coco & emma

Cocktails & Pajamas...and cocktail rings?

2012-01-13T14:07:00.000-08:00

What is it about Sofia Coppola? She has a fantastic sense of style, great taste in music and although some like to criticize her directorial work, I think she has a unique vision that should be appreciated.

Always on the best dressed lists, I had reason to pause when I saw this photo of her in Vogue. And reason to add this tear sheet to my "magazine file". I felt I would need to refer to this again someday (*). We see beautiful pajamas and slippers, which are the result of her partnership with Louis Vuitton. Paired with a clutch and cardigan, however, I assume she is off to lunch at the finest local ristorante? (this interview took place while she was vacationing in Italy).

Are Vogue and Sofia Coppola telling us that pajamas are not just for sleeping, dashing to the mailbox with bedhead and lounging in a bit too long on Sunday afternoons, I mean Sunday mornings ? Here is the answer:

Vogue leads into her quote stating that she is excited to slip into these pajamas when her neighbors come over for movie night."They are very hostess -at-home in the grand style of women of another era. You know, a beautiful pajama set with a cocktail ring and hair done. I'm usually not that formal. ...but getting dressed is part of the entertainment".

I think I'll sit this trend out.

(*) For a marevelous take on PJs as daywear, check out Slim Paley Her post today was a distinct reminder me of the consteration SC and Vogue caused me not so long ago.

Great weekend to all.

Sneak Peek: Metropolis II

2012-01-11T17:07:00.000-08:00

A Belated Happy New Year! Here's to 2012 being the best year yet for all of us. And additinally for me, 2012 will mark a renewed dedication to Coco and Emma. Bring it on!

This morning I had the pleasure of attending {with the fabulous sarah bowman}a private unveiling of a new exhibit at LACMA over which I am still marvelling: Chris Burden's Metropolis II.

As the artist explained, "Metropolis II is an intense and complex kinetic sculpture, modeled after a fast- paced, frenetic modern city. It refers specifically to Los Angeles, but an idealized Los Angeles of the future where traffic flows ten times the rate if does now. The noise, the continuous flow of the trains, and the speeding toy cars produces in the viewer the stress of living in a dynamic, active, and bustling twenty first century city".

Seeing the still sculpture was impressive enough and it is no wonder he spent 4 years completing it. But experiencing the installation in action, a bustling mini city before our eyes, was what all the anticipation in the room was about.

Still photos and my little iphone video don't do this exhibit justice but I thought it may pique your interest. Full appreciation and immersion can only be had in person. I really think this is worth checking out of you live in LA.

And for full disclosure, the lovely Sarah Bowman is my client and although this blog is not typically about things and people with which I am professionally affiliated, I do want to highly recommend her new site, The Family Savvy. A nicely curated site and an invaluable tool for keeping up to date on all of the great cultural goings on in LA for families and art loving people alike.

So glad to be back! Cheers.

The Great Cy Twombly

2011-07-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

About 10 years ago I did an about-face and fell in love with contemporay art. And one the greatest artists in this category, in my opinion, is Cy Twombly. His work takes on various forms: abstract, to minimalism, to pop; child-like scribbles, to smears, to orbital shapes.

With his passing in Rome today at age 83, it is only fitting today to celebrate his utterly unique life and impressive body of work.

Born in Lexington, Va. in 1928 and nicknamed, like his father, after the baseball player Cy Young, he received his higher education from several schools East Coast art schools. Throughout his life he was described as "idiosyncratic" which to me often means having a strong sense of self and resisting exterior influences.

Could his work as a cryptologist, deciphering hidden messages, in the U.S, military in the early 1950s been a source of inspiration to his art, which was often compared to calligraphy and graffiti?

He once stated that he practiced drawing in the dark to make his lines less purposeful. Many look at his work and think dismissively , "I could do that", but I dare any of us to try!

Before moving to Italy in 1957 (again going against the grain at a time when European artists were moving to the US), he shared a New York studio with Robert Rauschenberg (with whom he had a relationship) and Jasper Johns. The three were part of a new movement yet Twombly was relegated to a "shadow" position, hovering behind his two contemporaties. Despite the lack of love from many critics, the sale of his 1967 work "Untitled" at Christie's last year for $15.2M proved that the public thinks differently.

Ditto for the powers that be at the Louvre. He is the only contemporary artist invited to paint the ceiling (of the Salle des Bronzes), an honor he received last year.

