Erica B.'s - D.I.Y. Style!

What I'm Wearing | Red with Neutral & Gold!

2012-02-22T22:45:00.000-06:00

If you can't tell, I've REALLY enjoyed my red and pink pants. And their starting to show it some. I'm already planning a new red and pink pair for spring and summer.

I'm thinking the next pairs will probably be straight-legged and slightly cropped. I want the option of wearing flats and heels with them.

I love a little bit of daytime sparkle! My choice of a neutral shoe!

Wearing: Military jacket: McCall's 5190; pants: Vogue 1039; pumps: gold glitter Steve Madden 'Unityy'.

Review: Vogue 8797 | Hi-Low Hem Shirtdress

2012-02-21T17:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Shrove Tuesday!

This is the first pattern I've sewn from the new Vogue Patterns spring collection. It's 8797.

The description states: Loose-fitting top or dress has collar, yokes, back pleats, back longer than front and narrow hem. A: stitched hem on sleeves. B: sleeves with seam opening, pleats and button cuffs. Semi-fitted, tapered pants have waistband and side zipper. Purchased belt.

I cut the size 16 and used a crepe de chine-like fabric. I bought it a while ago from Jo-Anns and I'm pretty sure it's a poly print. But I love the explosion of colors and the weight and drape of the fabric. Look at how it flows. It's very fluid and it'll be perfect for those mild spring days.

I wanted the back hem to have a slight bit of drama to it, so I extended the "low" hem by 3 inches.

And I also changed the buttonhole orientation from horizontal to vertical. I looked at shirtdresses on sites such as Net-A-Porter.com and studied the buttonholes on similar dresses they had available and the ALL had vertical buttonholes. I also decided to ask Mr. Google. In my research, I found that the reason that this pattern had horizontal buttonholes was (1) because it does not have a placket; and (2) because horizontal buttonholes stay buttoned more securely. But when deciding whether to place buttonholes horizontally or vertically, it's determined both by function and fashion. I choose "fashion". I thought the original design caused the shirtdress to look dated and not in a cool vintage-y sort of way.

I also added a double yoke to the back and finished off my seams with the serger.

I really like this pattern and the "hi-low" hemline is so on trend. I would LOVE to make one of these in several colors for spring. Who knows... if I get time, I may make this one in another color!

Inspired by Pinterest: Yellow + Black leather leggings!

2012-02-20T22:00:00.000-06:00

Whenever you fall into a wardrobe slump, Pinterest is definitely the place to go to find that much needed inspiration. Last week, I was feeling really drained and just didn't have the energy to even think about taking a photo or blogging. But I'm always online and checking out Pinterest.

Pinterest via Chictopia.com

While browsing, I repinned the above. It's really a simple outfit and I knew I had all of the components to make it happen.

It started out really chilly today and I was prepared to go head first on this look with a knit beret and coat. But the mercury rose so quickly that I ditched the hat and coat and was damn near ready to peel off the leggings!

So I guess you can say my look is a "modified" version! And I added wedges instead of pumps. I had a lot of walking to do today and I was also pushing Isabella around, so I needed more stable footwear.

Wearing: J. Crew sweater; bag: Urban Expressions; leggings: McCall's 6404; Steve Madden Wedges.

Sidenote: I'm currently cutting out pieces for Spring. When the mercury sticks, I want to be ready!

NEW Shoe additions!

2012-02-14T14:30:00.000-06:00

Zara | "I Basic Sandal" - $50

When I first saw this sandal, it was love at first sight! It also comes in black, but I couldn't resist the orange.

Zara | "Combined Sandal" - $90

I love the black/turquoise/metallic combination. This shoe will take a simple black or white ensemble to the next level.

Now, if only spring will come!

What I'm Wearing | Baby, it's cold outside: Cape + Cargos!

2012-02-11T23:30:00.000-06:00

The crazy weather went from allowing me to be bare-legged, to putting back on the outerwear and over-the-knee boots. It was cold, windy and 35 degrees today!

