Red Wing Iron Rangers │ Red Wing for Women

For Christmas, I got a pair of boots that I'm over-the-top thrilled with.

Yes, they're Red Wing. And yes, they're Iron Rangers!

Okay, my husband has one pair of Red Wings. Not because he wouldn't have more, but because the Iron Rangers are it for him. That is ALL he wants. He could never own another pair of boots other than the Iron Rangers for the rest of his life... and he'd be set. Forever. So, going with that stellar review, I knew my next pair had to be them.

Unlike my other ladies Red Wing, and unlike my Wolverines, these are definitely a bear to break in. The way these are cut and put together (extremely well put together, per usual), the leather takes hours of wear and treading just to get to where it may want to mold to my foot.

And then, give it another month or two to actually soften and mold to my foot, and they may be ready. However, I've worn them enough now that the molding has already begun and I know in a few months, they'll love my feet like we were a match made in heaven. (Just in time for summer, no less, but alas. I'll be ready for them in the fall.)

While Red Wing does make Iron Rangers specifically for a woman's foot, I had read reviews of unhappy ladies who thought the leather wasn't as durable, or even comparable, to the mens' version.

So, I got the mens' version. Naturally.

I didn't want to work any less than a man would breaking them in or in reaping the rewards of top-quality leather. And I'm sure they had legitimate reasons for using different leather. But, gosh, if my husband loves his the way they are, then I wanted what he had. (i.e I'll have what he's having, thank you very much.)

They have a  gorgeous style. The black leather is my favorite (It sorta hearkens back to my days with Doc Martens, like in the early '90s. But, that was the beginning of my boot love, and that was also a very long time ago ... yikes.) The cut and stitching make them sharp and almost dressy, yet  relaxed. I can wear these with skirts or dresses or jeans and shorts -- making it work with whatever I choose to wear.

If you (gents or gals) are on the fence about getting a pair of Iron Rangers, it's time to get down. That fence don't need to hold you no mo'! These boots are one of the most beautiful and durable of all my boots from Red Wing that I've owned yet.

They are my favorites. Until my next pair, of course ... (no actually, they really are one of my favorites.)

-HJS

Vintage Linen │Spring is Coming

While I love winter clothing, there's something about getting ready for spring ( as far as the wardrobe is concerned) that is life-giving.

Some of my favorite fabrics to fall  back on are silks and linens. They're quite popular for good reason.

The first reason is obvious. The materials are wonderful. There's nothing quite like either of them. Silk is decadent against the skin and linen says "vacation" and "travel" like nothing else.

The other reason these fabric are choice purchases for most is because they're hard to find. You can't just go into JCrew year round and find linen. Sometimes, seasonally, yes. But, it's hard to get the right color, right size, or the right type of linen. Sometimes they're sold out. Sometimes, you may not even like what they have.

That's where I'm happy to help. I love these fabrics as much as you and when I'm not buying for myself (which is actually not that often) I'm always buying for the store. Come on by. I've got quite a cache of linens and silks coming in the next few weeks, so take a visit. See what you need. ◄

While my heart is still aching for sweaters and denim of winter -- because as I've mentioned before, winter here in northern California is mild and sweet without much need for heavy wools and jackets -- I'll be stocking up on much anticipated linen and silk, so that when your vacation comes or the warm weather returns, you'll be ready.

**All sweaters and coats are 25% off right now!

-HJS

Vintage Overalls │ Wardrobe Essential

When I think of overalls, I think of the word "utilitarian," and bandanas, and iron workers, and unions. I think of Rosie the Riveter. I think old America. And I talk about overalls regularly because they're so iconic.

As far as fashion is concerned, though overalls were a major wardrobe staple of years ago, they're now a cyclical item that pops its head up out of the sea of fashion every twenty years or so.

I wore these in the early 90s, and they're back in. In fact, they've been very much in for the last four or five years. I've sold hundreds of them in my shop (Visit◄ to see my current selection) and the desire for them isn't diminishing.

Does this mean the world wants overalls as a standard part of their wardrobe again? And not just because it's hip? I think so!

Sure, overalls don't do wonders for the figure. But, ladies, this isn't everything. There's something pretty dang attractive about comfy overalls on a hard-working woman ... even if she's taking a break and drinking coffee at the local cafe.

And perhaps if covering your curves is something you prefer to do, might I make a suggestion: overalls.

I did swear to myself I'd never wear them again, but alas, as my mantra states, "Never say never."  Just don't. Because, I am wearing them. Today.

They are the best things to wear for gardening, running to the grocery store, and even tele-commuting from your home office. In other words, everything.

If you don't  have a pair, look no further. I always have them in stock. Always. Visit today!  ◄And get that Americana feel back in your wardrobe again.

-HJS