Here are a few more of his works to enjoy:

I recall my Cy Twombly fandom increasing when I started to see his works enlivening many lovely home interiors - proof that his paintings are suited equally against a museum wall or in a modern or traditional home:

Photos: 1 - Dan Kitwood / Getty Images; 2 - Michael Stravato for The New York Times; 3 - David Lees/Time & Life Images/Getty Images; 7 - Francois Gillot/AFP /Getty Images; 9 & 10 - EscapeToNewYork; 15 - William Waldron/Elle Decor; 16 - Joshua McHugh/Elle Decor; 17 - Fernando Bengoechea/Elle Decor; 18 - Joshua McHugh/Elle Decor; 19 - Pieter Etersohn/Elle Decor; 20 - Grey Crawford/Elle Decor; 21-Thomas Loof/House Beautiful;

A Treasure Trove for Film and Design Fans

2011-06-20T20:41:00.000-07:00

My Fair Lady, To Catch A Thief, The Wizard of Oz, The Seven Year Itch.

I had the privelege of viewing costumes and props from these films and more as part of a pre-auction exhibit at The Paley Center. This immense lot, from Debbie Reynolds renowned memorabilia collection, represented just 1/7th of the treasure trove she has been amassing over the last half century. The auction took place this weekend and although I have seen a few blog posts of photos from the auction catalog, I thought it would be interesting to share photos from the actual exhibit.

(How I wish she had succeeded in her mission of securing the necessary financial backing to open up a museum.)

The star of the exhibit and one of the few costumes behind glass was the ivory rayon-acetate halter dress worn by Marilyn Monroe in The Seven Year Itch. You can see that, with time, the dress has turned from ivory to ecru. A small piece of the zipper and two snaps in the back are in need of repair, but other than that the dress looks to be in good condition given its age.

It was astonishing to see how small the mid-section of this dress is. I overheard the gentleman who put this exhibit together say that standard mannequins have a 23" to 24" waist, but special mannequins with a 18" to 19" waist were made for MM's displayed costumes. He said that earlier in her career she was quite thin, smaller than she appeared on screen and in photos.

Although a full list of "prices realized" has yet to be published for this auction, this dress, purportedly the most iconic costume in film history, fetched $4.5 million. This is a far cry from the opening bid of $1 million and the expected sale price of $2 million.

The remaining pieces on display were equally amazing to see up close: from truly iconic pieces in film history to lesser known items that showcased stunning detail and cratsmanship. Here a few photos from the exhibit:

Red sequin dress worn by Marilyn Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Made of a heavy silk crepe with thousands of hand-sewn sequins spiraling in every direction starting small at the top and finishing in large singular sequins around the bottom to allow them to catch the light from all angles. A deep split to high above the thigh caught by a diamond brooch added to the drama of this dress. The slightly risqué bust area once again fooled the censors by including a shear body-toned fabric from the neck right down to the waist giving the impression of nudity without showing a thing.

Saloon girl dress worn by Marilyn Monroe in River Of No Return. Gold charmeuse gown covered with bugle beading, red fringe accents, and gold velvet train with red netting.

Tropical print pink, black and white skirt, black halter top and hat worn by Marilyn Monroe "There’s No Business Like Show Business.

Beige floor length gown worn by Carole Lombard in No Man Her Own. Ornately pleated back panel and scarf, accented with embroidery wire, sequins, jet beads and seed pearls at neckline, on sleeves and tips of scarf and train.

Gold lame and emerald gown with train worn by Claudette Colbert in Cleoptra.

Judy Garland "Dorothy Gale" blue cotton test dress with polka dot trim and ivory sheer puff-sleeved blouse by Adrian from The Wizard of Oz. Worn by Judy Garland as "Dorothy" in the first two weeks of filming in The Wizard of Oz.

Test pair of ruby red slippers for Judy Garland, Wizard Of Oz. Arabian-patterned shoes covered with red sequins and beads lined with red silk. Worn by Judy Garland as Dorothy in the first two weeks of filming from The Wizard of Oz.

Charlie Chaplin's "Tramp" Bowler hat.

Model T used in several Laurel & Hardy films including Big Business.

Signature Stan Laurel suit.

Signature Olive Hardy suit.

Waitress uniform worn by Joan Crawford in Mildred Pierce. Great film.

"Flapper" style dress of knitted sleeveless top in varying blues divided by a diagonal ivory lightning bolt, and pleated skirt in grey wool and ivory sleeveless bodice. Worn by Debbie Reynolds in Singing In The Rain.

Tan chiffon sleeveless dress adorned with faux pearls and red
stones with gold metal chains. Worn by Rita Hayworth in Salome.

Two-piece rose crepe outfit of short-sleeve top which has heavy white wool embroidery, and knee-length full-pleated skirt with drop waist worn by Grace Kelly in To Catch a Thief. This is one of the most vistually stunning movies, in my opinion, and I hope the gorgeous blue chiffon dress is part of the next previewed lot.

Red-brown nubby jumper with ivory raw linen blouse. Worn by Julie Andrews in The Sound Of Music.

Audrey Hepburn’s iconic Ascot dress from My Fair Lady – Designed by legendary costume designer Cecil Beaton.

A magnificant costume. Two-piece biblical revealing gown, consisting of halter and long skirt both elaborately adorned with peacock-feather eye appliqués worn by Hedy Lamarr in Samson and Delilah. The gown was behind glass and resulted in a glare-ific photo, so this shot is borrowed.

