Suits me

We have a pool (for now). I love the beach. It may surprise you, then, to know how rarely I actually get into the water. As a result I only own two bathing suits. Well that and I can never find anything that fits right. There's either not enough suit (no bikinis for me), not enough support, or too much suit (who are these women with such long torsos?).

Suddenly, however, I am inexplicably gripped by the desire to buy a new swim suit. And, oh, some of the ones I seen online...

The husband isn't a fan, but this ruffled one piece from Wildfox is calling out to my whimsical side.

This beauty from J. Crew's Luxe Tulle line just went on sale. Look at the support that thing has! And ruching hides a multitude of sins often all too visible amongst beach goers. Sadly, the "regular" torso measurement is almost eight inches longer than my torso. Dear J.Crew, add swimwear to your selection for petites. Thanks.

Betsey Johnson calls this raspberry confection "Shortcake." Doesn't it sound perfect for me? I love that it has the feel of a strapless but still has the very thing needed for keeping your suit where it should be even in rough waters.

Now if I could rock a two-piece I'd seriously consider doing it in one of these.

 ChloeScalloped Halterneck

Classic retro bikini in navy from BeBops

Why is bathing suit shopping so hard?!

Busy Busy Busy

I haven't written in a bit of a while, but don't think it's because I have nothing to write about; I think we can all agree I rarely run out of things to say. It's just that I've been doing, going, making so much lately I haven't found the time to tell you all about it. Here's the summary (mostly) in photographs.

My friend, Jim, graduated from college earlier this month.

Guess which one is Jim.

Jim is something of a teddy bear wrapped in a bad ass, tattooed, bald-and-I-own-it shell. In honor of that I accompanied Emily to a nearby ceramics studio and painted Jim a pretty pot.

It's impossible to tell, but I wrote "Ashes of Passed Exams" atop my painted flames. I have no idea what will actually go in his jar,but he seemed pleased with it.

I actually missed the giving of Jim's gift (his wife kindly delivered it) because I was in San Antonio at Hava's baby shower! And oh what a shower.  I wish I'd taken photos, but, alas, I'll have to wait for them to appear on Facebook. In any case, Hava and Ryan have chosen to do Baby Caleb's room in a Dr. Seuss theme and the shower took that idea to highest possible level.  I did my part via my gift: a tummy time swanky blankie.

I suspected I wouldn't have time to photograph the finished product so I took some snaps midway through the making. Babies learn so much about the world through touch so I chose a variety of fabrics and embellishments, each with a different texture and all in a common Seuss color.

On the flip side I went with a black and white color scheme. For the first few months babies are unable to see colors, but I wanted Baby Caleb to start enjoying tummy time to the fullest right from the start; well, as much as any baby ever enjoys tummy time.

Speaking of black and white...

Okay, black and white and pink. Those are the favorite colors of my favorite high school graduate, a darling girl called Courtney. She just got her dorm room assignment and I cannot wait to show her the memo board I put together. You might recognize the fabric... Since the wall was getting some jewelry I didn't want the bed to feel left out so I made a little something for that too.

Hopefully, she's as keen on monograms as I am.

I've got a few other things in the works: a shirt for Ben (because I like to punish myself) and some placements for a neighbor. I may even do a tutorial for the mats. Ooooo. Aaaaah.

Bag Lady

Over the winter holiday, Santa brought Miss Emily a very special new friend.

This is Caroline Abbott, an American Girl from 1812. Caroline is a perfect match for Emily because she's smart, brave, beautiful, and more than a little headstrong. You know, nothing like my daughter.

Just before the flight home from Grandma's house, we saw another little girl toting her American Girl in one of these nifty  things.

American Girl Starry Doll Tote

Oh how nice it would be to let Miss Caroline see the world instead of being clutched tightly against Emily's chest! Unfortunately, the carrier has been sold out.

It took my daughter about three minutes to get over here disappointment and  start shopping for an alternative. Is she my kid or what? As it happened, we didn't have to look very far because I had a nifty bag pattern bought way back when.

It doesn't look as though it is still available through Simplicity, but the Tuffy Girl Vintage shop on Etsy has it.

We also didn't have to go far to find fabric. See! I knew all those scrap bin purchases would pay off!

I just love that tulip print! Em chose that for the lining and trim, and the pink-tinged leopard print for the bag's outside.

No offense to American Girl, but our tote is way cuter!

Not to mention one-of-a-kind. just like a certain spunky somebody...

It is a bit big for Caroline, but that just means there's more room for her stuff to go with her!

And that doll already has a lot of stuff.

And I have one happy little bag lady.

Oh, what to wear?

Since I was talking about an out-of-the-box host gift yesterday my mind was whirring with thoughts of holiday parties. I doubt I'll be throwing any, but I might get to go to one or two. What to wear?

Originally, I was just going to show this chic bronze, bedazzled number recently featured on The Coletterie.

Bronze dress from Dear Golden via The Coletterie

Then, I started clicking around in Dear Golden's shop and Oh. My. God!

I'll take this for a Christmas Eve reception.

