[Re]defining Beauty

I made a long overdue trip to the nail salon this weekend for a mani/pedi. And while scanning the assortment of possible nail colors from which to choose, I stumbled upon a stunning shade of peacock blue. It's one of my favorite colors in general - rich, complex, almost regal - so the thought of it on my fingertips was titillating. Sure enough, I love it. Not only do I think the shade of blue is absolutely stunning, but in a strange way, I think it complements my skin tone. It's funny then that some of the conservative loved ones in my life don't share my enthusiasm. Don't they see what I see? What's not to like? Some people think pretty is synonymous with conventional. But I think some of the prettiest things are those that are actually unconventional. I'm not talking about anything bizarre or distasteful. I mean looking beyond labels and stereotypes and thinking about what makes something beautiful ... the confidence with which a man carries himself, the complex ideas behind an abstract painting, the texture of an unusual plant. Of course, what's stunning will always catch our eye, but sometimes beauty and substance wear an unexpected guise.

My peacock blue manicure.

A study for “Woman Pulling Up Her Stocking” and “Salon in the Rue Des Moulins”.

Henri De Toulouse-Lautrec found inspiration in bars and brothels. Unseemly venues perhaps, but the artist found warmth and vivid color in these unlikely spectacles.

Felicity Brown’s 2010 collection was inspired by Toulouse-Lautrec’s work.

Tilda Swinton is a chameleon on and off-screen. She can look ethereal, severe or aristocratic.

Some people don’t like modern art or furniture. It’s hard to understand with gorgeous, sculptural shapes likes these.

Who needs gold or diamonds? Dahlia Kloss’ necklace is a showstopper without precious metals or stones.

Although two of the world’s deadliest snakes, the Rosy Boa and Malayan Coral Snake are also two of the most beautiful.

John Hawkes, Mick Jagger & Adrian Brody.

The talent and swagger of these men makes their unconventional looks incredibly sexy.