For much more memorabilia, including an impressive collection of ornate period piece costumes, download the auction catalog here.

And stay tuned for round 2 in December, when an additional lot from the DR memorabilia collection will be previewed and auctioned.

All auction preview photos taken by Jill Crusenberry; each film photo is a still from the aforementioned motion picture owned by the respective studio; last photo and all memorabilia information from the auction house, Profiles In History

White Is Right

2011-05-16T15:39:00.000-07:00

Penelope Cruz is the lastest celebrity to grace the cover of Vogue and while she is here to promote the newest Pirates movie (which I have zero interest in), there is a nice interview with her accompanied by a beautiful spread courtsey of Mario Testino and Dolce & Gabbana. This is living proof that a crisp white wardrobe and a little bronzer is all we really need this time of year.

Oh no - my closet is a sea of black! I have some work to do.

The June issue hits newsstands May 24th.

Theysken's Theory dress

Rosegold raffia wedge sandal

Mulberry "Alexa" handbag

Anthropologie coin cuff

Sisley sun glow gel

Gorgeous

2011-04-29T13:47:00.000-07:00

I hadn't been caught up in Royal Wedding Fever but somehow felt compelled last night to set the alarm to sound off at 2:00 am. Events are some much more exciting when viewed live.

The whole affair was gorgeous and seemed to be designed to fit the bride and groom's sensibilities.
Kate Middleton's wedding gown, for instance, was fitted and conservative, a nod to the way she always dresses. Some are speculating that although the gown was designed by Sarah Burton, creative director of Alexander McQueen, the vision was all Kate's. Very reminiscent of Grace Kelly's wedding gown.

Pippa Middleton's dress was a showstopper: a heavy, ivory satin-based crepe, with a cowl front.

A lip reader determined that William told Kate she looks "beautiful" and quipped to her father that "this was supposed to be a small family affair".

A human moment: the ring started off a bit uncooperative.

500,000 people gathered outside to witness a set of kisses and 1,000,000 people were in the vicinity.

The happy couple leave Buckingham Palace and take a spin around the mall in Charles' Aston Martin. With roof down and just one security vehicle following, the couple continue to buck tradition and live their lives refreshingly on their own terms.

Congratulations!

Photos from BBC News and The Hollywood Reporter.

A Culinary Crush

2011-03-30T15:27:00.000-07:00

It is frightening to realize that it has been 6 (!) months since my last post. Intense work priorities arose and I took a hiatus from blogging, reading, yoga, cooking, etc. Over the last few weeks I have been able to return to a more familiar schedule and I am excited to fold back in the extra activities. I am most excited to return to COCO & EMMA and I look forward to posting as often as possible. If you haven't abandoned me, thank you!

Today I just had to share a culinary crush I developed this week on the cookbook, OTTOLENGHI. Ottolenghi is a cherished restaurant and gourmet market in London and the two men behind it have been kind enough to share their recipes. What makes this cookbook special is that the dishes are so fragrant and like nothing you can find in a restaurant outside of the original in London. The recipes are not complicated and only come with the additional need to convert Euro measurements and, on occasion, shop some local ethnic grocery stores to score a few exotic ingredients.

If a blend of Jewish, Persian and California cuisines sound intriguing, this cookbook is for you. As the forward states, "if you don't like garlic and lemon, flip to the back page of the book". I can only say that all of the dishes friends served at a dinner party last week were incredible and all of the dishes I have made this week have made my husband fall out of his chair. My friends and I are hooked and I think you will be too!

Diane Von Furstenberg: 40 Years In Fashion

2010-09-11T18:01:00.000-07:00

My last post on DVF's gorgeous country retreat brought to mind that this woman has been in the fashion design business for forty years! Four-Oh. Long time.

And if you've seen her Fall line, you'll agree that she is still at the top of her game. It is no wonder that her name is tossed around amongst a select few when calling out the most influential American designers of all time.

Let's take a look:

DVF's earliest designs (circa 1970) included pantsuits. Her love of graphic prints apparently dates back 4 decades. I wish this was a color photo.

The launch of the wrap dress in 1972 carried the slogan "Feel like a woman, wear a dress". Her preference as a career woman to dress femininely resonated with American woman.

Before the days of supermodel worship, DVF and her effortless style were what built her brand and inspired a generation of women.

By 1976, she was called "the most marketable female in fashion since Coco Chanel".

Somehow she ran a successful empire during the day (hard at work in her studio in 1976).

And had the energy to par-tay through the night. Snapped here in 1978 at Studio 54 by paparazzi-pooba Ron Galella. I suppose when you are in your early 30's you can run a successful empire during the day, stay out all night, and roll right back into work bright eyed and bushy tailed?

