Queen Anne's Lace

Due affiliate disclosure

Annie recently graduated from The Art of Design.  She considered merchandising and buying during her studies, but apparel design was her dream career.

In the first six months after graduation, Annie was turned down by indie brands and major brands.  She was very upset but soon had an idea...

She would launch her own clothing line.

Annie adored lace fabric to work with because it is classic and relatively versatile - lace wedding gown with slight beading, lace blouse with jeans, lace blouse with a pencil skirt, lace blouse with dress pants, the options are endless.

Annie opted for the versatile look, especially blouses.

(Kiyonna.com)

Annie sketched and handmade every style - formal, casual, slimmer size, plus size.

With samples on hand, Annie considered returning to the indie brands and major brands.  She also considered going to the corporate end of major retail.  Her request was to have her independent label sold in stores.

All were now impressed by her designs.  All agreed to sell her work as an independent label.

"What is your brand name?" all asked.

She hadn't considered that yet.

Let's see...

Annie by Design - No

Annie's Boutique - No

Annie Style - Definitely no

She was born under the name Anne, but family and friends called her Annie.  Anne though.  Lace.  She adored royal trends.  

Queen Anne's Lace!  Yes.

"My brand name is Queen Anne's Lace."

Within one year of concept to production to sales, Queen Anne's Lace was a national name and must have among customers.

Couture Tales Highlight : Part 1

Blogger favorite

My favorite post to date is split - London Style and Paris Style.

I chose to write about London and Paris fashion for two reasons - Stella & Dot has satellite offices in London and Paris (London is the European HQ for Stella & Dot) and secondly my passion for both locations.

Paris is the fashion capitol of the world.  Milan and London are a close second with equally profound input on current fashion trends.

New York City is the fashion capitol of the United States with fashion trend impact throughout the country and with certain input worldwide.

Current London fashion is timeless and modern all at once.  Perhaps my most favorite look is the Los Feliz Lila Mini Crossbody and Carrie Houndstooth Check Coat.  The styles are classic and define London.

Current Paris fashion is unique and would certainly make a statement at fashion week.  I am intrigued by the short shearling coat, skinny jeans, and booties look - rather fashion forward.  The military coat and kitten-heel booties are another intrigue.  I would never guess the two being a fashion pair.  I find Parisian style to be bold and daring...testing what could be and proving what it is.

Which would be your favorite?

Leave a comment to let me know!

Designer Style

Due affliliate disclosure

Catherine was an independent fashion designer with a strong entrepreneurial mindset.  She was best known - by her family and friends - for her handbags of all types, especially tote bags.

Catherine was always in design mode, sketching and hand crafting.  She never gave herself a break to find a way to actually sell her work.  Until one gorgeous, sunny, crisp Saturday...

She claimed a booth at a local arts and crafts fair.  The table was filled with her personally favorite creations.  The tent covering the booth was filled with other styles and excess inventory in the event a particular style sells out.

Comment after comment.  Interest after interest.  But nothing...yet.

"These handbags are amazing!  I'm guessing you designed them yourself?"

"Yep!  From sketch to handmade...all me," Catherine said with a beaming smile.

"Hmm."

Catherine hesitated for a moment.  Was this person going to pass as well?

"You know, a good friend of mine is a buyer at OFF - a retail boutique exclusive to New York.  We are in Evanston, though.  Anyway, she is always interested in considering new designers.  She would love your work.  Do you have a business card?"

"Um...Oh yes!  Here you go," Catherine was briefly embarrassed to know that her business cards were tucked away from visual sight.

"I see your name is Catherine.  Hello to you, then.  My name is Elle.  Do you mind if I make a purchase?  I would love to show my friend one of your designs."

"Absolutely!"

Elle bought a tote bag, tucked Catherine's business card in her wallet, thanked her, and left.

Catherine screamed with joy in her head.  OFF was a huge retail boutique exclusive to New York.  Designers around the country were eager to be a coveted feature.

One month later, Catherine felt blue.  Why was she not receiving a response?  And then...

Ring.  Ring.  Ring.  Her cell phone!

"Hello?"

"Hi Catherine.  This is Elle.  I am so sorry to keep you waiting this past month.  Fashion is always busy.  Listen, I spoke to the buying department at OFF and they love your designs.  They want to sell your handbags at a generous retail cost.  What are your thoughts?"

Catherine raised her jaw from the metaphorical floor and nervously said,

"Absolutely."

