I will never...

 

Thank you Mary Ellen - I could not have said it better!

In A Perfect World 2

My blog had 43 view yesterday... Guess no one likes "Elegant Flats".  

Elegant Flats - The Oxymoron?

Could it be? Say It ain't so....  

Getting fashion items form Temu is and hit-or-miss proposition.  I have gotten several off shoulder tops that work, and have received t-shirts that look nothing like what I ordered. Several pairs of shoes have been un-realistically narrow.  

The above pair of sandals / flats are the exception on the excellent side.  Women's Black Flat Sandals

These are elegant and work for casual too.  A shoe I could live in all evening on my feet. Wearing these, I feel like I am cheating on my beloved heels. However, practicality sometimes wins out.  So, can flats be elegant?  

The Women of Transvestia

 

From Pinterest:

My Note: See Femulate for more photos

Thanks to Linda, I recently gained access to 36 back issues of Transvestia published during the time that Virginia Prince was editing the periodical (1960 to 1980). Transvestia was written by its readers and I am fascinated by the first person accounts contained in the magazine. 

Reading them, I realize how some things never change. The women of that era had the same fears and emotions that we have today. Their experiences differed from ours because in that era, society abhorred crossdressing. In most places, you could be arrested for crossdressing. As a result, women were very closeted and only the very brave went out among the civilian population. In addition to the first person accounts, I absolutely adore the photos that accompany the stories. This was the era in which I was developing as a young woman, so I have an affinity for the fashions that the women wear in the photos. They usually are in their "Sunday best" because they are photo shooting with film and likely will only take a few shots, which they will sneak on a roll containing innocuous family photos. Unless they had a darkroom, they had to take the film to a camera shop or drug store to be developed and printed. Therefore, they had to look presentable so as not to arouse the suspicion of any civilians handling the film. By the way, I know one woman who built her own darkroom so she could shoot and print photos of her feminine self to heart's content. I'm sure she was not alone. In honor of the woman of Transvestia, I am posting a selection of their photos here today and in the future. 

I hope you will find their images as wonderful as I do. Audrey from New Jersey, 1961 Ramblin' Barbara from Connecticut, 1961 Carolyn from California, 1961 Members of the Los Angeles "Hose and Heels Club," Carolyn, Nancy, Catheryn and Joan, 1961 Catheryn mobile in California, 1961 Dee Ann from Ohio, 1961 Smokin' Doreen from Massachusetts, 1961 Gail from New York, 1961 Gloria and her twin sister from Pennsylvania, 1961 Jane from Kansas, 1961 (Is that her military portrait hanging on the wall?) Louise from Ohio, 1961 Marilyn from California, 1961 Another California girl, Mary, 1961 New York's Susanna of Casa Susanna fame, 1961 Transvestia cover girl, Terry, 1961 Vicki from New York, 1961 The Rocky Twins, Leif and Paal Roschberg, circa 1928

Any one out there that remembers Transvestia? 

I Want To Be...

 

Pack for An All Weekend Escape - BOHO Stype

 

"Bohemian" BOHO style

According to Wikipedia the "Bohemian" style is this:

Contemporary Bohemian (aka BOHO) fashion includes flowing fabrics, vibrant colors, and natural, woven materials instead of knits. This style draws inspiration from various sources, including the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s, reminiscent of the attire worn by attendees of the inaugural Woodstock music festival.

For travel I have never tried this. So many times traveling my bag will not even fit in the overhead storage. Now that checked bags have gotten so expensive, let's be innivated. Add / wear the ogligatory jeans jacket for the flight and we are set for the weekend. Your jewlery, you wear and add sneakers for gate-to-gate hike. 

You will look so "with it". Both the top and skirt are cotten and will travel well in a carry-on.  Mixing and matching there are four outfits from casual to dressy.      

The top and skirt would be dressy for the evening's dinner plus the ballet flats or Espridrills.  I wore this to the Colony and a nice resterant just this past week.  

All for the pieces are Temu and value / quaily tested. The whole weekend look is under $100.  An added benefit and you will have enough left for dinner, maybe. 

