Black Alicelette

Hello, Strangers

2010-02-14T15:21:00.006Z

I've been so busy that I haven't posted for three months. Apologies. I've spent the time interning, but am going to make more of an effort from now on, I promise.

To summarise, I spent some time at a lesbian magazine, which- even if it did put me in the rare position of being a closet heterosexual- was good fun, and then at a television company, which wasn't. It's a truism that television and the media is full of phonies, and I genuinely cannot tell you what the people I worked for were like because it was such a false environment. More on them later.

I've also recruited a couple of new contributors to this blog, whom you should hopefully hear from soon.

Happy Valentine's Day,

xxx

Recommended: Hightown Crows

2009-11-01T22:40:00.006Z

The Hightown Crows are probably the band I see most regularly. They are a rockabilly blues band who busk in Portobello Market in Notting Hill every week, and always brighten my weekend up that little bit. It's just occurred to me that I've never actually seen them play indoors.

Yesterday, when we walked past they were covering Living On A Prayer by Bon Jovi. Totally rocked. I love them.

Their website is:

http://www.hightowncrows.co.uk/index.htm

Myspace:

myspace.com/hightowncrows

You can see some of their performances:

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=the+hightown+crows&search_type=&aq=2m&oq=hightown+

I don't feel so good

2009-11-01T22:36:00.001Z

and the annoying thing is, I felt sick all yesterday too, so didn't make it out last night after all.

Halloween (2)

2009-10-25T17:33:00.005Z

Omg. I might go as a flower fairy.

With fresh gypsophelia in my hair and my brown ankle boots and my floaty pink dress. Yes!

Twiggy vs Juliette Lewis

2009-10-25T15:18:00.007Z

I did two things of interest this weekend.

This:

Juliette Lewis at the The Shepherd's Bush Empire. Il était terrible, although my friend and her roommate quite liked it. This picture is of her at an outdoor music festival in the US but you get the idea.

And this:

The Twiggy exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery. Much better.

Photo of Juliette Lewis lifted from http://www.musictoob.com

Photo of Twiggy in New York by Melvin Solosky, 1967. Her first shoot in New York.

Halloween

2009-10-25T14:04:00.016Z

It's Halloween next weekend. I never normally do anything but this year a friend and I have decided that we will, and have given ourselves a range of outfits to choose from.

Squaws

Inspired by the JC/DC show and make-up. This might be our strongest option, mostly because we really want to wear feathers in our hair, and I can wear my Karen Millen boots out again. Not that I don't all the time.

Bad Fairies/ Zombie Ballerinas

We saw a little girl in the street in this fabulous mini-Witch costume from a supermarket. It had a very pretty tiered skirt made from different strips of torn-looking fabric, which made us think of fairies. Not sure I can bring myself to don wings though, so I may wear the same outfit, with ballet shoes, and scary eye-liner, and pretend to be a zombie ballet dancer instead.

Flappers

Not really scary but I do already own the headband, the little shoes, the pearls, the feather boa, and the dress.

Damon from Blur

Tell me it wouldn't be scary to find yourself stuck in a lift with this:

and the scariest option of all, Chavs.

I'll say no more.

Anyone care to cast a vote either way?

Font Trouble

2009-10-25T13:46:00.017Z

I've been looking at this blog, and I don't think I like the font options Blogger provides me with. There are eight altogether, including Webdings, which makes this sentence look like this:

I dunno. I've been looking at this blog, and don't think I like the font options Blogger provides me with. There are nine altogether, including Webdings, which makes this sentence look like this:

Hmm.

Image taken from http://www.seoedu.info/

Chanel Eye Gloss

2009-10-25T13:04:00.013Z

Has everyone seen these already? I saw them at the airport and wanted them immediately.

I don't have the money at the moment so if anyone bumps into Santa could you let him know they're on my list? They are the eye shadow my teen dreams were made of.

Above, an image from Chanel's advertising campaign.

Love the Halloween/masquerade ball connotations of the mask, and the glosses still look fab, and a bit more rock'n'roll, if more roughly blended.

But I guess the rock look is going out. I suspect things will go goth for the next few months, with Chanel's entire Autumn range based around Noir, alongside an option on the very bright shades showcased by JC/DC and Luella at fashion week, but no matter what palette you choose, I see the strongest trend in make-up being immaculate application, which means that we like the lady above, are going to need to look perfect.

Ladylike chic is on its way back. Consider yourselves warned.

http://uma.chanel.com/-makeup-eyes-eye-shadows-eye-gloss-exclusive-creation-/product/MAEMU2BJ

And here's a video on how to best apply them by the always down-to-earth Bobbi Brown

www.youtube.com/watch?v=P__jbFj3cUI

Profile: Scout, Actress/Comedienne/Burlesque Queen, NYC

2009-10-25T10:59:00.016Z

Scout Durwood is awesome. She was one of my best friend's in New York, and still is now. We met when we interned at the pro-sex, but more pro-crafting feminist magazine, Bust in 2007 (the less said about that place the better).

While I've been pursuing a career in publishing, she's been making her way in the NY theatre and burlesque scene, which she discusses, along with her pageant career, below:

Hi Scout, tell us a little bit about yourself. What do you do?

I am a NYC based actor and comedienne! I am a co-founder of Mighty Little Productions, a theatre company that you'll hear a little bit more about later. As a performer, I work everywhere from stand-up and burlesque to more mainstream theatre, film and television. My heart and soul are in what I like to call "soft core avant-guarde" meaning not "Legally Blonde" on Broadway, but not rolling around on the floor of the stage playing in yarn, either. I am originally from Kansas City, and love my hometown. I'm down to explore NYC, too, but I think my roots will always be somewhere with a yard in the Midwest.

Tell us about Mighty Little.

Mighty Little is an award winning collaboration based theatre company dedicated to the production of original narrative work in the spirit of levity with an emphasis on social change. We believethat through collaboration we, as a collective, become bigger than the sum of our parts, and that comedy will change the world, not commerce. This summer, we will presented two full-length plays at festivals around New York City: Monroe Bound in the Midtown International Festival and V-Love at the Fresh Fruit Festival. We are also involved in the production of a number of video shorts as well as live sketch, variety and burlesque shows.

In an ideal world who would your dream collaborators be?

Wow. I'd love to talk to Gilda Radner about what she believes is the core of performance. So often now commedians, especially, go below the belt, which can be hilarious, but I have such a more profound respect for performers who find the laughs in a more heartfelt place. Which is all to say, I'm so over shock value. I'm going to against the anti-mainstream grain and say that I adore Jim Carrey, both as a funny guy and otherwise. I love physical comedy, and as annoying as some of his films have been, you have to give him some credit for being willing to go so far out on a limb. Roberto Benigni, love it. Long and lanky. Jane Wagner, and, of course, Penelope Cruz. I would like to collaborate with her as my wife. There's a burlesquer in New York, Julie Atlas Muz, who I think is really just amazing, as well. Envelope pushing without being cheap. That's very important to me.

Will you take the show (the troupe) on the road? I still think Europe, and the Edinburgh Festival would benefit from some mighty belittling.

I could not agree with you more. We're deep in Mighty Little meetings right now deciding what we want to do next summer. This summer was a big one for us, so taking the show on the road seems very much like the next logical step. It didn't happen this year, but it's definitely yon the agenada for next. I'm planning on stopping by Edinbugh next year as a comic, so look out!

Do you think working in New York, which is an incredibly diverse city, helps to foster creativity more than living in LA, where a lot of performers head straight after college?

LA is a whole different ball game. I've survived in New York with a manager and no agent (other than freelance) and been really happy with the work that has come my way. There is no way that would happen in LA. LA produces crappy film and TV like New York produces crappy theatre. I'd rather be a part of crappy theatre. At least then I only have to be naked when I want to be. Film and TV require a middle man that I'm not super excited about. As a performer, I'm much happier being very much in control of my final product. Most LA actors don't have that advantage. That said, Mighty Little produces a lot of sketch and viral video stuff. We even have a web series on the back burner that we're hoping to get on its feet somewhere in the next year. LA has its time and place, it's just not for me at the moment.

"I've survived in New York with a manager and no agent (other than freelance) and been really happy with the work that has come my way. There is no way that would happen in LA."

A lot of actors head to the city when they finish school but it’s rare for someone to actually make it. You now run your own troupe, Mighty Little. Can you comment on the trajectory of your career, how did you get where you are today?

Making it in my twenties is a dream I gave up on, not because I'm untalented, but because it takes a lot of time, especially for a comedian, to develop the craft. I'm not saying I'd turn downa role as Meryl Streep's daughter, because lord knows I wouldn't, but for me it's been a lot about finding the voice that I want to share, and that I believe will ultimately change the face of theatre, even if only in a very small way. You meet a handful of performers who "have it" and many more who don't. That only means so much. When I'm casting a project or looking for collaborators, I cast reliability over natural talent almost every time, so it's a balance. I'm enjoying taking my time in getting to the top and dedicating a lot of time to producing gritty New York theatre.

Had I moved out to LA and focused on film and TV, I would be much richer and possibly more famous than I am now, but I would also be playing someone else's game. There are so many different kinds of performers. Some of the most talented performance artists I know have no commercial appeal whatsoever. They'll probably always struggle to pay the bills, but they're a helluva lot of fun to watch. And some of our biggest actors don't have a lot of inner monologue going on, if you know what I mean, but they do have that star quailty thing that makes them great on camera. For me, it's been way more work than I actually had to do. I'm at a point now where I've really relaxed into where I am, and am happy to take it one step at a time. The lesson to learn is not to be totally consumerd with producing your own work, and not to give into playing entirely according to someone else's rules. It's always compramise for me. I've given up some really great, more "commercial" opportunites to produce my own work, and that was what I really needed to do at the time, was develop myself as an artist. Now it's all about fewer projects and bigger projects. It feels really amazing to be at a place in my career where I can confidently say "no" to things.

"LA produces crappy film and TV like New York produces crappy theatre. I'd rather be a part of crappy theatre. At least then I only have to be naked when I want to be. "

Tell us about some of the shitty jobs you’ve had to work along the way. Any real horror stories?

Oh, lordie. Interning at BUST magazine was a nightmare, so much so, that I started really not showing up after a while. On the wagon non-feminists who like to knit are not my cup of tea, let me tell you. The worst jobs are when there isn't any acknowledgement of the importance of my time. I may be a small potato, a tater tot, even, but I'm still a spud, and I deserve respect.

I've quit or been fired (sometimes at the same time) from so many jobs--restaurants where they under pay you, bars where the boss is a jerk and a drug addict. I tend to hold a job for about a month or so before it doesn't work out. Now, though, I'm assisting a really fantastic director who works in more mainstream theatre than I tend to, and working in a cool performance space, so I may have finally found the right mix. And more and more of my income is starting to come from acting, which is the real dream.

World's worst job, (aside from intern) is selling comedy tickets on the street. Anyone who tells you you have to do that is lying. LYING! No one should ever have to sell anything on the street. Even hookers should have a phone service. I believe that. I was a part time rollerblade instructor for three years. Some of those kids were horrible. Especially the rich ones. I totally understand their parents' need to medicate them. I needed medication to deal with them.

Knowing what you do now, would you encourage people to pursue careers in theatre and performance? What advice would you give them?

There's no right way to do it, but the only way that gets you anywhere involves lots of work. Move your furnature often and talk to yourself while you do it. Find understanding roommates, and find friends who like to play. Other friends of mine who are performers and I like to jump around to sing-alongs, make balloon animals, play with sock puppets, stuff like that. You never know where inspiration is going to come from, but step one is taking your career seriously by taking yourself completely un-seriously. That and study. Performing is about consistancy, so no matter how good you are (and this is coming from someone who is DAMN good) you have to train yourself to do it again and again, especially on those days when you don't want to do it at all.

Describe where you grew up. Was there are a strong theatre scene there? When did you develop an interest in performing?

I was always a performer. I had an alter ego as a child named "Princess Crystal." It's a bit of an actor's cliche, but performing is what I've always done. I briefly wanted to be a veternarian after I saw "National Velvet" with Elizabeth Taylor. Then I learned that sometimes animals die, and I was overwhelmed with grief and decided that a veternary practice was not in my future. I also wanted to be The President, but I think my political career is pretty much shot at this point.

Then again, President Lady Scoutington has a ring to it. My hometown has some good theatre, but most of it is stuff that comes through on tour. We have a lot of great art galleries... that I almost never go to, but I hear so much about them! I wasn't a big child actor. I never wanted to be Jon Bennet. I think I always had an inkling that most of it was stupid. I still hate children's theatre.

You’re from Kansas. The Midwest universally gets a bad rap, but definitely has its good sides too. Tell us your favourite things about home, what should people try and do on a trip there?

