Et tulle, Brooke Shaden?*

I don't often pay attention to photographers, as I'm a greater fan of the lookbook style of fashion pictures that clearly showcases how a piece of clothing looks on a body, rather than the editorial style that showcases the body and surroundings with a little bit of clothing in the mix. A post on Fashion156 today, however, made me look through every single photo in the gallery of LA-based photographer Brooke Shaden. Brooke's work is instantly eye-catching from the square format and almost painting-like style, to the ethereal worlds created by the (often underwater) settings, clothing, beautiful models, and dark mood. If I had a label that included flowy, billowy pieces, Brooke is definitely the photographer I'd want for an editorial photo shoot. Having said that, the photo I've picked here (and please do yourself a favor and look through each and every one of them on Brooke's site) doesn't showcase billowy clothing, but rather a) what I'd do on a day off (or every day) if I lived in the middle of a deserted wood (it may be of use to you to know that I often imitated Jodie Foster's Nell when I was younger), and b) the article of clothing I've been strangely drawn to for quite some time but have never purchased, being the tulle skirt. Especially with my style changing to a more pared-down minimalist look lately, I can't picture where I could wear a tulle skirt (other than a deserted wood). However, I will likely continue to want one, partially thanks to the fact that I would want to be a ballerina in another life, and partially thanks to Carrie Bradshaw. At any rate, I think this black sheer number by Peeko Apparel would fit more easily into my wardrobe than a full-out tulle skirt, if only as a layer over top of, say, my beloved mydearthing Panel Skirt...

Anyway, back to Brooke. Brooke just had her first fashion shoot (which completely surprises me) with Etsyian Pooka Queen. The resulting photos are not yet up in the Pooka Queen shop, but the upcycled/recycled shrugs and avant garde headpieces deserve a look. I personally want to buy this amazing chain and epaulette piece (the designer behind Pooka Queen has a BFA in metal smithing and jewelry). Wouldn't it look perfect with a tulle skirt?

And, back to Brooke again, because I love this photo. 

If you want to see some more of Brooke's work and read some behind-the-scenes thoughts (as well as info about her photography workshops), do visit her blog. It's pretty great.

*My goodness, I'm a nerd. 

Conservative

A rather alarming (and yet relatively non-alarming) diagnosis has sent me on that dreaded search for A Bathing Suit. While I'm still not sure what possessed me to go to the mall on said search AND to enter The Dressrooms With Inhumanely Horrible Lighting and Mirrors WITHOUT the promise of being awarded The Medal of Bravery, my search has been strengthened by window shopping from the comfort of my own couch. And I must say, Speedos have come a long way. I think I've settled on a one-piece for its 'conservative fit' and lovely shirred sides. And of course, for it's beautiful (non-)colour. I must be on a conservative kick altogether this week actually, as I've been eying both this deceptively simple Peeko Apparel maxi dress (it's made of bamboo jersey and has a racer back), and this perfect layering mid-length skirt from Norwegian Wood (yes, it has sheer mesh stripes!). Perhaps I watched Lady Gaga's new video one too many times...

What have you got against baboons in mime?

Okay, this was originally just an excuse to post some more Mandula, because I wish Hajnalka's gorgeous creations could always be at the top of all my browser windows. Or perhaps I should just put them on my desktop, as it seems I need to take up a permanent position in the middle of the road to ensure that my favorite neighbourhood creature does not get run over, and everyone's wireless networks seem to be password protected these days. But (I digress) I think that this perfect Bless cardigan (at Reborn) 

and this fantastic Peeko Apparel bat capelet  

could both hold their own (post) if need be. Though it could be those weird foot acupuncture points speaking, as I was informed they would 'help' my emotions. And we all know I get emotional over clothes. Sigh.

Convertible perfection

Okay, one more post for tonight and I promise I'll go do something outside of the Internet. I've said before that Brook of Peeko Apparel is a genius, but I'm still amazed every time I see something new from her. This new creation is a convertible wrap/vest/kimono top that is made out of men's dress pants. Amazing. The tank top underneath is also by Brook, entitled the 'Mullet Tank'. How could I keep up the rivalry between our two cities when she's so wonderful?

Edit: As pointed out by Linda, I believe this is the exact same design as the Peeko Apparel vest/wrap I posted here. Double gorgeousness!

The best use of your dad's golf shirt

Brook of Peeko Apparel is a genius. This is made out of a men's golf shirt. I've been staring at the pictures for the last 20 minutes because I think the idea of using snaps and the elastic underbust band to make the dress into a tunic is brilliant (click to make bigger - trust me!). I think I smell some DiY. Mmm...drapey jersey...

In need of an army blacket

I'm rather hesitant to make a new post today because I'd like that gorgeous ArtLab photo to always be at the top of my blog. Sigh. Perhaps I can justify bumping it down by working ArtLab into this post too (surprise!).

I'm also rather hesitant to blog about a huge label here. I know I've mentioned Vivienne Westwood a few times, but that's simply because she's a genius. And now, after being tipped off yet again by Queen Michelle, I really feel that I must post here about another big label which I've of course heard about, but never paid attention to because of my indie/handmade sensibilities. The label in question in Comme des Garçons. More importantly, the piece in question is a hybrid between an army jacket and a blanket. Yes, a blanket. I for one always have a blanket on me if I'm in any type of reclining position at home. And I've always loved the look of an army jacket. Indeed, Linda Cardellini's character in Freak and Geeks would be my fashion icon if I was transported in time back to high school.

Therefore, I believe this Comme des Garçons piece to be made just for me. However, I would never buy such a high end piece (unless, perhaps, it was actually a Vivienne Westwood piece). And so, I think I need to get both the ArtLab Revolutionary Jacket Oversized and a big ol' tartan blanket statim.

I spose another option if I want to tone down the army look would be to get Peeko Apparel's Kayo Wrap-Vest, and sneak a blanket in under those pants too (the wrap is made from men's dress pants). I might need a bigger belt though.

(Comme des Garçons photos via Style.com.)