015: Be Bold
GeminisšÆš¼āāļø + Ojai Rosesš¹ + Bold Printsš + Paper Loveš + Parprikaš§
Cover credits: Hannah/Crawford Models; photo and collage, @amyluxox.
Happy June, fashion lovers and friendsāthanks for being here.
I see you, I appreciate you, and I think of you as I put these monthly posts together. Style is my love language, and this is my love letter to you. I hope you find a bit of inspiration here that brightens your day and puts a little pep in your step.
June is my favorite month for several reasons. Firstly, Iām a Gemini and I love a birthday celebrationāespecially my own š I genuinely feel like the entire month of June is an appropriate window for festivities. Luckily, my birthday is June 1st (just like Marilyn), which makes planning easy. I think all Geminis operate this way: any excuse for a party, a trinket that feels ceremonial, or an adventure that is āspecialā is a yes! Next time youāre in a store with zodiac anything, notice how the Gemini pieces are always gone first. Geminis love being Geminis. Look for itāyouāll see.
Secondly, June is still spring but already feels like summer. Flowers are in full bloom (or just starting, depending on where you are), the days stretch longer, and everything feels a little warmer. Itās a small kind of heaven.
Thirdly, even though Iāve been out of school for approximately 100 years, I still get that āschoolās out for summerā feelingāsomething butterfly-light and full of possibility. Two whole months of play and adventure. It feels generous.
So yes, a very happy June to you.
Below Iām sharing a few things Iāve been up to beyond fashion and adultingāretreats, seminars, beach walks, theatre. I promise I donāt only think about clothes and what to wearā¦ I also think about other peopleās clothes and what they ought to wear.
When I lived just off Queen Street in Toronto (always packed with people, always interesting), I used to think about setting up a style boothāoffering advice, solving fashion dilemmas, suggesting what to buy and where, gently pointing out what was working and what wasnāt. Honestly, it would have been amazing. The internet kind of does this now, but it can feel oddly judgy through a screen. Thereās something about in-person styling that would make it feel more human, more fun.
This month I styled my shoot with major color. Maybe the skin-toned neutrals (ALO Yoga, Iām looking at you) that have dominated recent seasons are finally loosening their grip. Iām ready for it. I welcome bold color and poppy prints back onto the store shelvesāit feels refreshing.
I tried to style myself in theme with this newsletter. I didnāt always get photos, but Iāve included what I did capture (thank you ChloĆ© for snapping themāshe had no choiceš).
For Luās List, I stayed with print and color and channeled Lisa Todd Wexley from And Just Like That. Really, this formula works for anyone: the bolder and brighter, the better; the more mixed patterns, the more interesting. Itās just about having the confidence to commit.
Which reminds meāsomeone recently asked me about ācolor analysis for people,ā and honestly, I think itās a bit of BS. Yes, some people do look better in certain palettes, but there are no hard rules that say you canāt make something work. Iām not a fan of āyou canāt wear thisā or ādonāt mix that.ā Says who? Thereās always a solution, always a way to break the rule into something better. And itās the rule breakers that turn into style icons, every, single, time.
The only real question is: Do I feel good in this outfit? If yes, keep it on. If no, change it. Done. ā
Itās also totally okay to experiment and go off the style rails once in a whileāmix it up, try a little bad taste. Sometimes that ends up being your best taste.
When you read this, I will have just turned 50. Fiftyābasically a slightly less young 40? Aging is strange. Everything feels like it happened five seconds ago and also a hundred years ago. The wrinkles are definitely real. Bounce-back from OrangeTheory HIIT workouts takes a minute. I get excited for āgetting my jams onā at like 6 p.m.āthough honestly, Iāve always been like that.
The beautiful part is I care a lot less about dumb things. Iām also more gratefulāfor health, for well-being, and for the people I love. Many people I know didnāt get the chance to see their wrinkles show up, so Iām taking it all in with a lot of gratitude and a grain of salt.
Have a wonderful month. Put on something fancy, eat some cake, and drink something bubbly in true Gemini fashion.
Sending you love and style,
amyluxox
P.S. Donāt forget to overthink the best possible scenario too, it is just as likely. āØ
My May Adventures
Credits Clockwise left to right:
Ojai Roses. I am a sucker for flowers in general, but rosesāpink ones that smell like perfume, a garden full of them? Heaven.
Musical Mama. I went to the theatre twice with ChloĆ©ālucky me! The first show was Millennials Are Killing Musicals (co-produced by my new friend Debra Smalley). It is a musical comedy about single millennial moms navigating motherhood and social media pressureāI highly recommend it. I am a fan of anything exposing the downside of social media, influencer culture, and its pervasive and destructive nature.
