Diary of a Sugar Dandy

Second Annual Caftan Cavorting at Art Basel

2011-12-14T18:53:00.000-05:00

I know it has been FOREVER since I have posted but now that I am EIC of LookBooks I am posting there as well as Tweeting, Tumblring, Instagraming, Facebooking and clucking like a chicken. Anything to get the word out about our awesome content!

But for Art Basel Miami this year I decided to keep the caftan tradition going and I had two new ones made in Harlem and brought my Dishdasha I bought in Dubai. They were a hit! And so were the one piece bathing suits I wore under them.

Day One: My classic Moroccan caftan. Keep it minimal at the start. Don't scare the people.

Day Two: Scare the people. One Russian woman at the pool yelled, "Oh ma gawd I zought you were going to shoot me!" How sad that a white robe makes people think of terrorism. Read a book people!

Day Three: This John Bartlett number is always a crowd please. The cut is perfect and the camo print of his beloved Tiny Tim is epic. (Note my friend has a dress with a cat print. Cats and Dawgs!)

Day Four: Serve them Harlem realness. Nobody was really prepared for this one. I have dreamed of having a caftan in this fabric since Obama was sworn in. I saw it all over Harlem but it dissappeared before I could buy some. Luckily I found one spot in Harlem that still had some. Yes I did!

Day Five: Tribal Mask meets Liz Taylor. This is another print I found in Harlem. I really should have washed it before wearing it as the dye was so intense that when I sweated I had blue streaks running down my arms and legs. No matter! As you can tell, Morgan from Saturdays is a big fan.

And that's it for now! I can't wait to swan around New York in these this summer.
Feel free to send me pics of your favorite caftans. I need inspiration for next year!

Daphne Guinness Profile- O Magazine

2011-09-21T09:15:00.001-04:00

Here is the piece I wrote for The U.K's O Magazine, the bi-annual fashion publication from The Observer newspaper in London. It came out just in time for Fashion Week. Needless to say it is always a thrill to interview Daphne. She is funny, quick witted and terribly smart.

Since I can't download PDF's on this site I had to save as jpeg and I don't think you can actually read it. But email me if you want a larger image or pick one up in Londontown.

Fergus unleashed on Sullivan's Island

2011-09-19T18:15:00.000-04:00

We are down here in Charleston for Claire and Marco's baby shower. More on that soon! But this mawnin' Claire and I took the dawgs to Sullivan's Island for a good run. They can be off leash as long as they have proper tags from the city so I borrowed Digs' blue collar and wrapped it around Fergus' little leather collar.

Boy did we have fun! And the best part was that (for the most part) Fergus came to me when I called. Treats didn't hurt either. All dogs were good and bath time afterwards at Claire's wasn't too hard.

That was at 9:30am and at 6:14pm they are still lazing about the house. See more below. Enjoy.

Dizzy waiting for a treat

Fergus' first glance of the ocean!

Tiddling

New friend

Sand castle!

Chasing new friend

Clearly friend is winning

To the waves!

Upon reflection...

Getting used to it

Eeeek!

Big boy

My favorite landscape...

Preggers Claire

Check out the graphic art in the sand-

Treat time

Jelly fish. Wouldn't that make a fab charger?

Fort Sumter where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.

Follow Fashion Week with Moi!

2011-09-13T17:29:00.001-04:00

Check out all of my posting from New York Fashion Week for LookBooks.com here.
Be sure to 'like', tweet and spread the love! Hope you enjoy.
Your weary writer.

Here is our favorite person we met all week!

Ye Olde Broom

2011-09-01T23:37:00.001-04:00

Now that our economy is in the dumps (again!) and China could take over any day, I have really been trying to buy all American. When my broom was shot I refused to go to Duane Reade for another crap plastic one. So I googled 'hand made brooms' and found Little John.

I am seriously obsessed with this site. I want one of each. Check out that marriage broom!
I ordered a standard broom and it arrived this week. It really is a work of art. I love the wood handle, the braiding on top, the twine loop for hanging (although Little John, I think leather would look nicer, but maybe you are vegan).

Then I gave it a whirl this morning. WOW! I'm going to stoner out and say it made the best sound, it felt great and damn did it do the trick. Especially after all that Irene debris.

Check out the site here and think of him when looking for house warming and general gift giving. Perfect for country homes!

Thanks Little John! Keep up the good wizardry work.

Happy Birthday Biba

2011-09-01T22:18:00.000-04:00

I just had this photo framed in memory of my grandmother, 'Biba', who would have turned 89 on August 21st.

She was my best friend who made me feel completely safe, happy and secure in a world where I had no idea who I was. She got married to my grandfather when she was 18 and he was heading off to war. She got married at her mothers home in a surprise wedding. Everyone thought she was hosting a cocktail party and out she came.

I took it to my favorite framer in the world, Jack and he said "I'm going to go crazy but just trust me." It came back with a brown suede mat with a dusty pink boarder and a silver frame. It worked. I can hear her now looking at it, "Mmmmmmmmmmmm! How I remember that day like it was just yesterday," in her sweet southern drawl.

I miss her every day.

Fergus' First Time on the Beach!

2011-08-15T22:50:00.000-04:00

There aren't many places in the Hamptons that dogs are allowed on the beach but Mark and Mary have a special spot where dogs can come play.

Fergus was excited and terrified of the ocean and the sound of splashing waves.
But in true Terrier form, he adored the sand for digging.

Getting him clean was a bit of an event but he had a ball and we will definitely make is a summer ritual.

PS- I had to add the Lilly Pulitzer Animal Crackers in the mix. Mary said she bought them at a ghetto gas station en route to the country and the cookies were so stale she had to throw them away!

Tie Dying in South Hampton

2011-08-15T22:40:00.000-04:00

I have been away from my blog for some time since I got a new job! I am now Editor-in-Chief at LookBooks.com

Now that things are a bit more under control I am back to some posts!

Here is our Sunday afternoon creative time. Mark bought a tie dye kit and some very big granny panties for us to dye.

I have actually been wearing them and getting quite a shock when I unzip and see red and purple!

A Full On Fourth at Fay and James'

2011-07-06T22:55:00.002-04:00

This 4th was spent at James and Fay's fun summer spot in East Hampton. How odd not to be out there with Rod and Philip at Jamies! But it's always nice to see the Hamptons through others eyes. It was a relatively mellow weekend (well, not for James and Javas!) but the rest of us just chilled, giggled and did a whole heap of eating. Thanks F&J for a fun filled weekend. Fergus is still wiped out!

Our hosts in repose

Can you spot Fergus?

Javas doing his 'Octopus Dance' as Soumanjoy calls it.

The beach or a Ralph Lauren Polo ad?

Da Boys being boys. I wish we got a pic of princess unicorn who visited us in his neon green speedo but we were too awe struck to move.

Yes my child!

My morning buddy

SAUCY salad!

Gazpacho prep

"I SWEAR mine are bigger than this!"

SadTrombone.com- kept us in stitches all weekend

Boys behaving badly

Dawg Walkin'

ART!

Dream Home.

Dream Boat.

Someone sketching.

Fay kept saying, "Bloody hell get a picture of that! James cooking!"

Gatttthpacho!

And here we go....

Your child will be so proud when this floats up during his High School years....

Fay is thinking... HOAX... that was the word of the night for Scrabble.

4th of July Parade in South Hampton!

Bea in her new tie dyed shirt she made.

Fergus hears the bagpipes of his homeland!

Is that Rose Kennedy?

Look to the far left of the frame...

Kaboom!
Perfect weekend.
xo

Fergus' First Hair Cut!

2011-06-13T16:55:00.001-04:00

My little boy is getting all grown up!
Today I took Fergus to Posh Paws in Harlem for his first Scotty hair cut.

They said he was a star client, whimpering a bit in the beginning then once he realized how much cooler he will feel in this summer heat he laid back and let the buzzing begin.

BEFORE

I can't believe how different he looks. I thought all that mass was hair but it was actually his little stocky body filling out.

BEFORE

Soumanjoy wasn't too thrilled with the prospect of a cut since his curls are so cute (FDR was never a fan for Fala to be cut either) but I think now that it's done his curls will grow in as handsome waves. He will be our own little Swiffer!

FINISHED!

Once home Ferris was eager to see the new look. He seems to approve.

And can't you tell someone is a happy little lad basking in the sun with half his coat and a heap more pizazz?

My 35th Birthday Bollywood Blowout

2011-06-11T00:24:00.001-04:00

This post is way overdue but life has been quite busy since I turned 35! I can't dare post all the pictures here but here are some highlights. I decided to have an Indian themed bash about six months before and spent hours in Butala Emporium in Little India buying decorations. incense, garlands and platters. Soumanjoy and I even made the trip to Jackson Heights to buy a sherwani for me and a sari for mom. Little did I know he already had his sister on a hunt for one in India which he gave to me on my actual birthday.

Molly from Sips and Bites did a stellar job on Indian themed food and Soumanjoy made a killer chicken tikka. My poor bartender had no idea what hit him with 35 people came in at the same time and the crowd swelled to around 75.

We spilled, swilled, twirled and laughed till 2am. One of the earliest party endings I've ever had! Usually people are still coming in at that hour. It was quite a bash. Next year is tee shirts and paper plates!

Mother in her Maharaja Magic

Samosas from Sips and Bites

Babe and me in our Sherwani's. Rod added the plumes to my turban.

Beatrice in her belly dancing outfit I bought her in Dubai. She was Fergus' favorite toy!

Mama Mary in her sari I bought her in India in 2003! Its debut.

Sandy from Henna Studio spent two hours beautifying everyone in henna. The perfect addition.

Fay's not saying what she is hiding under that sari!

Asha, one of the people the party couldn't happen without.

Can you tell these girls have spent some time in India?

Patrick! He's been planning this outfit for months.

Hanuk never does costume, but he's character enough.

I dream of Juanjo!

Party gets poppin!

Ms. Blume ala Man Ray

Soumanjoy and Poppy King!

The Crew and my gift, an Hermes ashtray of a Scotty.

Harpers Here!

Ben! One of Mama's favorites.

The North Fork Crew.

Anna Banana! Here new store is killing it in the LES

Here comes trouble...

