12/16/2012

popular posts

12/16/2012
Popular Posts -Holiday Review 2012
I will be taking a break during the holidays and will be back ready to post all kinds of creativity after New Year's Day.

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12/12/2012

DIY

12/12/2012
DIY - Restyle - Embellishing with Safety Pins
You can never get away from safety pins, big or small. Who can't remember a broken bra strap, a falling hem, and worse, a broken zipper. In some cases, you carefully hid the pin or pins so that only a smidgen would show, if you really looked.
That all changed when Elizabeth Hurley showed up in a Gianni Versace dress, held together with big, showy safety pins. Then they were part punk, a bit dangerous and very sexy, not at all utilitarian.
Safety pin embellishment takes an outfit from safe to edgy, whether it's on the collar, holding a sweater together or in a full-blown design.
Have fun looking at the inspirational images and tutorials, then pin one down!

12/10/2012

Needlecrafts

12/10/2012
Needlecrafts - Knit Guernsey Patterns
Image | Pinterest
What is a guernsey design?
A guernsey, or gansey, is a seaman's knitted woollen sweater, similar to a jersey, which originated in the Channel Island of the same name. Guernseys are found all along the English and Scottish seacoast, incorporating more complex patterns the further North you go.
Why were they important?
The guernsey was traditionally knit by the fishermen's wives and the family pattern was passed down from mother to daughter through the generations. This practice still exists today.
Guernsey Styles
Two styles of guernsey were knit - a plain "working" guernsey for fishing and a "finer" garment, generally saved for special occasions. The "working" guernsey design was kept simple using knit and purl stitch patterns in order to reduce the amount of time and materials needed to knit the garment. The "finer" garment had more complex designs showing off a wife's knitting and design skills.

Read further about the stitches used and how to create your own unique guernsey using a free pattern as a base for the design.

12/07/2012

Living

12/07/2012
Living - Good Eats - Tomatoes in Spicy Yogurt Sauce
  • TOMATOES IN SPICY YOGURT SAUCE
    Recipe from: My Recipes


  • INGREDIENTS

  • 8 ripe but firm tomatoes (about 2 lbs)
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon brown mustard seeds
  • 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 serrano chiles, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
  • Cilantro sprigs (optional)


  • TO MAKE

  • ■ Bring a large pot of water to boil. Meanwhile, fill a large bowl with cold water and a few ice cubes and set near the pot. Put tomatoes in boiling water for 10 seconds each, then use a slotted spoon to transfer them to ice water. Drain tomatoes and pat dry. Core and peel tomatoes (leave them whole). Set aside.
  • ■ In a large frying pan, heat oil over high heat. When hot, add cumin seeds and mustard seeds and reduce heat to medium-high. Cover and cook until seeds start to pop, about 2 minutes.
  • ■ Remove cover and add butter. When butter is melted, add turmeric and cayenne and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add garlic, chiles, and salt. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Reduce heat to low.
  • ■ Add yogurt and stir in one direction until smooth. Add tomatoes. Gently stir to coat with sauce. Cook until tomatoes are just warm, about 5 minutes.
  • ■ Garnish with cilantro if you like and serve warm, with plenty of sauce.


Have a great weekend!

12/06/2012

Design Files

12/06/2012
Design Files - Designer Profile - Isabel Marant
All Images | Style Bistro and Pinterest
I first came across Marant's designs about three years ago as I was exploring upcycling used clothing with a vintage edge.
Marant's designs were totally in sync with what I wanted to do, an obsession with vintage detail which has exploded in popularity.
There is something very real about her designs, of the moment yet if you go back and look at her earlier pieces, they are still relevant and modern.
The vintage and ethnic vibe in each collection has certainly captured many fashionistas' hearts, but we're not talking casual grunge. The pieces themselves are special, each piece is unique in detail whether through fabrication, ornamentation or garment style.
If I won the lottery, I do believe I would be outfitted in several Isabel Marant designs.

