MeadowTree Perspectives

Then & Now-My Printed ASOS Vest

When I find a garment I really like, it stays in my closet for a long time. The creative in me, likes to view these much-liked pieces with a fresh perspective each season and find different ways to style them.

Today’s example is the ASOS long vest that I bought last summer. This vest can be a strong three-season player, but here I’ll show how I wear it during the warm months.

What has stayed the same?

The black column (black top and pants) has stayed the same. However, the two pieces that make up the black column have changed dramatically. Last summer’s column was a tee-shirt and my Mango tapered pants, a not very polished look in my opinion.

This year, the black column is sleeker and more sophisticated. I went with a sleeveless top because I feel a bit better about how my arms look. (Some light weight exercising since February is finally paying off).

The fun change for me in the Now pic is the black loose leggings. During spring, I made these from 100% bamboo knit. With an elastic waist, they are so comfy. I think they look fantastic with any number of looks (see May 4th).

I used Vogue 1440, a Donna Karan pattern that is no longer in print, although it can still be found on ETSY and eBay. Loose leggings are such an easy beginner-sewing project. What I like about this style is how they fall around the ankles. It’s such a great look, especially with heels.

The Ever Changing Accessories

Last summer, I went with beaded jewelry for a Boho vibe. This summer, I used a textured silver/blue necklace and earring set that I’ve had for years. The silver cuff and my Cheryl Eve Acosta Mer de Verre ring just fell into place. I also added cinch belt that I found at Target last month. Last winter, I started doing a low impact muscle toning exercise and have wittled about 1 1/2″ off my waist and feel like wearing belts again.

Shoes and Bag

Every summer, I usually try to pick up a new pair of sandals. This year it was Franco Sarto’s Natalie’s from DSW which are blue suede espadrilles. I was determined to style them with this vest and think they were one of my major inspirations towards going blue.

The bag is still Eric Javit’s, this time my much worn blue Squishee with brown reptile embossed trim. You just can’t beat the look of his bags for summer. They are just summer perfect in my book.

I have two different looks with two very different vibes, one Boho and one decidedly more modern. Last year I worked with the black in the pattern and this year the color navy.

Then or Now: which do you prefer? I have to say I really like the navy Now. Next year? Hmmm….that light dusty blue color looks interesting to create around.

19055341_10154822045763160_2370921148585833605_o — Out and about with friends.

I was a bit surprised to only find three longer vests online:

LCTDJR2_mu — Neman Marcus Last Call-$59-neat graphic here and would go with so much

192927884 — Vince Camuto-Amazon $11.45-$58 (depends on the color)-this reminds me of wearing a tablecloth-but you know what, I almost did that one time!

canvas — Lord & Taylor-$54.50 (sizes 14 & 16 only)

Links to Things and Places Mentioned Today

Vogue 1440 on ETSY (multi sized 8-14)

Nataly by Franco Sarto (DSW)

Merona Cinch belt-Target

Eric Javet bags on eBay

Cheryl Eve Acosta Mer de Verre ring

I sure had a good time sharing with you how I take one piece and restyle it to make it new and different with passing seasons. I leave you with a challenge to go to your closet and re-look at something you haven’t worn for a while and just try something different with it. I guarantee it will be fun!

That wraps it up for today. I love hearing from readers. Please let me know if you would like more Now and Then posts.

Thank you for stopping by. Take care……..

Remember, you can still link up to June’s 2nd Loved 1st Friday until the next 1st Friday in July. It would be great to tell us what you have used that is “not new but new to you such as things from thrift shops or on-line consignment shops, etc. So if you have found that second hand gem, get it on, snap a picture, post on social media and linkup HERE.

The blogger feature is going to change a bit. I will create a collage of some of my favorite posts from the link up and will have it on the July Linkup.

I also link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Husband Michael gets credit for the blog fashion photos today (he likes last year’s photo better!)

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One Hard Working Top

My official photographer (aka Michael the Hubby) is up in Canada fishing this week with our nephews. With my in-house photographer not at home, I went on my own expedition and went photo hunting in my files for today’s post.

Fortunately, May and June have been busy months and we took quite a few pictures. I found three photos taken at different places but they have a running theme, my Peek-A-Boo top from Covered Perfectly. Without a doubt, during the past month, this has been a hard working top.

Style #1-High School Graduation Reception

I wore this outfit to the high school graduation reception for our nephew’s son in May. The bottom flair of my Peek-A-Boo top inspired me to add a belt and create a small peplum.After this decision, I tried it over a dress; an idea which was inspired by Sacramento of the blog Mis Papelicos. She is such a creative with her style and has such a genius combining the unexpected.

This sleeveless sundress has been in my closet for close to seventeen years. I loved the pattern mix but never felt it paid my body any complements and I guess you could term it one of those bad buys. It has been in and out of the Goodwill donation bag so many times but in the end I couldn’t part with that pattern combination. Finally, I decided to cut the bodice off and turn it into a maxi skirt. In May, I was finally inspired to cut and restyle but, as mentioned earlier, I was inspired by Mis Papelicos and plopped my top over the dress.

I looked in the mirror and saw that the curves of the necklines matched and loved it! How could I cut? The two pieces were made for each other.

