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[luveline]

𝐚 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 | 𝐣𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫

one | two | three | four

Finding out you’re a princess isn’t half as intimidating as suddenly acquiring a full-time bodyguard. Especially when that bodyguard is disarmingly handsome, charming, and can’t seem to stop flirting with you. 

bodyguard!james, fem!reader, implied chubby!reader, shy!reader, princess diaries au, all characters in their 20s or older, star-crossed lovers/ forbidden romance, slowburn, background wolfstar

˗ˋˏ ♡ ˎˊ˗

You hadn’t realised moving right along your hemisphere would be enough to change the weather. The UK is cold and often rain-soaked, while Genovia has been nothing but sunny. It's a nice change, and the sun on your skin almost removes the insecurity of wearing a dress that isn’t yours. You feel pretty. You feel as yourself as you have in the days since this whole thing began. 

“Sorry,” James says, standing in the sunshine with his hands crossed primly behind his back, “you’re what?”

You sit up properly in the window seat. He deserves every ounce of respect that you can give him, he’s been nothing but caring and kind since you met. You almost regret your decision to leave, if only because you wont get to witness him and his nice friends. 

Who will be separated once again, your brain adds helpfully. Thanks to you. 

“I'm going home.” Your sketchbook is supple under your hands, a thick and expensive leather bending from the force of your squeeze.  

He has the most professional look on his face you've ever seen from him. “If you’ve forgotten something-”

“James,” you say. You'd said quite plainly only moments ago your intentions. “I can't be a princess.” You soften your tone. “I’m sorry.”

“You are a princess. By blood.”

Sleeping on it hasn't made it a truth that’s any easier to accept. You are biologically the daughter of the late Prince of Genovia. He was your father, and now he’s dead. It is agonising to think of, and so you can’t. You look down at the sketchbook pressed flush to your linen skirts, the fabric plain and yet gorgeously rendered. It’s the nicest thing you’ve ever worn. You wonder if they might let you keep it after you renounce your title. 

“I can't do this,” you say quietly. 

You’re ashamed of yourself, but you really can't do this. You cannot live through your life changing in such a huge way, you aren’t built for it; you've only just learned to function in your tiny flat on your equivalent uni course. You’re finally in a position, as lonely as it might be, where you feel okay with who you are. If you were to accept the task theyre trying to hoist upon you, become a princess, live forever in the limelight surrounded by a better breed of royal, it’ll destroy you.

“You can. Of course you can.”

You look up cautiously. James’ mouth is set in a line. He looked so pleased when he walked in, and he'd given you a compliment subtly and easy as breathing. You worry he wants to take it back now that you’ve thrown in the towel, but he’d never do anything so spiteful. And it’s silly —you’re thinking about a compliment while his life and job are teetering. 

It’s just one of the reasons you aren't cut out for this. 

“It’s your job to be a good judge of character, right? You read people,” you say tentatively. 

He nods. “Yeah. That’s how I know you can do this.”

You set aside your sketchbook and pencil, wringing your hands together as you stand. “You must see it, James. I’m not meant for this, I’m…” Weak, you won't say. There's no use in dramatics. You plaster a smile over your worrying and wear it like you're sure of yourself. “It will be better for everyone if I give up now.”

James looks over his shoulder. Upon his entry, the guard at your side had moved to the doorway to stand with Daniels, and so the room is empty besides the two of you. He takes a step toward you, and he drops his head noticeably. As if he could intimidate you when he's so so sweet. 

“It won't be better for everyone,” he says slowly. “Not for the people of Genovia, they need an heir to take the throne.”

“Julianna–”

“Julianna isn't eligible.” He shakes his head. “It’s hard to explain. But Genovia needs a queen, a good queen, someone with a good heart.”

Your heart leaps into your throat at the idea of ruling. “James, you don't even know me. I could ruin everything.”

“You said it yourself, Princess. I’m a good judge of character.”

You fall silent. You don't want to argue with him, you don't have even an ounce of malice for him. 

"You're a princess, you– you haven't even tried," he says pleadingly. 

You trick yourself into thinking James wants you to stay because he wants to be your friend. You know you're desperate for one. Back home, the closest you have to friends are the people who wait at the same bus stop each morning and each night, or your classmates at the college. James could be your friend, you know he would be if you stayed. He's remarkably kind. 

But James wants you to stay for a myriad of reasons. For Genovia. For his friends. 

"I just want to go home," you confess weakly. 

Heat rises to your cheeks and throat, a lump you can't swallow. 

"Okay," James says. "Alright." 

He nods at you, a picture of a perfect professional, and turns to leave. You open your mouth to say something, but you don't have a clue as to what, and by the time he's left the room you've drummed up nothing more than a pitiful, "James." 

You're part way to unexplainable tears when Remus appears. He looks startled at your expression, and you can't make any sense of it yourself, so you mumble, "Please don't ask." 

"Do you want a tissue?" he asks sympathetically. 

You shake your head. 

Remus looks unhappy again, as he had on the plane. His pale skin is nearly grey. You debate asking if he's doing okay, but you've just told him to leave you alone. You assume from his expression he'd prefer the same. 

"Do you want to come have some dinner with me?" he asks. 

"That's okay, I don't think I'll be in need of any etiquette training after all," you say. 

"As friends," he says. "Please. I don't like going down to the kitchen by myself, Marlene harasses me." 

Marlene, a dark haired, dark-eyed girl with a sweetheart shaped face and hands covered in tiny burns, does harass Remus, but not in the way you'd thought. 

"Eat up, Moony," she says, placing yet another plate in front of him, bringing the total up to ten. 

You sit thigh to thigh with him on a small bench set aside in a room just off the kitchens that says 'Staff Only' on the door. Despite this, no one has objected to your sitting down. At least, not yet. 

"Marlene, I physically cannot eat all this." 

"Ah, but the Princess will help." Marlene smiles at you. She seems genuine. "She needs to get used to our cuisine." 

You can't endure the awkwardness of explaining your situation. You smile 'til your eyes crinkle in the corners and take a big mouthful of some mysterious soup rather than speak. 

"Ah, Remus, we've been making bone broth for Her Majesty, it's supposed to do wonders for your heart," Marsha adds. She's the opposite of Marlene but no less beautiful, pale and blonde as cornsilk with fine eyebrows and translucent lashes. In the sun leaking in from the window, she's quite golden. "We can set you some aside whenever we make it for her, love." 

Remus smiles. "Thank you." 

Marsha and Marlene both sequester themselves again behind the huge silver ovens. You've never seen anything like it, a marvel of modern machinery in the industrial instrumentation that heats the room. The windows have been thrown open to combat the thick and fragrant air, but you're still sweating. 

"D'you need a drink?" he asks. 

"I can't get them." 

"Please, Princess. I don't need another person trying to take care of me." He doesn't say it spitefully, but you're sorry all the same. 

"Sorry, I wasn't trying to patronise you–" 

"I know," he says, standing up. "Trust me, I know. You're just being polite, because you're nice." He smiles. "I'll get us a carafe, okay?" 

A carafe. Of what? Do royals drink only from carafes? Is it weird to ask for a coke? You turn your gaze back to the rich foods that have been laid out in front of you and pick up a fork. Then, upon reflection, you swap the fork for the appropriate one, and finish the small portion of chicken ragù you'd set aside. 

"Ah-ha!" a familiar voice calls. "Y/N! Here you are. Is my Remus with you, or are you very hungry?" 

You twist on the bench to face him. "Your Remus?" 

Your question slipped out, really. Sirius grins and sits down to your right. "We have to talk funeral." 

"Oh. Alright." 

He clasps your forearm for a gentle second.

"Sorry. Truly. I'm so sorry for your loss. I promise I'll make this as easy for you as I can, okay? You'll be in the public eye, and I want to make sure you do nothing that anyone can fault you for." 

He has a strange mouth. Not ugly, a million miles from it, but unexpected. It pulls down into a grimace as he talks, his hand patting yours. 

"I won't have to speak, will I?" 

He shakes his head firmly. "No. All you have to do is look pretty and dress well. You're already doing the first part beautifully by yourself, and I will make sure you have plenty of options for the second part, yeah?" 

"Oh, hi, Sirius," Remus says, back with a carafe and two glasses.

"Hello," Sirius says, "did you get asked about the bone broth yet?" 

Remus sits on your other side and huffs. "Yes. Did you put them up to that?" 

"The opposite! I told them not to bug you about it because bone broth sounds a little…" 

"Old-fashioned?" 

"Inhumane." 

You laugh and fail to smother it with the back of your hand. It feels weird because it hadn't explicitly been a conversation involving you, but neither tell you off or give you a funny look. Remus laughs at your laughing and pours your drink for you, a pale orange liquid topped by slices of orange, blood orange and white flowers. 

You take a cautious sip. 

"Have you seen my darling James this morning?" Sirius asks Remus from behind you. 

