right of the big Kelly/Birkin display. As we walked toward the room, we heard this smacking noise. It was a couple completely making out behind the display. The crazy thing is, they didn't stop when we walked past them. We were in that room for a while and when we walked out, they were still making out. Really, folks, in a museum?!
Hermès store Rue du General De Gaulle. Marigot, St. Martin, French West Indies. Where the love affair began.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
I Feel Bad About My Neck, The Little Black Book Of Style, 32 Candles and more books
Here are the other books I enjoyed reading this summer.
I FEEL BAD ABOUT MY NECK: And Other Thoughts On Being A Woman by Nora Ephron
Hilarious.
This series of essays cracked me up. Before she became a screenwriter/director, Ephron was a celebrated writer for Esquire, New York Magazine and several other publications.
Her essay about her apartment in the Apthorp reminded me of how lucky I was to find my old apartment in NYC. She had to pay a $25,000 key fee (insane) in 1980. Her rent was $1500. Then a few years ago the city passed new laws regarding rent stablized apartments. Her rent went up to $10,000 a month, then would be raised later to $12,000 a month for a place that was falling apart. The way she writes about her old neighborhood and her move to the Upper East Side is too funny. I have friends in NYC who refuse, yes refuse, to go above 14th Street during the weekend.
AT THE ELBOWS OF MY ELDERS: One Family’s Journey Toward Civil Right by Gail Milissa Grant
Grant happens to be an American expat in Rome.
I have read many books about the civil rights movement, but it was interesting to read one set mostly in the '40s and '50s as opposed to the '60s.
I had mixed feelings while I read the book. Reading about the injustices of that time was difficult. However, the bravery of people like Grant's father is inspiring.
I wish more people knew about this era of American history. Maybe certain folks (hello, Tea Party) would think twice before running their mouths about "real Americans". Were it not for the slaves, America wouldn't be America. What do these people think would have happened to the economy (especially in the South) without free labor? Post Troy Davis' execution, I can't even get into the moral, political, and socio-economic ramifications of slavery. And yes, we are still dealing with the fallout centuries later.
While the subject matter was serious, there were many light moments in the book. It was fun to read about Cab Calloway, Lena Horne, Josephine Baker, and all the other famous entertainers who found refuge at the Grant home.
THE LITTLE BLACK BOOK OF STYLE by Nina Garcia
As I wrote earlier, I'm trying to rework my closet. I can't afford to add new clothes, but I could take some to a tailor and donate the clothes I don't wear.
I really like Garcia's style and advice. This little book was packed with great information and lovely illustrations by Ruben Toledo.
Garcia covered basics, when to wear what, had insider tips, and included a "Cliff Notes" section that broke down style by the decades.
A quick read and a great resource.
32 CANDLES by Ernessa T. Carter
This is the debut novel from Carter. It's about a poor, unattractive, dark-skinned girl from small town Mississippi who is constantly bullied. She becomes obsessed with the movie "16 Candles" and a new boy in town who comes from a very wealthy family.
After one prank too many, she escapes to L.A. where she reinvents herself as a singer in a funky nightclub.
Years later, the boy she had the crush on shows up Los Angeles. He doesn't remember her. She doesn't tell him who she is (or used to be).
I loved the characters who worked with Davie in L.A. There were many laugh out loud moments.
The beginning of the book is quite intense. I wasn't expecting it, since I thought it was a rom com. Her mother was a complete nightmare and the bullying was beyond vicious.
WATER FOR ELEPHANTS by Sara Gruen
A friend gave me this book. I see why it was a bestseller. Unfortunately, I read it after the movie version came out. I kept seeing sparkly vampire Robert Patterson in my head.
The story is told in flashbacks. A young man attending Cornell has to drop out after his parents die in a car accident. Distraught, he hops on a train. It turns out to belong to a circus.
Gruen does a great job of sucking you into the world of the big top. The book takes place during the Great Depression. She captures the despair and cruelty of that time.
