Friday, December 27, 2013

Holiday Outfit










     This week I thought I'd tell you a bit about where we take many of the pictures for Blue Hue Wonderland. We take pictures at the Minnesota State Fair grounds because it has an abundance of vivid structures, many with a sense of humor I find appealing. I'm drawn to bright colors and crackling paint to accent my clothing. The best part is the grounds are quiet except during a couple weeks in the summer. For a mildly shy person, this helps me not feel self conscious about taking pictures for my blog.

     Probably like many of you, I'm going easy on the clothing spending this month. I'm wearing a old short faux fur coat and ruffle scarf with a favorite silk and cotton knit dress. I wear this dress often to art events and holiday gatherings. BCBG has expanded their offerings of these timeless patterned knit pieces.  

dress--bcbg  (similar)  (here)  (here)  (here)
shoes--calvin klein
bag--calvin klein (same bag, silver trim)
scarf--unknown
coat--bloomingdales & tahari
tights--dkny

location--state fair grounds with pictures by dean, bag photo by ann

links
fashion item friday
not dead yet style
mingle monday
style sessions
the pleated poppy

51 comments:

  1. Did you get a new camera? Because your pictures look so much clearer!! If you didn't, then keep shooting the same way as you did this time. You look amazing in that dress and the photos composition is wonderful. Beautiful post!!!!!!!!!
    xo
    Carelia

    "Preppy with basics" New post on:
    MySmallWardrobe.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, we have a second better camera we were just using for photographing artwork. I've been using it the last three posts. Much clearer images. We are thinking of getting an new Canon camera maybe this year.

      Delete
    2. I love how these pictures look! I am glad you started using it for your blog.

      Delete
  2. Always have loved the photography on your site. Art direction well crafted, from garment choice to settings. Thanks for sharing your "secret" location.

    ReplyDelete
  3. These pictures are amazing, I love that you didn't care to go out and brave the snow. The outfit is very classy and chic, can't wait to see the next~!

    Krysti
    www.beautybykrysti.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  4. The state fairgrounds? Genius. I'm glad you found them and you know what to do with those amazing structures. Most people wouldn't give them a second thought. Great aerial shot. And I adore your swingy dress.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. There's a steep wall with a terrace next to this place and Dean got up there and took a few shots. A cop patrols the grounds and he knows us by now. We can park our car right next to where we take pictures and jump in and out to warm up. Probably half of my blog pictures are done at the fair. We always go to the fair and after this year, I will always associate the fairgrounds with the different spots we photographed. It will be a fond memory of this time.

      Delete
  5. Lovely pics and great dress!!

    XOXO
    Sandl

    Bloglovin! -> https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/11326217/prizmah-fashion-blog
    Blog -> www.prizmahfashion.blogspot.com
    Facebook -> https://www.facebook.com/prizmahfashionblog
    Instagram -> @prizmahfashion

    ReplyDelete
  6. What a beautiful dress, Ann! No wonder you wear it often. The raffle scarf is so pretty too, it gives some flirty touch to the look. As always, amazing photos.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Another fabulous look and post, Ann! I'd instantly wear this and your fur coat is similar to mine, although a bit shorter.
    Beautiful pictures as always! I'd love to take photos with a more urban background sometimes but here on the countryside that's hardly possible. You have found a great location and I keep on looking...

    Annette | Lady of Style

    ReplyDelete
  8. Such a beautiful winter outfit- so elegant! Alex

    tobebeautifulingodseyes.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  9. A beautiful dress, Ann, I love the stamping. The jacket is cute, and the whole look is very elegant.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Dear Ann, again such a great style. I really like these bcbg dress. It's a pitty we don't have this label in Germany. The faux fur coat looks perfect with these dress und I'm a little in love with these cute Calvin Klein bag.
    Dear Ann you showed as so many great outfits the last month, I'm looking forward to your inspiring styls next year.
    I wish you a great start to 2014

    Glamupyourlifestyle.blogspot.de

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Cla. I'm such a big fan of BCBG. The department stores in my city carry a large selection in multiple locations of this brand. When I purchase a piece a really love I wear it for years. This design group makes beautifully made pieces that have a flair for the creative soul. I could see you wearing so many of their styles. I thought they were sold worldwide, but others from Europe have said this isn't so.

      Delete
  11. With the coat it looks like a suit, but surplisingly it is a dress! Great background again.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Love the outfit! You look fabulous!
    How are you standing the cold? I have been lax on my blog because of it. And, I can relate with you on having people around getting your pictures taken.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Happy Holidays Debbie, yes it's been cold and harder than usual to take pictures outside. The last couple of days seem almost warm. I saw on the news it's going to get bitter again soon. I sometimes wonder how bloggers do their picture in cities like London or New York with people everywhere. I don't know if I could feel comfortable taking pictures with so many eyes watching.

      Delete
  13. That's a great background location - some good colour and texture with no clutter! The dress is a classic as you can never go wrong with a simple shape and a bold pattern. Your photos are extremely sharp and very clean-looking; nicely done.

    ReplyDelete
  14. The dress is really unique and so is the ruffly scarf...together they are fabulous! And what a cool place to take your photos...
    Debbie
    www.fashionfairydust.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  15. Love the dress! It has a kind of timelessness that doesn't scream a particular era or season yet is quite distinctive. How clever of you to use the fairgrounds as a backdrop! Your photos as always artwork.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much. I think you have described why I like these knit dresses. I have one Missoni dress and love it too, but it's harder to wear. BCBG's silk knit pieces are of a similar quality as Missoni but for a fraction of the price. In my links I love the pale colored dress with the lace patterns.