 

Political Cartoons 8-9-2026

 

THE FIXER'S IN

Senate Confirms Todd Blanche As Attorney General Despite All His Corruption

Be You...

 

The Man Shirt - Feminine Differential

 Not Exactally 

LightInTheBox

"Women's Blouse" Buttons Print Plaid Stylish Casual Long Sleeve Shirt Collar Long Tops Daily Blue Black Pink Red Navy Blue Spring Fall 2026 - $21.99

Shania Twain said it best: Man! I Feel Like A Woman!

Why Are You Dressed Like A Girl?

 And Look So Good!

The caption Norman Rockwell never wrote.

When Was the Last Time For You?

 

Good Day For A Ride - Thumbs Up

All American Biker Girl - Well that is what the tee-shirts says...

 This past Saturday in the morning before it got so hot. The guy taking the phot at the Harley store insisted on the thumbs-up.  

How to Present Today?

Androgynous?

Androgynous?
Yes.

Not a days goes by without me asking that question. Sometimes pre-determined. However, at my stage of life and freedom, I play with many feminie options.  I discuss on this blog the "Feminibne Differentials", which present a menu of option; some just a little feminine or mostly all femine in look.

Please note - This is not crossdressing. it is living/being in my/your reality. 

My purpose is not to confuse or attract attention, but to be confortable and repersent myself to be nothing more that what I appear to be; myself. Let the observer determine. 

How about your thought process on choosing your daily presentation? 

___________________

The TheRealB decribe it this way:

The Power of Gender Neutral Outfits: Celebrating Diversity and Inclusivity 

Androgynous?
No.

 Androgynous fashion embraces a diverse range of styles, allowing individuals to express themselves authentically. Gender-fluid clothing is characterized by its versatility, simplicity, and minimalist designs. It often features clean lines, neutral colors, and a focus on tailoring that transcends gender norms. Androgynous outfits, with their androgunous style and androgynous look, can include tailored suits, oversized blazers, button-down shirts, trousers, androgynous dresses, and gender-neutral accessories. By blurring the boundaries between traditionally masculine and feminine aesthetics, androgynous fashion opens up a world of possibilities for personal expression.

The Rise of Androgynous Clothing Brands

With the growing demand for androgynous clothes, numerous fashion brands have emerged, dedicated to providing gender-neutral outfits for individuals seeking authentic self-expression. These androgynous clothing brands are at the forefront of the movement, offering a wide range of androgynous clothing styles and catering to diverse needs.

Gender-neutral dress is a significant component of androgynous fashion. These outfits embrace the idea of blurring the lines of gender identity, allowing individuals to express themselves without conforming to traditional gender roles. Gender-neutral outfits promote a sense of inclusivity and diversity, encouraging people to celebrate their unique identities. By embracing gender-neutral fashion, individuals can foster a more accepting society and challenge the stereotypes associated with gender.

Androgynous fashion is a powerful force reshaping the landscape of the fashion industry and challenging traditional gender norms. It provides a platform for individuals to express their authentic selves, blurring the lines of gender identity and promoting inclusivity. As this movement gains momentum, it is essential to celebrate the diverse range of androgynous clothing styles and the brands that champion this cause.

Political Cartoons 8-2-2026

 

Life Is Good... Happy Girlfriends Day

__________________________________

 

Chic Jeans and Heels

 35  Outfits Ideas For Over 50 - Jeans and Heels 

There is something quietly powerful about slipping into a pair of well-fitted jeans and adding that perfect heel.

 It lifts your posture, changes the way you carry yourself, and reminds you that style doesn't retire—it just gets better with age. If you have been scrolling for fresh **jeans and heels outfit ideas over 50**, you are not alone. Women in their 50s, 60s, and beyond are redefining what this classic pairing can look like, trading stiff rules for comfortable confidence and polished ease. From block-heel mules with barrel jeans to pointed-toe pumps peeking beneath wide-leg hems, the combinations are endless and surprisingly wearable. This guide covers 35 complete head-to-toe looks—each one thoughtfully styled from top to shoes—so you can find outfits that feel modern, flattering, and completely you.

