What’s So Amazing About Really Deep Thoughts?
Item: Blouse Color/Fabric: Mist, cotton and a smattering of sprinkles Designer: Free People Where Purchased: TJ Maxx Years Owned: 2
Last week was some week. I have not struggled so much to write since I started doing this. Every day, it just was harder and harder, and I was starting to feel a little suffocated. The week culminated in my annual total physical and emotional meltdown. Like a phoenix I am, though, and feeling ready to face the world again. I guess that it’s just something I have to go through in order to be me.
I did a great deal of thinking about this, and why I’m doing it, wondering if I am in fact achieving my goal. It’s odd, because writing has always been such a fiercely private activity for me, and now here I am. I can’t describe how I feel when someone approaches me and says they’ve been reading this. First it’s a flush of deep pride, and then I feel a little embarrassed, wishing for a second that I have not been writing about such a frivolous topic. Next is doubt that I will be able to hold anyone’s interest for long. And lastly I just feel grateful, very thankful that someone has spent a little of their day with me, no matter how small, and even if it’s just a single time.
And, well, so what if my topic of choice is fashion? Or, really, my topic of necessity? It’s the common thread that has wound its way through the little narratives of my life. I’m not ashamed of that. It’s made my life more colorful. No, I have not always made perfect fashion choices. I have taken my punches on the playground for not always staying in the lines. But I’ve come to appreciate my failures just as much as my successes. It means I’m not being stagnant, that I’m always learning. I think the day that I have it all figured out will be the day that life stops being fun.
So I feel refreshed, and ready to attack this project with even more love.
That being said, I had every intention of wrapping up the never-ending reckoning tonight, but Nate has to help me with the layout of the pictures, and he had too much work to do tonight. Wednesday, he thinks. So, for now, onward!
I do love this little blouse. I remember the day that I found it, squashed and neglected on the TJ Maxx clearance rack. At moments when such treasures are found, there is a happy little sip of breath, followed by a moment when my heart stops beating for a fraction of a second. In that fraction of a second, I am telling myself not to fall too hard, too fast, because there is a chance that this straggler ended up in the Wrong Section, and is not actually my size. I’ve had my heart broken many, many times by such accidents. Luckily, though, this one ended up being just my size.
I wore this when Nate came back from India the very first time, about two years ago exactly. We were going on a date! Just the two of us! And we went to an Indian restaurant in Woodstock.
We had only been to an Indian restaurant together once before, and he hated it. This occasion was really exciting, because Nate was very eager to show me all that he had learned in the two months he spent there.
He ordered all of the food, and I wish I could remember what it all was, but I can’t. I think we got three different curries, two types of naan, and Kingfisher beer, because they had run out of Lychee wine. Yes, it was a feast. And great fun for me to sit back and let Nate educate me about Indian food and culture. But it also made me aware of how long we were apart, and that as much as we tried to fill each other in on everything that happened during that time, there were still many journeys that we took alone. It was the first time I had really felt that in our marriage. It wasn’t a bad thing, by any means. It was just sort of a realization of how united, but separate we are. And I rejoice in that mystery.
After the third trip to India, Nate’s love for Indian food has waned considerably. Sometimes he even gags a little when he smells curry. But I’ll always remember that first time.
Anyway. The blouse is so delicate, and soft, and I love the back:
I don’t wear this much, though. Because it is sort of distinctive, and I feel like people will remember it if I wear it more than once. That’s a compulsion I’ve struggled with elementary school.I do like it, though…
**This one is staying. It’s special!
One More Reckoning! (Part 2.3)
Well, friends, after a rough weekend, I’m ready to get back on track! My plan is to do a little bit more sorting this morning, and then start with new posts tonight.
Let’s just get right down to it, shall we?
I’m starting with my Snoop Dogg/sunrise dress (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/15/reasons-why-this-week-sucked/). I’m really a little surprised by the outpouring of support for this little number. It got a unanimous vote to stay. I’m inclined to agree, since it’s just so easy on a hot summer day. Plus, I can also wear it as a skirt if I feel like it. And it feels like a little piece of Hawaii in my closet. It’s a keeper!
Now for the Susan Sarandon (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/16/strange-things-are-afoot/). This one also surprised me. No one voted against this, either. But the votes are split between wearing it in ‘real life’ or saving for rehearsals. I will keep this, and keep an open mind about wearing it outside of a rehearsal. Someday I may be brave enough!
