Global Design Gypsy

A Summer Shade of Blue

2011-06-28T20:57:00.000-04:00

I haven't seen one of these little guys in my backyard since childhood in the 1960s. Then again, as I'm not the world's most avid gardener I probably hadn't paid attention. I think he's part of the dragonfly family, if anyone out there has a clue feel free to comment.

I just LOVE his cool, clear blue suit with the funky navy pinstripes!

Please Vote at H&M To Wear My Artwork

2011-05-24T22:33:00.001-04:00

Be Mindful My Frayed Heart

Got [More] Milk?

Which Way Up?!

The Last Tweet

2011-05-02T16:45:00.000-04:00

Blessings to Prince William and Princess Catherine on their Wedding Day

2011-04-29T09:50:00.000-04:00

May you both enjoy a long, loving marriage. Princess Diana is looking down with great pride on you both.

Additional details on Catherine's McQueen/Sarah Burton designed wedding gown can be found here:

Princess Catherine's Wedding Gown

Outsider Art

2011-04-21T14:16:00.001-04:00

Serving Tray, inlaid wood/acrylic, vintage prison art, est. 1940s

Flourish or Perish

2011-04-15T13:05:00.002-04:00

Street From The Hip

2011-04-12T15:34:00.000-04:00

Fern Mallis, keeping it organized. Fashion Week 2009

A Cup of Paris to Brighten a Monday Morning

2011-04-11T10:42:00.000-04:00

Vignette of the Day

2011-04-07T15:15:00.000-04:00

Summer Awaits...Soon

2011-03-24T11:28:00.000-04:00

Dinner is Over

2011-03-17T21:33:00.000-04:00

Making Rounds

2011-02-17T13:48:00.001-05:00

Thrifted Jones New York faux shearling jacket, Express Tricot top, altered Rafaella slacks,
vintage silk chiffon scarf, American Outfitters gloves,WBGO messenger bag

Creative Coincidence?

2011-02-16T21:16:00.000-05:00

Both designers have enough creative genius to go around the world twice, therefore I can only imagine they had a few drinks over lunch and, oops, dropped their notes on the floor, simultaneously.

Or...maybe there were just a lot of leftovers from those 15 varieties of that very expensive lace.

Sidenote: I've lived my designer fantasies through Jason's dolls since 2001. Wearing Marc Jacobs happens only if my local thrift supplies it.

Jason Wu FW 2011 Source: Getty

Marc Jacobs FW 2011 Source: Getty

Paris Report: Rouge and Chestnut

2011-02-11T09:41:00.000-05:00

While roaming the backstreets of Paris last March, one of the first color trends to catch my eye was a brown mix with red accents. It appeared to be everywhere I turned, and apparently is making its way into the Fall 2011 collections here at home.

A New Year Dictates Website Updates

2011-01-23T13:29:00.017-05:00

Recently started a much needed update to the Global Design Gypsy and The Cottage Couturière websites to better reflect the state of the business now.

Please feel free to stop by and have a look around.

Global Design Gypsy

The Cottage Couturière

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T23:55:00.000-05:00

Every Woman Needs a Boudoir Vanity

2010-12-02T10:55:00.001-05:00

Because the ritual of preparing to meet the world every day deserves a little decadence, however humble...

Grandma's porcelain top table, typesetter tray jewelry chest (prototype), etched glass mirror, 1970s cat planter brush holder, spice rack lipstick organizer.

Fashion Week, FW 2010

2010-12-01T22:53:00.003-05:00

Ahhh, the magic ticket!!

I was so excited to be attending my first Fashion Week event, and what a wonderful time my friend Lisa and I had! The layout of the venue was well planned, with not a bad seat in the house. Small bit of irksomeness in having to check my digital camera, personally speaking, the rule against cameras was rather stupid, as the minute Giselle stepped off the double decker bus everyone whipped out their cell phones and began snapping away. Those in the Premiere seats were fortunate to observe the headliner models up close and personal, as they primarily strutted down the main aisle and circled those inner perimeter seats.

