#Ikat suit set

[itokri]

Prints and Patterns: Exploring the Diversity in Suit Set Designs

In the realm of ethnic fashion, suit sets stand out as versatile ensembles that blend elegance with comfort. From the intricate weaves of Banarasi silk to the delicate embroidery of Chikankari, each suit set tells a unique story of craftsmanship and tradition. 

Let's embark on a journey through the diverse prints and patterns that adorn these timeless creations.

Kalamkari Suit Sets:

Originating from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Kalamkari is an ancient art form where natural dyes are used to hand-paint or block print intricate motifs on fabric. Kalamkari suit sets often feature scenes from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as floral and geometric patterns. When you wear a Kalamkari suit set, you not only don an outfit but also a piece of art that celebrates India's rich cultural heritage.

Banarasi Brilliance:

Banarasi silk, crafted in the city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for its luxurious feel and intricate brocade work. Banarasi suit sets are adorned with timeless motifs like florals, paisleys, and intricate patterns inspired by Mughal art. Whether it's a wedding or a festive occasion, a Banarasi suit set exudes elegance and grace.

Chanderi Silk Suit Sets:

Woven in the town of Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh, these suit sets are known for their sheer texture and subtle shine. Chanderi silk suit sets often feature delicate zari borders and motifs inspired by nature and geometric designs. They are perfect for adding a touch of understated elegance to any occasion.

Ikat Impressions:

Ikat is a dyeing technique where yarns are resist-dyed before weaving, creating unique blurred designs. Ikat suit sets often feature geometric, floral, or abstract patterns in a kaleidoscope of colours. Whether it's a casual outing or a festive gathering, an Ikat suit set adds a playful yet sophisticated touch to your wardrobe.

Chikankari Charm:

Originating from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Chikankari is a delicate form of white floral embroidery on lightweight fabrics like muslin and cotton. Chikankari suit sets are adorned with intricate threadwork, creating motifs like flowers, paisleys, and vines. Wearing a Chikankari suit set is like wearing a piece of poetry, with each stitch telling a story of craftsmanship and elegance.

Lucknowi Elegance:

Lucknowi embroidery, often done with a needle called "aari," involves creating intricate patterns on fabrics like georgette, chiffon, and cotton. Lucknowi suit sets are characterised by their fine threadwork and motifs inspired by nature, including flowers, leaves, and birds. Whether it's a formal event or a casual gathering, a Lucknowi suit set adds a touch of refined beauty to your attire.

Bandhani Beauty:

Originating from Gujarat and Rajasthan, Bandhani involves tying small portions of the fabric with thread before dyeing, creating intricate patterns. Bandhani suit sets are characterised by their vibrant colours and bold designs, often featuring dots, squares, and waves. Whether it's a festive celebration or a cultural event, a Bandhani suit set is sure to make a statement.

So, the next time you choose a suit set for an occasion, let it be more than just an outfit;  just like iTokri’s collection celebrating India's timeless elegance.

[kohli-saab]

The world of ethnic fashion in 2024 is vibrant, dynamic, and rooted in tradition while embracing modern influences. This year's trends beautifully blend traditional aesthetics with contemporary styles, making ethnic wear more versatile and appealing to women of all ages. Here’s a look at the top ethnic fashion trends that are set to dominate 2024.

1. Sustainable Fashion: Embracing Eco-Friendly Ethnic Wear

Sustainability is not just a buzzword; it's a movement that's redefining fashion. In 2024, sustainable ethnic wear is gaining immense popularity, with a focus on eco-friendly fabrics such as handloom textiles, organic cotton, and Khadi. These fabrics are being used in contemporary silhouettes like kurta sets, sarees, and lehengas, promoting a fashion that is not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible. Ethically sourced and handcrafted jewelry made from recycled metals and natural gemstones is also tr

2. Bold Prints and Patterns: Making a Statement

Bold prints and patterns are making a powerful statement in ethnic wear this year. Vibrant floral motifs, geometric designs, and abstract patterns are being prominently featured on kurtis, lehengas, and sarees. These eye-catching designs add a modern touch to traditional attire, making them perfect for both casual and festive occasions. Whether it's a bright floral lehenga or a geometric patterned saree, bold prints are the way to go if you want to make a striking impression​.

3. Revival of Traditional Silhouettes with a Twist

Traditional silhouettes like the Anarkali, sarees, and sharara suits are being reimagined with contemporary twists. Designers are experimenting with asymmetrical hemlines, layered dupattas, and innovative blouse designs to give these classic outfits a modern edge. This trend is perfect for those who want to embrace their cultural heritage while staying fashionable. Modern embroideries and unique draping styles are also being incorporated to give these timeless pieces a fresh look​.

4. Pastel Colors and Neon Accents: The Color Story of 2024

Pastel shades like blush pink, mint green, and powder blue are reigning supreme in ethnic fashion, providing a subtle and elegant look that is perfect for daytime events. On the flip side, neon accents are being introduced into traditional outfits, adding a youthful and vibrant touch. From neon borders on sarees to neon embroidery on kurtas, these bright hues are infusing energy into ethnic wear, making them a popular choice for weddings and festive celebrations​.

5. Cape Blouses and Ethnic Jackets: Modern Layering Techniques

Layering is becoming a key trend in ethnic wear, with cape blouses and ethnic jackets taking center stage. Cape blouses, often embellished with beads and embroidery, are being paired with sarees and lehengas for a chic, contemporary look. Ethnic jackets and shrugs, adorned with traditional zari work or mirror embellishments, are being used to elevate simple kurtis and salwar suits. These pieces add versatility to ethnic outfits, allowing women to experiment with their look while staying true to their roots​.

6. The Rise of Handloom and Handcrafted Textiles

There is a growing appreciation for handloom and handcrafted textiles like Khadi, Ikat, and Chanderi. These fabrics, known for their rich cultural significance and intricate craftsmanship, are being incorporated into modern designs, offering a unique blend of tradition and style. Investing in handloom pieces not only supports local artisans but also adds a distinctive touch to your ethnic wardrobe​.

7. Minimalistic and Elegant Designs: Less is More

Minimalism is gaining ground in ethnic fashion, with a focus on clean lines, simple cuts, and understated elegance. This trend is perfect for those who prefer subtlety over extravagance. Minimalistic kurtas, sarees, and lehengas with delicate embellishments and monochrome palettes are ideal for creating a sophisticated and graceful look​.

8. Fusion of Western and Ethnic Styles

The Indo-Western fusion trend continues to thrive, offering a beautiful blend of Western and traditional elements. Expect to see ethnic themes like bandhani, leheriya, and block prints on Western silhouettes such as dresses, skirts, and tops. This fusion allows for versatility and ease of wear, making ethnic fashion accessible to a wider audience​.

Bombay Selections).

9. Statement Dupattas and Accessories

Dupattas are no longer just an accessory; they are becoming the focal point of ethnic ensembles. Heavy embroidery, mirror work, and vibrant prints on dupattas can transform a simple outfit into something extraordinary. Paired with minimalistic outfits, these statement dupattas, along with traditional accessories like jhumkas and maang tikkas, are perfect for creating a complete ethnic .

Conclusion

The ethnic fashion landscape in 2024 is diverse and innovative, celebrating the beauty of tradition while embracing modern trends. Whether you're drawn to sustainable fashion, bold prints, or modernized silhouettes, there's something for everyone in this year’s ethnic wear trends. So, go ahead and experiment with these styles to find the ones that best reflect your personality and fashion sensibility. Happy styling!

For more inspiration and to explore the latest collections, be sure to check out your favorite fashion websites and stores.

ending, complementing the sustainable fashion ethos​.

[ayeshamaheshwari]

Top Fabric Choice for Unstitched Suits: Comfort Meets Elegance

When it comes to choosing the fabric for unstitched suits, cotton fabric is the most popular choice and acts as a top contender. Unstitched cotton suits are popular among fashion enthusiasts and casual wearers because they are comfortable, breathable, and versatile. Today, collections of unstitched ladies suits are creating a fanbase due to their unique patterns, styles, and hues. Suits are not just clothes; they are expressions of authentic tradition. The elegance of the unstitched suits allows others to remember you even after you leave the event. Do you want to receive the best compliments? If yes, then we'll take you through the journey of unstitched cotton suits to elevate your appearance this year with DMAASA.

Why does DMAASA’s unstitched cotton suit?

DMAASA is a renowned brand in the industry, offering unrivaled quality and remarkable excellence. The DMAASA's artistry skills, intricate detailing, and unwavering passion and dedication transform the raw material into a remarkable experience. If you are curious about how to acquire the latest, in-demand collections of unstitched cotton suits? If you're interested, you should consider giving DMAASA a try, and here are the reasons why:

Quality and pure cotton material

The use of premium-quality cotton material in unstitched suit fabric makes it comfortable to wear, breathable, and suitable for every body shape, size, and season. The unstitched cotton materials are durable, easy to maintain, and versatile in design. 

Exquisite designs

Each unstitched suit design is handmade and draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including animals and flowers. This allows you to find authentic collections for a variety of purposes. There are numerous design options available, including blue leaf print, paisley design, floral cotton print, and Ikat Jaipuri cotton suit set with dupattas.

Customization flexibility

DMAASA offers flexibility to customize bulk orders of the unstitched suit material. This allows the customers the freedom to bring the best-fitting attire in bulk for themselves, tailored to perfection. Choose the unstitched suit from the rack and give your look a one-of-a-kind experience.

Vibrant colors and patterns

The vibrant colors and patterns of the unstitched cotton suits are derived from natural dyes. Crafted naturally from flowers, vegetables, and spices, you can find multiple shades in every color. 

Eco-friendly practices

Taking care of the planet is more important, and DMAASA recognizes this. DMAASA curates the unstitched suit material, from cotton fabric to natural dyeing to the making techniques, in an eco-friendly manner.

Attention to detail

The intricate detailing in the unstitched cotton suits and cotton dupattas allows the viewers to turn their heads. DMAASA's expert artisans meticulously craft each element to enhance the user's experience.

Wide options are available.

Partywear, an unstitched suit, or casual—no matter what the occasion, DMAASA won’t allow you to drift apart. Upgrade your wardrobe every time with the authentic unstitched salwar suit and never settle for less. 

