Wednesday, March 27, 2013

French Breton shirt...OOTD and thoughts for the day.

Seems like every magazine I pick up and leaf through is showing off French Breton shirts.
Stripes and prints are the current buzz.

Don't they look crisp and easy?
I like this French style, it's rather timeless and somewhat iconic.

Banana Republic had one that I purchased and it is a bit snug around my tummy and derriere but I bought it anyway. I thought to myself here's the motivation I need to amp up my pace and increase my walking.
In the meantime I will pair it with a jacket.


Banana Republic ~ Hermes


An anonymous commenter recently mentioned that I should go to the dermatologist and have my mole removed.
It has been with me forever and should it change significantly in size or look like it was cancer I would go asap.
In the meantime you will see me here full figured flaws and all.

Blogging and posting pictures of myself is a dodgy business!
I've had emails from people criticizing all manner of things.
I do know "these things" as I live in this body everyday.
I am not perfect nor do I pretend to be
I am not an expert 
nor am I a fashionista
I am simply a woman nudging 60 with a voice and a desire to write.
I am having fun with this blog or I would not bother to post as often as I do.
I hope that you get something out of it in return.


Red flats
black leggings
Breton top


You can see just how plump I am
it's difficult to hide in these OOTD shots.
I am not really trying to hide 
just trying to make the best of what I have been given 
until such time that I totally dedicate myself to slimming down.

I am on a journey and one that is a challenging.
One that I have struggled with for as long as I can remember.

This blog has helped me face up and confront my personal issues.
Following in the footsteps of other bloggers 
who have been successful in transforming their lives has been such an inspiration and so unexpected.
The network of online friends has been rather over whelming
the support that is out there
the emails
the comments...

Thank you for reading my Humble Blog.

Hostess
XO

63 comments:

Lorrie said...

I loved this, Hostess. Yes, let's be comfortable in our own skins (bien dans sa peau, as the French say). Loving ourselves as we are is a beauty treatment that cannot be surpassed. You look great in that Breton shirt and scarf. Have a wonderful Easter!

Susan B said...

Hostess, you look smashing in your Breton shirt, and I love how you've styled it with the b&w print scarf! As someone who grew up in a dysfunctional family that was hung up on appearances, I think it's important to let our "seams" show from time to time. No one is perfect and everyone struggles. Showing that side of ourselves takes courage and honesty, but also allows for true connection with others.

Neats said...

Love your flats. I am on a perpetual hunt for flats that are more "choked" on the vamp (like yours or with even more coverage). They offer more support so are more comfortable when doing any meaningful walking. Also the bare cut of a ballet flat makes my foot look too wide. Any suggestions where to find such a shoe?

Lynne said...

You wear things stylish and tasteful. Be your own person . . . It sits best in the soul. I emulate many of "your looks!"

Lynne said...

One more . . . Love the Breton shirt and sassy red flats . . .

Anonymous said...

Excellent post. I appreciate your honesty. Love reading your blog.

Anonymous said...

By the way, I've looked at your scarf tutorial so many times its embrassing. I always look forward to reading your blog.

Anonymous said...

Hostess, I love your blog and think that it is wonderful that you write about exactly how you feel! It is AMAZING that people feel free to criticize when they don't have to be accountable for what they say. Your words are encouraging to us all!

Marilyn Leslie said...

I have always admired your honesty. I hate photos of myself so I would never be brave enough to post them online. Thank you for being courageous enough to share from your heart.

Paula said...

Ignore the naysayers. Funny when people have to criticise that they remain anonymous! Love your blog so keep writing. Today's OOTD...where did you get the leggings? I love them.

Madame Là-bas said...

I am working on self-acceptance myself and I really enjoy your personal style. I love to see real women who are having fun with their wardrobe and style. I read your blog because I can identify with the day to day aspects of living that you share so well.

Anonymous said...

Hostess,

I read your blog often and have never commented before, but I want to thank you for your beautiful posts. I love your home, your sense of style (which I would like to emulate), and your "realness" if that's a word! As Cindy Joseph says, we all need to embrace who we are and what we look like with self acceptance. Don't change a thing - including your mole. You are beautiful!!

Anonymous said...

Love your blog! Don't change anything about yourself!

Anonymous said...

Oh dont listen to negativity or what people say you should or shouldnt be doing. You look great in the breton top and scarf too. I read your blog almost every day, youre very inspiring and i admire your elegant style (and home!). Please dont change a thing.

mamasue said...

love love love your blog~!!! don't change a thing...:) wish you lived in Spokane WA so we could hang out :)

Sue xo

Anonymous said...

Here here - i commiserate! Every female in my family (mother, sister, niece, aunt) has had at least 2 cosmetic surgeries each. I am the only one who hasnt, and never will. Some of them wont even leave the house without at least some lipstick on. I do take care of the way i present myself but i dont let myself get too extreme. Youre beautiful. Be true to yourself.

