tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19151178600649847052024-02-19T10:28:11.530-05:00le pull juste | the right sweaterYelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-74781536187215360912015-05-12T10:18:00.001-04:002015-05-12T10:18:42.366-04:00Not The Boss Of Me<img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8840/17369371638_4b25a15901_b.jpg" width="508" height="1024" alt="IMG_5940"><br><br>
Sweater: Effervesence Cardigan by <a href=http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/effervescence-cardigan">Olga Buraya-Kefelian</a>; madelinetosh pasmina in citrus; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/effervescence-cardigan">Darling Clementine</a><br>
Dress: Lilly Pulitzer; not a lot from <a href="http://www.zappos.com/lilly-pulitzer-tansy-dress-poolside-blue-first-impression?channel=194&si3156746=&mr:referralID=f197f9d2-f8ab-11e4-8635-001b2166becc">Lilly</a> this season that's similar save this one, however check out this <a href="http://www.6pm.com/jessica-simpson-strapless-fit-and-flare-panel-dress-ocean-depths?channel=196&si2537196=&mr:referralID=45f91c73-f8ac-11e4-8fa7-001b2166c62d">Jessica Simpson</a> and this <a href="http://www.bluefly.com/abs-by-allen-schwartz-mint-floral-woven-strapless-flared-dress/PRODUCT_FEED/326634201/detail.fly?referer=ca_shopstyle&cm_mmc=ca_shopstyle-_-ABS+by+Allen+Schwartz-_-dresses-_-3266342&partner=Gate_CSE_shopstyle_ABS+by+Allen+Schwartz_dresses&utm_medium=comparison_engines&utm_source=shopstyle&utm_campaign=ABS+by+Allen+Schwartz&utm_content=dresses">A.B.S.</a> for your strapless summer needs<br>
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik; I would seriously buy ALL of the following orange sandals if I could justify it: floral lace heels by <a href="http://www.lordandtaylor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/lord-and-taylor/beverley-high-heel-sandals">Kurt Geiger</a>, espadrille wedges by <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/charles-by-charles-david-astro-espadrille-sandal-women/3883496">Charles David</a>, this brand doesn't fit me well but I still think they're great <a href="http://www.gilt.com/sale/women/spring-footwear/product/1103660250-schutz-brazilian-high-heel-strappy-sandal">Schutz</a> strappy sandals, trying to find any justification to buying these <a href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/item10672746.aspx">Charlotte Olympia</a> sky high platforms which are available in my size and my size only, these amazing and bizarre <a href="http://www.shoescribe.com/us/women/sandals_cod44791538lo.html">MSGM</a> mixed media-looking things, and these reasonable high and reasonably priced <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HSFMRME/ref=asc_df_B00HSFMRME3676345">Lauren by Ralph Lauren</a> multi-colored jobs<br>
Lips: Yves Saint-Laurent Volupte Tint-in-Oil in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/volupte-tint-in-oil-P391753?skuId=1663913">Crush Me Orange</a><br>
Toes: Essie in <a href="http://www.essie.com/Colors/Sheers/blanc.aspx">Blanc</a><br><br>
Only a dreadful spoilsport would advise against matching one's cardigan, shoes, and lip color. And I am not a dreadful spoilsport. I am a woman who is deeply deeply pleased that winter is over, that summer is coming, that this dress still fits me despite a metabolic catastrophe that not even 30 days of consecutive sweatyoga can arrest (and I am not pregnant, this I know), that I actually do look decent in orange lip gunk, that I am about to go on vacation. Everything is pretty much coming up Millhouse.<br><br>
I still kinda hate cardigans, though. I am nearing the end of the body on my Grace, the cardigan everyone I am friends with already has and which I needed to have to so that I could fit in. I tried knitting it a size bigger (which will also help since I am at least a size bigger myself) and I've determined that anything below high hip for a cardigan I plan to wear with dresses is too long. Still, I have a bunch of fingering weight lying around the house and I have been toying with the idea of turning some of it into a cardigan design. If I try to make myself a cardigan from the ground up and I still hate it, I can just write off cardigans (tailored cardigans at least, there is still plenty of room for gee it's cold in here cardigans) altogether. So I've been looking at stitch dictionaries and trying to assess what I hate about my existing goes-with-dresses cardigans. Here's a short list:<br><br>
<ul>
<li>Neck too high
<li>Neck too low
<li>Shoulders all kinds of arsed up
<li>Fronts too narrow --> button band gaping
<li>Fronts successfully wide enough, back ridculously oversized
<li>Too precious
<li>Non-uniform length all around
<li>Terrible button band ribbing at complete odds with aesthetic vibe of the rest of the sweater
</ul>
As I regard this cardigan, I think I might find it the perfect length and am now pretty sad I didn't bring Grace to work because I could know right now, at this very second, if it was long enough to start ribbing. I also worry about a design element that will be pleasing to the eye, interesting enough to knit, but not prohibitive in its application: some stuff is just too cutesy for the boardroom. I know people love allover lace patterns, but in addition to their making the garment less warm, I also feel like allover lace looks "knitterly" for lack of a better word. Unless it's crochet and it's boho, you don't see a lot of allover lace in fashion. I'm pretty sure there's a reason for that.<br><br>
So I'm in the thinking stage of a cardigan. I have two lovely SQs, one from Western Sky Knits and one from Plucky, both of which would make perfectly nice cardigans. I'll let you know how that progresses. In the meantime, All Hail Orange!Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-80603794344371201212015-04-21T10:17:00.003-04:002015-04-21T10:17:51.257-04:00Because Ridiculous is Cool Saith I<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7631/16941018449_bfb695129c_c.jpg" width="508" height="761" alt="IMG_5921"><br><br>
Socks (!!!!): A mash up of the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/vanilla-socks-toe-up--afterthought-heel">Vanilla Socks</a> by Carle Dehning and the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/fish-lips-kiss-heel">Fish Lips Kiss Heel</a> by Sox Therapist; the unbelievably AMAZING Striped Turtle Toes yarn in Trenchcoat by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/turtlepurl">Turtlepurl</a>; and I really didn't make any notes on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/vanilla-socks-toe-up--afterthought-heel">Naughty Prepster</a><br>
Dress: Jason Wu for Target; similar styles by <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/Tracy-Reese-Cap-Sleeve-Full-Flare-Taffeta-Dress/prod177400282/p.prod">Tracy Reese</a>, <a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/lauren-ralph-lauren-sleeveless-pleated-dress?ID=839483">Lauren by Ralph Lauren</a>, and a not terrible looking one from <a href="http://www.target.com/p/women-s-taffeta-scoop-neck-bridesmaid-dress-with-removable-sash-tevolio-153/-/A-14258917">Target</a><br>
Shoes: Nicholas Kirkwood; and I really stuck out trying to find non-patent mary janes, so a few non-traditional choices from <a href="http://www.yoox.com/us/44772947GP/item?dept=women&tp=11227">Giuseppe Zanotti</a> and <a href="http://www.avenue32.com/us/black-suede-pointed-karo-heels-83401">Aperlai</a><br>
Lips: Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Intense in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/rouge-artist-intense-P268702?skuId=1261718">27</a>, satin dark rosewood<br><br>
This outfit is bananas. I know this. If I was not actually wearing a slightly more bananas outfit today (with the socks), I would be even judgier. These socks are bananas. AWESOME bananas. They are my first sock-weight socks, my first knee-highs, my first self-striping yarn. I love them. I love them because I have no earthly business wearing them. I love them because they are even somehow worse in the Burberry colors. I wish I could think of more inappropriate ways to wear them.<br><br>
Which came first, the yarn or the socks? Well it was obviously the yarn since I never thought I would suck it up and make myself a pair of socks. In all honesty, I started these socks at the end of last summer and would do an inch or so when I needed seriously boring knitting. But I saw the yarn on <a href="http://www.tanisfiberarts.com/blog/2014/9/g9bb75xgvzeihmvszm7trmmriyvlvl">Tanis's blog</a> and I had to have a pair. Immediately. I also knew they would have to be knee highs because I just don't have any occasion to wear ankle socks. I bought two skeins to be sure I would have enough and because the universe is my friend, these only took one skein meaning...yup elbow-length gloves will one day happen.<br><br>
Wanna know why? Because sometimes life is terrible and you feel awful and you don't know from where joy will come. So you do something frivolous. And that tiny bit of frivolity pokes through the dark cloud of horrible just a little bit. And that might be enough for the time being to remind you that terrible horrible no good very bad is, of necessity, a temporary condition.<br><br>
Or perhaps you're just into cos-play.Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-78747820943249280182015-04-01T12:06:00.002-04:002015-04-01T12:09:31.764-04:00No, It Isn't Still Snowing<img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8564/16744506302_4090123abb_c.jpg" width="508" height="761" alt="IMG_5801"><br><br>
Sweater: Anais by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/anais-4">Kim Hargreaves</a>; madelinetosh sport in chamomile; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/anais-2">Tournesol</a><br>
Dress: Alice + Olivia; similar tweedy dresses from <a href="http://www.dvf.com/yvette-tweed-a-line-dress/D684902O14.html">Diane von Furstenburg</a>, <a href="http://www.matchesfashion.com/product/164212">Erdem</a>, and a jeweled one from <a href="http://www.mytheresa.com/en-us/pena-embellished-tweed-dress.html">Alice + Olivia</a><br>
Boots: <a href="http://www.gucci.com/us/styles/353796A3N001000#">Gucci</a>; some fun, on-sale, embellished booties from <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446703238">Giuseppe Zanotti</a>, <a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/pour-la-victoire-open-toe-platform-booties-vella-high-heel?ID=1160563">Pour la Victoire</a>, and <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306624250&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446700684">Rupert Sanderson</a><br>
Lips: Bobbi Brown Art Stick in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/art-stick-P385587?skuId=1587575">Sunset Orange</a><br><br>
Take a whole bunch of pictures one weekend, they said. That's what all the people who blog about clothes do, they said. Who would know, they asked. Well, you've caught me. I did a bunch of outfits I actually did wear to work one weekend day that was neither too rainy nor too cold so that I would have content during the terrible no good very bad seemingly undending greyness of terror that has been every day since pretty much December 1. This sunny day? I thought it was the beginning of a trend. It wasn't. It isn't. I'm seriously considering moving to a different hemisphere.<br><br>
But the clothes. I wager you care ever so slightly more about the clothes than my bitching about the weather. This dress is a score of mine, in that I had it on my radar, it never went on my kind of sale, I forgot about it, I found it again on The Outnet, and scooped it up in a NY second. I love it despite the tweed being made of something plastic and therefore it's a little scratchy. I love the color, I love the length, I love how it looks with these boots...<br><br>
I admit it's a bit of a stretch with this sweater.<br><br>
I really am trying. In fact, I've been debating designing a cardigan in the hope that I can make myself a cardigan I would enjoy wearing. This makes sense in theory, right? I got really nice yarn for it. It's surprisingly enough...yellow. Because I think there might not be a limit on the number of yellow sweaters I need. The current active tally is 5. With at least 2 more in the offing. I am, in truth, wearing one right now. Don't judge me.<bR><br>Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-89888199755829478692015-03-24T11:10:00.000-04:002015-03-24T11:10:13.452-04:00Emily Says: That Is Not A Dress<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7613/16559501589_208a9eafbf_b.jpg" width="508" height="949" alt="IMG_5830"><br><br>
Sweater: Hey Girl by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hey-girl">Bonnie Marie Burns</a>; wollmeise dk in <a href="https://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/en/wollmeise-dk-100-wolle-fruehling/a-853/">fruhling</a>; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/hey-girl">Atlantic Pacific</a><br>
Dress: The Reformation (similar dress from <a href="https://www.thereformation.com/products/manuela-dress-glina">current collection</a>); similar styles from <a href="http://www.loft.com/softened-shirtdress/375168">Loft</a>, <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/t-by-alexander-wang-cotton-poplin-shirtdress/3875655">T by Alexander Wang</a>, and <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00O0HDOZC">bcbg</a><br>
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik (similar shoe from <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/manolo-blahnik-campari-pump-women/3303163">current collection</a>); other nude mary janes from <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/sjp-diana-pump/4030110">SJP</a>, <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/miu-miu-mary-jane-pump-women/3963295">Miu Miu</a>, and <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/rupert-sanderson-zelena-mary-jane-open-toe-pump-women/3937218">Rupert Sanderson</a><br>
Lips: Dolce and Gabbana passion duo gloss fusion lipstick in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/passion-duo-gloss-fusion-lipstick-P376842?skuId=1473115">Sensual</a> and Bobbi Brown high shimmer lip gloss in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/high-shimmer-lip-gloss-P294810?skuId=1352434">Hot</a><br><br>
