the directrice 
The Directrice presents: How to Pack for Vacation. Perhaps some of you are thinking, Thanks for nothing, Directrice. I took my vacation in July. Please don’t be mad. Perhaps this advice will be useful next year. Or, perhaps you won’t find it useful at all, and therefore can’t be mad that it’s … Read more
Shortly after I showed you photos of my beloved red sandals, the footbed separated from the platform. I told you they were old. Coda: Don’t be mad, but I cut the cuffs off these white jeans. I liked the cuffs, but I really wanted a little flare at the hem. Because the pants were … Read more
A cliche is something (a phrase, gesture, or trope) that has been overused to a point where it engenders mild disfavor. A formula is something that is tried-and-tested, reliably producing the same result each time it is faithfully followed. While cliches are generally something we like to avoid (unless we are dressing ironically), formulae … Read more
As the summer winds down, perhaps it is time for a post-mortem. To think about what went well this summer and what could be done better next year. If the answer to that third question was no (or non), let me take another run at this. Now may be a good time to … Read more
Ripple Effect: an effect from an initial state that can be followed outward incrementally. Hmmmmm. This phrase is often used to describe a profound or lasting economic, political, or social impact. But I’ve been witnessing one this summer in my closet.
Looking back, it’s clear that navy blue has been a touchstone this summer. Why change now? Top: JCrew Linen Tank Top with Fringe; Pants: JCrew; Belt; also JCrew; Shoes: Donald J. Pliner Fifi Sandal; Bag: Kate Spade; Watch: Michele Urban with grosgrain band
Just wanted to bring your attention to a few sale items before they are all gone! You will see some of them in the next few weeks modeled by the Directrice (that’s me) and others I just admire. You could probably call JCrew customer service to request the measurements of these particular items. Consider … Read more
I have hazy but warm and cozy memories of my paternal grandmother, who died when I was six years old. The kitchen (gingerbread, pancakes) is at the heart of them. She was a master of domestic arts and had a special knack for keeping small children (like me) occupied and entertained. I have her … Read more
Can it be that August is here already? That means . . . the year is over! And I still have so much to do. Unfortunately, even at 5:00 p.m., it was still boiling hot and the angle of the sun felt punitive rather than gentle. So, only a few quick snaps on the … Read more
The French revere white denim, and they wear it year-round. Top: JCrew Jackie Shell; Jeans: JCrew Matchstick Jean in White; Shoes: Sundance Ciao Sandals; Bracelet: Dina Mackney; Sunglasses: Illesteva; Bag: also JCrew