Many years ago I purchased a new swimsuit for the summer. It was a simple one piece with a scoop back. But what made it different was the gold textured fabric that shimmered in the sunlight. That swimsuit was ahead of its time and I received a lot of compliments. I kept to myself the little secret that my chic swimsuit came from TJ Maxx. That's right! Then and now TJ Maxx in Moraga has an excellent selection of swimsuits, not to mention sunhats, sunglasses, and other must-haves for the summer. But hurry, swimsuits are going fast.
Expect the unexpected in swimwear for Summer 2022. Designers now consider swimsuits as fashion statements. One pieces and bikinis in iridescent, eyelet, and cable knit fabrics are very hot this season. Prints include gingham, floral, and leopard. Probably the biggest trend is the cutout, which Vogue magazine calls "alluring." The cutout gives a pop of glamour and sex appeal, while staying this side of tasteful. Pair with a long skirt and this season's swimsuit is suitable to wear for an afternoon of shopping or a causal summer dinner.
Seeking vintage stuff? The Shadelands Ranch Museum Summer Market in Walnut Creek is back for a second year from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, July 31. The Market offers vintage and antique treasures as well as handmade items from 40 local vendors. (Full disclosure, this year I am one of those vendors selling vintage.) Also available will be items from the museum's archives, including clothing, accessories, and home decor pieces.
Among the vendors is Orinda resident Nicky Zabetian, owner of Middleton Makes. Zabetian designs and makes one-of-a-kind hand dyed clothing, accessories, and home goods. Zabetian says on her website, "Each small batch of garments and accessories is hand-dyed with love and the intent to create soft, romantic patterns that you will celebrate and embrace."
There will be food vendors and the museum will open up for tours. Come by and say hello.
I'm always on the lookout for novels with a strong fashion thread and I recently found one by fashion writer William Norwich. "My Mrs. Brown" (Simon & Schuster) is the story of middle-aged Mrs. Brown who lives a modest life as a cleaner in a small town in Rhode Island. When she volunteers to help inventory the belongings of the town's recently deceased Grand Dame, she comes upon a black dress suit that will change her life. The simple but exquisite suit was designed by Oscar de la Renta and once she sets her eyes on it she is captivated. After reading the novel "Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris," the story of a woman (quite like our heroine) who travels to Paris to buy herself a Dior gown, Mrs. Brown is inspired to travel to New York City and buy her own dress suit by Oscar de la Renta. Never mind that it cost thousands of dollars that she doesn't have. Where there's a will (and many good Samaritans) there's a way. Full of fashion detail, this is a charming novel with a surprise ending that's perfect for a quiet day beside the pool or on the beach.
Keep cool out there and remember to go forth in style.
Moya Stone is a fashion writer and blogger at www.overdressedforlife.com. |
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA