Say It Right
"I didn't feel like I was a great beauty, but I did have a look and that look was mine"- Raquel Welch
posted wednesday, july 15, 2009 by trinity
tagged as: Great Quotes, Inspiration, style
July Jewels
Recently I was speaking with a close friend of mine who is a jewelry lover and designer about the most essential pieces to have in ones closet and she recommend that everyone own that "special" piece of Jewelry; something that when you put it on you feel a sense of empowerment and support, like a talisman. I completely agree with her. For her and for me as well, it's a certain ring. She said she tends to wear hers when she is feeling extra vulnerable or wants to be reminded of her power, plus she adores looking at it. It doesn’t have to be a piece of Jewelry, it could also be a pair of shoes, shirt or handbag. It just needs to remind you of who you are and give you an extra lift. The action of putting on that special item moves energy and sets intent. Plus it's fun finding that special piece and deciding what it means to you.
A couple of my favorite Jewelry designers of late are Jennifer Fisher and Kimberly Baker and for the most amazing costume Jewelry check out House of Lavande.
Q&A: Spider Veins
I have a question for Dr. Karuna: what can you do for vericose veins/spider veins?? I think my spider veins (which have become pretty bad lately) are mostly heriditary cause my mom has them bad :( , but does Dr. Karuna have any tips on natural stuff to do to help with them?
asked by cait on monday, june 22, 2009
show dr. karuna's answer
posted tuesday, june 30, 2009 by trinity
tagged as: Designer, Jewelry
Style Video 01: Shane
posted wednesday, june 24, 2009 by trinity
tagged as: style video
Behind the Scenes with Suzanne Rae
Trinity Rose: I would describe your line as on par with most luxe designers: beautiful craftsmanship and detailing, gorgeous quality fabrics and intricate cuts. However you decided to drop the price point a bit in order to open up the market to a wider clientele. Can u talk a bit more about that?
Suzanne Rae: Well, there are a couple of reasons that I wanted to drop the price point. First of all, not everything can be "luxury." And while I enjoy luxuries as much as the next person, I think that the concept of luxury has gotten out of hand, which is why we are in our current economic situation. So I've worked on finding alternative solutions to maintaining the beauty and quality of my pieces while lowering the price point so as to increase the VALUE. Plus, I don't want to be discriminating or snobbishly exclusive. I think that lowering the price point makes Suzanne Rae more accessible to a broader population. It's part of my philosophy. I design with the purpose of creating an empowering and liberating experience through the wear of my clothing, and I'd like as many people as possible to feel as such--for the sake of them-selves and for the sake of society.
TR: You have a background in art and feminine studies as well as fashion design correct? How does that background influence your work and creative process?
SR: Hmmmm... I do have a background in art and women's studies, both of which certainly do influence my design process. As I mentioned earlier, I seek to create an experience through the wear of clothes, an experience that is progressive towards the evolution of society, that is, of our-selves as human beings. This progression includes working towards the core values and beliefs of feminism, i.e. equal opportunity, equal pay, equal rights in general. So, in my line I consider the notions of both feminism and femininity. Each collection is an exploration of the multiple juxtapositions of a woman’s being and a translation of these abstract ideas into tangible garments, which I aim to be thought provoking... I suppose this way of thinking is where the art background comes into play. I also have a background in economics, which is also perhaps why my design purpose is like a sort of social science obligation.
TR: Can you speak a little about your design process?
SR: In regard to my own design process, yes, I have a hand in every aspect. I recently learned that a lot of artists have an idea, or a design, and then hire someone or a team of people to put it together. Maybe it's because I'm not there yet, but unless I touch and check every detail, I don't feel like it's my own. That's all. Plus, I love every step, from the daydreaming to the drawing to the draping and patterns to the sewing particulars. This is, after all, why I wanted to have my own line.
TR: One of the things I love about your collections is that there tends to be pieces for all different body types. I have even seen some of your pieces look great on one person who was stick thin and another woman who was much curvier. Is this something that happens by default or do you intend for your designs to work on different body types? Can you tell me your thoughts in regards to designing for different body shapes?
