Another Shirtwaist Dress Combination

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 more

Two Skirts Met a Pattern

  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 more

An Effective Print Mix

  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 more

Turquoise!

  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 more

Just Do It (Yourself)

  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 more

The Call of the Wild

  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 more