Velvet, Wool, & Leather

Though I barely follow modern high fashion anymore, I still think the runways are of some use to me when it comes to experimenting with styling. This outfit came together after seeing the images from the Fall/Winter 2017 Couture Dior showing where grey velvets and tweeds were belted with rich brown crocodile stamped leather. I though to myself, hey now, don't I have a blue-grey velvet dress somewhere in my closet?

I had never thought to style this dress in a more day wear appropriate way, so thank you Dior! I paired the dress with the high fashion suggested croc leather accessories as well as a tan and brown 1940's jacket. It took me quite some time to decide on the gloves for this look as at first nothing seemed to work, until I finally tried  this olive green ruched pair and matched them with the Bakelite necklace. I really loved the look of the colors all together in the end, this grayed out blue velvet with warm browns and mossy olive green.

I also just wanted an excuse to wear my new-ish (I bought them in the late fall) brown Remix crocodile stamped leather heels. I have lamented before (perhaps too often) about the lack of basic brown pumps out there on the market, and these were really the only pair that fit my picky requirements. They are indeed gorgeous and comfortable, but came at a cost well above my usual range. They are an investment, and I know I will be able to wear them with so many different outfits in the future so I'm not feeling guilty about getting them, but it still stung a bit pressing the submit order button!

I actually hadn't worn this dress in ages, really since I first wore it after making it. I think I hadn't liked it when I first finished it because of how difficult the fabric was to work with and the experience of making it was clouding my feelings about the finished dress. Wearing it again I actually found I really liked it, it was super comfortable and the skirt was suitably squishy and fun. More evidence that sometimes you just need to take time away from difficult sewing projects before you can really judge the result.

Which reminds me, I really need to get back to sewing, I've been on such a hiatus! As usual I've got so many projects and so little time, so I've set aside a day just to plan and schedule things out. What better time than January 1st right?

Dress: Made by me
Jacket, Handbag, Belt, Gloves, & Jewelry: Vintage
Fishnets: Amazon
Shoes: Remix Shoes