Why I LOVE… Sarah Seven

Posted on April 28, 2010 by justplainlovely

It happened one day on a random Etsy search. I don’t remember my search terms, but somehow one of the images that popped up brought me to Sarah Seven. Instantly drawn to her incredibly unique, ‘this-is-what-fairytales-are-made-of’ dresses, I started longing for a special event that might require such a splurge. Alas, nothing popped up, but I kept the Sarah Seven beauties in my mind. Every so often, I’d come across the site again to swoon for a moment or two, only to wrench myself away. After leaving NY, I lost track of the line and was thrilled to be reintroduced upon learning of a fabulous NY-based wedding boutique called Lovely Bridal Shop. As a newbie to the wedding business, Lovely Bride is now a regular destination of mine, so be warned that you’ll be hearing more about them soon!

I’ve been browsing Sarah Seven’s website and will say that I love her now even more than I did before. Her dresses take my breath away. Most of them have embellished bustier-style tops with flowing, layered bottoms. The combination results in something that should be worn in slightly more risque Jane Austen movie. Who knows what my future holds… but I sure hope it holds one of these dresses;). Brides-to-be and fashionistas take note… Sarah Seven is most definitely one to watch.

the website :: the etsy shop :: the tweets

More about Sarah Seven:

With a deep desire for the romance and the simple decadence of a bygone era of femininity, Portland, Oregon designer Sarah Seven is able to create unique pieces that are vintage inspired but decidingly modern. Her bridal, special occasion and ready to wear collections are a rare glimpse into the perfected and intricate arrangement of blossoming ruffles, delicate fabrics, and flowing layers. A true Portlander at heart, Sarah Seven uses natural fabrics, silk, wool, linens, cotton voile as well as recycled vintage fabrics. ~ Rebecca Birt

[pulled from her website, with thanks]

[all images from Sarah Seven, photography by Angela Burdine]

take note :: white on rice

Posted on April 23, 2010 by justplainlovely

Did the photo get your attention?? It certainly got mine;). I recently came across White on Rice Couple, a blog penned by the LA-based Todd & Diane, dedicated to sharing their essentials of love, food, and adventure. A quick peek at their about page makes me want to hang out with them, or at least take one of their cooking classes!

While perusing the site and checking out various posts, I was immediately drawn to the Strawberry Danish recipe. Can I help it if I have a sweet tooth? I love that they tell the story behind the meal, personalizing the experience, but also give you well thought out, seemingly conquerable instructions on how to make it on your own. Add in posts about Goat Cheese Crostini, Chocolate mousse and Blood Orange Margaritas and I’m thinking this site might just become a daily read!

[photo credit: Todd & Diane from White on Rice Couple]

inspiration in green

Posted on March 17, 2010 by justplainlovely

I was born on March 14. It was a few days later than expected and for a moment, my dad hoped I might actually hold out for St. Patrick’s Day. Though I missed the mark by 3 days, my identifications with the Irish culture still run deep. My dad’s great-grandfather first came over through Ellis Island in NY to work on the Brooklyn Bridge. He eventually sent for his family and the Irish Whelans (pronounced Wheeee-lan) soon became the newly Irish-American Whelans (pronounced Way-lan). My first name means Ireland in Gaelic. My middle name (while also in deference to my beautiful great-grandmother Clara) is a variation on an Irish County. Throw in the fact that I studied music at UCC in Cork for my junior year abroad and the subtle Bronx-Irish lilt that seems to pass down from generation to generation and you could almost say I’m full-fledged. Almost.

With all of that in mind, you’d think I’d be the type of gal who radically flaunts her Irish heritage… wearing green every year on March 17, drinking green beer while singing Danny Boy with the lads in the pub. But no, not me. For some reason I’ve never gotten into that type of St. Paddy’s Day observance. I’d rather hop a flight over to Dublin and get a taste of the real thing.

So today… You won’t see me in green. You won’t find me drinking that nasty green beer. And, *sigh*, you won’t find me on a flight to Dublin. You will see a bit of my inspiration in green. My one salute to that lush green island across the Atlantic. Indulge me and take a peek;).