Wait! Don't click any of those links! I need to plug <a href="http://fashionism.com/invitation/?invitation_id=MzI2XzA%3D">Fashionism.</a> I met this guy at my maid of honor's birthday a couple years ago and he was talking about a website idea he was on the point of launching. It's the simplest of affiliate payback sites, only its focus is fashion, specifically, highish fashion. You know the drill, start your shopping through the <a href="http://fashionism.com/invitation/?invitation_id=MzI2XzA%3D">Fashionism</a> site and get a small percentage of your purchase price back. I pestered him to be a beta user and have gotten to know him fairly well over that time (and found more than my fair share of broken links, I'll have you know), I've also amassed over $100 in my "cash back" account. Is that a tremendous amount of money? Nope. Is it the kind of money I would buy things I didn't need to acquire? Nope. Is it totally acceptable as a fun bonus for crap I was already buying? Yup. I mean Sephora is an affiliate, and I buy tons of crap at Sephora already. Getting 5% of the stuff I purchase back? Sounds good to me. So this isn't a get rich quick scheme, it's a "hey would you like a couple bucks back on that thing you were already buying? great, click this link." In the 2 years I've used it, I have not been "accidentally on purpose" subscribed to anyone's mailing list or experienced anything else unexpected or untoward. So there's my pitch. I'll probably make it again because it is a service I actually use.<bR><br>
Back to Emily's pearl clutching. I may have a bit of a The Reformation addiction. I love the style, I love the concept, I love everything about it save the fact that the vast majority of the clothing is designed to be worn without a bra and I need to wear a bra. They have a twice annual sale, which is where I got this dress ("dress"), but I have also been availing myself of their full-priced merchandise with somewhat alarming regularity because it is just that awesome (I have repeatedly begged the Fashionism guy to get them as an affiliate). Also the one thing I bought that had major problems? Return, full refund, no questions asked. I love them. But, there mini dresses are definitely mini. Over the protestations/eye rolling of both Emily and my husband, I will kick a super short skirt from time to time, but with a modest upper. So long sleeved, buttoned shirtdress with casual cardigan up top and Tina Turner on the bottom kinda works for me.<br><br>
Still in love with this sweater, still wondering why my second is still a WIP, still hate the buttons. Notice a pattern? I sometimes feel my lazy is actually a special power.<br><br>
Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-61861216654447720402015-03-18T14:52:00.000-04:002015-03-18T14:52:19.211-04:00Found While Looking For Something Else<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7602/16123272784_9af1518c61_h.jpg" width="508" height="1278" alt="IMG_5823"><br><br>
Sweater: Folded by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/folded">Veera Välimäki</a>; madelinetosh tosh merino light in stovepipe; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/folded">Devil and Deep Blue</a></br>
Skirt: Calvin Klein; similar styles from <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/topshop-distressed-crepe-a-line-skirt/3976875">topshop</a>, <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/Versace-Colorblock-Zipper-Detail-Knee-Skirt-Green/prod179880091/p.prod">Versace</a>, and <a href="http://www.jny.com/Pencil-Skirt-with-Coin-Pocket-Zip/29105906,default,pd.html">Jones New York</a><br>
Shoes: Tabitha Simmons; similar styles from <a href="http://www.dillards.com/product/Calvin-Klein-Brigitte-PointedToe-Pumps_301_-1_301_505075667">Calvin Klein</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KBZMLTC">L.A.M.B</a>, and <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/manolo-blahnik-campari-pump-women/3303163">Manolo Blahnik</a><br>
Lips: Dolce and Gabbana passion duo gloss fusion lipstick in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/passion-duo-gloss-fusion-lipstick-P376842?skuId=1473115">Sensual</a><br><br>
You know, I kind of like this sweater. I can't remember the last time I wore it, but it's kind of a shame since it's cute. Not the cutest I've made, but certainly cute enough. And in the tml, thin enough to tuck in. Something I've seen in the lady magazines I read. And I'm scowling not because I'm upset, but because the sun was really really bright. This was the least scowly squinty shot of the bunch. But more about the sweater: despite the fact that it's a raglan, the super wide neck ameliorates that somehow. I'd have to re-look at the pattern to determine if anything seriously special is going on, but I don't have that raglan-aversion thing when I see this pic.<br><br>
The skirt is another closet find. It was my mom's and it is something I would never have bought for myself, but when I was looking at it determining whether to keep it or not, I told myself there was nothing either objectionable or awful about the skirt and that it might come in handy. Well this is the first time I've worn it, but I'd like to wear it again. It's a bit big in the waist which makes it hang funny, but this doesn't seem like something insoluble given a decent tailor. Note to self: find decent tailor.<br><br>
As for the shoes, I cannot thank myself enough for this impulse buy. I love them. Despite a bit of pinky toe pinching. I cannot wait for warmer weather since they will go with nearly everything I own for summer. They are totally better than my other navy shoes which are sitting in the mailing box awaiting my getting in gear to send stuff off for consignment. Which segues nicely into a brief plug. I have been experiencing excellent success in buying gently used <a href="http://vnlink.co/S7savJ4">The Real Real</a>, an online consignment shop. So when Emily asked me about it, I realized I had not plugged it at all, which I will start doing because I have been nothing but ecstatic with my purchases, including a needs-the-weather-to-be-a-little-warmer pair of brogue-inspired open-toed pumps that are adorable!Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-73199122960960699722015-03-10T15:37:00.000-04:002015-03-10T15:37:57.076-04:00Off Duty<img alt="IMG_5779" height="1210" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8680/16719673846_07f42b192c_h.jpg" width="508"><br>
<br>
Sweater: Rocky Coast Cardigan by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rocky-coast-cardigan">Hannah Fettig</a>; madelinetosh tosh merino in antler; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/rocky-coast-cardigan">Acadian</a><br>
Blouse: <a href="https://www.everlane.com/r/yelenamalcolm">Everlane</a> modern silk point collar shirt in navy; similar styles by <a href="http://www.stylebop.com/product_details.php?id=593902">Theory</a>, <a href="https://www.joefresh.com/us/Categories/Women/Shirts-Tops-Silk/Silk-Shirt/p/WS5W225144_407">Joe Fresh</a>, and <a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/lauren-ralph-lauren-color-block-silk-shirt?ID=1217775">Ralph Lauren</a> <br>
Jeans: Madewell <a href="https://www.madewell.com/madewell_category/DENIMBAR/alleystraight/PRDOVR~B1555/B1555.jsp">Alley Straight</a> (different color); I'm also a fan of Old Navy's <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=85739&vid=1&pid=174017022">Sweetheart</a> style<br>
Shoes: Sperry Top-Sider Hayden loafer; similar styles by <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B001V5KEXG">Bass</a> and <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00G4A2HD8">Cole Haan</a><br>
Lips: <a href="http://www.sephora.com/rosebud-salve-P42204">Rosebud Salve</a><br><br>
Yes Virginia, there is a casual Yelena. Truth be told, chez moi we much preferred this outfit without the sweater, but as I explained to my husband, the blog is about styling knitwear...<br><br>
I have such mixed feeings about this sweater. I trot it out a lot despite the sleeves that are too tiny, the shoulders that despite modification fall off, and the overall look which is more than a little bit dowdy. However, it's a warm, white cardigan. It has merit. It has uses. I just sometimes wish I also had the long johns I feel it ought to go with and the mountain chalet to wear both while trapising about.<br><br>
I do NOT have mixed feelings about this shirt. This shirt is amazing. This shirt will be coming to live with me in several more colors. I know I wax rhapsodic about <a href="https://www.everlane.com/r/yelenamalcolm">Everlane</a> while hocking my invite link and I feel not really at all bad about that. Their stuff is amazing! For a long time, they only had two long-sleeved shirt options: rounded collar with set-in sleeves or pointed collar with raglan sleeves. Can you see why I hadn't bought one yet? When I saw that they were offering pointed collar with set-in sleeves, it took me zero time to hit the buy button. That they had it in navy was just a bonus. That I selected the right size was bonus x2. That my husband made googly eyes at me when he saw it on? Bonus x3. This shirt is full of bonus.<br><br>
I'm also becoming more and more partial to my Madewell Alley Straights. The one problem I have with them is that they are, definitively, too bulky to tuck into booties, but I think I'll survive. As for the flats, they just sort of worked. I wear my top-siders a lot when I'm not doing much of anything. I pack them for after yoga class, wear them to get a pedicure, take them on vacation (dear god that all sounds so repulsivley privileged I might just barf). They're kick around shoes and I can't ever see myself wearing them professionally. That being said, I'm delighted I have them for kicking around.<br><br>
Finally, just for the record, I'd like to say that I acknowledge that this is a preternaturally good photo of me. The 47 others were not like this one. This one captured everything I always want to be in jeans and everything I am pretty sure I'm not. It's the Ricky Lauren look of my sartorial fantasies and I have no shame about publishing it to the internet pretending it's actually what I look like.<br><br>Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-3509609762276402382015-03-03T13:55:00.001-05:002015-03-03T13:56:00.960-05:00Not Quite Menswear Inspired<img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8633/16497197047_d7f0618194_h.jpg" width="508" height="1087" alt="IMG_5759"><br><br>
Sweater: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ease-2">Ease</a> by Alicia Plummer; madelinetosh dk twist in duchess; my very few notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/ease-2">In The Red</a><br>
Skirt: J. Crew; similar styles by <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LBGL4HU">Joie</a>, <a href="http://www.brooksbrothers.com/Wool-Pinstripe-Pencil-Skirt/WL00106,default,pd.html">Brooks Brothers</a>, and a different version from <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/skirts/mini/PRD~B9612/B9612.jsp">J. Crew</a><br>
Shoes: Marc by Marc Jacobs; <a href="http://www.lordandtaylor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/lord-and-taylor/colorblock-booties">same boot</a> with a smaller heel and other options from <a href="http://www.maxstudio.com/product/taro-36313?AID=7065870&PID=2178999&SID=1306731425">Leon Max</a> and <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306624250&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446721269">Proenza Schouler</a><br>
Lips: Yves Saint Laurent Volupte tint-in-oil in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/volupte-tint-in-oil-P391753?skuId=1663897">Cherry My Cherie</a><br><br>
Why yes, it is time for another haircut. That will be happening next Friday. In the meantime, it is taking all of my self-control not to absolutely destroy my shoe collection by wearing it in this winter. I've been relying on my casual boots for far too long, which is why despite a forecast that may briefly catch me out in these boots, I had to wear something prettier today. This is also the first day in quite a long time that I felt like doing my hair, so obviously that required memorializing.<br><br>
There is a little bit of thought that goes into photo days. Do I have enough brain power to coordinate an outfit? I mean I am invariably running behind in the morning and throwing a dress over my head is the easy way out. Does this sweater match these shoes? This is an important one. It was enough of a mental hurdle to pair navy tights with the black and oxblood booties, but ad I worn the original sweater I had wanted, my West End Girl, it would have definitely been a bridge to far. And while my Carrie would have been perfect and perfectly uncomplicated with the rest of this outfit, I did just wear it. I might actually be boring in real life, but on the internet I can totally pretend I'm interesting. Thanks for enabling that.<br><br>
So what I like about this outfit: I adore pinstripes. I wish I had a closet full of pinstriped things. I like pinstripes so much that I once bought palazzo pants in pinstripe. Ask me how many times I wore those? The answer is once. Remember Madonna's Jean Paul Gautier menswear moment? I kind of want that all the time in my closet (and just for the day, some straighter hips so that pants look amazing on me). So when I saw this pinstriped skirt on sale for about 30 bucks, I jumped on it. Since navy is a total neutral it looks great with all my sweaters, even the aforementioned hot pink one. As for booties, I feel as though the 2014-2015 winter has been all about booties for me. I never gave them much thought before, but I aquired two pair this year and have trotted out my old dark brown pair far more often than in previous years; I am on the lookout for a gently used pair of Celine booties from two seasons ago to round out the category.<br><br>
And you know how I said I was cutting my hair? I still am, but for reasons passing understanding my hair has looked pretty good all day long. Which is a rarity. I have this one really good pic of my hair shorter from a couple of years ago and I am definitely bringing it to my hairdresser,<br><img src="http://images4-d.ravelrycache.com/uploads/ymalcolm/151441140/IMG_2580_medium2.JPG"><br>but I'm also strangely happy with its current length (the bangs obviously need trimming and by someone who isn't me - though in fairness they turned out way less terribly than I had feared). The only issue is the massive dry, gross split ends that make me think I should just shave my head and start from scratch #woecake.<br><br>Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-58608116980202955332015-02-19T10:24:00.000-05:002015-02-19T10:25:01.931-05:0050 Shade of I Can't Even<img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8638/16578636261_6a72c363e6_h.jpg" width="508" height="1028" alt="IMG_5743"><br><br>
Sweater: Carrie by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/carrie-13">Josee Paquin</a>; Quince & Co. Lark in <a href="http://quinceandco.com/collections/yarn/products/lark-yarn-wool">Iceland</a>; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/carrie">Thule</a><br>