Horacio in the Urban Turban

Chris Olberding does Leopard right!

Felix and his loose lips

Wigs out, games begin.

BOFFO boy Faris and friend

Olivia in her favorite spot, Fergus' crate....

Last but not least, David Usbourne goes Colonial. Viceroy? Attaboy.

Marie Antoinette's Turkish Treasures at The Frick

2011-06-10T15:15:00.002-04:00

On a balmy Tuesday afternoon, Lesley Blume and I swaggered over to The Frick to have a private tour of the newest exhibit, Turkish Taste at the Court of Marie-Antoinette.

Exoticism and my favorite Queen all in one exhibit? S’il vous plait!

We met our favorite flapper Heidi Rosenau in the vestibule of the museum (wearing a very nautical 1930’s look) and she escorted us to the tiny room where the treasures are being shown. At first I was disappointed that it wasn’t a full floor of objects but once we began discussing each of the six objects my head was already swimming in a Turkish bath of beauty.

Heidi gave us the rundown of each piece and later, my new neighbor Charlotte Vignon, who is Associate Curator of Decorative Arts at The Frick provided much of the background of the curious and short-lived trend.

France had a love affair with anything exotic and when in 1721 Mehmed Efendi visited Louis XV the royal court was sent into an Arab frenzy. But it was when Marie Antoinette became Queen in 1774 that the trend really took off.

Boudoirs Turcs became all the rage with royals and were always small, personal rooms for close friends (opposed to state rooms), which were mirrored and full of the highest quality furniture and objects. Although the Queen had one created at Versailles and Fontainebleau, the one at the latter is the only one still in existence. It is not open to the public because of it’s size and location but Charlotte being who she is got access and showed us pictures of this amazing little chamber which I hope one day will be open to the plebes like me!

Sadly, the Turkish trend fizzled when Marie Antoinette and the Ancien Regime were carted off to the guillotine. But lucky for us there are a few pieces that survived that can transport us back to those decadent, debaucherous days.

Below are images from the show and my notes on each. Hop on your magic carpet and check out this magical little nook of delicious, dreamy works of art. On view till September 11^th.

Pair of Firedogs with a Seated Dromedary

from Marie-Antoinette’s Turkish boudoir at the Château de Fontainebleau, 1777

These dandified dromedaries were all the rage in the Queens court.

Crafted by good ole Pierre Gouthière, the greatest bronze-maker, chaser, and gilder of his time I can only imagine a little fire roaring behind them as M.A. giggled over court gossip. I wasn’t really aware there are camels in Turkey but on further investigation they do indeed reside there and they are known for their wrestling!

Attributed to Jean-Siméon Rousseau de la Rottière (1747–1820) and Jules-Hugues Rousseau (1743–1806)

Pair of Panels from the comte d’Artois’s Turkish Room at Versailles, 1781

In truth I can’t give M.A. all the credit for the Turkish delights. The comte d’Artois, Louis the XVI younger brother actually started the trend around the same time and created his own room in Versailles. These panels come from that room which he used as a library. There are six in existence and the rest are in Paris. The cherubs in turbans give me the major creeps but Lesley and I both gasped at the beauty and the sensuality of the interlocking mermaids on the bottom of the panels.

Pair of Small Console Tables, c. 1780 Gilded and painted beech and walnut with marble tabletop

Although the early history of these tables is unknown their exceptional quality suggest they were once in royal hands. These are the inspiration for the exhibit since they are in the Frick collection.

From mermaids to Blackamoor mermen, Lesley and I nearly had to go outside for some fresh air we got so excited. The crossed crescents at the tops of the tables also evoke the Turkish trend.

Charlotte explained that the Blackamoors and central garlands are all carved out of one solid piece of wood. Impressive. The tables are displayed one at eye level and one, as it would stand on the floor. Charlotte told us they did that so we could see the detail of the tables up close but also when you look down at the lower table one of the mermen is staring directly back at you. We went gaga over his silver earrings and his turban, which was originally gilded in platinum.

To make these tables even more divine, Mr. Frick bought them on suggestion from the legendary Elsie de Wolfe. Cant you imagine her saying, “Henwy those Toikish toibles with toibins are a must!”

Fergus' Graduation From Puppy Class

2011-06-06T19:05:00.000-04:00

Today was the big day! Fergus completed his six week class with flying colors.
There was only one other dog in the class and he was a hot mess but regardless, our teacher Shannel was always impressed with Fergus' quick learning.
Not like his daddy who had a tutor half his life and a bowl full of Ritalin.

No he knows how to:
Sit
Stay
Down
Leave it
Drop it

Daddy knows how to:
Not act like a sissy teen queen when he sees Fergus upon entering the house- that makes your dog go wild and he wizzles all over the place and spins out. Just say- Hey Fergus and keep walking.

To give calm commands, again not to excite and have him half poop scoot down the street for a treat from me.

Spray him with water if he barks.

Always keep the leash in the right hand and have him walk on the left

Use weird loud noise to get his attention in case of emergency.
This was especially embarrassing to try in the middle of Pet Smart...

I think we are going to sign up for intermediate classes next. He had such fun!

And it also wears his ass out so daddy can work for a couple of hours.

First Face Time in Eight Years

2011-05-31T22:38:00.003-04:00

Soumanjoy has always wondered what I would look like without a beard. I said he would simply have to keep on wondering. Then for his birthday I thought I would give him the gift of the great unveil!

Well his other present was a ticket to join Price, Justin, Sarah and me in Texas for five days at a friends ranch.

I figured that if I shaved on Wednesday night and we left for Texas on Thursday that I would have nearly a week on a ranch to let my beard grow back in case I looked dreadful.

On Wednesday afternoon during the last episode of the Oprah’s show (ever!) I was inspired by her speech of action and ran upstairs and began clipping. I documented the removal, shaving each chunk and snapping a shot transitioning from redneck chin shave to raver zipper sideburns to Castro Queen handlebar and finally the end result, me.

I stared at the naked face in the mirror not quite knowing how to react. Who is this person? I haven’t shaved for about eight years. My lips look so small, where is my chin? Wow how did my nose get that big? What are those massive lines from nose to lips? Under that coat of fur I had aged and this was the first time I am seeing it. Getting old has never bothered me. I can’t wait to look like Hemingway (so I hope) although I don’t think I’ll have the salty hair to go with it unless I buy a toupee. But it is a shock to see oneself as a different person.

As the day went on I had many moments of silly surprises. I went out onto the terrace and the breeze on my face felt so different. When I ate a sandwich I didn’t have to keep wiping my mustache. I haven’t licked my lips in ages. When I was hot after gardening I could slap water on my face and feel so refreshed and clean. It dried so fast and wasn’t dripping after several minutes. Fergus licking me all over my face and not just on my hairless forehead was comforting. And the simple reflex of running my hand down the side of my face felt so slippery.

When Soumanjoy arrived home at 7:30 I was holding Fergus in front of my face when I met him. He immediately grabbed Fergus and buried his face into his stomach and took him out to the terrace. Hey! Look at me! I followed him outside and just waited for him to finally look. When he did he nearly dropped the dog. “Oh my God! Oh my God! Look at YOU! Wow. I finally am seeing you.” He gave me a big hug and stared at me. It felt funny and vulnerable. He was seeing me as me. All evening when we were talking I could tell he was examining my face with a little grin.

(Mr. Jack Kerouac)

I kept trying to figure out whom I looked like. A soldier from the 30’s? A Greek boy from the 50’s? Michelle Barge decided, Jack Kerouac. The long face, the nose, the short hair. Not bad.

When I sent an email out of my shorn face, mother admitted she wouldn’t have recognized me on the street. Everyone says I look ten years younger. But I miss my beard. It is a part of me, of my facial structure, of who I am. I have been wearing some form of heard since 2001 when I went to London after 9/11 and saw some boys in beards and thought I would give it a shot. But for many years I have been accused of hiding behind my hats, my beard and my glasses and for the first time in many years I’ve taken that all away.

It works well on the farm in Texas but as the days go on and the ole fuzz starts forming I feel more me. Maybe one day I’ll shave it off again, but for now I enjoy being the beard in every way shape and form.

Sunday Styles

2011-05-15T17:34:00.002-04:00

I woke up to a deluge this morning. Severs storm reports abounded on phone, radio and TV. During an ad on my favorite program, CBS Sunday Morning, I ran downstairs to get the paper.

When I opened the door against the rather harsh elements I found a paper drenched from the downpour. Now didn't the New York Times know it was going to rain?

Regardless I pretended the pile of wet mush was an ancient scroll and I gingerly peeled each page apart, careful not to rip it. Luckily Fergus was asleep on the couch or the entire thing would of been a wet confetti explosion.

Naturally the first section I read was Sunday Styles and I was so pleased to see a picture from the fun and festive Frick Ball from last Monday. It is of Lucy Lang, me and Michelle Harper all inquisitively gazing at something or other. Most likely champagne.

What a nice gift for my first week of 35.
But the real gift was an email I received from a good friend and a great leader in the fashion world.

It read:

Dear Cator,
I must say that your picture in the New York Times is really extraordinary …
There is something very mature ( in a very good way) very chic in that shot .
I looked at this picture like a major step in your career … I don’t know how to explain this …
This picture is not just a picture , it prints your name , your wit , your elegance , your laugh in the high sphere of New York society …
Bravo .

It's moments like that where words far outshine pictures and something we all really need to hear now and then to keep the confidence up in the rough and rugged world of trying to eek out a living in NYC.

Thank you HP

Two of my favorite gifts for my 35th

2011-05-11T12:42:00.000-04:00

Gifts mean different things to different people. We are all fine with gift cards (as I am for someone who has everything-itunes are awesome!) or a check and I love it when a gift comes in the form of a dinner date with the giver for a proper one on one catch up and cocktail. But there are those gifts that can truly touch one to the core because of the thought and effort involved.

Two of those sorts of gifts landed in my lap for my 35th birthday so I thought I would share them here.

My best friend from college, Claire sent me a box from Charleston. In it was the most amazing pink and gold package and inside I discovered glass vials filled with powders saturated in a vivid array of colors. Scattered through were metal stamps with Hindu designs on them.