The show started on time, and for the next 15 FABulous minutes it was as if the pages of September Vogue had come to life. The segments which captured my fashion heart were the sinuous lines of Jazz Age Cool and the textural feast of Go Global. The event was a true celebrity-fest, and I spotted Diane Von Furstenberg (surprised how petite she is in person) and Julianne Moore, among others, while Lisa was quick to point out Roger Federer (I'm not tennis savvy) and couldn't believe I didn't recognize Blake Lively standing next to me at the coat check when I retrieved my camera (guilty of not watching Gossip Girls either).

However, it wasn't hard to miss some of the models as they boarded the subway back: Egle Tvirbutaite (Look 40/Tartan Twist) and Giedre Dukauskaite (Look 127/Go Global). Sorry it took so long to post these, ladies, but I'm delighted you took the time to chat. Happy Holidays to you both!

Giedre and Egle

Believe this is Aminata Niaria catching up on her Blackberry

Then it was onward to Fashion's Night Out. My look, albeit a bit less runway-ready, was styled for comfort. I'm wearing the Kalinger bracelet as a necklace by stringing it with a Miriam Haskell chain. That's the Rodarte shower slicker over my lean-to Old Navy T and Jaclyn Smith cropped pants. The turquoise/ onyx statement ring was purchased at Printemps in Paris a few years back and is one of my favorite pieces. As you can see, I'm getting better at using my camera's self-timer.

My night started in front of Macys, where Neal Patrick Harris was filming the FNO for a CBS Special. I then boarded the double-decker bus heading uptown to take in the festivities and do some seasonal window-shopping (and list-making). Lord and Taylor was obviously looking to update their image with a DJ mixing tunes out on the sidewalk (Club L&T, perhaps). There were mimes and freeze models performing in windows, the DKNY boutique was swamped with revelers spilling out to the street, and a trio of kimono-clad fashionistas attempting to hail a cab. My last stop was Barneys, where I was pleasantly surprised to see the marvelous cloth art dolls of Andrew Yang prominently featured in their windows. A special collection of OOAK dolls dressed in couture miniatures was displayed on the 4th floor, and how I wish I could find the Isabel and Ruben Toledo set under my Christmas tree (dreaming is good for the soul, keeps one motivated, yes?). Then there was the thrill of seeing the Anna Wintour and Grace Coddington dolls being auctioned for charity. According to Andrew's site they went for a whopping $4000 and $1000 respectively. Way to go Andrew! Be sure to visit The Cottage Couturière to see some of Andrew's magical Kouklitas.

While checking out the dolls who should I meet than 14 yr old wunder-blogger Tavi Gevinson of Style Rookie. As I'm a fan of her fresh approach to fashion reporting I was sure to scoop up her limited edition Barney's tote.

Fashion's Night Out will be back again next September (see sidebar), but for now please follow the link to my Kodak Gallery album and enjoy the photos from this year's event.

Fashion's Night Out 2010

Color Trend 2012: Magenta

2010-11-30T22:18:00.001-05:00

Thrifting Expeditions, Fall 2010

2010-11-30T15:41:00.034-05:00

Closet revitalized until Spring 2011

It's been ages since I've shopped, as monies from eBay/Etsy go directly back into the business, with a (somewhat) meager deposit to the IRA. BUT, frugality aside, the selections at Keyport Thrift Shop, Goodwill of East Brunswick, and Karen's Consignment Boutique were far too good to pass up. Within a modest budget of $200 and a few free weekends, I've amassed a hoard that should take me through a Fall and Winter's worth of networking events!

Here's a peek at some highlights...

I'd just become a fan of Daphne Guinness when the Lulu Guinness bag leaped out at me. And I'm so delighted to now own a Dolce and Gabbana design, the fabric of this suit is 2Die4! The DKNY brown denim and leather pants were a little tight in the waist, but luckily the previous owner had just nipped in the waistline without cutting so all I had to do was release those darts.

And, let's not forget the accessories...a few scarves and some heart-iful vintage jewelry. Charm bracelets are my passion and I treat them like wearable journals of my life. I already may have filled this new one!

Ralph Lauren

America by Perry Ellis

Dolce & Gabbana

DKNY

Prada

Christmas Kitties!

