American Beauties

I find such inspiration in seeing the way other women dress.  I can't count how many times I've noticed someone wearing things in a way I hadn't thought of and been inspired to try something new.  When I received the book American Beauty by Claiborne Swanson Frank, I flipped through the pages marveling at the way each woman chose to express herself through clothing, and how each individual style was so unique.  It's one of those books so full of inspiration that I can imagine paging through it years from now for ideas.  The photos are lush and give insight into the lives of each of the women, as they take place in their own environments in their own clothes.  And the accompanying text tells more about where each woman is from and what inspires her.  

Here are some of my most favorite photos (so far).  

Jenna Lyons has long been an inspiration to me, and here she is photographed in her recently sold Brooklyn townhouse.  Look at her shoe collection!!  I could fantasize about that for days.  But Jenna's style, itself, is so inspiring to me.  She really puts her own spin on things, and look how fabulous she looks barefoot (despite all the shoes in her midst) in a simple pair of jeans and a denim shirt.  

I was not familiar with Marissa Webb, former head designer at J. Crew, prior to seeing this photo from her in the book, but when I saw it, it took my breath away.  I love the way her sequins are juxtaposed against the backdrop of fire escape of her building.  And look at those cheekbones!  Holy smokes!  And the way the way she has stacked an armful of tougher-looking golden bracelets transforms her gown with a touch of the unexpected.  

Finally, here's a photo of Lawren Howell, stylist and contributing editor of Vogue.  I love her dainty dress and leather jacket (just out of range in this scan of the photo, she's also wearing penny loafers).  Her studded cuffs add a toughness to her tomboy/feminine combination.  

Each of these women has such interesting and thoroughly individual style.  If you pick up a copy of American Beauty, I have a feeling you'll be inspired too!

Images Source: American Beauty, by Claiborne Swanson Frank