My husband is always such a trooper when it comes to being my great photographer. He stood in the cold and wind, taking pictures of me! He's such a great guy!

This cape has become one of my favorite outerwear pieces this season. If I must wear a coat, I'd rather grab this!

Wearing: cape: Vogue 2924; black cashmere turtleneck; purple pashmina scarf; pants: Banana Republic skinny cargos; boots: Circa Joan & David; bag: Urban Expressions

R.I.P Whitney...

What I'm Wearing | Ivory + Sparkle + Shine

2012-02-11T12:15:00.000-06:00

Last night was Date Night: Cocktails while watching the Lakers vs. Knicks! Go Jeremy Lin! And we saw "Safe House". Great movie with plenty of action from beginning to end. I highly recommend it! Denzel Washington and Ryan Reynolds were excellent!

The temp starting dropping last night and it was windy, cold and misty by the time the night was over. Seems as if everytime I wear these pants, it begins to rain. Jinx! And today it's freezing, so I have to pull a dreaded coat out of the closet.

If you've noticed, I take "Date Night" pretty serious. It's that special time that my husband and I carve out for ourselves so that we can just be "us". And I dress for the occasion. If we were still in the dating stage of our relationship, I would have gotten all dolled-up to go out with my boyfriend. So why not do that for my husband?! And he does the same for me. I think when you stop putting forth effort, that's when marriages go down hill. After 20 years, we have to keep it fresh and fun!

Wearing: blazer: Vogue 8333; top: sequined pullover (old) from Know Style; pants: Vogue 1059; shoes: calf-hair leopard slingbacks: last seen here; green clutch is same as here.

What I'm Wearing | Pink + White + Blue

2012-02-09T11:00:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, it was a bit breezy but nice enough to be outside sans coat.

I had a lot of errands to run so I wanted to be cool and comfortable.

Am I the only one that notices how high the temperature is set in department stores?! That's truly not conducive to me shopping. It makes me want to get what I need and get out as quickly as possible. Maybe if it were more comfortable and I didn't feel like I was melting, I'd probably browse a lot longer. You hear that retailers: cool it off!

Wearing: top: Burda 7368 white linen tunic; pants: Vogue 1264 pink ciggies; scarf: Jason Wu for Target: clutch: Urban Expressions; wedges: Lotus Boutique.

Review: Vogue 8631 + Jason Wu for Target

2012-02-05T22:45:00.000-06:00

So as busy as life has been lately, I ALWAYS make time to sew something! I needed a quick fix and this pattern had been in my "to-sew" stack for a while. So I got going on it.

I cut view A. As many other reviewers have stated, this patterns run BIG! Like seriously huge! I would normally cut a size 16 in a jersey dress like this, especially since it has pleats and pockets. I like to insure that everything lays properly. But this time, I cut the 14. And I still could have cut a 12 on top. I had to nip and tuck at the bodice. And a FBA definitely was not necessary.

When I measured from the waist to the hem, I was good with the length out of the envelope. So I didn't have to make any lengthening alterations. I skipped all of the bias binding. I can't figure out why all of that was needed. I used a 5/8" hem allowance and kept it moving.

I used this satiny jersey fabric I found at Hancock. I feel in love with the bright neon yellow color and thought it would be perfect for spring. I thought the poly-jersey would be a nightmare to work with, but it wasn't . I had not problem sewing it with my ballpoint needle. And it pressed fine. Disclaimer: My iron will beat any fabric into submission!

If it weren't for the fact that I bought 11 patterns from the new Vogues that were just released, I'd might consider sewing this one again. But alas, there are only so many sewing hours in a day!

I also made my way to Target this morning for the Jason Wu for Target sale and scored this really cute black trench coat for $55.

Just like when the Missoni for Target was released, again I heard about chaos ensuing with shoppers and resellers in the stores. Well, we Southerners are truly lady-like and laid back. Because when I went to Target at 9 am (an hour after the store opened), there were less than 10 people in the sportswear department. And there was definitely no foolishness. I bought the trench, a scarf and a clutch purse (I'll show you those later). I looked at the dresses and skirts. They were too "cutsie" for me and definitely too short.