Finally, every woman over 50 knows that even the most fabulous clothes need a little help in the foundations area. Let's face it, gravity cannot be defied, even by Marc Jacobs. My quest appears to have paid off, after months of searching, as I've found some delicious lingerie from Soma that fits perfectly PLUS looks AND feels as sensual as the French styles I crave! The added bonus was the perfume sampler offer. Sadly, I possess a nose which often can't distinguish a $5 cologne from a $500 perfume. After some careful sampling I chose Gorgeous for its distinct fragrance. I adore miniature bottles because once empty, I can fill with tinted water for my vintage Cissy doll's boudoir vanity diorama.

Hope everyone has recovered from Black Friday! You'll find me decorating for the Holidays in two worlds, see my doll dioramas unfold at The Cottage Couturière.

I'm Watching You

2010-11-29T22:21:00.000-05:00

Rebecca Ebony Princess

Renovation Update: Bedroom

2010-11-19T13:24:00.003-05:00

If you've been following my blog you know that I've taken over caregiving for my parents and last December began downsizing their home. In between, I'm freelancing as a CAD designer and doing some serious networking, which also meant I needed to renovate my personal space on the second floor for greater efficiency, i.e. no sense having a great wardrobe/art/furniture if it's not out and being used.

Renovation: Phase One involved taking personal inventory and selling off items no longer meaningful/in use via eBay/Etsy and my pop-up shop at the local markets. Thankfully, I've always purchased with care and an eye for the long term so liquidation was only those items that were no longer *me.*

I'm now in Renovation: Phase Two, which involves repurposing furniture, redesigning room layouts, and selecting paint. My doll collection is now housed in the larger of three rooms, I have a foyer/library for greeting guests, and a mock-up of the walk-in closet (one of two in the bedroom) roughed out so I can at least get to my wardrobe for work. My Dad was always a great partner on these projects, sadly at 90 he has officially retired, so a local handyman will refurbish the closet walls.

Here's where I stand so far. Click photos for a larger view:

Methinks He's Up to No Good

2010-11-17T21:14:00.000-05:00

Christopher Mr. Purr Jangles

Kudos to Kotex

2010-11-17T15:06:00.001-05:00

It's nice to see an American brand take chances when re-branding their product. I did a double-take when I saw the new packaging for Kotex products at my local supermarket. I normally expect this sort of "out there" creativity from European brands.

Sleek...contemporary...modern...and BLACK. It looks like a women's product, not something from the Barbie aisle.

Personally, I've used freshness products since the 1970s, and these new liners are not only comfortable (like you're "not wearin' nothin'" to borrow a phrase), their fibers are also non-irritating.

Way to go, Kotex!

Acquired: Kalinger Bracelet

2010-11-12T12:20:00.000-05:00

Fell in love with this bracelet at the Hamptons Show House boutique. Signed Kalinger, it reminds me of those beautiful pieces Lacroix used to accessorize his collections.

Silver Style: Helen

2010-11-12T11:45:00.000-05:00

Helen stopped by my pop-up shop in Metuchen and graciously shared her love for the thrill of hunting for treasures at the market. Originally from England, she now resides in Edison and enjoys sharing her outlook on a life well-lived with her grandchildren.

You Have To Live Here to Appreciate the Humor

2010-11-10T23:55:00.001-05:00

Fashion-able variations on this have included:

Bloomingdales taste on a Bambergers budget (1970s)

Bergdorf taste on a Macy's budget (1990s)

Prada taste on a Zara budget (2000s)

Oddity Sighting: Black Squirrel

2010-11-10T23:19:00.001-05:00

First time seeing one in our neighborhood. Love his sienna/charcoal color.

Salon du Jour: BLISS

2010-11-09T16:45:00.001-05:00

On a recent trip to Bucks County I spied this artistically merchandised shop window full of jewel-bedecked mannequins, purses and watches, and just had to pop in.

Once inside, I was immediately transported to another time, when a trip to the Salon didn't refer to your crowning glory but a special shopping expedition to an elegant Ladies Boutique. This is what awaits you when you enter Bliss.

