Ephemera

Fewer work-days means fewer outfits, so I'm still slowly working through all my still-unworn items from off-season purchases and recent shopping trips. Today, I built my outfit around this new skirt.

Yes, I have a streak of pink in my hair - I tested a new colour (I like it).

It will be going into my fall/winter wardrobe, as the darker colour mix and overall style reads more cooler weather to me. I wanted to get a wearing in anyway.

Jacket - Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, consignment; last worn here in January with punk plaid and roses
Sweater - Bleu & Gray, thrifted; last seen here (4th outfit) for Winesday in September
Skirt - Cream; purchased here for $9.99
Shoes - Super Fine Cardinal, Fluevog; last worn here with red ruffles in March

I don't have a ton of brown, dark red, grey or leopard in my closet right now, so I pulled out a basic black cotton short-sleeved sweater. Easy!

Added this grey funky jacket to pick out the grey in the skirt pattern.

It's a little chilly in my office, and I'm not moving around as much as I usually do.

A jacket is needed.

I liked this skirt, but it doesn't feel very springy to me. This is totally a fall outfit.

It'll look good with some of my fall boots.

And a nice chunky sweater or a velvet blazer.

Ready for the rain.

That's my galloping horses silk scarf (from France, KLASSY), to go with the equestrian vibe of the chain/tassel pattern on the skirt. The brown/cream pattern also works with the leopard in the border.

Scarf - vintage fair
Hat - Edward Mann, vintage 60s, thrifted

The stuff:

I knew I wanted to wear my chain gold jewelry with the skirt, and if I'm gonna wear all that gold, may as well wear my gold shoes, right?

Gold bling:

Armour, more like.

Necklace - Givenchy, vintage 80s, vintage fair
Leather/chain cuff - local
Ball cuff - Butler Fifth Avenue Collection, consignment
Chain bracelet - thrifted
Earrings - vintage fair

Flashback!

As the other items in today's outfit are either new-to-me or fairly recent acquisitions, we'll take a look at these shiny gold Fluevogs, the Super Fine Cardinals, which I've only had in my closet for 15 months. How much of a workhorse could gold shoes be? Hmmm...

These are last year's anniversary gift from L, purchased at the Fluevog store in Gastown, and I wore them right away with my teal fringed dress and my brand-spankin' new-to-me PANK wool moto jacket, both purchased that weekend in March 2019.

These replaced my coppery-gold Big Presence Desmond pair (these ones) which had always been a smidge too small on me, and were also a wee bit too high for regular daily wearing. I gave them to Cat after I found these beauties.

I adore a gold or metallic shoe - they go with everything!

Like a pretty navy blue dress with a bit of gold in the pattern. This was in April 2019.

When you don't have a pair of shoes that matches, gold works great instead as a neutral.

I need to wear that fringed/beaded/velvet kimono again soon! This is from May 2019.

What colour goes with yellow? Gold!

Taking my cue from the gold zipper pull, this is jammy dressing at its easiest. This was in June 2019.

And here's another yellow dress, which I wore to the theatre with Mom in September 2019.

I kept the previous yellow dress; this one reads a little too "Disney princess" for my current taste.

"I don't have any navy shoes to match!" Gold will work instead!

They look quite classy there in November 2019.

Gold shoes are also fabulous for parties. Add a patterned dress, some gold accessories, and you are ready to rock.

This outfit was photographed on a cold sunny December 2019 afternoon for Terry's party followed by a very late in the evening party at Nick and Karen's.

And here's the last time I wore them, in March 2020, with this new-to-me red dress.

Again, just a few other gold accessories and I'm good to go.

These shoes were $379.00 new, and today makes the 9th wearing of them, bringing my cost-per-wear to $42.11. I can easily see my wearings climbing into the 40+ range over the next several years. I definitely get a lot of wear out of gold shoes - I'm really pleased that I've worn these 9 times in a little over a year!

Hello, my friends. It's been a hard week: our dear Karen is not doing well, so the core group of Winesday Women gathered to support her with our love and sisterhood, possibly for the last time.

Clockwise from me: Yvonne, Vero, Karen, Caro and Cat

We all expanded our COVID bubbles for her and Nick - there haven't been any cases in Victoria for a month, and there's no way I'm not going to be there for and with my best friends.

It was a mixed day, and my outfit shows it.

I cried all my make-up off - I did skip the mascara, though.

Vest - Religion, consignment; purchased here for $44.79
T-shirt - Ted Baker, consignment; first seen here in April 2019 with an iridescent skirt
Culottes - Topshop, thrifted; last worn here in January for the Year of the Rat
Shoes - Sam Edelman, thrifted; last seen here to visit Mom in April, with leopard trousers

I'm not feeling this tee. It'll go into the "stuff I sleep in" collection where I will whittle it down to pennies per wear.

It's very soft and I like the pattern, but t-shirt dressing is just not my thing.

I'm also not in love with these cropped trousers, even though the colour is fabulous. Into the giveaway pile with you!

I loved the vest, though. I like the boxy cut and the ragged edges.

Without the vest.

Nah. I have better things that I love more.

The stuff:

Like these shoes! They are great for walking.

Shiny bling:

A little more armour. We're all feeling very tender right now.

Cuff - thrifted
Crystal cuff - Swarovski, consignment, gift from L
Silver/crystal ring - Soul Flower
Crystal ring - Uffizi Gallery gift shop, Florence, Italy
Ear-balls - Swarovski, consignment

In the face of death, everything else feels very insignificant.

But the flowers keep growing.

The sun shines.

Life continues. The world turns.

We hung out with Karen for a couple of hours. It was a mix of crying and laughing and just being there with her. Every moment is precious.

Thanks to Rob for taking these pictures of us. I'm a weepy person, so I look on the verge of bawling at all times.

Today, I had a haircut after work, so I wanted to look fabulous for Sofia. I may have cried into my mask, sorry, honey. I'll show off my haircut in the next post, but I did the same "long bob, chunky layers and curtain bangs/fringe" as I did last time I got it cut, back here in February (only my bangs are longer now).

I really loved all the colours in this and the pattern mix.

Jacket - Marc Cain, consignment; purchased here for $45.00
Blouse - Talbots, thrifted; last seen here in December 2019, layered under a sweater
Skirt - Banana Republic, consignment; last worn here in August 2019 with more navy and white and my Darth Sheila duster
Shoes - Big Presence Earhart, Fluevog; last seen here in May with copper and a Miami print

More Clothing As Armour - expect a bit of that in the coming weeks, for sure. I hope you'll bear with me as we go through our grieving for Karen - we've been ~~friends~~ family for 25 years, so there's a lot of love there.

First wearing of this new-to-me jacket, and I loved it. It would be better if those were real pockets and not just fake flaps sewn on, but I'll let it slide. This time.

It did snag on my office keys a bit, but it's hardly noticeable in the jumble of colours.

My picnic plaid skirt is a favourite - it is navy blue and white check. It's a stretchy cotton.

Jacket done up (2 out of 3 snaps down the front).

I'd been waffling over this pink blouse as I hated the whole outfit the last time I wore it, but the colour was perfect with the jacket.

Sometimes you just need a solid, although the viscose fabric actually has a woven snakeskin pattern in it.

The stuff:

I adore these shoes - I would never have thought this would be a useful shoe in my wardrobe, but it is! We'll check them out in the Flashback below shortly.

Sparkly bling:

My rings are like comfort food. One from when L and I were dating, one that my Winesday Women "bought" me in Italy for my birthday, and my Dad's ring.

Earrings - vintage market
Silver/sodalite ring - Scotland, 1996
Silver/amethyst ring - Frances Jewelers, c. 1965, Dad's
Crystal ring - Uffizi Gallery gift shop, Florence, Italy

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Flashback!

Today's Flashback is these Fluevog shoes. They are from the Big Presence family, same as my yellow and orange waxed canvas Desmond (after Norma I'm-ready-for-my-close-up from "Sunset Boulevard") pumps, Flashback'ed here and here; these are called the Earhart (after Amelia the aviatrix)

These are a really comfortable heel height for me, and I know what size I am (9.5) in this family, so I can buy another pair of Big Presence if I see a pair online that grabs me. I am also a sucker for that sweet pointy toe - I was a teen in the 80s, what can I say?

I bought these in the after-Christmas sale at our local Fluevog store in 2017, so I've had them for 2.5 years. I paid $169.99 for them here on the "last chance" sale wall, and spent gift cards on them. I love getting gift cards!

I first wore them in January 2018 for a big corporate event.

Classy all the way! Although they might seem to be a difficult colourway - mango orange and lilac pinky-purple - they've been surprisingly versatile.

I often pick out the orange for matchy purposes, like here in February 2018.

I need to wear that skirt again - it's definitely Flashback-worthy.

Mixed with warm autumnal shades in April 2018.

That patterned top (which was a dress that I chopped in half) had bits of orange and pink in it.

This is one of my favourite outfits with them - although, I do like 95% of my outfits, which is as it should be.

This was in May 2018 - you can see I've loved this flapper-y look for a long time.

Pulling out a bit of orange in this vintage Etro dress - there's some purple in that pattern too.

I love that dress - another one I need to wear soon! This was in July 2018.

This was also in July 2018, and you may remember this from the dress' own Flashback.

I'm a rainbow for Pride Week!

I keep these shoes out all year round - here they are in October 2018 with a blouse that has bits of pink and orange in its floral pattern.

I love that leather dress - I've had it for over 5 years. The belt is Christian Dior (KLASSY).

With the same blouse ruffling out the front of my soft pink blazer in January 2019.

The colour of the blazer goes really well with these shoes.

So well, I paired them again here in March 2019. I love pink and yellow together.

This tweed skirt has flecks of pink and red, which work well with the orange in the shoes.

Another top with a pattern that has bits of pink and orange in it. It's surprising how many patterns these shoes go with!

That's my vintage Dolce & Gabbana 90s wool slip dress, also Flashback-worthy when I unpack it at the end of September. This was in June 2019 - ooh, we must have been having "June-uary", one of our chilly Junes. I would normally not wear anything this sweaty-making in summer.

Pink and orange matchiness here in September 2019.

My orange "jello shot" necklace is a nicely matching accessory - I also wore it with the Etro dress above.

And that brings us back to May, when I wore the shoes with copper and this annoying shirt that is now in the giveaway pile. I'll be pinking up my hair like this again very soon.

Including today's outfit, I've worn these shoes 13 times, bringing them down to just over $13.00 per wear. They are still looking really good, so I can certainly see many more years of outfits with them!

And now, I need to chill out.

"Like this?"

Yes, exactly like that.

It was in the cards for me to go visit Karen this afternoon, but it was not meant to be. I did my Mental Health Walk early in the morning, had brunch and a shower, and then walked to town to get groceries.

I'd planned my outfit for the potential visit, both with super-comfy walking shoes and a dress I could sprawl out in on a bed. Instead, I went for a bit of a wander on Fort Street instead of walking to see Karen.

Dress - Etro, vintage 90s, thrifted; last seen here (2nd outfit) in May 2019 with yellow flats
Cardigan - Ports, vintage 80s, consignment; last worn here in April with primary and madras
Shoes - Born, consignment; last seen here (2nd outfit) in July 2019 for pre- and post-Ulti

I adore this stretchy soft dress - isn't that an amazing print?

It actually has tiny "Etro"s all over it, so I know that they created this fabric themselves. It's nylon/elastane but is soft as silk, and was made in Italy.

I'm wearing a navy blue vintage slip under it for smoothing and a bit of extra warmth.

It was sunny today, but not too hot, just below 20 degrees.

I hate wearing sunblock, so I'll always try to find a jacket or something to cover myself. I did 'block up my chestal region.

Also, this lovely vintage cardigan/dress is like wearing a security blanket. It's a wooly hug.

I tied this vintage hand-rolled silk scarf and used it to cover my chest from the sun.

Ready to go be around people! Keep your distance!

The stuff:

I've had these shoes for over 6 years and wear them frequently in the summer. Shoes that work barefooted are the best.

Blue bling:

Some favourites.

Eelskin cuff - vintage 80s, thrifted (mine, donated decades ago, and re-found!)
Glass earrings - local
Lapis lazuli ring/Fulvia Ring - Wendy Brandes

I had a good look around Vanity Fair Antique Mall on Fort Street - it's full of cases of things that local folks and vintage dealers sell. There's a mix of jewelry, household items, clothing and memorabilia and collectibles. It's a wondrous array, and I nearly always find something.

I spotted these black leather boots and gasped. My size! Also, that is a GREAT walking boot.

Over the knee and covered in buckles and zippers, be still my heart. I know, I have OTK black leather boots (these ones), but they're a dressier style, and are slippy to wear in the rain.

These have been resoled with Topys, either from wear or to keep them from being too slippery.

Their previous owner also loved them, obviously. Based on the style, I think these are from the early 00s. I used to have a very similar pair (not over-the-knee) of black leather boots from Aldo that I bought second-hand and wore until they cracked.

Here they are on. They are going into the fall/winter stash for wearing with tights and miniskirts. The outer zipper is decorative (the inside zipper is for getting them on), and the upper buckle is adjustable.

They were $69.00 and are by Steve Madden. I'm sure they would have been well over $300 new.

I'm begrudgingly giving L first dibs on this suede coat.

On me, it's a bit big in the shoulders, long in the arms, loose in the chest, but snug in the hips.

It's totally going to fit L. SIGH.

Aren't the details amazing? Very cowboy-ish vibes. I'd rock this, right? Maybe it won't fit him.

Snaps down the front.

Pretty!

This dotted trim is a kazillion little metal studs.

More snaps on the cuffs. SWOON.

It's by Cripple Creek, which is still around. This label was created in 1994, and they specialize in Western-themed apparel.

I'd place this as being from the 90s. It was marked at $125.00 but the lovely lady discounted it to $95.00. I'm quite sure it retailed for about 5 times that. Fingers crossed that it doesn't fit L!

Edit: Dang, it looked amazing on him. Well, Happy Birthday, love!

Flush with my therapeutic time looking at glittery rhinestone jewelry and other pretty things, I strolled home in the sunshine to blog. Blogging gives me routine and a sense of normalcy - it's a happy habit.

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Flashback!

We're going to look at all the ways I've worn this dress since I first bought it here in October 2016 for $6.00. Yes, ETRO. They're one of THE big names in fashion and their dresses start at over $1,000 and go up to $4,000...I did not add an extra zero. I freaked out when I found this at the St. Vincent de Paul - I knew the name because I already had a jacket by them (this one).

It did not have an entirely successful first outing in October 2016.

The fabric is really stretchy, bouncy jersey, and doesn't work well for layering as structured as this vintage blouse. Those shoes were a Fluevog Fail - they killed my feet, and were too high.

Trying again in April 2017. Because this dress has so many colours in it, it's really easy to pick out different ones for matching to it.

I still have that cardi, but gave those shoes to Cat, who wore them till they fell apart (awesome).

I often wear it with yellow - this is in June 2017. I'm wearing my navy vintage slip with it and ended up hoiking the dress up all day. That's a big neckline (very 90s).

We saw this outfit in the yellow Desmond Flashback (here).

Because it's a very light fabric, I only wear this in spring/summer.

This was in August 2017. As I discovered in the prior outfit, it's a very "Boobs Ahoy!" dress, so I usually wear a cami under it that covers me up, especially if I'm wearing it to work.

You'll recognize this from the Earhart Flashback (here) yesterday. This was in July 2018.

I picked a picture with my outerwear so you can see the full walking-around ensemble.

In September 2018, with my blue velvet boots.

"I protest the lack of Cat in this post."

I wore this outfit for a Winesday, and wore today's cobalt blue cardi with it.

And finally, last May 2019.

Another pair of my walking flats - this must have been a non-work outfit, as I'm cleavage-ing.

Including today's outfit, I've worn this dress 8 times, bringing it to 75 cents per wear. It still has lots of wear in it, though!

Before I left the house this afternoon, I went looking for Vizzini.

"WHAT IS IT, WOMAN?"

Ooh, someone's cranky! How about a nice head scritch, bud?

"Oh, very well."

I'll be back on Sunday - have a lovely weekend, everyone! Thank you so much for stopping by, and also big hugs for all your support and love. Much appreciated.

Hello, my friends! I hope everyone had a fabulous weekend. Ours has been a mixed bag of happiness and sadness, and I will be taking a few days off blogging after this post.

Friday's work outfit features this new blouse.

Ruffles!

Blouse - InWear; purchased here for $13.99
Skirt - Dries Van Noten, thrifted; last worn here in July 2019 with a pixelated blouse
Shoes - Sol Sana; last worn here (2nd outfit) in April for Easter

I totally could have worn my Earhart shoes (Flashback here) with this blouse! I was tempted - they match perfectly.

I liked wearing this blouse very much - it's a great fit in the chest. I have many issues with buttonholes gaping or popping open, usually solved with safety pins (klassy), but this top fit just right. I did wear a black cami under it, as the fabric is "stripes" of satin and sheer with the print on top.

Do you see how the ruffles go from midway on my upper arm down to the waist? I like that detail.

This skirt is one of my prized possessions. Dries Van Noten! We'll have a look at it in the Flashback below.

I've called it my Pirate Skirt since I bought it. Yar, it be gathered, sashed and bubble-hemmed, ye scurvy dogs.

*ahem* Sorry, I get carried away. Pirate Lady is one of my new looks apparently, ha ha.

The stuff:

I adore these shoes, and have been very impressed with how comfortable and stylish they are. I do love an ankle strap.

Matchy bling:

I like mixing black and whites, but of course, matchy is also fun.

Bracelet/earring set - Italian, vintage 60s, vintage mall
Bracelet - vintage fair
Earrings - Plum
Silver/onyx ring - Toccara, vintage fair

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Flashback!

I've noticed that most of my Flashbacks have been for shoes - and I could have done one on today's shoes too, as I've worn them a dozen times - but this skirt is one of the treasures of my closet, so I wanted to feature it.

It's by Dries Van Noten, who many of you might not have heard of. He's a Belgian designer (link here, 'cause I love) who still owns, designs, and operates his own brand - a novelty in these days of multinational corporations and rotating line-ups of designers! - and does zero marketing. He's the subject of the documentary Dries (link here), which I absolutely recommend, having seen it in the theatre.

I've found several pieces by him over the years, all second-hand - they can be challenging to wear, as he does odd/interesting construction. This black skirt was found in the midst of a zillion black skirts in the local Women in Need (WIN) store back in September 2017 (here), for $29.95, on the same shopping trip when I found my Armani blazer (Flashback here).

This is its inaugural wearing, in September 2019. I'm showing off the unusual draping. It has uneven deep folds along the side seams, a fold-over waistband (side zipper), a slightly bubbled hem, and two sashes that wrap around. The fabric is a cotton/silk blend.

I actually wore it to see the documentary Dries in November 2017 with Elaine - we went to a vintage fair beforehand.

Why would anyone own a plain black pencil skirt when you could have a Pirate Skirt?

With my teddy sweater in April 2018.

I have many black skirts, so I don't wear it as much as I should. But then who's to say I "should" wear it more? I have lots of clothes - I have to spread the love around!

I wore it for my First Day outfit as we welcomed everyone into our shiny new office in February 2018.

I gave Cat that Kenzo jacket - you probably recognize the shoes.

It's a very cool piece, but I don't find myself reaching for a black skirt very often, hence my "hanger trick" to encourage a minimum of once-per-season wear.

A funky black Pirate Skirt is useful for showcasing other items, as I did here in November 2018.

I echoed the drape of the skirt with more drape-y clothes, here with my Hemut Lang top (ripped on a door, RIP) and a loose cardi that I now wear around the house.

I often with neutrals when I wear black.

This is the last time I wore it, in July 2019. I packed it away last fall/winter as I needed more hangers for my winter clothes.

