After all these years…

Leather!

Chris and I celebrated our 3 yr wedding anniversary at the end of October, which happens to be the leather anniversary. I got the wonderful 14″ yellow satchel from Cambridge Satchels I hinted at earlier (thanks again to WIW for introducing these fantastic bags)

This bag is excellently constructed, bright and cheery, and big enough to hold all my unnecessary essentials (and it still has that great new-leather smell). Best of all, it has my initials embossed on it. This is the first item I’ve gotten with my new post-marital initials (I’m pretty proud of that D!)

Thank you!

Shades of Citrine (via Etsy Storque)

Etsy just pulled together a great collection of all things Citrine for November babies like me! What a handy gift guide.

This month we celebrate the autumnal hues of citrine, November’s birthstone. Buying a citrine-inspired item is a thoughtful gift for new babies and November birthdays, or an energizing burst of color for your fall wardrobe. (via The Storque: Etsy’s Handmade Blog)

I think this little antique  bracelet would make a fine gift, don’t you?

Art Deco Filigree Bracelet with Topaz Colored Czech Glass Stone – Orange Enameling – CIRCA 1930

$125 at Nouveau Motley on Etsy

Up and Away

I don’t really like wearing jeans any more, but a laid back Sunday spent at the cinema and running errands calls for comfort. It was actually I really nice day today (no rain!). The hubby and I headed into town early today and enjoyed a coffee while strolling through the empty streets (such a delight!) before catching Up in 3D. I cried so much, it is definitely one of the best films I’ve seen in a long time (and a tearjerker!)

Navy Peacoat: Bitten ♥ Striped Scarf: Tottenham Merch Shop ♥ ‘D’ pin: Gap ♥ Belt: Dunnes ♥ Red Sweater: H&M ♥ Floral Top: Thrifted, Enable Ireland Grafton Street ♥ Jeans: Express ♥ Shoes: Marks & Spencer ♥ Yellow Bag: Cambridge Satchel Company

This outfit accomplished three things: a) comfort and layers for the movie theatre, b) bright colours for a bright day, c) big bag for carrying movie related essentials like 3D glasses and tons of tissues! Here’s a warmer-weather version of it.

Roadtrip Recap

You read what I planned to wear on my wardrobe, and here’s the recap. Thanks to some torrential downpours, insane allergies and a less-than-enthusiastic photographer husband, I didn’t get the best outfit shots. I really liked all the outfits I wore, so I’ll probably wear them again and will get more detail shots later. (Day 4 was an obvious photo framing fail!)

Day 1: Shirt, Penneys ♥ Dress, Lux/Urban Outfitters ♥ Belt: Tesco // Day 2: Sweater, Penneys ♥ Jeans, Penneys ♥ Shoes, Rocket Dog // Day 3: Dress, Dublin Flea Market (€6) ♥ Sweater, Jacob ♥ Shoes, Aldo // Day 4: Shirt, Gap ♥ Skirt: H&M ♥ Boots: Justin ♥ Tights: Penneys

Ethical Fashion Event

Re-dress Presents:

Fashion Evolution – An Revolution of Consciousness

Wednesday November 11 @ 7pm

Exchequer Bar, Dublin

RSVP via Facebook

A first in monthly series of events to reconnect people in the fashion industry and consumers interested in ethical fashion. This month, Katie Dalton will present her thesis on ecological fashion Towards a Theory of Fashion Evolution – A Revolution of Consciousness: the Possibility of Ecological Activism in the High-End Sector.

I’m going to try to attend if I get out of my ballet class in time. If anyone else is planning on going, let me know!

For more info check out Re-Dress for more awesome events and ethical fashion news (I highly recommend Crafternoon Tea)

 

EDIT: Event now upstairs in the Stags Head

Water Colours

I’ve neglected to mention I finally got the gorgeous Water Colour Dress from lovely Etsy seller Must Luv Vintage. After just posting my I Heart Vintage manifesto, I figured it was as good a time as any to show off the dress.

♥ Vintage Dress, Must Luv Vintage on Etsy $22 ♥ Belt, Penneys €4 ♥ Bag, Tesco (with added anchor applique) €7 ♥ Shoes, Schu €50 ♥ Jade Bracelet, Family Heirloom ♥

Photos take at my favourite place for a stylish spa break, Bellinter House

I Heart Vintage

For her latest giveaway (an impressive $100 gift cert to LA Vintage), the Clothes Horse asks why do you love vintage.