The love story between Jacob and Malena probably would have felt more powerful and emotional to me if I were able to stop thinking, "Reese Witherspoon and Robert Patterson? Together? WTF?"
That said, I do want to see the movie. I love Christoph Waltz and can't wait to see him play the psycho villan August.
Rosie the elephant is the bomb.
I FEEL BAD ABOUT MY NECK: And Other Thoughts On Being A Woman by Nora Ephron
Hilarious.
This series of essays cracked me up. Before she became a screenwriter/director, Ephron was a celebrated writer for Esquire, New York Magazine and several other publications.
Her essay about her apartment in the Apthorp reminded me of how lucky I was to find my old apartment in NYC. She had to pay a $25,000 key fee (insane) in 1980. Her rent was $1500. Then a few years ago the city passed new laws regarding rent stablized apartments. Her rent went up to $10,000 a month, then would be raised later to $12,000 a month for a place that was falling apart. The way she writes about her old neighborhood and her move to the Upper East Side is too funny. I have friends in NYC who refuse, yes refuse, to go above 14th Street during the weekend.
AT THE ELBOWS OF MY ELDERS: One Family’s Journey Toward Civil Right by Gail Milissa Grant
Grant happens to be an American expat in Rome.
I have read many books about the civil rights movement, but it was interesting to read one set mostly in the '40s and '50s as opposed to the '60s.
I had mixed feelings while I read the book. Reading about the injustices of that time was difficult. However, the bravery of people like Grant's father is inspiring.
I wish more people knew about this era of American history. Maybe certain folks (hello, Tea Party) would think twice before running their mouths about "real Americans". Were it not for the slaves, America wouldn't be America. What do these people think would have happened to the economy (especially in the South) without free labor? Post Troy Davis' execution, I can't even get into the moral, political, and socio-economic ramifications of slavery. And yes, we are still dealing with the fallout centuries later.
While the subject matter was serious, there were many light moments in the book. It was fun to read about Cab Calloway, Lena Horne, Josephine Baker, and all the other famous entertainers who found refuge at the Grant home.
THE LITTLE BLACK BOOK OF STYLE by Nina Garcia
As I wrote earlier, I'm trying to rework my closet. I can't afford to add new clothes, but I could take some to a tailor and donate the clothes I don't wear.
I really like Garcia's style and advice. This little book was packed with great information and lovely illustrations by Ruben Toledo.
Garcia covered basics, when to wear what, had insider tips, and included a "Cliff Notes" section that broke down style by the decades.
A quick read and a great resource.
32 CANDLES by Ernessa T. Carter
This is the debut novel from Carter. It's about a poor, unattractive, dark-skinned girl from small town Mississippi who is constantly bullied. She becomes obsessed with the movie "16 Candles" and a new boy in town who comes from a very wealthy family.
After one prank too many, she escapes to L.A. where she reinvents herself as a singer in a funky nightclub.
Years later, the boy she had the crush on shows up Los Angeles. He doesn't remember her. She doesn't tell him who she is (or used to be).
I loved the characters who worked with Davie in L.A. There were many laugh out loud moments.
The beginning of the book is quite intense. I wasn't expecting it, since I thought it was a rom com. Her mother was a complete nightmare and the bullying was beyond vicious.
WATER FOR ELEPHANTS by Sara Gruen
A friend gave me this book. I see why it was a bestseller. Unfortunately, I read it after the movie version came out. I kept seeing sparkly vampire Robert Patterson in my head.
The story is told in flashbacks. A young man attending Cornell has to drop out after his parents die in a car accident. Distraught, he hops on a train. It turns out to belong to a circus.
Gruen does a great job of sucking you into the world of the big top. The book takes place during the Great Depression. She captures the despair and cruelty of that time.
The love story between Jacob and Malena probably would have felt more powerful and emotional to me if I were able to stop thinking, "Reese Witherspoon and Robert Patterson? Together? WTF?"
That said, I do want to see the movie. I love Christoph Waltz and can't wait to see him play the psycho villan August.