Shoes: Steve Madden; clutch: Street Level from Lotus Boutique

Congrats to the Super Bowl Champions New York Giants!

What I'm Wearing: Yellow + Turquoise!

2012-01-31T23:30:00.000-06:00

I use to be so afraid of color. My entire wardrobe consisted of black, grey and white/ivory. I even wore French tip nails for YEARS because I wouldn't dare wear "color" on my hands. It feels good to step outside of my comfort zone.

Today was a very full day. I had so much today. This picture was taken around 7 pm. I love the fact that these pants held up all day without showing a lot of wrinkles from sitting and driving.

I'm loving bright color blocking. I'm so glad that this trend is carrying over into spring. Had it not, I'd be doing it anyway. It just makes sense! These colors of bright yellow and turquoise/peacock blue make me feel as though I'm willing spring to arrive as soon as possible.

I added other bright colors too with an orange studded bracelet and Peony pink polish.

Since I represented so much color with my clothing and accessories, I decided to go with a "nude" shoe.

Wearing: sweater: J. Crew; belt: Anne Klein; pants: Vogue 8774; shoes: Steve Madden

What I'm Wearing | Cardi wrap + Maxi

2012-01-28T19:45:00.000-06:00

Today was a beautiful sunny, crisp day! This is what I wore to hang out and run errands with the family.

This cardi wrap is Simplicity 2603. It's been a favorite of mine since I made it in Fall 2010. The fabric is a Sonia Rykiel sweater knit that came with a hefty price tag. Considering it doesn't have a single pill on it and I wash and dry it on the regular, it was a worthy investment.

The bracelet is from Aldo Shoes; "I'm Fly" ring from Melody Ehsani Jewelry: belt from The Limited; nail color is Parisian Beauty Brights in "Poppy" from Belk.

Dress, Arden B.; boots, BCBG; hat, Lands' End.

Vogue Patterns - Spring 2012 Collection

2012-01-26T14:27:00.000-06:00

New VOGUES!

1280 - Donna Karan Collection

I love the shape of this dress and the straps are just visually interesting.

1282 - Donna Karan Collection

These separate hold many possibilities for me. This will probably be the first pattern I'll buy and make from this collection.

1285 - Tracy Reese

I love Tracy Reese! And this is a great dress that can go from regular everyday to the office.

1286 - Tracy Reese

I love this dress. I would probably make this in a sturdy ponte knit. And mine would be knee-length. If I'm showing that amount of skin on top, it needs to be in a "modest" length.

1287 - DKNY

This is a really cute dress that can be made in silk crepe or lightweight jersey. If I made it in the silk, I'd make the slip. If I used jersey, I doubt I'd need it.

1288 - Badgley Mischka Platinum

I love this! Depending on the fabric, this dress can go from cocktails to the beach!

1289 - Pamella Roland

If I need a cocktail dress for spring/summer, this one will be it! Just gorgeous!

1291 - Today's Fit by Sandra Betzina

Just a cute and flowy top to have.

1296 - Bellville Sassoon

There is just something so dramatic about this jacket that I love. I'd want to make it in white as well.

8791 - I love the uneven hem. I think I'd like the sleeveless version.

8797 - This really has the potential to be a great shirt dress. I would make it in a trendy spring bright color and exaggerate the "high-low" hemline by making the back a little longer.

Do you guys like any of the new collection?

What I'm Wearing | White after Labor Day!

2012-01-25T17:15:00.000-06:00

"No white jeans after Labor Day? Who are you, my grandmother? I'll wear white jeans whenever I want!" (That Tide commercial cracks me up!)

ESPECIALLY when it's 75 degrees in the middle of January!

I always talk about the crazy weather we have here often. Because from day-to-day, you never know what you're going to get. Just like it was in the mid-70s today, it can rain tomorrow and the temp can drop to 30 degrees. Then we could have snow the next day.

