Slow Southern Style

Guest Post: Slow Travel

2012-05-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

I've never traveled by train before, so when Amy Powe offered to write this post about her experience travelling from New Orleans to Chicago, I was excited to live vicariously through her.- Christy

Text by Amy Powe

As the population of those who embrace slow food, slow design (local and sustainable!), and slow money (yes it’s a thing), continues to grow it’s hard not to be curious about what’s next. In The South we have a reputation of never been in too big of a hurry about anything but, are we ready for slow travel?

Recently, I traveled with my family of four to Chicago aboard the infamous City of New Orleans. The train station is much closer to us than the airport. Parking, easy, surface lot, five dollars a day. The scene at the train station is interesting. There is an eclectic and eccentric crowd of all ages, shapes and sizes in all manner of dress. Honestly when is not the case in New Orleans?

As there are no security checks other than a sign that reads "We’re All In This Together" with interior shot of the train, there is no need to arrive any earlier than 45 minutes prior to departure. We have an easy departure time of 1:45 in the afternoon. First class (aka sleeper car ticket holders) board first. You are allowed two bags and can bring on liquids and food. My daughter and I share a deluxe sleeper car complete with (albeit small) sink, toilet and shower. We made our travel plans last minute, so there was not a sleeper car available for my husband and son, so they bunk in a sleeper car roomette. The roomette does not have nearly the amount of room as the deluxe model, or a private bath.

Inside our sleeper cars, we are greeted by our train hostess Kenya. She provides us with bottled water and 4 pillows. She explains that once the conductor makes his announcement we are free to move about the cabin. She also takes our dinner reservation, asks what time we would like beds turned down and what time we would like a wake-up call.
The sight seeing car has lots of seating and tables to keep travelers busy on their journey. There is much card playing, reading, crossword puzzle and suduko action. I never did get a clear answer as to whether or not wi-fi is available but, there didn't seem to be much of a demand from my fellow passengers. There is a bar and snack bar downstairs. I would skip the snack bar next time and pack sandwiches from La Boulangerie before leaving town. The hot items are "cooked" via microwave and that is scary for me because I don't own one and it definitely isn't in the theme of slow! However, the Coronas were exactly right and there was a fair variety of beers and wine. Fast forward to dinner. The dinner menu was pretty bleak however, the local special was barbeque ribs. Actual non-microwaved food. My husband and kids loved it. I assembled a salad and vegetables from the menu. The retro of it all made for a very charming atmosphere. Once back in the room, the beds were made and it reminded of bit of a micro version of my Cabra dorm room at Loyola. The curtains were drawn back as the sun slowly disappeared from the sky. It was a lovely thing to have nothing to do than watch the sunset.

Sleeping on the train is very doable, but if you are a light sleeper you may want to medicate or take ear plugs. The train does continue to make stops during the night and the horn continues to blow as it approaches crossings. But, if you're like my daughter you will sleep through the night and then some.

A basic breakfast is served morning before our 9 am arrival in Chicago. We arrive a few minutes ahead of schedule and make our way off the train and onto the platform. Chicago's train station is much more advanced than the New Orleans train station. A cart picks us up, and wisks the four of us and luggage with urgency through the crowd at the station. The driver makes a stop at the rental car office (a brief pause for paperwork) and promptly drops us off to our rental car. Back to the fast lane.

photo credits: travelingmamas.com tarprail.org flickr.com condrenrails.com amtrack40th.com travelingmamas.com

Unearth NOLA With Brandi Couvillon From Waregarden Studio

2012-05-28T17:43:00.000-05:00

Text and collage by Amber Guidry

Art can sometimes inspire motivation, excitement, even happiness in my personal life. Sometimes it makes me wonder...who gave the three year old a paintbrush?? Either way my mind can get lost imagining how the creation of each piece unfolds. Usually it intrigues me to question the journey that inspires each artist "to create".

The journey of Waregarden Studio's Brandi Couvillion has led her to dig tunnels that could possibly cave in around her, to un-nest a flying New Orleanian roach colony, to scale the mountains of Peru in hopes of uncovering a remnant from the past. Ok so maybe not Peru but who's to say its not on her bucket list of exploratory sites.

In Brandi's own words, "Wrenching up history from the ground and reassembling it into something expressing the decaying grandeur and melancholy of New Orleans is what I strive for..." Read on below for the personal inspiring journey of the artist and owner of Waregarden Studio.

The mixed media artwork and jewelry lines of New Orleans local, Brandi Couvillion is currently available at various galleries and museums, including the New Orleans Museum of Art, as well as the Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s Southern Craft and Design later this month.

"My adventure of delving into the past, into the privies/outhouses of our ancestors, technically begins with a 5-6 foot metal probe, testing the ground below to determine what may lie there. I often can’t help myself but to just start digging the hard, impacted earth recklessly with the most fervent passion. It is one of the only times when I feel at one with the universe and in deep meditation.

Obviously, the closer to the historic neighborhoods of New Orleans, the more likely you are to find objects of desire. Being practically on the Saulet Plantation grounds, I thought I might have some good fortune for my interests, which are vast. In my own expansive backyard (in a historic district) we probed the majority of it. My hard-core diggers (who have done it for 40+ years) didn’t think we’d find anything of the pre-Civil War. They are mostly interested in old bottles, which I love, but I find excitement in old ceramic pipes, hand painted ceramic marbles, porcelain doll parts - really anything that will tell a tale of that land and its previous inhabitants.

