Earlier this month, my dog, Buster passed away after a full (dog) life of 16 years. Having grown up with him and caring for him as he got older and as his health deteriorated, I was devastated. I was also relieved that he no longer had to struggle day by day and could finally rest easy. He naturally left us in his sleep on March 3rd, 2016 and will forever be remembered as the greatest addition to my family.
Just a few weeks prior to his passing, I had created a print from an illustration of his beautiful blue eyes on performance pique. This fabric has since arrived and I have created a structured wrap crop top lined with black stretch jersey ITY knit, which is also used to create the loose tie bands attached to the back bodice. Both of these fabrics have a lot of stretch to them, however in an effort to make this top more structured and sturdy, I added interfacing to all pieces of the front and back bodice between the main fabric and the lining. Doing so removed all the stretch this fabric once had, so I therefore found it best to add tie bands (reminiscent of a wrap blouse) as the closure to this piece. I am pleased with the outcome, as I think the closure adds a romantic flare and the exposed back contrasting with the high neckline of the front of the top is a look that I have always been fond of: still a bit sexy, but not revealing. The top is also more easily adjustable.
I paired this top with deep royal blue stretch polyester knit pique high waist, wide leg pants. This fabric also has stretch and has a subtle texture to it that I think contrasts nicely against the smooth surface of the crop top.
Top fabric: created through Spoonflower | Pants fabric: Mood Fabrics
The eyes that inspired this print and look.
This outfit was created prior to Busters passing and the fact that I was inspired by his beautiful blue eyes, may have been his way of saying bye and ultimately further leaving his mark on my life. Whatever the reason, I am extremely grateful for the impact his presence has had on my life and the level of appreciation, fulfillment, and kindness that develops from caring for not only a pet, but a member of my family. My family and I miss him dearly but take comfort in remembering the amazing memories we shared together.
These photographs were taken on a balcony overlooking our backyard where he spent his life exploring, playing, following my dad as he mowed the lawn, and relaxing with us warm spring and summer days. While capturing these photographs, I couldn't help but envision him rolling around in the rich green grass with an expression of pure enjoyment, excitement, and tranquility.
Rest in Peace my blue eyed baby, Buster Lalite.
Miss you.
xo