Augh! Bad rap! Never. BBQ! Kansas City isn't as obvious as New York, and it's more difficult without a car, but we have a lot of amazing BBQ places, galleries (that I don't go to) and museums (that I do go to.) There's an active political scene, and all of it is significantly less pretentious and substantially more affordable than New York. We have a good gay scene, too. It's an important measure of a city, the gays. If there are none, you know someone is lying, and if there are too many, they can get pretentious and stupid, like Chelsea. I loved having a yard and being able to ride my bike to my friend's houses and spending the summer at the local pool growing up. It's not a travel through kind of place. It's a stay a while and help us find wood for an illegal bonfire type of place.

You attended a Christian High School, before going to Amherst. Can you say something about the effect that your education, which seems to have been very diverse, had on you personally and as a performer?

I did go to private school, but it wasn't Christian. It was just small and they let me do whatever I watend. And sometimes, they would try to tell me what to do, like go to class on time, or wear shoes in the halls, but I didn't always listen. Sometimes I did, and sometimes I was effectively forced to, but not usually. I graduated in a class of 42, and then went onto Amherst College with a graduating class of around 450. I'm big on small ponds, which explains why I live in New York City. Er... no it doesn't at all.

Can you tell us about your college thesis? I seem to remember it was a performance piece, in the John Stewart mould…

I wrote a one woman show based on a survey I gave to a bunch of my classmates about sex and porn. Researching and composing the survey involved watching hours and hours of films that contained notable (and usually violent) sex scenes, as well as pornography. Then I took the results of the survey, and used it to inform my first solo show. It was kind of cool to have my thesis advisors watch me do a strip tease to an Emmimem song. The pannel recomended me for magna cum laude honors. On paper, my thesis was about representations of an intergender power hierarchy in sexual situations represented in mainstream media and pornography.

You’re openly lesbian, and an ardent campaigner for women’s rights. Does feminism and social activism play a role in your performance and writing?

For sure. I think the feminist fire is one that will burn in me forever. I am of the belief that the best way to make something happen is to just live it. Better to beg for forgiveness than to ask for permission, I always say. In college I was borderline millitant on the feminist front, and I was a gross mergie lesbian who was always with my girlfriend and wore matching cargo shorts, which I realize is a little bit gross, but there you go. I like to think I've evolved past that stereotype. Still, I'm not going to ask anyone's permission to be or do anything. I just do it, and if someone gives me flack about it, I try to make a really pretty face, and more often than not, I get away with whatever I want. That works in airports, and accidentally stealing from K-Mart too.

"I think the feminist fire is one that will burn in me forever. I am of the belief that the best way to make something happen is to just live it. [It's] better to beg for forgiveness than to ask for permission."

What are your causes?

I've been working with the NYC Alliance Against Sexual Assault (www.svfreenyc.org) for the past few years, and I have to say, they are one of the most amazing groups I have ever had the pleasure of working with. We recently had a benefit with them called, "More Laugher. Less Rape" which was a huge success. Their big campeign this year is called "Project Envision" and it's all about envisioning a world without sexual violence. It's an amazing spin, really. Other volunteer hours go to SAVI, also in the sexual assault field. (http://www.mssm.edu/savi/) We get called in by New York and Queens hospitals when a survivor of sexual violence comes in to make sure s/he is aware of his/her rights, that the rape kit is done properly, and that we make all of the resources in the city for financial, legal, and emotional support known to the survivor.

When we first met you were Miss Massachusetts (I think). Can you tell us about your pageant career? What other ‘crowns’ did you win?

Ha, ha. I was actually Miss Greater Holyoke, which was somewhat ironic because Holyoke, MA is a predominantly non-white area, so naturally a white girl should win the crown. The whole pageant thing started off as a joke with my dad. I got a letter in the mail announcing that I was a finalist in a pageant that I had never entered, and was elligable to win such awards as "Miss Photogenic" etc. He bet me that I couldn't win a pageant, so I did! I was Miss Kansas American Teen 2001 when I was 17. I got to go to Disneyworld and everything. Then, in college, a friend wanted to film a documentary about the pageant process, so I entered a local Miss Massachusetts contest, and won. I ended up top ten in the state. The documentary never happened, but I did score a cool evening gown. I competed once in New York again, but I didn't win, and then I aged out. I competed once in Miss USA, but that's a much cheesier pageant. This would be my last year to compete with them, and I'm thinking about it. I have a month to raise the money. I kind of really REALLY want to do it. We'll see.

Did you face prejudice from other competitors for being openly gay?

I wasn't openly gay. I was openly ambiguous. Once we even had my girlfriend at the time crossdress and come to a banquet dinner thing as my boyfriend. No one ever asked questions. I think the idea was that if I ever won a big crown, I'd say something, but I never did, so we missed a good scandal. Who knows. This could be my year.

The Burlesque scene in New York is dominated by performers who have attended the New York Burlesque Academy. Is the academy’s predominance harming the scene, and do you think it’s really possible to teach burlesque?

The Academy is run by Jo Boobs, and I've never really worked with them. There are "go to" moves in burlesque, and it can be helpful to have a grounding in them, but it can be equally valuable to come up with your own ways to, say, take off a glove. There are so many different kinds of burlesque, and some of it is really really boring. Some of it is amazing, and some of it is hilarious. Most of what I do is hilarious. I just can't take myself seriously when I'm trying to be sexy. Really, it's all about confidence, which has so been said before, but it's the truth. If the Academy can teach people that, then go for it. It all depends on what you're rying to do as a burlesquer. I do know that they're amazing at networking over there, and that's a huge piece of what getting booked as a burlesquer is, networking.

Who’s Lady Scoutington? She seems to be gaining notoriety, the tramp.

Well, thank you very much. She's been around town, that's for sure. Lady Scoutignton is "a a bawdy burlesquer who spends most of her time on the lighter side of life. With the innocence of a child and the drinking habits of a priest, she brings love and laughs wherever she removes her clothes." She's getting popular as an mc, as well as a performer. I've been avoiding a lot of the main stream burlesque scene, mostly because Scout Durwood is often busy with stand-up, and Scout has priority over Lady Scoutington right now, but that all could change soon enough. I love a good opportunity to be naked. Mua, ha ha.

Apart from Lady S, which acts are really worth seeing at the moment?

I absolutely love the Wau Wau sisters. I see them a lot, and never get enough of it. I'm really into circus stuff these days. I even bought a hula hoop. I recently met a young comic by the name of David Cope, and I think he is just hilarious. I'd love to work with him more. He's like the anti me. Really deadpan and serious.

Good Day

2009-10-20T19:42:00.005+01:00

I've had a very good day; lots of applications sent off, one interview offer for what might be an amazing internship, and one lead that made me scream with joy when the email arrived. Some days rock.

Detroit City Style

2009-10-20T19:25:00.010+01:00

My cousin Michelle, the graphic designer and photographer who designed the logo for this blog, recently styled and shot this fashion shoot, based on the style of her adopted home city of Detroit, where she also shot it.

All photographs: © Michelle Maturi

Enjoy.

Credits:

Photographer: Michelle Maturi

Model: Kaytee Brynn

Art Direction: Alissa Garzoni

Hair/Make-Up: Renee Brynn

Stylists: Michelle Maturi and Renee Brynn

Vitra

2009-10-20T17:42:00.015+01:00

Vitra has long been my friend Agathe's favourite design firm. We visited their Glasgow showroom in May this year, where she once again proved that she has an eye for things that are really fucking cool.

Algue Screens, perfect for the loft that I don't live in

Charles Rennie Mackintosh-inspired Alcove Highback Sofas

They also produce plastic versions of Eames elephants, pictured at the top of this post, which I want for any future children I may have.

http://www.vitra.com/

Yummy

2009-10-20T14:26:00.004+01:00

In contrast to Karl L, I see this as a very good reason to get fat:

It's been a while

2009-10-20T13:56:00.011+01:00

Pictured above: Examples of the "Nazar Boncugu" or Evil Eye, commonly believed to ward off evil spirits. I bought a bracelet made of miniature ones while abroad, they work.

I confess that I'm a poor multi-tasker. My excuses are as follows, I couldn't blog from Asia Minor as I had no internet access, and even less motivation. Spend time on here when I could spend it in bars/on the beach/in rapture at the historical sights? I don't think so.

Then, the day after I came back, I began the best internship in history with a magazine that made me sign a non-disclosure agreement on my first day. I'm not sure how little I'm allowed to disclose but I am having the best time working there. I have written a few pieces for them, and will disclose a few scans of them when the time is right.

But, basically, I've been busy, and I apologise to everyone I promised to contact but haven't. I'm back, and in black, and I'm on it.

Kiss, kiss, bisoux

Vacay

2009-09-24T14:27:00.016+01:00

...It's always better on holiday,
so much better on holiday,
that's why we only work when we need the money...

10 days vacay starting tomorrow so no posts during that time.

Song lyrics by Franz Ferdinand http://www.franzferdinand.co.uk/ Picture of Bettie Page taken from http://the-infectious-bettie-page.blogspot.com

JC/DC London Fashion Week

2009-09-24T13:05:00.020+01:00

Following on from yesterday's cartoon post, Jean Charles de Castelbajac, the designer whose diffusion line, shown here, is more helpfully known as JC/DC sent models down the runway looking like this:

Brightly Coloured Youth Tribes!Clowns!

Pocahontas! Love. Athough it's their make-up I'm more interested in. Not one but two types of tribal face paint. I will be doing this hair and make-up on every night out for the rest of the year:

But probably not this, except for the bones painted on to their arms.

Here's Peaches Geldof, who opened the show, pictured with the designer:I'm not a fan of the mouthy one but at least she looks smiley.

Images lifted from Nylon magazine http://www.nylonmag.com/index.php?section=album&albid=335 except for the one captioned 'Pocahontas', which belongs to http://www.julesfashion-univers.blogspot.com, an ace French fashion blog which everyone should read.

Please note:

2009-09-23T19:51:00.009+01:00

I will not date any man who wears 'mantihose'.

http://www.e-MANcipate.net/

Christopher Kane at London Fashion Week

2009-09-23T16:16:00.010+01:00

Love, Love, Love

photo by Geoff Pugh taken from http://www.telegraph.co.uk/fashion/london-fashion-week/6215375/London-Fashion-Week-Christopher-Kane.html where it looks better

Cartoon-inspired fashion

2009-09-23T15:11:00.116+01:00

I'm not a huge fan of Jeremy Scott's cartoony designs but I am a huge fan of the little lady shown above so I was thrilled to see Pixie Geldof modelling this in his London Fashion Week collection:

Pebbles Flintstone! best cartoon fashion inspiration ever! [Confession: when my cousin's daughter was about 18 months old, I always used to do her hair like that. She hated it.]

I'm a fan of Betty Rubble's style too.

Short dresses that are nipped in at the waist, with uneven hems and necklace ties, a love of halter necks, hair accessories and (probably) animal print; that's all very me. For the record, animal print lovers, Carine Roitfeld, the none-more stylish Editor of Vogue Paris, suggests snake over leopard, particularly as a woman gets older. It's not my job to argue.

This Betty-ish dress is by Jonathan Saunders, it's available from net-a-porter, who originally took its picture.http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/49690

Wilma Flintstone's asymmetric dress is also a very good thing. The one below is by Preen and can be purchased from net-a-porter.com, where I also took the picture from.

http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/41279

I also keep seeing huge beads like Wilma's everywhere. Like, on every bridesmaid, and below on Audrina Partridge from The Hills, and I'm not entirely sure how good a thing it is.

It's too much if the necklace is beaded all the way round, rather than having a gap between the beads with a short length of chain or ribbon that sits at the back of the neck. For example, the ones above sit oddly and shorten the wearer's neck. Unless you're truly swan-necked, it's far more flattering to go for a necklace that has a few inches of chain or ribbon behind the neck so they hang a little lower.

FYI- I found the pic of Betty and Wilma above on monstersandcritics.com. It's title is Betty and Wilma and the Future Rock Stars. How awesome would a band fronted by Pebbles, with Bam Bam on drums be? too awesome.

Jem and The Holograms

My favourite show as a child. Read into that what you will.

Jem and The Holograms were a rainbow-haired cartoon girlband from the 80's. Jem was actually a record label owner called Jerrica who turned into her rock alter-ego with the help of her computer, Synergy and some star-shaped earrings. The rainbow shades they wore are reminiscent of the recent colour blocking trend, particularly if worn with matching brightly-dyed hair.They also had a nemesis girlband called The Misfits who were lame, a bit hair metal if I recall.

Someone called 5fathoms posted this on youtube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEqmC1q9Sow I can't download it for some reason. He's made The Holograms cover Deceptacon by Le Tigre. Perfection.

She-ra, Princess of Power

As we know, I am a fan of head dresses and red lipstick. I'm also a fan of cloaks, corsets, huge blonde hair and cute dresses so, as far as She-ra goes, what's not for me to like? She's a role model seemingly favoured by designers like The Blondes all the time. They put Katy Perry in this: Minnie Mouse Included as an afterthought when I remembered this photo, which was taken in the Betsey Johnson shop in July. We actually asked for Minnie Mouse years but, alas, they didn't have any. Betsey rules! and her very nice staff do too.

