HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE?
There is beauty in the unfinished …I simply give free reign to my untamed instincts there is something refreshing about embracing the idea of the purposefully.
Less than perfect.WHAT INSPIRES YOUR SIGNATURE STYLE?
A train of thoughts that leads somewhere far deeper… as style is storytelling on a personal scale,cultural and historical references are very important
depending on where I am the mood of the place and its history effects my daily wear.WHAT ACCESSORY CAN YOU NOT DO WITHOUT?
Hats after all “Without Hats there is no Civilization”….and anything Furry!!!
FAVORITE COLOR?
Black in countless shades and hues.DO YOU HAVE A SIGNATURE STYLE THAT DEFINES YOUR STYLE?
Coats and Kimonos.
WHAT ARE YOUR STYLE STRENGTHS?
Tumbling the past and the magical present ~ Mixing and customizing as I can never find things exactly as I like them in store …finding a gem inside a vintage store gives me insane happiness.
It’s very easy to buy new things, but making a discovery of something ONE OF A KIND is another level….!DO YOU HAVE A STYLE ICON?
Anyone that is “A Nightmare dressed like a Day Dream” such are the ordinary people in our extraordinary world!!!
WHAT ARE YOUR BEAUTY ESSENTIALS YOU COULD NOT DO WITHOUT?
Red Lipstick.DO YOU HAVE REPEAT OFFENDERS IN YOUR CLOSET IF SO WHAT ARE THEY?
A pair of black silk Pajamas that I have worn over and over in many forms and shapes at home or in my travels……….
WHAT ADVISE DO YOU HAVE FOR WOMEN OVER 40 OR 50?
Embrace yourself dressing.It should never feel like a chore !! Be individual and live your dreams.
Clothes make memories and memories make history!
DO YOU HAVE ANY STYLE RULES THAT YOU LIVE BY?
Nothing is too precious to be saved for a special occasion and not worn daily…I wear what makes me happy !
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE ONLINE GO TO SOURCES?
NO online for me…I am a hunter of all things and I love the Art of slow living and story telling therefore stepping into
small shops and getting to know the story of the shop keeper is my way of shopping anywhere in the world.
DO YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR DESIGNER YOU ARE DRAWN TO?
I draw more from our World which includes, history, museum ,books, nature, movies and my travels than one particular designer or brand.
I was told by my mother that travel and nature offered the best possible inspiration and education.
THANK YOU DUCHESS better known as PAIMAN!
BE WELCOME READERS!
Time for OUR AGELESS STYLE FEATURE with CINDY HATTERSLEY and I have chosen a Friend of mine who I hope you have enjoyed!I have NO IDEA who CINDY has FEATURED TODAY so as soon as I PUBLISH I am SCOOTING right OVER to HER BLOG to SEE who she is FEATURING!
I hope you will DO THE SAME!
TO SEE WHO CINDY HAS FEATURED PRESS HERE!
TODAY on THE VINTAGE CONTESSA I have PAIMAN SALIMPOUR for YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE!
WHO I have ALWAYS REFERRED TO AS THE DUCHESS!
AS long as I have known her in Northern California she had a STORE FRONT.
A SHOP to SWOON OVER………….
LEAVES on the FLOOR………VELVET KING CHAIRS………CROWNS made of BRANCHES.
YOU get the picture…RIGHT?
PLUS, she was ALWAYS Dressed like an European.
Could say THAT WAS A BIG ATTRACTION FOR ME!
I basically Followed her around the EAST BAY…………STALKED is a BETTER WORD!
TO CONTACT THE DUCHESS SEE BELOW!
SEE WEBSITE.my daughter Sormeh is the partner and co founder
EMAIL for Contact.INSTAGRAM HANDLE.
paimansalimpour
CONTESSA ~ YOU DO INTERIOR DESIGN AND LANDSCAPE STILL CORRECT?DUCHESS ~ I do lifestyle which contains interior and garden design along with fashion styling curating travel and personal shopping.