We had come across three layers of courtyards in digging the pond - old, soft red brick, then flagstone and finally new brick from all over the country. I continued to dig a few feet down and started pulling up more flagstone (which had initials carved into it - how romantic!) and, of course, brick. Soon, I had burrowed a tunnel about a yard wide and several yards long, maybe about 3 feet down. We called it the tiger trap because it was right by the shed and quite a dangerous location with only my handmade bamboo covering on top of the initial hole. Soon, the pond was threatening to collapse, so I started burrowing in the other direction. Unfortunately, there are some frightening things down there - being trapped in a hole that could collapse as you freak out from the huge cockroach nest you just disturbed!

During my digging, I eventually fell into a time where I was literally fingering through every handful of dirt - every single piece of the past would be felt. Most of the time people sift through this, but it was more personal to me. I wanted to see every hand cut nail tossed out, each piece of decorative ceramic tile that once adorned the fireplaces, indications of when they restored the plaster (large lumps poured into the earth as if it was a mold), or when they removed the coved ceilings in certain rooms.

In the harshest of summer weeks, I would take a break from digging and it was then that I noticed the beautiful fern that grew in the moist, cooler burrow. I’ve saved some of it to dry and I use it now on my new line, Ephemera, which embosses antique laces from items worn to shreds and botanicals from special places in my life and in the world. The most unusual thing I found in my own backyard was a bone toothbrush (without bristles, of course) that has “France” engraved on it!

But my all time biggest find, in my nostalgic mind, was what ultimately turned out to be 100 Pre and Victorian shoes/boots. They were mostly shoe soles, as the leather is quickly eaten away, but I still found the harder leather soles and wooden heels intact. I did, however, find a few baby “boots” with the amazing Victorian design and buttons up the side. Among this, I’ve found the most elegant porcelain plates/basins, etc., a New Orleans luxury tax token, tiny porcelain tea sets and numerous doll parts, to only name a few. The privies were very caustic when they were active, some 100-200 years ago, so things broken down very quickly, but these musty, insect ridden shoe soles are probably some of the most meaningful to me. Was it a cobbler who just threw the shoes he couldn’t repair in the back? How have some of them remained intact? I actively use them in my Assemblages, as to me the Soles represent the Souls before us...

I am ecstatic to be unveiling a brand new jewelry line using the porcelain shards - Privy’s Porcelain - which incorporates the most elegant 1800’s patterns into my designs from some of the most stunning china manufacturing companies. Interestingly, a large amount seem to be traced back to England. And I have found some of the same patterns in completely different neighborhoods!

It is compelling to look at the translucency, design detail and accuracy of these pieces - scenes of the most exotic countrysides filled with animals and even people in 1800’s dress adorn these precious pieces of the past.

I believe The Past is Present....in every way you can interpret it... I am tremendously excited to be able to share these experiences with everyone.”

Brandi Couvillion
The Waregarden Studio
1221 Annunciation St.
New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 717-1433
waregarden@gmail.com
www.waregardenstudio.com

Be sure to sign up for Brandi's blog updates and gallery showings on her website at http://www.waregardenstudio.com/contact.html

Southern Fashion Bloggers and Glenn Michael Salon

2012-05-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

Sometimes we all just need an excuse to hang out with our lady friends and indulge our girly side. A handful of the Southern Fashion Bloggers got together recently and hung out at Glenn Michael Salon to catch up on what everyone's doing, have some fun, and indulge in some mini hair and makeup classes. Be sure to read the full recap, including makeup tips and notes from our blow out 101 class on the Southern Fashion Bloggers site.

Mr. Glenn Michael teaching us how to talk to our stylists to get the perfect hair style.

What I Wore: vintage Hunter Club, Zara skirt, wedges all from Buffalo Exchange belt from Armoire

Best blow out I've ever had! And I know how to recreate it at home.

Ridiculously cute Irregular Choice shoes in the boutique section

My favorite ladies, Dorothy Young and Leslie Almeida

Outfit details from Instagram. Follow me slowsouthernstyle

To see more pictures from the day check out the Southern Fashion Bloggers Facebook page.

What I Wore: Sippin' In Seersucker

2012-05-21T08:00:00.002-05:00

Dress- Imagine Scarf- Swap Boutique
Earrings- Armoire
Bangle bracelet- c/o In Pink
Clutch Banana Republic, Belt American Apparel, Heels DKNY Collection all via Buffalo Exchange

My husband- he put together his outfit himself, no help from me!

Sippin' In Seersucker was this past Friday, and I couldn't have had more fun. If you've never been, read all about it on my weekly Uptown Messenger column. Seersucker is the ubiquitous summer fabric of the South, and it was a treat witnessing so many people decked out in puckered stripes. Aside from the mint juleps, sazeracs, and delicious food from local restaurants, the people watching was definitely the highlight of the evening.

Poor judgement on my part meant that I didn't take as many photos as I should have. Juggling a clutch, a drink, and food while walking around was a challenge for sure. However I did manage to snap a few shots- to see some photos of friends that went visit the Slow Southern Style Facebook page.

It's the details that help stand out from the standards

Another Instagram shot- shrimp (tattoo) and seersucker- follow me I'm slowsouthernstyle. Duh.

Designer Interview: Lia Cinquegrano of Thomas IV

2012-05-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

Text by Meghan Wright

I had the fantastic pleasure of interviewing Lia Cinquegrano, the creator and designer of handbag line Thomas IV. The Florida native (now in Brooklyn) has an interesting design aesthetic and makes wonderful use of different fabrics, textures, and patterns.

Photo c/o Thomas IV

- Where did you get the name "Thomas IV?"

