My sincerest apologies for last week’s debacle. I made a fashion faux pas. I let you down with my end of week clothing choice pairing a fabulous jacket, amazing shoes, a beautiful top, a lovely necklace and (though there is some debate about this one) a beautiful skirt together to make my self look like a 40 year old bridge player (See Last Week: Fashion Friday). I know many of you felt that the skirt was too old for me. I am very 50/50 on this. It is a Nicole Farhi skirt and in person it literally looks like a watercolor painting on pleated fabric. I used to be heavier than I am now. Many of my clothes are too big for me and therefore don’t flatter. I mentioned this in the post—–it hit me poorly in the leg and I had to wear something over the skirt to cover up the sagging waistline. In hindsight, I never should have even shown the skirt at all. I HAVE brought back a relic from last week to show you how frickin’ fab a piece of that outfit is when put together correctly. You’ll remember it when you see it. So again, do not lose faith from my blunder. Out of 52, I hope to only fail once or twice making the rest of the weeks a success. Hey, I haven’t done too badly so far, right?
So, to make up for the horrors of last week, I went all out for you Ethers. I went for the uber grand. Lush velvet trousers from Chloe, stunning beaded jacket from Reiss………it really is damned lovely. I will say, the Chloe’s are slightly too big (I told you, I have lost weight since their purchase) but this time they work in a cool, slouch kind of way. Excited?
So…you know how I wrote about the Russian Revolution taking over makeup (See Beauty Post: Beauty Trend: Say “Da” For Russia!)? Well, this week our girl has taken on that trend in fashion and is our Russian devushka. She’s wearing lush fabrics, sensuous colors and the neckline on the shirt reminds me of the Chanel ads of the models wearing high-neck, severe collars. She’s come West for a day of shopping. (Yeah, well, most of us would wear this to a cocktail event). Her chaffeur is taking her to all of the high-end shops to enhance her already luxe wardrobe and then she’s off to a very dimly lit restaurant to dine with ex-pats for a meal in a heavily decorated private room. She’s not too trendy. Her look is classy, but her pieces are individual. The materials are unique and you can tell are fine quality. Though she isn’t wearing something straight off the catwalk and looking ridiculously over the top, you can tell she knows her fashion, but she also knows the limits of class. Her English is perfect as is her French and she has a penchant for Jane Austen AND Catherine the Great (and maybe a soft spot for the silly Marie Antoinette). Let’s take a look at our revised Fashion Friday and say “pri-Vet” (Hello) to Madame X.
Ya Loo-Bloo Tibia Tor-Ja (I love you as well) Ethers! Enjoy! (Aren’t you proud of my Russian!?)
Kra-si-va-ya! (Beautiful!) The colors match perfectly. From the burgundy in the trousers and the top to the whites in the pattern in the shirt and the coat. Notice our old friends from last week poking out from the hemline of the trouser bottom? Yeah, they don't look too "babushka" like now, do they? And the bracelet with the purple hues and a vintage feel with the cameo. The details are so much prettier in person. If you could see it live, the colors and the effect---so much more dazzling. Trust me, this is MUTED compared to how luscious this outfit really is.