Trusted brand reputation

DMAASA is a trusted brand in the home decor and textiles industry, and they have built their reputation like no other. Their exceptional customer service, high-quality home decor materials, and sustainable practices have made them a preferred choice among discerning shoppers.

View More: Top Fabric Choice for Unstitched Suits: Comfort Meets Elegance

[worldofikat]

Unleashing the Beauty of Ikkat Dresses and Ikat Kurtas

Ikkat dresses and Ikat kurtas stand as timeless testaments to the exquisite artistry of traditional weaving techniques. With roots deeply embedded in cultures around the world, these garments not only showcase intricate designs but also embody rich historical narratives. Let's delve into the captivating world of Ikkat, exploring its origins, craftsmanship, styling tips, and more.

Understanding the History of Ikkat Weaving

Origin of Ikkat Weaving

Ikkat weaving, also known as "tie and dye," traces its origins back to ancient civilizations such as India, Japan, and Indonesia. Historians believe that the technique dates back over thousands of years, with evidence of Ikkat textiles found in archaeological sites across Asia.

Cultural Significance

Throughout history, Ikkat fabrics have held significant cultural and social importance. In many regions, these textiles are used for special occasions such as weddings, festivals, and religious ceremonies. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors of Ikkat garments often symbolize prosperity, happiness, and spirituality.

The Artistry Behind Ikkat Dresses and Ikat Kurtas

Traditional Techniques

The process of creating Ikkat fabrics involves a meticulous method of resist-dyeing, where yarns are carefully dyed before being woven into intricate patterns. Skilled artisans use various techniques such as wrapping, tying, and dyeing to achieve the desired designs. Each piece is a labor of love, requiring precision and patience.

Variations in Patterns and Designs

One of the most captivating aspects of Ikkat weaving is the diverse range of patterns and designs. From geometric motifs to floral patterns, each Ikkat garment tells a unique story inspired by nature, mythology, and cultural heritage. Whether it's bold and vibrant colors or subtle and sophisticated hues, there's an Ikkat design to suit every taste.

Why Choose Ikkat Dresses and Ikat Kurtas?

Unique Aesthetic Appeal

Ikkat dresses and Ikat kurtas exude a distinct charm that sets them apart from mass-produced textiles. The handcrafted nature of these garments adds an element of exclusivity, allowing wearers to showcase their individuality and appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship.

Comfort and Versatility

Aside from their visual appeal, Ikkat dresses and Ikat kurtas are celebrated for their comfort and versatility. Made from lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton and silk, these garments are perfect for both casual and formal occasions. Whether you're lounging at home or attending a social gathering, Ikkat attire offers unmatched comfort without compromising on style.

Tips for Styling Ikkat Dresses and Ikat Kurtas

Casual Wear

For a laid-back and effortless look, pair an Ikkat dress with comfortable sandals or sneakers. Add a denim jacket or a lightweight scarf for extra warmth during cooler months. Opt for minimal accessories to let the intricate patterns of the garment take center stage.

Formal Attire

Elevate your style with an Ikat kurta paired with tailored trousers or a flowy skirt. Accessorize with statement jewelry and a pair of elegant heels to complete the ensemble. Whether it's a business meeting or a festive celebration, Ikat kurtas add a touch of sophistication to any occasion.

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations

Environmentally-Friendly Production

In an era where sustainability is paramount, Ikkat weaving stands as a beacon of eco-conscious fashion. The use of natural dyes and organic fibers minimizes environmental impact, ensuring a more sustainable approach to textile production. By choosing Ikkat garments, consumers can support ethical practices that prioritize environmental preservation.

Supporting Artisan Communities

Behind every Ikkat dress and Ikat kurta is a community of skilled artisans whose livelihoods depend on traditional craftsmanship. By purchasing these garments, consumers not only acquire unique pieces of wearable art but also contribute to the economic empowerment of artisan communities. Supporting ethical fashion initiatives helps preserve age-old techniques and promotes cultural heritage preservation.

Where to Find Authentic Ikkat Dresses and Ikat Kurtas

Local Artisan Markets

Explore local artisan markets and craft fairs to discover authentic Ikkat dresses and Ikat kurtas handcrafted by skilled artisans. These markets offer a wide selection of designs, allowing you to find the perfect piece that resonates with your style and preferences. Plus, shopping locally supports small-scale producers and fosters community development.

Online Boutiques

For those unable to visit physical markets, online boutiques offer a convenient platform to browse and purchase Ikkat garments from the comfort of your home. Many online retailers specialize in ethically sourced and sustainably made clothing, ensuring that your purchase supports fair labor practices and environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

In a world inundated with mass-produced fashion, Ikkat dresses and Ikat kurtas stand as symbols of timeless elegance and artisanal craftsmanship. From their rich historical roots to their sustainable production methods, these garments embody the beauty of tradition woven into modernity. By embracing Ikkat attire, we not only celebrate cultural heritage but also contribute to a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between Ikkat and Ikat?

Ikkat refers to the weaving technique where yarns are resist-dyed before weaving, while Ikat is the resulting fabric produced using this method.

Are Ikkat dresses suitable for all body types?

Yes, Ikkat dresses come in various styles and silhouettes to suit different body types, offering both comfort and style.

How do I care for my Ikkat garments?

It's best to hand wash Ikkat garments in cold water with mild detergent to preserve the colors and delicate fibers. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric and air dry in shade to prevent fading.

Can Ikkat dresses be worn on special occasions?

Absolutely! Ikkat dresses are versatile enough to be worn for both casual outings and special occasions, depending on the design and styling.

Are Ikkat fabrics sustainable?

Yes, Ikkat fabrics are often made from natural fibers and dyed using eco-friendly methods, making them a sustainable choice for conscious consumers.

[thejaipurloom]

A Guide about Ethnic Jacket For Women

Ethnic jacket for women are a classic wardrobe essential that gives every outfit a vibrant, cultural pop. These jackets add a bit of foreign style that instantly elevates your style with their rich fabrics, eye-catching patterns, and beautiful embroidery. Ethnic jackets are a great option if you're looking for a versatile addition to your everyday wardrobe or an eye-catching item for special events.

In this article, we will discuss the various ethnic jacket styles available for ladies, provide styling suggestions, and explain where to locate these beautiful finds.

Types of Ethnic Jacket for Women

The stunning Types of Ethnic Jacket is what makes them so beautiful. A brief description of some of the most popular styles is provided here:

Jackets with embroidery: India is well known for its beautiful embroidered traditions. Ethnic elegance can be seen in jackets with elaborate beading, sequins, mirrorwork, or stitching. There is a wide range of variations by region, such as the soft Chikankari of Lucknow and the colourful Phulkari of Punjab.

Jackets with Block Prints: Another popular Indian skill is hand block printing. A colourful, bohemian touch can be added to the look with jackets that include brilliant colours, flowery ideas, or bold geometric patterns.

Kalamkari Jackets: Kalamkari art is the technique of hand-painting or block-printing textiles with natural dyes. Kalamkari jackets are wearable artworks because they frequently feature elaborate stories from mythology or nature.

Bandhani Jackets: Bandhani is a Rajasthani and Gujarati tie-dye style that creates mesmerizing designs on fabric. Brightly coloured bandhani jackets with wavy patterns are perfect for giving a festive vibe to your look.

Ikat Jackets: Ikat creates blurred, attractive patterns by dying the threads before stitching. Ikat jackets are available in a variety of regional styles and have a unique, creative look.

Mirror Work Jackets: These jackets add a touch of festive glamour with their sparkling, shining little mirror embellishments, which are commonly found in Rajasthan and Kutch.

These are only a few examples of ethnic jacket for women from different cultures. The ability of each item of clothing to convey a tale of custom, design, and cultural significance makes ethnic jackets highly prized items in the fashion industry.

Styling Tips Ethnic Jacket for Women

Ethnic jacket for women styling may provide your outfit with a unique and colourful touch while expertly combining tradition with modern fashion. Here are some style tips to help you make the most of your ethnic jacket, whether you're dressed up for a special occasion or just looking to dress up your regular outfit:

Casual Chic: For a casual everyday look, pair a boldly decorated jacket with block prints or embroidery with jeans and a basic t-shirt. Finish the look with flats and jewellery with an ethnic vibe.

Bohemian Rhapsody: Create a free-spirited vibe by layering a flowy Kalamkari or Ikat jacket over a maxi dress. Accessorize with chunky jewelry and sandals.

Fusion Flair: For a modern touch on ethnic style, combine a mirror-work jacket with a crop top and palazzo trousers.

Winter Warmth: Layer a colourful Ethnic Jacket online over a turtleneck sweater and jeans for a cozy and stylish winter look.

Where to Find Ethnic Jacket for Women:

Indian markets and artisan fairs are great places to find handcrafted ethnic jacket for women. Search regional fairs and marketplaces for unique products and directly assist talented craftspeople.

Specialty Stores: Many boutiques and online stores specialize in ethnic clothing and accessories. Our Website, The Jaipur Loom, provides a variety of Buy Quilted Jacket for Women collections for women and delivers to every corner of the country. You also Buy Designer Suit Set Online to enhance your overall look.

Sustainable Brands: A number of brands are dedicated to maintaining traditional crafts and ethically producing goods. Look for companies that use natural fabrics and collaborate with artisans.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Ethnic Jacket for Women:

Quality: Invest in a well-made jacket that will last you for years. Look for quality fabrics, stitching, and embellishments.

Fit: A jacket that fits properly will highlight your finest qualities. Try a variety of lengths and styles to see what suits you most.

Versatility: Take into consideration the jacket's versatility. Is it easily dressable or casual?

Personal Style: Pick a jacket that goes well with everything in your current outfit and represents your personality.

How to Maintain Your Ethnic Jacket for Women?

A lot of Party Wear Ethnic Jacket include beautiful embroidery and are made from soft fabrics. Here are a few care tips:

Follow Care Instructions: For specific care instructions, always check the label.

Hand Washing or Dry Cleaning: For heavily decorated jackets, wash them separately with a mild detergent or choose dry cleaning.

Storing: To keep your jacket free from dust and damage, keep it folded neatly or placed in a clothing bag.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ) about Ethnic Jacket for Women

Q:1 Do you take Cash on delivery?

A:1 Yes, At present, we provide the option of Cash on delivery.

Q:2 What sizes are available?

