Bringing the Old Into the New

I know it's been approximately 107 years since I "penned" a post. I've been busy, natch, and I was disconnected from a regular ol' computer screen for the holidays, which was absolutely lovely. For the first time in years, both H and I took the holidays off completely. From mid-afternoon on December 23rd through the morning of January 5th, all we did was check email less than a handful of times. It was quiet, it was full. It was peaceful, it was busy. It was joyful, and it was a little bit stressful.

The best parts, which I'm going to hang onto for as long as I can in my head, and return to them when the going gets rough (because it will):

Baking all day with 2 of 3 friends I've had for 20 years (one was sick, and we missed her terribly). Yes, we baked sugary and fatty things. And we shared them, as we always do. The company was the most glorious, as always.

Because blood orange sangria makes baking better

Impromptu Christmas eve day visits from friends who happen to be neighbors. One family came by in the morning, so we had coffee and pastries and the kids (theirs are same ages as our Beans) played while we just lazed and talked. The other family came by mid-afternoon (dad was on his own with the two kids), and while we started a slow burn on cocktails early, we did continuous apps for dinner, and they left way too late, all children and grownups were glowing for the company. The company, really, was the best.

If you're still drinking this January, drink this. Fairytale of New York, as posted by Deb over at Smitten Kitchen.

Christmas decorations. They make me happier than happy. Nutcrackers and bells and pine cones and swags and elves and candleholders crafted in preschools and ornaments and lights and candles and angel chimes. They just came down this weekend, and I'll be sad for the coziness that'll leave our home.

We're never done until 2am Christmas Eve, but it's worth it.

A christmas morning that was at least for a few presents worth, just the 4 of us. Just us and their glee.

Boxing day with nothing to do but play with our new toys and go to the playground, then have more friends over for a homemade dinner. We all stayed up way too late, but laughed and talked and played. The company, really, was the best.

The first time in New Hope, PA, a little artsy town near Jersey, when I could visit the vintage store on the corner w/out complaints from my family. In fact, they loved it, too. And a dress.

If you can make it there, Love Saves the Day is an incredible vintage shop. Originated in the East Village.

No.2's first trip to New York City, with temples and knights at the Met, FAO Schwartz, and lunch at The Plaza. There were lights and Christmas windows and train rides. And we were together, we 4. The company, really, was the best.

Rockefeller Center

A random afternoon at a south Jersey Walmart buying silly things and necessary things, then the rest of the day baking a second batch of the traditional Romanian christmas bread (in the guise of a Greek new year's bread), and making my first batch of traditional Romanian sour soup (a new year's thing). With my husband.

New Year's Day with the Mummers Parade on TV.

If you know what this is, we're best buds.

A final weekend night in Princeton with visits with dear friends and swims in hotel pools.

These are lots of moments. Many of them involved some excess from which I'm admittedly recovering, but I'm cleaning up my act and resetting my head to my #healthyme space and the #DayJob.

What I’m keeping, though, is the focus I was granted - because that’s how it feels - on my family. way. I return, as i often do, to the company, which is the best, because the power of us is such a strong thing, it just can't be manufactured.

So here we go, us. Here we go.

PS - One of the most exciting things in the New Year is that I’ve joined Alison’s team over on Wardrobe Oxygen. Starting this month, three of us will be columnists. I’ll be writing "Fashion, Undressed," attempting to explain some of what Fashion (with a capital “F”) does and why. Chelsea of The Chelsea Chronicles will share her thoughts, as will Phyllis Bourne. You can find Allie’s introductory post over here. Hope you enjoy!

Give in Style: Fashion of Goodwill Really Means "Let's Get to Work"

I'm kinda funny about charities. I don't like to be pushed or pigeonholed into giving my time or my money. When those United Way campaigns kick off with the email from HR or the office "decides" to do a walk, I dig my heels in and don't participate.

A big part of it is that I want to contribute to something that's going to help someone move forward in their lives. Literacy programs, mentoring programs, and job training programs...that's where you'll find me "spending."

Goodwill Industries does just that. Goodwill's whole purpose is to help someone help themselves and move forward. Sure, they have those stores where we can find great thrifty deals and fashion steals. They also partner with major corporations to give whole groups of people a new chance in a new career.

Before I get to the Fashion of Goodwill runway show and pop-up shop (and they were good), I need to tell you about Goodwill of Greater Washington and Marriott Corporation. Marriott may be a worldwide company, but they're also a local, family-owned business (root beer, anyone?). Their roots are in DC, and they figured out a way to work with Events DC and Goodwill to create a job training program that will give DC-area folks the chance they need. This program, my friends, is exactly the type of "charity" I can get behind: people helping people help themselves.

