It seems that everything about the 1930's are back and not just the bad economy. Woman are wearing those collars and big pins and now the bow tie is back for men. How exciting. I like a bow tie look to be sophisticated, not nerdy. I use to know a guy who wore a bow tie just to be quirky and it was annoying. I'm going to be on the look out now for any man in a bow tie. I hope they aren't only found on college campus'.
1. Sleep masks.
I've been wearing a sleep mask since the days when you could only find them at Victoria Secret and they were a hard-to-find, pricey little item. Sleep masks are wonderful and travel easily guaranteeing a good nights sleep any where you lay your head.
2. Powder Puffs.
When I was a child, I was always, always given a powder puff as a gift on every occasion. Now as an adult I see the value in buffing powder across my décolletage and any where else I desire the comfort of powder.
3. Dinner Candles.
I'm not talking about those bulky candles in a jar, I'm talking about the elegance of candles scattered around a room on any given evening...just because.
4. Buffing Nails.
More and more I'm seeing people with natural nails and I love it. Bare nails that are buffed to a high gloss is elegant for both men and woman. On the other hand, I've seen some pretty scary nail art especially on talon long toe nails- UGH!
5. 1960's Make-up.
There I said it! The neutral face and lips with stunning windows to the soul. 1960's make-up is something that makes any woman (or man) look sophisticated. I catch myself applying this look more times than I care to mention.
6. Townie Bikes
Less intimidating than those mountain bikes, anyone could picture themselves tooling around town on one of these charmers.
7. Train Travel.
I'm not talking about broken down, urine soaked train stations. I'm talking about money being spent to make train travel a pleasure. Certainly the airlines are a washout, but an elegant train station with loads of baggage handlers would make for another worldly experience in travel not to mention open up hundreds of new jobs. Customer service must be a priority!
8. Film Noir.
With all the crap Hollywood loves to rip off and remake it seems to me the genre of Film Noir would lend itself perfectly to the crime-dramas of today. Often described as;
"a dark street in the early morning hours, splashed with a sudden downpour, lamps form haloes in the murk in a walk-up room, filled with the intermittent flashing of a neon sign from across the street, a man is waiting to murder or be murdered."
Who wouldn't pay to see this especially for those of us on super-hero burnout.
9. Caftan Dresses.
Lately we have only seen pregnant celebrities in these dresses, but wouldn't they be fabulous on any woman (or man) any time?
10. Reading Outside.
With costs the way they are a vacation is not high on people's priority lists. Why not revisit the idea of sitting on a deck, porch, balcony or court yard with a good book and a tall glass of ice tea.
Archipelago Sugar Lotion goes on smooth, leaving skin hydrated and soft. Blended with brown sugar, pure vanilla extracts, jojoba esters and the finest oils available. They have an extensive line of scents and products but they aren't that easy to find. I've tried the vanilla several times and I adore it. I have the lotion and body wash because I just purchased it in Cape Cod. Click on the links for places that sell these glorious products and trust me they are wonderful!
Even though Amy Winehouse and her friends look like they haunt houses for a living, you have to love the fact that they offer the paparazzi tea; so British I love it.
I put this post under the catagory of luxuries. I just feel like thinking in terms of luxuries today, Ok.
* First off, I did get a new car it's a Toyota and its metalic gray. I really like the color- not to dark not too light. It's awesome on gas and that's what really matters. I wish I could afford to go hybrid but at least I can conserve in the meantime. Cars aren't a huge deal with me. I like them to be small, cute and updated, that's it.
* I switched from Allstate car insurance to Geico and I'm already MUCH happier due to the fact that the same coverage is significantly cheaper.
* I still have this rotten cold but I'm living with it and praying for snow because then I get to stay in bed and watch DVD's or Celebrity Rehab.
* I filed my taxes online for FREE and did direct deposit for my return. That's rocks!
* Still working on getting my hair cut. I just haven't felt up to it and I'm going for a BIG change, something I've never done in fact so I need to feel well before I make that move.
* Britney Spears is settled down (read sedated) and I'm happy for her. She looks better too.
* Last night the millionaire matchmaker said women fall in love between their ears and men fall in love between their eyes. She also said women want security first then love follows, I totally agree. I've never married because I never found my rock and that's the God's honest truth. Broke or underemployed just doesn't work for me. It's hard to meet an intelligent, sophisticated man who isn't a control freak.
