James Andrew, Top of the Rock. photo by Gabriel Everett

Over the years, teachers, guides, and gurus have all espoused the idea that we form our reality through the thoughts we have, and that we can become what we most want in this very moment. Of course, maintaining an elevated attitude and vision is not always an easy thing to do—I, for instance, do have some rather grand plans after all, and sometimes my bank account doesn’t exactly cooperate! So one needs a lot of determination to move forward despite these apparently less than perfect conditions, listening to our thoughts and beliefs along the way, encouraging the positive ones, and letting go of the detrimental ones.

I, for one, choose to believe that our reality can change in an instant.

I’ve had some “down-to-soup” days in my life—and that can be pretty scary, but rather than go to a place of fear and panic, I somehow always found a way to be at peace, and to have a kind of “knowing” that things would work out perfectly—magically it seems, and in some instances, quite immediately, I would get a call or email from a client saying, “let’s do this or that now, come and collect a check” —problem solved and I’m back on the path of abundance!

I like the idea that our thoughts create our reality—want to be a millionaire? Think like one, feel like one, and why not dress the part while you’re at it to really fill out the picture? This can go a long way toward attracting the right kinds of conditions to make opportunities happen—and at the very least, I think we can all agree that it’s simply better to feel better!

Recently I was feeling a bit off, and, sensing a gloomy mood coming on, I decided it was definitely the right time to shift gears. I put on one of my more spectacular suits, met friends at the Four Seasons for drinks, and then had a lovely dinner at Blue Smoke. To elevate the mood even further, we followed all this up with an inspiring visit to the glorious “Top of the Rock” observation deck at Rockefeller Center. If you haven’t been there, then you must go. If you’ve already been, then it’s worth revisiting. There’s a palpable sense of possibility when taking in the view from this perch high above the city—it’s a top-of-the-world feeling that leaves me feeling invigorated and renewed—inspired to press on in the pursuit of my most lofty dreams and desires!

Inspired at the “Top of the Rock,” I’m sporting a Tom Ford era Gucci black cashmere top coat, the most sensational Tom Ford three piece suit in charcoal wool cashmere Prince of Wales plaid, checked cotton shirt with French cuffs, a Glen plaid cashmere silk tie, black and saddle leather loafers, black pearl cuff links, Turnbull and Asser black and gray silk polka dot pocket square, Rolex Oyster perpetual watch, and my fragrance is Creed Royal-Oud.

James Andrew New Year's Eve

Trusting this finds all of you recovering from the past couple weeks of revelry and readying yourselves for a bright new year!? Of course, if you’ve been with us this past year, you’ll know that we make a point to embrace EVERY day in the spirit of celebration (holiday or not). With this in mind, you may rest assured there will be some truly glamtastic things unfolding here on WIJW during the coming year, and so do check in on us to share in the fun! May 2012 bring opportunity your way as well, turning all of your dreams into reality and all of your efforts into great achievements!

I had the great pleasure of ringing in the New Year with my beloved Scott McBee and the super chic and stylish Mr. Guy and Harrison Morgan. I sported a semi-formal ensemble: a Tom Ford era Gucci black wool dinner jacket with black velvet trim and buttons, black flannel pants and black leather tasseled loafers, Tom Ford black hounds tooth gaufrage velvet bow tie, white cotton shirt with French cuffs and a black and white silk pocket square, Ralph Lauren black alligator belt with sterling buckle, Turnbull and Asser black and white silk scarf, black pearl cuff links, vintage Rolex watch and my fragrance is the uber elegant Creed Imperial Millesime —and my Champagne? Dom Perignon of course!

James Andrew - photo by Gabriel Everett

Let’s face it, most well intentioned New Year’s resolutions are forged and then forgotten. For whatever reason, they just don’t seem to stick.

At the risk of sounding a bit preachy, I want to quickly share my thoughts on the subject.

A big part of the problem seems to lie in our concept of time, and particularly with our expectations of the future. In fact, looking to fulfill dreams somewhere down the road often prevents us from finding them in the only moment we’ll ever have—and that, of course, is “the present.” The past is gone by definition, and the future is always beyond experience. Once we know that, then the real question becomes can we muster the courage and focus to bring our dreamiest of dreams into this very moment. Most of the time the little voices are saying no—doubt and/or fear prevail. Don’t get me wrong, caution can be a lifesaver, but if we can’t turn the negative self-speak off, then we’ve got a real problem. It colors our whole present.

