Body Adornments by Sandi Yi

 

Crip Couture

The Beat Dazzler

The last day of my handmakin' marathon was spent gemmin' up a sweater for my holiday party! I guess that counts as a craft... (Leslie & the Ly's have certainly made a following out of their dedication to the collection). I can't think of a better way to kick off my week long stay-cation than a bedazzled bargain sweater and a brand new bottle of Maker's Mark. Cheers m'dears!

Transylvanian Concubine

James Coviello's designs glow this time of year, although his shop is open year round. Tucked into New York's Lower East Side neighborhood, one block south of the Tenement Museum, his boutique is full of reconstructed Victorian clothing that feels more organic farm-girl-with-a-fever than ugh, "steam punk."

I first found out about him through the band Rasputina, one of the most original collections of tunes I am happy to own. Rasputina has been around since the early 90's and are haunting and sad, which is why I rarely listen to them without the rain and/or October about (when it feels most appropriately savored). The band consists mostly of dual female Cellist's with some percussion and occasional violin's, rocking an impressive historical style. Their outfits conjure what I imagine an Amish burlesque show would perform in!

James Coviello happens to be the lead singer's best friend, and they often collaborate on idea's and share inspirations (and clothing). Since most authentic Victorian clothing is way smaller than the average sized woman these days, they collect antique pieces to use as guides, although his colors and alterations are what I may call modern-country, with a hint of an almost vampiric twist.

Here are some examples from his Fall 2008 Runway Collection:

Currently:

I just adore the following color combination: teal, rust with mustard. Very October! And my new personal inspiration for the switch into fall, both in dress and in my home.

Besides just women's clothing, he makes items for men (which have the same rich hue's, although a bit baggier than my personal taste on guys). He also creates beautiful accessories like jewelry, totes and hats. In fact, before he had a real following, he started out at Parson's specializing in unique hat making.

"Daintier! Smarter! Better dressed"

Although I have never been inside his shop, next time I visit NYC I will certainly have to track him down. Online drooling just doesn't do it, especially when his boutique is decorated with authentic bric-a-brac from his farm, and delicate originals from the Victorian era, like abandoned bird nests and milk glass sculptures.

For the rain today, I leave you with these:

More goodness Here

Riders on the Storm

Loving the emerging equestrian look for this year's fall fashion... It seems to be everywhere from Anthropologie to West Elm. I think it's a more natural way to ease into Autumn, by adding a touch of plaid, brown tones or leather (or "pleather for the animal friendly) to both your home and wardrobe. These people know what I mean...

(I can't wait to start wearing socks again)

Anthropologie bringing the cape back, circa 1900's

(Dude, talk Derby to me! Minus the belt, this guy's doing a lot right...)

And for your home life:

Pendelton Wool Plaid Throws

1950's cast-ceramic base lamp, and a framed Paint by Numbers Horse Picture

From Country Living's Vintage Finds page

Nice vignette by Ruby Lane

P.s- I want to go HERE, wherever that is.

Nagi Noda

Ever get the feeling you're being followed? Happy Friday the 13th... some inspiration for the weekend by Nagi Noda.