Her card read, " The enclosed pink box is something I purchased from a little girl on the banks of the Ganges River-there is a bag of metal stamps in the box and you use them to make decorative bindis."

She sent them for me to use at my Indian themed party, but I wanted to keep them for myself for a little while and just gaze at them! I figured 100 drunk people would end up throwing the powder around the room like Holi and use the stamps for cocktail stirrers. I know I would!

So I let people look but not touch. Next Indian dinner party I host I will pull them out and decorate everyone before we start drinking. Thanks Claire!

The other gift that bowled me over was the sherwani Soumanjoy surprised me with. We went to Jackson Heights a month ago to go costume shopping. I bought a sequined kurta for $50 for my party. Sherwani's were out of the question at $400-$600 a piece.

On my actual birthday when we met up with friends at Tiny's for drinks he had a big bag in tow and a huge grin on his face. It didn't take long for me to grab that bag and dig in. Inside was a dazzling golden sherwani his sister had sent from India. I pulled it out of it's plastic bag with shakey hands and tried it on. Perfect fit!

Now I knew why he had been up at 4am several nights on the phone with his sister. Simontica and her boyfriend Skyped Soumanjoy from the store to pick out the right one.

(Soumanjoy joked that the designer must have a lisp
after we read the label)

It was a huge success at my party and went unscathed. I was petrified of cigarette burns or wine spills. I want to wear it every day! Sherwani chicness can be the new look for men I'm sure. Isn't the lumber prepster look about done?

Thank you my Maharajah.

My 35th

2011-05-05T14:02:00.000-04:00

Tuesday I turned the big 3-5.
I love birthdays. It's kind of like New Year's except you wake up on the actual day with no hangover. For the most part.

(My cake at the Trustees Dining Room)

I was up at 7:30 and had the morning routine of playing with Mabel with my eyes half shut while she makes the figure eight around my hand to get the most contact possible. Then I roll over and stare at my wall of pictures, follow them to the windows perched 20 feet above the ground in the turret and gauge the weather of the day. Then I usually hear a little whimper. That would be Fergus ready for his morning tinkle.

I give Mabel one last hearty pat and roll out of bed, open the blinds, stare out at the wide street of 122nd and watch the clouds in the sky until Fergus reminds me he still needs to wizz. I dress in my gym clothes, open his crate and carry him downstairs to the garden terrace. He bounds around for a while then remembers to tinkle, gets a treat (Good Potty Fergus!) and continues playing.

I then pick him up, bring him inside, plop him on my chest on the chesterfield, pull out my Nikky Haslam book and read a chapter while he passes out and cuddles. 35 ain't so bad so far!

That afternoon Rod and I took a car down to the Met for lunch in the Trustees Dining Room. It was a madhouse! Everyone was there to see the McQueen show, open only to members that day. We waited so long for a table the host brought out champagne for everyone. Hoorah. We had a lovely meal and commented on just about every table in the room, "Ooooh look at her hair! That dress? Who is that man in pink?"

The exhibit was great to see again although packed to the gills with people. I spied several things I had missed on press day and watched the entire Kate Moss hologram installation.

(My gift to myself on the big day- a pair of McQueen Armadillo pump tree decorations!)

Afterward I had to rush home to finish a story due that day (damn deadlines!) and at 5:30 headed down to Chelsea for a meeting with the Citizens Committee of New York City. I applied for a grant for tree guards for the block and was approved! So I had to go meet the team. From community service to champagne, I headed to Olivia's for a bottle before heading out for the night. Lovely!

We headed to Tiny's for a round of drinks. It was great to see Jack, our old bartender from the Beatrice who now manages this new spot. Fay, Lucy, Javas and Soumanjoy joined us.
Soumnajoy was carrying an awfully big bag in his hand and a smile on his face. HAND IT OVER.

I unpacked it to find a jewel encrusted Sherwani his sister sent from India for me to wear at my party. It is beyond handsome, over the top and a major moment for my closet! I had to try it on then and there and it fits like a glove. Thanks babe!

From there we walked to Bubby's in Tribeca for piles of mac & cheese, short ribs, nachos and cocktails. Fay and Olivia surprised me with a little carrot cake cupcake and a candle and song. We all split the wee cupcake after such a massive meal.

And that was that! A perfect day with fantastic friends whose presence always mean more than any presents.

Fergus' Southern Sojourn

2011-05-05T13:16:00.000-04:00

Last weekend I took Fergus on his first big trip. We headed out to the airport at 7am and arrived in Atlanta at noon. He was a great traveler. I brought the baby benadryl just in case but he didn't need it. Although he got a little antsy at the end. He will def need it for the Texas trip at the end of the month!

Mom and Dad's house was like a whole different world with a puppy. Not only was I on the constant crawl to find him in the house since it is entirely carpeted so it looks like one giant wee wee pad, but we explored parts of the yard I had never darkened.

Every morning we would wake up around 8am and pad outside into the sunlight where Fergus would spring to like and chase the squirrels, dogs and frolic in the leaf piles.

He got along great with Dudley, the new Basset Hound mom and dad rescued. They had a blast and would race around for hours. Thank God since Buford is too old and ornery and Chloe is just too fat.

Friday morning mom and I woke at 5am for the royal wedding. I am so glad we did. Yes, you saw clips for the next five days but to watch it uninterrupted was glorious. That afternoon we wearily drove to Roswell to meet up with Cator and Susan Angel who grew up next door to mom and Cator in Buckhead. She found me on Facebook and wanted to meet up. It was lovely meeting her sister and sister-in-law for lunch and looking at old pictures.

When I got home dad and I cleaned the boat. I brought Fergus down to the dock and all was well until I couldn't find him and saw him paddling in the lake! I Florence Nightengaled into the water and rescued him. He has officially had his Southern baptism. That evening we went to the club and I was so tired that I got way too drunk (thanks Jerry for the white wine!) and don't really remember coming home and passing out at 10:30.

Saturday was fun filled with Laura, Sam, Mary, Kathy, Drew and Genene coming up for a day on the boat. That morning there was a Chicken Festival in Gainesville so Laura, Sam and Mary came up early for that. We pigged out on all sorts of chicken and our friend Don Dukes had his own booth- The Dukes of Oil. He also had his own redneck stemware which I am obsessed with!

Mom packed a huge lunch for the afternoon and we tooled around the lake and beached at Sunset cove so Mary could play with some other kids while we drank, ate and caught up. Good times.

That evening I went to the rare and wonderful Applebees for dinner with Gay. It's actually refreshing to go to a chain every once in a while and DAMN those mozzarella sticks are good.

Sunday we just hung out at the house and spent most of the day in the yard with the dawgs before heading back to the airport.

Thanks mom and dad for another lovely and lulling weekend in the South.

Fergus Gets Down with Dudley in Gawgia

2011-04-29T09:12:00.000-04:00

On Fergus' first trip south he find a playmate in Dudley, Mom and Dad's newest Basset Hound.

Quoted in the Daily Telegraph

2011-04-26T23:46:00.000-04:00

My dear darling friend Melissa Wentworth rings me up whenever she can for quotes on menswear. With all this royal wedding falderal I was flattered to get a bell this week.
See what I said in her column here. Last pragraph.

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T17:00:00.002-04:00

Since 2006 I have been joining Mark & Mary and their growing family for a day of church, egg hunts, food, and if we are lucky-booze.

This year was my first with my own little one. And now I know why parents tend to run late! I was all dressed, groomed and ready to go when Fergus pooed all over the living room something the size of 12 Cadbury Eggs (where does he store all of that?) which he then pounced in and ran around the living room. Grand.

So Soumanjoy and I were on knees cleaning, spraying, scrubbing, sweating off all my cologne I put of for Jesus. 10 minutes late it was the first time Mark & Mary beat me there.

But the service at First Presbyterian was lovely and it was so nice to have an hour of thought, prayer and giggles with the kids (I brought them chirping chicks that of course they turned on during prayer time).

Afterward we walked in the glorious weather over to Waverly to dine at Jeffrey's Grocery
where Ian and Barge joined us. We ordered brisket sammiches, Bloody Marys with oysters and pain au chocolat while the kids (and Ian) played with their Easter basket toys.

We made it back to the church in time for the Easter egg hunt where all the kids were dressed to the nines (or daintily as Soumanjoy said), baskets ready and eyes on the prize. It was good fun to help all the kids find their eggs (only four per kid allowed) minus the creepy man in neon sunglasses and Looney Tunes waistcoat who didn't seem to have any kids in the hunt.

Beatrice was tuckered out but mommy Mary needed one more libation so we tossed Mark and Bea in a cab while we headed to Gusto Organics for wine, fruit smoothies and snacks where we gossiped, groaned and guffawed about the lives we lead. I had no idea I'm a wood sign or that Alistair had a Steve McQueen cut on his eyebrow from a tumble down an escalator!

By then it was 3pm, the clouds started creeping into the city and we were all dozy from vino. We trained it back up to Harlem where Soumanjoy passed out and I piddled (with the plants, not as in tinkling-ROD) on the garden terrace. Another great Easter with my New York family and the excitement to come home to the newest addition made the day perfect and precious.

New Pictures of Mr. Dingwall

2011-04-22T11:01:00.000-04:00

He has grown so much so I culled a batch of random pictures I have been taking so everyone can see how my little pot licker is growing!

Napping next to Daddy's desk

Past out on Daddy Joe's shoulder. For some reason he loves sleeping on top of the couch like a cat. Mabel, what have you been teaching him?

During an intense rough housing I mussed his face up so much he turned Twilight on my ass.

He has FINALLY learned how to walk down the stairs to the terrace alone so he is now King of that domain.

Wo' out after his first walk with Rocco

Just last night while we were cuddled on the couch.

Colonel Cator's Grooming Guide for Complex

2011-04-14T09:51:00.000-04:00

Now that my Grooming Guide is wrapping up for Complex, I wanted to share all my posts here.
Look out for bigger features in the future!
See all of Colonel Cator's posts here.

Fergus' First Function

2011-04-04T08:28:00.003-04:00

As soon as I picked up Fergus, Olivia and Fay were already planning a puppy party. Yesterday, with the sun shining and a cool breeze we hosted a small crowd for a late afternoon get together to celebrate Mr. Fergus Dingwall.