"Great!  I will arrange shipping to get the handbags to our warehouse.  From there, marketing will take over to get presentation in the Winter line.

"Congratulations, Catherine.  You are now a professional designer.  Welcome to OFF."

Metropolitan Fan Favorite

Due affiliate disclosure

#STELLADOTSTYLE on the Street

Paris France - Stella & Dot Region

Paris Style is, by a close call, the metropolitan fan favorite.

Paris Style recap samples from the fashion capitol of the world -

Author's Note : Online Shopping Perks

Due affiliate disclosure

Why shop online?

The main reason is staying home.

Let's narrow down shopping online - Kiyonna and Stella & Dot.

Kiyonna
Stylish Plus Size Clothing at www.Kiyonna.com!

Women are pressured by society to be a certain size.  Fashion week models do not exactly help the cause for women of any size to look and feel their best, feel the most confident, and feel the most secure.  I am a plus size - size 16 jeans and 3X tops.  I would like to lose weight and lower my sizes, but for now I am okay.

So why shop Kiyonna online?  If I were to shop in person, I might feel nervous to go straight to the plus size section as though I did not want anyone to know.  Yet Kiyonna has so much to offer, clothing can still be viewed up close, and there is no shame ever in shopping for plus size clothing.  The tops, bottoms, and dresses range in the same retail cost as in-person.  The apparel is on trend and, as the link states above, very stylish.  The variety is likewise phenomenal, from style to occasion to types of fabric.  Kiyonna is simply a must when shopping online.

Stella & Dot
Stella & Dot jewelry

As the link states above, Stella & Dot is foremost defined by fashion jewelry - necklaces of all styles, bracelets of all styles, earrings of all styles, and rings.  Yet there is something intriguing about Stella & Dot...products offered are beyond just jewelry.  Stella & Dot has a clothing line, versatile bag styles, and connections with major designers such as Rebecca Minkoff.

The price range on Stella & Dot is the same as retail in-person.

So why shop Stella & Dot?  The jewelry, the clothing, the accessories, the major connections, and so much more yes.  However, when you shop Stella & Dot, you are supporting budding entrepreneurs hoping Stella & Dot will be thee career.

And so I conclude today's Author's Note.  There are definite perks to shopping online, from Kiyonna plus to Stella & Dot luxe.  If I spark interest, explore and enjoy!

Wedding Story Fan Favorite

Due affiliate disclosure

Spring Blossom is the wedding story fan favorite by a landslide.

The Spring Blossom wedding gown, then, is the fan favorite.

Poised Peplum Wedding Gown

Bridal Boutique at Kiyonna.com!

The Poised Peplum Wedding Gown is exclusive in women's plus sizes.

Cost: $288.00*

Made in the USA

*Cost comparison - The majority of plus size bridal gowns at David's Bridal are well above what Kiyonna offers, while only a brief few match or are less than the Kiyonna Poised Peplum Wedding Gown.  Kleinfeld is an upscale bridal salon in New York City with prices to match the couture experience.

My take away -

I am a plus size - 3X tops and size 16 jeans.  I do not have a boyfriend.  I have never been in love.  I have never been proposed to.  I have never been engaged.  I have never walked down the aisle as a bride or as a bridesmaid.  However, if any of this was not true, the Poised Peplum Wedding Gown would be a must for fabric and style alone.

And as for the jewelry...

Charlotte Pendant Set - Deep Navy

Shop the look with Stella & Dot here!

I chose the Stella & Dot Charlotte Pendant Set - Deep Navy to match the Poised Peplum Wedding Gown as a classic and elegant look.  Fashion and jewelry simply go together...especially on a bride's wedding day.

(Side note : Stella & Dot jewelry is designed and manufactured in the U.S.)

Author's Brief : Cool Shades

Due affiliate disclosure

Cents of Style Feature - Trendy & Affordable Accessories

Winter Wonderland

Due affiliate disclosure

Monroe Statement Necklace

Stella & Dot

Michael and Nina met in the month of January two years ago.  Their first date led to a second shortly after and every following date snowballed into a committed relationship.  In their first year as boyfriend and girlfriend, they took their time on an emotional and intellectual level to really know one another.  In December of the their first year together, they knew they were meant to be and were very much in love.  Michael, then, took this cue to propose to Nina.  She ecstatically said yes.