As her oft-told story goes, she was forced to license her business in the early 1980's as the market was inundated with wrap dresses and she with unsold inventory. With no creative control of the DVF brand, she left the fashion business altogether.

Never one to sit idle, she relocated to Paris in 1985 and ran her own publishing business. In 1990 she returned to New York and spent the first half of the decade publishing design books.

In 1997, inspired by young women snapping up vintage DVF wraps, she joined creative forces with her daughter-in-law and relaunched her business. And the rest is history.

Her (ex) daugher in law is Alexandra Von Furstenberg nee Miller. If you read Vogue in the 1990's you remember the Miller sisters - Pia, Marie-Chantal and Alexandra - they were in every issue.

She has said she updated the wrap dress for a new generation by making it slightly shorter and more fitted. Her revamped line also offers a variety of silouettes that suit the multitude of body shapes.

Each of her designs going all the way back to 1997, still seem timeless to me.

CFDA provided her their highest honor, awarding her the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005. I cannot imagine she anticipated the level of sustainable success that DVF 2.0 would experience.

I hope she never retires.

And I hope she continues to branch out. In addition to launching a new table top line (mentioned in my last post) she has made the leap to commercial interior design. Here she is in one of the rooms she designed for the Claridge Hotel in London. Of course the room is ripe with animal prints and pops of color! September 2010.

And more recently, as president of CFDA, she co-hosted the second annual Fashion's Night Out last night in New York. I am so thrilled that the event took place this year in Los Angeles, as well. It was spread out (as LA is) and I chose to hit the Beverly Hills pocket early. I am not posting because I left my camera at home!!! Needless to say it was fun and a much welcome edition to we west coasters who envy the New York Fashion scene.

DVF is the best.

Photos: 1-neal boenzi/the new york times; 2-roger prigent via dailybeasts; 3-via roberta e blog; 4-fransesco scavullo/newsweek via dailybeast; 5 - bert glinn via dailybeast; 6-ron galella via dailybeast; 7-jason kempin/wireimage via life magazine; 8-elle; 9-via pomegranita blog; 11-fall '09 ad via daily beast; 12-frazer harrison/getty images north america via zimbio; 13-imaxtree via in style; 14-stuart ramson/associated press via the new york times; 15-todd heisler/the new york times; 16-andreas bleckmann/travel and leisure. Information sources: the new york times; diane von furstenberg.com

Diane Von Furstenberg: At Home In The Country

2010-09-03T10:41:00.000-07:00

I feel like I just blinked and, voila!, my magazine basket is overflowing. Last night as I got serious and blew the dust from a few September issues, I came across a new profile of Diane Von Furstenberg's storied Connecticut home, Cloudwalk.

Cloudwalk has served as an idyllic country retreat for DVF and her family since she purchased it in 1974. The secluded property can be found only after accessing a long, windy country road. Behind this unassuming entrance lies flower gardens, a stream and a waterfall, a barn with chickens, and plans for an organic farm.

Five buildings orginally dotted the 100+ year old property and now two remain. One is the original 19th century residence, which has been renovated to house the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms for family and guests. The other, a former barn, now serves as DVF's personal sanctuary.

Images of her home have been published before, but here we see some new shots, vantage points, and styling. Proof that everybody's home is a work in progress with artwork and tableaus continually replenished and rearranged.

You know how I feel about books and shelves. She is a life long collector and says her entire life is housed right here. The sofa is inspired by ones in Diana Vreeland's apartment.

Her home is an interesting amalgam of styles, comprised of beautiful pieces she has collected

while traveling all over the world. The rustic, rambling Nakashima table in the living room mixes nicely with the straight lines of the sofa and the refined French deco chairs.

In the corner of her bedroom sits a petite 19th century desk and a modern chair by Salvador Dali. This chair was designed in the late 1930's to accompany his Leda Low table. The brass arms are shaped like a woman's arm and hands. The brass legs are very thin and are finely balanced on "high heels". It's a work of art and an ingenious design. I think if I sat in it I would break it or if I leaned the wrong way I would topple over. I am sure that is not the case!

The chair first appeared in his painting, Woman With A Head Of Roses.

And if Diana Vreeland and Salvador Dali don't add enough of a touch of glamorous history to DVF's home, how about Coco Chanel? The screen in DVF's beautiful bathroom was made by an assistant of Chanel's using strips of silk that belonged to the designer.

For as beautiful as her house is, she surely hears the calling of the 100 acres of unspoiled farmland that await her each day. What better way to enjoy the gardens, vistas, and chicks than to dine alfresco? Her table is adorned with items from her new tabletop line. Classic, yet eccectic. Just like her.

Very inspiring!