CONTESSA ~ PLEASE do a little BIO for me………how many years in Los Angeles……..etc.DUCHESS ~ 9 years in Los Angeles.
Started the business some 20 years ago.
Have lost count now.
THE DUCHESS
loves storytelling through the Magic of curating and creating ,meeting amazing talented people to work with both on client side and production end. Life is so much fuller and richer when you can make peoples wishes come to life, I always love the wish list the clients present at the start of each project.
Taking that list and writing a narrative which is custom to each persons interests and passion is indeed satisfactory and soulful.Modernizing ancient is what we do best that perfect imperfect Marriage of old and new. We explore to create ,the art of slow living and enjoying the process more than the destination itself is what sits with us most.
IT’s ALL ABOUT THE JOURNEY!!!
CONTESSA ~ Will YOU say something about OUR FRIENDSHIP?The great characters are like springs from which you can date your thirst and SHE WAS ONE!
Contessa and I roamed around the same Boho society that also loved everything crest and crown and somehow has been given a title without really being the aristo…IT soon became evident that we must visit each others shops and the rest was history.We both loved the imperfection in all things in life yet the GRANDEUR that today societymisses,As we both knew history does not really follow a straight line and neither did we!!!Her company has been divine and an unusual one that I do not take lightly and I LOVE!
Hilda Smith says
Sounds like a soul sister indeed.
LA CONTESSA says
YES!!
XX
Sharon says
My style is simple. I dress like a blank canvas. Each day is different….. no plan.
Black sweaters, rocks from Lake Michigan, tourmaline and peridot, dyed crystal. A splash of silver on my wrist. Jeans and cashmere for winter….jeans and cotton for summer. Interesting shoes make me happy. My style is comfort and nothing more.
LA CONTESSA says
SOUNDS PERFECT TO ME!YOU KNOW WHAT YOU LIKE!
XX
cindy hattersley says
She is positively lovely. I agree with Hilda..she must be your sister from another mother. Love that she scours boutiques and vintage shops for just the right detail. Exactly what I would do if I had the time! Congrats on another great interview. I am off to check out her website!
LA CONTESSA says
THE FUN IS IN THE HUNT!!!!!!!
YOU COULD SAY WE ARE THE HUNTRESSES on STEROIDS!
XX
Kathy L says
Paiman has a lovely, unique style – and her photos are fantastic! These style-makers are inspirational – thank you for sharing.
LA CONTESSA says
HAPPY YOU CAN APPRECIATE HER ART AND FANTASTIC EYE!
XX
paiman says
indeed we are!
Sandra Sallin - Apart From My Art says
Well, as Cindy said she’s a “sister from another mother.” Truly the same genes. Would love a closeup of her face. Love the drama and the reams. All is fabulous! Going to her website now.
LA CONTESSA says
FIRST PHOTO UP TOP is HER CLOSE UP MRS. SALLIN…………..XX
Taste of France says
Oh, my, the photos are exquisite–she is so in tune with the settings, and I can imagine her taking her time to select every item in the tiniest shops, everything unique and with a story. She manages to look just discreet enough, while not at all banal. Very European, indeed.
A life embroidered, and perhaps a wardrobe, too.
LA CONTESSA says
A BEAUTIFUL PARAGRAPH and YOU have DESCRIBE HER TO A TEE!!!!!!!!
YOU AMERICAN IN FRANCE YOU!!!!!!
XX
Paiman Salimpour says
Thank you Taste of France for your beautiful comments !!
Its all about the story indeed as each piece has lived many times over I do however write inside my clothes as where and when it was worn …crazy but ok!
Loree says
Thanks for sharing another interesting woman. Some people seem to be born with an innate sense of style. I think this generation has forgotten what the word means. Not everyone, of course. It’s good to see there are still people who actually care how they look.