Next, my mismatched pattern dress (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/the-beginning-of-the-end-part-two-i-plead/). Haha, I was intending to start the deciding process then, and it’s taken me this long to do this. Oh well. Anyway, 38% of you did vote to toss this dress, which is an intimidating number to me. But I got such lovely comments from Kevin, Annie, and Maria, that I think I have to keep it. Actually, I’m going to put this on probation. If I don’t wear it in the next six months, it has to go.
Ah, the first truly difficult decision of the morning. My Cross-Country tee (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/18/the-vault-of-nostalgery-opened/). I don’t think I’ll wear this, but I can’t bring myself to get rid of it. I think it’s just fine if I save ONE drawer for a Vault Of Nostalgery, where I keep things I like to touch but not wear. I feel a little guilty, but I’m going to keep this.
Ok, my New Year’s Eve blouse (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/19/681/). Thankfully, everyone agrees that this one should stay. So I’m keeping it. Jen, I wish I had found that dress at the yard sale! I must have gotten there too late. Sigh. But at least I still have this blouse!
And now for the Nearly Vintage skirt (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/20/spontaneous-eruptions-of-joy/). 60% have voted for it to go, and, I suppose, I agree. It’s good-bye. My first toss of the day. Not all that painful.
Next, my Tommy James blouse (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/21/tommy-james-and-planted-wedding-dancers/). I’m on this fence about this. But I think it’s worth mending. And thanks for all the nice words for my necklace, too! This is on probation, too. If I don’t fix it by Spring, gone.
Unfortunately, I have to go to work. I ran out of time. I may wrap up a little later, and then start with a new piece tonight. We shall see! Stay tuned…
The Day Of Reckoning Continues! (Part 2.2)
I.m not sure how much I will actually get to tonight, since this horrible headache has returned with nasty vengeance. But, I am determined to concur the massive amount of clothing I’ve allowed to pile up, so I’m going to try to make at least a few weighty decisions tonight.
The first consideration of the evening is my Rehearsal Dinner dress (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/08/baby-anywhere-the-wind-blows/). This one is hard. And requires a confession of a very long, very well suppressed secret. If it was not for the stain, I’d never let this go. If I could just toss it in the washer and see what comes out, I’d give it a shot. But it’s dry clean only. I don’t want to make it worse, if there’s a small chance that it could have a happy home. And here’s my secret; I’ve never actually taken anything to a dry cleaner’s. I’ve never even been inside one. Now that I’ve put it off for so long and built it up, I don’t think I’m even capable of doing it. So, with a heavy, heavy heart, I have to let this go. For memories, I do still have my actual wedding dress. Which, of course, I never dry cleaned.
Next up is my heroic jean jacket (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/09/easy-to-be-hard/). I’m still on the fence with this one. But 78% of you have voted to keep it, so I will listen. I have to wear this in the Spring, though. If I don’t, it must go.
And now, my most beloved sweater (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/10/cashmere-and-edelweiss/). No one voted to get rid of this, but half of you want me to try to depill it, and see what happens. That I’ll do. This one is worth a little work to me.
Ok, this is the hard one. The skirts. I’m getting rid of three tonight. I have looked them all over, and decided that my first cut will be the very first skirt, the Murder Mystery skirt (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/20/the-last-train-from-paris/). I do think it’s a lovely skirt, but it just is too high maintenance- it collects hair and wrinkles way too easily. Now, hmm. I think I have to let go of Mrs. Matthew’s skirt (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/11/a-trio-the-sequel/). It’s just a little too small now, and I am definitely keeping the bustier portion of the outfit to remind me of that wedding! And, now, one more. This is hard. I am torn between skirts one and two here (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/23/do-doo-do-doo-do-a-trio/). Ah, I don’t know! I guess, after reviewing the poll results, that I have to let go of Number One. No one voted for it to stay. As much as I loved my April costume, this is a little too short for me to ever wear in real life. And I still have my April blazer! That still leaves me with 16 black skirts. More will have to face your judgement in the future.
Next, the too-large blouse (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/12/no-ill-will/). I never should have bought this in the first place, and I’m lucky to have pulled it off a few times. Three quarters of you voted to toss, and i will. Annie, this is headed your way if you want it!
