the directrice 
Many years ago, I had a pair of comfortable black pants — from Ann Taylor, I think — that I discovered were indestructible. Made of entirely synthetic fibers, the pants could not be stained, shrunken, faded, or stretched out. A colleague and I dubbed them “the plastic pants” and delighted in all the ways … Read moreA Most Unnatural Pair of Pants
Perhaps if we try to think about dressing for work at home in a more positive mindset, we’ll feel better about it. Pan-dressing: The Power and the Glory! I feel better already. You can see in these photos that the back of the jacket is a little longer than the front. I … Read moreThe Best Jacket
This is a micro-post — to get you through the weekend to Monday’s post, which will be a full-length publication. I sensed you might need a little boost. In the excitement of SpaceX’s recent launch, The Photographer put these two photos in front of me, side-by-side and asked, “Who wore it better?” … Read moreWho Wore It Better: Directrice-Style
In preparation for a new president and administration, I’ve been reviewing the Obama years with nostalgia. Sadly, there doesn’t seem to be a definitive art-book on Mrs. Obama’s style — but I have contented myself with a large volume of Pete Souza’s photographs and Michael Smith’s book on decorating the White House. Sweater: … Read moreLight Metal
I told you that I have been wearing real pants with a set waistband . . . and that’s true. That’s what I’m going to show you. But I haven’t been wearing worky pants — i.e., wool trousers. Is that ok? Here is what I wore for work on December 23rd, my last day … Read moreYou’re Never Fully Dressed Without An Ascot
Reflecting on the last eight months, I have to admit that as much as I have been missing normal life, I may be particularly well-disposed for months of remote work. I’m an introvert, I live with two fluffy lap cats, and I have a large collection of strange, statement necklaces and brooches perfect for … Read moreA Topographic Brooch
Hello, hello! I’ve been missing you terribly, but somehow unable to open my laptop and start typing. The combined forces of election anxiety and pandemic despair annexed the small part of my brain reserved for creative efforts and my heart didn’t have the power to compensate. I realize that one could fairly say, … Read moreZoom Hero
Has there ever been a time in my life when I didn’t have a polka dot dress in my closet? I don’t think so. Maybe college. Dress: Sir the Label; Belt: Pinko Uniqueness from YOOX; Shoes: Rebecca Minkoff * I had an image in my head of Princess Diana in an … Read morePerennial Polka Dots
After five months without leaving Northwest Washington, D.C. — and scarcely leaving our apartment — The Photographer and I decided we needed to get away.+ The arboretum staff are fighting a constant battle to maintain native grasses, plants, and wildlife. Part of those efforts involving controlled burning (which we could not do) and brush … Read moreThe Getaway
I told you that I bought two dresses to bring a little cheer into my WFH habitat. The one I showed you last week was the understated dress. Look at these sleeves! Have you ever seen anything as wonderful and ridiculous? On me? Dress: Ulla Johnson Juniper Dress; Shoes: The Sandals of the … Read moreFirst Place Summer Fun Dress