Goodwill of Greater Washington CEO Catherine Meloy. Oh. btw, she's the one responsible for me scoring that amazing silk caftan at the last Fashion of Goodwill pop-up. Remember?

When all the speeches were finished and plaques had changed hands (stop...shake...turn...smile for the camera), after the video played showing program graduates in their new jobs, there was one last moment. The graduates of the Washington Marriott Marquis Job Training Program came out on stage. Some of them were grinning, some of them smiling tentatively, unsure about the attention - and all were dressed to the nines. These are people who have jobs they didn't have before - because they worked hard to get them.

Next time you think about giving to charity, think carefully: how will this change something for someone today? Tomorrow? How will they move forward because I chose to give?

And now, to get cheeky, I chose to give by scoring $54 worth of thrift store fashion. The runway show was fun. Styling off-the-rack thrift clothes is challenging, and there were some savvy interpretations of workwear (and some crazy ones). Never mind the music. Prince? Michael Jackson? Blondie? Yes, please. (Hey, Goodwill! This girl wouldn't mind a copy of the soundtrack!)

A gloriously 1980s sequined gown? Um...please tell my bank account it's already gone in the online auction.

But the real fun (other than catching up with stylish friends I never get to see) was scouring the racks at the pop-up shop. Alison of Wardrobe Oxygen, Deb of Real Girl Runway, and I had similar fun earlier this year - and we recreated it. Everyone found a fun score - the real point of thrifting, in my book, is to find things you wouldn't buy otherwise, vice stocking up on basics - and shoppers were leaving with full bags.

From an Oklahoman furrier. Furs are one of my favorite thrift store goals...ahem...finds. Part of me loves just wondering who wore them and where.

I was so tempted by this Dalmatian print blouse. Over-the-top prints are so now, and because it was a whole $7? When "now" becomes "so yesterday," I'm not crying in my milk.

Toldya furs are one of my favorite thrift store finds. There were TWO of these stoles. I found one left. Mink. Stoles. Great condition, and I threw it on as soon as I'd bought it. $24.98. The leather tote bag? Lerkia-Lee of Modage Styles was taking it back. I nabbed it, and have carried it since. $24.98. Also, my dress? Vintage out of a pink garage in New Orleans. Not kidding. Maybe it was $10.

The results, next day. I worked from home, so donned a Hanes (yup) sweatshirt, my new amber-toned lucite-ish necklace ($3.98), and threw my crap in my new tote...to pick up the Beans from school. Now that is Mama Style! (Ignore the mess behind me)

Give in Style: How to Wear a Scarf

I'm a scarf addict. Always have been. I've been collecting scarves from my grandmothers, my mother-in-law, and, well, Target, for years. Decades, even. So when I posted recently about the beautiful Ethiopian-made Salem's Ethiopia scarves sold by Walmart online, a few of you said "I want to get one, but I don't know how to wear it."

Any way you want to, really.

Scarves are currently hip, but they've been a lady's go-to accessory (a gentleman's, too, for that matter) for literally centuries. A lady can never have too many scarves. They go with just about everything. My always-together mother-in-law, for example, is never, ever without her scarf, her hat, and her lipstick.

They cover your hair in a convertible. They keep your neck covered when you're under the weather. They wrap around your shoulders when you're chilled. They give a bit of flair, and they add color.

Clockwise, from top left: Nepali by TDM, Salem's Ethiopia, vintage, Bean Style at its best, vintage, Target (blue version not online, but a pink one is), Salem's Ethiopia, vintage, then, in the center, Salem's Ethiopia + The Bean.

As you can see, I'm partial to the big, drapey scarves, which I wrap two times around, then tie loosely. But I can tie 'em in a bow and throw 'em over my shoulder, too. (Points if you get the reference, folk song enthusiasts). Little ones will knot demurely. Big ones will drape softly.

I've found scarves just about everywhere, but as I already posted, two of my favorites are Salem's Ethiopia, available via Walmart, and my newly gifted Nepali by TDM silk number. Both are soft, drapey, and add lots of color to neutral ensembles. That, and part of proceeds go to support women's small businesses. How can you not love that?

PS - for those of you who want a tutorial, the lovely Clinton Kelly pinned one recently. Check it out here!

Moody Style: Wearing My Black Heart on My Sleeve

It's A Monday. If you saw my tweets, we were awake at 5am because of the time change, changed outfits twice, had meltdowns by 7am because of time change, I dropped my 1000 bags all over the hallway (apples everywhere), forgot my wallet, and now unannounced IT changes at work have left me recreating some simple work that I shouldn't have to recreate.

Happy Freakin' Monday.

But...

