CJ..style notes...

Barbour Quilted Bags

2012-02-17T10:43:00.000Z

I am always in the market for a good travel bag.

But I do have strict requirements.

First and foremost, it must be light. My goal is to avoid stress on neck

and shoulders and subsequent visits to a Physio.

.Once it passes the Jeanne test for lightness

(involves a number of curious arm movements).

I consider the following:

Colour...black

A bag should be able to stand up to travel wear and tear.

Up, down, over and under..dirt and scuffs make their mark.

The only drawback to black is when it is used in an interior lining.

Separating black from black items in a bag is a nuisance.

Straps...adjustable

A long sturdy, comfortable and adjustable strap is a must.

If you are going to spend a day hauling a bag around, it has to be comfortable.

I often go cross shoulder to easily get in and out of a bag.

For smarter occasions, I like to be able to adjust for a simple over the shoulder.

Depth... plentiful

The ability to hold a camera or two is a huge bonus.

An extra pocket here or there for essentials is handy as well.

I prefer width in a bag to easily locate belongings.

There is nothing worse than digging to the ends of the earth

to find what you are looking for. I like to look in a bag and find something quickly.

I came across the Barbour Quilted Tarras bags (below) in quilted nylon

and was impressed by them. Between the two, I quite like the Tarras bag.

It weights next to nothing. :)

Barbour Tarras bag in Quilted Nylon

Barbour Quilted Mail Bag

I have not purchased one yet. I have long been a fan of the Longchamp Le Pliage Tote,

but I have to say, I just might travel 'to the other side' on this one.

Barbour has a lot of great choices.

You can view them here.

How do you fare on travel bags?

What is as the top of your priority list?

images

Loving Argan Oil

2012-02-12T10:41:00.000Z

Please pardon my attempts to photograph this product. It is questionable.

It involved an iPhone, a Moroccan necklace and a sheet of white paper...but...

I just had to take a moment to talk about Argan Oil.

This is the miracle product in my beauty cupboard at the moment. The one

that has led to the slippery slopes of soft skin. I should say, softer skin.

Actually it is not just for skin, I discovered it during a beauty treatment on a recent visit

to Marrakech. I came out dripping in it from head to toe...and hair and felt fabulous.

Argan oil is produced from the kernels of the Argan tree, found in Morocco.

It is said to have restorative and age-defying effects. It is high in vitamin E and many other

wonderful properties. The bottom line for me is that it works.

Winter skin combined with unpredictable hormones has left me

grumpy all winter. It has been two weeks since I purchased this product

and I have not had any of the previous symptoms.

Hopefully, grumpy Jeanne is a thing of the past.

You can find Argan oil everywhere. I would start with a good health store or beauty spa.

Seeing that readers are spread wide and far I recommend googling the product

to find one that suits you.

My daughter has made a discovery as well...Evening Primrose Oil.

We seem to be two women in need of extra nourishment this winter

and oil is doing the trick. You can read her thoughts here.

image~me

Argan oil via Kasbah Tamadot

Screen Sirens and Temperley London

2012-02-09T09:32:00.000Z

I am thinking Spring and am right in there

with this Temperley London kimono and jumpsuit.

They say it is inspired by Grace Kelly and the silver screen.

All glamour and romance...I think it would be a dream to wear.

Rosine Printed Jumpsuit and Kimono

Have a look at it up close..it truly is dreamy.

The Long Florence Dress below says Downton Abbey to me.

I think Matthew would have a twinkle in his eye if he saw Mary in this one. :)

Long Florence Dress

Then again, there is something about this Long Tassel Dress (below)

it just says FUN to me...

Long Tassel Dress

If I had to choose just one...

it would be the Rosine Printed Jumpsuit and Kimono,

how about you?

images via Temperely London

Adore Audrey...

2012-01-21T23:13:00.001Z

Adore

Audrey Hepburn

and her

beautiful smile...

image via

You Tube

Travelling in Style

2012-01-21T17:28:00.000Z

I know it won't look as good on me but that won't stop me from loving

this Alberta Ferretti ensemble. Throw in the Proenza Schouler tote

and a set of the Globe-Trotter suitcases and baby I will be made in the shade!

I just might be able to pull off a black top and brooch below.

It is a Dolce & Gabbana dress, so I am out of luck...but it does makes for

a great look. I think a little creative ingenuity might be in order. :)

How are you on the creative ingenuity barometer?

Do you like to create?

images via Vogue Australia

Personal Style and Vintage Finds

2012-01-16T09:14:00.000Z

A friend and I were discussing our style the other day, we have similar taste

and were trying to find the words to describe our personal style.

It's a tricky one. I just like this and that and that and that.

Often no rhyme or reasons appears. It just happens to be how I feel at the moment..

I liken my wardrobe to a roller coaster ride...it is often one wild ride.

But when you reach a certain age, which I have, that's OK in my books.

So...when I saw this Irish tweed coat in our local vintage shop for a great price I had to say yes.

I have been wearing it all week and absolutely love it. It's a good fit, I have lots of scarves to

go with it and it is my new best friend...at least for now. No matter that in six months time

I will be moving to a tropical climate. I am living in the here and now.

Then you have days when you are feeling a bit retro..yearning for yesteryear and with a Liberty label, I said why not. I can dress it up, down, it is silk, a good price, I live in England, I am moving to Vietnam...all good reasons to purchase this blouse. See what I mean?

Ah yes, my evening coat. Well, at least that is what I call it. I have no idea when and where I will wear it. But I know....something will come up, somewhere, someday. I am thinking long black evening dress or black pants, black turtleneck with this thrown over my shoulders as I go out the door. Then again, it could be something fun and funky for the cocktail circuit. Just need to find the right cocktail crowd...

who will not raise an eyebrow when I enter looking like a throwback from a 1960's Peter Seller's movie. :)

It is all about embracing our muse...more on that over here.

I don't seem to have a problem with that..I just have to try and keep her under control.

Now, what I am dying to know....does this ever happen to you?

images~me

Elizabeth and her Ensembles

2012-01-12T20:28:00.000Z

I just had a quick flick through Christie's website and The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor.

It is fascinating not only to see her clothes but also what they sold for last month.

All above estimate...I imagine there were many happy collectors this past Christmas.

The stand outs for me were the Thea Porter caftans. If you have read my posts recently,

you will know that I am a big fan of caftans and the ones below especially.

I could think of nothing better than to play dress up with all of them.

From Thea Porter to Christian Dior to the long evening coats. I picked up a long evening coat

in a vintage shop this week. It was one of those things that one could not resist.

