Debbie King

Musings…

on INSPIRATION & COURAGE

Aside from having written about Style, Art, Food, Beauty and Health, I want to include sharing some thoughts and exploring different ideas and possibilities which I believe embodies the word “Musings.” In between regular daily activities and invites to theatre openings and wine tastings, I’ve been working on some new projects which I hope to share with you at a later date. I’m forging ahead and pushing myself a little outside my normal comfort zone. It’s a new era.In the past, this blog used to be posted daily, but now I write when the feeling strikes or after having attended certain events for the purpose of a review. For now, let’s explore the origin of the word “musings.”

MUSE – in a creative sense, a muse is a person or force that sparks inspiration, often for artists, writers, or musicians. In Greek mythology, the Muses were nine goddesses who inspired literature, art, and music.

MUSES – Some famous muses throughout history include Yoko Ono for John Lennon and French photographer/painter Dora Maar for Pablo Picasso. Andy Warhol had a fascinating array of muses; people who inspired his art and shaped his creative world. Some of his most famous muses included socialite and actress Edie Sedgwick, singers Debby Harry and Grace Jones, and legendary fashion editor Diana Vreeland.

MUSINGS – “Musings” refers to thoughts, reflections, or ideas often deep, wandering, or contemplative. When someone shares their musings, they’re offering a glimpse into their inner world, whether it’s philosophical ponderings, personal reflections, or just daydreams about the meaning of life. In the space I’m in right now, I’m focusing on Inspiration and Courage; both help to shape my world which is always evolving.

INSPIRATION is that spark that ignites creativity and motivates us to pursue new ideas or take action. It’s a powerful force that can come from a variety of sources like:

Nature: The beauty of a sunrise, the tranquility of a forest, or the power of the ocean.
People: Role models, mentors, or even stories of individuals overcoming challenges.
Art and Culture: Music, literature, paintings, and other creative expressions that evoke emotions.
Experiences: Personal moments of joy, sorrow, success, or failure that shape our perspective.

COURAGE is a powerful force. It’s that moment when you trust yourself enough to take a risk, speak up, or embrace uncertainty. It’s not the absence of fear; it’s facing fear and choosing to move forward despite it. It’s also about the awareness of serious risk. Facing courage doing something right, good or best. In these cases, an individual must face internal challenges (be they emotional or cognitive) and push through despite potential harm or personal loss. And then, sometimes simply getting through the day when life feels overwhelming takes courage. It also takes some bravery to either confront or walk away from someone who you considered a good friend when that person all of a sudden turns a 180 and shows complete uncaring and disrespect.

A friend of mine emailed me a website called THE POWER HOUSE. Their forecast for the current month really resonated with me so I’ll share a couple paragraphs and if you’re interested, you can read more at the link below.

COURAGE: Mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.

It takes courage to try something new. It takes courage to change a familiar pattern. It takes courage to speak your truth. It takes courage to heal. It takes courage to take a risk or take action where the outcome is unknown. It takes courage to open your heart. It takes courage to see everything as spirit. It takes courage to be neutral and not judge. It takes courage to be flexible. It takes courage to say no and it takes courage to say yes. It takes courage to ask for help. It takes courage to be yourself. It takes courage to be disciplined. It takes courage to face an uncharted future. It takes courage to let go of the past. It takes courage to release attachments to how things should be or should have been. It takes courage to stay present. It takes courage to stay out of fear. It takes courage to dissolve old structures of security making way for something new. It takes courage to trust. It takes courage to do what you know is right for you and others.

We chose “courage” as the theme for the month since all of the above will manifest in some way this month as we navigate yet another interesting time of potential that has its ups and downs. This is not about whether change is afoot or not, it is about how you handle it. Everyone has something they need to be more courageous about. For some, it may be about being more adventurous with relationships and opportunities, for others it may be more internal, facing old patterns of dyfunction that need to change. Whatever you are personally faced with this month, it will help to tap into more courage, trust and personal power in order to handle the challenges as well as the opportunities.

There is an underlying theme of “power” what it means to you, how you feel about your personal power, what your beliefs and attitudes are about power, it’s use, abuse, and balance. Watch your reactions around this theme and keep your focus on how you can heal your own issues around personal power instead of fretting about and judging what you witness happening “out there”. Remember this is a year of artisan creativity with lots of opportunity to reinvent and recreate both our belief systems and our structures for manifesting the life we want.