A:2 Providing consumers with guidance in selecting the correct size for their ethnic jackets by specifying the various sizes and providing any size charts or instructions.

Q:3 How do I care for ethnic jacket?

A:3 Providing care instructions, including washing, drying, and storing recommendations to help customers maintain the quality and longevity of their ethnic jackets.

Q:4 Do you have a physical store location?

A:4 No, we don't have any physical store location, we provide only online collections.

Q:5 How do I check my order status?

A:5 After logging in to your account on our website, you can view the status of your order at any time after placing it by selecting the My Orders option.

Q:6 What materials are used in making ethnic jackets for women?

A:6 We use comfortable and quality materials in the ethnic jackets for women, such as cotton, silk, wool or other traditional fabrics.

Q:7 How can I contact customer support if I have questions or need assistance?

A:7 You can go to the Contact Us page if you have any queries or questions related to your order. We provide you with the best service and hassle-free.

Q:8 Do I have to sign up for an account to buy something at The Jaipur Loom.com?

A:8 When placing an order on thejaipurloom.com, you must first register. There isn't a guest checkout option available right now.

[zardozipune]

IndoWestern Sarees With Contemporary Draped Pallas

Indo-western dresses are an indispensable component of every woman's wardrobe, offering the ideal blend of tradition and modernity.

These outfits come in various designs, such as kurta tunics with cape details, jumpsuits with attached dupattas and palazzo pants with draped details - perfect for Indian weddings and festivals where elegance is required.

Draped Sarees

Drape Sarees are an exquisite combination of style and tradition. Available in various fabrics, weaves and designs; every saree tells its own unique tale from Kanjeevaram and Banarasi from Tamil Nadu to Paithani Bandhani Ajrakh from Gujarat; each has a special story behind it.

Pre-draped sarees have recently become a trend within the saree world, featuring pre-draped blouses that come ready to wear and are styled like this saree by celebrities like Priyanka Chopra and Jacqueline Fernandez.

Printed Sarees

Embroidery is a key part of traditional Indian garments, but sometimes it needs to be mixed with contemporary elements to give your outfit an updated aesthetic. Kutch mirror embroidery adds extra shimmer to lehenga designs; use sparingly for maximum effect.

An effective way to add modern flare to a traditional saree is through printed designs. Zari, floral, zigzag bandhej patterns or paisley print sarees will certainly stand out at any gathering or event!

Glamourental provides an expansive selection of printed sarees online, making it easy to find something perfect for every style and event. Choose from cotton, georgette silk sarees organza chiffon sarees with authentic prints such as kalamkari prints warli patterns madhubani prints or other authentic patterns as well as cap style off shoulder blouses contrast tone blouses and full sleeves shirts to find what suits you perfectly!

Embroidered Sarees

Embroidery is a creative endeavor that can transform fabric into works of art. Choose from an impressive array of embroidered sarees, such as hand-woven Kanchipuram silk sarees featuring delicately painted motifs or the luxurious Banarasi silks featuring intricate borders and zari threading - each offering something special!

Modern embroidered sarees can also be found that are tailored specifically to be worn with shirt or crop top blouses, featuring pre-stitched pallu which allows for effortless drape. No pleating necessary - great way to show your Indian heritage without spending extra time and energy setting pleats!

Silk Sarees

Indo-western outfits possess an irresistibly Indian charm that make them the ideal choice for various events and festivities, from weddings and festivals to graduation parties and other celebrations. Wear one to add drama and elegance to any look!

Choose from an array of fabrics and styles to find your perfect outfit, such as cape saree tunics that feature flowing fabric that pair nicely with traditional Indian wedding saris for a stunning and sophisticated look.

Select from an impressive array of silk sarees to complete your look, such as Tussar silk sarees or Kanchipuram and Paithani varieties. Additionally, there is the choice of double-Ikat sarees, created using an intricate weaving process known for their geometric patterns and colors - an excellent choice for weddings or festive events!

[thetharo]

Ikat Kurta and Pant: A Fusion of Artistry and Fashion

The Ikat Kurta and Pant is a stunning ensemble that combines the exquisite art of Ikat weaving with contemporary fashion. This traditional dyeing technique produces mesmerizing patterns that add a touch of uniqueness and cultural richness to the outfit. The Ikat Kurta and Pant set is highly regarded for its versatility, comfort, and timeless appeal, making it a popular choice for individuals who appreciate the beauty of handcrafted textiles and desire a distinctive and fashionable attire.

The Ikat weaving technique is an ancient art form that has been passed down through generations. It involves tying and dyeing the yarns before they are woven, resulting in intricate patterns that appear as if they are blurred or feathered. This process requires immense skill and precision, as the weavers meticulously plan and execute the design, ensuring that the patterns align perfectly when woven. The result is a visually captivating fabric with a distinct character that cannot be replicated by any other method.

The Ikat Kurta, the centerpiece of this ensemble, is a loose-fitting tunic with a long history in traditional Indian clothing. It is typically knee-length or longer, offering a relaxed and comfortable fit. The kurta is known for its versatility, as it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It can be paired with the coordinating pant for a coordinated look, or mixed and matched with other pieces to create a variety of stylish outfits.

The Ikat Pant, designed to complement the kurta, is usually straight-legged or slightly flared. It provides a comfortable and stylish fit, allowing for ease of movement while maintaining a flattering silhouette. The pant adds a contemporary touch to the ensemble, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

One of the key attractions of the Ikat Kurta and Pant is the vast range of colors, patterns, and designs available. From vibrant and bold hues to subtle and understated shades, there is a wide selection to suit individual preferences. Traditional Ikat patterns are often inspired by nature, geometric shapes, and cultural motifs, while contemporary designs experiment with fusion and innovative combinations. This diversity ensures that there is an Ikat Kurta and Pant set for every taste and style.

When it comes to fabric choices, the Ikat Kurta and Pant are commonly made from natural materials such as cotton or silk. These fabrics not only provide comfort but also lend a luxurious feel to the ensemble. The breathability of cotton makes it suitable for day-to-day wear, while silk adds an element of sophistication, making it ideal for special occasions.

The Ikat Kurta and Pant set can be styled in various ways to suit different occasions. For a formal event, the ensemble can be accessorized with statement jewelry, heels, and a clutch, creating an elegant and refined look. For a more casual outing, pairing it with flats, minimal accessories, and a crossbody bag will lend a relaxed and chic vibe. The versatility of the Ikat Kurta and Pant allows individuals to effortlessly transition from day to night, making it a wardrobe staple for those seeking a versatile and fashionable ensemble.

In conclusion, the Ikat Kurta and Pant represent the harmonious fusion of artistry and fashion. The intricate Ikat weaving technique, with its blurred patterns and vibrant colors, showcases the rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship. The ensemble's timeless appeal, comfort, and versatility make it a sought-after choice among fashion enthusiasts. Whether worn for a festive occasion, a casual outing, or a formal event, the Ikat Kurta and Pant set exudes elegance and cultural richness, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate the beauty of handcrafted textiles and desire a truly unique and fashionable outfit.

[craneandcanopy]

Bedding Swaps to Get Warm-Weather Ready

After a long and cold winter, the weather is finally warming up - and we couldn’t be happier. While we look ahead to beach days and sunny vibes, we’re also turning indoors to reevaluate our bedding for the new season. Here are some of our favorite bedding swaps to get warm-weather ready!

Swap out your quilt for a light blanket

While we love a thick quilt for the colder months of the year, a bed blanket is better suited for the summer season. We love our Porcelain Green Diamond Ikat cotton blanket as a light layer on your bed for when a duvet cover or comforter is too heavy.

Swap out your long PJs for a short set

A matching set of PJs is always a chic look, but whether you go for long or short depends on the season. For summer, we find ourselves reaching for the Layla Short Pajama set. Buttery-soft against the skin and super stylish, it’s the perfect warm-weather bedtime attire.

Swap out your heavy duvet insert for a lightweight one

The best part about having a duvet insert plus duvet cover pairing is that you can easily swap out the insert depending on the season and temperature. When the weather warms up, opt for a lightweight or super lightweight comforter such as the Ultimate Luxe Down Alternative Comforter in “Super Lightweight”. This way, you’ll still have the comfort and weight of a comforter on top of you without it being too hot or heavy.

Swap out your regular pillow for a cooling one

One of the best bedding advances in recent years has been the introduction of cooling pillows. We all love the feeling of sleeping on the cool side of the pillow, but what if that feeling never went away? The Ultimate Cooling Gel Foam Pillow is perfect for warm summer nights, and will make your sleep experience all the more enjoyable.

[indianlacesandfabricsupplier]

From Drab to Fab: How to Choose the Perfect Curtain Making Fabric for Every Room

Introduction:

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on choosing the perfect curtain making fabric for every room in your home. Curtains play a crucial role in enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of a space. With the right fabric, you can transform any room from drab to fab, creating a stylish and inviting atmosphere. In this article, we will delve into the world of curtain making fabrics, providing you with valuable insights and tips to help you make informed decisions. Whether you're a homeowner, interior designer, or DIY enthusiast, this guide is your ultimate resource for achieving stunning window treatments.

1. Understanding Curtain Fabric Types:

When it comes to choosing the perfect fabric for your curtains, it's essential to consider both the style and functionality you desire. Here are some common fabric types to consider:

a) Cotton: Cotton curtains are versatile, breathable, and available in various patterns and weights. They offer a classic and timeless look, suitable for both traditional and modern interiors.

b) Linen: Linen curtains exude elegance and sophistication. They have a natural, textured appearance, providing a light and airy feel to any room. Linen is also known for its durability and ability to regulate temperature.

c) Velvet: If you're aiming for a luxurious and opulent ambiance, velvet curtains are an excellent choice. The soft and plush fabric adds depth and richness to your space while also providing insulation and soundproofing properties.

d) Silk: Silk curtains are synonymous with elegance and refinement. They have a lustrous sheen and a smooth texture that adds a touch of luxury to any room. However, silk requires delicate care and is best suited for formal settings.

e) Polyester: Polyester curtains offer a wide range of designs, colors, and patterns. They are durable, easy to maintain, and budget-friendly, making them a popular choice for many households.

