Well, I'm finally back from my trek.
Thought #1: Would someone give me a generous stipend to live in Evanston ---- pretty please? I love the energy of all those poor, caffeinated Northwestern students in the coffee shops, cramming for finals, the cool consignment shops and ethnic restaurants, the used bookstores and bike lanes. DD and I had a wonderful time, and some great shwarma!
Vogue was huge (22,000sq ft) and full of the creaky floors and fabric smells that I remember. The ladies that worked there were knowledgeable and unique, and every so slightly "testy" like the fabulous SA's of old. There were marvelous linens and exquisite wool gabardines. I didn't choose one today, but I think my Katharine Hepburn trousers might be hanging on the wall! I'm thinking a subtle navy pinstripe or a deepest grey (near black) with a very subtle texture or pattern.
I was looking for a wonderful print for a full midi, but was disappointed on this front. Many of the prints were, well, dated. You know, like a polyester jersey dress I might have bought at Kohls in 2005. I almost purchased a Jones of New York blue Ikat print, but I am a bit over Ikat at the moment, and its scale was a bit overwhelming. Anyone know of a great online source for marvelous, modern prints?
What did I find?
http://www.voguefabricsstore.c.....avy-5.html
The navy is not showing up on my monitor, but it is a glorious navy -- not purple, not grey, but a true, deep blue. It will become a dress -- one of several patterns, but I've not finalized my choice yet. Sophia Double Knit has a beautiful weight --- a perfect balance of drape and structure that lets it drape but never cling. I got it on sale for $6.99 a yard, which is a good deal.