I was raised to abide by the fashion rule of "No white after Labor Day" and not until Memorial Day. In my opinion, it's no longer a faux pas, especially when you live in a warmer climate. It just makes sense to dress for the weather and not the season.

I'm actually looking forward to a few more weeks of real winter weather. I still have a coat I want to make!

Wearing: shirt: Butterick 5526; jeans: NYDJ in 'Optic'; shoes: blue suede ankle strap wedges from Lotus Boutique; bag: old and silver accessories.

Inspired by Pinterest: Primary colors!

2012-01-24T18:00:00.000-06:00

When I saw this look on Tumblr, I knew I had all of the components (except the cute striped clutch) in my closet. So I pinned it as a reminder.

Pinterest via STYLE EST ÉTERNEL

It was chilly this morning and 70 degrees by this afternoon. Perfect outfit for layering.

Jacket: Vogue 8480 (I changed the covered buttons to gold buttons).

What I'm Wearing | Tweed + Crocheted Lace

2012-01-21T00:00:00.000-06:00

This is another Date Night look! We went to see Red Tails and it was EXCELLENT! I highly recommend it!

It was rainy today, so it created a warm and humid night. I wanted to look winter-appropriate but cool at the same time. So I pulled out one of my all time favorite projects: my crocheted lace dress**. This dress is 6 1/2 years old and I project it like an heirloom! It's great and it will flow right into this Spring's "romantic" trend.

**~~I'm not sure if this pattern can be found since it's so old.~~ Here is the link to the pattern: Lily M. Chin Lace Dress. And no, I didn't line it, I'm wearing a slip underneath.

I topped it off with my tweed back bustle riding jacket that was inspired by Alexander McQueen Pre-Fall 2009 collection.

The back of this jacket has always been my favorite aspect. It's a great "walk away" look.

Wearing: jacket: Vogue 8679; Dress: hand crocheted lace dress; boots: Sam Edelman; bag: Urban Outfitters; belt: no name (old).

What I'm Wearing | Denim on denim + tweed

2012-01-18T22:00:00.000-06:00

Today, it was pretty chilly. It was in the mid to high 40s, but that's chilly for the Deep South. But I'm afflicted by a condition that leaves me with the inability to drive in a coat. So if I'm just going somewhere that I can park and dash in, a blazer it is! One of the benefits of living in a driving city.

Have I told you guys how much I love me some Isabella! She is such a joy. I get to keep her most of the day on Mondays and Wednesdays. And I plan on spoiling her rotten. She's "Mimi's pretty girl"! As soon as she gets a little bigger, I'm going to make her a pretty little dress. Probably around Easter.

I've been loving the denim on denim trend since the beginning of Fall. I feel as long as the pieces are different shades, it's trendy and not a fashion faux pas.

And since I needed a jacket, I decided to top the look off with my tweed jacket.

The back of this jacket has always been my favorite detail.

Bracelets: ASOS.com and Target. Rings: Forever 21 and Silver Lining Boutique

Wearing the "Viola" nail polish from the Parisian Polish collection. Such a great shade of blue.

Wearing: Jacket: Vogue 8601; shirt: DKNY; jeans: Jalie 2908; boots: Lauren Ralph Lauren; bag: Urban Outfitters; belt: Michael Kors.

Review: McCall's 6436 | Button front shirt

2012-01-17T06:15:00.000-06:00

Date Night Look!

This is McCall's 6436, view D. The description says: Loose fitting, front and back darts and front band. View D: Collar, collar band and pleated two piece sleeve.

The most awesome thing about this pattern is that it's sized based on bra cup size. I used the size 14 and the D cup. Ladies, you know what that means, don't you? No FBAs! And it has horizontal bust darts that I prefer.

I didn't have to lengthen because I made this shirt with the intention of wearing it tucked with this high-waist skirt. And when I wear it with pants, it'll be untucked. I found this fabric at Hancock. It's a pink and black gingham shantung. It's a poly, but I think it's great. I'm not even a pink kinda girl, but this fabric called out to me.

