Elegant Dressing

The waistcoat worn by the U.S. president this week was too long, while the belts worn by his wife were too high. And I saw a photo of Oprah Winfrey wearing a light purple dress with another too-high belt, a look which gives the illusion of a baby-bump just underneath it. It's as though everyone has forgotten where the waist is actually located: at least one inch above the navel.

©M-J de Mesterton

The Sun-Dress

2011-05-26T07:01:00.002-07:00

Poppy Galore Sundress by Tommy Bahama

Just as its name indicates, the sun-dress or sundress is meant to be worn in the most casual manner, on the beach or while sunning one's self. The sun-dress is not something that a woman ought to wear to luncheon or lunch, unless that occasion is pool-side or at a beach resort, when one may have just showered off after a swim in the sea. Sundresses do not belong at elegant luncheons or on city streets.
Elegant Dressing necessitates a knowledge of propriety in attire; there is a time and a place for everything under the sun.
©M-J de Mesterton

M-J and UK Daily Mail's Liz Jones on the Obamas' "Royal Visit"

2011-05-25T10:09:00.007-07:00

For Reference: Liz Jones in the Daily Mail, with Photographs
M-J's Impression of the Distaff Side's Dressing on May 24th
Proving the Elegant Survival theory that it does not cost more to look better, the Duchess of Cambridge wore a simple beige dress by Reiss, and dignified shoes. Mrs Obama wore a puzzlingly shiny dress (shininess is not appropriate for daytime) with a too-high waist that emphasised her belly, an oddly-mismatched bolero that seemed to have been squeezed around her, and some long-toed, open-heeled shoes (aren't the witch-toed shoes passé yet?). Just once we should see some elegant sartorial simplicity from this capable woman, who has obviously been wrongly-advised once again by her handlers. Her dress was the perfect length for the day. However, a pale blue dress doesn't blend well with a hot-pink bolero, and the satiny look ought to be reserved for evening. The "ensemble" that Michelle Obama wore when meeting the Camerons, a purple dress with a royal blue coat, was also mismatched and awkward. The occasions called for closed shoes (see the Duchess of Cambridge), which the First Lady finally wore with her garish blue and violet clothes, which actually would have been all right had they been of either complementary or identical hues.
Mrs Cameron's dress was a pure abomination, with no redeeming qualities whatsoever. The complicated waist and white panels, together with the busy, low-prole print on the rest of it were tragic. And her reptilian shoes were outrageously high-heeled, making her look sleazy and overly-tall, and her head appear too small. All the above, of course, bears up my traditional theme on classic dressing: money cannot buy elegance. Clothes DO make the man or woman, but first, a person must make the right choices or they will make one look foolish instead of stylish.
©M-J de Mesterton

Steam and Starch

2011-05-20T13:01:00.001-07:00

Ironing Update: Starch and Steam

Crisp but Not Crunchy Clothes with Home-Made Starch

I have a long, old-fashioned cotton skirt with embroidery and a cotton lining that hangs inside it. It seemed that both layers needed some more body. I iron all my husband's shirts without starch, so I had none in the house. He calls this my "Romanov skirt" and those ladies certainly had theirs starched, back in the early 1900s. I asked him to look up a recipe for ironing starch on the internet, and he came up with a standard formula. One cup of very hot water and a tablespoon of cornstarch, stirred until dissolved and put into a reliable spray bottle was what he recommended, and it worked very well. I have also spray-starched a couple of blouses with the aforementioned mixture, and had great success.

The New Elegant Survival Iron

The Elegant Survival Iron, by Shark
One of the pictured spray bottles contains plain water and a little bit of orange flower water; the other spray bottle holds my starch and water formula. Both of these concoctions are useful for ironing clothes. The first spray gets the wrinkles out, and the second one puts body into natural fabrics.

The Shark Euro-Pro is the best iron I have ever used. Its extended steam feature and heavy construction ensure an efficient ironing experience. The iron is also very pretty, and has a high-quality look.

©M-J de Mesterton 2011

Luxury Line

2011-05-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

Quod Erat Demonstrandum

2011-04-30T07:23:00.001-07:00

Above: I posted this Vogue Pattern for an Elegant, Dignified Wedding Gown on March 22nd.~M-J

My post on the Royal Wedding Day, and how I predicted the style of the Duchess of Cambridge's bridal gown:
http://www.elegantsurvival.net/apps/blog/show/6879786-quod-erat-demonstrandum

~~M-J

Wedding Day Disaster: Money Can't Buy Sartorial Splendour

2011-04-29T13:39:00.003-07:00

Oh, My!

He spends over three-million per year on clothes: get a load of the cuffs, roughly two inches over-long, and those appalling bunched sleeves on both EJ and his husband (together with thick rubber army soles on the hubby's "dress shoes")....

Photo MSNBC

MSNBC Photo
M-J's Note: Men's shirt-cuffs should only show a half-inch.