      Delete
  16. I enjoyed reading about where you take your pictures...I wish I had the time to seek out cool backgrounds. My husband is up for it every now and then. But, I have to say your wardrobe is gorgeous. I love this outfit and am drawn to the scarf!! You always look stunning! Happy New Year, Ann!

    ReplyDelete
  17. Marvelous Ann! The scarf in the first few frames was giving me the impression it was part of the jacket and then when the jacket was off I did a double-take and had to re-scroll to see what was what. lol You have completely inspired me to have more interesting backgrounds in my photos in the coming year. 2014 shall have much better photos, I vow. lol I love the flippy skirt photos, too. and ...Ann, thank you for joining "FiF" as some are terming it. "Fashion item Friday" is perfect for you, thank you!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  18. Lovely dress Ann. Great shoes to go with it. And what a cute handbag. You even have a fur coat. You have succeeded very well for these Holiday Days. I failed this year. Oh well, next year I will get another chance. God willing.
    Greetje

    ReplyDelete
  19. I like the place of your post as it adds a touch of artistic personality to your photos. It looks so modern and American to my Italian eye! Lucky you to find places with no people around!! Here is almost impossible and, when I started taking photos for my blog, I often felt unconfortable when they looked at me...

    The dress that you are wearing is a beauty on you and the black thights and shoes goes very well with it. I love your faux fur coat!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Dan. I have wondered if I do look American to the European eye? I sometimes don't feel my taste is so American, I do prefer dresses, skirts and heels, not as fond of jeans as many Americans are. I see beautiful elegant styling that I really relate to from so many of my blogging friends from Europe. Including you!

      Delete
  20. Oh Ann! I so appreciate your artist's eye...and your husband's also. These photos are fabulous...my personal favourite is the first one, cropped just below the hemline. The unique angles, and the vibrancy of the photos draw me in every time. It's great that you can enter the fairgrounds and take pictures. I would imagine our fairgrounds would be closed to public access during the off season.

    ReplyDelete
  21. Ah, I've always wondered where you took your fabulous photos! Lovely jacket and dress.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Glad to be back to be able to see this gorgeous number in the snow, my dear Anne.
    Slowly setling down in our new home; although so much to do.
    XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXx

    ReplyDelete
  23. really pretty print and fabulous shape, you look gorgeous and so elegant as usual!, lovely style!
    besos & felices fiestas

    ReplyDelete
  24. I've told you many a times but pulling up your blog is the highlight and spark I need to juice up my creativity. So I thank you once again for another unique and beautiful post. Fairgrounds ??? Brilliant idea. I'm a bit with you on the shy bit of photography and am always trying to spot quiet places for privacy (other than my own yard).
    Anne, you took this favorite dress of yours to a whole new level this time around. Love how you paired it with black tights and black heels, making it look so elegant.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm really liking this retro style of pumps lately. I like the clean profile of the shape. Thanks Trina for all your lovely comments this year. They have been so encouraging for me.

      Delete
  25. I always love your photos and outfits and this one is no exception! I hate to take pictures in public places (hence they are always taken at home). I love the idea of having different backgrounds to contrast an outfit but finding a great location and time sometimes is just difficult. I am glad you have such a great place to take photos. I am really loving the cut of this dress...it makes me want to see you twirl :)

    Alice
    www.happinessatmidlife.com

    ReplyDelete
  26. You look so lovely Ann! The dress is marvellous and again you found a perfect setting. I love how you highlighten your treasures.
    Happy New Year!

    ReplyDelete
  27. This dress is perfect for you Ann!
    Happy New Year

    Arianexo

    ReplyDelete
  28. What a lovely look - classic but seriously fashionable! Visiting via Monday Mingle - Happy New Year!

    ReplyDelete
  29. Love this dress! I thought it was a skirt at first. So pretty.
    Happy New Year to you! xo

    ReplyDelete
  30. So stunning! My favorite shot is the one from the back, to get a glimpse of those FABULOUS heels! :)

    ReplyDelete
  31. My eyes got so happy when they saw this gorgeous dress plus jacket, Ann. Thanks for sharing with Visible Monday!

    ReplyDelete
  32. Oh my goodness, I love the print and the cut of the dress, so flattering! You wear it perfectly with the gorgeous jacket!! Hugs, Beata xxx

    ReplyDelete
  33. OMG love that Ann, amazing! You must have been freezing;-) Sabina Oceanblue Style

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes it was freezing cold, thanks for commenting. This week I'm doing my pictures inside.

      Delete
  34. Remember Meg Ryan in the deli-fake orgasm scene in "Harry Met Sally"? That's me, after seeing this dress and your styling. I don't think I'll ever get over this one! Such a beauty. You're not bad either, but this dresss........
    Sigh.
    If I can't have it, I'm happy you can, though.
    Happy New Year, gorgeous! Gotta be better than last year!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Did you check out my links to the one with the lace pattern. It's a beauty. Thanks so much, Jan. Dean gave it to me for our anniversary three years ago.

      Delete
  35. How lucky to have a willing photographer and a great location!! I've always loved your artistic shots. You look very pretty here, with a great graphic print dress and the cool look of tights with heels; I love that!! Have a wonderful New Year. XXOO

    ReplyDelete
  36. The backdrop always looks very striking, I admire your photographs, very artistic and original! Your outfit is fabulous and very flattering!
    Hope you have a fantastic new yeqr!
    FF

    ReplyDelete
  37. Great photos! Love the dress; the pattern and shape.

    ReplyDelete
  38. I'm just looking through all the blogs I've missed, and the picture for this one really caught my eye. I love the twirly skirt with the short jacket! Such a great dress for many occasions.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Here I am, far behind because of my spontaneous trip to NYC. But I can't possibly miss any of your gorgeous posts. Loving the scarf that frames your beautiful face. Very festive ensemble!

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for visiting my blog. I enjoy hearing comments and input.