the directrice 
After a summer of excess — excesses — I find myself drawn to something simple, understated, and neat. The lesson? There are two: first, it’s good to get up, move around, and go outside; second, you should always find a little time to see a place that you are visiting for work. This … Read more
Do you know this feeling: the elation of solving a small problem that has been occupying an outsized percentage of your mental space? Finding the chair is more than half the battle and the customization that remains is the fun part: fabric, finish, casters. I have to talk to the showroom about whether … Read more
As part of our continuing discussion of transitioning between seasons — which could easily turn into a lifelong conversation — I suggest that we take a page from the French, and wear white denim deeper into the year. At least into September.
We all agree that a bit of jewelry can add the finishing touch to an outfit. I’ve had some difficulty over the years deciding what to buy (What will it go with? Does it make me look like a female impersonator?), but it turns out acquisition is only half the job. This necklace … Read more
In honor of Labor Day, I am wearing something that can’t be worn to work. Although this is not a full body shot, it captures the essence of The National Cathedral. I was at my office when the earthquake occurred. My first thought was that a really big person had fallen … Read more
September! The gateway to my favorite time of year: Autumn. September in Washington D.C. is a tricky time of year. It is often still summer-hot, but there is something a little odd about wearing really summery clothes. And so we have the challenge of dressing for a temperature, time, and mood that aren’t … Read more
Today’s post shall be light on content. I am giving everyone time and space to process my profound teachings on vacation packing. Also, I didn’t draft any posts before leaving for vacation and am scrambling to do so now.
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