* A friend is celebrating his birthday tomorrow night and I really want to go because I'm sure it will be nice. I hope I feel better. I'm not going to a party blowing my nose with my eyes tearing up. GROSS.
If you check my twitter link then you already saw this post but anyway here is my new Ralph Lauren necklace again. I love it!
I want Swarovski crystals on my phone. Who knows if I'll ever actually get around to doing it, but when an idea pops in my head it's usually a signal that it's a go. I just need a change and it seems like a fun little crafty project.
I just sprayed what I thought was a perfume sample on myself then I googled the titled of the fragrance and discovered it's a men's cologne. Wonderful. Yesterday at Sephora they were just throwing samples at the angry mob waiting in the huge line. Why was the line huge you ask? Because the computer/cash registers kept crashing.
This commercial for cologne is banned in the U.S. and currently being shown in Europe (naturally). While I'm no fan of Diddy's chipmunk face, I like the commercial in relation to the name of the fragrance, Unforgivable. I like the mood and especially the music. I wonder who the composer is?
On her generosity:
"I am a very giving person. When the hurricane thing happened, I went to my closet, filled six boxes of stuff and said to my assistant, 'Take it to Katrina!' I also like to give stuff to people who are my 'workers,' especially if they don't make much money." ~ Avril Lavigne in interview to Q Magazine
Not that I care about singer Avril Lavigne in the least, but her attitude is one I've witnessed in other people. As a working class girl sometimes I find myself for various reasons, in the company of people who have wealth. Right off the bat I'm coming from a different perspective and I get that, but I'm always surprised and disappointed when a person of means condescends to give in the way Avril describes in the quote.
It's stunning to me how entitled some wealthy people are. I have seen people of means, like Miss Avril pack up shit they don't want and give it away like it's a pot of gold. They would never in a million years dream of buying someone something new, paying a generous wage, or heaven forbid just share what they have, but they seem to think you can't wait to make room in your house for their junk.
Another thing I find stunning about entitled people is their distant view of the world and it's problems. I've always believed, To whom much is given, much is expected but I guess when you live in a great place and have everything you want you don't want to depress yourself with those Katrina people? It's easier to get your help to ship something in between changing your sheets and cleaning your bathroom.
It's been my personal experience that the entitled just don't get it. They aren't in the same reality no matter how much they pretend. Once a friend who is a Fed-Ex worker was at his wife's company Xmas party. He was seated with an orthopaedic surgeon. They realized they both had kids in college and the surgeon made a big point of saying how expensive it was paying for his children's college. My friend said he was laughing to himself and wondering if he and the Doc might switch paychecks and then see how difficult it was.
How inspirational of ADVIL Lavigne to crow to a magazine about her charitable ways. See, she isn't the self-centered, oblivious little poser everyone thought she was. I really hope her next CD doesn't tank because some charitable soul might have to write her a reality check.
Six boxes of Hot Topic items isn't anything to brag about.
In the warmer weather I need a light fragrance, lighter than my usual CoCo by Chanel. On a recent trip too Sephora I discovered a lovely vanilla fragrance. It smells so refreshing and crisp and it lasts forever on my skin. Click here to see the line. Pure Vanilla is my personal favorite.
Every day my job takes me to an elite boarding school. When I first encountered the school I thought it was wonderful. I dreamed of what it would be like to be able to send my nieces to such a lovely school with east coast surroundings and the Quaker standards for learning.
As time goes on, I've come to rethink my position. I don't enjoy many of the parents I encounter. I find them to have a sense of entitlement and either a smothering way or an aloof attitude with their children. Either way, it's extreme. The children in general are far too sophisticated and stoic, always trying too one up each other.
The best thing about a public school education is by far a child's exposure to cultural diversity. Children from all economic backgrounds and varying degrees of ability, physical or mental meet in one place. Children learn to be open to the idea that not everyone is just like them and generally speaking they seem more...like kids.
I am reminded the grass is not greener on the other side and we are all exactly where we are supposed to be.
My all time dream home would of course be The Dakota. Former long time resident Leonard Bernstein's apartment is up for sale (25.5 million dollars) and word on the street is Tom Cruise wants to buy. Now TomKat must make it past the co-op board who will more than likely reject anyone that draws the pap. Stay tuned as the story unfolds. It's like Rosemary's Baby: The Scientology Version.