This does not have to be a time of strife and struggle. There are plenty of influences this month that can support tremendous abundance, prosperity and success in manifesting. The key will be to access your courage as well as your inner confidence and intuition that confirms you are on the right track.

I am on the right track. How about you?

I AM MY OWN MUSE

The Power Path website focuses on shamanism and indigenous wisdom, offering teachings, retreats, and training programs. It was founded by José and Lena Stevens, who have studied with shamans from Mexico and Peru. The site provides monthly forecasts, remote shamanic healing sessions, and courses on shamanic practices.

Food + Drink

Tequila & Agave Festival

When it comes to hard liquor I’m not a huge fan.I enjoy a good vodka martini and I certainly enjoy a good margarita. When it comes to sipping tequila on its own, it better be smooth preferably with a squeeze of fresh lime. Last Saturday I got to sample my fair share of top-notch sipping tequilas (with a few mexcals thrown in for fun) at the second Tequila & Agave Festival which took place at the Italian Cultural Center in Vancouver. I took my friend Rosario whom I met 35 years ago when she first moved to Vancouver, and couldn’t speak a word of English. Now she talks nonstop and has her own business. We had a blast.

Luckily there were lots of bites being passed around and food stations with yummy tacos, tostados, guacamole and even burgers. Smart move to fill up on food while sampling. The mariachi band was as authentic as they come.

More than just a party drink – Tequila is steeped in history, tradition, and some surprising facts!

Here are a few:

· Ancient Origins: Tequila’s predecessor, pulque, was enjoyed as early as 150 B.C. by the inhabitants of Teotihuacan, a civilization that predates the Aztecs.

· Not a Cactus: Despite its spiky appearance, the agave plant used to make tequila is actually a succulent, closely related to the lily plant.

· Aged to Perfection: Blue agave, the key ingredient, takes 8 to 12 years to mature before it can be harvested.

· Geographical Exclusivity: Like Champagne, tequila has an appellation of originin; it can only be produced in five regions in Mexico, with Jalisco being the largest producer.

· No Worms Here: Contrary to popular belief, real tequila never contains a worm in the bottle; that’s a mezcal tradition.

· Terroir Matters: The soil where agave is grown influences the taste of tequila. Highland tequilas tend to be sweeter, while Lowland varieties have earthier, mineral-rich flavors.

So if you missed out, here’s the link for next time:

Cinco, but who’s counting!

https://www.tequilaandagavefestival.com/

Photos: d. king (photos of me taken by someone else but I don’t remember who).

Food + Drink

PROsecco

Last week I was invited to participate in a Master Class to try to distinguish the different varieties and taste of ITALIAN PROSECCOS. What’s not to love about anything Italian?

The first six out of twelve tasters – before going into another room with dozens more.

This took place downtown Vancouver at the swanky Paradox hotel (formerly the Trump hotel). What better way to spend a rainy Monday afternoon I might add.

While I’m no Pro, I did enjoy sampling a bunch I really liked. It’s also personal taste as in drinking wine, where some like it drier or sweeter. It was a fun afternoon and my first time at this hotel.

I’ve always liked Prosecco. A glass before dinner is always a pleasant start to the evening. Prosecco is a wonderfully versatile sparkling wine that pairs well with a variety of foods like most appetizers, sushi, cheese (especially the soft kind like brie and gorgonzola that work beautifully with Prosecco’s fruity notes), seafood, and many fried foods. It’s also more affordable than champagne. Win, Win!

I took a pic of all the bottles we sampled in the class. I’m a top student.

I wasn’t really aware and never thought to ask about what kind of grape Prosecco is made from or which part of Italy makes Prosecco. So this afternoon I learned a few things. For starters, The Glera grape, the backbone of Prosecco, dates back to Ancient Rome. Prosecco DOC was officially established in 2009, ensuring quality and authenticity. If a wine isn’t made from Glera grapes grown in the designated area, it can’t be called Prosecco. I now realize that the Prosecco gummy bears I bought are not the actual thing. Beware of fakes!

The Prosecco DOC region in Northeastern Italy boasts 11 UNESCO sites, highlighting its rich cultural and historical significance.

See video:

It was a Grey Day. This bottle turned out to be a favourite (I didn’t drink the whole bottle). The food was delicious.

Here’s how Prosecco DOC stands apart from other sparkling wines:

Prosecco vs. Champagne: The biggest difference is in the production method. Champagne undergoes secondary fermentation inside the bottle (Traditional Method), while Prosecco uses the Charmat Method, fermenting in large steel tanks which is more efficient. This also makes Prosecco more affordable but also keeps the quality. Champagne is richer and toastier, while Prosecco is light, fresh, and fruit-forward.

