Sunday, June 20, 2021

Weekend Wrap-Up: JCDC Jumpsuit Flashback; Deck Denizens

Welcome back, my friends! I hope you've all had a stellar weekend, whether it was chill or social. We had a nice mix of quiet and busy ourselves, with a brunch, a small park gather and People In Our House (exciting!). I also discovered a wee spider on my deck, so you've been warned. 

On Friday night, L was out with friends, so I hung out with Vizzini and watched the Great Canadian Baking Challenge - very soothing, but I did eat all the chocolate I'd purchased for Saturday night (oops). On Saturday, we were up mid-morning to meet up with Nick for brunch at the Ruby. 
The forecast was for hot temps and bright sunny skies. I had to break out my JC de Castelbajac jumpsuit! 

  • Jumpsuit - Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, vintage 90s, thrifted; last worn here in July 2020 with chartreuse
  • Shoes - Wonders; last seen here (2nd outfit) in June 2020 with a long floral gown (Flashback on the shoe there)

I'll be doing a short Flashback on my jumpsuit in a bit - if you've never heard of JC (Jean-Charles) de Castelbajac, don't feel bad. I'd never heard of him before I read about my blog-pal Wendy Brandes' love for his designs (link here to her posts on him, link 'cause I love, of course). 
You know I love to dig deep when I find something that's real designer! You can read about him here, You might not know the name, but you might remember Lady Gaga wearing his coat made up of Kermit the Frog stuffed animals in December 2018 (link here). 

My jumpsuit is linen and predates JCDC (how he's often referred to) online, so I suspect this is from the late 90s or early 00s. I spotted two more of this same jumpsuit online when I searched around recently: one was 350 Euros (about $725), and the other was listed at over $600. 
Isn't the print glorious? I love the deep blue - if you look closely, you'll see that the drawstring waist has little red, white and blue pony-beads on the ties. 

I let my bra straps hang out. Clutch your pearls! 
I'm sure that most people who saw me thought I was wearing a maxi dress, but no....

It's most definitely a jumpsuit! 
The legs are ABBA-esque, with three giant flounced tiers. I have it tailored after I bought it to remove about six inches off the hem so that I could actually wear this. It was made for someone 5'10" or taller! 

My cover-up is my pink cashmere/silk pashmina. 
I was in a hurry, so some of my pics are blurry, sorry! 

Hark, is this brunch I see in my future? 
The Movie Star Wrap for our quick drive to town, followed by some errands (erm, replacing the chocolate that I ate). 

Masked up - I love the bold pink and white of this one, to go with my pink shoes and wrap. 
L is doing an ode to Frank Bonner, the actor who played the loudly-dressed salesman Herb Tarlek on TV's WKRP in Cincinnati back in the 70s80s. Sadly, he died this past week, so L decided to break out his Etro plaid wool pants to commemorate him. 

I wore my straw hat to the park, as the clouds cleared by afternoon. 
Must keep covered! I am fully sunblocked up here too. 

Accoutrements:
I couldn't resist giving my new-to-me Enid Collins bag a whirl. It holds more than I thought it would.

  • Mask - by Mom
  • Bag - Enid Collins "Roadrunner", vintage 70s, consignment; purchased here for $25.00
  • Pashmina - Portolano, thrifted


The stuff: 
I walked (slowly) to the park in these pink leather shoes - they are super comfy. Yes, that is a wooden last. 

Blue and silver bling: 
First wearing of my new blue bangle. 

  • Cage cuff - Bauxo
  • Silver earrings - consignment
  • Dragon bangle - Lazy Susan's
  • Lucite bangle - Lazy Susan's; purchased here for $4.00
  • Shield ring - Nine West
  • Silver/lapis lazuli ring - Wendy Brandes

Speaking of, when I was in Lazy Susan's on Friday night, I noticed that they had a bag that looked very much like my Enid Collins purse, above - it was marked at $89.00 and they told me that it was from one of her kits (a "make your own" thing) from back in the 60s/70s. When I told her that I'd only paid $25.00 for my signed Collins bag, she noted that I'd gotten a "real deal."


Flashback: JC de Castelbajac Jumpsuit


I purchased this jumpsuit here in May 2019 - I spotted it hanging in with the long floral dresses at Flavour Upstairs and immediately could tell by the pattern and the fabric that it was special. 
Such a wonderful textile! 

