Picture perfect weather this weekend. All I wanted to do was to be outside in the garden and play with the family all day.
I wanted to share with you a new exhibition at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) called, Yves Saint Laurent: The Perfection of Style, in the Altria Group Gallery, and New Market Gallery.
The exhibition is only open from May 6, 2017 to August 27, 2017.
Do not wait to see it if you are in the Richmond, Virginia area. You don’t want to miss this rare opportunity to learn about one of the most iconic designers of the mid-to-late twentieth century.
Born in Algeria in 1936, Yves Mathieu Saint Laurent came to Paris as a teenager and began his career designing fashion pieces. Saint Laurent at age 18 won the International Wool Secretariat fashion design competition in 1954. He was a genius and as a very young man, he became the lead designer for Christian Dior in the late 1950s. He was very shy, but was very aware of his talent. Saint Laurent is credited as the innovator of the pantsuit for women, the transformation of the trapeze dress; among countless other designs.
The exhibition “includes accessories, photographs, drawings, films, and video from the Fondation’s vast archive. (It) traces the trajectory of Saint Laurent’s style as it developed over the course of his career. Beginning in 1953 with the “Paper Doll Couture House” that he created as a teenager, which is being shown for the first time in the United States in this exhibition. Ensembles early in the exhibition focus on his formative years at the House of Dior, including an example of a short evening dress from his successful “Trapeze” collection, which marked his debut as a fashion designer when it was shown in Paris in 1958.”
Take a look at the Paper doll images in the gallery below.
Various examples of paper dolls, assembled by Yves Saint Laurent, circa 1950. Dolls cut from magazines and glued onto cardboard; garments made of paper cutouts, ink, watercolor, and gouache. Foundation Pierre Bergé -Yves Saint Laurent, Paris.
1971/PE 0247 Yves St. Laurent Collection Board
“Drawn from the archives of the Fondation Pierre Bergé—Yves Saint Laurent and other private collections, this breathtaking exhibition offers an intimate and comprehensive look at the lifetime achievement of Yves Saint Laurent, one of history’s most radical and influential fashion designers. Featuring 100 examples of haute couture and ready-to-wear garments-some never shown publicly before—this exhibition reveals Saint Laurent’s artistic genius, as well as his working process, and the sources of his design inspiration.
The iconic trapeze dress from the Trapeze collection when Saint Laurent was designing for the house of Christian Dior.
The Trapeze design has been an inspiration to many designers through the years because it flatters a woman’s body, and gives a relaxed fit. Saint Laurent took Dior’s design and radically updated it with a fresh look.
Another favorite is the dress below, which shows women speaking out how they feel and being liberated and making sure that that the ring stays on that finger forever.
Yves Saint Laurent (French, 1936-2008). Fall-Winter 1970 haute couture collection. Multicolored silk velvet coat with appliqué letters forming the words, “Love me forever” on front and “or never on back; various shapes in multicolored silk. Fondation Pierre Berge -Yves Saint Laurent, Paris.
The First Pantsuit
The First Pantsuit, Yves Saint Laurent (French 1936- 2008), worn by Ulla. Fall-Winter 1966 haute couture collection. Foundation Pierre Berge -Yves Saint Laurent, Paris, Photo: Gerard Pataa.
I had to show the menswear inspired suit I mention earlier, which can be worn everyday for work or play. The bow in Ulla’s (the model) hair, and the bow in the white collared shirt gives a feminine touch.
Yves Saint Laurent: The Perfection of Style exhibition allows the visitor to get into the world of one of fashion’s most iconic designers for the first time.
Remember the exhibit closes August 27, 2017, enjoy and be inspired.
Here is a quick look at some of the garments from the exhibition.
* I would like to say “Thank You” to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts for providing me with the images and background information on the Yves Saint Laurent: The Perfection of Style exhibition.
Just like sarees, blouses also come in several different designs, colors and styles. It makes an important part of the entire outfit. Earlier women had to select different styles of blouses to match with the style of their saree (traditional or western).
With the introduction of versatile blouses, one need not worry about the design of the saree as these blouses look best on whichever saree design you choose to wear. From traditional, western, to Indo-western and lace designs, the market is full of plenty of eye-catching collection to suit your needs. Get to know about these amazing varieties to enhance your beauty manifold.
Traditional blouses
Photo courtesy of www.fashionbuzzer.com
Traditional blouses generally come with different shape of neck styles. It can be in typical U-shape or V-shape design or in other fashionable designs. There are several saree stores that provide you an extensive range of blouses in stunning styles, fabrics and designs to choose from.
Similarly, you will get an exemplary selection of blouse sleeve designs. From full sleeve to half sleeve or sleeveless with or without work, their extensive collection will provide you one that you have been looking for!!
