An Array of Texture Tuesday, Little Black Dress Refashion

Happy Tuesday!

The Little Black Dress, a must for every woman's wardrobe.  I know I've said this before, but it's true.  It's just too easy to dress up or dress down and wear it in so many ways.

 

Although my wardrobe does include a few LBD's, I always find reasons not to wear them... That one's too fancy, don't like this one's material, that ruffle looks like I'm trying to hide something.   It's exhausting trying to feel comfortable in my own clothes.   My goal today is to actually feel comfortable in a piece of clothing that should be easy to wear.  Needless to say, the ruffles gotta go!

Don't get me wrong, this is a very nice dress so I am a little nervous about changing the look of it, but something has to be done.  I can't wear a belt or a cardigan with it and it always makes me feel like I have more under the ruffle than I really do.  So here it goes.

 

First I had to go about deconstructing the ruffle.  After carefully ripping seams between the ruffle and the dress, I decided that maybe I should use the fabric from the ruffle instead of taking the whole neckline apart to get it off.  Note the wrinkles, I was experimenting.

 

Inspired by a few of the 1950's necklines, I decided to make a rosette from the attached material, using an easy twist and roll method.  Securely fastened in place with a few thread darts, this is what I ended up with...

 

I haven't had a chance to try it on yet, but I already like it better!  I'll let you know how I truly feel about it after I've worn it.  Until then...

Twiggy

I've probably talked of Twiggy before, but lets talk a little more...  A 1960's fashion icon, her "twiggy dresses" were dead-on.  Known for her thin build, not to mention she was quite skilled.
Okay, I'll stop.  Tonight's story time involved something with a rhyme, it's Dr. Seuss and it gets me every time.  That was the last one, I promise!

In 1967 she released her first line of clothing called "Twiggy Dresses".  Aimed at the teenage market, these dresses were made to give thin women a fuller shape.  They had a short hem and a loose fit.

 

Since 2005, Twiggy has acted as the face of Marks and Spencer in their advertising campaigns.  Her most recent collection was called "Twiggy London", which featured clothes, handbags, shoes, and accessories.

The reason I am writing of Twiggy and her collections...

 

 

I found this poncho shawl at TJ Maxx many years back for something ridiculous, like maybe $10.  I fell in love with it; the color, the fit, the style.  Then, the first time I wore it in front of a man he gave me a funny grin and asked curiously what I was wearing.  Like most men, he had no sense of women's fashion styles, but being the shy girl that I was, that comment was enough for me to never wear it...so sadly it was sent to that dark corner in my closet, but luckily, not the Goodwill.

Good news, I found it today!  To say the least, I will never let a comment drive me to hide a piece of clothing again, because I will be frolicking in this all season!  Besides, why should it matter what other people think...oh yeah, it doesn't.

On another note, don't wait up for me tomorrow!  It's my first night out in over 3 months and I'm very much looking forward to it.  A night free of drool, spilled milk, and baggy sweats.  Hello, boots, beer, and country music!

Garter (stockings)

Nowadays, a garter is known to be part of a wedding tradition; a bride wears a garter to her wedding, towards the end of the reception the groom removes it and tosses it to the unmarried male guests, thus symbolising deflowering.  The belief behind this tradition is that if an article of clothing was taken from the bride it would bring good luck.  Fun, yes?  Of course!  Although the actual use of a garter is for holding up a stocking or sock...

During WWII when nylon and rayon had restrictions, hose manufacturers created garters to help keep up the stockings.  In this photo you can see she is wearing hold-ups (stockings with an band of elastic attached to it) and a garter belt (suspenders worn around the waist with 2 or 3 elastic strips attached to each side) which both help to hold up the stockings, but in this case the garter is being used to prevent bagging at the knees.

 

When nylon production came to a halt, women resorted to penciling in seams on the back of their legs with eyebrow pencils...a little off the subject of garters, but I thought it was a fun fact about the restrictions of WWII!

 

Not only were garters used to keep a messy look from occurring, but were a convenient way for ladies to carry small valuables, in place of a purse.  Ah ha!  Lightbulb...time to make a garter!

Tea Time

Where was this dress when I was shopping for my wedding gown!



Besides the length, which I love by the way, it's everything that I wanted in my wedding dress.  Funny how things change when bridal consultants start giving you random dresses to try on.  My wedding dress was completely opposite of what I wanted, but I was totally in love with it.

I'm thinking if Bryan and I ever renew our vows, a simple lace tea length gown is what I will wear! 

Inspire to Design

Don't you just love the blue polka dot jumpsuit?


Nullify Anew Vintage is this amazing shop that I found on Etsy that specializes in redesigning vintage pieces.  They have over 150 items that include, dresses, tops, skirts, jackets, shorts, jumpsuits, and so much more.  It is truly incredible what they do with the pieces that they acquire. 

To redesign, reinvent, and repurpose vintage clothing; this is my overall goal.  Achieving this goal on a budget has, no doubt, been tricky.  In spite of the fact, I will soon flourish!  I only ask of you, to please have patience with this everyday mama.

