Ruffles Have Ridges

Hey crisps/chips lovers, I'm not talking about the Frito-Lay's slogan for crisps here. Casual and floppy, crisp and tailored; from fluttering frills to pleating, draping and twisting, ruffles have apparently been detailed on garments since as far back as the Victorian and Edwardian era (think high necklines decorated with lace ruffles or shirt sleeves with ruffle trimmings). Although my love for ruffles goes as far back as this time period, it wasn't until Alber Elbaz went on a ruffle-craze in the Lanvin Spring 2008 Ready-to-Wear collection that I began to fully appreciate it. And now, I can't seem to get enough as this and this would testify.

I got this blouse from H&M a while back and recently discovered it wasn't lost like I had thought, only hiding out in the back of my wardrobe. The blouse is like a story of boy meets girl, edwardian meets modern, happy meets sad (that last one is not necessarily true, just in for kicks). I love the way the ruffles and silk fabric add a subtle and unapologetic feminine touch to what might otherwise have been bland shirt.

Paired with a bandage skirt thrown together by my cousin in less than 5 minutes. The only thing? I wasn't pre-warned that this fabric hates being anyhwere below your mid-thighs and would only let you know this by riding up to unwelcomed heights (thankfully, no indecent exposure here...maybe next time).

So, are you a fan of ruffles then? No hun, not the crisps....

Happy Tuesday everybody!

Bisous,

Abs

Modern Romance

I've been interning at a professional services firm located in the financial district. With most people in their power suits and constantly on the go, the neighbourhood easily falls into the "serious" and possibly drab category. I try to put a little fun into my outfits without sticking out like a sour thumb. A couple of weeks ago, I mentioned here that I was going to the Chosen Ones vintage sale. This romantic blouse was one of my precious finds. I love the sheer fabric, soft pink shade, and ruffle details along the neckline and wrists (I have a thing for ruffles; as seen here, here, here, and here). Worn with nude kitten heels and a pair of cropped trousers. Love the pleats around the pockets. They are super versatile, and I could just as easily throw on a loose shirt and a pair of oxfords, and I'm good to go.

It's Wednesday, and I couldn't be happier since I believe weekends start on Thursdays. Daddy dear arrives in a couple of days. If you are in the Toronto area this Sunday, Pedestrian Sunday returns. Cars are banished, and people take over the streets with great music, a plethora of snacks and food, and various expressions of creativity and the arts. Maybe I'll see you there?

Right now I'm off to help celebrate my friend's birthday. Which means I'll be stuffing my face full of cake and dancing like no one's watching. Hey, isn't that the point of birthday celebrations?



EDIT: To those who couldn't see my photos earlier, I'm terribly sorry about that. Thanks for letting me know :) Photobucket....grrrr! I'm working on solving the problem, whatever it is. In the meantime, these are uploaded directly from my computer.

Have a great weekend!

Bisous,

Abs

Summer Days, Summer Nights Are Gone

 

 

 dress: h&m; sandals: nine west; bag: vintage; headscarf: Calvin Klein

A relaxed approach to style is one of the joys of summer. Being able to wear a dress that easily transitions from day to night without much fuss is so appealing. I got this floral print number a few months back from h&m. I was packing for a flight I had in a few hours, when I received a call from my sister telling me there was a huge sale going on at the shopping centre. Without thinking twice, I immediately abandoned everything I was doing and power-walked right on through to h&m. This dress was one of my lovely finds. And for $40, what's not to love? The ruffles down the side and the cut out in the lower back were definitely an added bonus. I was sold! Throw on a pair of heels, and it's perfect for dinner, drinks or a night out on the town.

I am slowly starting to realise how fascinated I am with details (ruffles, cut-outs, embroidery etc). What detailing most attracts you?

Hope you are all having a wonderful day.

Bisous,

Abs