Elegant Coat and Skirt Suit by Monique Lhuillier

2011-04-24T09:10:00.000-07:00

My friend Christabelle is offering this glamorous ladies' suit for a fraction of its original price:

http://www.christabellescloset.com/SUITS-&-2-PIECERS/SKIRT-SUITS/MONIQUE-LHUILLIER/p-89-206-8498/

Please read the measurements carefully for a perfect fit. This is a suit for an elegant, voluptuous woman.

Ladies' Elegant Pinstripe Suit

2011-04-11T10:37:00.001-07:00

This superb, elegant women's pinstriped suit is offered by our reliable and sterling friend Peter in Herefordshire. He will ship outside of Great Britain.

This vintage women's skirt-suit gives a very shapely silhouette to its tasteful wearer.

Elegant British Boating Blazer

2011-03-28T17:01:00.000-07:00

Made to Measure in England by Bookster, the Traditional Boating Blazer

Elegant Pink Floral Jacket from Laura Ashley

2011-03-24T06:23:00.001-07:00

This waist-length, figure-flattering cotton jacket by People Tree, available at Laura Ashley, will go well with a white skirt or trousers for late spring and summer dressing.

This elegant ladies' jacket is also available in a navy and white print.

Splendid Vintage Jaeger Boating Jacket

2011-03-24T06:15:00.000-07:00

45" Chest, Made in England by Jaeger

A tasteful, understated old example of the fine British traditional summer blazer.

Superb Laura Ashley Tweed Skirt Suit with Velvet Collar

2011-03-14T03:40:00.003-07:00

Elegant Skirt-Suit of Tweed with Velvet Collar, Made in England by Laura Ashley, Size 14 UK; Size 10/12 US--read measurements carefully. Offered by our sterling friend Peter in Herefordshire.

Luxurious Knitted Skirt-Suit

2011-03-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/WOMENS-SUPERB-VINTAGE-GPURE-WOOL-CHECK-SKIRT-SUIT-8-/330537775875?pt=Women_s_Clothing&hash=item4cf5963303#ht_2707wt_905

Bust 35"

Waist 28"

Hips 36"

This sweater-suit would be very elegant for St. Patrick's Day or Easter. An ivory or green hat, a congruous silk scarf and brownish pumps would enhance this luxurious, classic style.

Superb Chukka Boots Made in England

2011-03-08T14:45:00.001-07:00

Excellent condition, versatile, elegant and comfortable---read more descriptions of these English-made chukka boots here.

Splendid Dormeuil Herringbone Tweed Jacket

2011-03-08T14:33:00.002-07:00

The height of menswear elegance is found in this nearly-new bespoke jacket made of herringbone tweed Dormeuil cloth.

Women's Sheepskin Toscana-Style Coat

2011-03-08T13:36:00.001-07:00

Women's Sheepskin Toscana-Style Coat

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/WOMENS-SUPERB-F-LENGTH-TOSCANA-SHEEPSKIN-COAT-12-/290541084060?pt=Women_s_Clothing&hash=item43a5991d9c#ht_2580wt_905

Elegant Long Sheepskin Coat, Traditional Frog-Closures and Trim
Made in Strasbourg by Roth

Chest measures 44"
These coats sell for over a thousand dollars new.

Elegant Handmade Wool Cape

2011-02-09T14:59:00.010-07:00

Handmade Wool Cape by Casco Bay Woolworks, 45" Long

Handmade Woollen Cape by Casco Bay Wool Works, Maine, U.S.A.

Woman's Waxed Barbour Jacket, Superb!

2011-02-05T13:59:00.001-07:00

Ladies’ Barbour Wax Newmarket Jacket

5FEB

Splendid Ladies' Wax Riding Jacket by Barbour

Superb Barbour waxed riding jacket in wonderful condition, available lightly used, excellent price at ebay UK auction from Herefordshire. Size 14; chest 44″–perfect for the average-sized woman.

Aigle ISO Wellington Boots, Made in France

2011-02-01T17:26:00.003-07:00

Unisex Hand-Made Boots Made in France, Offered for a Song (Sold; see other items)

Elegant Bridal Gowns

2011-01-22T08:13:00.000-07:00

Elegant Wedding Gown

Posted by M-J de Mesterton on January 19, 2011 at 2:31 PM

Prospective Brides: Something to Consider

Why not eschew the modern strapless evening dresses/corsets with long trains that are now standard in the wedding business and adopt a classic, elegant, dignified style for your bridal gown? Following the crowd is not wise. That which is in fashion right now may make one cringe in the future. Brides of refinement and good breeding, women of high station in life have traditionally worn bridal gowns with long sleeves and elegant, high collars. Here is Julie Andrews as Maria von Trapp in the Sound of Music, wearing a gorgeous wedding dress that looks right for any decade:

Note that this elegant wedding dress has a figure-flattering shape while bearing none of the tacky, complicated embellishments that often find their way onto the most important garb of a woman's life. If it is now impossible to locate a ready-made bridal gown of dignity and taste, there are patterns available from which one may be made.

