Thursday, January 27, 2011

Something More Than a Duster



Simplicity called this dress pattern a duster: traditionally worn around the home as Barbie performed her chores of daily living and then later in the evening while sipping martinis with Ken and appearing fascinated as he talked about his day... but I see this dress as something more. This would be a super semi-formal cocktail dress for evenings out. For the bride. For the bridesmaid. Love the kimono sleeves. Nice variety with a stand-up or rounded neckline and absolutely love the pockets. Add a belt for emphasis or works nicely with side self ties. Make it in taffeta. And, of course, super-cool in polka-dots.

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Royal Love in 1907



Ah romance....In 1906 Alfonso of Spain married Scottish born Princess Victoria Eugenie of Battenberg (1887-1969) who was also known as Ena. They had seven children ( Alfonso also had four children with other women...)

This beautiful plate was published in 1907, one year after their wedding.