claire pettibone spring 2013
04.2.2013 






Claire Pettibone was first introduced to me by my friends Molly & Sally (check out their post on Claire here!). Last weekend, a twist of fate led me to discover that the line was hosting a trunk show at The Gown Gallery, a beautiful downtown Kansas City dress boutique. I obviously had to go. Readers, I was blown away by how pretty Claire's collection is in person. Rather than take big, sweeping portraits of the gowns, I chose to focus on the little details that make these dresses spectacular. From their intricate silk rosettes to their hand-beaded closures, it's clear that Claire Pettibone crafts these beauties with excruciating care. I almost tried one on... but I was too scared to ask! Next time Claire's dresses come into town, I'm going for it. Who says you need a fiancé to try on wedding dresses..? (Answer: greater society. But following norms is for squares :).
(photos by yours truly)
french dressing
04.1.2013 




Elle Japan has the best fashion editorials. Aspirational but never out of reach, I always find new looks and ideas to try… I only wish I could read them! The magazine’s May 2013 issue contains a lovely spread featuring three models – all with very different styles – wearing a month's worth of outfits composed of about 18 key pieces. My favorite of the three segments, of course, is Charlotte's. In particular, I love the way she makes each look fresh by adding in fun jewelry, belts and silk scarves. And I love her use of layers. Before I tell you to pick up a copy of Elle for personal perusal, I must warn you that it will be seriously unhealthy for your budget. But... it's so worth it!
elle japan,
francophlie in
fashion april rain song
04.1.2013 
Let the rain kiss you
Let the rain beat upon your head with silver liquid drops
Let the rain sing you a lullaby
The rain makes still pools on the sidewalk
The rain makes running pools in the gutter
The rain plays a little sleep song on our roof at night
And I love the rain.
Langston Hughes
(via)
this week in pictures
03.31.2013 
A few images and thoughts from this past week... 1. I've read to page 47 of Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald and love it. I’m on track to finish the book in the next few weeks... as soon as I do, I’ll be sure to post a review 2. Season three of Game of Thrones, my HBO obsession, premiered today. Spring was everywhere last week, but all I could think was, “winter is coming.” 3 + 4. I stopped by Mission Road Antique Mall, my favorite Kansas City destination for antiques, and found two sets of new D. Porthault hand towels and bath sheets for $88... that’s practically free! That place is chock-full of gorgeous, incredibly priced things - if you’re ever in the area, you have got to visit 5. Had drinks with an old friend on Wednesday night at The Raphael Hotel... Isn’t it pretty? Can't wait to go back :) 6. Snapped a quick photo of myself wearing Nars’ matte lip pencil in “Dragon Girl”, which I often refer to as the best red known to man. It looks amazing on almost everyone and lasts for hours! If you haven't tried it, try it.
All photos via my Instagram :)
