Slow Southern Style

Going to the Mardi Gras- Flamingo Style

2012-02-24T08:00:00.000-06:00

I teased y'all enough this year with my Mardi Gras Quasi DIY series, where I gave a sneak peek into the raw materials that were transformed into a hot pink, flamingo spectacle. So without further ado here's what we wore on Fat Tuesday. There are plenty more pictures on the Slow Southern Style Facebook page, click here to see the entire album! I put a ton of work and a whole lot of love into our costumes, let me know what you think in the comments section.

Don't become too entranced with my pasty white, flabby abs now.

Detail shot- I'm sure no one noticed my earrings.

Hat- Buffalo Exchange, trim from Jefferson Variety

Earrings- Buffalo Exchange

Bra- mine, all trim from Jefferson Variety except the middle medallion

Skirt- Bloomin'Deals thrift store

Opera length gloves- high school prom leftovers!

Check out those legs

Backpack- one of my essentials from this Uptown Messenger article

Hat- Buffalo Exchange, tiny top hat and bowtie handmade by me

Jacket- Funky Monkey, trim from Jefferson Variety

Wide collared shirt and tie- Buffalo Exchange

Wig- Uptown Costume

Shorts- (hideous women's pants transformed) Red, White, and Blue

Fuzzy tall slippers- Buffalo Exchange

Detail of shorts and boots

Did you go to Mardi Gras this year? What did your costume look like?

Made By Hand In Lafayette

2012-02-23T08:00:00.000-06:00

I am blessed to be surrounded by creative ladies that inspire and push me to further height,s creatively. They give me confidence to express myself with my personal style. I would like to begin to share their beauty with you and introduce you to Lafayette's style more and more over the next few months.Beauty resonates with the individual, personal truth of each of us. It's the practice of being ourselves. I came across a quote many months back that says it quite well I think.

"I wanted only to live in accord with the promptings which came from my true self. Why was that so very difficult?" -Hermann Hesse.

While this certainly says a lot for just being alive, I believe it is fitting for fashion and style as well. Of course some of us may have more trouble with embracing our individuality than others, but the freedom that comes with that, I sincerely hope to understand.

I think the expression of true style shines through your own individuality. It is how you express yourself through color, pattern, texture, accessories, and adornment. I think we all take risks just by being a little bit different. Decorate yourself with individuality and express who you are, who you want to be- without reservation or fear of judgement. Are you comfortable? That's all that matters! Find your comfort in wearing you.

ROZ is wearing a vintage coat from bayou bohemian over a borrowed dress that fits her nearly full-grown baby belly. With a beautiful necklace of her own making from her Second Line label which consists of broken cymbal pieces incorporated into each eclectic creation. You can find more about Roz and her handmade works at gyspyrig.com

Lacey is wearing an embroidered peasant top with fuchsia skinny jeans, ankle lace-up boots

and the native patterns infinity scarf handmade by bayou bohemian. Lacey is no new-bee to Slow Southern Style as she has been featured here before. You can find more on Lacey and her own handcrafted adornments at laceydu.com

You can find us all at our monthly Bayou Bazaar and at bohomercantile.com. I will tell you all about that project real soon.

See you again soon!

From one southern gal to another,

JeLlyn @bayoubohemian.com

Everything's White

2012-02-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

One of the most exciting things about Etsy is that you can find beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces which might be difficult to find otherwise. These items are much more personalized and have the potential to be heirloom items or treasured possessions. The beautiful crotched items in Joyce Florence’s etsy shop Everythingswhite fall into this category. As the name implies, almost everything in the shop is made of white thread. Joyce agreed to do an interview where she shared some more about her lovely creations with us.

Baby Girl Dress- image c/o Everything's White

Since you have been doing needlework for over 40 years, what prompted you to start your etsy shop “Everythingswhite”?

I just love to make pretty things, preferably, white lacy things. I was crocheting doilies, doll clothes, bedspreads, table runners, sweaters and scarves for me and an occasional baby set for friends at work. But, you can only make so much and then you don’t have any place to put it all. I loved making things but I didn’t necessarily have to keep them. So I thought I might try to sell them. I only knew about ebay for online selling so I asked my older sister who also does beautiful needlework if she had ever sold on ebay. She said “no” that she sold on ETSY. She got me started in 2008 but I didn’t actively “work” my shop until 2 years ago.

All the work I do, whether in my job at the Fitness Center or making things for ETSY, I feel I must glorify my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I want to convey His love to everyone I come in contact with. I try to be as patient and understanding as I can be, which can be really hard when dealing with the public. When I started my ETSY shop, I asked the Lord how I could glorify Him in this endeavor. That is why in every order I include a beautiful crocheted cross, free of charge. I hope to brighten someone’s day when they receive this little gift. In a way, I feel like I am sharing God’s love to that person.

Christening Gown- image c/o Everything's White

Where do you get the ideas for your designs?

I have to admit that I use a lot of patterns because of the time factor. I have created some items on my own or when a customer sends me a request for a custom order, but I haven’t had the time to really create a lot of my own designs. Sometimes I visualize something I would love to make but it takes a “back burner” when I have customers wanting items that I use a pattern for. I had a customer who wanted a baby diaper cover so I checked out some patterns but hated them, so I designed my own based on her requests. If that customer had not requested a diaper cover, I would probably have never thought about making one. I also worked with a customer to design a baby cocoon. She devised the filet pattern I would use and I made her a baby cocoon that came out beautifully. Fortunately, my mother gave me all her old craft and crochet books that date back to the 1940’s. I probably have over 500 books and magazines that are loaded with some of the most unique and beautiful patterns. I have just barely scratched the surface in the books I have. I look through them periodically and always find something new and different.

What are your most popular items?