Owner Hillary Benzel

Showcase after showcase brims with an eclectic assortment of modern romantic accessories, allowing your imagination to wander until, for a moment, you could easily believe you are standing in some chic Parisian atelier of a not-yet-discovered designer. You'll find sterling silver and fashion jewelry, handbags, clutches, shoes, hats, belts, and scarves. The most amazing discovery was that, posh elegance aside, prices were well within even the most modest of budgets.

There was just so much temptation, I couldn't leave without a little trinket. This pumpkin leather rose ring will be just the perfect update to my closet classics!

Bliss is located at 19B West Bridge Street in historic New Hope, Pennsylvania. Their hours are 11:00-6:00. Directions can be found on their website, or by calling (215) 862-9994.

The Holidays are coming...after satisfying your gift list, why not indulge yourself in a little Bliss.

Just to LYK, More to Come, Just Hang In There

2010-11-07T00:14:00.000-04:00

No matter HOW much security and AV I have, there's always some little nasty that sneaks in where it doesn't belong. This time it was my MSI netbook, which was loaded with photos and journal notes from Sidewalk Catwalk, a slew of show houses, and Fashion's Night Out coverage including the pre-Fashion Week Tuesday Show. Sigh...

Help is on the way courtesy of Amazon.com and hopefully, within the next few weeks, I'll be able to post my reflections on what a GREAT summer I had.

Stay tuned!!! (pretty please, with a cherry and hot fudge on top)

A Window on Trends: Macy's 34th Street, NYC

2010-10-29T19:21:00.000-04:00

The Real Faces of The Garment Industry...Where is Their Tribute?

2010-10-26T14:27:00.001-04:00

There he sits, just catty-corner from Parsons. The statue of the diligent garment worker hunched over his sewing machine, stitching the legacy that is the Garment District of New York. As many times as I've passed him, I still come away feeling that something is missing from this tribute.

These are the faces of the American garment industry I grew up knowing...

Mayfair Dress Company. My Grandmom Viola is second from left.

Possibly Brodskys, South River, NJ. Circa 1930s-1940s

Photos from personal archive.

These women taught me everything I know about fabric, construction, and self-respect. The Wulfsons, along with the Brodskys whose factory produced Judy Bond Blouses, were demanding but fair employers who valued their employees. These companies produced tens of thousands of garments which filled the racks of many a New York department store.

So much recent chatter has been given press recently on "Saving the Garment District". Hopefully somewhere in those grandiose plans laid out on the drafting tables of the CFDA lies a tribute to these women past, present and future who continue to keep garment manufacturing vital.

Fall-ing for Colors

2010-10-19T16:06:00.000-04:00

Due to a troublesome March nor'easter and a failed sump pump, I've relocated my design workspace out of the basement and into my second floor studio, which pleasantly resulted in clear Northern Light and a perpetual view of life-in-motion outside (I live on a very busy main road). It's very inspiring to watch the seasonal color palettes change as I work.

Time to pull out the flannels and feathers!

An Idea Whose Time Has Come

2010-10-19T15:46:00.000-04:00

Why didn't anyone think of this sooner?

A Most Perfect Scarf Display

2010-10-19T14:34:00.001-04:00

It took nearly 30 years but, finally, I have settled upon the BEST way to store and display my scarf collection.

I can now view every scarf I own, the flocked bars keep the scarves from slipping, and I never have to worry about ironing before wearing.

Once numbering over 200 pieces, I have narrowed my collection to the most unique blends of colors and patterns, which still leaves me with over 100+. However, given the wealth of selections while thrifting or shopping the internet, I'm sure to exceed that number all too soon, again, LOL.

An added benefit of scarves: when in doubt, or just too tired to work my wardrobe, I can always count on a quick scan of my scarf collection for color inspiration.

BTW, need to give a plug to Hermès' new site dedicated to Fashionistas of the Scarf, J'aime Mon Carré, aka I Love My Scarf website. See how scarf dressing is played out around the world, then send in your own photos in an Hermès scarf (yes, they can be thrifted if you know where to look).