That silk top is still unworn this season, so expect to see it at some point this summer.

Including today's outfit, I've worn it 7 times, which is not a ton for a piece that I've had for 3 years, but it does put my cost-per wear at just over $4.00, which I'm totally happy with.

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After a quiet evening on Friday, L and I were up early on Saturday - me, to colour my hair. I'm pink again - this will fade out to an icy pink in about a week. For right now, though, Hair As Armour!

We headed down to Pluto's for brunch, followed by a gathering of friends for Solstice in the afternoon.

Silk and velvet duster - Emporio Armani, thrifted; last worn here in August 2019 with striped and plaid
Top - Clover Canyon, thrifted; last seen here in August 2019 with double optics
Trousers - Banana Republic, thrifted; last worn here in April with plaid and primary colours
Shoes - Miista; last seen here (2nd outfit) in May for my first pandemic shopping trip

The weather was a mix of hot sun, warm breezes and spitty rain, plus we knew we'd be walking a bit, and sitting on the ground, so I dressed for every situation.

I adore this navy blue sheer silk with burn-out velvet squares duster. We'll have a little Flashback on it below shortly.

I realized after looking at the first couple of pictures, that the top - which is a manipulated picture of accordions! - looks better with a front-tuck. There, fixed.

I refer to myself as "Darth Sheila" when I wear this duster, as it dramatically swooshes and billows when I walk.

You can practically hear "The Imperial March (Darth Vader's Theme)" (link here), can't you?

The stuff:

Comfy shoes that are also shiny! These are known as my "trout" shoes due to the purple/green iridescent colour - I'll do a Flashback on them at some point, as they've been worn a LOT.

Earrings - Stella & Dot, consignment, Vancouver
Silver/amethyst ring - vintage mall
Silver/aventurine ring - consignment

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Flashback!

I found this duster in the now-closed St. Vincent de Paul thrift store here in January 2017. It was hanging in the dress section, and it stood out to me immediately. I gasped when I saw....

Yup, I paid seven dollars for it. For Armani, silk! You couldn't even buy the fabric for that much.

It's quite tricky to style. This is the first wearing, in January 2017.

I wore this to work, and I recall my coworkers being VERY impressed with it, as I billowed and wafted all over the office. I mixed purple, navy blue and black - nothing quite matches, but it all goes.

I wore it in April 2017 as a cover-up over a simple outfit.

As it's silk, it offers excellent sun protection - it also has a high collar, so it covers the back of my neck too.

Another time as a cover-up - same sweater, and those shoes look familiar! - in September 2017.

I still need to wear that skirt this season. I miss my whale sweater, but it got very worn out.

For a weekend hang-out with the gang, in April 2018. I don't keep the duster out all year-round as it doesn't layer under coats without riding up; it needs warmer weather where it can be the sole topper.

You'll recognize those silk trousers and the pink shiny shoes!

Here I am swooshing it in July 2018. I matched it with navy checked trousers.

A plain white shirt and my "I Know" Star Wars shoes. I called this a checkered suit at the time.

And here's the last time I wore it, in August 2018.

I went full-on navy and white matchy, with a striped top and checkered skirt. I need to wear those white shoes again soon.

I've now worn the duster 7 times, which brings my cost-per-wear to exactly $1.00. Fantastic!

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Going back to our Saturday afternoon, here is the entrance to Pluto's. It used to be an old gas station - this is the overhang where cars would pull up.

The blue "sky" and stars made me happy.

L and I strolled over to St. Ann's Academy (link here), a National Historic Site, to meet our friends to both celebrate the Summer Solstice and to send our best vibes to our dear Karen.

It was too warm for L to wear "his" new suede coat, but he still looks dashing in his pewter coat, floral shirt, Lera Lynn concert tee, and Fluevog boots.

There's Cat/Ross and Caro! In the background is Mount St. Mary's. There is also a hotel beside it, where Nick and Karen are staying, so we could be near to them.

Caro brought her tent in case of rain.

This is St. Ann's.

We sat on the field just off the main tree-lined walkway, among the apple trees from the old orchard.

We were only a couple of blocks from Yvonne and Randall's - we used their bathroom.

Caro is posing next to this lovely Art Deco-era apartment - my old friend Janet used to live there.

Nearly all of our crew showed up. While we grieved and talked, we also laughed and took comfort in each other's presence.

From L's feet beside me, clockwise: Yvonne, Chris, Caro, Vero, Randall (in the middle) and Justin.

Then Sarah, Rosanna and Greg, and Linda and Joanne.

There's my toes.

Nick came out and joined us for a bit.

Behind us was a class of graduating high school students, who cavorted on the field as they reveled in finishing school.

Sadly, things have been moving fast since our visit with Karen only last Tuesday.

She's chosen to go out on her own terms, via MAiD (link here).

Her brother Rob and Nick.

Monday will be her last day with us, our brave, dear girl.

Life continues...

Sun shining through the apple tree.

Tiny new apples swelling on the branch.

A seagull balancing on top of a flagpole.

The ginkgo tree in full leaf.

And a grumpy kitty glaring at me.

"I'd be furious, but you look like you need a hug."

Ever in our hearts, dear Karen.

At the VFF Gala in Feb 2020, with Cat.

My friends, the next few days are going to be very difficult for us. I'll be taking a small break while we heal. I will leave you with a poem (link) that has given all of us some comfort.

[i carry your heart with me(i carry it in]

BY E. E. CUMMINGS

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear;and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear
no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want
no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it’s you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

Hello, my friends, I'm back! I'm doing...all right. "As well as can be expected" is the usual line, right?

Yesterday/Monday was a rough day. I was at work, but exchanging emails most of the day with L and Caro and my girlfriends. Karen peacefully passed, and we are left with a void in our lives.

Blogging has always been a therapeutic thing for me. Wearing clothes, talking about them with like-minded folks, and showing the fun things I have in my closet is a way for me to retain control over those things that are uncontrollable. It's also good for my mental health to be creative in my dress, and to write about that. So, I'm not going to stop anytime soon (in case you were worried); I've been doing this for over 12 years, and it's a huge part of my life.

I will be doing at least 2 bigass retrospectives of pictures of Karen in the near future, partly for me to heal, but also to share with my friends and family, as something we can go back on and remember. I thank you all for bearing with me - as always, read what you want to, or just look at the pictures. You do you. There's no right or wrong here.

Anyway, I'm still getting dressed, and of course I armoured up for my difficult day. Karen was a very stylish woman, and I know she would have appreciated this.

SO GREEN. I felt like a million bucks in this.

Dress - Escada, vintage 00s, consignment; purchased here for $149.99
Shoes - Chie Mihara; last seen here in May for an at-home outfit

I spent a good chunk of time going through all of Vogue.com's online archives of Escada's runway looks, and I've concluded that - while this is definitely typical of an Escada look - this coat-dress predates their slideshows, which only go back to 2013. They certainly don't shy away from satin - some of their garments are incredibly gorgeous. I think this is from the early 00s.

As this coat? dress? coat-dress? is generously sized, I put a massive honkin' belt over it so that I didn't look like a Christmas tree.

The caramel colour of the accessories helps. I promise I will never wear this with red unless it's actually the holiday season.

Pockets...yes... I wore a black vintage half-slip under this and a black cami on top. It was fine for sitting at my desk, walking and eating on a patio - no gaping, lots of room to move in.

I was hugely impressed with the lack of wrinkling, especially since this is a silk satin (even the lining is silk!).

Here it is without the belt. As you can see, there are no wrinkles at the waistline even though I had it cinched within an inch of its life.

This is just too loose for me to wear it like this, though. Needs a belt. I would make a lovely coat over a party dress, wouldn't it? I could see it with a turtleneck and a pair of funky trousers too, with it worn open. Lots of potential!

The stuff:

I adore these comfy shoes, which are really only a 1-inch heel. After work, I walked in them to the Commons for drinks and appies with my gals, and we talked about Karen, and just shared our grief. L and Casey took care of Nick all day, well into the evening. Such generous, giving friends I have.

Caramel/copper bling:

I gravitate to my vintage copper pieces when I need comfort. The earrings and copper/turquoise ring belonged to my Grandma J, and the silver/crystal ring was bought with my birthday money from my Winesday Women years ago.

Belt - Fendi, thrifted
Copper necklace/earrings - vintage 70s, vintage expo
Copper/enamel cuff - Matisse, vintage 60s, vintage fair
Copper/enamel earrings - Matisse, vintage 60s, Grandma J's
Copper/turquoise ring - Grandma J's
Silver/crystal ring - Uffizi Gallery gift shop, Florence, Italy

Flashback!

I don't track the wearings on my accessories, but this belt is one of my swanky designer pieces, and I found it in the WIN Warehouse thrift store here for $19.99 back in July 2016 What a score that was!

My belt is probably from the early 00s, is made in Italy, and I've even verified that the serial number and model number inside actually match Fendi belts of this same design on auction sites. It's genuine - not that I had any doubt when I bought it (Victoria is home to a lot of well-off people). It likely retailed for around $200-400 at the time; Fendi's belts now start at $900 and go into the $1000+ range.

It's the only piece of real Fendi I've ever bought (I've seen a couple of really old pieces at vintage fairs, but they either didn't appeal or were too pricey for me), so why not have a little retrospective to see if I've gotten my money's worth?

Of course, I had to wear it IMMEDIATELY, here in July 2016. Get used to seeing it with this dress. Guess how many times I wear them together!

I wore it again later that month, where it's more of the star of the outfit.

You'll start to see a pattern in what shoes I put with it - I nearly always go matchy. I still have everything in that outfit, except for the silk blouse, which I ruined. Gah, peri-menopause was a sweaty time.

I'll have to do a Flashback on this Dept dress when I bring it out in the fall. I paid very little for it (under $10) and I'm sure I've reached 30 wears. This was in January 2017.

Even when I wear the same outfit, I'll change things up with different accessories - here, I'm wearing my navy blue vintage slip under the dress, with blue tights.

The boots and belt combo are now firmly entrenched, here in January 2017 again.

This is a vintage dress that I no longer have - it was really thick and sweaty.

One month later, in February 2017 - deja vu! Different tights.

My hair's grown fast!

I love this look from May 2017 - I miss that vintage sweater (it wore out).

My See By Chloe skirt is still around, as are those chartreuse shoes.

I'd forgotten about this dress - it was a cheap H&M one that I wore for a year and then passed along.

This was in June 2017, just after I thrifted matching sandals - think we'll see those again?

Here's the same dress in September 2017, in an autumn-ized version of the first look.

"Hey, it's me!"

I prefer the matchier caramel boots.

There's my Urban Camo dress again, in October 2017

In which I discover that my vintage Fluevogs go perfectly with the belt.

I notice that I frequently wear it over a patterned dress. This one is Christian Lacroix for Desigual (thrifted for a ridiculously low price).

I like my ultra-minis in fall - this is November 2017 - when I can wear tights with them. Matchy boots!

Obviously, this dress/slip/belt combo is one of my "no-think" go-tos. I'd bet that these are mostly Monday outfits. This look is from January 2018.

This time with blue velvet boots. It's totally different!

A rare outfit in May 2018 that shows the belt off more.

I love the this look, but neither the denim dress nor the skirt lasted too long. This is the second outfit with the matching sandals.

And here's the second time with the matchy Fluevogs, in October 2018. My hair got a lot lighter in just a few months.

As the belt is so wide, it functions well for reining in a thick or bulky fabric, like my Teddy top.

That dress again, in November 2018.

Different shoes; totally different outfit (ha ha). I hated those shoes - I think I gave them to one of my coworkers.

I've found a new patterned dress to wear with it here in January 2019 - this floaty cotton Kenzo dress has bits of rusty brown in it.

It's also quite voluminous, so it needs a wide belt. That's a January "going out" outfit, which is why I'm showing a fair bit of skin in a winter month.

Here's the work version of the same outfit, in March 2019.

I recognize those boots.

One of my favourite recent-ish dresses is a natural match for the belt, in April 2019.

I bought those sandals (which are the same ones I wore in this post's main outfit) to replace the previous caramel ones, which were too high.

This is the sixth time I've worn this belt and dress together (did you guess right?), in November 2019. It's also the sixth time that I've paired the belt with these boots.

It's the same outfit as July 2017 but without the blue tights.

And here's the last time I wore it, in February of this year for theatre with Mom and Cat/her mom.

I love this look - that tulle skirt is a favourite.

I've learned from this flashback that I need to break out of my dress/belt rut, and to experiment more with outfits that let the belt really shine. As for my cost-per-wear, I've worn it 20 times, including with the green Escada dress above, so I've hit the $1.00 per wear mark! Wow!

Our dear friend Karen passed gracefully this week after a short battle with cancer. She was 59 years old, and damn, did we ever have some good times over the years! Karen was my oldest friend that wasn't invited to our wedding, because she and Nick had not quite started dating yet.

When I first knew her, I was hugely intimidated - she was whip-smart, opinionated and confident, which terrified me. Karen was fiercely intelligent, with a passion for argument and was not afraid to speak her mind (she and L got into some good discussions). Our men were and are best friends, so we were always hanging out together, but because I was very insecure at this point in my life, I kept her at arm's length - I liked her, but we weren't friends. That came later, and is my only regret: I wish we had been friends sooner.

I spent some time going through our pre-digital photos - actual photographs! - looking for all my pictures of her. I want to be able to share these and process my profound sadness at our loss, but also record some of the amazing times we had, and all of our wonderful friends. Forgive my indulgence; it's in the name of love.

Dates are subject to my admittedly erratic memory.

So! To set the stage, here we are in 1997. This is our Christmas party (L and I hosting) in December at our first apartment - I spy some Christmas decorations on top of the ginormous TV. L and I have been married since March, not even a year!

Spence is on the left, and on the couch is Greg and Helene. Karen's in very trendy sheer stretchy lace. Mmmm...90s fashion. Love her shiny bob and that gorgeous smile.

This is at Casey's divorce party, in the fall of 1997.

That's me on the left (that's a pistachio green mini-skirted suit, and I'm wearing a silk scarf tied at my neck), then Karen, Nick, Spence, Janet and Gerry.

This is at my 30th birthday party, at L's and my apartment, in October 1997 - I can tell by the black crepe paper on the photo on the right. I threw a Funeral Party "for the death of my 20s" - we all wore black and it was quite fun.

Karen, rebel that she was, bucked the dress code in her burgundy lace dress. Nick looks so young there! Look at that 90s hair, all wavy.

Karen and I slowly bonded over being silly together. We were both game for any dress-up situation, as you can see here from Hallowe'en 1998. We are at an insane party at the Bay Street Armoury (we partied near actual tanks!), in the women's bathroom, which had water all over the floor and stank to high heavens. My costume soaked up a lot of that, but I was rather inebriated, so it didn't bother me overly.

Yes, that is me on the left - I'm a ghost. I made my costume out of a couple of nightgowns and a sheet that I bought at Value Village. Karen is a very sexy vampire. That's her Mom's dress, I recall.

L and I have now moved into our current condo - it's Christmas 1998, as I can tell by the silver icicles in my tree (this back when I used to own plants).

Oh, my gosh, look at these two children. That's L holding his Goblet of Rock - his hair is so short! He has always had a flair for fashion, but I'm glad he grew his hair out (at my encouragement). Karen is very festive in her red dress. Could this be one of their famous ~~arguments~~ conversations?

I love it when our friends make themselves at home.

"Nicky, bring me that Premiere magazine."
"And a glass of wine, your Indoors?"

I think this is at Kelly and Melanie's for New Year's Eve 1998.

Helene in the background, and a lovely look between Karen and Nick. Aw, those two lovebirds.

Hallway shot, at the same party.

Gerry on the left, then L (looking spiffy in a top-hat), unknown guy, Norm (nice tie!), Casey (bow tie and blue jacket!), and Karen in her burgundy sparkly velvet. Love the new bob too, very stylin'.

One of Janet's infamous parties at the big loft. Her parties were legendary, from the "Night at the Playboy Mansion" to the "House Swarming" of '98. This is from around 1999-2000, somewhere in there. I don't have a lot of pictures from this era, for some reason. I probably just never got around to buying film!

Nick, Karen and I think that is....Stacy?

Same party, hanging out in the kitchen.

Karen, Janet's friend Dwayne, L (fez, velvet smoking jacket, cravat and Goblet of Rock and his hair is getting longer), Arnold, and unknown person.

I think below is from L's birthday party in 2001, and oh my, that's our kitchen and wow, it's ugly! Note:

Track lighting
Original '70s cupboards (painted pale yellow) with original hardware
Padded floral "tile" wallpaper
I'm happy you can't see the sparkly "brick" linoleum and bright yellow counters
It was like this when we bought our condo!

We threw a Sunglasses Party - everyone had to wear sunglasses, based on this song here (crank it and dance!). We played a lot of funk, mostly Parliament, that night. Andrew, Arnold and Karen in our galley kitchen. We call this the Gauntlet, as you have to go through the Kitchen Party crowd to get to the fridge.

Same party - this picture of Karen and Nick just makes me laugh. Oh, Nick, you are a scamp. Love those shades!

I think that might be Karen's neon jacket he's wearing - Nick borrowed a lot of her clothes for theme parties (he looks great in her leather pants!).

This is my birthday party in October 2001. The theme was Goth.

Karen and Desiree out on the deck. Sexy arm gauntlets, Karen!

Same party - must have been a good one, judging from all the beer cans around.

Desiree, Robert, me (quite sozzled there in my black wig) and Karen.

One of many times we were at Swan's Pub on a Friday night.

Karen and a Corona beer. 2002?

Aw...I love this picture. This is at L's birthday party in 2002, I think.

Kare-bear!

I'm wearing a fake tattoo - this is many years before I got all inked up. I had red hair for a long time too!

Christmas party 2002 at our place (note the hideous green walls and wall-to-wall carpeting). I don't put my Christmas tree(s) up anymore due to Vizzini. I value all those beautiful ornaments too much to leave them with him for longer than a few minutes.

That's the same dress Karen wore for Hallowe'en a few years before. Looking fabulous, my dear.

This is at L's birthday, in 2003, I think. Nick's getting grey on the sides there.

Early 00s fashion for men was so oversized!

Same party, using a black and white disposable camera (remember those?). A few months ago, I found two CDs tucked into a box - when I checked, they had a bunch of pictures on them, and I remembered that when I got the photos developed, it included the CDs. Thinking I would never use them ("Why would I want digital pictures?"), I just set them aside. I'm so glad I kept them!

Karen, L and Anthony, who came over from Vancouver. No theme, but we still dress up! Karen is in a gorgeous dress - she was always queen of the party dresses. L is looking very snazzy and his hair's grown out a ton.

I think this is from our friend Chris' second wedding (to Tracy), back in 2003? This is at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel (the old one).

I remember it was a really hot summer Saturday, and we'd all gotten a ton of sun from playing Ultimate Frisbee that morning. Karen crouched under my parasol during the outdoor ceremony to get away from the burning sun - there was much giggling between us.

L, Karen and Steve at the October Birthday Party in 2004, for all of the many October babies we knew. L is doing another fez/smoking jaket outfit (with a shiny gold tie!), Karen is in a gorgeous halter-style flapper dress, and Steve (one of our people guys) is in his Team Canada hockey jersey.

Steve, I feel ya - I could never stick around for one of L and Karen's spirited "discussions"! Karen looks like she's going to give L a piece of her mind. Run!

(Not to mislead you: L and Karen loved each other dearly, but sometimes differed in opinions. I still will run from any conflict).

Chris (also an October baby), brought a literal October baby to the party: his third son, Owen. Karen looks dubious.

Classy decor notes:

Vintage (original to the building) pineapple chandelier
Cat scratching post (we still have this - it's lasted through 3 cats)
Another long-dead plant
No curtains

When Karen and I finally clicked as friends, it was from our mutual deep vein of silliness. This is such a classic shot of us laughing our heads off. No offense, Chris, but neither of us were/are all that keen on babies.