Region Matters: Champagne comes exclusively from the Champagne region in France, while Prosecco DOC is crafted in Northeastern Italy – around Venice. The terroir (soil, climate, and altitude) gives each wine its distinct character.

Champagne blends Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, while Prosecco DOC is primarily made from Glera grapes, giving it those signature notes of green apple, pear, and white flowers.

What was really nice after the Master class was walking around and sampling dozens more, and grazing the excellent selection of appetizers on hand. The sushi was some of the best I’ve tasted.

Below is a Crash Course for you:

Prosecco comes in several varieties, categorized by effervescence, sweetness, and quality levels. Here’s a breakdown:

Types by Effervescence:
- Spumante: Fully sparkling and the most common type.
- Frizzante: Semi-sparkling with lighter bubbles.
- Tranquillo: Still wine, with no bubbles

Sweetness Levels:

Brut Nature (0-3 g/l sugar) – Bone dry.
Extra Brut (up to 6 g/l sugar) – Very dry.
Brut (0-12 g/l sugar) – Dry but slightly more approachable.
Extra Dry (12-17 g/l sugar) – A touch of sweetness.
Dry (17-32 g/l sugar) – Noticeably sweet.
Semi-Secco/Demi-Sec (32-50 g/l sugar) – Quite sweet.
Dolce (50+ g/l sugar) – Dessert-level sweetness

Quality Levels:
Prosecco DOC: Standard quality, widely available.
Prosecco Superiore DOCG: Higher quality, from specific regions.
Cartizze: The most prestigious and luxurious variety.
Prosecco Rosé: A newer addition, blending Glera grapes with Pinot Nero for a pink hue.

Personally, I think my favourite might be a frizzante Brut to extra dry. I love the higher quality ones but enjoy the standard types too. I don’t like extra sweet or overly dry. I like to see some bubbles.

How about you? Do you have a favourite?

Art & Culture

CASEY and DIANA

The Arts Club Theatre Company’s opening night of CASEY and DIANA was last night – May 30th, 2025. The playwright, the director and many media types were among the audience members. I attended with my friend Megan.

Lindsey Angell as Diana Damien Atkins as Thomas **Photo**: courtesy of Arts Club Theatre Company.

There was a bit of confusion as to what this play was all about. Especially if you didn’t read up about it beforehand. From the name alone you can imagine it being about a married couple or a comedic team or anything else. All I knew was that it was about the aids pandemic (yes; that’s what they’re referring to it as now) and a visit from Princess Diana to Casey House; a specialty hospital based in Toronto that cares for people living with and at risk of HIV.

The play is based on true events. In a hospice where men are certain to die of this terrible disease sooner than later, the only uplifting thing they have to hang on to is hope; that quiet but persistent belief that things can get better, even when the present feels uncertain or difficult. And right now they hope to meet a visiting princess where, if only for a few minutes, will make them feel seen and uplift their spirits. They want to hang on for that moment – only seven days away. Which feels like forever in their situation.

**Alen Dominguez** as Andre & **Nora McLellan** as Marjorie. **Photo**: Courtesy of Arts Club Theatre Company.

The actors do a magnificent job of creating a quiet desperation of uncertainty while trying to maintain some dignity.

Princess Diana’s visit to Casey House in Toronto, on October 25, 1991, was groundbreaking and deeply impactful in reducing stigma around HIV/AIDS. She spent time with all 13 residents, staff, and caregivers, staying longer than planned and making a powerful statement by physically touching patients.

Her visit provided hope and dignity to those affected by the disease, and her compassion resonated worldwide. The moment was so significant that it has been immortalized in plays like this one, which explores the lasting effect of her kindness. But it also explores what it’s like living with the disease.

Until May 25, 2025 at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage (2750 Granville Street).

For TICKETS: https://artsclub.com/shows/2024-2025/casey-and-diana

Cast

Lindsey Angell Diana
Damien Atkins Thomas
Ivy Charles Vera
Alen Dominguez Andre
Nora McLellan Marjorie
Emma Slipp Pauline

For more information about CASEY HOUSE:

https://caseyhouse.ca/

Art & Culture

MADAMA BUTTERFLY

Puccini’s Madama Butterfly opened up last Thursday night to a sold-out crowd in Vancouver, at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.I went with Rosa, my regular opera date, as she’s an opera-enthusiast and knows all, or at least most, of the arias. It’s always a pleasure to attend with her and we always do a toast before the show.