"Not since he left my room."

You choke on your drink. Hands smashed to your mouth, juice drips down your arms and ruins the bodice of your dress, sticky orange and spit everywhere. The boys either side of you splutter in shock, though Sirius begins to laugh as Remus presses a tissue into your hands. 

"Are you okay?" Remus asks, patting your back. 

"I'm fine," you say hoarsely, wiping yourself down with impressive speed as the heat of embarrassment rises. 

"Something go down the wrong pipe?" 

You're honest by accident, extremely startled by your choking and the subsequent question, "I didn't know James and Remus– that you were– sorry, I was just surprised–" 

"Oh, no," Remus says, sounding almost as embarrassed as you now, "no, we aren't. I mean, he's my best friend. He's like my brother." 

"Oh," you say, squeaking, desperately hoping the ground will open up and eat you whole. 

"We aren't romantically involved," Remus says, and you get the sense that's where he plans to end this conversation. 

"Yet," Sirius whispers in your ear. 

Remus shakes his head at you solemnly. 

Desperate to get away from an awkward conversation despite Sirius' good humour, you stand up from the bench and duck your head at both of them. "Um, I'll just go get some paper towels. Sorry. For spitting." 

"Forgiven," Sirius says easily. 

You rush away from them both out of the alcove and into the main body of the kitchen. Heads turn as you walk, and some staff even take the time to incline their heads to you like a small bow, but you ignore them all and head straight for Marlene. She smiles when she senses your approach, full lips cherry red and shiny as she asks, "Is there something I can do for you, Your Highness?" 

"I'm so sorry," you begin, "I've made a mess, could I get some kitchen towel? Sorry." 

"Of course! Can I have someone come and clean it up for you?" 

"No, please, it's my mess, and you've been gracious enough to allow me in your space. I couldn't have anyone else do it." 

"It's really no problem," Marlene says, but she walks to the utility cupboard south of the huge pantry and produces a roll of kitchen towels for you. 

"Thank you." Then, because you might be leaving soon, and she should know, "I– I've never had so many nice foods at once. I can't cook, at home. Everything I eat is from a jar or a tin," —you cough, worried that was an overshare— "and it's nothing compared to all of this. You guys are amazing." 

Marlene's smile softens. You hadn't realised she was being diplomatic until genuineness welled to the surface of her expression, her eyes suddenly brighter, and her smile unrestrained. "We work hard, and we love what we do. Thank you, Your Highness."

You rub your lips together and nod. Spinning on your heel, you navigate out of the kitchen as quickly as you can without running clean into someone and return to the staff alcove, where Remus and Sirius sit with their heads together, in the middle of a conversation you can't hear. 

You hesitate a few steps away. Remus smiles widely, so widely his face changes completely, and Sirius' hand drifts to his elbow. His thumb presses into the crook, and they both giggle together like kids. You're paranoid that they're laughing at you, and wondering how you could think for even a second that Remus was sleeping with James, when Sirius tucks his hair behind his ear and says, "I can't believe we're finally in the same place again." 

You back away. Not sure what to do with yourself, not sure if what you've already done is the wrong thing. You're guilty, and you're afraid of making the wrong choice, having already made it.

A hand pats your shoulder. 

"Sorry, Mikkelson," you say. 

It's not Mikkelson. James' hand lingers on your shoulder for a half second before he takes a step back. 

"Walk with me?" he asks. 

—

James takes you out to the Palace Gardens. You insist on walking side by side, and he agrees for the most part because here is where you're best protected.

"I'm sorry for leaving so suddenly. I had something to do. How are you feeling?" 

"How am I feeling?" you ask softly. "I don't…" 

"You had some very big news yesterday. So, how are you feeling?" 

You squint in the sun. James supposes you aren't used to it, considering you'd been living in one of the rainiest cities in the UK, which is one of the greyest countries in the world. 

"I feel fine," you say. 

Truth or lie. Probably a lie, but James can't call you out on it, considering your relatively new relationship. A professional relationship at that, the lines of which he has already crossed multiple times. 

He can't help it. You're not weak, you aren't in need of his protection for lack of character —you're quite obviously very brave considering the insane pressure of your situation. Brave, but it's James' job anyhow to be your shield. 

You get this look on your face like you're deep in thought, he's seen it every day since he met you five days ago, and it reminds him of his melancholy friends. He wonders how he's going to get rid of it. 

"I've spoken to our Palace doctor." Even though it is not his job, James seems to have taken on the majority of your care. Your lady in waiting has yet to arrive, and Sirius is rather busy arranging your presence at your father's funeral (and hounding Remus, having missed him dearly). "She would love to have an appointment with you, to assess you, and to adjust for your medical needs. But it's not the physical that I'm concerned about, it's your head." 

"My head." 

"Yes. I would love for you to talk to a counsellor, or a therapist while you're here." 

"What's the point?" you ask sincerely. 

"Your father has passed away," he says. "That takes a toll." 

"I didn't even really know him." You speak so softly to him, like you're worried your voice will disrupt the summer air. 

"I know. That doesn't always make it easier. I want you to experience the compassion and care that you deserve, that's all. If you don't want to talk to anyone, I understand. But if you'll humour me, I'd appreciate it." 

"When… do you want me to see her?" 

"The doctor?" James winces at his own surprise. "You can see her whenever you want to. She's completely at your discretion." 

"Oh, okay. Well, when is best for her?" 

James doesn't smile, but he wants to. "I believe she goes home to pick up her son at six. So before then would probably suit her best. But she's on call twenty four hours a day and paid well, I promise." 

"Okay. Um. Well, how do I do that? Make an appointment, or?" 

"I can make it for you. Or Sirius can."

"I can't make it myself?" 

"No, you can. Do you want me to call for someone to get her? Or you can ask the phone to connect you?" 

You stop walking at your slow pace and turn your body to the beds of flowers lining the path. Small and dainty flowers much like a Californian wildflower bloom contained to rows. 

"Would you mind doing it for me?" you ask. You sound shame-faced. 

"No, I wouldn't mind. When do you want to see her?" James asks. 

"Not today, please. Maybe tomorrow." 

James makes a mental note to ask you about it tomorrow. She really is on call —there's no need to make an appointment. But there's also no need to correct you and no need to worry about it now. 

"The Prince, may he rest in peace, will be buried in five days. You're sure you don't mind staying until then?" He doesn't want you to leave, but the memory of your plea twists his guts. I just want to go home.

"I–yes. Of course. I owe it." 

James doesn't know about that. But the Prince never did any harm to you, though he never made any efforts to take care of you, and so it won't hurt for you to attend. Still…

"You don't have to go if you don't want to. I know that Lily and Emmeline stressed that your presence was desired, but that's political. It's the image of the country, of our country. And the UK, who's royal family, as you know yourself, are deeply embroiled in scandal and, ah, what's thought to be empty rhetoric." 

You're starting to look rather frazzled. James decides to pull back his professionalism a touch. 

"Genovia protects the image of the Royal family because they've seen how ire builds in other countries. Deserved ire. They want it to seem as though you are cohesive, cooperative, and not–" 

"A secret." 

"Yes. If you'd gone to Oxford, they would've lied," —he shouldn't be saying this, for the record— "and said you'd been extradited for your safety. Or spun some tale about a normal childhood." 

"But I'm a drop out who lives in a one bedroom flat." 

"Yes." He watches the side of your face. Your eyes are glued to the flowers and unwavering. "I don't think there's any shame in that." 

"Thanks," you mumble. 

You don't believe him. He doesn't mind. He has plenty of time to convince you of your worth. 

"Would you like to pick some of the flowers?" he asks. 

"I don't want to ruin anyone's hard work." 

"They won't mind." 

You crouch down, reaching for the flowers. Your fingers weave through the dark stems of gorgeous purple and pink flowers, their colours so marvellously vibrant yet their shapes elegant enough to suit. You choose a purple flower with white edges and pick it gently. After a moment, you pick a second. 

You stand, holding the flowers between your thumb and forefinger. 

You clutch your flowers like small lifelines as he walks you back into the palace. You worry audibly about the location of your new sketchbook, and don't seem to like it when one of the guards who'd been watching you this morning seamlessly removes himself from a wall with the book in hand. 

James asks you what you want to do and you don't know. You aren't hungry, you aren't in the mood for movies or music and it might seem disrespectful for you to be seen at the theatre —not that James thinks you would spend much time there anyhow. You don't want to do anything at all, so James suggests that you retire to your private quarters and have some time to yourself. 

He takes up station by the door, listening to the dull scratching of your pencil for a good hour. He wonders if, occasionally, you're talking to yourself: there isn't much to go off of, the suggestion of your voice rather than the reality. You could be humming. You might be clearing your throat. 

An hour later and there's silence. 