Mayor Bloomberg's (R- New York) twenty-three year old daughter, Georgina Bloomberg has a new charitable venture. She wants you to know it is a stereotype that only the wealthy ride horses and compete. Ms. Bloomberg is collecting used riding gear and apparel for the needy. Come on people don't laugh. Sure there is Aids and world hunger but this is important too!
"Bloomberg is grateful that she has never had to work at a barn but, rather, has a barn work for her: her team in North Salem consists of seven horses, a trainer, an office manager, a work rider who exercises the horses when she is unable to do so, and four grooms. “My father pays for the horses, and he pays for school, but other than that I support myself,” she said."
In the meantime she hopes to take this program national but for now she is is concentrating on outfitting riders in the Northeast. I remember seeing this poor little rich girl in the film, Born Rich. During the course of the film she seemed to feel guilty about not being more career/ goal oriented. As she expressed on camera, all she cared about was riding horses.
Georgina Bloomberg: Riding Dad's Coat Tails on Philanthropic Endeavors?
I just took this picture of myself because I go back to work next week and I wanted documentation of how good I feel right now. This has been one of the best summers ever. I'm so rested and relaxed and I plan on maintaining that vibe through out the year.
I'm looking forward to returning to work because I'm going to do it better this year. I will manage my time more productively and increase my job skills. I'm excited to see what is in store for me. The reading I did this summer will carry me forward with a positive outlook. I'm working towards goals and still making time for family and friends. That reminds me....... I'll see some of you this Friday! The party isn't over yet.
Liz, Summer 2006 Rested and Relaxed.
This place in Montauk is gorgeous and a steal at only 40 million. Maybe we all can somehow raise the money to help me acquire the place? I promise to invite everyone. There is plenty of guest space. :D
"The older I get, the less I connect to things. Things tie you down. I do love being here but I don’t ever want to be a prisoner to things." ~ Decorator Charlotte Moss
New York Social Diary is running a series on gorgeous homes and their decorators. These places are in NYC, which is great in and of itself but here again is one of my favorites. It's the home of decorator Charlotte Moss. Noting the quote from above, I adore her attitude about things and she is so correct. Things mean nothing but maybe it's only those of us with plenty of things that get that lesson?
I am obsessed with certain residents and I post them from time to time. I just came across another amazing home. It belongs to Christina Ricci and she is selling it. Of course its loaded with history- it once belonged to silent film star Ramon Novarro (gasp, swoon- I just purchased the book!) and later it had been owned by Diane Keaton, who refurbished and updated it in the '90s. Designated an LA historic-cultural monument, the house has three-and-a-half bedrooms in 2,690 square feet on three levels, with most rooms opening onto outdoor spaces.
Ramon Novarro star of the silent screen
The Navarro house circa: 1928 by architect Lloyd Wright
Now this is what I call a Seder dinner. Joan's apartment looks amazing. Also take a look at this front door and what it represents...
One of doorways of "the Row" on Washington Square North, once a center of gentility in NYC in the 1830s -- a good example of one of our best eras for architecture and decorative arts, now remains one of the last survivors of that era and is still in constant use. It is considered one of the finest rows of Greek Revival houses in the country. Romanticized in novels like "Washington Square" by Henry James, and "Age of Innocence" by Edith Wharton, this Row started out as the home of the wealthiest and later became inhabited by Village bohemians and many legendary artists, such as Edward Hopper and Albert Pinkham Ryder who were inspired by the environs. In 1939 the row of townhouses numbered 7-13 were gutted and converted to an apartment house, retaining the facades, with a common entrance on Fifth Avenue around the corner. They are now NYU residences. Number 8 in the photo was once the former residence of the mayor. You can see these doorways from the Park, and it is peaceful to look on such a strong reminder of the past still vibrant in the present. ~ Brian & Lucy
Things have been going great lately, really great. I was saying to a friend that I can't believe how things are falling into place. I'm almost waiting for the other shoe to drop, I know wrong outlook.
This past weekend was CRAZY. I was moving new furniture in faster than I could get the old stuff out. The old stuff wasn't even old, so it was easy to give away. Of course I had help and didn't have to do it alone. Room after room switching and lifting, pushing and carrying. My aching back! These antiques are in mint condition and valuable.
