loosen up your buttons, babe

I am often asked "Wherever did you find that?!" of my unique, one of a kind pieces. I have a saying, "There can only be one. And it has to be mine." Such treasures come via endless searching, as my mother would say, "A 'gettin' place...", and pure happenstance. If you find yourself rather endlessly unlucky, do not fret. A less than special blacket can go chic with one interchange: buttons.

A simple search and score at your local craft store, a needle, thread and thirty minutes of your time is all you need. (left, Set of three found at Joann Fabric, $2.09)

Tres Chic Bonus Points: Go green with ebay! (After all, you are recycling!) King of unique and one-of-a kind pieces, and often times, the price is so right. (right, 24 pcs. $.99)

Indeed, buttons and more importantly button holes come in different sizes. Before you fall hard for something that won't work, measure the area or simply compare (or be aware) what you're looking for.

Thirty minutes of your time. Check out this how-to video for those that don't believe me. (Video less than three minutes :)

Happy Fall, Y'all!

I've been sporting blazers, jackets and the like forever. They are my crack. My addiction. My favourite thing of Fall. It seems as if no two are the same. The cut can change, the hang, the collar, the colour, the accessories; blazers/jackets--should we call them "blackets"??, can make an outfit--be all you need to toss on when walking out the door.
If you'll notice the clean sillouette of my samples; look for creams and camels and a special piece that pops of colour.

Casual Jackets by Moschino
Mules & Clogs by Dolce Vita

quick look: loving layers

I am loving this Vivienne Westwood shirt-dress ($565). It hits sophisticated prepster notes yet allows for a feminine touch. While it is an original and one of a kind, a re-creation is doable. I've shown shirt/top options but do go all the way if you are able to find appropriate dresses.

More Old Navy...

More French Connection...

ShopStyle

"Starting Over, Yet Again"

I'm not sure what you want to hear, dear reader. That I am super regretful I have not posted in such a long while? How I have in fact, composed a few posts (which I like to call 'composting'--) except that I never actually get far enough to hit the post button for you to read it...!? Or explain that there are many conditions to which I write: Good music flowing in my ears, ample time and energy to research, absorb, and regurgitate, and of course fresh and fevering style. As Michael Ventura writes in his column, Letters at 3 A.M.: Beginnings, "You don't write for yourself. You write to communicate something to someone worth talking to." And so, if it weren't for or in spite of all of these things, a half-ass post just wouldn't be my style.

So there's inspiration, compilation, termination--sometimes the piece is just shit; self doubt and remorse for time wasted, the empty calories that entertained along the way--and those guys can be long term. Some 500-words and re-writes later, (and hours! Oh, you hours) it starts to make sense.

I would say the same of people and experiences. Sometimes you're not sure of someone or something and there's no time to figure it out, so you just do it. Or you don't and all you're left with is wondering what might have been. There's the first time you meet, the moments shared learning one another and then comes the decision of how's it going to be. If it's not what you want, inevitably comes the 3 A.M. combo kick of self doubt-remorse-and why did I just eat that bag of chips?!
"I could not understand and admit that I was terrified," Ventura writes. "Not of failure. Of exposure."

I decided a long time ago I wouldn't let those I love walk away without knowing so. I think the hardest part is allowing these things in and out and of course, sharing the sentiment. There are many ways to do this but my favourite, and most baring, is with a Pretty Cheap Dress.

Thank you for reading, for your kind and encouraging words, and continued support! I love you! I do! I do! I do! -

-PCD

Oh, snap!

I'm still here!
Oh, snap!
Everything I like ends up selling out!
Oh, snap!
Look what I saw!

More Asos...

More Gap...

More Asos...

Oh, you better snap it up!

xo's
PCD

What Would Frida Kahlo Do?

Ok, whew, I have to breathe now.
This is video is courtesy this source. (I have to give credit where credit's due, yes?) And while I empathize with a genuine fear of snakes, you have to give it to Mrs. Salma Hayek-Pinault for rising above (literally) any limitations a pair of stacked heals would have when encountering said snake.