The reception was on a fairly cool day (70F) and I don’t think I would wear this for the summer because of the heat. But it was a nice surprise that I could finally wear my old dress. What do you think? Have you ever started in one direction and ended up another for the better.

overdress — **Belt-Chico’s (old), Black peep-toed heeled Espadrilles-Moda from DSW (old), Rodo vintage straw clutch-eBay, Necklace-Sydney Ross, Sunglasses-Marc Jacobs from The RealReal**

Style #2-Birthday Dinner for Our Youngest Daughter

On May 28th, our baby turned 36. We took Rachelle and her husband Lark out to eat at Elsa’s Ethiopian Restaurant located in downtown Overland Park. The whole family loves Ethiopian cuisine and if you live in the Kansas City metro area, I recommend this wonderful little restaurant.

I enjoy big abstract prints for summer. When I spyed these cotton Piqué pants at Goodwill last summer, I knew they would be fun to wear. Again, the bottom flair of my top came into play. I feel it balances out the curved pattern of the pants. The whole look has this emphasis on curves and flow and I like that.

Look at the yarn bombing! I have a Pinterest board dedicated to yarn bomb installations but this was the first time I had seen one in person. I was thrilled and made Michael take a picture of me with those colorful trees.

RachellesBday — Beaded sandals-Kelsi Dagger (old), non-leather bag-vintage Rodo (eBay), white cuff watch-Target (old)

Style #3-First Friday and the Opening of April Madden’s New Studio

On June’s First Friday, Rachelle and I were busy hopping around from Kansas City’s West Bottoms District to the Crossroad Arts District. When I was thinking about what to wear, I wondered if the flair of the Peek-A-Boo would go with some of my favorite new white jeans. Earlier this spring, I mentioned that I had started wearing some wider flairs to mix up my pant selection. These thrifted Ann Taylor’s are my latest addition.

I was afraid that the Peek-A-Boo’s bottom flair would be just to much with the wider pants. But, I felt good about what I saw in the mirror and went with it. I do wonder if this would work for someone a bit shorter. At 5′ 5 1/2″, I think I’m just average height but I had on 2″ heeled sandals that gave me a bit more stature and my black straw Stetson Stratoliner lengthened my line even more.

I added a scarf for my hat band because Stetsons don’t come with butterfly printed chiffon hat bands. My Dad always had a Stetson and it occurred to me while I was working on this post, I may have picked up his love for them because this is my second one. Dad has been gone for quite a few years, and it’s pretty cool that this post runs on Father’s Day because when I wear one of my Stetsons, I think of him a little bit.

Wrapping up the style session, the bottom flair of this top had to be considered for everything I wore. This is the only top I have that has this type of line and I enjoyed playing around on what it could do. Hanging loose, the flair top can camouflage the tummy or that bulge I sometime get with lower cut waists. What do you think about flaired tops and do you own any?

AprilsMaddenStudio — Black heeled multi strapped sandals-Nine=West (old), Yves St. Laurent Downtown bag (Yoogi’s Closet)

Covered Perfectly

I have to admit that until Covered Perfectly contacted me, I had never heard of them but appreciate what they are doing. Their tops are made in the USA and I have been trying to buy more products made at home. Craftsmanship and over all quality of Covered Perfectly is top notch; another important point in my style book. These tops won’t fall apart after two washings.

Does Covered Perfectly have trendy cutting edge designs? I would say no although the Peek-A-Boo is close. But many times I go for simpler pieces and let my accessories do the talking to tell my style story.

Getting a Deal on Covered Perfectly

I am an affiliate so when you use my sale code MTS20, you get a 20% discount. But, honestly, I think the buy two and get one free is a better deal. The trick is to find two other girl friends to make an order with and divide the total by three. That makes it a really good deal.

Being an affiliate means that I get a small commission when you get purchase something from a link on my blog. This is one way I can make a little money to help run my blog. If you don’t care for what they have, that’s fine. If you do buy something, thank you. I appreciate it.

Links For the Blog Today

April Madden Studio

Covered Perfectly

Elsa’s Ethiopian Restaurant

Kelsi Dagger Brooklyn

Mis Papilicos

Nine West Sandal Sale

Rodo Bags-eBay listings

Stetson

Cydney Ross

The RealReal (sunglasses)

Yoogi’s Closet

That wraps it up for today. Thank you for stopping by to read what I have been up to and please come back next week. Leave a comment because I like to hear from all of you. Take care……..

The blogger feature is going to change a bit. I will create a collage of some of my favorite posts from the link up and will have it on the July Linkup.

I also link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

My Grandson William gets credit for the blog fashion photos today.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

A Dahl of a Wrap

Earlier this spring, I featured my very versatile Shawl Dawl. It’s fun coming up with different ways to style it. For spring it was more of a dramatic style statement. For summer, it’s going to have more of a utilitarian function: just a simple wrap.

June nights are cooler here in Missouri. Its handy to have something to throw on. Even in the heat of the summer, our cinemas and restaurants think they need to keep us so cold I sometimes feel icicles forming on my nose! The Shawl Dawl will come in handy.

The summer version is the same garment; it just looks a lot shorter. There is a trick to putting it on this way and I have some “how to” photos at the end.

SpringSummer — Drama versus just pratical simplicity

My style today is very simple, just a white top and jeans. OK, the jeans are just a tad distressed. I found these at Goodwill and quite honestly, I would have only tried this style with a minimum outlay of cash. Distressed jeans are probably on one of those lists of things classically aged women shouldn’t wear (who makes these lists-some of them are laughable). But I love these jeans! They look like I wore them to teach art for every jean Friday during the past twenty years. I think these jeans look pretty cool and they fit my personality and it’s a good hunch they will pop up again before summer is done.