KSL said...

I'm so sorry people say such negative, thoughtless things - don't pay attention, I know it's easy to say and much harder to do. Love your Breton shirt with that scarf, a great combo. And I was wondering in your new profile photo if you were wearing your Bobbi Brown makeup? Your skin looks so great and dewy!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I bought these red flats at Nine West, they carry them in various colours. Perhaps they have an online store. Good Luck!

Anonymous said...

How horribly rude. I have some chubs..and a mole. I have a family that I love so much and am loved right back. There is an old saying...if you don't have something nice to say then don't say anything at all.

You are fabulous Hostess!!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

These leggings are from a chain store called RW and Co. they are a heavy ponte knit and hold their shape well. I think they were about $40 and they are in their second year of wearing!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

The new photo on the top right of my blog shows my Bobbi Brown make up on...
it is really a fabulous foundation, I love it!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

You sound very level headed and thank you for taking the time to leave me a comment.
That saying is Mother's mantra! I live by that rule too...
throwing insults is such bad form.

Duchesse said...

Very springy and jaunty! I prefer 'real women' rather than those who pursue perfection (which is what, exactly?) Keep it up, hostess!

Anonymous said...

When I was a child my mother had a mole removed from her forehead. I did not speak to her for days, because my mother had a mole...that woman did not. Just be yourself...we like you this way. That is why we read your blog.

Lisa said...

I adore this outfit. You look great.
Anonymous (the one who created the rude post) probably needs to take a look in the mirror and inside her/his heart.

Grace @ Sense and Simplicity said...

Love your outfit - the stipres, the scarf, the red flats - and love the candid post on self-acceptance. You look great in that outfit and I"m glad you are not afraid to let imperfections go.

Leanne said...

I do agree with what has been stated here on your fab blog. I love your style it's approachable and elegant at the same time. I have spots on my face from sun exposure and having two kids....not fun but I make the best of it.
Love, love your French top and red sassy ballet flats :)

Pondside said...

As always, you look wonderful. That Breton look suits your new haircut beautifully. Do you know what an inspiration you are?
The anonymous writer is so wrong. If we were each to remove each thing that made us unique - if we were each to starve to size two - if we were each to mold ourselves into women who look like lifestyle-catalogue models, we'd be a very boring bunch!

Anonymous said...

Hostess, your blog is my personal favourite blog. I go to it every morning with my cup of coffee. I find your entries interesting, inspirational, and fun to read. Please don't change a thing!

Anonymous said...

Yet another stunning pic, your skin is positively glowing.
There are a lot of anon " you should -ers" out there, best just roll your eyes to them.

April B said...

Remember a phrase from a workshop I attended: 'There's your business, other people's business and God's business.' It would be lovely if people could remember that we only have juridstiction over one of these areas! I love your openness in your blog, and get great pleasure from your lovely photos, your gentle soul and the charming peak into your life that you offer us. Thank you

Poppy Q said...

Hostess - I love your style, you always look so smart and age appropriate. Being 44 myself, shopping is often difficult, trying to trawl through clothes shops to find well fitting clothes that aren't too trendy or bling bling. Keep up the good work.

Have a lovely Easter.

Julie Q

Anonymous said...

I have been reading your blog for about a year now and just enjoy it so much. You are a great inspiration with you home, spending time with your Mom and husband, and how you don't take yourself too serious. This blog is the next best thing to meeting you and having chat. Love your outfits too!!!

Duchesse said...

That's one of Byron Katie's principles, from her various books. Wise- and I remind myself of it, especially with my adult children.

mette said...

Dear Leslie,
I find it unbelievable that anyone would send you the emails you describe! Sending rude anonymous comments is unbelievable too.
I understand, that not everyone wants to write/ keep a blog, but still wants to write a comment. Wishing for us all, that the comments would stay under the topic ( a reminder for myself too ).
The T with strips looks good on you, and if/ when it feels comfortable, the better.

Living the life in The Little City said...

Hi,
I thoroughly enjoy your blog and your honesty. Thanks for sharing your life with us.

LPC said...

Us mole-havers need to unite! Form a union!

I LOVE your striped shirt and scarf. That's it, I'm going to get a Breton.

Your voice is consistent L. You are who you are. Your style is very clear and very approachable. I hope this wave of people saying stupid stuff passes. And I appreciate the dignity of this post.

Awakening my Wardrobe said...

The outfit looks very flattering. I'm a big fan of Breton tees. I love your blog because it is not just about fashion and how we look on the outside (although I think that you look amazing and have a great sense of style) but a thoughtful reflection on so many topics presented in a very real way that are relevant to your readers. You convey an appreciation for the subtle joys in life that I find very inspiring. Anyone would take the time to email you with critical comments is not only rude but they are missing the whole point of your blog.

P.S I also like your new "headshot" photo at the top right of the blog.

Jennifer said...

Perfectly said LPC!