I usurped the family first name. My brother is Thomas Cinquegrano III, so I stole Thomas IV and passed it down to my handbag line

- I love your mixture of bold prints, colors and fabrics. Where does your inspiration come from?
My inspiration comes for the idea of using inherently colorful materials with little to no hardware. I use fabrics from Guatemala and India as well as recognizable graphic patterns like houndstooth. I like for all of the bags to be very relaxed, casual and quirky. They are a true reflection of my personality and represent how I feel about fashion. I do not take fashion seriously. I think all design should be clever and have a sense of humor. I am attracted to colors and patterns and mixed media. I wanted the bags to feel like they have a personality of their own and make a statement.


Photo c/o Thomas IV

- Why do you think it is more beneficial to you as a designer and to your product to have all of your pieces made locally?
As a small and young designer who studied fashion design, I believe using the industry available in my home-city is super important. I want to have a relationship with the people executing my designs. I want to be able to oversee the process any day of the week. I want to explain my ideas face to face with the technicians and I want to support my local economy and the industry that is available for people like me. I need to use factories that support small designers and are willing to forfeit high minimums. Using these factories benefits me because I am gaining a real hands-on education which in turn helps with my design process. When I can see how something is made and understand the possibilities of manufacturing, I can better design a product.

- Where did you get your start, and why did you choose to design bags?

I studied fashion design at Rhode Island School of Design. I graduated in 2005 and moved to NYC in 2006. When I moved here I began working for womenswear designer Nanette Lepore designing clothes. I still work for her designing clothing, shoes and handbags. She manufactures 80% of her garments within a 5-block radius of her west 35th st. design studio. I used to walk to each factory to oversee the production of her sample garments. I gained an appreciation for the garment industry in New York which is why I am happy to use local manufacturers as well.

About 2 years ago I was fortunate enough to have access to a giant studio space in a former Catholic elementary school in Brooklyn. Each classroom was rented out to artists, mostly RISD grads, who used the space as studios. When I first rented my studio I was not sure what I wanted to make. In addition to working for Nanette, I also had side projects designing costumes for music videos and theater, but having the studio space meant I had to find my own outlet. I had no boss or director or collaborator. I wanted to flush out my own design ideas so I started by patching together old printed leather jackets and turning them into bags. Then I started making silhouettes from scratch trying to come up w/ innovative ways to incorporate the functional elements of a handbag into the design with out using a lot of metal. For example, a bag must have a handle or a strap, it has to close and those elements have to be working together in a harmonious way so I tried to really think about signature ways to attach a strap or make an interesting closure. For Spring 2011 I made my first collection which consisted of 3 styles. I took photos of the samples at my brother's loft and started sending my look book out to buyers. Barneys Co-op and Steven Alan picked up the line. I have now just designed my 4th collection for Fall 2012.


Photo c/o Thomas IV

- Do you have any advice for anyone who aspires to be a designer or work in the fashion industry?

I think it is important to honestly represent yourself. If you design something that you think is great and it is accurate representation of yourself and your personality than you have a recipe for success. I think it is important to recognize design gaps in the industry and fill them naturally with your ideas. I am still learning so much myself. I think quality control is extremely important as well as research within design and technical execution. I think it is important to spend time developing your ideas and testing them out before releasing them.

All photos are from Thomas IV's Fall 2012 collection.

Thomas IV

Lia's blog: Phuck Fashion

What I Wore: Old Faithfuls and Extra Minutes

2012-05-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

I have a confession to make. I didn't start Slow Southern Style to plaster my mug all over the internet. There are enough lovely gals out there who do a much better job of it than I do. Not to mention there are enough "skinny white girl bloggers" documenting their personal style. Oh wait, I'm not skinny. Anyway, schedules synced up again and I coerced my husband to take some quick pictures before I jetted off to work.

Considering I'm on my feet for 8 hours a day, dressing for comfort is a necessity. While I'd love to wear heels more frequently, it 'aint happening. When the weather is nice I bike the 2.5 miles to work, so I have to make sure I'm wearing something quasi practical for my commute.

I've got my spring uniform down pat. Do you? Several months ago I decided a button down/skirt combo would be my warm weather staples. Now I just need to stock up, since I keep rotating the same old faithfuls every week. This pink skirt has made several appearances on Slow Southern Style, most recently in the French Quarter and at Saks Fifth Avenue. You might call it wardrobe remixing, I call it wearing the hell out of something. One thing I've realized is that I always go back to this basic skirt shape. Give me something that sits on the waist, flares out to disguise my lack of assets, and have it stop slightly above or below the knee and I'm sold.

Not gonna lie, I own more Native American jewelry than should be legally allowed. Most of it was procured in Arizona, but I've managed to pick some up in Louisiana as well. If you are looking to add to your own collection, I'd suggest checking out Louisiana's own Choctaw Silverworks.

Polka dot chambray shirt- Lands' End Canvas

Everything else- Buffalo Exchange, minus one bracelet gift from hubby

Friend - Menswear on Magazine Street

2012-05-14T10:54:00.000-05:00

Text and images by Meghan Wright

A great menswear store is hard to come by, not impossible, just not as common as womenswear boutiques. Friend opened up on Magazine St. back in February and they are going strong.

The style is casual and modern, with brands like Shades of Grey, Saturdays Surf NYC, Reyn Spooner, and Vanishing Elephant. They also have shoes from Rivieras, sunglasses by Super, and a great selection of men's fragrances from Eau d'Italie.