This opera was my first ever opera that my late husband took me to years back. The title then was only one vowel difference; Madame (instead of Madama) Butterfly. The difference between the names is primarily the title and adaptation of the story. Madame Butterfly refers to the original short story by John Luther Long, which inspired Puccini’s opera, but Madama Butterfly is the correct Italian title.

Okay; I’m glad we got that straight!

Karen Chia-ling Ho as Cio-Cio-San in Vancouver Opera’s 2025 production of Madama Butterfly. Photo by Emily Cooper Photography.

Another gut-wrenching story; Madama Butterfly is widely considered one of the greatest works in operatic history. Puccini’s deeply emotional story and music is moving and steers us through all the operatic elements of love, heartbreak, hope, and tragedy.

The opera tells the tragic story of Cio-Cio-San, a young Japanese geisha, who falls in love with Lieutenant Pinkerton, an American naval officer stationed in Nagasaki. They marry, but for Pinkerton, it’s only a marriage of convenience, a touristic fantasy abroad before he finds himself a “real” (American) bride. Cio-Cio-San remains devoted to him, only to be abandoned, leading to a heartbreaking conclusion. You might want to bring kleenex.

Karen Chia-ling Ho as Cio-Cio-San and Adam Luther as Pinkerton in Vancouver Opera’s 2025 production of Madama Butterfly. Photo by Emily Cooper Photography.

Vancouver Opera’s 2025 production of Madama Butterfly. Photo by Emily Cooper Photography.

The themes of love, betrayal, and cultural clashes have made Madama Butterfly one of the most frequently performed operas worldwide.

The cast was unbelievably talented. The live VSO orchestra is also a treat to behold and we’re lucky to have them.

On until May 4^th, 2025. Get your Tickets here:

https://www.vancouveropera.ca/whats-on/Butterfly/

RUNNING TIME Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one 25-minute intermission.

Art & Culture

ART Vancouver 2025

Last Thursday night I attended the eclectic opening night of ART VANCOUVER with my friend Rosa – a contemporary art fair now approaching its 9^th edition. It’s happening all weekend long at the Vancouver Convention Centre – link below.

Since Art, for the most part, is open for individual interpretation, I guess you can say that there’s something to appeal to everyone’s taste here – or almost everyone.

Eagle by **Stefan Rogenmoser** – http://www.simplyartist.com

Sculpture by **Jai Sallay-Carrington** http://www.jscreatures.com

There was a lot to take in while walking around the large space. I especially enjoyed the unique and interesting sculptures represented. I respect the artistry, even though most were not something I would be interested in purchasing for myself. You’ve got to admire the workmanship that goes into these astounding pieces. Plus, there’s always a story behind them.

One of my favourite exhibits turned out to be the Bryan Adams & Ape Art from “Save the Chimps Sanctuary” – a 150 acre sanctuary in Florida which offers life-long care for hundreds of chimpanzees rescued from labs, the pet trade, and the entertainment industry. I thought it was both brilliant and philanthropic. Plus, they’re pretty good artists ~~and better than some others I’ve seen~~.

ART VANCOUVER stands as a testament to the beauty and wonder of contemporary art. Beyond thought-provoking exhibitions and stimulating conversations, the fair fosters an inclusive environment where cultural exchange thrives, strengthening Vancouver’s place as a global hub for contemporary art.

Art photos/video: d. king

See any that grab you?

The Convention Centre is located at Canada Place. Some pics from the outside:

We live in a beautiful city.

Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram: @artvancouver, Facebook: @artvancouverofficial, and X: @Art_Vancouver

Art & Culture

Arts Club: Burning Mom

I saw this excellent one-woman show last night about taking risks and enjoying the small moments in life and the ride along the way. It’s about the journey in general and our strong striving for some form of connection.

It resonated with me in the sense that it made me think about the difference between attachment and connection. The main character’s name is Dorothy (played by Susinn McFarlen). Dorothy’s story is based on the playwright’s mother’s life. After losing her husband, she decides to take their RV on the road trip of his retirement dreams: she’s going to Burning Man. After all, it’s only a 21-hour drive to a weeklong culture festival and party with no plumbing in the middle of a desert—how hard can it be? Burning Mom is a stirring odyssey of self-discovery and tale of how art, everlasting roads, and human connection propel her along the way. McFarlen did a wonderful job of entertaining us with stories for over two hours, with one set/costume change after a short intermission.

