Ode To Southern Attire

As much as I insert the latest fashion trends into my wardrobe, there is still a part of me that holds dear the Southern traditions that run deep in my blood. White shoes and linen, are not worn until after Easter. There is no arguing. Period. Now that Easter has passed, go ahead and pull out your spring and summer duds that you have been hesitant to wear.

Hats.

What girl doesn't like to wear some sort of a hat now and then? Big and floppy, small and stylish, the varieties are endless to pair with your outfits.

Seersucker.

Need I say more? Nothing gets me more than my sweetie in a seersucker suit and bow tie. All true Southern men own one of these in their closet. A little strapless seersucker dress or blazer is sure to be found in a true Southern woman's closet, too.

Madras.

This is another quintessential fabric that is worn by the classiest of preps. What was in my daddy's Easter basket to celebrate a new season? Why, madras shorts, of course!

Linen.

This has made the ungodly heat bearable on many stifling days throughout the South. My linen tunics and pants are now officially out of my storage closet and in my rotation of outfit choices.

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White.

Finally, and only now, should you be wearing your white shoes for the first time this year. This is one rule that should never be messed with.

I hope you have a great Wednesday!

Southern Belle Saturday

Recently there have been numerous quint books that I have seen on the subject of being a Southern Belle. {Yes, I did mean to capitalize those two words.} During my recent Kappa Trainer weekend, I spied a little book called A Southern Belle Primer: Or Why Princess Margaret Will Never Be A Kappa Kappa Gamma. I actually think that I saw it a few years ago, but my interest in it was reignited. It is an adorable book about the social graces of living in the South.

Top Tips For Channeling Southern Charm

1. Entertain as much as possible. There is never too small a cause for a celebration.

2. Treat everyone as a dear friend. Chances are their mother has tea with your boyfriend's very opinionated aunt.

3. Expect a gentleman to open your door, order your drink, hail your cab and pull out your chair.

4. Use your fine china on weekdays, even if it can't go in the dishwasher.

5. Be a gracious and lively guest. Hostess gifts, genuine conversation and thank you notes are a must.

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I am in the mood to throw a fabulous garden party. The only problem is that my back  yard doesn't grow grass and my kitchen table only seats four people. Those aren't good enough reasons for me to not have a party though, nothing can stop me from wanting to have a good time. Any thoughts, ideas or suggestions?

Doesn't this picture alone make you want to have a spring soiree? Click here to find these colorful Jill Rosenwald vases.