12/05/2012

In Fashion

12/05/2012
StyleNotes - Infinity Scarf
My favourite accessory has to be a scarf and I have many of them. Very rarely have I given them away (some are vintage) and have regretted some that got away. Whether you prefer wearing unpatterned solids or some pattern, a scarf adds colour, texture and pattern to what can be a bland outfit.
Infinity, eternity, circle or whatever name you are familiar with when describing a continuous scarf with no ends,we either already have one or have thought about purchasing one. This simple scarf has evolved - either with embellished edges or colour blocked with different textures.
This holiday season, nothing could be easier than to make yourself a lovely sequinned wrap to wear over a simple dress or blouse and pants. You'll wear it throughout the season.

12/04/2012

DIY

12/04/2012
DIY - Home Decor - SnowGlobes
A really creative way of recordkeeping your family's life is through scrapbooking.
But just as as much fun is creating snow globes. Not only is this fun for the whole family but inspires each person to create a personal scene in their bottle using keepsakes or mementos they have collected.
These are truly personal holiday decorations. They can be arranged as a table centrepiece during the holidays, displayed on windowsills or hung on a tree. Each bottle tells a story and will be a visual reminder for years to come.
There are many kinds of snow globes shown as examples, from the simplest to more detailed versions.
Make one this holiday and see how much fun they are.
Image | Pinterest

12/03/2012

Needlecrafts

12/03/2012
Needlecrafts - Knit Turban Wrap Patterns
Vintage Images | Pinterest
You think of grannies in housecoats that wear scarf turbans but now young women have come to think of this look as sophisticated, exuding old Hollywood glamour. Wearing a turban demands confidence. You have to believe, truly believe, in your look.
Wearing a turban-style headband is still chic but has a younger and fresher look. The headband made of yarn is slightly more casual, can be wide, narrow, knotted, crossed or just wrapped at the front. Add glamourous touches by pinning a brooch to the front or wrapping pearls around the knot.
Quick and easy to make as gifts and ideal headwear in cold weather during the holiday season.

11/30/2012

Living

11/30/2012
Living - Good Eats - Beet Borscht
A tradition my mother has faithfully celebrated has been Ukrainian Christmas on the eve of January 6. The celebrated date is according to the old Gregorian calendar. I now celebrate Christmas with my husband and his family but January 6 is extra special because of my mom.
One of the dishes that was served and will always stand out is borscht. My mom is getting older and for the first time she will not be making the usual traditional meal. We will be taking her out to dinner.
I have never made borscht, thought about how my mom made hers and compared recipes online. Martha Stewart's Ukrainian borscht was the closest but on Christmas Eve, we have meatless dishes. I adapted the recipe, kept the meat and it was delicious. So I will carry on the tradition of borscht. Enjoy!
  • UKRAINIAN BEET BORSCHT
    Adapted from: Martha Stewart


  • INGREDIENTS

  • 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 pounds short ribs (used veal)
  • Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 1 medium onion cut in quarters (for broth)
  • 2 medium onions, diced
  • 4 cups good quality beef stock or bouillon.
  • 2 bay leaves
  • teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional - we like a bit of heat)
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium carrot cut into chunks
  • 2 medium carrots, shredded
  • 1/2 pound cabbage, shredded
  • 2 pounds beets, scrubbed, trimmed and coarsely shredded with a box grater
  • 5 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste (used whole sm can)
  • 3 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
  • 3/4 cup chopped dill - 1/4 cup left for garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped flat leaf parsley for garnish
  • sour cream for garnish


  • TO MAKE

  • ■ Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Heat 1/4 cup oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season ribs with salt and pepper. Working in batches, brown ribs, 3 to 4 minutes per side; set aside.
  • ■ Add quartered onion, bay leaves, pepper flakes, celery and carrot. Add stock and bring to boil. Reduce heat to simmer and season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer until ribs are tender. 1 1/2 - 2 hrs.
  • ■ Shred ribs, discarding fat and bones. Strain stock through a sieve, and skim off fat . (You should have 2 cups.)
  • ■ Heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in Dutch oven over medium heat. Add remaining onion and the garlic; cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add carrots; cook for 4 minutes. Add reserved stock, the cabbage, beets, water, and tomato paste. Cook for 30 minutes. Add meat and dill; cook until vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes more. Stir in vinegar; garnish with dill and sour cream.


