Edwardian Underwear (not really though).

When I first saw this dress I said aloud, "I have to have it right now! It looks like Edwardian underwear!" Sometimes I forget that I am not surrounded by people who understand this kind of statement, and so I am not entirely sure anyone else in the vicinity saw the appeal of this.

Ouftit details: Dress: J. Crew, Bag: Vintage, Ring: Mom, Shoes: Urban Outfitters, Slip: Vintage

I hoarded it, I think I might have worn it once, until today. I was originally saving it to go visit a 1700s house downstate, but the rain thwarted our last plan to visit it, and I figured today was as good a day as any.

The thing is, I've been looking for all kinds of Edwardian things lately. It's part of the whole Jane Eyre thing. I know that isn't Edwardian, but the little lace collars and bits poking up from the tops of dresses made me think of it. I lost out on a lawn dress with not buttons on ebay (it ended up going for 17$. I forgot about the auction and watched Parks and Recreation. I'm trying very hard not to think about this tragedy), but most of them go for higher prices or have really tiny waists. Nevertheless, when something latches on to your brain there is little to stop yourself until you get the thing you're looking for.

And then, on the day I decide to wear this dress--not vintage, but decidedly antique and vintage inspired--I found a really quite perfect Edwardian-ish (I'm not entire sure on the time frame for it, maybe 20s) cotton nightgown with lace sleeves and neckline, complete with a tiny yellow bow. Happenstance made it all come together, rather inexplicably!

The bag is from my mother. She had it for years, and I think I borrowed it a few times, but always had my eyes on it. One day it was on my stairs, waiting, and I grabbed it and scurried away. Since then we have scarcely been parted. The ring was also mom's, but when it didn't fit her it became mine! She had it engraved with my grandmother's initials. I wear it on the opposite hand from the pinky ring that has my initials, and I'm pleased to have this tiny collection of them now.

Of course, this dress being white and my coordination skills and nervous energy being what they are, I've already blessed this dress with some tea stains. I'm certain that they'll come out, but if they don't it's to the tub with this one, to get some new color.

Pictures taken by John M.