My accessories are white. I love white for the summer and always have since I can remember. I don’t really care if white is in or out as far as a trend. For me, white is clean, refreshing and means hello warm weather. There is more of a challenge to keep it clean. When out on white my rule is, “Wearing white drink white”.

Opening — Note worty accessories: my Rebecca Minkoff laser cut MAC bag was the first RM I ever bought. My feet are enjoying a pair of Clarks Artesian sandals and my necklace which is cubes of semi precious stones was stung by me. Are there any other stringers out there?

streetcarfinal — And the white knit top? It’s been hanging around for a while. Here it is last summer.

How To Make the Long Shawl Dawl Into a Short Wrap

Grab the bottom of the arm holes and make them the top. Slip your arms through the armholes. It’s that simple.

Just a little bit of adjusting on the shoulders…….

And you have your wrap.

Sophia and I relaxing and enjoying the fresh air. Sometimes she is camera shy but Jay Jay, as usual has managed to sneak into the photo! Can you find him?

When we got back to the house, Sophia settled into her favorite chair which is my chair. I guess we share the chair.

I am not affiliated with Shawl Dawl but just think they are pretty nifty to style. Here is the LINK to their online site for all the syles they offer and I will add that they are made in the USA.

That wraps it up for this style adventure. So adieu until the next time …….

Happy Styling!

The blogger feature is going to change a bit. I will create a collage of some of my favorite posts from the link up and will have it on the July Linkup.

I also link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

My Grandson William gets credit for the blog fashion photos today.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Loving My Red Paisley-2nd Loved 1st Friday #3

This 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday Linkup is all about Paisley. Yes, Paisley, the classic pattern that can be preppy, bohemian, exotic, and can harken back to the hippy dippy 60’s.

I love paisley, not the red bandana kind, but the rich exotic patterns. Luckily I have managed to find three pieces this year on my thrifting excursions and, better yet, they have been red.

Look #1 (below) features a red paisley Casual Corner skirt with a back crossover shirred top (Style & Co) along with a nifty red necklace. The black straw handbag dates from the early 1980’s. I’ve kept it all this time because it is well made from Italy. Plus it just has a fun shape.

Black shoes would have been the sensible answer here. But it seems I’ve had something black on my feet often lately. So I decided to go with red textured flats (Enzo Angiolini). Everything in Look #1 was thrifted with the exception of the red necklace, which I won at an Urban Suburban (fund raiser for The Epsten Art Gallery) silent auction.

Last week, Jodie of Jodie’s Sense of Style had a few posts about what we wear when we travel. Inspired by Jodie, Look #2 (below) is my perfect road trip look; pants, easygoing top, and one big bag!

I spied these Ralph Lauren pants while I was in the check out line at the Joplin Goodwill and just reached over and grabbed them! I just kept the faith they were going to fit. The red silk scarf (also from Joplin Goodwill) has actually been on vacation with me and was in a post last summer about my road trip capsule wardrobe.

The chain belt from The Limited has been hanging around my closet for years. I recall spending weeks on eBay waiting for the right one to appear and this one was the winner. I’m back in the market for a silver one and have a few saved from Poshmark, The RealReal, and eBay. The sandals, Coach bucket bag, and Merona top were all bought new.

Back in ’83, I thought I looked so cool wearing these sunnies!

Ready for more red? This spring, red was big on the runway (see the pic at the end). I don’t mind a bit of red. Probably I’ll forego the “all-in” red look. I think a bit can spice up a wardrobe and my current obsession with red paisley makes my point.

Red is coming whether we are ready for it or not! Vogue couldn’t wait until fall and already has a red layout in their June, 2017 issue. What do you think? Are you going for red-maybe just a little?

01_sfilata_fw17 — Photo sourced from Max Mara-Runway show Fall ’17

2nd Loved 1st Friday Blogger Spotlight

This Weeks spotlight is on Maggie of Thrift Shop Fashionista. Maggie is the thrifter’s thrifter. I am estimating that about 90% of Maggie’s styles are thrifted. I first discovered her on Instagram and only then found her blog. I’ll even do a little PR for her in letting you know she also runs The Plum Shoppe on eBay for some of her great finds.

And It’s Time For This Month’s 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup!

Any post on a blog, Instagram, Facebook or the like can linkup to this style celebration. If you can copy and paste the URL in the Linky box, you are good to go!

If you do not have a whole 2nd Loved outfit for the linkup, even just one item is quite OK—a hat, skirt, pants, shoes, purse, or a piece of jewelry. That item (or items) can be from a thrift shop, eBay, consignment shop, vintage boutique, one of the online consignment shops such as RealReal–or even something a friend gave you because they didn’t want it anymore.

When you do post, I would appreciate a description about your 2nd Loved item (or items), what type of shop you found it and what drew you to it. Tell as much or as little as you want.

If you have never participated in a linkup before, no fear. Go to Linkup 101 guide that is found on my 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday linkup page (also found at the top in the tab section).

The party starts today and stays open for the whole month. You can add as many links as you want and they can be from Instagram, Facebook or your blog. Hop around to see what other participants are up to. It makes for more fun! If you have any questions about the linkup, ask away.

