Advanced Style’s resident fairy godmother and dear friend Ilona Royce Smithkin turns 93
years old today!!! Ever since I  first spotted her in the West Village
four years ago, my world has become full of color, laughter, and
wonderful times. Ilona has taught me that everything in a life is a bonus and that we must celebrate and look for beauty in the most unexpected places. She kicks off her 93rd birthday with a performance at Joe’s Pub on Saturday, with musician Kenyon Phillips(For Tickets CLICK HERE). Let’s all celebrate today and wish Ilona Royce Smithkin a wonderful and joy filled Happy Birthday!!!

Sorry for the absence over the last few days. I have been attending to some personal affairs and have some great new street style shots to share this week. I just got back into town and couldn’t wait to rush over to Ilona’s apartment to see what she has been up to. She wanted to show me her new hat and tell me all about Dita Von Teese’s show which she attended last week. Ilona wanted me to give a big kiss and to say hello to all the Advanced Style readers out there. She loves reading all the comments on her posts and appreciate all your love and support.

I went over to Ilona’s house today to discuss some exciting new projects and see some her amazing new treasures. Ilona’s friend Tom gave her this incredible red feather boa and I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to photograph her in it.