I am grateful for some recent Target finds that let me throw on a Very Put-Together Look without any fuss. I added a vintage monogram brooch that was my Mom-Mom's, the pearl studs my mommy had made for me to wear in Baby Sis' wedding, black tights, and a favorite pair of black patent Lillybee maryjanes, and I can at least be satisfied that I don't look the hot mess that I feel this morning.

Clockwise, from top left: Merona Boucle Jacket, Mossimo Ultra Soft Scoop Neck Sweater, Xhilaration Ponte Knit Mini Skirt (not at all mini, quite frankly, especially with black tights), and Mom-Mom's brooch on the jacket.

I'd hurredly bought the sweater and skirt last week to finish off my decreed witch's costume, and some of you saw the debate over the two boucle jackets one night. Hats off to you, as usual, Target, for making some easy, interchangable pieces that make a girl feel chic when the world is conspiring against her.

We won't talk about the fact that the black tights I'm wearing are maternity tights. We won't.

Weekend Style: Weekend at Home

This weekend is the first we've had all together at home in a month. It's also the last we'll have all together at home until September. Therefore, despite us being "at home," it was jam-packed with all sorts of domestic tasks - and a fair amount of indulgence. Both exceptionally necessary.

First row: (Not pictured: The approximately 73 hours we spent at IKEA before) The Bean and I (she in her Janie & Jack, I in my picked-out-by-The-Bean-in-NYC pinkyotto), before heading out to a celebratory dinner at Marcel's; The Bean and her rainbow trout with spinach and roe (the roe weren't so popular); the scotch H and I needed at Jack Rose after our amazingly indulgent and delicious-as-always dinner (cooked by Chef Wiedmaier himself, and who charmed the pants off of all of us when we met him after dinner)

Second row: Sunday morning birthday party; spicing cauliflower for roasting, inspired by her favorite part of our Marcel's dinner, "Meeting the chef;" one of the first "We're Cleaning Our Bedroom Thoroughly" discoveries of the day: the sheepskin rug we found in an old duffel bag underneath our bed and now keeps our tootsies comfy on our bedroom floor

Third row: Part of our newly clean and reorganized bedroom wall unit: my grandparents' engagement picture, our wedding day, Budda; Romanian, Greek, American, English, German, and French literature, my grandmother's orchestra binoculars; the books we won't ever give up, because

Fourth row: a basket hiding the family cameras from Bean No.2, my mommy's lamps awaiting shades, my puppy in brown paper; art books, atlases, and 1989 newspaper articles on the trials of Nicolae and Elena Ceaucescu; our major going-out-of-business-sale rug score, in all of its 80s porntasticness

Fifth row: my grandmother's finery, including - literally - kid gloves; Mom-Mom's compact and slide-out purse comb; rouched-wrist gloves I need to wear soon

Sixth row: a gloriously plaid 70s satchel that had been under our bed; our bed, newly decked out in IKEA linens, a vintage accent pillow, and my great-grandmother's crochet work; Mama's Monday morning's joyful tears of a first day of kindergarten

Also, in case you're not following me on Instagram, please do! @DCCeline there, as well as on Twitter.

Favorite Post: The Ties That Bind

I think I used this as one of my last Favorite Posts. I don't care. It is one of my favorites. I picked this today because I'm wearing my Mom-Mom's brass bow brooch in what I think (you be the judge) is a throroughly modern way. At least it's modern for those of us who have a small obsession with The New Bowtie, a la DC's best, my faves (and also Very Cool People) Accoutre or Ciao Nina.

So here's the story of how my "vintage bow tie" found its way into my jewelry box.

1 - Accoutre's Casual Friday ($60), 2 - Ciao Nina's Secretary Vintage Ascot Necklace ($42),

3 - Mom-Mom's bow brooch (Priceless). Photos 1 & 2 via Eliot and Nina's sites, linked above. Pleaseandthankyoupleasedontsueme.

Today's Favorite Post brought to you by sheer exhaustion last night that thwarted my noble attempts (OK, thwarted even before I started) to style one of Lee's ballgown options in the Style Dilemma Chelsea and I are solving. We both crashed. And we both plan (hope?) to have some #belleoftheball posts up on Monday for you to weigh in. Hope. If you're desperate for the possibilities and have to give us your opinion, Chelsea has a bunch of them posted over on her blog, here.

All About H: The Culmination

Last week, I posted about the Three Events we had to attend, which were All About H.

I'm a Very Lucky Lady.

Really.

With H, I've done and seen more than a girl could ever expect. It started with our first date to a DC United playoff game (back in the day, when they regularly made the playoffs), continued with our second date to DC's legendary jazz club, Blues Alley. I wore Betsey Johnson and black knee-high boots I bought while visiting my dear friend in England the year before.

