Down to the Nightclub

Lotsa folks consider the 1980s a fashion wasteland. They cite acid washed jeans, Miami Vice looks, parachute pants, neon, big hair and heavy makeup as reasons to hate. But there was a lot of fun stuff and super cool influences like Michael Jackson, Madonna and punk music. I loved wearing miniskirts, high top sneakers, overdyed denim, shoulder pads, colored tights, and touches of androgyny. My favorite pieces were slouchy suede boots with men’s overcoats and baggy shaker pullover sweaters.

If you’re a fan of 1980s style, check out these pieces from the “Club to Catwalk” exhibit which was at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London last summer. It’s a fabulous reminder of the imagination that busted out of our closets and the energy that emanated from storefronts and dance floors. I bet you were rocking some of these looks while you grooved to The Human League, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, or Bowie’s ubiquitous “Let’s Dance.” 

Beauty

Everyone should embrace beauty and incorporate it into their everyday lives.  Call it elegance, style or grace, but make it as critical to your existence as fresh air.  Take a big breath of beauty when you’re stressed.  Open a window and let beauty into the room--an azure sky, the delicate scent of fresh flowers, the lightness of the air after a summer rain. 

I took these lovely photographs while traveling in London and Paris. When you feel knotted or broken take a walk through these pictures, then seek out everyday beauty.  You'll find it all around you!

London 2012

Lime Tree Hotel - London 2012

Windsor Castle 2012

Shop Window - London 2012

Opera House - Paris 2009

Shop Window - Paris 2009

Paris 2009

London Calling

I spent eight delightful days in London last August, and the trip was nothing short of amazing.  (The Tate Modern! Windsor Castle! Big Ben! Trafalgar Square! Soho! The Tower of London!)  I’ve wanted to see London ever since 1960s British rock and roll invasion hit me like an 18-wheeler.  (The Beatles! The Rolling Stones! The Who! Cream!) 

My visit was sandwiched between the Olympics and the Paralympics.  What an extraordinarily exciting time!  Here’s some of what I saw of this amazing city.  And yes, I’m planning my return trip.  London rocks!