With Lisa (my sister) celebrating her birthday at **SANDBAR** before the show. FYI – ***Sandbar offers 15% off the bill if you’re going to the Arts Club.*** *THAT* was a nice surprise! Tisha (our amazing server) took this photo.

My question is – is everyone always trying to find themselves? Are we trying to carve a path that will make us feel whole or make sense out of living? At times, I believe so.

I, myself, have never had a burning (pun intended) desire to go to this festival. It’s not that I’m not curious about Burning Man, and probably once there I’d enjoy it for what it is…but it’s not on my bucket list. Luckily, I’ve crossed a lot of stuff off my personal bucket list. And it’s not a great idea to live someone else’s dream. Although I did live my late mother’s dream trip of going on safari. With my sister no less. What a bittersweet experience that was.

Getting back to the play; the only connection I have to this play is that my late husband had a Eurovan Camper that he loved and that we used a lot. I didn’t love it as much but I ended up enjoying his enjoyment of it. There were many special places we ended up discovering with that little camper. However, after he passed, I tried to keep it and learn how to drive stick shift which didn’t work out so well in the end. I had some similar parking experiences as the performer in this play. Some funny; some not. I ended up selling it. So in essence I was hanging on to it because of his (not my) love of camping. Hanging on to someone else’s love of something is a form of attachment.

Anyway, I was recently discussing the difference between attachment and connection with a friend. The difference lies in their nature and depth. Although I must say that I feel both an attachment and a connection to my dogs.

Attachment often stems from a need or dependency. It can involve clinging to someone or something for comfort, security, or emotional support. While attachment can feel strong, it may be rooted in fear—fear of loss, change, or being alone. It can sometimes create unhealthy dynamics if it becomes possessive or overly dependent.

Connection, on the other hand, is more about mutual understanding, resonance, and genuine presence. It doesn’t rely on need or fear but instead arises from shared experiences, values, and emotional attunement. A connection feels freeing, nurturing, and balanced—it’s about being with someone, not needing to hold on tightly.

Interesting, no? How many things are you attached to and how many are you connected to?

MORE SHOWS ADDED—NOW PLAYING TO APRIL 24

Granville Island Stage

https://artsclub.com/shows/2024-2025/burning-mom

Cast: Susinn McFarlen – Dorothy

Creative

Mieko Ouchi Director
Patrick Rizzotti Set Designer
Kirsten McGhie Costume Designer
John Webber Lighting Designer
Kim Clegg Projection Designer
Ashley Au Sound Designer
Ana Camacho Assistant Set Designer9.
Rebecca Mulvihill Stage Manager 9.
Harlow Nguyen Apprentice Stage Manager

FUN

Palm Springs re-cap

“The past few weeks have been an incredible whirlwind of adventures, unforgettable moments, and unexpected surprises.

I met a fellow Capricorn at **Kaleidoscope** **Desert** just outside Joshua Tree.

As I look back, it feels like a vivid tapestry of experiences worth revisiting—and what better way to share them than through this post?”

Big Bird following me:

I visited Kaleidoscope Desert, a one-of-a-kind 5-acre animal and art sanctuary in Yucca Valley, just outside of Joshua Tree. This place is a magical desert artscape where you can meet and mingle with free-roaming animals including a Zebra, Emus, Mini Cows, Mini Horses, Peacocks, a 50-year-old Tortoise, lots of Dogs, Cats, Turkeys, Pigs, Chickens, Guinea Fowl, Guinea Pigs, and more! Everything on the property is donated or repurposed, but all the animals have a purpose.

With my longtime *fellow-ex-Montrealer* friend Natalia. She lives in L.A. now but came to visit me in Palm Springs. We’re at **Azucar** restaurant at **La Serena Villas**.

Natalia with the Hummingbirds:

Of course we can’t leave Palm Springs wthout the annual “**Wally’s Desert Turtle” Friday Fashion Luncheon** Here with Kathy, Tammy, Mini, Erika, me +Candy.

And I love that the models + musicians walk around the tables.

**Sheila Hamilton** (five-time Emmy Award–winning journalist and author) signing my “**PALM SPRINGS**” by Assouline hardcover book at “**Just Fabulous**.” The book is absolutely stunning, as one would only expect from this luxury lifestyle company that produces exceptionally crafted books.

Speaking of Books:

I thoroughly enjoyed joining the “Poolside Pages” book club. Especially with a fabulous group of women (and one man) in Kiki’s lovely home.

“**THE SNOWBIRDS”** was our last book. So appropriate. Written by an actual Palm Springs Snowbird. Photo: David Wallace Crotty.