And now, the fancy jeans. These are a close call, also. I’m divided in my mind, and the pool was pretty divided also, with a slight majority voting to keep. I guess that I will, but I want to wear them around some of you and get in-the-flesh feedback. These are on probation.
And the last decision I feel capable of tonight, the ruby blouse (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/14/today-i-found-my-friends/). I don’t know how I ever forgot this blouse- I love it. I’m not sure why I haven’t worn it since I posted it, but I feel like I will wear it soon. Keep.
Getting there, slowly but surely! I’m not sure what the day will bring tomorrow, whether a new piece or more deciding. We will have to see!
The Day Of Reckoning Is Here! (Part 2.1)
Last night I had a fantastic evening. I was able to take in a fun and feisty production of Promises, Promises that introduced me to yet another facet of my amazing friend Annie’s phenomenal talent. The night also included a sensitive and charming performance from the lovely Carolyn, an elderly couple sitting behind us who were hard of hearing, recapping events as they unfolded in loud voices at inopportune times, and some of my favorite people in attendance.
It was a bad night to develop a migraine, but sadly, that’s what happened. It’s still present this morning, but much, much diminished, and I at least feel semi-functional now.
So, I have been putting off this day for far, far too long. It is time, my friends, to do some deciding. And hopefully, this time I will manage to get the poor unwanted castoffs onto Ebay. I feel much better if I think about them having warm, happy homes. I have so many pieces this time, though, so I think I’ll have to split it into two posts. Maybe more. It’s a lot. Big breath. Here we go!
First up, the Murder Mystery dinner party skirt (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/20/the-last-train-from-paris/) Ah. I haven’t gotten far in my quest to select seven skirts for extermination. I think that for this round of dismissals I have to let go of three black skirts. I’m going to reconsider all the black skirts together, and then decide.
The wrap dress (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/21/its-a-wrap/). This is one of just a few unanimous votes. Everyone voted to keep this dress. It’s not like anything else I own, and even though I haven’t worn this in ages, I’m going to keep it. But it’s on probation. I will have to wear it soon, or else it goes.
Ah, the Jared Leto cami (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/22/regarding-angry-marionettes-jared-leto-and-squirrels/). An easy one. This is so versatile that I think I have to keep it. And most of you want me to, so yay!
The first round of three skirts (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/23/do-doo-do-doo-do-a-trio/). Again, saving until I get to the rest.
Now, the first hard one. The asymmetrical sweater (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/24/the-first-or-second-or-third-time/). I have such a soft spot for this sweater. But only one person (dare I guess Maria??) voted to save it. And so, as much as it hurts me, I have to say goodbye. Tear.
Now, the blue stained vest (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/25/for-crying-out-loud/) . I truly appreciate the creative ideas that Maria had to save it. But there is a strong strong uprising against it. And even though I’ve held onto this for so, so long, I think it’s time that we part ways. Maybe it will find its way to someone who can fix and care for it.
The Library Party dress (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/26/curiouser-and-curiouser-wonderland-and-fairy-tales/). This is another difficult one. Most of you declared support for this dress, and strongly. It is so cute, but I think that I can live without it. And so, I shall try. Farewell.
Next up., the lace blouse (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/27/347/). I love this blouse, and it was also unanimous to stay. Some wise person voted only to keep it if it did not remind me of the fight Nate and I had while wearing it. I have to admit that it does kind of make me think of that, but I don’t mind. I think it’s good to remember the bad things, too, so they don’t repeat themselves. This one stays.
And what about the Itchy Sweater (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/28/a-confession-about-obsession/) ? 71% voted for it to go. That’s pretty overwhelming, so I feel I should listen. Since my sister has loved and coveted this for quite some time, I’ll joyfully let her have a shot at it.
And… my Hawaii tunic (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/29/the-mystery-of-the-technicolor-shrinking-tunic/). I haven’t had a very long relationship with this one, so it’s not that painful to say goodbye, as 82% have voted me to do. Goodbye, mysterious tunic.
Next up, my Vera Wang (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/09/30/some-people-think-that-laughter-is-sexy/). I do so love this. I would love to save it for Kevin’s suggestion of a celebratory book publishing event. As unlikely as I know that is, it will give me a nice goal to reach for. Keep.
This next one is hurting me already. It’s the Pointy-Boob Blouse (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/01/pointy-bird-oh-pointy-pointy/). I am so infatuated with the color and the concept of this blouse. But it just doesn’t work for me. I wish it to find its way to a more ample-bossomed lady who can overpower the pointiness. Sigh.