And I also found the sleeves to be the right length even though I'm wearing them rolled up. Notice that I used a black silk dupioni for the cuffs. This was unintentional. I didn't buy enough fabric to allow for matching the pattern and ran out. When I returned to the store, of course it was no where to be found. There was no way I was scrapping this project, so I just went with black. It was a "Tim Gunn/Make it work!" moment. I didn't use the instructions at all, so I can't tell you anything about them. I've made quite a few button front shirts, so I just went for it.

Wearing: skirt: ASOS; shoes: Steve Madden; bag: Urban Expressions; Belt: Calvin Klein (old); Cape: Vogue 2924

Spring 2012 Beauty Products | Gorgeous!

2012-01-15T00:00:00.000-06:00

And that's how Belk describes beauty for spring.

Here are some of the great products that the cosmetics experts at Belk have selected (and were gifted to those of us attending their Spring presentation):

StriVectin-EV™ Get Even Brightening Serum- StriVectin-EV™ bring a highly potent, quick

absorbing all-over face serum for mild to moderate age spots, sun spots and dark spots, it

brightens dull skin tones and visibly diminishes spots for clearer, brighter, younger-looking skin.

Non-comedogenic and paraben-free. 1.7 oz., $89.00

Clarins NEW Extra-Firming Day Cream- Clarins revolutionizes the face of firming with

lifted, toned skin in just 4 weeks. This revolutionary anti-aging treatment, with powerful plant

extracts, rebuilds the bonds between collagen, elastin and cells- strengthening skin's architecture

to firm and tone on every level. 1.7 oz., $80.00. Available in March.

Estée Lauder ANR 30 Year Anniversary Bottle- The revolutionary repair serum inspired by

groundbreaking DNA research in a limited-edition 30th Anniversary bottle. Use this age-defying

serum every day and help continuously repair the appearance of past damage caused by every

major environmental assault. Exclusive Chronolux™ Technology synchronizes to skin's needs

to help support the optimal performance of its natural repair and protective processes. Now see

younger, healthier looking skin today and tomorrow. 1.0 oz., $52.00; 1.7 oz., $80.00

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Premiere Intense Moisture and Renewal Activation Cream

SPF 30- This rich, replenishing day cream provides intense moisture as it renews and helps

protect from future aging signs. It immediately comforts, deeply nourishes, activates cell

metabolism and protein generation while protecting from sun damage. It is clinically proven to

provide intense hydration and optimize surface cell turnover to improve the appearance of age

spots, discolorations and overall radiance using our patented retinyl complex. It also strengthens,

firms and retexturizes skin and provides key nutrients to fortify thin, fragile skin. 1.7 oz., $92.00

Biltmore Bath and Body 20 percent Shea Hand Cream - A super-emollient hand cream

consisting of 20 percent Shea Butter, sunflower seed oil, and sweet almond oil is blended with a

faint but alluring hint of vanilla. Dense and pleasing, this cream absorbs easily, is non-greasy, and

helps to heal and protect dry or dehydrated skin. This formula rejuvenates even the roughest

hands to a soft and smooth finish and is paraben and fragrance free. 1.0 oz., $8.00

Clinique Moisture Surge Intense Skin Fortifying Hydrator - This rich cream-gel moisturizer

quickly delivers maximum hydration to dry, delicate skin and is oil free and non-acnegenic,

which makes it suitable for all skin types. Barrier repair technology leaves skin comfortable and

plumped 8, 12 and even 24 hours after application. Used over time skin will feel suppler, be less

reactive and it will look younger. The product has amazing texture and delivers instant hydration

when applied. 1.0 oz., $36.00

Lancôme Absolue Precious Cells Eye Creme-This cream brings the ultimate in skincare that

addresses UV and lifestyle damage. It helps restore density, reduce wrinkles and regenerates

radiance in the eye area. 0.5 oz., $108.00

“Big Pony” by Ralph Lauren- “Big Pony” rides onto the scene in four amazing scents. All

four colorful fragrances are bright, playful and energizing, and set upon a floral backdrop, yet

each expresses a clear point of view. Based on a duo of ingredients, each fragrance pops with a

unique accent of Citrus, Fruit, Green or Oriental to establish a clear identity with a distinctive

twist.

