Santa Baby: I like it Horny

Dear Santa,

Thank you in advance for all the wonderful gifts. I can only hope to be as good as to deserve them. As I realise you and your helpers have many presents to get, for many children - big and small - I just wanted you to know I'd be happy with a small present too:

A set of horn buttons.

Mummy taught me sometimes the small things make a big difference. I was thinking I could maybe replace the standard plastic buttons on my jacket with some nice ones in horn. They look so much warmer, and add a bit of interest with their colouring. Plus, it's so much easier to look like a million quid when you get the details right!

I know they're sometimes hard to find, especially in some countries; people in the UK seem to be a bit blessed that way, as well as those who live in places with more of a living artisan culture. But you know: I'm not very picky! They can be matching in dark browns that look almost black for my formal suits, or lighter, brighter colours to spice up the casual ones and odd jackets. I can put them on my coats, my cardigans or jackets.

I guess what I'm trying to say, dear Santa, is that I'd be happy with any nice horn buttons to make my stuff look nice. I'll sow them on myself (or let Mummy do so if I can't), and I don't mind if they come from an old piece you thrifted somewhere. You see Santa, it doesn't always have to be expensive, and a few pounds often do the trick.

It just takes time and effort, and that shows you care..
(Don't worry, I know you do!)

Santa Baby: Buttons and Shawls

Today has been another chilly day, but an informal one. And what better way to enjoy the comforts of winter warmth than with a good ol' knitted cardigan?

The one in the picture above is of a style I've had my eye on for quite some time now. Executed with buttons and a shawl-collar, this warm cardigan is both classy and comfortable.

The buttons allow for a wide variety of fastenings. Ranging from being buttoned up all the way (leave the lowest button undone, for easier movement and a more elegant drape), to having as deep an opening as one wants. Leaving it open all the way is of course an option too. As an added bonus, the buttons don't create the same awkward bellowing as a zip tends to do, and provide the opportunity of adding some additional colour to the item.

The shawl-collar looks more refined than a simple collarless neck, and when popped up, helps keep the neck warm. Executed in a heavier knit, this cardigan looks well in place over long-sleeves, T-shirts and Polo's, but equally good when paired with a (dress-)shirt of some sorts. A tie adds a great bit of elegance, and can be kept neatly in place by buttoning the cardigan. Choose a fuller, warmer hue, regardless of wearing silk or wool. Alternatively, add a bow-tie for some playful class.

Wearable as an outer layer in fall or spring, and adding that extra bit of warmth in winter, a heavy knit cardigan with buttons and a shawl-collar is bound to be a welcome item in ones wardrobe. Santa, pay heed.