Emmeline Apron

Bitsy polka dots...

Or brilliant bulbs...

You can take your pick with this reversible apron pattern from Sew Liberated. It's a perfect fit for gift-giving and party-wear during the holidays with its feminine empire styling. Coordinating or contrasting fabrics for the apron body and a third fabric to tie it all together. I've made this pattern numerous times for gifts, and it is almost as much fun to make as it is to wear!

(Don't miss designer Meg's blog for Montessori parenting tips and tales.)

In Timely Fashion is Back & Better Than Ever!

When I began my English studies two years ago, many things had to take a back burner. One such project left to simmer was In Timely Fashion, "a site designed for those who find delight in 'past-dressing'–not for special occasions only, but on a daily basis." I launched the site back in 2002 but was unable to do much with it afterward. Hence, it comes as a great pleasure to see that a talented young woman has taken up the editorial duties of ITF. Amanda Kastner has done an outstanding job of updating the site's organization, layout, and graphics. I think you'll be delighted with the results of her labors and inspired in your own endeavors to create clothing that's old-fashioned-ly elegant. Enjoy!

Denim Hoop Skirts?

Josh predicts the next trend among fashionable women will be denim hoop skirts. If I don't get it started, someone else will! It sounds good to me, except I have difficulty imagining European women squeezing onto the Metro in them! It could work in the midwest US, however; maybe I should try introducing the trend at C of O...

Laura Ashley Returns

I knew it. The Laura Ashley company would, eventually come to its senses, and reproduce some of the winsome styles that were once so popular. I've been a Laura Ashley imitator all my life, and since I've decided not to pursue fashion design as my vocation, it is a happy thing indeed to see other companies producing pretty things for ladies. It's about time.


(On a side, I never realized Mrs. Ashley was Welsh.)

http://www.styledash.com/2006/12/03/laura-ashley-the-remix/

http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/arts/sites/fashion/pages/laura_ashley.shtml