Western Touch You will find a western form of blouses that are designed for women to wear western dresses such as trousers, skirts etc. to complement its look. Such types of blouses are greatly seen in trend among college girls.
These beautiful blouses are just appropriate for a get together with friends or a girls’ night out party. Western blouses are designed to give utmost comfort and suit the lifestyle of the wearer. They accentuate the style of the wearer and complement their lifestyle.
Indo western blouses
Photo courtesy of www.fashionbuzzer.com
If you are looking for a blouse that gives you a combined touch of Indian and western design then shirt style blouses would be the ideal one for you. As the trend in blouses keeps on changing from time to time, shirt style blouse is a recent introduction that has become very popular among women. This type of blouse gives your saree a completely modern look.
It can be seen as a fusion between Indian and western style blouse. This style adds an interesting element to the overall look of your outfit and imparts a chic appearance to the wearer. The best part of this design is that you need not worry to get your right shade or the shape that matches the color of your saree or lehenga. It looks best on all shades and designs of the outfit that you plan to wear.
Lace Blouses
Photo courtesy of www.fashionbuzzer.com
Lace blouses are again an interesting way to give a feminine and charming touch to your blouse. Depending on the choice of the wearer, lace can be introduced at the back or on the sleeves or both the areas.
A dull looking blouse or a poorly stitched blouse would diminish the entire look of a saree. So, you need to choose the right blouse for a saree that you are planning to wear.
Would you believe it is already almost May and the school year is almost over? My husband was telling me prom was this past weekend for many schools in the area. My cousin recently had her baby son, who is doing well. I started thinking about friendship and the special bonds we have in relationships. Being a mentor, a light to those younger or older than you and lifting them up in encouragement.
What is a Promise ring?
I first heard of the Promise Ring when I was growing up. Parents would give them to their daughters and even their sons in a commitment to God in body by remaining abstinent until marriage.
Promise Rings can have many different meanings, depending on the type of relationship that the two people have. For couples it could mean a symbol of love for each other or that they are committed to each other. However, a Promise Ring is not an engagement ring. For example, how a person wears the Claddagh heart ring determines the status of their relationship status. If the heart in the ring is facing inward, it means that the person is a committed relationship. While if the heart is facing outward, it means the person is not in a committed relationship. I can see a man and woman exchanging Claddagh Rings to show the world that they are in a relationship; but not to the point of getting married.
Promise Rings are usually in a more affordable metal of silver, but could be in gold. The Promise Ring is worn to symbolize friendship to show that special bond. Sometimes Promise Rings are bought for a personal celebration of achievement, the reasons are endless. It depends on you.If you are looking for a Promise Ring, MarkChic is an affordable and high quality company that has a variety of price ranges and the rings are really pretty. I wanted to share a few of my favorites of the cheap Promise Rings at MarkChic that I saw on their website.
1. The Stunning 1.5 CT Ruby Rose Gold Plated Promise ring is USD $64.00. There is a such a fire in that Ruby ring. The color is truly stunning and an attention-getter.
Stunning 1.5 CT Ruby Rose Gold Plated Promise Ring
2. Unique Split Shank 1CT Cushion Cut Yellow Gemstone Promise Ring is USD $114.00. This amazing ring ranges in sizes from 4 1/2 to 7 1/2.
Unique Split Shank 1CT Cushion Cut Yellow Gemstone Promise Ring
3. Fabulous Square Cut Emerald Decor Ring
I had to add this ring in because Emerald is my birthstone. It’s not a Promise Ring but it’s beautiful and its a whopping USD $37.59 and is in sizes 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.
Fabulous Square Cut Emerald Decor Ring
What are your thoughts about Promise Rings? Do you know anybody who gave or has been given a Promise Ring? If you are looking to purchase one for a family member or that special someone, consider looking at MarkChic, where buying great-looking rings is an affordable experience.
You’ve probably already realized that colourful engagement rings are all the trend, but did you know that one of the most popular among those are pink diamonds? Not only is pink quintessentially feminine, it is also regarded as the universal shade of romance – pretty fitting for a bride-to-be, don’t you think? Fortunately, there are tons of ways to incorporate pink diamonds into your most special piece of jewellery – the engagement ring. From light pink morganite to champagne undertones, and even the blush-hued diamond, the choices are pretty endless.
More About Pink Diamonds
Pink diamonds have been regarded as one of the most sought after gemstones for a long time now. These beautiful stones are also one of the rarest of all the gemstones, not to mention one of the most expensive, too.
Pink diamonds are very rare which makes them more costly that other coloured diamonds. They are far rarer than white diamonds and only a small number of pink diamonds are mined every year. That’s why natural pink diamonds are a little more expensive than their white diamond counterparts.
