Siesta Key - Vacation

Hello again!

This year is going to be full.  The plans are already being written down, the dates set, the changes and adventures just on the horizon.  There is an excess of life wanting to be lived.

This February, we started our crazy year with a trip to Siesta Key, Florida, to rest, relax, and rejuvenate.  Few things make my body feel better than a good dose of sunshine, especially accompanied by saltwater and sand.  We spent the days reading good books, eating wonderful food, admiring the stunning sunset, and walking the shores.

I took my camera out a few days, and wanted to share some of the beautiful sights we saw.  For the most part, these are either straight out of camera or edited with basic brightening and contrasting.

Dressing Like Jane Austen

I must say, I have a love for all things Jane Austen.  When I heard about the "I Love Austen Week" hosted by Hamlette I knew I had to participate (even though vacation planning put me almost too late.) There are lots of fun reviews currently being posted by all sorts of Jane Austen lovers right here, and I highly suggest you go check them out if you too are a fan of her works. And if you are not familiar with Jane Austen, you especially should go look around, and be prepared to find a new wondrous world opened up to you!

My post today is a quick look at how we can find ways to create our own regency wear with what we have on hand in today's world.

The First basic item, of course, is your gown.  The fabric, style, and colors can very depending on the type of event you are attending, or your own personal preferences. I chose my colors when I was sixteen, and this was my first historical project, so my colors are a bit darker than period accurate - but I liked them anyway. ;) I have worked with the Simplicity pattern 4055 with much success (pictured here) and Butterick B6074 (with alterations and changes because it was far less agreeable.)

Next are accessories.  Elbow length gloves are perfect (watch that you match creams and/or whites, depending on your gown color!) Also a small reticule is great to have to hold your personal items for the night. Thrift stores and antique stores are probably the best places to start looking for these.

Jewelry is not difficult.  Simplicity was valued, so a modest set of pearls or a small cross on a chain will accent the dress nicely. Hair adornments were also a favorite, and really such fun! I found all of these at Charming Charlies.

Don't forget to go join the fun yourself, and look around!