I sell a lot of baby items. I love working with my customers that are having a baby or grandmothers buying for their new grand baby. They are always so happy and thrilled at the prospect of a new baby. I get caught up in their excitement. Sometimes I hate to charge them. I almost feel like I need to make them a shower gift for free. Of course that would be hard for me to do. I have items in my shop that I think are unique to me. One is my lacy crocheted baby dress made in size 30 crochet cotton thread from an old Magic Crochet magazine pattern and my winter white mohair sweater. I also do very well with christening gowns. I have sold a number of them. My most exciting sale was a crocheted skirt and top that took me 4 months to make.

White Romantic Women's Sweater- image c/o Everything's White

Do you think that living in the South has influenced your designs?

I have never really thought about this much but now that you ask this question I can see how it probably has. All of my items are very traditional. I use very simple, elegant designs in just about everything I make. When you think about lace and doilies you think about an old antebellum house with these furnishings. When I modeled my crocheted skirt and top, all my friends said that in the picture I looked like a Southern lady going to a tea party.

What are your plans for Everythingswhite in the future?

I really dream that one day I could quit my day job and do ETSY fulltime. I am hoping to at least go part time in a few years so I can devote more time to my shop. I have sold knitted and sewing items on ETSY but again the time factor stops me from doing a lot of this because I have so many requests for crocheted items. Sometimes I wish I could have more sales on ETSY. I hear some shop owners talk about having several sales a day. However, I don’t know if I could make that many items. I am a “one person show”. I make everything for my shop. I don’t employ anyone else. Right now I am pretty busy with a retail order and a couple custom orders for customers. Usually I have about 1 sale a week and that keeps me busy. I work 8 hours a day and I am usually training for some running event so I only have several hours at night to work on items for my shop. I also have the weekend, which helps me to catch up somewhat. Right now, I am training for a marathon at the end of February and I am running 9 and 10 miles every morning. Still I also love to knit and sew, and I do hope to add more of these type items to Everythingswhite one day. I also would like to open another shop on ETSY called “Everythingelse” so I can sell some items in other colors. And maybe eventually have a chain of shops with “Everythings_?___” as the title.

Thanks to Joyce for sharing with us. Definitely stop by Everythingswhite to see some more of Joyce’s beautiful crochet work.

Elizabeth McNair

A Picture A Day

2012-02-21T08:00:00.000-06:00

I've always liked the idea of taking a picture a day, but sheer laziness sets in or I can't find anything of note to visually document. On my birthday (Groundhog's Day) I started taking a picture each day. Whether it was what I wore, an "only in NOLA" moment, or just something interesting, I snapped a shot. Aside from the usual high dosage of cat portraits, follow me on Instagram at @slowsouthernstyle for the daily peek. And since we are in the heart of Carnival season I've been documenting all of the crazy that happens down here. Here are some of my favorites so far!

A favorite pair of boots, from Born

Graphic scarf from Buffalo Exchange, now in heavy wardrobe rotation

A little decoration in prep for Mardi Gras (not my house, but my fence looks similar)

Bagel sandwich from my favorite work lunch spot, Artz Bagelz

Grey corduroy bow flats from Ele on Magazine Street

Visiting a friend, she lives in this old mansion.

Love this detail work on a carrot colored favorite cardigan

Remember that one day it got cold enough for a sweater?

Meet The Staff

2012-02-20T00:26:00.000-06:00

By now you've probably noticed a few new voices on the site. Slow Southern Style brought on six great interns this past January, and it's been fun to watch them settle into their roles here. Click through the page break to meet Amber, Brandy, Elizabeth, JelLyn, Meghan, and Miranda. And don't forget to click on their names to see what they've written so far!

Meghan

I'm a Southern girl, bred and buttered. I have bounced around the region and most recently landed in lovely Louisiana. I have had an eye for fashion and a flair for the dramatic since I began putting on runway shows in my hallway at age 6. Film comes second to fashion for me, and often I find my style is influenced by what I've watched recently.

Miranda

My name is Miranda Humphrey and I am not a native to the South, but I am definitely a local with ancestral roots. In fact I wouldn't consider myself native to anywhere being that I grew up in the Air Force. I did however spend most of my youth in California and Nevada with some of my 20's living throughout the Northwest before settling in Louisiana.

My personal gumbo recipe is a deep roux of culture and anthropology, then add unconventionality, appetite, adventure, and a dash of esoteric. I'm definitely at home in New Orleans.

I don't discriminate between Earth Tones and Day-Glo, High Life's or French 75's.

I love architecture in all things; clothes, buildings, music, food, words...

Anthony Bourdain and Anna Wintour are my personal heroes.

I've come to understand New Orleans and the South, as an infinite muse as well as a pragmatist's achilles heel.

If I had to pick my last meal on Earth, it would be eggs benedict traditional, a heaping side of jumbo lump crab meat, and a giant mimosa.

My favorite patron saint is the New Orleans Saints. Who Dat!

Amber

Hi, I'm Amber!
A new homeowner and remodeler in the Garden District. A design lover and fashion style junkie. I have a love for textiles and great design..and New Orleans culture where I'm born and raised.

Here's the A to Z of everything about me!
A. Age: 26
B. Bed size: Queen
C. Chore that you hate: vaccuming the rugs
E. Essential start to your day: H2O or grapefruit juice and my blogroll
F. Favorite color: Coral
G. Gold or Silver: I’m really loving gilver
H. Height: 5’3
I. Instruments you play: I can snap my toes to the beat of anything.
J. Job title: intern, coordinator, administrator, blogger, designer
K. Kids: three... Gigi a Cairn Terrier, Marley a Pit Lab Mix, and King Louie a Great Dane mix
L. Live: New Orleans, LA - Garden District
M. Mother’s name: Brenda Ann
N. Nicknames: A Train, Toodah, Gal
O. Overnight hospital stays: yes when I was younger
P. Pet peeves: when I'm walking down the street and my purse makes my skirt or dress rise... so annoying
Q. Quote from a movie: "(whistles) Engine room! Where the hell's my drink?" Dudley Moore as Arthur
R. Right or left handed: Rightie
S. Siblings: three brothers
T. Tattoos: a Saints Fleur de Lis i got a few days after Hurricane Katrina
U. Underwear: worn most of the time
V. Vegetable you hate: Pimento ugh!
W. What makes you run late: Not looking at the clock
X. X-Rays you’ve had: teeth a bunch, arm twice, wrist twice, hand once, ankle 2 times, knee once... I hope that's all.
Y. Yummy food that you make: I cook a big pot of Chili when I go to my familys ranch in Amite. I'm also awesome at toast.
Z. Zoo animal: much rather the song but I guess da elepants axt me too. They're my fav!