Just to be good to be true and one day...

I know I will wear it. :)

In the meantime, I will ponder on Elizabeth Taylor and her beautiful ensembles.

Elizabeth Taylor c. 1960's

source

Thea Porter caftans for Elizabeth Taylor

source

Christian Dior for Elizabeth Taylor

source

Kaftan Love @ Tuttabankem

2012-01-01T17:52:00.001Z

Lounging is the operative word on New Year's Day

and one look at these beautiful kaftans by Tuttabankem

and I knew I had to have one. The only problem is deciding which one.

I think I may have solved it, I need two. One for winter and one for summer.

The 'Tamara' and 'Imogen' designs would do me nicely.

Decisions, decisions...there are so many more to choose from

that I had to stop myself before I got carried away.

Love the earrings in the top photo too!

How about you...are you a fan of kaftans?

I love them for their versatility and comfort.

Silk velvet...sigh...

Silk velvet kaftan 'Tamara'

Silk crepe de chine kaftan 'Flora'

Cotton kaftan 'Lucia Terracotta'

Images and details on where you can

purchase these beauties @ Tuttabankem

Diane Keaton...a memoir

2011-12-29T10:50:00.000Z

I have to give Mr. H a 'high five' for this Christmas gift. I asked for the audio book version of Diane

Keaton's memoir and I am not disappointed. Diane reads the book adding her usual charm to every

word. I just started but am already finding myself driving along, circling an extra block or two to carry on. Besides being one of my all time favourite actresses, she is a family woman with a whole lot of style, I like that. :)

You can read and listen to Diane talk about it at Random House

Photographed by Annie Leibovitz ( Vogue) and looking fab at 60!

top image

The charming Pippa Small...

2011-12-23T21:44:00.000Z

via Fashion Week Daily

I am not sure which is more charming, Pippa Small or her jewellery..I guess I have to say both. I read an article about Pippa recently and have added her shop onto my list of 'must do's' when I am next in Notting Hill. A clever woman, she has combined her anthropology background with her passion for jewellery design and made an impressive business of it.

About earrings, she says... "earrings bring light and fire to the eyes - we have used all the stones we source from the glittering dark mysterious hematite to the flowery pink tourmaline's and rhodacrosites to the iridescent stunning paua and softer gentler Mexican oyster."

She got me on light and fire...all her pieces are exquisite.

They make me want to travel the world. :)

You can visit Pippa HERE.

via Luxist

via enzo dal verme

via Pippa Small

Ye Olde English Country Weekend

2011-12-17T16:17:00.002Z

It is hard for me to resist a cape...and when there are three gorgeous Springer Spaniels along with that cape...well, I just have to stop and admire. Actually, I am glad I am not the one holding on to that

leash... I remember well, those puppy days and those three are chomping at the bit to go for a run!

All these images say English country weekend to me along with a flashback to the 70's.

Once upon a time...I am sure I had a floppy hat just like the one below.

All of the above were featured in this month's issue of Women and Home (UK).

For those of you who can flashback to the days of Twiggy...here she is..

looking pretty fabulous at 62.

Images from Women and Home Magazine, January 2012

Swagger and Dash @ Devotion

2011-12-04T16:30:00.000Z

Meet Carolyn Cowan...mother, clothes designer, portraitist, yoga teacher and body painter. I first discovered the clothes designer side to Carolyn at a local Country Fair. Her clothing line was featured and I was absolutely mesmerised by the colours and textures of her fabrics and the ways in which she designed them. Carolyn thinks outside the box...I love that way of thinking. Since then I stop by her website regularly to see what she is creating. I vowed to pick up at least one item before moving on from England...the problem is...I can never decide. I have been thinking about opera coats

lately...reviving something from the past. My first thought went to Carolyn... she just has that way about her that tells me she would understand....

If you are intrigued as I have been...you can visit her online shopping site,

The Devotion Emporium, HERE and learn more about the woman

behind the brand, HERE.

images via

The Devotion Emporium

Mad about Fuschia and Naeem Khan

2011-12-01T09:23:00.001Z

Harpers Bazaar says this coat by Naeem Khan is fabulous at any age.

It's dreamy and I love it. At a price tag of $12,320US...it is a wee bit out

of my price range but I can still imagine the adventures we would have!

How about you...would you slip into this coat?

If so, where would you wear it?

image source

A plaidish moment...

2011-11-26T12:16:00.001Z

Still thinking red...in plaid.

Every Christmas I go back and look at this photo. I just

love the coat and boots...it is one of those, if I could, I would

kind of looks. I found the image @ Where The Sidewalk Begins.

Sarah Jane has much more to inspire. Definitely worth a look see.

The Ladies in Red

2011-11-20T23:58:00.000Z

It doesn't matter the age, the era, the woman...

when red works, it works.

Grace Kelly source

Gene Tierney source

Suzy Parker source

Heidi Klum source

Carmen Dell'Orefice source

Alessandra Rich

source

Do you have a favourite?

Carmen's dress is mine. :)

Thinking about red over here too.....

Style Icon: Loulou de la Falaise

2011-11-13T21:30:00.000Z

I have been reading all week about the passing of Loulou de la Falaise and wondered who she was. Yes, I am admitting to those of you who are in the know, that I am not. :) Bohemian, renaissance-loving designer and former muse to Yves Saint Laurent....I found everything I needed to know @ The Arbuturian. I wish you luck when you get to the site, you will find it hard to leave. It is filled with pages and pages of wonderful articles. Enjoy!

image @ The Arbuturian

You will find a fabulous post about Loulou de la Faliase written by Dash @ the French Sampler here.
It is filled with wonderful photos and Dash's attention to detail. She always gets it right.

Thinking Red with L.K. Bennett

2011-11-08T09:14:00.000Z

One minute she is talking about hiking boots (here) and the next minute she is talking about red satin slingbacks. Welcome to my world. I have a Ball in Australia next month and I want to create a look, simply. I am not one for the Ball circuit so whatever I end up with, I want it to work for other occasions.
I may be a bit off topic with these shoes but I have to say I quite fancy them. :)

The brand: L.K. Bennett

The shoe: Moulton Slingback

The detail: Satin ruffle, Diamante sparkle

Inspired by: The platinum and diamond jewelry of the 1920's

My thinking: Judy Garland of The Wizard of Oz fame... 'there is no place like home'

Would I buy them?: Absolutely

What would I wear them with?: I have no idea, any suggestions?

