Imitators vs Innovators

I've been thinking about Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York today. Originally, I was trying to figure out if I could take the time off work to go. Then I started wondering if I'd really want to go. You see, in my eyes once it hits the runway it's already done. Is fashion week simply a mecca for the imitators? So be it - it's the tastemakers I'm interested in. If I can make it work I'll be in NYC this October for what I consider the premier fashion weekend. Keep your fingers crossed for me - it'll be my birthday treat to myself.

Mens Style Inspiration

U-boat Aces

You must take a look at this replica German U-boat Marine coat a gentleman took two years to make. His other handmade coats are just as amazing.

images via wikipedia, u-boat.net

There's just something about Gord...

that makes a Monday morning much more bearable.

Last Weekend on the Turntable

Nina Simone - 'Nuff Said!

Vintage Dior

1980

Quote of the Week - Author Unknown

Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important.

My Quest Continues

Last week I introduced you to my new way of shopping. Last weekend was about home decor.

Not Made in China

Original print of Jean-Paul Goude's 'One Man Show' Printed in Denmark
vintage Italian art glass

Horse head bookends - not sure what they're made of marble or quartz perhaps?

Total price of all goods: $34

vintage Lloyd's led am/fm alarm clock (may I add - this alarm clock is awesome)
made in Hong Kong

Tip of the Week - Fashion

A white belt on dark trousers adds girth by drawing one's attention to the middle. Keep the flow of the eye moving by choosing a belt in the same shade or close to that of the fabric.

How to Restore a Wood Table

1. Acquire a table. In this situation I'm using a teak one.

2. You'll need the finest grade steel wool, gloves, two clean cloths and Dr. Howard's Feed-N-Wax (I think this is the best for getting a nice conditioned look with Danish style furniture in walnut, rosewood or teak).

3. Break off some steel wool and lightly run it with the grain of the wood. Don't rub back and forth. It's like doing your nails - file in one direction. Get down to eye level to see any missed spots.

4. Wipe the dust off with a clean rag.

5. Apply a dab of Feed-n-Wax to a clean cloth and rub it - with the grain - onto the wood. Once again, get down to eye level to see any spots you've missed.

6. Wait 20 minutes

7. Wipe clean

8. Voila. Now go and sell your $100 table for $600

Last Weekend on the Turntable

The Raincoats

Vintage Schiaparelli

winter 1934

Quote of the Week - Hardy Amies

The best-dressed woman is one whose clothes wouldn't look too strange in the country.

Tip of the Week - Grooming

Dandruff? Over perfumed shampoos can cause dry scalp which then flakes off as dandruff. Not sexy or snuggly. Go with an unscented type and add a few drops of pure tea tree oil to it - 1 drop of oil per 1 oz. shampoo. Tea tree oil is an amazing natural remedy for everything from cold sores to yellow toe nails. Get the good undiluted stuff from Australia.

There are those who shouldn't use tea tree oil. Do your research before buy it.

9 Personal Spaces - Turntable Display

first five images scans from 1974






via elle decor UK
via elle decor UK
via the selby
I'd been after a new turntable since the motor died in mine two years ago. Lucky me, I won one at an auction for $26. I didn't set it up for awhile because I didn't have anywhere to put it. Then I found two teak side tables for $30. Voila. After a week I didn't like the look so I sold it all. Now, I'm without again.

Design Lover - Milo Baughman Chrome Armchair

Image Todd Merrill Antiques

I'd love to see Milo Baughman seating paired with Paul Evans storage - particularly in my house.