DaniBP Mop Philosopher

A Perfect Meeting of Navy and Black

2012-02-14T14:41:00.003-05:00

More color story inspiration: this time involving navy with black.

I remember reading once that the two should never meet in one outfit, well I can only say that I consider that bad advice.

These looks are from Carolina Herrera's Fall 2012 Ready-to-Wear, which showed yesterday in New York.
The silhouettes are lean and bring the long line below the knee. The leg is emphasized with a black wedge boot.

There is a decision to bring fabric around the neck, further accentuating a dark, statuesque quality.
I love the long gloves.
The silken sheen of these navy pants in a shantung with some feathery movement just above: perfect.
I like this bundled neck paired with a bell sleeve, above, it takes a note from the 1970's, doesn't it?
Texture!
This dress, above, is my favorite: stripes with an overlay and a slight skewing above the waist, again with the black opaque tights and wedge ankle boot.
I love navy with black, so elegant and easy.
What do you say, love it or leave it?

Navy and Coral

2012-02-10T08:32:00.013-05:00

In one week we leave the dreary gray skies, filthy sidewalks and frigid mornings that characterize our winter. We've not even had really any snow this year which means the Winter Consolation Prize of sport has not materialized but for one measly afternoon. I'm looking forward to sun and warm air.

We love going to Florida to visit our family and the pace of this kind of holiday is one that suits us perfectly: we visit, we walk the beach, we read, we chat some more, we swim, we have cocktails, we go to dinner, and we get lots of rest.

I am very excited about my Color Story this year because it is so simple and I think it is one that could easily be adapted. Never have I so embraced the concept of navy, it is such a flattering neutral to every complexion and can be played off of various bright shades so well.

Most of us have some navy basics in our cupboards. All of my pieces here were in my storage closet, some purchased many years ago, and in fact the one item I purchased for this holiday was a handbag. I have many photos at the end of the post but for the product page of my bag please go HERE.

(I shouldn't really say it is the one item purchased as I began sourcing out bits of navy last year, either on sales or on ebay.

My typical behavior before a holiday would include panic-shopping approximately 2 weeks prior, I've been able to avoid that commotion this year thank heavens.)

The necklace up top is one I purchased before Christmas from JCrew and I love it. It is the perfect shade of coral and I think the vintage brooch attached to the necklace is so pretty. It is the one piece of jewelry I'm bringing besides my navy blue Timex.
A navy and coral Color Story really lends itself to easy accessorizing. As you know the problem with packing up is often The Shoes. I'll be wearing flats on the plane and bringing just two pairs of shoes besides, these white and tan Chie Mihara heels as well as a simple pair of navy ribbon heeled espadrilles.
The Chie's look great with casual stripes and with some of my fancier options, like this "Giverny" silk print dress (JCrew 2008). I was fortunate to buy this dress from a bloggy friend last year and I love it. A big thank you to my friend!

How about some wardrobe basics?
A standard navy blue cotton pencil skirt can be worn on more than one occasion. I like it with this striped shirt and the navy espadrille sandals, as well as my cheeky clutch handbag which is actually a lunch sac from the children's section.

The lunch sac-clutch handbag will be perfect for a day out with my family and it has the added benefit of behaving as a bag for my toiletries in my suitcase. It is technically a lunch sac so it has a "wipeable" interior.
I've kept the cardboard bit in the bottom of the sac so that it does have the structure of a clutch handbag.
I also have a backpack in the same print which I can share with my daughter: her Color Story is very similar to mine.
My navy pencil skirt has a matching jacket that buttons and belts, making it a viable option for going out to dinner. This suit was purchased in 2009 for my older daughter's grade 8 graduation, sourced from JCrew.

The suit is a great foundation because it is comfortable and can be worn with a variety of tee shirts. The skirt and tee looks quite casual without the jacket and then can instantly be transformed into something dressier simply by belting the jacket over and even changing the shoes.

How about bathing suits?
We spend hours a day by the swimming pool. I bought 2 new bathing suits in navy tulle at the end of last year on super sale, along with this Thomas Mason "dress" or beach cover-up.
I like it for the coverage it gives my arms, I am constantly applying sunscreen to my pale skin and if I can cover it with something cool it's just so much easier.
I also bought a one-piece in the navy tulle last year and a navy linen cover-up with an interesting silver medallion pattern around the neckline.

I believe the linen tunic is from 2007, I found it on ebay in December for $15.

If you have a general idea of the direction your vacation Color Story might go you can source the after-market for some goodly bargains well ahead of time.

How about some dresses?
This sleeveless shift dress in "papaya", which is really coral, was purchased in 2008. I like it with the necklace.
It also has a little jacket which makes it perfect for going to dinner. I have to bring a sweater or a jacket when we go out in the evenings, I find the air-conditioning really frigid.
The "Giverny" dress is a real star, and I had a perfect little sweater in navy lurking around: the "Clara" chiffon cardigan from 2008, it has a silk overlay while the inside is a warm wool-cashmere blend.
The dress is so comfortable because it is fully lined in silk. Remember when JCrew used to do that with their dresses?
As far as a little bag for going out goes, I have this little straw clutch purse in coral and white.
It works with the papaya coral dress and with the Giverny.
Another little dress I found on ebay: this navy silk wrap dress, below.
I like it again with the necklace and my navy patent flat shoes. This dress is from 2008 and was another cheapie ebay find, I think I paid about $17 for it.

My Tory Burch dress is coming along, and this was a splurge last year on sale, yes even on sale it was a splurge. Tory Burch frocks are awfully pricey, but they are very well made and the fabrics are divine. This one is a silk jersey, the perfect weight for Florida.
I like it with the navy and gold stars on the lunch sac-clutch handbag, what about you?

I have another dress, I believe this was called the "High Tide". I actually bought it for my daughter last summer but she never wore it.
It is way too short for me but that doesn't matter as I'll be wearing it with my skinny jeans.

I think this would be a good outfit for the shopping mall, very casual and comfortable.

I'll be wearing these jeans with the dress, a navy cashmere sweater and my navy patent flats to the airport.

I have another dress, how could I forget? This is from Lands End, it is a washable silk in a navy stripe.
I like it with this polka dot scarf, maybe tied to my handbag.
One more: a navy linen dress that I bought in France last summer.
This dress would be perfect for a long walk on the beach, I'm sure I'll wear it more than once.
I like it with my Liberty belt which I found last year on sale. Look at the beautiful colors in the belt! JCrew is offering a shirt this season in this print, very pretty.

Here you can see it with my new item for the trip: The Handbag.
I have to say I was surprised at how much I like the color.

It is a true coral and there is a minimum amount of pink in the shading, yet it looks great with my other bits of coral shades, like this older cashmere scarf in "papaya".
I was expecting the bag to lean towards the pink end of the coral spectrum as I own these shoes, also in "vibrant coral" and released last fall at JCrew, which you can see are very pink and not really the same color at all, though they share a color name.
That doesn't look like the same color one bit, does it?

No matter, I love the bag and it is perfect for travel.
It has a brilliant zippered compartment which couldn't be better for holding our passports and itinerary, as well as a larger pouch accessible through the top latch which will be suitable for my book, bottle of water and other bits of travel stuff.

The best feature of this bag is perhaps its beautiful true coral color: look how wonderful it is with navy blue.
Here I have it assembled with my airport outfit: layers of cashmere in a sweater and scarf with a cotton dress and denim jeans underneath, the layers can be removed as we land in The Sunshine State.

These navy patent flats are going to be quite sensible for the airport shoe-removal thing, the last time I travelled I wore shoes with a buckle, what was I thinking?

There you have it: navy with coral. If you have some navy basics you could easily create a Story by adding in a favorite shade: a vibrant green, a berry pink, a golden yellow.

I'd love to hear about any Color Stories you might be working on.

Have a lovely weekend!

Bernadette Goes To Spain

2012-02-08T09:02:00.006-05:00

Berna leaves tomorrow on an eight day trip to Spain with her husband. They'll be dividing their time between Madrid and Barcelona with a focus on museums, walking around, eating Spanish food and drinking Spanish wine.

Berna has been my best friend for many years and in fact knew MrBP first. She actually advised him before his first date with me and her tips really played out well, everyone admits: the flowers, the freshly detailed car, the romantic dinner at a country inn... if she takes some credit for our happiness it is not entirely undeserved.

Because I do know Berna so well I have been witness to her style of packing for trips over these many years, and this style can be summed up in one word: DISASTER. I have picked Berna up for a weekend away and watched her throw items in a plastic bag while the car idled in the driveway. We are talking true last-minute packing here.

So imagine my surprise and perhaps trepidation when Berna told me that for her trip to Spain she wanted to up the ante, and would I please give her a hand?

Well you don't have to ask me twice and I was pretty excited as the thing about Berna is this: she has excellent taste in clothes and a truly unique style. She has a flair for wearing designs that are dramatic and individual, that layer together seemingly effortlessly and that embrace a color palette that is a minimalist favorite: white, ivory, gray, brown and black.

One of Berna's go-to designers is Krista Larson, an American whose label is proudly made in the U.S.A. You can see her website HERE.

The sheer tops pictured above can be layered with knits by another favorite, James Perse.
Berna's choice for long cashmere cardigans, and you'll see my influence here, is Brora. She'll be taking one in black and another in this wonderful color: Pigeon Gray.
Berna found a designer in Toronto who we call The Prague Lady. She is, as you may have surmised, from Prague, and she designs and sews clothes in her home studio in Toronto.

I don't have any contact information for her but if you are interested in her work drop me a line and I'll do some investigating.
The Prague Lady makes some really interesting designs which can be layered up in Berna's own distinct style, like this sleeveless black a-line tunic. Berna usually wear it over slim black pants by Eileen Fisher.

Berna found this next dress at Krista Larson.

(Here's Berna! Notice THE RING on her left hand. It is a famous ring for its calming qualities, whenever Berna is irritated I tell her to LOOK AT THE RING.)
The dress is constructed of an interesting fabric with a 10% metallic content. The look is scrunchy and textural, and I like that it lightens up the colors and layers that Berna typically wears. It has a pin-tucked definition at the waist and it ties at the back. Truly a unique piece for all seasons and ideal for travel.

Berna has another piece from The Prague Lady: a black coat with long sleeves and a ribbon tie.
For colder days Berna has her boiled wool coat in a clove brown, also from The Prague Lady. This coat is lightweight yet super-warm, which might be needed in Spain as it has been colder than typical there according to what I've been reading.
Berna has a stretchy brown and black patterned vest for layering over her long-sleeved tee shirts and under her Brora cashmere.

She'll be bringing 4 pairs of pants: 2 the slim black Eileen Fisher basics as well as wider black pants by The Prague Lady.

What about shoes?
Typically Berna would wear her trusty black Converse high tops, which you can see on the right. Since this is a trip which involves upping the ante we sourced out a dressier option with a comfortable heel: these black boots by Riekker.
They have a brown wooden button detail which complements Berna's Color Story perfectly.

Accessories include a long necklace of muted discs which can be wrapped and worn right at the neck or left long to dangle.
Berna will be bringing her m0851 leather bag in a tobacco brown. m0851 is a Canadian brand out of Montreal, made in North America with an artistic attention to detail. You can their site HERE.

Yesterday Berna and I shopped for her new pyjamas, which makes her completely well-prepared for her trip. She's come a long way from packing up 10 minutes before rushing to the airport!

How do you like Berna's Color Story? Have you heard of Krista Larson or m0851? Can you see yourself in this color palette?

Bon Voyage Bernadette!

Color Story Inspiration

2012-02-07T10:46:00.003-05:00

I wanted to share a few of the images which have inspired my Color Story for Paris in Autumn, which you can read about HERE.

These images are from vogue.com, and are all from the Christian Dior Fall 2012 show.

I love the deeply saturated jewel tones set off by black.
The silhouette of this skirt suit: lean, a longer pencil skirt, a jacket tidily cinched to create the most subtle of peplum effects, I think it's so modern yet feminine.
A gorgeous satin prussian blue!
A deep wine color is popping up, yet it has a lighter pink undertone than say a true maroon or burgundy shade.
Again the silhouette is belted yet modern.
I love the hit of dusty dark violet on the tights!

I'll be back tomorrow with a real treat: a Color Story for Bernadette's trip to Spain! It involves some interesting American designers and a palette of pigeon gray, clove brown, white, ivory and of course black. Berna leaves on Thursday so I thought we'd send her off with a look at her travel wardrobe, what do you say?

Hope your day is lovely.

Variations on a Theme

2012-02-05T08:19:00.003-05:00

It goes without saying that the activities that engage and interest us bear repeating, over and over with slight variations. So it is for me with my little hobby: Color Story Vacation Wardrobes, and so it is for me with whatever recipe is currently catching my fancy (and this week it is salad with roasted vegetables and nuts).

First to this Color Story, which we shall name Paris Autumn.

Have you been to Paris in the autumn? If you have do tell, and if you haven't don't worry, I'm going this October and I shall report back what I find there.

I'm hoping for cooler weather (but not too cool), the Rodin Museum, the Louvre of course, plenty of walks and relaxing dinners. We'll be gearing many activities towards our 10 year old daughter: Luxembourg, the Tulieries, the Eiffel Tower.

I think it is indicative of my state of mind these days that I am planning a Color Story for a vacation months away. It's been dreary here, so dreary, and we've been ill, so there's been lots of time in bed with nothing much to think about. It is quite uplifting to think about wardrobe for vacations, just try it, even if it is a 2 day jaunt somewhere months away, you'll have fun with it, I promise. It's an antidote to Filling The Worry Jar.

Here is my Color Story: violet, fuchsia and prussian blue with hits of black and bits of white for relief. Up top you see some dresses in shades of violet, a "Vintage Violet" silk dress and a violet-plum abstract floral, a silk chiffon. The belt is a grosgrain ribbon with an interesting buckle that to me looks very Downton. I've just watched the series twice!
I have some long black leather gloves and a suede clutch handbag in fuchsia. I'll be carrying a larger black handbag for the flight, and I'll be bringing two black coats: one a collarless wool, the other a trench in a lightweight wool-cashmere. Shoes will be black, one a heeled oxford shoe, the other a patent ballet. I always have trouble keeping the shoes to a minimum though invariably I only ever wear two pairs in rotation anyway.
Here is the belt with this floral silk dress that I love for its sleeves: they are long, and so comfortable.
I have some casual options: 2 silk kimono type "tops" that were in fact dresses from Talbots, I bought them very cheapie and they are being shortened at the Tailor to a tunic length. They have matching silk sashes, perfect for wearing, belted, over slim black pants or even black denim.

