spruced by marlene

*I’ve written about my love for The Gentlewoman before. But I need to write about it again, because it just gets better with every issue. The kind of magazine that makes you want to switch off your phone, close the laptop, shut the door and sit to read and admire. Right now especially, when images from the various fashion weeks are firing from all directions, this is soothingly calm by comparison, a well-edited, unfussy, smart and interesting magazine. Oh, and this image of St. Vincent from a feature about her just kills me. I only recently discovered her music and “Cruel” is already a favourite (that video!).

*Speaking of fashion weeks. With all there’s been to see from New York, London and Milan, one of the collections I still remember the most is the one by, yes indeed, Victoria Beckham.

*I did go to London for the shows for a few days and the scene outside the venues is crazy with street style photographers and people posing for them (case in point: I was almost run over by Tommy Ton getting this shot. Weirdly, it almost felt like an honour). That rush is exhilarating just as much as it’s maddening: everybody ends up taking the same pictures and the originality of discovering a great outfit or style on someone feels lost. The New York Times has this interesting article about the huge business that street style has become.

*With all the sartorial nuttiness that goes on during fashion week, I love seeing someone truly inspiring. Someone like Donna Wallace. Here’s a look at her style.

*Something to take you away for two minutes: Valentino designed the costumes for the New York City Ballett’s premiere of Bal de Couture, New York Magazine has the images from backstage and the performance.

*So, have you started buying Christmas presents, yet? If you’re like me, you won’t for another three months. Although that might change this year, because J. Crew are offering free delivery and duty free shopping until December 30.

*For inspiration: the Jenna “The J in J. Crew” Lyons look book.

*And while you’re there, check out the Katharine Hepburn look book, too. Swoon.

*I cannot wait for this book to come out. Grace, a memoir by Grace Coddington.

*And finally, a favourite new blog: Ida Laerke.

*And finally, finally: This song. Turn it up. Have a good week!