James pulls his radio from his shoulder. Guarding you when you aren't up for talking is, unfortunately, rather dull. And he worries what it is you're upto; quiet is indicative of absence. 

"Sirius?" he asks the radio. 

Sirius does not often wear a radio, and he has his pager even less. It's a wonder he gets anything done. 

"James?" Remus asks, his voice crackling over the channel. 

"Hey, is Sirius with you?" 

"He's not. He's assembling a potential funeral wardrobe for Her Highness. Do you want me to go look for him?" 

James almost laughs. "I have people for that. Mikkelson?" 

He can practically hear Mickey's groan at being picked on before the man picks up his radio and says, "Yeah, sir?" 

"Find Mr. Black, won't you? Thank you." 

Hoping Sirius is on his way, James knocks your door. 

He, professionally (and he is trying so hard to be a professional), should call you Princess or Your Highness. But both titles make your skin crawl now that they're fact, so he opts for neither. 

"Are you alright in there?" he asks. 

You don't answer. James sighs and eases open your door. He wouldn't usually, not every silence is ominous, and your privacy is a right, but your safety is the priority and at the moment you're a high level target whether James agrees with that assessment or not. If he were to ignore protocol, and you were annihilated, he would go to prison for a long, long time. 

You're asleep at the desk. 

James is honestly surprised. It can't be comfortable, and your bed is probably one of the comfiest in the world with a state of the art orthopaedic mattress and duck-down pillows and quilts. What's worse, your desk chair is solid wood and likely fifty years old. The crick in your neck and the damage to your back will be extraordinary. 

And yet, it isn't James' job to wake you up. 

Professionally, James should leave. He should go back to his posting at the door. He has no need to wake you. 

You're frowning in your sleep. When you wake, he imagines you'll have graphite rubbed into your cheek. 

James sighs and leaves the room. 

"You wanted to see me?" Sirius asks, sounding spritely as he walks down the hallway toward him. 

"Hello," James says, and if they were in school he would stand up from a slouching pose against the wall and collect Sirius into a bear hug, slapping his back, maybe pulling a lock of his hair while saying something flirtatious. 

He stands at rigid attention. 

"Drop the stance, my love," Sirius says. James snorts. "There's no one here to see you." 

"It's not the point." 

"I know. What did you want? I'm quite busy." 

"Could you start carrying your pager, please? Or better, a radio? Then you wouldn't have to cross the entire building to find me." 

"You could've called me?" Sirius suggests. 

"I don't have a phone while I'm working." 

"Well, that's silly."

"I was…" He lowers his voice. "I'm worried the Princess is lonely." 

"Then go talk to her." 

"I can't. You know as well as I do that the point of my being here is to protect her to the best of my ability, and that requires an unaffected point of view. I can't give her my full attention while giving her safety my full attention, that doesn't add up." 

"Then grab a couple of other men and then go speak to her." 

"This is my job, Sirius. I'm paid to do this." 

"Not paid to make sure she's in company," Sirius says. He smiles at James like he's won the argument and James, brimming with brotherly affection, wants to chop him in the stomach. 

"Her mental health–" 

"Yes, I know. Just as important as physical. And while you wear the badge with pride, James, it still isn't your job." Sirius leans against the wall opposite. The hallways here are huge. It is quite the gap. "I was thinking I'd make her an appointment with Cindy." 

"She said she'll make one tomorrow." 

"Oh, brilliant. You know, Cindy's getting a divorce?" 

"I didn't know that," James says. "How do you know that?" 

Sirius taps the side of his nose before crossing his arms tightly across his chest, looking smug. "She's very single now, Jamie. And very pretty, she's a redhead." 

"Sirius…" 

Sirius stands, stretches and meets James at your doorway. "Okay, fine, I can see you're not in the mood." 

"It's not because of you." 

"I know that, thanks," Sirius says, stepping on James' steel-capped boot as he pushes past him. 

"Sirius–" 

Sirius pulls his hand back from your door handle. "What?" he asks.

"She's sleeping. Try to wake her nicely." 

"If she's sleeping, why does she need company?" 

James nods toward your door insistently. 

Sirius does as he's being asked because he's a sweetheart with entirely too much time for James, despite also being on the clock. James can't see anything from his position, but he can hear your conversation. 

Sirius lets himself into the room. He likely shakes your shoulder with care as he says, "Princess Y/N, poor darling, are you alright?" 

"Sorry," you say scratchily. Here James thinks you might've lifted your head and discovered the crick in your neck. "Oh, I'm sorry, am I supposed to be somewhere?" 

"No." There's an unmistakable fondness in Sirius tone, hiding just beneath the practised facade that comes with working for Royalty. "Do you want me to help you into bed? Or call for an attendant?" 

"No, no, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to… Sorry. What did you need?" 

"I have some clothes picked out for you to wear to the funeral proceedings. I want your opinion, but I don't need it right now. You can go back to bed if you like." 

"No," you say. James feels for you. No, no, no. "I can do whatever you need me to." 

"Why don't you freshen up, first? James stole you at dinner, I'll go have him order something sweet to the fitting rooms, alright?" 

"Yes. Thank you." 

"You're welcome."  

Sirius emerges from your room and gives James an elbowing. "You could've woken her up. You're not heartless." 

"I'm technically not allowed in there if she doesn't permit me." 

"She doesn't know that, and I'm sure she'd prefer a wake up call than to be left like that." Sirius rubs one of his eyes with the heel of his hand. "Sorry, I'm not shouting at you. But I really don't think you need to worry about permission and not speaking to her. She's not Julianna," his voice drops to a murmur, "she doesn't think she's above us." 

"I don't care if she does," James says honestly. Not because he thinks you should feel superior, but because he learned a long time ago that people do, and there's nothing he can do to stop it. "Mary's back tomorrow. If she catches even a whiff of how I've been behaving–" 

Sirius holds James' gaze. "Poor girl had pencil on her face." 

"Yes." 

"They're going to eat her alive." 

"Probably." 

"But we won't let them," Sirius says. 

"Not willingly." 

Sirius nods. "Are you coming with us?" 

"Yeah." He checks his watch. "Couple hours left yet 'til six. Are you off at the same time?" 

"No, are you kidding? I finish at three like a normal person." 

"That's not normal. Ever heard the phrase nine to five?" 

"Normal compared to the royals, who work never to never." 

James shushes him. Sirius shushes James back. 

"Are we ready to go?" you ask. 

James grins at the shock on Sirius' face, as if to say, What, you didn't hear her? Even though he'd barely heard your approach himself. A picture of politeness, Sirius ushers you down the hallway with him. 

You trek down onto the first floor, through the huge foyer and into the main section of the palace hiding behind the grand banquet hall. Here resides the fitting rooms, not too far from the servants quarters in case the tailors or maids are required. 

Sirius calls for an attendant despite the horror on your face at the suggestion as he leads you into the biggest fitting room. It's almost like a shop, in that it houses racks upon racks of clothing no doubt loaned in for Sirius' perusal. 

He drags a smaller rack to the centre of the room. 

"How do you feel about trying things on? Do you need a partition?" Sirius looks at you for a few seconds. "I'll call for one." 

You look like you've been slapped. 

James clears his throat. "He knows you're shy," he says. 

You take that much better. "Yeah. I do want the partition. Please." 

James weighs up the possibility of your possible murder and decides the chances are still too high to offer to leave. He truly won't be able to see you behind the partition, and it's not worth the administrative hell in any case. He hates how his job makes him constantly aware of how you might be murdered, but he likes knowing he could protect you with force. It evens out. 

"A fancy education may have helped me be where I am today, but it doesn't account for style or taste." Sirius smiles, propping himself on the arm of a suede armchair. "Which is my saying that you don't have to like what I like, and if you hate stuff just say. I won't be offended, Your Highness." 

"Please, no Your Highness," you murmur. 

"James says I dress like a socialite with too much money and not enough taste." 

"I do say that," James says.

You laugh under your breath. "Well, I'm sure you've better taste than me. I've never been to an event like this, I don't want to embarrass myself, so, um, don't let me." 

"I won't," Sirius says. 

Sirius understands the fashion tastes of the elite even if he doesn't personally enact them. He passes you an outfit, and you disappear behind the propped up partition to change. With the windows closed and the curtains drawn, only the overhead light is in play, and your shadow is reflected onto the floor to the left. James averts his eyes. 

You try on a couple of outfits. James tries very hard to look as though he's not paying attention to your squirming unhappiness at the fit and look of your clothes. You get more and more embarrassed as time moves forward. The attendant Sirius summoned, a tailor named Melinda, offers suggestions of alterations and what she thinks would suit your silhouette most. 

"Do I have one?" you ask.

"A silhouette?" Melinda asks, a push pin in between her teeth. "Sure you do." 

"My stomach–" 

"Is that a problem area?" Melinda asks. 

"I thought so–" 

"If you're worried, we can find something that fits the to the chest and loosens at your abdomen," Sirius says, "but I don't think you need to worry." 

