City Slicker

City Slicker

There is nothing like a staycation to quickly regenerate the spirit.

Denim on Denim (The Texas Tuxedo ) was a trend I have always shied away from.  In this case I embraced it and loved the look!  Between the embroidered jeans and the vintage Levi’s jacket I could not have been more appropriately dressed to arrive at The Firebrand Hotel n Whitefish.  Thank you Lori and Dan Avrill for allowing us to shoot on location.

Mixing the feminine and masculine always has a surprising effect.  A camo or leather jacket over an evening gown for instance.  In this case the army jacket with the print skirt worked well with the ever so on trend corset belt.  And, high heels always work with a pencil skirt.

For cocktails and dinner a robe like dress with a short neutral slip makes for a comfortable dinner look. The print is a great backdrop for the YSL cross body  bag and a statement necklace and vintage cuff seal the deal.

Whitefish Weekend

Whitefish Weekend

It looks  like I ran away from home and this is my first cappuccino!  Maybe that is why I brought along that book? 

I am so thrilled that Kimonos  are back.  Actually,  they have always been part of my wardrobe.  I love the ease of throwing one over a pair jeans and a tank.  Some signature jewelry and you’re off.  Wearing basics with a pop of color makes for a casual chic combination.

Again a robe like dress with a short neutral slip dress makes for a comfortable dinner look.

Orange is the New Black

Orange is the New Black

I love this silk top.  The elbow length bell sleeves are perfect, not too hot for summer, just enough coverage in the arms.  

Such a fresh vibrant color is set off perfectly by white jeans.  Raffia and camel accents add interest without overpowering. A touch of trend in the pompon on a staple summer bag and you are off.  Remember your go to gold tone jewelry.  Just a touch not too much.

DIY Kaftan

DIY Kaftan

It must have been a windy day….  I am holding on to my hat in every shot!  

Every time I see some pretty silk fabric I buy some yardage to make this pattern.  

It has been a staple in my closet since my twenties.  I wear them around the house as negligees, I wear them when I have a dinner party at home and as a coverup in the summer.  It just  depends on the fabric.  And of course how far you choose to go with your accessories.  

Whenever I see some silk I like, I buy yardage twice the distance from my shoulders to the floor. I keep it around until I get the urge to use it .
I found a lovely gal with a Kaftan pattern that is very similar to the one I use.
Check out her website Riva La Diva. Lots of DIY fun there!

Just a note ; on the side seams, depending on what look I’m after and the drape of the fabric, I place the side seam close to my body and make it shorter. This highlights your shape and when left a little below your hip, makes for a sexy open leg. It all depends on what you want to use it for. Have Fun!!!

These are a few of the fabrics I have used in the past.

Rose’ All Day

Rose’ All Day

The trapeze shirt dress didn’t look like much on the hanger.  Experience has taught me to try on items that I think won’t work. Who knows right?  I can always just take it off !  Or, I could take a second look and use my imagination.  

In this case I chose to belt the front of the dress by opening the sides just a bit and threading the belt though the front.  The result is a slimmer front look and a somewhat dramatic back.  I have also used this dress open over a pair of white jeans and a T.  Perfect