Thank you, #healthyme, for getting me back into an ensemble chock full o' memories.

We threw parties (we still do, occasionally), then literally legendary. If you’re Of Our Age, maybe you were at our Studio 54 parties? Maybe? We would meet random people at bars who’d partied in our cleared-out-group-house-let’s-add-velvet-ropes-this-year fetes. I painted huge "54s" and giant crescent moons with coke spoons on drop cloths. We dug through Goodwill stores and closets to find stunners like the butterfly top I found a copy of at Forever XXI and wore to a very 2012 speakeasy.

Just after this photo was taken with sosarahsays, H split for the hills, having had enough of the twitterscene. Well, the bar at Chadwick's down the street, where I found him with kcellis & crew about 30 minutes later.

But really, it’s all about H.

H is a Music Guy, among other things. It’s not unusual for us to have one of the artsy cable channels on on a Saturday afternoon. The Beans are regularly exposed to - and must learn about - vintage concerts, from Billy Idol (The Bean does a mean Idol impression) to Chuck Berry (when we played the "Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll" documentary again yesterday, Bean No. 2 started tappin’ his foot and bobbin’ his head, then went, “oh!” and made a beeline for the music drawer in their room, bringing back his guitar to jam along).

Back in the day, we spent multiple New Years afterparties with Ahmad Jamal at Blues Alley. We got ridiculously excited when Bohemian Caverns finally reopened. He popped the question by sliding a pretty little velvet box across the teeny table up against the wall while The Carribean Jazz Project was jamming on stage. We have regular conversations about how and when we’re going to take The Beans to Jazz Fest. And Metallica concerts.

So it’s not a surprise that H was contemplating a road trip to St. Louis just to see Chuck Berry at one of his now monthly concerts. Chuck Berry is, well, a Music God. When you watch other musicians - no slouches themselves - like, oh, Keith Richards and Eric Clapton talk about him, you can’t help but be humbled.

So a very thoughtful friend called one day. He’d just bought 4 tickets to Chuck Berry’s show at The New Historic Howard Theater. He and H have talked about H’s road trip plans, and he thought maybe, just maybe, we’d be interested in 2 of the tickets.

Well, duh.

So Saturday night, we met these Hip Cool Friends in their Hip Cool Apartment in their Hip Cool Neighborhood, literally steps from the theater. We walked over and took a seat right as it opened, opting for a balcony booth table. We were, to say the least, excited. We ordered leisurely, with a saavy and honest bartender-turned-waitress, looking forward to sharing a bottle of Argentine malbec and that Marcus Samuelsson-designed menu. International geeks that we are, the conversation turned to the Middle East travels. We were having a lovely evening over good wine and good food.

And then the band walked on stage.

And then Chuck Berry walked on stage.

If you’ve seen him in the last few years, you know. You know that the 85-year-old legend sometimes plays off key. He sometimes forgets songs and song lyrics. He changes key whenever the heck he feels like it (but has been doing that, well, always. He’s a stinker like that. Just ask Keith Richards.) His band manages him and his goodnatured bullheadedness brilliantly.

And he’s amazing. Positively amazing.

Pardon the dark pic, but really, it's Chuck Berry, people. Chuck Berry.

I won’t bore you with a description of the theater (incredible rennovation) or the menu. I won’t share our post-concert drinks with other friends (hel-LO Wardrobe Oxygen ladies!). I will just remind you, as H said during one of the last songs,

“You hear that? You hear that sound? Chuck Berry invented that.”

And changed Rock & Roll forever.

Favorite Post: The Perfect Honor

If you follow me on twitter, you've seen #wearing tweets where I mention vintage pieces. They're usually my late grandmother's. I inherited a lot from each of my grandmothers, and miss each of them every day. Back after I lost my second grandmother, I posted about part of how my family dealt with her passing.

I've got lots of thoughts brewing on this lil' ol' blog here, and while I mull them over, I thought I'd pull some of my favorite posts from the past 6+ years (yes, I'm an Old Blogger).

If you have thoughts, ideas, questions, Style Dilemmas, please do send them along! I'd love to hear what you want to read!

Favorite Post: Vintage Sap

H is the lovliest man, for all sorts of reasons. One of those reasons, like I mentioned in my What's In Your Bag post Tuesday, is that he brings me lovely gifts. In this post, I share a perfect vintage gift he bought for me, the Girl Who Doesn't Fit Vintage. And why I don't fit vintage. Which reminds me that I should make sure I wear the Gifts From H. Which he reminds me of regularly.