Have a great weekend!

11/29/2012

Design Files

11/29/2012
Design Files - Home Decor - Vintage Amber Glass
Image | Vintage Anchor Hocking Georgian Pressed Amber Glass
The colour of amber has fascinated me ever since I was a kid. Amber jewelry was first and then amber glass. Goodwill and garage sales were probably the first places where I saw amber glass. The colour had such a warm, delicious quality but more often than not, the glassware was a fancy dish or ash tray.
I remember being in a Value Village (was one of my favourite places for hunting until prices went shockingly high) and I saw these glasses. They were mine, love at first sight and we've been using them as wine glasses ever since.
Another design that screamed "buy me" were the Indiana "Whitehall" pattern featured in the second image. We use those as soda, beer and sometimes dessert parfaits.
There are several other interesting pieces found at flea markets that are used as serving pieces brought out mainly for parties, but the drinking glasses are enjoyed and used every day.

11/28/2012

In Fashion

11/28/2012
Trenspotting - Big Hats
All Images | vogue.com
Cooler Fall weather is here and thoughts run to hats and keeping the head warm without getting the dreaded hathead. The Fall 2102 fashion shows brought out a multitude of hats...BIG hats.
It would appear that Marc Jacobs did indeed have a hat fetish as evidenced in the Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs shows. Summer hats can run big with an oversized brim protecting you from the harmful rays of the sun. But then styling a show with exaggerated accessories is the name of the game when you want press and these shows certainly got lots of press.
Many other designers also chose bigger hats to dress their garments - Hermes with a fedora, Max Mara with a Greek fisherman's hat and Ralph Lauren with a cloche.
What's great about these hat styles - if you don't like the stiff version there are many knit and crochet adapted for a softer look.

11/27/2012

DIY

11/27/2012
DIY - Home Decor - Quick Gifts, Coasters
During the holiday season there are times when you would like to offer a small gift to someone and what better way than to give something that is both useful and handmade.
Coasters are the kind of gift everyone can use and appreciate. In my own home I have different ones. Not all are the same and they are certainly put to good use when there is a party or a small crowd gathers just visiting.
The coasters featured below are just a few ideas that have step-by-step tutorials and cover a variety of design interests. They make a great hostess gift with wine and are ready for gifting when the occasion arises. Good reason to make a few sets to have on hand.

11/26/2012

Needlecrafts

11/26/2012
Needlecrafts - Knit and Crochet Wristlet Patterns
Top Knit Image | Free pattern here
Bottom Knit Image | Free pattern here
I never really had the need for fingerless gloves, preferring standard gloves. The lightbulb went on when I started texting. Of course, what was I thinking, that gloved hands could hit the correct keys. No, the fingers had to be free, so wristlets became a necessary item to make.
What's really great is the fact that they are quick to work up. A good gift idea! Not to discriminate, there are 2 free patterns for knitters and 2 free patterns for the crocheters.

11/23/2012

Living

11/23/2012
Living - Good Eats - Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions
Side dishes can often slip into this comfort zone of mashed or baked potatoes and some frozen veg. Don't get me wrong, mashed potatoes are fantastic and I could eat a plateful, pretty much anytime. At the same time, exciting side dishes created with ordinary, humble vegetables make a meal memorable.
  • ROASTED PARMESAN CREAMED ONIONS
    Recipe source: Proud Italian Cook


  • INGREDIENTS

  • 4 medium to large yellow onions
  • Olive oil
  • Salt & pepper
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup of white wine
  • Parmesan cheese


  • TO MAKE

  • ■ Peel and slice the onions into ¼ inch thick slices. Carefully place them on a parchment lined baking sheet, keeping the rings intact. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast at 375 for about 15 minutes.
  • ■ While the onions are roasting, place the heavy cream and wine in a small saucepan and simmer until it starts to bubble around the edges. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • ■ After the onions are out of the oven, carefully transfer them to a shallow baking dish, again, keeping the rings intact. Slowly pour the cream sauce over all the onions. You can add more black pepper at this point if you’d like. Raise the oven temp to 450. Sprinkle each onion with grated or shaved Parmesan cheese.
  • ■ Cover baking dish with foil and return to the oven for another 20 – 25 minutes. Remove foil and let the onions get nice and brown and caramelized for about 5 more minutes.


