Goldilocks Gallery in Old City is closed and it’s the end of an era. This place meant a lot to many of us and was home to some of my best friends at times. Aubrey Loftus of Modern Misfits held down the groovy girl vibes for years in this gallery/studio space ran by Kamal Lamoza. Aubrey’s studio was such an inspiration, strewn with vintage clothes, patterns, sewing machine, odds and ends, and artwork illustrating the many rock and roll icons we revere. While the room transitioned several times, it returned to Aubrey before closing. In that time I styled and directed one of my favorite shoots ever with Olivia Flocco, then singer for the Strange Heat, and photographer Sam DeSantis. We had the best day despite extreme heat and nine locations. Capturing Olivia’s funky, yet girlish personality, we created a short story of empowerment and alter ego.
The heart of the editorial was playing around in Aubrey’s loft, dancing and strumming and smoking, telling each other how much we believed in us and wishing more days could match this one.
We never shared many of these photos, and as it happens when you put something on the back burner, they sat for a long time until I was emotionally drawn to bring it back up.
With the closing of Aubrey’s studio and Goldilocks Gallery, I find solace in remembering the girl power and the heartfelt productions that happened in these spaces.
Featuring Olivia Flocco
Styled, directed and edited by Holly Smith
Photographed by Sam DeSantis
Wardrobe Holly Smith and Aubrey Loftus | Modern Misfits
@ Modern Misfits Studio: Goldilocks, Philadelphia
