Cherry Blossoms

Another reason I'm obsessed with this dress:

It reminds me of Hokusai's "36 Views" prints.




These are part of the same series that inlcudes this more recognizable piece:


These were printed during the 1830's when orientalism was at its height, and there was renewed trade interest with Japan. There are actually 46 prints in the collection, but 36 is a perfect number in the culture, one of reverence and holiness.

I love being an art history dork.

Caligula would have blushed...

It's no secret that I'm absolutely obsessed with Roman history and mythology. It all started when I took Latin in high school and my hilarious teacher oft told stories of the tyrant Caligula, so named for tramping around in military sandals (caligulae) when he was little - meaning his nickname was "Little Boots."

Authentic caligulae.

Don't they look familiar?
Philomena Sandal, $25, Target

I guess I'll have to try them on to see if I look good in Roman military apparel. If they don't work, I guess I could settle for this spring's Miu Miu collection.
The mosaic prints are TO DIE FOR.

Prada, Spring '09

This one reminds me of some the frescoes found at Pompeii.



Dionysiac Mystery Cult, Villa of the Mysteries, 50 BC - wall painting frieze, Pompeii
Speaking of cults and rituals, Miuccia melted my heart even more when the campaign was shot in a sort of temple.

WWZD? (What Would Zooey Do?)

I love Zooey Deschanel.



So much, in fact, I stood in the blistering sun at SXSW last year just to see She and Him.



Sometimes, I even pretend to be her.

Bellissima!

Today, in order to be a consistent procrastinator and avoid doing my reading for astronomy, I went into Anthropologie (woot, christmas giftcard!) and happened to find this gorgeous dress:
I'd been eyeing it for a while, and finally it was on SALE!!! It reminds me of one of my absolute favorite movies, Enchanted April.

The film seems to be quite unknown, for I haven't been able to find any movie stills or movie clips. From Wikipedia: " It tells the story of four dissimilar women in post-war England who leave their damp and rainy environs to go on a holiday to a secluded coastal villa in Italy. Two women who belong to the same ladies' club but have never spoken, become acquainted after reading an ad for villas for rent in the local paper. They find two other ladies to help share expenses. The four women come together at the Villa and find rejuvenation in the tranquil beauty of their surroundings, rediscovering hope and love." The women in the movie wear the most etheral garments, so complimentary to the environment of Italy. The costume designer was nominated for an Oscar, and upon seeing the movie, it is easy to see why.
It was adapted from a book, which is just as delightful and whimsical as the film.
Enchanted April was written in 1922 by Elizabeth Von Armin. HIGHLY RECCOMMENDED.
In keeping with the theme of the time period, think I will pair the dress with these shoes:.
I also picked up a gorgeous silk periwinkle obi belt for $7 that I plan to wear to my cousin's graduation. Now this movie is all on my brain - it makes me long to return to Italy even more. You can watch Enchanted April on TCM this sunday, March 8, at 6pm.