JelLyn

Well hi there darlin'!

My name is Je'Llyn Morvant but many of the folks closest to me call me mama J.

I'm a homegrown southern gal born and raised in Cajun Country. I spent my 20's on the west coast in southern California where I studied fashion design, the beach, and late nights. I drove the cross country trip back to the bayou in my volkswagen van 8 months pregnant for my first, a bright, creative and motherly young lady bursting with attitude, Kaya Ruth. Though my journey in southern California may have not been complete my destiny cleared me a new path back home.

I am a wife to a wonderful young man and a mother to two beautiful, strong spirited young children. For me it is indeed truth that inspiration is a driving force. I have a passion to create. Something. Anything. Inspiration motivates my day and my decisions. Inspiration is to my spirit what air is to my lungs, what blood is to my heart. The blog world is a nouveau way for me to collect my thoughts, my inspirations and our happenings. I began my virtual existence bayoubohemian.com when my youngest, a baby boy whom we named Sage Francis, was only 6 months old or so. We lived in a much smaller space then and the opportunity to spread out my supplies to work with jewels, metal, or cloth were near null. I was yearning for an outlet. Surfing the internet was an easy, choke hazard free escape with loads of inspiration lurking behind each click. I was going deeper and deeper into the abyss of visual inspiration while reading of other mothers and creators documenting their experiences, their inspirations and telling of their passions. I one day decided to create my own 'journal'. My very own virtual place that stands as a reminder of where I have been and where I wish to go. A place that catalogs who I am today that I can reflect on tomorrow. A place that just may inspire another bohemian spirit juggling the challenges of motherhood and family while trying to nurture her own soul.

Today is a new day. I have studio space to create and I am getting lots done, of course never enough, but lots none the less. I am a professional juggler, trying to accomplish many things at once always being distracted and pulled from the task at hand. But I am happy (most of the time). I am expressing myself creatively and I am getting involved with more things that help my spirit feel accomplished and up-to-good. Conquering some of my silly fears, letting go of what others may think and truly being myself. Discovering who that is exactly more each day.

I am certainly pleased to be a part of Slow Southern Style and to introduce Lafayette to its stylish southern scene. We here Cajuns have a lot to show off. An unconventional aesthetic rich with culture and intrigue. Small town girls (and boys) with big style.

you can find me at

bayoubohemian.com

bohomercantile.com

revivaltimberworks.com

lateliernaturel.com

and on facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bayou-Bohemian/222972014405319

Brandy

I grew up in a small town in South Louisiana. I can be found in New Orleans on the weekends. I am looking forward to soon becoming a fulltime New Orleans resident. I am a student at University of Louisiana at Lafayette. I love shopping even I spend no money. I someday hope to open my own boutique. I love exploring New Orleans and finding new places to shop and eat. I am excited to begin blogging with Christy and discovering all the amazing talent around New Orleans and meeting new people.

Elizabeth

I'm a college student with a major in English and International Studies. I spent my junior year studying French abroad in Angers, France, and during that year I ate as many chocolate eclairs as possible. A few things that I enjoy doing include baking cupcakes, reading books, and taking ballroom dancing lessons. While I may not be the typical girl you might expect to be interested in fashion since my entire wardrobe fits comfortably in my tiny closet and I certainly never look like a runway model, I love the way that style is a form of personal expression. At Slow Southern Style I'm looking forward to combining my interests in fashion and writing.

Giveaway With Shabby Apple

2012-02-18T08:00:00.000-06:00

I'm very pleased to be working with Shabby Apple again, an online boutique of women's dresses. One lucky reader will win the La Noche Negra dress. With a shirt dress style bodice and full skirt, this military influenced frock combines a proper dash of masculine details while keeping a decidedly feminine silhouette.

To enter simply like Shabby Apple on Facebook and go to their website and comment here on your favorite dress on the site. Be sure to include your e-mail address in your comment. The contest ends on February 23rd so make sure you enter today!

For additional pictures click here

Simply Stunning Designs- The Name Says It All

2012-02-17T08:00:00.000-06:00

There are people who attend Mardi Gras, and others whose lives revolve around it. For Edward Cox, his career is one "glittery, sparkly lump" and he wouldn't have it any other way. Cox has been designing costumes since he was 5 years old. That's right, f-i-v-e. He claims even at such a young age, helping his mother sew he knew what he wanted to do, and he's been doing it ever since.

Archived design- image c/o Simply Stunning Designs

Just one of Edward Cox's fantastical creations- image c/o Simply Stunning Designs

Designing costumes for the Jefferson Performing Arts Society, Cox often outfits 100 children at a time for productions such as Cinderella. Of course fairy tales lend themselves to Mardi Gras creations, although there are no glass slippers here. Comfort is important, especially with custom made masks. Cox takes into account the persons facial structure, where the eye holes need to go, and will even accommodate eyeglasses. Having worked with carnival krewes and being an equity actor himself, Cox knows that mobility is important.

He also keeps his prices affordable so people can love their purchases, be proud of their one of a kind creations and simply "have a blast". He can even spruce up an inexpensive store bought costume. "No one just eats boxed mac & cheese" he states. "you have to play with it".

Senore Muerte photo © Bill Pino

Want to pick up your own stunning design? Cox is selling his creations this weekend at Kajun's Pub. Talk to the man himself, get yourself a drink at the bar, and to steal one of Cox's signature phrases "have a blast". Visit the Simply Stunning Designs Facebook page for more costume pictures.

