Is this casual outfit the right background to show this pretty red tote bag? Or does it deserve a cute dress to shine? If the latter, no fear, I am sure you will see me with this bag and a dress as well. It is that pop of colour which so easily boosts an outfit to a higher level of attractiveness. (By the way, my blog is getting a make-over. Work in progress.)
My darling husband Ron offered to take photos again as Loes and Kitty were both too busy with work to do a shoot. As we all work full-time and all have lots to do in our free time, it is always a challenge to find a mutual date. Ron surprised my with his offer as I thought it was over and out with blog photos by his hand. When he heard that I did not have enough material to last until “my” photographers were available again, he stepped in to support me.
It was the end of the day, the golden hours, and fall in a park provided a lovely background. Plus Ron could walk the dog (Charlie) while I waited in the car.
Below: That little white bridge provided a good background. We tried to persuade Charlie to cross this bridge but she started shivering all over. She doesn’t like water beneath her. Bridges, the harbour, the boat, she loathes them all. So sad for Ron who had this romantic idea when Charlie was a pup to go on long advertures with the boat, and Charlie doing a Titanic pose at the front. At first we took her with us on the boat and tried to make her feel at ease, but no such luck. Is it because she was born November 3 and never experienced the boat and the harbour when she was in her first 12 weeks with us? Or is it just her? Ron thinks it’s the first. Anyway, she is now 12 years old, she will never lose her fear. We went the other way. Happy dog.
Below: This is me in shock as I had left a bag on the path and Charlie, being practically blind, tripped over it. Stupid me.
Below: There were farm animals in this park. I was talking to a cow. Ron said he didn’t want to take photos next to a sign that says: “Please do not feed because of rat problems”. The sign on the back of my jacket is a gimmick of the designer. Not some label I forgot to take off.
Below: The kimono coat was a find in Paris at a boutique in Le Marais, The boutique is called Addicted. Great little shop with reasonably priced items by young designers. The black leather gloves are from a small shop in Paris and cost me an arm (pun) and a leg.
Below: This was the cow which I was admiring. She strolled off and however nicely I spoke to her, she just gave me a disparaging look and left me looking at her behind.
Below: It was warm enough to take off my coat. The sweater is by Bellamy Gallery, the belt is old, the sneakers are a great find at LAB Women’s Clothing. Brand: Ama-brand.
But the piece de la resistance is of course the red tote bag. My blogger friend Nikki of Midlifechic designs bags which are produced by craftsmen in Turkey and sold in her online boutique. When she showed this red example I was sold. She still has a few ones left and also sells adorable clutches. So if you are looking for Christmas presents… Midlifechic Boutique is worth a visit. Just saying.
Below: View from the back. This sweater is a perfect replacement for the white one I had last year. That one was ruined by spray dye.
Below: A little path led to a dark shed. Dark backgrounds are good with my blond hair.
Below: I wanted to pose by leaning over the little parapet…..
Below: As I did, I suddenly discovered a woman in the kitchen at the other end of HER garden. Oh my, how rude of me…. I bolted….
The woman came to see what I was doing. I explained my actions, she laughed and said she thought we wanted to tell her a deer was near her garden. Apparently that happens frequently.
Ron let Charlie run around while I waited in the car (Knee) and as we drove home he suggested the little town of Bloemendaal might have some nice backgrounds as well.
Below: At the florist.
Below: I forgot to put on the ring in the other photos… here it is.
Below: “I mean… what are you on about? You put me in a street with shops. Not my fault!” Actually Ron quite liked the black and white skirt in the window and suggested we go in.
Below: Before trying it on I had to ask for a plaster as I had cut myself. No idea how. The lady of the shop kindly supplied one. She looks worried but it was just a little cut.
Below: The skirt was too big. Pity. I thought it would look good with opaque tights, these sneakers and this sweater.
What happened in my life this week
Terribly busy again. My life is never this busy. Friday night we had our neighbours over for dinner. Ron made bouillabaisse (French fish soup) with 33 ingredients. He was slaving away in the kitchen all afternoon. I thought it was really nice, but he was disappointed. The evening was animated. Great people living next door.