LA CONTESSA says
FORGIVE ME………this GENERATION has NO IDEA WHAT STYLE IS!
XX
Paiman says
Currently in Russia with limited access to write however I wanted to thank all for the beautiful comments and insights once back in the States I would love to reply to each of you beautiful humans individually; it has been pure joy to know The Contessa and all her friends and followers.
From Russia with Love
LA CONTESSA says
I CAN NOT WAIT TO HEAR FROM YOU AND WHAT ITEM of CATHERINE THE GREAT you have your EYES FIXATED UPON!
SAFE TRAVELS…………XX
paiman says
OH my we need Tea and More to just discuss C the great you must visit.
Lillian Plummer says
Lovely post, soul sisters for sure. You are a good friend Contessa.
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU!
I WANT TO HEAR ALL ABOUT YOUR OUTING DOWN UNDER with MY INSTA BUDDIES………..when is that happening?XX
Catherine Robinson says
Exquisite Style!
I love what she says…
“Nothing is too precious to be saved for a special occasion and not worn daily…I wear what makes me happy!”
I couldn’t agree more.
LA CONTESSA says
I KNEW YOU WOULD ENJOY HER!!!!!!!XX
paiman says
thank you Catherine only precius thing is Life itself perhaps living it true to ourselves is what we meant to do.
lisa thomson says
Loved meeting the Duchess! Love her belief of shopping in person in boutiques, and finding out about the owner and the history. I’m the same way and do not shop on-line. This also helps with my bank account 😀 Fabulous ageless post today, Contessa. Thanks for sharing this beauty!
LA CONTESSA says
MY PLEASURE!
ALWAYS MY PLEASURE TO TREAT MY READERS TO A BEAUTY!!!!!!!!
YES, this on-line shopping is NOT the same as stepping into a boutique atmosphere and SEEING THE VISUAL!
XX
1010ParkPlace says
I just bought a burgundy velvet smoking jacket and am thinking about wearing it with black, silk, Chinese pajamas, so this lovely lady and I would be right at home together. Love her style! Thank you Elizabeth for featuring her! xoxo, Brenda
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU BRENDA!
I WANT TO SEE THAT SMOKING JACKET ASAP!!!!!!!!
XO
paiman says
Thank you so much 1010PARKPLACE enjoy your Velvet jacket!
Nancy Case says
First of all, PAIMAN’s way with writing is so lovely! I adore the freedom she has to express her heart in how she sees people, life, beauty and fashion with sensuous wild abandon. I am so drawn in by the velvets, old books, vintage jewelery, tapestries, furs, worn out jeans with glamour… I am in love!!! Yes indeed you both are joined at the heart. My life is richer for meeting PAIMAN. Thank you for sharing her with us Contessa!
LA CONTESSA says
MY PLEASURE!
XX
paiman says
Thank you so very much Nancy i seem to cross the world more than staying in one place perhaps someday we will meet .The great charachters are like a feast that feed our sole in this life i really believe that!
Pipistrello says
Oh, you have a Partner in Crime!!! Paiman is very Fancy – I had a good look at her links and she’s full of talent and so arty! All your Ageless Style Friends have been so different yet each so confident in their Look. I like that her More Is More ethos chimes with your own! I cannot believe she’s 60 – what great hair!!
LA CONTESSA says
I think SHE IS 62…………..but I may be off there!SHE can give me a SLAP and CORRECT ME!
MOST PRESERVED WOMAN OF A WOMAN of her 60’s I have ever encountered………
A SECRET………SHE LOVES TO WALK!!!!!!!
YES, her HAIR IS EXQUISITE!
XX
PS. DID YOU CONTACT LOREE…….ANY HELP THERE?
