TIME AGAIN for AGELESS STYLE and TODAY I am introducing YOU ALL to a married couple in ENGLAND.They recently had their photos taken by DAWN a friend from Cape Town , South Africa who won an AWARD for her PHOTOGRAPHY this year at age 59, which I have contacted her and she will give you a recap of Barbara & Bill below!
CONTESSA SAYS…….I found BARBARA on INSTAGRAM and was immediately drawn to HER.Her hair her style her DOGS and of course her place of residence!Then I found out about HER HUSBAND and said ,”Will MARVELOUS MISTER BILL answer the questions TOO?”
You will find his answers AFTER BARBARA’s …………….
THEY MAKE A FANTASTIC COUPLE SO pour a cup of TEA or wine and have a JOLLY FUN READ!
Let’s Forget about THE PANDEMIC for a few minutes and ENJOY THIS AMAZING COUPLE!
Remember to POP over to my PAL CINDY’s BLOG before or AFTER to see who she is featuring TODAY!
We do this blog in TANDEM and Love sharing.
FUN FACT……we do not tell each other who we are FEATURING So its a surprise for BOTH OF US!
TO SEE CINDY’S POST Please CLICK HERE!
Cindy has a LIFESTYLE BLOG and COVERS MANY MANY TOPICS!
From INTERIOR DESIGN to GARDENING to GREY HAIR and her PICKS for WOMEN who are over 60!
She is THE NICEST PERSON you will ever meet!
SO give her a FOLLOW!
Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE on her HOME PAGE!
NOW HERE IS MY PICK FOR AGELESS STYLE!
BARBARA JONES
MARVELOUS MISTER BILL her husband.
Dawn Frogson can be found on INSTAGRAMCLICK BELOW.
BARBARA at 20 years of age……..she just turned 65 in MARCH!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MONTH BARBARA!!!
Central dress by Gipsy, Goa.
Dress on the right made to order by the wonderful Madame Hall in Bhuj,on Etsy.
THE OLD Sunday school THEY LIVE IN!
(Contessa is swooning!)
“I made this coat from an old plush table carpet.”
BARBARA’s STUDIO
APPLIQUÉ over a FLORAL PRINT it takes HER about 6 weeks to do and she sells on ETSY!
On her ETSY SHOP called STYLISHMrBill
FLORAL SHOE GAL.
GOT LEOPARD!
Beware THE CONTESSA has eyes for those VELVET SLIPPERS FRONT AND TO THE RIGHT!
DAWN’s PHOTOS BELOW!
BARBARA’s WORDS…………….
I have always had a love of style and textiles, and it has been the central theme of my life. I studied in Manchester UK in the 1970s on one of the first honours degrees in embroidery alongside textiles and fashion. (photos of me in 70s?) Coming from a small town in the North East of England (Bishop Auckland) art and design studies in Manchester opened my eyes to the world of fashion history, design styles, and textiles of the world.
Initially I worked as a freelance textile designer, producing embroidery for fashion and interiors for a wide range of clients. Gradually I was drawn into the world of design education, running an International Textile degree presenting student work in Europe and USA, and eventually to become Deputy Principal at Plymouth College of Art in south west UK, one of the last specialist art colleges. I have always encouraged students to understand how to take their work to market …talent alone is not enough. Alongside my career in education management I have continued to design and make, and to search out unusual textiles from around the world.
I am lucky to live in a large, converted Sunday School, built in 1873, close to the sea in Plymouth. This year is the 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower and Pilgrim Fathers and the city is making lots of preparations for our friends from the USA.
Having retired in 2017 in my 60s I have now returned to my original passion for painting and sewing, buying and selling antique textiles, and producing a small collection of new and upcycled garments. I post my work on Instagram under amazingqueenbj and the same hashtag and sell original items on Etsy as Stylish Mr Bill. My artwork is also available to purchase on Etsy as amazingqueenB.
BARBARA’s ARTWORK BELOW!
Lots of my work is to individual order and I am always keen to do an art swap …my work in exchange for someone else’s. I feel that this is often better than needing money and shares the love and talent.
I have a small but happy life with my amazing husband, Mr Bill, and two beautiful dogs ..Larry Labradoodle and Archie Airedale.
How Would You Describe Your Style?