Met my BVA friends again. We gathered at Marianne’s house for coffee and chat. Jilske told us about the theft of all 4 wheels of her new company car. And she had chosen such lovely rims. The thieves must have liked them too. Imagine coming out of your house in the morning to go to work and seeing this:
We contined chatting after three of our company went out shopping. Marianne, Marianna and I stayed behind. Marianne had just recovered from a concussion (fell on her head, long story) and we didn’t think it wise to go out shopping. Me, Knee and Credit card were not keen on shopping either. Later in the afternoon we drove to the beautiful 5 star Amstel hotel for a high tea. You will see all the photos in a couple of weeks, but I’d love to show you what the hotel looks like:
Isn’t it a beauty? The high tea was delicious and we started with champagne. I hope I didn’t make too much of a fool of myself as champagne is always risky on an empty stomach. I get even louder than I normally am.
My brother celebrated his birthday and the whole family had a chance to catch up. What a noise! About a dozen grown-ups and 5 children, all shouting and talking and laughing, you could hardly hear what the other one was saying. The atmosphere was very good.
On my day off I met Marja for lunch at a restaurant with a view. We spent hours chatting away. Thoroughly enjoyable. Hadn’t seen her for quite a while. I took this terrible picture outside:
And there was dinner with two girl friends Thursday night. Really… these events would do me for a month instead of a week.
Greetje
So lovely to catch up with on your news again Greetje. Life is so busy isn’t it? I keep meaning to visit and today I finally did. I like how you’ve showcased the red tote and yes, it’s gorgeous! My credit card wouldn’t approve of me taking a look any further though… It’s a pity the skirt didn’t fit – it would have looked fab with this whole outfit. I did like the disapproving look from that cow – a look of disdain for you I think!
I’m showcasing a watch from the Danish company Nordgreen on the blog today which is what made me think of you. Just throwing that in – you might like to come over to see…?
Have a good week!
Anna x
So lovely seeing your comment Anna. I am the same… meaning to visit your blog and then not having a minute. This month my life is ridiculously busy. Which is new to me. Usually I lead a pretty normal life. Now I have 15 minutes in between one date and another.
But I am going to get myself all greedy over your Nordgreen watch. Coming over….
This sort of casual, sporty look suits you very well! Lovely to read about your adventures, as always.
This casual, sporty look is really what I normally wear. But I cannot go without skirts and dresses. There are more sides to me than just jeans. Only this is such a jeans town.
Love your ring! And what a pitty that skirt was too big, it’s a lovely one.
Never mind the skirt, there will always be another one 😂. The ring is from a bunch of plastic rings I got through an IG acquintance.
Also love the red bag ….. plus the red belt and jeans. A look I will have to copy
Glad I gave you inspiration. Please do copy. It is a simple look but I think it is a fun look. I added the belt to “pull the outfit together”.
Oh my you look smashing in those jeans Greetje! The red purse definitely makes a statement and I think it will combine well with many colors.
The picture of you running after you discovered you were on private property captures your mischievous side quite well I think. Ron caught you in many natural and appealing poses for this post.
I think I already see some newness unfolding in your blog look!
I certainly hope Marianne is doing well after her nasty fall!
I am always so pleased when a stupid face of me is captured. Fun before vanity. Red goes well with black, blue, green but also with orange for a nice clash. The make-over of my blog is done. Only small corrections will be made. Marianne is doing very well after her fall.
lovely pictures and lovely You in every facial expression, laughing, having a shock or running away! Totally love your genuine attitude.
And also love the pretty red tote (this shop has some amazing pieces!) and the cute sneakers, you look so fabulously comfy&cool. Obviously, the kimono coat and über-elegant gloves really make a difference! You rock your accessories!
besos
My face does rather show what I think, doesn’t it? 😊😂
Nikki who sells these bags has a small collection of bags. She designs them to suit her own needs, which coincide with what most women want in a bag. The kimono coat was begging for gloves. These were a bit over the top (pricewise) but apparently they should last me a lifetime.
Another gorgeous wrap coat! I’m seeing a few now after Lisa’s long one. I love yours too Greetje, the sleeves are fabulous, dramatic and show off your lush leather gloves.
