What can be said about Bob Mackie – also referred to as the “Sultan of Sequins,” and the king of Hollywood’s red carpet?
Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) 2025
For starters; his designs are synonymous with extravagance, glitter, and creativity, making him a legend in the world of fashion and costume design. ALL the biggest stars wear (0r have worn) Bob Mackie.
This wonderful and glamorous documentary, part of the Palm Springs International Film Festival 2025, was my personal favourite.
“Naked Illusion” celebrates the legendary costume designer’s six-decade career of iconic, over-the-top creations which earned him nine Emmy Awards, three Academy Award nominations, and a Tony Award. This delightful documentary offers a glittering cavalcade of Mackie’s celebrity clients including Cher, Carol Burnett, P!nk, and Tom Ford as they offer an inside look at his dazzling legacy. See trailer below.
And what a legacy he created!
THIS iconic dress worn by Marilyn Monroe when she sang “Happy Birthday Mr. President” to JFK.
There were a few surprises that the audience was not expecting. For one; finding out that Mackie is a grandfather and great grandfather. Finding out that this was a surprise for him too.
The world premiere of the “Naked Issusion” was held in May at The Paley Center for Media in Los Angeles. It was a legendary evening with Bob Mackie, Carol Burnett, RuPaul, Cher & Friends.
At the Palm Springs International Film Festival, Mackie was here in person and went on stage for a Q&A after the showing.
I’m lucky to have met Mackie on three separate occasions. His book signing for “The Art of Bob Mackie,” at the Annenberg theatre for a play about “Edith Head” and recently at the Camelot theatre before the “Naked Illusion”screening. He’s very down to earth, a gentleman and looks much younger than his 85 years.
Outside the Annenberg Theatre before the show. The actress (Susan Claassen) who played Edith Head is friend of Mackie’s. He told me that Edith Head gave him his start in the business when he worked as her assistant.This was at the Camelot theatre in Palm Springs.
Here are some of the more famous creations he designed:
Cher’s 1974 Met Gala dress: A sheer, sequin-covered, feathered dress that was so shocking it was banned from some newsstands. Cher later wore it on the cover of Time magazine.
Cher’s 1986 Academy Awards dress: A sequined caged top and a towering headpiece. When she came out and announced “I wanted to dress like a serious actress.”
Marilyn Monroe’s nude gown: The dress she wore to sing “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy.
Elton John as Donald Duck: Mackie dressed Elton John as Donald Duck, complete with a tail and webbed feet.
Costumes for The Carol Burnett Show: Mackie designed up to 70 costumes for Carol Burnett and her guests each week.
Also; let’s not forget about all the Barbie dresses he created. I saw them in Montreal at the Barbie Expo, Les Cours Mont Royal. My friend’s sister curated this event.https://www.psfilmfest.org/
This is my first fashion collaboration with Suzy Walsh, a fellow fashion enthusiast and blogger, who has contributed her expertise to the fashion and beauty community for over a decade. She reached out to me when my site grabbed her attention when searching online for fashion inspiration. How nice. Since I haven’t been keeping up my fashion posts as regularly as before, I invited her to write something. Starting with:
What to Wear this Weekend and Beyond. Creative ways to incorporate style and comfort for casual outings.
Choosing the perfect going-out outfit can be both exciting and daunting. If you’re headed to dinner with friends, a night on the town, or a casual meet-up, the right outfit can set the tone for your evening. The key is finding a balance between style and comfort to look great and feel at ease.
Creativity lets your wardrobe work for various events without breaking the bank. From bold statement pieces to timeless classics, the possibilities are endless.
These 9 stylish and versatile outfits are perfect for any weekend occasion and any time you want to step out looking your best.
1. Little Black Dress (LBD)
Image: avecamber.blogspot.com
A little black dress is a timeless piece that works for any outing. Choose one with modern accents, such as asymmetrical cuts, ruffles, or a backless design, for a more striking revival of the classic look. Add some metallic accents and bold heels for a very attractive ensemble.
Keep it in perfect condition for the next event by storing it on one of the luxury clothes hangers that keep the delicate fabrics protected along with the upscale sensibility of your wardrobe. Proper care doesn’t only make sure the dress lasts long but also gets ready for the next stylish outing.