SR: I do try to design for different body types; it's important to me. I thank you for noticing this, as it's not an easy task. If I weren't conscious about it, I suppose I'd just design for my body type since that's what I'm most familiar with. But the female body is so beautiful; it's a wonder of nature, and yet it's unnaturally associated with certain taboos. Such notions inspire me to experiment with exposing, concealing, and/or enhancing different parts of the body in both metaphorical and literal ways.
TR: I read once that Martin Scorsese use to listen to the stones while writing new scripts; he found their music to be very inspirational over the years. Do you listen to music while creating and do you have a certain musician or group that you find most inspiring?
SR: For sure. I love music. I put music on as soon as I get up in the morning. I listen to all different things, depending on my mood, depending on my inspiration, depending on what I'm looking for. I am however, a big Stereo Lab fan and have been for years. I am comfortable saying that I really like French music in general. There is a certain je ne sais quoi about it. Hahaha. But I've also turned into quite a T. Rex fan over the past 5 years. I got into them while looking for music for a project I was working on while I was at Parsons. Interestingly enough, I've done an interview on fashion and music for Riffin.com and put up a beautiful little play list on the site.
TR: Can you talk a bit about your current collection and where the inspiration comes from?
SR: My fall winter 09 collection started out being inspired by Kathryn Hepburn: her style sense was so feminine and strong in a way that is traditionally considered masculine. It was really smart. It's admirable the way she carried herself...and I'm proud to say she is also a product of Bryn Mawr College. She wore both dresses and pants really well, and so in designing the collection I started playing with different skirt and pant silhouettes, and then combining and layering the two. In general, I play a lot with layering transparent and opaque fabrics, so it was a sort of natural progression.
TR: I love the topic of inspiration, so I have to also ask what has inspired your next collection?
SR: I'm super excited about my next collection. While I’m always inspired by the hearts and minds of my amazing friends and all that I surround myself with, this next collection is almost a direct product of what my most recent conversations have been. I've had discussions with different friends and acquaintances that have all, coincidentally or not coincidentally, pointed in the same direction that my spring summer 10 collection intends to explore. It's as though everyone that I meet, run into, or hang out with teaches me something or even just says something that adds to the collection. I can't really explain it fully without giving away all the ideas, but it's really wild. It's amazing, and I can't wait to share it with you.
TR: Any interest in designing a men’s line?
SR: Yes! One day...but I can't spill all the beans now. :)
For inquiries contact info@suzannerae.com
posted tuesday, april 28, 2009 by trinity
tagged as: suzanne rae, style, Interview, Designer
Behind the Scenes
Sometimes when I am sitting at my desk, working a bit too seriously, a random thought will cross my mind that will make me laugh out loud. Behind the scenes at Illume we are often laughing and pleasantly amused at the connections between how we both work with Fashion and Medicine.
Last week, I had a flashback of a conversation I had with Trinity about my newly purchased pair of tan vintage boots – a color and style I have never worn before. At the end of an Illume phone meeting I asked her what I thought would be ‘a simple’ question on what my new boots would match best with, if I could wear them with gray tights or black clothes. The following is a playback of her response to me:
“What kind of tights? What color gray are they? Are they knit, sheer, patterned, solid? Can you not wear tights? Black? Black what! What material are we talking about? What shade of black? Tan could look great with black, but it also could look horrible. Wait….are you thinking of wearing black jeans with them or are we talking about a black dress? Where are you going to wear this outfit too? Honestly, I would have to see the outfit on you with the boots. Karuna, an apple is not just an apple right? It depends on who is eating it? Well, boots aren’t just a pair of boots!”
I forget that when you ask an expert, you get expert advice! I thought I was looking for a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer not taking into account that just because something is beautiful in the box that I could just put them on and they would automatically be beautiful on me.
Similarly and very comically, Trinity recently called me from lunch at restaurant to ask me a ‘quick’ health question about whether shrimp would be a good new food for her to try? Here was my response:
“Do you know if you are allergic to shrimp? Shrimp is heating, what are you eating it with? How is it cooked? What is the temperature in NYC? Can you have it with some bitter greens to help with its digestion? Is it farm raised shrimp? Jumbo shrimp, baby shrimp? Dressing? What did you eat for breakfast? Trinity, if you are going to eat shrimp for the first time, only eat a few!!!”
What I love about the way Trinity and I work together is that she can give me the fashion lens to look through and I can give her the one on health. Our view is very synergistic. Patients often come to me and say, “I am eating _________” because I read it was ‘healthy’. I let them know that a certain food is only ‘healthy’ if it is ‘healthy’ FOR YOU! Even too much kale can be hard on the digestion.
