Mr. Parkinson’s Magical Realm ~ Part 1

I have always adored Gregory Parkinson. Not just because he makes the most exquisite dresses, but more so due to his gentle disposition and mindfulness. He travels often, reads voraciously, has great style, is always present, compassionate and a gentleman in the truest sense. He makes me yearn for days gone by in the Austen era where ladies were treated with respect and men weren’t afraid to be kind. I had the pleasure of visiting Gregory in his studio downtown and later at his loft where he made us the most delicious and nutritious cabbage salad. Stay tuned in for part 2 when we get the recipe. Gregory is a local designer using fabric remnants at times to create his collage like gems. I truly wish I could wear his gowns all the time. Interview below! (Photos by Mel Blanchard.)

1) What inspires you?
i think first and foremost, one has to inspire oneself! I never get bored of gorgeous and interesting fabric, wether it costs a lot of money or is in expensive, the two go together so well. I love how color can pick you up and change” the mood”  always for the better.

5) What makes a woman beautiful?
I have dressed many many women over the past 20 years, lots of them conventionally beautiful some beautiful in a different way, women AND men can make them selves more or less beautiful by the way they are,kindness and composure really go a long way in this world as far as Im concerned. (Im a big fan of gorgeous skin too on either men or women )

6) What book is on your night stand?
i love the Christopher Isherwood diaries, Im reading the last decade,  the 60’s its a heavy book so it hits me in the face as i read and fall asleep.

7)What is your swear by product? RMS coconut oil ,Pat Wexler cleanser  and apple cider vinegar. I swear!

8) Do you think LA is an artist friendly city?
In the sense that there are great spaces for artist to work and create, an eager  for culture audience , a lot of major galleries and also local galleries supporting local art,lots of physical and mental space, perfect for some, not all. a lot of  great art is made here , I think it is a great place for artists and those who like them.

9) You use remnants of fabrics at times is that a green decision?
I hate throwing things away, especially beautiful fabric, that in some cases I have had for many years. So it was born out of practicality, but  I think thats the whole point of being Green, I think we are not practical or resourceful enough.

10) Where do you see yourself in ten years?
hopefully traveling more, staying places longer, finding great new people and things to see, working in different ways in different mediums.
Living the life I live now to a greater extent.