2. Consider Room Functionality and Lighting:

Before selecting your curtain fabric, it's crucial to assess the functionality and lighting requirements of each room. Here are a few factors to consider:

a) Bedroom: For bedrooms, it's essential to choose curtains that provide privacy and block out light effectively. Opt for thicker fabrics or use blackout lining to ensure a peaceful and restful sleep environment.

b) Living Room: The living room is a space where style and comfort converge. Consider curtains that allow natural light to filter in while maintaining privacy. Sheer fabrics or light cotton blends are excellent choices for creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere.

c) Kitchen: In the kitchen, curtains should be functional and easy to clean. Fabrics that are resistant to moisture and stains, such as synthetic blends or treated cotton, work well in this area.

d) Dining Room: To create an elegant dining experience, choose heavier fabrics like velvet or silk. These fabrics add a touch of sophistication and help with noise reduction, creating a more intimate atmosphere.

3.       Consider the Style and Theme:

The style and theme of your room should harmonize with your choice of curtain fabric. Here are a few style suggestions:

a) Traditional: For a traditional look, opt for rich and textured fabrics like damask or brocade. These fabrics complement ornate furniture and classic interior elements.

b) Modern: Embrace simplicity and clean lines with sleek fabrics such as linen or cotton blends. Choose neutral colors or bold patterns that add a contemporary flair to your space.

c) Bohemian: If you prefer an eclectic and free-spirited style, consider vibrant and patterned fabrics like batik or ikat. Mix and match colors and textures to create a boho-chic look.

d) Scandinavian: Achieve a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic with light and airy fabrics like sheer linen or cotton voile. Stick

4.Color and Pattern Selection:

The color and pattern of your curtain fabric can significantly impact the overall ambiance of the room. Consider the following factors when making your selection:

a) Color Psychology: Different colors evoke different emotions and moods. For instance, warm colors like red and orange create a cozy and energetic atmosphere, while cool colors like blue and green promote a sense of calmness and tranquility. Choose colors that align with the desired ambiance of the room.

b) Patterns and Prints: Patterns and prints can add visual interest and personality to your curtains. Floral patterns create a romantic and feminine feel, geometric patterns offer a modern touch, and stripes can create a sense of height and spaciousness. Be mindful of the scale of the pattern and ensure it complements the room's size and furniture.

5.       Quality and Durability:

Investing in high-quality curtain fabrics is essential for long-term satisfaction and durability. Here are a few factors to consider when assessing the quality of the fabric:

a) Thread Count: The thread count refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. Higher thread counts generally indicate better quality and durability. Look for fabrics with a thread count of 200 or higher for optimal performance.

b) Fabric Weave: Different fabric weaves have varying degrees of durability and light-blocking properties. Tightly woven fabrics like twill or canvas offer excellent light blockage and longevity. However, sheer or loosely woven fabrics like chiffon provide a lighter, airy look.

c) Fabric Treatment: Some curtain fabrics undergo special treatments to enhance their performance. Look for fabrics that are fade-resistant, stain-resistant, and flame-retardant, particularly in high-traffic areas or rooms exposed to direct sunlight.

6.       Maintenance and Care:

Proper maintenance and care can prolong the lifespan of your curtain fabrics. Here are some general care tips:

a) Regular Cleaning: Dust and vacuum your curtains regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and allergens. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning or consider professional dry cleaning for delicate fabrics.

b) Sun Protection: Excessive exposure to sunlight can cause fading and damage to your curtains. Use UV-protective window film or consider lining your curtains with blackout fabric to minimize sun damage.

c) Ironing and Steaming: Remove wrinkles and creases from your curtains by ironing or steaming them according to the fabric's care instructions. Avoid using high heat settings for delicate fabrics to prevent damage.

Conclusion:

Choosing the perfect curtain making fabric for each room in your home is an exciting process that requires careful consideration of various factors. By understanding different fabric types, assessing room functionality, considering style and theme, and evaluating quality and durability, you can create stunning window treatments that elevate the aesthetics and functionality of your space. Remember to pay attention to color and pattern selection, as well as proper maintenance and care to ensure the longevity of your curtains. With the tips and insights provided in this guide, you're well-equipped to transform any room from drab to fab with the perfect curtain making fabric.

[itokri]

The Best Rakhi Gift Combinations: Matching Sets and More

Rakhi is a festival that celebrates the unique bond between siblings, a time to show love and appreciation with thoughtful gifts. This year, why not make your Rakhi gifts even more special by choosing matching sets from iTokri’s exquisite collection of stitched suit sets?

Here are some unique and engaging Rakhi gift combination ideas to inspire you.

Dharwad Stitched Suit Sets: A Touch of Tradition

Gift Combination: Matching Suit Set and Accessories 

Dharwad stitched suits are known for their rich textures and traditional designs. Pair a beautiful Dharwad suit set with matching accessories like a dupatta and a handcrafted clutch bag.

This combination not only showcases the intricate craftsmanship but also ensures your sister has a complete outfit for any occasion.

Why It's the Perfect Gift:

Traditional Elegance: The rich textures and traditional designs make it a timeless gift.

Complete Look: Providing a matching dupatta and clutch bag creates a ready-to-wear ensemble.

Batik Print Stitched Suit Sets: Artistic Flair

Gift Combination: Suit Set with Matching Stole and Jewellery 

Batik print stitched suits are unique and artistic, making them an excellent choice for sisters who love standout pieces. Pair the suit set with a matching stole and a set of handcrafted jewellery.

This combination adds an extra layer of elegance and style, perfect for making a statement.

Why It's the Perfect Gift:

Artistic Designs: The Batik print technique creates unique and eye-catching patterns.

Coordinated Elegance: Matching stoles and jewellery enhance the overall look.

Bagh Stitched Suit Sets: Natural Beauty

Gift Combination: Suit Set with Matching Fabric Handbag 

Bagh stitched suits, known for their natural dyes and intricate patterns, offer a blend of tradition and eco-friendliness.

Pair a Bagh suit set with a matching fabric handbag from our collection. This combination is not only stylish but also practical, perfect for sisters who appreciate sustainable fashion.

Why It's the Perfect Gift:

Eco-Friendly: Natural dyes make these suits an environmentally conscious choice.

Intricate Patterns: The detailed designs add a touch of sophistication.

Sanganeri Block Print Stitched Suit Sets: Vibrant and Festive

Gift Combination: Suit Set with Coordinated Dupatta and Bangles 

Sanganeri block print suits are vibrant and festive, perfect for adding a pop of colour to your sister’s wardrobe.

Pair the suit set with a coordinated dupatta and a set of colourful bangles. This combination is ideal for festive celebrations and ensures your sister looks radiant.

Why It's the Perfect Gift:

Bright and Cheerful: The vibrant colours are perfect for festive occasions.

Complete Ensemble: A coordinated dupatta and bangles create a polished look.

Pochampally Ikat Stitched Suit Sets: Bold and Beautiful

Gift Combination: Suit Set with Matching Scarf and Earrings 

Pochampally Ikat stitched suits are bold and beautiful, featuring striking patterns and vibrant colours.

Pair the suit set with a matching scarf and a set of statement earrings. This combination ensures your sister stands out and feels confident in her unique style.

Why It's the Perfect Gift:

Bold Patterns: The striking Ikat designs are eye-catching and stylish.

Stylish Accessories: A matching scarf and earrings complete the look.

This Rakhi, go beyond the ordinary and surprise your sister with a thoughtfully curated gift combination from iTokri.

[yashhandicrafts]

_beautiful ikat straight Kurta and pent Set with gota detaling *Size available-* 38,40,42,44 *Material* - cotton *Colour* - meharoon and black Sleeves length - 17 inches Kurti length - 46 inches Pent length - 39 inches *Price* - 970 + Shipping Ready to dispatch To order whatsapp pls 7073370771 #followme #like4like #TFLers #liker #likes #l4l #likes4likes #photooftheday #love #likeforlike #likesforlikes #liketeam #likeback #likebackteam #instagood #likeall #likealways #liking #suits #bedsheet #online #wholsale #money #facebook #jaipur #export (at Yash Handicrafts) https://www.instagram.com/p/B5e1BJxhhfQ/?igshid=p9a9ug9efu4u

[trivialqueen]

Chess

Here’s the next section of that original story. Still currently, and creatively called, Hospital Romance Drama. As always, I’m neither a doctor, nor British.  I’m just a girl who fancies herself a writer and likes slow burns, smart women, and tall men.

“Did you sanction this?” Ms. Hale didn’t knock when she entered his office, but the click-click of her heels had announced her.

“Knocking is common curtesy when entering another’s abode, is it not Ms. Hale?” He capped his pen without thinking about it. His muscle memory could tell she wasn’t going to be leaving his office any time soon.

“If you wanted people to knock you shouldn’t have left your door off the latch.” It’s not a hill he’s willing to die on. He can see she’s spoiling for a fight; it sparks in her dark eyes. They’re not blazing hellfire at him, for once, but they’re quick and sharp all the same. A bee in her bonnet for sure, and while he has a board meeting later today, he knows it would be worse than futile to try and rush her out of his office before she was ready to go. So instead he inclines his head, acquiescing to her point and waiting for her to get back to her original point.

“I’m told you’re getting rid of the – -- machines.” He didn’t have to wait long.

The DOS’s office was on the 4th floor, amidst a maze of corridors that led to conference rooms, HR, and the records department. She’d visited it several times during Charlotte’s tenure as Director of Surgery. She’d not been back since Magnusson took over. The bones were the same. Same double doors framed by wave patterned glass blocks that provided both privacy and a vague sense of who was outside the door. Across from the door was a wall of windows with a beautiful view of the car park, along the ledge which ran under the windows he had kept with Charlotte’s tradition of keeping plants. His looked markedly more alive than hers ever did. It was perhaps a terrifying or a very fitting fact that despite being a talented surgeon and a devoted mother she couldn’t keep a plant – even a cactus – alive for longer than a month. The walls were the same warm shade of ecru and the floors the same industrial beige Berber. Beyond that the room was completely different, as distinct as the two people. Charlotte’s office had been an eclectic mash of overstuffed seating and bohemian rugs, ornate lighting and a big vintage desk. Magnusson’s office was in a, predictable, curated Scandinavian design. He sat behind a sleek, teak L shaped desk, filing cabinets and bookshelves anchored on the wall behind him. At the other end of the narrow, rectangular office there was a small meeting table, in matching sleek, teak design and a very square, grey sofa. Tossed over the back of the seats was the only source of color, a blue ikat blanket, which looked delightfully soft. Even the pictures on the wall were in black and white. If the – -- weren’t on the line she might be tempted to take a closer look at the objects d’art around his office. The sculptures on his shelves, the photo sitting on his desk – the only non-practical item on the tidy worktop. But the – -- machines were, apparently, at stake. Short notice as well. Probably hoping to avoid protest. She thought bitterly, Jokes on you!

