lost in translation (wabi sabi)

Saw this couple at La Provence on Collins Avenue in South Beach, the same yummy cafe we met Leigh of the Gazelle Legs. I'm not posting these shots because their looks are unique, but because they're just such a cute couple with what I felt was quintessential early 21st Century casual style: shabby chic. And so all American.

I didn't want to bother them while we were all eating, but we were finished first (or rather, Mr. Dot was: he's pretty type A, and I'm a slow eater). He was waiting outside, and meanwhile I met & shot Leigh, and still, these two were lounging around, looking beautiful and blase.



Finally I approached them with my card & said blah blah blah, don't want to disturb you, only if you're leaving, and she shrugged: 'yes, sure.' So I waited outside. And waited. And waited some more. Mr. Dot came back & said what's up and I said, I dunno, still waiting. Finally they came out & by this time, I'm starting to feel like a stalking papparrazzi, and when they finally emerged, the guy asked what it was for. I was confused, it was like there was a lag in a long distance phone call. 'Street style. The Sartorialist?' (blank stares, no response). 'Do you know about blogs?' Vaguely. Where were these people from???

Russia, it turns out. Or at least, Julia is. Nick is Italian. And they were absolutely delightful, and we had a lovely little shoot & off they strolled, arm in arm, two beautiful people, happy and in love.



There is a Japanese phrase called 'wabi sabi', which we use a lot, to mean something that is beautiful because it is old, and faded, and has had a life and a history. Beauty that is 'imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete'. That's the appeal to me about these wonderful deco hotels and buildings in South Beach, and, I sense, that's the appeal of a lovely old pair of faded jeans. They've seen so much, they've lived so long. And will continue to live, change, evolve. Just like our favourite faded jeans.

Off back to South Beach again, soon as I post this. Wishing you a perfect day, wherever you are, whatever you do.