Olivia Fortston The Charlotte Observer

Your Head Looks Weird

If you live in the Charlotte area, next time you are at SouthPark Mall or in the area, be sure to snag a copy of SouthPark Magazine.  I very worked hard on this one, along with an amazing team of individuals, businesses and boutiques, and I am flattered, humbled and excited to be a part the May issue.  The below picture is one in the series of images where I get to show off some really amazing clothes from a few of my favorite local boutiques.  My oldest son, Hank, now 7, saw the below image come up on my facebook page.  I couldn't help but chuckle at his reaction to seeing me dressed up like this.  (Let's be honest, I am a working mom of two active boys, the only time I look like this is for a photo shoot.  The next closest I come is on Sunday for church, date night or when I am meeting clients, but it is a loooong way off from this.

Hank: Mommy, is that you?
Me: (Excitedly) Yes!  What do you think? 
Hank: I don't get it.  it's weird.  Your head looks weird.  You look like you are someone else.
Me: Okay, well, does the rest of my body look like me?
Hank: Yea.
Me: Well, then do you at least like my outfit?
Hank: Why would I like it?!  I'm not a girl! (Runs upstairs to yell at little brother Worth for singing Let It Go again).

Ahh.  The honesty of a child.

Photography: Zach Alston. Hair and Makeup: Deme Fourtounis. Jumpsuit: Yoana Baraschi (from ChezElle), here in black. Kimono: Tracy Reese (from ChezElle), and here. Wedges: Jimmy Choo (from Coplon's) or here. Earrings: Kenneth J Lane (from Coplon's), similar here. Ring: Available at ChezElleNecklaceby boe.

Meeting Betsey Johnson

A big, huge thanks to Belk for including me in a private meet and greet with American fashion designer icon Betsey Johnson.  I've loved and worn Betsey's designs for years.  Known for her whimsical designs often considered over the top, I adore Betsey's ingenuity and joyful spirit. Three of my wedding party dresses were Betsey Johnson designs, all from Belk Southpark.. who knew?!  The day of the event was a typically frigid November one.  My satin plunging sweetheart neckline frock was the most temperature appropriate fabric, though still the furthest thing from warm.  That did not stop me from finding a way to wear it, and I'm so glad I did, because Betsey got very excited.  She spotted her "vintage" design immediately, and just as she did with everyone else she posed, she threw her arms around my neck in precious glee. If I had to narrow her (little) known attributes down to just two, aside from her effervescent splendor, it would be she still busts out a cartwheel like few 72 year olds can do, and I just read that she graduated from college Phi Beta Kappa.  Cool as sh&t and smart as a whip. Betsey Forever!