I take my hat off to those who can commission artists to take a portrait of their family in an informal setting, or showing their family as they truly are. Because how often have we seen portraits of families dressed in matching colours and clothes, smiling their awkward smiles? On one hand this is how the artist sees the family. On the other hand it’s how the family wants to be viewed.

It’s interesting to see the progression and history of family portraiture in painting. In the beginning family portraiture were of families dressed in their formal best in a studio setting. Then the trend went towards capturing families and individuals in their environment to then capturing them in more relaxed settings, dress, attitudes. Family portraiture in photography seems to have followed the same pattern but most families nowadays are still afraid of allowing photographers to capture them being them.

I loved this painting by John Singer Sargent from the first I saw it. Then I discovered Sister Wendy Beckett and later read a commentary she had written about it. And maybe it’s in instances like this why clients would not want artists to capture them in such a casual informal setting—that maybe they might discover hidden family secrets. But still.

John Singer Sargent, Daughters of Edward Darley Boit, 1882.

I’m a big fan of the photography in the Banana Republic catalogs. I remember seeing the 2009 spring campaign and loving it even more because it showcased musicians or people whom I thought looked like real people. It’s not to say that fashion models aren’t real people but it was different and refreshing to see other talent wearing clothes you love.  ”We want this campaign to strike an emotional chord with Banana Republic customers.” was the statement made by the CMO. And hello, you accomplished just that. Tom Munro was the photographer and what can you say. He captured the fun and spirit of his subjects. I am particularly drawn to women of colour and immediately fell in love with the images of Acoustic singer songwriter Ayo (Joy Olasunmibo Ogunmakin).

And way before I even knew who Esperanza Spalding was I loved this image of her wearing her hair natural.

And then there were the male musicians. Grammy-winning jazz saxophonist David Sánchez.

Equal praise goes out to the stylists.

I caught the end of Fashion Police for the Screen Actor’s Guild Awards last week and wanted to share the dos and don’ts for women that I thought were sensible not only for the red carpet but in general.

From Joan Rivers: “Don’t wear your dresses too long.” Because tripping on your dress is definitely not something you want your spotlight moment to be remembered by even if it’s a trip to the mall.
Giuliana Rancic: “Wear age appropriate dresses.” Women in their 40s that get excited about shopping at Forever 21 is not only viewed as NOT cool by teens already patronising the store, it’s bad taste. Save your pennies and shop JJill or Banana Republic instead.
Kelly Osbourne: “Wear a spandex.” I always thought spandex was for those that had something to hide. Then I realised if Heidi Klum wears one then everyone else ought to too. I bought one for the first time last week and now I wish I didn’t have so much pride before to not wear them. It gives a smooth look to the overall outfit. Period.

And here’s a look I couldn’t resist not sharing. Minimal makeup, no accessories, beautiful shoes, and a dress with a great cut.

BCBGMaxazria Runway