I've got lots of thoughts brewing on this lil' ol' blog here, and while I mull them over, I thought I'd pull some of my favorite posts from the past 6+ years (yes, I'm an Old Blogger).

If you have thoughts, ideas, questions, Style Dilemmas, please do send them along! I'd love to hear what you want to read!

Style Dilemma: What to Wear to Meet a Fashion God

I'm going to meet Simon Doonan tomorrow.

Yes, he of the Barney's Windows Fame.

Except that now, he's much more than that. He's Barney's Creative Ambassador.

No, I don't know exactly what that means, but I don't really need to know. He. Is. A. Fashion. God.

Or at least a hero with some superpowers.

Anywho.

What does one wear? I know, I know, I'll get to shake his hand, smile at him, ask him to sign my newly purchased book, and maybe, just maybe, he'll spell my name with one "L." All without - most likely - even looking at me. It's an open-to-the-I-sent-an-RSVP-public book party at the W.

What do I wear? I'm hoping beyond hope that I can catch his well-trained eye and garner a gracious response.

What do I wear? I'm hoping to catch his eye with an accessory, since I'm not really happy with my body, and therefore with what I'm draping around it (as I sit here eating potato chips and french onion dip. next week i start with the healthiness, i swear). I'm also hoping for bonus points with either vintage or local talent, like lillybee or Queen Bee Designs.

What do I wear? The immediate response yesterday when I posed the question to the twitterverse was "color, color, and more color." And then "simple elegance." So do I have something - that fits - that hits both of those?

To figure this all out, The Bean and I hosted a bit of a #fashionshow tonight before she went to bed. hillarygrove, TheMadamEditor, and CarlyJaneZ (with jesserker and stylish_in_dc piping in at the end) cast their votes. The funny thing? Their response was, at first, the exact opposite of The Bean's. Team Orange, as they named themselves, loved my drapey Grecian orange knit - that The Bean immediately panned (she came around in the end). Apparently, she doesn't like dresses with belts, "only fashion dresses." (BTW, this rule apparently only applies to me, as she's constantly adding belts to her party dresses.)

The first look, a classic hi-lo combo of Target dress, belt, and Oscar de la Renta sandals, was the quick front runner.

Next votes went for my mod black, white, and grey 9 West shift, then for my vintage brass and green necklace, dress aside. What didn't garner any response - at all - were my grey bronzed T & cargo skirt ensemble and my beautiful red dress that is, well, let's just say I need to put it on again after I start taking care of myself.

So where will I end up? What do I wear? In the end, votes or no votes, it'll be me and my mirror - and my comfort level with myself tomorrow. But in the meantime, if you'd like to cast your vote, head on over to my facebook page, where I have all of the options posted, and critique away.

Style Dilemma: Ethical Conundrum or Fashion Question?

A friend wrote me the other day with the strangest story. Read on. Unedited.

I'm strolling along in Target today, looking at the scarves.  THIS scarf catches my eye.  I see that it says Hermes.  I think to myself:  "Hmmm...did Hermes make a collection for Target, like Missoni?"  The tag says it is silk, and there aren't any other scarves like it on the display.  The scarf itself doesn't have a price tag, but it's on a plastic ring, so that it can hang on the display hooks, and the plastic ring has a price tag attached:  $14.99.  Well, this scarf clearly has no business being for sale in Target.

I can only assume that some poor shopper must have lost it while at Target, and a sales associate picked it up and put it with the other scarves.  So, I put it in my cart while I do some soul-searching.  If I put it back, someone else will just pick it up and buy it later, right?  I could take it up to Customer Service, and assume they will put it in the Lost & Found box, if one exists (or will someone behind the counter just keep it?).  I think:  "am I on Candid Camera?" 

 

Well, I decided to buy it.  So, now, I wonder if maybe it's a fake,  That would certainly make me feel better, knowing that someone just lost their fake $20 Hermes, and not their genuine $400 Hermes.  A quick Google search rules out the most obvious indicators that it is a fake, so it could be real. 

 

What do you make of this?  I guess I want confirmation that I didn't essentially steal this.  Do I take it as a gift from the Couture gods?  Or did I just fail an ethical test?  Arggggg!

So. What do you think? What would you have done?

I've asked my "Dealer," Malena (she of The Bag fame), of the eponymous vintage boutique in West Chester, PA, her thoughts on the matter. Check back soon to see what she has to say on the scarf's authenticity and what she might do.

Style Dilemma Solved: What to Wear to a 44th High School Reunion

I can't take credit for this one. vtgracie, a.k.a. my baby sister, helped my Mommy get ready for her 44th high school reunion. And she pulled it off - sis with the styling, mommy with the wearing.