Dressed in his best David Hart tie, Fergus welcomed friends who brought him loads of new toys, treats and handsome clothes!

(Yes, those are dog treats!)

The most popular gift was a chew toy in the shape of a mustache. He got three of them in every size!

I bought a fair amount of wine but the iced tea seemed to be the hit since most of the crew was hungover from birthday parties and weddings from the night before.

(Alistair took this picture of Anne and me)

I made a very 50's lemon and strawberry jello treat, Anna made vegan cupcakes with blueberry filling and Olivia made the most amazing quiche.

Ferris made a guest appearance and the boys got there tumble on and everyone got a little Fergus play time. So much so that by the end of the day the little man was wo' out.

But this morning was just like Christmas when we came downstairs to go potty and his ears perked up at all the new toys and he was bouncing from one to the other and even chewing on balloon strings and dragging them all over the house.

Cuteness overload! Thank you to all who attended.

Dressed to Kilt in David Hart Ties

2011-04-01T15:45:00.000-04:00

Now this is how a package should arrive.
I am a total sucker for brown paper packaging, twine and wax seals.

David Hart sent me these two lovely ties to choose from to sport next week when I judge the Dressed to Kilt event. It is one of my favorite charity events each year.
1. Because of a plethora of Scots
2. Men in kilts.
3. Scotch!

I am thoroughly thrilled with my package but little Fergus (who is not allowed to attend because of PETA problems in the past!) was delighted with the tissue.

Fergus' First Weekend!

2011-03-22T11:42:00.000-04:00

I picked up Fergus on Friday in Amish country and he has been on a roll ever since! They guest who have been gracing his presence have been many. And he is doing so well! Already wee wee pad trained, sleeping through the night in his crate and getting along well with Rocco and Ferris. Mabel will take time.

7am, tinkle time and playing tug o war with the dead ivy.

Pitcher play!

Waking up Daddy

Ferris' first sighting of the dawg. Priceless!

Rocco and Fergus get to gettin.

Ferris still unsure of this entire situation

Cat toy!

First bath. Not a fun experience for anyone but he grew to double the fluff and smelled 100 times better.

Uncle Justin visits!

So far Fergus has unearthed five wine corks from the depths of the garden terrace. Ahem...

Auntie Silvia and Olivia visit. Silvia came all the way from Austria!

Olivia bought Fergus tennis balls that happened to have a Scottie on the box. Perfecto.

Soumanjoy makes everyone breakfast in his very revealing apron.

The crew.

The warmest day of the season so far.

And Ferris finally gets greeted.

Passed out pup and play time with uncle Rod.

Don't even ask. Several bottles of wine later.

Daddys

Auntie Katie came up from Chelsea to meet Fergus.

And after even more wine this re-enactment of my Middle East trip happened.
Welcome home Fergus!

Abu Dhabi

2011-03-14T15:33:00.002-04:00

Abu Dhabi was the last stop on the cruise. Leave it to me to not read up a thing about the place before we arrived, so I was expecting a small town type of thing. Little did I know it’s the capital of the U.A.E! Although the sprawl isn’t quite as big as Dubai’s there is still a lot going on. Since it is made up of hundreds of islands there is a lot of water, which I love and a beautiful corniche. It is also much wealthier than Dubai so things are just a little bit nicer. Dubai will run out of oil in the next five years, Abu Dhabi won’t run out for another 100.

We waited for Roxy (our guide from Dubai who drove over to guide us here) for 30 minutes because a triathlon had shut down the whole city. It was a real palava but we managed. First stop was the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which you all know by now after my obsessive posts about it. I don’t know if I will ever see something grander.

Next up was Shangri-La, a Jumeirah beach type resort with shops and restaurants. It was kind of sad and empty and too grand for its own good. But we did stop in Bateel, a famous date shop here and sampled dates with ginger slices, dates dipped in chocolate and dates with pistachios. Divine! I bought some to bring home.

Next we drove over to the Emirates Palace. This is Abu Dhabi’s Burj Al Arab. The two cities are friendly politically but culturally they are always at each other’s throats. When Dubai erected the world’s tallest flagpole, Abu Dhabi erected one three inches taller.

Like the Burj the Emirates is a seven star hotel and people aren’t allowed in just to gawk. But Roxy knows there is an exhibit going on inside and she drummed up this big speech to give to the security guards. We were in line with a bunch of taxis and they kept being turned away, but as soon as we got to the front of the line, the guard smiled and wove us in. I guess we looked like guests!

The interior is incredible, swathed in gold leaf, gold tiles and marble walls. Frankly I like the Burj better just for awe-inspiring size and shape but this hotel really is supposed to be like a Sheikh’s palace.

We found a gold ATM where you can put in $100-$10,000 and out pops a piece of gold in the appropriate weight.

We did actually go to the exhibit, which is all about the development of Saadiyat Island. By 2030 the island will be a major cultural center with an opera house designed by Zaha Hadid, a Guggenheim by Frank Gehry, a Louvre by Jean Nouvel, the list goes on. The models were incredible and I would love to come back when it is complete.

Next stop was the cultural center and heritage museum. Because of that irritating triathlon the main road to this museum was closed to cars so we had to get out and walk in 90-degree weather for 30 minutes back and fourth. It was pretty awful but once there it was a charming little place of thatch roofed huts and a little tourist souk where I bought Price the best Lady Bunny looking abaya around! It was also here where we could actually go on the beach and stick our feet in that gloriously blue/green water. Great moment alert!

After the walk back, dodging cyclists and joggers (one man was passed out from sun stroke and it took the ambulance 45 minutes to get there because of closed roads) we headed out to Yas Island. This is where that Formula One racetrack was built into a hotel and where Ferrari world is based.

Granted neither of those things have ever been in my vocabulary we went to check them out. The Yas hotel was pretty amazing with all white interiors with the racetrack running right next to the restaurant.

We poked around there for a bit but sadly no racing was happening that day. We just drove by Ferrari world, the building is amazing but clearly we had no interest in what is inside!

After this it was time to head back to the ship. We had been zizzing around since 9am and were wo’ out. We bid Roxy adieu and tipped our terribly handsome Indian driver (I don’t now if it’s the dates or the water out here but every man is so good looking!) and headed back to the ship. In the entrance tent to the ship there was a local man with his falcon just hanging out for tourists sake. I wanted to talk to him but he didn’t speak English or so he feigned and I took a picture and moved on.

We sat on the pool deck for a bit to catch some last rays of sun before I started the massive task of packing! I managed to pack it all in, but who knows how much it weighs. We dressed and headed to the bar for the usual cocktails and then watched an impressive tango performance in the Centrum. We then headed to dinner where a waiter came out of know where and kindly asked if we could stay at least until 930 so we could watch the waiters big performance. He said, “Every night I come by your table to say hello and you are out of here by 9:45!” Sad but true this hasn’t been the party trip like ones before. We stayed and watched the waiter’s sing and dance (yikes) then called it a night.

Today is our last day in Dubai. We are hitting the spice and gold souk one last time and then having lunch with Goncalo again. We have dinner on the ship and then have a pick up at 11pm in the ship terminal to head to the airport for our 2am flight. It’s going to be a long day!

This trip has been an interesting one. It’s an area of the world I never thought I would visit but I am so glad I did since it is the buzziest place in the world right now with their construction, bankruptcy, riches and most recently, political strife. It will be interesting how all of this plays out and what this place will be like in 100 years. Maybe it will be even bigger and better, but I wouldn’t be surprised if its back to a fishing village and these incredible monuments are looked at like we look at the pyramids and the Taj Mahal, a culture lost, an end to an era.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

2011-03-12T21:24:00.000-05:00

Now that I have sent my flower and carpet images I thought it about time to post images of the actual mosque.

(Our hysterical private guide, Roxy. If you are ever in Dubai or Abu Dhabi and need a tour call her!)

(Our handsome and sweet guide. Mother now has a terrible crush on Arab men)

So far it has cost $3.2 Billion and they haven't even finished working on the grounds which will have lush gardens, fountains and streams.

It has the world's largest chandelier, made by Swarovski.

(The largest chandelier)

(Another one)

There are 82 domes all in white marble and the biggest one is the largest on record.

(The men's ablution room-where you clean your hands, face, head and feet three times before prayers)

I was simply astounded by this beauty and richness. I'm reading about Cleopatra at the moment and her palaces were inlaid with gemstones on the walls and columns, this is what it must have been like.

I could babble on but the pictures say it all.

The Persian Carpet at the Zayed Mosque

2011-03-12T21:01:00.001-05:00

This is apparently the largest carpet in the world (beating the one in the mosque we saw in Muscat!).

It was all made in Iran and helicoptered over, lowered in and sewn together on site.

I didn't notice in the carpet in Muscat but this one has raised lines in it so that everyone can make perfect lines (foot to foot, shoulder to shoulder as our guide told us) during services.

I guess that is how they can squeeze 40,000 people into the place. These were some of my favorite patterns.

Mother has said she wants to make needlepoint seat cushions out of them. Watch out!

The Flowers of the Abu Dhabi Mosque

2011-03-12T13:31:00.002-05:00

I am speechless. I have never been to a place more beautiful, astounding, amazing, spectacular than the Shiekh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. The third largest mosque in the world (only Casablanca and Mecca are bigger) this place blows the Taj Mahal and Versailles out of the gilded fountain.

I will load several posts on the mosque that has the world's largest chandelier and carpet because of its sheer beauty.
Enjoy!

(My favorite picture of mother. The marble flowers are bigger than she is)

(The five times to pray plus the time the sun rises so you don't miss a prayer!)

A Day at Sea

2011-03-11T22:34:00.000-05:00

(Sunrise Over Iran! Sounds like a musical right?)

Yesterday was one of those days I dream of when I am hung over, cold, stressed out and on deadline in New York (which should be about this time next week)- a full day at sea!

There is absolutely nothing to do but relax, read, sunbathe, think and lull about.

(We both read half this book today. I want silver oars and jewels in my palace walls!)

Funny enough I didn’t even sleep late. I woke up at 6:15 to a glorious sunrise over Iran. It was Apollo-liptic in grandeur, color and size. I just sat on our terrace and gazed at it rising and thought about life. Every morning should start out so tranquil and lovely.

