The Simply Luxurious Life's Newsletter 32

Published: Fri, 01/21/11

 

      "I never think of myself as an icon. What is in other people's minds is not in my mind. I just do my thing."


 
-Audrey Hepburn

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
No. 32                                  Friday, January 21, 2011  


A
 
s Judy Garland reminds us all, "Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of someone else," and while this is almost immediately acknowledged as a universal truth, the true question is, do you have the strength to be yourself?
 
It's easy to be yourself when those around you like who you are and support who you want to become, but what if you're trying to be authentic and nobody wants to accept it?
 
I can remember an instance in a class I was teaching in which one of the students had just recently cut her hair to resemble that of Twiggy. It was truly flattering and very distinguishable, but it was different from what the other girls were sporting.  About two weeks after she had proudly walked in the room with her new cut, she stated she wished she could cut it all off. I could sense the lack of confidence and insecurity. The person who she truly was was the girl wearing the pixie cut, but it was easier being like everyone else - she didn't stand out in the latter example.  She didn't have to be strong and self-confident on a daily basis. 
 
The same is true for each one of us.  It is easier to behave, look and act like those around us, but is it really us then? Being the first-rate version of who you truly are is very empowering and freeing.  While it may be difficult at first, with time our own confidence builds because it truly is more comfortable walking around in our own skin rather than wearing an ill-fitting version that was tailored for someone else.
 
If the support system isn't there to uplift you and support you in a positive manner, a new support system may need to be sought out.  That also takes strength, but just know I support you from a distance. You have a cheerleader in me because authentic people are happier and more tranquil due to the peace they eventually are able to find by being who they are destined to be if they choose to pursue and use the talents they are given. And as for the student I mentioned above, I may have been her English teacher in that class, but I had to put my stylist hat on for a moment (or two) to reassure her that what she was doing by being herself would be one of the best gifts she could give herself. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In this week's newsletter I'm excited to introduce you to a blogger who consistently displays images of unique and inviting interior design and architecture.  Simplistic and original, as well as intriguing and beautiful. From the island of Crete, do stop by and introduce yourself to Eleni of My Paradissi. I have a feeling you will enjoy, as I have. 
 
Also, Why Not . . . Create Your Own Signature Style? wrapped up this week with its third segment which was the highest viewed segment in history on The Simply Luxurious Life . If you haven't had an opportunity to check it out, I think you might be intrigued as we all deserve to let our unique self shine and an opportunity presents itself every day. The second part in the series was included in this week's Links a la Mode of Independent Fashion Bloggers, and I am thrilled to be included. Owning our style and letting it help us each convey the message we want to present is a tool that all of us can utilize.  With the help of some great resources, I've tried to simplify how we can discover what is our signature style and exactly how to express it in our individual way.
 
Style has been on my brain lately with a handful of projects that are in the works, and with Fall Fashion Weeks around the corner in February I am getting exciting to see all of the new collections come to life. The Golden Globes this past week pacified me for a while, however, as I saw some of the fashions that graced the runways this past summer and fall. I've listed my favorites in Golden Globes 2011 Red Carpet, as well as many honorable mentions - a very fashion forward night indeed. And I can't help but mention one more post that seemed to spark much approval from readers this week, as this style icon is an inspiration to me and so many others - Rules of Style - Audrey Hepburn. I don't believe I have to say any more. 
 
, I hope this week has treated you well, and you are looking ahead to a weekend full of fun and entertainment, rest and reading, or playing everything by ear.  No matter what your plans entail, I wish you a couple of lovely days to do as you please. Until next week, I'll see you on the blog. Thank you for subscribing to The Simply Luxurious Life newsletter.

 
-Shannon
 
 
 EXTRA FASHION & DESIGN POSTS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Articles from Around the Web You Might Enjoy
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
- Fitness magazine
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
Ideas for a night out for drinks, catching up with girlfriends or spending it with someone special. Have fun, be a girl and sparkle with a touch of color.
 

 Readers' Favorite Post

Why Not . . . Create Your Own Signature Style? Part Trois

Weekly Themes on the Blog
Monday's Inspiration:
 
 
Tuesday's Rooms of Inspiration:
 

 

Wednesday's Why Not. . .?:
 
 
Thursday's Rules of Style:
 
 
Style Inspiration:
 

 
Financial Food For Thought: 


 
Foodie Friday:
 

Reader Spotlight
Eleni

 
How do you define luxury?
 
Luxury, as I conceive it, is having the chance to transform everyday habits into pools of satisfaction and indulgence.
 
What luxuries do you enjoy in your every day routine?

The first moments of a new day have the most importance to me. Fresh smelling, warm coffee, hugs and kisses from my man, feel-good music along with the soft voice of the radio broadcaster mumbling about the news, surfing through my love links and reading my mail somehow form a satisfying routine that makes me pop out of bed without second thoughts.
 
What luxuries do you hope to enjoy in the future?
 
There is definitely something missing from my everyday life and that's some green and nature around me. Living in the center of the city, with no balcony or terrace in my apartment, I deeply long for the sun and the sky to keep me company.  I would love to spend my mornings or lazy afternoons under the shadow of trees, playing with my pets and listening to the soft breeze stroking the leaves.
 

Weekend Reading

Favorite Photos


Products I Use & Love

Composition notebooks are my ideal place to keep my inspiration board book or dream board (but on a smaller scale) - sturdy and inexpensive.

I'm Coveting. . .


A.L.C. - Cassie silk-chiffon wrap-effect top - $245


Magazine Alert!


O Magazine - February 2011

Patricia van der Vliet - Elle France - January 2011
Lonny Mag - January/February 2011

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