There's the nice label, with the size tag in the colours of the French flag. 
It's 100% linen and light as a breeze. 
I like when the ink prints right through the fabric - it's a good sign of quality (I loathe when the backside is solid white). 

Yes, I paid $37.95 for this. 
It's a total steal. 

I wore it right away to work on a Casual Friday in May 2019.
I paired white shoes with my red cardigan, and did silver accessories. 

I always have to show off...
"It's really a jumpsuit!"

Again in July 2019, for the Canada Day long weekend. 
That's the first time I dyed my hair blue-ish. I did orange accessories this time, with rust-brown platform sandals. 

I wore my orange cardigan as cover-up. 
The obligatory shot - "Look, it has legs!"

And this is the last time I wore it, in July 2020 to go for brunch with L. 
I added my long chartreuse cardigan and sandals. 

"Reach for the stars!"
I hope you can truly appreciate what massive, swooshy legs it has! It's so fun to wear. As I stood in the breeze at the park this weekend, the legs flapped like sails. 


Mathy stuff: I haven't really had the chance to wear it all that much - stoopid pandemic! - but it's not going anywhere. I'm only on the 4th wearing of it, so I'll have to update my Flashback in a few years. We're at a decent $9.75 per wear right now. 

How you do feel about jumpsuits? What would you wear with it? 


I didn't take my camera to the park - we did a small gathering for Nick as we are coming up on a year since our dear Karen died. Instead, we just focused on being with each other. Cat and Ross came over to our place later (Vizzini was ecstatic - more visitors!) and we played board games until the wee hours. 


Trigger Warning: Spider Pics

I noticed a tiny white blob on the plug of one of the strings of lights on the deck this weekend. 
At first, I thought it was a piece of fluff, but when I got in close I realized it was a tiny spider. I am NOT a fan of spiders. No, no, nope, nope, spiders begone! 

However, this one was SO tiny, that I got right in close and had a good look. I thought he was dead
"Buzz off, Lady."

But he moved a leg when I gingerly poked a pen at him, and he was gone a few hours later. I did some research and discovered he is a Goldenrod Crab Spider (source here). 

Vizzini, are you cool with company out there on the deck, another denizen sharing your space?
"You heard what he said: Buzz off, Lady."


And with that, I guess I will buzz off! I hope you all had a fabulous weekend. I'm going to go soak up some sun. 

41 comments:

  1. Amazing jumpsuit, Sheila! Loved the flashback :) I'm with you interms os piders -- the only thing i hate more are moths. [Shudder!]

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    1. Thanks so much, Cynthia! Ugh, moths are the worst! Vizzini is terrible at catching them too. I don't mind this little spider as long as he stays on the deck!

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  2. Sorry -- "in terms of" -- I was typing too fast! And shuddering while I typed!

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  3. Not a fan of the spider pics - despite the frequency with which we experience spiders here, I have terrible arachnophobia so I scrolled past them pretty quickly. haha!

    I do love the jumpsuit though! It looks stunning on you, every time you wear it!

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    1. Sorry, Mica! That's why I put the Trigger Warning! I don't like them either!! But I'm okay with this tiny one if he stays on the deck.

      Thank you!

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  4. The jumpsuit is tres magnifique and looks absolutely fabulous. You look like a goddess sitting on the step with your orange accessories on the flashback photo.
    I detest spiders as well but can deal with the tiny ones, still evil and ugly things though.
    Enjoy that sunshine with Vizzini. Our lads are wandering about wondering where our sunshine has gone and they aren't happy. No outside naps today! xxx

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    1. Thanks so much, Vix! I love it - it's a joy to wear.

      I'm not a fan either, but as long as this guy stays on the deck, I'm okay with him. Maybe he can catch the moths Vizzini seems incapable of dealing with!

      We will - it's going up to 30 today! Yikes!

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  5. Morning sheila, when I lived in Aus yes spiders yuck! (dangerous too out there) . I have my flairy blue trousers on today my friend got mad for me in India - not as bold as your jumpsuit which is fab!! Love the shot with the orange accessories the best. thinking of you and your friend Nick on this anniversary. I am sure the jumpsout will come down in cost per wear as you go out more in the summer. have a great day Shazxx

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    1. Hello, Shaz! Ooh, I've heard that about Australia! Snakes and spiders, yuck yuck yuck.