This outfit is perfect for everything from casual parties to upscale events.
Denim-on-denim can be incredibly stylish when done correctly. Pair a light-wash oversized denim jacket with darker skinny jeans or a straight-leg fit for balance. Add a fitted top underneath for the perfect structure and style.
Accessorize with white sneakers for a casual vibe or ankle boots for something more elevated. A crossbody bag ties the look together. Consider a bold-colored belt or scarf to break up the denim tones and add contrast. Finish the outfit with minimal jewelry to keep the focus on the textures and layers.
For the evening, switch to heeled mules and a red lip for added glamour.
A satin slip dress exudes elegance and is very versatile. It’s chic with heels alone and an edgier look paired with a leather jacket. Minimal jewelry and a clutch would make the whole look very cohesive.
For a more relaxed evening out, drape on a lightweight scarf or cropped cardigan to add warmth to the look without compromising the style. The best part is that you can easily interchange it between casual nights out and formal gatherings, and it will never let you down.
Its lightweight fabric makes it a comfortable yet stylish option for long evenings out.
4. Crop Top and High-Waisted Trousers
Image: jeansandateacup.com
This combination gives a rather flattering silhouette that is comfortable and chic. Take high-waisted trousers in neutral or bold colors and pair them up with a fitted crop top and a denim jacket. For a final touch, define the waist with a belt.
Add block heels and a simple necklace to round out this effortless chic. These appeal well to dinner with friends or at rooftop parties, balancing what’s casual and sophisticated. When the evening gets chilly, bring a light jacket or a blazer.
It’ll keep you warm enough without compromising the style.
5. Oversized Shirt with Cycling Shorts
Image: whaelse.com
This sporty combination is perfect for a casual yet trendy outing. Pair an oversized shirt with fitted cycling shorts for a balanced look. Opt for a sweater in bold colors or patterns to make a statement, and add chunky sneakers for comfort.
Polish the look with a crossbody bag and layered necklaces. Roll up the shirt sleeves for a relaxed look, and slide the baseball cap on for that little athleisure touch. It is so easy to throw on, comfortable yet fashionable, and it becomes the go-to outfit for laid-back days.
6. Light Gray Sweatshirt with Leather Pants
Image: theannaedit.com
Pairing a crisp light gray sweatshirt with sleek leather pants creates a stylish blend of casual and edgy. Opt for a sweatshirt with subtle embellishments, like embroidery or textured fabric, to add depth and interest to the look. Tuck in the sweatshirt slightly for a polished yet relaxed vibe.
Complete the outfit with point-toe heels to balance the casual top with the boldness of the leather pants. Add a structured bag to elevate the ensemble, and incorporate layered gold necklaces or hoop earrings for a touch of sophistication.
Finish the look with a sleek hairstyle, like a low bun or straightened locks, to enhance the outfit’s modern, refined appeal.
7. Floral Maxi Dress with Denim Jacket
Image: theteacherdiva.com
A floral maxi dress is such an outfit that can flow smoothly from day to night. Carry a flowing maxi with natural beauty and style, pair it with sandals for casual outings, heels for evening events, a jacket, etc. Add a denim jacket for warmth and structure, especially on cooler nights.
Delicate jewelry can do the trick with dainty necklaces or bracelets for that touch of femininity. To finish the look, one can add a woven or leather handbag to complement the outfit’s color palette perfectly.
Add a light scarf or hat to set the season’s personal tone and charm.
8. Knitted Co-Ord Set
Image: fashion-agony.com
Knitted co-ord sets are perfect for a cozy yet fashionable outfit. Look for cropped sweaters paired with matching skirts or trousers for that stylish look. Neutral tones for the classic look and bold colors will make a statement.
Accessorize with ankle boots and a structured bag for a polished finish. This outfit is ideal for casual dinner plans or low-key gatherings with friends. Complete the look with natural makeup and soft waves for an effortlessly chic appearance.
With its comfort and style, this look is essential for transitional seasons.