Rosie the elephant is the bomb.
Thursday, September 08, 2011
Piemonte 2: Electric Boogaloo - wine, ravioli, stars
The first time I went to Piemonte was two years ago on my birthday.
This year I stayed in the Terrace Room. The room is amazing. They just finished it earlier this year. I could live in the shower. For real.
My birthday started out with:
A lovely way to start the day.
Then, like my last trip, I went to a wine tasting.
My friend's husband is an excellent guide. He really knows a lot about Piemontese wines, but speaks about them in a way that is accessible.
Another guest joined us and off we went. We drove to the area of Piemonte called Langhe. This is some serious wine country. Home of the Nebbiolo grape.
We stopped by Ca' del Baio. Micha went to pick up a some cases, but it turned into a impromptu wine tasting. Valentina was wonderful. She is the great granddaughter of the founder. 1000 CORKS has a listing of where you can buy their wines in America. Their wines are very, very, good. Loved their Barbaresco and their Moscato.
The next was vineyard CANTINA DEL GLICINE located in the tiny charming town of Neive. There is a nice video on their website. It takes a bit to load.
The cantina has been in existence since the 1600s. I had a great time and tasted some excellent Dolcetto, Nebbiolo, Barbaresco and Moscato wine. There was one white wine Roero Arneis, that I wasn't familiar with. I'm kicking myself for not buying a bottle.
For my birthday dinner I had these:
Mere words cannot describe how delicious these ravioli were. The sauce was made from the pan drippings of the roasted meat used for the fillings. Super light, and full of flavor.
That night, after dinner, I sat on "my" terrace with a glass of wine. I looked up. The sky was packed with stars. I even saw a shooting star. It was so relaxing and peaceful.
Thanks to my friends, I had so much fun on my birthday I forgot to be in a bad mood.
I adore the area. It's interesting to me that one of the best (if not the best according my wine expert friends) wine regions in Italy is so undiscovered by the busloads of American tourists who go to wine tastings in Tuscany. We saw one American couple. That's it. We did see quite a few cars with French, German and Swiss plates.
Maybe it's because most of the Piemontese producers are small?
Sitting on the terrace hearing nothing but the wind through the trees, I wish I had a house in the country. A place to sit and write. I would love to own a place in Piemonte. After the drive, I realized it's too far from Rome. Way too far.
Yes, it's true I have no money now, but things are going to get better. And I will buy a house one day. It might not be until I'm sixty and it might be super tiny, but it will happen.
In the meantime, it's nice to know there are places where you do feel at home.
Sigh.
At Cantina del Glicine.
One of the best known producers in Italy.
I have to ask Diana for the name of this restaurant. UPDATE: See Diana's response below.
More Piemonte photos are on my FLICKRpage.
This year I stayed in the Terrace Room. The room is amazing. They just finished it earlier this year. I could live in the shower. For real.
My birthday started out with:
A lovely way to start the day.Then, like my last trip, I went to a wine tasting.
My friend's husband is an excellent guide. He really knows a lot about Piemontese wines, but speaks about them in a way that is accessible.
Another guest joined us and off we went. We drove to the area of Piemonte called Langhe. This is some serious wine country. Home of the Nebbiolo grape.
We stopped by Ca' del Baio. Micha went to pick up a some cases, but it turned into a impromptu wine tasting. Valentina was wonderful. She is the great granddaughter of the founder. 1000 CORKS has a listing of where you can buy their wines in America. Their wines are very, very, good. Loved their Barbaresco and their Moscato.
The next was vineyard CANTINA DEL GLICINE located in the tiny charming town of Neive. There is a nice video on their website. It takes a bit to load.
The cantina has been in existence since the 1600s. I had a great time and tasted some excellent Dolcetto, Nebbiolo, Barbaresco and Moscato wine. There was one white wine Roero Arneis, that I wasn't familiar with. I'm kicking myself for not buying a bottle.