Hoorah! An easy one. The trouser jeans (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/02/415/). In these, I have exposed you all to the most embarrassing depths of my closet. And I thank you for not mocking me, and simply discreetly recommend me to toss these. So I will.
Now, not so easy. The nearly-twin gray sweater dresses (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/04/with-my-by-myself/). I truly love both of these. And, compared to my quantity of blouses, skirts, and dresses, I don’t have nearly as many sweaters. 55% of you allowed me to keep both. I a a coward. I’m going with the slight majority. They both stay, for now. I will wear them both this winter, and reevaluate in the spring.
And now for my Cherry-Bomb dress (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/05/and-i-like-a-firework-explode/)! It makes me smile every time I look at it. That’s reason enough for it to stay, right? This only got a single vote against it, so I’m keeping.
Next, the Lace Cami (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/06/neon-heart-day-glow-eyes/). One more unanimous vote to stay. How could I ignore that! It has to stay. This is the first post that I heard from my friend Angelica, whose comments always make me smile. This stays.
The last vote of the day: the animal-print tunic (https://voltee.wordpress.com/2010/10/07/enchantment-rain-a-crossbow/). This is hard. Votes were divided. This makes me feel empowered, for reasons I didn’t really enumerate on the post. I have to keep it now now.
That’s all I can do for the moment. That was difficult, and I am exhausted. But I am going to do more eliminations this evening so stay tuned!
One Is Silver, And The Other Gold.
Item: Dress Color/Fabric: Navy blue/silver, polyester Designer: Simply Vera By Vera Wang Where Purchased: Kohl’s Years Owned: 4
Tonight, a perplexing dilemma. How many luxurious navy blue, tea-length dresses can one girl possibly need? I have two. I have always wondered if these are too similar to own both. They are very different, to be sure, but still, very similar.
I can hear my mom’s voice, trumpeting in my head: “Don’t you already have a dress exactly like that? Do you need it?”
Do I need anything that I own? Probably not.
I’m sure that I could get by in the world with only, say, 85 pairs of shoes.
Somehow.
But, do I want to? Heavens, no. That is why I don’t allow you to vote on my shoes.
I digress. Here is the other dress:
Item: Dress Color/Fabric: Navy Blue/Gold, silk Designer: Laundry by Shelli Segal Where Purchased: Next Boutique Years Owned: 4
I can’t remember which one was purchased first. And I like them both for different reasons.
Dress Number One is a designer-style dress, cut and produced for the masses at department store prices. It is beautiful, no doubt. But when I am wearing it, I can tell the difference. It feels nice, it is definitely a quality polyester. But still, polyester. It does not drape quite so beautifully as it would if it had been silk. But it’s so adorable, and I love the flutter-sleeves, and the embellishment on the neckline. The belt-bow I took from another dress. I like its floppiness.
I wore this dress to see a play with Kevin and Michael. It was a bit of a roadtrip, but I forget exactly where we went. It was to see Kevin’s sweet friend Sandra perform. It was a great production, and we enjoyed the show. I don’t remember what it was called, either. But I remember that it was too cold for this dress, and I felt silly. Especially when we went to a bar afterwards, and I was entirely over-dressed! Sometimes I just don’t plan well. A lovely day, though, regardless!
Dress Number Two is a designer dress made for boutiques. It is silk, and it feels exquisite. This was a dress that we got for the Holidays at Next Boutique the second year I worked there. It was not something that I could afford, even with my discount. But one day, feeling bored, I decided to try it on. Big, big mistake. It felt little angel kisses on my skin. And it fit me better than anything else that had ever been on my body.
“Oh, Kerry,” said my friend Olana. “That dress was made for you. You look amazing!” I was head over heels in love with this dress. But I still could not commit to the price tag.
So I just stared at it, day after day, sighing deep in my breast, longing.
And one day, she was gone.
I couldn’t even bring myself to ask who brought her home. I couldn’t bear it. I tried to just wipe her out of my mind, as though we had never met.
Then, one sweet, sweet, day, there she was. Like she had never left! I won’t tell you all the details, but finally, the dress belonged to me. For a ridiculously low price-tag.
It was destiny.