1950s wool plaid wiggle dress from Dear Golden.

For this I'll have to find tickets to The Nutcracker followed by cocktails.

1940s green taffeta gown from Dear Golden

And for New Year's Eve I wouldn't hesitate to trade my LBD for this beauty!

1920s beaded chiffon dress from Dear Golden

Smashing, aren't they? I've shown you my holiday dream closet, so now you tell me about yours!

Summertime

With the rain literally coming down in sheets outside my studio window it is hard to think yesterday was the start of summer for us in the states. Sure, the calendar says the first day of summer is June 20, but we all know Memorial Day is when it really begins.

1954 Cole swimwear ad via MyVintageVogue

Yesterday, that sweet boy of mine treated Emily and I to lunch at The Pub. Nothing says "I am celebrating an American holiday" quite like eating classic British fare at a pub. I digress. Besides the amazing beer selection and awesome menu, we love The Pub because it is a prime spot for people-watching. We snagged a corner table on the porch and let the fun begin.

And that brings me to today. People, I know it is hot outside. I live in Florida so I don't just know it's hot;  I know it is hot outside. I understand that your urge is to expose as of your skin as possible in hopes the heat will escape your body more quickly. But, please don't. Think of the children. There are plenty of actual clothes that you can wear to stay cool and look good through the season of swelter.  Let me help you out.

1. Ban polyester. It doesn't breath and, therefore, tends to make you sweat more.  More sweat means you'll feel less than fresh and you'll definitely smell that way.  Opt for lightweight, woven fabrics such as cotton or linen.

Victoria Dress from Sierra Brooke

2. Say goodbye to black; at least during daylight hours. The darker the color the more light it absorbs and when we're talking about sunlight you can bet we also mean heat.  No matter how cute that black tank top is avoid wearing it before sundown. I promise, you'll look just as good in other colors.

Floral + Red + Stripes via Life's a Journal

3. Pack your jeans away.  Okay, I know this might be hard for some of you.  Most of us all but live in our jeans.  If you must put on denim to feel human, at least opt for summer-weight denim.  Yes, there is such a thing.  The fibers in summer-weight jeans are thinner, making the fabric lighter so you can avoid heat stroke.  For those of you willing to part with your favorite pair of blues for a few months see above regarding fabric.

Put those jeans away! via Polyvore

So as to not overwhelm you, I'll save my list of don't for another day.  In the meantime, go! shop! dress summery!  And by all means, dress well.

Oh! I almost forgot to ask; what are your warm-weather staples?

Represent!

It is Thursday, as in the day. I'm going to help register the Art of Earning LIVE attendees, then skip off to a day of business-centric learning. I'm so excited! Since I'll be representing Tara Gentile and Scoutie Girl as well as NPJ Designs, I checked in to see what I should wear.

"Smart casual is just fine. Dress to represent your business and your value."

Hmmm, my value...is there a dress code for "priceless?" Probably not. Oh well, I'll just have to concentrate on looking smart.

I am so digging the menswear-inspired ladies wear Ralph Lauren put on the runway for his Fall/Winter 2012 collection.

via Quite Continental

I think I might be more quirky than chic, but I'm inspired nonetheless!

My pants are pretty boss. I love the black on black stripe! I still can't believe my former boss was willing to part with these, but I am so glad she did! The fit is perfect and the cut makes me look like I have legs for miles. I wish I could afford to have all my pants be Theory.

How great is that tie? It is actually a zipper!  I was hesitant to wear it at first, because I know how to tie a tie and I don't want anyone thinking otherwise. But, come on, it's a zipper!

Shirt: Express circa 2007

Tie: Garage sale

Glasses: Anne Klein via Lenscrafters 

Perhaps this is a little too, um, hipster? for most work place events, but it's perfect for me! How do you define "casual smart?"

Leavin' on a jet plane

Today, today, today! Today is the day I leave for Philly and a week of "well mannered frivolity" at the Art of Earning Live!  I'm so excited! Are you excited? I'm excited.

I know a lot of people like to, shall we say, dress down for travel, but I just can't do it.  As a child, my mom always dressed me in my Sunday best for the airplane. When I was16 she bought me a swanky black suit just for traveling. I just feel better when I am done up. Nobody notices a tired 20-something in sweats, but when people see a smartly dressed lady, they wonder, perhaps jealously, where she's going. At least, that's what I tell myself.

button by Carbon Copy, via Pinterest

The only problem is, it's warm in Florida and very very cold in Philly. Tricky, tricky. But I think I'm up for the challenge.

Sweater: derek heart, hand-me-down
Skirt: Merona, Target circa 2008
Scarf: gift
Tights: who knows, but please note: I am wearing them as tights, not pants.
Shoes: Franco Sarto, DSW
Book: Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott

That should do for the actual travel.  Once I get to Philly I can throw on my warm coat, a hat, and some gloves.

How do you dress for travel?

Studio Snap

I wonder which holiday I am preparing for these days...

For every girl, a garter

Variations on a theme: Pleats in Tulle

What's your variation?