Skirt: Alice + Olivia Pharl leather skirt; similar styles from <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306422203&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446715995">Vince</a>, <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/Halston-Heritage-Flared-Naked-Leather-Skirt-Black/prod176020342/p.prod">Halston Heritage</a>, and if you're gonna go faux, go all the way faux with this PU patent from <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-A-Line-Skirt-In-Patent-PU/12a46q/?iid=3662275">ASOS</a><br>
Tights: I never talk tights because all tights are tights, but I love these ombre tights from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/BZRshop">BZR shop</a> and own them in several shades - they're tons of fun<br>
Shoes: Gucci <a href="http://www.gucci.com/us/styles/353796A3N001000#">Ursula</a> horsebit booties; similar (and by similar, I mean black bootie) styles by <a href="http://www.lordandtaylor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/lord-and-taylor/nano-leather-cap-toe-booties">Dune London</a>, <a href="http://www.dillards.com/product/Sam-Edelman-Sandy-Booties_301_-1_301_504710926">Sam Edelman</a>, and <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306624250&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446703238">Giuseppe Zanotti</a><br>
Lips: Yves Saint Laurent Volupte tint-in-oil in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/volupte-tint-in-oil-P391753">Pink About Me</a><br><br>
It has been really really cold and I have been really really disinclined to stand outside wrangling a tripod to take photos. Fortunately, my husband and I both had a spare couple of minutes this morning and took some photos. Which makes me happy because I've a) missed blogging and b) have tons of things to tell you about since I made a number of "essential" end-of-season sale purchases. Like this skirt. Which I had wanted all season long, had lusted over in person and on line, and absolutely was never going to pay anywhere near full price for. 70% off you say? Yes, thank you. I will take a fairly staple dark grey leather skirt for my closet. Thanks for keeping my size in stock all season long!<br><br>
Jess asked me if I wear my Carrie a lot as she's considering making one, so naturally I had to photograph how I style it. This sweater, despite its raglans (which I am more and more becoming less and less a fan of), gets a lot of wear because it is a) really warm, b) the most perfect turtleneck I've ever made, c) really versatile, and d) surprisingly soft. It's one of my favorite winter sweaters and I'm wondering if the rather wide raglan seams make it slightly less raglan-y on me. Once I decided on grey skirt with grey sweater, it seemed only appropriate to round it out with my grey ombre tights and...<br><br>
BRAND NEW BOOTS OF EXCELLENT AWESOMENESS MUCH WONDERFUL HOORAY!<br><br>
aka the boots I simply had to have for values of "simply had to have" that did not include "paying $1200." I wouldn't have looked twice at these shoes ordinarily as on paper, or more accurately in photo, they didn't do much for me. But the nice man at Neiman Marcus, after assuring himself the commission from the sale of my Christian Louboutin pumps, was in a good "let's try on all the things" mood and forced these on my feet. Where I fell in love. Because on my feet they are amazing. Super duper, top 10 kind of amazing. They were super duper top 10 amazing right until the moment I looked at the box and saw the price tag. From that moment on, these shoes were my on sale mission. I <i>would</i> find them on sale. WOULD! Except that while Gucci put the oxblood version on sale (and I was tempted), as you can see, the black ones remain undiscounted. Neiman Marcus did put theirs on sale (not as much sale as I would like, but I was getting desperate), but not in any size I could remotely pretend was mine. I mean, I'll suffer for fashion, but in order for my tugboats to fit in an 8.5, I'd need to chop off my toes, and I kind of like my toes. So that was that. I wasn't getting the boots. Many tears were shed. Until the magic happened: ebay. One day, on a lark, I took a look for the boots on ebay and there was a pair, barely worn, in my size, for about 1/4 the retail price. The time it took me to hit "buy it now" can't be clocked by ordinary timepieces because it was, as the scienticians would say, instant.<br><br>
And I couldn't be happier with them. They were barely worn. They were practically new. And they were mine.<br><br>
Finally, I want to talk up the stuff on my lips. I'm pretty picky when it comes to lip stuff. I want creamy, emollient, and easy application. Which generally has me shy away from lip gloss because it's always grosser and stickier than they claim. I completely impulse bought this stuff even though it comes in what looks like a lip gloss tube. But it's a tinted oil. The applicator is tapered like a lipstick so you don't end up with crap all over your face, and it is incredibly moisturizing while imparting a decent enough amount of color. I am completely obsessed with it and am going to be getting at least one additional color this weekend. Highly recommended!<bR><br>Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-46672977900107379082015-01-29T12:12:00.000-05:002015-01-29T12:12:06.237-05:00Pumpkin Smuggler<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7327/15775272383_08e5b1c948_h.jpg" width="508" height="1148" alt="IMG_5685"><br><br>
Sweater: Greenwood by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/greenwood-3">Ann-Marie Jackson</a>; Aran Tweed by Donegal in blood red; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/greenwood">The Dolman Experiment</a><br>
Skirt: J. Crew felted wool mini; I'm kind of obsessed with this <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/structured-skirt-check-joa/vp/v=1/1550739286.htm">Joa skirt</a> but bought the dress instead, and if I think this <a href="http://www.yoox.com/us/35221855MC/item?dept=women&tp=11227">MSGM</a> skirt is pretty boss as well<br>
Boots: Manolo Blahnik; so this is the time of year to buy your expensive black boots because everything is on sale. My argument for buying a pair is below, along with my list of pics<br>
Lips: Clinique <a href="http://www.sephora.com/different-lipstick-P122722?skuId=70409">A Different Grape</a><br><br>
If you're looking to make an investment in a pair of shoes that, treated right, will last a very very long time (the boots in this photo were bought in January, 2001), January is THE month to do it. Below are just a sampling of really nice boots that are really much cheaper than they're worth. If you have the funds and you have the desire, buy yourself a pair of black boots. If this isn't the year when it's in the cards for you, please remember that the latter half of January is when you'll find the best deals of the year. For those of us who do not need another pair of black boots, enjoy the eye candy:<br><br>
Edgy - <a href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/emanuel-ungaro-knee-high-boots-item-10792505.aspx?storeid=9580&ffref=lp_3_">Emmanuel Ungaro</a><br>
Classic chunky-heeled <a href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/jimmy-choo-mandel-boots-item-10904703.aspx?storeid=9573&ffref=lp_13_">Jimmy Choo</a><br>
Equestrian-style <a href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/tods-heeled-knee-boots-item-10827591.aspx?storeid=9523&ffref=lp_23_">Tod's</a><br>
Stretch suede with a relatively modest stiletto from <a href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/giuseppe-zanotti-design-pointed-toe-boots-item-10796385.aspx?storeid=9640&ffref=lp_36_">Giuseppe Zanotti</a><br>
Excellent value from <a href="http://www.loefflerrandall.com/LRProduct.aspx?ProductID=1095">Loeffler Randall</a><br>
Square-toe from <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306624250&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446721779">Acne</a><br><br>
Now for sweater talk: I feel that this sweater requires a certain amount of confidence to wear because it is anything but figure flattering. In fact, it's figure obliterating. So if you're not feeling pretty excellent on the inside, do not put this sweater on. I chose to wear it today because it's frickin' freezing outside and because I feel decently enough excellent. Also the mini skirt is a good counter balance to remind people I am not smuggling prize pumpkins in my sweater. Having said all that, I really like this sweater. I loved knitting it side to side because you don't often do that; I love the yarn; I love the finished shape on me as a counterpoint to so many of my other sweaters. I named it "The Dolman Experiment" because I had no idea if I ought to get within a mile of this type of sweater, but I now wonder if I might now eventually make a lighter-weight one for warmer weather. It's very easy, breezy, and it's definitely style-defining.<br><br>
Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-36810399452914219852015-01-26T10:20:00.002-05:002015-01-26T10:20:30.857-05:00Emergency Preparedness<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7459/16185509460_3e1b72fdd5_b.jpg" width="508" height="931" alt="IMG_5677"><br><br>
Sweater: Telluride Aran by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/telluride-aran">Amy Herzog</a>; Black Trillium Fibre Studio Pebble Worsted in Moon Shadow; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/telluride-aran">Last Run</a><br>
Jeans: DL1961 Florence coated jean in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MO573PO/?ascsubtag=1206294170&creative=395093&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&ref=asc_df_B00MO573PO3456870">Barcelona</a>; similar styles by <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/topshop-moto-joni-coated-skinny-jeans-black/3932210">Topshop</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LUQULMU/ref=asc_df_B00LUQULMU3510504">Calvin Klein</a>, and <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/treasurebond-skinny-coated-jeans/3756737">Treasure & Bond</a><br>
Blazer: Forever 21 asymmetrical coat; another <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=outerwear_coats&ProductID=2052288570&VariantID=">Forever 21</a> option, this from <a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=33473091">Urban Outfitters</a> which I might buy at $40, and if you like the color, but not the length, <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=outerwear_blazers&ProductID=2000118054&VariantID=">Forever 21</a> has you covered too<br>
Shoes: Mossimo for <a href="http://www.target.com/p/women-s-mossimo-supply-co-katherine-genuine-leather-engineer-boot-assorted-colors/-/A-11243061#prodSlot=medium_1_2">Target</a> but I got mine on sale and you should wait for a sale too; then, of course, there's always the original <a href="http://www.thefryecompany.com/harness-12r/d/77300">Frye</a> model<br>
Lips: <a href="http://www.korresusa.com/default.aspx?page_id=347">Korres </a>mango butter lipstick in nude PLUS <a href="http://www.sephora.com/high-shimmer-lip-gloss-P294810?skuId=1352434">Bobbi Brown</a> high shimmer lip gloss in Hot<br><br>
So I hear we'll be getting some weather! My original plan was to head into the office early, work there a half day, grab my computer, and head home before the worst. Since I was also mindful of the possibility of perhaps being stranded in my car or needing to be in the elements, I scrapped pencil skirts and stilettos in favor of -gasp- pants. I don't generally wear pants to the office, not out of any abhorrence of pants, but because I don't think I look as professional in pants as I do in a skirt, primarily due to body shape. Trust me, I would be over the moon if I could rock a pantsuit, but I can't because I'm hippy. So I chose the coated jeans as being "dressier" than regular jeans, went with a monochromatic top (also a raveler recently asked me a question about this sweater and I realized I hadn't worn it in a while despite loving it), and then still wanted something that would cover up the fashionable tightness of the pants across my rear. This Forever 21 blazer was featured on some fashion blog, or I saw it on pinterest, or something, and I impulse bought it (which is pretty easy to do at Forever 21 since everything is cheap). When it arrived, I wasn't crazy about it, but that was because I was trying to wear it closed (where it looks ridiculous). Open, however, is a different story and I actually like that it's a bit different both from my general palette and from my very tailored fit. It works equally well over a dress. I also barely did my hair (but as you can see this magic hair stuff makes it possible for me to not blow dry AND not look homeless - it's amazing), put on a minimum of makeup (pressed powder, bronzer, blush, lips (I just curled my lashes but didn't mascara them)), and decided to brave the roads.<br><br>
And at first they weren't bad at all and I felt silly for my trepidation. Then, however, at about the halfway mark, I noticed that the problem for the moment wasn't snow, it was wind. The wind was already picking up enough to both blow the weekend's snow around, but it was also approaching the strength where it jiggles the car. I decided that I would chicken out at that moment: go to the office, pick up my laptop, and return home. There was no virtue, to my mind, in waiting around for several hours and possibly getting stuck indefinitely because my lovely front-wheel drive sedan is not cut out for blizzard driving.<br><br>
So now I'm back at home with a cup of peppermint tea, a working and charging laptop, and for the time being electricity. Who knows how long that will last, but I thought a "business casual" post would be fun. To everyone affected by this round of winter nonsense: stay warm, stay safe, and let's all catch up on some knitting!Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-53030973076099809682015-01-20T11:12:00.000-05:002015-01-20T11:12:08.131-05:00Same Same But Different<img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8644/15703182124_71bace9914_c.jpg" width="508" height="761" alt="IMG_5666"><br><br>
Sweater: Josefin by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/josefin">Elin Berglund</a>; madelinetosh sport in moorland; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/josefin">Wood Nymph</a><br>
Skirt: Alice + Olivia olive suede pleated skirt; similar styles and/or colors by <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/Halston-Heritage-Suede-Woven-Combo-Skirt-Light-Fatigue/prod173330116/p.prod">Halston Heritage</a>, <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/am/product/507585">Belstaff</a> which I am deeply coveting, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/maytal-milano-skirt-torn-by/vp/v=1/1530975563.htm">Torn by Ronny Kobo</a> on final sale, and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KCMAHFY/">Rebecca Minkoff</a><br>