You know when you go into a store at the beginning of a season and see something and pray that if any are left when the sales start that there will be one in your size. And if there is one in your size, the mark-down price will still be cheap enough to afford? I visited Reiss every 3 days during the winter sales and watched this jacket. It vanished from store to store. I was devastated. And then on a fluke, I had come from a PR meeting and gloomily walked into a Reiss in Covent Garden. I went in and, SHOCK, I saw my glittering jacket. I knew it was about 100 quid too much and they wouldn't have my size. I first looked at the price tag. My hands started to shake. The fucking thing had been marked down to 49 pounds (from almost 300 pounds). Trembling, the first one was an x-small. I thought if I had to, I would cut out all bread, meat and only eat greens. But then, I fingered the tag of the one next to it and it was A SMALL!! I looked to see if it was missing sequins or a button. It was perfect. "That was just returned today," the sales girl said. "Bargain." I have worn this jacket on very few occasions. It is extremely delicate, slightly heavy, and beyond spectacular. It is one of my favorite finds. Our Russian girl probably would have paid full price and snagged it without the anxiety, but Ethers, let's come back to reality and step away from our Fashion Friday's story for a moment. This set of digits didn't have the cash flow our Faberge fashionista did....but man....when I wear it I feel like catwalk queen Natalia Vodianova. White Embellished Jacket, Originally About 300 sterling, Paid 49 sterling, Reiss, London
This is a really lovely cotton top that is elegant and has a pleasant paisley pattern that meshes perfectly with the flow of the outfit. It really is there to work as a color layer for the look but mainly I chose it for it's Edwardian-esque collar. I LOVE how high and ruffled the neck is (hard to see in the photo). I think if you have a long, lean, neckline this is such an elegant piece because it pokes out from the jacket and makes a statement that you don't need to make any longer with jewelery. Collars and ruffled fronts are very in right now so this is a great little addition to the wardrobe. Burgundy Blouse, $50, Banana Republic, Los Angeles
Many years ago, when this young Yankee landed in England, she visited a store called Selfridges and fell in love....but not with the prices. However, her first Christmas sales came. She was savvy. She waited until the last day. The place was desolate. What was left was pretty dire, and had 3-4 red lines through the markdown tickets. But out of the corner of her eye in the Chloe section, a section no girl in University had any business being in, she saw the most luscious pair of burgundy, velvet trousers. They were not in her size, but for the price, tailoring would do. I'll reveal the deal at the end... Our Russian look is all about the fabrics being rich and luxurious. I've always thought of velvet as epitomizing this. Even a touch of velvet in a hair ribbon, or on a bow of a shoe...it can add such elegance. I love how our girl has so many different fabrics. I love the casual cut of the trouser, but the statement the color and fabric make. This is a dress pant, but done young and hip. As for the price....Chloe Trousers, Originally 750 sterling, Paid 44 sterling (HA!), Selfridges, London
And YOU thought THESE were GRANNY shoes! Our Czarina doesn't think so! HMPH! They are perfect with the colors because the pink brings out the burgundy so well and just the tip of the shoe shows so you get just a splash of color. I like that they are classic and modern meshed into one. I adore these shoes--no matter what anyone says! And I think they are the perfect touch to this classy cool that she's working. Pink Flapper Style Shoes, Office Sale Shop, Originally 80 sterling Paid 40 sterling, London
This is just a brooch with a pendant attachment that I stuck onto a couple of skinny bangles. I liked the whole idea of a cameo--but this one is funked out in the right color tones. The cameo is something opulent and rich and something I could see a Russian mother passing down to her daughter. I just thought it would add to the classiness of the look and also the uniqueness. I like how it hangs down on the hand. It's obviously faux-jewelery, but let's pretend for our girl it's a vintage piece that's made of amethyst, gold, moonstone and amber. Can you fly with this one with me? Styled Bracelet, Unknown Price, London Market, London
So, I found this really groovy store on La Cienega in West Hollywood en route to my gym which is on Sunset. It’s the most amazing little place. Stationed between a car wash and a crummy parking lot, it’s the sleekest little boutique with a white awning. Written in the coolest black lettering simply states the name Opening Ceremony. I’d driven by a few times and wondered what this place was all about. Was it a club, a restaurant? The LAST thing I expected for it to be was the most unique clothing store I’d been to in Los Angeles thus far. Opening Ceremony carries everything from their own label (which is very Euro-vintage) and Topshop to Acne Jeans and bonkers labels you’ve never heard of. I was thrilled when I walked into their groovy labyrinth where their very attractive and well-dressed staff point you in all directions so you can get lost in this candy shop of clothing, shoes, accessories and more. I was thrilled to see a whole rack of Topshop, though it was mainly the Kate Moss collection. It was ridiculously expensive (Londoners, if you thought you paid through the roof for the scraggle-toothed waifs creations, try buying a tank-top for $100 where they even have the chutzaph to leave the UK tag on that says 25 quid. Um. No.) So, even though I couldn’t afford a single thing in this hot-house for hipsters, I thought if they had a website it would be great to share their wonderful world with you. So I was thrilled when I Googled the shop and found out they did indeed sell online. Their collection is SO much more limited on their website then what they have to offer in store, but you still get the groove factor from the cool graphics, off-beat models and unique clothing selections. If you’re looking for a brand that nobody else is really going to be sporting, or a label that is uber cool that you’d see the likes of Sienna Miller wearing, than you’ve hit the right spot. Opening Ceremony likes to show that they don’t carry the regular stuff that your local mall does–but truthfully you’ll have to pay. The stuff ain’t cheap, even on sale.