Maybe the saying should be "How many people can Maya Rudolph hold on her leg?"

PCD Goes to the Beach

Whoo hoo!
Don't you just want to yell out whoo hoo! sometimes?! The first whoo hoo! is because I have the day off! The second whoo hoo! is because my momma blessed me with great hair. If it weren't for the fact that a brush must touch my head for normal hygienic maintenance, I'm not kidding when I say, it wouldn't need it. (I had a guy once say "It's not fair. Your hair is like, perfect." And yes, he is/was straight.) The third whoo hoo!, is I have been inspired to write and have a great post topic. Now it's your turn to whoo hoo!
As you know, here I am. I am here. I finally broke down my moving boxes, so I guess this means I am staying here.
For the lazy clickers, Austin has always been my getaway, vay-cay town, so you must understand, I have been in no hurry to wear it out as I have opted to let the city happen to me and therefore have only been out a handful of times.
On an early outing, I somehow recognized the backside of a friend walking downtown, and sure enough it was. (Mind you, I know four people in this city.)
On my next outing, a solo movie jaunt (I wanted to see Hot Tub Time Machine, damnit!), I recognized a kickball team mate while standing in line.
And en route to girls brunch, a friend and I realized we were talking about the same person, who so happened to be at brunch.
I'm thinking, 'It really is a small world...' but here's where it gets even stranger. On a privileged (and well received) Friday afternoon, a visiting friend and I journeyed to the storied and yet-to-be-discovered Hippie Hollow. Just what is Hippie Hollow, you ask? I will not scorn you for not clicking here (warning) and instead, naturally, just tell you what it is. It is--and I quote, "a clothing optional" beach.
Now, there are a couple things that come to mind in that short quip of information, the first and most important on an already hot and lazy afternoon, the mere idea of an easy access beach in Austin. The second enticement for this impromptu trip, is the fact I can just walk in and tan the upper two feet of my legs?!, and third perk, cheers!-ing my fellow Fort Worthian friend on our courageous feat.
Maybe I am a little spoiled when I think of beach:















And admittedly, a little uncomfortable when we settle on this:
...nevermind the ahem, handful of naked people hiking aboot.
Now, I've said this about crackheads in scary neighbourhoods: "They don't want me, Molly. They want crack," and I'll venture to guess the same goes for nudists: they want their own crack, all to themselves, and in any case, I have no crack to offer.
What I do have, however, is the opposite of nakedness: that would be great style as I have been complimented by an equal number of strangers for my taste and aesthetic.

Back to Hippie Hollow (but, not anytime soon), fortunately, the patrons are sparse in number (but not necessarily in weight) and more than kind and genuinely friendly.
One of the finer perks being new to Austin (and as a visitor to a nudey 'beach') is being anonymous, or so I thought, as low and behold, I recognize a fellow Fort Worthian, on this Friday afternoon, at this one hot spot in the ATX, at this moment in time.
What is the moral of the story?? I've said it time and again, put your clothes on people!, even if the occasion calls for otherwise and even if it seems a random and insignificant place on Earth. Of all the things to be known for, I write to say nakedness or poor taste when clothing is optional, just won't work.

These are the clothes I'd like to see you in.

Skinny Denim by McQ by Alexander McQueen
Wedges by Me Too

*Note: No, Mother. No Fort Worthian's got naked on this trip.

Free My Love

I sooo do not want to do this. No, not blog. I do not want to write to tell you I am letting go of not one, but two of my favourite shirts. Releasing this information to you is what's going to get me out the door and off to Goodwill.
But it's ok. I've adopted a few upgrades through the years, including two DVF vintage pieces(seen at both ends) and an awesome reversible Volcom I picked up in Malibu this last vacation, any of which are excellent go-to's.

The Volcom (third from left) has to be one of my favourite pieces ever; 1. it's reversible--two completely different looks and effects in one.