White jeans after 50 feel fresh and modern, especially when you choose a straight-leg or slim bootcut silhouette in an opaque, well-structured fabric. The clean white base opens up endless styling possibilities. Pair them with a soft chambray button-down shirt, sleeves rolled to the elbow and front-tucked for definition. Slide into a pair of nude leather pointed-toe heels—the skin-toned shade visually extends your leg line for miles. Add a woven straw tote bag and oversized tortoiseshell sunglasses for that effortless warm-weather polish. A simple gold bangle bracelet brings just enough shine without overpowering the look. This outfit transitions gracefully from a farmers' market stroll to a rooftop lunch, proving white jeans are a year-round staple when styled right.

Espadrille wedges bring instant vacation energy to any outfit. Start with high-rise relaxed straight leg jeans in a light wash with a gently worn-in feel. Pair them with a breezy off-the-shoulder white cotton blouse—the neckline shows just a hint of sun-kissed shoulder. Slide into natural jute-wrapped espadrille wedge heels with ribbon ties that wrap around the ankle. Add a wide-brim straw hat, a woven market tote, and oversized sunglasses. This is the outfit you pack for a coastal getaway, a summer cruise, or a leisurely lunch by the water. It feels feminine, easy, and completely age-appropriate while still being playful. The wedge heel is comfortable to walk in, and the light denim keeps the whole mood bright and optimistic.

See more...

Ageless Timeless Elegance...

 

Three timeless looks that celebrate confidence and sophistication.  1. Ivory tailored suit + beige blazer + pearl necklace. 2. Champagne satin blouse + wide-leg trousers + silk scarf. 3. White blouse + pleated midi skirt + elegant long coat. All: Cap-toe low heel pumps. 

True style shines through refined details, beautiful friendships, and effortless elegance at any / every age.

A Summer Look - Wearing All White

Pinterest 

I attended an event recently that encouraged "Croquet White".  First, we were at the International Croquet Hall of Fame. A very unique venue thar has multiple Croquet courts and a beautiful clubhouse with memorabilia from Croquet times past. So the question; Why Croquet Players Wear White

In short, croquet players wear white because of a tradition that carried over from tennis.

And that tradition is said to predate the All England Croquet and Tennis Club policy. Sources indicate that the all-white custom first started in 16th century France, where jeu de paume (an early version of tennis) was played. And yes, it was intended to give the sport an elite air, noting the expense of white outfits along with the additional costs of keeping those outfits clean.

Still, with tennis becoming much more open on the dress code, the question then becomes why does croquet still follow the tradition?

I found multiple reasons and here is the one I liked best:

Cyclists shave their legs, basketball players get tattoos and croquet players wear white. It's how you know you're in the club.

The above outfit would have fit in perfectly at a "Croquet White" event.  Even if not attending a Croquet event white looks cool, and has an all put-tougher look for summer. Why not? 

See my: A Summer Event Look

 

Dylan Mulvaney Fires Back

Dylan Mulvaney has hit back at U.S. President Donald Trump after he mocked the trans advocate, actress and singer in his White House Correspondents' Dinner speech on Friday.

Dylan Mulvaney

"My name is Dylan Mulvaney and the president said my name four times in his speech on Friday night," she began a TikTok video response posted on Sunday evening.

 It seems to me that I might be the one that got away for these men, like I am permanently burned into their retinas, I am microchipped into their minds," Mulvaney said, adding that perhaps "being publicly mocked and criticized by this administration is actually, like, the greatest compliment of all because it puts me in the company of some of the most brilliant, empathetic people in our world today."

She concluded her video response with a message directly to Trump, saying: "To the president, thank you for reminding me that I am more powerful than I even knew. And to quote my favorite recording artist Shea Diamond: I am America."

Watch Mulvaney's full video below.

Dylan Mulvaney Fires Back At Trump After His Kaitlan Collins Dig, AI Post Goes Viral

What We Did - PBCHRC Summer Soiree

 

Saturday Night 7-25-2026

Political Cartoons 7-26-2026

 

The Goal...