9. Printed Blouse with Neutral Bottoms
Image: thriftywifehappylife.com
Add personality to your outfit with a printed blouse, neutral trousers, or pencil skirt. Use bold patterns to make a bold statement and understated bottoms to create balance. Finish with pointed-toe flats or heels and a structured bag to complete the sophisticated look.
It will look great in the evening and daytime when supplemented with minimum accessories. Add a Blazer with a couple of layers of sophistication whenever needed. Experiment with subtle jewelry or bold lip color to elevate the look further, making it versatile for various settings.
A bit about Blazers:
Blazers don’t have to be restricted to the office. Take for instance, a short leather skirt and a fitted blouse under a tailored blazer, which can be sleek and playful. Satin or sequin textures will add a hint of glamour. Add knee-high boots or sleek heels to make the outfit suitable for dinner or drinks. Pair it with a fitted top or lace cami underneath, and carry a structured clutch to elevate the ensemble. This makes it versatile to balance sophistication and fun, It can be a go-to choice for various occasions.
Pair a jumpsuit with a blazer as an easy choice that eliminates the need for mixing and matching. Choose one with wide legs, dramatic sleeves, or a standout print for added flair. Opt for rich fabrics like velvet or satin to make the outfit feel even more luxurious. Simple heels and a clutch for an effortless touch of sophistication are necessary. For more drama, add statement earrings or a layered necklace on the neckline to tie the outfit together. This kind of outfit is perfect for parties or lively social events, guaranteeing you stand out wherever you go.
Wrapping Up!
These going-out outfits help you feel confident and stylish for any occasion. Adapt them to your style to keep it casual, or dress to impress. Each look offers a perfect blend of comfort and flair, ensuring you’re ready for anything. The right outfit can set the tone for unforgettable moments.
Author – Suzy Walsh is a renowned fashion expert and blogger who has contributed to several fashion websites and blogs as a guest author. With her vast knowledge and experience in the fashion industry, She has become an authority on fashion trends and sustainable fashion.
Max Mara was the opening night of Fashion Week on El Paseo
I can explain later on
The appearingly modest Italian fashion giant is not something we usually equate with fashion week shows, where color and splendour are more the norm. However, Max Mara (most famous for its camel coats, of which it is considered to be the expert) is renowned for executing the art of simplicity. And as much as I love a glittery fashion show, the clothing here exudes quiet luxury – low key, unassuming, but incredibly well made, and designed to last a lifetime. That’s the best.
For me personally, I see myself wearing any (or all) of these outfits on a regular day-to-day (or day to night) as opposed to the clothes in most of the other fashion shows. Give me well-made timeless classics anytime. Something you can just pull out of your closet at a moments notice.
The charity for this event was Safehouse of the Desert. (providing emergency shelter, intervention and outreach services to runaway, homeless or other youth in crisis.)
Safehouse held a special tented pre-show event with a “Breakfast at Tiffany” theme. For this we obtained the tickets directly from Safehouse.
Why we’re still fascinated with Audrey:
The Belgian actress starred in 28 films over the course of her career, but none of her roles was more famous than Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The 1961 Truman Capote adaptation turned eating a pastry while window-shopping into a whimsical rite of passage and is forever synonymous with the generously browed actress.
Did you know?…..that Truman Capote wanted Marilyn Monroe to play the role of Holly Golightly?
According to Vogue Magazine: “She was Truman Capote’s first choice,” Sam Wasson, author of Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M.: Audrey Hepburn, ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s,’ has said “Another thing you may not know: Marilyn didn’t take the part in part because Paula Strasberg, her advisor and acting coach, said she should not be playing a lady of the evening.” Capote, author of the 1958 novella, was reportedly very, very disappointed that the studio went with Hepburn, saying, “Paramount double-crossed me in every way and cast Audrey.”
We cannot imagine a better actress to play that role.
FIFTY SHADES OF PINK on El Paseo was part of Fashion Week. Celebrating ten high-end stores along the fashionable strip with their diverse Spring/Summer 2024 Styles. With a nod to this Year’s Signature Color. The charity evening was to benefit *Girlfriend Factor (providing renewable educational grants and emotional support to adult women who choose to improve their position in life through higher education and occupational training).