It's Been a Marvelous Summer

2010-10-19T13:52:00.000-04:00

Things have been rather quiet here on my blog, but that's only because it has been such a wonderfully busy Summer, the sort that creates memories like those of a blessed childhood at the beach. The coming weeks will entail some serious catch-up, as brisk winds continue to build upon the adventure and I hesitate to *fall* too far behind!

Sometimes, Eating Right Still Isn't Enough

2010-06-13T22:49:00.000-04:00

Sunday Brunch for Dad: turkey bacon, eggs, cheese wedge,

cherry tomatoes, Polish rye, coffee, Exelon patch

Question of the Week

2010-04-25T13:49:00.000-04:00

After hearing all the buzz, I finally located a site that runs Project Runway episodes online. I don't have cable so this was the only way I could check out what all the hype is about.

My question to all of my readers is, if you were a designer and given the opportunity, would you do Project Runway?

I'm not going to offer my perspective, I'm just curious to see what everyone thinks. Please post your Comments below.

View From A Desktop, 11:13 am

2010-04-21T11:16:00.001-04:00

Midnight Cravings, and Learning How to Make French Crepes

2010-04-20T13:49:00.001-04:00

This past winter, I finally did it!

Tiring of using thinned out pancake batter, I searched the web for a suitable crepe recipe. And, lucky me, the first site I found yielded not only an easy, delicious recipe but, thanks to clear step-by-step photos, a fool proof way of using a pan-on-hand rather than a designated crepe-maker.

Just look at this, isn't it beautiful? (well, to my eyes anyway, especially being a crepe-making virgin, LOL).

My elderly parents, previously crepe-deprived, can now enjoy not only dessert crepes but my more adventurous forays in dinner crepes as well.

Don't You Just Love Surprises

2010-04-12T16:19:00.001-04:00

I recently purchased this set of stacking tables at auction because I liked the assortment of colors. Judging by the embossed metal Made In Hong Kong label I found on one of them, I placed their origin to be early-mid 1970s.

I did think it was odd to have only 5, rather than 4 or 6, and assumed possibly one was missing. Imagine my surprise when I spread them out and discovered their "little secret"...

I do so love flowers!

Parisian Sweets

2010-04-11T21:35:00.002-04:00

And what would a trip to Paris be without sampling some new treats...

Green Tea Cranberry Loaf, Starbucks CDG Airport

Belle Helene Crepes, CrepStory on Rue Rambuteau

Dessert, Novotel Port de Bagnolet

Artisan Chocolates, Joséphine Vannier, Rue du Pas de la Mule

Leather and Lace

2010-04-11T20:29:00.003-04:00

The combination of blue and brown are my "go-to" colors

Color Study, Paris, 3/14/2010

2010-04-08T20:47:00.002-04:00

Parisian Sunset, Novotel Port de Bagnolet

Paris Street Watch, 3/11/2010

2010-04-07T11:45:00.005-04:00

This is not an illusion. Her hair is pure white, glowing in the sun.
More to come!

Time to Return to What Really Matters

2010-04-07T11:09:00.016-04:00

Fashion today is a caravan of celebrities, reality shows, model/ designers, branding, et al. But, long before Bryant Park and the Red Carpet ever existed, there was only one objective...

Crafting beautiful clothes...

Cuff detail, gown created from a Betsey Johnson for Butterick pattern, circa 1975

Holiday Window Dressing, Lambertville, NJ

2009-12-30T22:42:00.021-05:00

Holly-Days GoLightly Tribute to Audrey Hepburn

Mill Crest Vintage Clothing

Brunch at Full Moon, Lambertville, NJ

2009-12-27T21:20:00.125-05:00

You would hardly know just two days ago we had a White Christmas. As the sun was shining a crisp 41 degrees, so what better day to head out to the arts colonies of Lambertville/New Hope. Actually, we had this BOGO coupon from Full Moon that expired on December 31st, so being the Holiday weekend my friend Gene and I decided on one of those FABulous brunches that Full Moon does so well. If ever in the area, be sure to stop in for breakfast/lunch, be aware that dinner is only served on the eve of the full moon (hence, the name). This is always a favorite spot whenever I'm antiquing or hitting the Michener museums in New Hope/Doylestown.