They picked out the pieces when Mommy was visiting Baby Sis out in the Chicago suburbs. They found both at an adorable little boutique targeted at moms: Hot Mama.

Top: Sweet Pea; Jeans: 7 for All Mankind (Baby Sis swears these, one of their stretchy trouser styles, make you feel like a sky-high model); Sandals: Cole Haan; Bracelets: vintage (I've got dibs on at least one)

I hope any boys who dissed my mommy (like the one who slipped a mickey in her coke) or mean girls who were hatin' had to take a second look. And maybe Ralph will forgive her for dating him just for his car. Mommy was a catch in high school (if I'd thought ahead, I'd have gotten a pic from her), but now, Jimmy is one lucky (if not crazy and sainted) man.

So all of you working on your ensembles for the Next Big Reunion, take note. This is the way to do it. Simple, modern, and using shapes and silouhettes that flatter.

Swap in Style: Twice is Nice

First off: if you don't already get DC Scout emails, sign yourself up now. The montly Style Events calendar emails are worth it, alone. This month, my pick for events-I-wish-I-could-make?


What: Twice is Nice
Where: The Textile Museum (another DC Style venue I'm embarrassed I've yet to visit), 2320 S Street, NW
When: Tuesday, September 6, 6-9pm
How much: $10 (members get 1 free drink)
Why: Well, their own blurb says it pretty well, so...

Celebrate everything loved twice! Don a vintage ensemble and visit The Textile Museum for a night of fashion, music and drinks in the charming garden.

Wear your best vintage outfit to win prizes in our best-dressed contest!

Have a special pre-loved piece? Trade it for something new-to-you! Trash Cats, D.C.’s own vintage clothing exchange experts, are coordinating a swap in our garden.

DC-based band Laughing Man will be playing in the garden, and DJ Baby Alcatraz will be spinning classic 45's in the galleries.

Pinkberry is back with their delicious frozen yogurt, and we welcome the talented bakers from Whisked! with their fabulous treats for sale. Explore the current exhibit, Second Lives: the Age-Old Art of Recycling Textiles, which sheds light on the different ways cultures around the world repurpose clothing and furnishings—and visit the popular exhibition Green: the Color and the Cause in its final week.

Presented in partnership with The Pink Line Project.

Style Reboot: Baubles I Need to Wear, Part II

I'm a lucky girl. I have stylish women all around me. My grandmothers, my mother, my mother-in-law... But even luckier? The fact that I inherit their baubles, sometimes without even knowing it.

I literally don't know where this piece came from. No idea at all. I assume my mother-in-law, who has stashes and stashes of fantastic costume jewelry and vintage clothing, just put it in my jewelry box one day. Who knows how long it's been in there. But methinks I need to find a simple dress of undetermined color (black is the obvious choice, but that just seems, well, boring) and plop these sweet bangles atop.


I've only met her once, but I hear stories about her all the time. H's godmother is quite the accomplished woman, running a legal practice specializing in helping immigrants. We visited her right after we got married, on a whirlwind tour of western PA and Ohio. She gave us red cut glass goblets, , and this fantastic, massive, almost collar necklace. I've been intending now for 5 years to wear it. And I really need to find the right occasion. I used to have a one-shouldered, simple black gown (enter goddess). It would have been perfect. But it went the way of all $19.99 sale dresses. Yup.

I miss my Mom-Mom. I miss my Grandmom. Grandmom had very little in the way of shiny things. She just wasn't that kind of girl. The few pieces she did have are in my mom's jewelry box. prettyinpink and I have already assigned dibs.


I don't remember Mom-Mom as particularly stylish, though she was always put together, as women in her generation are. That being said, she apparently had a taste for pretty little things that she collected along the way. When she passed, my cousins and I literally went through the last bits of her drawers after the services. We're a very efficient family that way. My take? Bow pins, stick pins, brooches, clip earrings, and the fanciest little purse I've ever seen. As much in love with it as I am, though, I need to be deliberate and carry it soon. To an event with H, where he can carry Everything Else I Need. Yes, it is as small as it looks in the picture. It'll hold, oh, cash and a credit card. No phone, and a lipstick would probably ruin its line.

This is my closet. So what's in your closet?

Style Reboot: Finally Bringing It All Out

Way back in March, I posted about rediscovering what's already in my closet.

It's August.

I finally got around to cleaning out my accessories cabinet. Two weeks ago.

The day H and I were planning a Sushi Ko date (and on which I debuted my new Oscars), the afternoon was stormy. We were also planning a Big Dinner at a Fancy Restaurant for The Bean as a belated birthday present, so we unabashedly deployed the DVD player and on-demand to show movies and keep her quiet and rested. We hoped it that would yield a not-over-tired-child for her Marcel's dinner.