James agrees. You aren't skinny and James isn't stupid, he knows the immense stigma surrounding your body type must have battered your self-esteem growing up, but he thinks you're pretty and that you've a lovely shape to you. The idea that you have to hide certain body parts when there's nothing wrong with them in the first place has him biting his tongue, wanting to comment and knowing he definitely should not. You've looked nice in everything you've put on, smart and proper for an unfortunate event. 

"I don't know," you mumble. 

Sirius has amazing crisis averting senses, having micromanaged a spoiled narcissist for years. You don't require nearly as much petting or fawning, and you aren't throwing a tantrum either way. 

"Let's finish for today," he says. "We can look at everything with fresh eyes, and I'm off at three."   

James cringes and Melinda looks at him like he's grown a second head; you don't mention the end of a shift in front of the royals. He knows this, and he knows that you don't know this, so Sirius is absolutely pushing his luck. You're a thoughtful girl —you immediately agree. 

Though that might be on account of how you look like you've been thrown a life raft. "Okay, thank you," you say, beginning to put clothes back on their hangers. 

Sirius waves you away. "Leave some work for the rest of us, Your Sweetness." 

Again, second head. 

James opens the door and takes you back through the maze of the Palace before Sirius can commit a sackable offence. You're as quiet as you've been all day, your footsteps the only proof that you're present as you climb the steps to the second floor. 

Professionalism, James thinks. 

"I think you looked nice in everything," he says. 

The opposite of professionalism. Oh, he could vault over the bannister. 

He just wanted to see you smile today, a real smile, or at least hear something sure in your voice that proves he's made the right decision. That you won't be totally miserable if he convinces you to take on the mantle. 

"Yeah?" you say, though you don't give him any time to answer. "I don't– I don't want to look good for a funeral, it's a funeral, but I know it'll be on TV, and maybe in the newspapers, so I don't want to be badly dressed and I don't have a clue what I'm supposed to even like…" You nibble your lip for a while before heaving a big sigh. "Sorry, I'm doing this again, I'm giving you jobs that aren't your job." 

"It's relatively easy to tell you that you looked good. It's not a job." 

"You don't have to comfort me, is what I mean." 

"That's also easy… and it will definitely be in the newspapers. For a long time."

"Oh, sugar." 

James holds his hand out as you trip up a short step, but you don't fall, and you don't need his offered help. He tucks his hand behind his back again and follows your lead. 

"Newspapers, the news in general, people, they can all be very, very horrible, but I think the focus will be on your DNA, rather than your outfit. I mean, the gossip rags and tabloids will absolutely pick you apart, but they do it everybody, and I won't let you read those." 

People are cruel. They don't even realise it. 

"Whatever outfit you choose, you'll look good, and people will hate it anyway," he says. 

"That sounds awful." 

"It is. But… they can't stop you from being you. It's better to do what you want to do without worrying about how it'll look to everyone on the outside. You should do what you think is right." 

Okay, he's not exclusively talking about clothes anymore, but his point stands. 

"What if I look like an idiot?" you ask him quietly. 

"You'll look like an exceedingly well-dressed one." 

A sharp veer. Even the word 'professionalism' is starting to annoy him. 

"Don't stress, yeah? We'll work it all out tomorrow." 

You rub your elbow as the two of you approach your room again. "Thanks, James." 

He's on a knife's edge here. Break the rules and face Mary's wrath. Stick to them blindly and drive you further and further from the crown. 

James, selfishly, needs you to want this. And if you need a friend, a real friend, to do that, then he can toe the line. He decides it right there on your door jam.

"Princess," he says, "I have to talk to you about something." 

"Okay… what is it?" 

"When you go home, I'll be coming with you." 

˗ˋˏ ♡ ˎˊ˗

thank you so much for reading, I hope you enjoyed! if you did, I’d love it if you let me know <3 also sry the next part should hopefully be delivered faster lol

#james potter #james potter x reader #james potter x fem!reader #james potter x y/n #james potter x you #james potter fic #james potter fluff #james potter blurb #james potter drabble #james potter imagine #james potter fanfic #james potter fanfiction #james potter scenario #james potter oneshot #the marauders #marauders era #marauders

[mamedorilabo]

My exhibition & Kakishibu dyeing

こんにちは。 この地に引っ越してきて半年、もうすぐ秋になろうとしています。

まだまだ暑い日は続きますが（日本の夏は本当に暑い！）、柿渋の染まり具合を見ていると秋が近づいている事を実感します。

Hello. It's been 6 months since I moved here and it's almost fall.

Although the days are still hot (Japanese summers are really wet & hot!) ), I can feel that autumn is approaching when I look at the dye process of the persimmon tannin.

My lovely friend purchased a my works' gown made of linen and dyed with persimmon tannin.

These are called myoga, Japanese summer herb, eaten pickled in vinegar. It can also be eaten raw.

私は本当に柿渋染めの色が大好きなので、布をどんどん染めなくてはと焦ります。 そしてこちらは最近の制作風景。柿渋が鉄と反応すると黒くなる事を利用して模様を描いています。

I really love the colors of persimmon tannin dyeing and I am in a hurry to dye more and more fabric.

And these pics are recent work in progress. I draw patterns using the fact that persimmon tannin turns black when it reacts with iron.

The deep black charcoal color, which is not just black, is very beautiful.　And it seems to have a very strong water repellent effect. さて、展示に向けてラストスパート！ 国内ではこちら。

MAMEDORI LABO. solo exhibition

「いままでも、これからも」10/7~10/27

ギャラリー水巣 新潟県柏崎市松波３丁目3-3-28

Next my exhibition in Japan is

その後、イギリスのセレクトショップ Beautiful fashion freal lab. さんへたくさんの作品を送ります。Beautiful fashion freak lab.とMAMEDORI LABO.の限定コラボ商品も制作中。 イギリスの皆様、何卒よろしくお願いいたします。

After that, I will send a lot of works to a select store Beautiful freak fashion lab. in England. I'm also working on a limited collaboration product between Beautiful freak fashion lab. and MAMEDORI LABO. Thank you very much for your kind attention to me in the UK.

#patchwork #aizome #sustainable #japanese boro #indigo #sashiko #kakishibu dye #kakishibu #natural dye

[discountalien-pancake]

Kay this is why you don’t post things at 1am, I realized the diagram and instructions required a lot of edits so I’m just taking down that post for now. I’ll make up for it by giving y’all a materials list for the Sea Guard Cadet Tunic:

So. You want to make the Sea Guard Tunic. You will need:

2 yards of teal medium-weight linen or wool. All pattern pieces, excluding the cuff interlining, will be cut from this. I used linen from fabrics-store.com in the color “Sphinx.” For a fully screen-accurate wool tunic, use this wool from renaissancefabrics.net (currently sold out, but will probably be restocked)

1”x22” of a lightweight but stable fabric for interlining the cuffs. I used a different linen I had lying around. A plain cotton or something similar will work just as well. Silk organza is bizarrely good as an interlining but it is also ass to work with, so I don’t recommend it for this project.

Sewing thread. I used 50wt Kinkame silk thread from britexfabrics.com, color 47. You can use whatever regular sewing thread you have on hand, but you will have to wax your thread if hand-sewing with something other than a high-quality silk thread. Treat Gutermann silk sewing thread like it’s cotton.

4 small buttons (2 on each cuff). Mine were 1/4” diameter vintage shell buttons. You can also substitute these for 2 larger 1/2” diameter buttons, 1 for each cuff.

Size 8 or 9 quilting “betweens” (or whatever you prefer). These are shorter than regular sharps. Nicole Rudolph, who is an excellent historical costumer, uses embroidery needles, which are thicker and longer than sharps. This all comes down to personal preference and comfort. Betweens work for me, but they may not work fo you. Test out different needle types and invest in them when you find a good fit. I used the size 9 betweens from Clover.

Size 28 tapestry needles, if sewing linen. Just trust me on this. The blunt point will make all the seams so much less annoying, and you will need them if you want to do any embroidery. You may still find it necessary to fell the seam allowances using a smaller sharp needle. I use the ones from Piecemaker’s. Note: you can find these at a cheaper price from other online shops, and I can’t vouch for their shipping because I didn’t order mine from them, but I want to link to their shop directly.

Fabric scissors. I used embroidery scissors for everything. This is stupid. Do not do that, it takes forever and is deeply unnecessary. Use regular fabric sheers unless you’re a masochist like me and need everything to be perfectly on grain or you’ll go bonkers.

Beeswax, for waxing your thread. You don’t need this if you are using a smooth silk thread like Kinkame or Tire silk threads. You can get it from Burnley and Trowbridge. One thing of wax will last you forever and is a good investment even if you use silk for this project. I got mine many years ago from Whole Foods, in the…health and beauty aisle? The one with all the essential oils. It is also sold by various Indigenous-owned small businesses!

