Dot and Spark

     Oh it is sooooo summer now. Like in a major way. Everyone in Tokyo is miserable (even more miserable than usual, that is), sweating themselves silly not only outside, but also on the trains, in the office, at the shops, etc. thanks to the reduced amount of air-conditioning that is necessary since Tepco bunged things up big time at the nuke plant. But to be honest, if corporate or public space eco-measures keep us free and clear of blackouts and let us use the air-con to our heart's content in our homes, then so be it. Of course dressing in summertime becomes a chore rather than a joy, since most of my favorite clothes are not summer-friendly. This is the time when the outfits get simple, but the accessories get flashier to compensate for the drabness. Case in point:

Dot cardigan and necklace (Rope Picnic Japan), pencil skirt (H&M), patent and metallic bag (petite classe Japan)

     I bought this sweater last summer and I practically lived in it from July to September, and I'll probably repeat that habit again this year. I do love the sweater, though, it's very good quality despite the $20 price tag, and it's kinda unique. For one thing, it buttons left over right, which is the way that men's clothes button (I think 100% of my other tops button in the traditional feminine way, aka right over left). Secondly, the design was the result of a collaboration between the clothing shop (Rope Picnic, kind of like a Japanese Pull and Bear) and Calpis, the beverage maker famed for that white milky soft drink that most foreigners  find pretty gross. Off-putting as the taste may be, Calpis is a beloved, traditional company here in Japan and its dot packaging is instantly recognizable... the dots on the sweater and the blue/white color scheme are meant to be a nod to the packaging. Though I don't care for the drink, the sweater is one of my favorite summer pieces, and I smile each time I see the "Calpis" label inside the sweater. The necklace is also from Rope Picnic, and while it looks like metal, it's actually made of very light clear and grey beads.
     My bag is hands down my favorite aspect of the outfit, however. I saw this bag a few months ago and  fell in love with it, and this month I finally decided to buy it. I have to bear with it shedding glitter for at least a few days, but it's well worth it.

Love love love.