      Oh, your blue trousers sound amazing! Thank you - I love orange and blue together as well, and I'm sure I'll repeat that combo with my jumpsuit again at some point. Thank you for thinking of our dear friend. I can't believe a year has gone by. Hugs, Sheila

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  6. The jumpsuit! Color, pattern, those legs! Fabulous on you! And every one of the outfits is smile inducing and looks comfortable. Close to the perfect piece!

    As for the indoor tiny visitor…I tolerate small spiders IF located in a ceiling corner in the bathroom where mosquitos could be caught. (We live on a salt marsh, so that attribute of spiders often saves them from my wrath. ;)) On the other hand, if I see an ant or a silverfish (thankfully both are seasonal!) then it’s begone with them!

    Hugs to all of you on this anniversary. Here’s to the powerful positive force of friendship.

    Thanks for sharing your weekend!

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    1. Ha ha! Isn't it amazing, Laurie? I love wearing it - I feel so magnificent in it! Thank you.

      I don't mind tiny ones as long as they stay out on the deck - keep away from me and especially my bedroom! Fortunately, we have no other pests aside from moths.

      Thank you, hon. It's going to be rough tomorrow, I think.

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  7. The jumpsuit makes such a bold statement and I'm having Mary Tyler Moore flashbacks (in a good way - loved that show). This summer is expected to be long and hot everywhere in Canada, so you may find you have many opportunities to bring it's per wear cost down even further!

    Loving L's homage to Herb Tarlek. I was also saddened to hear of the actor's death.

    As to spiders. Not a fan, but I can tolerate them if they stay out of my way or happen to be someone's pet and are effectively locked up in a tank.

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    1. Oh, I totally get that - I love that 70s style! Thank you so much, Nana! I know, I'm just hoping that our wildfire season doesn't get too bad, but I fear the worst.

      I know, that was very sad. I loved that L did a Herb outfit.

      I'm not a fan either, but stay out on the deck catching flies? I can live with this tiny guy.

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  8. This jumpsuit looks so cute, very much like a maxi dress indeed. It must be comfortable too. I like the print and the colour too.
    I love spiders, they are good hunters of flies, so I don't disturb them. If inside, I will try to move it outside.

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    1. It's very comfy, Anca, thank you so much!

      I don't love them, but I didn't freak out over this tiny guy, so he's cool with me. Keep those moths under control, spider!

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  9. What a fabulous jumpsuit and you look terrific in it. I bet it's extremely comfortable to wear. I loved the pink pashmina especially done movie star style!


    So good to have visitors again.

    I thought the spider was rather beautiful. Ours tend to be boring black or brownish ones and I don't mind them at all...

    Have a great week
    xxx

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    1. Thanks so much, Vronni! Yes, it's wonderful to wear - not too tight in the body (always an issue with jumpsuits). The pashmina was just right as a slight cover.

      It is! I'm excited to gradually welcome our friends back into our home - I hope to have a big birthday party in October this year!

      Isn't he a pretty one? I approve of the pale yellow colour.

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  10. Ooooo....your jumpsuit is fabulous Sheila! I love the vibrant print! And the colour! Well...and the silhouette!

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    1. Thank you so much, Sue! I know you appreciate the flounced legs on it! Good to see you - thanks so much for commenting!

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  11. Oh wow: People In Your House! We haven't been brave enough for that yet, although plans are afoot. And shock, horror: I can see those bra straps :-))
    Always lovely to see that fabulous JC de Castelbajac jumpsuit. Very ABBA-esque indeed. I can definitely see Agnetha & Anni-Frid in two matching but different coloured ones :-)
    Your pink pashmina and Enid Collins are just perfect with it, adding to the Summer vibes.
    I loved to see the jumpsuit's flashback - and what a deal you got on it - and thank you for the spider pics. I don't really mind them, especially as I'm sure Bess will follow in Phoebe's pawsteps and catch the creatures! xxx


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    1. Our second pair of friends! Cat/Ross are a bit more cautious (no hugging), but it was so much fun to have them over!

      Lol, I know - heavens, bra straps!

      I love the jumpsuit so much - I'd wear it every day if I could! Well, okay, maybe not!