Here are a few inspiring items from Nullify Anew Vintage...

I'm diggin' on this scalloped collar!

The bib style accent is absolutely adorable!

And might I add...Yellow to my shopping list!

My Pink Rush

It's common knowledge, blue is for boys, pink is for girls.  If that's just the way it is, why don't I own more pink?!

I've never been a big fan of the color.  Maybe because it was too girly for me, maybe because I thought it didn't go well with my skin tone, who knows.  Lately though, I have this urge for pink to flood my closet.  I want pink blouses and skirts, shorts and jeans.  Am I out of control?  Pink jeans!  I think the "lazy mommy look" of loose, just throw it on, comfortable clothing is wearing on me.  I'm ready for a more feminine look, and with this nice summer tan, why wouldn't pink look good against my skin.

Leave it to Pinterest...  This vintage pink blouse is screaming my name!  Just look at the gorgeous texture; sheer sleeves, a layered collar, the buttons, the bow, a gathered waistline.  Unavoidably feminine!

Without fail, here is another Pinterest find...a simple cardigan, paired well with brown.  Apparently I find myself attracted to pale pinks.  Time to go shopping!

It's the Season for Shorts

Yes, it is the season for shorts, and sadly, I don't own a pair, nor did I want to for the last year and a half.  Skirts, dresses, and jeans define my closet, but recently my legs just need more breathing room, and a tan.  With the scorching temperatures we've been having lately it would be nice to slip into something comfortable and lightweight, besides my gym shorts.  These 1940's high waisted shorts may be my ticket to tan legs and a more stylish look!

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, in most parts of Europe and North America, shorts were worn as outerwear only by young boys until they reached a certain maturity.  Men would not wear shorts as it was perceived as immature and because of social mores women did not wear them either.  It wasn't until the 1930's that both men and women began to wear shorts for casual comfort.

Inspired from the 1940's look above, these shorts are fun, flirty, and on my list of Things To Sew.

Double-breasted Jackets

The progression of the double-breasted jacket...

During the Civil War, jackets were used to determined rank.  Single-breasted frock coats were worn by lieutenants and captains.  Double-breasted coats were worn by senior officers and generals.  These coats had black velvet facings and buttons were placed in order of twos and threes according to rank.

Since the Civil War, double-breasted jackets became more fashionable.  Popular from the mid 1930's until the late 1950's, a straight cut gave a loose look, but a comfortable feel.  This ivory satin evening jacket, with it's over sized pearl buttons was worn by Marilyn Monroe.

A modern twist to a vintage inspired jacket.  Three quartered sleeves, a slim cut, and shoulder straps mixed with double-breasted buttons and a standing collar; this Alexander McQueen jacket Kate Middleton wore is simply stunning.

Fourth of July

Yesterday we celebrated our Independence Day!  It was a beautiful day for friends, fireworks, and food.  It was even warm enough to break out the kiddie pool...here's Sawyer taking a dip with all of his little girlfriends.



For a warm patriotic feel, I decided to make a 1950's inspired high-waisted circle skirt.



I made this skirt out of two king sized pillow cases I had stuffed in my linen closet and since I didn't have a zipper on hand, elastic was used for the waistband.  A total makeshift skirt but I am pleased with how it turned out. 

To finish the look, I wore a white shirt and made a simple, red yo-yo hair piece.  I didn't like the look of an elastic waistband so I covered it up with a belt and matched a pair of flats to it.

Portland Vintage

"Ohhh Honey!"





Is this dress not amazing?!  Xtabay, a vintage clothing boutique in Portland, holds this beautiful 1950's illusion lace wiggle dress...for me (ha)!  It would totally be meant for me if I could afford it; sized just right.  I actually got out the measuring tape...sad, I know.

This dress was made by Peggy Hunt, a dress designer from the 1920's to the 1960's.  She worked with lace so much she was nicknamed the Lady of Lace.  Her gorgeous dresses are so inspiring...

Vintage Sunglasses

Let the sun shine!

Inuit people of prehistoric and historic times used snow goggles, which had narrow slits to reduce exposure to sunlight.  Not only are sunglasses used to block sun rays, in the early 1900's it was believed that movie stars wore sunglasses to avoid recognition with their fans.  Since the 1940's, sunglasses have become a fashion accessory.

Inuit Snow Goggles

Cat eye sunglasses were very popular for women during the 1950's and 1960's.  With such a classic, sexy look, these shades are bound to be a favorite all summer long.

Onassis glasses or "Jackie O's" are oversized sunglasses worn during the 1960's.  This style is still very popular with women today.

Chiffon

Chiffon is a lightweight, sheer fabric that is commonly used in evening wear, blouses, ribbons, scarves, and lingerie.  It is made with a plain weave and has a slightly rough texture.  Since chiffon is such a light fabric it frays easily and is very slippery which makes it difficult to work with.