Enjoy - have a great weekend!

11/22/2012

Design Files

11/22/2012
Design Files - Home Decor - Bar Storage
Inspiration Image | bellemaison23
Entertaining during the holiday season has it's rewards. Family and friends come together and enjoy good food and fun. Usually at this time of year you tend to offer more of a variety of choices to drink. This also brings about the dilemma of where to put the variety of liquor, liqueurs, cognac or whatever you are going to imbibe during the holidays.
Trays and tabletop surfaces will suffice for the party, making bar stations, but there is the issue of storing the different glasses and various serving pieces.
I've always loved to start with some kind of inspirational image and depending on my budget at the time, hunt out what I need. Ikea, of course, tends to be the more reasonable choice but antiques are a great way to outfit a bar. I personally use an antique oak partners desk where the side shelves house the liquor.
A DIY project has also been featured for those who wish to make their own barcart. This style is a perfect industrial choice for the loft dweller.

11/21/2012

In Fashion

11/21/2012
StyleNotes - Black and Gold
All Dresses | Zara
Jewelry | Bracelet, Givenchy - Earrings, Asos - Necklace, AldoAccessories
All Dresses | Zara
Jewelry | Drop Earrings, Aurelie Bidermann - Ring, Emilio Pucci - Necklace, Aurelie Bidermann
The little black dress. Ever since Coco Chanel introduced us to that easy, wonderful way of dressing, we have become obsessed with the LBD.
Well, it would appear that Zara has all the bases covered when it comes to the basic black dress.
Velvet, peplums, pencil skirt, maxi, dolman sleeve and leather (faux leather). Just like jeans, you need more than one for different occasions.
What goes better with black than gold? There are so many beautiful accessories that are available at any price point. So, bring the holidays on!

11/20/2012

DIY

11/20/2012
DIY - Home Decor - PineCone Decor
Pine cones are such a versatile design element. They have natural, beautiful colour and come in different, lovely shapes and textures with hard scales.
Pine cones can be left in their natural state, entirely painted or just the edges of the scales tipped with paint.
Examples below show how pine cones can be used in a variety of ways to dress up your home during the holidays.

11/19/2012

Needlecrafts

11/19/2012
Needlecrafts - Crochet - Button it Up
All Garment Images | Eva Utanum Sweaters
The plan for this week's post was originally going to be about different kinds of i-cord frog closures. Many of the different kinds of images or tutorials that I collected just weren't doing it for me. I wanted to show something a little fresher and simpler when I stumbled upon this site with some of the most inspiring sweater designs.

11/16/2012

Living

11/16/2012
Living - Good Eats - Enchiladas with Leftover Beef Stew
I've hardly ever had leftovers I didn't love. Mind you they turn into a whole new meal. That's what's so appealing and handy to have. The idea of just reheating and eating can be boring. Even if you have one portion left, it can definitely be used in another lunch or dinner. I regularly have "clean out my fridge" soups, which are never the same. Beef and chicken stews are hearty and flavourful, a good base for this easy dish.
  • ENCHILADAS WITH LEFTOVER BEEF OR CHICKEN STEW
    Image and recipe courtesy | spain-in-iowa.com

  • INGREDIENTS

  • Leftover Beef or Chicken Stew
  • 1 batch red enchilada sauce - see recipe below
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • corn tortillas
  • shredded aged cheddar or monterey jack
  • TO MAKE