Stuff and Things: Thursday

I'm not here right now and there is no beep after which you can leave a message. Instead, I'm using this week off to share some things I found Pinteresting.

Yes, this is a departure from the usual Thanksgiving fare.

via Kiss the Groom

This photo contains a large portion of my "thankful" list.  I'm thankful for the beauty still in this world.  Beauty is therapy. I am thankful for fairy tales - the ones I imagine are contained in those old books, and the ones my daughter makes up for me. I'm thankful for imagination, whimsy, the color pink, dreaming, and the idea that any little girl can someday become a princess.

Photo by Elizabeth Messina; Styling by Jacqueline Weppner at Merci New York

What are you thankful for?  As I said, there is no beep prompting you to leave a message, but I'd love to read your comments below.

For every girl a garter

Just over a month ago one of my brides said "I do" and the Love in Bloom garter was with her every step of the way.

Photo by Royal Gor Photography, Los Angeles

Congratulations, Lucine! Thank you for letting me be part of this very special occasion. I wish the very best to you and your husband!

Bit of Burlesque

Click image for purchase info

These boned, satin corset costumes are embellished with 2 layers of beautiful fluffy feathers sewn onto the back of the corset. They have a great shape and can be tightened or loosened with the laces found on the back. Feathers do shed, don't be surprised, it's completely normal.
Satin ribbons and hand-beaded sequin appliques top off these costumes, making them absolutely gorgeous and so much fun to wear!

Treasury Tuesday

Okay, I'm a little embarrassed about this week's treasury.  Yesterday I was stuck for a treasury theme and then, in this brilliant flash of inspiration,  decided Pink of Perfection would be genius!  Except,I had already decided it was genius back in May, which I realized last night when Jenny's comment about Summer Magic came floating into my brain. Whoops. Oh well, pink is still perfection and it is worth saying it twice.

As usual, click on the image to (please) view my treasury at its Etsy home.  Also, feel free to stop by last week's treasury again to up view count. I have a contest to win!

Oh! And if you ever have a question or comment about the items I choose to feature don't hesitate to ask. I looooooove comments.

For every girl, a garter

Yeah, I know,this post is late. Very late. See I had a very specific idea about the dress I wanted to post today.  I'm sure it is hard to tell, but I am somewhat neurotic. "No!" you say. "Gasp!" you exhale.  But I assure you, my dearests, I am more tightly wound than I may at first seem. But now you can understand how I lost three hours to scouring the internet for the dress I knew I had seen on some website sometime in the last few weeks.

While that one dress remains elusive, my search did yield some pretty fantastic finds. This Marchesa gown in particular caught my eye:

Serafina from the Marchesa Spring 2011 line

Earlier this week I had a client ask for a custom garter based on my Love in Bloom design.  She mentioned that her dress was sheer but that it would be okay if the garter was slightly visible underneath. What fun! I don't know the design of her dress, and even if I did I wouldn't want to ruin the surprise before her big day.

What I do know is that this garter would be so flirtatiously sweet just peeking out rom under the bodice of that Marchesa.

Love Blooms in You garter

I love the idea of pairing such a romantic garter and its innocent pink petals with an almost risque gown.

I love knowing what you think! Would you make that match or are garters meant for bedroom eyes only?

Pink-o-ween

If this idea spreads

Pink-o-ween

I might finally find a home for my favorite design.

Miss Muffet Had it Coming

Treasury Tuesday

The Pink of Perfection

click on photo to visit my treasury on Etsy

I want everything in this treasury!  I'm already in hot pursuit of that hat. Luckily, Mother's Day is coming up so I might just get lucky.

What are you doing for Mom this weekend?

Blushing Bridesmaid: A Guest Post by BunnyCas

Your bridesmaids are a great way to show off the colors of your wedding. Take your cues from the red carpet and let your girls channel their inner Gwynnie by pairing a Blushing Pink floor length gown with a mono-botanical bouquet of Fuchsia orchids.

Gwyneth Paltrow in Ralph Lauren at the 71st Annual Academy Awards

Rachel Zoe would give a perfectly manicured thumbs up to your savvy use of color blocking by pairing the two pinks. Let this gown speak for itself by understating the jewelry and hair. A slicked back low bun with bright lipstick will make any smile standout.

Let your bridesmaids make a wow statement on your wedding runway by modeling your bold color scheme and blocking two colors.

For the Reception... do your bridesmaids a favor and let them change into something they can dance in! You get to change so why can they? Use this bridesmaid wardrobe change as another chance to wow your guests. This cute sequined pink cocktail dress will tell everyone it is time to party. 

Sparkle Dress from Rise Fashion via Polyvore

Paired with some nude, patent leather pumps from Christian Louboutin...

via Sarah in the City

 ...and a pink cosmo  nothing will keep your bridesmaids from getting their Britney on!

Cassie hangs her sparkle-encrusted fedora in Norman, OK. along with her husband and their two dogs, Pepi the Chihuahua and Jack the Retriever.  Her wine stoppers are what you get when a girly girl combines her creativity, appreciation of wine, Italian background, and love of Britney Spears.  Peruse her collab of fab here.