Recently we have had an award-winning fashion photographer from Cape Town staying with us Most of the photographs in this piece are by #the_stylist_who_shoots on Instagram, who is famous for supporting young people from the shanty towns who want to be models. In preparing for the photoshoot, I had to really think about how I see myself. I have never been a slave to commercial fashion … and have never been the standard size to fit the market norms. My style is a mixture of vintage and new, ethnic pieces with a modern twist. Texture, colour, flowing shapes and lots of accessories are an everyday look, but it has to be comfortable.
What Inspires Your Signature Style?
I guess Chinese, Indian and Central Asian garments and fabrics put together with some contemporary pieces give me inspiration. In 2018 I spent 8 weeks travelling in India with my oldest friend and we bought so many treasures that I am still working my way through them. Prior to that trip I was lucky enough to go to India with my job, so I had a head start in knowing where to look for the best things.
I gave up on traditional fashion magazines many years ago but spend many hours looking at particular ideas and inspiration on Instagram and Pinterest. The south west of England has some challenges in travelling to London and Europe so I now work around that with antique markets and on-line splurges.
My dressing room has winter and summer displayed at the change of the season and the rest cleaned and put away for the next year. It is always wonderful to find some treasure that I have forgotten. I no longer buy cheap, throw-away clothing … but prefer to save up for a special piece that will last. My favourite shop in Plymouth is Identity Fashion in the wonderful 18th century Royal William Yard, selling designer items from Bulgaria that work with me and my look.
What is your Favorite Accessory?
Accessories are everything in my style. I have lots of shoes and have recently started to make slippers from vintage fabrics (to order for now). I have never liked high heeled shoes, but have been known to rock a platform now and again. Currently my favourite shoes are from #Mentalembellisher on Instagram, alongside limited-edition Doc Martens.
Whist shoes are number one, scarves, wraps and big jewellery come in closely behind. I love big wraps, embroidered wools for winter, block printed cottons for summer. I also like scarves in my mad hair.
I have lots of jewellery, not of the gold and diamond variety, but old amber, Moroccan beads, coins from India …and I particularly love huge bracelets.
What are your Favorite Color Combinations?
I am definitely an autumn/ winter girl ..loving greens, reds, yellow, browns and oranges.
Of course I also have lots of black dresses that set off a lovely scarf, necklace and coat.
Do you have a signature Piece the Defines Your Style?
I love loose fitting unstructured dresses and exotic coats. Recently I have been making lots of velvet coats, some with embroidery, others with fabulous linings that flash colour and pattern. I also wear lots of beautiful kaftans that I have bought on my travels.
I suppose if any one piece defines my style it would be the beautiful dresses that I have had made by Madame Hall on Etsy This talented makers works in the west of India in a small town in the desert, and her made to order dresses include antique embroidery and beautiful Indian fabrics. They are a steal, exquisitely made, and delivered in beautiful packages in no time.
What are your styling Strengths?
I guess that my biggest strength is that I have collected so much over the years that I have lots to choose from and am no longer afraid of what people will think. Whilst in my studio I can often be found working in embroidered dungarees, but I always make an effort to look stylish in my own way when I go out. I frequently am asked in the street for information about where I buy my things, so hopefully Etsy will be of interest to lots of people.
Do you have a Style Muse?
I love to see Donna Karen in her draped clothes and jewellery. Recently I am very taken by Camilla Franks, the famous Australian designer for her use of fabrics and surface patterns and her strength of character in adversity. Of course I also love Iris Apfel and hope to grow up to be like her..
What are your Favourite Beauty Products?
Tricky one as I don’t really use any beauty products and I have a super sensitive English skin that doesn’t like cosmetics. A tiny bit of kohl and a streak of lipstick is all that I use, but then my hair is my palette.
What Advice do you have for Women over 50?
Be true to yourself …ignore the celebrity culture of youth, thinness, and expensive brands. A size bigger always makes you look better ..tight things only suit a few women. Learn from your mistakes and those of others .. you never look good in shoes that are to high or too tight if you can’t walk in them.
Do you have any Style Rules that you live by, or do you choose to break the rules?
A simple dress with trousers or leggings underneath are stylish and comfortable (better than tights that want to wriggle down). Wear a slip under garment so that your clothes hang nicely.
Have a seasonal wardrobe ..put things away somewhere when you are unlikely to wear them. Always hang clothes on good hangers.