But I digress.

I dashed out to Ace Hardware, then The Container Store while they were napping and resting, and brought back what was probably intended as a hobby or hardware case with drawers. I wanted clear drawers so I could see what baubles were in there, but needed it to fit inside of our IKEA cabinet where I store my accessories (and my baking supplies. Yes, we live in a condo with limited storage space.). Fingers crossed. Because why would I do something logical, like measure the cabinet and its shelves? Caution, meet wind.

Home again, and young active things scrambling at my feet, I tried to distract them from the Pretty Sparkly Things emerging bit-by-bit from the shelves. I de-jumbled my chains, matched up my earrings, and remembered long-lost favorites. To The Beans' delight, I ditched every single one of the boxes in which my jewels had lived. I emptied out purses of the last bits of change, mints, and lipsticks I thought I'd lost. I wiped down the shelves. (Yes, Mommy, I am your daughter.)

My hobby-bins-turned-jewelry-box works perfectly. I can see what I have, and am unexpectedly enjoying, oh, I don't know, putting on different pieces each morning. Because I can now see what's there, and don't have to dig, I can easily find something different than the same 3 cuffs and 2 necklaces I'd been sporting for the last 4 years.

My Newly Organized Accessories Cabinet. And The Bag's Place of Honor, moved happily from atop my shoes in my closet.

Then there's The Bag Shelf. I've already carried 3 more purses than I had in those same 4 years: Mom-Mom's vintage monogram clutch, an adorable wicker Fornash clutch, and my beloved Furla (as H brought it to me from Italy, after my inability to shop while In. Italy., he was thrilled to see it again) all made it back into the rotation.

Next up? The Baubles I Need to Wear (Discovered in The Big Cleanup)

Style Dilemma: Reunion Advance Work, Part I

So. My 20th high school reunion is coming up (yes, yes, dating myself, blah blah blah). And yes, I'm going. In fact, can't wait. Not that facebook and such haven't changed the concept of a reunion, but I am still looking forward to seeing people. Rather than knowing what people are up to (which I know already), it's about seeing people in person that I've gotten oddly closer to since reconnecting online.

Yes, I realize that sounds a bit creepy.

Nevertheless, there is a major dilemma: what to wear. At the risk of my classmates seeing my machinations, I'm going to document my trials here...it seems only fair - and relevant - to a style blog, that is.

My first thoughts bounce between "is it silly to ask what the event dress will be on the reunion fb page?" Or do I just wear what I want to wear and everyone can get over it? I'd say "I didn't care then, and I don't care now," but the first part wouldn't be true. I did care then, perhaps too much, like a lot of us did in high school. That era is fraught with complexes, after all, isn't it? The second part is partially true. There is a bit of, well, look-at-me-now going on.

I used to wear-what-I-want-to. I'm not that girl who poured over fashion mags at age 5. Though I did scribble out a few designs in a short period where I thought I'd be a fashion designer, I didn't grow up wanting to meet Oscar or Karl. That didn't come until much, much later in life (that story will have to come another time). I wore ripped jeans, my dad's "vintage" high school football jersey, my grandfather's wool felt baseball shirt, and my dad's old plaid shirts. I did "thrift," but didn't have any kind of knack for picking out the good stuff - or put it together well when I did (at least not that I remember). I imagined myself hip and offbeat, and I'm sure I was - but just more in a geeky, unsureofmyself type way, rather than a "who's that girl" type way.

So I'll first get healthy (and lose, oh, about 20-30lbs I need to lose anyway, and the reunion is just a good push to get there), consider my style options carefully, and share my thoughts along the way. And in the end?

I'll have good shoes. No. Great shoes. Guaranteed.

Style Obsession: Denim Skirt

I have a mild obsession with denim skirts. I have this fantasy that they'll answer all my fashion needs: put-together, mildly edgy, a little bit ladylike ('cause it's a skirt and all), and who-cares-if-the-beans-get-snot-all-over-it versatile. So pardon me as I learn this polyvore thing. In the meantime, I'll mash together a demure pencil with a vintage-inspired t and prim pumps and hat. Or how 'bout a lacy tuxedo shirt with faded button-front jean skirt and slouchy suede boots? And then I'll throw my other obsession, nautical stripes, with a tailored, pocketed skirt, fabulous green patent wedges, and my favorite hairpin.

Now. Do I buy one? Or all 3?

3 Ways to Denim by DCCeline featuring beige shoes

Style Reboot: Bring it all out

The stylish Elizabeth at So Much to Smile About posted about her carry-all-clutch obsession. Which I wholeheartedly support. She reminded me that I really need to dig out my vintage alligator clutch - an envelope, really - and carry it (yes, that's me, the lady with the alligator purse; if I start ranting about Miss Suzy and a Baby, it's over). It's big enough to carry whatever I need, really, as long as The Beans aren't with me.