I met up with 3 girlfriends and if you count our friend Dan; that would be 4. He graciously treated us to a pre-show martini at Pacifica and an post-show dinner at Il Corso. Dan’s a gem of a person who grew up with several sisters and loves being in the company of women; and we equally love being in his.
Dapper Dan, me, Tammy (in Norma Kamali from Chrissy’s), Kathy & Antoinetta (she didn’t get the memo but her gorgeous outfit is luxuriously timeless).
Pink is not just for girly girls. Pretty much almost everyone (maybe not redheads so much – but with a beautiful head of red hair, who needs pink?) can pull off wearing one of the fifty or more shades/tones. I’m actually not really sure how many shades of pink there really are.
I used this show as an excuse to wear my hot pink skirt (with beaded matching top); bought at a pop-up shop from a local designer in Vancouver (TKC Design Inc. – creators of indian inspired clothing and lingerie).
So………
With a spotlight on Palm Desert’s premier shopping boulevard here are photos from the show-with a few other colors thrown into the mix (because as much as we love pink; one cannot survive on pink alone).
Can we?
Participating stores include 120% Linen, Coco Rose, Eileen Fisher, Chrissy’s on El Paseo (my personal favourite), Grayse, Chico’s, White House Black Market, Athleta, Connie Robertson and Tommy Bahama. FUN evening!
Chrissy’s also has a children’s boutique across the street from their other boutique.
In 1970, a jet-set photographer by the name of Slim called up a socialite in Palm Springs and said “I want to come over and do a pool shot.Call some friends over.” Slim chance they’d realize then, that history was in the making.
I went to a Modernism Week talk recently at the Annenberg Theatre entitled “Wait Until You See: Slim Aarons x Palm Springs.” It was given by Shawn Waldron, author of the new book “Slim Aarons: The Essential Collection.” He also wrote Slim Aarons “Style.”
“Slim Aarons: The Essential Collection” is a colossal and luxurious hard cover book. One you want to leave on a coffee table or at least keep as part of your important books collection. Especially if you love fashion, style and all that goes along with it. The good life, with a capital “G.”
I always say, that aside from the home tours, parties and exhibits going on around Modernism Week; don’t overlook taking in one of the lectures. The informal talks are informative, interesting and significant to the story at hand. You find out a lot more than you already know.
Shawn Waldron stands by his latest book. At Grace Home Furnishings 02/23/24. Photo: d. king
For starters, I always thought that high society photographer Slim Aarons only took pretty lifestyle photos. However; we found out that he started off working as a photographer at West Point Military Academy and later as a combat photographer, following and documenting the horrors of World War II across Northern Africa and Europe.
After the war, Slim vowed to walk on the sunnier side of the street, opting to photograph girls not guns, bikinis instead of bombs. Good call.
With Nelda Linsk – now. Beautiful & elegant as ever.
Last night I went to a cocktail party and book signing at Grace Home Furnishings (Grace is named after the owners’ black lab). The ambience was very inviting at one of the most stylish modern retail and custom design studios I’ve been to. Founded in 2000 by designers Michael Ostrow and Roger Stoker; providing furniture, art, photography and more, including in-house personalized interior design services. I was talking with a woman who was extremely happy with the team who outfitted her home with “everythingGrace.” Delicious canapes and cocktails were being passed around courtesy of Jake’s (a restaurant in the uptown design district).
Among the attendees were the two owners; Michael Ostrow and Roger Stoker, the author; Shawn Waldron, Designer Trina Turk, and Nelda Linsk; who of course was in the iconic Slim Aarons “Poolside Gossip” which the photographer shot in 1970 at the Kaufmann House in Palm Springs. The photograph has had many reproductions and has since become as much a symbol of modernism as its setting. You’ll see a print hanging in many homes here and there. Almost every store in Palm Springs too.
Grace on the floor by a “PoolSide Gossip” print on the wall at Grace Home Furnishings . Photo: taken from their website.
No doubt you’ve seen the photo. Two attractive women sit in lounge chairs beside a teal-blue pool, looking fabulous and moneyed. A third, all legs and carefree attitude, strides toward them with a drink in her hand. In the background is a modern glass-and-stone house and purplish mountains. The landscape is idyllic. The sunlight is hazy and golden. You would live inside the photo if you could. (this paragraph was taken from The New York Times).