Blazer: Jack Wills <a href="http://www.jackwills.com/en-us/product/austerberry-blazer-10000540602">Austerberry blazer</a> (very on sale!); similar styles at <a href="http://www.ralphlauren.com/product/index.jsp?productId=35591366">Ralph Lauren</a> and <a href="http://www.loft.com/tall-peppered-tweed-blazer/354357">Loft</a><br>
Shoes: Maiden Lane leopard calf hair pumps; similar styles by <a href="http://www.lastcall.com/Charles-Jourdan-Ruth-Calf-Hair-Pump-Natural-Leopard/prod28390035/p.prod">Charles Jourdan</a>, <a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/en-US/product/Oscar-de-la-Renta/Ciciliagm-leopard-print-suede-pumps/460619">Oscar de la Renta</a>, and <a href="http://www.dsw.com/shoe/dune+london+bellini+pump?prodId=dsw12prod5830110">Dune London</a><br>
Lips: Marc Jacobs Lovemarc Lip Gel in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/lovemarc-lip-gel-P379423?skuId=1548379">Showstopper</a><br><br>
Perhaps it's that I fell asleep reading my new copy of Knitsonik <a href="http://knitsonik.bigcartel.com/">Stranded Colorwork Sourcebook</a>, but I woke up with a desire to wear many similar, yet different things to see how they worked together. I've also been meaning to wear this sweater for several weeks now - I really like it and it really doesn't get worn a lot. In light of my massive sweater clean out, I figure I should wear the sweaters I love! Sorry, raglans, many of you are going to go live with other people (it's funny, though, because I have a design idea that is really going to work better with a raglan sleeve and I have to come to terms with the fact I might not be the eventual model - I smell something for a certain Vanessa...). I love love love this Alice + Olivia skirt - so much that I own it in another color. Sadly, there is something faulty with the zipper which I am pretty certain my shoemaker didn't actually fix when I brought it to him leading me to believe it is time -sigh- to find another shoemaker. Eff you, suburbs, you are absolutely the worst for finding remotely decent dry cleaning, tailoring, and shoe repair; three things I find only second in importance to grocery stores which I will grudgingly admit Greenwich spoils me for choice (though the new Citarella could open already, I am tired of waiting).<br><br>
It's been a post-holiday season of shopping and returning and not-shopping. One thing I have not shopped for, but urge you to shop for, is this blazer. I own it in four colors. That is not a joke. Perhaps this was a mistake, but I love them and I find them stylized without being over the top. I have also not shopped for an upgrade to these shoes. A couple pair of the high-end leopard shoes went on sale and sold out and I didn't consider them. These cheap shoes are totally not bad. I'm glad I didn't spend over $100 for them, but they're absolutely fine. And I would certainly consider another pair from Gilt at a similarly not over $100 price. Especially for something a little silly like leopard pumps.<br><br>
Finally, something weird has happened to my skin, in that when I bought this lipstick, I liked it for half a minute and then hated it. Now I love it. I don't know if I'm applying it with a lighter hand, or if the color of my skin is different, but I don't feel like a juggalo when wearing it and that is ALWAYS a good thing.<br><br>
Oh, and while I did go to VKLive this weekend, obviously I took no pictures because I am terrible and because I seem to have terrible handshake with the cameraphone that just makes me feel old (also I really, truly thought that handshake would go away when smoking went away - add that to the list of things quitting smoking was supposed to accomplish but didn't - thank goodness I love all this extra weight to keep me warm).<br><br>
Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-91385455894142273482015-01-15T10:33:00.000-05:002015-01-15T10:33:35.369-05:00Other Things I'm Not Good At<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7522/16260159526_08a72c41f8_b.jpg" width="508" height="876 alt="IMG_5664"><br><br>
Sweater: owls by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/owls-2">Kate Davies</a>; malabrigo chunky in <a href="http://www.eatsleepknit.com/cshop/product/Malabrigo-Yarn-Chunky-Merino-Yarn/1379/">polvoriento</a>; my notes and modifications onf <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/owls">Tee-hee Hooters</a><br>
Dress: Brooks Brothers <a href="http://www.brooksbrothers.com/Long-Sleeve-Cotton-Black-Watch-Dress/WX00244_____BLCK_14_______,default,pd.html">blackwatch plaid shirtdress</a> (still available in sizes 8 and 12); similar styles at <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=989166002&tid=gosp1r&kwid=1&ap=14">The Gap</a>, <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=dress_casual&ProductID=2000100807">Forever 21</a>, and <a href="http://www.stylebop.com/product_details.php?id=545494">Ralph Lauren</a> (and boy do I love it styled with that leather jacket)<br>
Shoes: Prada <a href="https://www.therealreal.com/products/women/shoes/pumps/prada-loafer-pumps-46?sid=ncvyyf">green leather loafers</a> (seriously these are an amazing deal for the lady with the size 8.5 foot); similar styles by <a href="http://www.shoescribe.com/us/women/loafers_cod44710534cv.html">Chie Mihara</a> (love that heel), <a href="http://www.toryburch.com/smith-110mm-pump---equestrian-calf%2Flancaster-%7C-210-%7C-pumps/888736045638.html">Tory Burch</a>, and <a href="http://www.thecorner.com/us/women/loafers-slippers_cod44725766sx.html">Sonia Rykiel</a><br>
Lips: Marc Jacobs Lovemarc Lip Gel in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/lovemarc-lip-gel-P379423?skuId=1548379">Showstopper</a> (I've been really into this color this winter)<br><br>
I was already late getting out of the house this morning. It's cold and I knew the shirtdress alone wasn't going to cut it. I know, I said, I'll do that adorable thing where you put the sweater over the dress with the collar sticking out. You know, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Chrissaah/chuck">this</a>. Here are the sweaters I attempted to make work: Harrogate, the above referenced Chuck, Happy, Josefin, and then I went to cardigans, Aidez, Darling Emma, Moody, before deciding that my Owls sweater was the least crappy. I do not know why this look does not work on me. The problems are manifold: the collar never stays in place and the dress or shirt underneath constantly rides up with basic movement; often the back of the collar gets swallowed by the back of the sweater; the shoulders never fit right and there's either too much or too little room in the armpits; the length is never right and it looks as though I just didn't care enough to get dressed like a grownup. This is really really sad for me because I would love to rock this look. Layering is cool as well as really smart for crappy weather, but any time I have ever tried any from of layering, I just feel as though I would have looked better had I not tried so hard.<br><br>
On the other hand, I've really embraced the shirtdress this year. I think I've purchased 5 in the past 18 months having not had one at all since the 8th grade. Some of them are, as my husband will tell you, too short to be worn, but he's kind of conservative and it's why god invented opaque tights. This one from Brooks Brothers was an especial coup as it had been so popular they had to do a second run and I still waited for it to go on sale (please don't ask me why I thought $98 was too much for this rather well made dress, but I did, and I persevered). Blackwatch is likely my favorite of the plaids and while there was an AMAZING Ralph Lauren silk chiffon blackwatch plaid dress with a peter pan collar that I was very smitten with, it was much more expensive and it sold out before I had a chance to nab a sale one. I like the shirtdress because it is the very definition of a double duty piece (do you ever notice a trend with me?). I originally had this dress on with my Frye boots in brown when, of all people, my husband said it would be better with either Mary Janes or loafers. So, I kid you not, I tried on two colors of Mary Janes (both not quite right according to the mister) and then these loafers, before considering the outfit done.<br><br>
I'm wondering now if I'm one of those people they make the afterthought collar necklaces for: all the fun of a visible collar, none of the constant readjusting.<br><br>
Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-27224824387532993882015-01-13T10:25:00.002-05:002015-01-13T10:25:54.831-05:00Take Your Breton To Work Day<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7467/16269624811_2bcd00ce2c_b.jpg" width="508" height="922" alt="IMG_5645"><br><br>
Sweater: Better Breton by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/better-breton">me</a>; <a href="https://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/en/wolle/dk/c-1-26/">wollmeise dk</a> in natur and admiral<br>
Skirt: J. Crew; similar styles at <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Mini-Skirt-in-Scuba-with-Flippy-Hem/13b1ml/?iid=4078246">ASOSs</a>, <a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/68257?article=68257">H&M</a>, and <a href="http://www.bcbg.com/Beckett-Miniskirt/RND3E855-F7U,default,pd.html">bcbg</a><br>
Shoes: Tabitha Simmons <a href="http://modaoperandi.com/tabitha-simmons-ss14/lou-leather-pumps">Lou leather pumps</a> and there are a couple sizes left in this amazing sale; similar styles by <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/kate-spade-new-york-luminous-ankle-strap-pump-women/3966841">Kate Spade</a> and <a href="http://www.lorisshoes.com/sam-edelman-okala-leopard.html">Sam Edelman</a><br>
Lips: Marc Jacobs Lovemarc Lip Gel in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/lovemarc-lip-gel-P379423?skuId=1548379">Showstopper</a><br><br>
In light of my full-on sadface vis a vis the Grandpa Cardigan, I wanted to use a counter example to show why my sweaters need to perform double duty. Monday through Firday I work in an office. It's not overly formal, in fact I think I am dressed far more formally than many of my coworkers, but chalk it up to a conservative upbringing when it comes to comportment (on all other things, I am pretty sure my upbringing was pretty standard commie, pinko, UES, ACLU, NYT, ADL); Saturday and Sunday I am either not leaving my house except for groceries, or out seeing friends, maybe going out to dinner. And if I'm sitting in my house with no one but my husband to see me, I don't really need a wardrobe for that. Which is why my wardrobe is predominantly business casual. I have recently been adding to my jeans collection (thank you, sales), but when I think about knitting a sweater, I always think about how it will look at work and on line at the Whole Foods - because I am very vain and need to make sure the other insufferable yuppies aren't judging me on my clothing choices while I judge them on their carts full of frozen organic meals. <br><br>
But where does a Breton-style sweater fit into that? It is a decidedly casual piece and is evocative of people not at work: people at cafes in France on vacation, drinking strong coffee and smoking strong cigarettes, and definitely unconcerned with formal dress. Yet it's also a navy and white sweater and navy and white are perfectly lovely, boring work colors. Ask me how I know. <br><br>
I originally paired the sweater with a highly patriotic red skirt and while I wasn't turned off by the Happy 4th of July-ness of it all, the skirt is too big by a fair bit and looks sloppy when it hangs on my hips instead of on my waist, and it also made it a bit too long on my legs. So out comes the old faithful J Crew chartreuse mini, the navy tights, and the brand spanking new navy pumps. This last choice was probably a poor one as the amount of salt dumped in my office parking lot is dangerous to all but the most LL Bean-ish of footwear. I almost went with a navy blazer as well, but I thought that might be a) overkill and b) ill-fitting - this sweater is a bit too ease-y to happily live beneath a tailored blazer.<br><br>
Red lips were an easy choice.Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-80651660147642998462015-01-06T11:24:00.002-05:002015-01-06T11:24:36.100-05:00A Promise is a Promise<img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8604/16028754849_fe648c0c93_c.jpg" width="508" height="761" alt="IMG_5632"><br><br>
Sweater: Grandpa Cardigan by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/grandpa-cardigan">Joji Locatelli</a>; Swans Island All American Worsted in <a href="https://www.swansislandcompany.com/product/kelp/">Kelp</a>; my self-recrimination and complaining on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/grandpa-cardigan">Spirogyra</a><br>
Jeans: Madewell Alley Straight in <a href="https://www.madewell.com/madewell_category/DENIMBAR/alleystraight/PRD~B1644/B1644.jsp?N=21+10002&Nbrd=M&Nloc=en_US&Nrpp=48&Npge=1&Nsrt=3&isSaleItem=true&color_name=HARRISON%20WASH&isFromSale=true&isNewSearch=true&hash=row3">Harrison</a>; how about the <a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/ymalcolm/275942594/IMG_5634_medium2.JPG">waterfall</a> color?<br>
Shoes: <a href="http://www.target.com/p/women-s-mossimo-supply-co-katherine-genuine-leather-engineer-boot-assorted-colors/-/A-12414507?ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001&AFID=google_pla_df&LNM=12414507&CPNG=Shoes&kpid=12414507&LID=73pgs&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=12414507&kpid=12414507&gclid=Cj0KEQiArK6lBRC5-_jv48uxgrgBEiQAuxdZ9ZdhwcRen4dNUdYZNmyrCKP3E3xfmNI-8fOdhCikhAgaAmcR8P8HAQ">Target.</a> Seriously.<br>
Lips: Dolce and Gabbana passion duo gloss fusion lipstick in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/passion-duo-gloss-fusion-lipstick-P376842?skuId=1473115">Sensual </a>and Bobbi Brown high shimmer lip gloss in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/high-shimmer-lip-gloss-P294810?skuId=1352434">Hot</a><br><br>
I somehow managed not to get photos of this while it was 2014, though it was finished then. Not for Rhinebeck, mind you, but it was finished. And I'd like to take this opportunity to 2015 Resolve not to knit any more cardigans until I can figure out if I wear cardigans (the one exception is Grace because it is a WIP I want to finish). So let's get some apologies out of the way: the pattern is terrific,, mostly intuitive, and fun; the yarn is amazing and I can't wait to get more. But this sweater is not me. This sweater is only me when I am sad and sick and cold. When I am wearing jeans and my Dalton t-shirt and am working from home because I worked until 11:30pm last night and didn't want to have to schlep to the office in the cold and now snow. This sweater is neither me nor my lifestyle despite the face that there is NOTHING WRONG WITH THE SWEATER.<br><br>