Jennifer said...

From your posts I have met a charming woman with a loving soul, elegant manners and a great sense of her own style. You express your thoughts with grace and dignity, consistently. You inspire your readers with your honesty and dignity. I'm sorry you got that inappropriate criticism about your mole. Hasn't that person ever noticed their own imperfections? Rudeness comes to mind for one.

Iris H said...

Am amazed at people's rudeness! Love your red pumps- a nice touch with the black and white. I enjoy your blog though not a blogger myself. Thanks

Judith said...

Your new profile photo is charming,you have such good skin,are you wearing the bronzing powder?

The scarf & Breton top work beautifully together,tres chic.

What sort of person would make such ill-bred remarks,brush them aside Hostess with the contempt they deserve.Judith/Ida

Anonymous said...

Keep in mind that most of the people who post critical comments are adolescent boys who think what they're doing is hilarious and are "performing" for other adolescent boys. I think holding that image makes it all funny. I'm embarrassed for them. Or, they're adolescent girls. We all know how they can be. It's just sad. They don't realize that if they're very lucky they'll live to see 60+ years and some little creep will pull the same stuff on them. ;-)

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Oh Lisa you've given me pause to laugh...
A united group of mole havers!

Poppy Q said...

Hi Hostess,

Yes Miss Pops is a british blue cat. She co-ordinates with my decor and most of my clothes.

Thanks for visiting us!!

Julie and Poppy Q
xxx

Kristien62 said...

This rudeness seems to be epidemic on the blogosphere of late. Janice, of the Vivienne Files, spoke of critical and rude emails recently and a few others have noted unkind or crass comments. Never understood the need to do such things. Just keep all of us in mind who love following your blog and appreciate your insight, humor,personal style and lovely writing.

La Vie Quotidienne said...

I think you have great style and seem to find the most wonderful things...love your red shoes! I enjoy your posts and what you have to say, they are always amusing and full of fun things.

ConnieJ said...

you are cute and spunky and that's all I have to say!

Maggie said...

You're gorgeous! Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Genuine Lustre said...

Manners and class have gone by the wayside, honestly!! Love you Hostess, don't change a thing. Coming to your blog is like a gentle visit with a friend. My all time favorite picture of you is in the icelandic sweater on your boat.xxoo

Vic Tullman said...

I think you are wonderful, authentic, and very approachable. I love your blog.

Sarah said...

Love your new Breton top and it looks great with your scarf - love the whole outfit in fact... You always look amazing Hostess - don't take any notice of a small mean spirited minority of cowardly "Anons"...
Happy Easter to you.... S x

Maggie said...

Wow - I've read your blog for several months now and simply love your straightforwardness and sense of humor! Everything you show us isn't "model" perfect, but if it was it would be far less interesting. People who criticize or have to mention anything detrimental, or suggest what you should do about anything, have way too much time on their hands. You've got a life, changing or settling in as you see necessary and you allow us to share it all.

You go, HoftheHB.........our lives are lovingly enriched because of you! Thanks - MMR

Anonymous said...

Hostess, I enjoy your blog immensely! I'm 61 and don't find many blogs out there that aren't by a young woman. Your's is so refreshing. Keep up the good work, negativity is so easy when you are anonymous....ignore it. Kathi

eleni said...

Hello from Toronto. I really like the new picture on your blog. Your skin looks fabulous, so fresh. I too love stripes and feel very comfortable and smart wearing them. Byron Katie is a favourite read.

Sunday Taylor said...

I am so sorry that anyone would write a critical comment to you. That kind of negativity is always done anonymously. It is a sad fact of the internet and I hope you can just ignore it. I love your striped shirt and have many myself. What a great look with that jacket, very polished and French!

Sheree said...

I have a beauty mark, too.

Al and Kas in A Travel Trailer said...

Oh, the haters love to hate. You seem very comfortable in your own skin and life. I enjoy reading your blog.

Coulda shoulda woulda said...

It is good to see that you just keep going - quite positive to see that.

I think that shows the anonymous commenter that not much can chip away at your morale.

I quite enjoy visiting your blog and hope nothing stops you from continuing to blog and share.

Susan said...

Yours is a very enjoyable blog! And I think you always look lovely. Nevermind the naysayers!

Anonymous said...

Just came to your blog today. I wanted to let you know that, as someone who turns 60 THIS WEEK, I have come to care a lot more about the way I FEEL than the way I look.

Indiana Rose said...

Such cute shoes! I just ran across your blog and am looking forward to spending time reading it. It is now on my 'relaxing things I'll probably do this weekend' list. ('Probably' because I have enough pressure during the week.) Thank you also for reminding me how mt small home can also be a sweet bungalow.

No Sacrifice Bags said...

I love breton stripe! I love it so much I ordered a Birkin inspired by a Comme Des Garcons Breton stripe tee.

I think you look great, and the negative commenters are just jealous.