Optional:

Embroidery thread of your choice. I used a size 12 perle cotton from Valdani in shade 152, and a size 16 perle cotton from Finca in shade 4074. Valdani perle cottons can be found on etsy, and I got my Finca perle cotton from roseground.com, a UK-based lacemaking supplier.

Beads, if you want some sparkle. Size 11 and 8 seed beads would work well, especially if trying to emulate the show’s aesthetic. I get beads from direct.auntiesbeads.com which sells them in little bulk-quantity baggies. I didn’t bead my tunic, but I may bead future TROP cosplays.

You may want to have a 0.65mm (very small!) crochet hook, if sewing with silk thread. Instead of using a seam ripper, I pull my stitches out and reuse the thread. You can do this with other threads but they will start to fray and fall apart very quickly. Kinkame and similar silks will not. The crochet hook helps speed up the process. Always remove stitches in reverse of the direction you put them in, on the chance you pierced your thread on the backside. This allows you to maintain the longest possible usable length of thread.

#pancake talks textiles #pancake makes the sea guard tunic #trop #cosplay

[cinemaocd]

For my UK mutuals

As requested I'm not interacting but I have a lot to say about surviving extreme weather as American who has survived half a century of extreme weather in the midwest.

I lived in uninsulated attic bedroom without ac as a child and these are things I learned to do when I was little:

Close up the windows and shut the blinds as the day is heating up. Wait to open things up until after the sun goes down. Use fans to circulate air into the house early in the a.m. when it's colder outside than inside. Use your fans to circulate air around the house during the heat of the day. Use your fans to push air OUT of the house again in the evening. If you push air out an upper story window it will draw some colder air from below.

Save activities/errands for evenings and early mornings. Stay out of the sun as much as possible. Use umbrellas for shade. Wear a hat. Lose fitting clothing in a breathable (cotton, linen, light weight wool) fabric is much better than exposed skin if you have to go in the sun. If you want to go to the beach go early in the morning or in the evening. Don't swim in the heat of the day. If you are in charge of when you work, avoid doing it in the heat of day. If you run a shop, cafe or other business, change your hours to avoid being open during "siesta hours" (2-5 p.m.) If possible try to work from home to avoid commuting during the heatwave. The more people on the Tube the hotter it's going to be down there.

Cars left in the sun are subject to the greenhouse effect and will be much hotter than outside temperatures. Open your car windows and doors before you drive and run the fan to push the hot air out. If you are traveling carry the following: Cold drinking water, a sports drink, nut milk or cow's milk are preferable to soda, coffee or tea but any of those three are preferable to nothing. Even if your vehicle has a.c. you still need more hydration to deal with the heat.

Also useful for travel: bandana or towel (more on that later), sun hat, handheld fan (for when you are stuck in traffic). In America they sell these shields that you can put over your windshield to prevent the greenhouse effect. Not sure if they sell them in the Old Country, but here is a tutorial for making one out of cardboard. All of this stuff (minus the sunshade) would be useful on public transport.

That other post talks about how its bad to wear wet clothes in the sun because water acts as a lens but wet clothing can be your best friend in the shade! A bandana dipped in cold/cool water and wrapped around your neck will keep you cool until it dries. For sleeping I often place a cold bandana or washcloth on my face or forehead. You can dampen a towel and sit on it (this is a great trick for long car rides in the heat) Alternatively: Hot water bottles can also be COLD WATER BOTTLES. Just add ice. They make ice trays that make skinny little shapes to fit into water bottles, and they can help turn your hwb into an ice pack.

Cold/cool showers and baths especially right before bed if you have trouble sleeping in the heat. Kiddie pools or animal troughs in the shade are great for keeping people and doggos cool.

Cranking your fridge to its lowest setting will make it cool more but the heat that is pumped out of the fridge goes right into your house. Keep your fridge at the warmest temp you can get away with. Likewise televisions and computers pump out of a ton of heat when they are running.

IF YOU LOSE POWER

The temptation to rely on your refrigerator/freezer is obvious but the first thing that happens in a heat wave in America is the power grid goes down.

Think about buying a solar powered fan now, before the grid goes down...

Make sure you have batteries charged ahead of time.

If you rely on candles or lanterns for power outtages, consider a source of light that doesn't add heat to the environment, like a solar powered LED lantern.

Another piece of equipment that could literally save your life: a marine cooler.

If/when the worst happens: take some large frozen items out of freezer/deepfreeze and put it in a cooler with some essentials from your fridge. Deeply frozen food will keep those other things cool for a day or more (depending on your cooler). Try to keep the fridge and freezer shut then after you have filled your cooler so that the remaining cool air will keep things as long as possible. If you go multiple days without power you may need to throw everything out anyway, but you might get away with it if you are careful and have a good cooler.

A marine cooler kept out of the sun will keep ice for days. We started camping with one and we no longer have to do any kind of mid-trip ice stock up. Also: block ice will stay frozen so much longer than cubes. If you have the space in your freezer, buy some now and stash it before you need it.

Fresh fruit and vegetables that don't require cooking are a great way to get more liquids and feed yourself without making your house any hotter or using electricity. If consumed quickly they don't need refrigeration either.

This is a wacky one but hear me out: hammocks. If you can hang a hammock do it! Sleeping suspended like that air circulates around your body and you will be so much cooler. I was in tropical Mexico a few years ago and all of the houses had hammock hooks built into the walls to take advantage of the cooling effect. Bonus: you can pretend to be Captain Jack Aubrey while you're lying there...

#the hottest weather I can remember growing up was like maybe 105 #and we did not have the humidity that you all have #and it was pretty usual to get at least a week of 100+ temps in the summer #so we were used to it and knew how to cope #PS: I only know that 43 is hot because of the midnight oil song beds are burning #which talks about steaming 45 degrees #and that confused me so much until I realized duh metric system #GOOD LUCK #go watch Lawrence of Arabia and get inspired #If ned could do it so can you!

[fardoos123]

Grey Footstool: Exploring Materials, Styles & Benefits

Discover the best grey footstools for your home. Explore various materials, styles, and benefits. Find the perfect grey footstool for you.

Did you know that a Footstool can completely transform the look and feel of your living space? Not only does it add a touch of elegance, but it also provides practical functionality that enhances your comfort. Whether you're looking to create a cosy reading nook or need extra seating for guests, a Footstool is the versatile piece of furniture you never knew you needed.

Every detail counts, and the right dream beds UK can make all the difference. From its sleek design to its soft cushioning, a Footstool is both stylish and functional. Join us as we explore how this simple yet impactful piece can elevate your interior design game.

Exploring the Variety of Footstools

Various Shades of Grey

Grey footstools offer a diverse selection of colors, ranging from light grey to charcoal grey. The different shades cater to various preferences and interior design styles. Light Footstools can create a sense of airiness in a room, while darker shades add depth and sophistication.

Footstools are versatile pieces that complement a wide range of furniture styles, making them an ideal choice for various spaces. Whether you have a traditional or modern decor theme, there is a Footstool to suit your aesthetic preferences. For instance, in a contemporary living room with sleek lines and minimalist furniture, a light Footstool can add a touch of elegance without overpowering the space.

Shapes and Sizes

One appealing aspect of grey footstools is the array of shapes and sizes available on the market. You can find rectangular, square, round, or even irregularly shaped Footstools to match your specific needs. Rectangular Footstools are perfect for placing in front of sofas or armchairs for added comfort when relaxing at home.

When choosing a footstool, consider the size based on your intended use and available space. A larger ottoman-style grey footrest may serve as both extra seating and storage in larger living rooms or bedrooms. On the other hand, smaller circular poufs work well in compact areas like reading nooks or dressing rooms where space is limited.

Styles Galore

From classic designs to contemporary trends, there is an abundance of style options. Traditional button-tufted fabric ottomans exude elegance and sophistication suitable for formal sitting areas or studies. In contrast, sleek leather cube-shaped footrests enhance modern interiors with their clean lines.

Pros:

Versatile colour palette.

Complements various decor styles.

Cons:

May show dirt more easily than darker colours.

Requires occasional cleaning maintenance.

Materials and Textures in Grey Footstools

Fabric Upholstery

Footstools come upholstered in various fabrics like velvet, linen, or leather. Velvet adds luxury, linen offers a casual look, and leather provides durability and sophistication. Each fabric choice can significantly alter the overall feel and style of the Footstool.

Velvet upholstery on a Footstool creates a plush and opulent appearance, perfect for adding elegance to a living room or bedroom setting. In contrast, linen fabric gives off a relaxed vibe, ideal for creating a cozy atmosphere in any space. Leather upholstery brings durability and easy maintenance to Footstools, making them suitable for high-traffic areas.

Textured Designs

Some Footstools feature unique textures such as tufted or woven designs. Tufted footstools have button-like dimples created by pulling thread through layers of padding or fabric. Woven designs showcase intricate patterns created by weaving materials together.