In their second year together, now engaged, there was so much to plan and agree upon.  Michael once proposed in a long ago previous relationship that was turned down before she could see the ring.  Therefore, he opted for a simple wedding.  She, on the other hand, wanted a formal wedding...but not necessarily black tie.  They both wanted a church wedding.  Details after that went back and forth.  Now, though, there were two considerations - one they both needed to agree on and one only she needed to decide.

The date was not yet set, but the month was - January.

The dress.  She could not decide because there were so many options she explored in every bridal salon she went to.  There was one, though, that caught her attention after her exhaustive search -

Kiyonna.com

In this moment, she was more in love with the gown than with Michael.  This was it.  This was the one.  Pure perfection.  She could now see herself as a bride and the month of January was around the corner...as was their decided date.

The day before the wedding presented a slight problem...

A blizzard.

All of the guests called in to say they were unable to attend with the same reason - they were snowed in.  The minister, however, was still available.  

"Gosh, Michael.  Such a winter wonderland outside.  But there is just no way we can get to the church.  I mean, we'll need to be in our wedding attire before we get there.  What do you think?"

The day of...

The power of the blizzard slowed to a standstill.  The sky was richly overcast.  The pavement was deeply covered in beautifully fresh white snow.

"Let's do it."

She smiled and said,

"Okay."

He was so handsome in his couture suit and tie.  He chose not to wear a winter coat.

She was breathtaking in her perfect wedding gown.  She chose not to wear a winter coat.

They and the minister were able to reach the church but stood just outside as the steps leading to the inside were too covered to walk through.

They held hand in hand and kissed sweetly after "I do" and "I now pronounce you husband and wife."

Their theme song with every following wedding anniversary was Let It Snow!  Let It Snow!  Let It Snow!

Summer in May

Due affiliate disclosure

May is always the "start" of summer...high school and college graduations, warmer temperatures, the launch of grilling season, and so many more reasons why May should launch the summer season.

Every season - Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall - has one major retail sale dedicated to the given season.

In this post, I thought I would once again share the Stella & Dot Summer Sale.

Stella & Dot

Love jewelry duos?

Check out the Simple Knot Collar ($21.99) & Simple Knot Hoops ($22.99).
(The Simple Knot Collar in Silver is $36.99.)

Love accessories?

Check out the Hideaway Pouch - Navy Stripe ($22.99).
Consider the Chelsea Bag - Saddle/Black ($43.99).

Love trendy jewelry?

Check out the Fringe Tassel Earrings - Gold ($21.99) or the Gita Tassel Earrings - Black ($30.99).

Love geometric jewelry?

Check out the Pave Rectangle Cuff - Gold ($28.99).
(The Pave Rectangle Cuff also comes in Rose Gold in the same sale price.)

Love charms?
I do!  I recently purchased the Leather Tassel Bag Charm.  Sale cost - $12.99.  The original cost - $44.00.

Can I go on?  I would, but then the fun of exploring the Sale section on Stella & Dot (see the website link above) wouldn't be as enjoyable.

Did I mention 71 new amazing arrivals?  Nope.  Why?  Explore and enjoy!

Make today your day to just have fun and perhaps treat yourself to something special at any price you can afford.  Budget-friendly is an awesome perk to shopping Stella & Dot.

Have a great day!

Author's Brief : Stella & Dot Summer Sale

Due Affiliate Disclosure

An exciting announcement...

Stella & Dot is launching the summer season with a massive summer sale!

50% off + New Arrivals Added

Why shop Stella & Dot?

- Fashion Jewelry & Fine Jewelry - classic styles and one of a kind styles
- Bags - Totes, Clutches, Wallets, Covet...and so many more styles
- Accessories - Sunglasses, Scarves, Hats...and so many more styles
- Collections - Iconic in one word
- Clothing - Tops, dresses...and so many more styles

Stella & Dot is a luxury boutique for the everyday woman.  Anything she wants, she can find.  The ultimate fashion destination.

Shop the look with Stella & Dot here!

50th Anniversary - The Key

Due Affiliate Disclosure

In their first year of marriage, wedded bliss was rocky with daily heated arguments, weekly threats for divorce, brutal contest over custody of their newly adopted Golden Retriever puppy, and eventually him often staying with a friend rather than in their newly purchased home.