The “Wish List” look this week is all about travel and getting upgraded to First Class when you’re flying. Why shell out the big bucks on a plane seat when you could spend it on an outfit you’ll wear for ages! Even if you spend 24 grueling hours flying, the amount of money you spent on a First Class ticket could buy you a runway look that will make you the envy of all your friends and may even get you snapped by “The Satorialist.” I could have chosen a wack-a-doodle outfit from Opening Ceremony (and trust me, if you visit their shop or site, you can see nutty stuff. Chloe Sevigny has her own label there, just to give you some idea!) but I wanted to pick something that was unique, still wearable, and that would be comfy to fly in. And when you nonchalantly ask the narrow-eyed flight attendant about being upgraded, she’ll take one look at you and say to herself, “yep, this girl is used to high-flyin’ style.” The only thing that it’ll cost you is the price of an economy class seat and some killer clothes from this choice selection. So, get out your passport, dust off your luggage and get your doctor to prescribe you some sleeping pills because honey, you are about to see some duds that will get you an oversized leather seat, champagne and rid you of that screaming kid who keeps peering over his chair making crazy eyes at you (don’t you hate that!).
I love this jacket because it sort of has that fencing coat feel, but also an old-fashioned bodice look to it too. I adore the darting. The lines will hug your body and show off your figure in all of the right places. The arms are cut long so they will give the appearance of elongating your limbs. The front zip is handy, making the jacket easy to take on and off. This is perfect for when you fly (the temperatures in those planes are so unpredictable!). The material is also great. A mix of cotton and rayon, this lovely jacket won't wrinkle too badly so you'll leave the plane as crisp as you entered it. G. V. G. V. Arch Braid Zip-Up Jacket In Beige, Originally $1,025 now $513, openingceremony.com
You're going to be in the clouds anyway so why not represent the mood of the flight? The attendants will appreciate YOUR appreciation for their jobs (okay, maybe I'm taking this a bit too far) but it is a cute thought, no? I just loved how light and airy this top was. It looked like a watercolor painting and I loved how the fluffiness of the blouse mimicked the fluffiness of the clouds. It's actually hand printed in Japan, and I reckon just a lovely summertime top. It think it will layer nicely under the cotton jacket because the fabric is so thin (the jacket really needs to not have anything too bulky underneath as it is so snug, it fits like a top in its own right). Made of silk and cotton, you'll be breathing fresher air in this ethereal piece of cloth in the front of the cabin then in the back, that's for sure. Wakana Koike Fluffy Cloud Blouse, $300, openingceremony.com
Don't these just look comfortable? The loose tied waist? The wide legs? The linen and cotton blend? The chilled out Japanese-inspired cut? You know they'll just sit well on you, be a great fit and won't make you sweat bullets in the summer heat but protect you from the sun. I think the cloud blouse would look lovely tucked into the trousers showing off the tied waist and I like the idea of the natural looking jacket and pants matching together to make a really "green" look. And if you spill champagne on these compliments of First Class, I bet you it won't even show! United Bamboo Baggy Pants, Originally $405 now $122, openingceremony.com
I really like these because they tie the whole outfit together in a glamorous way without being too "bling" but show you have style and know your fashion. They are architecturally very interesting with the layering of the suede. The heel is almost like a bamboo reed, and they just look comfortable. They work with the whole organic look of the outfit. It's like you aren't trying too hard, but you're letting people know you've got style. That's what the flight attendant's will pick up about you. That you aren't pushy, but you know what you want and you get it. They'll see you "own it" and they'll wanna give it to you. High-heels=high-flying. Hussein Chalayan Flap Boot, Originally $849 now $249, openingceremony.com
