the directrice 
Despite the heat, sometimes one still wants to cover up. The sun, you know, is both our friend and our foe. It was very hot when we took these photos and The Photographer caught me clowning around while he was adjusting his settings. * In case you are wondering, I am the fretter.+ … Read moreA Doll’s Clothes
Setting aside the title of this post for a minute — which we will get to — this is another edition of These Old Clothes. Blouse: Moncollet; Pants and belt: JCrew; Sandals: Skechers; Bag: Sophie Hulme
When something works, stick with it. This lavender is a delicate shade. It’s showing up better in these close-up photos. Since purple and yellow are complementary colors, I’ve paired the dress with a marigold bag and favorite utility belt. Have a tremendous Fourth of July! Dress: Piper Dress by Christy Dawn; Belt: Heron Preston: Shoes: … Read moreAnother Shirtwaist Dress Combination
During the summer, I like white skirts and pants. They capture the essence of summer. The Photographer insisted that I share this shot. I agree that the background is very beautiful, but fear that I look too monumental . . . like the statute of a dictator.* Now, let’s take a look at … Read moreTwo Skirts Met a Pattern
Behold my go-to casual outfit for spring and early summer! No, not a baby. But something equally soft and appealing. Do not, however, be afraid. When smocking loses its elasticity, it can be re-smocked — so don’t discard any seemingly worn-out garment without first consulting a seamstress. Have a fantastic … Read moreAn Effective Print Mix
Turquoise! Turquoise is one of my favorite stones. While it can be easily overdone, done right it is beautiful, compelling, and chic. How to tell when turquoise is done right? * Every few weeks, I scribble out a whole bunch of ideas for future posts. My handwriting has deteriorated over the … Read moreTurquoise!
A colleague recently gave me a beautiful necklace of fabric covered beads. She knows that I love vintage textiles, unusual accessories, round things. So much to love in this necklace: the vintage prints, the shape of these beads, the marvelous combination of colors. It’s perfect in every respect and especially lovable for its quirky, … Read moreJust Do It (Yourself)
I’ve previously written about animal prints, urging you to incorporate them into your wardrobes, but advising you to use them in small quantities. Directrice scholars may have noticed over time that those small quantities have taken up increasing real estate. Speaking for myself, I was a little surprised — but I was in over … Read moreThe Call of the Wild
It’s summer 2019 and The Directrice is up to her old tricks: sundresses, disturbing necklaces, NSFW sandals. Have a fantastic weekend! Dress: JCrew; Black belt: DSquared2; Yellow belt: Off-White; Sandals: Skechers; Sneakers: Superga; Hideo-marvelous necklace: Maria Calderara
Quick! Tell me three things you’ve read in The Directrice’s Big Book of Stripes.* Holy Guacamole! What am I showing you? A sack dress cut from one bolt of fabric (printed with a series of blue, grey and brown stripes), shaped with four seams, and cinched with a two headed belt. Et voila! … Read moreA Controlled Explosion of Menswear Shirting