THE ART OF THE RUFFLE

 

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Because there are so many different kinds, a whole book could be written in praise of them. As you've probably figured out from the above photo, ruffles can be worn head to toe on bodice, even covering sleeve, skirt or train. And don't forget those accessories. I've seen shoes, purses, gloves, hats and veils layered in ruffles. Below are just a few treatments, mostly skirts, celebrating the ruffle.

 Elisabeth B

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BLACK SWAN

Those who strutted the red carpet at this year's opening of the San Francisco Ballet sported more than the usual flurry of feathers and plumes.  Were these women going haute couture perchance influenced by the magnificent thriller, Black Swan?   No one knows for sure but the trend is definitely on. If you're as intrigued as I am with ballet's influence on fashion, look for elements of dance style hitting the runways in up and coming seasons.  Designers are bringing out more feathered hats, head pieces and even jewelry evoking ballet characters.  Though tulle skirts are already trendy for bridal and evening, new versions will be paired up with bomber jackets and t-shirts as this ethereal fabric makes it's way into street chic.   As long as we're on the subject of ballet, I hope the practice and rehearsal wear dancers bend and stretch in make some appearance on the runway again.  With a string of popular ballet movies back in the 1970s like The Turning Point and Dancers in the 80s, there was a rush for surplice jersey tops, leg warmers and leggings (still with us).  What women have found is dancers look chic even working their butts off; but they're also going to be comfortable

Top Left: Black Evening Gown by Monique Luhllier

Top Right: Ostrich plume purse by Cady Briar

Middle Bolero by Herbld

Bottom Left: Ballerina Doll Pump by D&G

Bottom Right: My LaValiere Noire black jewel headband victorian silver finish

Special thanks to M Frezza over at SMP Style Circle for putting together this medley of designer chic . . . 

RARE FINDS

 These enchanting shoes are the work of UK artist Jennifer Collier. Creating innovative pieces, she uses found materials.  Through weaving, stitching, waxing, she creates rare and one-of-a-kind pieces made into garments and accessories.  Says Collier,  The works have the power to communicate ideas about recycling, as well as themes exploring the body. My work is often inspired by literature.The work is non-functional and aims to encourage people to speculate on the nature of value. I enjoy the idea of working with disposable organic materials that are transient in nature, imbuing them with worth and creating something intriguing and of great beauty." 

                                                  

Top image: Wall Paper Stilettos

Book Shoes made out of vintage book pages.

 You'll never get lost in these . . .The Map Shoes can be made in the map of your choice

 The Music Shoes.  What better way to commission your favorite work . . .?

 The Letter Shoes.  Imagine old love letters and stamps crafted into these . . .

The best is last!  My favs are The Pattern Corsage Stilettos made out of old dressmaking patterns (of which I collect)