So without further ado, let’s get this party started!

Just click the frog below to link up and join the fun!

And have a great week and I will see you again with my usual Sunday post.

Until next time, Happy Styling!

Michael gets credit as the photographer for today’s post with the exception of the photo from the Max Mara

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My Sew Sew Life-The Timeless Flattering Draped Neckline/Simplicity 1716

One of my favorite neckline styles has always been draped. Draped necklines can take on so many different vibes, from casual, romantic, classic day wear, and just down right sexy.

The irony is that I’ve never worn one. Two weeks ago, I fixed that problem and made a draped top for myself. Finally, I got one of my Craftsy sewing kits that I had for two years out of a drawer and got to work (one Craftsy kit done-two to go).

My version takes the casual avenue. This is a navy and grey stripped medium weight cotton knit which drapes wonderfully. The top also has shirring at the lower sides which is created by stretching elastic as it is sewn in. This shirring seems to balance the neckline drape. However, the shirring is not necessary if you wanted a more straight line.

For this top, I put together two looks. Look #1 is very casual with grey skinny skinny Madewell jeans (eBay) and my boring but handy navy Keds. My bag for this look is really black and beige, but I really like it with this top and jeans….no logical reason, just do.

Look #2 below: The Fedora is a cheap Mudd that I picked up at Kohls. I’m not crazy about its quality but hey, it was only $6. Do you see the real wild carnivore lurking on the right?

I’ve worn these wide-legged White House/Black Market thrifted pants often this spring. They are wide-legged and long. Heels look great with wide legs, so I am just fine with that! Has anyone else been enamored with wider legs lately? I had forgotten how elegant even jeans can be in this style. They just look more dressy and cool in my book.

I don’t have any grey summer mules, sandals or whatever, so I went for neutrals. The open toed booties have been on here before and I picked them up on clearance in Joplin at Sophie. They come with a story. When I bought them, of course, I had to show my daughter, Michelle, whose reaction was, “I almost bought them last week, but didn’t.” My kid and I sometimes have incredibly similar tastes. Now she is going to borrow them from me (she has already told me the time & occasion) rather than visa versa!

The bag is one of my vintage Rodos. It has a chain if I want it. I carry this one a lot in the summer.

Hat2 — Standing in front of my long neglected flower garden, I am really trying to turn over a new leaf and work in it a bit every day. That grass by my feet is gone! The petunias already in mid summer’s bloom were over-wintered by Michael under basement shop lights.

A close up of the lower side shirring.

The Craftsy sewing kit came with Simplicity 1716 which is still available and has so many options.

I went on a bit of window shopping for this one and came up with three of my favorite draped neckline looks. First up is the Sylvia from Covered Perfectly which is the perfect four season top.

cpt0040-wine-jennifer — Covered Perfectly

I love the drape and color of this summer top.

Rachel Roy’s digital print is so versatile.

Even the goddess Athena knew the importance of having a draped neckline in a lady’s closet.

drapedCollage — **Athena surrounded by draped necklines from the decades. I especially love the bottom left because it was for hand knitters in the early 60’s.**

2nd Loved 1st Friday Style Feature

This week, for my blogger feature, I am being the proud Mom. I am featuring daughter Michelle. She linked up a style in which not only did she make the jacket from thrifted fabric but also used a thrifted pattern. Michelle is the one who opened my eyes with the possibilities of thrift shops. I did some thrifting before, but just in Florida when I visited my sister. Only until I saw the cool things Michelle was doing with her finds, did I make thrifting an important component of my fashion philosophy.

That wraps it up for this style adventure. So adieu until the next time …….

Happy Styling!

Remember, you can still link up to May’s 2nd Loved 1st Friday until the next 1st Friday in June. It would be great to tell us what you have used that is “not new but new to you such as things from thrift shops or on-line consignment shops, etc. So if you have found that second hand gem, get it on, snap a picture, post on social media and linkup HERE

I also link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Michael gets credit for the blog fashion photos today.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Going Up◊Coming Down

I really do look forward to summer with its greenery and blue skies. But I also know, that I will sure miss my black leggings. Leggings have been a boon to my closet, adding versatility for so many things. A good example of this is my Simply Vera shift dress that I picked up at Kohls on sale during March. With a little initiative on my part, I have a dress that becomes a tunic with leggings but can quickly change into a dress for summer.

I like wearing dresses as much as the next but we had a pretty cold March. My bare legs wanted leggings. But my dress seemed too long. So out came the thread and needle and up went the hem–about four inches. At times like this, knowing the simple slip stitch is very handy. Because of that, I got to wear my Simply Vera on some pretty chilly days.

For the colder legging look, I personally pretty much wear black flats (this time around by Michael Kors). A dress this graphic doesn’t need much as far as jewelry so I usually wear my Cydney Ross Sticks and Stones necklace. This blue suede bag by Kelsi Dagger is one of my favorite totes. It holds tons and I love all those metallic studs!

But now that it’s warmed up, I let the hem down and pair it with some sandals and a straw bag and I have a late spring/early summer dress.

A summer essential for me, the black straw bag is an Eric Javit’s Squishee Clip Handbag. Nine West came out with this sandal design years ago, Raffy. At the time, they were pretty cutting edge, now pretty mainstream, but still a favorite for me–I have two colors.