For my birthday dinner I had these:
Mere words cannot describe how delicious these ravioli were. The sauce was made from the pan drippings of the roasted meat used for the fillings. Super light, and full of flavor.
That night, after dinner, I sat on "my" terrace with a glass of wine. I looked up. The sky was packed with stars. I even saw a shooting star. It was so relaxing and peaceful.
Thanks to my friends, I had so much fun on my birthday I forgot to be in a bad mood.
I adore the area. It's interesting to me that one of the best (if not the best according my wine expert friends) wine regions in Italy is so undiscovered by the busloads of American tourists who go to wine tastings in Tuscany. We saw one American couple. That's it. We did see quite a few cars with French, German and Swiss plates.
Maybe it's because most of the Piemontese producers are small?
Sitting on the terrace hearing nothing but the wind through the trees, I wish I had a house in the country. A place to sit and write. I would love to own a place in Piemonte. After the drive, I realized it's too far from Rome. Way too far.
Yes, it's true I have no money now, but things are going to get better. And I will buy a house one day. It might not be until I'm sixty and it might be super tiny, but it will happen.
In the meantime, it's nice to know there are places where you do feel at home.
Sigh.
At Cantina del Glicine.
One of the best known producers in Italy.
I have to ask Diana for the name of this restaurant. UPDATE: See Diana's response below.
More Piemonte photos are on my FLICKRpage.
Tuesday, September 06, 2011
A bellissimo buttery yellow from Piemonte (via America and Germany)
I returned to Piemonte for my birthday. As a gift to myself, I bought this lovely bud vase and a bowl made by the very talented Diana Strinati Baur. Diana is an American who moved to Germany, then to Italy.
In this POST Diana talks about her long creative journey.
It's quite inspiring.
The photo below includes some of Diana's other pieces. I DIE for the yellow dessert plates with the pretty edges.
Someday I will place an order for those plates because I believe one day I will live in apartment and/or have a house big enough to entertain in.
For further information about her work/purchasing check out her BLOG.
I wanted to buy white Gerbera daises, but the flower stand only had yellow.
True, it is more expensive to buy something handmade. To me it's worth it.
There is no other vase on the planet that looks like this one. Diana could make fifty more vases using the same colors and the same method, yet each one would be unique.
I appreciate the time, creativity and love that went into every single piece.
This color cheers me up.
In this POST Diana talks about her long creative journey.
It's quite inspiring.
The photo below includes some of Diana's other pieces. I DIE for the yellow dessert plates with the pretty edges.
Someday I will place an order for those plates because I believe one day I will live in apartment and/or have a house big enough to entertain in.
For further information about her work/purchasing check out her BLOG.
I wanted to buy white Gerbera daises, but the flower stand only had yellow.
True, it is more expensive to buy something handmade. To me it's worth it.
There is no other vase on the planet that looks like this one. Diana could make fifty more vases using the same colors and the same method, yet each one would be unique.
I appreciate the time, creativity and love that went into every single piece.
This color cheers me up.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Flashback Friday -I Say A Little Prayer For You - My Best Friend's Wedding
Continuing with the wedding theme... here's one of my favorite wedding movie scenes. Rupert Evert and Cameron Diaz were great in My Best Friend's Wedding.
This also happens to be one my favorite Aretha Franklin songs.
I did watch the Royal Wedding and I am surprised how much I teared up. I loved everything about it. The pomp and circumstance, Catherine's beautiful House of McQueen dress (Sarah Burton is crazy talented), the handsome princes in their uniforms, the gorgeous Westminster Abbey.
I lost it when Prince William said, "You look beautiful" to Catherine.
Have a great weekend.
This also happens to be one my favorite Aretha Franklin songs.
I did watch the Royal Wedding and I am surprised how much I teared up. I loved everything about it. The pomp and circumstance, Catherine's beautiful House of McQueen dress (Sarah Burton is crazy talented), the handsome princes in their uniforms, the gorgeous Westminster Abbey.
I lost it when Prince William said, "You look beautiful" to Catherine.