{photo 2 by the budget babe; photos of chair arm photo and Dali painting via DaliPlanet; all other photos by James Merrell; sources: Hal Rubenstein, In Style magazine September 2010 issue and the New York Times}

Feather Your Nest

2010-09-01T16:51:00.000-07:00

Trove wallpaper; Jackson Paige Interiors; Interiors Magazine

Nina Campbell wallpaper; Domino, The Book Of Decorating

Photo by Patrick Cline; Ostrich wallpaper; Lonny via Decor8

Anthropologie; must have

Ditto

Florence Broadhurst egrets fabric via Weego Home.com; I know, a bygone trend but I never tire of her artistry

Cote Maison

Front door of super talented blogger Lisa Borgnes Giramonti; I am sure you read her fabulous blog A Bloomsbury Life daily, as you should!

Photo by Fritz von der Shulenburg; from my copy of the book Decorating With Antiques

The Other Lady Day

2010-08-31T13:30:00.000-07:00

A tribute to one of the finest in the British Fashion world: photographer Corinne Day.

Emmy Awards Style - Who Nailed It?

2010-08-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

{Jon Hamm and Jennifer Westfeldt; Kyle Rover/Startraks Photo}

I am always surprised to hear people say, "there is nothing on television". Mini series such as The Pacific and shows such as Mad Men, Dexter, Weeds, Nurse Jackie, Bored To Death, Entourage, Breaking Bad, Damages, Top Chef, and Friday Night Lights are truly unique shows featuring intelligent scripts and stellar performances. Mr. Coco and Emma and I think that, hour for hour, these series rival most feature films in terms of quality entertainment value.

It was nice to see so many of these programs honored during last evening's Emmy Awards telecast. Let's face it, though: the Emmy's are all about the red carpet confections!

Thoughts on who nailed it last night:

Clare Danes in Armani Prive with High Dancy

{Photo: Kyle Rover / Startraks Photo}

Elizabeth Moss in Donna Karan

{Photo: Jeff Vespa / WireImage}

Jane Lynch in Ali Rahimi

{Photo: Jason Merritt / Getty Images}

Jayma Mays in Burberry

{Photo: Kyle Rover / Startraks Photo}

Nancy Juvonen in MaxMara, with Jimmy Fallon

{Photo: Kyle Rover / Startraks Photo}

Mariska Hargitay in Vera Wang

{Photo: Frazer Harrison / Getty Images}

Padma Lakshmi in Carolina Herrera (imagine with different hair and jewelry)

{Photo: Chris Pizzello / AP Photo}

Rose Byrne in Gucci

{Photo: Frazer Harrison / Getty Images}

Susan Sarandon in Donna Karan; Eva Amurri in Thierry Mugler

{Photo: Frazer Harrison / Getty Images}

Cheryl Hines in Zac Posen

{Photo: Jason Merritt / Getty Images}

via style.com.

The Brilliance Of John Lautner

2010-08-28T14:25:00.000-07:00

{Mitch Glazer and Kelly Lynch in their restored John Lautner home, NY Times}

There are few things more quintessentially Southern California than mid-century modern architecture. As so beautifully photographed by Julius Shulman, among others, the architectural movement captured America's curiosity in the 1950's and 1960's, fell into obscurity in the 1970's and 1980's, and finally found a long term embrace by a whole new generation in the 1990's.

John Lauther is one of a small handful of brilliant architects whose name is synonymous with mid-century modern. Following a stint with Frank Lloyd Wright, where he supervised such great works at Falingwater in Pennsylvania, Lautner ultimately relocated to Los Angeles and dotted Southern California with his own brilliant creations.

The late Lautner is in the news this week as the long time owner of his Beverly Hills creation, Shusett House has decided to demolish the home and rebuild. The great debate continues regarding the stewardship that should or should not come with owning a historically important property. Regardless of where you stand, seeing the labors of Kelly Lynch, Mitch Glazer and countless other residents who have purchased Lautner properties and chosen to restore versus tear down is truly inspiring.

The Harvey Aluminum House in Los Feliz. Purchased by Lynch and Glazer for about $1.5 in the late 1990's as a tear down. They instead invested another $1.5 million to painstakingly restore the home. They have been offered as much as $10 million for the property.

{All photos by Alan Weintraub via here; source: here}

The Chemosphere House, restored by Benedikt Tachen is Lautner's most famous and unusual concoction: Covered by Coco & Emma earlier here.

The Harpel House, restored a few years ago:

{All by photos Gary Friedman, LA Times}

And a nice collection of photos of some of Lautner's other homes which have been lovingly restored is here.

In all of Lautner's work, I can see the influence of Frank Lloyd Wright. Each home is organically designed around the landscape, to mazimize the views and to create a sense of oneness between structure and nature. Speaking of Frank Lloyd Wright, I found this fact-meets-fiction book to be utterly fasinating, a must read for Lloyd Wright fans and those curious about his tragic love affair with pathbreaker Mamah Cheney.

Now go have yourself a lovely Saturday!

Deft Leopard

2010-08-24T15:38:00.000-07:00

Celine

Although leopard prints are timeless, they seem to have reached their height for Fall 2010. The print has popped on the runways and in Harper's Bazaar over the past few months and they are downright ubiquitous in the September issue of Vogue. I for one am thrilled.

