Marion Cotilliard In Vogue

This is a post in addition to the regular Monday post, which contains the etiquette post. ENJOY!

Marion Cotilliard is the french star referred to as the "French Bombshell" by Vogue magazine.  She graces the covers and pages of many of the fashion and entertainment publications now. 

 Below are photographs of the beautiful star as shown in the new Vogue.

I am certain we will be seeing a lot more of this French actress.

See you tomorrow,

Teresa

xoxo

Pearls ~ A Girl's Best Friend

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Pearls are always in Vogue.

Audrey Hepburn knew where to find pearls.

In the South, there are several things that are a given; Pearls, Pearls, Pearls.  Sure we love the little black dress, gloves, hats, and the occasional mint julep, but we are not dressed until we have adorned ourselves with that perfect strand or two, and we wear them with everything, from our favorite frock to our t-shirt and jeans.  Did I mention that we sometimes sleep in them?

Jackie Kennedy

Of course we are not the only ladies that love this beautiful gift from the sea.  There are millions of women who choose to finish there attire with a lovely strand of pearls.  Ask around. You will be hard pressed to find a well dressed lady that doesn't love their pearls.

So, for those of you that missed my posts on "The Little Black Dress" and "Gloves", I have provided the links below. But don't y'all leave yet, because we have a lot to learn and see with regards to "The Pearl."

http://splendidsass.blogspot.com/search/label/Little%20Black%20Dress

http://splendidsass.blogspot.com/search/label/gloves

Note to readers: Formats may be off due to new template. I am working to reformat past posts.

These  tahition pearls ....

and these beautiful white pearls are from
Mikimoto and can be found at
Brombergs Jewelers.

A strand of these over-the-top gorgeous white pearls with diamonds...

and these chocolate tahitian pearls are from Tiffany.

Blue Nile is an online source for pearls.

This information and chart from Mikimoto provides information that proves to be helpful in choosing the right pearls for you.

Luster

Luster is the amount of light reflected from the pearl's surface. Luster is the surface glow, as well as the deep mirror-like reflection of the light, or “inner light”. Nacre quality in cultured pearls will improve the overall luster. Many even layers of nacre are required to create a highly defined spectrum of color. Only the highest quality pearls with the best luster carry the MIKIMOTO name.

Surface Perfection

As a product of nature, tiny marks found on pearls are part of their natural texture and are proof of the genuineness of a cultured pearl. These blemishes are produced by outside sea particles and objects that find their way into the oyster and brush against the pearl. A pearl is considered more valuable when the surface imperfections are minimal.

Color

There is a wide spectrum of colors that can be found in pearls. Basic colors include cream, gray, green, blue and pink. The most popular colors are white and pink rosé because these shades flatter the widest range of skin tones. Color is based on preference, but it is always important to find a color that is rich and evenly distributed on the pearl.

Shape

Although many shapes are available, perfectly round pearls are the rarest and most valuable. Button pearls are round on one side and flat on the opposite end. Other shapes like tear drop and baroque are also favored because of their uniqueness. They are formed when an outside entity attaches itself onto the forming pearl and it is covered by nacre layers.

Size

Generally, the size of the pearl affects the price. Large pearls are more difficult to cultivate because of the large size of the implanted nucleus. There is an increased likelihood that the oyster will reject the nucleus. Pearls are measured in diameter increments of millimeters (mm). The classic Akoya pearl generally ranges from 3.5mm to 10mm in size. South Sea (White, Golden, or Black) pearl sizes begin at 8mm and can be as large as 18mm.

 

I hope that you have enjoyed this post on pearls, and that this information will help you choose a strand of pearls that you will enjoy for a lifetime.

 

See you soon,

Teresa

xoxo

There are two etiquette posts in this post.

Emily Post's Etiquette, 17th Edition (Thumb Indexed)

Embracing Etiquette with Teresa continued... see introduction post (1-29-10.)

RIDING THE BUS

When three people or more are waiting to board a bus, form a line, then wait your turn, no matter how crowded the bus is. Have your change or fare ready so that you will not hold up everyone else while you look for it. If there are plenty of seats available, leave those at the front for passengers who are elderly or disabled, even if not designated as such.

Bus riders are subject to more cell phone conversations than underground transit. The average person DOES NOT want to listen to you blab away about issues that mean nothing to them. Too much noise is unnerving.

Monday we will cover Subways and Other City Trains.

Embracing Etiquette with Teresa continued... see introduction post (1-29-10.)

ON THE SUBWAYS AND OTHER CITY TRAINS

When a city train (subway or above ground) pulls into the station, step aside to let passengers get off of the train. Not doing so is very discourteous. Door-blockers also block inside train doors and this is considered not only rude, but aggressive. When people are attempting to get off of the train, step off until they get off. You will then be able to get back on before the train departs.

If the riders are packed in tight, wait for the next train. Shouldering people aside is one of the most obnoxious offense.

DO NOT hold the door someone trying to get to the door, nor should you pry open the door or block it with a briefcase. You may lose your briefcase (you deserve to.)