©M-J

Elegant Bridal Gown Patterns

Posted on January 18, 2011 at 9:25 PM

Proper Wool Trousers, 20 USD

2011-01-15T07:59:00.000-07:00

It is so difficult finding men's OR women's trousers that actually come up to the waist these days, that I was excited when I stumbled upon these lined, cuffed wool slacks at Sportsman's Guide for an unimaginably low price:

Traditional Trousers

M-J in Eddie Bauer 1943 Geddes Parka

2011-01-06T21:05:00.001-07:00

Elegant Country Dressing

2011-01-06T19:05:00.002-07:00

M-J de Mesterton is wearing a Porter & Harding tweed jacket made in England by Bookster, with an English-made wax coat, an elegant mandarin-collared cotton blouse by T.M. Lewin, a long skirt, and Khombu boots.

Elegantly-Dressed Men, Germany 1961

2011-01-05T09:51:00.001-07:00

Photographed by M-J de Mesterton from Frau und Film, 1961

Elegant Hats

2011-01-05T07:46:00.003-07:00

Photo: Frau und Film, 1961

Elegance 1961 Style

2011-01-05T07:40:00.004-07:00

Elegant Dressing 1961

2011-01-04T09:21:00.001-07:00

No anorexics here; just healthy, happy models wearing short swing-coats and turtlenecks, elegant hats, gloves
and boots. From Frau und Film, winter 1961. With thanks to our dear friends the Kings of Herefordshire for this well-preserved, glamourous vintage magazine.

Elegant Winter Dressing 1960s

2011-01-04T07:03:00.004-07:00

Elegant Men's Tweed Trench-Coat

2010-12-31T08:49:00.002-07:00

This is an extremely elegant men's double-breasted trench-coat made from wool cloth that resembles Bateson tweed.

Offered by Bookster1 UK on-line vintage store.

UPDATE: this exquisite beauty has been sold.

Butterick 1947 Elegant Dress Pattern

2010-12-31T08:01:00.001-07:00

The Elegant Forties-Style Dress

Pattern by Butterick

Often Imitated and Poorly-Made in China by Today's Manufacturers

This is the proper pattern for a 1947 dress, with the correct proportions.

Classic, Elegant Winter Dressing

2010-12-30T16:47:00.001-07:00

M-J de Mesterton Elegantly Attired for a Snowstorm

Aigle Boots (Made in France)

Montgomery Elysian Wool Duffel Coat (Made in England)

White Fox Hat (Made in Helsinki, Finland)

Scottish Walking Cane

Scots Glen Cashmere Scarf (Elgin Castle, Scotland)

Cashmere-Lined Black Leather Gloves (Made in Italy; Bergdorf Goodman NYC)

Elegant Tweed Jacket by Laura Ashley

2010-12-30T08:23:00.000-07:00

Covered buttons and an inset-velvet collar distinguish this elegant tweed plaid jacket by Laura Ashley. The chest measures 40", while the waist measurement is 38". This is a dignified and refined wardrobe element that can be worn three seasons a year in most regions. Offered by our dear friends at Bookster UK online auctions.

Elegant, Exotic Silk Blouse by Turnbull & Asser

2010-12-28T09:13:00.002-07:00

Wild, elegant and exotic plaid silk blouse, vintage Turnbull & Asser; 39-inch chest, size 10UK

Elegant Custom Silk Dressing Gowns/Robes by Kabbaz & Kelly

2010-12-28T08:28:00.003-07:00

Silken Splendour
Custom-made Italian silk dressing gowns/robes are a special luxury.

Elegant Dressing for the Christmas Holiday

2010-12-26T20:21:00.002-07:00

Author and painter M-J de Mesterton wears an ankle-length velvet skirt by J. Peterman, a satin-like cotton blouse

by T.M. Lewin, and a silk-cashmere pashmina.

The Proper Waistcoat

2010-12-22T18:57:00.002-07:00

The Waistcoat Sits at the Waist, Not Near the Crotch

23DEC

The Proper Waistcoat Ends at the Actual Waist

You know that the waist is an inch above your navel. So why are men wearing their waistcoats down at their crotches? Probably because they have been brainwashed into believing that the waist is somewhere around the hips. This distortion has gone down long enough! And that’s just what a waistcoat that ends at the actual waist IS: LONG ENOUGH! Your trousers need to sit at your waist as well, otherwise they will give you Plumber’s Crack and fall down. If you persist in following fashion, your legs will look very short, while your torso goes south.

©M-J de Mesterton; December 22nd, 2010

Tags:

appear taller, long legs, looking tall, vest, waist, Waistcoat, waistcoat at waist

CATEGORIES: Bad Dresser, bad dressing, belly pants, Disfiguring Styles, Dress in Elegant Fashion,Dress in Elegant Style,Dressing Elegant, Dressing Elegantly, Dumpy Slacks, Elegant Clothes, Elegant Clothing, Elegant Dressing, Elegant Dressing Site, Elegant Man, Elegant Men's Clothing, Elegant Menswear, Elegant Tweed vest, Elegant Vest, Elegant Waistcoat,Location Waist, Looking Shorter, low pants,muffin top, Pants Falling Down, Pants on the Ground, Plumber's Crack, Styles to Avoid,Tweed Vest, Tweed Waistcoat, Waist Guide,Where Is the Waist?