I have worn this to two weddings. It’s a lovely wedding dress, because it’s very demure, but the way that it is cut makes it a tiny bit sexy. I love to dance in it, since it moves so beautifully. The blue wrap part of the dress also flutters a bit to show just a sliver of the gold underneath when I move.
The first wedding I wore this dress to was Phil and Katie’s, in Rhode Island. They had a traditional Chinese reception, and it was like no other wedding I’ve ever attended. It’s traditional, apparently, to serve about 14 courses of food. What a feast! And so many exotic dishes I had never tasted. Such as shark fin soup. And lobster. No, I had never tasted lobster before. And It was very tasty, but I just can’t eat meat that still looks like an animal. That’s just my thing.
I had a great time at that wedding, hanging out with all my favorite IBM buddies.
The other wedding I wore this to was my cousin Mindy’s. I’m still in disbelief that she’s actually married. I can still see her face and hear he voice, exactly as they were when she was a toddler! It is hard to be old. She was such a vision that day, though. Of course, I cried a ridiculous, ridiculous amount of tears. And I will always remember their cupcake tower, and how great it was to hang out with my family. That was a perfect wedding!
So, can I ethically keep both of these dresses? Are they too similar? Is it bad luck to wear the same dress to multiple weddings? Oh, I’m so very conflicted!
**Number One stays. Number Two too! What’s wrong with having two blue dresses. I like them.
My Favorite Striper! (That’s Just the One P)
Item: Shirt Color/Fabric: Black/white, Polester/rayon Designer: Poleci Where Purchased: Anthropologie Years Owned: 4
I love stripes. They just make me smile. Stripes are such an orderly and harmonious pattern. The absolute best use of stripes is on a baby. Stripes on a baby is my weakness.
Another weakness would be this sweet striped skirt.
Doesn’t Trixie look so very fetching in it? Or, if you’re hip, so very fetch?
I remember buying this skirt. It was my very first trip to Soho. What a magical, expensive wonderland! We found it entirely by accident, just sort of meandering around the city. That’s my favorite activity to do in New York City, meandering. I recommend that you give it a shot the next time you are there.
So here we are, meandering around Soho, sneaking admiring glances at the beautiful, stylish people meandering around us with shopping bags snuggled in the crook of their elbows. And also peering lustfully into every store window and picking my battles carefully. I know my husband, and I know the limits of his patience, especially in regards to shopping, so I know that I have about an hour, tops.
Eventually, I found myself at a sale in Anthropologie, and this little striper found its way into my life.
I remember wearing this on two separate occasions, but I’m sure I’ve worn it even more than that.
The first time was to work at Next Boutique. I don’t know what I was thinking, in hindsight. Next is very much about, well, what’s next. Fashion forward. Not so much about retro or vintage style. This was a day I remember very clearly, because it’s when Tiffany, one of the most stylish women I know, told me that I pulled off “the vintage thing” pretty well. I think that’s about the only thing she’s ever said about my style, and it made me very happy. It may not sound all that much like a compliment, but I’m sure that it was.
Pretty sure.
The next time I wore this was to the “Oliver Project” fundraiser at the Center. I wore it with a black sweater and black tights and truly vintage black heels with tiny little ribbons on the back. I was pretty fetch.
It was a lovely fundraiser, raising money to help fight hunger in the world’s children. I enjoyed the show, Oliver, also. I feel like I went to see this particular production at least three times. I don’t think I have ever seen a show that many times. The main reason was that Nate was in it. And it was the first time I got to sit back and watch him perform. He was adorable, singing and dancing and leaping his heart out.
It was astonishing to me when Nate said he was going to audition for this show. Because I was not auditioning, and I couldn’t believe that this was something that he wanted to do on his own. He had been in his first show ever, Chicago, just a few months earlier, because I dragged him into it. And here he was, actively pursuing theatre without me! It made me very proud.
I’m so glad that we can live in this wacky theatre world together now. It since we started being involved in shows that this has really become a home for us. And I love it.
A few things I love about this skirt are that it’s crazy soft, and it drapes so elegantly. The problem with it is that since it is one of those super soft fabrics, it’s started to pill on me. Mostly on the bum. A pill covered bum is never a good thing. I think I could maybe remove them, but I haven’t gotten around to that yet. Does anyone know how I can do this?
**I think I will wear this a few more times, at least until the pills are unstoppable.
The Day Of Non-Prolific Writing.
