Inspiration:
The beyond genius complete Ella Fitzgerald Song Books. SUCH a seminal anthology, totally worth every penny. If jazz really is the only truly American art form then this is our answer to the complete works of William Shakespeare.
Realization:
The Christelle dress from Igigi. They sell it as a wedding dress, but it would be perfect for a summer orchestra concert, a yacht party (not that there are any damn yachts around here, which makes it REALLY difficult to figure out who you’re going to sleep with at a party. Grrr.) or, if jauntily accessorized with a scarf in the hair to bring the formality down, a fun croquet party. BYOFlamingo.
I do like the dress a lot in its own right, but if one were to wear it to a party — even with a jaunty scarf in one’s hair — I’m almost certain that most people would think it was a wedding dress and that the wearer was quite eccentric.
Comment by Chiken — July 28, 2009 @ 3:01 pm
I absolutely ADORE Miss Ella Fitzgerald, and this dress captures the 20’s& 30’s jazz scene style PERFECTLY! Great find!
Comment by Kristy@MyShape — July 28, 2009 @ 3:03 pm
To clarify, it’s the material that makes it so obviously intended as a wedding dress. If the material was different (linen, say), the shape and color would not scream “here comes the bride,” but lace bodice + satin skirt + casual party = crazy lady.
Comment by Chiken — July 28, 2009 @ 3:04 pm
There’s good crazy and then there’s bad crazy, though, and I have to think that Plumcake is right here–the accessories, which always make the outfit, could change this dress from “Miss Havisham” to Ella (who *owns* the white evening gown; and did you all see how pretty Ms. Obama looked at the inaug in her white gown? Very pretty. It’s time we reclaimed white from wedding garb.)
Scarf around the waist, brown cage heels (maybe…not sure) a some bright turquoise or coral necklace, and some bright bracelets. Really bright. I would suggest having it hemmed up a bit if you’ve got the legs, as I’m not fond of the length.
Comment by Lisa — July 28, 2009 @ 4:27 pm
“BYOFlamingo” nearly made me snort my morning tea out of my nose.
Comment by angela — July 29, 2009 @ 9:40 am