WENDY GOODMAN - May I Come In?

Wendy Goodman is inimitable.  If you have a passion for interior design, you know her name.  Like the millions that adore her Design Hunting for the The Cut from New York Magazine, I'm in awe of her energy and stamina. Why? Because she attends more events in a week than most people do in a year.  Literally.  If you are a downtowner like me, you are lucky enough to bump into this bundle of energy from time to time, as she heads from one fabulous event to the other from time to time. 

In a world full of faux-luxe places and puzzlingly  pretentious people, Goodman has a talent for finding the real and the authentic. 

In her latest book, "May I Come In" (ABRAMS), Wendy showcases the spaces that has inspired her over several decades of her career.  

Creatives like Gianni Versace, Jean Paul Goude, Andy Warhol, Vito Schnabel, Amy Sedaris, Rosamund Bernier, Diana Vreeland, and a so many more - you won't believe it.  May I Com In? - Wendy Goodman - shot on-site at Privet House in New Preston, CT - PH: Jason Jobson - Flowers created by Allison Cooper Flowers

You WILL NOT find a book like this anywhere. Wendy Goodman & Jason Jobson at Goodman's signing of "May I Come In?" at Privet House in New Preston, CT Seriously.  Goodman relives her visits with these creatives, and gives us insight to what inspires her quest for the beautiful, and the interesting. It is physically large, colorful, and wonderful.

Buy this book.  You will not regret it.  I promise.  Click images for buying options.   I spotted the book while browsing the incredible retailer - KIRNA ZABETE.  If you live in NYC, or plan to visit.  Put Kirna Zabete on your "must see" list.  Again.. you won't be sorry.  MAY I COME IN? - WENDY GOODMAN - SPOTTED AT THE INCREDIBLE DESIGNER BOUTIQUE - KIRNA ZABETE IN SOHO, NYC - PH: JASON JOBSON

Flowers in photo created by Allison Cooper Flowers

GLORIA VANDERBILT BY WENDY GOODMAN

THE WORLD OF GLORIA VANDERBILT by WENDY GOODMANGloria Vanderbilt has been famous since birth.   Born into one the richest families in American history, her life was chronicled in every newspaper and tabloid of the day.   Much of the attention at that time was due to the wicked custody battle (1934) surrounding her life, as relatives were determined to remove her from a mother deemed "not suitable".   The general public was fascinated to read the decadent details of the rich and famous at a time when most were living through economic hardship.   While the details of her childhood are as rich as any novel, it is the life that Gloria created for herself some 80 years on, that is far more interesting.

A bohemian and artist at heart, Vanderbilt would evolve into one of the most celebrated and connected socialites in the world.   There was fame and infamy from her various ventures that included creating designer jeans before any other celebrity had branded themselves.   The Gloria Vanderbilt signature logo and white swan symbol was as famous as any fashion brand and would eventually be taken from her due to unsavory contractual situations.   Vanderbilts life story is a true roller coaster ride of fantastic highs and debilitating lows.GLORIA VANDERBILT AND SON ANDERSON COOPER

This year Wendy Goodman, a true arbiter of style in her own right and New York design world legend has published a tribute to Gloria and all her style.   The World of Gloria Vanderbilt is an incredible collection of photographs and stories of this blue-blood beauty and her one of a kind life.  To this day, Vanderbilt remains true to her spirit as a bit of a shift shaper.   She embraces change and keeps moving.

The foreword is a touching tribute to Gloria written by her son, world famous news anchor Anderson Cooper.  Cooper pays tribute to his mother with great affection, also with a sense of objectivity that one must when describing someone surrounded by fame.  Coopers writing displays a great understanding of his mothers need to be her own person.  

One of the most gorgeous books in print, The World ofDELUXE EDITION AT RALPH LAUREN HOME Gloria Vanderbilt by Wendy Goodman is one to buy for yourself and one to gift to anyone with a great sense of style.   The book is an inspiration for anyone passionate about interiors, fashion, and will give any reader a boost of independence and zest for life.  Ralph Lauren hosted Vanderbilt and Goodman for a book signing in his brand new store on 72nd & Madison Avenue.   This gorgeous mansion was the most appropriate setting to host on of New York's most famous citizens.   Lauren has created a deluxe version of the book packaged beautifully in a purple showcase.   The set also includes an 8x10 print of Vanderbilt.   Click Ralph Lauren Home to purchase the deluxe edition.   A traditional copy can be purchased at fine gift store - William Wayne & Co on Lexington Avenue.  The store is known for amazing customer service and as a destination for finding the perfect housewarming or hostess gift. Click on store name for website info.    To purchase the traditional edition on-line Click GV at AMAZON.