WHEN:

Saturday February 18th & 19th

Roughly noon to 6-ish.

WHERE:

Kajun's Pub

2256 St. Claude Avenue

New Orleans, LA 70117

504-947-3735

Leopard mask and golden zebra derby combo- image c/o Simply Stunning Designs

Making Mardi Gras: A Quasi DIY Part Four

2012-02-16T08:51:00.000-06:00

Making Mardi Gras: A Quasi DIY is a four part series. Catch up and read parts one, two and three here, here, and here.

The devil is in the details, so make sure you don't miss an opportunity to accessorize accordingly. Since the husband and I are flamingos this year, we can't let any opportunities for glitz slip by. Some feathered eyelashes here, some sequined trim there, I always try to max out what we are wearing. The problem lies with time constraints. Without fail, every year I'm up to my eyeballs in bead work or sewing sequins, only to come up with more and more ideas for the perfect costume. Just when I think I'm getting close to finishing my creation, one more detail pops into my head.

Be sure to check in next Friday when all will be revealed!

black & pink feather eyelashes

handmade tiny top hat

70's collar gets a sequin trim upgrade

john waters and/or portlandia would be proud

Carnival Season Charms: Bygone Beads

2012-02-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

There’s no better way to get in the Mardi Gras spirit than by checking out some truly unique and original jewelry from a local New Orleanian! Bygone Beads has the perfect accessories to make your entire carnival krewe jealous.

Designer Eileen Bevis-Bennett crafts one of a kind, southern New Orleans nostalgic charms and Czechoslovakian glass bracelets, earrings, necklaces, rings and ornaments – a perfect gift to pickup for the Mardi Gras hostess or ya momma and dem’.

Liven up your purple, green and gold this season with some new, old pieces to add to your parade-day-duds. You won't be the first to hold on to these nostalgic charms and beads. Each piece comes attached with its own dance card explaining the story and history of its original purpose and design.

Locals may know the story of the original glass Mardi Gras beads, but here is a way you can share this tradition with your friends and family year round. You’re not gonna catch any of these one-of-a-kind charms on the neutral ground this year so check out the website and stock up!!

www.bygonebeads.com

Bygone Beads will include something extra special at purchase for all the Slow Southern Style readers when you mention the words "SOUTHERN LOVE" in the contact form. One pair of earrings from the A Piece of History Collection with each order. So definitely make it a priority to order something in time for Carnival Season!

xo,

Book to Buy: Designing in Ivory and White

2012-02-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

Photo Credit LSU Press

Are you a Bride looking for the perfect dress? How about a custom made gown that fits like a glove? After years working alongside Vera Wang, Carolina Herrera, Anna Sui, and Ralph Rucci in New York, Louisiana native Suzanne Perron returned home to New Orleans in 2005 to open her own custom design business. Specializing in once-in-a-lifetime gowns for brides, debutantes, and Mardi Gras royalty, Perron is a graduate of Louisiana State University and the Fashion Institute of Technology. She worked in the New York fashion industry for fifteen years before returning home to design under her own label.

Photo Credit: Brian Baiamonte

Designing in Ivory and White, available through LSU Press, chronicles Perron's rise to become the exquisite designer she is today. The book goes into details of Perron's methods for creating her one of a kind dresses. Including methods for creating crinolines and foundations, her techniques for draping and pattern making are on display. It is interesting to watch a sketch transform into a three-dimensional form.

The book gives beautiful full-length and detailed shots of Perron's stunning creations. Designing in Ivory and White is ready for purchase in March and who knows, maybe you'll be inspired to make your appointment with Suzanne Perron for your big day.

Photo Credit: LSU Press

Brandy Gaspard

Your Opinion Please

2012-02-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

We'd really appreciate if you take the time to fill out our survey. It just takes a few minutes but will help us immensely.

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Valentine's Day at Feet First

2012-02-10T08:00:00.001-06:00

Valentine's Day is coming up and Feet First has something for all you single gals out there. Instead of spending the evening alone, treat yourself to complimentary champagne, chocolate dipped strawberries courtesy of Lolli's Chocolates, and king cake while being surrounded by fabulous footwear. Guests will enjoy a Kay-la Handbags trunk show, and 1/2 off the 610 Stompers will be there to sell their calendars at 50% off the normal price. There will also be door prizes, a scavenger hunt, and possibly some smokin' hot special guests.

Tuesday, February 14

5pm - 9pm

4119 Magazine St.

Meghan Wright

Making Mardi Gras: A Quasi DIY Part Three

2012-02-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Making Mardi Gras: A Quasi DIY is a four part series. Catch up and read parts one and two here and here.

What separates the men from the boys on Fat Tuesday are the details. Anyone can throw on a bagged costume and say they are dressed. But you wouldn't do that, right? I'm a sucker for those important final touches, or rather a glutton for punishment. Anytime I think a costume is complete, I find one more minute embellishment that transforms it from plain to over the top. Last year, I was hand sewing tiny shells into the hairline of my husband's wig the night before. Did anyone notice? Probably not, but when you are Poseidon, King of the Sea, you can't sport a pedestrian hairdo.

This year it is all about going over the top gaudy. We've got more sequins and feathers than Liberace had piano keys. I like for our costumes to complement each other, but not mimic each other so I gave our flamingo hats their own personal touches.

The gal is on the left, the gentleman on the right. And kitty makes friends.

Ruffles add a feminine touch for her

A dapper bow tie for him

Minuscule millinery work is for the birds

Crumpled up homemade top hat pattern serves as stuffing

So how's your Mardi Gras costume progressing this year? Are you almost done or haven't even started?

