Portraiture

*

Dress: Anthea Crawford

Heels: Novo patent sandals

Bag: Novo patent

Bangle: Gift (from India)

Bracelets: Gift, Eb & Ive beaded, silver & shell

*

The dictionary definition of the word, "portraiture" is the recording of an individual's appearance or personality, whether in a painting, sculpture or other medium. This seemed particularly pertinent today, as I wore an ensemble - for a trip to Paddington to enjoy luncheon with the mother of a dear friend overseas - that I would consider to be the epitome of my style aesthetic, classic & sophisticated meets kitschy & bohemian... an ensemble that, as it happens, also features a stunning, rather prominent "portrait" neckline...

For me, the interplay between the elements of this outfit - though divergent - work particularly well to create a cohesive look that is pleasing to the eye:

* A structured dress in a sumptuous fabric, covered in a bright, eye-catching print with lavish design details such as the ah-mazing folded portrait neckline that shows just a cheeky hint of decolletage, shown in detail below...

** A pair of classic black patent platform sandals with a twist - a foot & leg elongating t-bar strap - with matching black patent boxy handbag, adding an element of shine whilst ensuring that the lush, graphic floral pattern of the dress was the star...

*** A chunky, vintage Indian bangle with silver accents & circular mirrors to pick up the shades of blue in the dress & reflect them...

**** An eclectic "stack" of beachy, bohemian, beaded bracelets - with silver & shell charms - tied together with a length of blue leather rope, bringing a relaxed vibe to an otherwise quite "buttoned up," sophisticated look... 

"... I may not always love you, but as long as there are stars above you, you'll never need to doubt it, I'll make you so sure about it; God only knows what I'd be without you..."

God Only Knows - The Beach Boys (1966)

*