My Own Little World

I was once told by someone trying to be extremely unfriendly that I lived in my own little world.  As much as he meant it to be a criticism, I took it as a compliment, with a little, "Thanks for noticing!  I've worked really hard on it."  It's true of course, I do live in my own little world.  I always have and at over 40 years of age, it looks rather like I always will.  Don't get me wrong, I typically have both feet firmly planted in reality, but I recognized long ago that I have far more control over my own surroundings than many realize and in a lot of ways I get to choose what I make of the world around me.  

The nicest thing of all about living in my own little world is that it is exactly what I make of it.  Nothing more and nothing less.  And I have always preferred it to the real world.  You see, I just don't seem to fit in this world, the real world, which is why instead of bemoaning my outsiderness, I made a place where I know all the rules and fit in just perfectly.

And, here in this quiet field on this crisp morning, I feel right at home.  The winter is a solemn time.  The world needs her rest and so do we mere mortals, but it's always nice to have my colorful things, ruffley things, extra-girly-with-a-side-of-spring-please things during the long bare months of this season.

Leave it to Scarlet Darkness to weave their medieval magic into every dress.  This may be a ruffled peasant dress, but I feel quite queenly in it.  Slipping this dress over my head, I could not believe how comfy the fit is and how soft the fabric is.  Lots of stretch with this pretty drawstring to create a customized fitted waist.  This dress is heavenly. 

The best part of all is that this pretty little dress fits perfectly too.  In this space, in this moment, in this season, in my own little world.

Outfit Info: Women Victorian Tiered Dress Square Neck Pleated Midi Dress-$45.99 from Scarlet Darkness , Qupid Heels are old from ModCloth

Scarlet Darkness on the Windswept Moors

Another day on the windswept moors or rather the mountain top.  The first day of the new year brought us freezing temperatures and a nice dusting of snow.  The winter woods were beautiful but as soon as it all melted away, the fields looked grayer and bleaker than ever.

Everything is sleeping now under heavy gray winter blankets, but I'm still awake and walking in the stillness.  I miss all the busy rustlings and scurryings of the living things and the bright colors of the woods and sky.  And when the wind howls and grieves it's only saying what I'm thinking.

So, a somber skirt feels more appropriate for today.  A little tip of my cap to Ms. Jane Eyre with the help of Scarlet Darkness for providing this lovely Victorian High Waist A Line Skirt. (keep reading for a promo code!)  I'm wearing an authentic antique chemise and petticoat underneath to keep me warm on this mid winter day.

I love these skirts in any season, but in the winter they are a little nearer and dearer to my heart.  I love the length and the elastic back with the adjustable corset ties so that I can layer up or go without and always be comfortable.

And, of course, they're just perfect for a day like today.  I don't rush toward labeling things, but if I had to put a label on this style, I'd call this one a Dark Cottage Core.  Jane Austen's heroines would wear the blue stripes (you can see that post here), but this skirt is all for the Bronte sisters.

This skirt has a side zipper too and is so comfortable that it's now a staple in my winter wardrove with a nice lace blouse, high collar of course!, and a sweater to keep warm.  I love the style and the comfort. 

Shopping Info:  Scarlet Darkness Women Victorian Maxi Skirt Vintage High Waist A Line Skirt-$39.99 Plus you can save an extra 10% + 3USD with promo code 101LAYPV  This code is good now through January 8th, 2022.

Mid Winter & Scarlet Darkness

This time of year more than any other puts me in mind of all my favorite gothic novels.  From the windswept moors of Wuthering Heights, to the gloomy mansions of Jane Eyre, if ever I feel my Victorian vibes, it's never more so than in this time Christmastide and midwinter.

That's why I am so excited for another collaboration with Scarlet Darkness.  (You can see my previous collab with them here.)  I find inspiration for styling these pieces in the wild woods all around me.

When it comes to Victorian styles, Scarlett Darkness offers Victorian and Gothic styles with modern flare at very affordable prices.  These pieces do make wonderful costumes, but they are also perfect for daily wear should you feel yourself in need of a little Gibson Girl Elegance to break you out of your winter blues.

With so many core aesthetics it may be difficult to find your way to any one style that you prefer and feel describes you.  That's perfectly ok, even better than ok, I think it's silly to choose just one style. Some days I wear head to toe vintage.  Some days it's all about Boho, and some days nothing but Victorian will do.

Today I'm wearing Scarlet Darkness Women Victorian Maxi Skirt Vintage High Waist A Line Skirt-$39.99 in light blue with this lovely stripe pattern and ivory lace and cording.  

This skirt is lightweight, unlined, and has a side zipper for easy dressing and also features an elastic back and corset laced back for adjustable fit.  Pair it with your favorite puff-sleeved top for a classically Victorian style.  

Shopping Info: Scarlet Darkness Women Victorian Maxi Skirt Vintage High Waist A Line Skirt-$39.99