Listen to Lena

Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

#ThrowbackThursday #tbt: The Special Occasion

By

In 2014, I will be participating in #tbt courtesy of the Epson Expression Premium XP-810 Small–in–One printer, the ultimate choice for scanning and printing. Ultra powerful and ultra slim, it produces stunning borderless photos and documents quickly and affordably. Featuring the ultimate in wireless printing, the XP-810 makes it easier than ever to print from your iPad, iPhone, tablet or smartphone, whether in your home or out and about.

Bows and bow ties. Frills and flounces. There was no better time to have a special occasion than the early 80’s – because when families dressed up, they dressed up to the nines.

What makes this photo from 1981 remarkable:

1) The gorgeous dress fit for a princess, and the handsome outfit tailored with care, were both sewn by my mom. Yes, she is quite the seamstress! In fact, both my brother and I served as living dolls for her. As a homemaker in the 80’s – without Internet, Netflix or iPads – what else was there for her to do but sew clothes? I have memories of puffed sleeves, pretty bows and a sea of pink, peach and purple.

2) Over the years, I’ve dyed my hair a chestnut brown in an effort to sport a more “natural” look. And each time, my mom looks at me and says, “Change it back to blonde. It’s too dark.” Well, here’s a stark reminder that I was actually born with shiny black hair. Dare I go back to my roots? Unlikely.

3) It appears that once again, we were visiting the friends with the red carpet. These shagalicious folks also had great taste in furniture, as seen by the velvet couches peeking into the frame.

This is my throwback, circa 1981. 

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. loriag

    The 80’s were a fabulous time. Quite the princess outfit! Printing from my ipad would be awesome.

  2. nicolthepickle

    This is so sweet! You two were little dollies. And your mother’s sewing skills are really good. Wow!

  5. Rosie

    What a cute picture! I’ve been a sewer for many years, and I like sewing for kids. You mom’s a great seamstress.

  9. Flora M

    Love the outfits ! Your mom is a terrific seamstress, wish I had the patience to do the details like her :)
    My daughter was born in 1980 so the 80’s for me were pretty blurry (put on the “mom” hat for the first time) :)

  13. Sharlene

    It reminds me of the time my mom sewed me a dress (the only one ever!) for my aunt’s wedding when I was little. Such a lost art these days! You guys look so cute!

    • Lena

      They are. I don’t think my mom ever believed “less is more”… everything was always embellished!

  20. Darlene Schuller

    What an adorable photo! Very impressed with your Mom’s skills! Thank you for sharing little you with us :)

  23. Mom

    Thanks Lena! Thanks also to all your readers for the many compliments on my sewing skills – truly appreciated! Back in the 80’s, you and your brother were little living dolls and models for the many outfits I sewed for you.

  24. Chandra Christine O'Connor

    I think we need an after picture of your brother he is so adorable there. both of you have amazing eyes

  27. AC

    It’s good to reminisce. Will we eventually see the friends with the red carpet? ;) Compliments to your mom for creating those great outfits for you and your brother.

  28. Clifford

    The 80’s were something else, we all dressed so proper back then. Your mother is quite the seamstress, you and your brother look awesome.

  29. Tammy S

    Talk about a blast from the past! Your mom did an amazing job on your outfits. She must have spent hours upon hours. The velvet couch was “Hot” in the 80’s.

    • Lena

      Strangely enough… I don’t think so. But I’m sure there came a point when he was like, Stop it Mom!

  32. kathy downey

    You Mom was certainly very good at sewing,wow those pieces are a loving creation.Awe and you a beautiful child and the years have done you well.