Item: Dress Color/Fabric: Black/white/blue, Silk/jersey Designer: Michael by Michael Kors Where purchased: Marshall’s Years Owned: 2
I’m not really feeling the writing spirit today. I have to leave in a little bit for, guess where? The Dentist. Again. It’s horrible. Today I’m having my baby mutant wisdom tooth extracted. I only ended up with one wisdom tooth, and it’s actually just part of one. I’ve often wondered if that might be a metaphor for my real wisdom?
Anyway, my hope is that since it’s just part of a tooth, it’s not going to be that bad. We shall see.
This dress today doesn’t have that much to tell us, which is nice, because I don’t have that much time. I picked it because it has a writing story. What better way to find an elusive writing spirit than writing about writing?
I am rather angry with it, though. For being designed by Michael Kors. I’m still angry at him for the ridiculous tantrum he threw on the finale of Project Runway, which resulted in the defeat of my precious Mondo. And means that he intends for Granny Panties to infiltrate a mall near you. Ridiculous.
Regardless, I am still fond of this dress. I found this at Marshall’s at a Final Clearance event. I paid $5 for it, and my heart was happy.
I love animal print. I understand that it’s not for everyone, but it is for me. And it seems like every other year it’s in every fashion magazine as The Next Big Thing. So it just sort of never goes away.
I don’t wear this that much, however. In fact, I’m trying to remember if I’ve ever worn it out of the house. I might not have.
When I did wear it was for something called The Day Of Prolific Writing. This was about two years ago, I think. Nate was away judging gymnastics, and I had an entire day with nothing to do except write. The plan was to entirely finish my book, once and for all. To edit and rework and polish. I needed to print a new copy, though, so I began that in the morning. It is a lot of pages, and I ran out of ink. To Office Depot! I went and bought only the color I had ran out of, since my printer uses individual cartridges and they are all very expensive.
When I got back, Kevin arrived to help me with my grand project. So we printed, again, and promptly ran out of another color. To Office Depot!
This time we bought all the colors. By the time we had gotten back, it was late in the afternoon, and I was running out of steam. And it was beginning to snow. But we finished printing, and then started discussing and brainstorming. When Kevin and I talk about my book, we usually end up making some sort of elaborate diagram and time line. We really seem to get it all figured out! Enlightenment, at last! And then after the fact I look at it again, and have no idea what the heck we were talking about.
We worked for a while, and then Kevin had to leave due to the snow. I was left with a snow storm, a glass of wine, and an empty house. The perfect situation for a writing utopia.
But I just couldn’t do it. I tried for another couple of hours, but there just was nothing left. I had lost the magic.
I will find it again, though. I am certain. Someday it will land on me when I least expect it.
Hopefully soon.
And if not, I have to learn to get over this barrier. I think it’s important to be able to carry on writing, even if perfect inspiration hasn’t dawned on me. My hope is that this project is helping me to learn that lesson.
Well.
I’m not sure what to do with the dress. It’s unbelievably comfortable, which is why I think I mostly just wear it around the house. It’s so soft, and just sort of floats on my body. And it has pockets, which I love. The bodice is a little roomy, though. I have to wear something under it. I still like it, though.
**I love wearing this. SO comfy. I’m keeping, for now.
Memoirs Of A Board-game Geisha.
Item: Blouse Color/Fabric: Pinks/white/black, Silk chiffon Where Purchased: The Salvation Army Years Owned: Four
I had quite a nice weekend this past weekend. Except for the fact that I had to do the absolute worst part of travel- unpacking. I unabashedly adore packing. I may start doing it a month before I leave for a given trip. Perhaps even up to six months before. Sometimes, I’ll find something and say to myself, “Oh, this will be perfect for my trip to __________.” Given the state of my closet, it’s best to just start a pile then and there. Otherwise, I may never find it again, and most likely will have forgotten all about it by the time I’m ready to take the trip.
But unpacking? Ugh. I hate it. For one thing, it’s sad. It means that, no, there is no longer any sort of hope that the last few days have all been a dream and I am lying, sleeping cozily in my rock star dungeon hotel room in Barcelona. It means that the vacation is really over, and now I have to sort everything, wash it, and put it all away.
For another thing, well, it’s sad again. Because usually I find out that I’ve forgotten/ruined something in the duration of the trip. And this trip to Spain was no exception. I ruined something utterly, utterly beautiful, and I’m crushed. I’ll show you soon.