Have a great weekend.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Flashback Friday (on Thursday) - Elizabeth Taylor Tribute By Paul Newman
I'm in shock. Which is strange because nobody lives forever.
However, Elizabeth Taylor seemed so larger than life, to hear of her death surprises me.
Many people are called "Legends" or "Movie Stars". Few deserve these titles. Elizabeth Taylor does and was one of a kind. With her passing, another member of the Golden Age of Hollywood is gone.
Elizabeth has always been one of my favorite names. My paternal grandmother was named Elizabeth and if I ever had a daughter that is what I would've named her. Don't tell my mom. I do like the name Martha, my maternal grandmother's name but Elizabeth has been number one on my list since I was a child.
People who have met Dame Taylor have told me she really was luminous, funny and kind. She will be missed.
This short tribute by Paul Newman is lovely.
However, Elizabeth Taylor seemed so larger than life, to hear of her death surprises me.
Many people are called "Legends" or "Movie Stars". Few deserve these titles. Elizabeth Taylor does and was one of a kind. With her passing, another member of the Golden Age of Hollywood is gone.
Elizabeth has always been one of my favorite names. My paternal grandmother was named Elizabeth and if I ever had a daughter that is what I would've named her. Don't tell my mom. I do like the name Martha, my maternal grandmother's name but Elizabeth has been number one on my list since I was a child.
People who have met Dame Taylor have told me she really was luminous, funny and kind. She will be missed.
This short tribute by Paul Newman is lovely.
Wednesday, March 09, 2011
Design Inspiration: Annette Joseph's Cinque Terre Apartment
I first became aware of interior designer/photo stylist Annette Joseph when I saw the film location apartment she created for Gwenyth Paltow on GOOP.
Then one of my favorite design blogs, Design Sponge, profiled her APARTMENT in the Cinque Terre area. STUNNING!!
Later, I saw her work in RUE and realized I had seen her work before in my beloved DOMINO magazine (RIP).
Annette has been coming to Italy since she was a child. Six years ago she and her husband decided to buy a place on the coast.
I love Annette's use of color in her apartment. Grey is having a moment but I don't think it will ever go out of style. It's a classic neutral.
The bathroom is amazing (that sink!!). I like that she used a lot of local materials.
Annette's apartment is light and airy. Perfect for a place near the sea.
I highly recommend Annette's BLOG. She has great posts on not only design/decorating but entertaining, cooking, etc. Very inspiring.
Then one of my favorite design blogs, Design Sponge, profiled her APARTMENT in the Cinque Terre area. STUNNING!!
Later, I saw her work in RUE and realized I had seen her work before in my beloved DOMINO magazine (RIP).
Annette has been coming to Italy since she was a child. Six years ago she and her husband decided to buy a place on the coast.
I love Annette's use of color in her apartment. Grey is having a moment but I don't think it will ever go out of style. It's a classic neutral.
The bathroom is amazing (that sink!!). I like that she used a lot of local materials.
Annette's apartment is light and airy. Perfect for a place near the sea.
I highly recommend Annette's BLOG. She has great posts on not only design/decorating but entertaining, cooking, etc. Very inspiring.
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
Style Inspiration - Italian Rustic by Elizabeth Helman Minchili
I bumped into Elizabeth last week in Monti which reminded me to buy her book.This book is gorgeous. Packed with photographs of farm houses (interiors and exteriors) in Tuscany and Umbria, the book also gives clear details on how to bring this type of decor into your own home.
Elizabeth's husband, an Italian architect, contributed to the book and I found the how-to sections very accessible. They also highlighted several artisans in the region. This is so important. I get why fast fashion, fast food, cheap furniture, etc. is successful but there's a value and quality to craftsmanship that cheap and fast could never replace. Never.
Italian Rustic 's chapters cover flooring, kitchens, outdoor spaces, bedrooms, roofs, etc.
Even if you're not going to buy a place in Tuscany or Umbria soon or redecorate your home, this book is a great read. I have an issue with home decor books that skimp on the photography. That makes no sense to me.