Then there were several gatherings in various places for the “Canadians in Bars Getting Cocktails.” We allowed some Americans to join us too.

This was at **Canopy Wine Lounge** for their “**Jungle-theme Party**” It was a blast. With Kathy, Tammy, Mini + Ramona. Of course we get silly all the time sometimes.

Friends visiting from Vancouver. My late friend Colleen’s sister with her husband + daughter. By the way, we do eat too. *But the cocktails are so good.*

Went back to **Bar Cecil** with Kathy. She had never been. It’s very hard to get a reservation.

After attempting for almost two years to get together with both Libby & Megan (they’re busy women), we finally managed to have lunch. Here at the **Avalon Hotel & Bungalows**. By the way, *Orange is the new Black.*

Here are the links to the places described here (except Kiki’s house + the Hummingbird location as it’s outside a private residence):

https://kaleidoscopeprojects.com/

https://www.azucarpalmsprings.com/

https://www.wallysdesertturtle.com/fashion-show-friday-menu

https://bjustfabulous.com/

https://www.canopywinelounge.com/

https://barcecil.com/

Chi Chi at Avalon Hotel

Art & Culture

ART VANCOUVER

ART LOVERS UNITE

Art Vancouver, Western Canada’s premier contemporary art fair, is returning for its 9th edition from April 24 -27, 2025, at the iconic Canada Place sails (Vancouver Convention Centre East – Hall B). After a successful 8th edition, the 2025 event is set to bring together art lovers, collectors, curators, and creators from around the world to celebrate contemporary art.

Offering a curated selection of art from the West Coast and around the globe, Art Vancouver 2025 will continue its tradition of featuring a diverse selection of art, showcasing the talents of local and international exhibitors. The fair offers attendees the unique opportunity to experience innovative works that capture the spirit of the West Coast and International art.

More than an art exhibition, Art Vancouver brings people together. The event provides a space for attendees to discover fresh ideas, engage with gallery owners and artists, and experience the latest trends in contemporary art. With each year gaining more attention and participation, the 2025 edition is set to feature expanded programming, ensuring something exciting for everyone, from art professionals to art lovers.

Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time – Thomas Merton

Dates: April 24 – 27, 2025

Visitor Information: http://www.artvancouver.net/visitors-information

Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram: @artvancouver, Facebook: @artvancouverofficial, and X: @Art_Vancouver

STYLE

Pierre Cardin – fashion forward

FROM PARIS to PALM SPRINGS, fashion week welcomed the long awaited comeback of Pierre Cardin. The man famous for pioneering Space Age Designs.

BIENVENUE PIERRE CARDIN

Attending the opening night of Fashion Week on El Paseo was as usual, a blast. This one was literally a blast from the past.

The namesake Pierre Cardin passed away in 2020 at the age of 98. His great-nephew, Rodrigo Basilicati-Cardin, now runs the Pierre Cardin fashion house as its CEO and artistic director. He was in attendance and they brought him on stage at the very end.

Cardin style is iconic for its futuristic, avant-garde approach. The sculptured forms blur the line between fashion and art. I was curious to find out if the fashion week shows in Paris & Palm Springs were the same. As it turns out, the shows between here and there are not the same.

PARIS vs PALM SPRINGS:

While Paris highlighted futuristic innovative fashion, Palm Springs offered a tribute to Cardin’s history and a more intimate, celebratory experience. Both shows reflected the brand’s enduring influence but tailored their presentations to their respective audiences.

The prestigious Paris fashion week focused on the Fall-Winter 2025-2026 Ready-to-Wear collection.It embraced Pierre Cardin’s signature futuristic and space-age aesthetic, featuring geometric shapes, metallic finishes, and innovative materials like sea wool (crafted from recycled oyster shells and plastic bottles). The event was held at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, with a backdrop of the mirrored Geode, reinforcing the space-age theme.

Fashion Week El Paseo, Palm Springs: In contrast, the Palm Springs show celebrated Cardin’s legacy with a mix of archival Héritage pieces and the Spring 2025 collection. The event had a more nostalgic and community-focused vibe, benefiting local non profits like Shay’s Warriors. It included a special collection, Caftanes Galore of Mérida, crafted from vintage Pierre Cardin scarves, blending retro and modern styles. The desert setting added a unique charm, with models showcasing vibrant, flowy designs under the white tent. Jewelry by Stephanie Lake. Benefiting Shay’s Warriors – Life After Cancer.