Talbots

Carolina Herrera

Mert Alas; Marcus Piggott

Photos 1-6: Vogue, September 2010; 7: styleamor.

Pamplemousse Design - Still Tres Chic

2010-08-24T13:15:00.000-07:00

Sheila Metzner, Vogue

I was so pleased to finally receive my very own copy of the September issue of Vogue in yesterday's mail and dedicated the early part of my evening to blowing through it from cover to cover. I should mention I had a grand head start, having leafed through the issue several times over the past week at the newsstand.

My biggest excitement was not provoked by any of the fashion spreads, but by the interior design spread of Reed and Delphine Krakoff's gorgeous home. Delphine is the creative force behind Pamplemousse Design, a firm I declared my admiration for here this past June. I knew nothing about the design firm other than the fact that this home and her entire portfolio took my breath away.

It turns out Delphine's husband, Reed, is the President and executive creative director of Coach. The home is a neo-Georgian brick and limestone 18,000 square foot home built in 1910 by architect Patrick J. Murray. Here are the photos from Vogue mixed in with the originals.

from here

Sheila Metzner, Vogue

from here

Sheila Metzner, Vogue

from here

A gorgeous library. And here are some more inspiring ideas on storing books with style.

Sheila Metzner, Vogue

A beautiful staircase and landing.

Sheila Metzner, Vogue

Check out Pamplemousse Design's sophisticated and timeless portfolio at http://www.pamplemoussedesign.com/.

Happy Monday

2010-08-23T18:44:00.000-07:00

Design and Photography by Central Station via Hyper Gallery

Hello again long lost friends! I have taken time off from blogging to get the most out of the tail end of summer and to focus on shaking up my work life. Regarding the latter: I'll continue to pursue that with great verve. Regarding the former: my summer travels and day trips are all behind me and I am now refocusing on visiting here more often. In a nutshell, I am back.

I am back, it is Monday, and it is a happy one as I recount the last three days...

Stepping back in time and dining old school.

Franciso Arcaute

Cole's, downtown: founded in 1908 it is the oldest dining establishment in Los Angeles. It is also one of two local restaurants that stakes claim to inventing the French Dip sandwhich. Finally, it is a filming location for my most obessed show, Mad Men. I love vintage barware and covet their martini glasses (think jazz age/thin man/miniature curved vessels). The barware reminds me of the antique store in Chelsea (name?) I used to frequent that has the best selection of antique barware. The shakers alone made me weak in the knees.

____________

Feeding our souls with music purchases at the greatest music emporium

Amoeba Records, Hollywood: sometimes downloading feels terribly impersonal

_____________

Feeding our souls more with Gastro Pub Grub

Boho

____________

And then running into our rock idols heading into a movie theatre

Dynamic duo, Kim Gordon and Thurston Moore of one of the greatest groups of all time, Sonic Youth, This picture is from dollyrockergirl. I would never trouble talent for a photo unless they were on the job. Mr. Coco and Emma, however, had no problem turning into geeky fanboy and stopping them to gush. That in turn made their adorable teenage daughter tease them. Teasing one of the coolest couples on earth? Only their offspring could achieve that.

We enjoyed recounting where we have seen them perform over the years. This one is for you BC, and I'll be as accurate as possible: Castaic Lake, All Tomorrow's Parties Los Angeles, This Aint No Picnic, Coachella, Arthur Fest, Coachella.

____________

Squeezing in Yoga Classes

just jared, not me.

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Spending the day on our favorite neighborhood street:

____________

Wrapping it up with Sunday dinner at home. More comfort food. I have made this recipe countless times and it is so good it makes me weep.

From one of my culinary idols via one of my favorite magazines here.

INA'S SEAFOOD POTPIE

Serves 4 to 6

1/4 pound unsalted butter

1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion (1 large)

1 cup chopped fennel

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

4 cups fish stock or clam juice (I use a combo of clam juice and vegetable broth)

1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 pound sea scallops, sliced in half horizontally

1 tablespoon Pernod

1 tablespoon kosher salt

1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

3 tablespoons heavy cream

3/4 pound cooked fresh lobster meat

1 1/2 cups frozen peas (not "baby" peas)

1 1/2 cups frozen small whole onions

1/2 cup minced flat-leaf parsley

As for the dough, I was asleep when my maker handed out pastry skills so I cheat and buy ready made pie crust.

1. Melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and fennel and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, until the onions are translucent. Add the flour and cook over low heat for 3 more minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Meanwhile, bring the stock to a simmer in a large saucepan. Add the shrimp and scallops and cook for 2 minutes, just until firm. Remove the seafood to a large bowl with a slotted spoon. Pour 3 cups of the stock into a measuring cup and discard the rest.