I'm obsessed with outdoor showers and on page 174 there is one on a terrace. I DIE! Really, to have an outdoor shower off your bedroom or bathroom? Sigh. Someday.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Lo Shopping: White Gallery in EUR. Fashionistas in Rome rejoice.
Actually, for me it was "Lo Browsing". My friend Erica has written a fab
POST about this amazing store. I'm still dreaming about the forest green Celine tote.
The store is opening a cafe with outdoor seating in the Spring.
I'm so over being broke it's not funny.
The architecture is very interesting. There's a lot of marble.
I think the books were for sale too.
Fabric for custom made shirts.
POST about this amazing store. I'm still dreaming about the forest green Celine tote.
The store is opening a cafe with outdoor seating in the Spring.
I'm so over being broke it's not funny.
The architecture is very interesting. There's a lot of marble.
I think the books were for sale too.
Fabric for custom made shirts.
Wednesday, October 06, 2010
I'm going to rebuild my wardrobe (eventually). My Style Inspiration: Shala Monroque
Despite having no money, I've been pulling photos from magazines and fashion/design blogs as I dream about rebuilding my wardrobe.
I was having dinner with an expat friend. Like me, she also lived in Los Angeles before moving to Rome. I told her most of my clothes are too casual for Rome and for my age.
When I moved to Los Angeles from New York City, I had a lot of black (of course) and winter clothes in my closet. It was all wrong for sunny Southern California.
The style of the two coasts couldn't be more different. However, one positive thing about moving West was, I started to add more color to my wardrobe. With my dark complexion certain brights, yellows, blues, greens, really pop. When I would wear white (rare as it gets dirty quickly) my friends/colleagues would always compliment me.
Black was a uniform for me and my co-workers when I lived in NYC. It was easy and flattering (so I thought).
My L.A. wardrobe was all over the map and not in a good way. My body and L.A. "fashion" do not mix. I can't wear cute cammies over skinny jeans as my large breasts are real and therefore I need a bra. I think it's weird to see women in their 50s dressing like teenagers. I get it though. The pressure in L.A. to look like a member of "The Hills" is unrelenting.
Now, I'm ten years older and living in a city that's closer to NYC than L.A. when it comes to fashion. I have yet to see an Italian woman or man in the supermarket wearing pajama bottoms.
Thanks to the "Jersey Shore", people think people from Jersey dress like Snooki and Jwwow (even though both of them are from Upstate New York).
That was not the case in Verona, New Jersey, where I went to junior high and high school. It was the 80s and the most popular style was preppy. Sure there were a few girls who had super big hair but looking through my yearbook, there was a lot of L.L. Bean and Izod. And the Madonna influence. Some girls would combine both.
Someone said "Style is what you have, not what you buy." Fashion is different from style. A stylish persons looks great regardless of what is going on in fashion. They know what looks good on their body.
I wasn't sure what the hell my style was when was in L.A. During the move to Rome I had to seriously downsize. Then I realized my style is Classic/Eclectic, bigger emphasis on Classic. While I can appreciate minimalism, it doesn't work for my short, curvy body. Bohemian can dwarf me, or make me look like I'm wearing a costume.
As I get older I have more confidence to embrace color and my Caribbean roots have definitely influenced me. This bring me to Ms. Monroque. It seems like she's everywhere lately. Vogue (American and international editions), Harper's Bazaar, fashion blogs, etc.
Shala's from St. Lucia and moved to New York ten years ago. The editor-at-large of POP Magazine has great style. She was rocking turbans before they became "on trend". I adore turbans and wanted to get one for years but worried I would look like Mrs. Roeper. Having a short natural, there are days I am so sick of my hair.
I would wear scarves once in a while in L.A. but felt like I stood out too much. Now I don't care. I don't have a weave so I will never fit in there anyway.
Shala travels a lot for work and was the talk of the town during last year's fashion weeks. Her boyfriend is influential art dealer Larry Gagosian.