What are your favourite online and or boutique sources?
For vintage textiles I love #salliead on Instagram. She posts things daily and has beautiful one- off pieces. I like the occasional piece from the Swedish designer Gudrun Sjoden that sell on line, and as mentioned previously #Mentalembellisher has the most amazing, well priced, and comfortable shoes. If I am feeling rich I like to go to idaretobe.com that sell Rundholz and Trippen as they sell unusual designs and shapes and roomy sizes.
Do you have a particular diet and or exercise regime you follow?
For a retired person I am always busy ..hence the only exercise is to walk the dogs. I do like to get plenty of sleep.
Do you have any anti aging foods?
Chocolate every time … sorry.
EX ENGLISH TEACHER,ACTOR and ANTIQUE DEALER
THE MARVELOUS MISTER BILL
Photos below taken by Dawn Frogson ………..
We have been a couple since 1980 and our lives have been focussed around the love of beautiful things for fashion and interiors. When I first met Barbara she was already involved in buying and selling antique and vintage clothes …a somewhat rare thing in the north east of England in the 1980s. We found a large supply of beautiful pieces in the north and a ready market in London.
As Barbara was already busy developing her own work and doing a lot of lecturing, I took over the business side and it has stayed that way.
I discovered my own love of stylish clothing and over the years we have shopped the world buying shoes in Florence and Rome, suits in Brussels and Amsterdam, shirts in India and kimonos in Japan. In this period I worked on my love of Japanese martial Arts, Kendo, Jodo and Iaido, learning to speak Japanese and travelling there and across Europe for training events.
I have had a number of businesses linked to textiles and fashion, and have maintained a strong interest in buying and selling antiques. Now retired from teaching English as a foreign language, and having moved to a new area, much of our life is taken up visiting antique fairs and auctions.
How Would You Describe Your Style MISTER BILL?
I love classic English tailoring with a twist. From the early days of the designers Paul Smith and Nigel Cabourne, I have worn checked suits, brogues, patterned shirts, waistcoats and swaggering tweed coats. Barbara loves to find vintage pieces for me and I often say that she dresses me up like a doll …. I am Ken to her Barbie. I suppose I should be grateful I am ‘Ken’ and not Grayson Perry! Thankfully I am a standard size and rarely put on weight.
What Inspires Your Signature Style?
My style does vary …. From relaxed patched denim jeans (stitched by Barbara of course) to a stylish 3 piece suit. I love linen suits and in the past I have made my own when I couldn’t find one to buy.
I am not a great follower of fashion but I guess we can all be influenced by the world around us. I love to wear Japanese traditional clothes and I guess my acting experience helps me to carry off the odd outré piece.
What is your Favourite Accessory?
Shoes and nice socks. When Barbara travelled to Italy to design trade fairs frequently I was lucky to get lots of pairs of fine knee high socks from Milan and Florence.
What are your Favourite Colour Combinations?
I love black and red, tartan checks of various colours.
Do you have a signature Piece the Defines Your Style?
I have a fabulous McGee checked suit … Irish tweed in unusual colours of gold, rust and teal. A friend who owned a menswear boutique asked me to buy it because nobody else could carry it off with style.
I also treasure a pair of black cowboy boots that I bought from Kenneth Cole in Amsterdam 30 years ago …and they are still in great condition as I look after my clothes.
What are your styling Strengths?
Ha Ha … I guess that Barbara puts outfits together for me.
Do you have a Style Muse?
All those stylish men of 40s and 50s films. We knew how to dress then.
What Advice do you have for Men over 50
Wear what suits you …but be well groomed and think about how to put items together.
Do you have any Style Rules that you live by, or do you choose to break the rules?
I don’t really like casual sportswear …other than for sports. Trainers/sneakers Are not my thing.
What are your favourite online and or boutique sources?
Not really …I like to shop in Zara in Europe when we visit cities.
Do you have a particular diet and or exercise regime you follow?
Until I was 59 I was very active-sporty. From age 31 to 59 I trained in Japanese weapons arts – usually for 3-4 evenings a week. For a retired person with a poorly ankle exercise is limited other than outdoor swimming in the summer as we live by the sea. My other activity is to walk the dogs.
I do like to get plenty of sleep.
Do you have any anti-ageing foods
Nope.