3. When the flour is cooked in the onion and fennel mixture, slowly add the 3 cups of stock, the Pernod, salt, and pepper and simmer for 3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream.

4. Cut the lobster meat into medium-size cubes. Add the lobster to the bowl with the seafood, then add the frozen peas, frozen onions, and parsley. Pour the sauce over the mixture and taste for seasoning. Pour into a 9 x 13 x 2 baking dish and refrigerate.

5. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375 degrees

6. Roll the dough out to fit the baking dish with about 1/4-inch overlap. Use the egg wash to paint the outside rim of the dish. Place the dough on the filled baking dish and press it lightly to adhere to egg wash. Brush the dough with egg wash. Make 4 or 5 slashes in it to allow the steam to escape. Place the dish on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling hot.

____________

As I did my powerwalk this morning with my fitness partner and recounted my weekend, I realized it is no wonder that my bikinis have collected dust this summer. Which made me wonder aloud: WWAHD?

Leo Fuchs

Just as you had thought: What Would Audrey Hepburn Do? I fear she would sternly tell me to stand up straight, increase my daily calisthenics, and give up my love affair with food. Fair advice? Yes. Realistic advice: yes, yes, and not so much.

Here's to living life to its fullest.

While The Cat's Away

2010-08-12T14:00:00.000-07:00

{photo of my pups by stefan studer, friend and talented international photographer}

I just wanted to give a big thanks to my house sitter and all the others out there who move in and give daily tlc to our pets, gardens, and homes while we travel. There is always a thought in the back of my mind that the sky will fall while I am away, but when I get home and see everyone and everything thriving, I just realize I need to get over my bad self. Thanks for your invaluable service and love, RZ!

{photos by Coco & Emma unless otherwise noted}.

Summer Vacation

2010-08-10T17:03:00.000-07:00

{Chesapeake Beach}

I cannot believe I have been away for 2 weeks. The old adage holds true, "time flies when you are having fun". My time off was marked by entertaining out of town guests (my husband's family) here in Los Angeles, followed immediately by a trip to Maryland to visit my family.

Do you have a favorite vacation that you repeat annually? I am especially fond of this trip where the entire group converges annually to family home on Chesapeake Beach. The view is beautiful, the beach is quiet and private, and it is impossible not to relax. Morning coffee or tea has never been so pleasant.

{Chesapeake Beach from the homestead}

The icing on the cake is that DC, Annapolis and Baltimore are a hop/skip/jump away. 1 - 2 day trips are managed each year.

If you've been to Annapolis you know the marina is beautiful marina and the charming historic district is rich with boutiques and olde taverns. We are always sure to arrive hungry and thirsty.

{a festive waterfront hotel and restaurant}

And if you've been to Baltimore, perhaps you too insist on stopping by for the best treat this wonderful city has to offer:

More specifically, the famed crabcakes that the star vendor, Faidley's, offers inside.

This is their offical recipe passed from a FOF, to my mother, to me.

Faidley's Crab Cakes
Serves 8
- 1/2 c mayonnaise
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 T Dijon mustard
- 1 T Worcestershire
- 1/2 t hot sauce
- 1 lb fresh lump crab meat, drained
- 1 c crushed Saltine crackers
vegetable oil

* stir together first 5 ingredients; fold in crabmeat and saltines; let stand 3 minutes
* shape mixture into 8 patties; place on baking sheet lined with wax paper; cover and chill for 1 hour
* saute crab cakes in oil over medium-high heat until golden brown, about 3-4 on each side
* drain on paper towels and serve immediately

Enjoy!

Youthquake!

2010-07-27T19:44:00.000-07:00

Until we can see the ladies of Mad Men sport Youthquake-influenced wardrobes, I thought it would be fun to look back at the the stylish young women at the center of the Youthquake Movement.

Jean Shrimpton.

{causing a stir in Australia for appearing in a mini and leaving hat, stockings, and gloves at home}

Twiggy. Diana Vreeland called her perfection.

Veruschka.

Penelope Tree.

Pattie Boyd.

With a nod to Mary Quant, Betsey Johnson, Marion Foale, and Sally Tuffin for their innovatove, mod designs.

{photos: Jean Shrimpton: 1 by Richard Avedon via HarpersBazaar.com; 2-3 unknown via retrogirl.com; 4: David Bailey; 5 unknown via nikkor.tumblr.com; Twiggy: 1 unknown via whatever.losito.net; 2-4 unknown via fanpop.com; 5 unknown via style.catalogs.com; Veruschka: 1 Photo: Franco Rubartelli / Condé Nast Archives via style.com; 2: unknown, Getty Images via style.com; 3: unknown, via fashionmodeldirectory.com; 4: unknown, Vogue via fashionmoment; 5: unknown via pixiedollhouse; Penelope Tree: 1 unlnown via hullaballoogirl; 2: David Bailey via hullaballoogirl; 3: unknown via pixiedollhouse; Patty Boyd unknown via somenotesonnapkins; }

Mod Reimagined

2010-07-27T14:25:00.000-07:00

I am in final countdown mode...eagerly awaiting the arrival of the September issue of Vogue. Past issues have often featured a spread with my favorite retro style: a blend of ladylike 1960's basics with the Youthquake Movement, reimagined for present day. Harper's Bazaar touched on it recently. Will Vogue go there again? I hope so. And if not, we'll always have Mad Men.