One week to the day before their first wedding anniversary, she found her wedding gown tucked away in their master bedroom closet.  She wiped away slowing tears and looked to her dress.  She put it on and sorrowfully admired herself in the bedroom's standing mirror.  She remembered how excited she felt when she saw the custom designed gown, how peacefully happy she felt when she put it on, and how perfectly okay she felt when she paid the exceptional price tag cost.  She was a bride then and her supremely positive emotions could not be put into words.  She looked at herself now and devastating emotions could not be put into words...until her husband surprised her.

He spoke lovingly and sincerely.  He wanted a second chance at their marriage.  

She said yes before he could ask.

They renewed their vows to renew their life meant to spend together forever.

On this Saturday, fifty years later, her anniversary gift to him was a letter in words that best described her emotions.

My loving husband,

My life before you was without meaning.  I lived day to day and simply got by.  Exciting moments were understated.  Special moments were understated.  Mundane would be the best word to describe my inner emotions before you.  Content happiness, these two words combined into one emotion, best expresses how I feel now...not the literal now, but where we are now, with our life together in the present and lasting forever.  I promised to you love and honored devotion 'til death do us part.  In our first year of marriage, I feared parting ways.  My life with you has true meaning.  Exciting moments are exciting.  Special moments are special.  Mundane is no longer a descriptive word for me.  On this day, our 50th wedding anniversary, I maintain my promise to love and honor you 'til death do us part.  My vow to you will last always.  I love you.

On this Saturday, fifty years later, his anniversary gift to her was a key.  A key to her heart...a lovely token of his forever feelings for her.  The key, however, was a copy he once made to their house purchased in their first year of marriage.  The key was to their home...where every positively charged emotion, moment and event occurred.  The key to her heart would never, ever break.  The key to their home would never, ever break.

My loving wife,

The key I bestow to you best defines how I feel.  My vow to you will last always.  I love you.

Their 50th anniversary was spent with their grown children and young grandchildren.  The gift from their family was a Golden Retriever puppy.  Their eldest child gave them a stumbled upon framed photo of their wedding ceremony.  Their youngest child gave them a stumbled upon framed photo of their vow renewal.  Their middle child gave them a stumbled upon framed photo of their first Golden Retriever puppy.

On this day...love and devotion were words to describe fifty years.

Author's Note : Cents of Style Affiliate Partnership

Due Affiliate Disclosure

I am partnering with a second fashion retailer - Cents of Style.

Cents of Style is a classic yet modern fashion apparel and accessories company for women at affordable prices.

Sample affiliate looks include -

Valentine's Day

"I feel blue," Gina said sorrowfully.  She fought to hold back her tears while talking on the phone to her best friend, Desiree.

"Today is meant for love, not heartbreak," Gina said, now engulfed in a flood of tears.

"I can sympathize with you, Gina.  My boyfriend broke up with me the day before Valentine's Day one year ago.  I cannot help  but feel sad sometimes for my loss, especially today.  I am so sorry for you to lose your boyfriend especially today being Valentine's Day.  You two were the perfect couple and he truly seemed to be the one.  I cannot imagine what went wrong for him to leave you on this particular day.

"Hey, a few friends of mine from work and I are going to Jack's Pub tonight.  Do you want to come along?" asked Desiree.

"Oh gosh, Des.  I think I just want to stay home."

Gina generally got her way when making decisions, so Desiree did not argue her want.

"Okay.  I understand.  If you change your mind, though, I'll be at Jack's Pub."

"Okay," Gina said in sniffles.

Come on, Gina, you were too good for him, she thought to herself as she wiped away tears and threw away another Kleenex tissue.

Okay, I'll go to Jack's Pub, she thought to herself in firm affirmation.

She skimmed through her closet and found the dress she wore on her first date with him - a black background with flower-pattern T-shirt dress with black slip-on shoes.  They were friends before he formally asked her out and he always said, "you look adorable," in every outfit she wore.  On their first official date, then, she wanted to look adorable.  "You look adorable" always made her feel special and happy.  She considered wearing the outfit tonight if only because she did like the dress.  If she added her favorite black wash jean jacket, wearing the outfit would not seem so sad.  Okay.  She was set and ready to go.

As she opened her apartment door to head out, she looked down to find a trail of red rose petals.  She looked up to find no one.  She was confused and a bit scared.

She carefully walked to the apartment building's elevator down to the first floor from her fifth.  As she approached her car in the parking lot, she heard "The Way You Look Tonight" a short distance away.  "The Way You Look Tonight" was their song.  The time was early in the evening and the sky was not fully black yet, so she did not want to be spooked in darkness.

