Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Googie Diners and Photofloral

It's not unlike my character to get a little obsessed with things from time to time, be it architecture or fashion. Lately I have found myself a little obsessed with a style of architecture from the 50s and 60s known as "Goggie" architecture. This futuristic style of architecture is most notable for its jutting angles, killer curves,  and geometric shapes. Influenced by the country's growing interest in the space race, not to mention the budding car culture that demanded buildings be eye catching to grab the attention of motorists passing by, it is easy to see why this aesthetic style is so appealing and fun.

A few months ago I just happened to park next to this beacon of Googie architecture: Johnie's Coffee Shop on Wilshire Boulevard. At the time I thought it was cool, but I was in such a rush to find a bathroom, figure out how to get to the LACMA, which is across the street, and not get a parking ticket that I didn't have much time to check it out.

After doing some research I realized what an architectural gem this building is, not to mention a hot spot location for music videos and movies. Johnie's, which used to be  Romeo's Time Square and then Ram's, is now defunct and used only for filming. It is also owned by the 99 Cent Only Store, which just happens to be one of my favorite stores. The movie The Big Lebowski was taped here where John Goodman's character uttered these immortal words: "You want a toe? I can get you a toe, believe me. There are ways, Dude. You don't wanna know about it, believe me." (I know this sounds totally weird, but it's not if you've seen the movie. Okay, it's still weird, but very awesome!) After learning so much about the building and its history I decided to pay it another visit, as seen below.





Another thing I became pretty obsessed with as of late is the J. Crew Patio skirt in Photofloral print. Its full "midi" silhouette and charming floral print hearkens back to the 50s, which was a prefect match for my 50s themed coffee shop extravaganza.







Above you will see my vintage style Photofloral skirt and below you will see a full shot of Johnie's Cafe in all its Goggie glory. It has a great upsloping roof that makes it seem just about ready to blast off into space! Even though I was unable to sit down and grab a cup of Joe with Walter and the Dude, I am glad that I was able to peer inside and get a closer look at this small facet of the past in Los Angeles.


Skirt: J. Crew Patio Skirt in Photofloral here
Shirt: Merona/Target
Shoes: J. Crew Nora Perforated Ballet Flats in Metallic Gold here
Bag: Prada Saffiano Lux Tote in Papaya
Necklace: J. Crew Pearl Drop Necklace here

4 comments:

  1. You look great here Katie! And what a cool spot.. it's a shame it's closed!

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    1. Thanks Laura! It is a very cool spot. I don't understand why they just don't open it to the public. I'm sure it would do great.

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  2. I love the stripe top w/the skirt. Now I feel much better having purchased on final sale today. The restaurant probably makes more money used for film locations than daily operations. Less hassle, on some levels, too ;)

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    1. Thanks Gigi! You are so lucky to have purchased the skirt on final sale. I thought for sure it would sell out, so I purchased it during one of J. Crew's extra 30% off regular price sales. This skirt can be styled so many ways I think it is a great piece to have in your wardrobe.

      In regards to the restaurant, I think they do quite well renting it out as a filming location. I was at a restaurant the other day that shows music videos and I saw the diner in one of the videos!

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