"And then the baby LOOKED at me!"

I'm wearing a beaded cream sweater, a long black satin skirt and Nine West pumps (those were my dressing up shoes for years, back in the days when I only owned a few pairs of shoes!).

This is from one of our most memorable parties: the Lame Superhero Party, for L's birthday in 2004. Guests were requested to come as a superhero, and to come up with a name and silly ability - we gave our prizes for Best Lame Name and Best Lame Ability. I made all kinds of signs like that "Ka-Pow!" one and stuck them all over. It was hilarious.

Decor note: Yes, those are dragons on that shelf. L and I painted them.

Karen was the Kung Fu Flosser! See her rolls of dental floss on her belt? She's ready to floss at a moment's notice.

For your amusement, here's me as The Full Minty.

I can make your breath fresh! I was finding breath mints, Mentos and Tic Tacs all over the house for months after that. I still have that hat, somewhere in my closet archives.

Nick and Karen all gussied up - we met at St. Ann's Academy for our friend Zeb's wedding in 2005ish?

Karen is beautiful in yellow, and Nick always is so dapper in a suit.

Another party in 2005-6, maybe? Goodness, that was maybe not the best choice of colours for repainting our kitchen, in hindsight. We renovated it again in 2007, thank goodness.

Terra cotta walls
Kraft Dinner yellow cupboards
Malachite green counters
Pineapple on the counter? That's a messy party snack.

Thank goodness Karen is classin' up the joint!

This is one of the most beautiful dresses ever - it's beaded and is a warm brown. Karen is radiant. "You're so f**king gorgeous!" I always said to her.

This is Christmas 2006, another houseful of our fabulous friends.

Nick is in what we refer to as a "Karen shirt" (she picked them out). Karen is looking beautiful in velvet gloves and a black satin dress with touches of red in her accessories. Carollynne is in the background with the library group (the curtain-rod is where our hidden-door bookcase is now). Chris is looking very happy - he must be having a scotch.

This is the evening of my big 40th birthday bash, in October 2007. Kelly's looking on while Karen peruses the very photo album that most of these pictures came from.

Karen is lovely in her camo dress - such a badass. She's got her bottle of wine ready to go to! Always prepared to party!

From our place, we all headed down to Swan's where I hosted a big gathering of our favourite people: family, friends, work colleagues. I'd just done the Victoria Marathon, a goal that I'd been working towards for over a year - the sign in the background is one that Casey held up to cheer me on.

Our dear Karen.

After 2007, my life changed so much, all for the better. All of the fun women I'd been meeting and getting to know over the past year+ became a tight-knit group of friends (the Winesday Women). I started blogging in the spring of 2008, following the purchase of a digital camera. Going digital, I took far more pictures, and many more of our good times were recorded on on my blog (with dates!).

Well, there you go. I hope y'all enjoyed that - I'll be doing 1-2 more posts with pictures from the last 12+ years, later this week. Thanks for reading!

While I'm digging through all of my copious archives of photos, I am still getting dressed. This is what I wore to work on Wednesday.

I've been wanting to wear this skirt again! Colour therapy! Clothing as armour!

Cardigan - J. Crew, thrifted; last worn here many times in September 2019 for our trip to Portland
Shirt - Ann Taylor, consignment; first seen here in May with my Big Lady Boss Pants
Skirt - Maeve, thrifted; last worn here in January for some rainbow colour therapy
Shoes - Zoomies Ishshoes, Fluevog; last seen here in August 2019 in a Darth Sheila ensemble

I went through a phase a few years ago when I desired big pouffy skirts, and this was one of my finds. We'll have a wee Flashback below on all the ways I've worn this skirt.

Today, a simple white shirt, bookended by white shoes.

I wore it with the cardigan for 99% of my day - it's chilly in the office.

My coworker Preeti (hi!) noted that my fine linen cardigan billowed behind me when I walked, like a cape. Bonus! Thanks for telling me!

This skirt gets an A - if it had pockets, it would be an A+.

The stuff:

I adore these shoes - I never thought a chunky white T-strap wedge shoe (with pointy toes!) would be useful in my wardrobe, but they've been surprisingly versatile. I'll do a Flashback on them at a future date, when I've worn them a bit more - I have only had them for a year or so.

Orange bling:

Gobs of accessories! I started with the "Jello-shot" necklace and rolled with the gold.

Belt - vintage, thrifted
Necklace - Banana Republic, consignment
Orange cuff/ring - 1960s, Italian, vintage mall
Earrings - consignment
Lapis lazuli ring - Wendy Brandes
Gold/pearl bracelet - Trifari, vintage 60s, Grandma J
Gold bracelet - Trifari, vintage 60s, thrifted

Flashback!

This lovely skirt is one of the more distinctive pieces I own. I bought it here in November 2015, nearly 5 years ago, from the Patch for $16.95. It's by Maeve (an Anthropologie brand) and is called the "Pome Blossom Skirt" - it originally retailed for close to $200.00.

I'd seen it on a previous visit to the Patch and not purchased it, because it was a size 12 - I just assumed it would be too big. Finally, I tried it on, and it was a bit big, but not that much, so I bought it. I "took in" the waistband with two safety pins on either side - stay KLASSY, Sheila.

I wore it right away in November 2015, with an orange blouse, a cream brocade blazer and all copper accessories.

I still have that blazer! It's lasted for well over 5 and maybe even 10 years now - I'll have to do a Flashback on it in the fall.

Here it is a couple of months later, in January 2016, matchy with an orange turtleneck sweater, a denim jacket and orangey-red boots with blue tights.

The skirt itself is navy blue organza embroidered with bright orange flowers, which are embroidered! Seriously thick embroidery - it's really lovely. Under that outer layer is an attached crinoline with a stiff netting flounce, and then lining so that it doesn't snag or itch. There is a rear zip and a grosgrain ribbon waistband. No pockets, grrr.

Navy and orange can be a challenging pattern mix - I have often gone with a solid white or cream top, and then piled on the orange accessories. This is in July 2016 - the current outfit marks the first time with a sleeveless white shirt, but I've also done short sleeves (here) and full sleeves (below). I go through a white shirt about once a year.

I'm rather surprised that I've only worn my "Jello shot" necklace and orange belt with it twice before the current outfit.

My jelly-deer matches so well here in April 2017, and it inspired me to start mixing other colours with the skirt. Jelly-deer Flashback here.

Vibrant turquoise goes really well! Turquoise is a very useful go-to for me for mixing with other colours.

This is a sparkly navy blue sweater festooned with brooches, in July 2017.

Only the skirt and the brooches are left from this outfit.

My whale sweater made a fun pairing - this is in September 2019.

The Miista "trout" shoes have only been worn with the skirt once, which surprises me, as they go so well.

I experimented with other colours in November 2017.

Royal blue, emerald green lace, a bit of red - I really like how these work with the skirt and should experiment a bit more with other combos.

This February 2018 outfit features another white shirt, and my Earhart Big Presence Desmonds (Flashback here)

A classic fit-and-flare look that everyone thought was a dress. It's not!

This is probably my least successful look with it, in April 2018 - hey, they can't all be winners.

That striped top did not work with the skirt (should have tucked it in), and the two turquoise items did not match (I got rid of the shrug, kept the shoes, of course).

Back to basics here with a simple cream sweater and red boots, in September 2018.

I gave the boots to Cat - they felt too high for me and gave me some foot pain.

I love this bright yellow with the skirt, worn in July 2019.

I only wore this skirt once in 2019, which is shocking! I must have packed it away for winter that year. Third time worn with these Fluevog aqua shoes, nicely balanced with the aqua leather obi belt.

And here's the last time I wore it, in January 2020.

It's paired with this darker turquoise, and then red accents with the shoes and belt.

Including today's outfit, that's 13 times I've worn it, which brings it to $1.30 per wear. I still have lots of things I can wear with it, so I expect that to get even better!

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After work, I dashed home to feed Vizzini, did a quick outfit change and then walked down to Moxie's to meet L and Mom for dinner. Mom always treats L to a birthday meal, and we'd missed it the week of his actual birthday. It was so good to see her and to have a nice meal out.

I hadn't planned on changing, but it had gotten so hot and sunny by the end of the day that I needed a looser outfit...hey, let's change up the bottom!

I ADORE this gorgeous skirt. Isn't it magnificent?

Linen cardigan - J. Crew, worn above
Shirt - Ann Taylor, consignment; worn above
Skirt - A Tribute to Marimekko by H&M, thrifted; last seen here in August 2019 with turquoise and black
Shoes - Mellow Bossa Nova, Fluevog; last worn here with a neon bookend in April

I haven't owned the skirt for very long (a couple of years), but it totally deserves a Flashback, right?

I opened up the neckline of the shirt, and put the same necklace under it. I wore it like this at the restaurant.

The skirt is very billowy and swooshy. It wafts like a parachute when the wind catches it.

And it has pockets!

I broke out of my "wear it with black" rut with this outfit - this is definitely some major colour therapy!

The linen cardigan again for sun coverage, worn for walking to and from.

The stuff:

These shoes are a true neon orange - the colour doesn't photograph well. They are super comfy, easy for the short walk to town and back.

Deja vu bling:

I did change a few things up - added a bracelet, subtracted a ring and a couple of bracelets. Bling math!

Shiny orange cuff - thrifted
Everything else - as above

Flashback!

I bought this amazing skirt at the Patch (again!), which has been a source of some of my favourite thrift finds over the years. I hope they will be re-opening soon - there's nothing posted on their site or FB page.

The pattern is by Marimekko, licenced by H&M for their "Tribute to Marimekko" collection from Spring 2008. I guess it's practically vintage now! I spy all sorts of "rare" tags on eBay listings for pieces, so I guess the line was really popular. It wasn't initially that expensive - this skirt would have been around $50-60. I paid $19.99 for it here in June 2018, so I've had it for 2 years.

I first wore it for our Canada Day long weekend meet-up in July 2018, with a plain black sweater and sandals - so creative!

"Black is beautiful, Woman."

The fabric is cotton/silk, and it's washable. It is unlined - sometimes I wear slips under it (for work) and sometimes not (on hot days/weekends). The colours are pink outlined with a caramel brown, on an orange background with circles of an orangey-yellow.

My styling has not been overly creative with it - it's a very bold statement piece! - I've done black nearly every time, except for the current look and this turquoise ensemble for Pride in July 2018.

I wore this to work and my colleagues loved it. What other colour(s) might you try with it? Yellow?

Black and black again in September 2018.

I'm not opposed to black - I have quite a lot of it in my colourful wardrobe - as it allows me to change up my accessories and show them off. Here, I've done a bold gold necklace.

In July 2019, I wore it with more black, showing off a funky All Saints necklace.

So swooshy!

It's a size 4, so way too small for me to actually button it up (zip in the rear, with two self-covered buttons on a wide waistband). I usually solve this by not buttoning it up, zipping it to a comfortable waist, folding the waistband inside the skirt, and covering it with a belt or longer top.

It's not like I could NOT buy this - I mean, look at that pattern! I had to make it fit and you would never know that this isn't my size. This look is from August 2019 - I like the turquoise pops of colour, and the caramel/turquoise belt.

In addition to the current outfit, this is my 6th wearing of it, so my cost-per-wear is sitting at $3.33. Of course, this is not going anywhere, and I'll be wearing it a ton more over the coming years, I'm sure, so I expect that cost to go down.

How's your week going? BC just went to Phase 3 on our Covid re-opening plan, which allows for non-essential travel (the US-Canada border is still closed), and the re-opening of the film industry (we are "Hollywood North"), hotels/resorts and movie theatres (link here). We still have to maintain physical distancing of 2 meters/6 feet, and follow all safety protocols. "Bigger spaces, few faces."

This is the 2nd post (the first post is here, if you missed it) taking a look back through my personal photo archives for pictures of our dear Karen, who we lost last week to cancer. As before, dates are approximate based on my shaky memory.

I chose a grouping from 2008 to 2015 for a couple of reasons. It's when informal Winesdays became the Winesday/MANday (Musical Appreciation Night) scheduled events. It's when I started blogging (2008) and when I really began to record events for posterity. If my memory is shaky now, I can't imagine how it will be in 10-20 years! It all kind of blurs together after a while (I see some of you nodding), and I wanted to be able to look back and really remember things.

Some of these events were blogged more fully in posts; I'll link where appropriate.

December 2009 - It's Festivus! We had a shiny pole, and had a "Feats of Strength" competition (arm-wrestling). Everyone got sick after this party - who knew all that hand-touching would...oh, yes, we all know this now. Original post here, although I barely posted any pictures of the actual party.

Some of the party attendees, including from left: my former boss, Joanne, Karen, Allison, former coworker Natasha (sitting), Chris, Sherylyn (just behind Chris), Caro and Yvonne.

Here's Karen about to wrestle Allison.

Look at those pythons on Karen! However, she did lose to Allison, who went on to win the Women's prize.

L and Nick facing off.

Randall providing the "ready, steady, go", with various onlookers. I spy Ross, someone??, Justin and Joel.

My photo labels tell me this is from June 2009, and it certainly looks like a party at our place. It's likely L's birthday.

Caro and Karen, rather a-glow (our condo gets very hot in the summer with a houseful of people). In decor notes, I see we have finally redone our kitchen cupboards. Phew!

I included this picture from January 2010 because it was one that both Karen and I found hilarious.

It's probably a post-MANday picture, both of our men completely crashed out and asleep on the couch.

This is one of our Book Club meetings, in January 2010.

That's me on the left, next to Karen, then Mindy, Sherylyn, Cat, Caro (this is at her house), and Daisy.

For L's 40th birthday in 2010, we threw a Miami Dolphins-themed party (link to my original post here). We decorated with aqua, orange and white streamers and balloons, and requested that all guests wear those colours.

From left, Spence, Nick and Casey. L is in his Dan Marino jersey and a hat he's still wearing 10 years later.

Karen wore a gorgeous turquoise lace dress with pearl accents and an orange bracelet.

Helene looks resplendent in her orange dress.

Karen's friend Yim and her husband Steve must have been in town.

It's a June party - everyone's glowy!

Aw, I miss Yim. She is a sweetheart, but they don't live in Victoria anymore.

A couple of shots of our dear couple.

You can see we had some of L's Dolphins jerseys hanging at the entrance to our library.

Nick can never resist a smooch, even when he has a glass of beer in his hand. He's a smoochy guy.

My birthday party, in October 2010. I nabbed pictures of all my lovely female friends, but only joined in one.

Karen was queen of the fascinators, in addition to always having the perfect dress for any occasion!

December 2010 - must be one of our Christmas parties.

Karen and Helene.

Karen's accessories often featured steampunk elements - it was a style that really appealed to her.

June 2011, likely another one of L's birthday parties.

Karen was often part of the Gauntlet in our galley kitchen. I see Nick in the background (that's the dancing area - Nick likes to cut a rug).

This is from early August 2011, so this is probably a drink meet-up for Nick's birthday.

Yim and Steve are there! From left: Nick, Yim, Steve, Karen, L, Casey, me.

Who's taking the picture?

Andrew! There he is, with Karen snuggled up to him. We were at Vista 18, overlooking the city.

Spence, Kim and their daughter (they only had one then!) came over for a visit in August 2011, so of course we met up for brunch. This is at Milestone's, overlooking the harbour.

From left: Nick, me, Kim, Eloise, Spence, L and Karen.

Looking across the table.

Spence, L and Karen.

And back at my side of the table.

Nick, me, Kim and El. Recognize my "lettuce" dress? I still have it! (See? Last May here).

In April 2012, we wrangled a group of us to attend the Victoria Steam Expo, for all things steampunk (bigass post here). There are tons of pictures at that link, as we did an Absinthe Tasting on the Friday night, followed by Saturday daytime and evening events.

Karen was very creative in costuming - she made nearly everything in both her and Nick's outfits.

The absinthe tasting was at the Union Club.

I love a woman who likes to dress up!

The two of us chilling out at the end of the evening.

Karen and I went to the Saturday daytime expo together at the Empress Hotel. Don't we look smashing?

This is the first time I remember just the two of us doing something together, and it was actually on Karen's birthday. We celebrated just by being together. Aw!

We met up with some of our friends at the Bengal Lounge in the Empress Hotel later on.

Elaine! She's on theme, but didn't attend any of events.

This is one of my favourite pictures of Nick and Karen.

You can see some of the great attention to detail that they put into their outfits.

We're all so danged fabulous!

One of Book Club meet-ups! We tend not to take pictures at Book Club - this is one that Kathryn hosted.

From left: Elaine, Kathryn, Mindy, Yvonne, Cat, me and Karen (so Caro took the picture).

New Year's Eve, January 2013.

A great black and white shot of Karen and Nick. This must be one of Randall's (thank you!), as he sent us a huge whack of pictures from his cell phone a while back, and they've been all mixed up with my picture archive.

March 2013 - brunch at Swan's.

The cutest couple ever!

This in April 2013, on the steps of Victoria High School.

We're all geared up for our Saturday morning Ultimate Frisbee. Karen, Chris' eldest son Kevin played with us sometimes, and I loved it when Ali played.

This is around the time that we started to officially plan all of our long weekends to include a hang-out with our Winesday/MANday crew, solidifying the "family we choose" ethic.

The whole gang: going clockwise, starting with Randall in the white shirt: Randall, Ross, Nick, L, Cat, Yvonne, me, Karen, Justin and Vero.

The gals hung out together first. Caro brought her "butt ruffle" (it's a purse!), which of course, we all had to try on.

Now that I see all these pictures together, it's the first time I've seen Karen repeat a dress!

"Does this make my butt look big?"

Hilarity ensued.

I'm not sure what Vero is doing, but we are all rather wacky folks, ha ha!

The menfolk joined us later. This is at Canoe Club on the water.

We always have such good times.

All of us again.

Somewhere in these years, our Winesday "Core Four" expanded from me, Cat, Caro and Vero to include Karen and Yvonne (the "Thick Six"). Winesdays are planned around us.

This is in October 2013, from Chris' surprise birthday party at the Bard & Banker Pub.

In front: Chris, Ali, Caro.
Middle: Karen, Nick, Casey, Yvonne, Vero, me, Cat
Back: Randall, L, Ronnie, Justin, Ross and Andrew

My birthday party in October 2013 was legendary (original post link here). It was a 70s-themed party.

Yeah, that's me, going full-on disco baby!

But wouldn't you know, someone let the punk rockers in!

So much attitude.

Karen never went for half-measures, from her punked-out eye make-up to her safety pin "piercings".

So badass.

Nick is English (sexy accent and all).

He really got into being a punk!

Me and Karen - I know this is one of Randall's shots, because I was definitely too tipsy to take any!

I simply can't be friends with people who won't dress up.

Another shot by Randall.

Ali and Karen, drinking scotch and wine, respectively.

All the women at the 70s party.

From left: former coworkers Liz and Alex, Vero, Caro (on the back of the couch), me, Karen, Ali, Dawn and...I'm not even sure who those last 3 people are. Heh, must have been a good party.

My wonderful girlfriends nominated me for the Annual (which turned out to be a one-off) Unlimited Woman Awards as an Unlimited Woman of Style. We all went to the awards at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, in November 2013 (original post here). I didn't win, but we had a blast.

Karen, Tracy and Elaine. I styled Tracy (and Cat, and Yvonne) for the event.

After the awards, we made nuisances of ourselves in the lobby of the hotel.

Karen and Caro, with Cat leaning over and Elaine on her way.

And there's Yvonne (that's her wedding dress!) and Tracy.

We were so loud and filled with rambunctious spirit.

Many thanks to the OBBH employee who volunteered to take pictures of us.