I don’t own a red bag although I agree it is a terrific way to add pizazz to an outfit. Perhaps I should get one?
The lush leather gloves were a necessity after I bought the coat. I also have brown ones from the Max Mara outlet in Turin. Bought those before I saw the coat. You might not own a red bag, but you do have that fab yellow one. That brings pizzazz to your outfit as well.
Liking the redesign so far. I love that your life is so full, Greetje! The outfit is lovely, and the red bag is really the best piece (the shoes really appeal to me too). How sweet of Ron to step up and offer to take pictures!
My life is certainly not always so full Sheila. I often think this of your life as well. Shoes are our passion, right?
Greetje, I feel like every blog post you write is an adventure to read. More happens to you in a week than happens to me in a month, I’m sure! I love the outfits and places you featured today (always love you in jeans with your annoyingly perfect legs). I’m not a bag girl, but Nikki’s red bag really makes the outfit sing… red is the colour of fashion, in my opinion. If I ever get another Birkin it would have to be a red one. I’m wishing you a peaceful calm and maybe even boring week this week.
PS: Ron’s share price has just shot up knowing he is making a real authentic bouillabaisse. Lucky you.
Ron’s share price has shot up… hahaha. He is becoming a better cook every day. A red Birkin might be a bad investment. If I were to buy such an expensive bag, I want it to go with every outfit, so a neutral colour. But a small red one could be an asset. Nikki has a lovely little red crossbody bag.
My life isn’t normally this hectic. This month is really strange.
The park sign, well, I may have thought it says, Caution: Elves at work, if you hadn’t told me what it really says!! Hahaha. You have such excellent candid shots: the face after you saw the woman in the window, the bag shock. But of course your new bag is quite a star here. Fabulous bag! And highlighted so well with this great casual outfit. It’s great to see you and Marja out having fun. And a big star to Ron, not only for taking photos again, but for even suggesting that you go in and try on that skirt.
I used to think my face didn’t express anything. What a mistake… my face is like an open book, it tells you everything. Ron was very sweet to do a photo session again. With shopping for clothes, he is strangely supportive. He knows how many clothes there are already in my closet, yet he never says “did you need that?”
Fun post and your outfit is lovely. Shocking about your friend’s wheels we had our headlamps stolen once. We are interested in the multiple ingredients in the soup.
Headlamps stolen? HOW on earth do they get them off your car? The 33 ingredients in the soup are too difficult for me to translate. I am afraid you have to google it. Just search: recipe for bouillabaisse.
Great post again Greetje & of course I am going to say too ‘how wonderful you look in jeans’ ! … its a shame that skirt was too big as it would have looked very nice too and I bet it could have been styled lots of ways.
I knew someone that got a puppy and lived near a beach and was really looking forward to going for long seaside walks…..alas the dog hated water with a passion and would not get his paws wet under any circumstances !
I am impressed with your restraint on the shopping front – will it last ?!!!
Have a good week.
Well Karen, apart from these black and white sneakers (and a pair of second-hand ankle boots) I have been a very good girl for two months now. Which gives me hope. And, as I said, I still have money in my savings account. So much better than last year. I am determined to make it last a little longer. Especially because I think the orthodontist bills will not be refunded by the insurance. My teeth aren’t a health hazzard yet.
As for Charlie and water… the strange thing is she loves water and goes into the sea every time they are there. She doesn’t want to go in too deep. Belly high. And she loves brooks and ditches. Next week a skirt again. Otherwise you have to say again “how wonderful I look jeans”hahaha.
The red bag looks like a great addition…a nice shape and perfect red color. I remember that kimono jacket from when we met up in Paris, I think. I SO wish you could come next month. Next year in London, maybe?
What a shame that Charlie doesn’t like the water, especially living where you do. I recognized that hotel right away…we stayed there when we visited Amsterdam. It was really exquisite, and the staff were so kind and attentive. Recommend highly!
Next year in London sounds wonderful. Love to meet you again. At the moment you wouldn’t get very far with me. Not doing more than 400 meters. If we meet in London, make it summer, OK? Haha.
Love the outfit with the red bag. One of your best in my eyes. Such a pity about the skirt it would have been a real success. That bag is making me green with envy. I must check my cupboard as I am sure I have a red bag hidden away somewhere!