(Mom spent time sewing me a belt)

I finally got mother up and we ate in the nice dining room for breakfast. We didn’t realize they served breakfast in there until last night, silly. We were seated with a couple from Belgium who didn’t speak a lick of English and a funny couple from Chester, England. They travel all year round and he told me a frightful fact that he heard when he was in Iceland: The Chinese want to buy the whole place up because the North Pole ice has melted so much that they can finally drive oil tankers over the top of the world and can reach Iceland in lightening speed. I didn’t delve but that sounds terrible n’est ce pas?

(Sea Lions at rest)

Next stop, sunbathing. We found two chairs amongst the sea lions and read for an hour in the blistering heat, which totally rendered me lobster red. It was at this time that the Captain came on to announce the tsunami in Japan. Very scary stuff.

(WTF is that? And why is it near my ship?)

I just realized this is a terribly boring post so I will save more text for tomorrow and leave you with bullet points of the rest of our day at sea:

(Um, please don't be pirates...)

Next stop gym
Then lunch
Then a doze on the deck chairs
One more trip to the gym
A good hour in front of the TV horrified by the news in Japan
Hanging out on the balcony and seeing a huge black cloud and getting scared
Hanging out longer and seeing five little motorboats zizzing around us and wondering if they were Somali pirates. Still can’t figure out who they were but glad they left.
Watching the sunset, not nearly as glorious as the sunrise but pretty none the less
Manhattans at the champagne bar
Dinner in the Minstrel (who in their right mind named it this?) dining room
Back in the room to be greeted by a towel monkey.

We are pulling into the port of Abu Dhabi now at 7:13 am. And I thought Dubai was big. Whoa.

Day Two in Mystical Muscat

2011-03-10T23:26:00.001-05:00

Well mother and I didn’t make it up for the white party, but it was nice to wear my Dishdashah to dinner nonetheless. We booked at one of the nicer restaurants on the ship, Chops, and had a fantastic steak-a-thon. I somehow got very drunk and don’t remember how the evening ended, but mother said nothing spectacular happened since we were in bed by 10:30. Alas!

But day two in my favorite little town was majestic. We walked back to the souk and I got mother into the silver store where she began to shake with excitement. It really was a site to be seen, silver from floor to ceiling: picture frames, handbags (yes!), jars, boxes, incense holders, fish, conch shells, canes and of course jewelry. Sadly silver is at an all time high these days and the sweet Indian man said he is hardly selling any of it since it is just so much pricier than usual. I was dying for one of those articulated catfish with turquoise eyes (my great aunt had some and Vreeland had piles at her Park Avenue home) but they weighed in at $480 a pop. Sigh. Mother quivered over a rococo designed purse that also went for around $500. Double sigh. But we found some bits and bobs before heading onto the next spot.

It was a great time to be at the souk since the tour buses hadn’t yet arrived so the vendors were not at their peak screech level trying to get you into their stores. It was mostly local families buying spices, clothes and perfume. We spent some time in an Indian gold shop where I bought piles of bindis and bangles for my upcoming Bollywood themed 35^th birthday. The owner of the store was dazzled that I had real Indian friends in New York City and that I was buying these things for an Indian party. I asked if he worked at the store for long and he proudly raised his hands and said, “I come from south India and this is my store!” Then bobbled his head and smiled. Adorable.

Once we were souk sauced we headed next door to this little dive where I ordered a fresh squeezed lemon, mint drink that was beyond refreshing, then headed to the cab area where we asked a driver to take us to The Chedi. He has just Frankincensed his car and it smelled like the Holy Roman Empire in that little thing!

The Chedi is one of those hotels that you just go to. It’s on the ‘must’ list of jet setters if one is in Muscat so we did it. My friend Megan, whose family lives in Saudi but are from Texas said, “Oh Muscat? The Souk, the mosque, The Chedi, done.” See?

(fried cauliflower, baba ganoush, saffron rice and grilled fish)

It was a 30-minute drive through the most manicured landscape I have ever seen. This country has serious money. Every part of the highway was bordered with three tiers of pink, purple and white flowers, there were hedges cut into French formal garden shapes and massive sculptures, fountains and mosque every 10 feet. Neither of us could get over it. Especially if you remember this is desert world so all of those lawns and flowers have to have an underground irrigation system running through them.

The Chedi was a modern affair that reminded me a lot of the new W hotel in South Beach. Soaring ceilings, lots of wood and stone, fountains trickling out of pots. It really was a bit soulless, just another 5 Star hotel with posh people rolling about. But it was beautiful and I can see why it’s on ‘the list’. And the food! The food was a dream! Especially after days on that ship food. I felt like Julia Roberts in Eat, Pray, Love, I savored every bit of hummus, every crunch of a dolmades, and every pop of a grapefruit slice over my grilled fish. We both experienced total gastronomy glow.

After rubber necking around the place for a bit we called a car and headed back to the ship. Our time in Muscat had come to an end. I cannot wait to come back. The ship sailed at sunset and we leaned over the railings and watched as the old town faded from view and the Sultan’s palace stretched along the coast.

(The Sultan's Palace)

We then dressed for dinner, headed to the champagne bar like we do every night where Suzy and Rusty (both Philippino, she is always freakishly excited to see us and he is a petite old school, fly swatting, queen) greet us and make mother some fruity champagne cocktail and make me a Knob Creek Manhattan. Hence how I barely remember the end of every evening. And they always give us half a glass full of more booze so one drink is really like two and a half. Everyone was in a spirited mood and looked so nice. Where are these people when I’m sitting poolside sandwiched between two whale monger Germans hacking and smoking?

After dinner we looked around the shops and all of a sudden I noticed some 10 foot blond German man staring at me. What? Oh! He was giving the ole gay cruise stare! He kept looking at things and then giving the coy slow head turn in my direction. How exciting! The old boys still got it! So I introduce myself and all of a sudden he is a babbling, shy mess who says he has to go because he has friends and family waiting on him. Clearly I’m not looking for love but he could of at least joined me and mom for a nightcap.

It was 10pm and I told mom we should really try to stay up just a little longer and have one more drink. She looked at me and just said, “Why?” Indeed. We were in bed at 10:30 after a photo shoot with our swan towel.

Tomorrow, a day at sea. My dream come true!

Manic for Muscat

2011-03-09T09:42:00.000-05:00

Today was the day. I finally feel like I am in the Arab world! Muscat is everything I wanted in this trip. We pulled into port this morning and the glorious mountains, blue sea and white buildings were a majestic site. And what the hell is that 60’s looking acid hut? I would come to find out it is a sculpture of an incense burner! Since they are so popular here they decided to build a gigantic one.

But that is the only gigantic thing in this harbor. Unlike Dubai, residents aren’t allowed to build their homes higher than three stories.

And put your fears to rest, we have not seen any violence here. There was talk of some protests against the Sultan recently but everything in Muscat is perfect from what we can see.

We took a tour with the cruise ship and had a delightful day seeing the mosque, souq and museum. Our guide, Kallil was terribly informative (and cute!) and told me all about the male national dress of Oman. He even taught me how to tie a turban Omani style! Get ready this summer people.

First stop was the Sultan’s mosque. He had it built in 2001 with his own money and nobody knows what he spent but whatever it costs, it is astounding. The grounds reminded me of the Taj Mahal with fountains running in every angle and beautiful grass and flora. Women of course have to be robed. Luckily I had an Abaya that was a gift from a friend from Dubai when I was living in London so mother had that. Kallil taught her how to tie it around her face for maximum discretion.

The inside of the mosque was spectacular. It is the largest in Oman and the third largest in the Middle East. The chandelier is Swarovski crystal and weighs eight tons. The rug was woven in Iran by 400 women in sections, then brought to the mosque and sewn together. It weighs 21 tons. I could have stayed in there forever. I wish one day I could pray along with the other men in such a place but I don’t think that day will come. Such a spectacular place to be at one with God.

(Kallil showing us how they wash up before prayers)

Next stop was the souq. It’s right on the lovely Corniche and I went hog wild buying the local hats, head wraps, Frankincense incense and oil (divine!) and other assorted gifts. This was the best souq I have ever been in. Not only were there loads of interesting things to look at and buy, but everyone was so nice. I will never forget the harassing I experienced in Istanbul.

Next stop was a former home that was converted into a cultural museum. There was a whole section dedicated to the men’s dress. Who knew those things that look like bullets on necklaces were actually full of kohl and used as eyeliner to protect from the sun! (Same as Football players just much chicer)

The last stop was the Sultan’s palace, which is only used for formal occasions. I want an invitation! It looks so swinging 60’s.

Finally it was back to the ship. As soon as we were in our suite I had peeled off my western wear and slipped into my dishdashah and scarf. I am finally in my element. Mother and I had a quick lunch and then I glided back out to the city in my new attire. It was so lovely just strolling the Corniche, watching the fish, bird and boats bobbing.

I went back to the souq and spent two hours just strolling around, talking to vendors, touching fabrics and inhaling the thick scents. Everyone loved my native embrace and kept yelling, “Salaam Said!”

(The Sultan's yacht)

Finally I ordered a freshly made juice and just sat staring at the sea sunning. This is my heaven. Relaxation and wind whipping up my drawers.

I came back to the ship to rest before drinks and dinner. It’s a ‘white party’ tonight on the ship so I guess I’ll be staying in this dishdashah for the duration!

The Boat!

2011-03-08T08:50:00.000-05:00

Ok, please give me one totally snobby post about this boondocks boat we are sailing on, then it will be out of my system!

We boarded ship yesterday at 1pm. We have always known this wasn't the kind of ship we were used to. For years we have been cruising around on tiny Windstar sailboat yachts or Regent luxury liners from Greece to Lisbon and Russia. But we heard about this trip and thought it would be a lark to go cheap and see the Middle East.

The ship itself is beautiful and well done but the people! I don't know which country does inbreeding better, England or Germany but they are all on this ship. Throw in some Russians and Portuguese too. So not only can we not communicate with many passengers (that goes for the English too with their cockney!) but every announcement is made in four languages.