The look of the store is very clean and classic. The plants, antler keychains, and vintage decor set amidst the light blue walls and wooden shelves give the shop a rustic edge. Support a local business, and do yourself a favor by checking it out.

Friend

2115 Magazine Street

Open every except Tuesday from 11am - 6pm

(504) 218-4214

Also, check them out on Facebook

What I Wore: Casual Cool

2012-05-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

It's almost summer, and having an arsenal of comfortable clothes is key to getting through festival season and making it to Fall. I usually live in tank tops, but this summer I'm switching to lightweight button downs to keep the sun off my arms, and stay casual and cool. Well, I'm not cool by any stretch, but I do like to wear clothes that breathe. I shared some tips on my weekly Uptown Messenger article for dressing for festivals, but the same tips apply all season long.

Plaid blouse and rhinestone necklace via Buffalo Exchange- Shorts c/o MiH Jeans- Crested loafers via Funky Monkey

Kids Fashion Camp at the Ogden Museum

2012-05-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

One of my fondest memories growing up was going to summer camp. I played flute from 4th grade through college, and had considered pursuing it professionally, but majoring in English won. Summers spent at band camp were the best, and doing drill downs in a gym devoid of air conditioning in the dead of August was strangely enjoyable. I lived for band, and I was damned good at it. I heartily believe kids need a creative outlet, no matter what the medium is.

photo c/o Sue Strachan

For two weeks in July, the Ogden Museum is hosting its 2nd Fashion Camp for teenagers ages 13-16. One of last year's participants, Grayson Gold, presented his work at Fashion Week New Orleans in March and also sent a model down the runway at the Ogden's Haute and Handmade this past December. Campers will learn fashion illustration, practice hand and machine stitching, discover secrets of the trade, and receive coaching from Veronica Cho, a former Seventh Avenue designer and Parsons School of Design graduate. The camp will wrap with a fashion show, highlighting the teen's hard work.

Fashion Camp at the O!
July 9, 2012 - July 20, 2012
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
For ages 13 to 16
$250 museum members; $275 non-members

For more info or to register contact Ellen Balkin at: 504.539.9608; ebalkin@ogdenmuseum.org

A Frugal Freret Street Fashion Show

2012-05-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Come join me for a night of fashion on Freret Street this coming Sunday as part of Yelp's Passport to Freret Street promotion. I'll be judging a special frugal fashion challenge alongside Missy Wilkinson from the Gambit Weekly. Contestants will be asked to purchase up to $25 worth of clothing from Bloomin' Deals Thrift Store, which supports the Junior League. The theme is cruise wear and anything from "castaway chic" to "pool side fabulous" goes.

The best Gilligan or Skipper impersonator will receive two tickets to Tales of The Cocktail and the after party. For more information, including rules of the contest, visit the Yelp event listing, get your best outfit together, and may the best thrifter win!

What: Passport to Freret Street: Thrifty Fashion Show/Contest

When: Sunday, May 13th 9:00 pm

Where: La Nuit Comedy Theater, 5039 Freret Street

Friday Lunch at Martinique Bistro

2012-05-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

voted top al fresco dining for a reason

My sister came home for a weekend visit, so we did what we do best- act like ladies who lunch. I have a hard time getting the lady part right, but there's nothing I enjoy better than al fresco dining in the spring time. Martinique Bistro always proves to be the perfect spot. If you like Caribbean inspired French food, then you'll love this place, tucked away on Magazine Street in between Nashville Avenue and State Street. It's consistently voted as best courtyard and most romantic dining, and once you step inside it's easy to see why. The courtyard is lush, and the bubbling fountain softens the noise from the street. I couldn't think of a better place to spend a Friday afternoon.

pine nut crusted goat cheese w/ mixed baby lettuce, basil, mint, sun-dried tomato-shallot vinaigrette

incredible and reasonably priced wines

fish special- monk fish with micro greens, roasted potatoes, and a green remoulade

What I Wore: Dress from Hattie Sparks, Melissa wedges via Buffalo Exchange

For more scrumptious pictures (including dessert), go to the Slow Southern Style Facebook page.

Kickstarter: Something For Wildness

2012-05-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Lacey Dupre is a familiar face on Slow Southern Style. Not only was she one of the featured artists in Objects of Adornment but she's friends with contributor and Lafayette resident JeLlyn Morvant. Please support this worthwhile cause by contributing whatever you can to Something for Wilderness, or just help spread the word.

From Lacey

The Project:

We will be going to just about every US mainland National Park to interview and photograph the rangers and their parks in the name of conservation and biodiversity worldwide. With the help of Kickstarter, we'll produce a full-color art/photo essay book and accompanying website. The title: Something for Wildness.

Here's a link to our Kickstarter: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/924429290/something-for-wildness-rangers-reserves-and-restor

We will interview and photograph rangers from each US National Park and compile their tales into a collective story, a snapshot of our stance as a culture, a tribe, today, in regards to our country's best idea, the National Parks.

Inside will be landscape photos, as well as fine, close-up portraits of the park rangers we interview. Excerpts from these interviews will be included with the ranger's portrait as well as his or her favorite spot in the park. Alongside each landscape photograph will be a designer QR code that links to an interactive map with elevation, lat/long coordinates and more, as well as our website: www.SomethingForWildness.com.

The book will also be interspersed with original art I've done on the journey.

This is an effort to give back to the many dedicated rangers the world over. If we get funded a portion of every book sold will go to the PAMS Foundation: www.pamsfoundation.org a not-for-profit in Tanzania that helps conserve biodiversity and supports rangers at the forefront of conservation. They are also the hosts of the 7th World Ranger Congress.