Tufted Footstools offer a classic and elegant look that adds depth and visual interest to the piece. On the other hand, woven textures bring an element of craftsmanship and detail to the footstool's design, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.

Accents for Elegance

To elevate the design further, wooden or metal accents are often incorporated into Footstools. Wooden legs can add warmth and natural beauty to the piece while providing sturdy support. Metal accents like nailhead trims or decorative hardware can introduce a modern touch to traditional-style Footstools.

Wooden accents on Footstools create a sense of sophistication with their rich tones complementing the coolness of the grey upholstery beautifully. Similarly, metal details bring an edgy flair to these furniture pieces by offering sleek lines that contrast with the softness of the cushioning.

Styles and Designs of Grey Footstools

Classic Designs

Classic grey footstools, such as button-tufted or Chesterfield styles, exude a timeless charm that complements traditional decor beautifully. The intricate details in these designs add an elegant touch to any living space. These pieces often feature luxurious fabrics like velvet or linen, enhancing their sophistication.

Button-tufted Footstools are adorned with buttons sewn into the fabric, creating a distinctive pattern that adds depth and visual interest. On the other hand, Chesterfield Footstools are characterized by their quilted or tufted upholstery and rolled arms, evoking a sense of grandeur reminiscent of classic English furniture.

Button-tufted designs offer a plush seating experience.

Chesterfield footstools bring a touch of vintage elegance to interiors.

Contemporary Aesthetics

Contemporary Footstools typically boast sleek lines and minimalist aesthetics that appeal to modern sensibilities. These designs focus on simplicity and functionality while still making a stylish statement in any room. Materials like leather or faux leather are commonly used for their clean look and durability.

Sleek contemporary Footstools often feature geometric shapes and sharp angles, contributing to a more streamlined appearance that suits modern interiors perfectly. These pieces may incorporate metal accents or legs for an industrial edge that enhances their overall design aesthetic.

Contemporary styles offer versatility in various interior design themes.

Metal accents provide a modern twist to traditional materials like leather.

Ottoman-style Versatility

Ottoman-style grey footstools are not just comfy seats, they also have hidden storage below the cushioned top. Perfect for small spaces that need extra storage without sacrificing style. These footstools can be used for seating and storing blankets or magazines, keeping things tidy and within reach when needed. Great for living rooms or bedrooms where space is limited.

Benefits of Adding a Grey Footstool to Your Space

Extra Seating

A grey footstool serves as versatile extra seating for guests, especially during gatherings or movie nights. It offers a convenient and comfortable spot for visitors without the need for bulky chairs. Imagine having friends over and being able to provide them with additional seating options that are stylish and practical.

Adding a grey footstool not only expands your seating capacity but also enhances the flexibility of your space. When you have limited seating arrangements in your living room, introducing a footstool can make a significant difference. It's an ideal solution when unexpected guests drop by or when you simply want to create more intimate settings within the room.

Leg Rest Support

Using a Footstool as a leg rest is beneficial for promoting relaxation and reducing strain on the body after a long day. Elevating your legs onto the footstool while sitting on your sofa can help improve blood circulation and alleviate pressure on your lower back. This simple act of propping up your feet can enhance comfort levels significantly.

By incorporating a Footstool into your living room setup, you create an inviting environment that encourages relaxation and comfort. Picture yourself unwinding at home after work, putting up your feet on the soft cushion of the footstool – it's like having a mini oasis right in your living space where you can kick back and relax effortlessly.

Visual Interest Enhancement

Integrating a Footstool into your decor scheme adds visual interest and depth to the space by introducing another texture or colour tone subtly yet effectively. The neutral hue of grey complements various interior styles seamlessly, from modern minimalist designs to classic traditional aesthetics.

Incorporating different shades of grey through furniture pieces like sofas, rugs, or curtains along with the footstools, creates cohesion in design elements throughout the room while still allowing each piece to stand out individually.

Versatility and Functionality of Grey Footstools

Coffee Table Substitute

Grey footstools are versatile pieces that can work as coffee tables by adding a tray on top. This lets you safely place drinks, snacks, or decor items. The sturdy surface of the footstool provides a stable base, combining functionality with style. To personalize your space, try different trays or decor items to change the look easily. For example, a metallic tray adds modern elegance, while a wooden tray creates a cosy vibe.

Storage Solution

Footstools do more than just hold your feet or coffee - they also offer storage in small spaces. They have a hidden compartment under the cushion where you can store blankets, magazines, and more. These pieces help keep your space tidy and are great for apartments. Pair a light Footstool with colorful accents for a bold look. Add throw pillows or blankets in vibrant colors like mustard yellow, teal, or coral to make it stand out. Hang bright artwork and use colorful rugs to enhance the modern vibe. Just make sure everything matches well and let the footstool be the star in the vibrant palette.

Coordinating Shades

When aiming for a more unified aesthetic, matching the shade of your grey footstool with other furniture pieces creates a cohesive and polished appearance within your interior design scheme. If you have a grey sofa, choosing a matching footstool can bring the room's look together smoothly. Keep the same shade of grey for other items like curtains, rugs, and lampshades to create a chic and classy vibe. This simple color scheme adds a touch of modern elegance without making the room feel too busy.

Mixing different textures and patterns alongside your solid Footstool can add depth and character to your decor setup. Consider incorporating plush throws, knitted cushions, or velvet drapes to introduce tactile variety while keeping the overall colour scheme anchored by the versatile grey base.

Adding fun patterns, like geometric prints on chairs or floral wallpaper, brings personality to your space while keeping the simplicity of the Footstool. These small details add depth and make your decor more visually appealing.

Choosing the Right Size and Shape for Your Space

Available Space and Intended Use

When deciding on a Footstool, it's vital to factor in your room's dimensions and how you plan to use the piece. For compact spaces or cozy reading nooks, opt for a round or oval Footstool. These shapes are space-efficient, fitting snugly into smaller areas without overwhelming the room.

On the other hand, if you have a spacious living room or intend to use the footstool as an additional seating option during gatherings, consider rectangular or square designs. These provide ample surface area for various functions like serving as a coffee table or accommodating multiple sitters comfortably.

Functionality and Aesthetic Appeal

Beyond size considerations, think about how your chosen Footstool can enhance both functionality and style in your space. A round ottoman with storage can serve dual purposes by offering a place to rest your feet while also providing discreet storage for blankets or magazines. This clever design ensures that even in limited spaces, every inch is utilised efficiently.

For those keen on making a statement with their furniture pieces, selecting an intricately designed rectangular Footstool can add visual interest to an otherwise understated room. The bold lines of such a piece can inject personality into your decor scheme while still serving its practical functions effectively.

Care and Maintenance Tips for Grey Footstools

Regular Cleaning

Regularly vacuuming or brushing your Footstool is essential to keep it looking fresh and clean. Dust and debris can accumulate on the surface, making it appear dull over time. By incorporating a quick vacuum or gentle brush into your cleaning routine, you can easily remove these particles.

When dusting or vacuuming, pay attention to crevices and seams where dirt tends to build up. Use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to prevent any damage to the fabric or material of the footstool. This simple step not only maintains the appearance of your footstool but also helps prolong its lifespan.

Specific Cleaning Methods

To ensure proper care for your grey footstool, always refer to the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Different materials such as fabric, leather, or wood may require specific cleaning methods. For example, a fabric Footstool might need gentle spot cleaning with a mild detergent solution, while a leather one could benefit from occasional conditioning with leather cream.

By following these guidelines tailored to the material used in your footstool's construction, you can avoid inadvertently causing damage during cleaning. Taking extra care when dealing with stains or spills ensures that your Footstool remains in top condition for years to come.

Fabric Protectors

Consider using fabric protectors to keep your Footstool safe from stains and spills. These products create a barrier on the fabric, making it easier to clean up spills before they soak in. This is especially handy if you have kids or pets who might make a mess. By using fabric protectors, you can relax knowing that accidents won't ruin your Footstool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a grey footstool complement different interior design styles?

Absolutely! Footstools are incredibly versatile and can seamlessly blend in with various decor themes, from modern to traditional. The neutral tone of grey allows it to harmonise with different colours and aesthetics effortlessly.

How do I maintain the cleanliness of my Footstool?

Regularly vacuuming or using a soft brush attachment can help keep your grey footstool clean from dust and debris. For any spills or stains, gently blot the area with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Always check the manufacturer's cleaning instructions for specific guidance.

What sizes are available for grey footstools?

Footstools come in an array of sizes to suit different spaces and needs. You can find compact round stools ideal for small areas or larger rectangular ottomans perfect for lounging. Consider your room dimensions and usage requirements when selecting the size.

Are there eco-friendly options when choosing a Footstool material?