Hale paced in front of his desk, hands slashing through the air as she spoke – making a passionate case for two old CT machines the hospital board had decided were surplus. Only used a handful of times a year, tops, the space could be better utilized. Without them the south Harvey bay would be entirely open for new, hopefully more lucrative, or at least ambitious projects. He’d been apathetic about the idea before but seeing her agitation he was willing reconsider his position. Ms. Hale had good instincts, even if she also had a distaste for rules and a self-righteous streak wider than a football pitch.

“If you have strong opinions about those machines.” He cut off the third verse of her rant about what a mistake they were making. She stopped pacing and stared at him. “I have a board meeting in an hour. Write up a proposal for me to give them.”

“What?”

“Write a proposal for the board regarding the machines and I’ll present it to the board in,” he checked his watch, “fifty-five minutes.”

“It’s not a done deal? There’s a guy here to take the machines away now! He might have already taken them if he’d not hurt himself.”

“He what!?” Visions of lawsuits danced in his head. What happened? Why hadn’t he been informed?

“Not important.” She waved the question away. “He’s fine. You won’t let him take the machines?”

“Let is a strong word, he has his orders. The board had decided already. I am offering you a second chance.” She studied him eyes pinning him like a bug under glass. The spark was still there, as was a wariness as if she was deciding if she trusted him. He stared right back. For a long moment they just stared at one another. Then, she seemed to realize what she was doing, and her gaze dropped. He could see her cheeks flush before he looked elsewhere himself.

“How many copies do you need?” She asked, picking up one of the pawns from his chess set. Chess was one of his few hobbies. Playing against a computer was convenient, and challenging, but it felt so hollow clicking around on a screen. Even when he was playing the computer, he wanted to be able to see and move the pieces in the real world. The set had been a gift from his mother, the pieces carved from wood, based on the Lewis chessmen. The set was one of his most cherished possessions.  

“Hmm?”

“For the board, how many copies do I need to run you off for this proposal?”

“Seven.” She had forty-five minutes to pull this off. But at least she seemed to be willing to follow the procedures in this instance. He was almost tempted to ask if she was feeling well. He resisted. Just.

“well tempus volat, hora fugit.” She placed the piece back on the board.

“I’ll get you the proposal before you meet. Seven copies.”

“The meeting is in forty minutes.” She paused at the door, looking over her shoulder.

“I’ll see you in thirty-five then.” She smiled. “Thank you.” The door closed behind her with a soft click. It was the second time she’d smiled at him…

Felix, as a general rule, eschewed violence. However, in that moment he could happily throttle Sofia Grace. Things had been going so well. She’d gotten him her proposal five minutes before the meeting started, seven copies as he’d asked. There was only one type-o betraying the haste with which he’d written the document. Her prose had been clear, concise, and pitched toward her audience – emphasizing the PR/image those machines could generate since they were particularly effective in diagnosing issue with small, adorable children. Not that it mattered now.

Ms. Hale sat on the tailgate of the truck, as primly as if she was taking tea with the queen, except for the chains wrapped around her waist and the truck. Beside her, sitting as regally as if she was the queen was a striking older woman. Her hair the color of pure snow falling over her shoulders, wrapped in a lavender silk robe. She was, mercifully, not chained to the truck. Both were chatting amiably with Oliver Anderson, who for his part seemed to be trying and failing to coax the patient away from Ms. Hale.

“Come on, Colleen.” Anderson wheedled. “I really need you to come back to the ward with me.”

“And as your Doctor, I must insist.” She patted her knee, “Go with Dr. Anderson, darling. I’ve got it from here.”

“Do you? I know a thing or two about protests you know.” The woman preened. Across the parking she caught his eye.

“Oh, I know. And after you’re in recovery I’d like to hear all about it. But for now, please let Ollie take you to bed. My audience is here.” The woman was not subtle in how she looked at young Dr. Anderson.

“He’s got eyes like Fonda.” Ms. Hale’s gaze slid from his, slowly, turning to look at Anderson, her expression softening to a wry smile.

“Doesn’t he just.”

“Come on Vanessa Redgrave.” In the time that he had been at St. Sebastian’s Felix had been rather underwhelmed by the young foundation doctor’s medical skills, but he was exceedingly popular with the patients. And his eyes really were almost an unnatural shade of blue. The old patient turned from Anderson and took Hale’s hand.

“You call if you need me, dear.”

“I was about to put your proposal to the board when I was called down here.” Magnusson crossed the parking, one hand in his pocket. He ambled over to her; his tone conversational. He might have been chatting with her about the recent Bundesliga game. It was an impressive performance considering the grinding of his jaw and the flint in his eyes. He was so angry he was calm. When she was angry, she knew she burned hot. Could taste the blood in the back of her throat, felt her hands shake, her stomach swoop. It felt like rage crackled from her fingertips. His fury was not fire. It was all ice.

“Circumstances changed.”

“I’ll say. You’ve hardly furthered your cause with this stunt.” He crossed his arms over his chest. At a glance it seemed passively displeased but standing next to her she could see the way his fingers dug into his arms, the wrinkles in his suit jacket under his nails.

“Other options weren’t producing necessary results.”

“So, you chained yourself to the truck?!”

“It got attention, didn’t it?”

“Do you ever think ahead? Or even care about your reputation?” He looked down his straight nose with an imperious eye. God Almighty he could be condescending.

I don’t give a damn about my bad reputation! Joan Jett immediately got stuck in her head.

“Compared to what’s at stake, not really.”

“Perhaps you should, considering this is the definition of insubordination and gross misconduct. You could be fired.” There was a hardness in his eyes as he stared down at her.

Fired.

It was admittedly not an ideal situation. And yet it did not scare her like it might have. Not anymore. There were worse things in this world.

It was steely determination, rather than incandescent rage, that shown out of those coffee brown eyes. It was in contrast to her wry smile which twisted across her cayenne colored lips without any humor. She patted the tailgate next to her, and he felt compelled to take the seat.

“I died once; you know.” She said softly. He recalled that from her file. More than once if one counted both the episode in the ambulance, her flatlining on the table during surgery, and an incident with a shard of glass after her initial procedure. There was a sadness around the edges of her gaze, in the undercurrent of her voice. And despite sitting on the filthy tailgate of a truck in the loading bay of the hospital the moment felt intimate.

“After being good and quiet and rule following my entire life.” She continued. “And I died. I got better and since then all I can think is like, what’s the worst that can happen when you’ve already died once? What can you do to me? Fire me? By the grace of God and these hands, I’ve got savings, I’ve got skills, I’ve got a support system. I can find another job. I got second chance and I’m not going to waste it being ‘good’ when I can spend it saving lives. Go ahead, fire me over this. I don’t think I’m wrong though. These machines are worth saving.”

Well then.

“And I almost had, without any of this fanfare. If you’d just waited.” The proposal she had written had been a good one, and it was late enough in the meeting that most of the members cared about calling it a day. Twenty minutes and the machines would have been free and clear. It was almost as if she didn’t want the process to work.

“Circumstances changed.”

“What? What circumstances?” He looked around, the machines weren’t even on the truck yet and as far as he could tell the only people around were drawn by her protest. There was no maintenance men around, no laborers hauling away the machines yet. Nothing. She opened her mouth to speak.

“No.” He cut her off. “I was in the middle of presenting your proposal. The middle. If you waited ten minutes this would have been taken care of. What circumstances changed? I see no change. Those machines aren’t out here. No one is out here except the people this stunt has attracted. It’s like you don’t want this to work.”

“Of course I want this to work! I want to save those machines!” He hopped up from the gate. He wanted to throttle her. Rather than wrap his hands around her lovely throat he ran a hand through his hair.

“You. You want to save those machines. Be the martyr. Be the savior. And you won’t let anyone take that from you. Even if someone else can help. If someone else could have succeeded.” It was possible for someone to look more insulted than Sofia Grace did in that moment, but only just. The hot, spice of her anger rolled off of her in a wave. Her eyes blazed.

“How dare you!” She was incandescently angry. It was terrifying. Beautiful. And he found that he didn’t care.

“Why didn’t you trust me?” His voice was so low she almost didn’t hear him over the rush of blood in her ears. FLACHWICHSER! He stood over her, back ramrod straight, his jaw clenched, teeth visibly grinding.

“Why didn’t you trust me to take care of this. I told you I would. I was literally in the meeting doing this work when you stepped in with this self-righteous grandstanding.” He didn’t raise his voice. The accusation landed as heavy as a slap.

“Because to you these machines are just numbers on a balance sheet. Dead space clogging up one of the bays.”

“Really.” He crossed his arms, suit jacket wrinkling under his fingers, the white knuckles the only thing betraying his state of mind.

“But to me I see children with heart problems, a chance to make a difference in a family’s life.” Her throat felt raw; tears were threatening. Sofia Grace hated the fact that she was an easy crier. Any strong emotion could send her into tears – anger, pain, joy, sadness. It completely undermined her, and she could never stop it once it started.

“Do you have any evidence for this allegation?” He challenged. “Is it because you believe that you have a monopoly on compassion, or do you truly think that I can’t feel?”

Had she not been so far gone, in a berserker rage, she would have better noted his tone. Hurt. However, she was gone. So gone there was white around the edges of her vision.

“If you cared about these machines, you’d not have let it come to his in the first place!”

His nostrils flared and the grinding of his jaw became more pronounced.

“I am but one man on a seven-member board that is ruled by majority vote.”

“SG! SG!” Oliver Anderson’s voice was like a bucket of cold water on his anger. “It’s Colleen!” The junior doctor came skittering to a stop, nearly bowling him over.

“Sheiße!”