The merino patterned knit is an older JCrew sweater dress that I found on ebay for $20. The benefit of planning a Color Story well ahead of time is that you can scour the "after-market" for pieces that fit and complement your story, all within a small budget. Of course you also need to waste loads of time on ebay but I find that very relaxing!

I'll have more details of this Color Story as we approach the autumn. I've been heavily influenced by the rich jewel tones paired with black that was the Christian Dior Fall 2012 show, oh the gorgeous shapes and colors. I'll have to do a post on the show once I gather up some good photos.

What else?

More Variations on a Theme: a salad with roasted vegetables and nuts.
This time walnuts.
With roasted sweet potatoes over greens.

I made this on Friday night for a birthday soiree I had at my house.

We have friends who are here for the academic year from Sweden, they are the loveliest people. When I found out my friend's husband was going to miss her birthday as he was back in Sweden working we decided to have a women's dinner.

It was easy: we had this salad and loads of bread and cheese, some wine, a chocolate-chestnut cake for dessert, done.
I think cashews are the perfect snack to accompany cocktails, don't you? Look that's my bottle of Calvados which I bought before Christmas, thinking I'd be elegant and drink it during the holidays. That's never happening, I'm too wimpy a drinker. I must find some recipes for it!
What to give a friend from another country? A collection of stories by our best author here in Canada: Alice Munro. Have you read her? She's so talented, it will blow your mind. Some people call her "Our Chekhov".

Well that's my update, how are you doing?

Excited for the Superbowl? Me too!

Old Red Riding Hood

2012-02-01T10:54:00.005-05:00

Last evening, while wearing a red skirt and sweater get-up from Brora, I ventured out into the cold to visit Bernadette. I brought a salad in a basket for our dinner.

It was delicious and so easy to make.

I threw a bunch of greens into a large bowl.
Earlier in the day I had roasted a huge butternut squash with olive oil and fresh sage.
I dumped the roasted squash on the salad and then sprinkled Cook's Gold, or pine nuts, which may as well be gold for the price of them, all over the whole thing. I had toasted the pine nuts ever so slightly in a 300 oven. If you do this don't take your eyes off them, you'll be very upset with yourself if you burn them.
Then I sloshed a bit of white wine vinegar over the top with salt and pepper (the roasted squash added the olive oil) and topped the whole thing with my favorite and my best tea towel, which was a gift from my wonderful friend Dannie.

The moment I walked inside Bernie's house of course I had to hear the update on Sally and Mabel.
Here they are. That's Sally on the left, she is Bernie's doll. When Bernie's three children left home and the empty nest loomed large in her mind she got herself this doll, which she loves. Heaven help you if you don't say Hello to her when you walk in the house.

For Christmas Bernie's son-in-law gifted her a friend for Sally, that would be Mabel on the right.

Apparently they didn't get along at first but you can see they've become good friends now. I know, we're all relieved.

What else has been going on?

Well I've become obsessed with the designer line Milly.
Look at these gorgeous bags.
It's great actually because I can't afford any of it so it will save me piles of cash because I won't be buying anything. I'm getting pickier as I get older and I like it, I don't mind being a little crabby.

How about you, are you feeling crabby these days?

Do you have dolls you talk to like Bernie does?

Clothes for Winter Sport

2012-01-30T06:34:00.005-05:00

An ideal winter weekend would include 2 or 3 hours of cross-country skiing in the sunshine on a fine powder snow, followed by a delicious cozy snack at home and a giant glass of red wine.

So far this winter this has happened exactly One Time.

It's GroundHog Day this week so we can discuss weather, can't we? We've had the mildest of mild winters, almost no snow. The snow that dropped this past weekend was the damp-ish sort not conducive to a proper ski. We have had one day of a powder snow and a sunny sky and we were fortunate enough to get out in it.

We had to stick to the edges of the trails to find enough snow, banked up by the wind, to get some speed under our skis.

As I am obsessed with outfits I put some thought, before the season, into what to wear while skiing.

I don't normally go in for performance wear as I don't like the feel of the fabrics. I like to wear layers of wool: leggings, sweater, socks, coat, hat.

I was pretty happy to find these all-wool leggings at JCrew just before Christmas.

They are warm and cozy but not itchy, maybe because they are merino wool.

I love the crazy, cheering pattern.
I feel crazily cheered when I am out skiing so they suit me perfectly.

Do you love winter sports?

What is your outfit for them?

Knickers

2012-01-28T12:01:00.004-05:00

In the market for some new knickers? Yes me too. How about Cosabella?

Did you know that this brand is designed in Miami and manufactured in Italy? Have a look at their site for yourself right HERE.

I'm a bit matchy-matchy when it comes to my knickers, that may not surprise you. I like a bra and underwear matching set that somehow co-ordinates with the outfit over said knickers.

Like this pretty patterned set that would be fetching under a blue dress. No one sees it, but you know it's there. And of course you don't mind showing it off to your Honey either.
Black is a necessary basic, but why not go for sexy?

So is white, and clearly it doesn't have to be demure.
Tell me what your favorite brand of knickers is. I want your advice.
Look at the pretty blue bow, I know, how charming.

Tell all: your best brands and the stores at which you buy them. I'm going stateside soon and I'm planning on a knicker-spree.

xoDani

Seeing, Believing, Retreating

2012-01-27T06:39:00.006-05:00

Yesterday was a field trip day for DaniBP. That's right, I set out with my partner in crime, Bestie LK, and we hit the Yorkdale Shopping Centre, which is apparently a purveyor of extreme high-end goods, they have Burberry, Tiffany's, Holt Renfrew... the price tags will pop your eyes out.

Our mission was to find some swish bathing suits for LK and she ended up getting them at the posh Holt Renfrew shop. They seemed awful expensive until we went to the Cheapie Bikini Store, where garments of obvious inferior quality were nearly The Same Price. I know, how fast did we run out of there?

I don't know what to say about any of it, but it's helping me stick to my Shopping Diagram for the year and it's also a good reminder that 2012 is The Year To Pay Off Any Debt That You May Have. Remember, Mark Carney told us so.
I went to JCrew and I found some very pretty things but I left with empty hands.

I really loved this little Chanel type jacket, and look it comes with a cute skirt as well. The skirt wasn't in store but the jacket was there, here's my photo.
It's very sweet. The colors are like candy. The jacket is deceiving, it seems boxy yet it is quite fitted. The size 0 was tight across the shoulders, this is the size 2.

It's lined with polyester. The buttons hang a bit. I like the idea of wearing it with the matching skirt but that's an Imagination Outfit.

My most favorite item was this patterned dress.
The colors are very nice, the fabric is a silk/wool and though the lining is the dreaded polyester it didn't have that slick feeling on the skin that poly sometimes has.

I found the sizing off on this frock. The 0 was too tight across the shoulders and the 2 was too loose at the waist.

In the end we went to Williams Sonoma where I bought some tea towels: definitely not imagination shopping.

How do you like these items?

I Heart You

2012-01-26T07:12:00.006-05:00

In the frozen and gray depths of January it is an absolute delight and refreshment to the eye to look through spring and summer collections.

Of course I look forward to JCrew's collection and invariably I buy something this time of year, and I wonder how much of that is a seasonal cheer-up.

I'm not quite smitten with the collection this morning though that could be my own grumpiness. Prices seem very high and some of the colors are not agreeing with me.

Well let's have a look around, I'll highlight some of my preferences and a couple of items that somehow miss the mark to my eye.

First we have a cheery heart patterned shirt, above, and skirt, below.
I like it. It reminded me of something.
My Tory Burch silk jersey dress that I bought last October during the massive sale.

I had never purchased anything Tory Burch before, I mean it's an expensive line.

When my friend Fabulous Florida Mommy blogged about this dress I decided to order it. FFM you never steer me wrong!
Ooooo I love it. It is the centre of the color story I am putting together for our trip to Florida at the end of February: navy and white with hits of red and honey. I know, it's getting me through the winter here just thinking about this color story. Stay tuned for more details on that one.

Speaking of my navy color story, I do have a navy bag on my list this year.

I love the clean lines of this one.
Too bad it costs the fortune! I also think it might be too large, it is a tote after all.

I'd love to see it in actual real life.

You can see it on the website HERE.

I do like some of the colors popping off the screen, very cheering. Like this hot pink dress for example.
I find this next dress pretty though I have vowed no more summer frocks for myself.

It would be nice if you had a wedding to go to.
I am oddly attracted to this violet skirt.
Oh and this dress, it looks quite luxurious. There's something in the undertone of the fabric though, an acidity? I'd love to see it in person for a proper evaluation.
As you know I am a fan of green but not this green, below. I don't think this would do well with very fair complexions. (The skirt is fetching though.)
I find it odd that this very strong and citrus shade was applied to a wool suiting dress, below, with a very full skirt.

I think the design idea was to create the dress in a festive shade that could be season-less, but again I think this color is a very tricky business.
Here is the green again, sprinkled on a necklace.
What do you like?

I won't be around today to comment back but please do let me know your thoughts.

I'm going on a little field trip today that I'll be sure to share, yes it will involve frocks!

xoDani

Bedside Accessories

2012-01-22T08:25:00.003-05:00

Once again I've been reading The Perfectly Imperfect Home and then doing everything that Deborah Needleman tells me to do.

One of her excellent tips involves what to place on one's bedside table, as well as creating a situation in which I should never, anywhere in my home, be scrambling for pencil and paper.

The tip involves custom notepads. You can see one of mine, above, which perches on my bedside table with a tall narrow container of blue pencils. Concealed is our family name but you get the idea.

I bought mine on etsy, and you can see the creator of my personalized notepads right HERE.

Deborah Needleman says:

It is a sign of a together person to have a pad of paper and a cup of pens or pencils at the ready when that brilliant idea strikes in the middle of the night (or when you bolt up in a panic remembering someone you forgot to call back two years ago). I have noticed that fancy people never search madly for something to write on or a working pen. They have placed a pretty pad (usually with their name or house address printed on it) and a container of pens and pencils (often identical, with sharp points facing up) in every place- from entry hall to kitchen- where they might be needed. (Nice, inexpensive custom notepads and pencils in every possible color are easy to find online.)

My pencils are a medium blue color and I buy them in bulk at Staples. The custom notepad which sits on the desk in our entry hall has our house address printed on it.

It is nice to never scramble for a scrap of paper and pencil. Invariably these things are needed on a daily basis around here.

I have found that the paper and pencil by my bedside have come in handy for letting me sleep at night. Why? Well, because when I wake up at 2:30 with my mind racing I simply sit up and scrawl down all of the things that are bothering me so that I can attend to them in the morning.

Then I fall back asleep.

I did this last night and it was quite effective, and there is the added bonus in the bit of humor I find in what I have thought was so earth-shattering in the middle of the night. I think it is helping me put my worries in perspective!

What else to keep on one's bedside table?

Well, a pitcher of water and a glass, of course, and a book.

This is the book I am reading presently. It is actually 8 novels in one volume and I am thoroughly enjoying it. WellfedFred told me to read Nancy Mitford, she's another person I listen to! If you don't know Fred well you should. Visit her blog right here.

I hope your Sunday is marvellous.

If you feel like sharing your own bedside table tips I'd love to read them!

Not Appropriate For The Office

2012-01-19T12:46:00.003-05:00

In the autumn of 2010 we were fortunate to find a perfect little house to use as an office building.

MrBP has his own business and I work for the business. We'd been renting space for years, which had many drawbacks: we were sharing with tenants we had no control over, we didn't have our own boardroom, privacy was an issue, and of course we were paying rent that could well have been going to pay off a mortgage, creating a little investment for us.

So we looked for years and we finally found a perfect fit.

The house we purchased was already being used as an office, but for Interior Designers. A very creative profession, of course, and some of the decorating reflected that.

Which brings us to the question of the leopard print runner seen above.

I like the runner, I really do. It is all wool, very good quality, and in my wardrobe I would consider it a neutral, but for a conservative business like the one MrBP runs... not so much.

Of course after purchasing the building and new furniture for the building as well as having to add interior doors to create a boardroom, well our budget was exhausted. I'm just now getting around to replacing our leopard print runner, and of course I'm hoping to find a new home for it as well.

I'll be replacing it with a taupe wool runner, I know, boring but necessary.

The whole issue did get me thinking about when leopard print is or isn't appropriate for the office, in fashion of course.

My instinct on this one is that in a creative profession a leopard print blouse or dress is absolutely acceptable, but for the more conservative work atmospheres leopard might best be kept to the accessories.

What do you think?

Oh, and if you're in the market for a leopard print runner let me know!

xoDani

Calm Down DaniBP With The Help of The Calm Clinic

2012-01-18T08:53:00.006-05:00

Yes Darlings it's finally happened, I've checked in to the Clinic.

It is no secret that I have suffered, in all its ups and downs, an anxiety disorder. I know we like to keep it light and fashionable around here but the solid truth is that anxiety leaks out from under one's life and infects everything, and all of the frocks in the world can't manage it.

A few weeks ago I was contacted by a lovely guy by the name of Ryan Rivera. Ryan is a writer and a parent, and his specialty is that gloomy spectrum: panic attacks, anxiety disorders, agoraphobia, and all the myriad physical symptoms that result from this range of anxiety disorders.

Ryan really liked this post that I wrote on my own anxiety disorder, yes it's all about me and Betty Draper, and you can read it HERE.

Ryan also kindly offered to write something for us Mop Philosophers.

I really appreciate a man's view on anxiety and panic, especially around parenting. I remember telling my therapist once that I was terribly jealous of MrBP for his ability to live freely in his mind, released of all the worry over the children that seemed to be my burden alone! Of course that's not true but panic does cloud one's perceptions and creates a barrier between the self and the rest of the world.

So what do you say we have a few words from Ryan?

For DaniBP and her Fellow Mop Philosophers... By Ryan Rivera

Parent ALERT: Stop Worrying

Parenthood is not easy. It is not some simple stroll down some well-kept garden path where year round fruit-bearing trees are abundant, beautiful flowers are all abloom and lily-filled ponds are swarming with fishes. It is not all like that. Although there are glimpses of that spectacular scene, such a view is oftentimes mingled with thick, unkempt shrubbery, gloomy towering trees, and muddy tracks.

I am not trying to scare you or show you how difficult parenthood can be. I love being a parent. My kids are simply adorable. They are my energy booster. Life has become more meaningful with them around. But I can't dismiss the fact that the constant news of terrible things that plague our society feeds the worry and anxiety that I feel. Whenever my kids are gone for school, I worry that something might happen to them. I feel stressed out when I think that they might miss their bus and walk all the way to school, or that their bus might be hijacked. Silly, isn’t it? But these things could happen and that terrifies me. And with my busy schedule, I worry that I might not be able to supervise well my kids’ growth and development.