It's fantastic how she mixes high end designers like Prada and Hermes with vintage she finds on Ebay.
Here's a LINK to the Style Spotlight blog with some photos.
I love, love, love, the white and yellow Prada skirt, the red dress and the black outfit at the top of the page.
I started to write down the things I need to get my wardrobe together. Number one is a single-breasted trench coat. They're not easy to find and I can't wear double-breasted. Wait, I'm broke, I can't buy one now anyway.
Also, I'm going figure out how to wear heels on cobblestone streets. I have a few pairs of great shoes I don't wear in Rome. They're just sitting there in their boxes. Sad.
I was having dinner with an expat friend. Like me, she also lived in Los Angeles before moving to Rome. I told her most of my clothes are too casual for Rome and for my age.
When I moved to Los Angeles from New York City, I had a lot of black (of course) and winter clothes in my closet. It was all wrong for sunny Southern California.
The style of the two coasts couldn't be more different. However, one positive thing about moving West was, I started to add more color to my wardrobe. With my dark complexion certain brights, yellows, blues, greens, really pop. When I would wear white (rare as it gets dirty quickly) my friends/colleagues would always compliment me.
Black was a uniform for me and my co-workers when I lived in NYC. It was easy and flattering (so I thought).
My L.A. wardrobe was all over the map and not in a good way. My body and L.A. "fashion" do not mix. I can't wear cute cammies over skinny jeans as my large breasts are real and therefore I need a bra. I think it's weird to see women in their 50s dressing like teenagers. I get it though. The pressure in L.A. to look like a member of "The Hills" is unrelenting.
Now, I'm ten years older and living in a city that's closer to NYC than L.A. when it comes to fashion. I have yet to see an Italian woman or man in the supermarket wearing pajama bottoms.
Thanks to the "Jersey Shore", people think people from Jersey dress like Snooki and Jwwow (even though both of them are from Upstate New York).
That was not the case in Verona, New Jersey, where I went to junior high and high school. It was the 80s and the most popular style was preppy. Sure there were a few girls who had super big hair but looking through my yearbook, there was a lot of L.L. Bean and Izod. And the Madonna influence. Some girls would combine both.
Someone said "Style is what you have, not what you buy." Fashion is different from style. A stylish persons looks great regardless of what is going on in fashion. They know what looks good on their body.
I wasn't sure what the hell my style was when was in L.A. During the move to Rome I had to seriously downsize. Then I realized my style is Classic/Eclectic, bigger emphasis on Classic. While I can appreciate minimalism, it doesn't work for my short, curvy body. Bohemian can dwarf me, or make me look like I'm wearing a costume.
As I get older I have more confidence to embrace color and my Caribbean roots have definitely influenced me. This bring me to Ms. Monroque. It seems like she's everywhere lately. Vogue (American and international editions), Harper's Bazaar, fashion blogs, etc.
Shala's from St. Lucia and moved to New York ten years ago. The editor-at-large of POP Magazine has great style. She was rocking turbans before they became "on trend". I adore turbans and wanted to get one for years but worried I would look like Mrs. Roeper. Having a short natural, there are days I am so sick of my hair.
I would wear scarves once in a while in L.A. but felt like I stood out too much. Now I don't care. I don't have a weave so I will never fit in there anyway.
Shala travels a lot for work and was the talk of the town during last year's fashion weeks. Her boyfriend is influential art dealer Larry Gagosian.
It's fantastic how she mixes high end designers like Prada and Hermes with vintage she finds on Ebay.
Here's a LINK to the Style Spotlight blog with some photos.
I love, love, love, the white and yellow Prada skirt, the red dress and the black outfit at the top of the page.
I started to write down the things I need to get my wardrobe together. Number one is a single-breasted trench coat. They're not easy to find and I can't wear double-breasted. Wait, I'm broke, I can't buy one now anyway.
Also, I'm going figure out how to wear heels on cobblestone streets. I have a few pairs of great shoes I don't wear in Rome. They're just sitting there in their boxes. Sad.
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