American Flag

Kristina J. Marquette blouse (complete collection here) |  Corilynn skirt |  Target flats (see the tutorial)  
  Old Navy bag  |  HM shades | Watch (borrowed from Studhubs)

You know that time I said I'm always afraid of putting together a July 4th outfit that literally looks like an American flag?  Yep. I went there. And the surprising thing is, it's not so bad. Not sure why I didn't go for it before. Just don't expect me to look like a Christmas tree. Not doin' it. Then again...my gramma always did say 'Never say never'.  HA.  Happy 4th of July!

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Designing: Lumberjack Dress

Lumberjack dress | Kristina J. design

Anthropologie belt | Marc Fisher booties via Macy's | LOFT tights | AE watch

All I wanted to create was a flannel dress that would work for special occasions as well as everyday events. No frills. No bells and whistles...just a perfect, little tartan-print dress that felt timeless and wearable. Of course, I couldn't resist my overtly feminine side completely, which explains the presence of the Guipure lace panel on the bodice. In a perfect world, the Lumberjack dress would have turned out a bit longer, too (had I not so woefully underestimated how much extra fabric I'd need to match the check print on the circle skirt). 

Note to self: Order more fabric next time.

2nd note to self: Wear it to every mid-winter party I attend. No shame. HA.


YOUR TURN:
Would you pay more for a winter dress with sleeves over a sleeveless dress that needs a cardi or jacket thrown over to keep warm?

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Wearing: Orchid Whisper

(KRISTINA J. Orchid Whisper Dress handworked by me, J.CREW bouquet sash, Payless Wedges)

I walked into TJMaxx to look at the toys with my children,

when saw a sack dress made out of the most beautiful fabric

hovering in the corner of my eye.

I think I might have actually lost my breath for a second.

I knew instantly I'd have to use it, so I grabbed the XXL just to make sure I'd have enough fabric, reworked it and voila!!!!....

the little Orchid Whisper dress (which I love, by the way).

It's looks all demure and delicate, but it's tough enough to go the distance of the day, and for me, that's a must.

Wearing: Frippery

(KRISTINA J. Frippery Dress designed and handmade by me, Steve Madden Booties, J.CREW Hair Flower, Kenneth Cole Reaction Sunglasses)

Funny thing, this dress...

it was inspired by a blouse my friend bought me last year and the color palette from Burberry's Fall line 2008; those designs were so genius I still find myself daydreaming about them.

I had trouble editing this one during the building process. I started gathering chiffon and just couldn't quit. I kept thinking,

"A little more ought to do it."

I'm perpetually wearing the same thing for dichotomous events. I've worn my Frippery to Christmas program practice with boots and a sweater in the bleak mid-winter; with sandals to the baseball field and now to a summer wedding with booties...

but like Jessica Schroeder would say, this dress is a Hall of Famer for me...

and one of the most important attributes of a Hall of Famer has to be its sheer versatility.

So, what about you? Do you have a dress you find yourself wearing to absolutely every occasion? I'd love to hear about it!