2. The fact that it is reversible means any which way you expose the other side, allows the shirt that many more dimensions. Rolling the sleeves (as shown), buttoned vs. unbuttoned, tucked vs. untucked; I realize I am stating many obvious ways one can sport their wear, but there are not a lot of pieces that still accomplish a put together look--just by putting it on!

I should add I have practically lived in these tops this entire spring season. Shorts. Tights. Running shorts. Yep, that's about it. And many heads have turned. The trick, thus far, is in the accessories, which I have paired the aforementioned with any number of the items seen below.

Excuse me while I kiss the screen. Ijustlove'emsomuch!
Clockwise: Vintage Lucite clutch, Madeline Stuart Low heel, Vintage gold speckle irregular bracelet, black leather belt w/ tortoise spacers.

My favourite line in Sex & the City, The Movie, is when Carrie unveils the dress she "will marry Big in." When her audience is less than thrilled, her response, "Oh, I'm gonna merch-andise it up--styyle it up with some shoes."

The simplest, and often times most flattering, best double-duty option is in the shoes. Why? You have to wear shoes (or not you, Sus); you at least have to wear shoes to receive service and appropriate attention. Why not wear contemporary, comfortable, fashionable shoes which exercise and elongate the leg? Any range of the wedge is money this season: one inch and up, a stacked platform, closed or open-toe, designers have created many beautiful options this season to easily kick up your step.

More Prada...

Pick up on unique attributes such as hardware, luxe textiles, or shiny patent leather...should one even imagine if all of this can be rolled into one?!

As for the rest of your hardware, consider your accessories fair game: there need not be a special occasion to display something you have set aside. Short jaunts to the grocery store, errands about town, picking up the kids from school; each are opportunities to get comfortable with your accoutrements and exercise normal wear and tear. Besides, favourites rarely remain so left on a hanger or dresser top.
Now, get out there and free the love!

To The Moon

I'm supposed to talk about style, right??

As per my last entry, I informed ye few readers of my move. I did it! I'm here! In the sweet and stylin' capital city of my state, Austin, Texas.

When I made the decision/announcement, several folks asked "Why the move?" I had/have several answers/responses: "I am ready for a change." "I love Austin!" "My home is not my home anymore..." But my favourite, "Because I can."

This last one was kind of a hit or miss depending whom I spoke with. Some people got it--almost said it before I even had the chance to, and others, it didn't seem to settle well, so I opted for any of the other "I-know-you-will-accept-this" answers. Maybe it was the resolute in my tone or that fact that it is a fact and there was nothing to argue with.

Granted, it might have come across as a challenge: I am telling you I am doing this, you are telling me...really, there is nothing to say except "Good luck" or riddance.

I should say this all started January 31. I was watching The Biggest Loser when I remembered I forgot the Cowtown Marathon was coming up. Shoot! I wanted to do that! (the half marathon, that is,) went to look it up and whaduyaknow, the thing was exactly one month from the following day. I consulted my trainer, "Do you think I can do it?", got permission, and awoke the next morning at 5 a.m. for my first day of training.

A few things: I'd not run more than 5 miles since high school, not seen (nor thought about) 5 a.m. since---.... and "my trainer" is my friend so she is supposed to tell me I can do anything.

But I said in my mind I wanted to do it, I'd now said aloud I wanted to do it, apparently, 400 pound people would love to do it, by golly, I am going to do it.

And I did.

My first goal was to just finish, which I later learned is the only goal one should have when attempting such a feat. My second goal was to not get injured. You may think "You're just running, right?" Right, but you can twist your ankle by simply stepping wrong, get shin splints, which are gifts from the devil!, and get crippling cramps which can cause any of the aforementioned troubles, not to mention the need for proper nutrition leading up to the race. (Mind you, all of these things can happen when training, which, talk about commitment.)

My third goal was loose: finish under three hours (I know!) and my fourth was completely bonus: do not stop.

Now, I've talked a lot of shit in my life. You name it, I've said I can or would do it. (Ask my mother.) She would probably agree that four "goals" is the equivalent of landing on the moon for JMA. But, when it came to the week of my run, it was time to tell my father.