Read all about them @ L.K. Bennett

Taking to the Hills with Brasher Boots

2011-11-07T23:07:00.000Z

I am not a natural outdoors woman but I love it all the same. If you are going to do the extra miles,
take to the hills, maybe the mountains, then footwear is all important. I have my fair share of hiking
boots and have spent a small fortune getting it right. When I saw these boots by the UK brand,
Brasher, I couldn't help but take a peek. The one that caught my eye was the Hillmaster GTX®,
shown here. Can I say, that for hillwalking..they look pretty smart. GORE-TEX® lined for
waterproof comfort, full leather lining, Nubuck cuff and lightweight...they would take some
wearing in to soften up but I wouldn't mind. Does a woman need two pairs of hiking boots? hmmmmm.....

You can find the product details and image here.

Creating your own style with Jolier

2011-11-07T08:22:00.000Z

The Transformable...

The Reversible...

The All-in-One..

I have a closet full of tops that can do this and that. I love transformable clothes! I admit it takes some time to get it right but that is half the fun for me. In my Sunday paper this morning....Jolier fashion and the woman behind the brand, Sveta Planman. A young and talented award winning designer based in Helsinki... she has come up with the transformable, reversible and all in one multi-fitting garments. I like this woman's style. If only I could get a few extra inches on the shorter version, I think my life would be made. What a great travel dress!

images via Jolier

Style Notes: It's a Wrap

2011-11-05T09:44:00.000Z

Over the years, I have collected wraps of various colours, textures and sizes. Fashionable or not, I find them easy to wear and great when you need to dress up or dress down. A brooch, a scarf or something of your own making..the possibilities are endless. I am sharing this passion of mine through a little 'Shop Around the Corner' that I recently created for my blogs. I have been slowly building a selection of my favourite things with the hopes that others might enjoy the same. There are no gimmicks...it is just another place to share my story.

I love the wrap shown above...it is an Alpaca wool blend shawl showcasing the art of Peru. I imagine wearing it around a beach bonfire on a cool autumn evening...to the first burst of snowflakes whilst running from shop to shop in the Christmas rush. Intrigued? You will find this wrap and more by clicking here.

French Sole-India

2011-11-02T20:46:00.000Z

Style: India

I am not sure which I love more....the description or the shoe.

Ponyhair India in Leopard. Suits a narrow to medium width fitting and has an elegant low vamp,

which reveals a little toe cleavage, and has a quarer inch heel. An elegant and durable

well-balanced ballet flat wardrobe essential.

Sounds and looks perfect to me!

From French Sole, here.

Image here.

The Classic Trench

2011-10-31T00:16:00.001Z

This trench coat trends under the 2010 Michael Kors collection

but no matter...it is one of those timeless ensembles that could be

worn any time. Call me old fashioned, but I love that classic style.

The whole look works for me. :)

image

Vintage Scarf Love

2011-10-28T23:53:00.004+01:00

I just love poking around vintage shops.

You never know what you will find.

Sometimes I think it is more the thrill of the

chase than the actual item.

I couldn't pass this one up, it was a bargain.

Holland and Holland...it had to be mine.

Scarf love.

image~me

The Kelly Style

2011-10-18T10:29:00.001+01:00

by Armin Morbach @ Dustjacket

Beautiful shades of Autumn colour in Kelly Style.

My 'Change of Life' Kurta

2011-10-17T10:18:00.000+01:00

I was standing in the crowds last week in India and quickly snapped a photo

of this woman as she passed. I had placed an order for the two of the same style top

the day before. I call them my 'change of life' tops. My first thought when I slipped

into one was 'where have you been all my life?' They are breezy, light,

easy and fun to wear. A perfect travel companion.

It is styled after a 'kurta', a type of men's pajama from India.

I like to think of it as a kaftan.

Sometimes you just have to go with what feels right.

At this stage in my life...this is perfect.

images~me

Kate, Cameron and Gwyneth

2011-10-07T15:00:00.000+01:00

I just picked up the latest issue of Harpers Bazaar UK.

Is it me?

Have we lost Kate Winslet in this photo?

I can see a glimmer but I have to say

I prefer the real Kate...

Come back Kate!

Nice one ladies...

Gwyneth and Cameron, keeping it real.

Perhaps it is just me,
what do you think?

Images via Harpers Bazaar UK

Admiring: Jill Clayburgh

2011-10-06T21:55:00.000+01:00

Jill Clayburgh was one of my favourite 70's actresses.

I loved her style.

Some of you may remember her in the 1978 film,

'An Unmarried Woman' with Alan Bates.

If it is new to you, I highly recommend it.

Jill and Diane Keaton were 'the' women to watch back then.

Thru the years, I looked for Jill. She appeared in a few

movies but chose to step off screen and spend time

with her family. In her later years, she performed on Broadway

and had guest appeared in US television shows.

Jill passed away last year at the young age of 66.

A woman to admire and remember.

Jill Clayburgh

New York Times article on Jill here.

Image: source unknown

Effortlessly Elegant Silhouette....

2011-10-01T14:06:00.003+01:00

Donna Karan

Draped jersey and satin-jersey top

Details here.

'Detailed with sleek satin-jersey inserts, Donna Karan's cowl-neck top is a glamorous way to work the label's signature draping. Pair this pale-olive style with a floor sweeping maxi skirt for an effortlessly elegant silhouette.'

....sigh....

I don't think I can add to that except that I love the look.

Wild Wellies

2011-09-26T09:13:00.000+01:00

If you are coming here via Collage of Life, you will know that I spotted

these wonderful boots at Petersham Nurseries in Richmond, Surrey (UK).

They were designed by the Scandinavian beauty, Ilse Jacobsen- Hornbaek.

I added the boots to my very long list of Boot Love.

Those of you who read Finding my Way... in England will know

that I have been hot to trot for a pair of Le Chameau boots

but alas I have not found one one that does it all... yet.

I think another trip to France is in order. :)

My new boots are 100% natural rubber, have a

warm and comfortable cotton fleece lining

and are most importantly are easy to walk in.

The word is that they are 'ideal for outdoor activities,

rainy or snowy days in both urban and suburban settings.'

Perfect!

As much as I love my boots, my daughters were a bit surprised.

They said they seemed 'a bit wild' for me. I loved that!

I was prepared....

I bought laces in black, cream and red.

If I am going to be wild, I might as well do it in style!

While we are talking style. One daughter

prefers the black laces, the other the cream

and I secretly covet the red.