#1 The Sporty Fragrance. Catch her if you can. This Floral Citrus scent features

Grapefruit & Blue Lotus for a vibrant, energetic fragrance that evokes confidence and energy while awakening the senses. Confident and fearless, the sporty woman is a natural

born leader and ready to take on the world.

#2 The Sensual Fragrance. A Floriental Fruity with the key ingredients of Cranberry &

Tonka Mousse, this fragrance is for an alluring flirt with a romantic spirit. Playful and

irresistible, this modern woman follows her heart…and she just might break yours.

#3 The Free-Spirited Fragrance. Eccentric, rebellious and independent, this Floral Green

fragrance highlights Pear & Mimosa. The crisp, bright scent represents ultimate optimism

and natural feminine radiance for a woman who dances to the beat of her own drum.

#4 The Stylish Fragrance. Edgy and refined, with a flair for the exotic, this Oriental Floral

contains key ingredients of Wild Cherry & Purple Amber. Designed for the stylish woman,

that catches the eye and imagination of anyone who crosses her path.

1.0 oz., $40.00; 1.7 oz., $55.00; 3.4 oz., $70.00; 4.2 oz., $23.00

Parisian Beauty Brights 5 Piece Nail Polish Set- Vibrant, trendy, and fun! This collection of

must-have brights features a salon quality formula that is always in style. This polish provides

flawless coverage, shine and durability. For best results, apply a base coat before applying color

and a quality top coat for a nice finish. Comes in the colors: Zinnia, Daffodil, Poppy, Viola,

Peony. Set, $20.00

Benefit Hervana Powder- Seeking a flush of enlightenment? Swirl on hervana… our “good

karma” face powder! Four complementary shades—lucky shell, divine peach, heavenly rose & berry

delight—blend together perfectly for an orchid blossom blush. What goes around comes around!

0.28 oz., $28.00

I'm going to try all of these products out and I'll be letting you know what works for me and which ones didn't.

What I'm Wearing: Red, yellow and a touch of leopard print!

2012-01-13T09:00:00.000-06:00

I'm still in love with color blocking and I can't see that love affair waning anytime soon. I plan to carry it right over into spring!

My red pants have become one of my most favorite clothing items this season. I make it a priority to wear them at least once a week.

Sam Edelman pumps last seen here.

And you know I'm completely obsessed with all things leopard. It's an illness that I'm not seeking recovery.

Do you all remember this jacket? It's McCall's 6207. I usually wear it with jeans, but this time I decided to pair it with these pants. I hate driving in a coat and this blazer was perfect to layer over a sweater without being cumbersome.

Belk | Bright Now!

2012-01-13T00:30:00.000-06:00

On yesterday, I attended Belk's Spring 2012 Fashion Tour with VP Trend Merchandising & Fashion Director Arlene Goldstein. It was so much fun and extremely informative. You guys know I live for fashion and trends and to not only read about, but to have someone take you by the hand and tell you what's hot was pretty great.

Belk breaks their trends down by style statements. It's a lot of fun and I want to give great examples because this has me really hyped about the upcoming season... so I plan to do these in a series of posts. So I'll start by giving you a quick summary:

American Originals

A timeless nod to the classics, this trend is built on simple sportswear elements with authentic nuances that reflect a chic, modern vibe.

Shape Shift

Streamlined and architectural, Shape Shift, the next statement, offers maximum style with minimal effort. Asymmetry, strong angular sleeve treatments, obtuse layering and stand collars are just a few of the dynamic details that define Shape Shift.

So Pretty

Next, from romantic, soft hues to lingerie affects and garden florals, it’s bloomin’ beautiful and Belk is calling it, “So Pretty.” Look for handcrafted touches, tonal embroideries, corsage embellishments—ruffles and pleats add the perfect touch to this romantic spirit. Lace, the ultimate in fem fabrics, continues to increase its approval rating.