“Helvetes jävla fanskap!” Ms. Hale had chained herself to the truck and tossed the padlock key toward the dumpster. Maintenance might have bolt cutters, but it was a gamble on if finding the key (provided she hadn’t actually hit the dumpster) or finding the cutters would be the faster solution. “Fan out, we have to find that key!” All of his rage, his displeasure, the coil at the base of his spine disappeared and was replaced by clear purpose. “Do you ever think ahead?” He snapped. Alright, perhaps not all of his anger had dissipated. But really, what was she thinking? She was a CT consultant, on duty and just decided to not only chain herself to a truck in an act of pious protest, but also throw away the only key!

“Hang on, hang on.” She snapped back, scooting to the edge of the tailgate, her hands tugging at the chain around her slim waist.

“What are you doing?” It was strange and uncomfortable looking as she slithered inch by inch down from her seat. The chain moving up her body inch by inch, bringing her claret colored blouse further up her abdomen. He didn’t want to stare but he couldn’t look away as more and more of her smooth, pale stomach came into view. The scar was long, bisecting her down a center line, almost perfectly, save for the slight jog it took around her navel. It was nearly twenty years old, healed and faded from the once angry, jagged line it had been but still pinker than her natural skin tone and slightly puckered. It continued down below the waistband of her slacks and up into her chest (not that it was visible yet, the shirt was bunched under her breasts as she kept wiggling through the loop). The upper half of the open surgery scar was slightly more faded, almost impossible to discern from her cleavage if she wore a blouse that revealed any (not that he’d ever admit to looking).

“Just a second.” She grunted, flattening her own breasts until the chain slipped over them, which it did eventually. She raised her arms above her head and finished slipping through. She found herself free of her chains, on her hands and knees in the car park. She quickly popped up, straightening her blouse and dusting her hands, her cayenne colored smile cocky and broad.

“I am not as dumb as I look!” She said brightly before rushing toward the door.

“Ms. Hale, my office as soon as!” He called. She acknowledged him with a wave of her hand and disappeared into the hospital.

“What should we do with this?” At his elbow the junkman appeared, hobbling on crutches, answering that question more than Dr. Hale did.

“Hold off, plans have changed.” The board hadn’t formally voted, but enough members had told him they didn’t care what he did with the machines if it mattered so much.

Three decisive knocks took his attention from the file he was only half-heartedly reading. It was past the hour people generally headed home for the day, but he had never been most people. More than that, he and Ms. Hale had a conversation they needed to have and she only now had gotten out of surgery.

Word on the ward was that it had not gone well.

Ms. Hale did not sweep in has she had before, proud and pugnacious. She was tired, faded. She’d dressed after surgery, but not reapplied her lipstick. He could not think of a better metaphor for how she looked than that faded cayenne.

“She had been a long-term patient of yours I’m told.” And quite the character too by all accounts. Sofia Grace ran a hand through her curls.

“Yes.”

“Your proposal passed, with amendment. We will keep the equipment but move it out of the bay and downstairs with the less frequently used machines.”

“Thank you.” She gave him a small nod before turning her attention to his chessboard once again, slim fingers brushing over the pieces. “I was out of line today. I’m sorry.” The apology was so unexpected he wouldn’t even complain about the way her eyes failed to meet his. Or even look at him.

“Yes. You were.”

“I should have trusted your word when you said you were bringing the matter to the board. I certainly jumped the gun in the most dramatic way possible.” He couldn’t help the dark chuckle. That was putting it mildly. “More than that, I crossed a line. I should have never even remotely suggested that I have a monopoly on compassion or that you do not care for your patients or the wellbeing of the hospital more broadly. And for that I am sorry.”

He was not expecting that.

Apologies were not natural for him. He did not give them easily nor did he know how to accept them.

“Yes, well.” Awkwardly he cleared his throat. “If you are going to continue to work here, Ms. Hale, you’re going to have to learn to trust me.  I am not the enemy.”

“I guess we shall see then.” She picked up a white knight from the board, turning the piece over and over in her fingers. It was not the response he expected.

“See what?”

“If I’m still working here for one.” She raised her eyes to his, slowly. “If I’ll trust you. If you’re not the enemy.”

“Everything I have done and everything I will do is for the good of this hospital.” Her dark eyes twinkled at him.

“You certainly believe that.”

“I do.” He replied firmly. “Have some faith in me, Ms. Hale, if only a little.”

“I will try.” She said firmly and then placed the knight back on the chessboard, not in its original place but out into the field. “It’s your move.”

[worldofikat]

Unlocking Style: Embrace Elegance with Ikat Dresses and Kurtas

Introduction

In the world of fashion, certain textiles stand out for their unique charm and cultural significance. One such fabric is ikat, renowned for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Ikat dresses and kurtas, in particular, have gained widespread popularity for their timeless elegance and versatility. Let's delve into the fascinating world of ikat fashion, exploring its history, artistry, styling tips, and more.

Understanding Ikat

Ikat is a dyeing technique that involves resist dyeing yarns before they are woven into fabric, creating intricate patterns and designs. This ancient technique is practiced in various cultures around the world, including India, Indonesia, Japan, and Central Asia. The word "ikat" itself is derived from the Indonesian word "mengikat," which means to tie or bind.

The process of creating ikat patterns is labor-intensive and requires meticulous attention to detail. Artisans tie or bind sections of yarn with resist material, such as wax or thread, before dyeing them. The tied sections resist the dye, resulting in distinct patterns when the yarns are woven together. This process can be repeated multiple times with different colors to create intricate designs.

What sets ikat apart from other textiles is its blurred edges and slightly imperfect patterns, giving it a unique handmade charm. Each piece of ikat fabric tells a story of craftsmanship and tradition, making it a cherished textile in the world of fashion and beyond.

The Artistry of Ikat Dresses

Ikat dresses are celebrated for their striking patterns and effortless elegance. Whether it's a flowing maxi dress or a fitted sheath, ikat dresses come in a variety of styles to suit every taste and occasion. From bold geometric motifs to delicate floral designs, the possibilities with ikat are endless.

One of the most fascinating aspects of ikat dresses is the cultural significance behind the patterns. In many cultures, ikat designs hold symbolic meaning, representing elements of nature, spirituality, or community. For example, in India, certain ikat motifs are associated with auspicious occasions such as weddings and festivals.

Styling an ikat dress is a creative endeavor, allowing individuals to express their personal style while honoring a rich tradition of craftsmanship. Pairing an ikat maxi dress with sandals and a straw hat creates a laid-back bohemian look, perfect for summer outings or beach vacations. For a more polished ensemble, a fitted ikat sheath dress can be accessorized with heels and statement jewelry for a night out on the town.

Styling Tips for Ikat Dresses

Choose accessories that complement the colors and patterns of the ikat dress.

Experiment with layering by adding a denim jacket or cardigan for a casual yet chic look.

Play with different silhouettes and lengths to find the perfect ikat dress for your body type.

Consider the occasion when styling your ikat dress, opting for more casual accessories for daytime events and dressier options for evening affairs.

Don't be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures for a fashion-forward look that reflects your individuality.

Exploring Ikat Kurta

The Ikat kurta is a timeless garment that seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary style. Originating from India, the kurta is a loose-fitting tunic-like garment that can be worn by both men and women. What sets ikat kurta apart is the intricate patterns and vibrant colors that adorn the fabric, adding a touch of elegance to any ensemble.

One of the defining characteristics of the ikat kurta is its versatility. Whether you're attending a casual gathering or a formal event, there's an ikat kurta style to suit every occasion. The possibilities for kurtas range from plain cotton ones for everyday use to beautifully embroidered silk ones for special occasions.

When it comes to styling an ikat kurta, the key is to let the garment take center stage. Pairing a vibrant ikat kurta with neutral bottoms allows the intricate patterns and bold colors to shine. For a casual daytime look, opt for a relaxed-fit ikat kurta paired with jeans or leggings and sandals. To dress up your ensemble for evening events, choose a more tailored ikat kurta in a luxurious silk or cotton silk blend, paired with trousers or a skirt and statement jewelry.

Ways to Style Ikat Kurta

Experiment with different lengths and cuts of ikat kurtas to find the perfect fit for your body type.

Accessorize your ikat kurta with traditional Indian jewelry such as jhumkas, bangles, and anklets for a festive touch.

For a modern twist, layer your ikat kurta over a plain t-shirt or blouse and pair it with denim or culottes.

Complete your look with a pair of ethnic footwear, such as juttis or mojaris, to add an authentic touch to your ensemble.

Where to Find Authentic Ikat Dresses and Kurtas

Finding authentic ikat dresses and kurtas can be a rewarding experience, as it allows you to support artisans and craftsmen who have dedicated their lives to preserving this ancient tradition. Here are some places where you can find authentic Ikat garments:

Specialty Boutiques: Many boutique stores specializing in ethnic and traditional wear offer a curated selection of ikat dresses and kurtas. These boutique stores often source their garments directly from artisans and cooperatives, ensuring authenticity and quality.

Online Platforms: E-commerce platforms such as Etsy, Amazon, and independent online stores are excellent resources for purchasing authentic ikat dresses and kurta. Look for sellers who provide detailed descriptions and photographs of their products, along with information about the artisans and communities behind the garments.

Craft Fairs and Exhibitions: Attend craft fairs, exhibitions, and cultural events in your area to discover a wide range of handcrafted ikat garments. These events often feature artisans and cooperatives showcasing their latest creations, giving you the opportunity to interact directly with the makers and learn more about the art of ikat weaving.

Artisan Cooperatives: Many artisan cooperatives and organizations work tirelessly to promote and preserve traditional crafts such as ikat weaving. By purchasing directly from these cooperatives, you can ensure that your investment goes directly to the artisans and their communities, supporting sustainable livelihoods and cultural heritage.

Caring for Your Ikat Garments

Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your ikat dresses and kurtas. Follow these tips to ensure your precious garments remain vibrant and in pristine condition:

Hand Washing: It's best to hand wash ikat garments in cold water using a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the delicate fibers and colors of the fabric. Gently swish the garment in the water, taking care not to wring or twist it excessively.

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Ikat fabrics are susceptible to fading when exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. To prevent color fading, avoid hanging your ikat garments in direct sunlight when drying or storing them. Instead, dry them in the shade or indoors, away from sunlight.

Air Drying: After washing, gently squeeze out excess water from the garment and lay it flat on a clean towel to air dry. Avoid hanging ikat garments on clotheslines or hangers, as this can cause stretching and distortion of the fabric. Reshape the garment while it's still damp to maintain its original silhouette.