I have seen Trinity work with clients the same way, oftentimes people will tell her that they heard that a certain style of clothing is ‘in’ and so they buy it and wear it. Yet, ‘black leather pants” may not be the right style for “YOU”, regardless of what is said ‘out there’ or how good it looks on the hanger!
What is healthy and fashionable is very individual based on one’s body type and overall constitution and preference! Of course, wear what you love and eat what you love……and if you want the fine tuned details…….you know who to call!
posted tuesday, april 14, 2009 by dr. karuna
tagged as: Individual, health, Fashion
Blossoming
In honor of earth month I thought I’d share with you some Eco goodness that is going on:
First off, in honor of Earth Month, Origins has launched a lovely campaign to encourage people to recycle their old beauty product containers. The “Return To Origins Recycling Program” is a first of its kind nationwide cosmetics recycling program. Anyone who brings their empties regardless of brand into any of Origins 450 locations nationwide throughout the month of April will receive a free sample of A Perfect World. This continuous program will collect previously un-recycled beauty product containers like shampoo bottles and lipstick containers and submit them to either be recycled or responsibly converted to energy.
Also I thought this month a good time to bring attention to some of my favorite Eco-friendly, earth conscious designers. Such as: Big Buddha; a young bag maker started this company out of Santa Barbra while still in college. He produces affordable, stylish cow and eco friendly Bags. Bahar Shahpar, a multi talented Nyc designer and founder of the Eco friendly Show Room Four Hundred. I also am a fan of Sublet and for the best organic jeans checkout London's famous MiH jeans, they are amazing!
Below Dr Karuna shares some inspirational words of wisdom on Spring delights:
It's Spring! From the fragrant night blooming jasmine outside to the luscious blossoms on my tree lined street the tenderness of this time is upon us.
One of my favorite things about this time of the year, and there are many, is that it is muscat grape season in California. Muscat grapes have a distinct floral aroma and are an experience everyone should have at least once. I only tried them for the first time a few years ago and would say that they are now my favorite fruit. Most people have not tried muscat grapes, but have had sweet port wine made from them instead. Delicious.
Of course, in order to experience this beauty of Spring, some of us must experience the health issues that come with the fresh bloom. It's important to look to nature for what is the best medicine, what is in season is usually what is going to help us the most. The easiest way to do this is to go to your local organic farmer's market. You get the beautiful opportunity to support your local farmers and also easily choose foods that are the best for you to eat at that time. This season's first greens are tender bitter ones such as dandelion, sorrel and baby asparagus to name a few. Bitter is the taste that the best to add into your diet right now. Bitter helps burn away the winter stagnation and allows you to naturally cleanse.
Take time to experiment and try a new vegetable or fruit. Spring is a time of new growth and beginning. This season naturally call forward new perspectives and experimentation. Going to the farmer's market is always a joyous experience and breath of fresh air for me. During these times of city living and advanced technology, the farmer's market allows us to connect to the earth and to the food that we are eating. Each stand has a different tone and the farmers all have pride in the hard work they have put forth to produce their crops. Hand picking your two perfect apples is a delight and that experience stays with you when you choose to eat them days later.....and let me tell you, food from the farmer's market tastes so much better!
posted tuesday, april 7, 2009 by trinity & dr. karuna
tagged as: Eco Designers, Blossom, Origins
Not in Fashion
The other day while strolling along, enjoying the first real warm spring day with the lovely Frances, she pulled on my arm as we passed the The Journal Gallery announcing that we "must go in and say hello to Mark." I had no idea who Mark was but quickly learned he is the super talent fashion photographer Mark Borthwick married to downtown designer Maria Cornejo.
He had just had an opening the night before and was there amongst an abundance of yellow daffodils, old Polaroid’s and writings on the walls! As he and Frances chatted a bit I began to dig through a bin of Polaroids sitting on the counter.
I love Polaroids and was a bit heart-broken when on the eve of the product's 60th anniversary, Polaroid announced that its namesake instant film was being discontinued. I even love that odd smell Polaroid’s tend to have.