AUTHORM-J de Mesterton

Super Sale on Men's Dress Shirts at T.M. Lewin

2010-12-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

What a great deal on elegant men's shirts! T.M. Lewin is constantly offering well-made shirts for men and women at very reasonable prices. Here is the sale announcement.

Elegantly-Shaped Ladies' Suit by Boden

2010-12-12T09:29:00.001-07:00

Fabulously flattering, perfect for safari, spring and summer, this women's suit is elegantly tailored with waist-suppression and flared jacket. Its matching knee-length pencil-skirt has middle vent in the back. This is a classic skirt-suit for the elegant woman. Offered at an affordable price by our reliable friend in Herefordshire, one of ebay's top sellers, Peter.

Elegant 1950s Evening Suit

2010-12-11T08:52:00.004-07:00

The elegant contrast to evening jackets with notched lapels: a classic shawl-collared dinner suit by Burton Black, circa 1950s, in superb condition with a 43" chest and 31.5-inch long trousers. Here is the description of this refined evening suit by its owner, our reliable friend Peter in Herefordshire:

Superb Vintage Burton Circa 1950's Black Single Breasted Evening / Dinner Suit. UK/US Size 40. EU Size 50
It does not have a working cuff this will make it easier to have the sleeve length adjusted, the trousers have a zip fly, button waist adjusters and braces buttons. Beautiful cloth, fabulous cut and styling. In fantastic Great condition for its age. Rare opportunity, Don't miss it.
Condition: Excellent Overall, just some feint marks to arm hole lining, and trouser waistband and pocket bag lining.
(T024)
GARMENT MEASUREMENTS

Jacket
Width armpit to armpit: 21.5"
Across Waist: 20"
Length from centre of collar to cuff: 35"
Length from collar seam to hem: 29.75"
Armpit to cuff: 18.5"
Shoulder seam to cuff: 25.5"
Shoulder seam to seam: 18.5"

Trousers
Twin Pleat Front, Metal Zip Fly, Braces Buttons, Button Waist Adjusters, Waistband Ticket Pocket, 1 back pocket
Waist: 32", could be let out by 3"
Inside Leg 31.5" ,1.5" hem to let down,
Trouser bottom width: 8.75"

SEE THIS ELEGANT DINNER SUIT HERE.

Elegant Gloves by Chester Jefferies

2010-12-11T08:39:00.001-07:00

Chester Jefferies Makes Its Elegant Leather Gloves in England

Superb Burberrys Tweed Skirt Suit

2010-12-06T00:33:00.005-07:00

This elegant, classic ladies' Shetland tweed skirt-suit by Burberrys is offered by our reliable friend Peter in Herefordshire. The skirt is below-the-knee length with two pleats in front and a flattering waistband; the jacket is just the right length to make your legs appear long. I would wear this glorious traditional English suit with a high-necked or ruffled blouse, and classic pumps or boots with two-inch heels. The tweed's houndstooth or dogtooth check pattern resembles a gun-club check in its colours and configuration.
~~M-J

Classic Example of the Pinstripe Suit, on Sale for a Song

2010-12-02T06:51:00.002-07:00

The traditional pinstripe suit is very popular right now. Our friend Peter in Herefordshire is offering a new one that is double-breasted, in size 44 long.

Custom Silk Dressing Gown/Robe at Kabbaz & Kelly

2010-12-01T07:22:00.005-07:00

Silken Splendour
Custom-made Italian silk dressing gowns are a special luxury for your valentine.

Elegant English Socks by Scott-Nichol

2010-11-25T07:49:00.005-07:00

Scott-Nichol English Socks

Scott-Nichol is a traditional manufacturer of hand made socks for both men and women. All socks from Scott-Nichol come with a hand-linked toe, making them virtually seamless; they are a joy to wear because of their superior comfort and fit. All Scott-Nichol socks are made in Leicestershire, England. To find out why Scott-Nichol socks are so sought-after, read the company's explanations:

Elegant Dressing in Lingerie Lace

2010-11-25T06:32:00.005-07:00

The early 1900s saw a trend towards more risqué dressing, after the comparatively restrained Victorian era. Though by today's standards, the clothing-style known then as "lingerie lace" is quite tame, it has seen a resurgence in popularity for elegant special-occasion-style. It is an all-white look which is perfect for summertime. You could plan your warm-weather wardrobe now and acquire these stylish clothes early. And why not look like a Christmas angel when hosting an elegant holiday party at home? To do the lingerie lace look right, study some examples. Here is a good source for the all-white ensemble consisting of lingerie-lace long-sleeved blouse and ankle-length skirt:

Western Emporium
Lingerie Lace Skirt

©M-J de Mesterton

Elegant Herringbone Tweed Waistcoat

2010-11-25T05:33:00.000-07:00

This elegant pre-owned vest or waistcoat is available at our friend Peter's on-line shop in Herefordshire.