Southern Living Heirloom Recipe Cookbook: Shrimp Destin

2012-04-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Whenever I have friends come to visit, I plan their trip around meals. I tend to err on the side of strategic over planning. I'll pencil in a day of sight seeing, but the main attraction will always be breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So when Southern Living sent over a copy of Southern Living Heirloom Recipe Cookbook, I was eager to thumb through it.

The recipe I tackled was Shrimp Destin, a fairly easy one. Given my penchant for the tasty crustaceans (I've got a shrimp tattoo after all) it was an obvious choice. I'm definitely not a by the book cook- I prefer to improvise if I don't have all ingredients on hand. For example, Shrimp Destin called for dinner rolls or rice, so I substituted what I had on hand. In this case it was jalapeno bread. I'm sensitive to gluten, but trust me you'll want something to sop up the aromatic butter with. Aside from the generous helping of carbs, this recipe is one of the lighter ones in the book. Since my husband and I try to eat fairly healthy, we used Earth Balance instead of real butter. The dish turned out great- we both snuck seconds.

Many thanks to Southern Living for the gift! Pick up your own copy on Amazon.

What I Wore: Mistakes Happen

2012-04-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

BREAKING NEWS:

No one is perfect.

Shocking, right? Sometimes I get sick of scrolling through images of perfect fashion bloggers. I want to see a hair out of place, a belt sitting slightly askew- just some sign to indicate they are in fact, human. I must be overcompensating for those modelesque types on the WWW 'cause I've got enough flaws to balance out all of them.

It was one of those rare days when my husband and I shared a morning together. He was doing a little work from home, I was getting ready to leave for the day. So I had him snap an outfit photo of me. And you know what? It sucked. Nothing made sense together, and since I didn't bother scoping myself out in a full length mirror beforehand, I never would have known. The t-shirt didn't match, the socks looked stupid, but I didn't have time to change.

So I adjusted, and dealt by pushing the socks down, threw on an old printed hiking bandanna and suddenly the outfit made a bit more sense. I shaved twenty minutes off my morning by not pulling together an entirely new look. Plus, I wanted to show off my sexy white knees. Stop lusting.

And I'm actually freaking the hell out in this picture. I hide my emotions well, no? There was a spiky green caterpillar taunting me, rearing its ugly little head, writhing on a frond beside me. I'm deathly afraid of those suckers, and quickly ran inside after we took these half ass photos. Venomous snakes? Bring it and I'll call it by its Latin name. A mostly harmless caterpillar? I go running like the girl I am.

T-shirt: American Apparel

Bandana: Prana via REI

Belt: Armoire

Skirt: Fossil

Boots: Steve Madden via Buffalo Exchange

So what are you afraid of? I'll add cockroaches to my list.

MiH at the BJB in NOLA

2012-04-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

I hate to admit it, but I'm a denim snob. Back when the designer jeans trend peaked a few years ago, I became hooked. I need denim that fits, washes well, doesn't stretch out, and lasts several years. I'm also no Nicki Minaj lookalike in the junk department, so selecting a pair that dissimulates my inadequate derriere is a must. So when I received an invite to attend the MiH Jeans trunk show at the Blues Jean Bar, I was eager to see what this British line is all about.

Springtime denim from MiH

MiH is really big into pastels, flared legs, and cropped styles for spring. Channeling the company's 1969 roots, there's a slight flower child feel to the kick flare hems and easy going spirit. As Southern women, we can appreciate easy going fashion, especially when humidity starts creeping up on us. Looking cute and being comfortable? That's tricky. Fortunately, the light weight fabrics keep you on trend and feeling cool so you won't have to worry about being a sweaty mess come summer. I snagged the London Boy Short, perfect since I'm in need of shorts and I love the subtly engineer stripe on these. You may need to go up a size or two as the cuts are rather slim.

Dominique and I with our picks c/o MiH Jeans

Belly up to the jean bar

Dorothy of Meet Dorothy Young and Kristi from Lucky Girl Finds

Lovely Stella & Dot jewelry- buy it here

Genevieve from Uptown PR and Dominique of Copy that Services

Apparently we got the blue/ pattern mixing memo

For more pictures visit the Slow Southern Style Facebook page.

Tallulah Faire

2012-04-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

In case you missed her at New Orleans Fashion Week, Birmingham, Alabama based designer Heather Williams is the creator of Tallulah Faire, a clothing and accessories line that embraces bold prints and color. Slow Southern Style was able to chat with her about her work, who the Tallulah Faire woman is, and to hear about her experience as a fashion week participant.

1. What was your experience with NOLA Fashion Week like?

Fabulous, as always! This was my second season with NOLAFW, so it was great to see "old" friends from October and meet new designers this go 'round. It was especially wonderful to see designers who showed last season show again because I can see the growth that has taken place in their vision and perspective. NOLAFW has also grown; new ideas were introduced, new venues were used, etc. I'm glad that they're trying new things and seeing what fits and what doesn't. I'm so proud to be a part of a group of people who want to support artists and encourage fashion in the Big Easy.

2. What was your main reason for participating? What were you hoping to gain, and was it a success?

I participate every season because NOLAFW is one of the few Fashion Weeks where designers are chosen not based on commercial potential but on point-of-view and creativity. Most are very sellable and have created quite a following, but that's more of an effect of showing, not a prerequisite. I participate because I believe in supporting artists and cultivating talent, which I think is the platform of the week-long event. I also participate in the Fashion Market so that commerce is achieved. Every designer wants a customer to not only love their work, but take it home as well. Fashion Market provides shoppers with the opportunity to purchase apparel and accessories that may not be available in New Orleans at any other time. I'm hoping that my partnership with NOLAFW is a long and successful one!

