Heat Wave

It's going to be an absolute scorcher this weekend, Washingtonians.  I know we should be used to the oppressive humidity and the paralyzing heat but it's impossible.  For those lucky enough to have a pool, the morning hours should be bearable but if your pool is anything like mine, prepare for it to be bathwater by noon. 

Rather than hide out inside all day, I'm going to spend most of my time at The Corcoran.  I know I'm always trying to get you guys there and there is no better time to take advantage than with Free Summer Saturdays.  Go look at Hopper's Ground Swell and think about World War II (seriously, this painting is spoken of in this context) all the while enjoying the frigid, controlled gallery temperature.  

If you've already been, DC has a lot of great (and free) exhibits to checkout this summer.

Yves Klein: With the Void, Full Powers

May 20, 2010 - September 12, 2010

The Hirschhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

Beat Memories: The Photographs of Allen Ginsberg
May 2–September 16, 2010
National Gallery of Art

Links:

Yves Klein: A Master of Blue - Time 

Allen Ginsberg's Beat Family Album - Smithsonian.com

The New Look

I tend to be a little obsessed with 1960's Americana.  The history, the fashion, the personalities, the way it completely changed the country - everything.  For years I've collected books on Jackie Kennedy wishing I could emulate her signature coif.  I've walked past the beautiful home on P Street that she shared with Jack.  I've eaten at Martin's Tavern where he proposed (best French Onion Soup I've ever had) all the while trying to get a sense of what Washington, DC was like when it was Camelot.  

As part of this obsession I've also spent years waiting for ladylike, feminine style to return so I could dress the way I always assumed real ladies dressed.  Imagine my surprise when Mad Men became a bonafide hit and women's RTW began to look more and more, well, vintage.  I can't wait until it becomes fashionable to wear those delicate little gloves again. 

Whether you're a Betty or a Joan, a Marilyn or a Jackie you'll appreciate this article from Mad Men Unbuttoned (one of my Top 5 Favorite Websites on '60's culture) all on the creation of this iconic style. Thank you Mr. Christian Dior for the New Look.

Mad Men Unbuttoned: A Romp Through 1960's America by Natasha Vargas-Cooper; June 1, 2010
Martin's Tavern
The DC Traveler; A Tour of JFK’s Camelot