Certainly! Look out for sustainable materials like recycled fabrics, organic cotton, or ethically sourced leather when shopping for a Footstool. These environmentally friendly choices not only reduce your carbon footprint but also add a touch of conscious living to your space.

How can I ensure my chosen Footstool matches my existing decor?

To create a cohesive look, consider elements such as texture, pattern, and style continuity between your Footstool and surrounding furniture pieces. Incorporating matching cushions or throws in coordinating shades can tie everything together beautifully.

#business

[carpe-mamilia]

What would you wear to a ball at Lost Hope?

Ohhh boy this is a very exciting ask, thank you!

I thought about this a lot and it was tricky narrowing down which time period to draw inspiration from, especially with the temptation to take it from after the point at which Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell is set. My first thought was a turn of the century tea gown, since they have those fantastic renaissance and medieval inspired details, and that art nouveau influence fits really well with the fantasy look:

Liberty tea gown ca. 1897

I also considered an outfit that would take heavy inspiration from the costume Johnny Flynn wore as Viola in the Globe's all-male production of Twelfth Night, but with a single pearl earring:

Viola (right). This production is great, I recommend watching the recording if you can!

But this early 17th century outfit finally led me on to Restoration-era gowns. They're not to everybody's taste, but personally I find the shape of their bodices and necklines very flattering. Many of the Lost Hope costumes draw inspiration from nature (such as the Gentleman's oak leaf coat or Arabella's gorgeous wheat-ear tiara), and I love the sea and wanted to incorporate that into a costume. There are a number of portraits of ladies wearing steely blue-grey silk or velvet that perfectly evoke the colour of the sea in different seasons in my part of the world (the west country, UK; none of the turquoise of hotter climates here!). Stiff, crisp silk also makes a lovely whispering noise when you walk, not unlike the sound of distant waves over shingle.

Many of these gowns let the lustrous fabric take centre-stage and are fairly plain, but I really liked the look of the embroidered or decorated stomachers some of them have:

Pearls, swags of fabric, lace, and flowers adorn these bodices. I particularly like how the lady on the right has a matching floral arrangement in her hair.

My own bodice was inspired by the linen sailor collar I embroidered last year, with seaweed-esque vermicelli and oysters holding pearls.

My collar, still not finished...

'Rockpool', textile art by Marian Jazmik

A mixture of pearls, shells, and heavily textured embroidery in blues, greens and silver on my bodice and in my hair would mimic the textures and colours of rocks at low tide. At my cuffs and neckline would be quantities of frothy lace, evoking sea foam, and finally, since it wouldn't be Lost Hope without a little magic, the silk of my gown would sometimes appear to swirl just as the surface of the sea is ruffled by the wind, little wavelets moving over it before becoming calm and smooth again.

Thank you so much for this ask, I really enjoyed it! If anyone else reading this post is a fan of Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, or just likes the idea of a fantasy ball, I'd love to hear about your ideal costumes!

#jonathan strange and mr norrell #historical fashion #costume #17th century #1600s #art #the sea #nature #19th century #art nouveau #tudor fashion #theatre #shakespeare #victorian fashion #textiles #things I have made

[bomberqueen17]

on horsehair in fibercrafting

so I’ve been pondering using horsehair ever since I read that description of the one Hallstatt tablet-woven braid that used horsehair as the weft. (Information on that here-- if you scroll you dont’ actually have to download the PDF at all)

Tablet weaving is warp-faced, meaning that all of the colors you see on the final product are the visible face of the warp-- the threads you dressed the loom with. The weft, the string the weaver has put in place to form the strings into a fabric, is only visible as loops at the edge, and occasionally peeking through if there are skip-holes in the threading pattern. You rarely see it, and I’m learning the best practice as a weaver is just to select a weft that’s similar in color to the warp at the edges, so that it’s unobtrusive where the weft turns around.

So you need very long strings for the warp, but the weft can really be anything. Anything strong, and I imagine in the time of the Hallstatt tablet’s weaving-- some of those finds are estimated to be as old as 800 BCE, which is a very long fucking time ago-- horsehair would be readily available, basically free, and perfectly strong enough for this purpose.

But it got me wondering, what else do people make from horsehair? And of course the answer is, a lot of things.

Horsehair fabric was traditionally used for upholstery, and I remember learning that as a kid and misunderstanding it-- at the museum my mom curated before I was born, I remember visiting and my mother saying that this historic chair had a horsehair cushion, and I thought it was stuffed with horsehair, like as the padding-- and I think my mother thought that too, and it’s possible it really was. but the fabric was certainly woven of horsehair. As I’m researching now, horsehair fabric traditionally had a warp of something else, often cotton or linen, and the weft was horsehair, ideal because water-resistant and hard-wearing and glossy and fairly abrasion-resistant. Again, the horsehair would not be spun-- it was sourced by cropping horses’ entire tails, which was regularly done for work horses, and then the whole tail would be brought and hairs picked by a child assistant to the weaver, and added in to the weft individually, set to overlap slightly, alternating hair directions. There’s an explainer here, from a woman who learned how to recreate it, but it’s worth mentioning there is a company in the UK who still does it commercially. (There’s an article about it but it’s requiring me to register and I’m not doing that.)

There’s also a traditional cowboy craft of making horsehair ornaments for bridles and saddles, which I could only discover is very time-intensive, and now I can’t remember what it was called or find more information about it. I’m sure it’s in the browsing history on my other computer, though.

Anyway that made me curious about making cord from horsehair, and the only thing I can find is a lot of Pinterest boards about making friendship bracelets, which is cool, but most of them are kumihimo cording, which is fine and good and not a thing I’ve ever done before but probably could pick up if I felt the need.

I wish I’d discovered this back when I had horses. I had a buckskin gelding with a wonderful mixture of browns in his mane and tail, and a Quarter Horse/Appaloosa mare who had a lot of gray and white shades. I saved a coil of the gelding’s mane when he died, but we sold the mare, and I don’t think I kept any mementoes of her. Alas!

I’m of course now remembering that one of my original novels featured a horseback culture that had a cultural tradition of braiding horse and human hair into bracelets as talismans, but I can’t talk about that with anyone because I never finished or published that book, so lolsob, wonder where that went on my hard drive.

Anyway-- this is a thing I’m now thinking about a lot, LOL.

#horsehair #fibercrafting #weird little essays

[aarikafashion]

Browse the finest Indian Kurta pajamas for men at Mirraw Luxe with the best prices. Our designer collection guarantees high quality and offers amazing styles made from premium fabrics like cotton, silk, and linen. Shop now for fast shipping to the US, UK, and India.

#online shopping #ecommerce #womenfashion #womenswear #mensfashion #kurta sets #kurta sets for men

[wildbeautifuldamned]

OSBORNE & LITTLE Fabric Remnant - SYLPHE #2 - Linen Blend - UK - 27 W x 17#L ebay marghab

#fabric #butterfly #dragonfly #insect #osborne & little

[elegantlaundry]

How to Choose the Best Steam Ironing Services in Dubai

Elegant Dry Cleaning and Laundry, a burgeoning chain of laundry services, is dedicated to expanding its legacy and exceptional service across various continents, including the Middle East and beyond, with a special focus on delivering top-notch steam ironing services in Dubai. Based in Dubai, we have had the privilege of serving British customers for over two decades in the United Kingdom (UK). Our company is led by a professional proprietor with over fifteen years of sales and operational experience, distinguishing us from global multinationals.

Our commitment lies in delivering unparalleled service, backed by our extensive expertise and experience in the laundry and dry-cleaning industry, especially in the realm of steam ironing services. We take pride in staying abreast of the latest technologies, cleaning methodologies, and stain removal solutions, particularly in the context of delicate fabrics. Additionally, we uphold the highest standards of business ethics, ensuring strict adherence to local and national regulations, as well as environmentally responsible practices.

A Pinnacle of Garment Care

We understand that maintaining the pristine condition of your clothing is of utmost importance. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of services that go beyond traditional dry cleaning and laundry, with our hallmark service being Steam Ironing Services in Dubai. This technique elevates the appearance and longevity of your garments to a whole new level.

Reviving Garments

Steam ironing services is a method that combines the power of steam and expert ironing techniques to rejuvenate your clothing. This process not only removes wrinkles but also offers several key benefits:

Gentle on Fabrics: Unlike conventional ironing methods that may cause scorching or damage to delicate fabrics, steam ironing is remarkably gentle. This method ensures that even the most sensitive materials retain their texture, shape, and color.

Wrinkle-Free Perfection: Our Steam Ironing Services efficiently remove stubborn wrinkles, leaving your garments looking impeccably smooth and polished. Whether it's a silk blouse, a linen suit, or a woolen overcoat, our service guarantees a wrinkle-free finish.

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Eco-Friendly Solution: At Elegant Dry Cleaning and Laundry, we are committed to environmentally responsible practices. Steam ironing services in Dubai utilize the power of steam, reducing the need for harsh chemicals and minimizing the environmental impact of traditional ironing methods.