Gator Heads and Oyster Shells courtesy of Half Shell Productions

2012-02-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

If you’re still looking for something to complete your Mardi Gras costume (or perhaps you haven’t even started on it yet), Halfshell Productions may have your solution. Tracy Hamlin in NOLA offers a selection of appropriately quirky Mardi Gras headdresses and bustiers. Like all good Mardi Gras costumes, Tracy’s designs feature plenty of feathers and beads as well as some more unconventional materials.

Photo courtesy of Half Shell Productions

Here’s a bit from Tracy herself about her unique offerings.

You mentioned in your Etsy shop profile that you started making headdresses for the 2011 Mardi Gras season. What prompted this?

Costuming is a New Orleans tradition. Sometimes it only takes one item: a bustier, headdress or top hat, to begin the whole look and feel of a costume. That’s how it was for me. I made a Cajun Carmen Headdress, and then a feathered bustier, to march with Mondo Kayo on Fat Tuesday of 2011. I had so much fun wearing the outfit that I wanted to offer that one piece of “the look” that fires one’s creative process.

Where does your inspiration for your designs come from?

My designs use local items like preserved alligator heads, feathers, king cake babies and nutria pelts because people in Louisiana have a connection to them. I designed and wore the nutria skirt and Gator Bustier to the Righteous Fur Fashion Show in Lafayette in October. Nutria pelts are so lovely to work with. The fur is extremely soft, and I try to incorporate it into my designs as much as possible

Photo courtesy of Half Shell Productions

You use so many different elements in your creations. How do you choose the materials for each design?

I sold a Gator Headdress to someone in Bulgaria. Through etsy.com, I have sold nationally and internationally, so obviously other cultures have connections to the designs, as well. I also like the look of layers: feathers in background and alligator heads and other items in the foreground. I do have some standard designs, but sometimes, I start with a number of items and put them together in a totally different pattern which creates a new design. At times, I have no idea how a piece is going to end up. Adding and subtracting items until it feels just right. I have to keep materials on hand so they can be incorporated into designs. That means that I have to keep collecting and upgrading the materials that I work with.

What are your plans for Halfshell Productions after the 2012 Mardis Gras season ends?

I love what I am doing right now. My 2012 plans include creating new designs, working with new materials, and going to more markets to expand my client base.

If you need still some unique Mardi Gras attire or if you’re just interested in taking a look at some of her designs, be sure to check out Tracy Hamlin at Halfshell Productions on etsy.

Photo courtesy of Half Shell Productions

Elizabeth McNair

Celebrate Black History Month at Macy's

2012-02-07T05:00:00.000-06:00

This post was written by Miranda Humphrey one of Slow Southern Style's interns. You'll get a chance to meet her in the upcoming weeks, be on the look out for her bio soon.

February is Black History Month, and Macy's is celebrating the 100th birthday of noted artist Romare Bearden with a very special art exhibition. New Orleans was the lucky city to preview the collection before anyone else. Read on to get your own sneak peek and check out the Slow Southern Style Facebook page for more pictures. Click here to see the exhibit at a Macy's near you.

Going into the Macy's Black History Month Event, I wasn't sure what to expect. I was not familiar with Romare Bearden, his foundation, or how it all tied into a major retail company. What I found on the second floor of the women's department at Lakeside Mall in Metairie, LA was quite metaphoric for me and a unique example of art without limitation.

The event is actually a tour throughout select Macy's in the USA who, for years have honored prominent African Americans during the month of February. The Romare Bearden Foundation, is the oldest nonprofit created by an African American visual artist and is dedicated to preserving and promoting Bearden, especially to new generations of artists. Both the foundation and the retailer have come together this year to celebrate the hundredth birthday of Romare Bearden (1911-1988) and to honor his talent and gift to the world.

Bearden was an artist, a writer, and a musician. He's been hailed as a visionary, a scholar, an American master. He is best known for his collages which have given him comparison to Pablo Picasso. I immediately connected with Romare Bearden because of his appreciation and expression of art in many forms, but I truly found inspiration and depth in the medium of collage. I too, appreciate all aesthetics, however I consider collages to be my talent. Most people might think of collage art as scrapbooking or something you make with dry macaroni in summer camp. When in fact, almost all fashion, cinema, and so many other projects start as a collage. What draws me towards taking raw materials and rethinking them to evoke an idea, is that it seems to be a style that creates movement, dimension, and symbolism as abstractly as possible.

One of the featured artists and who is now one of my favorites is Alabama-born, Atlanta-based, Charly Palmer; who credits Basquiat and Bearden as muses for his work. I was most drawn to his painting, "Innocence; 2010" An arrangement of true talent acrylic paintstrokes and precise object applique.

The lace detail on the sundress was like looking at a tangible textile and the lattice/damask work carried the beauty and patience of henna and chantilly throughout. All together it was such a lifelike canvas and the feminity of it was well thought and conveyed.

Until attending this highly enjoyable event that included live jazz playing Bearden's music, great wine, delicious hors d'oeuvors, I thought of collaging as a cathartic hobby. But it truly is one of the most accessible artforms for all people, of all levels of skill and this free celebration is successfully spreading that message.

pictures by Miranda Humphrey

"Innocence-Charly Palmer" courtesy of The Stella Jones Gallery, New Orleans , LA

Slow Southern Style was compensated for this post.

Trend Alert: Art Deco Jewelry

2012-02-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

Many aspects of 1920's style have been making a comeback, including Art Deco jewelry. Art Deco was a much more modern style that differentiated itself from the intricate and flowy Art Nouveau of previous decades. Inspired by the paintings of Tamara de Limpicka and the architecture of William Van Allen (who designed the Chrysler Building), the jewelry gives off a vibe of modern elegance. With new collections from Pieces, House of Harlow and Kenneth Jay Lane, Art Deco has been given a very chic twist.

Clockwise from top left:

Ring - House of Harlow

Necklace - Pieces

Earrings - Tarina Tarantino

Ring - Kenneth Jay Lane

Necklace - TopShop

Earrings - Forever 21

Cuff - Ranjana Khan

So which is your favorite piece?
Are you excited about this trend?