These bad feelings I feel have definitely made a wreck of me. Slowly, anxiety has become me. I became a constant worrier, making me panic at the slightest hint of trouble or when my imagination gets the best of me.

I know I am not alone in this. There are a lot of parents out there who have the same concerns as I have, especially mothers with their innate nature to protect and care. So, fueled with my great desire to calm my nerves and regain the control of my faculties, I tried several techniques which fortunately have proven to be effective in reducing my stress and anxiety. Let me share with you some of these techniques. It is my hope that other worried and anxious parents would find them helpful.

Talk to someone who understands.

Being a parent is tough and talking to someone who understood what I was going through was a blessing. Talking to someone who will listen to me without judgment and prejudice and who was ready to talk openly about personal experiences and qualms was a total help. This person who helped me let out all the strong, pent-up feelings of fear, apprehension, and uneasiness that quiver inside of me when I thought of my children’s welfare was no other than my own mother.

As my mom was a fretter herself, she completely understood where all my fears were coming from. She told me that what I was feeling was totally normal and that I am not going crazy. In fact, I was no different from other parents. She said that it is normal for parents to turn overly anxious the moment a child is born into this world. It is as if the "Worry" gene has become activated and embedded into their DNA. Moreover, such feeling is sort of necessary as it serves as our inner alarm system to help prepare ourselves and our offspring from any danger that might come. However, she also imparted on me that if my anxiety was getting in the way of my responsibilities and

other functions, then I must seek professional help. Or, if such notion was too scary for me, I can always opt for natural and alternative techniques.

And so my search began.

While I was researching on the best methods in managing anxiety, I came across aromatherapy and yoga.

The use of aromatherapy:

The scent emanating from the extracts of lavender is great in aiding calmness when pressure and anxiety from all sources begin to escalate. The scent and effect of a drop of pure lavender oil on your pulse points, particularly behind the ears and on the wrists, is a strong potent to quell strain and tension. This oil can also be added into a warm tub of water. Soaking into this tub for about 20-30 minutes helps relax strained muscles and restless brain.

Getting into Yoga or Stretching:

The practice of yoga or stretching can also help. The movements and poses employed help to not only strengthen limbs but also massage inner vital organs. This massage made circulation better into these areas. With a healthy physique and well-functioning organs, anxiety can be ebbed. The meditative aspect of this exercise also helped calm the mind. A regular practice of this art helps achieve moments of oneness in mind and body.

Parenthood has clearly its own share of lows. Yes, it is difficult, and the challenges can be overwhelming. But I believe that its “highs” are much greater. Just think of all the perks that come with it- -– those sweet smiles, bear hugs, and the beautiful words "I love you.” Of course, the time you spend with your kids can be better shared if you have a calm state of nerves. If you have the ability to control your emotions and feelings, you can definitely loosen up when it comes to thinking about their well-being. Worrying about the "what ifs" and the unknown can hinder you from actively participating in your children's present. So, be in the moment.

Ryan Rivera is a father of two kids and happens to be a former anxiety patient. He writes about anxiety and panic attacks on his website which you can visit HERE.

Thank you Ryan.

For more excellent tips on managing anxiety and panic I encourage you to go through Ryan's website. I've referred to it often, and with the onset of some recent anxiety stemming from an old unresolved family issue, I've been looking it over again this week. Helping me now in particular are some diet treatments for anxiety, which you can read HERE.

Enjoy your day. May it be panic free!

Table Manner Tuesday

2012-01-17T09:19:00.004-05:00

This table setting is not the one I've been practicing.

I've been putting the pudding fork and spoon up along the top of the plate but according to Nicholas Clayton that is not correct.

You must approach your cutlery from the outside in, so the pudding fork and spoon are the last to reach for. How do you eat your pudding? Yes with a fork and spoon, fork in the left hand and spoon in the right, used as a knife would be, to cut into your cake, or to spoon up saucy puddings.

We know how to approach our spoon for the soup course (and there it is on the far right) but how are we to tackle the main course fork and knife? (You'll notice this setting does NOT have a salad fork: I like this approach as I serve salad on the table with our dinner, we tend to eat it after the main course, using the same cutlery.)

How to hold the knife and fork:

Fork in left hand, knife in right. Your index finger will be placed along the handle but should not protrude past the middle of said handle: fork tines down. Handles of both knife and fork in palms of hand.

Nicholas Clayton Says:

Keep the fork tines down at all times. ONLY your fork goes in your mouth; your knife is used to cut and as a pusher but never enters your mouth. (To me this is obvious but Nicholas Clayton is a butler and has apparently "seen it all".)

The handles of both the knife and fork should rest comfortably in the palm of each hand, with an index finger extended along the top of the knife and the fork handle to exert pressure.

Keep the fork tines down and load food onto the fork by pushing against the knife; with practice, even the awkward green pea can be transported en masse like this.

Never lift anything with the fork tines up, or change cutlery from one hand to the other.

Well I didn't know that. I see lots of people changing cutlery from one hand to the other, though it does then leave the left elbow free to rest on the table: BIG NO.

You might wonder how it's going here, Table Manners and The Rascals. Not very well, but I persevere!

My own table manners have improved, so that's something as we do lead by example, don't we? I cannot, however, master the green peas thing. Must work on that.

How about an outfit which involves My New Neck?
I didn't really get a new neck but I did receive a beautiful Hermes scarf for Christmas from MrBP, that's almost the same thing.

I wore it on Saturday evening when we drove into Toronto to have dinner with our friends at Le Select Bistro.

French food was perfect for us four as these are our friends we met in Paris, yes that's right when we were trapped there by the Icelandic Volcano of 2010, remember that?

We travelled by bus with our friends to Rome on that trip and we certainly got along well, what an experience that was.
I wore the scarf with a long sleeve black cashmere tee shirt, JCrew, as well as the flair skirt in "purple dawn", which is on sale for real cheapie, you can see it HERE.

Enjoy your day Darlings, and please weigh in whether it be on Table Manners or New Necks!

The Silk Blouse

2012-01-15T09:11:00.007-05:00

The silk blouse is both a luxury and a basic.

Soft to the skin, breathable, so perfect for every climate, flattering and lustrous to the complexion: I've been looking for the perfect silk blouse.

I looked to JCrew as a range of options in silk can normally be found and often for a low price on sale.

I've tried silk blouses from other brands but often they proved too short to tuck in to a pencil skirt properly. I'm not overly tall but if the tails are too short there will be much fidgeting which is obviously not ideal.
I wanted a silk blouse in a neutral color so that I could wear it to a conservative event. So no cherry red for me, or bright byzantine blue for that matter.
Oh but I do like that polka dot blue.
I wanted to be able to wear my silk blouse underneath my black skirt suit, with pearls: very conservative and subtle.
This Luxe Silk Crepe Blouse in the color "sand dune" is a perfectly peachy neutral, almost skin toned and so quite unobtrusive peeking out from under some basic suiting.
The heaviness of the silk sold me, as well as the darling covered buttons.
I can also wear it with my Brora mohair skirt as an everyday outfit.

As far as washability goes I am really waffling. I don't want to ruin it as it was expensive, but the silk is heavy and I think it might stand up to the delicate cycle quite well, rather than the dreaded dry cleaner. I'll let you know.
Isn't it nice with pearls?

You can see my silk blouse right HERE.

I ordered mine with a 25% coupon and then waited 2 months for it to arrive as it was waitlisted. It looks like it is available in all sizes this morning.

Do you have a silk blouse? Is yours conservative or is it a fun pop of color?

LLBean Signature Camel Wool Suiting

2012-01-13T12:22:00.008-05:00

I've had my eye on some camel wool suiting pieces from LLBean Signature since the fall.

Now they are on sale so I thought I'd try them out and give them a review.

You can see them for yourself right HERE.
These are classic pieces and the best bit is the fabric, a lovely soft woven wool from Abraham Moon.

I love a three piece suit and now I am imagining a pocket watch for the vest.
The jacket has a golden piping detail on the inside and is fully lined with cupro. I didn't know what cupro was so I looked it up, you can read about it HERE.

It does indeed feel like silk and it has a lovely hand-feel. I'm sure it lends to the absolutely superior comfort level of the suiting pieces.
There is a stripey lining in the sleeves of the jacket.
Here is a detail of the buttons on the sleeves.
The pleated skirt is unlined, but comfortable. It swings nicely.

I took a size 2 in all of the pieces though I probably could wear the 0. I am contemplating re-ordering in a smaller size. However I do want room for sweaters under the jacket and vest and though the skirt sits lower on my waist it is quite comfortable.

I'd like to wear this suit for many years and what if I gain a few pounds? That's my thinking in keeping the size 2, but again I'm wrestling with it a bit. Though on sale (and a further 15% off through January 16th) these are definitely investment pieces.
Here the skirt with just the vest.
The vest also has a full and comfortable cupro lining.
You can see the fine weave of the wool in the most perfect shade of camel.

There are trousers as well which look quite nice.

How do you like camel suiting? Do you love the look of camel and black together?

Fast Then Slow

2012-01-11T19:38:00.005-05:00

Well I approached the week with great vigour and intention: exercise and plenty of it, lots of work to check off the list, and plans, ambitious ones, set out for The Rascals.

On Monday I walked with Christopher, he who walks the walk of a man possessed with taking over a capitol or bludgeoning a rival clan. I managed to get him to stop long enough so that I could snap this view of the river.

I am drawn to rivers and did I ever tell you that I grew up on the mighty Detroit River? She's a beauty and now I have this "river", it's really a creek and continues to disappoint.

With The Rascals back to school I decided to take up my exercise routine with that renewed energy which is perhaps unique to the first week of January, and what a failure it was.

As I am lazy and prefer two cups of coffee with a pear, cut up, in the morning along with some happy reading of my favourite blogs, (all while in my cozy bed, mind) I decided to punish myself with an early morning stretch, 45 minutes, followed by a hideous vegan protein shake.

It seems I have an aversion to health food products. Within an hour I felt as though I had ingested rat poison. By the time I returned from my Battle March with Christopher I had started on a headache.

Well I had work to do but I carried on with it and by evening I had a full-on migraine, which lasted well through Tuesday.

So forget the Fast Lane and Health Food Hocus Pocus, let's eat some real food.

This is what I just this evening made for dinner and it was delicious.
First I whipped up a little white sauce: melt a tablespoon of butter, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, throw in a large chopped leek and one small clove of garlic, well-minced. Do not use the jarred stuff it must be fresh. I added some herbes de provence which Sue sent me, she picked it up for me in Paris in the fall. Thank you Sue, it is so lovely.

Saute the leeks and things, add in 2 tablespoons of plain flour, whisk and then start adding in your milk.

I used organic 2%, just over 3 cups.

I had some prepped vegetables all set.

Broccoli.
Green beans.
Roasted squash.
I grated about 3 cups of mozzarella cheese.
Then I found these white lasagna noodles in my pantry which are fakery: see they are really whole wheat. I love tricking The Rascals with this sort of thing.
I poured some olive oil and white wine in the bottom of the pan, then started layering the uncooked lasagna with the vegetables. Don't bother cooking the lasagna or the green vegetables ahead of time: we're going to steam them in the lasagna itself.
Throw on some of the leek sauce.
Don't be shy about throwing over more white wine, it helps with the steaming.
Cover the layers with cheese. Everyone loves cheese-covered things.
As a final crown of deliciousness, a little grating of The Good Stuff: parmigiana reggiano. That's the end bit there, save those for your minestrone soup.

I put my lasagna in a 300 oven, convection, for 1 hour 20 minutes. I covered it with foil.

As far as my Plans for the Rascals I am worrying over a summer job for our son. He doesn't have one and what we don't want is more laying about. MrBP worked in a steel factory to put himself through 8 years of school and I waited tables quite effectively. What did you do?

I haven't forgotten about Our Table Manners. More on that later though I have to tell you that Nicholas Clayton is vexing me, I simply cannot eat peas the way he suggests, it will take years of practice.

xoDani

Neutral Dress With Green Bag

2012-01-07T08:43:00.005-05:00

I have been noticing green bags popping up already for spring, little jolts of fresh color in manageable sizes, in a clutch or a structured day bag.

I have a patent green clutch handbag from JCrew 2008 that I have always loved. I use it over the Christmas holidays to add some festivity to a black dress, and of course in spring it can be paired with any sort of neutral, but most effectively with navy or beige.

What does our Dior say about green?

Green

It is supposed to be an unlucky color. I think that is entirely wrong. I am superstitious and green has always been very good for me. And it is a lovely color and very elegant.

It is a color of Nature- and when you follow Nature for your color schemes you can never go far wrong. I love to see green in every shade and every material- from tweed in the morning to satin in the evening. There is green for everyone and for every complexion.

I have my green bag paired here with a beige dress from JCrew, the Emmaleigh Dress in Super 120's Wool, the color "warm sienna".

I ordered this dress ages and ages ago but it was wait-listed. It finally arrived a couple of days after Christmas when the last thing I wanted to see was a box with something new in it. I was all set to mail it back and I almost didn't even try it on.

Then I did and I came to appreciate the neutral color and the fitted lines of the dress.

I especially love the the back of the skirt with it's flattering vent. I tried to show you the vent in this picture however it is quite difficult to snap a pic of the back of one's own skirt and perhaps should not be attempted.

You can see the dress in full, with a proper photo of the back vent, right HERE.
I like it with my Brora cropped cardigan in sand. Of course pearls would be perfect with this outfit but I couldn't find them at the time of the picture, they were in my daughter's room, she's been playing lots of dress-up lately.
You can see in the stock photo that the dress is paired with a simple brick red patent pump. This color would look good with almost anything and with its warm undertone it is a beige that is actually flattering to the skin.

What have you been up to? Last night we watched The Tree of Life and I thought it was a wonderful movie. I think Brad Pitt really showed his chops as an actor and I even loved all the bits of the movie cited as "weird" by some critics: the earth forming and the dinosaurs etc.

Of course I am a huge Terrence Malick fan, if you have read my blog for some time you will remember that I loved his movie Days of Heaven.

I hope your own weekend has a great movie or something fun in it!

The Brora Winter Sale

2012-01-05T08:55:00.003-05:00

Now's the time to buy some Brora!

I've been shopping the Winter Sale these last couple of years and have acquired enough Brora that I'm not even looking this time around. It's not that there aren't some absolutely lovely things, but the fact is that Brora items last and last and never go out of style. They do not need replacing and the skirts and jackets are so classic you can wear them for a lifetime.

With the cold weather you'll want to wear them all the time.

