In every woman’s arsenal, there should always be the Little Black Dress. Though perhaps a bit cliche, acronyms like LBD are not simply created. They live and breath and hold an honored place in our culture. And thank goodness for the LBD. The dress that fits you perfectly, can transition from day or night effortlessly, and is the most perfect backdrop for accessories. I have more than a few LBDs, but this vintage beauty, with her illusion neckline and delicate lace waistband, is definitely one of my absolute favorites.
She also perfectly sets the stage for a bit of whimsy. Now, I make no secret about that fact that I have a thing for fruit themed anything (case in point here). Fruit jewelry, fruit prints, fruit appliqué and embroidery. Way back in 2009, when I was on the hunt for my wedding shoes, my sister and other lovely bridesmaids generously offered to buy them for me (even with the knowledge that I have rather expensive taste in footwear! Brave souls). I actually tried on these stunning cherry lace-ups in Nordstrom and instantly fell in love. But, at the time I was searching for my something blue, and sadly left these pretties behind. But, I suppose good things come to those who wait, as I found a pair in mint condition on Ebay years later for a fraction of the cost. My heart skipped a beat, and this time, I didn’t hesitate. It’s nice to know that second chances come around every once in awhile…
This handbag is perhaps one of the greatest gifts I have ever received. After seeing me eye hers lustfully, my amazing friend Beth (proprietress of Mo-Mo’s Vintage) made me this burst of strawberry goodness! And I mean fully made. From the shape, to designing and hand-beading the ombre handle, to making an appliqué strawberry on the front and carefully beading along each seam. I’m reminded constantly how lucky I am to be surrounded by so many creative, inspirational friends…
So, I’m donning this berrylicious ensemble and hitting the town with Mr. Dressed Aesthetic. We have a pretty busy weekend planned, including a leaving party for friends who are making the move over to the east coast for a faculty position at a University there. This is one of the hardest parts of science – it tends to be a very transient existence. I have said more hellos and waved more goodbyes to colleagues and friends over the years than I can even count. But, on the plus side, I have friends on nearly every continent who, should I show up on their doorstep, would greet me as if not a single minute had gone by since we last shared a coffee. And there’s something rather awesome about that.
So a goodbye this weekend and preparations for our trip overseas next week – lots of plans to make and things to organize. But for tonight, I think we’ll put the lists aside for a night and simply paint the town berry.
What about you?
xoxo
Outfit Details:
Dress: Ruby Fayes Vintage (similar modern here & here or vintage here, here, here & here)
HandBag: Handmade for me by Mo-Mo’s Vintage
Headband: Forever New (similar here & here)
Petticoat: Vintage (similar)
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik via ebay (similar here, here, here & here)
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