Thursday, January 10, 2008

The haves



















One of "the haves" in my book has always been, Bonnie Cashin.  She believed in designing a chic life. Her motto was, "Chic is where you find it!"  A toggle from her convertible was used in one of her signature
designs.  

In 1960, she was approached by one of today's venerable institutions in the hand bag world and she declined as she told them she was too busy.  
They waited 2 years for her to join them and design a "Cashin Carry" line of colorful happy bags as well as accessories for COACH.  Adore these happy illustrations. Note the practical hat.  I'd love to know what's in her bag. No Cell phone, nope, no blackberry, no ipod, not even around then.  That bag would look great today. 



She regarded her very own studio as a "secret laboratory" and traveled back and forth to work in Manhattan from one of the toniest Studios located near the United Nations.  Her real inspiration came from the practical side of life.  She lived right up the Hudson River and what's not to love about her sweet life and her closet which she called it her "boutique."  That's what I call a "have."  I have to have it.  Open, organized, colorful, happy and practical.   This gal was a pioneer in the "ready-to-wear" fashion world.  Casual chic with a glamourous twist yet practical!

























Hats off to Bonnie for inspiring me every day.  She looks so beautiful in this Hat. Perfect for a "box" seat on Derby Day or to block the sun.   This is a gal with the haves.  Does she remind you of anyone?    She would be a "have" on my blog envy list if she were still here today.  






12 comments:

Kwana said...

Love this and Bonnie in her hat is wonderful.

Unknown said...

I have always loved the pictures of her "boutique" closet. Simple shelves on the wall...what a novel idea it was in the 60's as well as today.

Mrs. Blandings said...

What an elegant post. You are a have as well. Lucky us.

annechovie said...

Very interesting post, Patricia. Love the closet! Like a little store.

pve design said...

Anne-
she actually set her closet up as if it were a boutique and called it that. She had an amazing
"tree" in her foyer that was for hats, and accessories.
now that's handy! Thanks for visiting!

ALL THE BEST said...

I love this post Patricia!!!

pve design said...

All the best, yes I knew you would!

Anna Spiro said...

Wow - I'm very envious of her "boutique"!!
XX
Anna

pve design said...

Anna,
love to see your "boutique" closet, one can only imagine it must be arranged with great style and order!

blah said...

That hat is fab :-)!!!

adesignaffair said...

LOVIN the vintage Coach prints. I wonder if they sell them anywhere. They could sell & print archives like Conde Nast!

Brilliant Asylum said...

This closet is one to envy! I love seeing her little coach sketches. Great post on a talented and chic woman.