You can shop the sale HERE.
I do have a couple of items from the current collection: the mohair skirt and jacket.
As is typical with Brora both items are lined in silk and the jacket even has a contrast silk piping.
I've been wearing these pieces all the time, either on their own or together. Mohair is so warm and cozy and always appropriate. It looks dressy enough for a social outing yet is sturdy enough to wear on a daily basis.

Have fun looking through the sale, and if you've got your heart set on something try to pick it up early as sizes do sell out.

Have a lovely day!

Table Manners: Eating Soup, The Food of Winter

2012-01-03T10:54:00.006-05:00

I don't know how you feel about it but I say that soup is the perfect January food. Filling, easily made at home and low in calories yet warming, what more could we ask for?

Especially after the indulgence of the holidays.

I thought I would start my series on table manners with eating soup. It is the first course after all, along with bread, which is a topic on its own and so deserves a post of its own as well. We can look to that next week.

When seated at table we begin with the utensils on the outside and we work our way in.

Above, a typical setting according to our Manners Guru: Nicholas Clayton.
The soup spoon is on the far right. We pick it up and we spoon up the soup with a motion that moves away from us and then we bring it up, drinking from it though not slurping.
When we want to spoon up a remaining puddle it is fine to tilt the soup bowl but we must tilt the soup bowl away from us, to the north, just slightly. Do not scrape greedily at the bottom of the bowl.
It is fairly easy to remember: holding the spoon elegantly we must move towards the north of our bowl, for both spooning up and tilting at soup's end.
When your spoon is resting you must place it at an angle to your right as shown above.

When you are finished your soup you must move the soup spoon from this position to one of resting in the bowl straight up and down.

My goal this winter is to really perfect table manners in our household. Though I myself wasn't exactly raised in a barn I have made many mistakes over the years in regards to manners at table and I'm determined to correct all and teach The Rascals properly.

We'll discuss table manners on Tuesdays and please throw any questions my way: I'll be happy to do the research and share what I find!

Enjoy your day Darlings. I'm taking my daughters out shopping and I hope we won't be stampeded by all of the customers making returns!

Felted Wool

2012-01-02T10:45:00.004-05:00

I have fond memories of a felted wool jacket from Lands' End that I owned many years ago when my older two children were mere Wee Rascals.

We lived in Missouri for a school year and I wore my felted wool jacket all winter, on walks to the store, walks to the swimming pool, and afternoons at the park.

Missouri is a beautiful state, full of green space and friendly people. I'd love to get back there to visit someday.

My felted wool jacket is long gone but I was reminded of it when I noticed this striped version.
Look it comes in navy too. Perfect big pockets and if you wear denim pants this would be an easy outfit. Add long sleeve tee and scarf and done.

You can view this for yourself and read the full description HERE.

I hope your year is off to a brilliant start. I've been cleaning and cooking with a renewed energy. It's never a bad time for a full-out housecleaning, I'm channeling Miss Suzy today.

What else?

Tomorrow it's the start of a new series: Table Manner Tuesday.

Yes that's right I'm trying to groom The Rascals for a potential lunch with Our Queen. Well you never know. Nicholas Clayton is leading the way, stay tuned!

Celebrating The Year

2011-12-31T09:18:00.005-05:00

I've been away on a mini-break with MrBP and it was a wonderful way to end the year.

This was my color story for our day and night away: blush pink with dark gray and a celadon green.
I know this particular shade of green is referred to as "spearmint" but obviously that makes me think of chewing gum. So celadon it is.

We had a lovely quiet afternoon at the hotel in front of the fire, the weather outside was in fact frightful so it was all the cozier inside.

I brought my black velvet dress along to wear to dinner, what a wardrobe stalwart that dress is.
I paired it with a little bracelet and these pretty earrings from JCrew.

I've worn this velvet dress so often already this winter, I wonder what our Dior would have to say about it?

Velvet

No material is more flattering than velvet. It is most becoming to the complexion. A trimming of velvet or a velvet collar can entirely change the look of a suit or a dress. It is always good to have velvet near the skin.

I like velvet trimming in any season- not just in winter- and it often looks nice with linen, even with organdy.

Velvet dresses and velvet coats are attractive, too, but after the first of March it is not right to wear them; it is typically the winter silk material. Black velvet is extremely slimming. Colored velvets are more difficult to wear, but all the dark jewel colors are charming. Light-colored velvets are more rare and they are not very convenient because they mark so easily; they are lovely but a luxury.

Velvet can make very lovely rich evening dresses; but be careful with them, they are inclined to be a little ageing.

Personally, I love a black velvet afternoon dress with, perhaps, a touch of white on the collar- it is sweet and feminine and becoming to all ages.

Dior's book, The Little Dictionary of Fashion, continues to delight me and so it is one of my top 3 books of the year.

Out of all the fashion and wardrobe books I have read this year it is my hands-down favorite.
I have also loved The Marriage Plot.
And of course Julian Barnes' The Sense of an Ending.

How about films?
I am a huge Christopher Plummer fan and I have been fortunate enough to see him twice on stage. This July we'll be seeing him again in A Word or Two at the Avon Theatre in Stratford.

Beginners was both uplifting and a heartbreak.
I loved Midnight in Paris. If you love Paris, and of course you do, you could watch this movie over and over again. I just watched it again yesterday!
Truly the funniest movie we saw this year was The Trip. It was hilarious. We were rolling on the couch laughing. People say that but in this case it was true.

Do you share any of my top picks for books or film? Is there something I missed that you'd like to recommend?

I am compiling a new reading list right now so please share any stand-outs.

I hope your New Year's Eve is cheerful and bright. May you laugh and toast with friends and family.

Thank you for reading my blog this year. Our conversation captivates me and enriches my life in more ways than I could describe.

xoxoDani

Housedress

2011-12-29T07:55:00.005-05:00

We've just finished watching all six seasons of Leave It To Beaver and it's been great. Wally and The Beaver are very funny kids, well I would even term them Rascals. My daughter and I laughed our heads off watching this show, and of course I was inspired by June's outfits.
June Cleaver was the ultimate Stay At Home Mom. She was always in the kitchen after school flipping cookies up off a cookie sheet or peeling vegetables for dinner. She sits down to peel vegetables by the way, which looks quite elegant.

Her house is impeccable. She spends vast amounts of time dusting and she has a fetching little dusting basket filled with her supplies that she carries around the house. Her dining table is always covered with snow white linens and matching, ironed, napkins. She makes dessert every night. She and Ward drink huge quantities of coffee and I'm not sure what is up with that but it must be decaf as she is never jittery or irritable.

She reads newspapers and magazines but rarely looks at hardcover books. She has an awesome toile-covered armchair in her living room. The house is clutter-free and the kitchen is organized right down to the calendar which hangs on the inside of a cupboard door: her cake-baking schedule for church is noted on the calendar, as well as her various meetings and school functions.

She seems to lead a very happy and fulfilled life though she rarely leaves her home. I wonder if she would have felt oppressed but I truly don't think so. Her relationship with Ward Cleaver seems on equal footing and though she is in charge of the house he tends to spend his weekends doing all sorts of chores. She has a fair hand in disciplining the boys though she leaves it to Ward to lose his temper. She is always lady-like. Oh and she has a housekeeper too, Minerva comes three mornings a week. Yes I do fantasize about that particular aspect of June's life!

She wears a dress every day and it is not technically a housedress but she makes it so with the addition of her apron, usually a ruffled half-apron. Her dresses are often shirtdresses though in the evenings she can be found wearing something a little more dressy: a jacquard print with a lovely boatneck and slim belt for example.

When I was in France this summer I decided to look for a real housedress: the type of cotton, printed garment that a country housewife might wear. I found one in a hardware store but it was quite hideous: poly/cotton, hugely tent-like, an awful acidic green floral. I had planned to buy one to bring home and wear in my own house and garden but I couldn't bring myself to do it. I decided to stick with my own simple, washable dresses and top them with my pinafore aprons.

So June and I have this in common.

Continuing on this theme of June Cleaver as my fashion icon, I would like to point out her signature necklace: either a single strand of pearls at the neck, or her strand of pearls with a pretty heart-shaped charm hanging just at the throat. Apparently this was a detail provided by the actress, Barbara Billingsley, herself: she was self-conscious of her throat and liked to cover it.
Well I just think she was lovely.

So as far as the housedress goes, I'd like to share a couple of Lands End finds that I ordered with their crazy 40% off sale. This was a good time to order some new bedsheets for the family, their flannel is the best, and as I can return for free I thought I'd try these dresses, new to the website.
First we have a bright orange silk shirtdress, machine washable.

They call this color "hot streak" but if you are a JCrew Lady you will call it "vibrant flame".

It is very comfortable and the silk is the perfect weight, it feels lovely on the skin.

I ordered the size 2 and it just fits perfectly, I would say this dress is not running large.
It has a simple tie belt and though the orange is bright I find it cheery. It could be worn with an apron over it for protection and would be lovely with ballet flats and a light-colored trench coat for venturing out to run some errands. You can see it HERE.
I also ordered the same dress in the "engineered navy stripe".
I have a distinct navy color story happening in my spring wardrobe so of course I was attracted to this dress.

Again the silk is substantial enough that it is not sheer, it lays flat yet seems breathable.
Again it has the simple tie-belt and a three-quarter sleeve which I find terrific for doing housework. It needs an apron of course but I think it has a chic look and would be pretty with some low navy heels. You can see it HERE.
My last try-on was practically my favorite and was on sale as well as marked down an additional 40%, bringing it to about $20.

It is a cotton-chambray shirtdress with a full skirt and though it needs an iron you can get the idea of it.

It is fitted through the top and thus channels June Cleaver more than the other two dresses, with its 1950's-era fully gathered skirt and waist-cinching belt.

It just needs June's signature necklace and a pretty half apron and it could have been lifted straight out of the Cleaver kitchen during the after-school rush of hearing The Beaver's latest shenanigans.

What do you think of the housedress as worn by June Cleaver?

New Year's Eve Outfit and Other Shenanigans

2011-12-27T07:19:00.009-05:00

I decided to try out a couple of party skirts for New Year's Eve.

We'll be walking around the corner to a small party but of course no opportunity to dress up should ever be missed.

I say I thought I'd "try" as I knew there would be returns. "And How" apparently! I just read in this morning's paper that U.S. shoppers will be returning $46.28 billion of stuff post-Christmas this year.

So I guess I've got to get in on that action and I have my packages all wrapped and ready to go to the post office.
This is the Swish Skirt in Plaid from JCrew and you can see it HERE.

I didn't love the fabric and it was too short. I also didn't like that ruching thing around the waistband, it gives it a casual look in my opinion.

I just couldn't get excited about it whatsoever.
Now here's something I am still excited about, even though I am returning it.
The Silk Taffeta Skirt in black slate/federal gray stripe from LLBean Signature, which you can view HERE.
I love this skirt.
It is unlined which to me is a terrific feature considering the silk taffeta has a gorgeous weight and hand-feel.

It is the perfect length and is lustrous rather than shiny.
I ordered my typical Signature size, a 2, but it's too big. Here it is above, with me taking it in by a handful at the back of the waist.
Here it is above just let loose, and you can see it is dumpy looking.

I thought of keeping it to have it taken in but for those bucks I'd rather not pay to alter it as well.

I guess I'll keep my eye on it at sale time.

So I thought I'd wear something my friends have already seen me wear, I mean they don't really care anyway, but then a Mystery Package arrived in the mail.

From Minnesota and I don't even know anybody there!
This beautiful dress was inside without a note though it was wrapped in tissue and ribbon and adorned with a little vintage brooch.
Then I remembered my sister had phoned me the week before for my measurements, she was eyeing up a vintage dress on Etsy that she wanted to send to me as a Christmas present.
The dress, which is constructed of silk and velvet, is strangely comfortable and fits like a dream. I mean it fits perfect!
This is the label, ever hear of Louis Feraud? My sister has, she is a Vintage Clothing Expert, I am not kidding.
Many years ago it was purchased at Saks Fifth Avenue. And maybe then worn on New Year's Eve?

Speaking of purchasing, who's shopping this week?

I know, I'm not either. After all, 2012 is The Year of Paying Off Debt and the austerity measures have to start sometime Darlings. My theory is to pay off my variable-rate mortgage now before rates go up in 2013-2014. Yes they're going up and Mark Carney told me so.

But if you are shopping you must look at the LLBean Signature Sale on Skirts and Dresses!
Look it's my favorite shirtdress on sale, the ultimate in Elmer Fudd Chic!
I own this flannel dress, above, and it is so cozy and wonderful. I'm going to wear it today.
How about a pleated skirt in wool flannel from the Abraham Moon mill? I know, I say Yes too.

What else?

Well today there will be Much In The Way of Exercise and here's why:

A combination of sparkling wine,
and baked goods.

In this case Nigella's Cranberry Mincemeat Tarts,
and her Christmas Morning Muffins, which I made while we waited patiently for The Rascals to get up on the 25th.
They filled the house with a delicious Christmas smell.

Well the Baked Goods Festival is over and it is time to commence the Leg Lift Summit.

What sort of shenanigans have you been up to?

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T12:11:00.003-05:00

I hope you have a wonderful Christmas.

We are really tucking in this year and I can't wait. I have my menus planned and The Rascals are very much in the spirit of the Holiday. We are going to play board games and watch Christmas movies.

May you be happy and cozy this weekend. I'll be back after Boxing Day with some shenanigans around planning a New Years Eve outfit!

xoDani

Frock Philosophy In Action: Dorothy's Wardrobe

2011-12-20T10:10:00.021-05:00

I've had a letter from a reader with the following question: How do I build a wardrobe for myself as a Stay-at-home-Mom? What qualifies as an investment piece and where would I buy such items? How can I look polished and dressed-up without too much fuss?

Our reader, and we are going to call her Dorothy, is a very busy Mom. She has 5 children who range in age from 6 months to 9 years old. She is currently nursing so our wardrobe choices need to reflect that. Like me she works out at home but doesn't want to spend the day in yoga pants. She likes to wear jewelry and heels and needs everyday clothes as well as outfits for Church on Sundays.

I've put together some ideas and suggestions but I'd like to ask my absolutely expert group of readers here to chime in at the comments with anything I might have missed, or any suggestions you might have for our Dorothy.
If a dress is what is wanted for everyday wear it absolutely must be machine washable, especially with small children factored in. This dress from LLBean Signature is a particular recommendation of mine. It comes in two colors and is made up of a lovely cotton and silk flannel. It is warm and cozy, a nightgown couldn't be cozier. It is unlined which for me is key with a dress: no polyester or acetate linings for everyday wear as you can't then wash them in the machine.