If you want to "bag the deal" you can't be schleping around a beaten up purse that says "there is a hole in the lining of this baby that has about $3 worth of parking meter change in it that I can pull out if I turn it upside down." You need to look like you're carrying important things in an important case. This will hold all of your key documents and even a small laptop. It goes beautifully with the colors of your outfit and is crisp and clean for summer. Want Les Essentials De La Vie Bag, $625, openingceremony.com
Any hot-mama traveller sports major shades. Even if it's nighttime. Crazy. I know. That's why these babies are good, because the tint isn't too dark so you won't look totally nuts if you have a evening flight. These vintage inspired sunnies are wonderful with the whole bohemian-sleek look of your outfit and just add that finishing touch to make you look polished. If you've had a rough night, they won't be able to see it in your face (these are HUGE) and if it comes to a stare down for that upgrade, you're hiding behind lenses and they're not. Who do YOU think is gonna win? Linda Farrow Vintage For Charles Anastase Sunglasses ca1-c6, $275, openingceremony.com
I love Monday’s because they mean I can go virtual shopping on some amazing websites and style dream outfits that I would love to wear had I had the bank account of a movie-star. BUT, maybe 1 of you Ethers DO have an enviable credit card limit and can splurge, or might be inspired by the choices from the “The Wish List” and look to your favorite shops for inspiration. What matters most is that I LOVE doing it and I think you guys LOVE seeing it so it shall continue being a weekly staple to help get the dreaded 5-day toil over and done with. It’s a dream that as a magazine writer I wish I could have the liberty to do, but never would be given the space or creativity to do it.
And speaking of work, it’s the recession so many of us are looking for new jobs. This means interviews! I think what separates the men from the boys is often the little details. The cuff-link or the finely-cut suit. But we’re talking womenswear right now, so I’m focusing on being fashion forward but classic. Beautifully made clothes that are cut to perfection, but are simple in design with a pop of personality. I think these days you need to stand out slightly by wearing something a little different than a boring black suit and white button down shirt with black heels. Truthfully, I’ve never gone for a job on Wall Street or to work for a top law firm. So, the choices that I’ve made today might be totally inappropriate (though I don’t know if nowadays places are hipper and want a chicer looking employee).
I went with fashion label Marni, a favorite of mine for years (even though all I’ve been able to do is stand awe-struck through their windows and look at their amazing stores with their minimalist curved hangers and beautifully patterned clothing). I think they embody European, and especially Italian fashion design. With their architectural cuts, Impressionist colors, Marni provides must-have wardrobe staples but gives you the extra edge so you’re always tweaked, looking slightly ahead of the game and never fully part of the crowd. In a nutshell I would call them avant-garde in a way that is very wearable so you’ll always look interesting and different without looking too risky.
Marni began in 1994 as a family business (the Castiglioni’s) who were fur producers to the best fashion houses, but they also wanted to have their own stake in the fashion game. It all began with a women’s collection designed by Consuelo that was eclectic, tailored, researched and unique. A huge success, Marni continues to create “holistic collections for markets that have become more receptive to innovative Italian design.” (Marni.com) Marni also decided not to have a strict advertising campaign which has allowed editor’s to create amazing creations with their clothing each season which has actually given them a lot more coverage had they had stricter look-book structures.
