Ruffles & Feathers

When I opened my door this morning, I was not at all pleased with what I saw.  It wasn’t this sight, that bothered me.

It was this one that ruffled my feathers. (Don’t say I didn’t warn you about the farm-to- fashion puns).

Snow already?! I must admit that I have never quite appreciated the fleeting beauty of nature, until I tried to capture it with my camera.  Just a few days ago, those ginkgo trees were raining leaves.  The maple had already formed a dry blanket on the grass.  All around, I saw green, red and burnt orange.  I know this snow won’t last either, but it was a little bit of a rude awakening that fall is turning into winter very quickly.  Note to self: take advantage of every warm, sunny minute.

After griping for a day, when the windy chill made it impossible for me to go out and take photos, I decided to multi-task.  While, I’m hanging onto fall, I’m also working on my Pinterest boards for holiday attire, trends and gifts,  so that when those party invitations arrive, I’m not caught unprepared.  Two of the decorative details that are fun additions to my fall and holiday closets, are ruffles and feathers.

Ruffles

Ruffles have been in stores in all shapes and sizes, and after trying on many different pieces, I found a few problems:

1. Unless you are a stick figure, ruffles can make you look larger than you would like.
2. If you have a young daughter, you may feel like you have raided her closet (especially if you are looking at millennial pink ruffles).
3. If you are petite, ruffles can be overwhelming to your frame.

My guide to finding slimming, sophisticated ruffled pieces?

1. Find ruffles in a soft fabric such as silk, like this blouse.
2. Look for smaller ruffled details like this dress.
3. Buy ruffles on accessories like boots, gloves, or a clutch.
4. Pick neutral colors like gray,  tan, or black.

Here’s what I settled on after many months of shopping.  I have to confess, I bought this after I analyzed my closet and realized that I had plenty of dresses, but sometimes you find the perfect thing and it’s worth breaking the rules.   This one is available (at the time of this post) at Banana Republic. I bought the regular size, instead of the petite because the ruffles sat low on my waist, elongating my torso.

Having seen some of the Spring 2018 fashion shows, I think ruffles are here to stay for a while, so the right piece in a classic color should give you most wear for your money.

Feathers

The other fun detail this season is feathers.  If you have read my Top 7 Details post, you’ll have seen the feathered brooch that I bought a few years ago.  My other favorite feather pieces is this necklace from B.C.B.G. Max Azria.

My pieces have sold out but there are many similar options at Alex and Ani.  If you prefer a more organic, soft feathers, take a look at this fun belt, these earrings and shoes.  As much as I like the idea of a feather trim blouse, I think the price and care would be more than I’d want to invest.  Feathers always feel luxurious and a little rebellious, so I highly recommend adding some to your life especially when the gray skies and cold winds get you down.

SaveSave

SaveSave