THANK YOU BARBARA AND MARVELOUS MISTER BILL AS THIS WAS A DELIGHT TO GET TO KNOW YOU BOTH BETTER!I HOPE ONCE THE CORONA VIRUS HAS BEEN DE-FUSED I CAN HOP ON AN AIRPLANE AND COME VISIT!THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND SHARING DAWN’s PHOTOS WITH US!
IT’S ALL SO CREATIVE AND BEAUTIFUL!
PLEASE LEAVE A QUESTION OR COMMENT FOR THESE TWO IN THE COMMENT AREA BELOW!
BE WELL AND HEALTHY!
XXXX
cindy says
Oh my goodness Barbara and Bill are a kick! I love that Barbara doesn’t wear heels (hip hip hooray!!), and I love Mr. Bill’s answer to the anti aging foods! Her shoe and accessory collection are right out of the Contessa’s closet. You two are soul mates! Thank you Barbara and Bill for bringing a little sunlight into our day!
Marvellous Mr. Bill says
Cindy: Thank you for your kind words and observations. Barbara is a pretty unique personality – and the most intelligent person I have, to date, met.
LA CONTESSA says
WE ARE SOULMATES!
SHE IS MY LONG LOST SITER!
XX
Taste of France says
I am showing my age when I admit that “Mr. Bill” makes me think first of a Saturday Night Live sketch.
Dawn’s photos are like Old Masters paintings. Exquisite. Proof that photography is a real skill, not just folks with phones.
Barbara and Bill display heaps of joie de vivre and look like tons of fun. They seem true to themselves, which seems ever more rare as people copy each other in an effort to be unique. Ironic, isn’t it? Barbara and Bill are the real deal.
Thank you for introducing us to them!
BTW, Contessa, we will have to arm-wrestle for that Sunday school house.
Mr Bill says
What lovely comments. I am truly touched.
Contessa has produced a splendid piece of work here – for which, much thanks.
By the by: Barbara will put up a hell of a fight for the Sunday School – but we do welcome visitors with style, éclat and aplomb.
LA CONTESSA says
I CAN SHARE WITH YOU!BUT I doNOT THINK IT WILL EVER BECOME AVAILABLE!You can just POP over from FRANCE!Wouldn’t it be lovely to get a bunch of BLOGGERS together for a week or MORE in some OLD FARMHOUSE!Something I need to think about………….I WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU!XX
Barbara says
Contessa has done an amazing job here … and the red velvet shoes from Mumbai will be heading her way when we can escape the lockdown in the UK!!!
LA CONTESSA says
YOU KEEP THOSE SHOES………….THEY ARE SO YOU!
PLUS, I’m an 8.5 shoe or a 39 in European sizing…….what are YOU SOUL SISTER?
I have small feet for MY SIZE!!!
NARROW TOO.
I LOVED WORKING ON THIS POST!!!!!!!
THANK YOU for allowing me to do so!
XX
classic casual home says
Such a delightful couple!! My favorite things are Barbara’s shoes…I’d love to get into her closet. And the fact that she gave us her Etsy source.
I like Bill’s tip to stay well-groomed…handsome fella!
Thanks for letting us peak into the lives of a fascinating couple!
Mary Ann
LA CONTESSA says
YES, They just got the ETSY STORE UP and OPERATING so check back for MORE GOODS!!!
I will be checking it WEEKLY!!!!
#sorryItalianhusband
HA!
XX
Ann says
What a fabulous article! These two have hearts as big as their personalities. I had the privilege of staying in their home a few months ago, and what wonderful and generous hosts they are. Barbara has become a treasured friend and I cannot wait to catch up with them both again.
Dawn’s photographs are amongst the best I’ve ever seen. Thank you for a great read!
LA CONTESSA says
YOU ARE SO LUCKY ANN!!!
I can see how they would be IDEAL HOSTS……………and so much to LOOK AT!
I LOVE DAWN’S PHOTOS………………WHAT AN EYE SHE HAS!
XX
Sandra Sallin - Apart From My Art says
Oh my goodness, what a treat!!!!! They are fabulous, fabulous and fabulous. I love the way they are so themselves. Filled with creativity and leading their own unique lives. They are a pleasure to read about. in fact I will go back and reread. I wanted to buy that fabulous camp jacket but they don’t ship to the USA. Rats. Bravo to this unique couple. I’m surprised that @arisethcohen hasn’t found them. Perfect for his new book!
