Happy Halloween

In the midst of all the hubbub in New York, I forgot that it's Halloween.  I hope those of you in areas not affected by the hurricane can enjoy this usually happy holiday. 

Helene Rochas in a Bat Mask

Calm Before the Storm

Since we're about to be hunkered down at home for the next two days, I'm glad I was able to get out and about recently. I saw a lot of great decorations and preparations for Halloween as well as beautiful changing leaves.  Hope they don't get ruined by hurricane Sandy and you all stay safe and sound. 

I also want to thank everyone who came out to my book signing for Creativity at Work at Archivia Books today.  We actually almost sold out of the books which was amazing for the day before a hurricane.  If you couldn't make it and want a signed copy, you can call Archivia Books to order one.  I will walk over and personally inscribe it for you.  

Archivia Books

993 Lexington Avenue

New York, NY 10021

212-570-9565

All photos by moi (click to enlarge)

Gothic Splendor

I have a love/hate relationship with Halloween.  I love the fun aspects and of course the candy but I hate the slutty costumes that have become the norm.  It's also too bad that you rarely see elegant and chic Halloween decorations.  This spread of D.L. & Co. appeared in an old House & Garden magazine and is still one of my favorite Halloween features.  I posted it in 2007 and it still looks good today.  Bergdorf Goodman even used it as inspiration for windows that complemented the magazine photos. When I have a house someday, I'm definitely using them as my inspiration.  Happy Halloween!

Who is that masked man?

These photos are not from a Halloween party.  They are from Truman Capote's infamous Black and White Ball at the Plaza Hotel in 1966.  I'd much rather look at these masked revelers than people dressed up as Snooki and The Situation.  Those were the days. Sigh.

Chic Autumnal Decorating Ideas

One of my readers asked me to post about chic Halloween decorations.  I don't really decorate for Halloween so I suggest visiting Martha Stewart who has an entire magazine dedicated to the holiday.  I do however enjoy decorating for autumn and I'm sure most of these ideas could be modified for Halloween.  Even though orange is my favorite color, I happen to love the look of white pumpkins.  They are perfect for creating chic autumn or Halloween decorations.  Happy October!

Photos from Martha Stewart and Better Homes & Gardens