the photshop debate

There is so much said (online and in the press) about the use of Photoshop to re-touch and perfect images used in the media.  It doesn't really bother me I have to say.  I like to look at beautiful pictures.  There is a time and place for raw, real imagery, but there is also a place for making something look as good as it can be.  In fashion, for example, bring it on!  The photography should push boundaries and look incredible, as should the models.  I don't want to see their pimples or blotches. 

Cate Blanchett is being applauded for appearing on the cover of Intelligent Life as she really is - no airbrushing.  Good on her!  With just a little light make up and the perfect lighting she is gorgeous, and the tiny lines on her face give her depth and beauty. 

But I think the main message on the subject is this - be realistic. Know the difference between reality and art/fantasy/fashion. Who cares if Kate Winslet's bum is airbrushed - would you really prefer to see the dimpled skin?

Our kids? They should be brought up to realise the difference of what is real and what is not.  Have confidence in who they are, flaws and all.  And come on! Don't take the things too seriously!

Image: Cate Blanchett, Intelligent Life/The Economist

Image: Kate Winslet inside Vanity Fair 2008

hot mama

Images: Mert & Marcus for Vogue

 I love, love love those shoes!

Jennifer Lopez on the cover of April Vogue. She looks amazing. Gorgeous dress, drool-worthy heels, gorgeous everything! But with her life, why wouldn't you look this good?


I think (most) women really do look their most beautiful in their 30s and 40s. They look more confident and in control. I think the life and love experience shows, so they look more refined and elegant and stylish.


If I could choose to stay at any age, I think it would be 30. Young enough to take chances, but mature enough to know what you want.


I don't consider myself particularly vain, but saying that I hate the idea of looking mumsy, middle aged and boring. Everyone deserves to look and feel good about themselves. Why are some women content to let themselves go?


But it's the 50s I fear. By 50, no matter how good you look and feel, the brutal fact is you can't avoid looking your age. You're just not 'young' anymore... It's a scary thought. I'm guilty of looking at a women and thinking, I bet she was gorgeous when she was younger, or, on the odd occasion, just not even registering a person, or their opinion just because of their age.


The funny thing is, often, when I meet someone new, male or female, I usually think they are older than me, or around the same age. Then I have to hide the shock when I find out they are so much younger, sometimes ten years younger! 


I guess all we can do, is make the most of what we have, for as long as we have it...  but having lots of money, for gorgeous clothes, shoes, handbags, personal chefs, personal trainers, etc, would certainly help!

US Vogue April 2012