And Speaking of Dresses...

In keeping with the theme from yesterday's post, here are two of my favorite dresses from the SAG Awards red carpet:

Something about the combination of the strapless top, full skirt, and unexpected pockets made Marion Cotillard look elegant yet relaxed in this dress.

As much as I hate to see Rory Gilmore with skeevy Pete Campbell, I thought Alexis Bledel looked pretty (and Atonement-esque) in this green dress.

And for a quick nod to jewelry, I loved the flapper-esque necklace that Amanda Seyfried wore. It looked like something that could have been borrowed from the the costume department of the upcoming Gatsby film.

Have you been following the awards shows this year? What have been your favorite dresses?

The Balkan Trilogy

My first exposure to Olivia Manning was through her lovely coming of age novel School for Love, which was one of the first books I ever blogged about way back when. Although that novel garnered attention when NYRB re-released it several years ago, the centerpieces of Manning's work are The Balkan Trilogy and The Levant Trilogy, which collectively follow young British bureaucrat Guy Pringle and his wife Harriet as they experience the storm of World War II in various countries throughout Eastern Europe and the Mideast. (Together these trilogies were combined into a 1980's British miniseries called Fortunes of War starring Emma Thompson and Kenneth Branaugh.)

I'm not sure why the word "trilogy" didn't tip me off to the fact that this would be a work comprised of three full length books, The Great Fortune, The Spoilt City, and Friends and Heroes. In any case, I was a bit shocked when I went to the library to pick up the copy I requested and found a 900+ page doorstop of a book waiting for me. I decided to soldier on through it, albeit grumbling to myself for the first hundred pages or so. As I read, I found myself thinking about the book in terms of the Goodreads rating system. Anyone else ever do that? After The Great Fortune, I thought I'd give the novel three stars. Once I got through The Spoilt City, I had mentally bumped it up to four stars. And by the time I reached Friends and Heroes, I was completely swept away and couldn't imagine anything less than a full five star rating. Kind of a superficial way of thinking, I know, but it turns out to mirror what I've since read about the critical reception of the three books and is a perfect analogy for the way Manning's story slowly builds, drawing the reader in bit by bit.

The trilogy opens as Guy and Harriet  travel by train to neutral Romania while German forces ravage much of the rest of Europe. Newly married after a very brief courtship, Guy and Harriet are heading to Bucharest where Guy will resume his former post as an English professor at a Romanian university. Once they arrive, their story progresses through a series of small story arcs that are punctuated by major historical events. Lacking students to teach, Guy mounts an amateur production of Troilus and Cressida that engrosses the expat community and provides a distraction from news of the war on the night that Paris falls to Germany. Harriet bickers with Guy over an unwelcome house guest, but later welcomes the interloper as a friendly face in Athens, where she has evacuated ahead of Guy as Romania's fall to Hitler looms. Without going into too much detail about the specifics of the story, I'll say that this is a very different kind of war novel from most others that I've read. Compared with novels that depict the heat of battle or offer first hand portrayals of the atrocities of war, many parts of Manning's story seem almost uneventful as she illustrates what is essentially a waiting game for the Pringles. Trapped away from their homeland, they are forced to watch the German army advance through Europe and, along with the British diplomatic community they belong to, must allow Hitler's next move determine their own. It's an interesting look at a side of war, and at a geographic area, that isn't often seen.

Equally interesting is the way in which the state of political and geographic uncertainty the Pringles  live in mirrors the ebb and flow of their marriage. Focusing on Harriet's perspective, Manning shows how she is constantly recalibrating and reassessing her relationship with Guy. The longer they are married, the less she feels she knows him. Their vastly different personalities seem to drive a wedge between them. Harriet's unhappiness manifests itself not through any melodramatic scenes, but through increasing feelings of ennui and decreasing expectations of Guy. In many ways their marriage feels like a mundane one, but seems all the more profound for being so. The gulf between them is capable of being instantly overcome, however, during dramatic moments that occur during some of the key historic occurrences depicted in the novel. 

I'm eager to follow their story in The Levant Trilogy and can't wait to get my hands on a copy. In the meantime, I can't recommend Manning's work highly enough. She's a classic writer who is ripe for being rediscovered more widely. Start with School for Love if you need a little convincing before committing to the epic of The Balkan Trilogy.

Fall Dream Closet

With my vacation coming to an end in a few days, I'm just about ready for fall and all of the cozy sweaters and boots that go along with the cooler weather. I know we'll still have at least another month of warm temperatures to deal with after Labor Day, but if weather and money were no object, this is what I'd start wearing as soon as I return from my trip.

Left to right from top: a peter pan collar shirt, a striped and embroidered cardigan, ballet flats with an interesting chain detail, a cozy sweater with a bold print, Frye boots, and a puffer vest with a herringbone twist that's almost Downton Abbey-esque.

The Last Straw

Despite the fact that I'm still sorely in need of a few more summer basics--like shoes and skirts--all I really want to shop for are glasses and hats. I've convinced myself that I can't let this summer go by without owning a straw hat, in either a floppy sun hat or fedora style (or, most likely, both).

