the directrice 
I have never been particularly influenced by social pressure to conform. You can see for yourself on this website approximately 550 posts documenting my unflagging resistance to such things as heels, skirt-suits, and long hair (notwithstanding my new, super-long haircut). But I do feel some compulsion — and it must be coming from within … Read moreTied Up With A Bow
Continuing our Professional Education Series (CME credit for the doctors, CLE credit for the lawyers) on Sweaters of Substance — i.e., sweaters of sufficient weight and distinction that they can stand in for a jacket — I give you: The Dark Angel. Ta-da! A minimalist cross between an Obi belt and a corset belt. … Read moreSweater of Substance: Dark Angel
I have a long list of ideas (i.e., outfits) for posts written down, but no time to take pictures! So today’s post is coming from an unused cache of photos taken during the fall, which I was planning on publishing some time in the spring. If you look at these photos and experience seasonal … Read moreWardrobe Check
I learned from family and friends that my postcards from Argentina started arriving this week. I think everyone thought I’d exaggerated my diligence in writing and posting them, but I sent so many. The Photographer and I wonder where our postcards have been and what they’ve seen in the nine weeks since they … Read moreThe Navy Suit Returns
Among the sale items that I found at Need Supply Co. at the end of the year was a charming lace blouse. It’s not the sort of thing that I usually wear, but it spoke to me and was signficantly reduced, making an experiment in Victoriana a low-risk undertaking. Without a little humor, … Read moreThe Directrice Wears a Victorian Blouse
The Photographer was asked to take pictures — to be the photographer — at a friend’s wedding. It was a beautiful service and reception, with the most delicious food from Eco Catering. One thing to know about this white top: that flamboyant flamenco sleeve was made to wipe plates clean. This top … Read moreHere Comes the Bride?
Today we are combining two old things — one very old, one only a few years old — with something new for a very ladylike ensemble. Such a lady! I don’t usually show full-size photos, but this brooch is so special that I believe it deserves full screen coverage. Note that the exterior … Read moreThe Puritan Meets The Officer*
I have a fascination with glass jewelry. Does that sound like a bad idea? GlaSs jEweLRy? Top: DSquared2; Pants: Talbots; Shoes: Coach; Necklace: Bubble Necklace by Marina and Susanna Sent from MOMA
I’ve noticed a lot of resolutions — here and elsewhere on the Internet — to manage wardrobes by implementing strict “one in-one out” policies. Sweater: Nanette Lepore; Blouse: Anthropologie; Belt: JCrew; Cords: Talbots; Shoes: Coach; Bag: Marni from The RealReal
Way back in 2015, I wrote posts about the virtues of white blouses and black blouses. I may never have written truer words. This striking blouse has so much interest — the blouse is doing the work of a jacket, I tell you. There are three horizontal bands of shirring, a similar line … Read moreGet Your White and Black Blouses Now