  • ■ Preheat oven to 350F degrees.
  • ■ Shred leftover beef or chicken from stew and dice any vegetables into small pieces.
  • ■ Depending on how much leftover stew you have, mix in 1/2 cup to 1 cup red enchilada sauce with the stew mixture
  • ■ In a 9×13 baking dish, spread 3 tablespoons enchilada sauce evenly, covering bottom of the dish.
  • ■ Spread 6 corn tortillas evenly, covering the bottom of the casserole dish.
  • ■ Spread 1/2 the stew mixture evenly on top of the tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
  • ■ Add another layer of tortillas followed by the last 1/2 of the stew mixture and top with shredded cheese.
  • ■ Add a final layer of tortillas and top with enchilada sauce to cover.
  • ■ Top with shredded cheese and bake for 20 minutes or until bubbling hot.
  • ■ Serve topped with sour cream and diced avocados.


  • RED ENCHILADA SAUCE
  • INGREDIENTS

  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 cup chili powder
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2-3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion salt
  • TO MAKE

  • ■ Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Stir in flour and chili powder, reduce heat to medium, and cook until lightly brown, stirring constantly to prevent burning flour.
  • ■ Gradually stir in tomato sauce, water, cumin, garlic powder, and onion salt into the flour and chili powder until smooth, and continue cooking over medium heat approximately 10 minutes, or until thickened slightly. Season to taste with salt.
Enjoy - have a great weekend!

11/15/2012

Design Files

11/15/2012
Design Files - Artist Profile - Herve Van der Straeten
Herve Van der Straeten is an artist-designer, having first become known for his bold jewelry creations. I first came across his jewelry collection in a high end department store in Toronto and from that point on was smitten with his work.
Van der Straeten has since gained worldwide recognition for his collections of furniture and lighting, which have now become his main activity.
The designer's jewelry, furniture and lighting are instantly recognizable from the way that contrasting materials, bold variations of form, defiant volumes are pure, elegant lines are combined with perfect proportions. There is great precision and meticulous attention to detail with how the pieces are made.
Van der Straeten has his own gallery in Paris, which displays a selection of both his unique and limited edition pieces.
The artist-designer is also known for his projects with a number of French luxury houses, as well as his work with the cosmetics and fragrance industry.
Van der Straeten has received numerous awards from the French Government during his career, including most recently the L'Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant and the Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres.

11/14/2012

In Fashion

11/14/2012
StyleNotes - Reboot for Fall
Boot Images | flylondon.com
Fall is here and thoughts run to warm footwear but let's not forget style. Boots run the gamut from "I will only wear these indoors and for 5 minutes" stiletto boots to comfy "slipper" boots that usually become rundown with wear.
I've always looked at these brands, well especially the first two and thought how different but not "out there" crazy they were. Now if they'd only go on sale!

11/13/2012

DIY

11/13/2012
DIY - Home Decor - Blackboard, Chalk Ideas
Even though chalkboard paint has been done to death, it still remains a very popular decorating element.
For me, it's a great way to organize, label and allow children to "create" art. Some of the examples below show how people have incorporated these ideas into their daily lives.
The days of only green chalk paint is long gone. Now there's such a variety of chalkboard contact sheets, buy by the roll, vinyl and even labels already cut ready for the sticking. Some sheets are reusable like decals, therefore, no repainting or mess.

11/12/2012

Needlecrafts

11/12/2012
Needlecrafts - Crochet - Granny Chic, Not Granny Square
When I first saw this image, I had to look twice. I couldn't believe my eyes! Clint Eastwood in a crocheted vest with a sheer shirt. Wow!
When I was hiring models for photo shoots, I remember a few models that later rose to what was their true passion whether it was acting or directing. Everyone had to begin somewhere and modelling paid the bills and put you out there.
Granny squares have been around a long time as shown in the picture above. The idea of working on small pieces is appealing, however what discouraged some crocheters was the joining and finishing.
That is also true about knitting and sewing for that matter. You can have the loveliest crocheted piece but the finishing can ruin the whole garment.
Joining and finishing tutorials have been included, so please have a look to see how to make a great garment.