Style Advice from Lesbians

2009-09-22T13:24:00.085+01:00

Three women who love women, each asked the same questions in an attempt to help the world look better.

The panel:
Scout a.k.a. Lady Scoutington Actress, Comedienne, Playwright, Burlesque artiste, former Pageant Queen, co-founder of Mighty Little Productions

Adrianna a.k.a. DJ Hot Mess, Superstar DJ, Graphic Designer, co-founder of Mighty Little Productions

Whitney Photographer, Comedienne, Creative Associate

Above: Scout in Bombshell mode

How important do you think it is to look good?

S You have to look in a way that you feel good about yourself. It's important to have a sense of personality in how you present yourself to the world. That said, I would list it in the turn off column for a lady to put too much stock into the way she looks. It's important, but there should be things that are more important about you.

A Good is relative to how you feel. If you feel good, you look good and it's essential to a good life to feel your best every day.

W It depends on the situation, but in general it's very important. I think a person's entire personality is evident in what they wear.

Above: Adrianna and Whitney swap notes

Give us some general style advice:

S I always love looks that pair things that are a little bit contrasting: really nice slacks and a vintage t-shirt, or an amazing dress with really casual flats. Simple outfit, over the top jewelry. Love it.

A Keep a nice array of things in whatever color someone once said looked good on you. Patterns are always fun, too. Be girly when you want to or even more butch than usual... there's an attitude to every outfit so diversify your moods.

W Try to keep it simple and classy, always dress as though you expect to meet your idol. But also, your clothes should complement your personality; not the other way around. Be sure of yourself. If you're confident, you could pull off a paper sack.

What should be in every wardrobe?

S Never underestimate the power of a white v-neck t-shirt. You can dress them up or down, and they are almost always the perfect thing to wear with those pants that don't match anything else.

A A pair of skinny jeans.

W A good pair of jeans, a pair of black heels, and a basic black dress.

And what should be burnt/ never even bought in the first place?

Above: Adrianna

S I hate those ENORMOUS sun glasses that people wear all the time. If they're bigger than the ones Jackie-O wore, they're too big. And you don't need to wear them unless it's sunny... even if you're an Olsen twin.

A Leopard print tights.

W Crocs, Tevas, and any jewelry that involves Xena [Warrior Princess]

What do you think should be in every make-up bag?

S Fake eyelashes! No, that's too much, but it would be fun, wouldn't it? I'm gunna go basic and say some really awesome chapstick. The best look is one that starts with a healthy foundation, so I always try to keep my lips moist. Ech. I just said moist.

A Mascara and a little powder.

W I think the cliched answer to this is 'lipstick'. My answer: lipstick.

Left: Whitney, dressed for dinner

Mighty Little's website is http://mightylittle.wordpress.com/. The company is based in NY, but plans to tour next year, bringing a show to the Edinburgh Festival. In the meantime, New Yorkers, or anyone visiting the city, should make a point of seeing one of their endlessly creative productions.

Cats in Hats

2009-09-21T23:37:00.003+01:00

Below is my favourite Craigslist post ever. I even saved the link I loved it so much.

The owner, I think, is some kind of genius feline milliner. Or lunatic.

Poor Snowman.

Best Craigslist find of the day

CARTON OF IRREGULAR CAT HATS

Date: 2008-02-07, 11:02AM PST

HELLO. I HAVE A BIG BOX OF USED CAT AND KITTEN HATS THAT I HAVE COLLECTED OVER THE YEARS FOR VARIOUS OCCASIONS. AS OF RECENTLY MY CAT, SNOWMAN, IS NO LONGER LIVING AND THUS I AM FORCED TO GET RID OF THESE PRECIOUS MEMORIES. I WOULD NOT FEEL RIGHT ASKING MONEY FOR THEM SO I AM OFFERING THE WHOLE BOX FOR FREE. THERE ARE MANY STYLES FROM FORMAL TO CUTE AND FUNNY.

THERE IS A VARIETY OF 14 DIFFERENT HATS TOTAL. I JUST HOPE YOU AND YOUR PET CAN FIND AS MUCH JOY IN THESE HATS AS ME AND SNOWMAN ONCE DID.

E-MAIL ME IF YOU ARE INTERESTED AND I WILL GIVE YOU MY ADDRESS WHERE YOU CAN PICK THEM UP. I CAN ALSO ARRANGE FOR A FREE DELIVERY IF YOU ARE NOT TOO FAR AWAY.
THANK YOU, PATTY
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/sdo/566171148.html

Profile: Jane, Trainee Lawyer, NY/Lon

2009-09-21T13:44:00.000+01:00

Jane is training to be a lawyer. Educated in the UK, her training has allowed her to live in London, Hong Kong and New York, with more good things expected to come. Here she (very modestly) answers some questions about her career so far, and recommends a few places to go out in each city.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m 26, working in law. Am generally quite shy, but have a good group or friends who are like my family.

My family are very important to me too.

You grew up in Leamington Spa, a mid-sized town in the Midlands. How did it shape you?

It shaped me in that I really wanted to live in the city for a while. I have always grown up outside of the city, hence why I was so excited to go to London. Now I have the best of both worlds, the city life and can always go home for weekend to see greenery!

Since leaving school you’ve lived in London, Hong Kong and now New York. Do you feel like a city girl now? What would you say are the benefits of city life?

I definitely feel like a city girl; I absolutely love it. The benefits are that there is something for everyone there. In NY I have managed to find like-minded people who understand my interests/culture etc.

Recommend some places to visit when people are in New York, Hong and London.

New York : Clubs - Webster Hall, pictured right, random places in village http://websterhall.com/ .

Bars - Faces and Names in Times Square http://www.facesandnames.com/

Tourist spots – I love the Empire State building and the Chrysler, pictured above on the left.

Oh, and [Central] park, obviously.

For shopping, I prefer the outskirts of New York; the Pallisades, Jersey City etc.

Hong Kong: Clubs/Bars - random places in Lan Kwai Fong.

Restuarants – there’s a place in IFC, best Shanghai pork dumplings ever!

Tourist spots - Big Buddha, light show at TST.

Shopping - all the malls!

London: Clubs/bars – I’m old now so don’t go out much, but generally stick to The Big Note, 207 Upper Street, a lovely club just because it reminds me of good times.

Bar Bollywood , 34 Dover Street

Restos - Isis, 49- 50 Dover Street.

Blossom, Unit 1b City Point, http://www.blossomrestaurant.co.uk/index.html

Anywhere they should avoid?

Well, everyone told me to avoid the Bronx, but there are some nice areas. I don’t advise on any bad areas [but] obviously use your common sense!

Has world travel, and especially working abroad had an effect on you as a person? How?

Yes definitely, I have become more independent, especially in New York as [before moving here] I had never lived alone. I’m still not perfect, but much more independent than in London.

Do you have ambitions to live and work elsewhere in the world? Where?

I would love to try working in Japan, and perhaps India for a while.

Persevere. I’m not the most studious person but I have managed to secure [a] training contract so if I can do it, I’m pretty sure anyone can.

Does travel for its own sake inform your ambitions? Where would you like to visit and why?

I am liking travel [but] hit the travel bug late. I would like to go to Australia/NZ as well as Africa. Aiming to do so before starting [a] Training Contract.

The type of law you practice is quite specific. Can you tell us a bit about it?

I’m not practicing yet. At present, I would like to do either Commercial or Clinical Negligence; each has its own appeal.

How did you come to follow the career path you’re on?

I kinda fell into it. I thought I would try the law conversion [after graduating with a science degree] and then decided I liked it, so stuck with it. There has been an element of luck too though.

If all goes to plan, where do you want to be in ten years time? What will you be doing?

Personally, I would like to get married and settle etc. From a work level, would love to become Partner in a firm, but we shall see.

Knowing what you do now, what advice would you give to someone else who is considering a similar career?

Persevere. I’m not the most studious person but I have managed to secure [a] training contract so if I can do it, I’m pretty sure anyone can. Above: Lan Kwoi Fong, Hong Kong

How does your profession affect what your choice of clothing?

We have guidance unfortunately, and need to wear collars, smart clothes, etc., so generally [I wear] suits.

Outside of work, what do you like to do? Where will we find you?

I’m up for trying everything. I have become a lot more social here; just hanging out with friends. My mentality [towards] drink has changed. Don’t get me wrong; I like going out till late and feeling the freedom of drink, but also just going for walks along the river with a cup of coffee is just as fun for me.

Jill Greenberg's Photography

2009-09-18T22:15:00.000+01:00

Jill Greenberg, pictured above in a self-portrait with a Orangutan.

I find Jill Greenberg's work massively emotive. I've been posting photos of children taken by her for a few days, so thought a quick profile was in order.

I first came across Greenberg when she photographed Gwen Stefani for the cover of her album The Sweet Escape. Two pictures from the album cover, which demonstrate Greenberg's clever use of lighting to heighten a subject's emotional pull are below.

I love what Wikipedia calls the "stylized realism" of her work http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jill_Greenberg. Her pictures would have been in The Face all the time, were it still up and running; never a bad thing.

Greenberg is most notorious for her exhibition End Times, consisting of photographs of distressed toddlers, five of which have appeared on this blog already, one in the post below. The photographs, which were meant to express Greenberg's political dissatisfaction with America in 2006, kicked up a storm because it was assumed that Greenberg must have harmed, or even abused, the children in some way to provoke such strong reactions. She says not; she simply took away their candy before taking a picture, and returned it straight after. Her account can be found on her website http://www.manipulator.com/.

Here are some more examples of her work, much of which is both feminist
and political.
Greenberg had been hired to photograph US Presidential candidate John McCain by The Atlantic magazine. After admitting she took extra photos during the photo shoot, with the intention of pursuing her own more liberal political agenda, the magazine refused to pay her expenses. More info on Wikipedia and the rest of the web.

She has also photographed animals (my favourite subject of hers),
Fashion shoots,
and Celebrities such as Lindsay Lohan.

Gorgeous, no? I want to do my make-up so I look like her images all the time.

Jill Greenberg's website is http://www.manipulator.com/ Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jill-Greenberg/62073875327

Bastards

2009-09-18T16:32:00.000+01:00

Shock by Jill Greenberg

http://www.manipulator.com

I don't usually google myself so imagine my surprise today, on googling this blog, to find out that some bastard has stolen some of my entries, changed a few words around- making them worse- and claimed them as their own.

So I've made this blog invitation only.

The link is http://clothingpatterns.blogmas.com/2009/09/14/black-alicelette-some-stylish-films-part-4/ and I hate them.

Cheering Up

2009-09-18T13:08:00.002+01:00

Yesterday was a bad day, and today's not been much better, which made me think about things that might cheer me, and you, up. Here are a few suggestions to brighten your day.

“If you’re going through hell, keep going.” Winston Churchill

Leave the House I hate doing this at the best of times, but staying in and hiding never makes any difference so we might as well give it a shot.

Go out with friends Good friends put situations that may seem overwhelming in to proportion. They’ll also make you laugh. Extra points if it’s a night out and you end up on the dancefloor.

Make-overs (Maybe more for the girls, this one.)

Yesterday I detailed my love of visiting the MAC counter. I do think purchasing a new eye-shadow or lipstick can make a person feel better. I also like doing fashion shows using clothes I already own, and performing bad make-overs on my friends for the sheer hilarity of it. This is a photo of me and a fashion crime accomplice.

Home Spa On a bad day, turn the bathroom into a home spa. This should include, but not be limited to, the use of favourite bath products, face masks and moisturizers, the painting of nails, and the refusal to come out until you’re good and ready, all while listening to music only you like. Six hours is not unreasonable.

Cook Make your favourite meal. And drink while you're preparing it. If you're as hit and miss as me when it comes to cooking, the drinking will help.

Bake Baking is an oddly rewarding process. It requires almost scientific precision, which keeps an overactive mind, that might otherwise be dwelling on negatives, busy, and goes on to reward you with all kinds of treats. Recommended dishes are peanut butter cookies, devil’s food cake and brownies.

Exercise Not the gym sort. Dog walking, dancing, roller skating, rock climbing, and the odd bit of cycling.
Listening to very loud music A bit of a favourite in my house anyway, as it dovetails nicely with the dancing. Recommended: Cut Copy, Sweet Soubrette, French singer Julien Dore (who’s worth looking at too), early and very cheesey Kylie, and some 80’s power ballads to sing along to (don’t pretend you don’t know all the words).

Arts and Crafts Making things can make you feel better. For one thing, your time is occupied, leaving you with less time to think, a scenario that always makes me feel bad. I like to make cake stands, such as the ones pictured, which were made for my Aunt Jackie and Black Alice, respectively.

Watch your favourite film or TV show, particularly if they’re funny
The healing effects of being wrapped up under a duvet in front the TV are not to be underestimated. Be it Sex and the City, The Inbetweeners, America’s Next Top Model, Don’t Tell the Bride, or even Jeremy Paxman’s unfalteringly condescension on University Challenge, something that makes you laugh will always make you feel better.