LLBean Signature is for me an investment brand. The prices are reasonable but the clothes are very well made. There are many examples of natural fabrics in the line, it is certainly worth a look. This dress wouldn't suit Dorothy while she is nursing but she may want to consider it for next year. The flared skirt makes walking and chasing children easy.

You can see the dress HERE.

The antique white colorway in the dress is pictured below.
Keeping washability in mind I decided to take a look at some blouses for Dorothy.

A blouse could be worn now, while nursing, but would also be a wardrobe basic. Natural fabrics that can be thrown in the wash and hung up to dry remain key.
This blouse from Lands End Canvas is a machine washable silk.
I like it with a full skirt. The skirt above is the flair skirt in a double-serge wool from JCrew.

Dorothy shares my love of JCrew but her quest for wardrobe basics and investment pieces was stalling when she visited the store.

She was suspicious of quality and was of course sworn off dry-clean only items, which takes many JCrew blouses and dresses out of the running.

Their skirts however remain a good option in my opinion. This style in particular is great for a busy Mom as the wool, while needing very occasional dry-cleaning, is sturdy and can be spot-cleaned. I send my wool skirts out twice a season to be professionally cleaned, along with my winter coats.

Dorothy is not going to be able to wear pencil skirts, they are too restrictive for chasing toddlers. This flair skirt is the sort a Mom could wear even while sitting on the floor to build a train track for example. Yes I tested it out! See the flair skirt HERE.

Another skirt option would be the Sterling Skirt in wool. My friend Fabulous Florida Mommy highly recommends them, and she is also a busy Mom. To read FFM's take on the Sterling Skirt, as well as her excellent recent post on Personal Style, go HERE.

Another dress option for Dorothy would be a jersey wrap dress from Brora.

Brora definitely qualifies as Investment Clothing. Their clothing is very well made, in England, and uses the highest quality materials. Their look is not trendy, it's classic, making it a good addition to Dorothy's closet. And they have a great sale in January!

My wrap dress in a charcoal liberty print is super comfortable and would be terrific for nursing. I wish I'd had this dress for nursing.
I invested in a chunky cashmere shrug last year during Brora's sale. I chose this dark gray color as it can be worn with pretty much my entire winter wardrobe. This is a great piece to have because it acts like a wrap yet it doesn't fall off of the shoulders like a stole would: key for a Mom who is not often sitting still.

I recommend a tweed jacket as another investment piece.

Tweed? That's fancy you say. Wrong, it is in fact completely indestructible. The real thing, Harris Tweed, can withstand rain, snow, ice, dirt and kid messes. It can be spot-cleaned and professionally cleaned twice a year. I rely on my Harris Tweed quite heavily in spring and fall, and even on some warmer winter days.

Because Dorothy lives in Kansas she could probably get quite a bit of wear out of a Harris Tweed jacket during the winter. I love the way mine looks with dresses or skirts, and of course it could be worn with denim as well. Mine is from JCrew, a Collection item that was out a couple of years ago. They don't often use real Harris Tweed in their women's line, and they should more often. This jacket has a feminine shape, if oversized, but it also has big pockets which are very handy for a Mom.

Brora usually does a Harris Tweed every season, but I'd watch both brands for this sort of piece.
You can see it has some great flecks of color throughout: it can be worn with anything.

Dorothy will need a good winter coat in a neutral color as well as a raincoat with big pockets for springtime trips to the park and the grocery store. Coats for dressier times, one for winter and one for spring, could also be added in as time and budget allows.

While I am near the subject of Brora I'd like to touch on the idea of a tweed suit.

This suit, above, with its cheery turquoise and forest-green check, consists of a pencil skirt and little jacket.

It can be worn with a simple blouse or sweater, with heels or flats. I bought mine from Brora two years ago though they usually have a wool suiting option every year.

Their suiting is lined with real silk and made in those English workrooms: truly an investment and something a woman could wear until she's 90. I wear mine all the time, it's perfect for church, school meetings or lunch out.
My last recommendation which could involve a Brora purchase would be a velvet skirt.

A velvet skirt is a comfortable and elegant option for day or night. It is super cozy with a sweater for day and can be dressed up with a silk blouse for evening. It can be washed on delicate and hung up to dry. The skirt would add a lovely jewel-toned textural element to Dorothy's winter wardrobe, and would be so soft for children sitting on her lap.

You can view the Brora velvet skirt HERE.
I think every American wardrobe should have some element of denim, whether rough or refined.

I love a denim shirt and I highly recommend a well-fitted one to tuck into skirts or to be worn open over a summer dress.

My denim shirt is from The Jean Shop in New York City, sourced from JCrew.
A silk blouse for evening or for Church is another great option to have, especially in a gorgeous color rather than white ( also terrific for hiding stains). My blue silk blouse is from Brora and can be machine washed on delicate.
I wear both of these blouse options, one casual and one elegant, with a full skirt, and I keep them arranged in the closet with their scarves on the same hanger. It makes me feel organized to see outfits hung up in this way, ready to go.

The wool scarf pictured is from Brora,and the silk scarf is a Liberty of London, sourced on ebay.

Okay we've got to take a look at two important areas: workout wear and pyjamas.

Our Dorothy works out at home and she needs something comfortable to wear that can look decent if she has to answer the door or run into the back garden.

I have a special drawer with two pairs of leggings, a couple of JCrew perfect fit tanks and a dress to pop over the top: cashmere in winter and knit cotton jersey in summer.

The leggings and shirts get wrecked after 6 months or so from the constant washing so I then replace them. There is a sampling at left, below, and included are my merino wool leggings, which surprisingly have lasted all through last winter.

I don't do my exercises in my dress but I keep it nearby if I need to answer the door.

The robe below is from Lands End. It is a cotton flannel with a sweet ruffle around the collar. A couple of these are essential for lounging around in the evening over some pyjama bottoms and a thin shirt.

I have a couple of robes and pyjama sets in similar colors so I can throw them all in the wash together.

Moving on to warm weather clothing...

I suggest more full skirts for Dorothy and especially cotton ones with pockets.

The one above is from Kayce Hughes, a brand suggested by Janet from The Gardener's Cottage.

You can visit the Kayce Hughes site HERE.
I think for button front shirts for spring and fall you can't go wrong with the JCrew perfect shirts. My own selection is displayed above. They do go on sale in the off season and they wash up so well: in the machine and hang to dry.
For high summer I would suggest some lighter colors. Long sleeves are still nice and especially for sun coverage while at the park.
A few short sleeve cotton shirts could be added in to wear with the full cotton skirts, like this white puff-sleeve popover.
I do like the perfect-fit ribbon henley as a tee shirt option.

They come in pretty colors and again can be tucked in to a full skirt, they wash up well and can be changed frequently as needed.

Of course for all of the outfits I have suggested I recommend an apron. As you know I wear mine constantly but they truly are a Stay at Home Mom's best friend, they allow one to dress up and not worry about spills, you can find them with pockets which is great for stowing things while tidying.

I prefer a pinafore style which can be difficult to find, though I have found a store on Etsy out of California that makes them for a reasonable $30 or so: Terrace-Hill, which you can see HERE.

As far as summer dresses go I have to recommend Lands End for a shirtdress style in sturdy cottons or washable silks.

The prices are reasonable which is great as Dorothy would want a fairly large selection.

I love the striped one at the right and I've ordered it to try on and review. I'll do an update when it arrives.

A little navy or beige suit lined in cotton would be a nice addition to a summer wardrobe, as well as some pretty dresses for going out. Kayce Hughes offers some pretty frocks and for an investment piece I would suggest something in a classic style from Kate Spade.

Color Story

I do think that Dorothy should look at an overall color story for her wardrobe. It's a good idea to pick some base neutrals and work from there: will it be navy in summer and camel in winter? Or beige in summer and gray in winter? This color story could dictate her basic coats and handbags. I wear lots of dark gray and black in the winter so my handbag is a light gray, my coats are gray and black. In the summer I have a pale green leather handbag and a couple of color stories going on: one black and white with lots of linen, one navy and coral with bits of yellow and khaki threading through it. My pale green handbag works with both stories.

Black or Navy Suit or Dress

Every woman needs a conservative option for each season, and this could mean a black fitted skirt suit for fall and winter in light wool and a navy linen suit or dress with jacket option for spring and summer. Dark colors are sometimes needed and/or appreciated: for a family event or occasion that might come up suddenly.

Shoes

Everyday shoes for Dorothy are going to look like ballet flats or very low heels, with some good sandals for summer.

Boots for weather will be needed: for winter and for rainy days.

Some dressier shoes which correspond to her Color Story are essential: to be worn with her dresses and her conservative suiting or dress options. I would look for lower heels, and as you know I am a fan of Chie Mihara. Look for the sales, especially on endless.com.

Sweaters

I am a fan of Brora for their excellent cashmere, though I also like Brooks Brothers cashmere if an American brand is what is needed.

Brooks Brothers does have a great sale in the summer on their winter basics, and they do make their cashmere in Scotland.

I like the JCrew long sleeve cashmere tee shirts, though they are not as well made as the Brora and BB options.

Scarves

For sun protection at the neck and a finishing touch a couple of silk scarves would be nice additions for Dorothy, perhaps in her favorite colors and some feminine prints.

Clothing Care

I spend most of my time doing other people's laundry and I'm sure Dorothy does as well. I take a day early in the week to attend to my own clothing and MrBP's dress shirts (which I machine wash, hang to dry and press while still slightly damp).

I can't imagine that Dorothy has much time for ironing with 5 children, and I have to say I don't often iron my own clothes. Sometimes my dresses will need a quick press but I'm pretty slapdash about it and they still look fine. I wash all of my cashmere, wool and silk on the hand-wash cycle of my machine and it does a terrific job. The key is to always avoid the dryer: it's death to clothes.

In the summer I use my clothesline and the wind and sun seem to do a good job of pressing my dresses and shirts.

It's one thing to build a wardrobe in theory but quite another to put it into practice! I hope that Dorothy keeps us up to date on her own wardrobe building.

Please don't hesitate to chime in with a suggestion or to point out something I've missed. Any tips will be appreciated.

Christmas Apron

2011-12-19T09:37:00.003-05:00

I think of this apron as my Christmas option but only because the dark red in the print and on the trim matches my cropped red Brora cardigan.

This cardigan was a Christmas gift from MrBP last year.

I'll be wearing this apron all day every day this week though it's more about the cleaning rather than the baking.

I clean the house from top to bottom and then I have to start again! I've got a few more de-clutter ideas to post but it will have to wait until the New Year, we're running out of time aren't we?

This is my outfit that nobody but you ever sees as I am always covered in my apron.
You can see I am really going with the purple and red theme: purple Brora stockings here.

My shoes are some old Fluevog velvet heeled shoes, they are very winterish and cozy.

Enjoy your day, may the Holiday Fairies be on your side!

Heels

2011-12-16T16:12:00.006-05:00

I finally found my own personal perfect heel height and the thing is it's not very high at all.

It's just over 2". These heels aren't getting me very close to 6 feet tall but I can run around in them all day long.

They are a moderate heel.

I can wear a heel that is just under 3", like these polka dot Chie Mihara shoes, but they are not as easy to wear. They are comfortable, but walking really fast is difficult and the stairs in my house get tiring after a couple of hours.
A skinny heel is not for everyday, at least not for me. I am a wobbler. These leopard print shoes are best for sitting, and eating and drinking while sitting of course. Hence more wobbling.
Once we get over 3" the shoe becomes strictly a Party Shoe, like these Repetto dancing heels.

I might wear these on New Years Eve.

Of course we want to know what You-Know-Who thinks of heels, so now a word from our own Dior.

Heels...

Heels are the most important part of your shoes because your whole walk depends on your heels. Sometimes women who are not especially gifted physically get a reputation for elegance by the grace of their walk and their movements.

Too high heels are vulgar and hideous- and uncomfortable I should imagine. But too low heels can sometimes give you a masculine look that is good only for sport and the country. Just as it is so often with everything, the medium course is best- and usually medium heels are best. But shoes are a very individual matter and you have to choose for yourself. Sometimes, for evening occasions, it is amusing to have shoes with colored heels but usually I prefer plain heels, the color of the shoes.

So you can see that on this matter Dior and I agree. If only I had read his Little Dictionary 10 years ago I would have saved myself the hassle of trying to wear too high a heel.

Well no use crying over silly shoe decisions, let's look forward, shall we?

Speaking of looking forward it is the weekend and I hope yours is a bucket of laughs!

So what about the heels, what do you say? What is your perfect heel height?

xoDani

Earrings

2011-12-15T07:56:00.006-05:00

I've been thinking about earrings.

I have a pair of diamond stud earrings that are quite subtle and lovely. I wear them every day and have for nearly 10 years. They were a gift from MrBP.

It's nice to wear something that is so perfect it never needs changing!

Sometimes I do like to look at other options and I have recently been wearing some dangly costume earrings to go out for dinner. While I wouldn't want to switch out my simple studs for day I can see the fun in wearing different stones and styles.

I do like these simple sapphire earrings, above.
Or how about a ruby stud earring in gold?
Diamond studs are classic, either round or square-cut.
I love these earrings in gold and Carnelian. Isn't that a gorgeous color?
Two different gems stacked up: amethyst and peridot.
I wear platinum earrings but I do like the way a gold setting illuminates these diamond studs.
I know you're wondering what Dior thought of earrings!
Earrings...

Except in the country I always like to see women wearing earrings. They give a nice finishing touch. They need not be very elaborate, in fact little gold ones, or pearls or single jewels make charming earrings. For evenings, of course, they can be much more ornate.

I always ask my models to have pierced ears.

What sort of earrings do you wear?

Do you stick with the same pair or do you switch yours often?

Do you wear more elaborate ones for evening as Dior suggests?

A Lamp In The Kitchen

2011-12-14T14:09:00.003-05:00

I never would have thought of putting a lamp in my kitchen.

I usually try to absolutely minimize stuff on the counter, but you know what?

It's awful cozy.

Deborah Needleman told me to do it in her new book The Perfectly Imperfect Home. She was the editor of Domino. That was a decorating magazine that I bought 2 or 3 times but then sadly it was no longer published.

This is what my kitchen looks like right now. It's a gray day and the cold snap is sadly over, it's raining and dark outside.

I feel much more at home in my kitchen with a little lamp on rather than the glaring overhead light.

You can see the lamp illuminates my Chopping Corner.

What about the Kitchen Wreath?
This is it right here. I like the lil' golden apples I think they are just darling.

I'm off to wrap presents and whip up some dinner.

Are you planning to read this book? What about Domino magazine, do you remember that one?

Shining and Bright

2011-12-13T09:08:00.004-05:00

I'm really getting ready for Christmas now.