80s Dress $57

There’s lots of reasons that vintage appeals to me, and none of the reasons are terribly original. I have a highly developed sense of notstalgia and enjoy thinking about who wore my dress and how it’s travelled the globe to get from wherever it was purchased decades ago to my hangers in Dublin. I’ve always loved old movies, so my early style icons were classic beauties like Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn and (my namesake) Lauren Bacall.

70s Dress $53

I like to look original and hate bumping into people with the same outfit on. I don’t want to wear the black trousers/button-up shirt uniform to work, but at the same time I don’t like looking too vintage-y or costume-y. I love the thrill of the hunt and am mostly drawn towards timeless pieces that I can mix with wardrobe staples already in my closet. I love to keep people guessing about where I get my clothes, how often I shop and how much money I spend on my duds–nothing is better than gettting loads of praise on something you scored on the cheap.

70s Dress $55

Vintage clothes also suit me, at least certain styles do more than modern clothes. Blessed with dainty shoulders and not so dainty hips, I like dresses that flair out from the waist. Lots of homespun or 60s/70s poly numbers have elasticated waists that make it really easy to fit (especially when buying online).

60s Cape $67

So, what should I buy from LA Vintage? Dresses. Dresses. Dresses.

And hopefully this great cape!

Style for Less: Orla Kiely Duffle Coat

Loving the sweet, whimsical Orla Kiely AW09 collection, but don’t want to take out a loan for a new coat? Here’s how you can score the same style for much much less.

The Yellow Duffle Coat

A must for brightening up those dull winter days.

Retro, girlie and perfect for puddle jumping.

 

 

 

Orla Kiely Yellow Duffle Coat £398

Tesco Yellow Duffle Coat £30

Road Trip Day 4: Donegal

Donegal Day

Find out more about my Donegal Day outfit

Our last day takes us through Donegal. We’ll meet up with friends for brunch, so I want to look dressy yet warm and comfortable for the long drive back to Dublin. A tailored shirt with a bow collar and pencil skirt will look lovely and a wool skirt skirt, cap and tights will keep me toasty. Vintage-y jewelry will give the outfit some romance. It’s the wedding of a fellow Texan, so I want to rock my cowboy boots!

Road Trip Day 3: Wedding

Wedding Day 3

Find out more about my Wedding outfit

Our road trip is partly to celebrate our marriage and partly to celebrate the new marriage of some friends. I’ll be seeing lots of friends from grad school that I haven’t seen in 4 years, so I want to stand out in a bright colour. I’ve really been loving the one-shoulder ruffle look lately. I found a fantastic dress for €6 at the Dublin flea market last weekend that made me completely change my wedding wardrobe plans. This dress speaks for itself, so I’ll keep the accessories limited to studs, a great statement bracelet and a bold hairpiece.  I’m very old fashioned about showing my shoulders in church, so I’ll take a black wrap to match my black peep-toes and clutch.

Road Trip Day 2: Derry

Derry Day:

Find out more about my Derry Day outfit

We’ll explore Derry’s walls and then settle into our lovely B&B for a cozy evening by the fire. A big cowl neck sweater will keep me warm and comfy. Paired with black jeans and simple but elegant accessories, the outfit will easily take me from the car to the sights to the lounge.

Road Trip Day 1: Belfast

I’m headed out on a little road trip and won’ t be able to updating until next week. Here’s what I plan to wear…

Day 1: Belfast

Find out more about my Belfast Day outfit

Today we’ll be driving, sight-seeing and going out for a romantic dinner to celebrate 3 years of wedded bliss.  I’m looking for something that will work for both day and night. A sleek black dress over a plaid shirt–it will definitely work for day and a casual dinner. If we decide to go out somewhere swanky, I can take off the shirt and add a sweater or wrap.

True Blue

A few months ago when I was sick, the Husband came home from Tesco with this cute blue dress. I’m impressed with some of Tesco’s clothes recently, especially the coats and dresses. Sorry for the poor quality of the photos (there was really low light and my photographer was getting a bit impatient).

♥ Dress: Tesco (gift) ♥ Shoes: M&S €54 ♥ Belt: Accessorize €5 ♥ Earings: Wallis €2 ♥

It’s a very well made cotton jersey dress with a wide waist band and tie (that I’ve covered up with a big elastic belt from Accessorize). There’s a nice attention to detail in the dress with the draped cross front and gathering in the back. Don’t know how much he paid, but it couldn’t have been much. And jewel tones are perfect for bringing a punch of colour into fall.

