Dinner Salad

In the heat of Summer, an intimate restaurant dinner sounds good. Dressing for it should be a snap. So why are we standing in our closet amidst a heap of shoes and clothing at 6 PM? Jane’s Vanity is here to help us pull ourselves together, in more ways than one.
There is something to be said for last minute. Spontaneity sometimes works. But if it doesn’t, chaos can ensue, egged on by the clock and flying accessories. Jane's Vanity steps back with a smile and surveys the wreckage. She speaks:
First, the shoes. Do you own the perfect pair of black flats or pumps, spiffy platform sandals, maybe some clever boots? If not, go directly to Zelda’s Shoe Bar in downtown Portland, Oregon where the owner, Libby Hartung, will fix you up with both basics and something fun. Next, your legs. Do they match your shoes/boots/etc.? Invest in lovely stockings that flatter your legs as well as your shoes. JV has many possibilities from Bresciani and Pierre Mantoux, with a new designer out of Italy coming soon.
Next, choose a favorite skirt or slim pants. A ballerina-length skirt is nice, very “Audrey.” But the key to all of this is something fresh on top. JV offers the finest tees and tops from knitwear experts Aromatique in Japan and Boglietti in Italy. Their passion for quality and beauty are unparalleled. Aromatique’s white or black cotton long sleeves will soothe your mind as they elevate your look. Wearing one of these feather-weight pieces is a cozy option for September evenings. They also look cute either under or over a slip dress. A variety of lace-embellished sleeveless or long-sleeve tops from Boglietti will take you into fall with delicate blends of silk and wool. Choose from lovely autumnal colors styled with a variety of macaramé laces.
And, finally, HAVE FUN. Introduce an ankle with Gilda & Pearl’s Nights in Paris Silk Pajama. Add a pretty heel. Or WOW your date by wearing favorite denim and the Aromatique’s bodysuit with its bold round cutout at the back. Amp things up with Gisel B’s Margaret Earrings, each with a dangling freshwater pearl. Fancy boots: optional. A confident smile: obligatory.
Classics with a twist are on the autumn dinner menu at Jane’s Vanity!