<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7572/16029033707_9b6ca2598a_z.jpg" width="508" height="511" alt="IMG_5634"><br><br>
So instead let's talk about my hair. My other 2015 resolution was to start treating my hair with the same love and care that I treat my skin. Like most women, I have never been happy with my hair. Why I should have been granted both hair that is thin to the point of needing intervention, yet frizzy, is an issue I intend to bring up with the universe when I meet it, but in the meantime, there are things I can do. I had already tried the at-home cures: I wash my hair very very infrequently, I condition it a lot, occasionally, I even style it, but it wasn't cutting it, so when I read an article about a keratin process that is designed especially for people who want to retain the natural body of their hair and don't want the harsh chemicals of a full keratin treatment, I started doing some research. At a salon in Manhattan is a guy who developed something called the Zero Frizz Quickie: it's keratin, but without the formaldehyde. I looked for before and after photos of women who had hair similar to mine, found one, sucked it up, and made the appointment. I then spent some time rationalizing the cost by reminding myself that I don't color my hair and don't really spend any money on it at all save the 3ish times per year I have it cut. <br><br>
Well these are the results. This hair got a scalp treatment this morning, followed by a single pump of serum, and was then rough dried. No brush, no mousse, no flat iron. Just me, my conair $30 hairdryer, and my hands. After a lifetime of sad hair, this has been the most amazing thing ever. True, it is the very first few days, but if this lasts the 6-8 weeks promised (though the stylist said that my shitty flat thin hair might retain the effects up to 4 months, so that would be nicely compensatory), it is so worth the price because I am not sad about my hair. And now that winter is officially upon us with its cold, dark bleakness, I need all the happy I can find.<br><br>Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-20780124838438566072014-12-23T09:51:00.001-05:002014-12-23T14:48:42.605-05:00Red and Green<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7514/16086730612_c3f110c1a4_b.jpg" width="508" height="1024" alt="IMG_5619-1"><br><br>
Sweater: Vivian by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/vivian">Ysolda Teague</a>; madelinetosh erin in tart; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/vivian">The Misty/Kerri Fangirl Sweater</a><br>
Skirt: Vintage Burberry; similar styles by <a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/en-US/product/Zac-Posen/Tweed-skirt/392003">Zac Posen</a> and at <a href="http://www.anntaylor.com/tall-faux-leather-pocket-tweed-skirt/357221">Ann Taylor</a><br>
Shirt (which I don't know if you can see): <a href="https://www.everlane.com/r/yelenamalcolm">Everlane</a><br>
Shoes: Prada and if you're a size 8 1/2, we can be complete <a href="https://www.therealreal.com/products/women/shoes/pumps/prada-loafer-pumps-46?sid=ncvyyf">twinsies</a>!; similar styles by <a href="http://www.shoescribe.com/us/women/loafers_cod44710534cv.html">Chie Mihara</a> and <a href="http://www.toryburch.com/smith-110mm-pump---equestrian-calf%2Flancaster-%7C-210-%7C-pumps/888736045638.html">Tory Burch</a><br>
Lips: Marc Jacobs Lovemarc Lip Gel in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/lovemarc-lip-gel-P379423?skuId=1548379">Showstopper</a><br><br>
Merry Christmas, everyone! As an adult adopter of this holiday, I feel comfortable wishing people of all beliefs a Merry Christmas as I have determined that it is incredibly easy to overlook all religious significance, if one so chooses, to focus on the more universal peace on earth, goodwill towards men part. Christmas owns! My sad menorah just looks lackluster next to our awesome festive tree. Since I get all misty at this time of year, I have included, for my nostalgia and your amusement, the poem recited at my school for our holiday celebration - which was 100% pagan and amazing - at the end of this post. If I could convince my husband to celebrate a Very Druid Winter Festival each year I would, but Christmas makes an excellent runner-up.<br><br>
I don't know why I haven't bothered to make another Vivian; or rather finish another Vivian. Because of my many WIPs is a lovely eventual Vivian. I love this sweater despite the pattern's problems (you will never manage to get the sleeves right without divine intervention or the mother of all blockings). I don't mind wearing it with work clothing, and it's perfect with jeans For the record: had I not managed to arse up putting buttons on my Grandpa cardigan, I would have shown it off for this post, but come to think of it, it looked terrible with a skirt and only good with jeans which, yet again, is a reminder that Yelena + cardigans does not equal a marriage made in heaven.<br><br>
The skirt and shoes are new additions to the wardrobe and both are delightful deals. The skirt I found by following a pinterest link of a gorgeous vintage dress. While poking around on the site, <a href="http://www.hemlockvintage.com/index.html">Hemlock Vintage</a>, I found the skirt for about $50 and immediately snapped it up because I love a good tweed. The shoes are from my new favorite obsession, <a href="http://therealreal.com">The Real Real</a>, an online consignment shop that puts ebay to shame. So far, I have purchased two pair of shoes from them at outrageous markdown and they both have arrived looking barely worn. Highly recommend. Unless you are trying to save your pennies, in which case run.<br><br>
I figure everyone will be busy these next two weeks with holiday frolicking, so I won't bore you with posts until the new year (at which point the grandpa button problem ought to have been solved). Whatever you are celebrating, may it be happy and healthy, and thank you so much for reading.<br><br>
The Candlelighting Poem by Nancy Cardoza (who, coincidentally, passed away this year at the age of 94)<br><br>
In the season of the sun's rebirth<br>
on the eve of the winter solstice<br>
I consecrate this house<br>
with light.<br><br>
Build your house upon the Hill of Truth<br>
and may the cornerstone be clean of ornament<br>
that it give a strong foundation to the walls.<br><br>
Even as the Doorway of the Dawn,<br>
may your doorway be beautiful<br>
that the angels of Starlight and Sunlight<br>
may enter thereunder with spread wings.<br><br>
And may the light of your window be wide<br>
for the wisdom of the soul abides<br>
in the mansions of the sky.<br><br>
May the roof of your dwelling be Love;<br>
the Sentinel, the wing of the Archangel<br>
the Great Fire.<br><br>
The winter solstice is holy with candles<br>
which are bright<br>
as the fruit of the holly<br>
or as children's prayers,<br>
for in the light of little things<br>
the soul has its dawning<br>
and is reborn.<br><br>
*<br><br>
Metal, right?<br><br>
Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-20734062593383212472014-12-17T12:46:00.001-05:002014-12-17T12:46:43.937-05:00West End Girl<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7522/15856543329_6bf5ec2494_h.jpg" width="508" height="1250" alt="IMG_5469-1"><br><br>
<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7532/16041889472_1717303fcb_b.jpg" width="508" height="906" alt="IMG_5585"><br><br>
Sweater: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/west-end-girl">West End Girl</a> by some designer named Yelena Dasher; Black Trillium Fibres Pebble Worsted in Bright Rose<br>
Skirt 1: J. Crew felted wool skirt; similar styles at <a href="http://www.anntaylor.com/felted-wool-flounce-skirt/350959?colorExplode=false&skuId=17385749&catid=cata000016&productPageType=fullPriceProducts&defaultColor=6275&CID=aff_7078679">Ann Taylor</a>, <a href="https://www.madewell.com/madewell_category/SKIRTS/mini/PRD~B9516/B9516.jsp">Madewell</a>, and <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/mohair-alpaca-wool-felt-mini/vp/v=1/1517290538.htm">T by Alexander Wang</a><br>
Skirt 1: J Crew fluted mini skirt; several similar styles at ASOS including in <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Mini-Skirt-in-Texture-with-Folds/1214jj/?iid=3488094">chartreuse</a>, <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Structured-Mini-Skirt/11opic/?iid=3491861">purple</a>, and <a href="http://us.asos.com/Arrogant-Cat-Skirt-with-Fluted-Hem/1367j4/?iid=3927658">hot pink</a>, as well as a more versatile winter white at <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/vince-camuto-fluted-miniskirt-regular-petite/3835595">Nordstrom</a><br>
Boots: Manolo Blahnik; I'm going to be honest - there is nothing out there right now like these boots which I bought from an online consignment store, however if you'd like to dream big with me, these <a href="http://www.gucci.com/us/styles/363803BYT001419#">Gucci</a> low boots are amazing!<br>
Lip 1: Bobbi Brown high shimmer lip gloss in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/high-shimmer-lip-gloss-P294810?skuId=1352434">Hot</a><br>
Lip 2: Make Up Forever Rouge Artist natural in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/rouge-artist-natural-P307700?skuId=1396712">N31</a>, Soft Fushia (sic)<br><br>
Can you tell I had fun shooting these photos?<br><br>
I saw a really cute, slightly cropped sweater by Acne last year that worked a lattice across the front and had really deep ribbing. Like a lot of capital-F fashion, it wasn't super accessible to people who aren't fashion bloggers, but I dug the lattice, and I dug the wild electric mint green it was worked in. Fast forward to seeing some of the Black Trillium Fibres bright rose shade and an idea was born. This process was not without hiccups, however, as it was my first time charting a pattern at all, and definitely my first time trying to apply a motif across multiple sizes in a way that would preserve the feel while making the sweater available to a range of people.<br><br>
But I had some truly amazing and intrepid test knitters and the yarn, which I know I gush about a lot, is just ridiculously awesome (I know I'm not supposed to buy more yarn, but I am heartily tempted to get myself another SQ of this). I'm really proud of the sweater and I think it has looked wonderful on the testers which also makes me happy - the idea that people would volunteer their time and yarn and not end up with a sweater they love keeps me up at night.<br><br>
Ok, so let's talk fun styling. It's a hot pink sweater. It's so outrageous, it's almost a neutral. Yes, it's fine with the grey wool skirt, but it totally works with the chartreuse one, and I also have a traffic cone orange skirt I think I'll wear it with. As for the metallic grey knee-high boots, they were a ridiculous deal (albeit used), and they fit perfectly, and I simply couldn't leave them on the site for someone else to grab. Will I wear them as often as I wear my knee-high black boots? No. Am I absolutely ecstatic that they have joined the family? Yes. Hair and makeup were also a blast for these photos. Whether I went with mod or pop, the sweater just encouraged theatricality, so I hope you find the results as amusing as I do.<br><br>
And I really do think this would make a great Christmukah present to yourself - grab a SQ, take some of your time off to curl up with a sweater WIP, and show me your FO sometime next year!Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-8316088970527148292014-12-15T11:56:00.000-05:002014-12-15T11:56:09.465-05:00Reading the Fine Print<img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8575/15408165173_67e5208c50_b.jpg" width="508" height="965" alt="IMG_5610"><br><br>
Sweater: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/audrey-in-unst">Audrey in Unst</a> by Gudrun Johnston; madelinetosh dk twist in onyx; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/audrey-in-unst">Indispensable</a><br>
Dress: Alice + Olivia - and wait, it's your lucky day if you a) want one just like it and b) are one size smaller than I am because I didn't read the fine print and now own two. Got it on sale for 70% retail (meaning a $700 dress is only $200) and I'll throw the shipping in for free! Otherwise it's off to online consignment with it<br>
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik; similar styles at <a href="http://www.gucci.com/us/styles/323512BNC006227?utm_source=J84DHJLQkR4">Gucci</a> - and those are a great deal, <a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/en-US/product/Casadei/Croc-effect-leather-pumps/540169">Casadei</a> also on sale, and <a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/en-US/product/Sergio-Rossi/Asha-patent-leather-peep-toe-pumps/518452">Sergio Rossi</a> yet again on sale - good time to buy red pumps, it seems<br>
Lips: Dolce and Gabbana passion duo gloss fusion lipstick in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/passion-duo-gloss-fusion-lipstick-P376842?skuId=1471333">Infatuation</a><br><br>
So sometimes a sale isn't all it's cracked up to be: like when you don't notice that it's a "final" sale, so that dress you bought in two sizes to see which one would fit is now a dress you own in two sizes. Serious about selling the size 4...<br><br>
But I love this dress even though this picture is rather terrible and the shadowing makes it look like I neither have a waist nor a complexion - this is the danger of photographing yourself as you are rushing to get to work ad picking the best of a number of terrible photos because you really want to tell everyone about your dress which you bought ages ago, but are only now getting around to wearing (let's not go into why you've had two of the same dress for months without trying to offload one). But this is a festive dress and it's a festive time which, despite last week's scrooginess, I am totally up for. Probably because we got our tree yesterday. And exchanged our ornaments (and, for the record, the one my husband got me was amazing and handmade). And I am done with all my Christmas (Chanukah) shopping.<br><br>
