CONSIDER YOURSELF A SHOPPER #13
WE'RE TALKING ABOUT THE 1920S, HELMUT NEWTON, AND DENIM FOR FORMAL ATTIRE?
Dear reader, I'm aware you've been eagerly anticipating my Magna Carta on Jackie O., and I assure you it's in the works. However, this week, I experienced a sudden bout of feverish inspiration that led me to make some rather impulsive, yet absolutely delightful purchases. Lately, I've been seized by a relentless desire for certain items, and I believe it's not only important to share these recent acquisitions but also to introduce you to the objects of my fascination. Moreover, isn't it quintessentially "Jackie" of me to embark on a shopping spree? So, while this may not be my letter on Jackie's style influence, her spirit lives on in this week's dispatch.
Art Deco Tiara (circa 1920s/30s)- In my previous dispatch, I expressed my adoration for the Bode crown, which pays homage to 1920s costume crowns. Recently, I've been on a quest for 1920s/30s costume jewelry, and I may have stumbled upon a treasure. There's a reason why the 1920s is one of Mr. Armani's favorite decades. I recently rekindled my fascination with Etre drawings, explored an excessively pricey furniture store specializing in Art Deco pieces, and revisited The Great Gatsby movie (the one starring Mia Farrow, not Baz Luhrmann's version). Perhaps this holiday season is the perfect time to immerse ourselves in the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, especially considering the way things are going, it might as well be 1929 all over again before we know it, hahah!
Erte: Left: Letter series. Right: Symphony in Black. Sebline Bunny Pintucked Cotton-poplin shirt-- Lately, I've developed a deep appreciation for pintuck designs and the delightful texture they lend to a shirt. That's probably why I hold tuxedo shirts in high regard. However, my quest for the perfect tuxedo shirt continues, as the ones I've owned in the past have fallen short in one way or another. If you've been following my journey for a while, you're likely familiar with my fondness for Sebline shirting, particularly ideal for the summer. There's also a promising tuxedo shirt from Chava, and when in doubt, J.Crew offers their classic Ludlow style. Additionally, J.Crew has this rather intriguing Studio 54-esque gold lame tuxedo shirt.
J.Crew Broken-in T-Shirt with Sequins- On the topic of J.Crew, here is a festive top that truly IS a conversation starter.
Fforme Padded Down Coat- A puffer that puts all other puffers to shame!
Me in said puffer! Christian Louboutin Dandyflor Velvet Loafers- You know how the saying goes, sometimes you have to stop and smell the Christian Louboutin roses. ( Hender Scheme also has a pair of slippers that I am kicking myself in the tuchus that I did not pounce on when I had the chance!)
Chloe Party Dress- For those of us who missed out on Phoebe Philo’s launch, there’s a wealth of delectable Chloe pieces from her era at your disposal.
The Row Penelope Hat- SWOON!!!!!
Jacques Marie Mage Yves Sunglasses- I am kind of on a sunglasses frenzy. I recently acquired a pair of Tom Ford aviators which I talked about in my last dispatch, but now I want these Jacques Marie Mage pair. The price is a bit absurd; however, I can attest to the quality, it is simply divine. There is such a weight to the glasses that is really unparalleled.
Claude Montana Evening Jacket- There was a moment last year when I believed we were on the verge of a Claude Montana revival (perhaps this letter will kickstart that resurgence, hahah!). Montana’s designs offer a stark contrast to the saccharine nature of Y2k fashion. They possess an austere yet highly desirable quality, with colors that are boldly artificial yet undeniably captivating. Many of his pieces boast bombastic shoulders that put most shoulder pads to shame (I will say they met their match with YSL FW23!). Even his work of Lanvin carries an air of danger, yet there’s an undeniable romanticism in the colors, fabrics, and shapes. For some reason, it reminds me of a lionfish- beautiful yet deadly. I hope this doesn’t come across as an insult because I truly find his work extraordinary!(I also highly recommend reading this Vanity Fair piece on him.)
Chopova Lowena Bow Girls Hoodie- SWEATER WEATHER!!!!
1920s French Beaded Skull Caps- I do not know what possessed me to buy a bedazzled French skull caps, perhaps the spirit of Pierrot?
Calzedonia Micronet Stockings- My newfound obsession, thanks to the influence of two remarkable women, Tina Turner and Carine Roitfeld. (I can’t recall if I’ve shared this video before, but take a moment to watch the W Magazine video featuring Carine; it’s quite amusing!)
Tina and Carine! Helmut Newton: 20th Anniversary Edition- I could compose an ode to my deep admiration for Helmut Newton’s photography (who knows, maybe I will!). It’s intriguing to see that two exhibitions are currently showcasing Newton’s work in a time that seems fixated on sanitization. Newton’s provocative and at times uncomfortable work has taken stage, what does that say about our times? More importantly what does it signify about our culture? (Tim Blanks also wrote a piece on this as well!)
As I bid you farewell for now, I leave you with two things: First a photograph of Ralph and Rickie Lauren in I believe is the late 70s. Lately, I’ve been contemplating the place of denim in formal attire, possibly influenced by Jenna Lyon’s exceptional denim and blazer ensemble, which made her arguably the best-dressed at the recent RHONY reunion. Normally, I staunchly oppose denim in formal settings, I just find it somewhat gauche. However, visionaries like Ralph and Jenna have challenged conventional norms!
Second, I’m excited to share that I have a slew of upcoming letters in store for you! The much-anticipated (by me) Jackie letter is on the horizon. Additionally, I’ll be journeying upstate to Tannersville, and you can except another installment of “Consider Yourself a Traveler.” I’ll also be presenting a gift guide. It won’t be your typical “TOP GIFT OF THE YEAR” list; instead, it will feature the items I desire my dear Nicky to gift MOI! :) :) :)
With that said, stay tuned for what’s to come!
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You can find the last dispatch here!
The Claude Montana VF article was so interesting! I had no idea he'd designed at Lanvin. “I would die to have his Lanvin pieces in our collection,” admits F.I.T.’s Valerie Steele. (Hurriedly hops online to scour for CM-era Lanvin....)