reflecting on ruffles

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My love of ruffles is exceeded solely by my love of mint, I think. In fact, I love ruffles so much, I did some research (nerd alert) on dictionary.com about the origin of the word ruffle. The word ruffle originated somewhere between 1250-1300 originally as a descriptor of a “crumble” or a “rumple.” I love that for almost 800 years, people have been talking about ruffles in one way or another. And while this is a modern dress, I can’t help but think of a similar ruffle explosion that may have adorned a silk ball gown or a white lace collar. I believe that this gem was just calling my name right as someone donated it to my local charity shop; perhaps they found the ruffles to be just a touch too much. I find them to be just right. Today, I’m reflecting on ruffles.

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Dress: Max and Cleo via resale ($4, retails for approx $160)
Shoes: Jellypop via DSW ($12 marked down from $60)
Shoe clips: borrowed from friend (thanks, girl!)
Necklace: made it!
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Fashion Huntress tips:
1) I’m really behind the times on shoe clips. My friend lent me this awesome pair of shoes clips (from her wedding day, no less!) to try out. The result? Ummm, why wasn’t I using these sooner? Shoe clips totally changed up these pumps and can change up any shoes whenever you want! Here is what they look like (below), including their flat back. And no, they definitely don’t hurt the top of your feet, you can’t even feel the clip once it’s on (as was my concern).
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You can find shoe clips online, including places like Amazon.com. Additionally, many people have recommended using clip-on earrings (brilliant). Lastly, you can buy plain metal shoe clips online (again at Amazon.com), and make your own clips. I am EXCITED, readers. Really excited about this. Stay tuned.
2) Our offices at work are a bit warm lately, so I’ve been wearing less layers, but I did have a short bolero type cardigan for this dress, in case you were wondering about layering. I definitely plan on wearing this dress in winter and fall. I’m thinking of adding leggings and tall boots for fall; I’m not sure about styling for winter…maybe a long sweater? Either way, know that this is a very summery dress that can definitely work all year round. So, if I haven’t convinced you yet, here’s another reminder to get your “summer dresses” ready for fall!
Btw, guess who’s back from Japan?! G, my fab photog! Welcome back, G!
Below photo is G photog-ing in Tokyo~
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Anyone else out there that’s tried shoe clips? What are you general thoughts? Where do you find them? Thanks so much for stopping by, readers! I appreciate it so much!

42 replies to “reflecting on ruffles”

  3. I love your dedication to ruffles! This dress was made for you and the colour is fantastic too!
    I have a huge love for shoe clips…I have actually used some of my mom’s old clip on earrings from the 80’s (they had some funky ones back then) as shoe clips. And I also get them from garage sales too 🙂

    xo, Jackie

    Reply

  4. First of all, props to you for looking up the definition of ruffles haha

    Second of all, this blue and the ruffles?! Looks fantastic on you.

    Third of all, shoe clips?! I’ve never even heard of such a thing, but I am extremely intrigued. Off to Pinterest I go 🙂 If you do some DIY clips you’ll have to share..I’d love to see them!

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  7. LOVE ruffles too, Melissa!! And those toe clips …. OH WOW!! Now I must get a pair of PINK shoes and toe clips too. And then to find a place to wear them. LOL You look so good in that cute cute dress!! Happiness radiates off you here!!! (((HUGS))) Amy

    Reply

  9. Adorable! Really like the color and that these is a story behind why you chose this dress. Also, the shoe clips are freakin genius and although I have seen then, the idea had completely escaped my mind until now! What a great way to change up something that could become a bit ordinary over time.

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  12. I loved the history of ruffles that you shared, and how awesome they look on you! The shoe clips are pretty cool too. 🙂

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  14. Yay ruffles! The dress is fab ($4?!) and the shoes too. I haven’t ever tried shoe clips but they absolutely work on those adorable pumps!

    -Rebecca
    Idealism never goes out of fashion

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  15. I have to say that I’ve never tried shoe clips, but they really did make a world of difference on those shoes! Totally took the look up a notch. I can’t wait to see what you do with more. Perhaps those blue satin shoes you found? I seem them looking fab with some vintage clip on earring shoe clips 🙂
    XO

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  16. That dress is gorgeous and can’t believe you got it for 4 dollars!!! And I never knew about shoes clippers!!! Love it thank you for sharing x

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  25. Hi again,, it,s been awhile since i was last on your Blog & I sure *LOVE the blue dress with the ruffles very *Classy looking on a *Pretty lady & U cant beat that price what a really great bargain just luv how U look in your outfit shoes too,,, Kelly the part time cross dresser,, 🙂 *Nice Post!!!

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  26. Oh how we love your dress, ruffled lady, (and what a score at $4!). We love you in this vibrant blue hue, and the shoe clips add just the right touch of sparkle. Gorgeous!

    XOXO Nensi & Natasha

    Reply

  31. very girly yet it looks comfortable at the same time! sometimes it’s hard to find that combination and the result is we are stuck in a pretty but stuffy dress for 8 hours in the office!

    Reply

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