What I am coming around to, however, and I know I've touched on it before, is that I think I am not a cardigan person. Or not a this kind of cardigan person. The fitted cardigan, so adorable and wonderful on so so many people, especially with cool full-skirted dresses like this one, has ceased to make me happy. I mean, look at how the top left of the cardigan is folded over on itself and totally unpolished? They all do that and it drives me insane. It looks sloppy and I don't know how to counteract it. How much better would this have looked with a blazer?!?<br><br>
This cardigan aversion is particularly disturbing since I used part of the weekend to, at last, finish my Rhinebeck sweater (that's Rhinebeck 2014, mind you) which had only needed its button band put on. It's blocking now, and while it's a longer, less precious cardigan, I just look at it and wonder when it will ever be worn, and with what. My husband says it will be especially useful when I need to dress up as a couch (it's a particularly lovely shade of 1970s pukegreencouch, but he's not altogether wrong about its eventual utility. Which brings me to another development of the weekend: that Cromarty I discussed last week? I think I may have come around to the idea of frogging it. I will never wear it, I will be able to repurpose the yarn, and this means I won't have to knit a belt which I'm really not into.Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-73842426141714757882014-12-12T09:58:00.001-05:002014-12-12T09:58:17.504-05:00Office Party<img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8585/15817028538_149ee83600_h.jpg" width="508" height="1140" alt="IMG_5461"><br><br>
Dress: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/5-fifty-shades-ash">Ash</a> by Allison Hendrix; wollmeise dk in merlot; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/5-fifty-shades-ash">Trapezius</a><br>
Blazer: Armani Collezioni; similar styles by <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306614004&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446712699">Alice + Olivia</a> and at <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Cropped-Blazer-With-Clean-Lapel/139e0y/?iid=4005444">ASOS</a><br>
Shoes: Cesare Paciotti; similar styles by <a href="https://www.ssense.com/women/product/pierre_hardy/black_suede_cage_sandal/104845">Pierre Hardy</a>, <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/Alexandre-Birman-Suede-Caged-Tie-Back-Sandal/prod173490066/p.prod">Alexandre Birman</a>, and <a href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/item10808831.aspx">Sam Edelman</a><br>
Lips: Dolce and Gabbana passion duo gloss fusion lipstick in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/passion-duo-gloss-fusion-lipstick-P376842?skuId=1473115">Sensual</a> and Bobbi Brown high shimmer lip gloss in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/high-shimmer-lip-gloss-P294810?skuId=1352434">Hot</a><br><br>
What do you do when your company has a Christmas party in the office, no spouses invited, that starts at 4pm, and isn't quite billed as either compulsory or optional? Obviously you have to go, but since you also have to drive, it's not as though you're going to drink. Also, you're pretty sure you saw a coworker wearing flip flops...THIS WEEK, so it's not exactly a formal environment, but it is a Christmas party (note: I doubt it's actually a Christmas party, I would be willing to bet every pair of shoes I own it's a holiday party because this is the hill some have chosen to die on) and I like parties and I like an excuse to wear nice things. Now, I also have to work today, with others, in a professional manner, so not only am I not going either a) braless or b) stick-on bra-ful with this backless dress, I'm not even admitting it is a backless dress. I'm wearing a good old fashioned bra and an even more good old fashioned blazer and both will remain firmly in place all day long.<br><br>
I have to confess that I have yet to get in the holiday spirit. I'm concerned that my wonderful husband may not have acquired an ornament for our annual ornament exchange and will therefore get something totally crappy and last minute - meanwhile we have decided not to exchange big gifts this year because instead we're going to go to Malaysia next year which, don't get me wrong, is capital-A Amazing, but not especially Christmassy. I still don't know what we are doing for actual Christmas because my in-laws are not the most brilliant of planners, and I have no idea what to buy my dad who needs nothing and hates everything. I'm also considering telling my brother that he and I should stop exchanging gifts for birthdays and holidays because there is absolutely nothing either of us wants that falls within our budgets for these kinds of things. I mean, what do I want for Christmas? A new digital camera with underwater housing and external strobe plus wet lenses and filters. I'm not interested in anything even remotely top of the line and the cost for the things I just mentioned makes the Gucci booties I posted yesterday seem rather reasonable in price. I might ask someone to get me one of the wet lenses and filters - at least those are in the neighborhood of what I think is reasonable for gift spending.<br><br>
But most of all, I just feel a little worn out. Between Thanksgiving, which was not as relaxing as any of us had hoped (lesson learned, I just wish it had been a cheaper lesson), and being sick for about 2 weeks, I just feel like I need to decompress and the holidays are generally not a time for decompression. On the plus side, my wonderful, amazing, talented test knitters are making gorgeous cabled sweaters and I hope to have the pattern ready for release next week or early the following week - you know, so you have something to go with the yarn you receive for the holidays!Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-21391182190373417352014-12-11T16:25:00.000-05:002014-12-11T16:25:03.910-05:00Looking Ahead, Part 2 - Works in (sort of) ProgressIs it strange to be looking ahead when I have two sweaters in the super-active queue already?<br><br>
The hot pink sweater came off the needles and went straight to the blocking boards Tuesday night which meant that a navy sweater got cast-on Wednesday evening.<br><br>
I have vowed to get some WIPs taken care of in the new year. I start way too many sweater and then just abandon them. There's really no rhyme or reason to how this happens: both fingering and aran sweaters, both cardigans and pullovers, both plain and advanced, there's no rhyme or reason as to why one sweater gets started and finished almost without break and others spend years in the WIP pile.<br><br>
My <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-fisher-queen">Fisher Queen</a> WIP is in the lovely madelinetosh erin (which I hoard as a rule) in thoreau<br><img src="http://images4-b.ravelrycache.com/uploads/ymalcolm/158011730/IMG_2725_medium2.JPG" width="250"><br> and it is going to look excellent with my J. Crew cream colored wool mini skirt<br><img src="https://s7.jcrew.com/is/image/jcrew/58233_WD4176_m?$pdp_fs418$" width="250"><br>and it's early to the waist of the body AND on super big needles! I have no excuse not to power through it.<br><br>
Or how about the ubiquitous (in my social knitting circle) <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/grace-43">Grace</a>? It's in one of my favorite colors, madelinetosh's brothers grimm (whose discontinuation god himself can't explain), will perfectly match one of my fave summer dresses from Anthropologie<br><img src="http://images.anthropologie.com/is/image/Anthropologie/24252686_009_b?$product410x615$" width="250"><br>and be amazing with nearly everything else I own (ok so I own several dresses from Anthro that will go well with a cardigan)<br><img src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/34/0f/b8/340fb8ecea4f5cb463fa1a4572ae7dac.jpg" width="250"><br>AND I solved my problem with the cardigan which is that I didn't like the plain shoulders next to the lace rest of it so mine has lace all over the yoke. It is also finished to around my waist.<br><br>
There is no reason, I repeat no reason, why I don't have a finished <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cocktaildress">Cocktail(Dress)</a>. I am making it in the phenomenally amazing Duck Duck Wool Singleton in metalware and this photograph DOES NOT DO THE YARN JUSTICE<br><img src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/ymalcolm/187530118/IMG_3633_medium2.JPG" width="250"><br>because the yarn legit glows. To prevent attention from being drawn away from this awesomeness, I've used madelinetosh merino light in onyx and dirty panther, aka black and as dark as grey can be without being black, as the contrast colors. It's so friggin' cool. To say nothing of the fact that this is a wheelhouse dress like no other - I own at least 1 million pairs of shoes that would go with this (1 million might be a slight exaggeration, but I do own quite a number of shoes I can wear with this dress). Including, should they go on super duper extra holycrap sale, these eminently covetable (and seriously unaffordable) Gucci booties which, I assure you, look ridonkulous on.<br><img src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/56/ae/cb/56aecbe6a72a774dddbd0db8fea41dab.jpg" width="250"><br><br>
On another tangent, do you ever find that while you love a designer, you haven't actually managed to knit any of her (or his) patterns? This is my monumental problem with <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/julia-trice">Julia Trice</a> (aka mindofwinter). I have stashed for her patterns, swatched for her patterns, and the closest I've come to knitting any of her patterns is the 3/4 of the yoke of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/yukiya-pullover">Yukiya Pullover</a> that sits in a pile with the other accusatory WIPs. And again, I couldn't be more fond of my yarn choices: I'm using various Buggas in grey, black, and red - so again, just my kinda thing. I think I'll don a cheapo black tank dress from H&M or Forever 21<br><img src="http://lp.hm.com/hmprod?set=key[source],value[/environment/2014/4AE_0487_004R.jpg]&set=key[rotate],value[-0.35]&set=key[width],value[3943]&set=key[height],value[4610]&set=key[x],value[532]&set=key[y],value[510]&set=key[type],value[FASHION_FRONT]&hmver=0&call=url[file:/product/large]" width="250"><br> (this is among the <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=dress_bodycon&ProductID=2055878875&VariantID=">best 7-13 bucks you can spend</a> - I own gobs of these cheap, disposable dresses which are totally camouflaged by a blazer and completely wonderful on the kinds of vacations I take - size up, this stuff is made for tweens - in fact, I took a break from writing this to purchase 5 more), and wear booties or knee-high boots.<br><br>
I wasn't going to admit to all the WIPs I want to get through in 2015, but I think it will keep me honest, so here goes. I've had <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cromarty">Cromarty</a> on the needles since 2012 and despite the fact that I'm making it in a decidedly purple yarn,<br><img src="http://images4-d.ravelrycache.com/uploads/ymalcolm/82826280/IMG_0759_medium2.JPG" width="250"><br> no longer have the black pants it would go with (they were from Uniqlo and died a sad, though not wholly unexpected, death-by-hole), and really don't know when I will ever wear it, I feel compelled to finish it. This, realistically, might not get done in 2015.<br><br>
The same cannot be said for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/birchbark">Birchbark</a> which I would happily have worn today with my flippy bcbgeneration skirt<br><img src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/82/54/d0/8254d07974e2835ca6182b4f12d06720.jpg" width="250"><br> and my riding boots<br><img src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/shopping?q=tbn:ANd9GcRpLiYa-VG6b4QQzKc7ARvQSLKsvMoQEDpfX4TWTvuEVMHYMYHoRFyDQOJpnBQvWNitB3Pvyux3&usqp=CAE" width="250"><br> and which is going to make me so happy in this wonderful Polo & Co. neutral,<br><img src="http://images4-d.ravelrycache.com/uploads/ymalcolm/215209596/IMG_4121_medium2.JPG" width="250"><br> so why is it not already mine?!? I would also wear it with the jeans I need to buy from Old Navy<br><img src="http://oldnavy.gap.com/webcontent/0004/714/917/cn4714917.jpg" width="250"><br> now that I know the secret to Old Navy jeans is to bring 10 pair of the same size into the dressing room and buy the one that actually fits because their quality control is shite.<br><br>
And finally, 2015 will be a WIP success if <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/northdale">Northdale</a> becomes reality. I have a couple of inches knit and it's so much fun, but also tedious, time consuming, and not something I can do mindlessly. I also don't know what I'll wear it with, though guessing a navy skirt isn't the most ridiculous guess one could have.<br><br>
I'd also like to say that there won't be a Part 3 of this series, but there will be, because we haven't tackled things I want for 2015 that I have managed not to cast on and abandon - and believe me, I have a list for that too.Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-2676773096872110572014-12-08T10:21:00.001-05:002014-12-08T10:21:39.601-05:00Looking Ahead, Part 1Here's why it's been quiet:<br>
1. Thanksgiving vacation - it could have been better though I am tan<br>
2. SICK AS A DOG<br>
3. Sweater outfit photographed (on only day last week I didn't look full on ebola-ridden), but designer hasn't released it yet so no looksies<br><br>
However, with the year about to end, I can start ruminating on next year and the outfits that will be.<br><br>
I will be finishing my neon cabled sweater design today, barring something unexpected. For those who don't know it will be this color pink<br><img src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/15/67/c5/1567c588e393ce9dd80900f9d4afe776.jpg" width ="250"><br>
with an allover cable pattern. In a perfect world, this weekend will have a day where photos can be taken because I have plans for shots with my super flared distressed Alice + Olivia jeans<br><img src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/8c/93/6d/8c936d032084d6bfbe786f10fef215f1.jpg" width="250"><br>
and with a mini skirt and these soon-to-be-arriving second-hand Manolo Blahnik<br><img src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/aa/81/81/aa81812da719f112b85f08d15c701ae1.jpg"><br>silver boots.<br><br>
