Friday, September 28

Fashion Illustrator Barbara McGregor, FW's Friday:5ive

Probably just about my biggest bff in the whole history of bff's, Barbara McGregor has been

Barbara McGregor, illustrator

 through thick and thin with me.  More thick than thin through the years, but we're working on that these days! Bada-bump! 

That's a fitting comment, as Barb and I have kept "The Book of Funny Things" we've said on the phone to each other since practically Day One. Well, she's kept it. It's at her house. But, believe you me, it's funny. At least, we think so. Plus, she's nearly a stand-up comedienne, coming by it naturally, as her father, Ed, was a vaudevillian back in the day.



She's also an incredibly talented artist and freelance illustrator, who is a championship competitive swimmer, to boot.  And she's tall, blonde and boobalicious. What more can a girl ask for?!


The fabulous one


I could write reams of the crazy things Barb and I have done during the time of our friendship (er, Fighting Cherubs, anyone?!), but basically, the most important thing is how we've been like sisters to each other ("Did you just say 'Fuck You' to me?!!!! I think you just said 'Fuck You' to me!" Click.). I'm even the surrogate sixth sister of the McGregor clan! Woot woot!

I promise I will write more about my bestie buddy Barb later when I have time to wax philosophical about our friendship, but here's a little glimpse into her fabulousness with today's Friday:5ive!

FashionWhirled:  What role does fashion or style play in your everyday life, personally and as an illustrator? How does your personal style inspire your flirty girl illustrations for wedding books, ads, greetings cards, etc.?




Barbara McGregor:  I'm only concerned with fashion when I go out to parties,  as I work at home,  and generally look like a slob in jammies or sweats!  My flirty girl illustrations are more inspired by fun sexy body positions.  I'm more comfortable in a speedo bathing suit than clothes!!

FW: You have an art background. What was your aha moment that led you to illustration work and what is your creative process? What has been your favorite art work you've had published? What's been your favorite piece of clothing over the years?



BMG:  No moment lead me to illustrating, as I have been drawing since the time I could hold a crayon. My favorite piece of art was never published.  It was the cover to my never sold children's book " Paris In Manhattan"  I still look at it,  and think,  "OK this is Nice!"  My favorite piece of clothing was the white "pleather" mod jumper with the pink turtle neck,  that I got for Christmas when I was 7.   My mom said I always loved clothes,  and would ask "does this look good on me?"

FW:  Who is your muse? Why and how do they inspire you?

Karlie Kloss

BMG: I love the 'super model' era of models, and of course the uber model Karlie Kloss.  I do wonder where Karen Mulder ever went.  She was one of my favorites!


 Karen Mulder





FW:  If you could have any notable individual -- dead or alive -- pose for you to draw their portrait, who would it be and why? How would you change their style and why?

 Sharon Tate


BMG:  NO question ... Sharon Tate! She was (is) the ultimate for me.  Especially in Valley Of The Dolls.  Talk about a girl crush!  I was in love.  Her perfect sixties style is still timeless. Kim's friend Kee from Loup Charmont could play her in a biopic.

Loup Charmant designer Kee Edwards

FW:  What words of wisdom or inspiration, or daily affirmation do you live by, or at least strive to live by? And what legacy, fashion or otherwise, do you hope to leave to the future and why?

BMG:  Hhmmmmm,  I guess "do unto others as you would have them do unto you," especially in the work place.  As my late Dad used to always say, "You catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar."  Kind of the same thing.  Good Karma comes back to you and then you give it back again.



4 comments:

  1. Lovely, lovely column. How could I not love a piece that featured two of my besties: Kim and Barb. Thanks. Kisses--Jeannie

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    1. I replied to your comment, but it may not have been an actual "reply!"

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  2. Thank you, Jeannie! You're next! Shall I pencil you in for this week and send you questions by Tuesday???

    Kisses back. Can't wait to see you! xxoo

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