Then there is the food. Lunch is a free for all food line of all you can eat of everything I wouldn't. But these people are pushing, scrambling, inhaling everything in site. Can I please just get some chicken salad? Dinner so far has been good and we got an awesome wine list. The champagne bar can't be beat either.

Then there is the branding of this entire situation. I just don't get why Royal Caribbean think's middle aged men from Cork would want to hear rap and bad 80's music piped through the entire ship? And then the bands poolside are so loud I have avoided the area all together. Does Ivana from Yugoslavia like that? I have no idea. And every time you turn a corner there is someone dressed as a dolphin or holding a life ring (?) while an Adam Lambert look alike (although it's a girl) springs out of nowhere to take your picture.

Besides all of this, our suite is lovely (although the fact that it is a suite and that we were supposed to share this tiny room with my sister, Happy, is deranged) with a large balcony, the crew is sweet, the gym is fantastic and all in all, you simply can't go wrong waking up listening to the waves lapping and pulling into an exotic port.

This morning we pulled into Fujairah (Fellatia!) and mother in I took the shuttle into the city center and hired a cab to take us to the Friday Market where were were to find glittery table runners for gifts and a solid ball of camels milk which I bit into and nearly gagged so hard I turned inside out. Leave it to me!

We then headed back and just relaxed on deck. Tonight is formal night! So I'm sure Ms. Lambert will be in full force with the camera. But we will take it in stride after a champagne flute or two.

Tomorrow Mystical Muscat!

Dubai Day Three

2011-03-07T00:05:00.003-05:00

With a little Advil at 8am, we managed to wake up and be ready for our day trip to Sharjah after our boozy night before.

So how did I meet a Sheikha from Sharjah? My friend Faris from BOFFO told me he had a friend who was not only a Princess but a major player in the art world in the Middle East.
Her Biennial is coming up on the 14th (the day I head back to the States!) and loads of A list art world people are heading over to check it out.

Clearly, this was someone I had to meet. Hoor emailed me right back with an invitation to visit her in Sharjah and included a full itinerary for the day.

At 9:30am her driver Aslam met us at the hotel and took us to her Emirate. It was so different from Dubai. Not nearly as glitzy there was a real feeling of history here. Their corniche was so elegant with French inspired light posts and a pinkish stone balustrade curving around it reminded mother and I of the Riviera. There is a much more cozy atmosphere in Sharjah which isn't exactly an adjective people relate to the Emirates.

(an elephant clock!)

Next stop was the Heritage Museum where we learned about local crafts, culture and food. Everyone was so sweet and even wanted a picture with us. It was a nice change from malls and skyscrapers and a reminder that there was actually life here before oil.

(The guide is putting incense under mothers shirt. This is how they used to clean their clothes when there wasn't much water around)

We finally met Hoor (that is not her above!) at the art museum and she took us around the permanent exhibits as well as the installations for the Biennial. It's going to be an amazing event and I'm sorry I'm missing it. In two years I'll come back!

(An artists instillation at the museum. Lets hope it doesn't rain before the show!)

Wel left Hoor to her work and headed to the big Souq. We were so very excited to check it out and to get some gifts (the soul here isn't as touristy as the ones in Dubai) but alas, we got there at 3 while everyone is closed for prayers! Out of 200 shops maybe four were open. Sad face.

Aslam took us back to Dubai where we changed clothes and headed back out for an evening in the desert. This was one of those touristy events that everyone does while here. We were a bit afraid. We were put into a van with another family and kids from America and whisked out to the desert outside of Dubai, about an hour drive. We all got out, our driver, Babylon let the air out of the tires and we took off on the dunes.

This could of been amusing except he put in a CD of his favorite techno hits and turned it on full blast AND sang along. Let me tell you, a Kenyan screeching Katy Perry's Fireworks, is not something you want to hear in your lifetime.

Once he was done with that he dropped mother and I off with a Pakistani man and some camels and said he would see us for dinner. OK! Mother and I stumbled onto these beasts, nearly fell off when they stood up and then clambered around the sand dunes watching ths sun set and listening to the wind, a great relief after the techno tragic van ride.

Our guide finally led us to our camp, a lovely curtained affair with rugs strewn about, a shisha and loads of pillows. We asked where everyone else went and our cook told us they were all taken to a camp that seats 200. PTL we didn't end up there!

Wine was poured, food was served in abundance and mother and I watched the sunset, listened to the night and watched the desert mice as they rand between our feet for crumbs. Babylon came back to help cook and he was good fun when he wasn't singing.

They turned off all the lanterns and we just stared into the sky for a long time, mother drinking, while I hit the hookah. The perfect evening.

We got back to the hotel around 11pm and mother was in bed before her clothes were off. I packed and passed out fairly fast. Shisha and wine can do that to you.

Tomorrow the boat!

Dubai Day Two

2011-03-05T23:47:00.000-05:00

Today was a rather relaxed day. Thank God since Friday was spin city!
We woke up at ten (I was still feeling sick/sinusy/achy) had a quick breakfast then read in the room till 12:30.
Then it was time for our high tea at the Burj Al Arab! That's the seven star hotel situated on its own island. We taxied over, gave our name and reservation number to security (nobody is allowed in to just gawk at the splendor) and zizzed up to the main entrance.

It's hard not to be amazed at this place. The fountains, the colors, the 'world's largest atrium' but the interiors kind of remind me of something from Epcot in the 80's.

We snooped around the shops and found a dazzling diamond studded gun before sitting down for a seven course, two hour tea. HEAVEN!

I had an aromatic lotus blossom tea and immediately began sweating like a pig in heat. Fever breaking! I sweated it out for the rest of the day and am now sick free, that was some tea.
We dined on sammiches, mixed fruit, scones, salmon, pastries and champagne while listening to live Arabic music and later a piano while gazing out at the jewel colored sea. We could of stayed for hours.

Afterwards we took the glass elevator up to the top of the hotel to see the Sky Bar that overlooks the ocean. We attempt to walk in and a hostess kindly asks us if we have a reservation.
"No, we just want to have a drink."
"I'm sorry sir but the bar is closed for high tea."
After we thought our high tea was so chic we find out we could of booked in the Sky Bar with Lucite piano and spectacular views! Now we know for next time.

We then go from 7 star to no star as we head to the Karama shopping center in the poor area of Dubai (yes, there is one) where we were told to go to get leather sandals that a friend found there and my sister fell in love with. Hell on Earth! Buzzed with champagne we enter a cave like mall with dirty floors, broken lights and children running rampant with men shouting at us, "Marc Jacobs bags! Marc Jacobs Bags! Rolex!" talk about culture shock. We never found the sandals and run out as fast as possible.

We head back to the hotel and walk over to the mall. I had to do more damage at the Arabic tailors shop (gifts!) and wanted to see what the Harvey Nichols was like over here (small but cute!).

(The highlight for us at Emirates Mall!)

(Blinged out Bumper Pool Game!)

(Some of the younger Emirate men wear their head scarves with a certain pizazz!)
Then we came home, did a quick change and Ian picked us up at 7pm for dinner at his and Karen's house.

I met them in Botswana and Chloe and Peter's wedding and they have lived in Dubai for six years (from South Africa) where they run a film company. They live in a big old house not far from our hotel with a Jack Russell and a big white dog that is wild, temperamental and totally adorable.

(Loving this table cloth from Africa)

(They are just playing, I promise)

They invited a load of friends and family over and we drank, ate and laughed till 11pm. If only I could write the stories I heard about the middle east on this blog! But I think I may have a head hunter out for me if I did. There is nothing like spending time in a friends house in a far away place to really feel comfortable in a city. And it was quite odd to be sipping wine poolside with the call to prayer from the local mosque blaring all around us.

("And here is Fellatia")

(Ian's grandmothers leopard coat from the 1930's)
Karen showed me her chickens who lay eggs for their breakfast and Ian's Biltong maker which he brought from South Africa (Salman you would love that thing!).

Since drinking and driving results in a year in jail, Ian called us a cab then showed us a map of the Persian Gulf and was showing us the route our ship would be sailing. Mother asked in the most serious tone, "So tell me where Fellatia is..."
Pause
Pause
ROARING Laughter.
She meant Fujairah. Fellatio was the word of the evening.

Off to bed and tomorrow a day a Sharjah with their Sheikha.

The Caftan Crusade, Day one in Dubai

2011-03-04T13:34:00.000-05:00

The Emerald City

That's all I can think of when I gaze at Dubai. The new Burj Khalifa, the world's largest tower is the spitting image of Oz. The stewardess' on Emirates reminded me of Glenda the Good Witch and the airport with its glittering columns and green back lit walls was just awaiting munchkins.

Day one here has been a dazzle frazzle. Sensory overload! We woke and had local jet fuel coffee (Mother was in heaven) then headed over to the Mall of Emirates where they have the indoor ski slope.

I of course found a tailor and made a bee line for a Kandoorah. The nice man measured me and found me the perfect one. When I asked for a picture he dolled me up in full local drag!

Then we met our friend Goncalo for lunch. Mother and I met him when he worked at the Lapa Palace in Lisbon and through Facebook we have kept in touch. He is now a steward with Emirates and happily lives here. The world is simply too small.

We toured around the Jumeirah hotel with great views of the Burj.

And the color of the sea here is just sublime!

We said goodbye to Goncalo and met up with our tour guide Roxy who zipped us to the Palm Island where we checked out the Atlantis hotel and their little aquarium.

Then we headed to the museum to see what Dubai used to look like as a fishing village (which was only 30 years ago). Roxy told us a friend of hers who is around 50 years old and was born in Dubai said he doesn't really know how old he is because the town was so small back then there were not birth records!

We then jumped on a water taxi and zipped across the 'creek' for the gold and spice souks. YAY!

The rose buds smelled amazing and the yellow balls on the far right are dried lemons. I bought chocolates that look like rocks and are made with camels milk. Don't ask.

BLING!

And we ended the day dead tired at the world's largest mall, The Dubai mall where we watched the fountain's dance (just like Las Vegas) and dined outside to crowd watch.
By 9pm we were tuckered out so here we are in bed at 10:30. Tomorrow is high tea at the seven star hotel and dinner with friends I met in Botswana.But tonight, there's no place like home. Or at least our hotel.

