personal style Archives

Do You Have a “Signature” Painting? I Finally Found Mine…

April 17, 2024

My Mother's 90th birthday!

It's something that fascinates me - people who know themself so well that everything about them seems to be made for them. You can't imagine them dressed differently. You know that their home is perfect for them, as is their car, and the books that the read, and the music that they love.

"Know thyself." Is there harder advice? When we're buffeted by advertising and entertainment that encourages us to try new and different EVERYTHING all the time (got to keep the economy churning, you know), being loyal to your personal style is far from simple...

Enter Emilio Pettoruti, and this wonderful painting:

Yes, I used this here on The Vivienne Files back in October, but it took me a while ... View the Post

Have You Ever Had Your Portrait Painted?

May 13, 2019

I have, a lot, years ago. When I worked in a bookstore, I moonlighted at an Art Center, as a model... It was nice to be paid in cash, but it was quite a lesson in sitting quietly!

I've been ill - fibromyalgia has eaten up quite a bit of my time... But I didn't want you to wake up Monday morning without something pretty on The Vivienne Files!

So I'm sharing some Giovanni Boldini paintings with you...

They may not be your style, but there's no denying that these women have their personal image sorted out. Can you imagine how long it might take to decide what to wear for such a project?

I want to be the Countess de Janville when I grow up - I've got the curly hair!

My ailments tend to only last a few ... View the Post