This is definitely an evening look with the belt, heels and hoops. I’d just been swimming and didn’t have time to dry my hair before dinner, so I pulled it back in a tight bun and braided bangs to add a little edginess. I’m thinking of remixing this outfit for work tomorrow and will try to get better pics.

Halloween WIW Style

The ever amazing Jessica of  What I Wore is chronicling 5 Halloween looks all from items found in her enviable closet. She starts the week out strong with a stunning Frida Kahlo costume. Holly Smokes its good and extremely creative! Is there anything this girl can’t do? Be sure to check her out all week!

Sneak Peak of the What I Wore Hallowe’en Extravaganza!

PS: I’ll be posting my Halloween costume soon, got a lot of good stitching done late last night–I’m a flower!

Me at Five

I came across this photo of me just after my 5th birthday–and I have to admit I was pretty damn cute and sport some seriously awesome style. I’d love to have that dress and those bangs. I’m getting my hair cut on Tuesday and am considering taking this photo in as inspiration. Oh to be young again!

Great Give Away From The Clothes Horse

The adorable level is out of control over on The Clothes Horse where the weekly give away is a fantastic handmade necklace from Melbourne based Etsy seller/blogger Much Love. And much love is what I have for both girls. Romantic, charming, twee (but only in a good way) the Much Love pieces definitely fit my style.

The Elizabeth necklace is up for grabs (enter here). I’d totally love to win it, if only to impress my English inlaws!

Other amaing pieces include this sweet Under Our Umbrella Ring with a vintage children’s illustration. I can’t quite tell from the photos, but it looks very similar to a Hummel print that was in my mom’s nursery (and then mine).

There are also brilliant sketches on book pages. I love this idea and think this Breakfast at Tiffany’s illustration would be an appropriate purchase for me because I just started the book.

Thanks Rebecca for introducing me to Much Love! You have until Oct 25 to enter the contest too!

Oktoberfest

Last weekend the Husband and I took advantage of a perfect, crisp, sunny fall day at the Paulaner Octoberfest in the IFSC. How I love Oct-fest! Beer, delicious sausage, lederhosen and music in a language I can’t understand.

For a fresh day outdoors, I wore my new surprisingly well fitting black bootcut jeans, a green and grey plaid shirt, Pumas.

♥ Top: Penneys €13 ♥ Jeans: Penneys €9 ♥ Shades: Aldo $5 ♥ Necklace: Pocket Watch, Lulu*s $10 ♥ Sneakers: Puma 917 $20 ♥ Pea Coat (below): Bitten $20 ♥

That stein was really heavy, but what was I to do? It was Beer O’Clock!  (as evidenced by my most favourite Horsey Watch from Lulu*s). You still have a few days left get your German fix–Octoberfest closes on Sunday October 18.

http://www.monsoon.co.uk/invt/54138101&bklist=icat,5,shop,women,womenshoesandboots,womenboots

Da Bootie

I really want a pair of black booties this year, but I’ve been having trouble finding just the right pair. I think these might just be perfect.

Shula Ankle Boots at Monsoon £65

Green Dream

We just booked tickets for a wedding in San Francisco in February. I closed my eyes and imagined the dress I wanted to wear, and I swear on my wardrobe this is the dress I imagined. Le sigh…

Grecian Green Dress $89.99 on ModCloth

…oh man, I really want this!

Climate Changing Room*

Today is Blog Action Day, so in that spirit I’m bringing you this post from the Climate Changing Room*. We’ve all heard about climate change and have seen quite dramatically (especially in the last few weeks) how changing weather patterns are impacting communities across the world–especially those that are least equipped to adapt or respond to emergencies.

But listen, don’t let climate change get you down. You can still look fantastic while doing your bit to help the earth. So why don’t you step into the Climate Changing Room and try these ideas on for size…

Your perfect Eco Chic includes bamboo, fair trade cotton, vegan shoes, thrifted or upcycled pieces

Thrift Y’all know I’m into thrifting. Not only can you find fantastic pieces (sometimes vintage) at amazing deals, but you reducing, reusing and recycling. Make sure you give as much as you buy–donate your clothes to charity, don’t ever throw them away! You never know what treasures you’ll find so hit the thrift stores, flea markets or online markets before you head up the High Street.

