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January 2017 archive

The Inauguration and Fashion

/ Dress Design, Life / 0 comment

Today we witnessed the pageantry of the Inauguration where the very best of our unique American Republic was on display. The peaceful transition of power we witness with every new administration with all three branches of government and both political parties participating is exciting to see. We are also excited to see the fashion choices of the First Ladies and former First ladies and their children over the years. Of course, we notice the children, such as the Trump grandchildren who looked adorable this time, and the Obama sisters last time and Amy Carter back in 1976.

But the First Ladies are the real stars. John F. Kennedy once said “Two years ago, I introduced myself in Paris by saying that I was the man who had accompanied Mrs. Kennedy to Paris. I am getting somewhat that same sensation as I travel around Texas. Nobody wonders what Lyndon and I wear. “Everyone talked about what Jackie wore. The most fashionable of all First Ladies, Jackie Kennedy wore a cloth coat when almost all the women around her were in fur coats, standard for ladies at the time. The contrast made her stand out even more than she usually did. She remains the standard bearer for White House fashion. First Ladies in modern times have used American designers for Inauguration Day activities, which are a celebration of America.  Mrs. Obama used J Crew for the girls and chose Jason Wu, a US based label, for herself.  We always admired the fact the Royal Family, particularly the Queen and Princess Kate use British designers almost exclusively and are certain that this will be the rule with our new First Lady.

Melania Trump looked stunning during the day in a sky-blue outfit designed by Ralph Lauren. She may be the only First Lady before or since to come anywhere close to the fashion icon status enjoyed by Jackie Kennedy, although we think she will never be eclipsed. Melania struck an equally outstanding figure in her gorgeous evening gown for the Inauguration Balls. High fashion on a day of high pageantry.  At the Inaugural ball, Mrs. Trump wore a gown by Herve Pierre who was a former designer and creative director for companies like Vera Wang and most recently, Carolina Herrera.  We are looking forward to seeing what designers she uses in the future and with luck, is there a future White House Wedding?  (Hello, Tiffany Trump, you and my son both attended the University of Pennsylvania, President Trump’s and Pop Pop Hyland’s alma-mater (both Wharton) as well.  Pegeen Flower girls look great at a wedding!)

Made in America

American designers such as Pegeen.com are known for their attention to detail.

American designers, such as Pegeen.com, are part of the new revolution that has been set by the former and current 1st Ladies.  The newest slogan we love  “Buy American, Hire American”.

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Kirk Douglas, American Icon Celebrates His 100th

/ About US, Love, Work / 0 comment

Screen legend Kirk Douglas celebrated his 100th birthday last month with his family, including his wife of more than 60 years, Anne. I can’t decide which is more remarkable, the fact that Mr. Douglas made it to his 100th birthday or the fact that a Hollywood marriage could last for over 60 years. I can count on one hand the instances I can remember of both.

“I was lucky enough to find my soulmate 63 years ago, and I believe our wonderful marriage and our nightly ‘golden hour’ chats have helped me survive all things,” he writes in celebrity magazine Closer Weekly. Douglas has survived his share of tragedies, including the death of his son from an overdose of drugs and alcohol, a midair crash between his helicopter and a plane, and a stroke which has left him with a severely curtailed ability to speak. His wife, Anne, his faith, his family and his rise from poverty and subsequent hard work during a stellar career, which included three Oscar nominations for best actor, gave him the strength to rise above these challenges. His son Michael, also an actor, wrote: “I think his stamina and tenacity are the qualities that stand out for me. He has taught me always to give it your best shot at whatever you take on. He’s the full package.”

Since the stroke limited his acting roles, he and his wife turned their attention to philanthropic work, mostly feeding the homeless and repairing and refurbishing playgrounds in Los Angeles. They say keeping busy will keep you young and they make a strong case for that axiom.  I think it is beautiful in the world of Hollywood that such a long and lasting marriage shows their deep love and commitment.

And yes, I am also one who has outlasted many of my friends, and my wife’s friends, marriages.  I can hardly believe that we have been married over 30 years, (almost 32 this year) and work together every day, 24/7, as partners in our business, Pegeen.com. Some people would consider that fact to be remarkable, but even more remarkable might be that this was not the career path either of us imagined when we were in college but I know I can’t imagine my life any other way.  I don’t have words of wisdom, just that both of us give in, a lot, to each other.  And plenty of wine.

Celebrating 30+ Years