It's not so much that this was a great revelation but rather, once he knows, there is no turning back.

His first response, a hint of doubt: "Can you do that??" and an affirming second, "I'll be there."

There was a belated third response in which he voiced valid concerns and a request for me not to do the run. I had nothing to say. I mean, I can't promise anything (clearly). I'd not done this or anything like it before, so what could I say? But at this point, all that was in my mind was "I am going to do it." And that's what I did.

I'll spare you race details and leave you with the fact that I loved every minute of it. Anyone can do it. Everyone should do it.

And I made, or broke, every goal.

I suppose I am telling you this because while I write to say your sense of style speaks of who you are, sometimes it can be just enough to get you out the door and onto your next feat of who or what you want to be.

That and "I am going to do it" and/or "Don't tell me what to do..."

From Austin, Texas, I leave you with the parting words of my dear brother, Vincent:

"Take a chance! After all, if you don't take a chance, all you've lost...is the chance."

-Pretty Cheap Dress (just received her first stylin' compliment:)

More Adventurous

"I read with every broken heart, we should become more adventurous..."

-Rilo Kiley, "More Adventurous"
---
I'm not in love. Haven't been for a long time.
I remember, one time, being in love. Or thinking I was. And talking it over with my Heidi, or not, as we sat in silence debating the trivialization of it all.
She finally broke the silence and made the most sense one could make of unrequited love: "Loving someone is a compliment."
There may or may not have been more to it, but that single statement has stuck with me ever since. Sure, we can do the whole "Everything happens for a reason," or even "Love will find a way..." but when I think back to the situation, in all it's good and bad, I realize that that journey was an adventure.
I don't regret 'complimenting' anyone, or any others, but I do regret not becoming more adventurous ever since.
You should know I am making a great move, literally, in order to do so. No, I am not chasing it, or running from it, but rather looking to love it. More.

Brain Damage

What is the name of my blog again?
Yeah, I forgot too.
And yes, I know, the Grammys were like, so long ago, but there are two things I have noticed after the fact.
1. February's edition of InStyle Magazine featured Anne Hathaway wearing the same Bottega Venetta dress Sandra Bullock wore to the Golden Globes.
2. Kim Kardashian first wore the same Brian Lichtenberg dress for her birthday soiree in October that Lindsey Lohan sported at a Globes after-party with one major edit: she sported said frock on her head.
3. What does this have to do with anything about the Grammys? Pretty much nothing except to reinforce that when I do post something on my blog, it is in effort to bring forth useful information.
Confused? Good, because I was going for the 'If you can't convince them, confuse them' ploy.

Winner of a whopping four grammys, Album of the Year recipient Taylor Swift in an off-shoulder blue sparkle by KaufmanFranco. The most interesting element of this dress was the back: the shoulder straps were held by a thin, horizontal-continuous strap across her back from the shoulders. (I've been unable to locate a picture, natch!)

My girl B set record by receiving six grammys. She had nearly the same number dress changes, all by different designers, this here by Stephane Rolland. B typically opts for the mother/daughter design of their House of Derion but I'm glad she ventured to show her couture clout. I should add her ceremony dress was by Armani Prive--was a short sleeved/length number, and made one wonder if she was comfortable. There was not one spot left unlinked and I was curious how B's booty was handling.

Super Trendsetter Rihanna looked a little like Santa Claus in her Elie Saab gown but I did like the basic dress: floating chiffon length, mache heavy shoulders, and the extra-room to breathe fabric in the hips.

Miley Cyrus was age appropriate in a teal Herve Leger by Max Azria and gladiator sandals. Notice the closely knit bands that are separated by small lace connectors. At first look, the dress seems heavy but notice she balanced it well with exposed legs and solid gladiator sandals.
Heidi Klum in an Emilio Pucci mini with long sleeves and Jimmy Choo shoes.


All winners in this shot: at Clive Davis's annual pre-Grammy bash, Katy Perry in Georges Chakra, Taylor Swift in Collette Dinnigan, Rihanna and Fergie in Zuhair Murad.