Which do you prefer?

top two images via Isle Jacobsen-Hornbaek

bottom two images via me

Proenza Schouler Satchel

2011-09-22T08:59:00.000+01:00

I read this morning in Tweetville that the Proenza Schouler PS1 Satchel

is the new 'it' bag. I had to take a peek. Viewed it, loved it,

for one simple reason, it looks practical.

It has a top handle, detachable shoulder strap,

snap-fastening compartments, fold over flap, two internal

zip-fastening pockets, external zip-fastening back pocket,

fully lined in black twill and made in Italy.

Can you sense my excitement?

I could live in this bag but first it must pass the Jeanne test.

I have to feel the leather and it must be soft and...

I have to pick it up to see how light it is before my whole world goes into it.

I am seeing iPad, iPhone, Macbook, notebooks, glasses, the works... tucked into this bag.

I imagine it would be great for travel as well.

The colours, starting from top left:

green leather, royal-blue leather, chestnut leather, toffee calf hair,

black suede, brushed python, teal leather, raspberry suede.

We won't think about the price for the moment...you will cringe

when you find out.

Let's think about which one is your favourite.

For me it is a toss up between the

toffee and the black. Although....that raspberry suede

is looking pretty special too.

How about you?

All images and details at NET-A-PORTER

A Word About Brooches

2011-09-19T08:36:00.000+01:00

I was in one of the Paris flea markets recently and came across large safety pin brooches.

They had a collection of this and that on them and I thought they were charming.

Did I buy one? No, and I kick myself for it too.

At least it gave me a few ideas to work with. The brooch below is a far cry from the

Paris flea market version as it is a Dolce & Gabbana brooch for quite a bit more money

than what I was considering in the flea market. Either way, it has the charm I was looking for

and is a good reminder of what could be.

via Aol Shopping

I think this brooch is equally as charming. I came across it early in my

blogging days, before noting sources. If anyone recognises it, could you let me know

where I could find it?

Source Unknown

A dream come true if it could be found in a Paris flea market but

I think not, unless you are very lucky.....from Chanel.

via Chanel

Why all this talk about brooches? I came across this little ensemble (below) in

Harvey Nichols in London yesterday. I tool a quick pic...apologies for the

quality. I love the style and was happy to see brooches in play.

I am going to go back...if only to find out more about the cable pullover.

The sales woman said it is not a scarf and it is not a snood. It can be worn

over a coat as shown below, sweaters, dresses etc... I am thinking of all

the possibilities and thinking warm thoughts while I do. I found it at

Max Mara Weekend and think it is worthy of further investigation.

via me

With those warm thoughts I wish you a very happy day/evening

where ever you are in the world. :)

Lee Radziwell and her Pug

2011-09-16T08:05:00.000+01:00

Princess Lee Radziwill with Thomas, her pug, photo by Henry Clarke for Vogue, 1954

I can't help but smile when I look at this image.

There is no mistaking Princess Lee Radziwell

as the sister of Jacqueline Kennedy.

Thomas is a cutie too!

Lee and Jackie shopping in Chelsea, London.

Date unknown.

Top image via Pinterest & Ampersand Design
Bottom image via Carl Anthony Online

A Walk on the Wild Side

2011-09-10T21:32:00.000+01:00

The new Toast catalogue arrived in the post today.

I became a fan of their clothes when we moved to England

and have a few 'special' items in my wardrobe.

Before I tell you how much I love this dress, belt and bracelet...

I just have to ask. What do we think of the hair?

I love the shot, it works for me.

I just can't seem to get past the wildness of the hair.

Don't get me wrong, on a windy wet day, my hair

does all sorts of strange things. If I lived in a rainforest,

I would be a mess.... but, I don't, thank goodness.

If you were the stylist here, what look would you have gone for?

The details on the wool jersey dress...

A while back I posted about my love for maxi skirts.

I am still in love...this one makes be want to do

the 'twirl'... just to see how if feels. :)

It is a very clever garment...you can wear it as a long skirt, high

on the waist for a shorter skirt and pulled all the way up for a dress.

Talk about an item that travels well!

Can't say the dress version would work for me,

although, it looks lovely on her.

What say you?

Would you take a walk on the wild side with the hair in the top photo?

Which of the two items here would you choose?

The dress, the maxi skirt or both?

images via Toast Catalogue

Glam, Bouncy and Rumpled

2011-09-05T21:34:00.000+01:00

While we are on the subject of hairstyles...

I enjoyed seeing these few styles under

"The 10 Hottest New Fall Hair Ideas" for

allure magazine.

Glam and Bouncy

Rumpled Texture

Half-Up Hair

For me, Glam and Bouncy could happen on a good day,

if I put some thought into it. Half-Up Hair and Rumpled Texture

are my kind of looks as I can do this without even trying.

Wake up, eyes closed, fish around for my hair clips, toss them in

and voila... I guess I am considered fashionable!

Who knew it could be that easy. :)

Images via Conde Nast Digital Studio

Diane Keaton Style

2011-09-01T11:10:00.000+01:00

I have had the Diane Keaton 'do' for years.

Same colour, similar length, the only thing that

varies is the length of the layers. They go up and down

and that is as bold as I get.

I have tried shorter and decided it was a 'no go' zone for me.

I just wondered....those of you who are stopping by to look

at the lovely Diane.... what length, shape and colour is your

hairstyle? Do you change it often or have you found what suits you best?

Just a little something I am pondering

as the wind blows on the first of September. :)

image: smartwaves

Kaftan Love

2011-08-20T13:16:00.000+01:00

I might look like an extention of my home furnishings

in this kaftan but I love it all the same...70's mode and all.

French thoughs whilst on holiday in the Loire Valley.

I wonder what will come next?

image via The French Eye

Under the Riviera Sun

2011-08-15T09:16:00.000+01:00

Loving everthing about this photo of Pablo Picasso and Francoise Gilot

taken by Robert Capa on the French Riviera. c. 1951

image

taken by Robert Capa

Maxi Love

2011-08-01T21:22:00.000+01:00

I am wondering who else is thinking 'maxi' these days. I bought a black maxi skirt from the Gap last week. It was hard to resist. It was the last one on the rack, in my size, super comfortable and at a price

that just said 'yes'. T-shirt, skirt, sandals and I am out the door. I am also thinking that it will be a great travel skirt.

Loving the looks below as well. The purple Elisa skirt with the ruffles up the back make me want to break out the castanets :) Anyone else thinking or trying maxi (again)?

Pleated asymmetric silk-crepe skirt

Vanessa Bruno @ Net-a-Porter

Suede A-line maxi skirt

Balmain @ Net-a Porter

Elisa Skirt

One Vintage @ Net-a- Porter

Summer Slip-Ons

2011-07-25T15:27:00.000+01:00

I just love it when things come back in style.