That’s exactly what I was trying to do last night. Live inside the photowith my new friend (we were so busy gossiping and the conversation was so mesmerizing that I unfortunately forgot her name.)
In 1997, Mark Getty, the co-founder of Getty Images, visited Aarons in his home and bought Aarons’ entire archive. In 2017, filmmaker Fritz Mitchell released a documentary about Aarons, called Slim Aarons: The High Life.
Nelda Linsk was a longtime friend of Silm Aarons and owner of the Richard Neutra designed 1946 Kaufmann House. Nelda hosted the impromptu party where along with friends, Helen Dzo Dzo (Kaptur) and Lita Baron, she would become immortalized in the world-famous photo.
The 3,200-square-foot home was once owned by Barry Manilow and Edgar J. Kaufmann Sr.
Palm Springs’s commitment to its midcentury legacy and architectural flair has allowed it to remain a sought-after vacation home locale well into the 21st century.
Imagine having no idea how celebrated you’d become over the years by having a cocktail with friends at your home?
Wedding season peaks in August and the wedding I attended in Montreal was beyond beautiful, as was the bride. Therefore I appreciated seeing these bridal dresses amongst the other fabulous fashion at the Barbie Expo.
Going to the Barbie Expo while in Montreal was not intended, but it turned out to be an added bonus. It’s the largest permanent exhibit of Barbie dolls in the world.
This is an haute couture Barbie Exposition, where on display is an array of the worlds most exclusive and unique Barbies. A space where fashion meets history, featuring some of the most incredible high-fashion looks you’ve ever seen. Have a sneak peek:
Designers include Christian Dior, Donna Karen, Armani, Ralph Lauren, Oscar De La Renta, Christian Louboutin, Reem Acra, Carolina Herrera, Diane Von Furstenberg, Zac Posen and many more.
Bridal gowns by Vera Wang. Monique L’Huillier, Carolina Herrera, Badgley Mischka, Bob Mackie and more.
Unfortunately at this time the expo is undergoing a renovation, but keep checking to find out when it will re open. It’s well worth the visit when in Montreal.
This one didn’t make it to market but I think she looks beautiful and I love the dress, especially with the cape.
Watch the virtual tour here: (if you get this blog via e-mail please click on the “Barbie Bridal” title at the top of page to bring you to the full website.
The Barbie slogan “You Can be Anything” is proof in itself. Over the years the brand has expanded to include ethnic, kitsch, celebrity, designer and now represents people with disabilities. They come curvy, petite, rounded and tall. They have it all. Their goth to glamour is shown here at their very own museum in Montreal…
Bob Mackie (whom I had the pleasure of meeting in Palm Springs) has a few cases dedicated to his super glam designs alone.
Growing up with Mattel
Mary Poppins + Mr. Dawes (Julie Andrews/Dick Van Dyke). I believe that’s Lawrence of Arabia behind them – looking more like Johnny Depp. These are all part of the Barbie collection.
Everyone knows Mattel because we all grew up with one of the following iconic brands: Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price® and more. At least these are the trademarks and toys I’m most familiar with. The company’s motto is to empower the next generation to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. I’m not really sure about the full potential part but the wonder of childhood I’m quite familiar with. Of course some of these toys make you think and have educational purposes, especially during the time of no cell phones. Mattel, the company, either owns or licenses these brands in partnership with global entertainment companies. Their reach is huge!
Morticia Addams + hubby Gomez with Frank Sinatra behind them. These dolls are all under the figurehead of the Barbie brand that includes a range of fashion dolls and accessories.David was nice enough to open the doors to show me around and this is the catalogue of around 1,000 dolls from all over the world at the museum – closed for renos at the moment. https://expobarbie.ca/
Gone are the childhood gender identification toys of yesteryear. But for me personally, it’s a wonder I don’t have any kids because my dolls were everything. I loved pushing them in strollers and treating them as if they were the real thing. Funny to even think about it now.
