David Downton's Portraits

Naomi Campbell on the Versace runway

British artist David Downton has been sketching fashion show illustrations and drawing celebrity portraits for the past twenty years.  His whimsically elegant work has been featured at Claridge's in London and in Vanity Fair, most recently for his portraits of the magazine's International Best Dressed honorees.  We are inspired by his illustrations, and many of his subjects are our own Style Icons.  These are some of our favorites, and you can see more of his work on Downton's site.  Should you feel inspired, he does do commissions...

Sofia Coppola

Cate Blanchett

Hamish Bowles

Catherine Deneuve

YSL Couture

Fashionable Film: Belle de Jour

The French classic Belle de Jour, about a bored housewife whose sexual fantasies lead her into exploring a secret career as a prostitute, is still staggeringly chic.  Its beautiful protagonist, played by Catherine Deneuve, makes the world's oldest profession look impossibly glamorous in her clean, timeless clothing, with perfect 1960s hair and make up.  We don't covet her lifestyle, but we are always inspired by her wardrobe.

All images from Google

Style Icon: Catherine Deneuve

Catherine Deneuve is one of the all time great beauties, with golden hair and a stunning smile.  Her personal style has always been very French - lots of dark colors, quality materials, and expert tailoring.  When she was young she favored hair bands and bows, but has always kept her jewelry and other accessories very simple, aside from the perfect handbag.  She has looked lovely at each stage of her life, aging gracefully and continuing to be a muse to many.

All images from Google

Fashion Inspiration: April Showers

Inspiration: Catherine Deneuve's colorful, trench-heavy wardrobe in The Umbrellas of Cherbourg.

clockwise from top left: yellow trench, khaki trench, blue trench, hat, blue umbrella, heels, pink boots, 

leopard boots, clear umbrella, yellow bow, pink shift dress, blue dress