It is all so familiar.

Love these summer slip-ons from Soludos.

and Toms

which seem to be a red hot favourite

around London this summer. :)

Soludos

Toms

Marilyn and Jackie

2011-07-15T23:39:00.000+01:00

They wore it well...

summer white and black.

images: top, bottom

Winter Welligogs in July

2011-07-14T15:44:00.000+01:00

If you have followed me for a while you will know that

I have a fondness and weakness for English country attire.

When I spotted this soft mint green wool tweed coat with

pink check, I just had to stop. My heart raced...windproof, water repellent,

100% wool, multiple pockets...the Olivia coat by Welligogs.

Thinking about winter coats in July?

Why not?

Am I moving to a tropical climate next year?

Yes, but.....

image~me

All items on display at the

Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

here.

Lanvin Love

2011-07-06T09:41:00.000+01:00

I am not sure which appeals to me more..

Lanvin

Woven Leather

Camel Suede

Ballet Flats

Chestnut

Made in Portugal

I think they could work thru a few seasons,

white or black, but I think wearing them with black,

would be my favourite.

Do you like?

Photos and more, here.

Pippa Power

2011-07-04T22:16:00.001+01:00

I think it's love!

Imagine the face of Pippa Middleton

when she glanced her eyes upon this gorgeous cover.

I am sure she was absolutely beaming.

All eyes have been on Pippa in London this summer.

Tennis wasn't the only thing on show at Wimbledon.

I hope she manages a well deserved holiday from it all.

The August 2011 issue of Tatler Magazine arrived in my post box first thing this morning,

I haven't had a chance to read it just yet. At first glance, it look very promising!)

Images via Tatler

Simply Streisand

2011-07-03T23:29:00.000+01:00

'Simply Streisand' (1967)

Recorded 1967 at a live concert, 'A Happening in Central Park' in New York

I came across this You Tube clip of Barbra Streisand and found myself watching it over and over again.

Besides taking me back many years, I was struck by her beauty. Back then, you were either a Barbra

fan you you weren't. I haven't followed her as closely these past years but each time I come across her I am reminded what a remarkably talented and beautiful woman she is.

Taken February 11, 2011

MusiCares Person of the Year Tribute

to Barbra Streisand

top image

bottom image

The Cashmere Travelwrap

2011-06-30T12:18:00.000+01:00

I stepped off a 27 hour flight from Sydney to London today. A trip I know well.

I have rules when I travel. My first rule is to follow my travel list. I created it

years ago and it is the first thing to come out when I plan my wardrobe.

I have lots of thoughts on the perfect travel gear and it always seems to be changing.

The one thing that has been consistent this past year is the Scottish cashmere wrap

I picked up from The Travelwrap Company.

Off the shoulders for breezy summer evenings, up and over the shoulder

for a distinct chill in the air and for those very frosty occasions, I do

a double twirl around the neck. It also works as the perfect travel companion

on those long distance flights when you need that 'something extra' to get to sleep.

Soft to the touch, generous in size and so very light.

My colour of choice is Otter, as shown above. I have my eye

on the French Navy next. The perfect shade of blue.

I admit it is a splurge but if you can have just one,

check out the Scottish cashmere Travelwrap.

PS..Just so you know,

I only write about the things I love.

No sponsors, no advertising..

just my love. :)

images

Gardening Style

2011-06-17T20:55:00.000+01:00

How do you tend your garden? Do you throw on old clothes and make a day of it

or do you get out there, every now and again, tending to this and that, not paying

much attention to what you are wearing? I tend to do the latter. I have a feeling that

the two women below might have had the same idea.

Lady Birley looks like she used to make a day of it although her shoes

tell a different story. I love this photo...from her hat to her shoes.

Cecily 'Parsley' Mure didn't seem to mind that she was

wearing silk whilst watering her alpine trough. Admittedly, it is a small

alpine trough, but still...I like her gardening style. She looks mindful.

These images above are from the book, 'Garden People' Valerie Finnnis and the Golden Age of Gardening by Ursula Buchan. Valerie Finnis was a keen gardener and well known photographer within the gardening world. She loved gardening and her eclectic circle of contemporaries and friends that lived within that world. She left some 50,000 transparencies, taken between 1950-1990.

Valerie Finnis appearing in World of Interiors magazine.

If ever there were a hat to love, this has to be it!

Photo beautifully taken by Jan Baldwin.

Purple Paisley Palazzo Pants

2011-06-13T12:13:00.000+01:00

This may be one of those purchases I will regret for the rest of my life.

This may be one of those purchases that never makes it out of my closet.

But...I just had to do it. Call it yearning for nostalgia, call it a 70's moment.

I just had to have these purple paisley palazzo pants.

My daughter and I spent this rainy Sunday afternoon shopping.

River Island is always the first stop and I groan every time.

It is not a store for me...it says 'young girl' on every rack,

something which I am not.

I was just about to nip out of the store and tell her to text me

when she was done....when I spotted the pants. Instant love.

I thought...what harm could it do just to try them on? I have time to kill.

I grabbed the purple blouse next to it and headed for the changing room.

Hair up, dangling earrings and I was ready

for a martini to come gliding past the dressing room curtain.

I texted my daughter, "come quick, tell my what you think".

I stepped outside of the curtain and before I could blink,

'MOM! No! Where would you wear those pants?' she said.

She looked genuinely worried that I would be recognised as her mother.

The answer was easy, I said, "Cocktails...on an island, a remote island.

Where nobody knows my name."

She shook her head with that 'crazy woman' look in her eyes.

She agreed that the blouse worked and that was all.

She then carried on with her shopping and I carried on to the

checkout counter. In my bag went...one purple paisley palazzo pants

and one purple blouse. They may not make it to an exotic island

but there is no harm in pretending around the house.

I can hear the jingle of that cocktail shaker already.

"Shaken not stirred, please"

:))

images via River Island

The Royal Couple....

2011-06-10T12:11:00.002+01:00

Photo: Toby Melville/Reuters

Looking happy and relaxed, something both William and Catherine,

the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, seem to do so well.

