Dress + Cape of Dreams

I recently had the, shall I say, EXPERIENCE, of wearing one too fabulous for words dress and cape by Chicago-born designer Peter Soronen. The dress, on loan to me, was purchased from Charlotte’s own, Capitol, at least 10 years ago. I really think I have never seen anything like it. Certainly I have never worn anything like it.

Dress: Peter Soronen c/o Pam Stowe from Capitol // Photo: Richard Israel // Hair and Makeup: Cali Stott

Boundaries, Booby Twaps, Controversial Accessories + My Home Photographed!

I've been working really hard on setting boundaries.  It's something I've been working on for a long time.  What sometimes seems like forever or can't you just learn?!  I swear, every time I get into one of those deep back and forth girlfriend therapy sessions when it's my turn, I hear "you really have to read this AMAZING book!"  Then I say, let me guess!  It's called Boundaries. It's all about...When To Say Yes, How To Say No To Take Control Of Your Life.  What a novel idea!  I have the disc version and need to put those babies in my car and listen when I'm ever alone.  But this week, I've been setting boundaries left and right.  Like they are freaking booby twaps.  And let me tell you, it feels really good. As Pastor Rick explains here, Fear Grows When We Refuse To Do What God Wants Us To Do. 

A big exciting THANK YOU to QC Exclusive Magazine for including me in their Arts & Culture issue now on stands. I had some amazing help pulling my home (and me) together all swank. You can read the article here.  Ariene at Dressing Room Interiors is so talented, and Cali Stott is magical for helping me feel pretty!

There's this article on Who What Wear about "The One (Controversial) Item In Fashion Everyone Is Wearing Right Now."  For the record, I feels strongly the reason these fab ladies can pull it off and look great is because the item is GUCCI. Anything less is a fail.  I'm saying simply it is because of the brand that it is acceptable. 

Makeup + Merlot

I love fashion.   I love me some clothes and putting together one of a kind looks.  I feel like I have a fairly good hold on this.  There is one thing with personal appearance and putting your best foot forward that I know I struggle with, however.  About Face.  While I gravitate toward a more natural, bare faced look, I wish I knew how to "do" makeup.  If I did, I could probably cover up the brown spots from sun damage.  I often think it would fun to be able to have an up-fitted look on my face that is befitting of my dress for a special night out on the town.

A makeup work shop.  With wine.  Now that's something I could use.  Bring in Cali Stott Hair & Makeup Artistry.  I've worked on several magazine projects with Cali...

Who wouldn't want to look like those girls?  But she did allow me to feel pretty darn close when I had updated marketing photos taken with the talent-that-cannot-be-touched Richard Israel. 

Now I just need to know how to do this on my own.  Le Sigh.  I am thankful to be able to call upon such a talented, wickedly witty friend as Cali when in need... which is every day... so at least she is there to rescue me on those special occasions.  Want to sharpen your makeup application skills?  Get more info HERE.  This makes for THE most fun get together with girlfriends.  Think about it for your next birthday party, shower gift or just a well earned treat to give to yourself and share with friends. 

House of Landor + March 30th Trunk Show

Happy Thursday(/Friday, depending when you read this) Y'all!  I just had to share this little video my friend Mary Beth sent over to me.  

You know how much I love good vintage, and as a result you likely know my equal fondness for my vintage dress dealer, House of Landor, Mary Beth's business.  I had some updated photos taken yesterday by Richard Israel, with Cali Stott on Hair and Makeup, and of course there was plenty of House of Landor in the fashion mix.

Lots of you came to the trunk show/all day long party my great friend Pam and I hosted back around Christmas. Laryn Adams brought her amaze-balls jewelry stash, and Hallie Eban sold out all of her designs with her new line, Piet Jac Designs.  For me, this entire day was a way to share my passion for great friendship and style with others.  Back by popular demand, we'll be hosting a spring show (On my 40th Gasp! Bring It!), and we'll also be adding gorgeous Arzberger Stationers to the mix.  I just picked up my new note cards for letter writing, and I couldn't be happier.  So class. 

So, go ahead and put it on your calendars!  Bring a girlfriend or several!  Get ready to drink champagne and fall in love with the day.  It will be one filled with friendship and amazing style from each and every corner.