3. Given the amount of press of more established brands (Billy Reid, Alabama Chanin) where do you think the future of Southern fashion designers lies?

If I've said it once, I've said it a million times: fashion is becoming regionalized, tailored to local flavor and expression. I believe that we'll see a major progression in the next five years of major cities all hosting their own successful, large-scale Fashion Weeks. Nashville has been doing it for years, Austin for a while now, and Birmingham for two seasons. And I'm so excited! I would argue that the South has the most culture, the most tradition, the deepest roots to turn out designers who are uniquely regional and capture the essence of who their clients are. Both Billy Reid (who is not from Florence, but hey, he gets us) and Alabama Chanin are always my go-to names when I'm proving this point. And the best part? They do very well nationwide, which shows that Southern designers create pieces that fit the Southern woman but are not limited to the Southern woman. Forget New York... Southern designers need to build where they are, pour into their hometowns and heritage.

4. If you could define the quintessential Southern aesthetic and attitude, what would it be?

Well I think it's evident from my previous answer that our attitude is pride in where we're from, but in a nice way. I think we are doing a great job of holding the past in one hand and honoring our families and traditions, while looking forward to the future and holding progressivism and change in the other. And I believe that our aesthetic embodies this. We still love our seersucker and sun dresses, but can put on a pair of Jimmy Choo platforms and a high-low hemline skirt in a hot minute. The Southern woman isn't limited to just one archetypal "look" anymore. We get to be a different person every day of the week if we choose.

5. What's the Talluah girl like? Where would she wear a dress, for example? And can you describe the inspiration behind the two collections?

"Tallulah" is Native American and means 'leaping waters', which is the best way to describe a Tallulah girl. She's natural but fierce and beautiful in a timeless way. Her energy is refreshing and she's every girl's best friend. I really try to design pieces that reflect these images; that's why there will be a few very sweet sun dresses mixed with structured pieces with more powerful hues.

A Tallulah girl wears a dress every day! Both collections have casual looks that are great for day, as well as snappier dresses that are perfect for a night on the town. Looks from the Tallulah line are meant to be closet pieces that you live your life in, not pieces that are only pulled out for one event. The inspiration for the Spring '12 collection came from playing with the idea of being both bold and bashful. We all have our sweet 'ballet flats and nude lipstick' days, but we also have our 'I could conquer the world today!' days. You should have apparel for both! The Fall '12 collection inspiration came from my obsession with rich fabrics. In the summers I prefer light cottons and easy silks, but my true joy - my favorite textiles- are luxurious leathers and wools and suedes. The hand is heavier and allows for superb structure and subtle details. I am so excited to share the full Fall Collection in the months ahead.

For more information on Tallulah’s Designs, please visit the website: http://www.tallulahfaire.com

On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TallulahsDesigns & Twitter: @TallulahFaire

The Tallulah S/S ‘12 line is currently carried at the following retailers:

Birmingham:

City Arts Boutique - http://www.cityartsboutique.com/

Molly Green - http://www.mollygreenboutique.com/

New Orleans:

Hattie Sparks – www.hattiesparks.com

Abeille NOLA - http://www.abeillenola.com/

Decorate with Flowers in Southern Style

2012-04-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

While I've always loved a lush, almost garishly colorful front yard I'm seriously lacking in gardening skills. Patricia Hall of Serenata Flowers shows us how to brighten up your home with flowers. And no, they aren't the plastic ones that my grandma has in her front yard. I'm not making that up. -Christy

Flowers grow abundantly in the South, and they are expressions of love for nature’s beauty and the home. Fresh flowers from a garden or landscape are beautiful anywhere, but flower ordering makes them available for entertaining or enjoying any time of the year.

A cut bouquet brings an air of elegance and distinction to a southern home that is unequalled. A welcoming home in New Orleans, Savannah or Charleston always includes a variety of flowers in treasured vases for friends and family to enjoy. Favorites include Fuji mums, gerbera daisies and freesia to create an abundance of color that distinguishes the rooms of a gracious hostess. The bright whiteness of the freesia flower creates a distinct contrast with the colors in an arrangement. Following in the southern tradition that reflects a preference for sweetness, freesia fits beautifully as an accent in any bouquet. Hydrangeas are typically very showy plants that are remarkably beautiful in the pastel colors that complement a home’s décor.

Orchids and lilies add elegance to a room
Orchids provide gorgeous blooms in many shades that range from white to pink that extends to deep purple, breathtaking as an indoor arrangement. They are available all year round as fresh flowers, and they hold up very well for table arrangements. A few stems of lilies make an excellent accompaniment with their stately shape and appearance in a tall crystal vase. Such an arrangement on a table in the foyer welcomes friends and family with an unmistakable aura of southern hospitality.

Lilies are an especially good choice for several reasons. The long bloom time makes them a durable flower to consider for an arrangement, and the beauty and elegance they add are second only to their delightful fragrance. While lilies may cost a little more than some flowers, their extraordinary beauty and long-lasting quality make them a favorite in many homes.

A southern tradition of sweetness and beauty
A hallmark of a traditional southern home, true of New Orleans and other southern cities, is the abundant display of vibrant colors in flower bouquets. Likely coming from a tradition that encouraged the cultivation of gardens, southern families still enjoy the fragrance of flowers in the home. With so many activities available today that compete for time and attention, many families now choose a reliable service for fresh flowers delivered on a regular basis. Seasonal flower arrangements provide a delicate touch of color to any room, especially when they accent the chosen shades in the décor.