"You look adorable," spoken just behind her.

She turned around to find him down on one knee with an open engagement ring box.

What?

"Surprise!" shouted Desiree from across the parking lot.

What?

"Gina, I did not mean to break up with you.  When I walked away from you this morning, I realized that no other woman was as perfect for me as you are.  We are meant for each other.  You are my soulmate.  You are my best, best friend.  I love you so much.  Will you marry me?"

"Jim, I don't understand.  You broke my heart this morning and now you are proposing?  And why is Desiree here, shouting surprise?"

"He knows we are sisters at heart and so he asked for my approval."

"You knew about this all day and you didn't say a word, Desiree?""

"You know me, Gina.  I can keep a secret pretty darn well."

Gina hesitated to say anything to either of them.

In pure irony, the outfit she was wearing - on their first date so many years ago and now, being proposed to.  Was this outfit a sign of positive luck?

She slowly extended her left hand and, with happy tears, said,

"Yes."

Pencil In

"What is the status of the Bethany Foster pencil skirts?"

"The sky blue pencil skirt production and jet black pencil skirt production are complete and should arrive at the warehouse within the week."

"What about the charcoal grey pencil skirts?  They are the most in demand, Liza."

"Yes, I know boss.  They are currently in pre-production stage.  I can get sketches to you by the end of tomorrow if you would like."

"I do not want sketches, Liza.  I want charcoal grey pencil skirts in the warehouse as in yesterday."

"I - I - I don't know what to say.  I do not know why there is such a delay."

"Get Bethany on the phone."

1-555-0513

"This is Bethany Foster."

"Hi, Bethany.  This is Mark Peterson from Couture Suite.  I am calling in reference to the charcoal grey pencil skirt design you have.  Do you have an estimated time in when the design will go into production?  Charcoal grey is in the most demand I should add."

"Hi Mark.  Do you have my sky blue and jet black designs?"

"Yes."

"Good.  The charcoal grey is not slated until next year's Fall/Winter season.  I am not sure why the demand is for this Fall/Winter season.  Are you thinking of..."

"Oh my goodness, you're right.  You debut two colors at a time.  Liza, who am I thinking of?"

"Um, Eden Rose I think."

"Um is never an acceptable word in this office, but yes, Eden Rose is who I am thinking of.  I am so sorry to bother you, Bethany."

"No worries."

"Liza, pencil in a conference call with Eden Rose this afternoon at four o'clock.  She is in California during this season, so the three hour time difference shouldn't be a problem.  Stay on this call as well, Liza."

"On it boss."

Four o'clock

1-555-1925

"This is Eden Rose."

"Hi Eden.  This is Mark Peterson from Couture Suite.  I am calling in reference to the charcoal grey pencil skirt design you have.  Do you have an estimated time in which the design will go into production?  Charcoal grey is in the most demand I should add."

"My charcoal grey design.  My charcoal grey design..."

Shuffling of sketch pad papers.

"Oh!  Here it is.  Yes, the sketch is complete and I have forwarded it to the production team."

"Great.  When can we estimate a completion date?"

"I am sorry, but I cannot say.  I just forwarded the sketch this morning."

"Eden, you are killing me."

"I"m sorry, Mark.  I don't know how to relieve your stress.  I can send a rush production order, if that helps."

"Yes please.  Thank you for your time, Eden."

"You are more than welcome."

"Liza, let's pencil in a meeting with Marketing tomorrow morning at nine o'clock."

Tomorrow morning - nine o'clock

"Okay everyone.  The Bethany Foster sky blue pencil skirts and jet black pencil skirts will be in the warehouse by the end of the week.  They need to hit store displays next Monday.  As you know, she only debuts two colors at a time, so look books need to be on par with her style.  The charcoal grey pencil skirts are from Eden Rose, not Bethany Foster, and they unfortunately went into production yesterday...a huge problem for expecting customers.  Please, please tell me you guys haven't gone through promotional material."

Silence

"Oh no," he held his head low.

"We haven't published the materials yet, though."

"Really?!"

"Liza, pencil in a vendor lunch for today.  A sigh of relief is in order."

Rush production for the Eden Rose charcoal grey pencil skirt shipped sooner than expected, arrived at the warehouse sooner than expected, and hit store displays just as the Marketing department published promotional detail to announce to the public.

Relief behind the scenes.  Eager customers.  Major commissions for employees behind the registers with the charcoal grey pencil skirts selling fast.