Meghan Wright

Paint your Town Red on National Go Red Day

2012-02-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

Slow Southern Syle is celebrating National Wear Red Day by participating in Go Red For Women.

Did you know that heart disease is the #1 killer of women? According to the American Heart Association, more women die of heart disease than all forms of cancer combined. There are 8,000,000 women in this country alone that are suffering from heart disease! The sad reality is that 90% of women have at least one risk factor for developing heart disease, yet only 1 in 6 thinks it is a threat.

By wearing red today you can help raise awareness, so find your favorite lipstick, grab your trusty ol' skirt,and paint your town red today. Since I look abysmal in any shade of crimson I asked for some help in celebrating. Why can I pull off red lips but not a red dress beats me.

JeLlyn

Amber

My favorite red outfit is my go to DVF wrap dress, perfect for almost any NOLA function. And my favorite accessory is classic red nail polish.

For information on how to stay healthy, or how to donate please visit the American Heart Association's website. So how are you celebrating today?

Making Mardi Gras: A Quasi DIY Part Two

2012-02-02T10:00:00.000-06:00

If you missed Part One check it out here.

So that sequined jacket I bought for my husband might be passable for other holidays, but for Fat Tuesday it's a downright plain piece of clothing. A good base for sure, but let's be real- the gaudier the better for Mardi Gras is my rule.

I initially wanted to hand sew feathers onto the lapel and front flap pockets, but after sanity set in I realized that a few factors were working against me.

1. If it rains, all of my handiwork is destroyed
2. Sewing feathers is about as fun as getting a root canal.

So I decided on a combination of fringe and marabou to add some over the top details. Remember it's not about having to start from scratch, just make it look like you did. First up was this great fringe that I bought. Not only is it hot pink, but there are sequins in there as well! Talk about going overboard, right?

Last year I transformed a woman's sequined blouse into a sleeveless shirt. I vowed not to run sequins through my sewing machine again this year, so my only option was to hand stitch. It's a good skill to practice anyway.

Marabou feathers stay put on a cord, just like a feather boa. It's much easier to sew through the cotton cord then hand stitch individual shafts down. While the effect is different, for my purposes this was just fine. I just needed something fluffy and fun vs. elegant. And you can't do a flamingo costume without feathers, right?

Next week: tiny top hats for plush animals

Such A Doll

2012-02-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

Do you love bold accessories? Have a love of feathers? Then I have an Etsy shop you have to check out. I had the pleasure of interviewing Jessica Reeves Tullos of Automatic Doll. Automatic Doll is an Etsy shop that sells unique hand-made accessories that are made in Lafayette, Louisiana. Jessica’s accessories are absolutely adorable and will have you feeling like a doll! Check out her interview below and then go to her Etsy shop by clicking here.

Tell us how you got into designing your unique accessories.

It all started with my desire to have beautiful accessories to wear, even though I could not afford to buy them in stores. I started making myself flower crowns resembling the ones I loved at Rouge Pony, an Etsy store owned by the beautiful and talented Karin Kirsten. When I wore them to festivals or outdoor events, people loved them. It got to the point where every time I wore any of my handmade pieces, I would find myself explaining to people that I only made it for myself and that they were not sold in stores. So, finally, I decided to create my own Etsy store.

You feature a lot of feathers in your pieces, what type of feathers do you use?

I use mainly rooster tail feathers in my neck pieces and epaulettes, but in my headdresses I use pheasant, peacock, or ostrich feathers as well. The pheasant feathers have beautiful stripes in them, and of course there is nothing as beautiful as a peacock tail feather!

What are your most popular items?

My most popular items are definitely the feather epaulettes. They are meant to be worn either as a pair, or as a single piece worn on one shoulder. They are bright, large, and have a tendency to become the focal point of any outfit. People love them because it instantly transforms the article of clothing you are wearing into a bold, and dare I say, costume piece for the everyday!

Since you are an Etsy shop and you don't mass-produce your items do you sometimes tweak the colors if the customer request certain colors?

Absolutely! The beauty of hand-making everything by myself lets me give each person who buys a piece from Automatic Doll a unique and distinct wearable work of art. Since it is Mardi Gras season right now in Louisiana, I get special requests from buyers who want feather pieces in the Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold. I love to think I was able to help some one to create her own one of a kind Mardi Gras costume!

Describe the woman that would wear your accessories.

The woman who wears Automatic Doll is an individual who likes to stand apart from everyone else in a crowd. She is bold, yet whimsical, and wants her look to make that statement. She approaches her personal style with a sense of adventure - ultimately, she is the girl who asks herself before dressing for any occasion, "What costume will I wear today?"

Since your pieces are so unique do you have any muses?

Yes, I have so many! I have always been in awe of the designs of indigenous cultures. I love the color palettes, patterns, and jewelry made by Mesoamerican, Native American, and African cultures. I love the idea of ritual and ceremonial objects. These sacred objects are aesthetically beautiful, and though the pieces I create are by no means sacred in any way, they are inspired by such objects. Also, Karin Kirsten, the designer behind Rouge Pony, is a huge inspiration to me in terms of my floral headpieces. Her work is effervescent! Lastly, but perhaps in the largest sense, my work is a product of the sort of women Tennessee Williams wrote about. They are women who are full of passion and color, beauty and spunk, innocence and rage. They are the essence of what it means to be an Automatic Doll, and I imagine many of those women would have worn such accessories.

What is your future plans for Automatic Doll?

At this time, I am in the process of making lots of pieces in order to have a portfolio to show to local boutiques and merchants in the hopes of putting my accessories into actual stores. I will be selling Automatic Doll pieces at bazaars and festivals in the upcoming months, and I am excited to see how my work is received. For now I will keep blogging and selling on Esty.