In an effort to break this limiting internal dialogue, I’ve found the following two tiered approach to be particularly effective. While you may already be familiar with these ideas, it might be well worth reacquainting yourself with them. For fun, let’s just call these the WIJW Commandments:

1) Be aware of the story you’re telling yourself, and if it isn’t helping, then tell yourself a better story—this new story doesn’t have to be a masterpiece, just the tiniest positive shift in the tragic narrative you may be imagining. You can build a better and more beautiful story as things progress. Focus on POSSIBILITY instead of impossibility, and why things CAN happen, instead of why they can’t.

2) Practice gratitude. Find that spot that feels good, even if it’s only the tip of your toe, acknowledge and feel its goodness. We need to make space for good things to happen right here and now, and unproductive feelings of want and lack only perpetuate themselves. Like attracts like.

Give these a try if you care to, and be sure to let us know your thoughts along the way! Whatever your situation may be, WIJW wishes you good luck on your own amazing adventure.

Here’s to a remarkable New Year, filled with awareness, light, and blessings!

Cheers,

JA

Taking some time to reflect and contemplate, I’m sporting a Tom Ford “Country Jacket” in a dark brown wide wool check, brown silk pocket square, brown wool knit tie and “Cyrille” sunglasses, Turnbull and Asser red and white striped cotton shirt with contrast white collar and French cuffs, vintage agate cuff links, Gucci brown tweed motor cycle pant, python belt and brown leather Chelsea boots, red leather gloves by Sermoneta, Etro silk paisley scarf and my fragrance is Creed Vintage Taborome.

Stills from the WIJW video short by Matthew Dean (watch below)

Tonight, a bit more from Matthew Dean, our multi-talented genius/photographer/videographer extraordinaire.

You may recall Dean’s WIJW video, The Champ is Here celebrating my friend Ngo Okafar who was hugely instrumental in motivating me to start WIJW. You’ll also recall, Dean has photographed me on several occasions, creating some gorgeous scenarios like James Andrew Film Maker. It is Dean’s plan to travel the world filming hotels and properties, but we think he’d find fantastic material wherever he was—case in point, tonight’s dramatically geometric setting right here in New York City!

Dean’s photographer’s eye, superb editing, and accompanying music have coalesced in this most perfect video snippet, and should give you a taste of where his talents lie were you wish to secure him for YOUR next project!

I’m wearing a bold mix of black and white checks and stripes to compliment this visually striking spot—Tom ford era Gucci black flannel jacket, mini hounds tooth wool pant and black and white striped shirt with French cuffs, black pearl cuff links, white and black silk scarf by Turnbull and Asser, Tom Ford black and white silk pocket square, Ralph Lauren purple alligator belt, Lanvin sneakers in green ans black, green leather gloves by Sermoneta, black leather tote by Gucci, sunglasses by Dior and my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.

James Andrew at Liz O'Brien - photo Gabriel Everett

We do go on quite a bit here at WIJW about the super stylish Liz O’Brien, and it is not without good reason. She really does have one of the finest galleries here in New York City! We share her passion for the iconic masters of the 20th century, and do love the excitement, spark, and historical interest these pieces can add to a fine interior.

With a curator’s eye, O’Brien has launched an ultra-chic collection of furniture and accessories (O’brien calls them “keepers”), based on the designs of these iconic 20th century masters. “At the end of the day,” she says, “these are the pieces I want to have in my own home.” And it is indeed a well edited collection, Editions “…offers the sophisticated, design-orientated customer a refreshing alternative at exceptional value.”

The Billy Lounge Chair with Ottoman and The Francis Dining chair at Liz O'Brien

Her marvelous gallery is filled with the most fabulous assortment of sofas and chairs, upholstered in richly colored and jewel-toned fabrics that are available for immediate gratification or to be ordered and produced in one’s own fabric. The Pamela and Jayne sofas (below) are based on models by the legendary firm Maison Jansen.

The Pamela Sofa at Liz O'Brien

The Jayne Sofa at Liz O'Brien

The Sister Pouf was one of Sister Parish’s favorites.

The Sister Pouf

The Courrone Lamp

Me and stacks of the Albert Table (below). Based on a design by Albert Hadley, it’s a chic jewel of an object that can be used as a side table or grouped in multiples, fabric wrapped with a high gloss lacquer finish.

James Andrew at the Liz'Obiren Gallery with stacks of the Albert Table - photo Gabriel Everett

Enjoying the outrageous beauty of the Liz O’Brien Gallery, I’m sporting a Tom Ford “Country Jacket” in amethyst wool silk tri-color windowpane, glen plaid wool, cashmere tie, black and white silk pocket square and saddle leather loafers, Turnbull and Asser purple cotton shirt with white collar and cuffs, vintage moon stone cuff links, Gucci python belt with silver double horse head buckle, J Brand “Kane” jeans and my fragrance is Creed Windsor.