Her dress...by Jenny Packham.

image

Simple Travel Outfit

2011-06-06T22:10:00.000+01:00

Simple travel outfit...mix and match all three colours
with a few scarves and the travelling is easy.
At any age.
But for me, brim down :)
Thanks to Ageless Beauty Always
and facehunter

Beauty Notes: Laura Mercier

2011-05-29T16:43:00.000+01:00

Make Up 4 All

There is nothing to set me apart from any other 50 plus woman on the street but I do like good make-up and with each passing year I find it a greater challenge to find products to suit me. I call it midlife beauty in retreat. A few months ago I wrote about putting your best face forward, here. I mentioned my frustration over finding a make-up consultant that I could put my faith in. They were all too young, were to quick to give me 'the latest' and could not relate to my plight (midlife beauty).

I am happy to report that I persevered and met two women who have been more than helpful. I now have two great consultants and a few 'reliables' in the Laura Mercier make up range that I can no longer do without.

I have Kamanza behind the Laura Mercier counter at Harvey Nichols in London to thank for giving me 'the talk' on foundation and lip colour. With a few tweaks here and there I finally found the right products for me, Hydrating Foundation Primer and Creme Smooth Foundation applied with a Sponge. Using all three gave the finish I was looking for. Sigh of relief.

Kamanza also took the time to help me find better shades of lip colour. We talked about clothes, fashion and bad hair days. I left with a few shades of Lip Plumper and Creme Lip Colour to give me an extra lift. With my credit card in despair, I had to stop. As I left, she mentioned working on my eyebrows next. Of course, I have been able to think of nothing else since.

Yesterday, I had an hour to spare before the Chelsea Flower Show and thought I would test my luck once more. I stopped in at the Laura Mercier counter in the Peter Jones store on Sloane Square and met Jamie, another good listener. I mentioned Kamanza's comment about my eyebrows and got the all knowing smile in return. When she said she could take 5 years off me, she had my full attention. She first sent me across the aisle to 'Blink' to have my eyebrows threaded. This was a totally new concept to me but I thought why not...5 years? I'll take it. I asked a million questions, laid back, and watched as the woman wielded her threads ( a spool of regular sewing thread) in whizz bang fashion. I sat up, looked in the mirror and was pleased and relieved. It was an improvement.

Sartorial Male, review on Blink, here

I then headed back to Jamie at Laura Mercier. Jamie showed me the trick to touching up eyebrows with the Eye Brow Pencil . Did you know there are three points on our eyebrow that we should look for when defining our brows? Jamie added soft flicks of natural colour followed by a brush. I felt like a new woman.

How to, here

She had another suggestion and put me on to a great tip for those of us who with thinning eyelashes ( a phenomenon of midlife beauty). Laura Mercier makes a great product, Tightline Cake Eye Liner which you apply with the Flat Eye Liner Brush. It can go under the lash line and just on top, depending on the look you want to create. I love this product because it eliminates the 'draw on' factor which can look a bit tragic if you can not draw with precision.

There you have it, a few Beauty Notes...hope there are one or two ideas in here for you too!

Jeanne xx

Laura Mercier products here

After Hours

2011-05-26T15:29:00.000+01:00

Mary Jane Russell by John Rawlings,
Vogue, December 1953
here

Just loving this photo..it is rich in detail

and I so want to dress after hours in an outfit like that. :)

Mary Jane Russell was a fashion model in the 1940's and 50's.

She was often a subject of photographers, Louise Dahl-Wolfe and Irving Penn.

More, here.

Just admiring....

2011-05-25T20:49:00.000+01:00

Admiring...

the style of Coco Chanel.

via Adorn London

The bits and bobs on this charm bracelet.

via Liberty Post Gallery

Emerald green on Angelina Jolie.

via Style with Anna

Thinking that I could take to these

like bees to honey...

via Deja Voodoo

and how nice it would be to slip this on,

via Moniques Vintage Jewelry

or maybe these instead.

via Liberty Post Gallery

Admiring most of all the understated elegance

of Catherine Deneuve.

Vogue, 1969 via We Heart Vintage

Just admiring :)

C.Z. Guest: Understated Elegance

2011-05-19T21:45:00.001+01:00

I imagine their was a martini awaiting C.Z. Guest shortly after

this shot. I like to think so. It is a beautiful image with

detail flowing thru every corner of the room including the touching

moment with her dog. The lighting is magic along with the her beaded gown,

the simple gathering of her hair into a chignon bun and of course...her pearls.

Understated elegance.

American socialite, C.Z. Guest in beaded evening dress.

Photographed by Lord Snowdon

for Vogue, April 1959

via The Peak of Chic

Irving Penn's 1954

Vogue portrait of C.Z. Guest

via Past Perfect Vintage

More on C.Z. Guest, here.

What will you be wearing this summer?

2011-05-15T21:58:00.000+01:00

January 1974
Photograph by Oliviero Toscani

I picked up this card in a shop the other day.
I liked the description on the back of the card.
It all seems so simple when you look at a wardrobe this way.

VOGUE

The Albini Bird

What you'll be wearing
if you're an Albini bird.
Shirts looser.

Sleeves shorter.

Hats all the time.

Sandals flat.

Skirts long.

Busy gloves and hats.

Small spots and narrow stripes

through to checks and big squares.

