Advanced Style

It was a cold and rainy Saturday in New York when I got the crazy idea to escape south for a day. Eight hours later, I arrived at Beatrix Ost and Ludwig Kuttner’s incredible Estouteville Farm outside Charlottesville, Virgina. Painted trees, mystical wooden caves, and fields of daffodils filled my gaze as I entered their magical property. Beatrix and a gang of wagging dogs greeted me with hugs and kisses before setting out on a tour of the magnificent grounds. After a quick rest, I joined Ludwig for an exploration of the inside of the home filled with marvelous antiques and Beatrix’s incredible paintings and sculptures. Less than 24 hours later I was back on the road, left with artful memories of an enchanted evening.

I first met Eva and Bill at The Museum of The City of New York at a wonderful talk about vintage clothing led by Advanced Style regular Lana Turner. Since then, I have seen them at several events around town always dressed in the most smashing vintage threads. I was able to finally meet up with them at their wonderful apartment near Harlem and snap a few new photos.

Bill and Eva have been married for 41 years. They first met while both working on Wall Street. I asked them for the secret to a long and happy relationship. Eva answered, “There is no secret. It’s give and take, but most importantly respect for each other.” 

When it comes to dressing they both have a unique take on vintage clothing. “We each have our own styles, but at the same time feed off of each other. Neither one of us can walk out of the house with one looking better than the other.” Now that’s what I call respect!