Summer Reading List

I sincerely apologize for the lengthy absence...sometimes my brain requires a little vacation, if you will. I return with vigor, and a great deal of excitement/inspiration for upcoming posts! I am currently inspired by some recent thrifty finds at my local book store. You all know my affection for coffee table books, and these lovelies, (in the bargain bin, at that!) could not be ignored.

Detailing the extensive career of one of America's most noted mid-century artists, this book about Alberto Vargas showcases some of his most famous works of art. Breathtaking in every realistic detail, every drawing has a life of its own. 

 My absolute favorite period of modern art is illustrated in every striking page of this book.   Stunning, to say the least.

 Ummm....and did I mention? The Bible has arrived in the form of Vogue's September issue, & I can't wait to leaf through all 758 pages!

What have you been reading lately? I hope it's something that stirs your soul; that you can't take your hands off of!

Three.

My sweets, I have been M.I.A. as of late and for that, I sincerely apologize.  I've been searching high & low for inspiration but alas, it is nowhere to be found.  It feels as though I've been non-stop working, or staying busy with this, that & the other thing. *le sigh*  

Anywho, I wanted to share three lovely things that have captured what little is left of my attention recently.  

1. My mama pie gifted me with this book for my birthday, and it's absolutely wonderful!  As a fashion junkie, I've read countless styling books and wannabe how-to's of the wardrobe world, but every other book seems to fall short.  This book, (written by the lovely creators of Who What Wear,) features gorgeously current yet essential pieces and styling advice that would make The Olsen twinsies blush...or at least think twice about their hobo/boho hot-ass-mess-ness.

2. GAGA.  Need I say more?  Wow, guys...I am so beyond impressed with our Lady's third album.  At first, I was honestly turned off by the all too familiar club pump beats, but after a few playbacks I realized that this was no ordinary record.  Every song has its own unique personality and stands out among the rest.  One might assume Gagaloo has chosen quantity over quality with Born This Way, since there are 17 tracks.  But I genuinely love every song; no favorites.  Errr.... Bloody Mary, Government Hooker, Fashion of His Love.  Whaaa? It's amazeballs, truly.

3. Indie actress and folk songstress extraordinaire Zooey Deschanel has created another soon-to-be cult phenomenon, Hello Giggles. It is "the ultimate entertainment destination for smart, independent and creative females."  Translation: my holy place. Head on over for your daily dose of inspiration, cuteness, and duh...giggles.

Needless to say, I haven't had much time to utilize my mad photography skillz, but I swear I'm on that task like white on rice.  Patience is a virtue, little love bugs.  Cross my heart, I foresee many goodies in the near future.  Stay tuned.

Xo

D

Book Club.

Time to spill a little bit about my secret inner self.  I am fascinated by modern art, photography, fashion, history, and good food.  While these fields are much too broad to entertain the thought of every single day, it comforts me to hone in on much more specific topics that encompass several of my passions simultaneously.  The first of these obsessions is collecting matchbooks, (art, history, food/restaurants, all wrapped into one.)  The second of these quirks is collecting coffee table books (which cover every one of the topics I treasure dearly...they can be about anything!)  

Most of these books I own cover topics of modern fashion, but I've picked up a few lately that I just haven't been able to put down.  Let me explain...

As an avid vintage treasure hunter, I need to be on my A-game when it comes to searching for new (yet old) goodies.  This book is incredibly informative.  Who knew that clothing tags without fiber percentages dated prior to 1960?  I now have a renewed sense of confidence in my vintage shopping skills, which should come in perfectly handy during my upcoming trip to LA.

Call me crazy, but this book nearly had me in tears every other page.  There were dozens of pictures of beautiful mothers during their prime.  They prove that our moms had such truly amazing lives before us, and that a picture really is worth a thousand words.  I kept reminiscing about the gorgeous photos of my mom from when she lived in the Philippines. And I hope one day my daughter will see pictures of me, and feel the same sense of overwhelming pride.  Can you say, perfect Mother's Day gift?!

This heavy hitter is next on my to-read list.  (But really...it literally weighs 10 pounds!)  What books can't you live without?  Are there any that you would personally recommend?  I'd love to hear. :)

xo

D

The Great Gatsby

The fabulous style and grace of the '20s

The draping silhouette of the dresses was positively heavenly

Wondering what a modern-day Daisy Buchanan might look like...

I just recently finished re-reading one of my favorite books, The Great Gatsby. Something about a 1920s New York City summer is completely mesmerizing and enchanting. It's got me fantasizing about everything contemporary and art deco, and a romantic era long since passed. The novel oozes with depictions of Gatsby's luxurious lifestyle, and the tragedies spurred by one of the most amazing love stories ever written. A fine literary masterpiece, it makes me want to re-read my favorite novel, Gone With The Wind. Look out for a Scarlett-themed post soon...