by Doris Hobbs 
I find the Niles train station to bring such fond memories, an image that never fades. Standing at the train depots boarding gate, as a little girl, with such anticipation, not only for the thought that in less than an hour’s time I’d be in the presence of a gallery of grand art belonging to my grandfather’s artistic family members. On these bi-monthly excursions, I found them all to contain influential conversation on topics which clearly have been the building blocks to my conscious approach in life.
I find myself today intrigued to contemplate a sense of retro glamour centering my ensemble with these historic Scotland patterned houndstooth pumps in combination with my grandmother’s weathered sheer chiffon scarf. Both pieces present a nostalgic reflection to what was once seen as the romance of train travel.
The 1950’s had gifted women a chic approach to travel from vintage train cases, chiffon scarfs, a cinch waist and lady-like gloves. Accenting with the right accessories is a key element for daytime travel and I’ve found recurring success with an elegant vintage-inspired double-breasted sheath by Tatyana. In such a dress Hollywood actress, Sophia Loren comes to mind with her impeccable style for travel as seen throughout her ongoing film career. Train travel is remembered with fashion consisting of a burlap deco covered suitcase paired with the delicate touch of a pair of vintage pearl earrings, cotton day-wear gloves, and a white gold framed handbag.
Trains go where cars cannot: into canyons, along rivers, through mountains, and into town centers. So much about train travel is visionary. Imagine the early 20th century engineers who saw no obstacle to laying 153 miles of track out to the ocean. While I step onto the wooden deck today my eyes meet the vanishing point, where the glistening iron rails seemed to merge. The thought of my grandfather’s memory approaches with a sentimental sense of travel that will never be lost.
In loving memory of Robert “Red” Alexander (1916 -2007) a man who truly was my strength and anchor in learning the fundamentals of immeasurable success & character – Happy Birthday Grandpa, there isn’t a day that passes where I don’t practice your teachings.
~
Tatyana Boutique Double-Breasted Sheath
Vintage Sheer Silk Scarf, Doris Alexander (similar here)
Pearl Earrings with Gold Plating (similar here)
White Leather Box Clutch (similar here)
Michael Kors MK Flex Mid Pump (similar in Black here & Houndstooth here)
richinlovefashion.com 