10 already!
I recently listened to this podcast from A Thing or Two on “cringe,” which the podcasters essentially define as letting out the weirdest, most “you” parts of yourself. My business icon, Nell Diamond, reshared a post that said “be cringe in 2023. your life will legit get better on every front this is not a joke. If you constantly chase your edge of cringe you are probably getting closer to truth and authenticity because that is precisely what cringes people out.” Nell аdded: “I can clearly see that the more I lean in to doing things that make me feel embarrassed at first, the better things turn out…Lean into the writing, the photos, the job, the product, the industry. Get past the embarrassment and find something that feels truly authentic to you. Always try your hardest.”
I had the idea for this newsletter almost two years before I actually started writing it. I thought it would be “cringe” to write about what I was up to each week and the things that I discovered and that were inspiring me.
I think especially in New York, you’re supposed to act blasé about everything. But I’ve realized that the people I most enjoy surrounding myself with are those that have a real zest for life and who are unabashedly passionate about the things they love. I will listen to you talk for hours about the nature of the modern dining scene, the geopolitics of obscure countries, or crypto (okay, I’ve just about had enough of that last one), as long as you love it.
So I say, let’s all be more cringe.
Finally! Some good updates on the bag project
On Tuesday, I was metaphorically locked in my bedroom while F. was on a Zoom meeting (the joys of co-habitation). But it forced me to really figure out what the heck I was going to do. I realized I needed to trust my own voice and, if the results turned out subpar (as one already did), so be it. So I went back to Mood Fabrics, back to the cobbler, and have now sent three bags off much more confidently. I hope to have results to show you all soon.
On Saturday, I took the ferry over to North Williamsburg for a crochet afternoon with some friends. While walking from the port to my destination, I stumbled across this store selling vintage nightgowns, scarves, fabrics, and more. I was thrilled to find some bright pink fabrics as well as a beautiful sapphire and ruby-colored scarf to use as linings for future bags.
I also got my first commission, from my friend K.! If you are also interested in a commission, let me know ;). I am also in talks about a potential collaboration and magazine feature. I will keep you all apprised as everything gets solidified!
Finally, the New York Times recently published this article about the growing preference for bags that show their wear. I buy it!!
What’s on the bedside table
This week I am catching up on my Financial Times subscription. I absolutely love their weekend edition HTSI (formerly How To Spend It). Since Vogue got taken over by assorted Kardashians and Jenners and Hadids, this has been my fix for high quality features on fashion and lifestyle. I enjoy its British/European perspective, which often means reporting on more global matters. Recent favorites have included this spread about Georgia (the country) and this article about bookstores of the world.
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