Which, of course, got me thinking about what else I need to bring out, repurpose, or remember I have.

One of the style blog clichés is the springtime-clean-your-closet post. Well, I'm not going there. I promise. Because I won't get anywhere near it myself, so I can't and won't in good conscience encourage the Infintessimal Readership to try. But where I will go is: Dig out old favorites.

I don't care if you burrow through piles of unfolded laundry, dump piles of shoe boxes on your head, or Febreeze that sweater you meant to wash 3 months ago (speaking from experience: H is so frustrated with my pile he's almost taken to washing them himself. Almost). Pull out the lovely things you haven't carried, worn, or donned in ages. Chances are, you can wear it with something "on trend" for this spring - or it already is (can't believe I wrote "on trend." crap. did it again.).

So tell us what you plan on bringing out in all its glory - and then do it - and send pics! I promise to post them for all the supportive blogworld to see!

(On an aside, I know that the blogworld can get pretty nasty and catty, but I have to say "Thank You" to all for being so encouraging and supportive as I make The Big Climb back out of the doldrums. Means the world that strangers, ultimately, will cheer a girl on.)

Almost time...

...for a little shopping for mama.

Despite having found some real gems (my flutter-sleeve milkstars top is ridiculously flattering and comfy - and practical) online in the past few weeks and awaiting the arrival of more at my mama's house (shipped them there so I'd be sure to have them on our "vacation"), I'm jonesin' for some real shopping.

I'm sure I'll get frustrated and feel like a big cow in the dressing room (just part of the transition from M clothes to "real" clothes), but I'm excited. I'm feeling pretty good, and my Beans are relatively cooperative when it comes to being out and about. That means my mama and I can take them to the Exton Square Mall - or maybe even King of Prussia - and hit a couple of stores.

Yes, I'm going mall shopping.

For me right now - in transitional sizes - it's the most practical. It also helps that we're transitioning between seasons; I'm hoping for some sales.

On the list: a couple of pairs of pants, a skirt or two, and maybe some new shoes. I'd love to have more skirts than slacks, but so far, I'm not terribly inspired by what's out there. A simple denim skirt (lordy, am I having flashbacks there) will probably suffice, plus the black pleated one I ordered and have waiting for me at grandma's house.

My treat to myself, though (other than the massage my mama's making me get)? I'll see what fanciness I can find at Malena's. Like I've mentioned before, this is a gem of a vintage store (also reachable online) owned and expertly run by a childhood friend of my sister's (aka prettyinpink). She's always got a scarf or purse or buckle or pair of brilliantly gaudy earrings I just have to have. Unfortunately, even without the baby weight, I'm usually to Germanically-boned for vintage clothing, and my size 9s are usually too long for vintage shoes, but I can accessorize (what's that word? as Fancy Nancy* says) 'til the cows come home - and they will, up in southeastern PA, where I'll be spending the next week...

*Fancy Nancy is a gloriously diva-ish little girl who frequents a series of children's books. One of The Bean's favorite "aunts" brings her new installments in the series (sticker books, flip out books - the latest and most popular so far) when she visits. Thanks, BlueSuitGirl, for cultivating my daughter's interest in All Things Fancy.

Style Dilemma Solved: Ali Ro & Vintage Romanian

Well, apart from the attempt at abstaining from the Snow Queen vodka and Kazakh "cognac," the embassy dinner was a blast. The lovely Defense Attaché hosted our table, at which we were joined by a company VP who definitely enjoyed the, ahem, meal (accompanied by his delightful daughter, a mom and infant massage therapist) and a missile defense expert (who sported - not kidding here - one of his three Super Bowl rings). A few more company VPs and their wives tagged along, as did a retired foreign service officer and his pre-school teaching wife, and two Washington women connected to the Washington Choral Arts Society (their gala was the event bringing us all together). The ambassador's crew was rounded out by his wife and the Deputy Chief of Mission and his wife, a concert pianist. Just a few accomplished people in the room.

1) Did you know that just about everything was invented or grown first in Kazakhstan? Seriously. Lots of things had their origins in the region...I have a little research to do to confirm some of their claims.

2) Snow Queen vodka goes down very smoothly. Something about 5x distilled?

3) Ali Ro dress and my vintage Romanian coat and fur hat. The Kazakh women and the ambassador all noticed and loved them (the coat and hat, not the dress). I was quite pleased, as I'd picked them on purpose - a little nod to the Carpathians.

If I get my hands on any pictures, I'll be sure to pass them along.