Friday, February 5, 2010

A Few Favorite Things #1 - Silk



Ah silk. Why would you want anything else on your skin? Trust me, once you go silk, you never go back – no matter how much that dry cleaning costs! Vintage or current - a camisole, slip, blouse, or dress of 100% soie will make you feel purely luxurious. Small boutiques and nicer department stores (The Atlanta Trifecta: Saks, Neimans, and Bloomies) have a lovely selection of silk dresses and blouses. Check out the contemporary names like Joie, Elizabeth & James, Theory, and my new favorite Patterson Kincaid (beautiful prints and great prices!). I personally enjoy going through the Sleepwear/Intimates section of Goodwill and vintage shops for sleep shirts, slips, and camis as the lace and stitching on these older garments can actually be de meilleur qualité (higher quality) than what’s on the racks today!

Keeping your silk in tip-top shape can be difficult, but it can be a valuable lesson in how to wear nice clothes despite our current world of wash-and-wear cotton! Keeping baby wipes in your purse can be an easy way to curb everyday stains as it is a great and gentle remover for most spots! All silk can be hand washed, however, so try some lukewarm water and Ivory soap or baby shampoo (then hang to dry), before you spring for dry cleaning. That said, you can google your city for inexpensive dry cleaners (one near me handles most pieces for $2), check reviews to ensure they don’t damage garments, and you have just found yourself a money-saving way to dress in luxury!



You may ask, why pay more for silk when synthetic can give the same effect? Well, as an old proverb states, “We are all Adam’s children, but silk makes the difference.” Silk simply does make a difference. The finest ladies from back in the oldest days donned silk to show wealth and sophistication; fortunately for us, silk doesn’t have to break the bank, but it can still leave us feeling like 21st century noblewomen.

Silk garments come in all colors, many varieties, and countless styles, but don’t be intimidated! Start out with a few thrift store pieces! A blouse or little nightie will do the trick and soon, you will be able to feel the sensuous difference! Sure, poly-blend satin may feel softer on the surface, but once you learn to distinguish between it and the slightly coarse delicateness of pure silk, you will understand just how lovely it is!

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