I absolutely adore the black chiffon dinner dress Betty Grable is wearing in this photo.  The sheer, puffed sleeves are simply gorgeous, the v-neck is modest but sexy, it has a nice long, flowing hem, and the wrapped ribbon is a beautiful added accessory; everything about this dress is just plain elegant.

I would love to attempt a replica of this dress someday.  Funny, because I told my husband that I would never work with chiffon again after I made my girlfriend's wedding skirt last year (which I blogged about in tailored for you), but I have so much of it left over that I am constantly playing and experimenting with it.  Yeah, he always makes fun of me because I get so frustrated with it, but the outcome of a beautiful garment is all worth it!

Vintage Vogue

Finding inspiration in great vintage photography...

I always feel so feminine after looking at photographs of beautiful women in gorgeous fashion.  I hope this has you feeling a little inspired too!

...by the way, I have to say, I am absolutely loving the pleats in the first picture.  Stunning!

 

  

 

The White Shirt

The white shirt is like the little black dress...a must have!  It is the perfect garment to have hanging in you closet because it goes with everything.  It's classy, it's casual, it's effortless, but most of all, it's a staple.

Ensure quality, fit, and care.
When searching for a good quality white shirt look for a natural fabric, like cotton.  Breathable and durable fabric is key to a long lasting shirt.
Fit is a very important factor.  The shirt should not pull uncomfortably across the chest or have gaping holes in between the buttons, cuffs should not hang over your hand or ride up your wrist when you bend your arm, and the shoulder seam should sit on your shoulder, not be falling off.
How you care for you garment is also very important.  Machine wash alone, hang to dry, and use a warm iron as needed.  Also, avoid using antiperspirant deodorants, because they will stain the arm pits.
A good quality shirt with the right fit doesn't mean it has to be expensive.  But if you have invested in it, be sure to take care of your garment!!  The quality will only remain good with the proper care and in return there will be confident and beautiful woman in a pristine white shirt.

Here are a few....

 

Fur

WWII moments...

This photograph was taken at Penn Station during WWII by Alfred Eisenstaedt.  You may be more familiar with the famous picture that he took in Times Square of the nurse and soldier who shared a kiss after the war was announced over.  This picture, however, was shot right before the soldier was shipped off to war.  I absolutely love the moment captured here; true passion.

And true fashion.  Notice the fur jackets; a very popular cold weather garment used in the 1940's.  Most fur jackets had a boxy shape with square shoulders.  Furs were also used as capes or shawls (far left).  I am not big on fur, but this is a great look with her subdued colors, knee-length hem, and classy accessories.



Mod Dresses

Mod fashion defined the 1960's with its bright, bold colors, geometric patterns, miniskirts, and go-go boots.

The mod dress was very popular during the 60's and today the look still inspires many.  This is a great garment to have in your closet, as it makes the perfect run-around dress.  So fun and so simple, all I can say is, throw it on and go!

 

What a great look for the busy, everyday mom!

Tulle

Tulle is a starchy, fine, lightweight netting commonly used for wedding gowns, veils, or tutus.  It's name comes from a southern region in France which was well known for the productions of lace and silk during the 18th century.

I haven't worked much with tulle, but I think it would be such a fun fabric to experiment with.  It would be great to use as an accent for garments and accessories or to create a simple look like the 1950's tulle dress Marilyn Monroe is wearing in this photo.  It can also be used as a stiff filling for a gown or to shape underskirts and petticoats.

Thrifty Steal

If you can manage to get past the wrinkles, take a gander at this nifty thrifty!  A 1950's inspired slim dress, with a scoop neck.

On a short shopping adventure to the Goodwill (where I wasn't supposed to buy anything...) I found this gorgeous silk fitted dress.  I spotted it when I was carelessly flipping through the dresses.  The print is what caught my eye.  I wanted it so bad, but I put it back and walked away, as I'm usually pretty good at doing.  I mentioned it to my mother, she took one look at it, and well, she made my buy it.  Okay, I make it sound so bad.  Actually, for a $60 dress, it only cost $6.99.  Good call mom!

I can give this dress a fancy look with a nice strand of pearls and a pair of heels.  Or go for a casual feel and add a jean jacket and wear it with a pair of flats.  A simple clutch would be a cute accessory for both looks.

Scarves

The scarf didn't become a fashion accessory until the early 19th century.  It was first used in Ancient Rome to keep clean, as a sweat cloth.  Around the 17th century it was worn by soldiers in Croatia to determine rank.  By the 20th century scarves became the most versatile accessory for both men and women; warmth, fashion, cleanliness, and religion.

Here are a couple of looks that I love:

The classic headscarf.  Can you picture it?  A warm sunny day, riding alongside the hubby, a long country drive, with the top down on our classic convertable, rocking a silk headscarf and a pair of dark shades, some loose front curls and red lipstick....

Earth to Mariah, maybe when you're 50!  Car seat, no-off-button toys, diaper bag...you have a baby.

And I wouldn't trade his car seat babbles, evil growls, or happy squeals for anything, so I guess I'll take the window down on our drive to the grocery store.

Simple, fashionable, and functional.