“Never lose your sense of humour. The moment you lose your sense of humour, you lose your sense of proportion." David Tang

THE SERIOUS BIT
Two bits of advice that may actually make a difference.

Attitude adjustment Obviously, when it comes to attitude, I’m not going to lecture. Some shit is just so heinous that really all your friends should do is say, “I am so sorry that this has happened to you,” and give you a hug.

Other shit is not so heinous; other shit can be dealt with by “choosing your attitude” as my old, tirelessly upbeat boss used to say. So when things are bad, or you feel fat, or you’re overdrawn again, you opt not to let it affect you, making the conscious effort to remember that, as with everything else, you will get through this.

Keep your sense of humour During the drugs scandal that threatened to ruin her career, Kate Moss’ good friend, the fashion magnate David Tang, told her “to never lose your sense of humor. The moment you lose your sense of humor, you lose a sense of proportion." And it’s true that a keen sense of the ridiculous will get you through many an awkward or embarrassing situation. I always know I’m over something when I can turn it into a funny story, so even at the worst of times I’m trying to figure out how to construct one.

Lipstick Traces

2009-09-17T19:46:00.000+01:00

"Red lipstick is the stiletto heel of make-up," Terry Barber, director of make-up artistry at MAC.

I love a strong lip but often lack the confidence to carry the look. I'm old enough now that I should be wearing what I want when I want to, be it in the form of clothing or make-up. With this in mind, I've decided to wear a lot of red lipstick this Winter.

Originally, I posted this video, featuring Times Lifestyle Editor Jennifer Howze having her lipstick applied by senior MAC make-up artist Lynsey Alexander, who's there to explain what red suits whom, and how to best apply it, at the end of Alana's profile but, having just rewatched it, I think it bears repeating. Valuable lessons for us all.

The video can be found in its original form at: http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/beauty/article3634058.ece

MAC make-up is available online from http://www.maccosmetics.com/, a site which can direct you not only to their products and make-up artists, who can be hired for events, but also to their Looks page http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/templates/looks/looks_landing.tmpl, the most fun you can have with cosmetics that aren't in front of you, and to their AIDS Fund, which is paid for by the sale of their VIVA GLAM products (http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/mac_aid/macaids_landing.tmpl).

Apart from the lippy lesson, two things strike me while watching it. The first is that The Times' Beauty pages rule. And the second, which I feel more strongly about, is that, if you're ever feeling low, or unsure about which make-up to apply, it is always worth a trip to the MAC counter.

I think I was about fifteen when I had my first encounter with the brand at their newly opened shop in Birmingham. One of their head make-up artists, a guy with immaculate natural look make-up and the best eyebrows I have ever seen, was in for the day, showing the public how to get their looks right, a key difference between the MAC philosophy and that of some of other well-known brands. He didn't make me feel bad 'cos I'd chosen the wrong shade of blusher and wore enough eye-shadow to make a goth blanche, he just made me look (and feel) so much better, which is all you can ask for from a make-up artist. And, of course, MAC are some of the best quality cosmetics you can buy, which always helps.

My nearest MAC stockist these days is Debenhams in Milton Keynes. The girls there rock; there are never enough of them yet they go out of their way to be friendly and helpful. My favourite make-up artist there, whose name I'm ashamed to say I've forgotten, was a contestant on last year's X-Factor. She got as far as boot camp. She found me the only eye-liner I've ever had that doesn't dribble down my face after half an hour. She then chose a purple gel-liner for me and taught me how to apply it. In short, she rules.

If you are in need of cheering up, or just some new cosmetics to play with, I seriously recommend a trip to your nearest stockist, which can be found at http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/templates/door/finder.tmpl.

LA VIE EN ROUGE

Red lipstick: Some Recommended Brands

ELIZABETH ARDEN Suffragettes and women in the Second World War wore lipstick, referring to it as "the red badge of courage." Elizabeth Arden and her contemporary Helena Rubinstein are largely responsible for this, and EA is still an excellent high end brand, if a wee bit less glamorous than it used to be.

MAC Obviously. Has, at various points, been endorsed by both RuPaul and Dita von Teese. Do not argue.

DIOR Recommended by Alana, who knows a thing or two about pulling a look together. See her profile from earlier this month.

VINCENT LONGO The brand can be hard to get hold of in the UK but is definitely worth searching for. A high water content makes their 'sticks very conditioning (I mean moisturising. Gross.). Both Americana and 5 come highly recommended.

CHANEL Rouge Noir has been a favourite of mine ever since Uma Thurman wore it, and the matching nail varnish, in Pulp Fiction. It's the ultimate vampy shade; good for when you wanna be bad.

NARS One day I will tell you all about how much I love Francois Nars, founder of Nars cosmetics. For now, let me just say, his make-up and choice of girls for advertising campaigns is near perfect.

DOLCE & GABBANA Currently being endorsed by Scarlett Johansson, whose lips, contrary to popular belief were made for lipstick, not pornography.

URBAN DECAY A newer brand than many on this list but such a goodie. Their lipsticks smell amazing (sample scents: brownies and cherries) and come with a teeny little dagger on the end of the tube. Rock'n'roll.

Grey Day

2009-09-17T12:43:00.000+01:00

Photos by Jill Greenberg

See more at http://manipulator.com/

On Tuesday, while working on this blog which is, after all, just a pre-emptive stab at a college project, I missed a call from Natmags, a large and important magazine company in London. I'd applied to them for internships.

When I returned the call I got through to central reception, who didn't know who'd tried to contact me. Whoever it was hasn't called back and I'm left wondering whether I've scuppered my chances altogether.

Profile: Cathy, Dublin

2009-09-17T11:31:00.000+01:00

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I'm 23 years old, from Dublin, and a recent university graduate. Currently I am working in a minimum wage job trying to save money to go away and travel early next year.

You have a strong sense of style, and always look great. How important is image to you?

I think that the importance of image to me is slightly contradictory. On the one hand I try to avoid placing too much importance on other people's image. On the other hand I know that I am acutely aware of my own image and conscious of how I project to other people.

Would you say it’s the same for most of your friends?

I think that most of my friends find image very important, and I believe that this is one of the reasons that a lot of people initially strike up a friendship... because they can recognise similar qualities in other people.

Growing up in Dublin were you always interested in clothes and make-up?

I was the ultimate tom-boy as a child, as a teenager I tried out the goth look and was interested in clothes and make-up in the sense that I tried to rebel against the "mainstream" (seems to laughable now...sooo glad I grew out of that!). It was more into my late-teens that i became really interested in fashions and trends.

Nothing beats some serious band-girl envy! If I go to a gig and there is a seriously energetic front-woman, I go home just wishing I could be onstage and look like them.

Dublin is a city that’s experienced rapid change over the past 15 years. Have you noticed a difference in what people are wearing/ aspire to wear?

I think Dublin people have really improved in the style-stakes. There is less of a label obsession (although I think this is a world-wide development) and people are much more into vintage looks and individual style. Dublin still has the problem of trying to be like London or Berlin style-wise. I think it is still waiting to find it's own niche.

Does living in the city influence what you wear? In what ways?

I'm definitely influenced by the city. (One obvious factor is the weather of course). I spend a lot of time hanging around and going for lunch etc. on weekends (like half the population of Dublin) and I think that a lot of new styles develop from people just wandering around and getting a feel for what other people are wearing day to day.

I always think of you as a huge music person. Do bands, and musicians, influence your look at all?

Nothing beats some serious band-girl envy! If I go to a gig and there is a seriously energetic front-woman, I go home just wishing I could be onstage and look like them. MayKay from Fight Like Apes (myspace.com/fightlikeapesmusic, pictured above) is a good example. I also find myself being really influenced by male musicians and bands...some nights i want to look like david bowie, some nights I want to look like bob dylan.

Who has great style?

MayKay (Fight Like Apes), Steve Aoki, Karen O, of course, I also used to hate hate HATE Lady Gaga but i must admit that she is starting to grow on me (shudder!).

Any fashion and style tips for our readers?

Hmm... tips, well I think it's about time that plaited headbands were binned once and for all... they drive me mad. Also vest tops with floral mini skirts have been way too overdone. As far as positive tips go... I love drapey fabrics, love a completely overloaded top half (layer after layer), with opaque tights and big clunky wooden heels.

What should no wardrobe be without?

Flat black leather boots for those horrible winter mornings.

More from Sweet Soubrette

2009-09-16T15:37:00.000+01:00

Earlier this week I posted an interview with Ellia Bisker, lead singer of New York band Sweet Soubrette. Ellia has since sent me some more videos of her and the band at play.

Enjoy!

Homewrecker by Sweet Soubrette
(video by Jason Tagg)

Safety in Numbers by Sweet Soubrette (video by Camilla Finlay)

Good Luck Buffi!

2009-09-16T14:52:00.000+01:00

A good friend Buffi Jashanmal is showing her first collection for her ace clothing label Quiet Riot at New York Fashion Week tonight.

I hope to feature a little interview with her about the experience soon, but in the meantime Quiet Riot's website is http://www.quietriotdubai.com/. Her jewellery line Sentimental Junkie can be found there too.

All the best Buffi! I know you'll rock it

xxx

Thank you!

2009-09-15T17:40:00.000+01:00

A huge thank you to my cousin Michelle who designed the blog logo for me! She's a photographer and designer, and I'll be featuring an interview with her soon.

Headdresses, hats and hairbands

2009-09-15T15:02:00.000+01:00

Tim Burton's new version of Alice in Wonderland is out next year, just in time for my birthday (March 5th y'all!). In order to celebrate its inevitable gothic fabulousness and Johnny Depp's turn as The Mad Hatter, I thought I'd do a piece on hats, headdresses and other headgear, using my favourite craftster website etsy.com.

Lanvin Headdress:

I love anything 20's inspired. I already own two of the headdresses on the left; one in black and red, for evening, and one in whites and very pale pink, for my wedding.

The headdress, called a Lanvin, after French milliner and couturier Jeanne Lanvin, is available from boringsidney (all one word), a seller on etsy.com. Boringsidney will customise the headdress to whatever colours you'd like, just drop her an email through the site http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30561048

The model shown wearing the Lanvin in this picture is actually a bride. I first saw her wedding on Offbeat Bride (http://www.offbeatbride.com/com/), an excellent resource for anyone trying to plan an unconventional wedding day.

The whole event struck envy into my heart and can be viewed here http://offbeatbride.com/?s=magician+and+his+assistant

Feathered hairband:
A feathered hairband such as this can be a good entry point for girls who wouldn't usually wear hats, or large hair accessories. If you're going to a wedding and don't like hats (?!) or competing for attention (?!?!), it can be worn as an alternative to a fascinator.

Recently I've seen a few hipster girls wearing them around London with vintage looking dresses, or even jeans and a cute little cardi. It's a look that travels.

This hairband is called Blake and can be ordered from FeatherBrain in a range of colours, not just the bright shade I've shown here.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29954057

The Shien hat:

I don't know why it's called The Shien.

Its milliner, topsyturvy designs, named it so and, considering its brilliance, I'm not going to argue.

At the best of times a hat can be a brave statement and one like this is not for the faint-hearted but it is amazing.

I want it for my friends' Jack and Chris' gay wedding. Can't be being outdone by any passing drag queens.

Here's a close-up of the galleon that sits atop it. Fabulous, no?

You can buy it from http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29731826 but be warned, they get busy so order well ahead of any event you may want it for.

Velvet Tricorn hat:

This is my second choice for the 'civil union' (boring bloody term) I mentioned above, and is also by topsyturvy designs.

It appeals to my long-running interior need to be a pirate, or Mrs. Blackbeard, or Mrs. Hook, or someone else who'd get to borrow equally fabulous historical costumery from their fictional husband. Also, I already have the hair for this look.

Click. click, click... http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30417797

Seafaring Pirate Hat:

Yet another one from topsyturvy designs, but I swear it's the last.

This one is possibly my favourite, as it would make me look like a very girly pirate's wife, or maybe the wealthy mermaid daughter of a passing sea-based merchant.

Available at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12875861

Alphonse Mucha Inspired Headdress:

There is very little say about this headdress by Liaison, which is in fact even bigger than it looks; it actually goes all the way around the model's head. Your reaction to it will be determined as soon as you look at the photo. I love anything Mucha-inspired- it's part of my 1920's fetish- but even I have to admit it would be hard to wear.

Websites such as Offbeat Bride have featured sexy, alternative women such as the model above looking amazing in them.