"Liza, pencil in a Friday social.  We have something to celebrate."

"Yes boss."

Bebop

"We're gonna rock - around - the clock - tonight!"

"Ladies and gentlemen, let this year's Fifties theme dance off begin!"

Ladies on one side of the ballroom excitedly leaped up from their seats in fits of happy giggles.  Gentlemen on the other side of the ballroom dashed for their gals in eager shouts of joy.

Prim and proper.  Hyper and fun.  Always enjoy social perks.

They met on a blind date set up through  mutual friends and were encouraged to fall into a relationship with the approval of their parents.  At the end of their first date, he was a gentleman when taking her home.  He knew then, however, that she was the one to marry and love forever.  He was a gentleman to this day and always would be.  At the end of their first date, she expected him to follow social protocol.  She knew then, however, that he was the one and wrote in journal daily about how fondly she thought of him after every date and eventually into a relationship.

Tonight, then, would be rather special for the two.

The ladies giggled with joy.  The gentlemen roared joy.  The dance floor was filled with electric energy...

"I am having so much fun!  A new dress for this dance off special occasion with my best beau!"

"Six months strong, Lindy!  You look gorgeous and you are an amazing dancer, beyond the lessons we took!  Gosh, Lindy, I - I love you!"

"You what?"  She was thrown off guard.  She always doodled "I love you, my best beau" in her journal and secretly thought of saying how she felt first, despite social protocol.

The surroundings swirled in a blur.  Lindy's best beau, Johnny, was happily in love with his gal, but never told her how he felt.  He could never find the right time or the right setting.  He had the blessing of Lindy's mother and father, especially, to express his love to her and someday propose marriage.  Lindy was happily in love with Johnny and truly did want to tell him but could never find a way to do so while remaining womanly proper.  Perhaps now was in fact the best time and setting for the two to finally say "I love you."

The dance off was set in a Woolworth's grand opening-style background with jukebox playing non-stop as part of the 1950s theme.  To be certain, there was also a women's best dressed contest.

Lindy was the most favored.

Halter style, pink throughout and white polka dots, swing skirt...White leather pumps...White cashmere sweater jacket for the night's chill.

"Ladies!  The decision has been made!" A happy shout from the small panel of judges.

The gentlemen clapped for good luck for their gals and the ladies held hands for good luck for one another.

"All of you look beautiful, but after close debate, the best dressed lady is...Lindy Simpson!"

Cheers of congratulations filled the air.  There was no trophy, but the title meant more...including which couple would win the dance off.

One last round of dancing with Elvis Presley blasting in the background.

"We're gonna rock - around - the clock - tonight!"

"Ladies and gentlemen, we have a dance off winning couple!"

Hopeful shouts.  Couples tightly holding hands in the chance of winning.

"The first annual dance off winning couple is...Lindy and Johnny!"

Cheers of congratulations filled the air.  There was still no trophy, but their close hug meant more.

The two love birds excitedly returned to the bebop, officially declared their love for one another when both said "I love you," and kissed in public for the first time (well, outside her home type of public).

Swingin'

"Think Rosie the Riveter all glammed up."

"Oh gosh, Jimmy, a 1940s theme party?  Will we be reenacting the entire decade at this party?  Music, fashion? ..."

"Yes," Jimmy answered bluntly.

She chose not to hear what he said and continued on,

"I mean with regards to fashion, I've seen the dresses women wore back then.  They seem so boxy and form fitting.

"Swing music was very lively in the 1940s.  I am not the lively type, Jimmy..."

"Sure you are!" Jimmy eagerly interrupted.

She again chose not to hear what he said and continued on,

"...I am not one for swing jazz, let alone the social festivities that defined that era.

"Do you really think I could look 1940s glam and be 1940s social, especially when dancing?"

"Joan, I know you will look and feel great.  Take your hairdo for example - exactly the style worn back then...long and densely curled, pulled up and back held by bobby pins..."

Why does he know so much about women's hair styles, she thought curiously to herself.

"...I've also seen pictures of dresses women wore in the 1940s - cap sleeves, form fitting at the waist..."

"Jimmy, I am a plus size!  I will look horrible in anything form fitting!"

"Joan.  Joan.  Size never mattered then and will never matter now...never..."

She didn't want to believe him.  She knew she would be the only plus size woman at the party.  All of their female friends were at a minimum size six and a couple were a size zero.  She didn't want a boxy, form fitting dress accenting such an embarrassing figure.