Thank goodness I did go out Friday night. Ivan and I met Marilyn for dinner and then we help set up at the club. It was a great night, but I was so tired so early and I had had a nap earlier in the day. It was the week of moving things that tired me out. Ms. Jimmi met up with me and the usual suspects were in attendance. I even met former club kid pixie dust, who now resides in Philly.
I have posted a couple of new furniture pics. They have a great deal of sentimental value for me. There is a lot more furniture that I haven't gotten around to taking pics of yet.
While this bed is old- I'm the only person to have ever slept in it. What are the chances of that? *Note: The needlepoint/ flower pic over top of the night stand was done by me when I was 14 yrs old.
A family heirloom
Recently I have acquired several antique pieces; Persian rugs, a brass bed and some other furniture including a secretarial, dressers and a cedar storage bench. It's quite a windfall of luxury items and I'm thrilled. The Persian rugs are gorgeous and in mint condition. The brass bed was never even slept in as crazy as that sounds. The antiques are heavy and sturdy looking. A person would spend quite a bit to go out and furnish a house this way. I'm very, very fortunate.
My taste has really evolved over time. There was a time when minimal was all I could tolerate, now I'm relishing antiques? Yes, I think it has a lot to do with recent influences in my choice of films and books. I appreciate the richness and quality of turn of the century to early 1900's craftsmanship. I still don't want a lot of things in my house, but a few elegant pieces and a brass bed to sleep on will be a rarefied treat.
I recently returned from a long weekend in Sea Isle City, New Jersey. The weather was awesome and my allergies seemed to disappear. Upon my return I had a to do list.
First off I needed to buy a white bra. The sales lady tried to tell me I was a DD. I assure you I am not a double D but I tried one on just for fun. Two boobies could have fit into one cup, it was huge. I came home with my usual C.
I bought a lavender plant today. I want fresh lavender to bring indoors and make sachets for my drawers. I was able to buy a lavender plant locally and it will do quite nicely. It makes me feel like I'm back in Europe. *sigh*
I went for a pedicure this morning. I had forgotten what a treat they are! My dad always brags about how gorgeous his feet are and they really are beautiful! None of us have ugly dogs, thankfully. I was looking at other people's feet in the salon and boy they looked wicked; narley toes and veins, yikes! I picked out a gorgeous Essie color called California Coral. It's so bright and cheery.
Finally, I continue to be on verdict watch for Michael Jackson. I'm really worried about the King of Pop. I know if he is found guilty he will have to go to prison. They had the warden from San Quentin on and he says even transgenered people aren't allowed to wear makeup is prison. I shudder at the thoughts. Really, what good would it do for MJ to sit in prison? Can't he pay his debt to society in a more fruitful way? I know he can't be allowed near children if found guilty, but prison?? It seems pointless under the circumstances. I'm rivited to my television.
Oh the high drama that is my life!
Evan just plunked down the bread for this swinging new pad. He promises plenty of social events and gala happenings so be sure to get on the VIP list now. I'm sure I will be playing hostess and Evan will certainly be spinning the best music. You don't want to miss this!
(edit as required)
Dear _____
Thank you very much for my Birthday card and present. I did enjoy the witty remark you wrote saying (21 AGAIN! /breast wishes on your birthday/ I put a 50 in this card – if it’s not there the mailman has it).
Your gift of a _______ is very much appreciated and I am sure will bring me many hours of (fun/frustration/diarrhoea). It will be taking pride of place on my (mantelpiece/in the trash/in my big box of porn).
I will be (spending the day at home with the family/drawing up lists of people I intend to kill/trying to get a two-for–one Birthday deal with some 5 dollar ho’s) if you wish to celebrate with me, be assured I would love to share (a birthday drink/a crack pipe/herpes) in honour of the day!
With thanks form your (sponger relative/tolerated friend/barley acknowledged work college you wish to impress with your generosity)
Tony
Yes – this is my birthday weekend, along with my brother and my nephew coincidentally as we all have birthdays on or near the 20th. You are all invited to VIP area at IKON/DIVA tonight for the party (my nephew runs the joint bless him!)
The best things in life are the simple old fashioned things. The tender mercies help us push forward in the hardest times of the human experience. Someone holds open a door when your arms are full or a friend lets you burst into tears on their shoulder, maybe its the soft pillow a loved one places under your head when you are sick. I love pillows. I have four on my tiny bed. I have two fluffy feather pillows and two decorative. Currently, I'm creating a line of pillows with expressive themes. Each is an original design by me, and hand crafted during many tireless hours. Stay tuned to my shop section. I hope you enjoy them.