 

Feminine Differential - Wide Leg Shorts

 Personal note: Yesterday was 28  views. Why I am doing this?

This is an alternative to my blazer / shorts outfit from a few day ago. Wide leg dress shorts almost look like a skirt and depending on length, show a lot of leg in a good way.  The shorts shown above have a "Paper Bag" waist with belt; another feminine differential. 

A beautiful benefit is the shoe options.  Wedge espadrilles for an outside party of flats for a walk around party.  The look is meant to be dressy, think evening out, so shoes with a heel can be work and not look trashy.  

I love this look, first because I have all the parts and second, it is a perfect Florida evening-out look.  

Amazon MakeMeChic
Women's High Waist Wide Leg Shorts
Delivery note: Cheap material poor quality. 

Here are Amazon shorts, that highlight the beautiful feminine nature of the look. I do have these ordered to go with the Lilly off-the-shoulder top. These may be a little more dressy than the dressy denim  shown above.  

I think this looks super cool.

It is Not Every Day...

I Love to Shop... 

What to Wear - PBCHRC Event

 A Summer Event Look

By now I hope you have gotten your ticket to our Saturday event (or considered a donation).  I love what we do and very proud to be on the board of The Palm Beach County Human Rights Council (PBCHRC). All of our efforts go toward  "ENDING DISCRIMINATION. PROMOTING EQUALITY."  We still understand what WOKE means. 

2026 Summer Soiree -  Tickets

See Monday's post for more information. A few  years back  we were at an outdoor sculpture garden and finished just in time as storms rolled in.  This year we are mostly inside, with AC, at a beautiful venue. I am looking forward; "All dressed up with somewhere to go."  

The suggested Attire, "Croquet Whites". Had I not been at an even at this venue just a few months ago I would not have fully appreciated the wearing of "white".  A sea of beautiful white cocktail dresses.  So I dug around in my close and came up with a mostly white blazer and matching shorts; yes, it is summer and I have legs. 

What do you think.  There will be photos. 

Vogue Business - Trending on the Red Carpet

 
Men’s Ballet Flats Are Trending on the Red Carpet. Will They Sell?

By Jack Stanley 
March 31, 2026

Photo: Getty Images
Artwork by Vogue Business

It’s official, “hot guys are wearing ballet flats”. From Bad Bunny in a Dries Van Noten pair at the Happy Gilmore 2 premiere, to Harry Styles wearing pastel green Dior flats at the Grammys, or a black Chanel pair at the Brits, some of menswear’s most prominent style icons are sporting the style of late. But will the average menswear consumer buy in?

The ballet flat trend has been bubbling away for a few years, with cult labels like Comme des Garçons, Maison Margiela, Lemaire, and Bode releasing versions as early as 2021, beloved by fashion-forward arty types who’d pair them with shredded jeans or baggy shorts. But with an influx of celebrity sightings in recent months, the men’s ballet flat has crossed over into more mainstream culture.

“Harry Styles has certainly played a role in raising the profile of this once-fringe trend for men,” says Karis Munday, retail analyst at EDITED. “Less than two weeks after he appeared at the Brits in Chanel ballet flats, Celine’s own ballet-style lace-up sold out, despite having been in stock since November.” Munday also points to the impact on high street retailers, adding that ultra-thin soles currently feature in 8% of early-season men’s shoe arrivals at Zara.

Of course, the aforementioned luxury labels cater to a subset of consumers influenced by the runway and celebrity style, even if it challenges traditionally gendered colors or silhouettes. But a cursory glance at the Instagram comments under any coverage of men’s ballet flats will reveal — amid rising conservatism and a continued surge in hyper-masculinity — plenty of consumers going to great lengths to avoid traditionally feminine fashion. (One comment, under a @FootwearNews post of Styles in his green Dior shoes, reads: “masculinity is dead.”)