But then Barbie came along and changed everything. Baby dolls were pushed by the wayside to make room for seemingly adult looking dolls without genitals that you could dress up or down from wearing jeans to haute couture. It started out innocently enough but the fashion show soon began. Then came the friends, the sisters, the pseudo boyfriend Ken and finally the house, the car, the keys to the car and a condo in Florida just kidding about that. The clothes were a constant because she was very socially involved and couldn’t be seen wearing the same thing twice. Everything looked good on her too. She could rock a bikini and then change into an evening gown and look equally amazing. Her skin tone was very even, her polish never chipped and her hair perfect – but if not; you could always put a wig on her. She’s into the plastic but never had plastic surgery.
Legally Blondecrazy, right?
Get this: she has a last name! Her full name is Barbie Millicent Roberts as do her sisters; Chelsea, Stacie, and Skipper Roberts.
I’m a Barbie girl in the Barbie world Life in plastic, it’s fantastic You can brush my hair, undress me everywhere Imagination, life is your creation
My Barbie dolls went shopping, had tea parties and hung out in their perfect Barbie world. I never questioned whether or not any of them had jobs in order to afford their nice wardrobe and accessories. That was my parents’ department. I believe playing with Barbie(s) expanded by sense of style and the love for the colour pink.
Sandra Dee + Farrah Fawcett made it to screen but not to store.
What’s so interesting is that many dolls became less significant or faded away altogether, but Barbie became a mainstay – not only for girls everywhere but for Mattel; the manufacturer who launched them in 1959. The company was founded in Los Angeles by Harold Matson and the husband-and-wife business team duo of Ruth and Elliot Handler in January 1945. By now and especially since the movie, we know that Barbie was created by Ruth Handler. Barbie was named after Ruth Handler’s daughter, Barbara, and Ken after her son, Kenneth. And what a savvy businesswoman she was to create something that remains strong to this day and just as fashion changes, Barbie changes right alongside fashion. To put it clearly “All Barbies matter!”
some of the beauties that didn’t make the cut – you know it’s a competitive world out there!
So out of sheer childhood history and curiosity (not to mention the perfect casting) I went to see the movie with a few ex-Barbie doll playing friends. It was very enjoyable, the sets are amazing and the message is insightful. A real non-guilty pleasure.
This Bob Mackie designed Barbie didn’t make it to market either – but I love it! Something to do with the circus outfit on a swing.fashion mavens
Then someone posted on Facebook about a Barbie Expo (museum) that had taken place in Montreal. Since I was going to Montreal I wanted to check it out. As it so happens the expo (or museum if you want to call it that) was in re-construction mode and not open to the public. But lucky me; I had an in with someone connected to Cours Mont-Royal (the upscale shopping mall that houses the extremely well curated event) who was able to open the doors to show me around. It was fabulous! Way more interesting than I had ever imagined.
Once the expo re opens and you happen to be visiting Montreal or you already live here and haven’t been….put it on your list of “must sees.” Really – it’s brilliant!
Karl Otto Lagerfeld’s contribution to fashion is enormous.
The son of a wealthy businessman, he was born on September 10th, 1933, in Hamburg, Germany. Following his family’s emigration to France, he initially was educated at St. Anne’s school. Lagerfeld completed his education at Lycée Montaigne, where he focused on drawing and history. He made history before he died on February 19th, 2019 (aged 85) in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France.
Making His Story:
The latest Met Gala honoured the late designer, famous for giving re birth to Chanel at a time when fashion fanatics were starting to turn away from the classic brand in favour of more modern looks. Especially when Coco Chanel died in 1971 and the company was heading towards a fate of brands (like Balenciaga) starting to fail once their founders were no longer in place. Lagerfeld was determined to change that.
“I’m very much down to earth. Just not this earth.” – Karl Lagerfeld
He shifted the brand’s focus from fragrance to fashion.He ended up modernizing the classic pieces and making them once again, the most desirable in any woman’s wardrobe.
He also served as lead designer at Fendi for more than fifty years, as well as his eponymous line and a stint at Chloé and Patou.
Among his many talents, he was also a photographer, preferring to shoot his own ad campaigns. He wrote a book “off the record” – with photographs and sequences over the years shot in black and white. Often with models and costumes, his photographs are stylish, sensuous, literate, and full of fantasy and desire.