Waistcoats and vests are suddenly fashionable this season, though some of us have never stopped wearing them for an elegant, warm and traditional mode of dress.

Blouses and Shirts for the Elegant Woman

2010-11-25T05:25:00.000-07:00

T.M. Lewin is having a pre-Christmas sale of its elegant shirts and blouses for women.

Elegant Safari Dress

2010-11-25T05:11:00.004-07:00

In this example of a traditional safari dress by Burberry, there are plenty of pockets, ample length, and long sleeves. The purpose of this proper garment is to provide protection from the elements and storage for one's implements. Classic Safari Dressing Explained by M-J in a Previous Post

~~M-J

Lord Cadogan Brogues by Edward Green

2010-11-19T10:04:00.006-07:00

Cadogan Brogues Hand-Made

by Edward Green

Click on photos for larger images.

Elegant Edward Green Cadogan Brogues, Made by Hand in the Company's Best Years

Elegant Edward Green Brogues

Elegant, Feminine Tweed Skirt-Suit

2010-11-18T08:22:00.007-07:00

Elegant Donegal Tweed Skirt-Suit at Bookster UK

Superb Vintage Irish Tweed Skirt-Suit, offered by Our Friend Peter in Herefordshire

I would wear this elegant ladies' suit with big pearls or a white Scottish jabot-blouse; black pumps or boots, kid-white, black or grey gloves and a black hand-bag. This elegant tweed is made up of grey, pink, baby-blue, white and black wool . ~~M-J

Elegant New English Suit with Classic Stripes and Cuffs

2010-11-17T15:39:00.003-07:00

Elegant Double-Breasted Pinstriped Suit, New with Tags, by Savoy Tailors
Offered by our Friend Peter in Herefordshire

Elegant 1970s Vintage Pinstriped Suit UK/US 42

2010-11-17T09:20:00.001-07:00

Elegant Pinstriped Suit, Offered by Our Friend Peter in Herefordshire

Elegant Brooches at Majesty Magazine

2010-11-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

Order now for Christmas--there is a large array of gorgeous costume jewellery at Majesty Magazine's gift-shop. Scroll down to "Jewel Boxes" for charming brooches, including this elegant pink fan.

It's Not the Bagginess that Offends, Butt...

2010-11-15T10:07:00.004-07:00

...I mean but the low-hanging thereof. My photo shows elegant baggy or wide-legged trousers. Baggy pants, as in Oxford Bags, have been chic for decades in classic clothing. But, most people, when referring to the problem of low-sagging pants (trousers) just use the term, "baggy pants". That's really unfair, since what is being excoriated is the plumber's crack, a source of derision for all times. What people abhor is the hideous sagging lowdown pants/trousers style. It really amounts to indecent exposure--someone's underwear and opening showing in front, and whatever you wish to call it bared in the back--that's the issue. Here is an article which I was sent by Sweden's The Local--News in English:

http://www.thelocal.se/8941/

Nostalgia: Remember Elegantly-Dressed Men?

2010-11-15T09:13:00.006-07:00

In this stylish drawing of a man, you don't see a skinny jacket that is bursting open to expose sad trousers that hang at the hip, a bulging shirt and too-long tie. What we see here is a man who wears his trousers at the right length, ones that don't pile-up like discarded potato sacks on top of his shoes, and which come up to the actual human waist, thereby visually lengthening his legs. And we see the gentleman's traditional accessories: hat, gloves and walking-stick, all of which serve a purpose, including protection from the elements, enthusiastic pigeons, dirt, germs, roving animals, and whoever may dare to attack him or anyone else in his immediate vicinity; the gentleman is always well-prepared for a stroll down today's mean streets. Alas, this picture is clipped from an advert by Burberrys that appears in one of my 1930s Sphere magazines. Today's men, in general, look like short, dumpy cads in clothes that are designed to distort human proportions. (Add the slovenly yet popular three-day growth beard to complete a tragic modern image.) Never in history has so much sartorial splendour been readily accessible, and yet men have seldom looked worse. It doesn't cost any more to dress correctly than it does to do it badly, especially since some of the ghastliest clothes are going for the highest prices. There are few contemporary examples of elegant dressing in trendy venues and magazines. Help yourself by not following fashion, but instead by looking toward the best elements of the past for useful examples of tasteful masculine dress.

Elegant Dressing on Safari

2010-11-14T20:38:00.003-07:00

We discovered an affordable and excellent source of well-made safari clothes while outfitting our elder relative for a trip. The firm is called Tag Safari, and their motto is "Helping Africa through Trade, Not Aid". Tag Safari's office in Houston is staffed with personable and efficient customer-service agents.