Fergus Dingwall

2011-02-27T00:40:00.001-05:00

Today I met my first puppy. I've always had dogs, wonderful, beautiful mutts, but I have never had a purebred.

Yes, make me run the gauntlet but I've always wanted a Scottish Terrier.

My grandmother always regaled me with stories of Fala. She used to visit the Whitehouse as a child and Fala was always the perfect disposal for the rather unsavory menu offered by Mrs. Roosevelt.

Having a dog is a big responsibility in New York City. It's not like Atlanta where we just let them out the back door for a wiz. It's a walk at all hours! But I think I'm ready for it.

Today I went out to bumble whoo haa Pennsylvania and met the dog I googled last week. Adopting a dog is a strenuous a task as any. I have been let down time after time by breeders. And yes, I have looked on every adoption site on the Eastern Seaboard but alas, no Scotties.

So today I met my love. I've named him Fergus Dingwall. A Scottish name if ever there was. My friends Angela and Colin suggested the name Fergus, I found Dingwall as a surname from an old Viking town in Scotland.

Erla, the breeder, met us at the door and hastily brought out the puppy. He was sleepy when we met but came to life after a bit of time with me, Soumanjoy and Olivia.

After bonding with him for a bit, it was hard to give him back. His wide paws, his growing snout, his blue black gums and puppy breath had me in ecstasy. My own little Scot.

After we left we had an amusing and eye opening tour of Amish country.
First stop, The Carriage Corner Restaurant where we were quite the rare creatures. A Southerner ( I protested at Pepsi!), a French and an Indian, we had the whole place in a buzz.

But we ate like locals, Soumanjoy with a full rack of ribs, I ate honey 'dip't' chicken and Olivia the full salad bar. It was divine. Very Po Folks!

Next we heading out into the rural far stretches of America. Amish Country Awesomeness. Silos, red barns, carriages, horses and laundry lines by the mile.

And then it was the trek home. How horrid Saturday evening traffic, but all I could think about was Fergus and bringing him home on March 19th. Fingers crossed it all goes well!

Meeting the Duchess of Devonshire

2011-01-06T16:10:00.001-05:00

This happened way back in November and I'm just getting around to posting it. I just finished Debo Devonshire's latest book, Wait for me! and it is now one of my top favorites.

Back on November 10th, the Duchess was in NYC promoting this new book and had a do at The Frick called, Fizz and Sparkle: The Effervescent Life of Deborah, the Dowager Duchess of Devonshire.

I had this event in my calendar for ages. I have been a huge fan of hers for years. One because she adores chickens and two because she lived in and restored Chatsworth, one of England's greatest houses. Of course since she is a Mitford sister that helped too.

Chatsworth House

Going through piles of books a week before Rod found a book entitled, The Duchess of Devonshire's Ball, a book about a grand ball given by a former Duchess of Devonshire for Queen Victoria's Jubilee in 1897. It was a DOOZY. I tucked it into my Filson and read it all over town and frankly forgot I even had it with my that day.

When the lecture was over I was dashing out the door and noticed the Duchess quietly sitting in the winter garden at a table waiting to sign books. But all these neds were so fixated on the free wine they didn't notice her. I pondered buying the book ( I already had it on Kindle) but then realized I had the Ball book. Hark!

I moseyed over to her table and pulled it out for her to sign.
"Good Heavens Charlotte! Look what this dear boy brought us," the Duchess exclaimed.
"Whatever is it?" Charlotte asked busily.
"Oh my well it's my daughter Sophie's book she wrote ages ago! Oh dear you do have a rare book on your hands." She said at me with a smile, peering over her glasses that were so thick they could fry an ant in China.

With that she signed it and bid me adieu. By then the line was snaking around marble busts, ferns and fountains but I was merrily finished.

I have gotten ahead of myself. The whole point of this post was supposed to be what I learned from the Duchess' lecture.
Here we go:

First off it was pointed out by Colin (from the Frick who introduced the ladies) that the chairs they would be sitting in were actually bought by Henry Frick from the 9th Duke of Devonshire so they had come full circle.
The Kennedy's were great friends of hers and when they arrived in London in 1938 with nine kids they caused a sensation
Rose Kennedy had the best body in London!
Catherine 'Kick' Kennedy was her closest friend and married her husbands older brother who was supposed to be the next Duke but was killed in WW II.
There is a secret door in the library at Chatsworth and the only way you know it's there is by the names of the fake books adorning it such as E. Motion, A study of Feelings, D. Motion, The Study of War and Nik Nak by Patty Wak.
In Tearing Haste, is how she signed off many a letter
On a visit to the Royal Family at Sandringham she noticed a hoof of a prize winning horse on her bedside table. She turned it over to see if it had a golden shoe and red inked spilled all over the carpet. Luckily it was removed when she came back from dinner.
Her sister Nancy Mitford was quite the embroider to say the least, but she portrayed their father perfectly.
What does she look forward most now that she is 90? An empty appointment book!

Taken with my Blackberry, but here is Charlotte Mosely (Debo's niece) and the Dowager Duchess in conversation in those chairs.

And here is a dreamy interview with the Dowager Duchess reflecting on her fizzy life.

The Castle on NYMag.com

2011-01-06T09:32:00.001-05:00

I met Wendy Goodman at a dinner last year (thanks Stacy!) and we fell in love.
I have admired her writing for years and she had heard about The Castle for years.
So last month she trekked up to the house for tea and Harlem homemade goodies and snapped away.

Rod and I both thought she would be coming back to take the official pictures and have since
spruced, revamped, trashed and bought countless things only for the scouting pics to be used. Alas. Thank goodness she has a good eye!
Check it out here.

I have also included more images of our house so people can get more of a sense of where we live, work and do our passing out.

Enjoy and come see us.

Love-
Cator

This is the front of our house (far left). The architect of our house built the rest of this stretch of the block as well.

My living room looking out to the garden terrace.

Dining area with recently acquired 19th century French chandelier. (Haven't tried swinging from it yet)

The garden terrace.

And last but not least, the bar!!!! And a portrait of me done by Justin Giunta for my 30th birthday.

My Gender Bending Quotes for the Telegraph

2010-12-21T17:20:00.000-05:00

My hysterical and witty friend and journalist Melissa Whitworth asked me to give my 2 cents for her article on the new trend of gender bending models.

Check out what I had to say here.

Enjoy!

Treats from Sips & Bites

2010-12-19T19:09:00.000-05:00

I was about to head to Duane Rizzle to get some crap food to bring on the plane to Atlanta tomorrow when my buzzer rang and a glittery box arrived at my door.

Molly Quirk, who everyone knows from her ridonkulous catering she provides for my annual birthday bash (mini Hot Browns?!) has started her own catering company and sent these delicious boxes to friedns and family.

Mine was filled with:
Mexican hot chocolate brownies

Mini apple loaf with oatmeal streusel

Mini cranberry loaf with pecan streusel

Candied spiced nuts

Cocktail napkins

Liquor chocolates (just a little ghetto thrown in!)

Now I have the perfect group of treats for the plane and for my car ride to Charleston.
Thanks Molly!
Y'all email her if you need some vittels in your life!

Best Invitation I Have Ever Received!

2010-12-10T14:11:00.000-05:00

From Chandelier Creative. This is going to be one helluva party.

Art Basel Coverage

2010-12-08T16:43:00.001-05:00

Hi All-
Here are links to all of my Art Basel stories.
Enjoy!

The Huffington Post

The Best Quotes from Day One
The Best Quotes from Day Two
The Best Quotes from Day Three

Full Frontal Fashion

The Real Works of Art at Basel
Art Basel Recap

Standard Culture

Wednseday Night at Basel
It's Titty Time!
Thursday Night at Basel
Friday Night at Basel
Saturday Night at Basel

It was a caftan-mosphere in Art Basel

2010-12-07T13:04:00.001-05:00

This year when pondering what the hell I was going to wear for five days in the heat of Miami at the kookiest art/fashion event of the year I just figured- LETS DO IT!
All caftans.
So I rolled up the following:

My first caftan I bought in Egypt in navy with red and white embroidery which apparently is a woman's wedding gown

The black djellaba Rod and PHJ brought me from Morrocco

The African one I had made for Chloe's wedding in Botswana

My newest one from John Bartlett with a camo print of his late and wonderful three legged dog, Tiny Tim

The result? The best idea ever! All I had to do is roll out of bed, throw one on and head out, bathing suit underneath. At night I would add a turban and voila.

Laure, one of the owners of The Webster informed me that they are called Boubou's in West Africa.
YAY a new name!
Djellaba
Caftan
Boubou

Now I have to find four new ones for next year. I'm not too worried, John and I are already talking new prints and there are a load of spots on 125th Street that can whip some up.

Now if only I could get one lines in cashmere for this frost freeze. Pringle of Scotland are you listening?

PS- Billy Farrell is totally responsible for coining 'caftan-mosphere' as you can see here:

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-30T16:29:00.000-05:00

This was a special Thanksgiving with mom and dad heading up to Yankee territory for the annual feast. I hosted again this year and had a gaggle of gals and guys up. Everyone got an A+ for bringing delicious food and plenty of booze.

Alistair and Beatrice had a ball, the only pitfall being when Alistair and I snapped the wish bone and when he won he began sobbing because his wish hadn't been granted- he wasn't flying....

The day wouldnt be complete without a teeter over to Lucy and Scott's for a night cap and a giggle.

We did contemplate a trip to the Lenox Lounge but dogs had to be walked and stomachs were stuffed and it began to drizzle.

Next time!

Leftovers have been in full effect since Thursday. Thanks mom for making that awesome turkey soup!

My Post for SHOWStudio.com's 'The Fashion Body'

2010-11-09T14:09:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite and most respected fashion websites, SHOWstudio.com has been working on a portfolio of essay's and videos on how the fashion world sees the human body. There are amazing videos from influential designers and tastemakers about each part of the body. Anna Dello Russo's is amusing for NOSE, Phyllis Posnick's RIGHT EAR and Lady Gaga's LEFT EYE are also treats. They are all amazing to be honest both video and essay.

It was a huge honor to be asked to contribute to this body of work. Not only is Nick Knight (the founder) a huge inspiration but also my body is something I have always wanted to write about. Being average weight in the gay world is simply not done and I have had many moments of huge insecurity from the community for not having a six pack or huge guns. But as you will read, my love for Southern food far outweigh's my need for the perfect body.