He was also the first to do a collaboration of 30 pieces with H&M in 2004. The entire line sold out in minutes, and led H&M to collaborate with a variety of other designers including Balmain and Moschino in following years. I was one of those to purchase a few choice fast fashion finds of Isabel Marant at H&M. Thank you Karl for that, and for my real Chanel treasures that I’ll never part with…because you made them desirable and timeless.
And now The Met Costume Institute’s spring 2023 exhibition will examine the work of Karl Lagerfeld (1933–2019). Info on A Line of Beauty:
Spring is in the air which makes us all want to lighten up and brighten up a bit more, especially with our clothing choices.
With clothing in general I tend to lean more towards solids and neutrals. I think it looks chic but ultimately easier to accessorize with jewellery and scarves. Here in Palm Springs where women dress in bold bright prints, neutral is almost considered a dirty word. Sheesh!
But whether it’s solids or prints we prefer, designer and style icon Trina Turk has us covered literally.
with Trina (middle) and friend Kathy.
I’ve always loved her colourful resort style aesthetic and even own a few pieces which always makes me feel more alive when wearing them. It’s quintessentially California (but really Palm Springs) lifestyle which captures a multicultural sunny mix of fabrics and playful pattern choices from short cocktail dresses to polished suits, bathing suits, caftans and more. Whatever the choice, it’s always eye-catching.
The Trina Turk flagship boutique is located in the uptown design district of Palm Springs. There’s another store at El Paseo in Palm Desert. Other locations include Los Angeles and Dallas.
There’s also a Mr. Turk section of the store for men who aren’t afraid of vibrant color, graphic prints or statement suiting.
opening night fashion week March/2022
I had the pleasure of meeting Trina twice recently. Once at the opening of the eclectic “Market Market” and last Sunday at “Very Vintage” in Palm Desert where friend and vintage curator Kathy Murphy presented Trina with an award for her contribution to Palm Springs style with her eponymous color driven Lifestyle brand. It was a great time seeing all the fashionistas, perusing the vintage vendors, listening to Trina talk about how she started out and finally, the fab fashion show.
Trina Turk clothing rack at Very Vintage outdoor market experience.
It’s always a pleasure to attend the opening night fashion show at Fashion Week El Paseo in Palm Desert. All the nights are great but there’s something special about the first night.
Photo: d. king
I was thrilled to get 1st row Diva tickets for “NARCES” by Nikki Yassemi from my friend Candy through her friend Bobbi Lampros; a giving sponsor for the five non-profit local charities benefitting each show.
Standing by a large cover of Palm Springs Life Magazine (a sponsor). Wearing vintage satin cocktail dress with lace trim and a mohair ostrich feather wrap (bought in Capetown years ago). Vintage Gucci kitten heels + matching clutch.
The show was excellent. There were even a few pieces that I could actually see myself wearing given the right occasion. And yes; these unique pieces are especially designed for a special occasion.
NARCESis a womenswear line creating luxury eveningwear, cocktail and bridal designs inspired by the romantic glamour and elegance of the mid 20th century with a distinctive modern twist. The silhouettes are strong yet feminine.
Photo: d. king
Designer, Creative Director and Founder Nikki Yassemi Wirthensohn brings her international background to her feminine aesthetic. She was born in Austria and grew up in Iran and the UK before moving to Toronto, where the brand is designed and made.
She was surrounded by design, art, and fashion all her life. Her mother worked with esteemed British tailor to the Royal Family, Victor Edelstein, who is renowned for having created some of Princess Diana’s most iconic gowns.
Photo: d. kingPhoto: d. king
From her website: The pieces are meant to be worn and styled in different ways to show individuality. From a voluminous-sleeve organza gown, which could be worn as an overcoat, to a dress that can be disintegrated into four pieces, there are numerous creative combinations. The feel is ethereal-meets-supernatural, and bodies are textural with hand-embellished flowers that are both dainty and bold with metal and spark.
Photo: d. kingPhoto: d. kingFriend Tammy in middle wearing a killer jumpsuit to go with her killer figure flanked by her friends Geri (L) and Valerie (R)Photo: d. king
https://www.psfilmfest.org/
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