Cabela's has well-priced classic safari jackets and vests, which I have featured here at Elegant Dressing.

Elegant Survival tip: the more of your skin that is covered by clothing, the safer you are from the elements, sun and insects in particular. Even in the U.S., insects can cause deadly diseases such as Lyme, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and West Nile virus. People assume that hot weather requires a baring of skin, which is a fallacy. Natural fibres have a wicking action to keep your skin dry of perspiration, thus keeping you cool. And, everyone but the unenlightened knows now that getting sunburnt/tanned on purpose isn't cool! Smart people wear long sleeves and trousers, long socks, boots and skirts. Do all you can to protect against malaria and other insect-borne diseases. Desert-dwellers cover as much skin as possible, and for good reason. So, whether you're in the high desert, the heavily-wooded forest, or in the savannahs of Africa, my elegant survival rule of covering yourself from head-to-toe with luxurious fabrics is even more relevant.

©M-J de Mesterton

Why Not Wear Cordings, Clapton?

2010-11-14T10:51:00.000-07:00

In a promotional video for Cordings, the old English clothing company, part-owner Eric Clapton dresses sloppily in a tee-shirt, which somewhat diminishes his credibility.

Ladies' Scottish Wool Waistcoat

2010-11-11T09:41:00.002-07:00

Offered by our friend Peter in Herefordshire, here is an elegant ladies' waistcoat made from Scottish tweed. Check the measurements for accurate sizing. This is a size "16" U.K., size 14 U.S.

Elegant Brown Wool Tweed Vest for Women,

in Excellent Condition

Divine Antique Bloomers

2010-11-11T09:02:00.001-07:00

We used to call them "pettipants" when we wore lacy bloomers under our skirts as children. Ladies used to occasionally wear silken bloomers instead of half-slips.
Divine Antiques on-line shop offers this elegant pair of bloomers, never-used and stored in an antiquated trousseau, for a very reasonable price. What a lovely Christmas gift for the woman who "has everything"!
~~M-J

Elegant Brown Cashmere Blend Skirt

2010-11-09T08:48:00.001-07:00

Cashmere-Blend Skirt in Brown Diagonal Pinstripe, at my friend Christabelle's Closet, New York's

Famous On-Line Consignment Shop

As on ALL GARMENTS, READ THE MEASUREMENTS for ACCURATE FIT

(Sizes are meaningless.)

Wear this with a frilly blouse and a stole for a winter evening, or with a tan or brown-based tweed jacket or fluffy sweater for daytime.

~~M-J

Elegant Safari Vest, Now $24.95

2010-10-25T08:41:00.002-07:00

Cabela's safari vest is such a useful garment, figure-flattering and versatile to the point that you will find ways to dress it up for wear in town: hats, long-sleeved tees, cashmere turtlenecks, shirts with collar and cuffs, corduroy trousers, silk scarves knotted at the neck, wool neckties, foulards--the possibilities are endless. Or, just throw it on for quick trips outdoors, because it has your flashlight or torch in one of its many pockets already, together with other small survival tools that you have hidden there. Cabela's safari vest is fashioned with a focus on fine form and function, perfect for stylish men. Grab it and go, with the rugged glamour that a classic piece of clothing gives a guy!

Cabela's Safari Vest at Elegant Survival Blog, September 15th

How Many Colours are Enough?

2010-10-19T08:49:00.001-07:00

It's time to stop the false compliments, and applying the term, "fashion maven" to the wrong people. Flattery is one thing, but those who draw analogies between this first lady and Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy are outright loons. They put the "sick" in sycophancy!

Elegant Ensemble by Anna Sui

2010-10-10T08:01:00.004-07:00

From Vogue Out-of-Print Patterns (United States) comes this elegant ensemble of vest, classic ruffled blouse, and a figure-flattering, dirndl-like gathered skirt with a built-in, wide waistband. This sewing-pattern is part of Vogue Patterns' American designer series, beautifully-conceived by Anna Sui. If the lace-trim is too much for you, replace it with braiding or omit it altogether.

Another Disfiguring Style: Cap-Sleeves

2010-09-29T09:22:00.000-07:00

Cap-sleeves make everyone's upper-arms look chunky. They do not emphasize musculature; rather, cap-sleeves make one's muscles look like unappealing lumps. Attractive sleeve-lengths are 3/4 and to the wrist. Short sleeves are not elegant--when was the last time you saw someone look chic in a bowling shirt? If you must expose your arms, sleeveless styles are more elegant than cap-sleeves and short sleeves.
©M-J de Mesterton 2010

Grey Donegal Tweed Jacket of Dormeuil Cloth

2010-09-28T17:22:00.005-07:00

The Height of Elegance, Dormeuil Cloth Wool Jacket with Hand-Sewn Buttonholes and Changeant Lining

Elegant Dressing Recommends...

