Monday, December 29, 2014

The Christmas Eve Caper

Blackwatch dress (British Retro); Blackwatch umbrella and leopard belt (Ralph Lauren); Purse (Wilson's Leathergoods); Boots (Shoedazzle.com)
Christmas Eve brought raindrops rather than snowflakes this year, but warmer temperatures meant I needed only a capelet to ward off the Winter chill, and a blackwatch umbrella kept the rain from my wool plaid dress as we took in the lights and enjoyed the caroling of the post-service bells ringing from the cathedral on Monument Circle. The Circle of Lights really is spectacular in its holiday finery. Though I see it nearly every day as part of my commute, it had been some time since I'd stopped to appreciate the history and charm that is the centerpiece of downtown Indianapolis.
The leopard capelet is an Indy Style Swap treasure - find out more about it here
The city began decorating the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument for the holiday season in the early 1960s, its thousands of lights forming what is often referred to as the World's Largest Christmas Tree. The historic lighted landmark may not have a skating rink at its base like New York's famed Rockefeller Center, but the horse drawn carriages and 15 foot wooden soldiers standing sentry around its base make Monument Circle feel like the set of an idyllic holiday film. 
Pearl and crystal necklace (Etsy); Gloves (TJ Maxx); Hat (Betmar, Steinmart)(For more hat inspiration, check out Style Crone's monthly Hat Attack); Earrings (Nadri, Nordstrom); Bangle (Tory Burch for Fitbit)
Though all of the elements are contemporary, this dress paired with the leopard cape and red leather gloves also reminds me of classic silver-screen holiday style. Apparently the retro vibe wasn't lost on my friend, Jim, either, who remarked that it reminded him of Marlo Thomas in the late 1960s sitcom "That Girl," a series as well known for lead character Ann Marie's wardrobe as it was for her madcap capers. In fact, In Style magazine dubbed it one of the most fashionable TV shows of all time. Thanks, Jim - you made my day!
Marlo Thomas as Ann Marie in the opening credits of That Girl
Of course, he might also have been referring to my propensity for getting into Ann Marie-style messes... Much to my chagrin (but not to my surprise) as Christmas Eve turned to Christmas morn I found myself standing in the kitchen baking cookies in monkey sock slippers and Christmas pjs with nearly a dozen broken eggs at my feet. Just a few hours later, the kitchen floor was covered in three inches of bubbles after I accidentally used the wrong detergent in the dishwasher. At least all the soap bubbles removed any remaining egg residue. Despite my messes, it was a happy holiday anyway. I hope all of you had a very merry Christmas, as well!
Fashion is what you buy; Style is what you do with it!
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http://www.rsdiaries.com/2014/12/chocolate-covered-cherries.html

2 comments:

  1. As a lover of capelets AND leopard print, and of course hats, you are perfection in your photos. Thank you for sharing with Hat Attack!

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  2. great outfit! i love every little detail!

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