Storage: Store your ikat dresses and kurtas in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use padded hangers or fold them neatly to prevent creasing and distortion of the fabric. Consider storing them in breathable garment bags to protect them from dust and insects.

Dry Cleaning: If your ikat garment has intricate embellishments or delicate fabrics, consider taking it to a professional dry cleaner experienced in handling delicate textiles. Be sure to inform the dry cleaner about the specific care requirements of ikat fabrics to ensure proper treatment.

Ironing: If necessary, iron your ikat garments on a low to medium heat setting while they are still slightly damp. Use a pressing cloth or iron the garment inside out to protect the delicate patterns and colors of the fabric. Avoid using steam, as it can cause the colors to bleed or fade.

Embracing Sustainable Fashion with Ikat

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness and appreciation for sustainable fashion practices, and ikat textiles have emerged as a frontrunner in the movement towards eco-friendly clothing. Here's how Ikat contributes to sustainable fashion and its environmental benefits:

Natural Materials: Ikat fabrics are typically made from natural fibers such as cotton, silk, or wool, which are biodegradable and renewable resources. Unlike synthetic fabrics made from petroleum-based materials, natural fibers have minimal environmental impact and decompose naturally over time.

Traditional Craftsmanship: The production of ikat textiles often involves traditional hand-weaving techniques passed down through generations. By supporting artisanal craftsmanship, consumers contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage and sustainable livelihoods in weaving communities.

Low Environmental Footprint: Compared to mass-produced textiles, the production process of ikat fabrics has a relatively low environmental footprint. Traditional dyeing methods use natural dyes derived from plant sources, reducing the use of harmful chemicals and pollutants.

Minimal Waste: The handcrafted nature of ikat weaving results in minimal waste during production. Artisans carefully plan and execute their designs, maximizing the use of yarns and minimizing leftover materials. Any scraps or offcuts generated during the weaving process can be repurposed or recycled.

Longevity and Timelessness: Ikat garments are renowned for their durability and timeless appeal. Unlike fast fashion trends that come and go, ikat textiles are cherished for their enduring beauty and quality craftsmanship, encouraging consumers to invest in pieces that stand the test of time.

Community Empowerment: By supporting fair trade practices and ethical sourcing, consumers can empower weaving communities and contribute to sustainable development initiatives. Fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for skill development are essential components of a sustainable fashion supply chain.

Educational Opportunities: Promoting awareness and appreciation for traditional textile arts such as ikat weaving can inspire future generations to value sustainability and cultural diversity. Educational programs and initiatives aimed at preserving traditional crafts play a vital role in fostering a more sustainable fashion industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the allure of Ikat dresses and kurtas lies not only in their timeless elegance and vibrant patterns but also in their contribution to sustainable fashion practices and cultural heritage preservation. From the intricate artistry of ikat weaving to the versatility of styling options, these garments offer a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

As consumers, we have the power to make informed choices that support ethical and sustainable fashion practices. By investing in authentic ikat garments, we not only enrich our wardrobes with pieces that tell a story of craftsmanship and tradition but also contribute to the well-being of artisans and weaving communities around the world.

Let us continue to celebrate the beauty and cultural significance of ikat textiles, embracing them as symbols of style, sustainability, and global connectivity. Whether it's a vibrant ikat dress for a special occasion or a classic ikat kurta for everyday wear, let your fashion choices reflect your values and commitment to a more sustainable future.

As we journey through the world of fashion, may we always remember the rich tapestry of history and tradition that inspires us and guides our choices. Let ikat be more than just a fabric—it's a testament to the enduring beauty of human creativity and craftsmanship. So, let's unlock our style and embrace the elegance of ikat dresses and kurtas with pride and reverence.

[sian22redux]

Pretty Woman

For  @star-spangled-man-with-a-plan ‘s  Body Positivity Challenge.

Pairing:  Plus size reader x Steve Rogers x Bucky Barnes

Setting: Post Infinity War, the world has magically gone back to normal…

Rating: T

For the gorgeous @winters-beauty because she really likes this type of challenge.

 With a prompt like “your body is not ruined”  I know most folks are thinking of post-pregnancy or something but I’ve gone a different way, based on my own recent experiences.  This is post major illness where reader has to adjust to change. Hence some of her reactions here are based on loss of health of course, and control, and having to adjust to a new reality.  

 Fortunately her two guys have some experience with that.  

--------------------------

“Help!!”

The panicked cry that suddenly tumbles from your mouth brings your boyfriends running from the living room.

“Y/N?! Jarvis!?”  Steve is the first to skid to a halt at the bedroom door, blond brows creasing in anxiety and hands glued to the frame, ready to propel himself against whatever threat lurks inside.  His frown and tanned bulk take up all the open space, block the escape route as he quickly scans the room, reconning automatically for any one of several unpleasant situations.  

Intruder?  

Explosion? 

Lethal virus?

Nope.  

Nothing quite so deserving of an American hero’s skills.

Just your dumb rotten luck.  

“All is secure, Captain Rogers,” intones Jarvis mildly from above the massive closet door and you almost, almost laugh, because-- secure.   Great choice of verb.   Thanks.  Thanks so very much.  Now the AI is making jokes..

Bucky arrives a heartbeat behind and elbows Steve aside, squeezing through to stand worriedly at the cream carpet’s edge.  “Baby, what’s wrong?”

What’s wrong?!!!

James Buchanan Barnes allegedly has super-vision.   How can he not fricken’ see?!  

“I’m stuck!!!”

You stand poised in the middle of your bright and airy Tower bedroom wondering how life came to this.  There’s a tankini top caught about your chest and upper arms that’s mashing tender skin. The matching boxer briefs are wedged halfway up your ample thighs, their blue elastic pinching so hard it just might bruise.  

Secure.  

Yup.  

Impossibly. Hopelessly. Secure.

The frustration of this new reality makes you want to howl but it is the humiliation of standing there, inextricably pinned by two small scraps of cloth, that sends the tears silently coursing down your cheeks.   It was hopeless from the start.  There is no way you will get your one and only (and favourite) bathing suit on.  

Now, or possibly forever.  

The realization is truly sinking in.

“My body is ruined!”

Your plaintive wail jerks Bucky into action.  He leaps forward, slips both arms around your shoulders, braces you upright, murmuring “No doll, your body is not ruined,” softly against your hair, stroking your shuddering back as the dam bursts wide and months of pent up hurt flow out in a hiccupping, sobbing mess.  Steve, as always hyper focused on the mission, has figured out that rescue and extraction are the first priority and so he bends down and stretches the suit’s leg holes wide with his two strong hands, taking care not to tear the fabric.  Gingerly he shimmies the blue-aqua ikat print farther down-- the tugging is uncomfortable but eventually he helps you lift one foot and then the other, sets the bottoms on the bed and turns his attention to the top.  

Push, pull, wiggle—swear--- somehow he manages to remove it without tearing skin.  

You’re finally, finally free and he’s holding you, a wet and snotty, naked bundle of anxiety against his massive chest, crooning softly, “Shhh, baby, it’s ok. It’s ok.”

It’s really not.

“Here, sweetheart.”   A damp facecloth is pressed into your hand.   “Better?” Bucky’s eyes are blue green wells of hopefulness as he passes extra Kleenex for you to blow your nose and oh so delicately dabs aloe from a bottle onto the pad of his metal index finger.  

Oh god, he’s already retreated to the bathroom for supplies.   Each ensuing whisper light, achingly considerate touch of cool against the red welts upon your skin makes you want to tear up again.  Inside the chill, implacable shell of the Winter Soldier there had been trapped the world’s sweetest, gentlest man.  One who has a need to help, cannot stand to see anyone even slightly hurt, and the thought that he’s so tenderly helping you just slays you.  

Sniffing loudly, you dab your eyes and try to smile a little brokenly because you are beyond grateful but also, this is all so wrong.  “Thank you.”

Bucky nods.  Dark and gold, your boys rotate around and now Steve is at your back.  He sits on the one free bit of bed and pulls you down onto his lap with Bucky crouching down beside.  

Both are tense—and worried.  You’ve all been so looking forward to this break—to the Memorial day getaway that Tony is throwing at his Hampton house.  Laid back, weathered wood and chicly elegant white and grey, it is a sprawling haven. Rattan loungers surround an endless pool.  Acres of green lawn will host hilariously drunk croquet.  The beachside fire will glow below a vault of coruscating stars.  

Perfect and all perfectly organized by your boss, Miss Potts.  

Wheels up is at six.  

The sun is climbing quickly to its zenith, baking New York’s already heated streets and anyone who can is trying to find relief.  Bucky’s got on a linen shirt and dark boardshorts.  Steve is as dressy as he ever is in grey t-shirt and zip-off cargos.  You would have donned your sundress by now but around the three of you lie scattered a flurry of discarded summer clothes—like so much sediment rained out of a clear blue sea 

Not a single item fits.  

You’ve been sick for months.   Actually a year.   Have lost the permanent lines of pain and the wan pale skin of too much time indoors but still you are not yourself.  Eight months of steroid treatment have left you drained.  Bloated.   Living in your housecoat and nightclothes on a bad day and in sweats when it’s good.  

The fact that this is the first big event since you’ve been somewhat well stares you in the face.  Online you’d bought needed winter things but no warm weather items yet.  You’d been holding off in the faint hope you’d lose a little more.  But summer is arrived—early and abruptly--quite rudely without consideration of your schedule.  A drizzly week ago the mercury had barely climbed to sixty.   Now it’s a sweltering 82 

“I can’t go.”  

You hate yourself for saying it out loud but a little tendril of relief coils up.  You literally can’t get your suit on.  What will you do?  Hide in the house in jeans and rolled up sleeves?  Flounder in one of Steve’s fabled smedium T-shirts?  Wear one of Bucky’s as a dress??

Cocooning the whole time in the air conditioning feels as if it is giving in to debility once again.

“Steve, will you tell Tony that I’m sick?”

You twist round to catch his gaze but immediately you hear Bucky’s snarking response beside.  “Oh yeah, ask him to fib.  The one with experience lying on his forms.”

“Punk.”  

“Jerk.”   

“Hey!  I’m not the one who has the world bamboozled into thinking that I’m squeaky clean.”