Such a perfect dress for a retired art teacher, I think. The main attraction for me with this shift were the vibrant colors used in an abstract expressionist design. A few other details I like: the V notches on the sleeve backs, the sheer binding around the neck, and actual pockets (pretty rare these days).

I had polish to match! This is Zoya’s Saint from their 2016 Holiday collection. Although it’s hard to tell here, Saint is a beautiful periwinkle blue holographic with a magenta shift. And Cheryl Eve Acosta’s ring just glows with this dress and polish! The understated Cydney Ross Sticks and Stones necklace seems just right.

Getting Back to That Hem

I’ve said a few times that it doesn’t hurt to have some hand sewing skills and the Slip Stitch is about the best one I know. I found a good technique video from Crafty and am including the link just below. You will have to go off blog to see it (WordPress doesn’t let me to upload videos). It also covers the Blind Hem Stitch, which I have never done. Mom didn’t do it, didn’t teach me it, and I just never thought about it. But after watching these instructions, I am going to try it out next time I need a hem. So it’s true when they say you are never too old to learn something new!

2nd Loved 1st Friday Style Feature

Jessica linked up this month with something that struck a chord with me. She purchased her clutch from Poshmark. I get a large majority of my handbags this way too. If there wan’t a second hand market I wouldn’t have designers like Eric Davits, Anthony Luciano or YSL. It might just be a lot of fun to go to Postmark, type in your favorite designer or favorite sale of bag and see what pops up.

Links To Places and Designers Mentioned in This Article

Cheryl Eve Acosta

Cydney Ross

Craftsy

Elegantly Dress and Stylish

Poshmark

Simply Vera by Vera Wang (for Kohls)

Zoya’s Saint

That wraps it up for this style adventure. So adieu until the next time …….

Happy Styling!

I also link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Michael gets credit for the blog fashion photos today.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Covered Perfectly With the Perfect Top

Everyone needs at least one perfect black top; a top that will go from work to play. Even though I am retired, I am busier than ever and love a piece that can take me to a variety of meetings and functions. The Peek-A-Boo by Covered Perfectly fits the bill.

Pauline Durban founded Covered Perfectly four years ago out of shopping frustration. At 57, she just couldn’t find tops that flattered her shape. Today she has a successful company that designs for classically aged ladies in sizes S-1X. Did you know that women between the ages of 45-65 spend the most money of any age group on fashion and style?

It’s hard not to love these glorious sleeves. With so much focus being on sleeves and arms this year, they are right on trend. Plus for me, The Peek-A-Boo’s neckline is not too high or low. I’m a bit tired of necklines being so low, but that is not a problem with this top.

I like the length and bottom flair of the Peek-A-Boo. It ends where my hips end and legs begin and in my book that is a perfectly flattering length. As far as the bottom flair, I don’t have any other top that does this and it did inspire some of my styling.

Covered Perfectly tops are made out of MicroModal, an extremely soft fabric that feels great against my skin. Over the years, my skin has dried out a bit and I appreciate the fact that Pauline addressed that problem with her fabric choice.

Remember when I said, this top could take me anywhere? Well, that became quite a nice problem when I styled it. Which way to go? In the beginning I had four definite ideas which would have been approaching visual overload (and asking a bit much from my hubby/photographer), so I cut it down to just 2 1/2. But believe me when I say there are plenty more ideas floating around in my head. So be warned, this top will pop up here again! So let’s get this styling journey started……….

This top is perfect with jeans. I added neutral accessories and a longer pendant necklace. This is a casual look that could go comfortably shopping, to a movie, or gallery hopping on a Friday night.

Below is my 1/2 styling. I kept everything but added some slightly distressed pair of jeans and topped it off with one of my favorite summer fedoras.

hat — some extras-jeans by Almost Famous (thrifted) and fedora by Steve Madden

I think the Peek-A-Boo’s flared bottom edge plays great against a pencil skirt and you can’t go wrong with your basic black and white combo for this easy day look. Just a pop of color makes it sing. Blue was my choice today but coral would look great too. I think so many colors would look great against this skirt and top. I added a chiffon type chevron printed scarf for extra interest, using it as a necklace by tying it into a Celtic heart knot.

This is a more polished day look. I styled this to wear to a woman’s networking luncheon later this month.

pencilskirt1 — Some extras: Bag by Coach,sandals by Tod’s and skirt by Alice Hope NYC (thrifted)

Quite Honestly Now

This top was sent to me by Covered Perfectly to see how I liked it and to give an honest review. When I received the initial email, I just didn’t say yes but researched every review I could find and read up about the company. Honestly, I liked what I saw and read. When I saw the black Peek-A-Boo, I knew this was a company I could work with.

Making Shopping Sweet

MeadowTree Style readers get a 20% OFF on up to two items! Use the discount code MTS20 when you check out at Covered Perfectly. There are several styles to choose from, and the discount will apply on up to two items. Or you may take advantage of the “Buy 2 get your 3rd FREE” special. This special applies to any combination of items store wide. Just add 3 items to your cart and the discount will be applied automatically. Only one of the discounts will work.

So to end, I think I can say Covered Perfectly has me covered from daytime to fun-time! To check out Peek-A-Boo out for yourself, just click HERE.

Links To Places and Designers Mentioned in This Article

Take me to the Peek-A-Boo

Covered Perfectly’s Online Site

Covered Perfectly’s Facebook Page

Covered Perfectly’s Instagram

If you want to try the Celtic Heart Knot

That wraps it up for this style adventure. So adieu until the next time …….