#ElegantLaundry #DryCleaning #LaundryServices #SteamIroning #GarmentCare #DubaiServices #EcoFriendlyCleaning #GentleFabricCare

[polishwomenartists-sztukakobiet]

Marta Zamarska (Polish, born 1987)

A Railway Nocturne IV, 2014

Oil on Linen

Marta Zamarska is an emerging Polish artist. In 2008 she graduated from the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts, the Faculty of Painting. The Diploma with honours under the artistic supervision of prof. Krzysztof Wachowiak (painting), prof. Dorota Grynczel (batik, artistic fabrics), Dr. Piotr Szubert (theoretical part). The Railway Journal is devoted to railway, which has been the dominant theme in the artistic creation by Marta Zamarska for many years.

In addition, her works are in numerous private collections in Poland, Germany, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Greece, Switzerland, Austria, Portugal, Italy, Canada, the UK, the USA, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Australia, Taiwan, as well as in the private collection of the German Ambassador.

Via @celebration women artists in history fb group @abwwia

#marta zamarska #art

[dpalden]

Sewing today. The cushion is made from fabric I wove ages ago. The frock was a trial due to the nature of the fabric.

Cushion cover linen and lured with cotton backing. The frock cotton honeycomb fabric bought on eBay uk

#handwoven #handweaving #linenyarn #lurexyarn #dornicktwill #inlaid weft #cottonfabric #honeycomb

[onegirlatelier]

1930s Qipao - a masterpost

Hey there!

I haven't posted on Tumblr (well, on this sideblog) in a long, long time. I have made plenty of things, just didn't have enough energy to write it all down in coherent sentences.

I think I'm going to make a new series though, since I don't have a blog elsewhere and I need a public space to organise my thoughts, on the making of a qipao in the 1930s style and tradition.

I have made two qipaos before (when I was still a baby to couture dressmaking) but whilst they were wearable, they were very messy with structural issues. Now that I'm a bit more experienced, I'm determined to a) make a proper toile/pattern, b) improve my pressing skills with a steam iron, and c) have nice and round fabric buttons and neat 'button legs'.

I won't have time to smooth out my notes, so I'm just going to reblog and add stuff in the thread or edit the post directly. I'm going to note down the methods I use as well as other methods I've learned about, since there are different ways to make things and each dressmaker develops their own techniques over time.

So for today I just want to share my choice of fabrics and notions.

Main fabric

'Pink sketchy retro garden rayon fabric' purchased at Guthrie & Ghani (a shop located in Birmingham, UK). The selvage reads 'AMSTERDAM by Anbo Textiles designed by Sholto Drumlanrig', so I guess that's the actual textile company and designer.

The website says the rayon is 'similar to viscose', but since rayon technically equals viscose, we don't actually know if the rayon used here is the old-fashioned stuff or a more eco-friendly version like Ecovero.

It feels very smooth with a good drape, a bit heavier than silk.

I got 2.5m which would be enough for a 120cm long qipao. A 1930s qipao has no shoulder seams so you cut the front and back in one piece, hence the length of fabric=2*(length of the garment). I only need 80cm in width for a short-sleeved qipao though. If you have a wide fabric width you can actually make two sleeveless/short-sleeved qipaos, or you can save the other half for something else!

Other fabric choices

The perfect choice would be silk. This is because silk drapes nicely and is very easy to stretch/shrink and be molded into 3D shapes. Of course you need a drapey silk, not too stiff and not too flowy.

Other natural fabrics, including cotton, linen, and wool, are all good. Cotton and linen will be harder to shape though.

Synthetic/semi-synthetic fabrics can be used too, just keep in mind that some are hard to shape, and some do not wash well. You want something that is very breathable, since it fits snugly around the neck, and drapey.

A medium, non-transparent fabric for a single-layered (or lined for colder weather) qipao. A transparent silk can be paired with a slip (which you would wear anyways if you follow the norm of the 30s).

If you plan to wash your finished garment you must choose a fabric that can be washed reasonably without fuss and pre-wash it.

Binding tape

Mine is a pre-made tape from Atelier Brunette. You can make your own with the fabric of your choice. It has to be on true bias (very important)!

I have eight metres in total, not sure how much I will end up using.

Stay tape

Super important. 99% of the resources I've read suggest fusible interfacing. A very thin but sturdy woven tape would work too. Sometimes I use strips of silk organza cut on straight grain (or leftover selvages), which is also what I plan to try for this project.

You need at least 4*(length of garment).

Sewing thread

I always use Fujix 100% cotton sewing thread. Also a thicker (maybe cheaper) thread for thread-marking and basting. If making surface decorations, silk threads would be nice. I don't feel the need to wax the Fujix threads but if using another brand/type I would certainly consider waxing.

Starch glue

Either buy some or make your own. Another soluble stabilizer would probably work too. This is used for the edges, especially at the neckline. If I didn't want to bother with a glue, I would leave the cutting until the last minute, baste with running stitches, and minimize the handling.

Interfacing

This is for button strips and the collar. I use a medium-soft cotton canvas. I know most people use a fusible interfacing, but I don't like it. Organza is not the most suitable, though if I needed a semi-transparent natural fabric for the style then it would be my best bet. You can also starch the fabric to stiffen it, but a starch glue washes out.

Also a lot of sharp pins and a trusted pair of scissors. Some people use spaghetti straps to make buttons, in which case you need a drawstring threader type of thing.

#qipao #sewing #sewblr #dressmaking

[paisleypat]

"Hibiscus Paisley" throw pillow

The Hibiscus Paisley is a popular design by Patrick Moriarty. It has been featured in an acedemic book about surface patterns. The design is available to order online as printed fabric, wallpaper, and home decor products.

The “Hibiscus Paisley” design (the pink, teal, & brown version) was bought by a dressmaker in Scotland to make a wedding dress. It’s available in a range of different color combinations. The design is also available as wallpaper and made-to-order home decor items such as table linen for dining. The “Hibiscus Paisley” design was created by Patrick Moriarty in Southend-on-Sea, UK in 2018. The…

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#design #fabric #home decor #paisley

[bmwiid]

I know I posted about my fabric but since I'm a little less overwhelmed I'm going to go in more detail. This awesome olive/khaki jacquard fabric has a really nice soft drape and gold flowers:

it was £14.99 a yard but I got it on sale for £3! I loved it so much and someone has turned it into a like... bomber jacket? (lined because it is thinner for a jacket but ideal for summer)

doesn't it look so nice? you can see the drape is really great and I'm so excited to make something with it! I got 5 yards.

Next up we have this:

(bonus Puc tail!) this is a textured woven jacquard with pearlescent stars on it and I died when I saw it. It's got a linen feel and was also £14 reduced to £3. The other side is the inverse of this pattern and would be really cool to do detailing with the other side as interest. Someone made shorts out of it:

don't they look darling? I got 5 yards.

Next up is this:

This is a slightly stretch woven suiting fabric and the colour is 'plum' I saw this and I was like.... yes please! It's def got more of a structured feel and would be really nice for more tailored items or structural clothes, like jackets, but the stretch gives it more options. Someone made a stunning dress out of it:

This peplum is so nice! and super flattering as well. it was on sale form £15 to £3, and I got 5 yards.

Next we have this:

I was sooooo disappointed with this. I'm not 100% sure what I was expecting with it, but the weave is super loose and it frays so quick. I know it's gonna be a nightmare. It's got a coarse texture. HOWEVER, once I get over the 'this isn't what I was expecting' I know it'll be really useful for loads of items, as looks like denim from a distance but is very lightweight compared to that. I also saw this guy had made a really interesting throw-over jacket which was... so cool:

look at the soft drape and the hard lines! it looks so structural but it's not at all, and I really, really love what he's done here. This was also on sale from £14 to £3. I got 5 yards.

and lastly I got this wildcard:

this is a Woven Jacquard Fabric in Lime Green and it's.... far too lime to correctly show up on camera. it's soft and drapey and not something I'd ever buy, but I thought, fuckit, it's a sale and there were only 3 yards left, so I got it. No one seemed to have used it before in a project so I dont have anything to show what can be done, but it's very soft and flowy. and BRIGHT. I only got the 3 yards on account of thats all that was left, and it was £15 to £3 again. It would be super good for anything from scarves to skirts, but would need something under it as it's a TINY bit thin and might look a lil sheer in bright lights. Although with this colour I don't think anyone would be able to focus on anything else.

This will be the last haul I have in a loooong time - I got this as a fuck around expense and now I'm finding out.

The UK is in the middle of an energy crisis and our energy bills have just gone up 80%, with another increase in December up to 145%. So this was sort of like me grabbing what I could in order to ensure I'm not sad with no fabric to make things later in the year.

So I'll end up just being sad WITH fabric!