SUMMER READS, FALLING LEAVES
Now that back-to-school bags are being packed and fall is right around the corner, Malibu book lovers are finishing up their summer reads.
Among the hot sellers that have been flying off the shelves at local book and gift stores like Burro has been a surprising ode to fashion aimed at older Americans who say chic and style have no expiration date. It’s called “Advanced Style: Older and Wiser,” and is filled with colorful photographs of seniors in their Sunday best.
Malibu’s Rita Wilson is just one fan who says, “‘Advanced Style’ should empower people of any age to express themselves by not caring what anyone thinks is ‘fashionable’ or ‘current.’” The longtime resident and actress and producer says, “If, at a certain age, we haven’t earned the right to dress in a way that makes us feel good and is a true expression of ourselves, then toss that feather boa around your neck, and do your best runway turn away from whomever doesn’t get it.”
The book is filled with 70- to 90-somethings donning just that from neon prints to classic Chanel.
Valerie Von Sobel, who appears on the cover with her floral fascinator, oversized gold shades and chic white dress, is the founder of the Andre Sobel River of Life Foundation. She agrees, saying people of a certain age should not “disappear into the woodwork.”
In addition to her charitable work and artistry, she has always had an uncanny knack for style. She calls her love of dressing a “ceremony,” adding, “If you don’t make your life a bit grandiose, who will do it for you?”
In any case, the book is filled with bold, chic and sometimes a little-bit-crazy seniors who can inspire us all.
As Ari Seth Cohen wisely reminds us, “If we begin to see aging differently, we will start to treat older people with the respect and reverence they deserve.”
MALIBU CULTURE VULTURES
Summer has kept our local actors, actresses and artists busy and their work will carry on into the fall. Multitalented Kelsey Grammer is headed to the stage and screen. He also made a first in “The Last Tycoon” and is now set for a musical gig.
Eighty-year-old David Hockney had a happy birthday celebration, which continues until Nov. 26 at the Getty. His famed “Pearblossom Hwy” collage is among the eye-opening art pieces on view.
Halle Berry kept herself busy with two kids and a leading role in “Kidnap.” In addition to movie and TV work, both Pierce Brosnan and Pamela Anderson have been soaking up the Sardinian sun in Italy and helping out the Global Gift Foundation.
And Ray Romano has been doing it up big in a remake of “Get Shorty,” accompanied by Chris O’Dowd. Good or bad, box office success or bust, that mob trailer says it all—“You’re only as good as your next hit.”