When that has been dealt with, I will immediately cast on Linda Marving's <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cable-round-sweater">Cable Round Sweater</a><br><img src="http://images4-d.ravelrycache.com/uploads/lindamarveng/250015995/20140605_MbM_411_detail_medium2.jpg"><br>which I hope to bang out before the January 2 deadline. I'll be using some Plucky Trusty in In The Navy. On that topic, I'd like to inform people that Paypal has recently extended their dispute window to 180 days. Since the shipping times for orders from The Plucky Knitter traditionally skirted the 45-day window for disputes, I was extremely wary, on principle, of purchasing from the pre-order updates; now I can feel a little better about participating, which I did, on Friday, by grabbing 2 SQs and a single skein for a hat. I haven't decided how I will initially style the sweater yet, though I do have a vintage skirt that might do nicely.<br><br>
Then, remember this woman?<br><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4sLXXRqj7B94L_AkO-DqiIrCzLtZuHiJ-6x4rcl6sm4Lr2Y_2XzdS-xW9dHoNg3R6pUHLzQ3moGpX7ZIkR50RWdTkr8x8GP4XE-FGv5U5MTqEAwhrDXNQMovAkI5AZqgFuZ4MaSWq1bo/s1600/DSC_0720+4.JPG" width="508"><br> Well my interpretation of this sweater is also OTN as we speak in the ridiculous Astral Bath Spectra DK (which I adore and am so ecstatic I have a custom SQ on order). This sweater will, eventually, go with everything I own, but I am particularly eager to wear it with my Reformation Calico skirt<br><img src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/03/5d/cc/035dccf23b909c414f997102aa217a2e.jpg" width="250"><br> and possibly booties. I'm crazy like that.<br><br>
That should more than round out 2014. We'll talk about 2015 later.<br><br>Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-27801395366229204202014-11-19T09:49:00.001-05:002014-11-19T09:49:12.964-05:00It's Frickin Freezing, Mr. Bigglesworth<img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5615/15640784289_1045bbc945_b.jpg" width="508" height="888" alt="IMG_5410"><br><br>
Sweater: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/orchard-pullover">Orchard Pullover</a> by Nicole Montgomery; Bartlettyarns Glen Tweed in granite; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/orchard-pullover">Pink Lady</a><br>
Skirt: bcbgeneration; similar styles at <a href="http://www.clubmonaco.com/product/index.jsp?productId=45640126">Club Monaco</a> and by <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/pleated-neoprene-skirt-joa/vp/v=1/1593436514.htm">Joa</a><br>
Socks: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/delicious-knee-socks">Delicious Knee Socks</a> by Laura Chau, expertly knit by AJ aka glacierflame<br>
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik boots; still kinda bummed by this year's classic black stiletto boot selection, however, if <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306624250&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446720784">these</a> go on more sale (say total price in the $300 neighborhood), I would feel good recommending them<br>
Gloves: Cashmere-lined leather from a shop in Florence; buy a <a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/charter-club-cashmere-lined-leather-gloves?ID=1026423">pair</a>; heck, buy three
Lips: <a href="http://www.korresusa.com/default.aspx?page_id=347">Korres</a> mango butter lipstick in nude PLUS <a href="http://www.sephora.com/high-shimmer-lip-gloss-P294810?skuId=1352434">Bobbi Brown</a> high shimmer lip gloss in Hot<br><br>
I was feeling pretty good on the drive to work. I had finally figured out that iTunes is so effing stupid that even though I definitely own the music and it's on my external hard drive (and has been synced to iTunes previously), iTunes doesn't believe I still own it once the external hard drive is turned off, so in order to get to that music, on goes the drive, transfer goes the iTunes, music goes to me. This allowed me to be cruising down the highway with Joe Cocker playing. Loudly. This was making me really happy until I saw the life I really wanted in the lane next to me. There was a simply gorgeous vintage Mercedes SL red convertible (top up, obviously) cruising along having a grand old time, and I realized that what I really wanted was to be listening to Joe Cocker in <i>that</i> car. I hope to all the gods in all the worlds that the man driving the car that should be mine wasn't listening to Miley Cyrus.<br><br>
While I shouldn't be complaining about the cold as I will, personally, be temporarily unaffected by it starting Sunday when we travel to warmer climes to celebrate a traditional Thanksgiving of walking on the beach, sipping daiquiris, and taunting the residents of underwaterland, I still hate the cold and BEG of the world's lovely warm locales to get something approximating a non-tourism economy and a Whole Foods so that I can move to you. The strange thing about this winter when compared with all the previous ones, is that I will actually spend very little of it outside. My garage is attached, I drive to and from work, and the only mandatory daily outside is the 50 yard walk from my car to the front door of my office. So I feel as though I will experience winter a bit differently this year. Which doesn't make me hate it less. Especially as no matter what, my toes always get cold. I don't know if you can really see the socks in the photo (it's dark out there), but they are delightful and come well over my knees and I am wearing them over socks and under boots and have been in my office now for 45 minutes...and my toes are still cold. <br><br>
This yarn comes from Rhinebeck 2013 and while it is a touch itchy and I am unusually wearing a t-shirt under the sweater, it is definitely warm. Which is why I definitely bought more yarn from this company Rhinebeck 2014 (though I got their sportweight this year). While I think the cabled cuffs are pretty cool on the sweater, they are also a touch impractical because they make the arm opening amply large enough for cold air to blow in; however, the turtleneck permits no such incursions. Which owns. I don't know why more people haven't made this sweater as the cables are really nice and it's really really winter appropriate. With a couple of tweaks, this is a pretty perfect winter sweater. Go forth and knit!Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-55587750427664657442014-11-18T15:10:00.001-05:002014-11-18T15:10:28.829-05:00The Creative Process (snicker snicker)<img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5614/15199727163_51b0e82cf7_c.jpg" width="508" height="761" alt="IMG_5365"><br><br>
Mu husband thought you all ought to see what it looks like when I'm not posing for the camera. Oh hi there, surprise, I'm still in a sweater and high heels even when I am hunched (sorry, mom) over the computer with knitting in my lap.<br><br>
I'm working on my first design with a chart and it is way tougher than I thought it would be. WAY! I've identified some of the problems: I don't spend a lot of time reading charts because I kind of internalize what the stitch pattern is and then only refer to the chart to verify my work along the way. As such, if something is out of place or dubious on the chart, I auto-correct it in my brain because I see that, for example, all the other rows cross the cable to the right, so this one line where it crosses to the left is an error. Such luxuries are not cool when you're the one writing the pattern. A gorgeous, wonderful, patient, group of knitters are joining me on this journey and have been super helpful - so much so that I am almost ready to move from crappy notes to attractive pattern layout AND make a chart for them (and future knitters) that is not riddled with errors and inconsistencies.<br><br>
But it's not easy, I tell you. <br><br>
I finished a sleeve last night so I know that the sleeve works mostly. As in the sleeve will work better for everyone who isn't wearing my imperfect sweater, with two more stitches per size. I will likely do the collar next so that I can have all the bases covered in advance of the testers. This will produce a hilarious WIP since it will have 1.5" of body below the underarms (aka not even remotely enough to cover a bust), one sleeve, and a collar. I'll spare you those photos.<br><br>
And yes, that is a stemless wineglass next to the coffee cup. What, does your desk look any different?<br><br>Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-55311853817588657952014-11-13T09:50:00.003-05:002014-11-13T09:50:36.227-05:00If You Have To Dry The Dishes...<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7555/15160507713_199096e46c_b.jpg" width="508" height="762" alt="IMG_5367"><br><br>
Sweater: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/nora-sweater-2">Nora Sweater</a> by Linda Marveng; Polo & Co <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/172119815/masgot-fine-gres?ref=shop_home_active_8">Masgot Fine</a> in gres; my notes and modifications on "<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/nora-sweater">Distaff</a>"<br>
Skirt: J. Crew; similar styles by <a href="http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=439437002">Line and Dot</a>, <a href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/item10727079.aspx">Joseph</a>, and if you're one of the sizes left, on supersale at <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Mini-Skirt-In-Flippy-Scuba/12rfsv/?iid=3860694">ASOS</a><br>
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446660203">Carolyne</a>; similar styles by <a href="http://www.lastcall.com/BCBGMAXAZRIA-Acrobat-Leather-Slingback-Pump-Black-acrobat-slingback/prod26770030___/p.prod">bcbgmaxazria</a> and <a href="http://www.brooksbrothers.com/Calfskin-Pointed-Slingback-Pumps/WF00313,default,pd.html">Brooks Brothers</a><br>
Lips: Marc Jacobs Lovemarc Lip Gel in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/lovemarc-lip-gel-P379423?skuId=1548379">Showstopper</a><br><br>
"If you have to dry the dishes<br>
(Such an awful boring chore)<br>
If you have to dry the dishes<br>
('Stead of going to the store)<br>
If you have to dry the dishes<br>
And you drop one on the floor<br>
Maybe they won't let you<br>
Dry the dishes anymore"<br><br>
This is what happens when it's 8:10 in the morning and I ask my husband to shoot a couple of photos. Now some would say that it's love: the man adores me even when I give him the double finger and stick my tongue out, but in reviewing the 20 or so completely unusable shots, I think it's more a case of dropping dishes on the floor.<br><br>
Over on the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/discuss/yarniacs-podcast/3062270">Yarniacs board</a> on ravelry, there has recently been some discussion of how many sweaters people have knit and if there is a limit to how many one can reasonably keep track of in one's wardrobe. I have a frightening number of sweaters, but every so often I reevaluate their utility in my wardrobe. Maybe my taste has changed, maybe something that didn't bother me at first, now bothers me, maybe I've decided I can't really wear a certain color, or maybe I just look at a sweater, realize it doesn't get enough wear as it ought to, and consign it to the outgoing pile. This morning I was all set to wear a different sweater. I tried it on, it went well with the skirt, but something about the neck wasn't right and I knew it was going to bother me. My helpful husband said it looked like I was wearing it backwards (I wasn't) but I tried it on backwards just to see. Nope, something about me and the sweater no longer clicked. I generally throw them up on ravelry for sale for the cost of the yarn, because clearing out my closets in that way assuages potential guilt over new yarn purchases. It also allows me to look at sweaters like the one I ended up wearing and identifying what it is I like about them.<br><br>
I like this sweater because it is both really busy and yet really refined. The combination of the light fingering yarn and the neutral color make the complex design work in my wardrobe. If I had knit this in red, a color I adore, it wouldn't have been the same. For a piece like this to end up in my rotation, it had to be a neutral, and I really love it. As you can see, I did very little other styling - everything else is simple so that the sweater can steal the show. I wore a similar outfit yesterday with a navy skirt, nude shoes, and a pink cabled sweater with a peplum - I'll wear it again before sweater season is over and get a photo for you.<br><br>
The eagle-eyed among you will notice something unusual about the outfit in the footwear department: these shoes seem rather sedate for me. You're not wrong. This style, the Carolyne, has been around for years and I would never have considered buying a pair (I thought them a little dowdy); however, when one finds a pair on ebay for 1/10 the retail price and in one's size, well, it seems somehow wrong not to at least give them a try. And you know what? They're ok. They're not my favorites, but they are such a staple and as soon as the shoemaker fixes the tension on the slingback (when you have a foot as large as mine, shoe manufacturers also seem to believe you have barrels for ankles and make the straps WAY WAY WAY too big), they will get tons more wear. And one day, I might want to rock the dowdy look...<br><br>
Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-58510841430399498402014-11-10T10:23:00.000-05:002014-11-10T10:23:50.439-05:00Compromises<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7461/15137241513_9fb2b952f7_b.jpg" width="508" height="911" alt="IMG_5354"><br><br>
Sweater: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/textured-tunic-with-side-buttons">Textured Tunic</a> with side buttons by Stephanie Japel; madelinetosh 80/10/10 worsted in hearth; my (very few) notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/textured-tunic-with-side-buttons-2">Knittin' With Dian</a><br>
Skirt: Saks black mini-skirt; similar styles everywhere because it's a staple, but here's one from <a href=-"http://www.thelimited.com/product/collection-wide-waistband-pencil-skirt/7263870.html">The Limited</a> that's on sale and one from <a href="http://www.loft.com/scuba-pencil-skirt/340308">Loft</a> that will be eventually - remember do NOT buy from Loft full price unless you enjoy setting money on fire<br>
Shoes: <a href="http://www.gilt.com/look/?s_id=769a678c35ead055a87e76f4f1d82b926901cc52b7e81188c2fd9ae03111db06_1415717514701_1073088674&size_id=10331">Maiden Lane</a>; similar styles by <a href="http://www.mytheresa.com/en-us/calf-hair-pumps.html">Miu Miu</a> and <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/am/product/383760">Gianvito Rossi</a><br>
Lips: Bobbi Brown <a href="Bobbi Brown Art Stick in Rose Brown">Art Stick</a> in Sunset Orange and Dolce and Gabbana passion duo gloss fusion lipstick in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/passion-duo-gloss-fusion-lipstick-P376842?skuId=1473115">Sensual</a><br><br>