From left: Yvonne, Karen, Cat, Elaine, Caro, Vero, Tracy, me.

Wait, let me get comfortable.

That's better.

From the event photo-booth.

I so love this wonderful group of women, with all my heart.

Our New Year's Eve seeing in 2013 was spent at Cafe Brio.

I had many issues with their service, but any event where we are all together can't be all bad.

We went to our first Victoria Film Festival Gala - at Elaine's instigation - in February 2014 (massive post here, so many pictures!).

Karen and Elaine in the Andy Warhol section - the theme was the 60s.

Nick and Karen - another pic from Randall.

Nick, don't blink!

A Winesday picture from May 2014.

We're at Yvonne and Randall's place.

This is probably a Book Club, from August 2014.

Karen and Elaine, separated by a large pillow.

In October 2014, L and I threw a big Hallowe'en party (link here).

We're doing Beetlejuice! We both wore our costumes to work that day, I recall.

Karen did steampunk.

As did Nick.

Since they had all that gear from the 2012 Steam Expo, that totally makes sense.

One of my coworkers gave me a gift certificate for a 6-person limo ride - Jordan, I remain eternally grateful to you and Katrina for gifting that to me. I booked in in March 2015, and it is one of our most memorable Winesday Women events, ever. Original post here, loads more pictures.

We met up with our guys (and Linda!) at the Garrick's Head Pub afterward.

It was a rainy day, but we started our morning with "special" coffees in the limo.

Karen and Yvonne.

Me, attempting to do a selfie (poorly).

Oh, man, that was just the giggliest of giggle-fests.

We stopped at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel to use the washrooms.

Karen, Yvonne, Vero, Cat, me, Caro.

Aw, my dear, dear friends.

And we drove to the top of Mt. Tolmie.

Karen hiding under her brolly.

Cat looking on. We had the whole place to ourselves, shockingly.

I love this picture of us!

Outside the Garrick's Head, at the end of our 2-hour tour around the city (of which we saw very little, due to the rain).

Posing with our limo driver, who we tipped generously.

An annual event we do is L's birthday week Day of Indolence. This is from June 2015 (link here, oodles of pictures of our adventures).

We're at Spinnakers Pub.

Action shot!

From left: Caro, Cat, Ross, L, Nick, Randall, me, Yvonne and Karen.

Moving on to the Delta's patio.

Such a lovely day. Karen, Randall, Yvonne, L and Ross.

Nick moved in for a hug.

Aw, such sweethearts.

I love this picture.

We do love to take silly pictures.

And we do like our pubs.

Here we are near the end of a long day, at the Drake.

L and Karen.

Do we have enough mojo for one more action shot?

You know we do! Yeah, baby!

I made a fan for Karen, completed in 2015 (here, progress and completed pictures).

I know it meant a lot to her - she displayed it.

I don't know what month is was, but it's summer 2015 and we're in Marian's hot tub!

That was a hilarious night. From left: Karen, Caro, Vero, Marian, me.

August 2015 - definitely a Winesday, and it's at my house.

My dearest friends, my sisters: Caro, Karen, Cat, Vero, and Yvonne.

So much love. Please raise a glass: To the Family We Choose!

My next and final post for Karen will go up on Sunday, and will cover from 2016 to the present.

This is the 3rd and final post looking back and remembering our dear friend Karen, who left us last week following a short battle with cancer (1st post here, and 2nd post here). Any errors on dates are my own shaky memory.

I've titled this entry "Grace, Giddiness and Gratitude" as that was how Karen lived her life. As I've gone through my pictures and written these posts, it's helped me come to terms with losing this vibrant life, and it's also helping our friends process their grief. I laugh and cry when I see these, and it reminds me to find grace, reach for giddiness (embracing the silly!), and to ever be grateful for the wonderful people in my life.

2016

L and I hosted New Year's Eve!

Give her a smooch, Nick!

As always, our parties are a blur. As a group, we have been celebrating New Year's Eve together for close to 15 years.

Ali, Cat, Karen, me.

These people - all of them - are my favourite humans.

Ross, Cat, Karen and Nick.

Damn, my friends are good-lookin'!

Karen (fab Fluevogos!), Yvonne and Ali, being sexy!

Ross, L and Karen.

You can see some of L's vast CD collection. He has close to 2,000. I get clothes, he gets CDs.

Nick, Karen and Ross.

Right back atcha, Nickers.

Ah, a good picture - this must be from Randall's collection (thank you!).

Me, Ali and Karen.

In February, the world-famous Empress Hotel's Bengal Lounge shut down (article here), so we all decided to go send her off in fashion. Original post here, lots of pictures.

Randall, how much do you love Karen?

"This much!"

Look at that fabulous outfit.

I love the faux fur and the clip!

Karen loved fascinators and hats.

She had an amazing jewelry collection as well.

I always spent a few minutes when I saw her inventorying all the interesting aspects of her outfits.

She kept Nick in sartorial splendor too.

Cat and Karen.

That was such a fun afternoon, catching up with everyone.

In April, Yvonne's husband accidentally included her on her surprise 50th birthday party invitation (ha!), so we invited her along on our planned paper-flower-making afternoon. It actually was even better to have us all together. Original "Crafternoon" post here.

Yvonne, Cat, me, Vero, Karen, Caro.

Look at all the flowers! It was so much fun making these.

That just fills my heart with happiness.

We had an assembly-line system, but also drank wine and ate appies.

Karen, me, Caro, Cat.

An April Winesday at Caro's place. We always congregate in the kitchen!

I spy Ali and Karen in front, then clockwise: Nancy, Marian, Cat, Yvonne, me, Vero, Linda and Elaine - and of course, Caro, taking it.

Caro, Cat and Karen.

That green/white sweater is from my giveaway pile - I recognize it.

We celebrated L's birthday with our annual Day of Indolence (original post here, oodles of pictures).

Karen and Cat at the Garrick's Head Pub. \

Wait, let me in there!

Aw, my gals.

Caro met up with at the Drake.

She's wearing one of my old coats, ha ha! I love it when my friends wear my clothes.

We met up for Canada Day at the Garrick's Head again.

Nick, Karen, Yvonne and Linda.

We always wear red and white for the Canadian flag.

I see you, Ross, plus Cat, Yvonne and Karen - love her polka dots!

We have the most fun at Winesday - this one is at Linda's in July.

Everyone needs to twirls in giant skirts! Yvonne, Karen and Caro...this makes me grin.

2017

For a January Winesday, I did everyone's nails.

I'm not even sure who's hand is whose, but I know Karen's is in there!

One of our favourite annual events for the past several years has been the Victoria Film Festival Opening Night Gala. It's so much fun to dress up, see a movie and then party with friends and other fabulous folks - and it's a good cause. We go every year!

The original post is here (scads of pictures). When the host spotted us in the audience at the theatre, he noted, "Oh, good, the colourful people are here!" and waved at us.

We are always standouts in a crowd. Vero (love that jacket), Karen and Cat (wearing one of my old dresses).

That was such a fun night.

Karen, me and Linda (plus Cat's leg).

Karen and Ross.

Love Karen's blue and green palette - and that hat!

These pictures are among my very favourites of me and Karen.

They show our deep love...

...and our silly sides.

I'm looking at you, you fabulous woman.

Karen, me and Linda.

The theme was Floral - did you figure it out?

We do love a photobooth!

Nick and Karen.

And one more for good luck.

Aw, my beautiful friend.

Another tradition we have developed is the Long Weekend Gathering. Yvonne and Randall pick the venue, send out the email and we all meet up for food and drinks. This is from the May Victoria Day long weekend (original post here, more pictures).

I love this picture of Yvonne and Karen - so much laughter and love.

Karen and Casey.

Yeah, baby!

Walking back to town.

L, Cat, Ross and Karen.

This picture is an iconic one of the Winesday Women. Marian hosted at her new property - they were breaking ground for their pool here, and we decided it would be an excellent idea to clamber on the machinery and rocks with glasses of wine (!) and also, why not take a picture?

From left: Sara, Cat, Linda, Yvonne, Alison, me, Vero, Karen, Nancy, Marian, Caro

This is actually a picture by Karen (who was a prolific and very talented photographer), although Sarah and I figured out the timer for this! I love this picture so much.

A random shot from a Winesday that I hosted in July. I often do a clothing giveaway, and tried to talk Karen into taking this dress.

She ultimately passed, but at least I have the picture.

For me and Karen, one of the things that really brought us together is that we both played Ultimate Frisbee (a quick link here if you don't know what this sport is). A group of us have been playing together for a spring/summer/fall season since 1999!

We play at Victoria High School. It's a friends-only group - you have to be invited to play - that has evolved over 20 years, but has always included Nick and Karen and me and L.

There's Karen in the middle on the stairs, as we all arrive and get our cleats on. Behind her is Greg, Mac is in blue, Lisa, Chris and Cory.

We divide up our teams so that they are relatively equal in skill levels and strengths. Karen and I rarely got to be on the same team, but when we did, we loved it. I was her quarterback, sending arcing long discs for her to pluck out of the air, scoring a point in the end zone. She was my Jerry Rice (football reference, Wiki link here - he was an amazing Wide Receiver), and I often called her "Jerry!" She rarely dropped the disc - she had magic hands. When we scored a point together, we'd run at each other and bump chests - it was our thing.

Karen, with Lisa and Andrew (all in white). That's my team walking away in shame, as team white has scored.

She ran me ragged when I had to cover her - she could dance away from any coverage with nimble feet and an effortless burst of speed.

Out of breath at the end of a two-hour game, Mac, Nick and Karen.

Who's in for lunch after?

Nick is usually in, and we'd walk Karen partway home on our way to the diner.

Here's all of us after the game.

From left: Zeb, Mac, Stephen, Cory, guy-in-green-who-didn't-come-out-much, Karen, Nick, Greg and Lisa. L was off looking at a car he didn't buy, but he usually played.

With me in it, holding the disc.

Lisa and I probably tag-teamed Karen, as neither of us could cover her for long.

The above pics and the below ones are from the same long weekend in August (original post here, loads of pictures).

This was at the deck at the Delta for Ross' birthday, as well as the long weekend.

Karen and Ross, who is in his "rocker" wig.

Look at these awesome people.

Yvonne's wearing an old dress of mine.

This was a hiliarious Winesday at Linda's.

Karen, Linda, me and Yvonne.

These women are so amazing.

From bottom left: Ali, Karen, Grace, Yvonne, Vero, me, Cat and...Caro's arm, I think? I think she took this.

2018

We started 2018 with one of the most legendary adventures of the Thick 6 Winesday Women: we went on vacation together. Everyone convinced me (I was the holdout) to go to Mt. Washington, an alpine resort up-Island. I was promised I could hide indoors and read and not have to go out in the snow. It didn't turn out that way at all - we were hit by a huge snowstorm and the mountain was closed for the first time ever! It was an amazing adventure to look back on, but very stressful in the moment.

The original bigass post is here (so fun to look back on - tons of pictures).

Cat, Vero, Caro, Yvonne, Karen

We have arrived! Look at all that gear! I ended up borrowing a pair of snowpants from Karen, as I don't own any cold-weather gear.

No, I do not have goggles.

Karen, Yvonne and Vero (?)

I didn't plan on going outdoors at all.

I enjoyed our first night - here we are having dinner in our lovely chalet.

Caro, Vero, Yvonne, Cat, Karen, me

But we woke up to this.

Karen, ever-adventurous, had already been out to take pictures.

She also braved the deck and fixed our satellite dish, so that we could see the news - we were on it!

Not us, specifically, but the whole "Mt. Washington is closed - snow storm!" was the main story.

Digging out the rental (the Tiguan!) and Caro's truck.

I did very little of this digging (no gear), but I made dinner, gave neck and hand massages, and untangled all the snarls out of Yvonne's hair.

Our group photo in front of the very-disgusting gnome on our way back.

Cat, Vero, Yvonne, Karen, Caro, me

It was a bonding experience for all of us. We realized how close we were and how grateful we were for our friendship. We could handle anything together.

The annual Victoria Film Festival is upon us! It's February and the theme is Scottish. We're all mad for plaid. Original post here, with (shocking!) a ton of pictures.

Cat, Yvonne and Karen.

Plus me.

How fabulous we all look.

Where's the photobooth?

Karen and Cat.

Wait, get me and Yvonne in there with Karen.

Yvonne's wearing my old skirt (and her first pair of Fluevogs!).

Our men also look wonderful.

Ross, Nick, Karen and L.

We were all so fabulous that one of the local papers put this picture of us on their front page.

Cat, me, Karen, Yvonne and Elaine.

Urbanite events at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria are also some of our favourite gatherings. This one was 80s themes, and oh yes, we brought it. Original post here (more pics!).

Me, Karen and Cat, looking fab, chicks!

I've crimped my hair, Karen's gone punk, and Cat's just too cool for school (she's wearing my old leather/crochet top), rocking her side-pony.

Nick and Karen.

In which we discover that Nick looks very good in Karen's leather pants!

"Dammit, he looks better in them than I do!" I remember her joking.

No idea who took this one.

Me, L, Nick and Karen.

I am pretty sure these were the only punks there.

Such badasses!

Karen, Cat and I posing.

And...photo-bomb!

What are you doing, strange person?

In April, we met up at the Delta again for a hangout.

Yvonne and Karen.

Cat, Karen and Yvonne.

We had so many of these weekend meet-ups. They are always such a good chance to catch up and touch base.

In May we did our first Winesday Wee Tea with the Thick 6 plus Alison, to celebrate Yvonne's, Caro's, Ali's and Karen's birthdays, which all within a month of each other. Original post here (so many pictures!).

We all dressed up (of course). Caro (in one of my old dresses!), and Karen. Birthday gals!

All of us at the White Heather Tea Room.

From left: Yvonne, Ali, Karen, Caro, Cat, me, Vero.

Cat and Ross had just gotten their new car.

I love that Karen climbed inside the car to see if you could sleep in it...and she did it in her tea outfit. Oh my gosh, we laughed so much.

A random shot of Chris and Karen, at L's birthday party.

Karen looks so fabulous.

This is our Canada Day meet-up.

Karen loved her fries, ha ha!

The whole gang on the patio at the Fernwood Inn.

From Karen, clockwise: Cat, Ross, Justin, me, Caro, Vero, Randall, Nick, L.

A summer Winesday at Cat's place, eating Ali's Midnight Nachos (famous!).

From left: Linda, Elaine, Yvonne, Karen, Caro, me, and hello, Baxter!

This was at Bart's Pub on the August long weekend.

Yvonne, Rosanna and Karen.

We all went to see Frank Turner in September.

From left: Caro, Cat, Karen, Nick, Randall, Yvonne, Ross

We all gathered at Yates St. Taphouse beforehand for a bevvy and food.

And nabbed sweet seats at the Alix Goolden Hall.

Clockwise from left: Randall, Cat, me, Nick, Karen, Yvonne, L, Casey, Ross

We all have a deep and abiding love for music. Going to concerts, hanging out and listening to music, and dancing at parties - music is always part of our lives when we are together.

One of my favourite songs by Frank Turner is "Polaroid Picture" (YouTube link here), which has the following lyrics:

Let go of the little distractions
Hold close to the ones that you love
Cause we won't all be here this time next year
So while you can, take a picture of us

and

So in the stillness of the moment

Make sure you take a Polaroid picture

And keep it with you forever

To remind yourself that everything changes

But there was this one time

There was this one time

When things were okay...

I think of us when I hear that song. You never know when things are going to change.

This is one of Randall's pictures, I think, from the November long weekend.

Nick and Karen practically running to join us at the Commons, with the Empress Hotel in the background.

And back to New Year's Eve, at Yvonne and Randall's.

Karen and Justin.

2019

The Victoria Film Festival celebrated its 25th anniversary with a Disco theme, and we had an absolute blast - the original post here, has so many pictures.

Me and Karen, looking fabulous in the theatre.

We did another Spring Birthday Tea in April, at the Abkhazi Gardens. Original post here, lots of pictures.

Ali was on vacation, so it was just the Thick 6, from left: Karen, Yvonne, Caro, Vero, me, Cat.

Our birthday gals.

Karen, Yvonne (in on of my old dresses), and Caro.

Happy Birthday, my dear, dear friends.

Now eat some scones!

While Karen was taking some Serious Pictures, Cat was up to saucy shenanigans.

I remember this day so vividly.

Posing in the gardens.

Yvonne, Caro, Cat, Karen, me.

What a gorgeous day.

We'd asked some other visitors to take pictures of us - this must be from Karen, as my camera doesn't take crisp pictures like this.

We walked to the Fairfield Pub and met up with our men after.

Yvonne, Cat, Karen, me and Caro, who took this.

Karen, with Ross and L, at the September long weekend hang-out.

This is at Splash Lounge (L and Linda did go in the pool!).

I think these are Randall's pictures. There he is with Ross and Karen.

The Silver Style Party at the local Fluevog store was another chance for us to dress up and hang out. It was so much fun - original post here.

You know we can't resist a photo booth!

We each got a strip of photos - mine are on my fridge where I can see them every day.

Me, Cat, Karen and Yvonne.

We even match - all our outfits are semi-coordinated.

With Randall looking spiffy in his rocker shirt.

Souls Rejoice!

Randall took loads of pics of us too.

Eee! We're going to meet John Fluevog! He's in the grey jacket.

I love the behind-the-scenes picture.

Ross is looking on.

Karen and Nick.

So freakin' fabulous.

Our last Urbanite in September (there would have been one in March if not for the pandemic).

Me, Karen and Yvonne.

And Karen and Yvonne. Photos by Randall.

2020

And here we go. These are the last pictures from when we were all together, at the Victoria Film Festival Gala (where we all met Bill Nighy!). Original post here.

The really clear pictures are from a roving professional photographer. Karen and Cat, looking resplendent.

We made YAM Magazine's spread.

Me, Yvonne, Randall and L (dang, that is one creepy mask).

Karen's dress was amazing.

Those cream elements were swooshy panels!

And then COVID hit. Except for a couple of precious times, our interactions were now through weekly Zoom calls.

Clockwise from top left: Nick and Karen, Justin and Vero, Randall and Yvonne, Caro and Ronnie, Cat and Ross (L and I didn't have a camera on our computer for a while).

When we first heard that Karen's cancer had come back, L and I did a walk-by to see her.

This was in April.

We had no idea things would move so quickly for her.

Flowers from Yvonne and Randall in April.

L and I, and Ali and Chris, are there now too.

So good to see you guys.

We enjoyed a beverage and just basically hung out. We all look forward to Ross' wig choices!

A Winesday Women touch-base Zoom call.

From upper left: Vero, me, Karen, Yvonne, Caro, Cat. Aw, my dear friends.

In April, for Karen's birthday, we had a not-yet-approved very cautious distanced gathering, so that we could see Karen in person. Original post here, lots of pictures.

Randall very far apart from L, and Karen talking to Vero, wrapped in a blanket.

Andrew talking to Cat.

Nick on the ground, among the daisies, and Karen in a chair.

It's good to feel the sunshine on your face.

And be with your friends, who love you.

This is the last picture I have of Karen, taken less than two weeks ago.

We will never forget you, my darling dearest. You will always be with us, in our hearts.

My friends, thank you so much for reading, for crying along with me, and for letting me pay tribute to this wonderful woman who left us too soon. Live your life to the fullest, live in the moment, and hold close to the ones that you love, with grace, giddiness and gratitude.

Hello, my friends! Thank you all again so much for bearing with me in my grief from Karen's passing. I so appreciated every one of your comments, and I felt those hugs and good vibes from all over the world. You are amazing - thank you.

And now, let's get back to what we all enjoy - a nice fashion distraction! I'm still getting dressed, and some of it is pretty funky, including last Thursday's outfit for grocery shopping.

