I wrote my final thesis in college on Vincent Van Gogh and the impact that the color yellow had on his paintings. It seems counterintuitive that this color, a symbol of optimism, is so pervasive in the creations of such a tortured soul. Perhaps it can be attributed to his passion for work and need to see the possibility of beauty in the every day detail of life, a sunflower, a starry sky, or a … Read More
I have always been intrigued with art that focuses on the grace and beauty of the feminine mystique. I have collected illustrations and prints that depict woman engrossed in the simple acts of daily life; bathing, drinking a cup of tea, ironing, or nursing. Many artists have managed this pictorial poetry to celebrate the female form, but when my first child was born, I became particularly enamored with the work of Mary Cassatt. Cassatt’s … Read More
It’s January. It’s freezing in New York and everyone is in a nesting mood. There is a dearth of inspiration and stimulation. Fortunately, I am traveling to Paris and the Salon De Lingerie exposition that I will attend next week. This international lingerie show will highlight new product that will be available at retail for fall 2010. My colleagues from Concepts Paris will stage their innovative trend forums at the Interfiliere Intimate Apparel fabric, print … Read More
I am not much of a movie aficionado, but last week I went to see Avatar, because I was curious 
about the 3D effects. I did not expect to leave so inspired, not only by the innovative film technology but also by a storyline critical to sustaining our environment, our country and our sense of personal integrity. Avatar is all about character, good and bad and the story reveals itself in a visual bath of … Read More
I was going to take a pass on writing this week. It’s a lazy week, full of family invasion and distraction. But I have been chatting with several of my industry clients and friends and I thought I might offer these words of encouragement. Last February, as I guided a well attended panel discussion with industry professionals aptly titled, Navigating the Storm, there was a great deal of trepidation. The question was, who will … Read More
Christmas is just days away. For me, the holidays feel more sedate this year. There seems to be more reflection, a deeper observation in the details of our world, the brief moments and small gestures that make life sound. Observing the ornaments on my tree, and knowing that I began to collect them 35 years ago, I manage to negotiate a trail of memories that defy the unknown terrain that many of us have been … Read More
What would you imagine that Christina Hendricks (aka Joan Holloway), the sassy femme fatale of the award winning TV series, Mad Men, is wearing under her iconic 1950’s dress? My guess is this retro inspired slip from On Gossamer. I have become a real fan of this extraordinarily well written and superbly staged new drama that harks back to a time in history when women were just on the brink of claiming their … Read More