The dining room is frequently the heart of the home, and it is an ideal location for a flower bouquet set in a deep cut-glass bowl. White tapers add immensely to the elegance of the display, bringing a sense of warm and welcome to the room. Many flowers in the south exude a delicate, sweet aroma, and it is a lovely scent to have wafting around the room. Roses brim with color and aroma, and they are the classic flower to use in almost any arrangement. Small sprigs of Confederate jasmine add a light scent of the old south that is delicate and sweet.

The southern expression “beauty is as beauty does” sums up the importance of always displaying flowers in the home. They silently represent the love of beauty and the important role that it plays in the functioning of a gracious, southern home.

About the Author
Patricia Hall works part-time for an online florist in the uk and loves to surround herself with flowers at any given point of time. Even in her free time she loves to involve herself with everything flora and fauna.
'To me there is nothing more beautiful and global as the language of flowers - it is the easiest to understand all around the world in the same way. That is one reason why I truly admire flowers for what they represent in some ways - unity of all mankind!'

Exclusive Photoshoot: Blue Dream Vintage Part 2

2012-04-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

If you didn't catch the first part of this photo shoot last week you can see it here.

Inside of Revival Outpost there's a store within a store. Blue Dream Vintage complements the rest of the inventory but stands alone thanks to owner Akasha Rabut's keen eye for mint condition, one of a kind vintage clothing, accessories, and household items.

"Blue Dream is heavily curated by myself and my boyfriend Sam, who is also my business partner. Sam and I are obsessed with collecting old objects and clothing which is why we opened Blue Dream. Everything in the shop is personalized and has a story. All of our fixtures are hand made by Sam from old cypress and other trees native to New Orleans, we even hand painted our floors! All of our items are hand picked by the two of us and have been gathered from around the country. We staunchly believe in recycling the old and supporting artisans and independent designers. In addition to vintage clothing and goods we also carry cold press soap, beeswax candles, household items, plants and terrariums."

French Quarter Festival

2012-04-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

Sunglasses & dress, Buffalo Exchange
Melissa shoes, Nordstrom Rack

It's fest season y'all! What the hell does that mean? Eating your weight in fried food, humidity, throngs of people, bike rides, live music, slathering on sunscreen, day drinking, running into old friends, and having lots of fun. We went to French Quarter Festival this weekend, what did you do?

My friend Kasimu Harris of Parish Chic

How we roll. Not my bike but I wish it was.

My sweet friends Corey and Hattie Collins.

Fish tacos from G. W. Fins

A lush French Quarter balcony

Life imitates art imitates life- painter creating art via her marionette puppet

Buffalo Exchange Earth Day Dollar Sale

2012-04-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

While everyone is gearing up for festival season we can’t forget about Earth Day, an important time to make a difference with the daily choices we make. Each year, Buffalo Exchange hosts a Dollar Day Sale to help raise awareness of this important day and donate money to one of their favorite charities, The Humane Society of the United States. On Saturday, April 21 each store across the country will set up racks ou, with men’s and women’s clothing and accessories for a mere $1.00. All proceeds will go to the Humane Society, and it’s a great way to stock up your spring closet on the cheap and help the environment at the same time. Since 1997, Buffalo Exchange has raised over $345,000 for environmental causes during these Earth Day sales events.The store will be open our normal summer hours, 11:00am-8:00pm.

From the Buffalo Exchange website:

Save ocean animals while shopping for hip used clothing at a bargain. In celebration of Earth Day, Buffalo Exchange is recognizing the work of The Humane Society of the United States, the nation’s largest animal protection organization, and its international arm, Humane Society International, in helping to protect ocean animals. All proceeds from the sale of items offered for one dollar each at your local Buffalo Exchange on April 21 will go The HSUS and HSI. The oceans are home to millions of animals. From whales to polar bears, sharks to sea turtles, marine mammals to the smallest fish -- each plays a vital role in the life of the ocean. The health of ocean ecosystems is critical to each animal’s survival, and to the health of our planet. Earth Day benefits at Buffalo Exchange stores have raised over $345,000 for environmental causes since 1997.

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is the nation's largest animal protection organization -- backed by 11 million Americans, or one of every 28. Humane Society International (HSI) is the international arm of The HSUS. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty.

Southern Gent: Dressing Well With Kenny Rubenstein

2012-04-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

This post is the second in a four part series. Each Thursday in April Kenny Rubenstein, General Manager of Rubensteins, will dole out simple ways to spruce up your wardrobe. The men's only store is celebrating it's 88th year in business this month, and we couldn't be more pleased to help them celebrate. Please see the first post here.

Accessories make the look- image c/o VK Nagrani

What's a good way to update pieces that you already own to make them feel fresh?

Accessories!

Buy a new tie. I always buy two ties for each suit/sportcoat because I never know how I might feel on a certain day. Bright or dark, bold or subtle, patterned or solid. I have days where I put a suit on with the same shirt and tie and I think, “This again?" I pick out a new tie and presto! I feel reborn.

Add a colorful pocket square to your coat! This works whether you are wearing a tie with the coat or not. It adds a fresh look to what you have been seeing on yourself day after day.

Buy a new pair of Shoes. Try a shoe like the new brown suede Dacio from Donald Pliner. You may have a brown slipon, but this one is a rich suede and has a blue contrast stitch. While it isn't a bold shoe, it has a great new eye appeal that everyone will notice.