On Motherās Day, we went to see The Sound of Music at Hollywood Pantages Theatre. It was spectacular. It is definitely one of my all-time favorites, and ChloĆ© played Maria in her first theatre production, which sparked her love of performing, so I naturally have a soft spot for it. It was also a sold-out matinee filled to the brim with dressed-up families celebrating Motherās Day, so everyone looked especially lovelyāparticularly the moms.
Nicole Sometimes. I met up with my friend Nicole for lunch. I met her at Camp Everygirl last fall while she was on holiday in LA with her family. She is extremely stylish and also writes about fashionādefinitely follow her on Instagram.
My New Blue Lulus. I love this color so much! Actually, these are from Vuori, not Lululemon, but both offer a similar shade. Itās the best blueālike the sky on a very sunny day.
Arti. I was reminded once again that life can be cruel. We lost a lovely woman and fellow Bar Method student named Arti Varma much too soon. The studio put together a small tribute in her memory. I didnāt know her well, but I saw her often in class. It is important to remember what a privilege it is to wake up each day with the chance to try again. The studio gave out packs of marigold seeds to plant in her honor which are now growing in my kitchen-yellow marigolds for Arti. š
Gabby. I went to Gabrielle Bernsteinās Time to Trust talk at The Wiltern Theatre. It was greatāsheās inspiring and helpful. The theatre was filled with groups of friends (mostly women), all dressed up and eager to learn.
Point Dume. This is my favorite patch of bougainvillea š©· and one of my favorite little LA hikes š.
Ojai. I attended a writerās retreat in Ojai, and it was wonderful to be in the company of deeply intuitive and creative minds in such a beautiful place. We all had very different ideas and agendas for our writing, but we were able to share thoughts and exchange ideasāit was incredibly inspiring.
I think in-person retreats of all kinds are going to continue growing as an antidote to the isolated lifestyles that have become so common over the past decade. People need people to heal, grow, and become. Instagram photos and inspirational quotes are fun and all, but Iām finding that real human connection is where itās at.
Last month was full of lovely adventures: theatre, Malibu beach walks, lunch dates, retreats, Barre class, workshopsāI feel like the mid-life algorithm of workshopping myself is in overdrive! But I love it all: meeting people, learning, self-care. Here are a few images.
Hannah: Bright and Bold
Cover credits: Hannah/Crawford Models; photo and collage, @amyluxox.
Fresh prints, bright saturated hues, and matching sets were the style direction for this shoot. Itās giving 1960s Long Island summer vacation with an extra dash of sass thrown ināpoolside cocktails, oversized sunglasses, striped umbrellas, and women who always seem to have somewhere fabulous to be.
I didnāt initially set out with a rainbow palette in mind, but as I pulled the looks together, it naturally started creating itself. One bold color led to another.
Saturated color and graphic prints demand a little more confidence, a little more commitmentābut they also bring a kind of joy that neutrals simply canāt replicate. The matching sets especially feel polished in that effortless way, like you tried without trying too hard.
Above are a few images from our shoot.
Shiny People / Bold Choices
Credits From Left To Right:
Lily Allen in Valentino, Ā©Getty Images.
Bamm-Bamm Rubble, Ā©The Flinstones.
Elle Fanning in John Galliano, Ā©Getty Images.
Betty Boop, Ā©Fleischer Studios.
Margot Robbie in Balmain, Ā©Getty Images.
Minnie Mouse, Ā©Disney.
Anne Hathaway in Louis Vuitton, Ā©Getty Images.
Barbie, Ā©Mattel.
Collage,@amyluxox.
Celebrities always get first dibs on the fantasy piecesāthe best runway looks that are most realistically served up on a red carpet, fashion gala, or possibly while descending a staircase in Monaco. And thank goodness for that. Someone needs to keep the vision alive.
Iāve always loved a bold fashion moment, especially when it borders on fantasy but is pulled off with complete conviction. The key to these kinds of looks is commitment. Hesitation kills a statement dress faster than the dress itself.
While pulling together some of my favorite printed red carpet looks ever, I noticed something unintentionally hilarious: many of them had cartoon counterparts. The dresses felt oddly familiar, like couture versions of cartoon characters I used to see on Saturday mornings as a kid.
Makes perfect sense to me- cartoons understand fashion. They understand silhouette, color, exaggeration, and personality.
Luās List: Bold On Pointe
Credits (left to right):
Posse Rosalie Polka-Dot Linen Top ($240), available at Mytheresa.
Love the classic color combination and peplum hem. I could see this styled with denim or black trousers just as easily. They also make matching shorts if youāre into a coordinated set moment.
Silvia Tcherassi Andie Striped Trousers ($1190), available at Farfetch.
These pants are major. They remind me of the striped trousers Balenciaga did in 2006. I love the composition of the stripe pattern and the dramatic wide leg. These call for platform heels.