A circle of black linen skirt,

peep-toe sandals one-inch high,

black and white, straight from Milan.

~~~~~

Cashmerejeans...style
My Own Bird
Shirts loose.
Sleeves rolled.
Jackets linen.
Cardigans cashmere.
Skirts long.
Scarves sheer.
Pants capri.
Jeans rolled.
Hat straw.
Sandals flat.
Jewelry simple.
Sunglasses tortoiseshell.

Tweet Tweet :)

What are you wearing this summer?

card via cardmix

Royal Wedding: Miriam Clegg

2011-05-06T21:58:00.000+01:00

I have to say, of all the Royal Wedding hats, this turban was one of my favourites.

Miriam Clegg (Miriam Gonzalez Durantez), lawyer and wife of Liberal Democrat

party leader, Nick Clegg carried it off beautifully.

There were many beautiful hats on display, plenty of structure,

but the fluidity and freshness of her turban was perfection to me.

Her dress was by Spanish designer Miguel Palacia,

turban hat by milliner Conchitta, shoes by Zara

and leather gloves by Aspinal of London.

What are your thoughts on Miriam's ensemble?

Images; 1, 2, 3

Blazer, Espadrilles, Cape Cod Watch... Love

2011-04-25T11:23:00.006+01:00

I am having some serious blazer love going on at the moment.

Joseph lady linen twill blazer love to be accurate.

I found it at net-a-porter.

Let me count the ways....

and these too

Heritage Stamp Leather Wedge Espadrille

from Burberry

Lastly...(since I am on a roll)

Hermes Cape Cod GM Watch

images: 1, 2, 3

A Walk on the Wild Side

2011-04-20T21:06:00.002+01:00

I often wonder, if I were to complete the Rorschach test, what it would say about me.

I have a passion for patterns and prints. They hang on my wall, they hang on me.

I am sure that sounds very strange but sometimes you just have to live a little :)

I spotted these today at net-a-porter and am undergoing some serious consideration.

Issa

A.L.C.

Etro

Lotta Stensson

and then there are those times when you just need colour...

Leaves of Grass

Antik Batik

Babajaan hat

Tibi

It's all happening in my mind...such a happy place :)

images and clothes via net-a-porter

How about you,

a walk on the wild side or a spot of colour?

Enduring Style: Lauren Bacall

2011-04-18T23:53:00.000+01:00

Image by Annie Leibovitz for Vanity Fair

Lauren Bacall is 86 years old and still as sassy as ever. The image above was taken

by Annie Leibovitz. Vanity Fair recently published an interview with her, here.

I had to ask myself, after reading the article, if I liked her more or less for it. In the end,

I decided it doesn't really matter. Her attitude, quite plainly, is "I am who I am, take it or leave it".

It was exactly what I expected.

My first introduction to her was in the film How to Marry a Millionaire.

A film that I can watch over and over again.

She was married to Humphrey Bogart (1945- 1957) and

Jason Robards (1961-1969) and had a brief engagement to Frank Sinatra (1957).

She has been living in the same apartment, the Dakota, on Manhattan's
Upper West Side since 1961. She is a New York gal through and through.

Was she a beauty of her time? I think so.

She knew what worked for her and stayed with it.

The hair, eyes, brows, lips and those cheekbones.

To appreciate the images fully, is to see them in technicolor....

I particularly like the following.

You get to see the woman behind the woman.

Bravo to Lauren Bacall...for keeping it real.

How about you, a fan?

images: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14

In Praise of 'Older Women'

2011-04-15T12:38:00.003+01:00

It is that time of year again, time to rethink the hairstyle. I say that, yet there

are not many options for shoulder length fine hair.... but it doesn't mean I can't look.

I keyed in 'older women hairstyles' into Google and this is what popped up.

Interestingly, the photo of Meryl Streep is an example of 'what not to do'

but I beg to differ, long or short, we should be able to wear it any way we like.

This is a lovely photo of Meryl.

I fall into this category below...just above shoulder,

layers with thoughts of fringe (bangs)

and always regretting it when I do.

I find 'long layers' is the key word

with a stylist.

Still....

I always wish I had the face to pull off

they style of Dame Judy Dench.

How about you?

Images: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Admiring Greta Garbo

2011-04-12T21:54:00.001+01:00

via lostpastremembered

I am having a Great Garbo moment...isn't she lovely.

I love everything about this image.

Easy on the Eye....

2011-04-09T19:24:00.001+01:00

Vogue UK

The selection in the May issue of Vogue UK is pretty easy on the eye.

Happy to see the scarf is here to stay. Loving the Christophe Sauvat scarf...

I could do with that pink Hilfiger denim shirt and

those silk shirts and skirts are just dreamy:)

See anything you fancy?

A little leopard love...

2011-04-08T08:27:00.001+01:00

I have a habit of buying bags and never letting go.

I bought this one ten years ago at Charlie Brown (store) in Australia.

If you have a look at their website, you will see that spots are still the rage.

It was time for this bag to come out and play today.

I have decided that two bags is the way to go.

One to carry the extras, for those times when you have time

to spare (waiting in a queue) and the other for the essentials.

and then there are my hats....

I talked about hats a few posts back, here.

These are my walking hats.

The weather has to be just right for me to wear them.

A chill, a drizzle, a snowflake or two.

Now that spring is in the air, it is time for a change over.

(Did I mention I collect walking sticks too? )

I guess you could say I have a weakness or two or three :)

How about you?

images~me

Channeling Wide Trousers and Katharine Hepburn Style

2011-03-31T16:19:00.004+01:00

Derek Lam

Vogue

What do we think of the wide leg trouser? They say it is a throw back to the 70's

but I remember wearing them well into the 80's and squeaking into the 90's.

I admit I was a big fan of the wide leg trouser way back when.

In fact, when it came time to let go, I secretly hid a pair of Max Mara trousers

that I bought years ago. The price was right and I decided to just wait it out.

Not sure if they still fit but they look great :)

I had a Kate thing going on back then.

I regularly channeled her easy, casual style.

Daily Mail

Shotsy Vintage

Great pants, great shirt and I love those wedge shoes.

If I had seen a pair of those on my shopping excursion

yesterday, I would have snapped them up.

Curious to know, were you ever a wide trouser fan

and would you wear them again?

For all you Katharine Hepburn fans....

Grace Kelly and 'Rear Window'

2011-03-27T13:03:00.014+01:00

I have been struggling with this blog a bit...trying to decide what it means to me. It is fashion but it is not....really, it is more about style but not necessarily today's style. I guess it comes down to what style means to me and you. That is where it gets complicated.

Some may say it is a bit old fashioned or outdated. That's ok...it just means that it is not for them. I think there are a few of us...who loved that old Hollywood glamour...when women had elegance, grace and poise on the big screen. They were smart, sassy and ruled the day. Something I find hard to find in many of today's female film stars. There are exceptions...Meryl Streep and Cate Blanchett are two that come to mind. I just wish there were more coming thru the ranks but I digress...what I want to talk about it is style.

Grace Kelly was a film star that rises to the top for me. She is tied up in memories of movie nights at home with my father and of my early days dating Mr. H. One of our first dates was the full screening of Rear Window in a small cinema in Greenwich Village in Manhattan. I had never seen the movie before.

Sitting in that dark theater...thinking of my handsome date beside me, I could not help lose all train of thought when Grace Kelly came on the screen, large as life. You could hear a pin drop in the theater in between the utter sigh of astonishment. She was captivating.