For a closer look, at a wide range of colours, click on http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27542903

All products and photos courtesy of etsy.com

Some Stylish Films, Part 4

2009-09-14T22:42:00.000+01:00

My Fair Lady Included at the suggestion of my mother, Black Alice (we love us some Victoriana in this family), My Fair Lady is easily one of the most gorgeous films of the last century. The monochromatic racecourse scene and particularly the black and white dress Hepburn wears in it, are particular favourites but what girl doesn’t love a rags to riches make-over movie?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DkKTuUo4ExY

Volver I lived in the Canary Islands for three years as child and have never gotten over the Spanish use of colour. The hotter the country, the more orange (and other brights) a girl can justify. This, to my mind, is an excellent thing.

In Volver, and many other Pedro Almodovar films, the female leads wear clashing colours and mismatched patterns on clothing that is, in other ways, entirely appropriate if a little sexed-up, a juxtaposition that is used to especially dazzling effect by the film’s leading lady, Penelope Cruz.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABSvppyQGdE

Gone with the Wind

Ashley, Ashley, Ashley! Any girl who does not at some point wish to be Scarlet O’Hara, or any other kind of Southern Belle, is either not a real girl, or has not seen Gone with the Wind. It is that simple.

Full of fabulous full-skirted and tightly corseted dresses, the film is a window into a time and culture completely different from our own, when society women, seen only in terms of their trophy value, were absolutely bedecked.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VcRtR217Yw&feature=PlayList&p=75CB71065829637A&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=33
Random Harvest

Another of Black Alice’s favourites, and her sister Black Josie’s for that matter.

Greer Garson stars as a showgirl who falls in love with an amnesiac who has returned from the First World War. In a hugely convoluted, if beautiful, storyline her partner leaves her for one night only to be hit by a car, regaining the memory of his very privileged pre-war life but losing all memory of her. By the end of the film, the pair are reunited and marry, with Garson’s character becoming a perfect society hostess, with a near perfect wardrobe.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eME76uDue-0&feature=PlayList&p=737085141109CE94&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=25

The Big Sleep

(and almost anything featuring Lauren Bacall)

Again, the sisters Black love The Big Sleep.

A classic film noir, adapted from the Raymond Chandler novel of the same name, The Big Sleep is a drama so consuming that the clothes might not be the first thing you notice. You might be too busy watching Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall for that.

Bacall can do very little wrong in my eyes mostly because of her outfits in films like To Have and Have Not, Key Largo and this. Bacall’s outfits are typical femme fatale garb; fitted suits, and deep v-necked dresses, worn with high heels, a dark lip, thick eyebrows and absolutely side-parted perfect wavy hair.

Absolutely the best film star ever.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjJlBnfyiI4

Badlands

Yet another film about killers; I’d worry, but I just cannot bring myself to love the look of romantic comedies so let’s move on. Throughout Badlands Martin Sheen channels James Dean, looking young and (surprisingly) hot in double denim; tight, dark jeans and a jean jacket with a tight white tee but it’s Sissy Spacek I’d direct you towards.

She starts the film in hot pants and a t-shirt, progressing to flared print dresses, before adopting jeans and crisp cotton shirts as her look. Though not immediately striking, her simple look is surprisingly enviable, the kind of thing you might see in the street and try out the next day. It’s a very classic, despite being entirely casual.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcFx06cBmbk

Dangerous Liaisons A costume drama set in eighteenth century France, this film, though lacking the cartoon appeal of Marie-Antoinette (see Some Stylish Films, Part 1, from August 2009), still demonstrates a fashion truism: trying to look French is always a good thing.

The gowns are satiny and bejeweled, the corsets tight, while the hair and make-up is very toned down. It’s kind of my ideal look.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbB2oBlP2uI

Some Stylish Films, Part 3

2009-09-14T22:23:00.000+01:00

American Psycho

Having previously mentioned how much menswear bores me, I’ve decided to include another film about a sharply dressed psychopath on this list. As investment banker Patrick Bateman Christian Bale embodies the 1980’s aesthetic of greed, and the indulgence of all human appetites, however destructive, being good.

I’m loathe to argue that the love of fine clothing, wine, and even business cards Bateman demonstrates is in any way negative; I too have spent much of my life obsessed with them – if I could have business cards designed by anyone, they’d be by Jenna on the links list- and, obviously if you’ve got to be a serial killer and banker, you might as well be spending your ill-gotten bonuses looking this good.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jVNmgHKweU

Sex and The City

Another film set in New York, and perhaps an inevitable choice on this list, styled as it was by modern fashion powerhouse Patricia Fields. Guardian Fashion Editor Jess Cartner-Morley, once wrote that the difference between Sex and The City and Friends was that the SATC girls dressed for themselves, while the Friends girls dressed for their boyfriends.

Watching the movie, which is about love and friendship and not about clothes so much as incidentally looking good, even when you’ve just been jilted, feels like a much more emotionally empowering experience that you might expect, possibly because its clear that these women dress only for themselves, however bizarre they may end up looking.

Worth seeing for the Vogue wedding dress shoot, and the part where Sarah Jessica Parker clears out her wardrobe, if nothing else.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x71HBCWXy0g

The Devil Wears Prada

Another Patricia Fields job, also set in New York City. In this film, which must be one of the least feminist produced in recent years, Andie Sachs, an uppity, ungrateful no-style, Ivy League graduate, whose friends and partner are hugely unsupportive, lands a drop at style bible Runway magazine. Sachs, feeling that she is above the ignoble pass times of looking nice, and making an effort for work, looks like absolute toss and is picked on by her fashion bitch co-worker (the fabulous and very heavily made-up Emily Blunt) until she has a Damascene revelation and she realises that dressing the part will enhance her career.

Her sophisticated wardrobe, which nods at various points to Audrey Hepburn, the ‘60’s and ‘50’s France is to die for, even if her Sachsy-ness never really gets it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zicgut4gpwU

Grease

When I was at prep school I was honestly completely obsessed with the 1950’s- the music, the clothes, the films, the lot. Even my eleventh birthday party, which rocked, was ’50’s themed; I wore a poodle skirt and had a cake designed to look like a vinyl record. For this I blame Grease.

The ‘50’s remains one of my favourite clothing decades ever, mostly ‘cos tops and dresses cut tight on the waist really suit me, as do swingy, flared skirts, particularly when worn with crinolines, which I also happened to love.

The fact is that whether you favour Rizzo, Girly Sandy, Tough Girl Make-over Sandy or even the T-Birds look of tight jeans worn with tight tees, Grease will have had some fashion effect on you. It’s inevitable.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDpOM0L9eQI&feature=related

Clueless

In the UK we cannot generally wear what we want to school, and even students that can tend to stick to the same boring jeans and tee uniform that the T-birds invented in Grease. Lame.

In Clueless meanwhile, Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone) and her best friend Dionne (Stacy Dash) favour brightly coloured outfits, sometimes even suits, often in a plaid, accessorised by fluffy backpacks, mary-janes and over the knee socks. They look totally cute and ridiculous all once; early fashion inspiration for Generation Y, engendered by the notion that if it’s cute, then why not wear it?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFR9TNsByLk

Bonnie and Clyde

Faye Dunaway was a gorgeous young thing, it has to be said, and the pairing of her with Warren Beatty to play one of the most famously murderous couples in American history was incredibly glamorous, so glamorous that the film studio was highly criticised for casting two such stunners as the young serial killers.

Dunaway’s wardrobe is the stuff of legend; toned down for the most part into yellows, beiges and browns, she is clad in berets, tight sweaters, little neck scarves and either calf length skirts that flare or tight pencil skirts. Easily the most stylish killer to have stalked the screen. Warren Beatty looks pretty hot too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BizxiDtFdrI

Some Stylish Films, Part 2

2009-09-14T22:08:00.000+01:00

Bright Young Things

The parties are good, the clothes are better.

Adapted from Evelyn Waugh’s novel Vile Bodies, Bright Young Things depicts the debauched lifestyles of a group of British socialites in the era between the two World Wars, an era marked out in high society for its decadence. The characters mostly go to parties and the races, taking cocaine and drinking too much, then denying the whole thing when confronted about it by their seething families; much like socialites now, were Ascot a dive bar in Camden, not the stomping ground of Wags.

Of particular lust value is Emily Mortimer’s red party dress, accessorised with affected boredom, and Fenella Woolgar’s wardrobe, a depiction of early cross-dressing, which eventually sees her interred in a mental asylum.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebulwyxtCwU

Annie Hall

In which Diane Keaton drags a more gentle form of cross-dressing into the mainstream.

I’m not a fan of Keaton or her look per se, but it is referenced so often that I have undoubtedly worn it (probably to a job interview). Combining men’s slacks with smart shirts, waistcoats, and the odd floppy hat, to make not only Woody Allen but women across 70’s America fall in love with her, Diane Keaton waved in a look that allowed her to trade off not her looks, or sex appeal but her humour and itellect; it is a look that says “value me” though not as a trophy. Perfect for the sisterhood of the day.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBzHphcc2Jw

Almost Famous

I wrote my dissertation on groupies and the thing about them is that they rarely look that great. Sex appeal can be very stylish, and no-one would suggest that Carine Roitfeld or, say, Alexa Chung (who’s definitely a groupie, no matter how much she protests) don’t know how to dress, but the outright whorey-ness of a lot of so-called “band aids” always makes me feel a bit sick.

In Almost Famous Cameron Crowe depicted the most gorgeous groupie ever, Miss Penny Lane (her real name was Penny Trumble), whose attractiveness hinges not on her looking overtly slutty- though we know she is- but on her having some absolutely gorgeous, delicate seventies fashion at her disposal; the embroidered knee boots, for example, or the transparent ruffled blouse she wears. Band members can lust after her; I just want the outfits.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qk0XnyrENrE

Reservoir Dogs

I could never be a heterosexual male. The lack of clothing options would bore me to death but if I were I would always, always want to look like this:

The suits are not from anywhere special. The film’s costume designer Betsy Heimann bought them cheaply because she wanted to imitate the look of gangsters from old French films, such as those by Jean-Pierre Melville.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvoKT481EmU

Mad Love

To those of us who grew up under the shadow of grunge, this film, and Drew Barrymore’s look from that time, has set a high, if dubious, standard. Unlike Courtney Love, who was outright dirty, and Kate Moss, who was just really fucking thin, Barrymore accessible, a smiley older cousin figure, whose happy thrift store finds and daisy hair accessories made her appealing. Though it’s a harder look to pull off than it seems there was a definite sense that you too could look like that.

She looks scruffy throughout Mad Love, wearing slips of varying lengths as dresses, wide legged, and even combat trousers, cropped tees, woolly cardigans with holes in, and, I seem to recall, chunky jewellery. It’s a fine look for a student, and might even be helpful for a school girl but now that I’m in my late twenties, I realise it’s a look I should be shaking off, not least ‘cos Peaches Geldof is bound to adopt it soon.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fAMUOdGT0M&feature=PlayList&p=FEB2D74B88A8415D&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=4

Oh no!

2009-09-14T21:58:00.001+01:00

I've accidentally deleted 3 of August's posts. Schoolgirl error. They'll be back up tomorrow.

Profile: Ellia Bisker, Sweet Soubrette

2009-09-14T14:04:00.000+01:00

Sweet Soubrette are my favourite band. Unlike the myriad of guitar-toting, new wave influenced boys we've seen from the city recently, Sweet Soubrette owe some of their style to the performance art and burlesque scenes that permeate New York's landscape, a lineage which allows them to look amazing and wax intelligent while conquering the music scene.

The band is fronted by non-cooler front woman, Ellia Bisker, who started taking on the world with just dark humour, clever wordplay, and her ukelele for company, before recruiting a backing band.

Bisker is known for her razor sharp and humorous lyrics, and for never, ever looking bad. Here she talks about music and style, before giving us the inside scoop on where to visit on a trip to New York.

Check out their website http://www.sweetsoubrette.com/ for more pictures and info.

Tell us about Sweet Soubrette, and a little bit about yourself.

Sweet Soubrette started in 2006, when I wanted a name for my ukulele singer/songwriter act (originally solo, now a band). A soubrette is a stock character from comic opera—it’s usually described as the flirtatious chambermaid—and on the vaudeville stage young women who played and sang were also often called soubrettes. It seemed in keeping with my act. Sweet Soubrette started with a theme of “doomed romance,” which is a great source of inspiration. But I've toned down the melodrama a bit since I started, and a lot of the material is more nuanced now. I describe the music as Regina Spektor meets the Magnetic Fields—folk-influenced indie pop with witty lyrics and some electronic production.

As for the woman behind the false eyelashes, I was an English literature major, have worked in a circus, in book publishing and in the nonprofit arts, and currently have a day job in the legal department of a music publisher.

You live in Brooklyn at the moment . Did you always live in New York? When did you develop an interest in music? Was it supported where you grew up?

I've lived in Brooklyn for about six years now and I love it here. I'm a rare New York native—I grew in Manhattan and then in New Rochelle, a nearby suburb. I have friends living nearby from practically every era of my life. My interest in music started basically at birth—my parents are not musicians themselves but are lifelong music lovers, so I grew up on a cocktail of Bob Dylan, the Beatles, folk songs, and show tunes from South Pacific to Andrew Lloyd Webber. I highly recommend this combination to parents wishing to raise songwriter children, incidentally. My dad collected old stereo equipment at garage sales, and by the time I was in high school you could play music in almost every room of the house. I took piano lessons and sang in the school chorus, even went to music camp one summer. So I was always steeped in music, but I didn't start making it myself until more recently.

