Summer is sneakily approaching, slow as its arrival might be. I don’t mind waiting around for a bit, though. Soon enough I won’t be able to do as much layering in the wardrobe department, and outfits will become inevitably a bit less exciting to assmble. But Summer really is the only time I’ll justify baring a bit more of my undies to show off the swimsuit I might be wearing underneath my clothes… either off to the pool, or having just come form there. (Who am I kidding? I rarely make it to the pool in the summertime. Sigh.) Wouldn’t these suits from Minnow Bathers be lovely peeking out from underneath a lacy vintage camisole cover or strappy sundress? (I am dying for that plaid two-piece above.)

Another way I am planning on spicy up predictable summer ensembles is with the addition of some pretty spectacular shoes. Cheetah is a great print to coordinate with a myriad of other patterns. I used to own a nice pair of cheetah flats, but now I just have one, and its mate has gone missing. I think a great patterned pair of wedges by Jeffrey Campbell replace them quite splendidly, don’t you? Especially when paired with one of these darling dresses from Topshop.

above: 1 2 3 4 | below: 1 2

Tada! I introduce to you the complete finished work of my right arm. As opposed to the six hours of needlework for my last piece, this one only took a delightful two. Kyle accompanied me to give moral support and documented some tender-hearted moments of excruciating pain.

Two years ago, I acquired a large 19th Century floral engraving, from which I’ve been taking pieces to rearrange and repiece for tattoos on my body. Jesse Strother, of Good Life Tattoos and Piercings, did both portions of the engraving, and I was very pleased with the quality and speed of his work.

If you’re curious, there’s a minute and a half of tattooing action shown below (music by Modest Mouse). This was the most painful portion of any tattoo I’ve ever experienced. The armpit area! But it was bearable. And I survived.

Today I’m pleased to share with you some fashion inspiration from the young and wise Claire, of Stolen From Grandma. Thanks for participating, Claire! I think you are wonderfully adorable.

Images: Claire