But here’s one nice thing about unpacking. I found this blouse! It was hanging by one of its ties, stuck on a hanger, and mostly lying on the floor of the closet. I think I had probably been hanging other things on the hanger and I can’t remember the last time I laid eyes on this blouse.
I like it. It is so delicate, it feels like it is most likely made entirely of butterfly wings. And the sleeves! So, so wide. Continuing the butterfly analogy, it’s like I could just float away in this.
I think this is one of the very first purchases I made with my charmed and charming friend Lisa on half-priced Wednesday at the Salvation Army. It’s truly an experience, to shop with her, and is one of my favorite events on earth.
I only remember wearing this once, though. I know it was for a board-game party, but I’m not so clear on the details. I think it was one with our friends from Nate’s work. It just screams “Scrabble,” right?
I used to live for Board-game Night. Such good times were had! I remember one time that we played Clue, with Nate’s super-smart Engineer friends, and their super-smart wives. One of whom, Katie, was a medical student. Here’s what went down: We handed out the cards. Everyone looked at them and wrote down their hands. The first player went. He did not get into a room. The second player went. She guessed some bull crap. The third player went. He also guessed some bull crap. The fourth player was Kate. She said, “Um, I think I solved it,” in that Katie way, that quiet confidence of hers.
I was appalled. “No, you can’t! There’s only been two turns! And they haven’t even told us anything!”
“Well,” said Katie. “I did get into medical school and all, soooo…” Or something along those lines.
And then she guessed Mrs. White, in the Study, with the Revolver.
She was right. It was astounding. No one had even said a word about any of those things.
I’m pretty sure she cheated.
Katie and he husband live far, far away now, in Oregon, I believe. Or Washington? Far, anyway. I miss them both, a lot.
There are many. many happy Board-game Night memories, with an assorted and exquisite cast of characters. Moxybustion. Clue:Secrets and Spies. Baby fish mouth. The ill-fated Chrononaughts disaster. IBM Matt and snow. All fun.
Board Game Night transitioned into Wii night, which in turn transitioned into Karaoke night, which in turn transitioned into BC.
I think I’d like to have a Board Game night again, for Old Time’s Sake. And soon. Who’s in?
Well, as to the blouse. Will I wear this again, or did I forget it for a reason? It is a lot of flowers for me. But I love the cut and the fabric so! And it may be the closest I ever get to an actual kimono. A dilemma.
**I still am undecided on this one. Just…not sure.
Shine On, You Crazy Diamond!
Item: Dress Color/Fabric: Silver, all that matters is sequins Designer: Laundry Where Purchased: Shopbop.com Years Owned: 3
Tonight I bring to your attention this little gem. It’s a sequined dress! If you didn’t notice.
I really love this dress. I love that it’s long sleeve, and just so many sparkles. By the cut, it seems like it should be demure. But then there’s the fact that it’s covered by sequins. And sequins just are not demure.
I also love the back:
Drama! It’s a nice little slice of skin, since the front is so entirely covered.
And yet, I have only worn this a single time. It was for the Grand Opening celebration for my gym. And that was more than two years ago. It’s hard to believe.
The Powers That Be had decided that we would have an all-out extravaganza the likes of which Kingston had never seen. We would make it a Vegas party, and use such original promotional tags as “What Happens At MAC, Stays At MAC.” And we even hired a party planner!
Who happened to be my friend Andy. Andy has creativity oozing out of his fingertips. And, whoa, can he throw a party! Andy and his partner, Herman, have been the masterminds behind some of the craziest, most fun, most original parties I’ve ever been to, including my very own 30th birthday party. Which I’m saving for a rainy day post.
I don’t know exactly how it happened, but Andy transformed the MAC into a venue glamorous enough to be on the Strip. We had unbelievable gorgeous showgirls, helped along by hair, makeup, and glue gun guru Annie. Cocktail servers. Casino games. Cher in concert. It was pretty great.
What was my role in all this?
I’m not sure. I think I was asked to dress as some sort of prostitute. I wasn’t really into that. But I thought that this sequin dress would fit right in. Plus I just really, really wanted to wear it.
This is me with Herman:
Maybe I am some kind of high class ho.