"...The skirt half of the dresses I have seen seem fancy and airy at the same time.  They do not look boxy at all

"You do have a fantastic figure, Joan.  You are not plus size.  Show off your feminine curves!  You will look amazing on the dance floor!

"Swing to swing jazz!  You love to groove.  You are in fact the lively type, Joan!  Just have fun in musical history..."

He was struggling to persuade her.

"...Come on, Joan.  You did love studying the forties decade in college.  Live out what you learned!  Put into life what you only saw in your textbooks.

"So, huh, what do you think?" Jimmy pleaded because he was very eager to go to the theme party and show off his practiced swing skills.

She paused for a moment before replying.

"Rosie the Riveter all glammed up, huh?" Joan was hesitant in thought bud did remember how much she enjoyed studying iconic big bands and their contribution to United States society at a time of devastating turmoil.

Hmm.


Cue the drums...Cue the brass instrumentals...The 1940s energy brought to the 21st Century and certainly to last all night.

Cat's Meow

"Do the Charleston!  Do the Charleston!"

"It's the cat's meow!"

The Roaring Twenties...a decade of nonstop carefree fun for women.


Yes!  Excellent start to this post, first-time guest blogger, Sarah Adams, thought to herself...but what else?  Blogger's block.  She had a deadline to meet for this post, so a mental block could not have come at a worse time.  Stretch your imagination, Sarah thought to herself.

Let's see.  If I lived in the 1920s...


"We are strong!  We are independent!  We can vote!  We are proud women!"

"Suffrage!"

"We define our lives!"

"We are flappers!"

"We are Chanel girls!"

"We follow...No, we set the trends!"

Short skirts, freedom of choice in clothing overall, freedom of choice in use of makeup

Short bob hairstyle

Trendsetting haute couture

Fashion - smart and sophisticated, independent, very casual

Bold, daring, pushing the envelope for women in the 1920s...because they could.

Break the rules.  Own your feminism.

Show a little of this.  Show a little of that.  You are a woman.

No longer live under the man's rule.

Define your life under your terms.


Yeah!  Wait, where am I?

Once lost in thought, now back on track.  Blogger's block no longer.

For Sarah, daydreaming life in the Roaring Twenties was the perfect inspiration for her first guest blog post.

Red Carpet

January  - A new year.  New resolutions.  New chances.  Fresh start.

January - New chances.  New hopes.  Start the year in the best way possible with the awards season.

January - Her birthday month.  She was unknown for so many years.  Who is Charlotte Reese?  Her name was always last at the end of the film credits.  By that point, of course, most of the theater goers had already left.  All she ever knew was being a B-Lister with hit or miss role opportunities.  She aspired to the coveted A-list.  In this month of January, her luck might change.  On this cool January evening in Southern California, Charlotte Reese got a new chance and new hope by making her first appearance on the famous Hollywood red carpet as the presenter for best supporting actress.

She was so nervous!  Backtrack.  She did not have a personal stylist for one reason - She was a B-list actress throughout her entire career and always gone without notice.  This was frustrating and painful because acting was her greatest passion and want in life.  She sorrowfully considered giving up and leaving the state altogether...until a minor part in a now nominated film by a landslide caught the attention of highly regarded critics.  She now had outstanding offers coming in and full marketing coverage by a nationally recognized public relations firm.  She left her last agent to sign on with a major talent agency.  Present time.  She still did not have a personal stylist but had a wide selection of designers to choose from.  Charlotte Reese was an official A-Lister with this evening's red carpet appearance as official proof.

"Charlotte!  Charlotte!"

Celebrities went on a first name basis on the red carpet, but that fact was nonetheless surreal to her.

"Charlotte!"

She was encouraged to chat with a reporter.

"Charlotte, first of all congratulations on being here..."

"Thank you."

"...This is your first time on the red carpet.  How does this experience feel to you?  Are you nervous?"

"This experience is a whirlwind of emotions.  Pure happiness best sums up the feeling.  And honestly yes, I am nervous..."

Both lightly laughed.

"...But I am just honored to be here, so."

"Hollywood is honored to have you here.  Well, you look beautiful.  As you know, I have to ask."

Charlotte lightly laughed and knew how to answer -

"Julie Bent design.  She is new to high profile designing - not that I am high profile!  Anyway, the dress is inspired in two ways - 1920s flapper gal because I concentrated on that time in United States history in college, and and the category I am presenting.  One of the actresses is in a 1920s era movie.  Love both apparently."