-Brandy Gaspard

All images via Automatic Doll

Menswear Made in the South: Southern Tide

2012-01-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

Love to see your southern gentlemen in fine quality apparel? Are you a man that loves the classic southern look? Southern Tide has just what you want. A rapidly growing lifestyle brand, Southern Tide's line of apparel and accessories boasts exceptional craftsmanship, clean lines, fine quality, and classic design.

Channel Marker Plaid Sport Shirt in Red paired with Southern Tide Jeans

The company was founded in 2006 by Allen Stephenson and is manufactured in South Carolina. Southern Tide is expanding their brand to include the Southern Tide Vintage Collection. The collection will include men’s jeans, chinos, and a variety of shirt styles. In addition, Nautical polo shirts and canvas belts have been added to company’s apparel line, as well as new designs and colors to existing items including the quarter zip pullover sweater, RT-7 Pants, boxers and lounge wear.

Classic Skipjack Polo in Grenadine paired with Channel Marker Flat Front Shorts in Stone, accented with the Skipjack Needlepoint Belt in Navy (Made exclusively for Southern Tide by Smathers and Branson)

Southern Tide’s Vintage Collection is made for a comfortable, worn-in, but durable look and feel. The jeans are hand-crafted to give the customers a true vintage denim look and feel making no two pair alike. These vintage-washed jeans are constructed of 100% cotton, or 99% cotton with one percent stretch. The Vintage Collection also includes chino and oxford vintage shirts that are 100% cotton and are vintage washed.

(L to R) Saltwater Fly Tee (Super Gotcha) in White, Classic Lures Tee in Black, Original Skipjack Tee in Lava Saltwater Fly Tee (Multi-Fly) in Aqua, Saltwater Fly Tee (Slinky Deceiver) in Yellow

So if you are a southern gentleman or looking to purchase something special for the southern gentleman in your life you can purchase Southern Tide products in more than 500 fine retailers in more than 42 states across the country, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, as well as on Southern Tide’s online store at southerntide.com.

-Brandy Gaspard

Ragdoll- An Adorable Time Warp

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

This post was written by Meghan Wright, one of Slow Southern Style's interns. You'll get a chance to meet her in the upcoming weeks but for now check out her fashion blog, Fashionably Meg, and be on the look out for her bio soon.

When I entered Ragdoll I felt as though I had stepped through a fabulously adorable time warp. The clothing selection is vintage inspired, the jewelry is handmade, the skin-care is organic, and there's even a great little section of actual vintage in the back. There is also a small selection of home decor, so there's definitely something for everyone. The best part, in my opinion is the selection of glamorous dresses. They have brands like Heartbreaker, Rock Steady, the Spanish label Pepa Loves and even a selection of American Apparel basics which can help you complete your retro ensemble.

Ragdoll

5235 Magazine St.

New Orleans, LA 70115

(504)304-5073

Hours:

Mon - Tue:12:00 pm-7:00 pm

Wed - Sat:11:00 am-7:00 pm

Sun:12:00 pm-5:00 pm

I just love this fun intro from their Facebook page:

“Hi. I’m RagDoll!

I am cute. I am quirky. I am adventurous.

I am inviting. I am playful. I am one-of-a-kind.

I welcome all near and far to come join me and my fashionable frocks. I’ll take you on a journey back to the good-ole-days where crocheting was the cool thing to do and black-and-whites were all you could watch on the tube.

We can dance around to some Frankie Valli tunes blaring on the jukebox while getting you all fancied up for your big date with Billy down the street.

I’ll fix you up in a one-of-a-kind ensemble, created just for your liking. Come on in and experience a truly unique boutique!”

Like what you see here? Keep up with Ragdoll on Facebook and Twitter,

or see what inspires them on Tumblr.

All photos and text (except for intro) by Meghan Wright

Making Mardi Gras: A Quasi DIY Part One

2012-01-26T00:00:00.000-06:00

Mardi Gras isn't some random Tuesday where everyone day drinks and goes to parades, although that is certainly part of it. It's an entire Carnival season, steeped in revelry and traditions, some going back hundreds of years.

I'm on the hunt for costume pieces year 'round. If I see something with potential I buy it, even if I don't have anything specific in mind. This year I bought a flamingo hat during the summer, and while I was shopping for our Halloween costumes I found the sequined tux blazer for him. It's all very serendipitous, which makes for the best costumes I think.

Flamingo hat, beaded jacket, oversize hoop earrings, men's sequined tuxedo jacket

Everything in the above image looks finished and ready to go right? Nope, not by a long shot. I never buy something off the rack and just wear it out- that's a big no no in our house. While most sane folks wouldn't even wear a sequined jacket on a dare, I see a plain tux just begging to be embellished.

Pants from Red White & Blue. Feathers, fringe, and flamingos from Jefferson Variety

Follow my adventures in craftiness this Carnival season with needle, thread, feathers, and more sequins than legally allowed each Thursday as I share the process of transforming raw materials to Fat Tuesday worthy garments. Trust me, there is a method behind this madness.

Molly Stackhouse- 100% Made in NOLA

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

This post was written by Brandy Gaspard, one of Slow Southern Style's interns. You'll get a chance to meet her in the upcoming weeks but for now check out her blog, Rambling Brandy, and be on the look out for her bio soon.

“Having a tag in your garment that says Made in New Orleans is a big deal.”- Molly Stackhouse

Photo by Jason Kruppa

I had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Molly Stackhouse, the designer and mastermind behind MESDRESS. Stackhouse started MESDRESS as an Etsy shop that made custom clothes for her clients, and has since expanded and is available in boutiques in the New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas.

Molly has a love for New Orleans and is proud to say that her line is 100% made in the city that inspires her, in fact everything is produced locally and the fabrics are also from Louisiana. While this drives up the cost of each garment Stackhouse believes that it is important to keep things local. She loves contrast and geometric shapes, a strong theme in her spring collection. For the fall expect metallics and spaced aged looking garments, which Stackhouse hopes to have in even more stores soon.

