It was my last sewing class Saturday and I’m going to miss it.  But at least I have some souvenirs.  This is project #3, a leather skirt.  It has ribbed knit side panels (an unworthy nod to Rick Owens), an exposed zipper, and (accidental) irregular hem, hence the slip showeth underneath.  There were definitely some frustrating and frantic moments with my seam ripper, but I am really excited with the result.  My zipper skills and darts (the obstinate puckering!) could use some work.  But now armed with a pattern and basic construction knowledge, I can try my hand at getting better.  Meanwhile, I have a new found love . . . leathah.  Remember Stella from Project Runway?

credits: diy leather skirt, Hugo Boss shirt, Rose Chase Me vest, Spanx tights, Cocobelle sandals

I had been eyeing everyone’s oxfords for a while, when I found this vintage pair at Feathers Boutique in Austin.  Vintage shoes are usually too small for my ginormous size nine feet, so I obliged the kindly shopping dieties and pulled out some plastic.  I like the first photo because it looks like I’m being abducted.

credits: rag & bone dress, Spanx tights, vintage Enzo Angiolini shoes

The transition of seasons call for a transformation in habits, moods and of course wardrobe.  But when I stand in front of the styling precipice (my closet), I see no such disparity in my clothes.  For me, seasonal change is cause for using layers whether piling them on or peeling them off.  I think outfits should thrive on versatility.  It’s a shame to put away your favorite fall/winter piece when the sun comes out or vice versa.  Better to find a way to make it work.

credits: Opening Ceremony voluminous skirt/dress, VPL b-tank, Rick Owens motorcycle jacket, Rose Chase Me bolero, Cocobelle sock sandals, Spanx tights, Rachel Comey Penpal boots

As a kid, I got hooked on a random Strawberry Shortcake movie.  Thinking back it was a peculiar cartoon, with different shortcake friends bobbing their oversized heads and playing guitars.  This of course was after a fairy came and made their hair grow.  In the end, the antagonist (a purple fellow the shade of my top) was destroyed by the titillated follicles.  I was an odd little thing.

I finally found a belt that’s a keeper and have been experimenting with different methods of wear.  I usually stray away from voluminous silhouettes, but using the belt cinches the waist and allows the top to flow into the lines of the skirt.  Sometimes volume is a good thing.

credits: Rachel Comey top, Rachel Comey double buckle belt, Elizabeth & James skirt, Spanx tights, Rick Owens motorcycle jacket, Rachel Comey Penpal boots

Clothing that moves.  Skirts that flounce every step down the stairs.  Pockets.  These are a few of my favorite things.  Can you tell the skirt has all of the above?  Vivienne Westwood designs some beautiful pieces and has a great appreciation for asymmetrical shapes.  She goes as far as placing single pockets in her garments (true of this skirt and my wizard jacket).  Where do you stand on the asymmetrical divide?  Personally, I think Dame Westwood can get away with much more.

credits:
K by Karl Lagerfeld ascot turtleneck, Vivienne Westwood skirt, Spanx tights, Hugo Boss boots