      Thank you so much, Ann! I know, such a deal.

      I don't mind the tiny spiders, and they can stay out on the deck catching all the moths that Vizzini isn't.

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  12. NOT a spider fan at all but I seem to do all the spider removal in my house- CBC never touches them. Have you ever read my epic spider-removal saga on my blog? It's here if you want a laugh...
    http://kerenzaallin-garner.blogspot.com/2015/10/an-evening-misadventure.html

    The JC de Castelbajac jumpsuit! Swoooooooooooooooon! It's gorgeous! Linen, big legs, blue, patterned- be still my heart!AND so cheap!
    I love the ways you styled it!
    I'm glad Vizzini got lots of attention from you and your pals!x

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    1. Sorry, Kezzie! I make L deal with the big spiders, but this little one didn't bother me. I can't wait to read your spider adventure!

      Thank you! I love it so much - those legs!

      Oh yes, Vizzini gets loads of attention - he just loves it.

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  13. That deep blue jumpsuit is so gorgeous. I love the wide trousers on it. So ABBA- and I adore Abba! I love how you styled it with heeled sandals. I also like how you styled it in the past. I'm sure you'll get more wears from it, such a fabulous piece it is.
    L looks very stylish in his plaid pants. I like his outfit even more when I know it is commemorating an actor. Thank you for sharing. Have a great weekend.

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    1. Thank you, Ivana! I love ABBA too (who doesn't??) and my big ABBA legs on this jumpsuit are so fun to wear and swoosh. I know I'll have it for years to come.

      He is such a stylin' guy! Isn't that a nice way to commemorate the actor?

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  14. Gosh, I really hate spiders, they are utterly awful!! I love L's trousers, I wished Gerben would love to wear hose! And playing boardgames is here in te near future!! Finally, we haven't played for almost two years I think. Have a great week!

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    1. I am not a fan, but this one was fine with me. Thanks! Those are Etro, purchased in Florence, Italy a few years back. I am so happy we are having friends over again! yay!

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  15. Such a good jumpsuit. You suit it so well. I had a look at Lady Gaga's Kermit coat hahaha. Now that's what I call a conversation piece.
    Greetje

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    1. Thanks so much, Greetje! Isn't that Kermit coat a hoot? Ha!

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  16. I have been in love with that jumpsuit from the time you purchased it. The swishy legs and bold print make it a fun summer piece. I own about a half dozen jumpsuits now and have been wearing them all summer so far.

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    1. Me too, Shelley - it's definitely one of my closet gems. I still have two as-yet-unworn jumpsuits that I need to get into outfits, but this one had to go first.

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  17. This is such a beautiful jumpsuit! I love the colors and prints and you look fabulous!

    Life is a Shoe

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  18. Now granted, I'll have to check with my mom regarding the earliest days of my life, but this delightful sunny weather outfit post suddenly made me realize that, best I can recall, I've never worn a jumpsuit.

    What? How? Really? Honestly, I don't think I have and now, as I teeter on the brink of turning 37, I feel that really is something I should remedy at some point. They're fun, (often) comfy, and such a great summer option. Thank you for reminding me to keep my peepers peeled for a jumpsuit while out thrifting.

    Autumn Zenith 🧡 Witchcrafted Life

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    1. That's so funny - how have you lived this long and not tried a jumpsuit before now, Autumn?? I think you would look amazing in one, but it has to be the right style. I'll be wearing my other two next week!

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  19. OMG, Sheila, this jumpsuit is life! I love the color and the bold pattern and the giant flouncy legs! I am not a fan of spiders either and honestly the smaller they are, the more they creep me out! I have been known to scream very loudly and flail around like a maniac when little spiders get on me or too near!

    Shelbee
    www.shelbeeontheedge.com

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    1. Isn't it amazing, Shelbee? I love it so much.

      I am like that with big spiders! Ick!

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  20. Lovely flashback on this magnificent jumpsuit, I love its print and fabulous design and quality!, and You Rock It!, love the way you show it's a jumpsuit!
    besos

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    1. Ha ha, how else would you know it's a jumpsuit, right? I love this one so much - thank you, my dear!

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  21. Castelbajac Abba-esque jumpsuit. Swoon!!! Your eagle eye and vigilance. Does BC have a best-dressed list? You need to be on it!

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