Wonderful find Elizabeth,
Mr. Bill says
Sandra: thank you for the generous comments. How very kind.
Happy to send goods to the U.S. – simply need to discover costs (that we can share).
I will check the Interweb and advise accordingly.
Take care; stay safe :value and support your close-folks. (He sent you emoji but those turn to question marks here NO idea why!)
LA CONTESSA says
Well, ARI reads my BLOG SO HE WILL FIND THEM!
I think they might send to USA it’s just the costs that might be high…….I think MARVELOUS MISTER BILL GOT BACK TO YOU ABOVE!!
XX
Parnassus says
Hello Contessa, What a great couple you have featured today, aided by Dawn Frogson’s eye-popping photographs. It’s too bad we couldn’t have a little back-and-forth dialogue between them (or among all three!). I am envious off their house–I have often wished to live in a repurposed building of some sort, since I think I could put odd spaces to good use, and would relish all the relics and amenities.
–Jim
Robin says
What a stunning couple! Barbara dresses so artistically. I love her colorful, flowing layers {and her sewing abilities}. Mr. Bill is very dapper and original. And Barbara chooses his outfits!! Thank you for sharing them with us. What a great pick-me-up!!
LA CONTESSA says
DON’t YOU LOVE THAT!!!
THE ITALIAN ALWAYS WANTS ME TO PICK HIS OUTFITS but it drives me crazy!
Seems he is a bit color blind.I SO would like to TAKE THE ITALIAN SHOPPING but he is worse than my grown children when it comes to that!I have found I am better off bringing it HOME for him to TRY ……..
B&B MAKE A GREAT TEAM!!!
SO HAPPY TO KNOW THEM!!
XX
Diana Amato says
An excellent read this morning! I so enjoyed Barbara and Bill’s individual strengths and their combined Joy for Life! They are real and most certainly, authentic to their ideals. In a day and age when so many people follow the hottest thing out there, for me, it is reassuring to meet and learn about those who walk their individual path with creative passion. Thank you for sharing yourselves with me!
LA CONTESSA says
NOTHING FAKE ABOUT THESE TWO!
THE EXUDE A JOY OF LIVING that’s for CERTAIN!!!
I WILL MEET THEM ONE DAY……….I MUST!
XX
Claudia says
What a wonderful read! Love their story and style!!! And so love the name the fabulous Mr. Bill suits him perfectly! Thank you for sharing your stories.
Nicole Harris says
Absolutely the truth Amen, apart from Mr Bill sleeping a lot! That is a myth, he always has one eye open I have it on good authority from Archie.
LA CONTESSA says
ARCHIE would KNOW!!!!!!
Denitsa Avramova says
What a lovely read and what amazing personalities are Barbara and Bill.
I love them!
Thank you!
LA CONTESSA says
WELCOME…………me to and I donot even know them!
Jonah says
A wonderful read, two amazing people who have been captured amazingly in the photographs! A brightening touch to my isolation life. Such wonderful fabrics and styles. Plus Archie and Larry always bring a smile to my face.
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU FOR JOINING IN HERE!!
BE WELL…………..XX
Juliet says
What a fascinating couple! I do enjoy this series … and how those featured reflect the styles of you and Cindy. It’s easy to see that Barbara is a woman after your own heart and visa versa. xo
LA CONTESSA says
THAT is a VERY GOOD POINT!!!
LOVED OUR CHAT YESTERDAY!
FIND THAT WALKING PATH I WAS TALKING ABOUT!!!
HUGS,
XX
Deborah Peterson Milne says
Brilliant interview, Elizabeth and I can fully understand why you fell in love with Barbara & Mr. Bill. They are truly fascinating souls. Their incredible life is expressed on their faces and in their style. Mr. Bill had me at his love of Paul Smith & Irish tweed. Barbara, her incredible fire red hair, & velvet slipper collection. Her camo jacket with flower appliqué…fabulous!! They are a force those two and I bet they’d make marvelous diner companions! : )
LA CONTESSA says
I BET YOUR RIGHT!
HUGS TO YOU AND GRAHAM AND WHAT A GREAT INTERVIEW CINDY DID on YOU TWO!!!