The secret to freshing up your wardrobe is to pick an item that has that little something extra. Whether it's orange trim on the pocket square, a hint of pink in the tie, or a unique texture to a shoe. Of course you could do what I do- buy a fun pair of socks from V.K. Nagrani or Overdafut. Any outfit will look fresh when you sport a new pair of colorful, patterned socks.

Slow Southern Style Contributor's Meetup

2012-04-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

Given the overwhelmingly positive response to our call for writers and photographers, we're throwing a meetup to help generate ideas for the upcoming months. If you are a first time contributor or a friend of the site, we are expanding and want to include you! Whether it's coming up with your own original content or taking a stab at our editorial calendar, anyone who's interested can attend.

What: Slow Southern Style Contributor's Meetup

Why: A general meet & greet and brainstorming session

When: Sunday, April 22nd 4:00pm

Where: RSVP for location details

Exclusive Photoshoot: Vintage Cars and Clothes from Revival Outpost

2012-04-10T07:18:00.000-05:00

Revival Outpost recently asked if I wanted them to do a special photo shoot just for Slow Southern Style. How could I say no? Joining several other secondhand, vintage, and antique shops on Magazine Street, Revival Outpost specializes in vintage and retro clothing. They also do fantastic, professional photo shoots, pulling all of their clothing from their own store. Revival has also teamed up with Blue Dream Vintage, which now functions as a store within a store. Many thanks to Christina Flannery and Akasha Rabut for supplying us with the beautiful images. Check back in next Tuesday when we share the rest!

All images taken by Akasha Rabut

Clothing from Revival Outpost and Blue Dream Vintage

Campus style, what’s yours?

2012-04-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

This post was written by Rachel Gulotta.

Can a college campus have a specific style? On campus tours prospective college girls, maybe even some guys, pay attention to the buildings, curriculum details, and members of the opposite sex. Most girls, when not comparing the cuteness level of every boy they pass to those of other schools, are actually paying attention to what the college ladies are sporting to class. Davidson College is a small liberal arts college just north of Charlotte–– by geographical definition it’s a Southern school. I expected Lilly Pulitzer, cowboy boots, lots of blond hair, and Polo. I visited the campus for the first time as a sophomore in high school. It was a beautiful summer day to see such a mesmerizing campus; I was hooked when I saw a swing hanging lightly from the branch of a water oak. The only thing I didn’t see much of that day were the students–– the campus’ personality, lifeblood, and style.

Since my freshman year I’ve developed a personal sense of style that is a resulting combination of my time spent abroad in France and my more recent addiction to fashion/food blogs. My family back home in New Iberia has owned a store since the late-nineteenth century. What was once a closet-sized shoe repair store grew into a western wear/work clothes megastore. My uncles are keeping up the family tradition, and they help to keep my boot collection interesting.

Davidson is a rigorous school and students tend to spend one too many all-nighters in the basement of our library. They emerge bleary eyed from the morning sun usually wearing the famous Nike short/white tee combo, or if it’s cold the more appropriate legging/Ugg/white tee with a vest combo. Both outfits seem to be mainstays on college campuses these days. I like to think that if you put on athletic shorts but have absolutely no thought of running, frolicking, pole vaulting, etc. then a cute dress or some jeans are a better route. Although Davidson is a Southern school, we have lots of New Englanders and Californians who like to sport some interesting outfits. The Northerners love the novelty of almost year-round hot weather, so they try to make spring and summer last as long as possible by wearing shorts. Who says you can’t change the weather with some cute gladiator sandals? The west coasters love the sun already, but what they have yet to experience are the seasons. So they get really excited for scarves and snow. I fall into the latter category (I have a not so guilty drawer filled with Roy G. Biv coordinated scarves, can’t get enough).

Rachel and her best friend, Whitney

Being one of so few from Louisiana I got to introduce all kinds of new things to this place. Mardi Gras Perlis polos, King Cakes, the concept of Mardi Gras and why it exists, Cajun expressions, alligator leather belts (Did you know that the tannery in Lafayette has a Christmas sale every year? It’s worth it!), FleurtyGirl tees that say things like, “Neutral Ground Side,” and gumbo. They love the gumbo. I’m still convincing a few friends that it’s a praline and not a pray-line. That’s what we call confession.

Davidson has been a great place for me to experiment with personal style, what works and what doesn’t. North Carolina is also an interesting mixture of beach, mountain, and city style because they have it all. Davidson is a town of around 7,000, and when the 1,800 students are around this town bustles. We have an adorable Main Street filled with restaurants, a coffee shop, multiple bike shops, a gnome museum (the guy who designed the roaming gnome is from Davidson), a boutique called Monkee’s, and an art gallery/classroom. North Carolina is filled with eco-friendly agricultural and fashion options, which means that there are plenty of local food and boutiques waiting to be discovered. Asheville is one of my favorite cities to visit for both reasons. Tupelo Honey’s biscuits are worth the two-hour drive.

The crossroads between New Iberia and Davidson is one of good times and the kind of sweet southern stillness you can find in the mountains of North Carolina or the Cajun country bayous of Southwestern Louisiana. Davidson College’s campus is filled with tulips and green worms amidst the red brick buildings and towering Corinthian columns these days. The ladies and gents who walk the halls of Chambers building everyday may not have a definitive groupthink style, but it’s a good place to let your personal flair shine or blend into the scenery as it were. If you’re a campus-dweller, do you fit in or do you stand out?