I do like to look presentable in public, even if it's just grocery shopping. One of the butchers has been very flirty with me lately (L knows!), and he really liked that I was all dressed up.

Jumpsuit - Zara, consignment; last seen here (3rd outfit) in August 2019 with gold accessories
Shoes - Matisse; last worn here (5th outfit) in February to see back-to-back movies

This is my 3rd time wearing this jumpsuit and I just love it. Did you notice the big slits up the side of the leg in the stair picture? Swooshy!

I did a bit of a pattern mix with the leopard belt.

And these speckled shoes.

Add a hat, and an olive camisole for coverage.

I'm also fully sunblocked up - it was a lovely sunny day. Good to be outside.

Hat - thrifted

The stuff:

We're going to do a little Flashback on these comfy shoes shortly.

Minimal bling:

This is the second time I've worn this leopard belt with this jumpsuit.

Belt - Talbots, thrifted
Earrings - consignment

Flashback!

I bought these shoes new on clearance for $74.00 on a trip to Sidney-by-the-Sea with Cat and Elaine (here) in June 2017. I liked the funky pattern and the cool style of them - I'm always on the lookout for comfy flats too.

I first wore them right away in July 2017.

I went full-on matchy, with my old vintage caramel vest (I've had that since 1985, bought it vintage in Vancouver), a shirt and tie, and black culottes, which I miss. I love this outfit.

I discovered quickly that these were comfy as heck.

In August 2017 - one of my few work outfits with them.

I keep them out all year 'round, because they go so well with everything.

This was in October 2017.

They're great for pattern-mixing - anything with black and white or brown and white just seems to work.

This was in February 2018 - I adore my "dragonscale" skirt.

Many of these are shopping outfits or weekend brunch outfits.

Like this one, from April 2018.

I wore them for the June 2018 Day of Indolence.

A rare outfit with me in jeans!

Matchy with my long caramel cardi, in August 2018.

Those are my vintage Versace "mom" jeans.

Another shopping outfit, in October 2018. The second appearance of this asymmetrical wool jacket.

I've worn these in the rain a bunch - not too many of my shoes get that treatment.

Another shopping outfit (and the second appearance of my metallic leather Burberry jacket), in December 2018.

The caramel coloured leather on the heel goes so well with any shade of brown.

This is another shopping ensemble, from January 2019.

It's the second appearance of my "bark" skirt too.

Not matching but "going" with a lace duster and my wallpaper pants.

This was a work outfit from February 2019.

Hey, it's a new purse. The black and white daisy pattern pairs well with the black and white speckle of the shoes.

That speckled part is cowhide (it's hairy).

Showing off my new suit in May 2019.

"Colour me unimpressed, Woman."

I do love to pattern mix black and white.

I did it again, plus a little rose-gold and leopard, with this September 2019 outfit.

That's a work outfit - my gold leather pants are very popular.

A shopping outfit from December 2012.

I'm just wearing a black wooly dress under my puffer coat - the shoes are purely for comfort.

More black and white - this time, houndstooth - plus orange in January 2020.

A perfectly comfortable work outfit.

And here's the last time I wore them, in February 2020.

They pick up the caramel stripe in my plaid pants.

Including the current outfit, that's 18 wears in 3 years, which is awesome. I'm at $4.11 per wear, and they still have loads of mileage in them!

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On Friday, I wasn't up for much of an effort in my outfit. In fact, I just went with basic black.

The timer caught me off guard - I'm all rumpled and didn't even get to the toothy portion of my smile. I only do one picture, though. I have no time for more in the mornings.

Dress - Strawberry Jill, thrifted; first seen here in June 2019 with fun shoes
Shoes - Sol Sana; last worn here in April with a floral fail outfit
Jacket (below) - Burberry, thrifted; last seen here (2nd outfit) for our distanced birthday gathering for Karen in April

This is such a pretty dress, even though I rarely do solid black anything!

It's silk chiffon, light as air.

Even the lining is silk!

I wore a pale pink cami under it.

And a short black slip - I forgot about my little cotton pantaloons that I wore with it last time!

Friday was a crazy-weather day.

I was hit by big fat drops of rain on my muggy walk home after work.

The stuff:

I do not wear velvet shoes in the rain (I wear runners for walking to and from work). These are such a nice soft pink.

Pink and silver bling:

My hair is the main pink accessory!

Hinged silver cuff - vintage, thrifted, Powell River
Lattice-work cuff - St. Paul's Cathedral gift shop, London
Silver dragon bangle - Lazy Susan's
Pink crystal necklace/earrings - Sherman, vintage 60s, thrifted
Silver/crystal ring - Soul Flower
Shield ring - Nine West

L and I spent a quiet night in - it had been a rough week, emotionally. We met up with Nick for brunch on Saturday.

More pink! After brunch, we all strolled down to the Fluevog store - they have a big sale on!

Jacket - Smoking Lily; last seen here (2nd outfit) in April 2019
Sweater - Sonia Rykiel, consignment; last worn here for Star Wars Day in May
Skirt - H&M, consignment; last seen here in May 2019 with vintage Versace
Shoes - Half Truth Veda, Fluevog; last worn here in May with yellow sunflower brollies

As I rushed to get my pictures done, L and Vizzini lurked in the background.

"Are we all going in the hallway?"

I wore the jacket except for our actual brunch.

"Seriously, I would like to go in the hall, Woman."

Nick and I were thrilled that the Huevos Rancheros were back on the menu at Pluto's.

SIGH. Here is L, looking awesome in that should-have-been-mine suede coat that I bought here (pic here).

"What are we looking at? Is there food?"

I roll my eyes at you! Yes, it looks great. Move along.

Jacketed up. I'll have to do a Flashback on this jacket at some point - I've had it for several years. Smoking Lily (a local company) only made four of them.

It is a thin stretch denim in cream, with silver brushed on it - it's very shiny.

I ended up doing a wee shop after Fluevog, which I'll get to shortly, after we do a Flashback on this skirt.

"Are there any cookies in your purse?"

I was really glad I'd worn a jacket, as it got quite chilly and windy in the afternoon. Where is summer?

The stuff:

One day I'll do a Flashback on these shoes, as I've worn them so much they are starting to fall apart (they are another pair I wear in the rain).

Funky bling:

The necklace is looking at you!

Belt - BCBG Max Azria, consignment
Necklace - All Saints, gift from Dominique
Earrings - thrifted
Silver/crystal ring - Soul Flower
Fulvia Ring - Wendy Brandes

Flashback!

I bought this skirt here in April 2017 at My Sister's Closet (RIP!) for $9.50. I've had a complicated relationship with it in those 3 years. Often, when I don't pay much for an item, I feel more chill about letting it go. This skirt has been offered to a coworker, and has been put in the giveaway pile, and yet it remains in my closet.

Here's my first wearing, in May 2017.

A denim shirt and my same pink Sherman crystal set as the above outfit.

It's a very swooshy skirt, but that black on pink pattern (there is a wee bit of grey-blue on the black portion) means I'm very limited on what goes with it.

I did black and black/silver shoes here in June 2017, and there's my Sherman set again.

When Dominique gave me this necklace, it was the perfect shade of pink.

More black things worn with it in May 2018. That's the same Sonia Rykiel thin sweater as in the current outfit.

In September 2018, I changed it up with a cream sweater.

The pink Sherman crystals again! I really like matching my pinks.

I didn't like this outfit at all at the time, which was in November 2018.

Everything but the skirt was put into the giveaway pile.

But I love this outfit, only a month later in December 2018

Third time with that necklace too.

I wore it last here in May 2019 with those pink crystals again.

And then it languished in my giveaway pile until I fished it out again.

I do love that it has pockets, and it's easy to wear, but that lack of mix-and-match-ability makes it a little tricky to wear. I think I could easily do a white shirt/tie look with it, so it's more my own lack of imagination than any fault in the skirt.

Including the current outfit, I've now worn it 8 times, bringing me to barely over a dollar per wear. And I'm keeping it!

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It might go well with these new Fluevogs I bought! I did plan my outfit thinking these would go with it - I've been stalking these, waiting for them to go on sale.

These are called the Go Groovy Husymans, and they're on sale for $249.99 (link here 'cause I love!). I actually resisted buying them in pink with red buckles/soles, because I very much need a pair of walkable ankle boots, and I have about 4 pairs of pink shoes. There was a customer even wearing the pink ones in the store, and I was so tempted!

They are a very low heel, noted as 2", but less when you subtract the thick rubber sole - it's more like 1". Very walkable.

The buckles are all adjustable to get the perfect fit over the vamp and up the ankle (there's a zipper on the inner side). The leather is very soft.

"Take an F Trip" on the rubber sole.

"Go Groovy" on the other one.

L also bought a pair of shoes (these ones in red), but they are shipping them over from the Gastown store in Vancouver, so he didn't get them right away.

We ran into L's coworker Nyssa who was surrounded by boxes as she decided which ones to buy herself for her birthday - I think she bought 4 pairs. Now that's a woman after my own heart! Nyssa, drop me a line, we'll go shopping - I know you're reading this!

Speaking of shopping, I gasped out loud when I saw that - YES! - Flavour Upstairs was open! I abandoned L and Nick and spent some time waiting to get in (limit to 6 people in the store at once, hand sanitizing and distancing in effect) and happily browsing.

I found a suit!

Wait, this is more like what it will look like on.

It's a double-breasted wide-wale corduroy in chocolate brown.

It has a slight shoulder pad, plus that short rounded-hip skirt cut just screams "Late 90s!" to me.

It's by B. Bennett for ASL, but I couldn't anything about the company at all.

However it was made in Hong Kong, which tells me it was pre-1997, when Hong Kong went back to China.

It was only $34.99 for both pieces - what a deal. I'm looking forward to wearing this in the fall, probably not together too often, but at least once.

I fell hard for this lovely cerulean blue sweater. It's Carolina Panthers blue!

I love that it is almost a cropped cut - very flattering on me.

It's 100% wool, made in Italy and is by Benetton. I noted to the salesperson (behind her plexiglass barrier) that Benetton used to have a store in Victoria, but I couldn't afford to shop there (it was back in the 80s/90s).

I can afford $29.99, though. This is probably from the 90s too.

Since I was in the neighbourhood, I thought I'd check and see if the Patch was open - and it was! However, I was very disappointed that it was not very well set up for shopping securely: only one small station for hand sanitizer and that was it. Their store is crammed full of stock and I found it very difficult to maintain physical distancing with other customers, much less move around the store. I won't be back until I can browse on a day that isn't Saturday (always the busiest day) and when I have a mask on.

I only took a quick look around, but this gorgeous skirt caught my eye.

That is all embroidery, not a print. It's fully embroidered onto a sheer-ish black woven polyester.

It's much richer in person. Those greens are nearly teal/aqua.

It's so gorgeous, very soft and supple to wear.

The lining is edged with pink.

And it's machine washable??

I'll be washing it on delicate if I really need to. I don't wash skirts very often.

It was not a surprise to see that it was Anthropologie brand Vanessa Virginia - I've found a lot of Anthro at the Patch.

It was $32.95, but I still had some of my Christmas gift card from L, so it ended up being $5.00.

On Saturday night, I hosted a Winesday gathering. We really needed to be together and talk and cry and laugh and remember all the good times with Karen. I printed full-sized copies of this picture on good quality photo paper, one for everyone in it.

Click to embiggen

As I noted when I posted one of the colour versions (here) from that Winesday at Marian's, this was taken on Karen's camera, with Sarah and I working out the timer. From left: Sarah, Linda, Cat, Yvonne, Karen, Alison, me, Vero, Nancy, Marian, Caro.

Karen had given Caro a couple of bags of jewelry - cuffs, pendants and rings - to share with the Winesday Women. We laid them all out, and picked out the pieces that meant something to us, or reminded us of her, or that we just really liked. Everyone got something - she had a ton of accessories, so it's not like I hogged them all.

I picked these three cuffs.

The one on the left is unsigned, but it's copper and Karen loved First Nations jewelry (which this is not), and it reminds me of those pieces. The copper/brass cuff is very heavy - I like the weight of it.

The hinged one is not stamped, but I think it is silver.

I love the grape/leaf pattern on it. It's quite small (good thing I have really small wrists) and does up with some difficulty by removing and replacing the pin that I've circled.

I chose these three pendants. The turquoise one I'm sure is silver, although it's not stamped.

The fiery piece of Murano glass was a gift from me to Karen, from when I was in Venice a few years ago. I remember her wearing it, so I like having it back - my gift given back to me.

The tree pendant is stamped .925 for Sterling.

I can't read the other marks. I think at least one of the stones is amber.

I took two of her rings - I was the only one who liked the bigass ones.

The turquoise ring isn't stamped but I think it's brass (surrounding the turquoise) and silver.

The green/leafy one had a surprise for me - it's a poison ring!

Oh, I love that.

It's also stamped "Taxco Mexico 925 Sterling" and is signed CBS. Taxco would be the region in Mexico and CBS is the artist.

This was a popular design - I found a lot of pictures online of this same ring with different stones.

I love wearing jewelry that belonged to my mom, my grandmothers and my dad, and now I can add Karen's name to that list. Whenever I wear it, it'll be like a hug from her. What a wonderful gift for her to think of in her last days. We were all so honoured and overwhelmed, and I know I will treasure these pieces.

After an emotional few days, I really needed to just stop.

"Tummy rub time."

My sweet boy always seems to know when I need some kitty therapy.

"That's the spot."

Thanks, Vizzini...and thank you, my friends, for stopping by. Canada Day is tomorrow (Wednesday), so we have a holiday in the middle of the week. I'll be back after my short break. Happy Birthday, Canada!

Hello, my friends! I've had a lovely mini-break in the middle of my work week for Canada Day, and it's time to get caught up.

Here's what I wore on Monday to the office.

I saw just my boss all day, but I armoured up anyway.

Blazer - Tahari, thrifted; first seen here in May 2019 with my metal dress
Sweater - Banana Republic, thrifted; last worn here in May for my first mid-pandemic shopping trip
Skirt - Vanessa Virginia, thrifted; purchased here for $5.00 (after gift certificate)
Shoes - Prepare Guide, Fluevog; last seen here in May with royal blue

I wore the outfit jacket-less for most of the day.

"I'm not in the mood for pictures."

I'm very annoyed that the colours in this skirt blend into a bit of a muddy mess in pictures. I swear, everything I'm wearing DOES match the skirt, nearly exactly! Pic of the fabric here.

However, I did love wearing this skirt all day - it has slits on the side seams for walking. It was very comfortable, and had a nice weight to it.

My sweater and shoes are also a better match in real life.

I hate when my colours are off.

"Really, I don't want to."

I felt great in this regardless, as it was nice and bright in person.

The lovely lady at the drugstore and I always check each other out - she approved.

This blazer is so lovely - I need to wear it more.

"Nevermind me, Woman. Look away."

This is only the second time I've worn it, but I'm at $2.49 per wear already.

The stuff:

The last time I wore these, I noted that I'd worn them "over 40 times" - well, we shall see about that, as I have a Major Flashback on them below. We are going back in time, to the distant past of...2012.

Silver and turquoise bling:

I wore two of Karen's pieces: the pendant and the ring with the red stones on the side. I held her close.

Steel cuff - thrifted
Silver hinged cuff - thrifted, Powell River
Pendant - Karen's
Silver/turquoise ring - Taxco, Mexico, Karen's
Turquoise ring - local
Earrings - Mango's

Okay, grab a cup of tea, and settle in, we have a whole lot of outfits to check out.

L bought these Prepare Guides for me from the Gastown Fluevog store in March 2012 during our anniversary trip to Vancouver (here). He's hated them from the beginning - he's a classic pointy-toed pump guy - but when I tried them on, I was absolutely in love with them.

I am well aware that they are not everyone's cup of tea - you either love them or hate them - but I hope you enjoy this little jaunt through the past 8 years.

Modelling them in my awesome Desigual dress in the hotel - I wore this outfit out for dinner one night while we were in Vancouver.

I still have those pink tights!

I held off wearing them again until May 2012, as I was in the middle of my 30 For 30 For 12 Challenge (I did 12 x 30-item clothing capsules over the course of a year - it was insane - you can read about it in the "About Me" tab here, midway down).

I do not have anything in this outfit other than the shoes now. I see I've got red hair with a blonde streak (it was turquoise for about 4 days), and those are two pairs of glasses ago.

These shoes were actually part of my May 2012 capsule, so I wore them multiple times.

With my "lettuce" dress (still have it!).

With an old Smoking Lily dress.

I had a turquoise leather wrist-wrap by Shi Studios that I wore a lot with these shoes for many years.

I also made them work with outfits by matching them to my turquoise cami (still have it).

And with my Smoking Lily silk obi which has bits of turquoise in the print. I still have that too.

I like this Desigual dress, but I didn't wear it much.

This black skirt was one of those cheap-ass Desigual pieces that are black on the back.

None of these items are still in my wardrobe.

I gave this green dress to my coworker, Fiona. It's another Smoking Lily - I went through quite a phase with their stuff for a while.

Thus ends my outfits in May 2012!

I wore this outfit to the Art Gallery in February 2013 - and I have blonde hair!

That dress is in the giveaway pile - it's a vintage 80s one. I'm tempted to dig it out...

I still have this leather dress and belt, worn in March 2013. I think I still have those tights too!

"Who's out there?"

And I still have that annoying cat, ha ha. I see I have my new purple glasses here.

I had blonde hair for about 2 months - I'm tickled that these shoes hit that window three times. I had one bad colour episode, and went back to red again.

Again at the end of April 2013. This outfit was one of my favourites for a long time.

I started to seek out turquoise accessories - that's what happens when you get a colourful pair of shoes! This is in April 2013.

That's my Smoking Lily Periodic Table of Awesome that I had for several years (it was downgraded to house-wear), until it wore out. The skirt is a vintage wool Jones New York that I gave away about 3 years ago.

This is another Smoking Lily dress that my dear Caro now has.

I wore these shoes twice with it - this is in May 2013.

This Smoking Lily jacket also went to Caro.

I still have the brooch, and the floofy underskirt. This was in June 2013.

Another wearing with this dress, in July 2013.

I have worn these shoes a lot on weekends - this is a brunch outfit - as I can walk/shop in them. They are one of the most comfy pairs of shoes that I own.

This is an easy outfit from September 2013.

"Are there cookies in here?"

I wore that turquoise belt so much, it broke.

I matched the shoes to this big ceramic ball necklace in January 2014.

I had that fruital blouse for ages!

I still have all these accessories from February 2014.

It's taken me 10+ years to figure out that tops like this don't suit me. And yet I keep buying them...

I like this look from May 2014.

I haven't worn that full-length leather skirt in a while - it's been worn to Winesday more than once.

I switched to a new hairdresser around this time (which is July 2014) - check out my swoopy hair! My blonde streak is back too.

I still have that belt, but I don't wear it very often. It's very 80s. This silk dress was worn to death.

I discovered how nice yellow and turquoise go together, again in July 2014.

"I'm on the lookout."

I added 5 brooches to the neckline of the dress - I still think that looks really cool.

I gave this silk kimono to a reader! It wasn't quite me. I had that chartreuse cotton/gold Noa Noa skirt for years.

This was my third wearing of these shoes in July 2014.

This was the only wearing of this bizarre dress, in August 2014.

I'll try anything once! Including crazy hair!

I started packing away the shoes for the winter this year, because I didn't wear them again until April 2015.

I still have that dress (and tights!), which I bought in Florence, Italy.

You'll recognize this vintage dress in May 2015 - I still have it.

I could do this entire outfit now, five years later!

I really loved how this striped dress looks, but the quality was crap and it pilled like mad. This was in July 2015 and I've gone purple!

I do like the mix of turquoise and yellow accessories with black and white - I will have to do that again.

I love a nice jammy dress - this was a Tahari one, worn in August 2015.