BE WELL……….keep searching out those SCOTTISH HOMES!!!WE need to find a DUMP of a house to rebuild TOGETHER!THE SCOT AND THE ITALIAN would HAVE A BALL I JUST KNOW!!! I of course want SHEEP in the FRONT YARD………XX
Mr Bill says
Hey chaps; can I join the construction team? Pretty please … I have refurbished 6 houses with BJ – including a Queen Anne (1709) Manor House.
I take direction reasonably well. ????
LA CONTESSA says
ABSOLUTELY!!!!!!!
1709 MANOR HOME I WILL NEED TO SEE PHOTOS OF THAT PLEASE BIRTHDAY BOY!!!!
HOPE YOU HAD A WONDERFUL DAY!!!!!
XX
Mary says
Wow Elizabeth – this post was just perfect in that the colors, the lovely people, stunning clothes and textiles. . . . . .and all the interesting stories of Barbara and Mr. Bill’s life together, took us away from COVID-19 horrors and made life fun again!
My home town in England (Torquay) is just a few miles from Plymouth – I shopped in Plymouth when a teenager as they had the best shops, plus my mother was a dressmaker so I was a lucky kid when it came to custom clothes and great styles.
Thanks so much for this fun post and the great photos.
Stay well and safe – Mary x
LA CONTESSA says
WHAT A SMALL WORLD!I bet you do not live there NOW?If you do you must have TEA with these TWO!!!Once this is all OVER!
THANK YOU for sharing this!!!
I LOVED IT!
XX
Pipistrello says
Ciao Bella,
Dawn’s photos are stunning! What fabulous portraits to have of oneself. They are very stylish together. Maybe you should expand into the sphere of elegant gentlemen for your monthly column if Mr Bill is anything to go by? I have to say, my eyes nearly popped out of my head when I saw Barbara’s appliqué jacket – I thought it was embroidered!!
Keep washing your hands, people!
Baci xx
Mr Bill says
That jacket was heavily embroidered, too.
Pipistrello says
Ciao Bella,
Dawn’s photos are stunning! What fabulous portraits to have of oneself. They are very stylish together. Maybe you should expand into the sphere of elegant gentlemen for your monthly column if Mr Bill is anything to go by? I have to say, my eyes nearly popped out of my head when I saw Barbara’s appliqué jacket – I thought it was embroidered!!
Keep washing your hands, people!
Baci xx
LA CONTESSA says
SORRY, little BAT WOMAN you ended up in my SPAM!!!
HORRORS does this computer NOT KNOW BY NOW YOU ARE A REAL PERSON!?
I FIXED IT!!!
DID you see CINDY’s POST had a couple TOO and her MAN HAILS from SCOTLAND!!
SO MUCH FUN we both NEED A COUPLE!
YES, MADAME………ON THE HAND BIT BUT I am NOT LEAVING THE HOUSE!!!
NOW THE PRIME MINISTER OF ENGLAND HAS THE VIRUS!!!!
BACI
HUGS,
XX
Loree says
What a fun, sweet and unique couple. They definitely brightened up my day that has been dominated by a partial lockdown due to the virus. I feel like I will lose my head before all this is over. At least we have an outdoor space. Thanks for featuring Bill and Barbara. I love people who have their own very unique style. Bland is boring, in my opinion, and these two are anything but. Take care, Elizabeth.
LA CONTESSA says
NO BLAND HERE!
HANG IN THERE…….BAKE SOMETHING TODAY for THE SON!!HAVE A BITE for ME!YES, we have GARDENS we are LUCKY!!
HAVE they STOPPED TRAFFIC getting onto the island……or off?I feel you are in one of the better places to be on MALTA!
XX
chris martin says
Thank you for this marvellous article and introducing me to this wonderful couple. I didn’t know about them but I will be following them now.
LA CONTESSA says
FANTASTIC!!!
DO check out their ETSY SHOPS TOO just for the fun of it!!!
XX
DaniBP says
I absolutely love Barbara and Bill! What a gorgeous couple, their style is incredible. They know who they are and it certainly shows. They are lovely!
Thank you so much for this Dear Contessa, this has taken my mind off of the pandemic for a few minutes, which I didn’t think was possible. Thank you for bringing even more beauty into our world!! Big hug to you xxx
LA CONTESSA says
YOU ARE SO WELCOME DANI……….BE WELL UP THERE IN CANADA!
BIG HUG BACK AT YOU!