So with your history lesson, a bit of love for the brand from me, and keeping in mind what this outfit is going to be worn for here goes:
It all begins with the wrapping paper when you open the gift, right? Well, this is quite some paper! This coat will set the standard for the rest of the outfit. It looks hand dyed, the colors are that of Italy with its sepia tones and the material is perfect for summer and fall. Made of silk and linen organza, this is a mix n' match version of the trench but with asymmetrical lines, cuffs that are like a dress shirt and a unique belted trapeze shaping. Sun and Violet Runway Duster, Originally $2, 250 now $1,125 Marni.com
Bringing out the ruddy reddish brown in the duster and complimenting the asymmetrical lines as well, this top is ideal. Though it is a plain color, its architectural design is unique so even when you remove your striking outer layer, you still are wearing an interesting piece. You also don't want to compete with too many different patterns so the plain color with the extraordinary detail is the perfect combination (though Marni is famous for making patterns come together that blow your mind!). Cotton and Silk Top w/ Pocket Detail. Originally $630 now $315 Marni.com
Sleek, slick and a perfect cut are always what you want to look for in a trouser. Italy is famous for its tailoring and Marni prides itself on this tradition. The color, once again, compliments the duster, but also will work with the rest of your ensemble once it is removed. Great for any occasion, these are just a wonderful wardrobe staple. Cotton Cady Trousers Originally $630 now $315 Marni.com
I have to say, when the shoe selection came up on the screen, I almost fainted and had to be resuscitated. They have a massive selection and it was tough to choose, but I went with this killer heel. I really liked that it tied all the colors together, I thought the leather cutting detail was extraordinary, the heel looked thick enough to walk in and the platform looked hefty enough so you wouldn't die from ball-of-foot pain. I also think these would make your legs look authoratative in those trousers (hey, the less you have to shorten, the taller you are, right?) and if you wore them for going out they'd make your legs look seriously sexy. Hematite Leather Sandals Originally $850 now $425 Marni.com
Okay, I thought, how could I scrape together the cash for this bag? I could sell my computer, but then how would I write? Or, sell English gent for escorting, but he regretfully declined (damn those English manners!). If anyone from Marni is out there, here is my pathetic plea--if you have a bag that you don't want and were gonna toss in the bin because maybe a stitch was off, e-mail me. I will be your indentured servant for all time. Okay. Pathetic begging over. I LOVE THIS BAG. It is big, beautiful and brings out the color of the duster and the top--it just defines everything in this outfit. The tiers in the leather are once again playing on the architectural thought process of the Marni brain. The bag is functional and perfect for your interview with its space for paperwork, but it also is the perfect city bag that just will age beautifully. This is an investment piece because it will last you a lifetime. Bella! Bandoliers Tourmaline Leather Bag Originally $1,975 now $988 Marni.com
Marni had really fun and organic accessories. I went with these bracelet/bangles. They are within the color scheme and when you take of the duster and have the sleeveless top on, they'll look great on your bare arms. Lovely. Horn Bracelet Embellished With Applique Ruffle Originally $325 now $163 Marni.com
Marni had really fun and organic accessories. I went with these bracelet/bangles. They are within the color scheme and when you take of the duster and have the sleeveless top on, they'll look great on your bare arms. Lovely. Horn Wavy Bangle Originally $290 now $145 Marni.com
I couldn't resist! It's so rare that a label has such lovely lingerie too. And why not be decked out from top to bottom. This 90% cotton 10% silk bra is extremely luxurious, cute and is just a wonderful little treat. Green and Pink Bra Originally $325 now $163 Marni.com
You knew these knickers were coming too! Yes they might be slightly large, but I hate those teensy pants that veer a little too close to, well, I don't want to get graphic. I like a roomy pair of trunks. These are just adorable and so European. Can't you just see a cutie in the 50's sitting in her flat in Italy in this bra and underwear smoking a cigarette, sipping an espresso and peeking out her balcony for her beau to arrive? Ahhhh....those were the days. Green and Pink Briefs, originally $235 now $118 Marni.com
Well, I have given you quite the outfit to choose from. I think this is the biggest selection yet, thanks to Marni’s amazing Website. And remember, I have ZERO affiliation with the brands that I pick so I’m not trying to sell you anything. Think of this as an editorial spread. I hope you enjoyed this and good luck on your interview you hot ticket! You deserve the job if you are looking THIS stylish. Since I put a lot of work into putting this fab frock together I expect you to VOTE! No one ever seems to and I really am curious to know what you think. So, take the 10 seconds and click on the button….please…otherwise, you can buy me the above bag! Which is cheaper and easier? Yeah, I thought so………
Gosh, we’ve hit yet another “Fashion Friday!”which means that I’ve been blogging with you for quite awhile now. Fab!