Who can forget the year's walking art installation, the ever impressive Lady Gaga who wore Georgio Armani, maker of several of her looks of the eve. I thought grammys supported peace; Lady showed up and shined with a multi-spiked--and dangerous in her own hand, star.
I think most commendable is that she can walk in (and some would argue on) anything.
And yes, she is supposed to look like a drag queen. It was a shout out.
So, what is the useful information in this year's, er, month's post? Respect the dress, have fun with your look, but don't let it all go to your head.

Long Live McQueen!

...That's supposed to look like a heart.

Ruffling it?

So, we went from bowtential to ruffling it? I am lost on the looks as seen at this years Golden Globes as seriously, there were few and far between that announced "I have arrived" or "Watch out world!" Instead, for some, the message was "Watch out world for I have arrived in ruffles."
Let us get clear on just what the Golden Globes are about: a televised awards ceremony of international recognition across all forms of visual media voted by the Hollywood Foreign Press. Writers, watchers, casters, directors, producers and of course paparazzi galore: if ever there is an opportunity to make a first and lasting impression, I would argue it is here. It is also here which tends to predict future wins so why not practice a winning look?
And so, it is here I will attempt to make argument of what to look forward to in the coming award shows. I just really hope it's not ruffles.
Let us begin with What Not To Look Forward To:

Diane Kruger in Christian Lacroix

Jennifer Morrison for House

Heidi Klum in Roberto Cavalli

Julianne Moore in Balenciaga

Nicole Kidman in Nina Ricci

Chloe Sevigny in Valentino

Kristina Hendricks from Mad Men in Christian Soriano

I really don't want to bash what could very well total more than what I earned last year, so I'm not going to. But I do hope you have noticed a constant fail in what I have listed above: the importance of a proper fit for a given body type and that not all trends are for everyone. (That would be the pastel palettes in addition to the ruffles.)

Let's now look to those that did it right.

Drew Barrymore in Atelier Versace

While this was originally one of my least favourite looks of the evening, I can't help but give the girl props for wearing it well. Barrymore has not fallen into a predictable niche and in addition, she lent a classic goddess glow to an avant garde, one of a kind piece.

Penelope Cruz in Georgio Armani Prive

There was not a more fitting gown at the Globes. The elastic bands ensured her womanly shape, while the lace applique added a romantic touch. I am not typically a fan of a fishtail train, but this dress top to bottom did it for me. The side swept hair and sun-kissed skin, ahh. BTW, word is she obtained much of that glow hanging on the beach with her main squeeze Javier Bardem.

Marion Cotillard Christian Dior Couture

Another dress I was not an instant fan of, but maybe the deep green shade is seeping sense into my brain as this gown manages to lend a clean drape and yet modern details. If there is one thing I do not like in what is supposed to be a classy gown, it is a hip-nearing slit. However, this gown keeps it clean with the lace inset. Plus, you gotta give it to her: the woman is French. She knows what's up.

Kate Hudson in Marchesa

The first picture is what most of the public saw when guests' first arrived to a rain-drenched red carpet; the second was what Marchesa intended for the gown. I really am loving this second silhouette but feel it would have been more fitting for another event.

Zoe Saldana in Louis Voutton

If I must concede to A ruffle, I suppose Zoe Saldana had the pick of the litter. I did enjoy the many shades and shadows this dress cast but do feel it needed to be a bit more fitted in the bust.

Julia Roberts in Vintage YSL

A simply comfortable black dress, this H town veteran hit all the right notes with this long sleeve winner. Notice her pumps are patent, which helps to contrast against the matte fabric. The brushed gold Van Cleef & Arpels necklace with Citrine and Diamond stones was the right pop of color. There was a mention of expecting the dress to continue as a full length gown; either way, it would have worked. I believe it was actually a save considering the rain.

As for what to look forward to in coming award shows, I expect we will see more bold jewel tones and/or coloured stones. If ruffles is where's it at, I do hope tailors will edit for the fit and hang.

Until then, yee explicit haw.