It was a beautiful dress, but I got tired of it.

Here's a pretty outfit in May 2015.

I liked this dress, but it feels a little too girly for me now. I still have the obi, and I see I have some of my current jewelry (earrings/ring).

I did a little mini-challenge in May 2016 to inspire me to mix and match different pieces. These shoes were one of the few pairs I limited myself to.

I like this look, but the dress-pants thing isn't really me, although I've tried it a lot! I still have that Escada tie.

I went through a sheer lace top phase that spring. This is May 2016 again.

That was one of my go-to maxi skirts for a while.

Must be Star Wars Day, May 4, 2016!

I'm wearing L's Darth Vader tie - I bought it for him in 1995!

Another jammy dress (I've gone through a lot of them over the years), this one with a "boob window".

This was in July 2016.

Ugh, what is this dress doing? No, no, no. I'm sure this was my one and only wearing of it.

But dang, those shoes look great, ha ha!

I have always liked a little bit of pattern-mixing.

This is in September 2016. I wore that jungle print bomber jacket to death. The skirt is a very delicate silk vintage Pierre Cardin, which I still have.

A six-month jump, and here we are in April 2017.

You've seen this outfit a couple of times, once with the Jelly-Deer Flashback (here) and once with the skirt Flashback (here).

Again, with the jelly-deer in May 2017, and now I have my turquoise glasses.

I only wore that skirt a few times, but I didn't pay much for it.

You'll remember this outfit from the Desigual dress Flashback (here), also from May 2017.

The turquoise leather obi replaces my thin turquoise belt from years past.

I keep this dress for wearing to the Ulti field, as I did here in June 2017.

This pandemic has kept me from wearing it so far this year, but I'll get to it - it's a good hot weather dress.

We recall this outfit from the skirt Flashback from April 2018.

I feel more kindly disposed towards it today.

The one and only wearing of this Dries Van Noten top/tunic thing, in July 2018.

It was hugely difficult to style. Gone!

I adore this outfit from July 2018, which I wore for Pride Week - I did a Flashback on this skirt here.

I like how the turquoise pops with those bright colours.

That non-flattering blouse shape returns in September 2018. I do like a turquoise/teal top, but I just haven't found the right one.

I still get a lot of wear out of this skirt in summer.

On a hot day in May 2019.

This Diane Von Furstenberg dress felt too skimpy, so I gave it away.

I wore these shoes all day in June 2019 for the Day of Indolence for L's birthday.

I like the black and white and the cobalt blue, with turquoise for all the accessories. These shoes have a hidden platform, giving me 1.5" of height - that comes in handy with long pants and maxi skirts.

I did give up on this shrug after a couple of years, worn here in July 2019.

"I'm having deja vu."

It never was quite the right shade of turquoise. Too much green in it.

Funkify-ing up a green lame (lah-MAY, darlings!) skirt in August 2019.

We're in my current wardrobe here. I still have all this stuff.

Same here - I'll haul this coat out in the fall for more wear. This is from September 2019.

I wore this out for brunch, walking all over town.

And here we are in 2020! I wore this for an "at home" outfit in April.

So many good colours.

And the last wearing in May 2020.

Predictable blue matchy accessories!

So, including the current outfit, this is the 50th time wearing these shoes! They were $339.00 new in 2012, so that is $6.78 per wear! Wow, I've impressed myself. It pays to spend a bit more on really good quality shoes that will stand the test of time (8 years and counting!) and are also comfortable.

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Vizzini finally acquiesced to being picked up and having a quick cuddle.

"I accept your lovin', Woman."

I see the weekend in sight!

And I'm back, just in time for the weekend. All these days/weeks/months are kind of blurring together...

This is what I wore to get groceries on Thursday.

I also swung by the Velvet Crease (local consignment store) to see if it was open...and it was! Happy happy!

Cardigan - thrifted, no label; not tracked
Top - Club Monaco, thrifted; purchased here way back in November 2019 for $12.95
Skirt - LA Nights, thrifted; last worn here in April for a house outfit
Shoes - Aldo, thrifted; last seen here in June with zig-zags

I'm finally getting around to wearing this new-to-me top that I thrifted way back in November of last year.

I love the two-tone aqua/teal and cobalt blue. Hmmm...I wonder what shoes I could wear with this top?? Hee hee!

That's real lace over a light polyester under-layer. It's a lovely Club Monaco piece - such a score for only $12.95!

I never took the cardigan off the whole time I was out, except for when I was trying on clothes.

I was very bright, and had many comments on all aspects of my outfit. I'm definitely an aberration on the streets these days. You can't miss me!

The stuff:

Comfy walking shoes. They have a zip up the rear so that I don't have to deal with all those buckles.

Matchy bling:

The guy in the grocery deli really liked my necklace, and we had a short chat about it.

Necklace - Robert Larin, vintage 60s/70s, gift from L
Eelskin cuff - c. 1985, used to be mine, re-found and thrifted!
Earrings - Stella & Dot, consignment, Vancouver
Lapis lazuli ring/Fulvia Ring - Wendy Brandes

I was really glad that the Velvet Crease made it through the pandemic. They're limiting customers to 4 at a time, must wear a mask (although I was the only person who obeyed this!), hand sanitize before touching anything. I did find a few things - I tried on a ton. My general ratio is 1 in 5; if I try on 15 things (for example), I'll find 3. Some days it's better; some days worse.

These are house-pants - I needed something cool and loose to wear at home as the weather gets warmer.

L took one look at them, and said, "I predict I'll be seeing a lot of these." Yes, sorry, love, get used to them. They will not be worn in public.

They are an olive green viscose/spandex mix, extremely soft and swooshy/drapey. The brand is Bali Kiss, which is a local store specializing in fair trade items, purchased directly from small, family-run businesses in Thailand, Indonesia and Nepal. These were made in Thailand.

It does feel right! I paid $14.00 for these and they'll get to pennies per wear before I'm done with them. Viscose wears like iron.

I went "OOOOH" when I saw this floofy skirt.

"Just ignore me, I'm just sitting here, all alone."

Vizzini hates when my clothes get more attention than he does.

The pattern is palm trees, and it's a true wrap skirt, hemmed with a giant flounce. It's also a "mullet-y" hemline - longer in the back.

It's fully-lined in brown and is 100% polyester (and therefore fully-washable).

It's by Scotch & Soda by Maison Scotch, from the "Fading Roads" collection, and it was new with tags! I see from the tag that it retailed for $198.00.

I don't see any result online for this wrap-style skirt (plenty of pics of a matching romper, though), so perhaps it wasn't very popular. It was marked at $60 plus 20% off, so $48.00.

I also found this lovely blue crocheted cardigan. It fit me perfectly.

And it's a useful piece for layering, especially over dresses. Am I a crochet cardi type of person? We shall see. I wore a few crochet pieces the last time they were a Thing, c. 1994.

It's by Precis Petite, which is sold at the Bay department store (has been for well over a decade).

It was also $14.00.

I'm all geared up for my outing in my matching mask (I have about a dozen cloth ones, plus a supply of disposable ones).

"Wear a mask!"

Seriously, it's not that big of a deal. I will always wear a mask if I can't maintain 6-feet/2 meters distance. It's like putting on sunblock: a necessary measure! And like sunblock, I always have it/one in my purse.

Today/Friday, I had to wear my new-to-me skirt right away!

I had planned a more summery version of this outfit, but due to the incessant rain today, I went with a more autumnal look.

Cashmere tee - Lord & Taylor, thrifted; last seen here in May with sunflower brollies
Skirt - Scotch & Soda, consignment; purchased above for $48.00
Booties - Coffee Kope Tiam, Fluevog; last seen here in April with my doily dress
Leather jacket - Burberry, consignment, Vancouver; last worn here (3rd outfit) in December 2019 for some Christmas shopping

The colours in this skirt are definitely more in the fall range than summer - I may put this into the "stash" for the end of September.

No need to decide now, however.

I went with this coral-y coloured cashmere tee (I have a cami under it due to sheerness) to pick up the bits of orange in the skirt's pattern.

There is also a soft pinky-peach colour in it, and small bits of a yellow or chartreuse green (you can see it in the shot above). I'll probably be fairly boring with it, and wear matchy browns and creams, but I do have a couple of chartreuse tops I could try...

I loved wearing this skirt all day - it is so SWOOSHY. I think I might wear it with a belt or more fitted top next time - it felt like I needed something over the tie waist or a more formal/fitted top.

I wore a pair of cotton pantaloons under the skirt (I have bare legs here) in case it decided to open up because Wrap Skirt, but it performed admirably and didn't gape open on my walk to and from work.

As mentioned, it rained all day, so I needed outerwear.

I'm a huge fan of this bronze leather jacket. Of course I wear leather in the rain - it's totally fine.

Right? Isn't it awesome? Burberry! I stopped in at the Fluevog store to pick up L's new pair (exciting!) and Fluevogologist Wayne admired it. Of course, I also hauled my boots out of my tote bag to show him. These are over 9 years old, and he hadn't seen them before.

The stuff:

I have had these Fluevog booties even longer than the aqua Prepare Guides I wore on Monday. We'll have a Flashback of them shortly. How many wears do you think I'm at?

Warm-toned bling:

How lovely Karen's copper/brass cuff looked with my outfit. It's like a hug on my wrist.

Amber/sandalwood choker - vintage 60s, Mom's
Brass/copper cuff - Karen's
Wood ring - Dots
Klimt wood ring - consignment
Earrings - Aldo

Okay, Flashback time!

These booties are called the Kope Tiam and are from the long-retired Coffee family of Fluevogs, named due to the coffee spout shape of the heel (they also did a Teapot line - I had a pair). I bought them on our annual anniversary trip to Vancouver in 2011, but not at Fluevog. I found them on clearance at Gravity Pope, which is a wonderful shoe store - they were in the "last pairs" and these were tucked away under a shelf. They were $99.00. Score!

I first wore them a couple of weeks later, also in March 2011.

I'd only been at my current job for 2 weeks, and I was trying to be classy (they weren't quite ready for someone as colourful as me!).

I didn't have nearly as many shoes back in 2011 as I do now (probably about 40 pairs, vs. the close-to-100 I have currently), so they got worn more in the first few years of my owning them.

I was into vests for a long time - it feels like they're due for a comeback. This September 2011 outfit has a denim vest layered over a long-sleeved tee, with a pencil skirt. Those leopard footless tights are still in my collection.

I like the look of this outfit from October 2011, but the only thing left are the boots and the necklace.

These booties felt very weird to me back in 2011 - booties were not a Thing then! - and I wasn't really sure what to do with them.

I wore them with my Gap leather pants multiple times, first here in December 2011.

Recognize the choker? I wore it today!

Aside from the booties, the leather obi belt is the only thing I have left from this outfit from October 2012.

These boots were part of my October wardrobe capsule (enjoy the summary here), from my year-long 30 For 30 For 12 challenge.

I wore them a total of four times in October 2012.

Those tights just gave up a year ago. Yvonne has this velvet jacket now and I wore that blouse a LOT back then.

The capsule explains the repetition of elements, like this jacket which had a very equestrian vibe.

That skirt is another one of my long-gone Smoking Lily items.

My last October 2012 outfit, featured a very odd mustard blouse layered under a blue sweater.

That is a lovely vintage plaid pencil skirt, though.

February 2013 - there's that blond hair again!

I had that brown lace skirt for ages. I am still on the lookout for the perfect pink sweater.

I adored this cowgirl dress, seen here in August 2013. It was by Bodybag by Jude, a Canadian company. I just got tired of it - it didn't layer well or lend itself to any styling except Cowgirl.

Eee, the little ruffles! I spy my Pringle of Scotland belt - still have that.

I also still have this leather vest, worn here in November 2013. I've gone mad for layers, wearing it over a jacket, with a belt over the whole shebang. That's...a lot.

My "barnyard" Gap silk skirt was a favourite for a long time. I recently saw a version with highway signs (same style), but it was too big. I was tempted!

This heavy, sweaty wrap top - seen here in January 2014 - was left behind in Italy when we went in that Fall.

I still have that massive black leather skirt, though.

It was a whole year until I wore the booties again, in January 2015. I'm not sure why. Sometimes I just go "off" my pieces.

That's a weird outfit (the top is green, by the way). I'm not so sure about the Balmain scarf threaded through my belt - but you know I'm always game to try something new, even if it ends up a little odd looking.

Second wearing with my leather pants, in March 2015.

I've always been fond of the equestrian look!

This May 2015 outfit is just trying too hard.

I gave that jacket to Wendy Brandes. Only the booties and the necklace remain.

On the other hand, I vividly remember wearing this outfit in February 2016, to go to the office supply store on the weekend. Did I keep my Yeti coat or give it to Yvonne? I can't remember. And there are my leather jeans again, and my Pringle of Scotland belt. I still have that sweater too.

I recall clomping up and down the aisles. I'm sure I alarmed a few people - one doesn't see folks dressed like this very often in Staples.

You might remember this outfit from the Fendi belt Flashback (here).

For when you don't have matching shoes (yet). This was in July 2016.

A very autumnal outfit, with this vintage suede skirt that Elaine gave me, back in November 2017.

I miss that Ralph Lauren blouse - I ripped the cuffs off by accident (pulling them down while wearing a cardigan).

This graphic dress was only worn once - it never laid straight and had a really wide neckline.

This was in March 2017.

These leopard separates were only worn once together, and it's here in October 2017.

They had no stretch. Gone!

I still have this whole outfit from November 2017.

That is the coolest shirt, and I adore those vintage pants.

This is around the time when I started building up a trouser wardrobe - this outfit is from February 2018.

Booties are great with pants. Who knew?

I wore them with my leather pants again for my birthday in October 2018.

That was not the perfect pink sweater - still hunting! You might recognize the "alien" necklace.

There are my leopard footless tights again, worn in November 2018.

Didn't keep that cheap green dress, and that yellow leather coat is in the giveaway pile.

I like this drape-y layered outfit from December 2018.

I still have everything except the velvet vest thing - I think Yvonne has it.

I love this outfit from January 2019.

I've had that sequinned dress for over 10 years, and it gets worn once a year.

The fifth wearing with my leather pants, in March 2019.

I love that entire look. Spiffy!

There's my "lettuce" dress again, in May 2019.

I thought the tights matched until I put them on. Ah well.

And third time, boots + leopard tights = a winning combination, in October 2019.

Woo, I need sunglasses, that's bright! Love that yellow!

As a very comfy pair of booties, I wore them on Christmas Day in December 2019.

I love this vintage 90s dress, and that's a vintage 80s belt (Dior! Klassy!).

Dress + booties is also a formula I have used a lot. I love this look.

This is from later December 2019, one of my last outfits of the year.

And finally, here's the last time I wore it, with my corduroy Doily dress, in April 2020.

So, from a pair of booties that I was initially unsure about (Boring colour! Neutrals are icky!), these are now a tried-and-true staple in my wardrobe. I even rescued them from a giant veggie dip spill with cornstarch last year!

Did you guess 32 times worn? $99.00 might seem like a lot for a pair of booties, but I'm now down to $3.10 per wear! They are still in excellent shape (a bit of scuffing on the toes, and on the heels), and the leather has just gotten softer over the years, but I have lots more wear left in them.

And with that, I will leave you to enjoy your weekend, my friends. A very Happy 4th of July to my US friends!

"Cuddles for all."

Stay safe, stay calm, and be kind.

It's been a very quiet weekend, with nothing much on the docket, aside from board games with L. I'm good with that. Quiet is nice.

We did meet up with Casey for lunch, so I got dressed! Huzzah!

Jacket - Sarah Pacini, consignment; first worn here in May with sequins
Dress - Trina Turk, consignment; last seen here in September 2019 for brunch
Shoes - Go Groovy Husymans, Fluevog; purchased here for $249.99

We're finally getting a stretch of sunny-ish days, but the temps are stuck in the high teens. Very un-July-like!

I have a collection of black and white dresses (this one also has a bit of tan in it) that are my brunch/Ulti dresses. Since it looks like Ulti is cancelled this year (welcome to 2020), I have to wear these just for brunch.

I like this one - it's a woven pattern, not printed.

And it's got pockets!

I wore this linen blend mustard jacket for sun coverage; I loathe sunblock, and avoid it when I can by wearing physical block instead.

We had a lovely brunch, catching up with Casey, then wandering into town briefly.

Home again for the afternoon, a nap and reading in the sun.

I quite love this jacket - such a great colour.

I did zip it up once or twice, but I forgot to take a picture of it done up.

The stuff:

This is my first outing with these shoes, walking to Pluto's then into town. I did wear nylons to make sure I wouldn't have any rubbing on bare skin (and to keep the dress from feeling too short). The booties were awesome, very comfortable and easy to walk in. No foot pain at all.

Black and white bling:

Simple matchy items.

Cuff - vintage fair
Earrings - vintage 80s, vintage fair
Silver/onyx ring - Tocarra, vintage fair

And now, off to do some more reading in the sun! I hope you're all having a fabulous weekend!

Another week, another Monday. Today, I just felt like ruffles. And plaid.

And my Kermit shoes!

Blazer - Marc Cain, consignment; first worn here (2nd outfit) with picnic plaid in June
Sweater - Talbots, thrifted; last seen here in January to show off new amber
Skirt - Sandra Angelozzi, thrifted; last worn here in September 2019 with soft pink
Shoes - Poetic Licence; last seen here in April for my first outfit of spring

I was idly scrolling through Tom + Lorenzo's coverage of Giambattista Valli's Resort 2021 Collection (here, link 'cause I love), and I noticed GV showing a longer tiered ruffly skirt, very similar to this one; they even paired it with a Chanel-inspired tweedy jacket (here).

Right away, I thought, "I have pieces just like those!" And here we are!

I did love wearing this jacket again - it's so cool. I picked out the bits of green in the plaid pattern this time for my accessories (vs. last time, with pink and orange).

Isn't the skirt cool? I have had it for a few years, and it's Flashback-worthy even though I haven't worn it too many times, so we'll take a boo at that shortly.

It's bias-cut silk organza - very light and fluffy.

For some reason, Vizzini loves to lick it. Silly kitty.

The stuff:

I actually had a different pair of shoes picked out, but then my eyes alighted on these beauties. I've had my "Kermit" shoes for a long time, going back to 2012, so we're also doing a Flashback on them too. Why the heck not?

Green bling:

Some favourite things.

Necklace - vintage 70s, Mom's
Glass bangle - thrifted
Earrings - Stella & Dot, consignment, Vancouver
Lapis lazuli ring/Fulvia Ring - Wendy Brandes

Flashback #1!

First, the skirt. I bought it here in June 2017 for $17.95:

I removed the black satin ribbon belt (I have a stash of these - they come in handy once in a while).

I first wore it in June 2017, in what felt like a very adventurous outfit at the time. I love the mix of plaid, leopard belt and funky shoes.

I still have that corset-style top - I have had it for ages, going back to the late 00s. Must dig it out.

The skirt is quite challenging to style - it has zero stretch and that blush colour is tricky to match to, so I went with black the first couple of times I wore it.

This was in August 2017. You'll recognize my t-strap shoes - they're also old friends that I've had for years. I gave the dress/tunic thing to Yvonne.

This remains one of my favourite outfits of all time - it's so soft and pretty, and I love how these colour all play together.

This was in May 2018 - I still have everything in this outfit, except for one of the necklaces. Did you notice I'm wearing a fringed scarf around my neck, hanging down my back?

I defaulted to black again in July 2019.

Yup, that's very basic. Pearls and ruffles, ya can't go wrong.

And then I wore it in September 2019 with soft pink.

Such a fun look! We saw this in the Effortless boot Flashback (here).

With today's outfit, I'm at 6 wears, which works out to $3.00 each. I'm fine with that - and the skirt remains in my wardrobe, to be pulled out once or twice a year. I'd love to hear some suggestions for styling it - the blush colour goes well with oranges and pinks.