See my most favourite thrifted/vintage outfit

Thrift Smarter: You can make your thriftiness go farther by shopping at charity shops for organisations working to address climate change. Luckily for us gals Oxfam is not only a leader in the climate campaign, they are also tops of the charity shops. I’ve never visited an Oxfam shop in Dublin without finding something amazing. Plus they have specialty shops for vintage, bridal, books and home goods. While prices may be slightly higher at Oxfam, you know that your purchase is going to find sustainable solutions to climate change. That’s a one-two-punch!

Read about my adventures in Oxfaming

Go Eco: Fair trade is everywhere and totally mainstream. There’s no reason for not owning at least one fair trade cotton item in your wardrobe. The social and environmental benefits of fair trade will make those comfy M&S socks feel all the better on your feet. Big retailers like M&S and Tesco have great deals on fair trade cotton essentials, so set the right foundation for the environment with your foundation garments!

Read about M&S Plan A and shop their Greener Living products

*I totally stole that title from an event we had at my old job.

By the Banks of the Boyne

I’m quite smitten over this little ensemble. You’ll recognize my newly acquired full cream skirt from American Apparel’s Cali Vintage line. This time I paired it with a lovely little top customised by me and a vintage crocheted hand bag from the 1940s (more on that later)

♥ Skirt: American Apparel, Cali Vintage (€54) ♥ Top: Penneys/DIY (€6) ♥ Bag: Vintage, Howth Book Sale (€10) ♥ Shoes: M&S (€54) ♥

The top is a stretch jersey scoop neck and back top from Penneys (€6). It’s long and form fitting, making it pair nicely with the full high waisted skirt. To make the very modern top feel new, I stitched on some vintage crocheted remnants scored at the Dublin flea for €0.50 (and I still have tons left over)

This was a very romantic outfit, perfect for a very romantic picnic* in a field overlooking the River Boyne.

*Although I learned that heels and a white skirt are not the best for muddy, grassy treks to romantic vistas. The husband will just have to learn to deal.

Old Into New

I’m not sure what inspired me to put this outfit together, but after looking through my outfits I had a eureka moment. I also discovered the incredibly flattering lighting of my building’s elevator.

The top is absolutely gorgeous with the intricate details, mandarin collar and little cap sleeves. It is the shirt equivalent of a sleepy bunny. However, it has an empire hem and skirts out making me look slightly pregnant. I used to wear it with jeans a lot last spring, but that seems quite tired to me now. The skirt is my good ole black knit American Apparel skirt. It actually is a high waisted skirt, but when I bought it a couple of years ago I didn’t like the high waisted look on me. So, I bought the skirt a bit large and wore it around my hips. Now the waist band is slightly stretched out, but a wide belt cinches it up. The large yellow belt is an oldie and a goodie, found at the crazy DTX Aldo shop in Boston for $5. I love it when I find new ways to wear old clothes…still doesn’t keep me from shopping though

♥ Shirt: Penneys (€9) ♥ Skirt: American Apparel ($30) ♥ Belt: Aldo ($5) ♥ Tank: M&S (€5)( ♥ Necklace: Fake Cameo found at Dublin Flea (€5) ♥

Done Up By Dior

Oh my girlie dreams have come true. Jamie Coombes of Dior will be teaching 1 hr makeup lessons at Brown Thomas over the Bank Holiday Weekend. What a treat! For a mere €50/€25 I can finally learn all the tricks of the trade that have always eluded me. (Anything beyond a quick sweep of mascara and lip gloss is baffling)

I do adore the classic Dior style. This season the look is (according to website) ‘very 1930s,absolutely glamorous… Mystery and elegance fill the air…’

The Bank Holiday also happens to be my 3 year anniversary. Maybe there is some perverse definition of leather (as skin, makeup goes on skin, etc) that can justify this as an anniversary present.

Thanks to the Savvy Shopper for the tip-off. If you’re in Dublin and not checking out her blog, you’re missing out on a world of wonderful!

Tight

Just before I turned on my laptop, I sorted out my laundry. I started to put away some new navy tights and thought, gee how will I tell these navy tights from my black ones in the dark mornings. And what would you know, the magnificent Jess at WhatIWore shares her solution in her new lovely flat. Tights on a hanger! Who woulda thunk it?!

Sartorialist in Dublin

Scott Schuman will be gracing the Fair City with his lens this week with a book signing at the Gallery of Photography in Meeting House Square and afterparty at Harvey Nics in Dundrum.

Now, what does a girl wear when The Sartorialist is in town?