11/09/2012

Living

11/09/2012
Living - Good Eats - Marinated Cheeses
Hostess gifts of wine are great. I always appreciate when someone brings a bottle of wine I haven't tried. Getting homemade appetizers and desserts are fabulous. These are usually delicacies you say you will make or haven't thought of. The recipe here is dead simple and will be appreciated. I guarantee ...enjoy!
  • GARLIC AND SAGE MARINATED CHEESES
    Image and recipe courtesy | food.com

  • INGREDIENTS

  • 16 ounces logs fresh goat cheese (or 2 lb. mozzarella cheese) or 1 lb feta cheese (or 2 lb. mozzarella cheese)
  • 10 black peppercorns
  • 6 garlic cloves, roasted
  • 4 large sage leaves
  • 2 dried hot red chili peppers
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 cups extra virgin olive oil (or more, depending on the size and shape of the containers)
  • TO MAKE

  • ■ Sterilize two 16 oz. conatiners with lids. Set aside.
  • ■ Cut the goats cheese logs crosswise into 1" thick rounds, or cut the feta or mozzarella into large cubes. Divide cheese among sterilized jars, adding equal amounts of spices and herbs as you go, being careful that the flavorings are evenly dispersed throughout each jar. Pour in enough olive oil to cover the cheese by about 1".
  • ■ Using a table knife, work around the inside edges of the jars to dispel any air. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Enjoy - Have a great weekend!

11/08/2012

Design Files

11/08/2012
Blog Design - Infographics
Image courtesy | hotbutterstudio.com
What are infographics? Infographics have been used throughout history. The first known examples of infographics are hieroglyphics or cave paintings in ancient Egypt 5,000 years ago. Leonardo da Vinci combined graphics with text. In other words, it is not new, but with Internet being global and the power of visual communication, infographics have taken off.
When I started reading about this topic, teaching primary grades all about sorting data by using pictographs came to mind. It was easier to show data by using simple images.

11/07/2012

In Fashion

11/07/2012
StyleNotes - We're In the Army Now
Runway Images | stylebistro.com
Top Coat | topshop.com
Bottom Jacket | mango.com
The military look never goes out of style or looks out of place. Each season the designs are tweaked to make them seem fresher, newer. Certain seasons the designs are more embellished and others more utilitarian.
Whether the designer exaggerates the shape, colour or print, basic military elements are always included - brass buttons, epaulettes, military khaki or green, pockets with flaps and cadet collars.

11/06/2012

DIY

11/06/2012
DIY - Home Decor - Tea Cosies
Tea Cosy to Sew | Instructions here
A cup of hot tea is comforting when the cooler weather sets in. There is nothing better after an afternoon of raking leaves than to sit down with a hot cup of tea and a magazine. I like to make a pot of tea but it gets cold by the time you've finished your first cuppa. That's where the old tea cosy comes in handy. I remember working with a group of Scottish ladies (tea grannies) where tea was the standard at breaks and tea cosies in all colours and patterns were used each day.
Tea cosies are easy to sew, knit or crochet. Patterns and how-to instructions are available for the examples shown.

11/05/2012

Needlecrafts

11/05/2012
Needlecrafts - Knitting - Shaping with Cables
Phildar Yarns, free pattern available | here
When I first started designing my own garments, I looked for inspiration and examples to learn how this was done. There were plenty of traditional shapes, mainly looser bodies both long and short with a cinched rib. This type of standard design did nothing for my body shape. Like so many other women I need to have some definition at the waist, not a ballooning top cinched at the waist or worse, at the hips...ughhh!
I did everything to stretch the rib portion so that at least it would hang straight. At that point I didn't know that adding more stitches for ribs would do just that.
As I grew more comfortable with taking risks in design, it hit me that shaping to create an A-line was similar to sewing in that you shaped by cinching with darts. These darts can be cables used stategically where you would naturally want to take in fullness.
This Phildar tunic design is appealing on so many levels. The design shows perfectly how a cable, wide at the bottom, narrows to it's smallest point and then widens again achieves that flattering A-line shape.