Well, I’ve been feeling very 1960’s lately. I don’t know why. I think it might be that I’ve been very successful at vintage stores that carry 1950’s garb and up and have been working my 60’s gear because it is so punchy and bright–perfect for summer. So for this week I’ve decided to go for a vintage mix of 1960’s, citrus, resort glam (look, I don’t know how I come up with these trends either, okay?). I always get loads of compliments on my vintage finds which always makes me proud because nowadays you REALLY have to scour the shops to find anything good anymore. So when you score, you feel like you’ve gotten a real prize.
So picture me on a cruise en route somewhere fabulous like Monaco (Grace Kelly style) leaning over the railing of the deck basking in the sun getting ready for an evening of craps, roulette and funky cocktails (a Mai Tai with lots of fruit, maraschino cherries and umbrellas sticking out of it maybe?). God, the 60’s were SO swinging weren’t they? Enjoy and DO VOTE!
Dedicatedly yours,
—One of 365
Ahoy Matey! I won't die of scurvy with this squeeze of citrus flavor on board my glamour cruise! Check out the nail polish. It's Essie "Shorty Pants." A really bold, matte yellow that looks amazing on hands and feet and gives you that extra punch to your groovin' look. Yeah Baby!
This might appear more orange on your screen but it is the loveliest shade of coral. The buttons are little brass anchors (perfect for that cruise-wear touch) and it is completely handmade! It's amazing to me that someone 40+ years ago had my same measurements. It looks BRAND NEW and I swear to god, if you didn't know it was vintage you'd think it was a pricey designer piece. Coral 1960's Vintage Dress, $18, (Can you believe it!?!) Jet Rag Los Angeles
These made me "green with envy" when I saw them. They look just like Choo's or Blahnik's, but honey, the price is right! The trend now is to add a pop of color to your outfit--something out of the blue--forgive the pun. So I thought a bright green with the coral would add to the citrus/summer flavor but also add to that trend of the "wow" factor color accessory. Brass Plum Satin Sling-back, Peep-Toe Heels, $60, Nordstrom's Los Angeles
If you're gonna be a high-roller on board, you gotta have the bling to prove it, right? Well, as you MIGHT have guessed, this baby isn't real (shame, I could retire). But what fun is a huge cocktail ring and so 60's! And this picture gives you an even better look at the nail polish I mentioned above. Great shade, eh? Faux Diamond Cocktail Ring, press gift from Liberty (price unknown) London
I tried taking my own picture of this fab vintage fragrance, but it came out blurry so had to use this kinda tacky stock photo (sorry!). I LOVE this scent. Dior was plugging this back again in 2006 and I fell in love with it when it landed on my desk. The label and box are so old school, and the scent itself is so ladylike and proper for the time with hints of lily of the valley and jasmine. Maybe a bit more 50's than 60's (launched in 1956) but I thought it went with the mood of the page. Christian Dior "Diorissimo" 50ml $65, at any fine department store.
So, I had so much fun putting together my dream outfit from Net-a-Porter.com last week (http://www.oneof365.com/category/net-a-porter/ ) that I thought I’d have a bit more fiddling around doing some online shopping without plunking down a single cent of my own money. Now THAT’s what I call recession savvy spending. A lot of stores are having sales, but there is still plenty of summer-time soirees left. It’s great to see the “cool weather” collections, but I still need to look “hot” when it’s, well “hot!” For example, I have this outdoor brunch that I’m going to need to wear something light and airy for. Also coming up just around the corner I have an afternoon bridal shower that I’m on the desperate prowl for a cute white dress (she requested we all wear this virginal hue…don’t ask). With August and September still upon us, there will be pool parties, elegant dinner events, fun BBQ’s and plenty of invites that you’ll need a lightweight get-up for.
