This & That: No. 117

Woody Allen’s latest film, the Barefoot Contessa is back and Maggie Smith’s latest film role set in Paris . . .

~Book

~Longbourn

by Jo Baker

Fans of Pride and Prejudice now have an opportunity to discover more about their beloved tale. While Elizabeth Bennet and her sisters steal the show in Jane Austen’s classic novel, Baker tells the story through the eyes of the orphaned housemaid, Sarah revealing so many additional and intriguing details that audience have taken notice. Applauded by The New York Times Book Review as a Notable Book and Seattle Times Best Title, this just may be that 7th novel that Jane Austen never wrote.

~Film

~Magic in the Moonlight

In Woody Allen’s most recent film, Magic in the Moonlight, he writes the story of an Englishman (played by Colin Firth), who travels to the south of France determined to prove Sophie Baker (Emma Stone) a fraud as she presents herself as a clairvoyant spiritualist. Along the way, however, romance blossoms, and well, perhaps he does possess a bit of magic, no? Find out beginning July 25th.

~My Old Lady

Based in Paris, My Old Lady is film involving love, unexpected treasures and a renewal of life. Kevin Kline stars in the directorial debut of Israel Horovitz. Upon arriving from New York, Kline’s character is set to liquidate his estranged father’s Parisian property, but discovers a refined old lady as the tenant. While waiting to determine how he can acquire his asset, he comes to learn that the old lady (played by Maggie Smith), was his father’s lover for 50 years, as well as meeting and becoming smitten with the old lady’s daughter played by Kristin Scott Thomas. Scheduled to premiere in the states on September 10th, have a peek at the trailer below.

~Food

~Barefoot Contessa, Season 22

The Barefoot Contessa has returned with new episodes for her 22nd season. Having just been awarded the 2014 James Beard award for Outstanding Host/Personality, Ina Garten returns with seven new episodes (premiered on July 20th) as her new book, Make It Ahead: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook

is being released in late October.

~Shopping

~Tibi Black Amber ankle strap heel

~Tibi is slashing prices getting ready for the upcoming fall collection, so when I saw this pair of spring/summer black ankle strap sandals reduced, I took notice. Perfect for summer weddings or even with jeans to elevate a casual look.

~Television

~Sensitive Skin

For my Canadian readers – Kim Cattrall is back on HBO. Starring in the premiere series Sensitive Skin, this six episode comedy details the life of a woman, Cattrall’s character, going through a mid-life crisis. Based on a British series of the same name, which premiered in 2005, it is labeled as a dark comedy as it does deal with these issues of aging as a woman in a way that is quite intelligent and humorous, but real and thought-provoking at the same time. What drew me to the show was Cattrall’s interview on NPR – have a listen here. Premiering this past Sunday (July 20th), catch the remaining episodes on HBO Canada.

~Victoria Beckham in Vogue UK August 2014~

And now the weekend begins – the last weekend in July. What? Where has summer gone? Ah, it’s going well, it must be, if time is flying.

With an opportunity to welcome my neighbors into my home for an intimate dinner party this past week which led to conversation about books, music, travel and history deep into the evening, I must say there is something about not saving the special occasions for the weekend – the work week needs some pleasures as well.

While this week brought much-appreciated cooler temperatures, I hear that is about to change, so I am heading for the country for a respite and room to let my dogs run to their hearts’ content. In the meantime, here are some articles I think you might enjoy . . .

~Dolce & Gabbana held their exclusive Alta Moda (haute couture) show in Capri earlier this month (press photogs were not allowed). Below is one of my favorite looks, but you can see and learn more about these gowns, beginning at $41,000 and upwards, here.

~The New York Times dives deeper into what makes humans truly happy in “Love People, Not Pleasure”.

~Habitually Chic reveals her Parisian apartment this week. After a mere three weeks, she has expertly made it absolutely lovely and a touch Parisian.

~The lovely Frances Schultz, revealed pictures of her Bee Cottage (as seen in House Beautiful) in East Hampton as it was styled for an outdoor summer supper party. You don’t want to miss these photos.

~Vogue begins an intriguing discussion - “12 Stylish Women Who Are Redefining the Notion of Age-Appropriate Dressing”