James Andrew - photo by Justin Williams

Taste is an ongoing and evolving thing born from continued exposure to beauty in all its myriad forms. In fact Mozi, the 5th century BC, Chinese philosopher postulated that it takes three generations to develop taste and a truly educated appreciation for art. While we’re not sure how long it takes, we are certain that it is something that takes time. And one shouldn’t be in too much of a hurry either, the pursuit is actually where all the fun of discovery is! There are so many resources one can take advantage of today to help one along the way—we probably don’t have to list them here do we?

As with anything—business, spiritual awakening, aesthetics, etc.—one should absolutely take advantage of the education acknowledged experts can provide, whether it be through a well curated museum show, or the writings and images of the great style-makers of the past. It may interest you to note that the root meaning of the word “original” isn’t necessarily about what is new, rather it has to do with “origins,” as in beginnings! Of course, to be clear, I’m not advocating rote imitation—as far as I’m concerned, the only real fashion faux pas is being boring—one should instead contemplate what has come before, understand it, and then have the courage to build on one’s aesthetic, trying out fresh and innovative things along the way.

To this end, we hope that what we share here on WIJW has become a sounding board of sorts, as you develop your own unique tastes!

Incidentally, check out my James_Andrew Instagram account (get the app on iphone) — I’m sharing quite a few visual musings there.

Dressed in my own brand of sartorial splendor, I’m off to face the world sporting a Tom Ford era pale beige linen and silk jacket and navy pinstripe linen pant, my shirt is navy cotton with contrast white collar and cuffs by Turnbull and Asser, pearl cuff links with pale blue sapphires by Seaman Schepps, sun glasses and python belt by Gucci, pale pink and navy paisley cotton voile pocket square from Ralph Lauren, vintage Cartier “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram, ivory suede loafers by Tom Ford and my fragrance is Eau d’Italie’s Paestum Rose.

James Andrew at The Frick Collection. photo Lars Stephan.

A quick break from our Spain posts to remind you that the Frick’s Summer Soireé will be soon upon us—Tuesday, July 12, 2011. It’s certainly the highlight of New York City’s summer season, and a not-to-be-missed event!

Along with the magnificent 70th Street Garden designed by my favorite landscape architect Russell Page, guests will enjoy the dazzling interior Garden Court, created in 1935 by John Russell Pope. Guests will also have access to the permanent collection galleries (which feature masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, Fragonard, Holbein, Houdon, Goya, Gainsborough, Velázquez, Renoir, and others, as well as the museum’s seasonal exhibitions, “In a New Light: Bellini’s St. Francis in the Desert” and “Turkish Taste at the Court of Marie-Antoinette.” Cocktails will be accompanied by hors d’oeuvres by Creative Edge, and cool jazz will be provided by a quartet called The Flail.

Secure your Summer Soireé tickets straight away. Oh, and did we mention photographer Bill Cunningham will be there to document all the glitz and glam? So do sort out your most stylish outfit—I can’t wait to show you mine!! I’m hoping to see many of our WIJW friends there.

Proceeds will support the full range of programs at The Frick Collection, including educational and curatorial initiatives and Library activities and an EPIC evening is guaranteed for all that attend.

I’m photographed here in the interior Garden Court by photographer Lars Stephan. I’m sporting a pale pink silk suit and purple silk glen plaid pocket square by Tom Ford, Turnbull and Asser purple cotton shirt with contrast white collar and cuffs, Seaman Schepps cuff links in shell with coral beads, Gucci python belt, Tom Ford ivory suede loafers, straw hat with black grosgrain ribbon trim from my friend India Hicks’ shop The Sugar Mill and my fragrance is Creed Imperial Millesime.

James Andrew at the Villa Magna Hotel

Our holiday in Spain begins in marvelous Madrid—a city that at its height was the center of one of the largest and most powerful empires in the world.

As always, I seek out lodgings that capture the essence of a place with seemingly effortless chic—location, style, impeccable service, and comfort are always at the top of my list.

The Villa Magna has it all. And so, what better place for our base of operations in Madrid?!

The Magna is located in the uber fashionable “Barrio Salamanca,” an area which was once home to the finest mansions and palaces in Madrid, and you’ll still find the most stylish shops, boutiques, and restaurants there. We suggest a fine breakfast on one of the lovely terraces at the Magna first though to fortify you for your grand day out!