70’s Glam

Yves Saint Laurent continues to leave his footprint on the face of fashion. 70’s Glam, the last style statement, is a living testament to the designer’s legacy. The world was his catwalk, his runway. Daring color, modern safari and Boho chic describe this elegant trend. From safari influences and highly sophisticated materials to maxi lengths and wide legs, this decade is bursting with inspiration

In the next days, I'll go more into detail about these trends. They are pretty awesome... no matter if you plan to buy RTW or sew them up yourself.

What I Wore: Black, white & the unexpected shoe

2012-01-12T14:15:00.000-06:00

Today, I had an event to attend and this is what I wore. The event (which I'll blog about later) was about Spring Fashion.

Even though it was pretty chilly (and the temp is currently dropping), I wanted to be warm and fashionable.

And to show my anticipation and excitement regarding the new season, I added my pop of color with an "unexpected shoe"!

Wearing: dress, Simplicity 2054; coat, McCall's 5766; shoes, blue suede ankle strap wedges from Lotus Boutique

First post of Twenty-twelve...

2012-01-07T19:00:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year...

even though we're a week into it!

The first project I had to get under my belt was something that I've been wanting to make for a couple of seasons now -- a faux fur leopard coat.

I've been seeing leopard (and the others) everywhere. I devoted a Pin board to my obsession. And I've been dying for a coat.

So I finally got around to making one.

I used Vogue 1128, a coat from Anne Klein. Here is the description of the pattern: loose-fitting, lined coat A with collar, dropped shoulders, welt pockets, back has yoke, pleats and tucks, below elbow length sleeves and button closing.

The pattern had very simple lines -- what one would look for when using faux fur. I found the fabric at Jo-Anns. It's listed as "cheetah" when it's in fact a leopard print.

I used a bright pink lining and I didn't have to make any alterations to the pattern. It sewed perfectly right out of the envelope. I softly tailored this project by block fusing the fabric. I used a size 14 needle and had absolutely no trouble sewing or cutting the fabric.

You can't tell from the printed fabric, but the coat has pleats on each side of the back. I thought that was a cute design detail. And it would really show on a solid color. I never thought I would like a drop shoulder style, but I really like this coat. It has a very retro-vibe going on!

I'm wearing a black cashmere turtleneck, McCall's 6404 black skinny pants, assorted jewelry (Marc by Marc Jacobs earrings, bracelets from Forever 21, Target, ASOS).

And black suede Steve Madden Lennaa pumps.

And to leave you with a pic of what's been occupying my time...

I'd like to introduce you to my beautiful new 2 week old granddaughter Isabella. She's the brand new light of my life!

What I'm Wearing | Last minute Christmas Shopping!

2011-12-22T21:30:00.000-06:00

Today I wanted to get to the mall and get in those last few gifts. I live pretty close to the mall and I *thought* that since the weather was pretty bad and being that it was a Thursday morning that the crowds wouldn't be too bad. Yep, I was wrong. Parking was atrocious and the lines were ridiculous. I guess everyone had the same idea.

I was feeling pretty festive and decided to wear my red pants. I wore them with my black turtleneck, black leather moto jacket, black tights and black suede wedges. And I've really been enjoying my new bag from Urban Expressions. I'm not vegan, but the bag is. I love the Chanel-esque styling. I was in TJ Maxx and it just happened to jump off the rack at me. I'm more inclined to carry a black bag on a daily basis, so I figured it may as well be this cute one.

I still have one or two things I may buy, but I knocked out pretty much everything that was on my list. That's an accomplishment for me being that I still have Friday and Saturday shopping opportunities! Go me!

Cheetah vs. Leopard: Can you tell the difference?

2011-12-20T13:15:00.000-06:00

I use to think Cheetah and Leopard were interchangeable terms as it pertained to animal print -- even though I am intelligent enough to realize that they are two different animals. What lead me to this post is that I started noticing the differences in the prints while searching for fabric. And also noticing how people look at the same print and one refers to it as "cheetah" while the other says "leopard".