Why the Ukulele? It seemed quite an unlikely instrument but then a couple of years ago a whole group of hip, sexy people picked them up all at once.

Why, thank you! I like to think I'm a hip, sexy ukulele player. But it is weird—the uke has become wildly popular over the past few years and I couldn't really say why. These things seem to go in waves. In my case I got it as a gift from someone I had recently met, practically a stranger. It arrived in the mail—it was really out of the blue. But I started teaching myself to play, using online chord charts to figure out how to cover Magnetic Fields songs and then writing my own. I found the bright tone was a nice accompaniment to my voice, and the uke really lends itself to writing—it’s portable, the chords are simple, it doesn't take long to become reasonably skilled, it's fun to play, plus it looks so adorable. It gave me something a little different as a singer/songwriter (I mean really, who needs another guitarist?), and it opened doors to some very cool uke-specific opportunities—I got to play in the Paris Uke Fest last year, for instance! Plus, when you carry it around, people talk to you. It's good for making friends.

Is there a Ukulele scene? Or do ukulele players, particularly girls with ukes, just fit in to the whole NY scene, which is full of musicians and performance artists?

Yes to both! Definitely you can play the uke in the context of the general NY scene, and I know a bunch of performers who play uke in their acts but who I never see at uke-specific events. Playing the uke is still unusual enough that you stand out, mainly in a good way, though many people don't seem to understand it's a real instrument, not just a toy. But there's also a lively community of ukulele players in NY--so much so that during the 2008 NY Uke Fest there was a competing weekend-long ukulele event with completely different performers, and both were well attended. The monthly Ukulele Cabaret, hosted by the duo Sonic Uke, has been at the center of the scene for a long time. You see a huge range of material and styles, including some crazy performers doing ridiculous acts in costume, and it's tremendously fun. You can see some of those shows archived at http://www.ukuleledisco.com/.

How does having an alter ego in the form of Sweet Soubrette affect you? Is it like being a super-hero; you can do more when you’re in costume?

In my Sweet Soubrette persona,
I am a glamorous and mysterious creature, seductive and sophisticated

It's a great comfort in my ordinary life to remember that I have this other existence where I'm a femme fatale spotlighted against red velvet—as opposed to my usual activities of, say, buying groceries, spilling coffee on my new skirt, or carrying heavy bags up the subway stairs. As Sweet Soubrette I am larger than life, I command the audience and I flirt shamelessly from the stage. The alter ego also sets me apart and creates a little respectful distance in men who might otherwise get too familar. I'm working on my new record right now, “Days and Nights,” which also recalls that split personality, day and night. For the album artwork I’m thinking of using two photographs, on the front all glammed out as Sweet Soubrette, and on the back in my street clothes somewhere really mundane, like the laundromat.

Where can our readers catch a Sweet Soubrette show soon?

I'm organizing a "Paris Uke Fest in Brooklyn" on October 8 at my favorite venue in Brooklyn, the Jalopy Theatre (http://www.jalopy.biz/). It's going to feature Brooklyn uke players who have performed in the Paris Uke Fest, the Paris Uke Fest organizer himself, and some other local uke players, and will include everything from fun novelty songs to experimental music to doomed love songs to 1920s French jazz. Some of my favorite uke players are in it and I invite everyone in town to come check it out! Readers can also sign up for my mailing list at http://www.sweetsoubrette.com/, and please don’t hesitate to befriend me out on facebook (www.facebook.com/elliabisker) or myspace (www.myspace.com/elliabisker).

Does music influence your look? In what ways?

When I'm offstage, music doesn't influence my look all that much. I really do seem stick to the double life/alter ago thing. I think mostly I reserve my style energy for the stage and keep it pretty simple otherwise.

How important is presentation when you’re on-stage? Is there a certain way you want to look when you perform?

Presentation is a very close second to the music, in my opinion—the function of being onstage is that everyone is looking at you, so you should give them something to look at!

My experience working with the circus really influenced my feelings about this—razzle-dazzle is a big part of the package, it's what makes it a show.

So I tell my band what to wear, generally suits for the gents and something dressy for the ladies. My violinist doesn't like to dress up at all but she humors me wonderfully. As for me I've toned it down some over the past couple of years—when I started performing there was a lot more costume going on, and sometimes I still do that, flowers and feathers, sequins and fishnets—but I'm trying to set a tone that's more rock star than cabaret now, so I'm keeping the retro stuff to a minimum. But I never perform without my sparkly false eyelashes. I get the kind with rhinestones built in for maximum glamour.

Do you buy special clothes to perform in? Where do they come from?

I do in theory have special show clothes, but I usually like them so much that I end up wearing them offstage as much as I can get away with. I have a collection of great dresses that come from a variety of places—thrift shops, local designers, grandma's attic, hand-me-downs...I'm always looking for a good dress. I need some more sparkly glamorous things. I have a good friend, Kelli Rae Powell (http://www.kelliraepowell.com/) who is also a local ukulele chanteuse and we have a date to go dress shopping together sometime soon. The Brooklyn vintage stores won’t know what hit them.

Have New York and Brooklyn influenced you, in terms of your personal interests and look?

Video for Greenpoint, the song that won Ellia the Mizz Greenpoint Pageant in 2008

As a native, it's hard to separate out my personal preferences from the local culture. But I wear a lot of black, I like to accentuate the fact that I'm long and lanky, I love a hot pair of boots...so I suspect that when transplanted to other places I'm pretty easy to peg as a New Yorker. I don't think of myself as particularly fashion-conscious but there's definitely an unconscious attention to my look that I don't realize I have until I go to other places that aren't as style-obsessed.

Who and what would you say are your main style influences?

My boyfriend would tell you Pippi Longstocking, but he's wrong, wrong, wrong! I'd prefer to think of the movie stars of the 30s and 40s as an influence—I like to look like your sexy grandma in knee-length skirts and low heels, hair up in bobby pins. Just a little retro, though, not like I'm in a period piece. I also like a sort of pared-down gothy thing—dark tight jeans and a little black sweater, smoky eye makeup. But I'll admit to a certain circus-influenced tendency to mix and match patterns, stripes with polka dots with leopard print. That might be where the Pippi Longstocking thing comes from.

Give our readers some style advice. What should no wardrobe and make-up bag be without?

False eyelashes: instant glamour! No, seriously, my make-up bag short list is a good quality eyeliner and lipstick, adequate mascara and eye shadow, and loose powder and liquid foundation for complexion emergencies. A pencil sharpener and nail clipper/file are essential—bobby pins, too. And make sure you always have a compact mirror because you never know where you're going to have to get ready to look good (i.e. bar bathroom). As for the wardrobe, you need jeans that make you look hot and a good pair of boots. Splurge on the boots and then get them re-heeled and soled every year and they'll last forever.

And what should they definitely be without.

Steer clear of disposable clothes—anything you won't be caught dead wearing next season. Go classic instead, so you can mix and match with the same pieces for ages. And for heaven's sake stay away from things that don't flatter your shape, no matter how trendy they are! For instance I don't know a single person who looks good in those terrible high-waisted shorts I saw all the hipster college girls wearing in Williamsburg all summer. If you pick things that complement your own build, you will always look good.

Do you think that living in New York, which is incredibly diverse, helps foster creativity?

[In New York] it's the sheer density of creative people—you can't throw a rock without hitting someone who's working on a cool project.

Absolutely. It's the sheer density of creative people—you can't throw a rock without hitting someone who's working on a cool project. I've gotten involved in so many artistic endeavors simply through meeting someone randomly, or knowing them in some completely unrelated way. There's no need to advertise, you just go about your business—go to parties, hang out with your colleagues, talk to people in coffee shops, go see your friends perform. You get invited to participate in things, and you have a huge pool of people who could be amazing resources. I don't know how I'd get anything done anywhere else.

Who, apart from you, should we be listening to right now?

I recently discovered Melody Gardot and she's amazing. Erin Regan and Chris Garneau are two local songwriters I think are incredibly talented. I love quirky little Joanna Newsom with a passion. PJ Harvey is always doing something new and interesting. I've been listening lately to a lot of my favorites from 10 years ago though. Liz Phair's records (before she sold out) never get old.

Apart from work and music, what do you like to do? How do you spend your time?

I spend most of my free time with my boyfriend, who also happens to be my producer, so our free time tends to be a mix of work and play. But I'm pretty domestic—I like to cook and bake and crochet, and I love not having to get on the subway to do things. My ideal weekend might involve going to the neighborhood farmer’s market, a potluck brunch at someone's house, dress shopping, and getting drinks at a local bar before going to see a friend perform in their own show. Oh, and I just recently started taking dance lessons! The class is called “Absolute Beginner Hip Hop,” and I'm terrible but it's really fun.

Where, ideally, do you see yourself in ten years time?

Basically I want to have it all: a happy home life and adventure, fame and intimacy, art and quality of life, love and a successful creative life and a career I feel passionate about. I think about having kids too (I think this is a function of having just turned 30). So if I had my way, in ten years I'd be married or living with someone I love, with a kid or two and a cat or a dog, living in a nice apartment in Brooklyn with friends nearby, earning enough from my music to live on without a day job, and making music I love and that the fans love. I'd like to be touring too, but not all the time. And I want to be able to pay my band enough to tour with me instead of taking other gigs, including flying out my violinist for shows when she finally gives into her true nature and moves out west and out of the big city. Also, by then I plan to be an amazing dancer.

Finally, recommend a few places (shops, bars, etc) that people shouldn’t miss when they’re in the city.

Greenpoint's Alter (http://www.alterbrooklyn.blogspot.com/) and Dalaga (www.myspace.com/dalaganyc) for clothes by up and coming young local designers.

Williamsburg's Dumont and Diner for amazing food.
http://www.dumontrestaurant.com/
http://www.dinernyc.com/

Pete's Candy Store is a great Williamsburg bar with lovely backyard seating, great music and fun events like spelling bees and trivia nights.
http://www.petescandystore.com/

I already mentioned Jalopy in Red Hook but it deserves another plug.
http://www.jalopy.biz/

Kashkaval and Locanda Verdefor amazing food in Manhattan.
http://www.kashkavalfoods.com/
http://www.thegreenwichhotel.com/restaurant

Habana Outpost in Fort Greene to experience multicultural Brooklyn at its finest. www.myspace.com/habanaoutpost

Ricky's is a very fun cosmetics chain that caters to drag queens and has the most fun hair and makeup products ever.
http://www.rickys-nyc.com/

For the health conscious, Yoga to the People offers pay-what-you-want yoga classes in a few locations around the city.
http://www.yogatothepeople.com/

And if you're feeling adventurous and aren't shy about hanging out naked with your girlfriends, you must check out NY Spa Castle , a gigantic Korean bathhouse complex in the farthest reaches of Flushing, Queens. Enjoy!
http://www.nyspacastle.com/

Profile: Emily, part 3, Work

2009-09-09T13:16:00.001+01:00

Emily, while nannying in Scotland.

Emily teaches. Teaching is a job that is entirely beyond me; I was woman-handled into babysitting for next door's six year old this weekend, and am full of renewed appreciation for anyone who enters the profession. In addition to teaching middle schoolers - that's junior high school, or children between age 11 and 14, their most horrifying age- Emily also took on the challenge of teaching special needs children in the Montessori system, one that's not yet entirely geared to the age group. I asked, why? why? why?

Tell us about your job. What do you do? What does it involve in practical terms?

I am a Montessori middle school teacher. I enjoy this method because it affords me the opportunity to teach realistic skills and get to know each learner on their terms. It is a method that encourages individuality and interest based study. It is hoped that students of this type of school will think like scientists and be great questioners with insatiable curiosities. I also work a great deal with special needs. This ranges from mental disabilities to physical needs.

Did you always want to teach?

My passions have always been in education. I will certainly have to admit my perception of teaching has shifted and my passion and desire to advocate for learners has become more prevalent and significant as I have gotten older and more resolute in my position and self-awareness.

Can you tell us about your education and career path? I know you were a nanny in Scotland before becoming a teacher.

I went to Indiana University. I studied elementary education with an emphasis on health and wellness. Then I started some graduate level courses in cultural education and entered an immersion program. I actually taught for two years before taking time off to go nanny in Scotland. I wanted a chance to travel and Scotland seemed like a beautiful place. Everything fell into place once I arrived and found the farm where I lived. I had taken a week to jaunt to Amsterdam and was checking my email in a café when I saw a note from my director asking if I would be willing to come back and take my old classroom. It seemed fitting, so I returned. This is the third year back.