Anyway, as I was digging in this bin of delightful captured moments in time, Mark came over and started sharing stories behind each of the various shots. Like the one of Kim Gordon’s feet spiraled in what looked like smoke but was actually a pair of chiffon pants swirling her ankles, and of the self portrait of him and “Chan” aka Cat Power so many years ago and and and…! Ahhh Yes, for the love of Polaroid’s and instantly captured memories!
Anyone who is in the vicinity of The Journal Gallery on 168 North 1st street in Williamsburg should absolutely stop in and take a look at this wonderful man's work. I believe the show is only up through the end of this week. I walked out of there with the original Polaroid of one of his more famous photos and his book “Not In Fashion”. I am not an art critic by any means so I won't attempt to dissect his book or Art work for you, but I will tell you what I felt: which was a freedom of expression of his true nature, and a genuine love for beauty. All things inspiring…
Q&A: Back to basics
What are the essential pieces for a brand new wardrobe?
asked by eve s. on monday, march 30, 2009
show trinity's answer
posted monday, march 30, 2009 by trinity
tagged as: Mark Borthwick, Fashion, Polaroids
She Said it Best!
When she said: "Clothes, accessories and make-up are a critical extension of who a woman is and how she feels. Whilst they may appear superficial, internal and external beauty combine to bring out the essence of a woman. A womans’ love affair with clothes, shoes and handbags is real - what you wear and how you put it together does make a difference. It changes how you feel as a woman and it says something to the world about you. Style comes from a place of self-love, knowing who you are and letting the world see it rather than hiding behind safe, boring or trendy. Surrounding yourself with beauty feels amazing. Having the tools and tricks of the trade regardless of budget is an important part of a female tool kit - Body Image plays such a big role in a woman’s life. Women can be supported with ideas and information that is not prescriptive, but rather brings out their own essence and core. Its time to be truly creative - In the words of Uber stylist, Tim Gunn, clothes should be ‘soul stirring’. And they should not be saved for special occasions only... Every day is an occasion when you learn to relish the moment that is."
- Elli Julia of B.A.B.E.
posted saturday, march 21, 2009 by trinity
tagged as: Great Quotes
Springing to Life
I love spring, and I'm certain it's finally on its way! I seriously think I can smell it in the air. I happen to be moving apartments this month just in time for a good spring closet cleaning. I love changing out my closet: pulling out the fresh colors, along with the lighter weight materials and packing up those bulky winter items. Plus it's the perfect time to spread the love by donating those pieces I rarely wear. I find it helpful to ask myself “When was the last time I wore this, and am I really gonna wear it again?” If its been a long time and the answer is "Errrrr maybe": time to pass it on. I've already started dusting off my summer heels, excited to frolic around in them in the warm Nyc nights soon to come. I usually put on what ever song is inspiring me (this time I'm sure it will be Walking on a Dream by Empire of the Sun, most likely super loud and on repeat) and rock out while I clear out the old and make room for a fresh and clean spring summer wardrobe. Whether it is new pieces from one of my favorite boutiques, or one of last years treasures, perhaps slightly altered for an updated look: the process of making room for new and throwing out the old feels truly splendid. Its never boring going through this process with clients for the first time, the amount of reservation and how difficult it can be for them to let go of clothes they rarely wear or haven't worn in a decade is quite common. Usually they just need a little bit of motivation and some cheerleading from yours truly. Once the process begins it typically gets easier and easier, and often affects them in other areas of their life as well. Streamlining does a person good! Especially in the state of the world right now; I think it's important time to streamline and make purchases that are gonna' last, and that are truly right for the individual. Excess consumerism is out! Quality not Quantity is in! The peaking summer sun is a reminder that bikini season is nearing and I for one plan on spending as much time as possible soaking up the sun on my amazing new roof top patio. The thought of this has me all inspired to get fit and do some body cleansing. Fortunately for me Dr. Karuna and my Pilates instructor are gearing me up to go. Out with the old in with the new! Spring is on its way wheeeeee!
Q&A: Flaky head no more.
I have had dandruff on and off for a few years. I notice that this problem seems to get worse in the winter. I have tried over the counter shampoos, but nothing seems to help. Is there anything you could suggest to help me to deal with this?
asked by sara m. on monday, march 16, 2009
show dr. karuna's answer
posted wednesday, march 11, 2009 by dr. karuna
tagged as: Illume News
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