Jazz, Baby

A few years ago I had the privilege of touring the InterContinental Hotel an event called Open House Chicago. It's a gorgeous building, and in the years since, I haven't stopped thinking about how great it would be to do a shoot there. Well, imagine how pleased I was when I recently reached out to the hotel to see if I could shoot there, and they actually said yes!

The InterContinental was built in 1929 as the Medinah Athletic Club. The pool, located on the 14th floor, was a marvel of modern engineering, and was one of the highest pools in the world at the time. Johnny Weissmuller, Olympic swimmer and star of a string of popular Tarzan films, trained at the pool early in his career, and the pool is now often called the Johnny Weissmuller pool because of it.

Much of the decor is period original - the art deco tile work on the pool, the stunning fish scale stained glass windows, the colorful Majolica tiles, the Fountain of Neptune greeting you as you enter the pool. I love vintage style and decor, but even if you don't, it's hard not to gasp when you first walk in. 

I've been saving this dress for a special occasion, and getting to shoot in a beautiful art deco hotel certainly qualified! It's late 20s or early 30s, and is easily one of the most beautiful things that I own. The devoré velvet feels incredibly luxurious, and I love the drama of those bishop sleeves. I really have to find more reasons to wear it, because it's too special to spend all of it's time in my closet.

Many thanks to the InterContinental Hotel for giving me access to their beautiful pool! It truly was a magical experience to be able to do a photo shoot there. 

Dress: Knee Deep Vintage
Brooch, Fur Cape: Vintage
Shoes: DSW