Tomorrow Never Dies

Tomorrow was an art installation at the V&A at the end of last year. It was totally inspiring and had (in my opinion) a huge impact on the contemporary art world. It was created by the artists Elmgreen & Dragset comprising of scenes from an unrealised film. It was set in an apartment which hadn't been redecorated for at least 50 years - an example of past decades as a backdrop to contemporary artifacts. Now, we're seeing art stands echoing the same sentiments - the stand at Frieze Masters by gallerist Helly Nahmad must have been inspired by Tomorrow. And as we look to the past a new book with the title, "The Gown" by Jo Ellison has just been published. All the above showcasing a bygone age coming back to life.

This is so relevant to me as I loved Tomorrow and also Helly Nahmad's stand. This is where it applies to my life - I've suddenly been captivated by the idea of buying "a gown". OK, this is a new phenomenon to me, as how often does the occasion to wear a gown really occur? A cocktail dress? Yes yes yes! Gown... Let me think? Very rarely...

I do have long evening dresses which, when black or white tie dictates, I wear. Although seldom is this the dress code (in my life). We now have "Lounge Suit" - it seems men prefer that. But a gown - I'd love a gown. I would wear it instead of a cocktail dress. Listen - if I can wear a Tiara, I can wear a gown! Why not? Just have to find one now! Would like a colour, but the first one I've seen is black, long-sleeves, very low back and beautifully draped front. Mmmm... What about a very full Crinoline-shaped skirt, ankle length? Possible... I'd have liked pale pink, (not Little Girl Pink, but soft). Nothing! OK, will keep you posted.

I have seen the most beautiful chiffon with couture embroidery. You can only imagine how expensive that is! The embroidery is like works of art. I suppose I can always hang it on my walls when not wearing it. Then, it's an art investment and an item of clothing! I just love the Two-For-One idea (first seen in my local Waitrose).

Just heard the sad news that Oscar de la Renta died. I have a couple of his outfits and have, funnily enough, just started wearing his skirt again. OK, the reason for this is I just had it "eased" (let out) so now it fits. Now, before you all say, "Yes - I thought Francine had put weight on", his clothes I bought when I was going through my divorce (anyone who's ever been through anything traumatic like that knows it's either eat or starve. I coudn't eat, so went down to a US size 4. For me - very small). Hence the need of easing.  Anyhow, all is well now and I've been wearing his skirt and loving it! He made gowns aplenty and many of them truly beautiful creations (this blog is dovetailing so well).

In life, not all things are equal. If they were, I for one would definitely be donning more than one gown this Gala season. So when we look forward, we should always remember to look back,

"Tomorrow Never Dies".

Happy Shopping!