Jacquemus La Pochette Rond CarrƩ Clutch ($945), available at Level Shoes.
I am a fan of statement clutches because they can elevate even the most basic look. This one looks especially cute paired with all the patterns and contrasting colors featured here, but it would also look incredible against an all-black linen outfit.
Manolo Blahnik Larache Striped Embossed Leather Mules ($1375), available at Bergdorf Goodman.
Mules steal my heart every time. These striped ones are especially chic and perfectly complement the striped clutch. They would work with almost any graphic print or bold color combination.
Simon Miller Loch Poplin Button Up ($265), available at Simon Miller.
I fell in love with this blouse the first time I saw it in blue and white. They now offer it in several fabulous colors and prints. Itās a classic button-up shirt, but the oversized stripes and cutout back detail make it feel both flattering and fashion forward.
ALC Phoebe Satin Midi Skirt ($395), available at ALC.
Orange is having a moment this season and I am fully here for it. Itās such a fun and uplifting color, and I love it paired with this blouse. The skirt is technically midi length, but if youāre short like me, that usually translates to maxi. It works either way.
Loewe Flamenco Clutch in Raffia and Calfskin ($2850), available at Loewe.
Soft, slouchy, and covered in vibrant color. It reminds me of the afghans my grandma used to make, which somehow makes it feel even more special.
Jacquemus Cubisto Raffia Effect Mules ($770), available at Mytheresa.
These mules have summer vacation written all over them. The woven raffia-effect upper looks soft and comfortable, which means they are likely much easier to walk in than they appear.
Marrakshi Life Triangle Strapless Striped Top ($300), available at NET-A-PORTER.
Scarf tops are back and will likely be even bigger next summer, so get your tie-on! I love the yellow ombrƩ stripe pattern. This would look especially cute with denim shorts.
Suzie Kondi Kyria Skirt ($425), available at Suzie Kondi.
This striped yellow skirt would look equally chic with a silk tank or a cropped graphic tee. Itās cotton poplin too, so it will keep you cool in the heat of summer.
Gucci Vittoria Thong in Yellow Rubber ($590), available at Gucci.
Kitten heel flip flops are a match made in heaven. I love that these are washable tooāyou can literally hose the sand off after a beach party.
Miu Miu Crochet Pouch ($1620), available at Miu Miu.
So cute and colorful. I love the arts-and-crafts feel of this bag.
Cara Cara Claudine Top ($395), available at Cara Cara NYC.
This corset-style crop top is flattering and feminine. I love it with the ChloƩ wide-leg shorts featured here, but it would also work beautifully with the matching skirt, denim cutoffs, or flip flops. Garden party ready.
ChloƩ Cotton Shorts ($1064), available at Farfetch.
The high waist and wide pleats make these incredibly flattering. I love the soft butter-yellow shade. They would also look great styled with a woven belt.
Roger Vivier Belle Vivier Slingback Pumps ($1045), available at Roger Vivier.
The Belle Vivier is one of the designerās most iconic styles, originally introduced in 1965. This vivid palette update feels like timeless style perfection.
Leo Lin Serafina Striped Satin Maxi ($1345), available at Mytheresa.
This dress is a true party standout. The classic silhouette paired with the bold stripe pattern is the perfect combination. It also features a matching self-belt finished with rose appliquƩs at the ends.
Femme LA x Revolve Tokyo Thong Wedge ($199), available at Revolve.
A wedge back with a flip flop frontādefinitely a strong contender for summer parties. The solid blue hue elevates them and perfectly complements the dress featured above.
Reformation Lucia Tote Bag ($298), available at Reformation.
Stripes, stripes, and more stripes. This bag will take you from lunch with the ladies straight to the beach. I love the curved shape and structured build.
De Castro Moda Purple Illusion Dress ($820), available at The Well Appointed House.
This ikat-print dress features a mandarin collar and beautifully gathered puff sleeves.
Celine Logo Embroidered Tote Bag ($2750), available at MR PORTER.
This Triomphe-logo tote is made from rainbow-dyed wool with leather trim and a canvas-lined interior complete with a zip pouch.
Aquazzura Bisous Checked Jacquard Mules ($950), available at NET-A-PORTER.
One part sweet, two parts sassy. The palm-green jacquard pattern will have you summer ready the second you slip them on.
This mood board feels very much like Park Avenue ladies who lunch āelevated, considered and playfully polished.
I loved Lisa Todd Wexleyās character in And Just Like That. She was the uber stylish documentarian and mother who always looked impeccable in bold color and prints. She would own any (or all) of these looks and wear them with ease. When you truly commit to your aesthetic, you can basically wear anything.
Iāve always loved a tone-on-tone moment, so Iāve styled these looks in matching huesābut everything here is designed to mix and match effortlessly. Think of it in a Carrie Bradshaw spirit: a wardrobe that plays, clashes, and somehow always works.