Really Marilyn? One of my best? Oh my… I thought the red trouser suit with the tigers was my best. But, we all have different taste. That’s what makes the world such fun.
If you cannot find your red bag, hop on over to Midlifechic Boutique. She is also selling the same tote in orange for a very low price as there are a few minor scratches on the handle.
I loved the red tiger suit as well but like the casual look of this outfit. I found the red bag thankfully as my late husband bought it for me in Florence a few years ago. It will get an airing very soon. Not a tote but very useful.
Oh good. I am sure you will wear it with pleasure. Sweet memories will accompany it.
Great look. So cool that you repeated the red with the belt. The skirt is really bold. It calls my name. LOL.
That is what I have learned over the years: “to pull a look together by repeating a colour in the outfit”. The skirt would have been way too big for you, even more than for me.
Did the tire thieves actually put the car on blocks? Very considerate of them!!!!
I love this weeks’ outfit. The photos are great. That photographer is a keeper.
Yes, the tire thieves put the car on blocks. But not to be nice. If they didn’t do that, they wouldn’t have been able to get the tires off. Thanks for the compliments. My husband took the photos and he definitely is a keeper haha.
I think any red accessory makes an outfit better, but that is a beautiful bag! I so enjoy the candid shots of you that Ron captures – they make me laugh. I would have had the same expression if I would have been caught taking photos in someone’s yard.
You know me by now… a fun and stupid photo of me will always prevail over vanity. Anything for a laugh.
I think any red accessory makes an outfit better, but that is a beautiful bag! I so enjoy the candid shots of you that Ron captures – they make me laugh. I would have had the same expression if I would have been caught taking photos in someone’s yard.
You know me by now… a fun and stupid photo of me will always prevail over vanity. Anything for a laugh.
This sort of casual, sporty look suits you very well! Lovely to read about your adventures, as always.
This casual, sporty look is really what I normally wear. But I cannot go without skirts and dresses. There are more sides to me than just jeans. Only this is such a jeans town.
So lovely to catch up with on your news again Greetje. Life is so busy isn’t it? I keep meaning to visit and today I finally did. I like how you’ve showcased the red tote and yes, it’s gorgeous! My credit card wouldn’t approve of me taking a look any further though… It’s a pity the skirt didn’t fit – it would have looked fab with this whole outfit. I did like the disapproving look from that cow – a look of disdain for you I think!
I’m showcasing a watch from the Danish company Nordgreen on the blog today which is what made me think of you. Just throwing that in – you might like to come over to see…?
Have a good week!
Anna x
So lovely seeing your comment Anna. I am the same… meaning to visit your blog and then not having a minute. This month my life is ridiculously busy. Which is new to me. Usually I lead a pretty normal life. Now I have 15 minutes in between one date and another.
But I am going to get myself all greedy over your Nordgreen watch. Coming over….
lovely pictures and lovely You in every facial expression, laughing, having a shock or running away! Totally love your genuine attitude.
And also love the pretty red tote (this shop has some amazing pieces!) and the cute sneakers, you look so fabulously comfy&cool. Obviously, the kimono coat and über-elegant gloves really make a difference! You rock your accessories!
besos
My face does rather show what I think, doesn’t it? 😊😂
Nikki who sells these bags has a small collection of bags. She designs them to suit her own needs, which coincide with what most women want in a bag. The kimono coat was begging for gloves. These were a bit over the top (pricewise) but apparently they should last me a lifetime.
Love your ring! And what a pitty that skirt was too big, it’s a lovely one.
Never mind the skirt, there will always be another one 😂. The ring is from a bunch of plastic rings I got through an IG acquintance.
Oh my you look smashing in those jeans Greetje! The red purse definitely makes a statement and I think it will combine well with many colors.
The picture of you running after you discovered you were on private property captures your mischievous side quite well I think. Ron caught you in many natural and appealing poses for this post.
I think I already see some newness unfolding in your blog look!
I certainly hope Marianne is doing well after her nasty fall!