Regardless, the dress was really fun to wear. I got many complements on it that night, a few the type that you just don’t want to hear at your place of employment. But most people were just surprised by how I look when I’m not wearing sweatpants. The weirdest comment that night was “Oh, wow! I didn’t realize that you had legs!” Yeah. Thanks.
It ended up being an amazing night. I think I worked about 14 hours that day, and I missed out on food and may have cried a little because I was exhausted and starving. I do not cope well when I skip a meal. But still, a great time. Not the sort of thing I’ve come to expect from parties where I am required to work.
Mostly, thinking about this night makes me miss Herman and Andy. They’ve moved to the City, which is not China or anything, but they still feel really far away. I know that they will shine there. Since they are, in fact, stars.
I don’t know why I’ve never worn this again. I think perhaps I’ve just been waiting for the right opportunity. It would be a great New Year’s Eve dress. I’d really like to wear it loose with tights and really chunky, distressed motorcycle boots.
But I don’t own chunky, distressed motorcycle boots. And since I can’t buy anything until February, that will not be my New Year’s Eve outfit. Sad.
The downside to this dress is that it’s missing a few sequins, one right in the front by the neckline. It drives me a little crazy. Is that enough reason to toss it?
**This has at least one more Fabulous in it. It stays for now.
I’m Fairly Certain This Won’t Actually Kill Me.
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Item: Blouse Color/Fabric: White, polyester Designer: Bob Mackie Studio Where Purchased: Marshall’s Years Owned: 3
Today was a nearly perfect day, I have to admit. It began with a brunch with many wonderful people and an unbelievably cute puppy, rambled on with a Library Book Sale (in which no precious gems were unearthed, but I did find some nice readable volumes), and then there was a nap, followed by a great deal of much needed cleaning. The night finished with some amazing soup, bread, salad, and company, and an emotional purging via Pixar.
But still, I am facing what appears to be an insurmountable challenge. In Spain, I made a solemn vow that I would not do any un-present related shopping until my favorite holiday, President’s Day. Yeah, the one in February.
This means that I will not be purchasing anything for myself for about three months. No internet shopping. No thrift store Half Price Day. No Marshall’s. No Black Friday. No Cyber Monday. No matter how huge the sale is. It’s going to be brutal.
Especially since I have to do Christmas shopping still. I’m not sure this is a feat that is even humanly possible.
But, on my honor, I will try with every strength in my being.
The rumor is that whatever doesn’t kill me will only make me stronger. Does anyone know first hand if this is true?
The good news is that I’ve already made it through four days! That’s an accomplishment in and of itself, right?
I will keep you updated on my progress.
Anyway, this blouse doesn’t have much of a tale. It’s a purchase I made with logic that ran something like this: “Ooo, Bob Mackie. He designs costumes for Cher. I’ll bet this has a really nice fit! And it’s only $5. Take it!”
And I have worn it a few times, and it is a cute blouse. I’ve just never felt like it was “special.” It did not inspire a spontaneous ballad to be sung to it upon acquisition. So it’s been teetering on the edge of the donation pile for my last few closet clean outs. I always keep it because it’s fairly basic, and, still cute.
The last time I remember wearing this was in late spring of 2009. Nate and I were in a show called Psycho Beach Party for about two scenes. Like the title implies, it’s definitely a bit out there, so there were some wild, hilarious performances, including some of my all-time favorites. And we had such a blast!
The problem was, though, that the cast was very, very young. There were some actual teenagers. It made me feel very, very old.
Nate says I made it worse when I wore this blouse out after a show. I wore it with black and white vintage cropped trousers and crazy, black patent leather ankle boot with serious heels. I quite loved the outfit. Nate did not. He said it wasn’t “me”.
“I’ve never seen you wear something like that,” he said. ” It doesn’t seem like your style.”
I have no memory of him saying anything like that before or after this. He will sometimes tell me he hates a shirt or something, but he’s never said that an outfit wasn’t me.
Funny how I can’t remember the specifics of all the millions of times Nate has told me that I looked great. And I’ve never been able to forget this single comment. It’s not even like it was an entirely negative comment. It was just not… rapturous. I like rapturous.
I may have worn this a time or two since, absolutely not with the black and white pants, but…I don’t know. I just can’t get that into it. I do like it. If it was silk I would love it. And also if it wasn’t missing a button. I’m just not sure.
**After much deliberation, I am letting this go. Someone claim her!
I Am What I Wore 