I'm doing a Pre-Christmas Clean. Washing windows and curtains, the better to look outside at the snow.

This is the wreath in my study. I like to put a wreath in every room of the house. Well, not the bathrooms.
I've been wrapping presents like a maniac. You can see I hold a particular fondness for plain brown kraft paper, and ribbons of course.
I had intended to sew Christmas gift bags this year out of some red wool that is in my cedar chest, with all of the other fabric I have never used.

Wouldn't that be smart? They could be tied up with ribbon and then recycled year after year.

I'm still not on friendly terms with a needle, however. I never got around to it. That could be a New Years Resolution right there.
This is the outfit I wore to the Glogg party. Glogg is delicious and so are Swedish snacks. It was a really lovely party.
These are the books on my bedside table. I was enjoying that novel by Alan Hollinghurst, I am most definitely a fan of his work.

Now that I nearing the end I am finding it is dragging on and my investment in the characters has waned. Where was his editor?

Next novel up for me is The Marriage Plot. I can't wait.

You can see I am also reading "I don't have a thing to wear."

I took the quiz and I came out as a Very Confident Clothes Person. Well I think about Wardrobes all the time so I had better do some spectacular scoring.
These are the books on my desk in the study. Yes there is a theme there.

How about that fetching blue book: Fashionista.

My friend from Sweden leant it to me and I can't read a word of it, but Boy I wish I could.
Look at these adorable shoe-stuffer things in a gorgeous toile fabric with satin ribbon!
There are RULES. I am assuming that's what Regel means. I'll never know what they are and that's driving me crazy as you can imagine.

Anyone read Swedish?

What have you been up to? Wrapping gifts? Cleaning? Shopping? Reading? Drinking?

Please share, I want to know.

xoDani

Ensemble

2011-12-11T09:52:00.003-05:00

Do you remember this "Dress With Coat"?

Yes well that's not even the proper term for it, I've been leading you astray this whole time.

According to Dior this is an ensemble.

Ensembles

A very elegant way of dressing is to have a coat and dress matching together, making an ensemble- and I firmly believe the British women, especially, like them.

(Yes like the elegant Queen.)

For an ensemble the frock should be fairly simple and the coat can be either fitted or loose, according to your taste. It can also be either long or short.

An ensemble really takes the place of a suit but it is not so practical, because you cannot so easily change its appearance. With a suit you can sometimes wear a tailored blouse and sometimes a fussy one and combined with different hats, the effect will be quite different.

An ensemble can be worn only one way. Nevertheless, there are people who do not look their best in suits and if you are one of those I recommend an ensemble.

As to colors, I would say the same things I say about suits- choose a dark, convenient color like black, gray, navy blue- or beige. Because you will have to wear your ensemble often and these are the colors you will not tire of easily. Also they are good background colors for gay accessories.

You can see that Dior was all for neutrals and would choose different accessories to change up the basics.

This is very practical and he assumes that we would wear our clothes over and over, and of course they would be well-made and fitted properly and so we would want to!

So I guess from now on we should refer to our Dress With Coat as an ensemble.

I hope you enjoy your Sunday. I am helping a friend set up a Blog of his own: exciting I know!

Then I have a Glogg party to go to which I am thrilled about. It's being given by a family from Sweden who are here for the school year.

Maybe I'll wear an Ensemble!

xoDani

Circle Skirt

2011-12-10T08:09:00.007-05:00

As I complained about having to return a gray skirt in an a-line shape as it was too similar to my gray skirt in a pencil shape, I had already purchased this gray skirt in a circle shape. How's that for spinning your head around?

I have concluded that this shape is different enough from a pencil skirt to deserve a spot on my favorite list. Oh and I've turned to a higher authority on the matter as well, and if you are interested in a bit of fashion wisdom winging its way across the ages you'll have to stick around to posts end.

The ultimate test was the try-on and wearing: after trying it on yesterday morning I didn't want to be parted from it and I wore it all day to clean my house
You can see that there are some very slight gathers at the back waistline of the skirt.

The waist is of course quite defined and it needs something tucked in.
The waist band does not have loops for a belt but it is thick enough that my wide leopard print belt had some holding power. I like it with my denim shirt tucked in and these Chie Mihara shoes in a navy polka dot. I'd wear it like this in the Fall.

The skirt runs in size from a 00 to a 14. I took a size 0 which is the smaller of my JCrew skirt sizes: I need a size 2 in the pencil skirt to accommodate my hip size. Of course the key with this skirt is that it needs to fit your waist measurement.
The skirt is fully lined in a satin acetate contrary to other JCrew skirt offerings this season: so far I've only noticed polyester linings.

I am a fan of satin acetate, I mean it's not as nice as silk but it is heavy and drapes well over opaque tights, while silk can sometimes bring about a little of the dreaded "static cling".
This is how I actually wore the skirt for my day: very casually with a perfect fit ribbon henley in black, some black opaque tights and my low-heeled Chie Mihara oxford shoe.
I added a sweater for my work at my desk as it is chilly up in my study!

I know you are curious about what I've been up to when I mentioned my higher authority.

Yes, that's right, Dior has come into my life.
Now that I have his dictionary he can answer any question for me lickety-split and I'll tell you it's quite comforting.
I wonder what he has to say about skirts, for example?

Well let's have a look:

The simpler your skirt, the better fit it must be. A slim skirt must never be so straight that you cannot move in it- that is ridiculous. Like everything in fashion your clothes must always give you the feeling that they are easy to wear.

Full skirts, too, need to be well cut so that there is no bunchiness round the waist; for this reason a flared or pleated skirt is usually more flattering than a gathered one. If width is needed on the hips (perhaps to give emphasis to the waist) it is better to have controlled width in the form of padding rather than a quantity of material.
Did you see that? Padding added to the hips?

Well, we can't take all of Dior's advice and I'm not sure he would be an absolute fan of this circle skirt: after all it does have that bit of gathering at the back of the waist.

It does have ease of wear going for it however and a good fit around the waist. Dior might find the cargo pockets a little too casual but times have changed, Mr. Dior, and they certainly came in handy yesterday as I did my housework.

I've been turning to Dior's Dictionary quite frequently all week and it's been good fun. I have lots more to share and on every wardrobe topic he has something to say and he does not mince words, when he finds something ridiculous or hideous or vulgar he lets us know it!

You'll have to let me know if you have any questions for Dior.

Enjoy your Saturday!

Navy Golden Stripes

2011-12-09T07:20:00.004-05:00

Here it is, the final bracelet in our mini-series featuring enamelled golden stripes!

The navy is obviously the easiest color to work with, and this bracelet can probably be worn with over half of the things I own.

However, I think these little pieces really shine when put with exuberant prints as there is something decidedly retro-tastic about them.
So I've paired it with my Beloved Ischia Dress in order to pick up the dark navy in the print.
This dress is one of my all-time favorites from JCrew. It is fully lined in silk, has pockets, is made of a gorgeous silk twill in a knock-out print, has a charming ruffle at the bottom, covers my arm to the elbow... need I go on and on?
Again I've pulled out the neutral shoe which marries well with the vintage tone of the bracelets.

Right now I am in my third floor study and I could be in a snow-globe, the fat flakes are falling outside and it's just a lovely view up here.

I've got a skirt to try on today and this is it HERE.

I wonder if we'll like it? Would you like to see a photo tomorrow?

It's Friday and you know what that means: Miller Time.

Well as you know my own Personal Miller Time is a black frock, a glass of pinot grigio and dinner out with MrBP.

What does your Miller Time look like?

xoDani

Mint Golden Stripe Bracelet

2011-12-08T07:59:00.004-05:00

Here we have another bracelet, this time a minty fresh pastel.
Of course when I saw this charming color I knew it would be perfect with an older dress I have: the Edie in Metallic Jacquard.

This dress is a holiday favorite of mine and I have made more than a few latkes while wearing it.

Of course I have an apron for that!
I like to pair the dress with a Brora cropped cardigan as we do not do sleeveless in the winter.
The bracelet marries well with another crystal bauble I own. The second bracelet is a little large but the enamel number holds it up on my wrist.
Again I have the Valentina pump as my neutral shoe: look, it goes with everything. Yes that makes me happy too.

I hope your day is lovely. I'm taking my little girl to a regular Doctor's appointment and then we'll have the day to spend together. My favorite kind of day.

xoDani

Vibrant Flame Golden Stripe Bracelet

2011-12-07T10:50:00.005-05:00

A neat little trick for some outfit inspiration has inspired the first of a three part series here on Mop Philosophy. How about buying a cheap but cheerful accessory to glam up some existing pieces in your closet?
That was exactly my thought when my eye spied this little enamel bracelet from JCrew. You can see it here.

I bought it in 3 different colors and each one has inspired a new outfit cobbled together from older clothing items.
This silk dress in vibrant flame has been hanging in my closet for 3 years. It has survived my most recent and ruthless purge because it is made of silk and it is unlined. I find silk very comfortable on the skin and this fabric is heavy enough that it provides coverage without lining.
The blouse, also 3 years old, was another bit of tricky business. It in fact is sheer and so requires wearing something underneath. When I've tried the blouse with other separates like a camisole and skirt it all becomes a bunched-up mess. Wearing the blouse over the sleeveless silk shift dress creates a cleaner line for the wearing and the eye.
I like that the bracelet picks up the almost 1960's vibe of this vivacious print. The blouse has bits of metallic threads sewn through it which, while fetching, created another sort of problem: they poked and scratched the skin. I spent a few hours of my life I am never getting back removing these threads from the sleeves with tweezers. I know, the things we do for outfits! Okay, the things I do for outfits.
I put the whole thing together with the Valentina pump in a patent leopard, my neutral shoe.

Has this little bracelet caught your eye?

The Jean Shop

2011-12-06T09:01:00.009-05:00

The Jean Shop is located in New York City. That right there makes me want to buy their products.

They have a small-ish factory that sources its fabric from Japan and makes their denim products, yes, right in America. In New York City, and I love that, which you've noticed!

I wanted to consider their range as I have felt the need for a denim component in my wardrobe. As you know denim is classic, essential to American Style. I can channel Elmer Fudd all I want with LLBean boots, hunting-themed scarves, red checked flannel and whatnot, but denim, there is no denying its allure.

JCrew has done a special collaboration with The Jean Shop and I thought I'd give you a review of two of their products.

The jeans are above. (See the product page HERE.) Well we won't get too excited because they didn't really work for me. It's not you, Jean Shop Jeans, it's me. I think my days of wearing jeans are over, I just cannot be pleased.

They are very well made. I love the orange zipper and slight stiffness to the denim. The fit was nice and they even fit my waist without any gaps. They are not my style and if I wore them you would take note of it as it would be jarring to the eye.

No, what suits my own style much better is The Jean Shop dark denim shirt.

The interior signature orange piping is the selvage of the fabric.

I like the clean lines.
As you can see the shirt was made in the U.S.A.
I took a size XS.

I initially ordered a Small but exchanged as the fit around the shoulders wasn't quite right.

With a shirt like this it is very important that the armholes fit correctly, otherwise the entire shirt will bulk out needlessly across the back.
You can see it suits my style as I can wear it with my skirts.
I like the long sleeves which can be crisply turned back. The denim has quite a bit of heft to it, but it is stiff rather than thick. The fabric itself is shaping.
It can be worn as is, untucked, or tucked into a fuller skirt.

It could be worn open over a fitted tank-style tee in the summer.

I like that the cotton fabric has so much structure yet breathes well and provides lots of coverage.

You can see it on the JCrew site right HERE.
So this is my Jean Shop piece, the one piece of denim left in my wardrobe!

How do you like it? Have you heard of The Jean Shop? Are you as excited as I am to see a product actually manufactured in the U.S.A.?

Sleep

2011-12-04T08:01:00.007-05:00

Grainy photos from a sleepless DaniBP!

When in doubt turn to a black frock and that's just what happened around here last evening.

I was planning a fun party-oufit session with camera and the input of my 9yo daughter, young Edith Head that she is. Well, a week of insomnia culminated in a practically sleepless Friday night. Creativity was impossible. So thank goodness for black velvet, pearls, and black velvet pumps, solid shoes with sturdy heels.

This dress is JCrew Holiday 2006. Five years old and going strong, and in fact one of three black frocks that survived the Great Wardrobe Purge of 2011.

I slept last night and I am feeling much better.

Anyone else wrestle with the Insomnia Monster? Tips?

What else is going on?

Well there's the Gray Skirt Question.
This is Gray Skirt number one.
I bought it before I went on my Shopping Diet, which I haven't cheated on yet by the way.

I tried to but the JCrew website is down.

The skirt is the Sterling Skirt in heather carbon.

I like it but it's awfully similar to another skirt I own.
That would be the No.2 Pencil in heather carbon.

If you cross your eyes just a little they could be the same skirt.

Maybe you don't even have to cross your eyes: the Sterling Skirt is above, No.2 Pencil is below.
What to do, friends?

Should I keep the Sterling Skirt?
I could return it.

When you return things while on a shopping diet it gives you extra virtuous points.

Enjoy your Sunday.

Serendipity

2011-12-02T06:56:00.005-05:00

My friend Sara has kindly offered a wonderful giveaway to a Mop Philosophy reader.

Sara is one of those people who thinks daily about the things that many of us only come to in moments of wonder or crisis.

She sees the ordinary and the extraordinary in life, and knows that the two often occur at the exact same time.

She is also a talented photographer, and while on sabbatical in England with her family she took the most amazing photograph of a beautiful old tree. The special bit about the photograph? She then took a photo of the same tree but from a different perspective, and from there she created this gift: The Serendipity Tree.

Please leave a comment to enter the giveaway. This is the ideal gift for yourself, for a teacher, a co-worker, a friend.

We'll draw a name on Monday so that Sara can ship the gift well in time for Christmas!

Please visit Sara's website for more information right here.

I hope you're doing something fun this weekend.

I'll be back tomorrow with Party Outfits. Our favorite!

xoDani

Sleeves

2011-12-01T07:16:00.004-05:00

Just in time for my shopping diet and overall aversion to adding more frocks to a recently pared down closet, JCrew finally comes up with some frocks with sleeves.

Black silk taffeta with an a-line skirt, and pockets to boot, now that's a fine dress.

I don't know if you've been watching Leave it to Beaver lately but they use the word "fine" all the time. It seems to stand in for "okay".

June also ALWAYS wears dresses with sleeves. She is so fetching.

I love the frock in this luminescent shade of pearlized gray: loverly.

I am less happy about the blue, this is the shade that holds a murky undertone to my eye.

