It may be a challenge to recycle the average bridesmaid's dress, but I'll happily wear hand me downs from the Indiana Repertory Theatre's costume and prop warehouse. This taffeta, velvet and tulle skirt that once graced the production stage is the best black skirt I've ever owned. Even better, it cost me a whopping...wait for it...five dollars!
 |
| The dramatic, wire-collared paisley top is from a small independent boutique in Bedford Indiana called Pretty Woman; I added marcasite and pearl brooches from Premier Designs jewelry Five Diamond Designer Sherrell Bundy Smith on each turned back sleeve to create a French cuff look. The Nina crystal shoes are from Amazon (find them here, on sale). |
Wondering who let me loose in the IRT's warehouse and what other treasures I unearthed while there? Read more here. I was surprised to learn while scouring the several thousand square foot storage space that theatre "costumes" were more often than not high quality garments that could easily have a life beyond the stage. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for another back stage shopportunity soon!
 |
| This versatile cocktail hat was an inexpensive Amazon find; The earrings are from Gordman's and were $2 on clearance, yet I have worn them to more black tie events in the last two years than my diamond and pearl fine jewelry earrings, demonstrating once again that cost that how much you spend on something is not particularly relevant to the "style" you embody. |
In the meantime, a few weeks ago I wore the skirt to the IRT's Celebrity Radio Show fundraiser, giving it a theatrical comeback in the same historical venue where it made its debut. Though not on-stage this time around, the skirt still brought plenty of off-stage drama paired with an iridescent paisley top; crystal encrusted heels; and, of course, a cocktail hat. This is exactly how I prefer my drama: ONLY in my wardrobe and on the stage!
Fashion is what you buy; Style is what you do with it!
You may also enjoy these "theatrical" posts:
I'm also linked up with Hat Attack!
Jody, this is such a fantastic, dramatic outfit! What fun shopping in a theater warehouse. Of course, I love your cocktail hat, such wonderful feathers and netting. You are an inspiration of wonderful and affordable style; thank you for sharing with Hat Attack!
ReplyDeleteThis is FABULOUS, Jody! I admit to being a whole lot envious that you can shop at the theatre for cast off costumes!! And as usual, you have put together your own very wearable "costume", looking a million dollars but costing little. xx
ReplyDelete