Some of the contenders (clockwise from right: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)

Are you a hat person?

Specs

I'm in danger of becoming ever so slightly vain about my glasses. I currently have two pairs that I alternate between depending on my mood and both have garnered more compliments than I would have ever imagined, especially when I was in DC last week. (Delicious cupcakes and compliments from strangers? Washington, you really know how to win a girl over.)

I'd like to add to my collection, but now I'm feeling the pressure to continue the streak and pick a pair that will live up to the other two. I'd really like a pair of chunky, clear frames (1), but then I'm also drawn to frames that are still bold, but a little thinner and more rounded in shape (2). I could also go for another vintage pair- maybe a blush colored cat eye frame (3)? There's even a part of me that's tempted by a fancier, sparklier take on a cat eye shape (4).

Which do you like the best?

A Random Pair

And now for two completely unrelated current favorites of mine:

This plaid boy shirt from Jcrew. I've been wearing it at every possible opportunity this spring, with boyfriend jeans on the weekend and with slim ankle pants to work.

And this trailer for Mindy (a.k.a my celebrity best friend) Kaling's new show on Fox. It looks like a funny romantic comedy in the form of a TV show. I can't wait to see it.

The Downton Effect

Looking through some red carpet pictures from the Met's Costume Institute Gala, I noticed that Downton Abbey still seems to be influencing fashion trends.

First was Michelle Dockery in a simple Ralph Lauren gown that pretty much nails what a modern day version of her Downton character would wear.

The beading on Camilla Belle's gown was another nod back to 1920's glamour.

And though Kirsten Dunst's dress might not have been my first choice for the occasion, I can definitely imagine Lady Edith wearing it to take the car for a spin.

(All images via here)

A Diamond as Big as the Ritz

The title of a Fitzgerald story seems only appropriate for the gorgeous vintage engagement rings I found when I discovered Erstwhile Jewelry Co., an Etsy shop specializing in antique and vintage jewelry. As someone who tends to fall into fairly routine patterns of browsing on Etsy (hand knits, delicate silver necklaces, art prints, repeat), I was blown away when I stumbled across these.

 Aren't these beautiful? Which is your favorite? I think mine is the delicate ring at the top, although I do like the diamond and emerald combinations, too.

(All images via their shop...where there's a lot more to sigh over.)

Spring Kimono

Coming off of the mild winter we've been having, I was afraid that March would take a sudden turn and bring a late blast of snow and cold. Instead, I've been presently surprised by the arrival of early, warm spring days. It's eat lunch outside and take the dog for a long walk kind of weather, which has the side effect of putting me in the mood to do some spring shopping. I thought about doing a roundup of the items on my spring wish list, but then I realized that the bulk of my shopping list consists of replenishing some basic pieces: slim, ankle length pants, new striped shirts, and maybe some blush colored ballet flats. All classic pieces, but not exactly the makings of a groundbreaking fashion post.

The one trendy piece that has caught my eye is a lightweight, kimono-style top, like this one from Anthropologie.

I've had an affinity for Asian-inspired pieces over the years, beginning with the mandarin collar pajama set that I distinctly remember wearing to bedtime story hour at the library. I think a top like this could be used as an alternative to a cardigan and would add some interest over jeans and a simple tank.

What do you think? Would you wear this trend?

Best Dressed (and an Honorable Mention)

Did you watch the Oscars last night? More importantly, did you watch the red carpet to see what everyone was wearing? I didn't think anyone looked better than Gwyneth Paltrow did. She's a perennial favorite of mine and this was her best red carpet look in a long time. The simple dress and minimal hair and makeup looked fresh and modern, while her cape was unexpectedly elegant, reminding me of something Grace Kelly would have worn.

I also really liked Giuliana Rancic's dress, largely because (surprise, surprise) it had a hint of an Art Deco feel. Not entirely sure if she can be named one of the best dressed since she was there covering the red carpet rather than walking it, but definitely worth an honorable mention in any case.

(images via here and here)

Who were your favorites of the night? And question #2- Was anyone else happy to see Bret McKenzie win the award for best song, but also a secretly little disappointed that Jemaine didn't get a thank you in his acceptance speech? 

Tweeds, Beads, and Cloches

I've said before that I'm not one to obsess over the goings-on of New York Fashion Week. I keep half an eye on various blog posts and tweets about it, but that's all. That changed last week when I saw a photo from Ralph Lauren's Fall 2012 runway show. I instantly swooned, then, once I'd fully recovered, immediately had to look at the entire collection.

 

 

 The British aristocratic influence can be seen as an obvious reference to Downton Abbey (apparently the models even walked the runway to the show's theme music!). While I can easily imagine Mary Crawley in any number of these looks, I'm also reminded of some literary characters. I'm thinking about the women from Virginia Woolf's Night and Day or even the girls from I Capture the Castle (though their versions of these pieces might have some shabby frayed edges to them). Personally, I'd love to dress like this all through the autumn. While these head to toe outfits may have a bit of a costume feel, the separate pieces are quite wearable. A touch of beading, a tweed blazer, or a fair isle pattern would be just enough to make me feel like I was secretly dressing up as my favorite character while still looking classic enough for every day.