I hope you enjoy and feel free to leave comments. I have already had two emails from strangers who thanked me for writing about something that has affected them for years. Alas, the reason I write.

Thank you Indigo Clarke for setting this up!

Tenth Annual Pumpkin Carving Party!

2010-11-05T06:52:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it's been that long but the picture on Mark and Mary's fridge attests. Wow how times have changed. There is still chili, still pumpkins and still Barge, Brian and usually Ian but now we have three little munchkins in the mix. Bea looked so grown up when I came in this year I nearly teared up. And she changed costumes about four times.
Soumanjoy experienced his first carving party and dang if he didn't carve a mean pumpkin.
I of course took all the seed to roast at home in brown sugar. (They were a hit at Rod and PHJ's cocktail party the next night).
Thanks Mark and Mary for keeping the flame alive!

The olden days with Rick and Charlotte in the mix!

Most Stylish New Yorkers- Me.

2010-11-03T13:03:00.000-04:00

I'm excited to see this piece finally come out. We shot this during the heat wave back in August and it was truly torturous hauling loads of garment bags, shoes and accessories to Chelsea. But we had fun and I'm glad I got to promote lots of friends brands.

Enjoy!

Sigh, now I need new clothes....

Club Monaco's New Culutre Club

2010-10-28T11:08:00.001-04:00

I have to admit, the first email I received about this project I sent back with a prompt, 'no'. I can't write for one more site! I love the ones I write for now and I want to give them all the attention they deserve.
Then, embarrassingly, I got an email back from Club Monaco kindly letting me know I did not read the email properly and they just wanted me to submit some images that inspire me with quick quote. OH!

And now I'm addicted. I take pictures of all sorts of things around the house and out on the street. I don't think Club Monaco will ever use them all, alas.

But this new site looks great! It's the perfect place to peruse interesting images and get inspired for your own, as well as to see what Club Monaco clothes are looking like these days. Pretty slick!

Click and enjoy and see if you can find my pics.

Ralph Lauren's New Womenswear Mansion

2010-10-20T14:34:00.005-04:00

I may of never said it out loud but I am always wondering, "Why can't they build building like they used to?"
Yes glass towers will never leave our design aesthetic but for smaller shops, stores, boutiques and yes even houses, what ever happened to good ole limestone?
Well Ralph Lauren nearly made my weep yesterday when I went to visit his new mansion on 72nd and Madison Avenue that houses his womenswear collections and homewares on the top floor.

The building is designed like a Beaux Arts mansion, and the press is saying it is the first mansion built on the Upper East Side since 1918. His menswear is in the Rhinelander Mansion on the opposite side of Madison.
I can't tell you how many times I tapped things. Is it all real? Yes it is. Real limestone, real wrought iron banisters, real crystal chandeliers, real marble floors. I know it sounds tacky, but I was just amazed in this day and age a space like this could be built.

The entire mansion had the scent of Tuberose wafting through and every sales person and shopper were doe eyed. All of this splendor just opened last Friday.

When I was in the fine jewelry room the young, chic sales girl just spun around smiling saying, "I'm just so luck to work in such a place of beauty!" Isn't that just marvelous?

It reminded me when we opened Jeffrey New York back in 1999 and we were all so excited and everyone who came in had a smile on their face and a credit card ready to smoke out. Remember those halcyon days?

The only fake thing I found were the props. Fake flowers abound and the caviar at the bar was little black beads. I didn't check the whiskey in the decanters but I assume that was tea...

I loved that I saw a rather brawny man in plaid and lumber jack boots wearing a white lab coat monogrammed with RL. I finally realized he was part of the visuals team and had to hide his woodsy look with a lab coat to look more pristine in the all white environment. How YSL of Mr. Lauren.

As you know I don't care much for womans clothes (no drag jokes please!). Hey if I can't wear it, why obsess over it? So I marched up that divine staircase to the homewares section. Decadence to the deuxieme fois. Each room was carefully curated as bedroom, living room, bar room. Plus there were piles of books, candles, what nots and hoo has for gifts, or to just marvel at.

Upon leaving I saw two old grand dames walking in arm and arm and one looked around and exclaimed, "Well Helen if this doesn't get people outta their recession rut I don't know what will! Have you evah seen sucha place?"

He friend simple shook her head and smiled.

Thank you Mr. Lauren for giving New York something glamorous to gaze at again.

Missing Africa

2010-10-16T16:51:00.003-04:00

My New Blue Bedroom, or my 'Bluedoir'

2010-10-16T16:38:00.003-04:00

I have been itching to repaint my room for some time now. Nine years of 'Butternut Squash', many parties, suitcases, cocktails and more parties, the paint was lookin ratty and I was ready for a change.

Ever since I went to Catherine's Palace in Russia, I have been obsessed over bright blue in design. Then seeing rooms in old plantation homes and townhouses in Charleston I was hooked.

So I picked out this bright blue, (I will never tell you the name Mr. Moore gave it) I call Monticello Blue, headed to Atlanta for the weekend and had the room revamped.

I'm happy as a blue jay with the results and rearranged my decor to give the next a new feel. I was looking for something new to add to the mix and when I saw mothers portrait from when she was 16 I knew I had to ship it up from Atlanta.

There are still some tweeks I would like to make but waking up in such a color is like waking up on a cloud, not quite Catherine's Palace, but close enough for me.

Enjoy.

Rod's Visit to Lake Lanier

2010-10-16T16:12:00.005-04:00

It's been a long time coming but FINALLY Rod flew down from the torrential rain in NYC and spent an idyllic weekend in Georgia.

I gave him a quick tour of downtown before spending the rest of the weekend at Hathaway on Lake Lanier. On our way to the lake we bought a case of wine and nearly ran out by the end of the trip!

Friday night we spent the evening at the Yacht Club boozing with the best of them. This was a favorite for Rod who loved how everyone brings their own booze, mingles around for an extended cocktail hour and then continues mingling through dinner till its time to teeter home.
We also took a tour of the docks and were most impressed by Aida's boat with her eyes and lips emblazoned onto the bow of the boat.

Saturday we got the house in order for a luncheon where Angela, Leah, Cator (aunt) and mom and dad sat down and dug into mama's fantastic food, had a good family gossip and catch up and drank several bottles of vino at the table, on the balcony and at the dock.
Rod and I took a tour around the grounds, cut some azaleas and arranged them for the table (with wine of course!)

That evening mother made a mean dinner and we lit up the fire and watched, Far and Away.

Sunday morning we were up in time for my favorite show, CBS Sunday morning then we headed out to the boat and twirled around the lake showing Rod all the homes, islands and damns.

Then, sadly, it was time for Rod to head home. I stayed in town till Wednesday to hear a lecture by Jeff Koons at the High.

Can't wait for Rod to come back and thanks mom and dad for a much needed relaxing and amusing weekend.

My First Post for W Magazine's New Banging Website

2010-10-16T10:27:00.003-04:00

I am pleased as punch to post this new story I did for W. Been reading that magazine since I was a wee child. So excited to finally write for them.
You can see the story here.

Enjoy!

Fashion Week Coverage for Huffington Post

2010-09-12T12:32:00.003-04:00

I'm excited to cover Fashion Week SS 2011 shows for HuffPo! Especially since my instructions were to focus more on the event and less on technical details of the clothes.

Fashion Nights Out at Barneys is here

Rag & Bone show is here

More to come!

The Orient Express Bar

2010-08-24T13:18:00.002-04:00

I love it when things simply fall into place. One day last month when Colin was here from London we were boozing on the west side when we walked by this charming looking bar that resembled a train car. Sure enough it was modeled after the Orient Express. We barged in for a drink but sadly they were not open to the public yet. We met the owner a dream Turkish Andre Balazs looking gentleman, Osman Cakir, got his card and carried on boozing elsewhere.

I pitched the spot to the NYT and they loved it.

Please see the story here and come visit me there this winter where I will be holed up with a divine cocktail and dreams of exotic locales.

Mom and the Girls Second Trip to NYC

2010-08-23T18:37:00.006-04:00

What a fun time we had!

Mother brought Danielle and Leah up two years ago and we had a blast so we thought we should do it again. Hope it's an annual event!

Danielle wants to go into the Air Force so we spent Friday at West Point. Besides a slight stutter with a campus officer the rest of the day was lovely. On the way home we made a quick trip to Bear Mountain for a splendid view of the Hudson.

Saturday we had a fun day twirling around town to the Met, The Frick, tea at the Carlyle and of course H&M, twice!

A highlight was South Pacific at Lincoln Center and a night with friends at the Maritime hotel and of course brunch at Melba's.

And as only Frankie and I would do, we introduced the young girls to the wonder gay cinema classic, Paris is Burning! Hope it comes in handy in high school conversations...

My tidbit on CNN

2010-08-17T23:36:00.003-04:00

Who would of thunk last week when I was checking my emails at the gym that CNN would send a little note asking to interview me for a story on Harlem.

Cator: Sure! Sounds fun!

CNN: Great can we come up today?

Cator: No problem!

My friend Bob who works at CNN gives me the skinny: They are doing a profile on Charles Rangel and he mentioned that the biggest number of people moving to Harlem are gay white men.

In a meeting an editor asks, "Anyone know a gay white man in Harlem?"

Bob hits a home run....

Now silly Southern me assumes they are coming up for a screen test. This is a documentary for Soledad O'Brien's show after all! When I get a text that they are 10 minutes away I ask, "When is the official shoot?"

CNN: Um, NOW! Be camera ready!

ZOINKS!

Alas, I jump into some J. Crew shorts and a Burkman Brothers button down and stare in the mirror for 5 minutes perfecting my CNN smile.

Rose and Bob arrive and they shoot me on my stoop, walking down the street and pretend waving to neighbors.

Then they start dropping the political questions and I get flustered. Sure I know what's going on with ole Rangel but I thought it was going to be all about me being gay in Harlem. Hello!

But I end up pulling it off I guess. Wish they would of added a couple more of my musings but we can't have it all.

You can see the segment here

I'm at the 2:00 minute mark.

Let me know what you think!

Here's to Harlem!