I've realized that there are no events I need to doll up for in the next month. I guess I'll have to host a party if I want one and I never did buy our ballet tickets.

Well never mind I just bought tickets to see Wicked at the Gershwin Theatre in New York in May. They were a fortune! No new frock for that event.
Oh I actually do have Christopher and his partner's soiree to attend on Saturday evening. I say "partner" because I am instructed to use this name for him: nom de plume.

I know he's funny isn't he.
Well I wouldn't be buying this frock as the shade, while lipstick-happy, is just too bright for me, even though its name is The Dani Dress.

What will I wear to the soiree? Hmm I'll let you know after I paw through my cupboard!

Have a gorgeous day!!

Eating Greens and Keeping Greens

2011-11-29T11:01:00.005-05:00

I guess I'm on a bit of a diet.

Feeling bloated and disgusting after too many online promotions that somehow needed taking advantage of, I'm on a bit of a shopping diet.

Feeling bloated and disgusting after too much apricot trifle during last week's Vegetarian Thanksgiving Feast, I'm on a bit of a food diet.

I don't like depriving myself anymore than the next guy but sometimes something has to give.

I have to say that the constant sales and great promotions from retailers have been quite welcome with a long list of gifts to buy. I'm actually done my Christmas shopping which is great. It all seems a bit early however, a race for our dollars that is a symptom of a nervous economy.

I think that while it is important to keep the economy going we have to look after ourselves first. That means paying down debt and saving money, which does seem increasingly difficult to do with the rising costs of living.

I wouldn't say that I am especially "good with money". Some people have the ability to track their budgets on spreadsheets and they know where every dollar goes.

I choose to pay my bills on auto set-up and then spend whatever is left. Of course you can only do this if you also have your savings on auto set-up and you've got your mortgage payments on auto set-up.

Can you guess that I am a fan of auto set-up? I do a few extra things automatically which lets me sleep at night: I double-up our mortgage payments automatically, every two weeks, and I make our charitable contributions automatically.

I am nervous about the economy and I feel anxious for those who are not doing so well right now. I can consume less and contribute more. I can find a nice balance between saving money and paying down debt.

I don't want to have to stare down the economic beast in January when all is gray. I'm going to tackle it now and enjoy a peaceful December with all of the good things the holidays bring: our son home from school, MrBP taking some time off, walks in the woods and hanging up the decorations again. Baking cookies and giving some extra money to the local food bank. Dressing up and having friends around. Drinking wine and going off my food diet!

Speaking of food diet, I wanted to highlight some vegetables I'm consuming lots of these days: good for both the shopping and food diets, yes it's potatoes and kale.
Eating Your Greens:

Potato and Kale Gratin

large bunch of washed and chopped kale

3lbs idaho yellow-fleshed potatoes

2 onions

bit of broth, veg or chicken

garlic olive oil

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

good bread crumbs
Pre-heat your oven to 325 and get out a pot that can be used on top of the stove as well as in the oven, a le Creuset dutch oven with lid is ideal.

Saute your kale with the chopped onions in the garlic olive oil. Add a bit of salt and pepper and some herbes de provence. Saute until the kale is wilted.

Slice your potatoes and throw them in the pot. Add in 1/2 cup of broth. Cover with cheese and then bread crumbs.

Put the lid on it and put it in your oven.

I baked mine for 45 minutes and MrBP said it was the best gratin he's ever eaten ever. We had a nice glass of red wine with that too, it was delicious.

Keeping Your Greens:

How This Spender Is Saving Her Money While On Her Shopping Diet

1. Do not use store cards. Did you know that shoppers who pay with store credit cards typically spend 30% more than they would have otherwise?*

I've cut up my store cards, even my grocery store card.

2. You need a credit card but you only need one.

We have a Visa we use for household expenses when necessary and for travel. You have to pay the whole balance 5 days before it's due. Yes 5 days that's just my personal rule. I pay it, you guessed it, on auto set-up when I get the bill.

3. Save your money, pay your mortgage and your bills, give to charity and then don't sweat the rest. You can only spend what's left over anyway. You'll only get in trouble if you go on a credit-card fuelled shopping spree. Don't do that.

4. Avoid your favorite shopping sites MOST ESPECIALLY during promos.

Tell yourself it has nothing to do with you. You can look at new things but you cannot buy. Because you've bought enough.

5. When you wrap your gifts make a list of what you've purchased for everyone and then hide the list from Your Rascals. This way you can check it on December 20th when you panic and feel that you haven't bought enough for Christmas. You have bought enough for Christmas.

I'm eating greens for lunch every day and this is my favorite and my best: sauteed kale or collard greens with a few toasted almonds on top.

Is that not delicious? No more apricot trifle, well at least until Christmas!

Would you like to join me on my food and shopping diets?

Crystal Satin Sash

2011-11-27T14:21:00.005-05:00

I wanted to share a new party sash with you while there are some good prices happening.

The sash, which is already on sale, is further reduced by an extra 25% through tonight. You can see it HERE.

I have a few sashes I've been collecting over the years from JCrew: a black velvet lined in silk charmeuse, a walnut silk with teal and black feathers attached at the centre, a gorgeous teal print and a red and black checked silk taffeta.

They are just the ticket for dressing up a plain black dress, and their real beauty lies in their versatality: my daughters like them too and one size fits all.

This particular sash has already played a huge part in my younger daughter's dress-up game earlier today so it truly has two solid fans.
It arrived in a large silver jewelry box which is great for storage.

The silk itself is quite light in color and I love the neutral tone: it will look terrific with either black or white.
The crystals seem to be attached very well and it does look darling over a dress and tied in a bow at the back.

I might wear it someday soon with a plain black dress.
At one time I was a big proponent of owning a massive black dress collection but I've since changed my tune.

I think I owned 8 at one time and they ranged from plain suiting dresses to fancy frocks. Well I am now done to 3.

I've sold them off and kept the ones I love the most. I've noticed that they have one thing in common: they are not lined in a synthetic fabric.

I don't know if it's age or just simply the experience of owning garments which are lined in real silk, but I find that when I am wearing a frock that is lined in polyester or acetate the fabric feels clammy and uncomfortable on my skin.

So the current LBD's in my collection, shown above, include:

1. A Brooks Brothers wool crepe dress fully lined in silk that came with a black silk sash. The sash can be looped through at the shoulder and tied in a little bow, or worn at the waist. I bought it this summer on super-duper sale. I highly recommend the Brooks Brothers summer sale, which xoxo clued me in on.

2. A black velvet dress which is unlined but is a genuine silk velvet, a silk/rayon blend actually. This dress is JCrew 2005 and though it had seen better days I have just given it some TLC: I restitched the hem and replaced a button, and thank goodness for my button box because that's where I found some extra ones that came with the dress long ago.

3. A black lace dress from JCrew 2010 that is fully lined in silk. It was called the Oleander. I bought it on super-sale and I've not regretted it. It is sleeveless and can be worn with a cardigan or a little jacket.

You can see I've been doing some serious sorting of frocks in my closets and I've really enjoyed it. I've got two more big boxes for my consignment shop even though I was just there last week with a big bagful of goodies.

The shop that sells my clothes now has a blog which I am quite enjoying. The author is truly funny yet fabulous all at the same time. Check it out HERE.

Do you have a sash collection?

How about the LBD count? 0, 2, 3 or beyond?

Are you as grumpy as I am around poly linings?

JCrew Toronto

2011-11-25T09:04:00.007-05:00

Well it's been a pretty exciting week for DaniBP.

I finally took the day to drive to the JCrew store in Toronto where I lost my mind and bought some plaid pants.

I made a Vegetarian Thanksgiving Feast and it was so delicious that I might repeat the whole thing for Christmas.

I fell down some icy steps and hurt my knee which, granted, was not exciting but it has given me the excuse to sit around drinking wine and watching Leave It To Beaver Season 4.

Well first things first: my impressions of JCrew's Toronto store.

I had never even visited Yorkdale before, and being an early adapter of online shopping I've been sourcing jcrew.com for years.

You'd think then that I would have been first in line on opening day at the Yorkdale JCrew but laziness rules me as well as an aversion to actual, as opposed to virtual, shopping centres.

I had a fairly stressful drive in, a 55 minute drive took an hour and a half thanks to the incredibly busy 401. We always have traffic driving into the city.

I arrived at Yorkdale where I was to meet up with my friend Ade but I was a bit early. I walked by JCrew and didn't even go in as I was too dazzled: the store is huge! It's a beautiful store which seemingly had 3 layers of rooms going on into wonderful infinity, all spotlit and gorgeous.

So I went to Holt Renfrew to buy some Christmas gifts and then went back to JCrew when Ade called me on my cell.

We approached shopping the store in a clockwise motion which was not my idea but Ade's. It's a good thing she was with me as otherwise I would have been shopping like a spazz.
I was inexplicably drawn to these plaid trousers.

We started grabbing items and a lovely sales associate set up dressing rooms for us right next to each other which is a good thing as Ade and I don't stop talking for one second when we are together.

We had a blast! The staff was absolutely lovely, bright-eyed, polite, happy. I was very impressed.

The store itself, though completely crowded with people pawing through everything, was incredibly neat and tidy with wonderful displays. It was like a dream come true.

Now I know you are wondering what I purchased!
Well I went crazy for the shoes. These red pumps, above are the Mona Pumps in brick red and they are lovely in person.

On the floor to the side you can see the Valentina Pumps in the patent leopard, these are the ones that I brought home with me as they were a more practical choice.

I limited myself to 3 items though I could have bought 12.

The 25% promotion was on which is terrific for buying things like cashmere tee's which don't typically go to sale until very late in the winter. So I bought one in black which I need for some outfits I'm planning, I bought the Valentina pumps (they are very comfortable as well as fetching) and I bought these crazy plaid pants.

Now that I'm home I'm not so sure about them and I think I'll be venturing back to Yorkdale to make a return next week.

They are a very nostalgic piece of clothing in my opinion. They give me a cozy feeling of family Christmas and gingerbread cookies. I think they look best with heels and a plain black sweater.

You have to tell me what you think of them!

I have some photos of yesterday's Vegetarian Thanksgiving Feast.
Roasted chestnuts, which I buy vacuum packed, played a huge role.
I paired them with brussel sprouts,
and crumbled them into a bread, onion and parsley stuffing.
I sliced up some goat cheese and breaded it, then fried it in olive oil to serve over Nigella's lentil and walnut salad.
I added sun-dried tomatoes to the salad which was a good move.
I made a cranberry dressing with lots of brandy. Doesn't it look so shiny, like candy? It went well with the warm goat cheese.
I set the table with my gold-rimmed china on an old Williams Sonoma tablecloth.
Last but perhaps the favorite of all gathered: an apricot trifle from Nigella's book Feast.

The apricots are boiled in a sugar syrup with cardamom pods, then layered with sliced Panetonne, the Italian Christmas cake, then topped with a mixture of greek yogurt and whipped cream. The whole thing is then drizzled with honey and topped with toasted, sliced almonds.

I don't think one person missed the turkey and we were all so full we practically rolled away from the table.

You can understand that it was not a good week for a knee injury as the calories have been high. I must go and try to burn some of them off regardless of a bum knee!

How was your Thanksgiving? Are my pants bonkers? Are you shopping Black Friday today?

Tell all!

Heather Acorn

2011-11-24T07:23:00.003-05:00

When I was a little girl my most favorite book was an illustrated story called Miss Suzy.

Miss Suzy was a brown squirrel who lived in her own little neat house on top of an old oak tree, she baked acorn cakes and drank tea from acorn cups. I think she was the inspiration for my domestic life.

So I've always been partial to acorns and I like collecting them in them in the woods too, if I was craftier I'd make things out of them but really I just like looking at them.

This skirt in "heather acorn" has been one of my best pieces this fall.

It is JCrew's No. 2 pencil skirt, it's easy to wear, looks great with black and I most especially love the way it looks with my Paris Scarf.
I wore this outfit yesterday when I visited with my friend Ade. We met in Paris when we were both trapped there thanks to the Icelandic volcano! She is Irish but has lived in Canada for many years, she's so much fun and we had a ball visiting the Toronto JCrew store, more on that visit to come.

I wonder how many of you are sliding a turkey in the oven today?

I hope you have an excellent fun Thanksgiving with lots of good visiting and things to eat.

I am hosting a vegetarian Thanksgiving today and though MrBP has to work he's promised to come home at 4:00 so we can watch the football together.

Have a great day all of you!

Room Service

2011-11-22T06:55:00.003-05:00

Do we not love room service?

I've been away on a mini-break with MrBP and my little daughter, and one of our highlights was the room service breakfast.

I like it because I don't have to do anything. I enjoy filling out the card, hanging it on the door, waking up to a lovely knock and watching the white table rolling in the room.

There is a pretty ceremony to the whole thing and even the small pots of jam are charming.

You can see our entire experience was accessorized with a yellow rose which was quite fitting I thought.

We had such a large breakfast that we skipped lunch until much later in the day, and that was fine as we were busy at the museum and watching the Santa Claus parade.

I did have a delicious lunch of a Winter Kale Salad.
I must try to copy this recipe as it was divine. You can see that it was healthy too.

It was on the vegan menu and loaded with walnuts, gorgeous sultana raisins, sun-dried tomatoes, apples, and the whole thing drenched in some kind of lemon-tahini salad dressing.

I've been working on wearing a plaid flannel shirt with my skirts and things.

Tabitha wants to wear plaid shirts too but we both agree that the days of Grunge are over.
How to wear one with a wool skirt and heels?

I haven't quite got it figured though obviously, as with all things, fit is key.

I'll keep you posted there.

One outfit I have figured out is my wool flannel shirt-dress from Lands End that cost $29.
I love that it is unlined because I can then wear a real silk slip underneath. The grump in me is railing against any sort of polyester lining these days.

You know my leopard belt, she's popular around here.

I'm busy with more de-cluttering and trying to clear my desk so that I can focus on the pre-Christmas fun bits like decorating and baking.

I hope you are a having a fun week. Have you noticed retailers are going bonkers with the sales? I think they know that money is tight this year, they are trying to be first to clear our pockets!

I bought a few gifts on sale last week and for the rest I am stepping back and waiting.

How about you?

Flannel Lining

2011-11-18T14:06:00.004-05:00

Well the idea of a flannel lining in a pair of pants is just cozy perfection.

As you know from my constant complaining I do live in Canada and baby, it's cold up here.

Years ago I owned two pairs of flannel lined pants from JCrew and I absolutely loved them.

Once I started doing Classical Stretch I lost the baby weight from my midsection and my flannel lined pants were donated to charity.

Oh I've missed them so!