Happy Styling!

I also link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Michael gets credit for the blog fashion photos today.

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My Sew Sew Life-The Statement Sleeve/Vogue 9243

I never really paid attention to the statement sleeve trend; pretty much thought I would let that one come and go. Well, that was until I ran into Jo-Anne’s fabric store to pick up a zipper. Of course, the zippers are right by the pattern section and, of course the Vogue patterns were on sale for $4.99 and I am like a moth to the flame on a deal like that.

front — The combination of bright and pastel colors against the black background of this silky polyester fabric caught my eye. If I had to describe it, I would say, “deconstructed flower garden”. I don’t know if that makes sense, but that is how it hits me when I look at it. The fabric must be sold out because I couldn’t find it at Jo-Ann’s online.

Flipping through the Vogue catalogue, I spied Vogue 9243, a Vogue Option pattern, which always have multi variations for in one pattern. In this case, a princess styled top came with four different sleeve options.

I’ve been styling my top with white pants and pink flats. It’s also perfect to wear pearls with. Remember the sweater clips from the 50’s and early 60’s? I found this one a few years ago and play around with it on blouse collars. You can’t see it here but can in the first photo.

With no real vision on what type of fabric I wanted, I headed for the checkout. However, I made a quick u-turn to the cutting tables when I spied the perfect fabric which is an abstract print in silky polyester. There was just enough left on the bolt (2 ½ yards) to make my top.

Sophia — About ready to jump in the car and head for Joplin. I guess this is my pearls and Poodles look!

Vogue describes 9243 an easy level pattern but I would give it an advanced beginner rating, or at least view C because there is a lot of finish work with the sleeves. If you like working with a serger, other avenues besides hand hemming could be used. But I really like handwork, so relished all that blind stitching. If there is a slow sewing movement, I definitely am a member.

Soon after this, Michelle had her own pattern. She’s going to make View F.

I am not alone is loving this pattern. It has been one of Vogue’s top sellers this year. My daughter Michelle couldn’t even wait to borrow my pattern and bought her own.

closeup — Remember the sweater clips from the 50’s and early 60’s? I found this one a few years ago and play around with it on tops.

V9243_01 — The top that caught my eye! Maybe it was the salmon colored silk top that was on the front, but I was in love and knew I had to wear those three tiered sleeves.

There is even a video about V9243.

Both my pattern and fabric were on sale and the price tag on the blouse was a little under $30. For a top this unique, I am happy with that bottom line. I joke with my family that I shop at charity shops to finance my material habit!

Are you interested in taking up sewing? There are great beginning patterns available and lessons abound. Your local fabric store usually has a sewing instructor and classes on location. The online video platform Craftsy.com has a huge selection of courses to choose from. Both Michelle and I have purchased several Craftsy classes. A few of mine are: Pattern Drafting From Ready To Wear, The Iconic Tweed Jacket, Beginning Serging and Foccacia & Flatbreads From Around The World (I don’t do sewing all the time). Michelle’s favorites include 40 Technique Every Sewer Should Know, The Ultimate T-shirt, and The Couture Dress. Michelle messaged me this morning that she just bought Underneath It All, Guide to Interfacings, Linings, and Facings today because at this moment all Craftsy classes are on sale for just $20.00. They have classes ranging from art, knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting, cake decorating, and baking. The instructors are top notch and I highly recommend checking them out if you want to learn a new technique or improve upon your current skill level.

And just for fun, the statement sleeve queen (and queen of head-wear and platform shoes), Carmen Miranda.

2nd Loved 1st Friday Style Feature

Penny The Frugal Fashion Shopper linked up with her wonderful trench coat. I’ve been looking at a lot of trend reports and the trench was strong on the F/W 17 runways. One trend forecaster called it the MVP of the season. In my book, the trench is beyond trend. When Bogart wore in ’39 (remember that small film Casablanca) it hit eternally classical . Great find Penny and anyone who follows me knows Penny and I are on the same page when it comes to Berets!

Links To Places and Designers Mentioned in This Article

Craftsy

Jo-Anne Fabric

The Frugal Fashion Shopper

Vogue Patterns

That wraps it up for this sewing and style adventure. So adieu until the next time …….

Happy Styling!

I also link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Michael gets credit for the blog fashion photos today.

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Poshing It-2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup

It’s first Friday and that means a new 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday Linkup party. We celebrate the second hand gems we have garnered and show how these work with our individual style.

Have you ever shopped at the online exchange Poshmark? When Jessica of Elegantly Dressed and Stylish linked up last month with her Ann Taylor skirt a Zara black lace top, both from Poshmark, I started “poshing”.

I didn’t bring home high dollar items, just two small things to try the “posh” experience. I fell in love with a sheer black and white hound’s-tooth shirt from Moda International (remember the old Victoria Secret clothes?). The sleeves can be worn long or buttoned up for a ¾ length. I prefer the ¾ length because I often wear bracelets. I’ve never had a sheer shirt before but after working with this one, I’m on the look out for more. They seem so versatile.

Lets talk Look #1. I paired my new sheer shirt over a sleeveless Talbots cotton/spandex knit shell (thrifted) and a pair of bamboo knit semi-fitted elasticized, waist tapered pants. I made these pants from Donna Karan Vogue 1440. Bamboo knit has a great feel and Mood Fabrics has an incredible range of colors to choose from. I added one very big belt (years ago from Bluefly). This is my new pseudo jumpsuit look.