I am always so pleased when a stupid face of me is captured. Fun before vanity. Red goes well with black, blue, green but also with orange for a nice clash. The make-over of my blog is done. Only small corrections will be made. Marianne is doing very well after her fall.
Liking the redesign so far. I love that your life is so full, Greetje! The outfit is lovely, and the red bag is really the best piece (the shoes really appeal to me too). How sweet of Ron to step up and offer to take pictures!
My life is certainly not always so full Sheila. I often think this of your life as well. Shoes are our passion, right?
Also love the red bag ….. plus the red belt and jeans. A look I will have to copy
Glad I gave you inspiration. Please do copy. It is a simple look but I think it is a fun look. I added the belt to “pull the outfit together”.
Fun post and your outfit is lovely. Shocking about your friend’s wheels we had our headlamps stolen once. We are interested in the multiple ingredients in the soup.
Headlamps stolen? HOW on earth do they get them off your car? The 33 ingredients in the soup are too difficult for me to translate. I am afraid you have to google it. Just search: recipe for bouillabaisse.
Greetje, I feel like every blog post you write is an adventure to read. More happens to you in a week than happens to me in a month, I’m sure! I love the outfits and places you featured today (always love you in jeans with your annoyingly perfect legs). I’m not a bag girl, but Nikki’s red bag really makes the outfit sing… red is the colour of fashion, in my opinion. If I ever get another Birkin it would have to be a red one. I’m wishing you a peaceful calm and maybe even boring week this week.
PS: Ron’s share price has just shot up knowing he is making a real authentic bouillabaisse. Lucky you.
Ron’s share price has shot up… hahaha. He is becoming a better cook every day. A red Birkin might be a bad investment. If I were to buy such an expensive bag, I want it to go with every outfit, so a neutral colour. But a small red one could be an asset. Nikki has a lovely little red crossbody bag.
My life isn’t normally this hectic. This month is really strange.
Great look. So cool that you repeated the red with the belt. The skirt is really bold. It calls my name. LOL.
That is what I have learned over the years: “to pull a look together by repeating a colour in the outfit”. The skirt would have been way too big for you, even more than for me.
The red bag looks like a great addition…a nice shape and perfect red color. I remember that kimono jacket from when we met up in Paris, I think. I SO wish you could come next month. Next year in London, maybe?
What a shame that Charlie doesn’t like the water, especially living where you do. I recognized that hotel right away…we stayed there when we visited Amsterdam. It was really exquisite, and the staff were so kind and attentive. Recommend highly!
Next year in London sounds wonderful. Love to meet you again. At the moment you wouldn’t get very far with me. Not doing more than 400 meters. If we meet in London, make it summer, OK? Haha.
Another gorgeous wrap coat! I’m seeing a few now after Lisa’s long one. I love yours too Greetje, the sleeves are fabulous, dramatic and show off your lush leather gloves.
I don’t own a red bag although I agree it is a terrific way to add pizazz to an outfit. Perhaps I should get one?
The lush leather gloves were a necessity after I bought the coat. I also have brown ones from the Max Mara outlet in Turin. Bought those before I saw the coat. You might not own a red bag, but you do have that fab yellow one. That brings pizzazz to your outfit as well.
I love the casual vibe with the red white and blue.
The red belt is what makes it pop.
Bravo to Ron for stepping up again.
Suzanne
http://www.suzannecarillo.com
Indeed, Ron was very sweet to do another photo session. Never thought he would do it again. The red belt is ancient and second-hand, which will please you no doubt. Just a little bit of second-hand this time, but I am getting better. Didn’t shop for two months.
The park sign, well, I may have thought it says, Caution: Elves at work, if you hadn’t told me what it really says!! Hahaha. You have such excellent candid shots: the face after you saw the woman in the window, the bag shock. But of course your new bag is quite a star here. Fabulous bag! And highlighted so well with this great casual outfit. It’s great to see you and Marja out having fun. And a big star to Ron, not only for taking photos again, but for even suggesting that you go in and try on that skirt.
I used to think my face didn’t express anything. What a mistake… my face is like an open book, it tells you everything. Ron was very sweet to do a photo session again. With shopping for clothes, he is strangely supportive. He knows how many clothes there are already in my closet, yet he never says “did you need that?”