You’ve chosen a relatively unusual career path. You teach in a Montessori High School- there aren’t many around- but you also teach special needs. Firstly, can you explain to those of us who aren’t familiar, what the principles of Montessori education are? How do the teaching methods differ from the education many of us may have had in High School?

Maria Montessori pictured with some of the children from La Case de Bambini

Well, it is slightly complicated to explain because it has taken on so many faces. Montessori classrooms look different across the US and across the world. Different organizations have tweaked them to fit all varieties of molds. Maria Montessori was the first woman to become a doctor in Italy. She began by studying the brain. She worked mostly with children and noticed a great deal about special needs children. Her first school, La Case de Bambini was in the slums of Rome, and began as an experiment in 1907.

She helped to transform the way the children learned, and wanted to make things practical and exciting. She encouraged questions and created a set of materials to show physical reasoning behind concepts. She empowered the learners to respect themselves and their environments. Her son Mario helped to perpetuate the method and they spread the concept across Europe and the world.

Learners are put in to three year cycles; 3-6 years, 6-9 years, etc., this helps the learners become teachers of one another and offers the instructor the opportunity to have full understanding of interests and abilities. Because the original process only went up to 12 years old, the high school concept is a work in progress. Some guidelines have been laid down, but it’s difficult to work around the rigid state and national standards and still provide a self-empowering, practical based curriculum.

We allow our students to create their own courses based off of the standards. They are responsible for their learning and curriculum. This helps to ensure that they base their learning on their individual interests. It takes a massive amount of planning and double-checking.

Why did you want to teach Montessori, rather than mainstream education?

I appreciate the integrity the Montessori system provides the learners. It helps to keep my own ego in check because I am not the “say all.” I am able to help kids tap into their interests and look at the world from many different angles rather than having to adhere to the strict regulations that the state and school boards put on the traditional teachers.

And why become a special needs teacher? Do you think Montessori education is more effective for students with special needs?

I have known since high school that I enjoyed working with special needs. When I was in college I started a branch of swimming in the Special Olympics in my town. I find that people with special needs bring out my patience and help me to look at different perspectives. I find their honesty and triumphs endearing.

And finally, and most unfathomably to me, why High Schoolers? It seems like such a difficult age to teach.

Ahhhhh. If I could only bottle their uncensored hormones, I could make a million. I love their ability to be so blunt. The drama that exudes from their every move puts my life into perspective.

Do you have ambitions to live and work outside of the US again? Where would you go, and why?

Yes. I am open to going pretty much anywhere. I would love to study international schools as a curriculum project. As far as just travel, I next hope to do the Inca Trail in Peru—need to be a bit more physically fit first though. I would also love to travel to the Greek Isles, then ferry over to Turkey… all the possibilities.

Where do you see yourself in ten years time? Can you imagine staying in the same field in the long-term? If not, what are your other career goals?

Honestly, ten years seems like an eternity. I have a certain feeling that I will remain in the education field in some capacity. I don’t hope to be still a classroom teacher, as I hope I have other things to contribute. I would love to work writing legislation to shift the way we test kids in the US. I would like to be on the forefront of changing expectations of what school has to be, and I would enjoy writing curriculum that would be based on a more global and cultural view.

Outside of work, how do you spend your time?

Well, work takes up a lot of life. In addition to being a teacher, I work at my family’s pawnshop, and am the head coach for a local swim team. I love to plan travels, head to the woods, or find a place to boat. I love to dance and, dare I say, drink beer.

Profile: Emily, parts 1 and 2, Travelling Homegirl

2009-09-09T12:10:00.001+01:00

I love a girl who drinks, thinks and travels.

Emily is my newest friend. We met in New York this Summer, promptly decamped to The Beauty Bar, and bonded over beer, doomed romance, our mutual love of travel and how all the best girls are fag hags.

Parts 1 and 2 of her interview are about her life in the artsy, southern cities of New Albany and Louisville, and her time spent travelling the world.

Part 1: Travelling

Tell us about where you grew up.

I grew up in a little town called Jeffersonville, Indiana. This is located in the very south if Indiana and is a river town. From my childhood house, I could look across the Ohio River into Louisville, Kentucky, home of the infamous Kentucky Derby. At age 14, my family moved about an hour west to a small town of less than 2000. There they purchased 50 acres, which of course included no neighbors. This certainly formed me as a young teenager. It fed my angst, but in the end instilled my love for nature.

Ladies' Day at the Kentucky Derby

You’ve travelled extensively, and lived in places quite different from Jeffersonville. How influential has travel been on you?

Wow, I could certainly never begin to calculate the influences that travel has had on me. Through my many experiences, I feel that I have become culturally aware and tolerant. I am able to identify with others better and also relate my travel skills (communication/ adaptability) to predicaments that arise in both my personal and professional life. It has ignited many interests and also is a constant reminder of the beautiful world that I am so fortunate to live in.

Can you describe some of your foreign adventures?

I have been [to] many places in the US, which is often like visiting a foreign country as many of the customs vary so significantly from region to region. As far as foreign adventures, Mayan Ruins in Mexico, camping in the rain forest in Costa Rica, wax museums in Canada, teaching 14 year olds in New Zealand, with Maori speaking lessons on the side, close up kangaroos in the Blue Mountains in Australia, tenting through the Serengeti in Kenya and Tanzania, dipping in the North sea off the coast of Malmo, Sweden, the sex museum in Copenhagen, Denmark, hiking in Genoa, Italy, working on an organic farm and nannying in St. Andrew’s, Scotland, Christmas in Paris, a London run through, a night on a house boat in Amsterdam, and a haggling venture in the Dominican Republic.

Any horror stories?

I have encountered several touchy situations, including an ex-convict who taught me how to kill a man with my bare hands should I ever need to.

Ok, I have encountered several touchy situations, including car repair out of an ex-convicts garage, where he taught me how to kill a man with my bare hands if I ever needed to. However, the most fearful moment in my life happened in a small Appalachian town that bordered Kentucky and West Virginia. If you have ever seen the movie Deliverance, you can clearly see the town. I was driving back with a girlfriend from a woman’s rights march in Washington DC. It was quite late and the highway was fairly empty. Suddenly a light flashed on the dash and the car lost steering power. Luckily, we were close to an exit, we put the car in neutral and drifted into a gas station which simultaneously signified the next alcoholic awareness meeting and gave the sale on Budweiser.

Anyhow, I walked in looking for someone to help me find a garage, or tow truck. The toothless girl behind the counter said she knew just the guy, Cathair. Apparently he was the town mechanic and had his own tow truck. We were waiting in the parking lot when he arrived. His large frame was covered in white hair, which he explained he dyed to make it look more like cat hair. Despite our utter fear, we had no choice but to get in the truck with this man. He drove us through windy back roads telling stories that made me fear for my life, before suddenly pulling off the road into a garage of sorts.

He closed the big door and in the garage there were three other men in their early twenties, holding crowbars and looking as if they were working on cars. At any rate, I chatted carelessly while shooting pictures in case someone found me dead; they would know the culprit. Cathair then pulls out a bag of marijuana and begins to roll a joint. At this point my stomach feels like it might actually come out of my body. After some time and convincing, he agrees to take us to the local motel. It looked like the hotel in Psycho. He calls the gentleman who owns the place, and he comes from his house on the hill overlooking the property. (This should let you know that we are the only people staying at the motel).

The owner had slicked back hair and gold rings on every finger. We agreed upon a price and were put up in a room. I remember locking the door in the hope that I was finally safe. Then it occurred to me that, of course, they have the keys. I also noticed that this was the only hotel room I have ever been in that is without a phone. While nothing actually happened I could sincerely feel the edge of death at every turn. Needless to say, it was one of the worst slept evenings of my life. These botchy details could not begin to describe the utter horror of that night.

What advice would you give to people who are about to embark on their gap years, or round the world trips?

Don’t make too strict an agenda, it only disappoints, and get to know the locals as much as possible.

Part 2: Homegirl

You live in New Albany, in the glorious state of Indiana, again now. Make some recommendations for visitors.

New Albany is pretty small. We have some amazing microbreweries though, and I am about 10 minutes from Louisville, Kentucky. There are some delightful stores where things are handmade. It’s on the river, so the regular water activities apply. We have several stops on the Underground Railroad, which was an escape line for southern slaves to the north during the civil war. We also have several waterfront mansions that are supposedly haunted that you can tour. In the fall we boast Harvest Homecoming, which is the trash-fest of the Century, complete with airbrush shirts, endless rides, and more fried food than one could ever dream.

Tell us about Louisville, I know you love it there. Can you make any similar recommendations for first-time visitors?

I would say most people from Louisville fall irreversibly in love with it.

Thunder Over Louisville

It is fairly small, about 1 million people, but has all the offerings of a mid-sized city. The people are nothing but friendly and I never feel uncomfortable going into someplace new. The highlight of the year is, of course, the Kentucky Derby and its surrounding festivals. Thunder over Louisville is the biggest firework display in the country and it always kicks off the month long celebration. The music and art scene are budding but abundant. There are many local bands and venues to see both local art and music. We have lots of locally owned grocery shops and stores. There are plenty of free things to take advantage of as well. It’s easy to travel in and out of and there are green spaces all over the place.

As far as first time visitors, you have to see the [baseball] bat factory. This is where all Louisville Sluggers [a famous brand of baseball bat- Ed] are made. This will of course motivate you to venture to the baseball park and take in a game. The racetrack is a no-brainer. The museum is fascinating and a day of betting is genius! Fourth Street Live is a series of bars and restaurants that tend to cater to a bit more uppity [read: snobby- Ed] crowd, but is great for people watching. Then head to Bardstown Road for local shops and live musicians. Cumberland Brewery is a definite stop to quench your thirst in the unrelenting humidity.

For those interested in Bourbon-and, really, aren’t we all?- head to the Makers Mark distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. This is nearby and will assuredly take the whole afternoon. To top it off, take a sail on the Belle of Louisville, which is an old fashioned steam boat which sails up and down the river. There are a plethora of other exciting venues to indulge in so my strong recommendation is to pick up one of the two free local newsletters, found in most shops, “The LEO” and “Velocity.” Either will tell you every venue in town, what’s happening each day of the week, and how much it costs.

Profile: Alana, Fashion Passion

2009-09-08T19:55:00.000+01:00

At 18 Alana is more together than most people manage at twice her age. Her style is kicking, her make-up's immaculate, and her career in fashion- an industry that most of us will never break in to- is already on track.

Here she discusses going to the prom, fashion, make-up and why she isn't that fussed about having a man anyway.

You’ve just left School. How important would you say image- clothes and make-up, etc.- was to you and your friends?

Too important! Kids grow up way too quickly. But I have always loved fashion and make up from an early age probably as my sister is 10 years older than me I watched her getting glammed up and was forced to read Vogue and look at the pretty pictures. Image is very important to girls full stop, especially to girls growing up. There is a lot of pressure or influence at least, from the media. But, more than that, I think girls enjoy being conscious of their image-this leads to fun things such as shopping!

Tell us about prom. What's more important, the dress or your date?

I didn’t start looking [for a dress] until very late. I’m way too laid back about this kind of thing. My friends had theirs months ahead of the event though. It took me about 3-4 days of looking to find the dress I wanted. Once I bought the dress it took me about 3 and half hours to get ready, including hair and last minute applications of bronzer on shoulders etc. (and the odd glass of champagne in our room). I think the dress is far more important than the date!! You can find the perfect dress but finding the perfect man is much more farfetched! I think prom is about friends, I had a great night with my friends, no date needed!

I think the prom dress is far more important than the date!! You can find the perfect dress but finding the perfect man is much more farfetched!

Do you have a job? What do you do? What does it involve in practical terms?

I work for Brook Borg limited. The company owner [has] a modelling agency, a health recruitment agency and fashion production company! I am in charge of the marketing for these companies but predominantly I work for The Promotional People Agency (http://www.promotionalpeople.co.uk/), a modelling agency and I have worked for The Oxford Production Company, a fashion production company. If you’re interested have a look at Hobbs NW3 collection (http://www.hobbs.co.uk/) -we shot it!! Practically my job involves working with my director to decide the direction of marketing, working with my art director with graphics and design, for example I am changing our website at the moment. I also work with events and models under The Promotional People Agency. I also make the odd cup of tea, here and there!

Does working in fashion influence your look?

I think greatly; it makes me far more adventurous. We have Vogue and Marie Claire to flick through in our office and we are an all female team. I think working in fashion helps you develop and identify your own look, what you like and what you don’t.

Who, to your mind, has great style? Do you try to emulate any celebrities in your look?

Great style: Alexa Chung! She is lovely and always looks lovely! Other celebrities probably being Scarlett Johannson, she is very vintage and annoyingly beautiful! I don’t think I emulate celebrities but probably am very inspired by their styles if I like them.

Any fashion and style tips for our readers?

Red lipstick! It completes a quirky, vintage outfit! It’s also bold and strong, and a lipstick is not very expensive!

Red lipstick completes a quirky, vintage outfit. It’s bold and strong, and a lipstick is not very expensive.

