A smart vest worn with straight or wide-legged pants is a chic alternative to the traditional suit for situations that do not actually require a suit. Important Announcement: Directrice gathering in D.C. on Saturday, May 18th. Details to follow. Vest: Comme des Garcons from The RealReal; Pants: JCrew; Shoes: Coach; Bag: Barbara … Read more
Blue and white stripes are popular for a reason — they’re both both familiar and fresh. Predictable and versatile. Have a fantastic weekend! * I did not include The Big Tent in this count. Although it is a blue and white stripe, it is a different blue and a different stripe. ** … Read more
When I was preparing for our trip to Chile last year,* I thought a pair of athletic-inspired trousers might be just the thing for urban excursions. * For those interested in vacation packing or Chile, there were one, two, three, four — count them! — posts.
Recognizing that there is some difference of opinion between me and my readers in the Commonwealth nations about what “khaki” is — is it a color, a fabric, or a feeling you get deep down inside? — I think we can all agree that The Directrice cannot resist a khaki dress. For those who … Read more
We are heading into transition weather in Washington D.C. Time to remind myself of previous advice! You may have noticed that I am wearing three shades of black? It works! Tank: Ganni; Blouse: Vanessa Bruno Athe; Pants: Talbots; Shoes: Coach; Bag: Sophie Hulme; Sunglasses: RetroSuperFuture * Let’s see whether … Read more
It’s mid-March and time to think about Spring. What’s springier than blue and white? I am not sure about this jacket. I bought it so as to have a fitted but casual black cotton jacket in my arsenal, but I wonder if the open neckline isn’t too much for my frame. Too much … Read more
Several weeks ago, I mentioned that I’d been scouring The RealReal and YOOX for a past season houndstooth bolero jacket by Stella McCartney. So I decided to take matters into my own hands and make a jacket like this myself. Understand that when I say “make myself,” I mean “bring something to Fatima … Read more
For those who found my ostrich ensemble a gross overreach, we veer back into normalcy today with a cardigan, silk shell, and trousers. How is it that my greatest contribution to the Business Casual Universe is not being credited to me? Sweater: Marques/Almeida; Shell: Laura Urbinati from YOOX; Pants: JCrew; Shoes: … Read more
My favorite part of Fantasia is The Dance of the Hours, when the alligators partner hippos. The segment begins with ostrichs — who, with their slender legs and feathered bodies, really do resemble dancers wearing tutus. Let’s take a closer look, shall we? Note: The Directrice (the website, not me) was down for … Read more
