Saint Pantone

The separation of church and state is a beautiful concept.  Not everyone needs to believe or not believe in the same religions, let alone same thoughts and life decisions.  Over the last few weeks, it seems like the separation of "church" and "fashion" is more of a blurred line.  Dolce & Gabbana have released an array of hijabs and abayas conjoined to their 2016 spring/summer collection.  This trend isn't new, especially seen in religious-inspired jewelry, especially from designers where religion and life go hand-and-hand, like Giorgio Armani's rosary inspired necklaces or Bvlgari's cross bracelets and rings.

Several years ago, a friend saw my rosary-inspired necklace, and asked a few questions about the rosary.  I explained the symbolism of the beads, their spacing, and the order and purpose of the prayers. She mentioned that it seemed kind of boring and repetitive.  To her surprise, I agreed.  You see, I believe that the prayer I offer while praying the rosary isn't primarily comprised of the prayers I'm reciting.  The bigger prayer at hand are the people, special intentions, and concerns that flood my mind and heart whilst praying.  Like the rosary was designed to be trance-inducing on purpose, allowing you to tune out the world and tune in to your prayers.

This idea isn't just limited to praying the rosary.  Tonight while at mass, my mind started to wander a bit.  And of course, the "retail" in my heart went right to my mind.  That's when I realized - the ceiling at my Cathedral is a perfect display of the 2016 Pantone Colors of the Year - Rose Quartz and Serenity.  The design could very easily be an Hermes scarf, the pool at one of Gianni or Donatella Versace's mansions, or one of many architectural pieces of the Medici family palazzi in Firenze.  Not only do I love the colors, but I love the mix of geometric patterns, lighting, and proportions.

Where have you found unexpected inspiration?  Do you have a favorite city or place that jump starts your creative juices?  What shapes your fashion foundationf?  Who is your muse?

Footwear: for the soul, for the sole

Chiudi gli occhi é imagina. Close your eyes and imagine. 

Peter Nappi's grandson was born in America, but his heart and vision are purely Italiano. Since 2011, Peter Nappi has lived at the most unassuming studio on Nashville's Adams Street in what was an industrial boiler room. 

Imagine old world Firenze, where cobblers hand carved custom foot molds, freezing in time and space the exact curvature, measurements, and every nuance of your feet to make the perfect footwear every time. 

Now imagine that same craftsmanship, that same quest for perfection, created in the warmest, most welcoming studio. There's nothing industrial about the service, the products, or the experience at Peter Nappi, a far cry from the building's previous life. 

Take a look at the beautiful leather gymnasium mats: 

To anyone else, they'd serve exactly their purpose. But to Peter Nappi, they become the most beautifully crafted footwear: 

I'd venture to describe Peter Nappi as intrinsically curated, but everyone associates "curated" with "museums" - and "edited" implies a strict regime, and I don't want those connotations. Imagine the most exquisite footwear, small leather goods and handbags all expertly crafted from luxurious leathers by hand in Italy. Belts, cuffs, wine totes, and key fobs are mixed with clutches, backpacks, and handbags, all to compliment the heart and sole / soul of the company. Peppered into the mix, you'll find the most brilliant collection of European home decor and gifts, including one of my favorite bath and body collections: the coveted Santa Maria Novella and eyewear by Persol. 

Stay long enough, ask the right questions, and you might even be offered an espresso or Peroni. 

I've never actually considered bringing a Kinfolk, bottle of wine, and the best antipasti available to just relax and enjoy in a store until stepping foot in Peter Nappi. 

Imagine a group of people so committed to their vision that they literally live the brand. Imagine a level of concern and specificity so great that no detail is too small. Imagine a welcome so warm that the front doors are literally always open. See something you like, but not quite? They can make it for you. Have your Nonna's old crocodile coat you're not sure what to do with? They'll imagine for you the most beautiful shoes, and accessories with the leftovers. 

Close your eyes and imagine the best. Now you're imagining Peter Nappi. 

Ti voglio bene per tutti. To care deeply and love, but not in a romantic way. Reserved for family, friends, and to those you're familiar. Intimacy without being sexual. 

Peter Nappi cares deeply for your heart, for your soul / sole.  

Big shout out to JJ for her time, her insight, and the incredible service. Ci vediamo a presto!

sexiest commercial ever

I'm obsessed with this commercial. And not just because there's an incredibly sexy Italian woman.

The Stupid Philosophy

I can't get enough. I have always loved the jeans. I know this campaign is old. But I don't care.

Sexy Soccer

I love fashion and football (that's soccer, for my American friends) - so when the two collide, especially with humor and sex appeal, I get pretty excited.

Loving Armani Jeans' new cinematic advertisements featuring Cristiano Ronaldo and sultry actress Megan Fox.





Take a look for yourself. Bravo, Maestro Armani!