Flashback #2!

And now, let's revisit my Kermit shoes! Why do I call them this? Because they are actually wool on the surface, and that reminds me of Kermit the Frog (also, it's not easy being green). The dots on them are fuzzy and raised! I bought them at She She Shoes on sale for $99.00, probably in the after-Christmas sales in December 2011.

I first wore them in January 2012.

I can tell that I didn't have a lot of green in my wardrobe then. The shoes have teal crystal decorations on the toes, so I've often done teal or turquoise accents to pick up on them.

I wore these shoes four times in May 2012 during my 30 for 30 for 12 capsule (recap here).

I see I picked up a green cardigan!

Second wearing in May 2012 - I had that green velvet jacket for a long time. I like all these colours together.

I still have that belt (it's an old one of Mom's).

Third wearing in May 2012.

I'm sure my coworkers joshed me about it not being St. Patrick's Day.

And last time in May 2012.

"What's all the fuss about?"

Aw, Vizzini is only a year old there! Look at our little gangly-legged guy.

As the year-long wardrobe challenge ate up most of 2012, I didn't wear the shoes again until March 2013.

It's my St. Paddy's Day outfit! It's a "kitchen sink" outfit: this is everything green that I owned (the tights were actually teal, but photographed blue).

March 2014 - another St. Patrick's Day outfit.

I didn't worry too much about matching my greens - the exact colour isn't that important. I'm surprised that I didn't wear the shoes for a full year, though!

I let the shoes be on their own with a yellow and blue outfit in July 2014.

I miss that blouse, but it refused to stay done up.

I wore the shoes for the annual Christmas party in December 2014 at Nick and Karen's.

The one and only wearing of that black dress (it just wasn't me). I remember getting soaked walking to the party - it was a very rainy December night.

I love this outfit from July 2015. That soft peachy thin sweater was a favourite - it got ruined in the laundry with big blotches from a dark item I washed with it.

Recognize the necklace? I wore it today. I still have that skirt, by the way - this is its third time matched with the shoes (so far!).

I wore the the shoes for my birthday party in October 2015.

"Is there a party happening?"

This is a very rare sighting of my Betsey Johnson dress, which I still have, although it is too tight right now.

I'm recovering from one of my arm tattoos in August 2016, and wearing my mint "wings."

I like this outfit - it's simple, but elegant.

In November 2016, I mixed some colour, pattern and metallic.

I still have that skirt.

Another favourite outfit, in May 2018.

I don't have the necklace or earrings anymore, but I have all the rest.

With a long drapey cardi in November 2018.

We saw this in my Dries Van Noten Pirate skirt Flashback (here).

When I found this dotted blouse in the thrift store, I knew I'd be wearing it with these shoes.

This outfit is from January 2019. I didn't keep the blouse - it was incredibly difficult to get into (and yes, I did use the side zip!). The skirt is part of my vintage Valentino suit.

My collection of green clothing has expanded substantially over the years - this is in June 2019.

Doing the "bookend" trick of matching the shoes to the top. Easy-peasy.

And finally, this is the last time I wore them, in April 2020.

I wore them around the house for a little while, but that's it.

Including today's outfit, I've now worn them 19 times, which works out to $5.21 per wear. Not bad!

And now I shall leave you with pictures of Vizzini, who's been snoozing on the deck non-stop.

"Go away, Woman."

L likes to point out that I behave like a 10-year-old girl with the cat, always wanting to pick up my kitty and carry him around.

"Don't you dare!"

I do tend to bug him, by sitting with him and petting him.

"Rowr!"

I caught him mid-yawn! He looks very fierce!

After my disruption to his nap, he wandered inside for a flop on the rug.

"Too...hot...must...flop..."

Of course, I can't resist that tum! More tummy rubs shall ensue!

Hello, my friends! Today's/Wednesday's work outfit features a dress that I've had for six years.

I nabbed it back out of the giveaway pile yesterday, heh heh.

Dress - Mary Jo Bruno, consignment; last worn here (2nd outfit) in July 2019 to the Ulti field
Boots - BCBG Max Azria; last seen here with a funky dress in May
Jacket (below) - Club Monaco, thrifted; last worn here in June

Sidenote: I sometimes read the entire post when I go looking for my "last seen here" link - a little nostalgia trip - and am relieved to find out that my favourite sunglasses broke the day I last wore this. I've been looking everywhere for them, and was sure I'd hidden them in a "safe place." Phew. Now I can go buy new sunglasses.

Anyway, the dress! Isn't it a fabulous colour?

I was surprised to see that I've never worn it with these boots.

I have worn this obi with it before, though.

This is an easy dress to style - it really doesn't need too much.

This felt vaguely superhero-ish to me. Yes!

The stuff:

The weather is still spring-like. WTF, July?? Here I am wearing boots that I would normally eschew until September. I wore nylons too!

Green bling:

I haven't worn that silk obi in ages - I paid $1.00 for it in a thrift store several years back.

Obi - thrifted
Necklace/earrings - Plum
Silver/crystal ring - Uffizi Gallery gift shop, Florence, Italy
Jade/brass ring - vintage 70s, Mom's

My dear friend Vero came over on my day off yesterday and shopped my giveaway pile - she got some really cool things and left with a big bag of goodies. I can't wait to see them on her!

While we went through everything, I reconsidered a few of my dresses and pulled them out. Regret-me-nots!

This plaid dress is not the greatest quality (it's not lined, the fabric is beginning to pill), but it's such a cool dress and layers really well with shirt and sweaters. It feels a little Vivienne Westwood to me. And it has pockets!

I got it at Plum (it's their in-house brand, made in Canada) in 2008-ish? I'll definitely be looking back at how I wore it, but it's a fall/winter piece (no more room for dresses in my summer collection!), so you will just have to wait.

There she is, today's silk dress.

I dumped all the dolman and batwing sleeves out of my wardrobe as they are not the most flattering on me, but dang it, not everything has to be optimal to make me fit some "perfect" ideal. I adore the colour and it's 100% silk (SO SOFT) and feels great to wear, and that's what matters.

I also have a soft spot for this very lovely vintage late 50s-early 60s dress. It fits me perfectly, and it's SO Audrey Hepburn. It's also still in really good condition.

It's pre-blog - I wore it at my 30th birthday party back in 1997! I'm not sure when I'll wear it again, but I promise I will, Audrey Dress.

Flashback time!

I bought this chartreuse silk dress here in November 2013 at Rich Rags for $10.00. It's by Mary Jo Bruno, who has been designing since the 80s - she only does custom lingerie now. This dress is an early piece - late 80s? It has that feel about it, although no shoulder pads. Maybe 90s.

I first wore it in November 2013 - gotta wear things right away!

Chartreuse lends itself well to gold accessories and I have lots of gold stuff. These are my old olive suede over-the-knee boots that I gave to my former coworker Holly - they never stayed up properly.

I got all experimental in February 2014.

I don't think I'd call that a successful outfit, but my copper jewelry does look nice with this colour.

This is the default for most of this dress' life with me - boring gold shoes and a bit of gold accessories.

This is from August 2014, and I wore it to go play Ultimate Frisbee (then for lunch, probably for shopping after!).

In the days before I separated my warm and cold weather wardrobes for space reasons, I always attempted to winterize my summer dresses.

With greys in November 2014. I still have this belt and those wooly Fluevog boots - I even have the tights still!

I took it to Vancouver to wear during our annual anniversary trip in March 2015.

I miss those tights, but I still have the bigass black chain necklace and of course, those wonderful Fluevogs.

Woo, try to control yourselves, it's another Ulti outfit, from June 2015.

At least I wore a different pair of gold shoes - it's not exactly the same! It did get slotted into the "weekend dress" category around this time.

Ah, I knew I'd worn this obi with it before! This is from July 2016 when we met up with the old gang from Swan's Pub.

I nearly wore those shoes today, but balked at bare legs. L is being silly, but looking awesome.

August 2016 - I love this dress in really hot weather. It keeps me covered up, but it still breathes due to the lovely silk.

With black accessories.

Another Ulti outfit, in August 2017.

I changed the belt this time, and the earrings.

I revisited wearing it to work in June 2018.

I still have the Dior belt (Klassy!).

And here's the last time I wore it in July 2019...to the Ulti field.

Nearly a repeat of the August 2017 outfit...but with different earrings!

I mostly wear it once a year these days as I accumulate more dresses, but even so, I've worn it 12 times including today's outfit and I'm at 83 cents per wear. I'm totally happy with that.

I've been feeling out of sorts lately. A touch of depression (understandable), anxiety (usual) and generally just being in one of my "down waves". I know I'll feel better soon, but when I'm feeling down, that doesn't always help.

What does help me - although the effort sometimes seems insurmountable - is doing some self care from the outside in. I went for my Mental Health Walk (heavy, foggy misty rain), showered and drank coffee. And with a wee push from Vix (thank you), I got dressed up today.

I also dyed my hair. Yes, it's steel grey!

Dress - handmade, vintage late 50s, thrifted; last worn here (2nd outfit) in February 2014 for the Victoria Film Festival 20th Anniversary Gala (loads of pictures!)
Shoes - Effortless Bebe, Fluevog; last seen here with a vintage skirt for brunch in June

Okay, first the hair. Like all of you, I've been enjoying my Flashbacks, and looking at how I've changed through the years, especially hair-wise. I do change my style up a lot - always have, always will. However, I have not been that happy with my new 'do: it doesn't really feel like me right now. You know what does? A side part and more length. It's easy enough to change a part and my hair grows fast. Done!

Pin curls which last 15 minutes

I have also not been entirely feeling the colour lately either, so I picked up some Feria Smokey Silver at the drug store last night and BOOM, I have smoky grey hair. L really likes this, and so do I. It will fade out from this darker tone to a more silvery colour. Eh, it's just hair. I can always cut it or change the colour. But this feels good.

The dress! I rescued this from my giveaway pile on Tuesday, setting it aside for "sometime later, when I can dress for a party." Well, no time like the present, since we aren't going to be having big house parties anytime soon. And dressing up makes you feel better: it's SCIENCE.

As this dress has no label, I've always guessed at it as being from the 60s - it's a very Audrey Hepburn look, very Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961). I was enjoying a post full of vintage wedding and bridesmaid sewing patterns (here, link 'cause I love), when I noticed the wedding/bridesmaid dress pattern labeled as "late 50s" here - check out the dress in the lower left corner. Totally this exact style! It could still be a dress from the early 60s, though, as styles hung around a lot longer back in the day.

This is fully-lined, very nice crepe fabric, with a plastic invisible zip (more common in the 60s), and hooks with thread loops at the top and rear waistband. It also has bra strap holders at the shoulders, although only one still has the loop (I probably forgot about it on one of my previous wears and ripped it off by accident). Some of the hem is coming down, so if I do plan on wearing this out, it would behoove me to take a needle and thread and sew that to avoid any actual fabric ripping.

There is a floppy bow on the front of the waist, to which I've pinned a brooch. I safety-pinned the sides of the bow from the inside at some point in the distant past, to keep it from flopping forward.

I adore the defined waist with the rounded hips on this - it's so pretty on, especially when walking (small-ish steps). Speaking of walking, the dress makes a lot of noise - all that fabric swooshing around!

The stuff:

Only worn for the pictures - I'll do a Flashback on these at some point, but not today.

Pearly bling:

The necklace belonged to my Grandma J - it's just costume. I wore it in this outfit with the clasp in front as the two faux pearl strands are different lengths, giving it a slight drop in the back view.

Necklace - Grandma J's, vintage 60s
Brooch - Sara Coventry, vintage 60s, vintage fair
Earrings - Aldo
Pearl/gold ring - Erth, consignment
Onyx/silver ring - Tocarra, vintage fair

I don't have much of a Flashback, since I have only actually worn this dress twice in nearly 25 years! I last wore it for the VFF Gala (the first one we ever went to), in February 2014 (link above). The theme was the 60s, so I went full Audrey.

Ah, I see the bra strap thingy was not working there, so the damage predates this wearing. I'm wearing my Mom's pale pink ruched gloves (vintage 60s), and my Grandma J's parure of Aurora Borealis Sherman jewelry (also vintage 60s). The "flying saucer" hat is vintage, bought back in the late 90s at a vintage store, and the shoes are one of many pairs of black kitten heels that I've had over the years.

I did a series called "Never Seen" back in May 2010 (here's the full series), where I modeled everything I owned but had not worn on the blog in my first 2 years.

No styling, just showing it. I noted then that I paid around $15 for it at Value Village 12-ish years earlier.

This is the first actual time that I wore it, for my 30th birthday in October 1997 (these are pictures of actual photographs). I threw a funeral party (for the death of my 20s), and decorated for Hallowe'en. I made a black crepe paper spider web on the ceiling, strewed black balloons around the floor, and served orange and black food. This party is infamously where I served black Jello shots made from vermouth. A bad idea. Our apartment smelled really weird.

This is my brother Dave (a wee child at 27 here), and his girlfriend Cindy. We're all former roommates, and Dave and Cindy got married, had two kids and then divorced. She's awesome.

I'm wearing Grandma J's Sherman here - this is probably its inaugural wearing, as Grandma had died the year before, I think.

Our neighbour Jess crossed the hall to join us. I spy my Hallowe'en decorations and my whole collection of gargoyles, how lovely. We still have most of that decor. I've always been prone to collecting stuff.

Party shot! Our friend Chris' first wife Jennifer has red-eye and looks demonic in the background (nice 90s shoulderless dress! ), and Dave and Cindy are looking at some of our stuff. All the little tiny things you see are our painted miniatures, a hobby I have barely touched since I started blogging.

This is one of my favourite early pics of L and I. What a babyface he is! I'm not used to seeing him without his long wild hair and handlebar mustache. He's still uses his Goblet of Rock, decades later.

Ooh, technology! I can crop to get in close. Ha, Jennifer is trying to get her vermouth Jello shot out of the too-big paper cup with a spoon. Party treat FAIL - I do much better now!

Dressing up and looking at these pictures did make me feel better. A shout out to L (who's a reader too), for being my rock and helping me through these grey times. You're the best, love.

Weekend! Let's kick it off with a fancy dress for Fancy Friday: my Metal Dress.

It's the first wearing of this new-to-me crocheted cardigan...and I'm not entirely sure I like it. At least not with this dress.

Cardigan - Precis Petite, consignment; purchased here for $14.00
Dress - Comrags, Spring/Summer 2011, thrifted; last seen here in September 2019 with grey neutrals
Shoes - Truths Makena, Fluevog; last worn here for Winesday in May

I pulled this dress out because it's insanely well-cut, but this cardigan obscures that.

To be fair, one side of the neck is tucked under a piece of the dress (the front has folded pieces), which is making the neckline look wider than it is.

It hangs down lower in the back, which I do like. Hmm, maybe it's a smidge big on me - those shoulders look wide.

Moving on. Look at me, showing my slip - scandalous! The dress is unlined and is a little scratchy on the seams due to it being made of metal.

With the cardi off, it's much more glamourous.

And it's very SHINY...because, like I said, it's made of metal.

See, 8% metal. It's in the fabric.

It's a cloth/8% aluminum foil hybrid. It lightly keeps its shape if I scrunch it, and it feels very strong. I've had it for a few years, so we'll have a little Flashback shortly.

The stuff:

These are comfort shoes - I moved tables and chairs around today, clearing all the seating out of the lunchroom at work. Can't do that in heels!

Silver bling:

Karen's cuff - it was a lovely warm metal hug from my punk goddess. She's wearing it in this picture here in January 2013.

Silver cuff - Karen's
Earrings - thrifted
Lapis lazuli/Fulvia Ring - Wendy Brandes

Flashback!

I bought this Comrags dress here in December 2016 for $38.95 at the big Women in Need (WIN) store, referencing the link from their Spring/Summer 2011 collection, but unfortunately they are no longer archiving that collection on their site). It's called the Magdalena dress and this pattern is called "rumpled print."

I wore it right away that weekend to see the Sing-Along Sound of Music, so this is from December 2016.

The dress itself is pretty simple but it jazzes up well with accessories. Love these long leather gloves and snazzy faux fur stole by Danier (I still have them, and the shoes too).

I have been wearing it twice a year since I bought it - this is from April 2017.

The pattern does a lot of the work, so my accessories either blend in or contrast. Those shoes are atrocious - what was I thinking?

Jazzing it up with magenta earrings and shoes in August 2017.

Those shoes are so fabulous, but they killed my feet - they're in the giveaway pile sadly.

May 2018's version is with a remade jacket made out of a sweater and a couple of other blazers, which is long gone.

Same shoes as today.

This outfit from September 2018 is the only time I've worn a blouse under it, and I love how it looks. That blouse worked so well for me for years, but I'm over it now...or am I?

You'll see the necklace and shoes again. When you find a good combo, you keep doing it!

Two outfits from 2019 - this one in May.

Neutral shoes and a bright purple blazer. That giant multi-swag pearl necklace was a great purchase from Aldo over 10 years ago. I've worn it a lot.

See? Here it is again, in September, which is the last time I wore it.

There's those shoes again! This was my inaugural wear of my Vivienne Westwood blazer.

So! I've worn the dress 8 times, including today's outfit, so I'm getting my cost-per-wear down slowly - it's at $4.89 now, but I know I can do better...simply by wearing it more!

And now, bonus cat pictures. Vizzini has been basking in the sun.

"You know you want to pat my warm fur."

I'm more taken with his little front paws, which he has in "Sphinx Position."

"Well, I am a rather handsome specimen."

He's been shedding like mad - I've been brushing him every couple of days (which he loves).

"Stop telling all my secrets, Woman."

I did rub his warm fur.

Have a lovely weekend, my friends! Good vibes to you all.

Before I get to anything else, check out ~~Melanie's~~ Miz Bagg's July 2020 Lockdown Edition of VOGOFF, here! I have a poem/piece of visual art in it. So much fun! Thanks for asking me to participate, Mel!

Weekends are slowly starting to get busier in my world, although more for L (who's an extrovert) than for me (introvert).

After a quiet Friday evening on my own (L was out), we strolled down to Pluto's for brunch on Saturday morning.

Jacket - Vivienne Westwood, consignment; last seen here in June with a fall-ish outfit
Top - M by Missoni, thrifted; last worn here (2nd outfit) with my space pants (and these same shoes!) in April
Trousers - See By Chloe, thrifted; last seen here (2nd outfit) in April 2019 with a flamingo top
Shoes - Miista; last worn here (2nd outfit) in May for a shop at Turnabout

I also made plans to have Yvonne over in the afternoon to go through my giveaway pile, followed by doing a long-overdue close swapover for her (the poor woman has been living with her fall/winter clothes!), so I aimed for comfort and funkiness.

These trousers are such a bizarre cut and shape. They are extra-wide, so I'm leading with this picture so that you can see that I am not actually smuggling bags of marshmallows in them.

One oddly-shaped garment deserves another, so I threw on this funky Westwood jacket.

All that thigh room means I'd be comfy for lots of bending and stretching. It took about an hour and a half to go through my giveaway pile. Yvonne ended up with masses of stuff - we are very close in size.

Jacket off. I love this sparkly top. Real Missoni!

I liked that my pink vintage Italian-made leather belt worked with this.

See what I mean about the pants?

That is totally not a flattering view.

Do I care?

No, I really don't.

The stuff:

These shoes have been real workhorses in my wardrobe for a few years, so get ready for a Flashback below.

Pink and purple bling:

Rings and things.

Belt - vintage 80s, thrifted
Silver/amethyst ring - vintage mall
Silver/onyx ring - Tocarra, vintage fair
Earrings - Kate Spade, consignment

It was cloudy but warm - rain threatened.

It seemed to match my mood.