XX
Pierrette says
What a wonderful couple Barbara and Bill are. Always a treat to find a new post from you Contessa, especially now. Day 6 of our isolation. Keeping Cindy’ Ageless Style to enjoy during our p.m. Happy Hour.
Jim & Pierrette
78 and 79 years young
LA CONTESSA says
HELLO!
LONG TIME NO COMMENT!!!!!
HAPPY TO HEAR FROM YOU AND THAT YOU ARE BOTH DOING WELL………
THAT is a VERY GOOD IDEA as these posts are LONG!!!
HAVE A DRINK FOR ME…….I’m still doing the NO YEAST thing but thats about to come to an END I BELIEVE!I’m doing GOOD………..TODAY is DAY 36 NO EPISODES!
XX
Karen Kownurko says
Thank you for sharing this creative couple. The interview is just the breath of fresh air needed to inspire some color play during this extended period at home. All the best to Barbara and Bill.
Norman Austick says
Great article, I knew of Barbara’s shop in the 80s and have always admired her love of textiles and colour. Having seen some of the amazing things they have collected on their travels, and lucky enough to visit their house in the north full of stunning treasures. A fabulous eccentric couple full of style and colour. More like them please.
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU NORMAN for adding your comment here!
PEOPLE like this are not easy to find!If you know of others please point me in that DIRECTION!
MANY THANKS!
Leslie Lord says
What a fun energetic artistic and creative couple! I love their bold style and their use of textiles.
Ari definitely should feature them in his next book!
Thank you again for sharing them with us Contessa.
LA CONTESSA says
I will TELL ARI………..THANKS in case he misses this POST!
BE WELL…….YOU have a great photographer hubby!!
XX
Pat says
OMG, I LOVE this couple! They are so refreshing. I may just have to try to find them when I next visit England!
LA CONTESSA says
I WOULD LOVE THAT!I KNOW THEY WOULD LOVE YOU!
XX
Shannon says
What an inspiring couple! Thank you for introducing them and the recommended Etsy shops. I now eagerly will look them up and add her to my Instagram scroll.
Xxoo
LA CONTESSA says
FANTASTIC GIRLFRIEND LET ME KNOW WHEN WE CAN HAVE A TELEPHONE CHAT!XX
Katie Clooney says
What a fabulously stylish, entertaining couple, Contessa. Barbara is so talented. I am on my way over to check out her etsy shop. Stay healthy!
Heidi says
Hi Elizabeth,
What a couple! They compliment each other so well. Both so unique and colorful, & super creative, I appreciate their use of bold colors and textures. I would love to see more “Mr. Bills” around, men who dress well are few and far between in my neck of the woods!
XO Heidi
LA CONTESSA says
I AGREE!!
XX
Mithra Ballesteros says
I saw a reference to Barbara last week on your Instagram and went to investigate. (Had the time, ya know.) Love the portraits of her! Somehow I got confused and thought you two were related. She and Bill have gallons of mojo. Their home, too, with all the middle eastern touches, makes me wanna pop in for a cup of cardamom tea. Thank you for sharing!
LA CONTESSA says
WE ARE PRETEND SISTERS THATS WHY YOU GOT CONFUSED!!!
THANK YOU!
XX
leslie Harris says
Elizabeth, You never fail. I’m always delighted by the unique personalities and creative style influencers you bring to this feature. There’s so much here to read and enjoy. And I can’t wait to stop by Barbara’s etsy shop. Those floral shoes are amazing! I enjoyed hearing about their lives and of course, my favorite is always hearing their answers to your style questions. Now I’m off to read Cindy’s post. You guys are doing such and awesome job!
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU!
WE BOTH ENJOY SOURCING AND TRACKING THEM DOWN………….
HOW ARE YOU DOING?TIME FOR ME TO CHECK IN WITH YOU!
XX
Katherine Cramer says
Oakland Fan of Elizabeth (orig. connection via Brenda Kinsel & shop Serrahna (Andrea) in Oakland.