The scarcity and rarity of pink diamonds as well as their higher price renders them out of reach to some jewellery lovers. However, there are jewellers that offer them at a reasonable price. Be sure to check out the amazing range of pink diamond engagement rings by Diamond Jewellery Studio. You may just find the perfect engagement ring for your beloved.
Pink Diamond Engagement Rings
Since pink diamonds are such a rare beauty, they make for a somewhat extravagant choice for some of the world’ most famous celebrities for their engagement rings. Pink diamond engagement rings often carry a higher price tag that appeals more to the rich and famous.
It can be hard to find a pink diamond engagement ring for under $10,000, and are often not available at run-of-the-mill jewellery stores.
However, there is now the option of pink diamonds which are far more affordable for ladies who have their hearts set on a pink diamond engagement ring. You may consult jewellers about this. As previously mentioned, one of the trustworthy jewellers that offers pink diamond engagement ring is Diamond Jewellery Studio. Contact them if you’re interested to view their collection.
What About Pink Diamond Wedding Rings?
While pink diamonds in smaller sizes are still rare, they tend to be more readily available than larger diamonds in pink shades. If you really have your heart set on a pink diamond ring, a wonderful option is a pink diamond wedding ring instead of a lavish and out-of-reach engagement ring. In fact, pink diamond wedding rings with a combination of white and pink diamonds or just all pink diamonds is another amazing way to enjoy the beauty of these rare stones.
If you have the budget, it is well-worth splashing out on a sensational pink diamond engagement ring for the lady in your life. There are some affordable options in store that you can also check out. Make your beloved feel special with a pink engagement ring. It will surely be worth it!
A new year means a fresh start and the time to flourish.
I am always looking for quality at an awesome price.
My hubby and I just so happen to be watching a DIY show and a Macy’s commercial came on saying they were having some good deals on cashmere. I would always get a cashmere cardigan or sweater every Christmas, so this sale peaked our interest. Instead of heading to our local Macy’s, we checked out their website instead. I am so thankful we did that. We found the online selection to be so much greater than what we had ever found in person at the store. There were more items to choose from and so many colors choices.
We saw this beautiful black stripe with black and gray background cashmere poncho retailed for $149.00, on sale for $39.00 an with coupon marked down again to $29.00. Talking about a sale of the century. This is 2-pluy 100% cashmere and it is dry clean only.
Cashmere poncho
This poncho can go over a top, a blouse, a turtleneck, or even a dress. It is so lightweight, but oh so cozy.
It was cold when I first wore the poncho so I teamed it with a Alfani blue turtleneck, gray Isaac Mizrahi pants and my Clark ankle boots. I accessorized it with this cool Parisan-themed handbag.
Cashmere poncho
The poncho simply pulls over my head and I can drape how every I want to style it that day. The sleeves are not sewn so the silhouette is very relaxed.
This sale price was such a blessing, especially to find before Christmas. Usually these incredible markdowns are only seen after the New Year’s clearance events started.
A new year reminds me of one of my favorite scriptures.
For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)
Today I want to help you learn about the differences between modern jewelry and vintage jewelry. It many be easy for everyone to know the difference. The two styles can dictate your appearance and presence, because they really add a lot to the wardrobe.
Modern jewelry is what you see most days when you see women adorned in jewelry in public. This category of jewelry usually has a sharp, eye-catching style, and looks good with a professional outfit or paired with a sleek dress for a date night. There is no strict definition of modern jewelry, it’s a subjective term that matches a particular movement or style. With online retailers popping up like Etsy, it’s easier than ever to find modern jewelry that matches your style, because there’s such a wide range of options thanks to the Internet.
image courtesy of www.invaluable.com
Vintage jewelry, on the other hand, is a broad category covering styles you may be familiar with like a pearl necklace or a diamond wedding ring. These are the age-old styles that look great at a formal event like a wedding, work party, or if you’re going out with an older crowd. Good vintage jewelry can be harder to find. Oftentimes, it’s handed down by friends, family or a significant other’s family. Many women receive some of their grandmother’s jewelry when she passes for example. There are also retailers, but they can be harder to find. Invaluable is one vintage jewelry retailer that seems to have a great selection.
image courtesy of www.invaluable.com
So I want to pose the question to my readers: what type of jewelry do you prefer? Do you own any jewelry? What’s the best way to find vintage jewelry in your opinion?
Learn More About JT Bubbling with Elegance and Grace is a place for life long learners. The Bubbling With Elegance And Grace team was created 14 years ago. A passion for fashion sparked a lifestyle blog for our Elegant Community to enjoy. We are thankful and in gratitude to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for those who have been with us from the beginning and those who have just started riding with us on this lovely journey.
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