Pipistrello says
Thank you, Contessa, yes I sent her an email with my tale of woe but am yet to hear back from her. xx
paiman says
60 it is however i take 62 or 90 as it truly does not make a difference as long as i am walking above and share life with amazing talented souls Thank you both for lovley comments!I have never been interested in how people move i am interested in what makes them move in my case life indeed and all the beauty it contains perhaps that alone will keep me young in heart,the magic itself!!
lisa white says
Another connection to follow up on! Tantalizing and beautiful woman. Heading to her site to discover more. Thank you for introducing your followers to Paiman!
LA CONTESSA says
YOU of ALL PEOPLE will ENJOY HER!
XX
paiman says
Thank you both hope to someday meet all your amzing followers atleast some as you have many.Thank you for sharing my story on your site and with your village of amazing followers and friends.
Mumbai says
Did you find your soul mate? Interesting lady.
LA CONTESSA says
WE HAVE THE SAME AESTHETIC that’s for CERTAIN!
XX
Anita Day says
No mention of her favourite hiking boots Elizabeth.
xx
LA CONTESSA says
GOSH NO!!!!!!
BUT SHE LOVES TO WALK!!!!!!
I BET YOU BEAT HER IN THAT DEPARTMENT!!!!!
XX
DA Squires says
Paiman is not only inspirational vis a vis fashion and style, but she is a wonderful writer. I love that she tells both tells a story and values the storyteller… The Ageless Style posts by you and Cindy are like the cherries on top… always eye-catching, if not dazzling : )
Now I know TWO royals, a Contessa and a Duchess!! XOXO
LA CONTESSA says
TRA LA!
NOW I MUST FIND AN EMPRESS for YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE!
I wonder if I can get QUEEN ELIZABETH TO ANSWER A FEW QUESTIONS?!!
XOXO
paiman says
if anyone can it will be you Contessa!and thank you so much for beautiful words DA.
Leaving words and pages behind in this life and documenting daily life of mine for atleast 30 years has been something i love i have over 30 Journals mostly i started bc i wanted to leave something of my soul for my Daughter to have!
debra @ 5th and state says
another brilliant inspirer, did not want the post to end
Debra
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU MY FRIEND!
XX
paiman says
Thank you so much Debra.
what i believe is important in life is to help each person see beauty so that for each individual the day does not disappear without a trace!
Juliet says
I love learning and discovering new and fabulous woman through your Ageless Style series and Paiman is no exception. Clearly you two are kindness spirits! Off I go to Cindy’s blog to see who she’s feature this week. xo
LA CONTESSA says
ANOTHER GEM OVER THERE!I BOUGHT HER BOOKS!!!!!!
THANK YOU for BEING A FAITHFUL READER HERE!
XX
Rosemarie says
Wise words from her mother – travel and nature offered the best possible inspiration and education.
Also from her – wear what makes you happy – embrace your dressing.
Now I’m off to work wearing my dull/bland uniform. For YEARS I have been wishing that Giorgio Armani would be offered the opportunity to design it.
The only thing that livens it up are – earrings – lipstick – nail polish etc.
I sent you an article recently by snail mail – hope it arrives – we’ve had mail disruption here.
LA CONTESSA says
NOT YET ROSEMARIE I WILL LET YOU KNOW!!!!!!!!
YES!WISE WORDS INDEED!
XX
paiman says
thank you Rose your zest for life can at times be the best and only embellishment you need which it seems you do have that,enjoy your day!
Rosemarie says
I should also add to the above – that livens it up – a good facial expression = happy/smiling.
Jacqueline says
An interesting read Elizabeth. I love black as well … black, black and black, anything quirky and designed with a vintage twist…. and I’m not keen on designers …, I always go for individual things. XXXX
LA CONTESSA says
JACQUELINE,
I am NOT ABLE TO COMMENT ON YOUR BLOG…………HOME!
I’m READING but NOT able to LEAVE A COMMENT its happening ALL OVER the INTERNET FOR ME!Only on the GOOGLE PLUG IN COMMENT BOXES!!!
SO SORRY!
MAKES ME SO MAD!
XX