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Summer clothes, ruffles & broderie anglaise

Friday 9 May 2014
Summer clothes

Before I begin my spiel about my obsession with pretty summer clothes, let me say a quick thank you for sharing your thoughts regarding the mommy/work debate. I've worked full time and I've also worked from home with a toddler on my knee. I still remember the days when I was on a business call and.....you've guessed it....the baby would inevitably choose THAT particular moment to wail non-stop.  Sod's law.....fun times....whatever you call it. Or turning up to an important meeting with drool on my shoulder. These days, I'm extremely grateful to be able to work from home. I'm fortunate enough to have a small community of women who are always willing to help each other out whenever one of us has to dash away to a meeting or a work do.

I've been obsessed with needle lace (eyelets) ever since I bought my Etoile Isabel Marant broderie anglaise top a couple of years back. I've worn mine to death and thank goodness, it's still holding up well.  Here's a trivia - Do you know that the popular English embroidery actually originated from what's known now as Czech Republic in the 16th century? I'm fascinated by cotton lace, delicate ruffles, embroidery.......as long as they're not accompanied by a psychedelic backdrop. They add a touch of femininity to my otherwise tomboyish outfits without compromising comfort (still into fabrics made of breathable natural fibers). Nothing too trendy that they fall out of fashion faster than I can flip a pancake.

My go to label is still Isabel Marant, who is a master at boho luxe chic, followed closely by Vanessa Bruno's diffused line Athé as well as fellow Paul & Joe Sister and Ba&sh. I've also got my eye on a few pieces from J.Crew though thankfully, the price point is a bit more affordable.




18 comments:

  1. All the current season IM is KILLING me. Seriously. I'm tempted to go and lay-by one of the blouses which I know is for sale at a local store, just because it's so gosh darn beautiful. Good to hear that it's still holding up so well after so long, might be what tips me over the edge haha.

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    1. I went off IM for a season or two but boy, she's definitely killing it this time around. Her cotton voile tops have sold out everywhere. Mine has a bit of fraying but only because it's been worn to death.

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  2. All great choices. I have last year's version of #2 in black and turquoise. I hear you - Marant kills summer dressing - but J Crew does a decent job copying it at better price points - though the quality is not quite the same. Paul and Joe Sister also do an almost exact copy of those ruffled IM skirts from time to time.

    Did you ever get the filet crochet dress from IM you posted about earlier?

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    1. I tried on the crochet dress and it's designed for a taller gal in mind :( Double bummer. I really want something with short sleeves. I've stocked up on IM skirts. I can't believe the Oriane ramie shorts are sold out too :(

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    2. The tunic in the same fabric may have been the better choice for you, then. Would probably have fit you more like a dress. The sleeves are shorter, too. Not sure if it's still available, though. :(

      I hear you - her choice SS pieces always sell out fast - no matter the cost.

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    3. I don't think the tunic's sold out yet. I was so bummed that pretty much everything else I was interested was either unavailable or sold out that I didn't bother trying on anything else.

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  3. I'm so into this look right now, too! beautiful picks! Does Madewell ship to the UK? They have some lovely pieces like these.

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    1. I don't know if Madewell does international shipping but I'm going to check them out NOW!

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  4. Well your selection is quite colourful, like this if not a bit too casual for my taste!
    BUT, it would not be true if I'd not tell you that I fell, hard, today for a brand I did not know while, for once, I was wandering in Paris and quartier Saint Germain des Prés. It is Ekyog, a french brand. They try to create clothes made in the most respectful manner they can find (fabrics made with fibbers "clean", people well treated, read the website). They have a tiny shop I discovered only today (yes) and I found them to be, in my opinion, a great alternative to Isabel Marant, well in a way anyway. Sizing wise though I do not know as staying in Paris for the afternoon was already a great thing for me so shopping....

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    1. I've bought the odd pieces from Ekyog for a number of years now. They do basics really well.

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  5. I am loving IM this season. I do love the way you carefully purchase key pieces. You show an incredible amount of restraint and select things perfectly. H x

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    1. Thanks, Helen! I would've gladly put everything in my basket if I didn't have to budget :)

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  6. 1 is really pretty, S. Bet you'll look fab in it.

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  7. How gorgeous is the Odrys Ramie IM dress - Marlene what are you doing to me?!

    Beautiful selections I am completely in love with this style, both the embroidery and the tunic shapes. I'd spotted the J-Crew one too, I think there may be a pink one as well which had me 'Ooh-ing' at the computer!

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    1. Isabel Marant S/S collections are always to die for. The problem is they almost always sell out before the sale season arrives. I'm with you. I'm tempted. VERY tempted.

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  8. I am late to this post and I really enjoy your selection! The French designers have a flair with lace and broderie. After buying IM and VB for several seasons now, I have come to realise that VB though under the radar makes equally stunning pieces! I also find the workmanship and fit superior. But oh well, they make stunning pieces!

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  9. I have my eye on a few J Crew pieces too including that tunic! I seem to be gravitated towards blue and white for summer!

    xoxo
    Stacey
    Five Minute Style 

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