MESDRESS can be found in Angelique (New Orleans), The Mix (Mandeville), Fleurt (Covington) and NK Boutique (Baton Rouge). You can also see her collection at Fashion Week NOLA this spring.

Photo by Jason Kruppa

Brandy Gaspard

What I Wore: A Trip to the Zoo

2012-01-24T06:00:00.000-06:00

This post was written by JeLlyn Morvant, one of Slow Southern Style's interns. You'll get a chance to meet her in the upcoming weeks but for now check out her blog, Bayou Bohemian, and be on the look out for her bio soon.

Hello from Lafayette! A New Orleans neighbor. A short drive across Lake Pontchartrain, across the Mississippi River, on the other side of the Atchafalaya Basin and a small town rich with culture welcomes you. Rather you are in The Big Easy or Cajun Country one things the same our southern locale temperature fluctuates regularly, even drastically. As all of us southern belles know well it can approach freezing one day and reach comfortable ideal temperatures before that week ends. This past weekend was one of those ideal weather days. We spent a beautiful Saturday morning at the zoo and this is what we wore.

< papa >

cream linen pants from Banana Republic

thrifted embroidered ethnic cotton tunic

< mama >

thrifted vintage denim shirt

black dress and black leggings from Target

grey suede fringed ankle moccasins by Minnetonka

Essie russian roulette red nail polish from Target

< baby >

thrifted overalls

pearl snap plaid long sleeve from Goodwill

thrifted brown suede shoes

denim news boy cap from Target

I seriously enjoy and sincerely recommend a good thrift store, previously owned, or vintage find. There is something so rewarding about scoring a great find at an incredible, sometimes unrealistic price. Even better when you unveil a find that is vintage and clearly from another era. Having a variety of new and old in your closet and adding vintage pieces to an outfit can allow for an individual statement that sets your look apart from ordinary with a splash of unconventional.

from one southern gal to another,

JeLlyn @bayoubohemian.com

Guest Post: Cavortress

2012-01-20T10:00:00.000-06:00

I'm out at sea this week, so while I'm cruisin' around Mexico I've got several lovely ladies taking the blogging reins for me. Let them know how much you like their posts by leaving words of wisdom in the comments. See y'all when I get back and sadly no, my pasty white self won't be bringing back a tan.

My name is Julie Wheat and I am the owner, founder, and designer at Cavortress that was recently featured in Slow Southern Style’s last guest post, by Katie Kozar Thompson featuring a wedding dress I that designed and created for her. When Christy offered to have me do a guest post for January, I was totally excited to share more about Cavortress with SSS readers. In fact, Mrs. Kozar Thompson’s dress was our first ( and pssst….we want another bride but we can only handle one a year!).

Cavortress is a Charleston, SC based company known for designing swim and resort wear known for offering ‘conspicuous classics perfect for fun the in the sun’. This is our first year manufacturing our products that will be available at Hampden Clothing, which has been named by both Town & Country and Coastal Living as one of the top shopping destinations in the South. Cavortress can also be found at the well known Southern chain Monkee’s , and on our website www.shop.cavortress.com and at Austin’s SXSW event in March. Our swim and resort wear features prints that I designed and fabric and hardware imported from Italy. Not to mention, and all of our products are made in the United States. Cavortress swim and resort designs are inspired by the number of requests we received from or vintage clothing clients over the years for vintage swimwear.

Excerpt from Cavortress vintage campaign ‘Sugar and Spice’ featured at 2011 SXSW’s STYLE X event. Photoraphy: Cyle Suesz.

More than a decade later, Cavortress vintage has expanded to sell clothing to a number of private clients including Charleston Magazine’s Style Director and brains behind Charleston Fashion Week, Ayoka Lucas; runway coach and former model (for Armani, Vivienne Westwood, and Clairol) Michelle Wood who was

recently seen on MTV’s True Life, as well as a number of radio and television personalities and musicians including second time Grammy nominee Spencer Chamberlain of Tampa’s Underoath and his girlfriend for their attendance at the 2010 Grammy Awards.

Our vintage fashions are also available at a number of independent boutiques in the South (including House of Sage and Rogue Wave Surfshop) throughout the South where we carefully curate monthly ‘mini-collections’ based on the boutique’s clientele. The Cavortress ‘Great American Vintage Collection’ will be
shown at SXSW’s second STYLE X event in Austin, TX March 15 and 16 along side of our swim and resort collection. Shoppers can expect to find hand knits, silks, woven wools, cottons, plaids, leathers, as well as strong American brands like DKNY, Pendleton, and Levi’s, including some that don’t exist anymore like Campus Casuals, I. Magnin, and Bleeker Street. Fashions featured in the Cavortress ‘Great American Vintage Collection’ have been plucked from thrift shops, auctions, and private collections across the country from Sioux City to Palm Beach, Honolulu to Salt Lake, Huntsville to Galveston, and San Francisco to Buffalo. This year vintage jewelry will be included. The 2012 advertising campaign for the ‘Great American Vintage Collection’ is being photographed this month with Tout Talent’s Madeline Cimone.

In addition to designing swim/resort wear and placing vintage fashions, I most recently worked with TBA Productions and Seamless Pictures on the full length feature horror film, III, as a producer, wardrobe designer/supervisor , and as the effects assistant. Principal filming wrapped in December and the movie is currently in post production. The III team is excited about entertaining purchase offers from a number of studios and distributors. Being new to the film industry, it was thrilling to read a script, meet the actors, and make decisions about how to curate the character looks, not to mention figuring out how to
manufacture practical effects for an impalement, human gutting, and amputation. III unearthed totally new applications of my talents that I look forward to using again soon!

Cavortress working on special effects for Robert Dough, lead actor in III who will also appear in HBO’s East Bound and Down this February.

It has been fabulous to grow as a part of the Southern fashion community in a number of capacities and Cavortress is excited about the future. We hope to meet y’all soon!

Cavortress and quality control manager/husband at Bonnaroo 2011.

-Julie