Wow, Barbara & Mr. Bill authentically express their creative passions in work, home and fashion expressions. I love that they are ‘Un couple d’un certain âge’ and that Barbara proudly represents a curvy Goddess with exquisite style that also includes bold comfort. This power couple hit many marks for me that inspire me to break-out of my usually mild fashion flare. Elizabeth does as well. Just what I needed to remember that we are doing our Soul Art on all levels…all the time…even when we are staying in our homes. Joy! Loved this post. Kudos to All.
donna macdonald says
What a wonderful piece on a fascinating couple! I love the red hair, the “carpet” dress, and the handsome mysterious Bill. Like Katherine Cramer above, I now feel like breaking out of my personal style and adding some flair, color, and passion.
LA CONTESSA says
VIA EMAIL:
Barbara is/was a classic Pre-Raphaelite beauty!
I love the blog!
??HEART HERE
BOB
lisa thomson says
Wow, so much here that I love. What a gorgeous couple!! Both are so stylish and beautiful. Interesting careers and love the art skills Barbara utilizes to make her own style. The photos are stunning, too. I could definitely see you in those velvet flats, CONTESSA 🙂 This whole post blew me away. I could keep going but then my comment would be so long… xx LOVE this. I will follow Barbara on Instagram! Have a great weekend, CONTESSA.
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU LISA!!!
I KNOW IT WAS A LONG POST FOR ME BUT I LOVED ALL THE PHOTOS AND I WAS THRILLED TO DO BOTH OF THEM TOGETHER!
YESTERDAY was MISTER BILLS 65 th BIRTHDAY TOO!
A BEAUTIFUL COUPLE INDEED!
XX
Kim says
What a stylish couple. Nice to have a man too. Barbara has the most amazing shoes! Love the floral and leopard. I love the suits Bill wears. Not enough cool people like them in the world. The way the live is inspirational! Congrats to Dawn who is also inspirational, starting again at a later age, but killing it! Yay for her. Love that. Always good things here. Now off to check out Cindy’s ..xoxo
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU KIM!!
I WAS THRILLED TO GET THEM!
XO
Andrea Serrahn says
Oh how I can relate to Barbara’s style and aesthetic! Her sense of color, inspired by her red hair and appreciation of all textiles exotic, brings out such glorious palettes. Her appreciation for all things rendered by hand is the essence of what makes fine design in my book. I feel a certain kinship in that she appreciates the textiles of India and Central Asia, and highly value their beauty. I too stopped looking at traditional fashion mags long back. I hope to meet Barbara some day over a cup of chai in India!
LA CONTESSA says
YOU TWO AND YOUR HOMES AWAY FROM HOME!
THAT COLORFUL INDIA!
I just found out they re-did a MANOR HOME from 1709!!!
AN ANOTHER ROYAL FACT which made me GRIN all day whilst scrubbing my brick floors like CINDERELLA!
KEEP DRESSING FOR YOUR WALKS IN THE WOODS.
BARBARA and BILL follow this one on instagram as she has a shop full of wares for the BODY from INDIA where she travels THREE TIMES A YEAR I do BELIEVE!
YOU will enjoy HER LOOK!!!
XX
KATHIE TRUITT says
What a wonderfully fabulous couple! These two are by far my favorite.
Jill James says
Thank you for introducing this wonderful couple . The photographs are brilliant. I simply adore the sumptuous fabrics and of course the shoe collection and necklaces. Barbara’s glorious red locks show everything to perfection . Mr Bill certainly would be the most dapper gent I have seen in a while. All the best, Jill.
Kimberly says
Always love these stories… especially right now. I am not a world traveler… but a nester. A loungy cat… I use to also be a buyer/ seller of Vintage. I love all the creativity and stories…
ThankYou Elisabeth for keeping on keeping on.
You are loved and appreciated
Love to you
Shalom&GoodHealth
Kimberly
???
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU SO MUCH KIMBERLY!!!
ARE YOU A CANCER like ME?WE are known to be HOME BODIES!
XX
D.A. Wolf says
Barbara sense of style is so exuberant – The colors, the textures, the patterns! Delicious! And just so you know, these posts are a delightful romp that offers relief from the confines of our current Covid Culture.
xo
LA CONTESSA says
HOPE SO……….I have some catching UP to do on your posts!They are all RED FLAGGED.I’m taking a little break from my computer this week!
XX
Elizabeth says
Elizabeth, It has been a circus here, between the house sale(offer), trying to find a house in another sates(no luck), working, and trying to take care of problems with my mother in law in Missourri. I did get your card, it is fabulous! Text me and tell me what day and time is good for you and I will call you then.