What do you think? Would you use a literary character as fashion inspiration?

Spring Dresses

Once again, Anthropologie has me looking forward to the months ahead, when it will finally be warm enough to pull out some spring dresses. Their latest catalog was filled with pretty frocks that look modern and fresh, yet somehow just hint at a bygone era.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that some of these might make their way onto the sale rack before spring hits.

Dressing Up to Sleep In

The post-holiday, mid-winter months are when I probably feel the least in the mood to shop, with stores showing spring clothes won't be used for anything other than populated the closet for a few more months of bleak, cold weather. That's why, when I got the latest Anthropologie catalog, I was struck by their genius move of devoting a lot of space to sleep and lounge wear that's both pretty and perfect for hibernating all winter long.

I don't know about you, but now I'm in the mood to expand my pajama wardrobe and add to my supply of bed linens.

Magic Hair Potion

That's what I've started calling my new favorite beauty product, A Perfect Mess by Charlotte Ronson.

I normally don't rave about hair products, largely because I'm lazy when it comes to styling. My hair is naturally slightly wavy and I've always had to blow dry it straight to get it to look presentable. I end up letting it air dry and pulling it back way more often than I'd like. If I use a product, I want it to magically work on its own with little effort on my part. After trying it out for a couple of weeks, I think A Perfect Mess might be that magic product.

I've tried other products before that are meant to create messy waves, but find this works a hundred times better.I spray it through damp or dry hair, then pin my hair into three low buns (this style, to be exact). Even after just ten minutes or so, I can take it out and end up with waves that look more intentional than messy, last all day, and have a slightly beachy vibe (or how about a snow-swept vibe, since it is December?) without being overly stiff or crunchy.

I won't go so far as to say it's a miracle product, but I will say that it's let me start wearing my hair down in it's natural, un-blown dry, state for the first time since, oh, maybe elementary school.

What about you? What's your favorite beauty product? Bonus points if it's one that yields great results with zero effort.

Out of Print Totes

Out of Print Clothing now has canvas tote bags to go along with their cute t-shirts. I got a sneak peek at these at BEA last spring and it looks like they're finally available.

I just love the Pride and Prejudice design and even though The Great Gatsby design has never been my favorite of book covers, I actually think it has some nice graphic impact when used on the tote.


These would be perfect bags for carrying your library books, don't you think?

Penny Lane

My favorite purchase of the fall so far might just be a pair of classic Bass Weejun penny loafers. They're a super comfortable alternative to my standard ballet flats, made even better by the fact that I got my pair for less than half price at the Bass outlet. So far I've been wearing mine with ankle length pants, but plan on pairing them with some skirts and dark tights once the weather gets just a touch cooler.

(Image via pinterest)

Watch Me

I've recently gotten reader requests for more fashion related posts. Okay, it may have only been one reader (who knows who she is), but since I aim to please, I thought I'd start out with something I know she's in the market for- an oversized watch.

I just love this type of watch. I think it's a classic statement piece that will never go out of style. Lately I've seen them worn layered with a wristful of other eclectic bracelets, which is an interesting juxtaposition against the menswear feel of the watch.

(via Pinterest)

(via Pinterest)

(via Pinterest)

I tend to like ones with a multi-dial face. A touch of sparkle can be nice, too. Browsing around for some reasonably priced ones, I found that Fossil has an entire category of boyfriend watches, including this basic silver one:

They also have quite a few that use interesting colors and materials for the strap, like this tortoise one:


And for a really affordable way to try the rose gold trend, Macy's has this option for under $30.

I started my search thinking that I was acting as a virtual personal shopper, but now I'm tempted to pick up one of these for myself. Which would you choose- classic silver, a trendier metal, or an unexpected pattern?

Swooning Again

Once again, jcrew has left me smitten. With their entire fall line in general, but more specifically with another collection of art deco inspired jewelrey.

With more reasonable prices than the last collection that had me swooning, I think it's safe to say that I'll end up with one of these in the near future. (I'm talking to you, ivory crystal bangle.)

Modern Flapper

I'm well aware that if I do one or two more posts about Zelda, F. Scott Fitzgerald, or modern day interpretations of the 1920s, I'll have reached some kind of tipping point and will have to start a spin-off blog devoted just to that topic. Until then, though, you'll have to put up with me because today (thanks to Oh Joy!) I came across these flapper-esque dresses from Alexandra Grecco's Etsy shop.


These would look perfect paired with any of the Zelda inspired items featured in July's issue of Matchbook, or with these jewelry pieces that the NY Times magazine blogged about. I can just imagine Daisy Buchanan hopping into an old-fashioned car in one of these.

See, I'm not the only one who's obsessed.