Benedict Browne, style director at Mr Porter. There are now various sneakers that build on the ultra-thin design of a ballet flat, repackaging its construction for performance reasons, for example: 

By combining elements of traditional masculine dressing with the traditionally feminine ballet flat, brands are participating in the trend without alienating shoppers.

 

Maybe the ballet flat is more of a direction of travel than a final destination. It might be relatively rare for men to fully embrace the silhouette as it is, but many of its characteristics — the low, almost-flat sole and thin leather upper — are being combined with more traditional forms. “While literal interpretations of the ballet flat remain minimal in the market,” says Munday, “their influence is beginning to take shape in the form of thin soles and soft leather uppers on shoes.” For Mr Porter, this is coming through in “hybrid styles that sit somewhere between a loafer and a slipper, with that same pared-back feel”, says Browne. 

At the start of the year, Jacob Elordi sat on the Jimmy Kimmel sofa to promote Wuthering Heights, wearing a pair of off-white Bottega Veneta loafers that were not quite ballet flats, but ascribed to this hybrid style (though many users compared them to ballet flats online).

Ballet flats might not be worn by men en-masse, but their influence is being felt across the menswear market. Both brands and consumers are embracing softer shoes, happy to play with the rules that have previously governed men’s footwear. “The exact shoe might stay niche,” says Browne. “But the ideas behind it will carry through.”

__________________

Personal Note: My friend Brian from Canada is great fan of ballet flats especially Tory Burch. Below is a photo of his gift to himself and his note:

Hi Rhonda.  Hope things are going well in your part of the world.  Thank you for the retirement wishes.  I’ve been retired for 2 1/2 years already. Wow time fly's. 

As I mentioned for a retirement gift to myself I wanted to treat myself to a very feminine pair of ballet flats. A pair that would scream girlie.  I was looking at the Tory Burch Runway flats and I even tried them on in the Tory Burch boutique.  Sadly I wasn’t a fan of the $400 price tag.  Instead I ordered a pair of White Rose Tieks.  They definitely scream girlie on me but a girlfriend talked me out of keep them cuz they weren’t really that practical so I returned them.  About the same time a Tory Burch representative reached out to me and offered me a $200 off coupon.  

I shifted my focus back to the Torys.  I had tried the TB Runway flats on in the Black and the Silver at the Scottsdale TB boutique and liked both colors.  The Tory representative felt because they are a pair to mark a special occasion I should get the silver pair. Two days after placing the order they arrived.  They are much different from all my other Torys and they are one of the most comfortable pairs of Torys I own.  The style is not really the best for me but they definitely are girlie! 

So here’s my retirement gift to myself. 

See: Brian's Review and Brian  - Tory Burch Flats from 2017

What to Do - PBCHRC Event

 2026 Summer Soirée

Time & Location

Saturday, July 25, 2026, 7:30-10 p.m.

Attire: Croquet Whites

​National Croquet Center

700 Florida Mango Rd

West Palm Beach, FL 

About the event

​

Mix and mingle with elected officials, candidates, community leaders, and friends at one of the season's premier political and social gatherings.

Enjoy an exceptional culinary experience by Sandy James Fine Food & Productions, featuring butler-passed heavy hors d'oeuvres, including:

• Jumbo shrimp and sweet corn beignets
  
  
• Seared duck breast with roasted fruit chutney
  
  
• Mint pesto lollipop lamb chops
  
  
• Gruyère, ham, and honey cheese puffs
  
  
• Creekstone Farms Black Angus beef tenderloin on crostini with arugula and horseradish cream
  
  
• Grilled Key lime shrimp with ginger aioli
  
  
• Palm Beach cheese puffs
  
  
• Brie tartlets

 

The evening also includes a premium open bar, complimentary valet parking, and the opportunity to enjoy great conversation in an elegant world class setting.

We look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable summer evening of fine food, lively conversation, and exceptional company. Event is indoors and out at the world famous National Croquet Center. 

Register / support below or mail checks with attendee names to P.O. Box 267, West Palm Beach, FL 33402.

2026 Summer Soiree - Individual Ticket

Hope to see you there!

Political Cartoons 7-19-2026