This time around I chose J. Crew.com. It’s an “all-American” label that’s been a staple of the States since I was in high-school and you can’t really go wrong with their girly choices. And let’s face it, what can be more “girly” than a garden party (okay, you’re right, a baby shower is probably right up there). Here’s a bit of history for those of you who don’t know about J.Crew. Launched in 1983 by catalog only, the business expanded with their very first store opening in 1989 in NYC. Now, they have over 206 retail shops across the country and J.Crew.com blossomed in 1996 which meant that everyone could mix and match a bit of this “Gossip Girl” style and grab a classic sweater-set or don one of their adorable dresses with a click of a button. J.Crew epitomizes classic with a bit of edge—-perfect for “garden-party chic.” My goal is always to stick with the same website for my clothing choices—–therefore, no deviating from J.Crew.com. Again, I must remind you, I have NO affiliation with their label or brand and am NOT trying to hock their clothes. I’m just having a bit of fun without spending a dime!
So, with a bit of a history lesson now covered, I’ll explain my “garden party chic” garb. I’ve decided to go a little cutsie with this look. I think I’m conjuring Reese Witherspoon in one of her Southern movies where she’s moved to the “big city” but is still a belle inside. The outfit is sleek, but also sweet. Dainty, with a little bit of dare. And the pieces all go together in a really fun way making them match without looking like you tried too hard. I love the bright colors, but also the toned down toasts and taupe’s that keep the citrus shades from splashing too much craziness all over the place. The floral theme is fun, but the main dress is pattern-free allowing these pretty petals to blossom without being overkill.
With that, here’s to ladies who do lunch, cucumber sandwiches, champagne on ice, names written in calligraphy and a lovely aroma of gardenias and jasmine in the air!!
Whistle-Me-Dixie! This is one sexy number on its own. So if you wanted to wear it out on a Saturday night, this strapless number has that versatility too. But, for this entry we're gonna make it "garden-licious." Unusual hue (picture it with black tights in a cooler season with a chunky black necklace and bangles!) But for now, imagine yourself wearing it standing next to a shaded camelia bush and complimenting the buds with its lovely color. Cotton Cady Erica Dress in "Light Chartreuse" on sale from $225 to $99.99 J.Crew.com
Just in case you get a table under a willow tree, or the garden party goes from day to night, this cute little top has just the right fabric combo to keep you cozy. The ruffle adds a bit of texture that goes along with some of the other textures in the chosen outfit, and the shade (perfectly named "Bright Tulip") matches the shoes you're about to see to a "T." Yes, it is VERY "girly" but c'mon, be a lady just for the day, okay? Sheesh! Cotton Cashmere Ruffle Cardigan in "Bright Tulip" $68 J.Crew.com
Take a "peep" at these lovely shoes that tie together the colors of the outfit beautifully but also introduce the floral theme of the garden party elegantly and subtly. The heel height isn't too dressy and won't poke through into the grass (a major faux pas at any grassy "do"!). I also love that the bow is made of straw which is a natural fiber---see where I'm heading--natural--nature--garden--party. Go with this, okay? Lyla Silk Printed Peep Toes With Straw Bow, on sale from $250 to $179.99 J.Crew.com
And to top it all off, a lovely straw colored headband that matches the color of the tie on your heels and the floral theme of your outfit. Again, great for adding texture and a bit of whimsy, this silk band will look great with hair pulled back in a loose ponytail or sitting amongst waves of lustrous locks. Taffeta Flower Headband $22.50 J.Crew.com
Finally, these beautiful rings, sold separately, should be worn stacked to combine a fruity color combination that will elongate fingers. Great way to draw attention to a fab manicure and the crystals add a sparkle that'll catch the attention of anyone who isn't already looking at you Estate Stackable Enamel 10kt Ring $250 each J.Crew.com
Step out of the Ether and send me an E-mail. I would be glad to have your thoughts, feelings and ideas.