When I view period piece movies, I am reminded of the luxuries we not longer enjoy. Read the list and see if you don't know what I mean.
Choker necklaces with matching earrings, men who think a kiss holds meaning, chandeliers with real candles in them, maids and butlers, servants quarters, fabric everywhere in a room, four post beds, tea served on china, platters where one leaves their card, being introduced properly before speaking with someone, powdering skin and hair, bathing in a clawfoot tub, candles used for lighting, being able to live off your families money for generations, living in a castle, only fresh food, intricate hairstyles, stairs everywhere, a chamber pot, cotton bed clothing worn in layers, live music the only form of entertainment, Absinthe
.
As my birthday approaches (Dec.9th in case you forgot) I think about what I would like and I make a mental list. I'm thinking fantasy here, the skies' the limit, money is no object, ok, I'm thinking a new laptop and digital camera. A new VW Beetle, in lets say… silver! How about the entire Elsa Peretti collection from Tiffany’s? An unlimited shopping spree at one of my favorite havens, Sephora's. Mmmmm, new makeup, perfume, powders, brushes, all those lip-smacking delights.
I looked at the first page of my Amazon wishlist and it's still my favorite. I deleted a bunch of stuff, that chances are I wont get around to reading or listening too. Really, it's the simple pleasures that bring me the most happiness. Sure, I would love a camara, but what good is it if I dont have friends to take photos of.
When I was in London I saw beautiful, fragrant lavender fields. Everywhere we went, the smell and color were wonderful. Since then, I have purchased as many lavender products (bath) as I could find. Now I find that pictures of lavender fields take me back to london in my minds eye, and I relax.
This is a bedroom in Provence (France) from a house, one could rent. Nearby would be lavender fields. There is something cozy and romantic about this basic bedroom.
There is nothing more luxurious than a divine night of slumber. Recently, I treated myself to a Northern Nights feather bed. My mom and friend, Sharon, have one and I have always longed for the warm and cozy experience of a night on down feathers.
While watching a home shopping channel, the Northern Nights brand appeared, on sale, in all it deliciousness. A representative from the company was demonstrating how a pattoned machine cleans the feathers so well; they are actually rendered hypoallergenic. I watched in awe as the feathers flew and dirt was collected in a pan at the bottom of this marvelous device. Next they went to the actual bed display and explained how firm these feathers actually were. The demonstrator pushed and sat up and down, as the bed sprang back into shape. She described it as a pillow for your entire body. and I imagining myself laying on a white billowy cloud, deep in restful slumber.
One of my favorite pastimes has always been sleeping. Even as a teenager, I would come home from school and grab a power nap. Today, the weekends are an opportunity to seize some extra shut-eye. Sleeping is nature’s prescription for gathering energy and gaining a new perspective for the next day.
When I’m under a lot of stress, I find it very difficult to sleep. I remember after the September 11th, World Trade Center attacks, I sat at work, in a high rise, staring out the window, completely devastated and scared to death about what was coming next. The following day, I stayed in bed and didn’t move. I didn’t turn on the TV or radio, I didn’t leave the house, I never left my room. Staying in my bed seemed like the safest place, as if the terrorists wouldn’t be able to find me under the covers. My bed felt like a warm, nurturing cocoon that day.
Another reason to feel good about my feather bed is that no birds are killed for their feathers. The down and feathers are a by product of Asian and European food industries. The bed is biodegradable and environmentally safe. When it becomes time to get a new feather bed, the old one can be returned to the earth as an excellent fertilizer for the garden. The makers of the bed say it is earth friendly and that’s a reason to rest easier.
As I shake out the feathers to refluff the fill, I imagine all the restful nights of sleep, I hope to be blessed with. My nieces running in and snuggling as they besiege my bed. These are the most precious moments that make up my life. The new bed will give me the night’s rest that is required to get through the remainder of my classes. I will be invigorated, and rejuvenated to proceed with all the projects I have taken on. As I travel in the years to come, my feather bed will beckon me home. When I am sad, its softness will console me. In happier times, I will be reminded that it is in nature’s bountiful gifts, and in Northern Nights, that the most splendid of times are found.
Sleep well friends ZZZZZZZZ