Tomorrow we will cover Commuter Trains.

See you soon,
Teresa
xoxo

The Handkerchief

This is a John Rawlings photograph, "The Little Red Dress",
which appeared in the January 1948 issue of Vogue.

The handkerchief, a small square piece of linen or cotton, has been an accessory for as far back as I was willing to research. Men and women have carried the handkerchief in their pockets and bags (purse or clutch is probably a more appropriate name) for centuries.

I was rearranging my accessories drawer, and my handkerchief bag was tucked in the back. The handkerchiefs in this bag belonged to many of the women close to me, and those of my deceased father, bringing back so many memories.

I can’t remember a day when my grandfather or my father did not have a handkerchief in their back pockets. The women in my family tucked the delicate cloth into their purses, pockets or hands.

Those who haven’t used handkerchiefs before believe that most are used for the nose. This is only true when no other means is available, and handkerchiefs are to be fresh each day. They can be used to dab the forehead or face, wipe a tear (cotton is best), or clean away debris from clothing.

Handkerchiefs are designed for brides, grooms, bridesmaids, holidays and the most popular -- high quality linen and cotton used for monogramming. There are also prints and different colors for the more modern persons.

I could write pages about this special little square carried by many, but I had rather lead you to the sources. Follow me as I pay homage to this delicate little square of fine cloth. I may just need a cotton hankie now…

These four handkerchiefs are from Leontine Linens.

These linen monogrammed handkerchiefs are perfect for the man on your list.

These linen monogrammed handkerchiefs are for women.

Martha Pullen's Glorious Linens is one of the most beautiful books of its kind. It is full of ideas on linens and monogramming.

These two handkerchiefs are from Martha Pullen , and are much more beautiful than they appear here. I monogram these for people that are special to me. I add french lace or tiny fringe as a border on many of them.

Lacy enough for the queen in all ladies, this handkerchief is from the Monogrammed Linens Shop.

This beautiful embroidered linen handkerchief from The Lace Shop can be carried on that "something blue" day, or for any occasion.

This bridal handkerchief is lovely with its lace border and can be found at the Ice Stand.

This package of mongrammed handkerchiefs for men can be found at Orvis.

This beautiful design-embroidered handkerchief is created by Nana LuLu's Linens and Handkerchiefs.

These lovely handkerchiefs, with or without embroidery. can be found at Giovanni's Linens.

I have enjoyed writing this blog post, and hope that you will find some inspiration for gifts.

I will have the blackboard ready for post late today or in the morning. I am waiting for the paint to get dry!

Teresa,

xoxo

CHRISTMAS CHEER

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Rob Liefeld, December 1926 Vogue cover.

Happy, creative, anxious, productive, energetic -- just a few of the emotions I feel during the Christmas season. I have always loved the holidays because people seem cordial, thankful, and so much more patient and friendly than during other times of the year.

I believe that the words Merry Christmas bring a smile to the face and a warm feeling that is very much heart-felt. While times are difficult for many, we can boost their Christmas spirit by cheerful expression.

All I want for Christmas is happiness for everyone, and oh yes – SNOW! Santa Clause, please send some snow!
Most importantly -- HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!

I hope that you and your family are having a bright season!

Merry Christmas,

Teresa,

xoxo

The Classic Glove

Print by Robert Ely.

By now you have correctly assumed that I am wishing for the feminine and sophisticated era to return. Styles have changed and become more modern, but designers are diligently attempting to bring back the classic glove and hat structure. If I can assist in any way, I will.

Shana Zarick, wearing long white gloves, is shown here on the 1991 cover of Vogue. Photograph by Steven Meisel.

Cashmere is a soft and beautiful wool, and Ralph Lauren’s long gloves are a luxurious accessory.

This pair of long white gloves is less expensive than the cashmere, suede, or other leathers, and can be found at Great Gloves Online. They have an extensive line of styles and colors, including black. This glove is more versatile, and is worn by most glove wearers.

This model is wearing medium length black gloves to accessorize her beautiful suit.

From Neimam Marcus, these leather and mink gloves by Loro Piana Fraciose are the epitome of luxury. I would like to find a pair in my stocking this year -- hint, hint.

These leather gloves beautifully complement this models’ dress.

An exclusive of Saks Fifth Avenue, this lambskin glove has a subtle feel and appearance.

Suede long black gloves add pizzazz to this fun party dress.

Long suede gloves from Ralph Lauren can be worn casually or for dress.

Photograph by Frederick Vreeland, 1951

The Neiman Marcus UGG gloves are a special treat, and those wearing the boots can appreciate a classic glove made by the same manufacturer.

Red cable gloves by Ralph Lauren brighten up any ensemble.

You are never without the appropriate glove with this Ralph Lauren three-pack in black, navy, and brown.

I sincerely hope that you have enjoyed this post. A pair of these gloves will be on my Christmas list.

Angela will be coming home for the Christmas holidays today, so there will be a possibility that there will not be a new post each day, haha.

Merry Christmas.
Teresa