2010-09-22T21:36:00.001-07:00

Edward Green, Dormeuil, Donegal Tweed, Super Badger Shaving Brush, Savile Row Shaving Brush

Elegant Austin Reed Wool Skirt Suit

2010-09-20T22:49:00.000-07:00

New Old Stock, Well-Made Austin Reed Skirt-Suit, Elegant Tan Colour Starting Bid 39 Pounds

Size UK 16; US 14

See Measurements and Description!

Brought to you by our good friend Peter in Herefordshire, this is a super suit for elegant dressing in fall and winter.

Elegant Tweed Skirt-Suit

2010-09-15T20:40:00.001-07:00

From Our Friends at Bookster U.K. this Fabulous Ladies' Suit with one button missing, for only 49 pounds plus cost of swift shipping.

Where Is the Waist? Editorial

2010-09-15T08:02:00.005-07:00

By M-J de Mesterton

Where is the waist? That's what I wonder every time I look at photos of the newest "fashions." What is new about the same old tragic clothing-concepts bobbing up again, masquerading as innovative?

For the past ten years, pants and skirts have consistently been manufactured without even coming close to the waist, yet they are touted as the "latest." To paraphrase General Honoré of Louisiana, someone's "stuck on stupid." I thought last spring that the tide of bad clothes was turning, but having perused some catalogues this month, it is apparent that clothing designers are still denying their customers ample fabric to cover their "plumber's cracks."

Snide cracks about "mom jeans" and thoroughly ignorant comments calling anything that indeed does come just up to the natural waist "high-waisted" are still being heard and read by those of us who actually remember where the waist is located on the human corpus: the place for belts, sashes, snaps and buttons is an inch or two above the navel, depending upon one's height. The designer of the human body gave us the waist as an elegant way of keeping our pants, skirts and trousers from falling down; also to enhance our corporeal proportions. The true waist never comes below the navel, and it certainly cannot be found two inches above one's crotch. Garments are falling down from where they rest on the hips, and the fashion world has insisted on staying down in the gutter after what seems to be a devastating, permanent fall from elegant, figure-enhancing style.

Fashion-victims are afraid now to go against the hideous dictum that you must wear your clothes no higher than the hip. This is a big mistake, because if one follows the lines of his or her body, they will see that clothes descending from the waist lengthen the legs, while clothes that only come up to the hips turn even the slimmest among us into pot-bellied, short and sloppy-looking people who would have been laughed-at throughout the previous decades and centuries.

Wearing six-inch heels to compensate for the bad deeds done to your figure by stingy clothing manufacturers and designers does nothing but make one look even sillier. Extra-high heels will damage both your feet and back, and will not give back the height robbed from you by idiotic torso-stretching trousers and skirts. For men, extra-long trousers do not visually lengthen your legs; rather, they make you look dumpy.

The fail-safe, time-tested method of developing real glamour and style is to dress in natural, luxurious cloths and fabrics from the waist-down; wear two-to-three inch heels if you are a woman, and keep your trousers from heaping into a puddle on top of your shoes if you are a man. And don't forget the stockings and socks. No one will notice that you are not blindly and self-destructively following bad fashion. But, they will wonder why on earth you look so good, while their trousers are slipping into the mire together with all sense of style.

Now, there is the waist, our anchoring feature of elegant style. Pants, trousers and skirts constructed without it are a waste!

Waist-to-Height Ratio and Your Health: an easy-to-use page that tells you how to find your waist, recommends its ideal measurement for your height, gender and age, calculates your body-mass index and displays one's optimum daily caloric-intake.

Clever Facial Blotters

2010-08-12T20:37:00.001-07:00

Elegant Trench Coat

2010-08-10T09:47:00.000-07:00

Silk Scarf Design Inspired by Nature

2010-08-05T19:56:00.001-07:00

A California pottery leaf- vase with roses, sits on an occasional table covered with a large silk scarf decorated with analogous roses, leaves and chrysanthemums.
~~M-J.

Edward Green Shoes, Named after Lord Cadogan

2010-07-01T21:05:00.011-07:00

Cadogan Brogues Hand-Made
by Edward Green

Elegant Edward Green Cadogan Brogues, Made by Hand in the Company's Best Years

Charming Hawaiian Print Dress at Christabelle's Closet

2010-07-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

By Saks Fifth Avenue Real Clothes,
an Elegant Casual Cocktail Dress, Tropical Island Shift Style
Cotton and spandex, back zipper, size 16

Bust 45", Hips 48"

This dress would look fabulous with some chunky white jewellery or pearls.

Now reduced to ten dollars!
See Christabelle's Closet for Super Deals on Clothing and Accessories

Elegant Nylon Stockings for a Song

2010-01-12T15:03:00.003-07:00

M-J Recommends National's Hosiery: Traditional,
Pure Nylon Stockings

Photo by M-J

Ladies' New Elegant Linen Overcoat by Crombie

2010-01-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

Offered by our friend in England, Peter, this brand-new, elegantly shaped women's size 8UK coat by Crombie, for a mere £49. Peter ships swiftly to the U.S.