Vizzini, are you ready for a Flashback?

"Did you say "Treat Time"?"

Not quite the same thing, bud.

Oh, wait, I did pull one more thing out of the pile for me when we went through my "Vintage" bags:

Yes, I rescued the Lady Garden of Delight leather skirt. Expect to see it again soon!

Flashback!

I bought these shoes on a "Last Pairs" sale at since-closed She She Shoes in February 2015 (here), for $140.00. The iridescent (a word that I can never spell correctly) purple and green shades of these leather shoes really rang my bell, as did the brogue/menswear styling. They also have a layer of green sandwiched in the soles. The bottom sole is textured rubber.

As they were the last pair, I was really hoping that the size 39 (I'm usually a size 40 Euro/9.5 US) would be off - but no, they were tight...but not so tight that I wouldn't give them a shot. They are leather, so maybe they would stretch a bit. But I was in love - and love matters so much with clothes! - and I took the risk. By the way, I would never have bought these for that price if they were not leather; that's a game-changer.

The first time I wore these shoes, which was in March 2015, my coworker Frank told me this purple-green mixed colour is called "Trout" in the car enthusiast world. Henceforth, they were my Trout Shoes. I do like to name my clothes!

Of course, I just started wearing them with any hint of green/turquoise or purple/blue. When in doubt, go matchy. This lovely shiny dress was one of my purchases from our trip to Italy.

Taking a bigger coordinating risk with the green/aqua match here, but the shoes read fairly dark.

This was in May 2015. I notice that the toe-bendy part (technical term, ha) gets broken in quite quickly. I recall that the heel cup was tight for the first few wearings - I often hand-massage my leather shoes in that area to make them soften up.

I started wearing socks and anklets with them in June 2015.

That's a L'Wren Scott for Banana Republic sequinned cardi - it snagged on everything!

Same denim pencil skirt as above, here in August 2015.

I'm showing off the magenta tassel earrings and fluffy cream top that I bought during the 2015 Blogger Meet-Up (here).

I've always kept them out all year-round - my first fall outfit in September 2015.

All I have left from that outfit is the leather obi.

Wow, I really liked them with this same denim high-waisted pencil skirt, this time in December 2015.

Socks again! That vintage top was very cool - the diamond design was all through pleating.

Ha, this is one of my Hall of Fame (I should do that!) wacky outfits, from January 2016.

This is my fourth time wearing that skinny purple belt with the shoes.

Love this outfit, from February 2016, but all I have left is the leather jacket.

I wore that sweater ragged. The jungle print skirt was fun for a couple of years.

This is a fun outfit - my "teeth" necklace is aluminum and rattly.

Still in February 2016. The shoes are now at the fully comfortable stage. I've been wearing them to work, on the weekends for shopping, and walking in them.

With my fabulous Stained Glass Dress in March 2016.

Not for the last time!

I forgive myself this sad outfit, also from March 2016, as I am sick as a dog there.

Those are big black culottes, by the way.

With the jungle skirt again, again in March 2016 (I was doing a mini wardrobe challenge).

I like the top and tights matching.

With houndstooth and lace, still in March 2016.

As these are walking shoes, many of these simpler outfits were built to be worn with fancier outerwear, which I always factor into my overall looks.

Like here in May 2016 - I'm going to see some bands in this, so I'm showing off the coat and purse and the bold necklace.

I'm rockin' underneath it with monochrome tights and lace dress.

I like all these colours/patterns together, from September 2016.

I really grooved on the purple palette for a few years.

Same skirt as above, from November 2011.

That's a pretty basic outfit - I planned for a physical day in the office.

I have worn them with this dress many times - it's an easy default outfit.

This was in December 2016.

That lovely vintage sweater again, in January 2017.

That was a cute skirt that I only wore a few times. I recall that necklace used to flip around a lot - it was annoying.

Deja skirt! I went through a brief "Muppet top" phase, including this outfit from February 2012.

Hey, Sheila, you left your closet light on!

Return of the Jungle Skirt, from April 2017.

That glittery sweatshirt was the start of my navy blue love.

One of the only times I ever wore these purple velvet pants in public, in May 2017.

I've worn them approximately 50 kajillion times at home, L will attest. I still have the silk Tory Burch blouse.

You'll recognize my soft pink Brooks Brothers blazer in July 2017.

I found this skirt in Yvonne's spring/summer collection. It took us close to 3 hours to do her double closet, cupboard and coat closet. L came over and he and Randall got us all pizza from Prima Strada (the real Italian wood-fire oven kind, yum!) for dinner while Yvonne and I wrapped up.

This outfit is from August 2017.

That skirt infuriated me - it was suede, and so cool, but it picked up stains from everything, which is why I got rid of it. I see a stain right on the front!

A familiar outfit from both the embroidered skirt Flashback and from the Armani duster Flashback.

This was in September 2017.

Told you I'd wear these shoes with this dress again, this time in December 2017.

That's a pretty simple outfit, and why I love dresses like this. One and done!

I mentioned that some of my outfits are built for the outerwear look - this is one of them, from January 2018.

I'm just wearing a blue sweater and my black culottes, but the real stars are my vintage Welsh cape, my blue Agent Carter fedora and my purple leather gloves. And the shoes, of course.

A casual outfit with red leather pants, also in January 2018.

I let go of those pants that year (I barely wore them), and gave up the shirt too (I was over it).

This outfit was after a very long day - we went to a concert that night, after I'd been working on our office move all day, back in March 2018. Hence the unamused face.

I love that embroidered jacket, and this is a rare shot of me in jeans.

What did I JUST say about jeans?? These are totally different jeans too.

This was in May 2018, and I'm showing off the weird arm feature of this blouse which was only worn once.

Showing off my cuddlemeister, Mr. Vizzini here in September 2018.

My Chrysanthemum skirt will get its own Flashback when I wear it again.

Floral and tulle, can't go wrong with that.

This is in November 2018.

A casual layered, 90s-inspired look from December 2018.

And there's that dress again, later that month.

Dressy on the top, and business on the feet.

My Stained Glass dress makes another appearance, here in February 2019.

That is such a gorgeous dress - I'll do a Flashback of it eventually too.

The only things I have left from this April 2019 outfit is the scarf and the shoes.

I sleep in the t-shirt now.

I love this bright outfit from July 2019.

That skirt is such a winner.

I'm surprised that this is the first time I wore these shoes with this Desigual dress (which will get its own Flashback at some point).

This was in September 2019.

For a weekend gathering, also in September 2019.

I'm all shiny in my Space Pants and Galaxy Jacket!

Another look with the cape and accessories, this time in November 2019.

I'm just wearing a plain cream sweater and a short little tie silk skirt. So cute! I love this look.

With my PANK dress, in December 2012.

I spy my magenta tassel earrings again.

Into 2020, this outfit is from February.

The sweater went to the giveaway pile, where it was promptly eaten by moths.

And finally, my shopping outfit from May 2020.

Wow, what a lot of looks! Including the featured outfit, that is 44 outfits! I feel much better about spending $140.00 on these shoes when I calculate that I'm now at $3.18 per wear on them!

On Sunday, I woke up with tight hamstrings from all the bending and stretching during our clothes shenanigans. The only thing for it was to go out for a walk and loosen up. And Turnabout happens to have a 70% off sale on!

As it was windy out, I wanted to wear something that would swoosh when I walked there and back. Being swooshy makes me happy.

Blazer - InWear; last seen here in June with my new orange Fluevogs
Blouse - CABi, consignment; last worn here in February with tartan trousers
Skirt - Trina Turk, consignment; last seen here in June with green lips and Armani
Shoes - Karl Lagerfeld; last worn here in April with bright colours and Madras

I felt nice and bright in these citrus-y colours.

As I'd picked the skirt first, I then rooted around for a top with navy to match.

I then added the bright yellow shoes (there are bits of yellow in this blouse).

And that is how I like to tie my blouses.

Swooshiness demonstration.

All buttoned up and ready to go.

Wait, add a bag!

Okay, NOW I'm ready to go.

The stuff:

I've been very lazy with not actually changing bags to go with my outfits - I'm really a one-bag woman with inclinations towards matchy bags that I never wear.

Simple bling:

I was delighted to wear this brooch - I've had it since about 1985-86, and I think it was from Fairweather or BH Emporium. I used to wear it at the top of button-up oversized shirts, a very trendy look back in the day.

Brooch - homegrown vintage, c. 1986
Ear-balls - Dior, consignment
Lapis lazuli ring - Wendy Brandes

Flashback!

Before I get into what I bought on my shopping trip, here's a little Flashback on my tulle skirt. I've had it since August 2018, when I bought it here at My Sister's Closet for $20.98. It's by Trina Turk, and is called the Floris skirt; it retailed for $238.00.

I wore it right away in August 2018 for a hangout with our friends at Glo.

I love all the layering of colours and patterns in this outfit. I put those Fluevog shoes in a bag for reselling - they really aren't that comfortable.

With a basic floral top, and familiar shoes, in November 2011.

I love a full swooshy skirt.

This was a favourite outfit too, from December 2018.

I like the layers of fabric and accessories.

A fun outfit in October 2019 (I must have packed it away for summer last year).

That sweater makes me giggle.

Gah, just looking at this sweater makes me unhappy.

This is from November 2019 - I thought the sweater was navy!

I love this outfit from February 2020 - I wore this to a concert by The Beaches.

"Seriously? You wore this in public?"

Yes, and I loved it, Vizzini.

And then lastly, I wore it in June.

I like having a navy blue skirt in my wardrobe, especially a tulle one. Did I mention it has silk lining? It's so soft!

I'm now at 8 wearings, putting my cost-per-wear at $2.63 - but I'm sure I'll be wearing a lot more!

Shopping!

I did well at Turnabout, and managed to find a few things on sale, however, not these shoes.

I completely fell for these. Dark orange, suede, sweet heel, sling-back.

Such a cute toe!

Not too pointy, not too round.

The brand is Vagabond, which is a Swedish company.

And they are a current shoe with them - and they are on 50% off so we can be shoe twins if you like (link here, 'cause I love).

They are called the Joyce and are on half price for 430 Krona, which is about $65.00 Canadian. They were $59.99, so right on track.

I'm especially pleased that they have never been worn. There is not a mark on them!

I've seen these shoes at Turnabout on previous visits, but didn't want to pay the marked price of $47.99.

That's not a terrible price, but they're slightly snug (they're a 39/9 and I'm usually a 40/9.5). But such a cool metallic steel blue - I love the crackly finish, and they are leather, so they will stretch over time.

When I saw they were marked down to $15.00, I said, "What the heck."

They have soft soles, not much of a heel. They go on and off by unzipping the little bit at the front.

They are by Gadea and were made in Spain.

Looks like they run from about $130-250 Canadian for similar styles, so I'm very happy with $15.00. Not much wear on them either. They're going to get worn a lot by me!

I spotted this gold leather purse by Banana Republic in a corner.

I love the light tone of the gold - that makes it an even better neutral.

It's two separate sections connected with three snaps across the top.

Those are purely for design, although I did pull it all apart to see if there was some purpose to it.

Verification of leather (cow leather).

And I see that it's from Spring 2017 (in stores in November 2016), so barely 3 years old.

It retailed for $118.00, but for me, it was only $24.00!

I have a collection of Floofy Underthings that I layer under clothes to add extra length, volume or texture. This is a dress that does that.

It's by Simpli, and is a sheer grey stretch netting with an asymmetrical hem with two layers of embroidery/lace.

I'm not really sure how I'm going to wear this, but I liked it, it looked cool on, it's majorly swooshy, and it was only $15.00.

"This seems delicious."

Vizzini was all over; the previous owner must have had a pet.

I normally skip by Urban Outfitters clothes - I want better quality than most of their stuff.

But I really liked this wrap top - it has really long, wide ties.

It's a micro "lumberjack" plaid.

It was $23.99, which is about right.

I actually came out of the change room to show off this dress.

It's such a pretty dress - love that neon orange lining and the oversized roses print.

The top is a bit looser, with the bottom pencil skirt long and sexy.

It's missing its belt (the belt loops are there), but otherwise, it's in really good shape.

It's by Ted Baker.

Note the little clasp on the front; this can also be worn open to show off the neon lining.

It's polyester and washable.

It's called the Cocoe dress and is from Fall 2014 (nearly 6 years old!). It originally retailed at $269.00, but it was marked down to $69.00 from Turnabout's original price of $179.99. Score! It looks amazing on me, and I can't wait to wear it!

Vizzini is now all tuckered out, and so am I!

"Nap time!"

Time to go chill and enjoy the rest of the weekend. Thank you all so much for stopping by!

Monday! I made it. A complicated file that I've been working on for months is finally (almost) resolved. It felt good.

I also felt good in this spot of Colour Therapy - orange is a soothing colour to me, which made me realize I need to do some mental health self-care, clothes-wise.

Cardigan - J. Crew, thrifted; last seen here in June with a fancy skirt
Sweater - Talbots, thrifted; last worn here a week ago with tweed and ruffles
Skirt - Maeve, thrifted; first seen here in June 2019 with denim
Shoes - Vagabond, consignment; purchased here yesterday for $59.99

I always fully plan my outfits out - garments, shoes, accessories, hosiery, underwear - the night before, so that I don't have to think about what to wear in the morning.

I was feeling apathetic about it last night, though.

Not that this is a bad outfit!

I loved wearing this - I was comfortable and felt snazzy. Isn't the skirt cute?? It's a wrap-around, but it's anchored down, and it has a bit of elastic in the back for a comfy waistband.

This is an excellent pattern too - it reminds me of a kaleidoscope. It's even better close up (pic here).

I have issues with patterns that don't show up well on camera - I will get rid of a piece if I think it looks muddy or fussy on my screen.

The rest of the outfit is just the usual suspects: a basic top and my linen cardi for sun and AC coverage.

I do need to take some time and put some outfits together, just clothes and shoes. It will help me feel more positive and upbeat when I know I have a good outfit on. It's a good mental health practice for me.

The stuff:

I love the shoes - they were hugely comfortable and no blisters on my feet. I was worried that the slingback would rub my heel but the wide strap was quite soft.

Mostly orange bling:

I added the necklace at the last minute.

Necklace - thrifted
Cuff/ring - Italian, mid-60s, vintage mall
Earrings - vintage fair
Lapis lazuli ring - Wendy Brandes

As I left the house for work today, I glanced through the kitchen.

"You are dead to me."

He looked so sad!

I take my outfit pictures in the morning after breakfast, and my "stuff" pictures when I get home from work. I felt a chewing on my skirt.

"FEED ME!"

Little monster! He got dinner at his usual time.

And lastly, here's a blooper for you! My stair picture is the last picture I take in the morning, and like all of my pictures, there are no multiple shots - one and I'm done! But today I had to take a second shot.

"TOO...CLOSE..."

What happens when you accidentally zoom.

Hello, my friends! Today we are featuring my rescued wonder: The Lady Garden of Delight Skirt.

We shall have a wee Flashback on it - wee because I haven't had it too many years, and I only wear it once a year.

Top - Talbots, thrifted; last worn here in June with a fabulous leopard coat
Skirt - no label, vintage 80s, thrifted; last seen here in May 2018
Shoes - Marc; last worn here in May (my very first Flashback is there)

I pretty much have to match a colour in the skirt for the top and shoes, but there are six colours (white, black, red, pink, aqua, gold) in this, so that's still a lot of options.

I went with red again, after spending a good hour yesterday trying things on in my closet. I built about eight outfits, and I'm fully set for the rest of my work-week, as well as the weekend, and I even have outfits ready for work next week. Go, me! I feel better!

In case you are wondering, I am well aware of what "lady garden" means (Wiktionary link here, if you don't), and I love the saucy term as applied to this amazing skirt.

Melanie started it!

I had a lovely chat with my colleague Preeti today about clothes. She agreed with my suspicion that the skirt was made in India - she said her mom embroiders patterns like this on her saris. Cool!

I have done this top/skirt combo before, as you will see.

I have also done the skirt-shoe combo, but not all three at once. It's totally different!

The stuff:

I did a bit of walking around the office today and my feet are a little tired. I have to build up my foot strength again for heels as my work starts to get ready to bring people back in. I normally do about a quarter of my job on my feet, but it's been closer to 90% desk for the past few months.

Black and gold bling:

My earrings were made in India too, but I bought them at Aldo years ago.

Leather/chain cuff - local
Ball cuff - Butler Fifth Avenue Collection - consignment
Silver/turquoise ring - Taxco, Karen's
Earrings - Aldo

Flashback!

I bought the skirt here in October 2016 for $19.99 at the big WIN store. As I'm fond of telling people,
"You should have seen the matching VEST that I didn't buy!" Seriously, it was V-shaped with pointy shoulders, open on the sides, and had the same trim on the waist as this hem. IMAGINE.

I do know the difference between a novelty item and an actual wearable piece of clothing, though. The skirt is totally wearable; that vest, not so much. Do I regret not buying it too (I think it was $24.99)? Slightly...but $25 was too much for me to pay for something that would take up space and I would rarely, if ever, wear.

The skirt is leather (fully-lined), and the designs are appliqued onto the white background - all of the edges are sewn with gold thread.

I love that the red petal shapes hang down below the hemline. They flip-flip when I walk.

I first wore it with right away with a pair of familiar shoes in October 2016.

The most amazing thing about this skirt is that I did not try it on. I carry a measuring tape in my purse (a very handy thing!), so I measured my hips/waist, then the skirt's, and weighed my risk - plus it was only $19.99!

The colours in the skirt are actually really easy for me to match. This is from January 2017 - I still have that leather jacket, but the boots are in the sell/swap at Fluevog when it gets rescheduled...someday.

The only colours I have not done with it (yet) are white, pink and turquoise. I was surprised that I hadn't worn my turquoise Fluevogs with it yet. An oversight!

With black, in August 2017.

I wore those shoes to death!

This top has been the most successful pairing so far - this was in May 2018, and that is the last time I wore it! I did not get to it last year, sadly, and due to that, I put it in the giveaway pile this year.

I have realized the error of my ways, though. I can never part with my Lady Garden of Delight!

Mathy stuff: Including today's outfit, I've worn it 5 times, so my cost-per-wear is $4.00. Not bad for a risk!

Special bonus! I spied from the deck a squirrel sleeping in the Gary Oaks.

"Buzz off, lady."

A nap in the sun sounds like a good plan.

Fall Outfit and Super Fine Cardinal Flashback

Two-Fer: Winesday Women; Picnic Plaids and Pink; Earhart Flashback

Etro Afternoon: Retail Therapy and Flashback

Bigass Weekend Wrap-Up: Pirate Ruffles and Dries Flashback; Solstice Picnic and Darth Flashback

Emerald Armour; Fendi Flashback

Karen: The Pre-Digital Years (1997-2007)

Two-Fer: Fancy Skirt Flashbacks

Karen: The Family We Choose (2008-2015)

Karen: Grace, Giddiness and Gratitude (2016-2020)

Bigass Weekend Wrap-Up: Jumpsuit and Speckled Shoe Flashback; Friday Black Silk; Pink and Black Flashback, and a Wee Shop; Winesday Gifts

Off-Colourful Armour and a Major Turquoise Flashback

Two-Fer: Grocery Brights and a Wee Shop; Swooshy Palm Trees; Coffee Flashback

Black and White, With a Side of Mustard

Plaid, Ruffles Flashback, and Kermit Shoes Flashback

Silk Chartreuse Flashback

Gone Grey and the Audrey Dress

Fancy Friday: Metal Dress Flashback, Blue Crochet, and Sphinx Cat

Bigass Weekend Wrap-Up: Extra-Wide Pants and Trout Shoes Flashback; A Wee Shop and a Tulle Flashback

Orange Slingbacks and Kaleidoscopic Silk

Lady Garden of Delight Skirt Flashback