The seasoned reporter happily laughed and briefly noted her opinion.

"Shimmering A-line gold fabric, gold sequins, and delicate straps.  Your dress and Julie Bent's creative design are certainly the ones to beat.  Have a great time, Charlotte."

"Thank you."

Reporter after reporter with the same commentary.  Her same response.  Always a thank you at the end.

Charlotte Reese was very thankful.

She truly was having a great time and admitted to herself that she could get used to Hollywood attention.

...& Glam

Their ten-month anniversary.

Rich, bold, statement, colorful glitz purchased.  Now to find the best outfit to match the luxury jewels - Glam.

She had deeper pockets with what she knew she wanted to wear - up to $250.

Some time ago, she was window shopping in the local mall if only to daydream someday inspiration.  She stopped in front of Luxe Boutique, her absolute most favorite (and most expensive apparel) shop in the mall.  Luxe Boutique lived up to its name - pure luxury with designers only the wealthy could buy.  She, however, was on an everyday budget.  One day, she found a must have outfit that she once fell in love with before but could not afford at the time - a plum colored, slip on silk couture dress.  The original asking price was $200.  The dress came with matching plum colored, suede low heels.  The original asking price was $100.

On this one day, when the must-have outfit may not be, she was happily surprised to find a half-off sale.  She casually strolled through the boutique to take in the experience of luxury, but
soon made her must have purchase.  With the sale, then, her discount meant she could save $150...perfect for complimentary makeup at the couture cosmetics department.

Glitz and glam up, their ten-month anniversary arrived.

"You are gorgeous, sweetheart."

"You are rather handsome yourself, my dear."

The clink of champagne glasses.

"Ten months already.  I am the luckiest man.  I love you so much."

"Ten months indeed and long-term certainly.  I love you, too."

A loving kiss.

Senior Year Special

"Yes!" exclaimed one lucky senior during mid-day study break.

"Quiet!" exclaimed a fellow senior during mid-day study break.

Mid-day study break during senior year was generally not taken seriously, especially at this time of year.  Textbook information for final exams was memorized long ago (although a few continued to study nonetheless), so the lucky senior's exclamation was overlooked.  (The other senior did not plan on taking in the senior year special.)

"I will," said another lucky senior during a lunch hour outing.

"Of course, I will," said a third lucky senior, caught off guard.

"Okay," said yet again another lucky senior in a rather unusual acceptance tone as the two parted ways in the seniors-only parking lot.

"Sure, why not," said another lucky senior as casually as possible because the two were merely friends and had only one class together this year (therefore the only chance to ask and accept).

Many seniors throughout Washington High School were either proposing or accepting.  This atmosphere for seniors was exceptionally palpable and looked forward to for quite some time and was seasonal - prom season.  Every senior girl looked forward to being asked to prom.

Prom, as the senior year special, was like a dream for the young men and young women.  The couples, in this moment, were meant to be and the proposals were akin to engagement to marriage.  Some couples were high school sweethearts since freshman year.  Some couples began dating at  the beginning of the year.  Some couples were best friends for some time and attending prom together just made sense.  Stray seniors here and there went to prom alone just to say they went to prom.

The dress code for the senior year special was exceptionally formal...as prom would be.  The young men were handsome as they wore polished bespoke tuxedos...much the way a groom would.  Young women were breathtaking in affordable couture gowns, affordable couture makeup and hair styling, and a silver-plated or gold-plated promise ring offered to them by their dates...somewhat like a bride.

The young men and women took dance lessons offered by the school's student affairs department.  Dance lessons were common for brides and grooms to be.

In the history of Washington High School, popular students went on weekend trips following prom.  These trips were very much a part of the prom experience.  These trips included young adult activities obvious to the seniors not appropriate for their age, but nonetheless part of the prom experience.  The trips, like the formal attire, were akin to bride and groom celebration with a honeymoon.

Senior year in Washington High School offered amazing perks, from designated parking to first period off and coming in late or last period off and leaving early to eating lunch out to shadowing a teacher in lieu of class to the cafeteria designated for study hall when not in lunchtime use to end of year senior class celebration bashes (school sponsored events, ditch day, time off after graduation ceremony preparation, day of choosing off after final exams).  Graduation would forever be the hallmark of hard work and perseverance leading to student success.

The senior year special, then, was the perfect cap to four long years.