So you can imagine my delight when JCrew re-issued their flannel lined chino for women. I ordered them up straightaway even though I thought that they would probably not end up working for my figure. I just don't seem to get along well with trousers these days.

So you can see them on me and I know I'm not tripping the light fantastic in them, but gosh I like them so much.

I say "gosh" for two reasons: one, I've been watching lots of Leave it to Beaver lately on dvd from the library, with my younger daughter of course. That show is hilarious.

Two, these pants have a real 1950's feel to me, especially with a black turtleneck, a plaid scarf and of course some flat shoes.
I tried these pants on and then there was no way I was wearing anything else. I was scheduled for my walk with Christopher and I was pleased as punch to be wearing these pants: as we walked a snowstorm started and these pants kept me very warm.
You can see that I paired the plaid with an argyle sock (from Ralph Lauren, the men's section) and my Sperry loafers.

As far as fit goes, I took my regular size 2 in JCrew bottoms and though the waist gapes a bit there is no need for an alteration, unlike most other pants these days.

You can see the Waverly Flannel Lined Chino right HERE.

Hey, it's the weekend and I hope yours is real swell.

Have fun and be as good as you can!

xoDani

Clea Dress

2011-11-17T15:42:00.008-05:00

Here we have a festive green wool dress, the Clea in "vermont pine".

See it here.

I love a pretty green dress. I have one from Brora in a cotton/wool that is fully lined in silk. It has long sleeves and I wear it quite a bit in the winter.

It is a bit casual however so I thought I'd try this dress as it is more of a "suiting" dress. It could be worn to a family party, out to dinner, and certainly in an office environment.
I really like the cut of the dress.

The neckline is very nice, I would even say demure.

The color is a lovely dark green with blue undertones.
I like the thicker waistband and the pleats that fall from it, shaping the skirt.
I like the length and the ease through the hips. I have a small waist in comparison to my bottom yet there was plenty of freedom of movement throughout the hip area: comfortable for sitting.
I did, however, find the fabric terribly itchy.

The wool has a 6% nylon content and is quite thick. I was pleasantly surprised when I took the dress from its wrapping.

However as soon as I started to put it on I knew there was going to be a problem.

(I should note that I am not overly sensitive to wool, I have turtlenecks in merino wool that I wear all of the time.)

The dress is lined in a thin polyester and I could feel the wool through the polyester.

There is also a band of wool inside the neckline that is not lined and so chafes directly against the skin, see below.
I returned this dress but I would be curious to know how others find the fabric!

I did buy a bangle bracelet that I am quite delighted with.

It is the Golden Stripe Bracelet and you can see it here.
It is not an heirloom, it is put together with elastic string.

It is cheap and cheerful to be certain, but sometimes a little shot of that is okay.

Gigi likes it too and she stacked hers! Have a look here.

How do you like the Clea dress?

Have you tried it on? Do you plan to?

Oliver's Monsters

2011-11-16T10:53:00.011-05:00

I went to a very special art opening last week with my youngest daughter.

Oliver is one of my daughter's oldest friends. They've known each other since birth as Oliver's Mum and I are longtime best friends.

Oliver's Mum is on friendly terms with a needle and wool, so when the monsters under Oliver's bed started ruining his sleep she took matters very much into her own hands.
She made his Monsters.

She didn't have to rely on mere verbal description for Oliver is a talented artist and often drew pictures of his Monsters.

Some of them are very scary and they do have the most horrible names: meet Sqnigial Alan!
He's even scarier in full color. You can practically hear his shrieking.
This next one is, I think, the absolute most frightening: Catheren Babysue!!
Look at her horrible teeth and pounding fists!
The great thing is, now that Oliver's Monsters are real wool monsters they don't get to live under the bed anymore.

He can shove them in a corner or lock them in a cupboard!
I'd stuff this one into the bottom of my sock drawer if I were Oliver.
Okay get ready because this one seems to have a powerful orange weapon in one hand and some sort of awful green bludgeoning thing in the other.
You can see that Oliver's Mum took those weapons straight away and I think that was a smart move.
I've been thinking of asking for my own Monster. I know just what it looks like and I may have to get that down on paper.
Then I can lock mine up whenever I want to, just like Oliver.
What does your Monster look like?

A Treat From Brora

2011-11-14T16:08:00.007-05:00

Brora is offering some nice holiday promotions this year and I should know, I've been keeping a careful eye on things. I have some gorgeous items coming for MrBP as well as a couple of basics for myself and of course some gifts for my 16yo daughter who loves Brora.

Currently they are offering 5GBP deducted from international delivery which eases the pain as well as a nice promotion offering a pair of cashmere gloves or wrist-warmers with the purchase of a jacket or coat. To view the details of the promotion go HERE.

I love my coats from Brora. I have a long tweed which is my basic everyday coat and I also have a wooly dark gray peacoat with a gorgeous collar, a coat that looks wonderful with skirts.

Their coats are lined with either silk or beautiful Liberty cottons, made in England with fine tailoring and details. They are coats to wear for a lifetime and then pass on, well worth the money invested in my opinion.
I love this periwinkle dogtooth wool, below.
A military style coat looks sharp and slim.
This Harris Tweed coat is very similar to the one I own from a previous season. Mine stands up to rain or snow, it seems indestructible.
This mohair coat with pure silk lining is both luxurious and classic.
It would be smart over a pencil skirt or trousers, a lovely light yet warm layer.

What would be your top pick out of these Brora coats?

The Frocks Return

2011-11-14T10:29:00.005-05:00

Well I've been quite busy trying to incorporate trousers into my wardrobe but alas it is hopeless.

I buy, I try, I return. With the exception of my Foundry Pants from JCrew which I like to wear on a real heavy housework day with a black turtleneck and loafers, well, it is all frocks for me. That is my nature and I give up trying to fight it as I am exhausted with trying on trousers!

(Of course I am still holding out hope for flannel lined khakis, the possible cold-weather replacement for my Foundry Pants. I'll let you know how that one turns out.)

I have been enjoying some window shopping with the onslaught of fresh holiday clothes from my favorite retailers, but I am truly rejoicing in some older frocks which I purchased pre-owned and which hold all of the qualities I am looking for in a garment, qualities often lacking these days.

This silk charmeuse snow leopard dress is a terrific example.

The silk charmeuse has that cool weight that feels glorious on the skin, it is unlined yet heavy enough that a slip is not a necessity.

It is the kind of versatile dress that can be worn on its own with some heels and a sash belt, or as above with a slim wool turtleneck, wide leather belt, opaque tights and low boots.

The dress was released for Holiday 2008 by JCrew.

I love natural fabrics and a pure silk dress is increasingly difficult to find at a reasonable price. I bought my snow leopard dress on ebay and look here's another one available!
Those of us who are fans of JCrew's past offerings can be found perusing the Great Weekly Exchange on Mondays. To see for yourself visit the JCA site right here.

Yes that's where I found my Twinkle Tweed Dress, and of course the name alone is good for a cheer-up.

The pure and soft silk lining is also cheering, comfortable, even luxurious to wear.
I wore it this weekend with a Brora cardigan in sand.
The tweed has bits of sequins dappled throughout that just barely catch the light, it is very subtle, making the dress wearable at all times of day.

This dress was released in the Fall of 2008. Yes the frocks return!

Are you a fan of buying pre-owned?

A Skirt is Judged

2011-11-13T07:39:00.003-05:00

I think something like a Two-Toned Circle Skirt is just the sort of romantic item I would love to wear. In a heavy wool and of neutral colors it is a basic that somehow feels dressed up and somehow nostalgic.

You can see it here.

Slastena reviews it today right HERE.

Gigi reviews it HERE.

Well though it was given the thumbs down in my household (first by my 9yo daughter, who is hiding, above, behind the skirt while repeating I really don't like this outfit) I have to say that my mind was made up as soon as I took it out of the package.

The fabric is a blend and the lining is an acetate. For the same amount of money I could buy a pure wool skirt from Brora with a full silk lining, made in England. You can visit Brora right HERE.

I had an idea that I would wear it with a stripey thermal shirt from JCrew to give it a warm yet casual feeling.

I didn't love them together.
So I tried it with a slim black turtleneck.

Then MrBP, home on a Saturday, came in and said I don't like that skirt it looks pieced together in a weird way.

Well MrBP always likes everything so that really decides it.

How do you like this skirt?

I hope you are having a great weekend. I've got some weekend outfits lined up for a post tomorrow, including an older JCrew item I bought pre-owned that is everything a Collection item should be (yes silk lining!)

Have a wonderful Sunday.

Holiday Picks

2011-11-10T07:21:00.005-05:00

Well the Holiday Goodies are starting to fly at us now, and I for one am ecstatic to see the return of the flannel lined chino.

During winter's icy reign it pays to channel one's inner prepster if it means a lounge in these cozy cuffed khaki pants.

I'll be wearing mine with a black cashmere turtleneck sweater and my Quoddy boots.

When I'm buying clothes for winter I am trying to apply a new litmus test: what do I want to wear whilst scraping the ice from the car? I know, it's a good one.

You can see my flannel lined chino pants HERE.

They are 25% off today with free shipping thrown in.
Continuing along the theme of ice scraping, or perhaps even snow-shoveling, let's look at a new puffer. I'll tell you what got me, yes that's right it was the dark brown shearling collar on the navy waterproof cotton and nylon fabric. Big pockets for keys and kleenex. A puffer that is not black. Square bits of quilting. The perfect length for in and out of the car. You can see it HERE.
How about a smart dress in wool flannel with adorable bracelet length sleeves?

The product description gives it a side zip yet the product photo shows a back zip. I know which one I prefer so I'm going with the photo.

I love the luxe dark green wool. You can see it HERE.

My last pick is a giant enamel bangle in a dark navy.
The only jewelry I've been wearing for months is my navy blue Timex watch. It would be sharp to trade that out for a giant bangle in the same tones for evening.

You can see the bangle HERE.

Tell me what you love from JCrew's Holiday roll-out!

Star Spangled

2011-11-09T06:45:00.004-05:00

Here is a color story inspired by a child's backpack: navy, orange, dark khaki, gold, glitter.

The "Wandering Star" backpack is part of a series of bags issued for little girls by JCrew, you can see them HERE.

A backpack like this is perfect for travel and it is just big enough to carry everything my 9yo and I might need on a trip: some cash, sunglasses, hat, scarf, lipstick, water bottle.

We can trade off carrying it.

I don't know about you but when I travel I prefer to lock most everything precious, paper-wise, into the hotel safe. I get MrBP to carry around the maps and guidebooks in his messenger bag. I prefer to be mostly hands free and if I do carry a handbag it must not be over the shoulder, if so I'll be limping and sore and it will all be downhill from there.

I am quite smitten with this entire range of star-stamped bags.
There is an adorable train case.
A sensible lunch bag.
A jewelry case: perfect for a bauble-mad child like my daughter!
A tote bag.
The largest offering is a little overnight case.
Something about this series really pleases me and gives me a nostalgic feeling that I have no basis for. It does seem to speak to a more civilized time of travel, of matching sets and days on the train.

When you were little did you have your own luggage set?

All The Pretty Horses

2011-11-07T06:57:00.003-05:00

I love a scarf with a nice animal graphic. This one in particular has always been a favorite.

It is several years old, from JCrew, and is a lovely thick silk twill.
The only problem is it's a little small.

If it were larger it could be rolled and tied properly around the neck. This is the way I wear it and you can see it is a little wee. When a scarf is too tiny it enters airline stewardess territory.

You know that a Hermes scarf has the proper dimensions for wearing in this way.

Bernadette and I have been obsessed with the idea of Hermes scarves. We talk about it all the time but then we realized that they cost a fortune!

Did you know that you can find them on ebay and even on etsy?

Do you think that's a smart way to buy one?

Along with my weeny though pretty scarf, this is an outfit I've been wearing constantly: navy and black.

The wool flair skirt in dark navy from JCrew, a wool turtleneck from JCrew 2009, black boots from Roots and a navy Timex.
Do you love Hermes scarves? Do you own one? Do you think they have the perfect dimension for the roll and tie 'round the neck?

Christopher's Greenhouse

2011-11-06T07:41:00.007-05:00

This little room is one of the most charming places I know.

Any visit to Christopher's house requires a detour downstairs to have a quick peek at the greenhouse. It is built into the far wall of the basement, with its windows almost set directly into the garden beyond.

Christopher is a Master Gardener and accomplished Architect of landscapes. He completes his drawings by hand and they are works of art in themselves. He is one of our best friends and he also designed our gardens. It took us three years to save the money to implement the design but it gives us so much pleasure to have a beautiful property, Christopher-Style.

On Thursday morning Christopher allowed me to take some pictures of this exquisite yet hard-working space.

The top photo highlights two of his tools: a fine soil sieve and some scissors for clipping.
There are sturdy wooden shelves built to store his many terracotta pots. A Christopher tip: line sheets of newspaper between your pots so that they won't stick together.
The Christmas cactus is blooming and while the old Christmas lights add a decorative accent they also serve a purpose: a heat source for the plants when the sun sets.
Christopher is spending the day today planting the bulbs he'll be forcing in time for the holidays.
There are some old copper pots hanging and ready to do their duty: watering the plants with water saved from the de-humidifier stationed in a damp area of the basement.
This is a technique that Christopher swears by: the water is pure and without the chlorine from the tap, better for the plants.

Christopher stores the water in giant garbage cans that he has tricked out with wheels on the bottom.
Then he simply dips his pots in and waters away.
I should have counted the plants but it seems to me there are 100 or so!
You can see a little heater tucked away in the corner.
Some decorative pots stand ready and waiting to be planted and then brought upstairs.
Christopher seems like he has come from another era and he seems to have all of the tools from that era as well. Nothing gadgety and plastic here, and every bit of wire and string is saved.
Here he demonstrates a wire get-up for hanging an orchid pot.
The watering can is at the ready to be filled for watering the plants throughout the house, again using the water saved from the de-humidifier.
A last view of the greenhouse in its entirety. You can see it has an excellent large work-space.

From here we quickly went outside to the potting shed adjacent to the garden.
Christopher's hydrangeas are hanging to dry.
This contraption, above, is a large soil sifter.
Various sticks and stakes are saved in an old nail keg.
A horseshoe is tucked away for luck.
Pots and saucers have just been brought in from the garden. Christopher will be lining these with paper and bringing them in to the warm greenhouse for the winter.

Notice the sprinkler hanging on the wall above!

We left the potting shed and went out on one of our walks. With the season winding down Christopher has more time to join me out for a stroll, and he is a most charming walking companion.
Tell me, do you have a greenhouse? If not, wouldn't you like one exactly like Christopher's?

Enjoy your Sunday.

xoDani