Oh yes, lest I forget...my very first personal style post. For the younger bloggers out there, be kind, I'm still new at this. Photo taken by Gene. Working head to toe:

wool felt hat, Arlin, (gift) circa 1990s

sunglasses, yard sale

red wood pulp chain choker, circa 1980s

teal/turq/red tweed cardigan, D.D. Sloane, circa 1980s

shawl, from my best friend Bevy in England, circa 1980s

cocoa brown pants, Style & Co., circa 1990s

belted boots, Nine West, 2008

tote, Sydney Love, 2004

NOTE: expect to see me in all shades of brown, my favorite color. I rarely do black. I also don't own a pair of jeans as I've yet to find a pair I like.

Reflections on Christmas Evening

2009-12-25T23:52:00.012-05:00

Outside, the winds subtly blow, the pinging of icy raindrops hitting the windows. Christmas is winding down. I am snuggled in bed with my netbook and a freshly brewed Paris tea, perusing fashion blogs while Rebecca Ebony Princess lays at my feet.

I am totally amazed at the level of creativity and diversity in fashion blogging, not to mention the multitude of expressive writing styles. It's almost intimidating for a rookie blogger like myself, but then again, having to learn new things at age 56 is
what keeps life interesting. Not quite sure how to handle photographing my personal style, but I can't think of better motivation for staying in shape and continuing with the closet overhaul. I find it pleasantly surprising to see how many bloggers are into vintage and high/low cross-generational style mixes. Reminds me of the fun we had back in the 1960s when Biba ruled. What goes around does indeed come back around, but it's certainly more interesting on the recurring trips down memory lane!

Tradition is deeply rooted in Christmas, when even the trendiest Fashionista feels the tugging at their heart to reconnect with the familiar, whether that be family, distant friends, or the nostalgia of old homesteads. As you enter your 50s you become painfully aware of time, its passing and the realization that there is a finite amount left for you to leave your fingerprint on the world. I always use the Holiday season, from Thanksgiving through New Year's, to reflect back on what I've managed to achieve, goals I've rewritten, and those abandoned for lack of relevance to the person I've become.

I also hold dear memories of loved ones now gone. The display above is one of many throughout my home. Frames of gold, silver, and all manner of glitz, acquired throughout the year, for there are still so many photos yet to display. These photos celebrate Holidays past: the wonder of new grandchildren, the dinners which took days to prepare (and can still be tasted), the countless smiles that were themselves presents. Our numbers have decreased by four this year, leaving my mother the last of her family and my father the last of six brothers. While they may no longer share a physical place at the table, they will always celebrate the Holidays in our hearts.

Rebecca is getting tired. Guess it's time to call it a night.

MERRY CHRISTMAS !

Glamorganshire

2009-12-14T23:45:00.004-05:00

Available at The Cottage Couturière on Etsy

Early New Year's Resolution

2009-12-02T17:39:00.000-05:00

" To blog more frequently, and completely "

Been renovating...pulling rugs, painting, et al, as well as creating prototypes to grow the business. I must have at least half a dozen drafts to finish and post. Nice end-of-year project, especially with nasty weather fast approaching.

Fashionably Late at West 4th St Station

2009-11-30T14:16:00.001-05:00

An Evening with Tord Boontje

2009-11-19T15:47:00.004-05:00

Attended a marvelous lecture last night with Dutch design innovator Tord Boontje as part of the exhibition Lace in Translation at Philadelphia University. It was a fabulous opportunity to *get inside his head* and learn in-depth about his creative process.

Lace in Translation features the collaborative work of Tord Boontje, Dutch design studio Demakersvan, and Canadian artist Cal Lane. Their respective lace interpretations celebrate Quaker Lace and Philadelphia’s critical contribution to American textile design. For more information, please visit the exhibition website. The exhibit runs through April 2010.

A Style All Her Own

2009-09-13T19:30:00.000-04:00

The vanity plate on her scooter says it all.