Because of the tone of the belt buckle, I kept the jewelry between black and pewter. But for a bit of sparkle, I added metallic shoes (more about those later) and a vintage Koret (eBay) silver leather bag.

Look #2 becomes dressier. I tied my sheer shirt for a shorter look and paired it with my black Palazzo pants, this time Donna Karan Vogue 1168 land last seen HERE. I do love sewing with Vogue patterns. I even made my senior prom dress from a Vogue pattern and that was in 1968; the love affair has been going on for a few decades!

I chose a Limited sleeveless silky look top (Savers) and kept the black going down to my Nine West heeled sandals. The jewelry stayed silver.

My second poshed thing was a Donald J Pliner clutch. Did I need another clutch? Well, of course not. Did I worry about that when I saw this gorgeous beauty?! It just fits in with so much that I do with styling. I’ve never had rhinestones on a clutch before and just love them. It’s so sparkley! My clutch has one extra feature that I am not showing here: a short strap (that can be removed) that makes it baguette length.

palazzo2 — Palazzo pants so many times looks like a skirt but you can see a bit of light through the legs in the photo. Pants like these can take you anywhere. I already have material to make another pair.

And Now the Shoes

Like many others, I admire Tory Burch’s Reva flats but decided I would try to fine some through the second hand market. Getting Revas on eBay was out of the question because there are just too many fake Revas floating around there. I checked out The RealReal in hope that they are good on their word on checking for authenticity.

Originally, I was scouting black Revas, but after viewing a few fall trend reports for next year, I felt that metallic silver (especially in shoes and boots) is coming on strong. Anyway, I don’t think you can go wrong with gold or silver metallic, so I jumped at this pair. It didn’t hurt that The RealReal had a 20% sale at the time (FYI: that 20% sale lasts until June 1, 2017).

My Poshing Experience.

I enjoyed my first experience on Poshmark. Poshmark is made up of individual sellers or “Poshers”. My shirt and clutch came wrapped in black tissue and pink bows. My Posher sent me a very nice thank you card and even threw in some face care samples. This kind a personal treatment is wonderful. I guess the opposite could happen and you could buy from a grump but I bet those are rare.

gallary — I just attended a Gallery reception and artists’ talk tonight (5/4) wearing #1-it was so confortable and the perfect thing to wear to this type of event. I did add my Cheryl Eve Acosta Mer De Verre ring.

Links To Places and Designers Mentioned in This Article

Elegantly Dressed and Stylish

Mood Fabrics

Poshmark

The RealReal

Vogue Patterns

Yogi’s Closet

This is what I did with my latest 2nd Loved finds. Do you have any and if so, how have you been styling them? I would love if you would link up and show your ideas.

2nd Loved 1st Friday Blogger Spotlight

This Weeks spotlight is on Nicole of High Latitude Style. When I saw this last month on her blog, I messaged her that if I photoshopped my face on this picture, my friends would think it was me-this is such my style. I love her “new to her” OTK Dior boots and J Brand jeans.

And It’s Time For This Month’s 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup!

Any post on a blog, Instagram, Facebook or the like can linkup to this style celebration. If you can copy and paste the URL in the Linky box, you are good to go!

When you do post, I would appreciate a description about your 2nd Loved item (or items), what type of shop you found it and what drew you to it. Tell as much or as little as you want.

If you have never participated in a linkup before, no fear. Go to Linkup 101 guide that is found on my 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday linkup page (also found at the top in the tab section).

So without further ado, let’s get this party started!

Just click the frog below to link up and join the fun!

And have a great week and I will see you again with my usual Sunday post.

Until next time, Happy Styling!

Michael gets credit as the photographer for today’s edition of MeadowTree.

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The Sari Scarf

For my birthday a few years ago, daughter Michelle gave me a Sari scarf. Wonderfully colored, Sari scarfs are made in India from strips of vintage saris silk sewn together. Each scarf is its own, unlike any other. She liked my present so much that she has since gathered a few sari scarfs for herself.

But for me, there’s always been a problem: I have never worn my scarf. Wanting to encourage me to at least think about how I could wear it, Michelle decided we would showcase them for our April collaboration.

Michelle

I’ve wanted to do this post for so long where should I start? Hmm, let’s begin with the dress since I finally get to showcase my skills as a seamstress. I’ll never be as talented or as meticulous as Mom, but I’m not half bad either. This is Burda #116B from Fall 2015, modified with a higher neckline and lower hemline using thrifted navy crepe material. Yes, you can actually find decent fabric at thrift stores with a bit of digging past the polyester double knit. And don’t forget to check out the curtains rack for cool jacket or tote bag fabric, but that’s another post for another day. This particular fabric was procured at the Joplin Salvation Army, a favorite haunt of mine for just such purposes.

The simple design features full raglan sleeves finished with shirred elastic at the wrists and an elasticized yoke over a gathered A-line skirt. I envisioned this very comfortable dress to be a blank canvas for dressing up or dressing down as the occasion necessitates. Maybe in a future post I’ll wear it with a faux fur vest or a colored moto jacket and Converse sneakers for a casual street style look!