Did the tire thieves actually put the car on blocks? Very considerate of them!!!!
I love this weeks’ outfit. The photos are great. That photographer is a keeper.
Yes, the tire thieves put the car on blocks. But not to be nice. If they didn’t do that, they wouldn’t have been able to get the tires off. Thanks for the compliments. My husband took the photos and he definitely is a keeper haha.
Love the outfit with the red bag. One of your best in my eyes. Such a pity about the skirt it would have been a real success. That bag is making me green with envy. I must check my cupboard as I am sure I have a red bag hidden away somewhere!
Really Marilyn? One of my best? Oh my… I thought the red trouser suit with the tigers was my best. But, we all have different taste. That’s what makes the world such fun.
If you cannot find your red bag, hop on over to Midlifechic Boutique. She is also selling the same tote in orange for a very low price as there are a few minor scratches on the handle.
I loved the red tiger suit as well but like the casual look of this outfit. I found the red bag thankfully as my late husband bought it for me in Florence a few years ago. It will get an airing very soon. Not a tote but very useful.
Oh good. I am sure you will wear it with pleasure. Sweet memories will accompany it.
Great post again Greetje & of course I am going to say too ‘how wonderful you look in jeans’ ! … its a shame that skirt was too big as it would have looked very nice too and I bet it could have been styled lots of ways.
I knew someone that got a puppy and lived near a beach and was really looking forward to going for long seaside walks…..alas the dog hated water with a passion and would not get his paws wet under any circumstances !
I am impressed with your restraint on the shopping front – will it last ?!!!
Have a good week.
Well Karen, apart from these black and white sneakers (and a pair of second-hand ankle boots) I have been a very good girl for two months now. Which gives me hope. And, as I said, I still have money in my savings account. So much better than last year. I am determined to make it last a little longer. Especially because I think the orthodontist bills will not be refunded by the insurance. My teeth aren’t a health hazzard yet.
As for Charlie and water… the strange thing is she loves water and goes into the sea every time they are there. She doesn’t want to go in too deep. Belly high. And she loves brooks and ditches. Next week a skirt again. Otherwise you have to say again “how wonderful I look jeans”hahaha.
Hello you,
Of course the boutique owner was worried, she thought the black and white skirt might end up black and white – and red!
A nice post as ever, and well done, Ron. I’m saying nothing about the animal who showed up halfway through, and I don’t mean Charlie!
As for your friend’s car wheels, it beggars belief. They must have been fast workers: one person per tyre! The trouble is, if it’s not nailed down it’s fair game to some people. I’ve known artwork to ‘walk’ and a friend with a cafe only uses cheap teaspoons because some customers like to take them home. Still, what goes round comes round, eh? Just give it time.
Have a nice week.
Yes indeed, you don’t want customers bleeding all over your merchandise haha. Animal?? You mean the cow?
Thanks for your lovely words Gee. My unfortunate friend is lucky it is a company’s car and she doesn’t have to pay for replacing the wheels.
I love the casual vibe with the red white and blue.
The red belt is what makes it pop.
Bravo to Ron for stepping up again.
Suzanne
http://www.suzannecarillo.com
Indeed, Ron was very sweet to do another photo session. Never thought he would do it again. The red belt is ancient and second-hand, which will please you no doubt. Just a little bit of second-hand this time, but I am getting better. Didn’t shop for two months.
Hello you,
Of course the boutique owner was worried, she thought the black and white skirt might end up black and white – and red!
A nice post as ever, and well done, Ron. I’m saying nothing about the animal who showed up halfway through, and I don’t mean Charlie!
As for your friend’s car wheels, it beggars belief. They must have been fast workers: one person per tyre! The trouble is, if it’s not nailed down it’s fair game to some people. I’ve known artwork to ‘walk’ and a friend with a cafe only uses cheap teaspoons because some customers like to take them home. Still, what goes round comes round, eh? Just give it time.
Have a nice week.
Yes indeed, you don’t want customers bleeding all over your merchandise haha. Animal?? You mean the cow?
Thanks for your lovely words Gee. My unfortunate friend is lucky it is a company’s car and she doesn’t have to pay for replacing the wheels.