A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS

I have long admired the work of Oscar de la Renta, as have countless others who have stared dreamily and in awe of his magnificent creations.  His gowns, seen primarily on red carpets and in fashion editorials, are nothing short of beautiful works of art.  Some of my all time favorite spreads in Vogue featured de la Renta's exquisite gowns, creating not only a moment for the wearer, but also for the dress itself.

His passing on Tuesday has prompted an outpouring of tributes, endearing stories and countless memories from those who knew him best.  He truly was a man of unbelievable talent and an even bigger heart.  In a lovely tribute to the iconic designer, Anna Wintour states, "He always said accept your friends for who they are, not for who you want them to be. Oscar was everything you could want a friend to be."

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THRILLED

"Anne reveled in the world of color about her... I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.  It would be terrible if we just skipped from September to November, wouldn't it?  Look at these maple branches.  Don't they give you a thrill -- several thrills?"

~ L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables 

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WORDS FOR THE WEEK

There isn't a phrase about this time of year that I could agree with more.  Life kind of does start over again, and the smell in the air signifies a change of season that only fall can bring.  There's something about autumn that makes you feel very nostalgic, a time of reflection you could say.  Things just slow down and seem to make a lot more sense. Throwing on my wool blazer and roaming the city with a latte and a fresh perspective is why this time of year is just the best.

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THINK I'M FALLING

New York fashion week is slowly coming to an end, and here I am posting pictures for the first time. It was a crazy, crazy week, but suddenly the show is cast, the fittings are through and you've found yourself at the day of the show. Once again, I was behind the scenes for much of the excitement and truly loved every second of it.  To watch everything fall into place so seamlessly is still amazing to see.  And quite an honor to be a part of.

For Spring/Summer '15, Derek Lam showcased an era that he knows and loves well.  The collection was clearly very 70's inspired, but it had its own subtle twists and added details the designer is known for.  "That era was the high point of American design, and I wanted to reiterate it in a modern, universal way," Lam stated backstage.  From high-waisted flares to suede patchwork to Joni Mitchell's "Help Me" serenading the audience, the vibe was easy, cool and relaxed.

Some of my favorite looks included high-waisted sailor pants and a gorgeous leather shift in a deep turquoise blue, this was truly sportswear at its best.  His idea and inspiration behind the collection was simple and to the point.  "An update on American sportswear, really reaffirming what I love to do."

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SUDDENLY, THIS SUMMER

Tybee Island Social Club 

Tybee Island, Georgia

Tybee Island Beach 

Kara Walker's "A Subtlety" at the Domino Sugar Factory

Brooklyn, NY

Long Beach, New York (and a surprise visit from my mom!)

Central Park Conservatory Garden 

Charles James exhibit at The Met

A pit-stop at Bar Sardine (favorite neighborhood spot)

Kelsey Montague mural on Kenmare Street

A Sunday in Washington Square Park

Movie night in Bryant Park

The lovely wedding of my cousin in Cincinnati (with a fireworks display!)

A stroll through the fields at home in Kentucky 

The incredible pianist in Washington Square Park 

I may have taken an unexpected summer vacation from this blog, but I certainly didn't take a break from summer itself.  

I had a never ending list of things to do and see and I still didn't get through everything, but that's typically how those three months go.  

I was lucky enough to escape to Savannah and Tybee Island, Georgia which was such an amazing trip.  It feels like summer ended as quickly as it began.  July was dedicated to moving apartments (yet again), so August was all about settling in the new place and new neighborhood, which so far I'm loving.  Here's a just a small glimpse of some of the highlights, summer in the city is truly like nothing else.

  

CRUISE CONTROL

I've never really understood the difference between Cruise and Resort in terms of designer collections. In actuality I believe they are one of the same, because whether you're dressing for a resort or a cruise you're wanting to look as chic as possible (only assuming of course). The Louis Vuitton Cruise '15 collection, which was shown at the Place du Palais in Monaco, is the epitome of jet-set style. The mix of bright colors combined with bold prints and luxe fabrics would make anyone want to book a ticket to the Grand Prix. Photographer Juergen Teller shot the lookbook for the campaign entitled "The Trip or Voyage." I think with this collection you'd be set for either one.

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WORDS FOR THE WEEK

It's just destiny --- she thought --- it's just the way things work out in this damn world. If cowardice is all that's been holding me back there won't be anymore holding back. So we'll just let things take their course and never be sorry.

~ F. Scott Fitzgerald, Benediction

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