and that camera lens...is there such a thing as lens lust?

I am digressing again...so here it is, I saw this and thought

yes, there it is a woman with cashmerejeans...style.

So there she sits at the top of my blog. I hope I have given

credit where credit is due. These photos seem to travel around

the blogosphere quite a bit...losing credit along the way.

The clincher for me was this shot...

and this...

Jeans and penny loafers....and I have to believe

there was some cashmere laying around there somewhere :)

So...what do you think of the Hollywood sirens of yesteryear.

Do you consider the style outdated?

If not, who else would do you think

has that cashmerejeans.....style?

Images: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,10, You Tube

The Psychology of a Hat

2011-03-26T12:39:00.003Z

Do you wear hats?

There is something about a hat that just feels right to me.

When the hat goes on and the sunglasses slip into place I feel

like I could walk on air. There must be a psychology to a hat.

Have hat...will travel.... have hat...love life.

Although....it can't be just any hat.

For me, it is all in the brim. It must have a good peeking factor.

The look that is all Audrey, the one that says...yes, darling?

In the summer, the larger the brim the better.

clothesonfilm.com

Jasper Conran and top photo

A wide brim hat comes out for sun protection and parties.

Wise women instinctively know this. :)

1920's Fashion

Vogue UK

Brent Black

Then, there is the playful hat.
The one you need to take you from A to B with ease.
Around the garden, in the car, thru the shops...
it can take you anywhere.

Handbag

Hands down, Diane Keaton

has the best attitude in a playful hat.

Style Matters

All hats aside, my all time favourite is the Panama hat.

Gender specification not required, I will wear either.

Hat Shopping

For me, it may have started with Lauren Hutton...

Chat Cheri

or maybe it was Angelica Huston.

Personal Postcard

It could have been Ralph Lauren.

Ralph Lauren

No matter who it is for,
when it was made or how you work it...

Magnifeco

the Panama hat wins hands down for me.

Her Blog

Any variation will do...

TS New York

Leo Fuchs

How about you?

Our very own, gorgeous fellow blogger, Angie Muresan

has offered this photo of her in her hat. It speaks volumes!

She looks fabulous ;)

Do you have a photo of you in a hat?

If you would like to add it, leave a comment. :)

Dame Elizabeth Taylor

2011-03-24T13:18:00.001Z

To remember Elizabeth Taylor is to remember the great

love of her life, Richard Burton.

Remembering Dame Elizabeth Taylor

1932-2011

One of the great actresses of Hollywood's golden age.

Images: 1, 2, 3

Ready for Takeoff

2011-03-20T13:28:00.002Z

I was reading the morning paper this morning and was struck by this ad.

First...I love the leather jacket ( a surprise to me) and second...

I love the watch (not a surprise to me). Leather and Rolex..has a nice ring to it.

I decided that this jacket would be worth losing weight for :)

I can think of many women, 50 plus, who would look great in it...

Why not me? One can dream can't she?

images

I have never owned a Rolex watch. Another

one of life's little aspirations :) The one on the left is

pretty smart but I think the one on the right is perfect.

My watch at the moment?

A Bulova which is a lot less than a Rolex :)

image

In fact, this little beauty has served me well for many years.

But still...that Rolex is mighty fine!

Just had to do one last thing this morning... a little peek at net-a-porter

for leather jackets....here's my choice.

Rick Owens design here

Alice Temperley design here

This one looks like it might be a bit more forgiving around the hips :)

Hope you are having a great day :)

Top images, a Rolex advertisement

in the Financial Times.

Vintage Jewelry, Flea Markets and a Great Find

2011-03-15T01:00:00.002Z

You can tell a lot about a person by the jewelry they wear.

Some prefer none at all and others can't leave the house

without a bit of bling. I envy the women who wear

pearls day in and day out no matter the outfit.

It is one of those things I have tried but it isn't quite me.

What I do have a passion for is decorative jewelry.

Just a few interesting pieces to zip up an outfit.

I like the conversation pieces..the sort of things

that draw the eye and encourage a question.

The trick is finding these little treasures.

There are strict rules in my book. One is that

they can not be from a department store.

One of a kind is the best sort of kind.

via Town and Country

via French By Design

Better yet, is to find something in a flea market or that

special little vintage store that beckons you in. Some of us like

to sift and touch and feel and try it on and all the while

we feel as giddy as a school girl. Do you know the feeling?

via East Coast Chic

There may be nothing at all....but the fun is in hunt.

via Country Living

Just like today. I started off in one direction with this post and

and discovered something even better. When I saw this image of

Melody Rodgers, I knew I was on to something interesting.

I still can't take my eyes off her watch and bracelets.

Melody re-designs antique jewelry and has a great eye for interesting pieces.

She learned from the best, her mother. The Melody Rodgers Collection is

sold in her New York showroom at the Manhattan Art and Antique Center.

I know where I am going the next time in New York :)

via Melody Rodgers

Fleur de Lis and Fob Necklace

Filagree Fringed Necklace

In the meantime, you can find me

wandering market stalls and second hand

shops....searching for that one piece

that needs a home, with me.

Tropical Purple Passion @ Dior

2011-03-11T22:54:00.001Z

I really shouldn't, but.... there is something

about these glasses. I love them!

A little purple passion in my life right now

could bejust the ticket....

or it could be hormones talking.

Karlie Kloss is featured in the Dior Spring 2011

adverting campaign with Steven Meisel

creating his magic behind the lens.

Great colour!

On that note, this is for you :)

'South Pacific'

Images via Dior

Video via You Tube

Finding Inspiration with Dash

2011-03-04T17:47:00.002Z

Whenever I am looking for inspiration, I do not

have to go far. If you have not met Dash

@ French Sampler I encourage you to do so.

Her posts are thoughtful, engaging and inspiring.

Each one takes you somewhere you least expect.

I love this image of Michelle Phillips...for more on

Michelle and her days in The Mamas and Papas

read here.

A Spanish Beauty

2011-03-03T17:10:00.000Z

In the spirit of Spanish fashion, photographed by

Gordon Parks in 1950. A beautiful photograph.

A look that could just as easily work today, all of it!

image via The Gloss

Elegance and Grace

2011-02-28T20:56:00.000Z

Vogue 1948

Vogue 1953

Vogue 1960

This video clip is so stunning I had to share.

If you enjoy fashion from yesteryear....

You Tube: Rose Bud Garden

The Perfect Escape @ Toast

2011-02-24T23:00:00.000Z

I needed a little escape today
and found it at Toast.

It was the perfect escape...just for a little while.

Toast opened a store near us and I was in heaven.

I looked longingly at this beautiful

Amina suede coat in cognac.

It felt sublime ;)

I adored the violet/navy tones in this Manjula coat.

The perfect blue.

I loved the thought of throwing this Elodie smock dress

over a pair of jeans with a jacket and a scarf.

(see above)

I had some serious thoughts about what it would

be like to pop these Demeter II ankle boots

on and off at my front door.

But.....

I couldn't resist this, the linen Naima twill

waistcoat just for me and I love it :)

It was a lovely escape....

All of the above can be found at Toast here.

images via Toast