Incredibly Luxurious and Unique Harris Tweed Equestrian Ladies' Jacket, NEW

2009-12-25T12:57:00.001-07:00

The jacket has been sold. Thanks for looking.

Above: the Harris Tweed Company's Legendary Cloth

The Finest English-Made Gloves, by Chester Jefferies

2009-12-13T14:54:00.001-07:00

Chester Jefferies have been the manufacturers of Britain’s finest gloves since 1936. Chester Jefferies leather gloves enjoy a worldwide reputation for quality and design. Their extensive range of gloves covers everything from driving to flying, dress to weddings and shooting to equestrian. Gloves made by the Chester Jefferies company also make wonderful gifts for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mothers Day, Weddings and many more special occasions. Made from exceptional leathers from around the world and beautifully finished by hand with exquisite attention to detail, you can rest assured no glove will ever feel the same again.

Time for an Uprising

2009-12-10T15:37:00.000-07:00

Traditional Trousers, Made in England at Bookster U.K.

So, you are possessed of a perfectly shaped body and decide to go shopping. There is nothing available but low-rise pants and skirts that rest on the hip. The fashion industry and its manufacturers are saving big bucks on your back. You decide that to go against what seem to be the demands of current fashion is pointless, so you buy whatever looks prettiest on the hanger. Once it goes onto your well-toned corpus, something sinister happens: your legs now look a mere foot long, and your tight “abs” sit above the low-rise top of your skirt or slacks, looking for all the world like a beer-gut. What’s happening here? The fashion industry is sabotaging your looks while saving themselves money on yardage. It’s now impossible to find a pair of pants, tights, or a skirt that comes up to the natural waist; anything that does is derisively and incorrectly labeled “high-waisted”. If you must have your clothes made for you in order to avoid this sick, disfiguring fashion regime, there are ways to do it without breaking the bank. A well-constructed pair of corduroy, moleskin or tweed trousers will get you through the depression in style, last for many years, and what’s most appealing about them is that they will make you look taller than everyone else (unfortunate fashion-victims that they are). Even a well-shaped jacket can be sabotaged by slacks, skirts, or trousers that hang below it. Last night’s Academy Awards brought out a cavalcade of men whose crotches landed below the bottom edge of their jackets–poor misguided fellows, yet rich enough to get it right. Overly long slacks creating a puddle of fabric on top of men’s shoes do not lengthen their legs visually–they just look wretchedly tailored.

A tasteful and reliable source for elegant, durable tweed jackets and trousers is Bookster U.K. They will guide you through the ordering process, and see to it that your clothes have an actual waist, so that your investment isn’t a waste. The clothes are made by Bookster in England. There are plenty of British and American companies that copy the traditional English styles, but have them made inexpensively in China. Yet, these clothes are crafted the old-fashioned way, close to where the fabrics are milled in the United Kingdom. It may take a couple of months to have a great pair of trousers or elegant jackets made, but you just might be wearing them for a lifetime. Bookster U.K. is a small operation with a huge reputation for customer service and fine clothing. They specialize in equestrian and tweed clothes, which are perfect for town and country.
Don’t let hip-hop fashion and cheap clothing manufacturers dictate your style. It is time for an uprising against the tyranny of low-rise clothing.
~~Copyright M-J de Mesterton; February 23rd, 2009

M-J with Bookster Tweed Jacket, Traditional Wool Skirt, and Santa Fe Walking StickDalmatian Ebony Hand-Carved Walking Stick, by Santa Fe Sticks Jacket by Bookster UK/Tweed Jacket.com
Photo Copyright Santa Fe Sticks 2008
M-J in Bookster Tweed Jacket and Ebony Walking Stick by Santa Fe Sticks
M-J's Elegant Dressing

Elegant Dressing

This is No Mini-Dress!

2009-12-10T07:23:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth Hurley's dress is just above the knee, "OMG".
And, in my opinion, a woman is not really dressed unless she is wearing stockings.

Welcome

2009-12-09T14:01:00.000-07:00

M-J's Elegant Dressing

Elegant Dressing

: Elegant Everyday Stockings
Originally submitted at Essential Apparel

Product Features: Silky Sheer Stockings; Sandalfoot, 80% nylon, 20% Lycra * SOLD IN QUANTITIES OF 3 *
Berkshire Kicks Silky Sheer Stockings – Sandalfoot
I Get a Kick out of Berkshire Kicks!
By M-J from The Rockies on 8/19/2008
5out of 5
Sizing: Feels true to size Pros: Fit Well, Silky, Stay In Place, Comfortable Best Uses: Everyday, Formal Occasions Describe Yourself: High-end shopper, Practical, Conservative, Stylish
These are as close to classic nylons as possible, and are an improvement over those which were available in the 1960s and 1970s! Thanks, Essential Apparel, for Berkshire Kicks!
The Elegant Survival Stocking: Still Available as Berkshire Kicks