Lulala: My Subtle Version of Bold
I love patterns and color almost as much as I love solid black. The thing I find with prints and color is that I have to be in the right mood to wear them, whereas with black, no thought is needed. Black is instinctive. Prints require effort.
Because prints and patterns were top of mind this month, I made an effort to actually wear them instead of just admiring them on mood boards and other people. I actually own a lot of color and patterned tops and dressesāI just donāt reach for them as often. Maybe thatās the thing with bold dressing: sometimes itās less about confidence and more about mood.
Credits (From Left to Right):
Mauve Polka Dots: I bought this dress from Self-Portrait for my wedding shower a few years ago, and I think this is only the second time Iāve worn it. I love this brand so muchāthey are true problem solvers. They always seem to have something perfect for every occasion, the quality is excellent, and the cuts work beautifully on my short frame. I paired it with heels from Loeffler Randall, which felt perfect in theory, though perhaps a little too matchy in hindsight. (I feel like I look a bit like Minnie here.)
Meow: I love leopard print but rarely wear it. Itās strange because whenever I see it on someone else, I almost always love it, but when I try it on myself I suddenly feel exposed. But I am drawn to it like an itch I canāt scratch. Iāve bought several leopard print pieces over the years only to eventually pass them along to people they suited more naturally. When I do wear it successfully, I have to be in exactly the right frame of mindāto feel like Iām wearing the leopard print and not the other way around.
What I actually want is a leopard print bustier or bodysuit from Dolce & Gabbana peeking out from under a blazer or under a sheer white sheath (Dolce & Gabbana 1997 Spring Summer Collection anyone?!). I just never quite feel like making the splurge. I found this set from AQUA at Bloomingdaleās a couple of years ago, and this was the first time I wore it. I still crave the real deal.
Black and White Polka Dots: Self-Portrait for the win again. I love this top and receive a tonne of compliments every time I wear it. I paired it with trousers from Alice + Olivia and platform heels from Miu Miu. Iāve also worn this top with light-wash denim and heels, which gives it a slightly more relaxed feel.
Currently Reading
BAZAAR ā I am a sucker for anything featuring ChloĆ« (could not love her more), and I also love ChloĆ©āthis dress in particular. It would look horrible on me, horrible on most people actually. It needs height and long legs or VERY tall shoes to offset the volume, but I still love it and want to stare at it for a while. Thatās what a good cover doesāit makes people want to keep it in their space and look at it for a little longer.
I think itās the orange floral print that I am so fond of. It reminds me of something special, though I canāt pinpoint what. Sometimes fashion doesnāt need to be practical or flattering to be inspiring.
Iāve also been buying magazines again. I miss holding them, turning the pages, ripping out images, studying fashion stories, and taking time to actually ponder the wordsānot just scroll. I am so tired of screens; scrolling feels so dismissive. So for now, Iām back to paper copies. I bought a Kindle a few years ago, but never liked that either. Iām a paper sort of gal.
FAMESICK ā I just finished Famesick by Lena Dunham. I have never seen Girls. At the time it was a major show, I was in full work mode and didnāt have much time for TV. But I was familiar with her and all the shenanigans surrounding her because I was a tabloid spongeāthe weekly gossip magazines were always lying around on set for clients to flip through, and Iād inevitably read them.
Anyways, now I have to watch the series. She is undeniably impressive: talented, intelligent, wise, and brutally honest. But itās her candor and vulnerability that feel most striking. It gives permission for other women to share their own stories too. At the end of the day, we are all just struggling along in our own way despite appearances.
SEX AND THE CITY ā I would consider myself a 10/10 fan of Sex and the City (currently rewatching the series for the umpteenth time), but I had never read the actual book/column it was based on: Sex and the City by Candace Bushnell.
It was fascinating to read the stories that shaped the show. It also made me appreciate the craft of screenwriting so much more because, although you can recognize certain themes and characters throughout the book, the television seriesāand the legendary characters that came from itābecame something far bigger and better all on its own.
Wise Words
āA little bad taste is like a nice splash of paprika.ā This iconic quote by Diana Vreelandreminds us not to take fashion so seriously. A bold and possibly ābadā fashion choice is far more interesting than one that feels safe, basic, or bland. Conformity is the death of creativityāhow can masterpieces (and inspiring style) be made if all of us are creating (and wearing) the exact same thing?
She goes on to say, āWe all need a splash of bad tasteāitās hearty, itās healthy, itās physical. I think we could use more of it. No taste is what Iām against.ā
So fear not, fashion lovers, put away the black and beige for a day. Try on something unexpected. Mix prints, wear those shoes, add the extra bling. Pair pieces together that āshouldnātā work because oftentimes thatās where the magic is found.
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