Since animal print is trending hard and heavy this season, I thought it would be good to really take a close look at how they differ.

Cheetah

Cheetah spots are fairly round/oval shaped and black and they sit on a tan or orangy background.

Leopard

Leopard spots are actually clusters of black and brown spots that look like roses and are referred to as "rosettes".

I found that once I really paid attention to the details that it was really easy to tell the difference. Simple enough, right?

I know that was almost too easy, so here's one that will probably really throw you.

Jaguar

The jaguar print looks a lot like the leopard print, they are also rosettes. But there is one subtle difference: they have black spots inside them.

I hope you find this helpful and now you won't be making the same fashion faux pas that I have!

What I'm Wearing | Bright Blue Coat + Fur Scarf

2011-12-18T19:15:00.000-06:00

Today I decided to embrace the fur scarf trend. My fur "scarf" is real blue fox. It's vintage. It was originally owned by my grandmother and it was the collar on a mink stole. I didn't like the stole so I removed the collar.

I've had it for years and I've been keeping it with the intention of adding it to a coat. I just haven't found a pattern that I wanted to use. So in the interim, I'm wearing it as a scarf.

I'm wearing it with my Vogue 8548 bright blue coat. There is just something about this coat that makes me feel cheerful when I wear it.

I've had this coat for over 3 years. One of the biggest "I-could-kick-myself" qualms I have with it is -- NO POCKETS! There are no pockets drafted in the pattern and I didn't add them. What was I thinking?! How can you have a coat without pockets? I love the style of this coat and I've been thinking about making another one in white. And if I do, I can assure you that I will find a way to add some pockets.

Another thing that's "vintage" are these boots. They're Enzo Angiolini's that I've had for around 15 or 16 years. As you can see I take really GOOD care of my footwear... shoes are investments. I don't think I've ever worn out a pair of shoes or boots. They get regular visits to the "shoe doctor" for minor repairs as needed.

I'm also wearing my McCall's 6404 leggings, a black sweater and a Nine West crossbody faux snakeskin bag.

Review: Vogue 8776 | Camel Cape

2011-12-17T13:30:00.000-06:00

I have been lusting for some camel-colored outerwear since last year. I've had this piece of fabric in my stash since Summer 2010!

I first fell in love with this cape design when it came down the Giambattista Valli Fall 2010 runway. And then I saw it worn by Fatima Siad in an editorial in the July 2010 issue of Marie Claire. I immediately ripped out the page and pinned it to my corkboard to occasionally daydream about and drool over!

Not to mention her hair is extraordinarily amazing!

And the black version was also worn by Victoria Beckham.

Vogue 8776 is not a perfect knock-off, but it really does a great job of capturing the silhouette of the original.

I used 100% wool melton coating and the cape is left unlined. There are 3 length options and I used version B. I cut the size large. I probably could have done the medium, but I wanted to make sure I'd be able to raise my arms with the unique "sleeves". There were no fit issues for me, so this baby sewed perfectly straight out of the envelope. Anytime I can do that, that's "Grade A+" pattern for me!

I really, really wanted a similar look to the original, so instead of buttons I used covered snaps.** I've been looking at other garments with covered snaps and apparently I didn't follow the rule on which side the male and female parts should go on. Oh well, what's done is done. I'll know next time.

**Note: If you decided to eliminate buttons as I did, you have to make sure to skip instructions 3, 9, 16, etc... Basically any where near the center front where you see the 2 small circles where you're instructed to reinforce and clip. These create inseam buttonholes.

The Vogue cape has inseam pockets. I wish the pattern had made provisions for a wide welt pocket like the original. And why are the pockets on these pattern never deep enough? You need room to shove your gloves in!

Here's the back...

and how it looks open.

And the gratuitous shoe shot!

These are Sam Edelman 'Lyla' Pumps. I bought them from my favorite local shoe boutique Gus Mayer.