What should no wardrobe be without?

A designer handbag! Pulling off an outfit is down to accessories as well. Investing in a classic handbag can make your outfit every time. Chanel or Louis Vuitton being two classics, Damier canvas or Chanel doctors bag being a favourite of mine! They last too, it’s a great investment in my opinion, and they look lovely!

And what should every wardrobe definitely be without?

Anything bought in [deleted for the sake of her career]! Ha, no I’m joking. Erm… I can’t think of anything you know, you can make most things work if they’re styled properly. I say MOST, haha there are definitely exceptions I just can’t think of any. Jeggings maybe, if you’re not a size 4-6 they’re a no-no, they don’t suit normal humans.

Anything readers should avoid?

Items with labels plastered on them. It’s terrible, whether it’s ‘Armani’ or ‘Nike Air’, it’s horrible. In your face is not classy at all, subtle and understated is the way forward.

Finally, if all goes to plan, where do you want to be in ten years time? What will you be doing? Where will you live? What will you have achieved (travel, career, personal life)?

In 10 years time, hmm, I’m so changeable and fickle I have no idea. I’m easily pleased though, I would be happy with a nice townhouse in a city-with a quirky and cool interior that I designed, perhaps a little bmw or something parked outside, editing a great magazine with a killer wardrobe to match and perhaps a fantastically good-looking and well trained man. The man’s not so important though!! So, really, I don’t ask for a lot!

Thanks for listening :)

PS Here's a link to a great article on how to carry off a strong lip, for those who may be unsure. http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/beauty/article3634058.ece

People Profiles: Hannah

2009-09-02T17:08:00.000+01:00

I have a tonne of interesting friends. Rather than use this blog a way of journalising my own quite stultifying neuroses, I've decided interview them about their lives and careers.

Hannah Slate, Language Development Specialist, Pittsburgh, USA

Take time to really absorb what you experience... pictures are great-- but memories are even better.

Hannah is one of those frighteningly together people; self-contained and wise beyond her years in ways that intelligent, pretty girls do usually bother with. We met at grad school in Dublin, where I was quite intimidated, and not a little jealous, that she had travelled the world before we even began studying, and was already well on the way to success by the time we left. She is my calmest girlfriend; whom I see the least but always have something to say to.

Here she talks about teaching at college level, living in Pittsburgh, and almost getting stuck in an African desert.

Tell us about where you grew up.

I grew up in Neversink-- a small town in the Catskills. It's a peaceful place to grow up but it was also frustrating at times (everything was a drive away-- so I was very dependent on my parents until learning to drive!)

You’ve travelled all over the world, and lived in a number of places quite different from Neversink. How influential has travel been on you?

Travel has had a huge influence on me-- not only by opening my eyes to new places/cultures but by helping me realize who I fundamentally am as a person. Travel has helped me keep things in perspective and it has helped me become more confident and accepting of change. Travel has also made me realize how small the world actually is... it's not just a cliche.

Can you describe some of your foreign adventures?

My "adventures" have ranged from camping in the outback of Australia to working in Prague to getting on a bus with 15 other ESL [English as a Second Language] teachers and traveling through western Africa. The last one was probably the biggest adventure. Some highlights include shady border crossings, getting stuck (multiple times) in desert sand (and then pulled out one time by a military vehicle), bartering with Moroccans, trading my shoes for wooden crafts in the Gambia and eating nearly raw goat meat from our gracious hosts in Senegal.

Any horror stories?

There was only one time while traveling that I truly feared for my life. We were somewhere in Mauritania near the end of our desert crossing, and the sand dunes had shifted too much for us to take the usual route through the desert. Our only option was to wait for the tide to go out and then ride the hardened beach sand to the next town. Along the way-- we saw the remains of vans and trucks, which had attempted the trip before us, in the ocean. To make matters worse-- we didn't have any spare tires, and... you guessed it... we got a flat along the way. Amazingly, the driver managed to pull into the soft sand where we wouldn't wash away with the tide (at least not within the next half hour...) With a little ingenuity-- we managed to move one of the rear tires (they were doubled up) to the front... and after much pushing- got on our way again. The entire ride was terrifying-- even our mauritanian guide seemed horrified as he kept screaming to the driver in french-- "To the left!!" (meaning stay away from the ocean you crazy white man...) I was sure we'd either end up in the ocean or stranded on the beach... but I'm still here to tell the story.

What advice would you give to people who are about to embark on their gap years, or round the world trips?

Take time to really absorb what you experience... pictures are great-- but memories are even better.

At different times you’ve lived in New York, Dublin, Prague, and Melbourne, among other exciting places. Tell us some things that people should do when they’re in each place, and make some recommendations (sight seeing, bar hopping, shopping, anything else you could recommend).

It really depends on what you're after and what interests you have. Buy a good traveling guide and highlight some things that peak your interest. My favorite thing to do in a new city is to grab a seat at an outdoor cafe or restaurant, have some local beer or wine and people watch.

Tell us about your job. What do you do?

What does it involve in practical terms? I'm a Language Development Specialist at Carnegie Mellon. I work with international graduate students (and some undergraduates). I teach classes and seminars that help students develop academic fluency, presentation skills and academic writing skills. I also do some individual tutoring with students and I'm involved with a lot of assessment and student advising. Recently, I've also been responsible for monitoring our writing support program and mentoring other instructors.

Did you always want to teach?

No-- in fact, both of my parents and my sister are teachers-- so I always thought I'd do something completely different. But it turns out that I love teaching and I see myself always teaching in some way.

You’re very highly qualified. Can you tell us about your education and career path? I know you taught English in a number of countries before returning to the US.

My undergraduate degree is in Psychology (with a minor in Theater). I then got a TEFL [to teach English as a Foreign Language] certificate so that I could teach English abroad. I thought that teaching ESL would be a intermediate job before I decided what area of Psychology to study in grad school.... but after teaching English in Prague for a year, I decided to continue with ESL and got my M.Phil in Applied Linguistics. While working on my masters in Dublin- I taught English at a language school there. I then moved to NYC- taught a freshman writing class for one of the city universities and then got a full time gig teaching ESL at an intensive English program at another university. Finally- I moved to Pittsburgh-- and eventually landed the job that I have now.

Is there a noticeable difference between teaching College level students and students at a language school, such as the one you taught at in Dublin?

Yes. The main difference is motivation. In Dublin, many of my students were struggling with basic survival skills in English (communicating at work, in stores, government offices, etc.) At CMU-- my students have more fluency-- but they still need to develop their language so that they can make it through their academic programs successfully.

Is there a marked difference between teaching the subject in the US and other countries?

The main difference deals with teaching English as a second language vs a foreign language. In Prague-- my students didn't necessarily need English for their daily interactions- whereas in Ireland and the US-- they do.

I literally knew nothing about Pittsburgh before moving here-- and I love it. As one teacher told me in NYC before I moved here-- "It's the new Brooklyn".

Do you have ambitions to live and work outside of the US again? Where would you go, and why?

Sure-- I'm open to the possibility-- but I'm not actively seeking work outside the US right now... it depends on where my life takes me.

You live in Pittsburgh at the moment. Tell us about the city.

I literally knew nothing about Pittsburgh before moving here-- and I love it. The people are friendly, the terrain in beautiful, there's a thriving art scene and the different sections have a real neighborhood feel. It's easy to feel comfortable in Pittsburgh. As one teacher told me in NYC before I moved here-- "It's the new Brooklyn".

What should people who visit Pittsburgh try to see and do while they’re there?

See Question 6. But in addition to that-- no trip to Pittsburgh would be complete without a trip up Mount Washington and a meal at Primanti's. Also, to get the true Pittsburgh spirit-- go to a Steelers or Penguins game.

Where do you see yourself in ten years time? Can you imagine staying in the same field in the long-term? If not, what are your other career goals?

Ten years is a long time. I definitely wouldn't have guessed I'd be where I am ten years ago-- so I can't really predict what I'll be doing in another 10. I'd be happy staying in the same field-- but I'm keeping my options open.

Outside of work, how do you spend your time?

Going for hikes with my dog, relaxing with friends, playing my flute, doing yoga, watching movies... (to name a few activities)

Some Stylish Films (part 1)

2009-08-28T21:31:00.000+01:00

I was a film writer for about a year. It's easily the second best job I've ever had, and were it not for the magazine I wrote for having been based in Detroit, a city which, even then, seemed to embody the theory that depression is simply anger turned inward, I might have stuck with it.

I don't go to the movies that much anymore. A combination of poverty and my brother's adeptness at downloading has seen to that, but I thought, because films and TV have always been more likely to influence my look than fashion stories that I'd write about what I consider to be the some of the most stylish films.

Picnic at Hanging Rock

Best school uniform ever.

In Picnic at Hanging Rock three Victorian school girls mysteriously vanish after being taken on a class trip to the Australian outback. The film, which was internationally acclaimed upon its release in 1975, makes use not only of the starkly beautiful scenery but also clothes its young actors in one of the most gorgeous school uniforms ever: pristine high-necked white dresses with full sleeves, straw boaters, chunky black boots and long, free flowing hair, all worn against the backdrop of Australian summertime.

Wish I'd looked like that in high school.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoMWkI5QEl8

Breakfast at Tiffany's

Obviously.
I'm not that big a fan of Audrey Hepburn in Sabrina; there's something too girly about the black and white ball dress to make it appealing and winsome is just not my thing. But in Breakfast at Tiffany's, her wardrobe, which shouts out party girl as much as sophisticated city girl, immediately cries out to be worn, and worn it I have. Cheap imitations, anyway.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urQVzgEO_w8

Belle de Jour
Belle de Jour is similar to Breakfast at Tiffany's in two ways; the protagonists of both films are prostitutes, although this one, being French, feautures a housewife who slips into the world's oldest profession because she's unfulfilled at home, and because like Audrey Hepburn, Catherine Deneuve is one of the actors whose beauty and sense of style marks them out.

While Hepburn was dressed almost exclusively by Hubert de Givenchy throughout her career, Deneuve was the long time muse Yves Saint Laurent who, along with Pierre Cardin, outfitted her in this movie. The patent leather mac and matching shoes instantly sold out when the film was released in France, cementing the actor's reputation as an icon of modern elegance.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJXLCYZMGQ8

Les Parapluies de Cherbourg
Another Catherine Deneuve film, but one of a slightly different stylistic bent. While Belle de Jour is all stark city girl sophistication, Les Parapluies de Cherbourg, a beautiful and gentle musical in which Deneuve plays a young pregnant woman, missing her lover who has gone to war, is all bright colours to contrast its sad themes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cb5iVFq7qlQ&feature=fvst

Marie Antoinette

Sophia Coppola's heavily stylised depiction of the last Queen of France as a troubled teenager is, in non-fashionable speak, absolutely bloody gorgeous.

From the costumier's use of pastel shades for Kirsten Dunst and deep jewel tones for her friend the Duchess, to the actual shapes of the dresses and hats, to the montage sequence featuring Manolo Blahnik shoes and macaroons, to the soundtrack, the entire film is stunning.

I care not for its historical innacuracies; I want to be in it. I may base my wedding on it. Consider yourselves warned.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WjsqVwWyrI

I saw far too much nice footwear in Topshop today.

2009-08-24T21:56:00.000+01:00

For Autumn, but really for right now, especially now that I’ve tried a pair on, I want some black leather over the knee boots. I’ve wanted a pair for years, and the fixation was reignited when Blake Lively rocked a pale grey suede pair from Chinese Laundry on the first series of Gossip Girl (pictured above courtesy of fabsugar.com).

It’s gotten bad; I've found a pair that I like in an affordable shop; I have a crush; I fantasise about them when I should be researching potential employers; I imagine how well they’d go with outfits I already own- surely the clothing equivalent of imagining showing off a new date to all your friends- and, when I should have been writing internship application letters, I went to the shop to visit them.

The ones above, the objects of my affection, are called DUFFY. They are from Topshop, not too slutty, cost a fairly reasonable £85, and are wide enough on the leg to accommodate even my chunky limbs.

I am a bit concerned that the tan suede ones might make the girl who wears them look like Robin Hood though...

After visiting the boots I saw a pair of patent black brogues with a pale sole which, bafflingly, I can’t find on the Topshop website (if they have them in my neck of the provinces, they should surely have them online) but I think they are this pair, Kameryn (£55).

I want them in the shiny black, rather than the brown, which are far too much like my old school shoes (not a look I want to repeat), or the or gold, which I hate, or the two-tone, which though fab might not get worn enough.

Like the crush boots, these could well become a Winter wardrobe staple, especially as I’m heading back to school, well post-graduate education, in October. I want to wear them with short A-line skirts and dresses and dark tights, to emphasise the geeky school-girlyness of them. I’ll avoid wearing them with just ankle socks, particularly bright coloured ones, ‘cos I’m too old for that now, or with jeans, ‘cos the bootleg and flared jean shapes that suit me won’t suit them.