Notice anything different?!?!? I cannot tell you how much better I feel about myself. Really. I need to remember how good this feels so that I don't permit another 4 months to elapse before my next chop. But a lot of work went into this photo this morning because when I put on the sweater, I realized that since I had made it, both the neck and the keyhole had stretched, and stretched in a way I didn't find attractive. So at 10 minutes to 8 this morning, I grabbed the leftover ball (yay for saving those) and a crochet hook and crocheted myself a little more sweater. So glad I did. Of course, then I noticed a moth hole and didn't have time to fix that, so I tied a hasty knot and tucked the offending bits away. Prior to this year, my sweaters were stored non-optimally, and every once in a while I find a casualty of that. Now everything is stored in big plastic tubs of moth free goodness!<br><br>
Today I want to talk about two things, both under the heading of compromise. The shoes I'm wearing are new and they're cheap. If you took a look at the similar styles for the lady wanting calf-hair leopard pumps this season, you will notice that the CHEAPER pair costs $800. I didn't (don't) want to spend $800 on shoes, but I really wanted calf-hair leopard pumps. So I've been on the hunt for two months to find something that meets my stringent requirements: leather, good heel, and did I mention leather?, and under $300. Here's the problem, though, and it's one I am loathe to share because it's depressing. Remember when I was bitching about J. Crew charing $200 for $20 merchandise? Yeah, well shoes work the same way. Last year, when I knew my black pumps needed replacing, I attempted to find a cheaper replacement. I tried on a very popular style by Kate Spade which cost in the neighborhood of $250 and you know what? They were cheap as all get out. They looked cheap, they felt cheap, but at $250 they weren't cheap. See also: DVF, Stuart Weitzman, Tibi, and a whole host of other "mid-priced" shoes that aren't demonstrably better than what you'd find at Aldo. And it really really chaps my ass because the price suggests quality. DVF, Kate Spade, and Tibi make reliably good clothing, so one would assume their shoes would be similar. One would be wrong. So I took a $80 chance on Gilt.com's house brand. I say a chance because if the shoes didn't work, I'd only get my refund as a credit for other things on Gilt. The heel looked good, the leopard pattern was also the right color and distribution of spots (you'd be surprised what passes for leopard print), and the shoe was leather. Not the sole (which it is on expensive shoes) but the shoe itself. And I deemed that close enough. Well, the fact that they're on my feet should tell you how I feel about them. Good enough to keep, wear, and blog about. Now, I don't know if I would have liked the plain black leather pump in this style and the reason is that, without leopard to distract, any flaws in the leather or construction would be very apparent, but I would consider buying another pair of these shoes in a patent or even a suede. At $80, it's a relatively small risk, and a far better investment than in a pair of synthetic shoes from one of the mall brands.<br><br>
The other thing I wanted to talk about is this skirt and the one I didn't wear today. You've heard me talk about vanity sizing before, but I think it's important to illustrate it wherever possible because women, as a generalization, are ridiculously obsessed with the sizes we wear. And I will fully admit to my complicity in this: after I stop laughing at the ridiculous size my skirt from Loft is (or my dress from Anthro), I do a little fist pumping because of a number on a piece of fabric fully knowing that it doesn't correspond to any reality. Strangely, I own fewer black skirts than I feel I ought to. Originally, before discovering the one I'm currently wearing, I thought my only choice for a straight black skirt was one from Brooks Brothers that wasn't quite right because it has two decorative buttons on a grosgrain ribbon waist band, and the buttons show through the sweater making silly lumps at my midsection. The Brooks Brothers skirt is a size 4. The skirt I am wearing in this photograph from Saks's house brand, circa mid-90s is a size 10. "How is that possible?" you ask. I respond that it's due to the fact that sizes are lies. Prior to putting on the Saks skirt, I laid it down on top of the Brooks Brothers skirt. They were (within 1/2cm) the exact same width at the waistband. Well, but which one is "right?" I would answer that neither is right. According to the kids at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/US_standard_clothing_size">wikipedia</a> things are worse than you could ever imagine. You're probably so fat you shouldn't even leave the house. Because charts! Which is why compromise is so important. When Karl Lagerfeld pronounces judgment upon me, he will likely judge me a pretty mundane size 6 because when I try on a skirt at Chanel or Fendi, that's generally what it is. He would probably look down his nose at me and hand me a size 8 dress because boobs, but then direct me to a tailor to fix the waist. So I can neither lock myself in the bathroom and cry all day because I'm wearing a, gasp, size 10 skirt (high school me would have killed a man to fit her ampleness into a size 10 anything), nor can I prance around like a mean girl because I could have also worn a size 4. Full disclosure: last week I bought a dress online in a size medium because the company's size charts assured me that was the size that would fit my actual measurements. But, in a panic, because my other letter-sized dresses are smalls (and one or two are EXTRA smalls), I called the 1800 number to get the actual measurements of the dress if possible because moi, a medium? Impossible! Except for every instance in which it is possible. And in every instance in which it is possible my actual body has not changed. Whether you call it a 4 or a 10, the actual measurement around my waist (which is sadly larger than it has been since quitting smoking) remains the same. And so do yours!<br><br>Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1915117860064984705.post-34493704703289983982014-11-04T09:40:00.001-05:002014-11-04T09:40:24.099-05:00I Am A Lying Liar<img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7581/15523000739_46240f0da5_h.jpg" width="508" height="1057" alt="IMG_5331"><br><br>
Sweater: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/audrey-in-unst">Audrey in Unst</a> by Gudrun Johnston; madelinetosh dk twist in onyx; my notes and modifications on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ymalcolm/audrey-in-unst">Indispensable</a><br>
Dress: Dorothy Perkins; similar styles at <a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/55696?article=55696-A&cm_mmc=shopstyle-_-us-_-ladies_dresses_short-_-55696">H&M</a>, <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-A-Line-Scuba-Dress-with-Long-Sleeves-in-Petal-Floral/1419vn/?iid=4394742">ASOS</a>, and <a href="http://www.kohls.com/product/prd-1828285/apt-9-fit-flare-scuba-dress-womens.jsp">Kohl's</a><br>
Belt: <a href="http://us.asos.com//ASOS-Leather-Obi-Waist-Belt/10380o/?iid=2891067">ASOS</a>; similar styles by <a href="http://shop.mango.com/ficha.faces?utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=2178999&utm_campaign=CJ&state=she_400_US">Mango</a> and <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446373308&R=651854839065">Lafayette 148</a><br>
Shoes: <a href="http://www.barneys.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-BNY-Site/default/Product-Show?pid=503463636">Christian Louboutin</a> Apostrophy pumps; more wallet-friendly options by <a href="http://www.lastcall.com/BCBGMAXAZRIA-Acrobat-Leather-Slingback-Pump-Black-BCBGMAXAZRIA/prod26770030___/p.prod">bcbgmaxazria</a> and <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/Schutz-Gilberta-Leather-Pump-Black-Stylist-Pick-Schutz/prod174670460_cat50250751__/p.prod">Schutz</a><br>
Lips: Bobbi Brown high shimmer lip gloss in <a href="http://www.sephora.com/high-shimmer-lip-gloss-P294810?skuId=1352434">Hot</a><br>
Nails: Essie in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Essie-Nail-Polish-Chinchilly-696/dp/B0030IMVSI">chinchilly</a> with matte <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Essie-Matte-About-You-Finisher/dp/B002KMXO36">topcoat</a><br>
Hair: I PROMISE I'M TAKING CARE OF THIS<br><br>
I was all bluster and promise, wasn't I? Oh, you're going to be totally amazed by my amazing outfit and new sweater and it's going to be totally off the hook and OMGPONIES! Funny thing. I finished the sweater last night - it's awesome, by the way - and then took a look at the designer's email which asked her testers, politely, if they would refrain from posting photos of the sweater until its release. So....no photos for you until the release and no superfantastic matching outfit for me.<br><br>
I wanted to use this time, instead, to discuss fast fashion since I seem to spend a lot of time discussing why you should forego this month's mortgage payment in favor of a new pair of shoes. I adore fast fashion. And I kind of hate all the people who have taken to bashing it and linking it to our conspicuous consumption culture and rape of the earth. And if you'll allow me to skirt politics for a moment, I'll try to explain in an apolitical way. There's a New York chef who holds a place in my heart for a) being a fellow alum of my high school, b) giving my brother a job at his super fancy restaurant while my brother was still in college, c)serving delicious, farm fresh, free-range, fair trade, blah blah blah blah blah food without making you want to stab him in the face with his own sharpened self-righteousness. Since he was the beneficiary of such a stellar education, you can find him writing about his food and farm and such and you know what stuck out for me most? When he said that the only reason he free range fair trades organicohydroponicoantibioticfreeomegawhatevers is that it TASTES BETTER. Not to put words in his mouth (and I'm not going to identify him just in case I'm grossly misinterpreting him), but he more or less said that he might be all in favor of eating lab-grown four-assed monkey if that happened to taste good. That his food is better for the environment/people's health is icing on a delicious cake. And I kind of feel the same way. If the apple from Stop & Shop tasted as good as the apple from Whole Foods, I'd be buying it at half the price; I shop at, and defend the practice of shopping at, Whole Foods not because it's an important part of my insufferable yuppie identity, but because the shit I buy there is, for the most part, better than the shit I buy elsewhere.<br><br>
So how does that relate to fast fashion? I think I mentioned it yesterday. Over the past 20 or so years, the shit one buys at Banana Republic or J. Crew is NOT better than the shit one buys at H&M, Forever 21, ASOS, etc. It just happens to be 4-10x the price. To me, shopping at J. Crew full price would be like buying a mealy apple from Whole Foods. If my apple's going to be mealy regardless of where I buy it, I might as well buy the cheap one. This Dorothy Perkins dress is terrible (and would it not have cost me almost as much to return it as it did to purchase it in the first place, I would have done so - word to the wise: DO NOT buy from Dorothy Perkins unless you are positive you want the thing you're buying). See that incredibly flattering shelf on top of what looks to be my boobs? I didn't just grow a second set of boobs over my existing set, nor am I wearing a fantastically crappy bra. No, that's the facing on this dress and I'm seriously considering cutting it out (since I only noticed how terrible it was while looking at the photos - but much like my increasingly erratic hair, I like to paint a picture of myself that approximates accurate and I have hair this terrible for real). The obi belt (more on that in a moment) is obscuring the fact that while, in the online photo, the pattern mostly matched going across the seam that separates bodice from skirt, my particular dress has no such aspirations. Long story short, this is a terrible dress. It was also a $25 dress. Thing is, I look at clothing all the time in stores where things cost more than $25 and these problems still exist (the failure to pattern match is of special offense to me because it basically says that while it would only cost the company a dollar AT MOST (in wasted fabric) to match the pattern, you're not worth that dollar now shut up and eat your shit that you just paid $300 for). So when someone on (and I single out this outfit because I happen to have heard a diatribe about fast fashion here on two separate occasions) NPR tells me that I ought to care about where my clothing comes from and not buy from fast fashion stores, I want to set that person on fire - or take her on a tour of what passes for "quality clothing" in all but the highest end of brands. Now it would be nice if my closet was filled with Dolce & Gabbana dresses, but I will likely never own one unless I find it at a thrift store because I don't have $3500 for a dress. So when the blazer at Zara is just as good as the blazer at J. Crew, I'm always buying the Zara one because it is ALWAYS less than half the price. Sometimes, though, you can get really lucky. This belt, which I still don't know how to style on a waist as short as mine, but which I deeply deeply wanted, is a super find. It was less than $40 and it's made of real leather. I don't know how that happens unless it was a sick or somehow inferior cow. I got it at ASOS and while ASOS is a crapshoot when it comes to what you get vs. what you thought you were getting (do not buy any of their items made from "ponte" which is code for t-shirt material which can be sourced at Forever 21 or H&M for far less), you can often find pretty quality stuff there.<br><br>
I happen to like the earth and its resources. I happen to care about the welfare of people not in my immediate social circle. I happen to also know that the cat is out of the bag. Much like we're not all going to give up our cars and ride bikes so the choices are - wait the CHOICE is - find an alternative to fossil fuels so we can keep driving, the solution to the problem of finite resources to make clothing and the deplorable conditions many who make that clothing suffer is not NO MORE CLOTHING FOR ANYONE, but advocating for better choices within the existing system - ok so that might be a little political, sorry it's election day, stop reading this and go vote.<br><br>Yelenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00513062012309461001noreply@blogger.com1