Monday, January 18, 2016

Looking back, then forward.

I have so enjoyed reading people's recaps and seeing all the things they have made this year, I'm giving it a go!
 The most recent of my maxi dress makes. Made in January 2015. I LOVE this dress and it is on rotation with the others this summer.
 Third time lucky, I made these shades for over our kitchen counter and I love them.
 Paisley knit dress. I've come to realise it is just way too big and will have a crack at fixing this before winter.
 Merino colour block dress. A far better fit this one - it's a 24 not a 30!
 Tiered skirt based upon a pair of recycled denims
 Mrs Santa - another costume that needs sorting - too big, too swampy, it moves really badly. But a bit of tweaking and tucking and it will be lush!
 Apart from the need to wear different accessories, the only thing left is to upgrade the hem frill to a larger one
Lastly, the reborn Peacock outfit. Pared down!

Picture me, if you wish, on Sunday afternoon, modelling a MINI dress, at least 3 inches above my KNEES. It is strapless, black, with a high waist line. I was given this dress and put it on to get agreement from our dinner guests and David that it was a terrible look. But they loved it! I looked hot! 
I am learning that I am only as big as I am. Not bigger. I can wear things that I gave up trying 30 years ago, in some contexts. I suit simpler, more pared back shapes and silhouettes. I need to stop swamping myself in fabric. It doesn't suit me! Who knew!
So, 2016 is the Year of Tailoring and Streamlining. wish me luck!

16 comments:

  1. Oh, I wish you luck! How refreshing to see yourself anew. And exciting! I enjoyed this look through all the wonderful things you have made and played with during 2015. I look forward to 2016.

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    1. It really is amazing Melanie - I've always vowed not to get stuck in a style rut but I was, am. I do interesting things but within an unconscious comfort zone. It's great to bust out of it. What starts as a signature look becomes a habit I guess. We Live and Learn!

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  2. You are gorgeous, graceful, stylish. I can't wait to see the new looks!

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  3. Applause to you for moving from the fabric swamp to more shape showing. I think it will look wonderful, you shape shifter!

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  4. Beautiful makes.. and I love the kitchen shades, I think i missed that post..
    You are fantastic..

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    1. Thank you Judy. I made two other sets first that got "fired" - but I did recycle the rings. These ones are bigger again and the fabric was so expensive, I am hugely relieved they worked out.

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  5. Dear Mrs. C.,
    You bet you can wear lovely short dresses...and hope you make some with fun fabric: your choices are always interesting. There's a Facebook post going around about a fellow Lexingtonian, Molly Galbraith, and what she said about how she is! Look her up on Facebook and you'll see. It's a refreshing attitude. Hugs, Natalie

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    1. I will look up Molly, thanks. Short dresses only for stage as they require pantihose, which I consider to be an abomination! But that's OK!

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    2. Oh I know who she is, what a gal! So inspiring!

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  6. You look great, don't hide away. Tailoring and streamlining sound brilliant. I absolutely love your maxi dress in the first photo and your peacock refashion. Looking forward to seeing what you make in 2016. Xx

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  7. Look at you, exploring new things and rockin them hard! I'm looking forward to what's to come this year as you explore your curvy shape some more. :)

    Still ABSOLUTELY in love with that red dress with the stunning little jacket!

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  8. You made such lovely things this year Mrs C, I am always in awe of you and I can't wait to see your "new" style this year :)

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