Fashion's Night Out - Recap

2009-09-11T14:53:00.003-04:00

Five hours simply wasn't enough!

So many attractions, so much positivity, such FUN crowds, young and old. And...so much FASHION! If I could have one, make that two, wishes, it would be to have this as an annual event, extended over the weekend. I had a wonderful time!

Highlights:

Having my portrait done by designer/illustrator Bruno Grizzo...what a treat! Will treasure this memento forever!

Fashion's Night Out - September 10, 2009

2009-09-08T21:12:00.001-04:00

Join fellow Fashionistas for glamorous festivities the world over as we jump-start the Fall Fashion Season and sneak-peek Spring 2010. Shake out your wallets, buy a T-shirt, or a new wardrobe, and feel good that you supported the September 11th Memorial and Museum with your purchases. Let's put the *fun* back in fashion.

Click the logo below to start planning your itinerary of retailers.

"Fashion From The Inside Out", Isabel Toledo at F.I.T

2009-08-05T21:46:00.002-04:00

Finally had an opportunity to catch this wonderful exhibit, a sort of mid-career retrospective on Isabel Toledo's remarkable design work. And yes, included was the lemongrass ensemble worn by Michelle Obama for the Presidential Inauguration of her husband Barack. But it was the other treasures that awaited in the downstairs exhibition space that made it well worth the effort to squeeze in a trek over to F.I.T. between the Indigo and Printsource trade events.

I've been an admirer of Isabel's work for many years, having heard of her quiet genius via the fashion grapevine, although finding photos of her masterful pieces has been challenging. As yet, neither she nor her husband Ruben have a website or a blog. Hopefully, with her new-found notoriety that will change. In the meantime, I will definitely purchase her newest book based on this exhibit.

If you were not able to attend, here is a video tour from New York Magazine.

RIP Koko Taylor

2009-06-05T19:20:00.001-04:00

They don't make Blues women like this anymore. Koko singing her hit "Wang Dang Doodle" at age 79.

My Etsy Shop is Now Open!

2009-05-25T21:37:00.000-04:00

I'm very excited to have a new avenue for my designs and vintage merchandise, and invite everyone to stop by and check out my latest offerings.

Kutztown, PA - College Town for the 21st Century

2009-04-27T03:03:00.003-04:00

In her most recent trend seminar Li Edelkoort, one of the fashion industries most prolific and respected forecasters, told of a return to a simplified lifestyle, extolling the virtues of The Farm and The Country aesthetic, translating to pure forms and honest, built-to-last design.

Nestled among the eclectic boutiques and eateries of Main Street, a healthy stroll up the hill, you'll find Kutztown University, and what better place to seek out the creative visionaries of tomorrow than among the populace of a college town.

I personally find my seasonal visits to Kutztown and the surrounding Bucks County area a welcome escape from the more hectic life I lead in the suburbanopolis of Central New Jersey.

Extravaganza, Kutztown, PA

2009-04-26T21:24:00.000-04:00

Three times a year dealers, vendors and collectors descend upon this countrified haven to forage, haggle, indulge their obsessions and quench their thirst for the "thrill of the hunt." Finally, after several wet and soggy seasons, this glorious weekend yielded the promise of sunshine and the aroma of fresh funnel cake.

In addition to the usual estate castoffs, country primitives and handcrafts, there were notable emerging trends in an increase of Mid-Century as well as several booths of tribal art. Color was more pronounced, leaning towards mid-tone brights and eclectic blues.

People-watching has always been interesting at these events, and you just never know what delightful surprises will show up.

Shades of Yellow at Laurence Harbor, NJ

2009-04-19T22:11:00.000-04:00

Vintage Yellow, Lambertville, NJ

2009-04-06T00:03:00.002-04:00

Nestled along the banks of the Delaware River is a vintage haven of wonderful fashions called Mill Crest Vintage Clothing. The decor reflects the discerning color eye of proprietor Paula Cooperman and offers a fine selection of vintage and Mid Century apparel and accessories. In addition, their textile archives are a major resource for fashion and interior designers. Be sure to mark this a must see on your next trip to the Bucks County region!