{photographs by miguel reveriego for harper's bazaar, scanned by coco & emma}.

Mad For Mad Men

2010-07-24T15:10:00.000-07:00

Do you remember life before Mad Men?

I do. One of my dearest friends works for an ad agency and she supervises photo shoots and print advertising creative for select feature films and television shows. About 4 1/2 years ago she told me whe was working on launching a new show that I must see: Mad Men. I thought, "what a strange name". And then she described it and I thought, "okaaay". Then a few months later the publicity hit and I realized why she was so enthralled with this show. And now I am too. How about you?

Season 4 starts, starts tomorrow. Aside from unparalleled scripts and incredible acting, I am, like everybody else, mad for the costume and set design.

I hear the costume designs this season will be just as glamorous as in the past, but we'll also get a glimpses of the characters in private moments looking not-so-glamorous. This season is also inching deeper into the '60's so we'll see some youthquake influences.

I cannot wait!!

One of the most fascinating aspects of the show for me is the metamorphosis of Peggy as she moves up the corporate ladder. Love her new do and hoping she can get a more fab. wardrobe tht can stand its own against Joan's and Betty's.

{photos: Frank Ockenfels 3 via AMC.com}

Coco & Emma Has Resurfaced

2010-07-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

Back after an unplanned 3 day hiatus. Had a very busy week and had to take a break from blogging to try and keep my head above water.

Wishing you all a happy weekend!

{photo via English Muse}

The Best of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week - Swim 2011

2010-07-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

As you know, I am a big fan of Marysia Swim's 2010 collection.

Now check out the new 2011 line unveiled last night at Swim 2011 MBFW in Miami.

I love the neutral colors, flattering lines and subtle details...ruffles, stripes, buttons, trim. From maillots, to bikinis, to more modest two pieces, the collection features designs for every body type and age. Tres chic.

Now I am ready to pack it up and head to a sun filled vacation in the South Pacific!

Mod Squad At The Beach

2010-07-19T19:25:00.000-07:00

I hope everybody had a fun weekend and a good Monday!

As most of you know, I am taking the interior of my traditional beach home slowly but surely from pure Nancy Meyers (or aspiring to be) to a more beachy modern aesthetic. So far I have sold or donated all the furniture and accoutrements with which I wanted to part. And I have completed the living room and part of the kitchen. I know this is an exercise in balance and I have started to get cold feet thinking that perhaps once my project is complete the interior and exterior may feel like a complete disconnect.

Flash forward to today, when at 5:00pm I called it a day and started cleaning my office, primarily filing all the tear sheets I have collected from the past few months. Voila! I have come across a favorite - a Pacific Palisades Cape Cod home with interiors that feature a decidedly modern edge. I now have the inspiration and strength to move forward with my plans! Thanks to the uber talented local design firm, Jackson Paige Interiors, and Interiors Magazine.

{rug from Rug Company, Minotti chandelier}

{extended headboard covered in Raoul Textiles}

{desk from William Sonoma Home, vintage chair covered in Donghia fabric}

{arne jacobson inspired egg chair}

{trove wallpaper, baker dining table, vitnage 1960's chairs}

Kristine Kamenstein is a master at mixing high and low, vintage and new, and modern and traditional. Perhaps that is why this Gemini loves her dual design approach!

A Beautiful Spanish Style Home - Marilyn Monroe's Former Residence

2010-07-16T10:00:00.000-07:00

Speaking of Marilyn Monroe, I just noticed that her first and last home, located in Brentwood, came on the market this week.

When I first relocated to Los Angeles, yes, I did a drive-by. What can I say, I was young, curious and star struck. At the time, the front gate was either open or was not covered with tarp so I had a view. And what did I see parked in front of the house? A Big Wheel! I was so excited to see the home, but I must admit a bit of allure was lost.

Now, I am so thrilled that we can all take a peek inside and see a beautiful and humble Spanish Colonial home with lovely grounds. No wonder she was so thrilled when she found this gem.

Today it looks pristine, seemingly untouched except for some respectful remodelling. I hope the new owners come with fabulous furnishings and style and continued respect for this abode.

The details: 4 bedrooms/3 baths; 2,624 square feet; 23,000+ square feet flat lot...huge by L.A. standards; kidney shaped swimming pool; yard; courtyard; citrus groves. $3.6 million. If the lot size is accurate, the price, quite surprisingly, doesn't seem to carry much of a premium.

Enjoy!

{via curbed la}