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

Revisiting Blue Tops With Khakis

  For Casual Fridays during the (spring and summer), I like French blue or robin’s egg blue with light-colored khakis.     Have a fantastic weekend!   French blue top: Sea; Robin’s egg blue top: MSGM x YOOX; Pants: Ann Taylor; Shoes: Doctor Martens; Bag: Barbara Bui

That Third Piece

  We’ve looked at the concept of layering through a number of lenses — aesthetic, technical, practical — over the years. Now seems a good time to review and consolidate our discussions. This black tank may appear simple upon first glance, but it presents lot of visual interest upon closer, 360 degree examination: white top … Read more

Return to Normalcy

  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

Eiffel Duck

  A simple dress can be an end in itself. Even better, simplicity often yields versatility, which allows the simple dress to play many roles. This brooch came from Galerie Noel Guyomarc’h in Montreal. I selected it from a photo on the gallery’s website and believed that the little gold charm ornamenting the black fretwork … Read more

To-Sew

  How many of you read the title of this post and said, “Oh Directrice, you had me at To-Sew”?   For those who are baffled, an explanation shall be provided forthwith! Why is this? I have a few theories.   Come closer and look at this turtle-shell — I mean, directional felt top — … Read more

Nice Skirt

  I like a midi-skirt as much as the next woman. Actually, I probably like midi-skirts more than most women do. This may be the product of delusional thinking, but I think midi-skirts are chic, slimming, and elongating.   Skirt: Tibi Vicose High Waisted Drape Skirt (mine is size 4); Sweaters and belts: so old, … Read more

On My Toes

  I have a lamentable tendency to wear insufficiently warm shoes during the winter. As often as not, I wear flats and oxfords without socks. I’ve always thought that I would do better if I could find better-looking cold weather shoes.   When I wear these boots, my feet are enveloped in Cubby Time, which … Read more