Finishing

  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

  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’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

  You’re probably wondering how I could possibly have anything left to say after last week’s output.   I am a renewable source of business casual creativity. Thank you to all who left condolence comments or sent emails about Posy the Cat. She will live forever in these blog pages!   And thank you, as … Read moreRelaxed Biz Caz for Flight

  Some years, The Photographer and I stay in on New Year’s Eve: we make a fancy dinner and watch a movie. Some years, we go out. But we’re kind of passive about going out. We go out if someone invites us to a party.   Happy New Year! Please be sure to visit the … Read moreThe Directrice Dressed Up

  A simple dress + a striking piece of jewelry. It’s a simple formula and it never fails. Remember that.   Fortunately, that is a visual-emotional effect. The brooch is not actually exerting any gravitational, psychological or moral force upon you; nor can it pull you through your computer and into my life. Your free … Read moreA Hypnotic Pin

  Here we are, at the end of the year again. A time to look back and consolidate our gains . . . whatever they may be. The blouse is from Jessica Trosman in Argentina. It’s over-sized white cotton voile that is somehow stiff and crushable. It fits easily under this sweater as well as … Read moreThe Highest Application of a Minor Art

  I don’t think of black as funereal or grim.   There are days when unrelieved black is a cozy blanket to wrap oneself in. Combining black pieces of different fabrics and textures — remember, variations in the shade of black don’t matter when you do this — makes for easy outfit construction.   Blazer: … Read moreThe Black Widow Goes to Work