Today I’m dressing it up with a very special scarf, a Wrapunzel Sari scarf in the green colorway. These scarves are ethically sewn in India from recycled Sari silk for Wrapunzel. Although there are several colorways in addition to green such as purple, aqua, and blue, each scarf is a unique creation and a joy to own and wear. When ordering you can detail pattern, texture, and shades preferences. I especially enjoy wrapping my Saris to highlight different patterns and undertones of the fabric strips depending on my outfit. Although these scarves do not require an accessory, I did add a thrifted pin to today’s wrap for extra oomph. Speaking of oomph, my under scarf shaper is a half-filled Wrapunzel Wendy. Again, my shapers can be future post all on their own.

Finally, let’s talk shoes because I love, LOVE these lavender, peep toe pumps decorated with rosettes that I discovered at the new Joplin Goodwill. Thrifted good shoes are not usually three words that go together, but our rebuilt Goodwill will occasionally oblige with some amazing finds.

Mom’s Sari scarf is actually from my very first Wrapunzel order and gifted as a birthday present to her.

Terri

Since they are thicker and a little slippy, I feel Sari scarfs can’t be treated like a normal scarf. In the end, I think they just need to hang, gracefully loose and untied (except when you are putting them around your head, of course).

That sounds easy but finding the right combination for this look took me three tries! Finally I came up with something I felt comfortable with and would wear out and about.

In the end, I went with the uneven points of the scarf as a jumping off point and added an asymmetrical cardigan and patterned top. One of my girlfriends loves Lagenlook which is a layering of pieces. What I ended up today reminds me of Lagenlook.

Everything for this look is from my closet, nothing new. The cardigan and printed top are Simply Vera by Vera Wang for Kohls. My jeans are DKNY and shoes are Ellen Tracy. My favorite thing in this shoot is my bag (imagine that) which I found at a small Kansas City Boutique. There isn’t a label, but it is leather inside and out (even the lining) and it was steeply discounted. The fun tassel is a late addition. Blush pink seems to be a timeless favorite for spring and I feel you can’t go wrong keeping shoes and a bag in this color around.

If interested in one of these unique scarfs, may I recommend visiting Wrapunzel.They have divided their sari scarves into general color categories for easy ordering. You click on a color from the drop down and a photo will pop up to display a sampling of that particular color category. This company does their best to find the perfect sari scarf for you from their stock. But, as mentioned, each sari is absolutely unique and the one you receive will not be identical to what you see in the photo.

unnamed — Close up-ten strips-each a different pattern-instant pattern mixing!

With all the fun challenges I had with this styling, it occurs to me again that dressing can be a creative experience. Creative folks are willing to try new things, make a few mistakes, go back and try again. You can’t be too afraid of making a mistake because that’s all part of the process. I’m aware that there are a lot more important things going on in life than deciding what to wear–but it sure is fun, isn’t it?

2nd Loved 1st Friday Blogger Spotlight

This week’s spotlight is on Jessica of Elegantly Dressed and Stylish. Jessica is always styling gorgeous looks and she sources some of her clothing and accessories from Poshmark. Both her Ann Taylor skirt and Zara blouse that you see above were found there. Jessica’s gorgeous look made me want to check out Poshmark and I made my first order. I really like the personable feeling of Poshmark. Besides what I ordered, I have a few more think on my Wish List. I encourage you “posh” a little and check their site out.

Remember, you can still link up to 2nd Loved 1st Friday until the next 1st Friday. To be featured, your contribution must tell us what you have used that is bought “not new” such as finding things at thrift shops or on-line consignment shops, etc. So if you have found that second hand gem, get it on, snap a picture, post on social media and linkup HERE with us!

And the next 2nd Loved 1st Friday is this coming Friday, May 3rd!

Links To Places and Designers Mentioned in This Article

Elegantly Dressed and Stylish

Poshmark

Wrapunzel (link is to the Sari Scarf page)

That wraps it up for this style adventure So adieu until next time and in the meantime….

Happy Styling!

I link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Michael gets credit for the blog fashion photos today. Terri get credit for the one still life photo.

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What has stayed the same?

The Ever Changing Accessories

Shoes and Bag

Links to Things and Places Mentioned Today

Style #1-High School Graduation Reception

Style #2-Birthday Dinner for Our Youngest Daughter

Style #3-First Friday and the Opening of April Madden’s New Studio

Covered Perfectly

Getting a Deal on Covered Perfectly

Links For the Blog Today

How To Make the Long Shawl Dawl Into a Short Wrap

Happy Styling!

2nd Loved 1st Friday Blogger Spotlight

And It’s Time For This Month’s 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup!

Even the goddess Athena knew the importance of having a draped neckline in a lady’s closet.

Athena surrounded by draped necklines from the decades. I especially love the bottom left because it was for hand knitters in the early 60’s.

Happy Styling!

Getting Back to That Hem

Links To Places and Designers Mentioned in This Article

Happy Styling!

Quite Honestly Now

Making Shopping Sweet

Links To Places and Designers Mentioned in This Article

Happy Styling!

2nd Loved 1st Friday Style Feature

Links To Places and Designers Mentioned in This Article

Happy Styling!

My Poshing Experience.

Links To Places and Designers Mentioned in This Article

2nd Loved 1st Friday Blogger Spotlight

And It’s Time For This Month’s 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup!

Michelle

Terri

2nd Loved 1st Friday Blogger Spotlight

Links To Places and Designers Mentioned in This Article

Happy Styling!