Detail - Villa Magna Hotel

Snail Staircase at the Villa Magna Hotel

Detail - The Villa Magna Hotel

With a modernist mix of the most elegant old world sophistication and contemporary elements, there is something almost David Hicks about the place, which of course had me feeling right at home!

With only three short days in Madrid we chose to focus on monumental sights like the Palacio Real—its exuberant and lavish decor reflects the tastes of King Carlos III and King Carlos IV. The palace was occupied by the royal family until 1931 when King Alfonso XIII abdicated the throne.

After visiting the palace I’d suggest a visit to the neo classical style “Jardines de Sabatini.” Happily for us the magnolias were in full bloom. I had to stop several times to take in their heady fragrance.

In need of a bit of recovery after our sight-filled morning, we headed to Casa Lucio for a scrumptious lunch. It’s a Castillian style taberna whose clientele, according to Food and Wine, “…ranges from the king and queen to the local hooker”—now that is my kind of place!

I’m wearing a Tom Ford “Spencer” sports jacket in tangerine silk linen basket weave and silk floral pocket square, Turnbull and Asser shirt in purple and white gingham checked cotton, Gucci khaki pants, python belt with silver buckle and sunglasses, Tom Ford sand colored suede loafers and my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.

James Andrew with Jules Reid

As many of our readers know, Jules Reid’s elegant yet whimsical designs have become quite popular amongst a smart set of women who appreciate couture details at an exceptional value. And we love the exotic flair, with looks that are just as at home in Manhattan as they would be in Majorca!

Here at WIJW we also do love inspiring entrepreneurial stories, and after a brief meet with my friend Reid, it dawned on me that this was absolutely one of those stories.

A little about her road to success…

Reid credits her mother for fueling a fashion impulse quite early on—mum would wear colorful saris (from their years spent in India) and sewed patterns the young Reid would find in Vogue. “I was always into color and was willing to wear things that no one else probably would,” says Reid of her early days. After college, though, her creative impulse had to be briefly put on hold when a position as a Wall Street stock broker presented itself. At the start, she opted for the conservative women’s suit, (the ubiquitous uniform often believed to assure success in a male dominated arena), yet after establishing herself, she felt free again to express her own unique sense of style—colors, bare legs, high heels—generally all the elements one might not think appropriate for her profession! It was during these years, researching design in her spare time, that Reid says she really started to develop the aesthetic that would later become the Jules Reid line.

Ten years on, she found herself married with three children—and very much in need of a creative outlet! With excitement, she opened a super chic and successful store and also started decorating peoples homes. Here she had a chance to fine tune her sense of pattern, texture, and color. It was not until turning 40, however, with a “now or never” sense of urgency, that Reid realized the dream that had been there for decades: to create her own clothing line.

And it doesn’t surprise us at all that the multi-talented multi-lived Jules Reid pulled together a truly fabulous collection!

In life we so often don’t go for what we really want. Taking Reid’s example certainly inspires one not to wait for that imagined perfect moment, but rather to create the moment here and now!

The Jules Reid Collection

The Jules Reid Collection

The Jules Reid Collection

The Jules Reid Collection

The Jules Reid Collection

Spending some time with the lovely Jules Reid I’m sporting a Tom Ford “Buckingham” jacket in black and ink wool wide twill damier, Turnbull and Asser shirt in red and white cotton stripes with contrast white collar and french cuffs, Seaman Schepps cuff links are pearls with pale blue sapphires, vintage silk pocket square, black and white silk hounds tooth check pants, black patent belt and tasseled wing tip loafers all by Gucci, Cartier “Tank Divan” from Raj Tolaram, my fragrance is Creed Windsor.

James Andrew at the Christie's warehouse. Photograph by Gabriel Everett.

I’m a huge fan of the work of interior designer Michael Simon. With a museum curator’s knowledge of 18th century French decorative arts and expertise in multiple design idioms, Simon integrates the most exquisite elements from the past into interiors that are both forward thinking and totally right for how people want to live today.

Needless to say, Simon has amassed a rather spectacular collection of the best in classical French antiques. And now, luckily for us, Simon is in the process of editing his collection in order to make room for new acquisitions and is offering a brilliant selection of pieces at an upcoming Christie’s auction (Tuesday 7 June 2011)

It’s an extraordinary chance for collectors to procure pieces that have met Simon’s high personal standards—I’ve included a few of my favorites to tempt you. This is a not to be missed auction, and I look forward to seeing many of you there!

Photo credit Christies's Images Ltd, 2011

Photo credit Christies's Images Ltd, 2011

Photo credit Christies's Images Ltd, 2011

Photo credit Christies's Images Ltd, 2011