“Fuck off, Buck.”

“Bingo!”

They’re quite the team---put on the squabbling couple act to try to cheer you up and you can’t help it, you shake your head in fond exasperation.  The thoughtfulness is sweet, but still, there’s a little hollow in your stomach.  They’ve done this so very much in the past few months the routine is pitch perfect every time.  

“You are meatballs, the both of you.”  

Bucky shrugs and gives a wry half smirk but Steve sighs heavily, running a soothing hand across your neck where the nerve pain has been worst.  “Your meatballs, Y/N.  But Baby, why?  You’re not hurting badly are you?”

Oh god.   Of course Steve’s going to worry about your symptoms.  Checking in, adjusting to their ups and downs, has become automatic.  You remember for a moment that first night of terror: the sudden jolt as if you’d been hit by a cattle prod, the fuzzy return to consciousness, speech slurred, left arm dead, a raging headache piercing through your skull and radiating down your neck.  Steve yelling at Jarvis to get the EMTs, all but certain it was a stroke. The week in hospital and months horizontal after that.  One night of terror turns into every night.  The seizures hit like clockwork.  Make you afraid to fall asleep because you’re going to get that same electrical shock to brain and the spreading flush of pain.   Every damn night.   Your arm, thankfully, comes back but that doesn’t stop it’s throbbing for a moment.  You feel guilty all the time because they are doing everything. Making meals. Cleaning.  Laundry.  Shopping. Shuttling you to doctors.  One of them insists on staying back from missions because you need so much help.  Neither will let anyone else but them take care of you most days, and so the Avengers do their best.  Run errands and make meals.  Read to you when the headache makes words slide across the page.  Distract Steve and Bucky with needed sparring bouts when all you can do is be still and quiet in a darkened room.  

While the medical team tries cocktails of different things, you all wait and hope.  Hoo boy is that fun.  There’s the one that makes you stoned.   The one that doesn’t work at all but gives you vertigo.  The one that works too well and makes you sleep twenty hours out of twenty-four.  The big gun intravenous med has Shield Medical quickly flushing you with ice water as you break out in hives and wheezing.   It’s supposed to slow the reaction down and so the intern stands frowning at the ensuing full body shaking, wondering if it’s progressed to an anaphylactic phase.

Buck speaks up right away when you can’t answer through chattering teeth. “It’s hypothermia.  You’ve cooled her down too fast.”

“Hypothermia?!”

“Trust me. I’ve seen it.”  

You’d all laughed grimly about that one afterward.  Finally, finally there came the med that worked.   The one that you’ll take forever.  It’s literally saved your life but this miraculous godsend is not without its downside.  

It’s number one side effect is weight gain.

Your gaze falls on the forlorn heap of lycra.  Pretty. Flattering to your curvy figure that both guys love.  It shows off your assets perfectly.  

But is now probably four sizes smaller than you need.

Would it be too much for life to not pile this on you too???   You take a deep breath and try to regain some equilibrium.  You don’t want either Steve or Buck to worry—to think that you aren’t well—but this particular problem isn’t one they’ll have not thought much on before.  “No,” you answer slowly. “It’s not that, I feel ok.” Two sets of shoulders droop, relieved. “But I can’t go in winter clothes. And I have nothing that will fit.”    

This not the cry of a spoiled pampered thing who just wants something new. Literally nothing fits.  Not shorts or skirts. Your favourite capris won’t go past your hips.  The dresses don’t do up.  Even the light evening sweater that doesn’t need to meet in front has arms so tight you’d had to peal it off inside out.  

Utterly humiliating.  

And absolutely a real and present problem.  The East coast has its first summer heat wave early.  When you asked Jarvis that morning what the temperature was outside he’d responded,  “Sir says it’s not fit for man or dog.”  

“I have to cancel going.”

Steve rises and sets you lightly on your feet.  His jaw is set, face intense and determined, and you know he’s thinking ‘no’.  That you shouldn’t give in to this disease.  Let it get in the way of life unless it’s really necessary.  

“I can’t.”   You’re pleading.  Still smarting from the too-tight straps and feeling totally demoralized. Bucky reaches out to grasp your hand while Steve pads silently over to the giant walk-in closet, rummages for the lightest weight sweats you own, holding them out hopefully. You know Tony will be so bummed. He’ll mope.  And pout.  But you can’t face it.  Hiding inside or broiling outside alongside everyone in bathing suits will only make you feel more pathetic than you already do 

You shake your head at the fuzzy mass of grey.  “You go. They’re used to me missing things.  What’s one more weekend?”

Steve sees the certainty in your eyes and does not try to argue on that point but neither does he back down.  

“We’ve just got you back.  Are so, so grateful you are ok.   We just want to see you enjoying yourself again.”  

His eyes are dark like a midnight sea.  Bucky is nodding, setting the sweats aside and handing you your undies and loose shirt and generous jeans from where they were flung across a chair.   When you take them and slowly begin to dress he crosses his arms, a shaft of sun winking off the metal.  

“Not without you, doll.”  

Not fair.  Those are words he knows will work, go straight to the heart of the little triad you have built, and then Steve of course piles it on.   “That’s right.  You don’t go, we don’t go.  We are a team.”  

Amazing, remarkable, wondrous stubborn idiots.  They are awfully hard to cross when they gang up.  

Nervously, you smooth down your dark ponytail and take a steadying breath. “I know.  It’s just…”  

What?   Too hard?

You look at the two gorgeous and true men you are all but married to. Never in your wildest dreams had you imagined you’d wind up here.   Assisting (and being a good friend to) Pepper Potts while she assists the world.  Living in Avengers Tower.   Smoothing out the rough between two lovers who have dared time and space to be together.   They need you so very much that they’ve taken a risk on something quite unorthodox, and though sometimes it makes you want to pinch yourself, lately you’ve just wanted wake up out of the nightmare.  Focusing on yourself.  And forgetting how much they sacrifice.  

Every day.  For everyone.

You swallow hard, trying to gather the shreds of your confidence and explain the lump that sits brooding on your chest.  “I didn’t anticipate this would happen.  Didn’t think ahead.”  

Steve smiles sadly, and you let him take you in his arms, kiss the top of your head and pull back to look sombrely down again.   “Y/N, you’ve been so strong.  So incredible.  And Buck and I have watched you wrestle with this thing, amazed.  Proud of your will to find a way.  It should have made you crazy long ago and I get it.  I do.  This feels like too much.  This one extra thing.”  

Your nodding, realizing that if anyone does understand it’s him. Steve lived with chronic illness.  Several of them in fact.  Asthma. Heart arrhythmia. Scoliosis. Anaemia.  Ulcers.  All of them had plagued him for most of the twenty-five years before the serum.

You’ve been in the fight for not even two.  

“But what am I going do?” you whisper a little mournfully.   If you have to you’ll wear your sweatpants.  Maybe you can cut them off?  Maybe you can cut the arms off your tops?  They’ll look hideous but you won’t broil like a lobster in a pot.  “Can we butcher something that already fits?”

“No, Y/N, not necessary.”  Steve checks his watch and glances to the lightweight packs stacked neatly by the door. “T minus six hours.  There’s lots of time.  I’m packed and so is Buck.  Betcha we can get you stuff and be back by two.”

“Stuff?”  Does he realize what he’s saying?  Four days worth of clothes?  When you need every little thing?

Bucky, curls in behind, chuckling at the incredulity in your tone. “We all can do it baby.  In record time.  And the one of us with taste will even help you pick outfits.”

“Hey!”  Steve, mock-affronted, swats him on the rear.  

From your safe spot in the middle of the sandwich you heave a sigh. Perhaps just a suit and top and shorts would be enough.  The weekend’s casual.  You can get away without a dress.  Survive being seen in the same clothes for days.  The guys do it on missions all the time and heck, Clint lives in black and purple. And Thor in red and silver.

Bucking up your courage, you scrub the wet from your cheeks and are about to acquiesce when something Steve said pings.  

It’s Bucky who is the clothes horse.  Knows his style.  Enjoys taking risks.  Steve is simpler.  He gravitates to clean lines, simple shirts and slacks.  Nothing flashy but he appreciates well made.

He’ll accept finer things that you bring him home but if it’s left to him—it’s online all the way.  

He loathes shopping.  

With the fiery passion of a hundred suns.  

“All?” you ask, incredulous.    

“Yup.  We are team. All three of us will help.”  Steve cocks his head and stares up to the ceiling. “Jarvis can you patch me through to Tony?”

“Right away Captain.”

From above, you catch Pepper’s clear, ringing tones behind Tony’s rapid-fire, just slightly high and excited baritone “Stark’s house of mojitos and margaritas. What’s up Rogers?  We’re pre-drinking here. I’m collecting the eye-watering Hawaiian shirts and Pepper’s making me put the new toys back.”  

“Anthony!”  Pepper is mortified.  You’re blushing and Bucky barks out a laugh.  Steve’s shaking his head and grinning ear to ear, but truthfully the thought of Tony Stark tinkering with items from Frisky Friday?  

Should make all of you a little scared.

“Tony do you still have that limo?”

“Of course I do, Captain Obvious.  Bentley’s Mulsanne for eight.  Tan leather.  Naim audio and bluetooth headphones.  Retrofitted with Stark screens of course.  Whhhyyyyyy?”  

The insatiably curious head of your group absolutely has to know.

Steve grins and pops a quick kiss on your nose.  “We need it.  We’re going on an emergency shopping trip.

The reaction from two floors up is immediate.  

“Holy shit!”

------------------------

Of course Tony calls ahead.  

You stand in the bright but not too intimidating plus size boutique attended by the solicitous and friendly owner.  She is very nice. You force yourself not to apologize, to not make excuses for your size.  It’s ridiculous.  Being not thin is not a crime.  Or a tragedy. Or even actually a choice but it is so hard to go against the conditioning of thirty years.  

Why are you letting all that crap get inside your head? Ridiculous.  Time to be positive and so you force yourself to relax and let yourself be waited on.    

The owner brings armloads of practical and pretty and flattering styles that mix and match—can be a basis to add to later.  For two hours Steve and Bucky sit in the ‘boyfriend chairs’ and help.. Steve has a black-one sugar coffee, Bucky has a latte and his phone is in his hand. He’s helpfully checking for the latest styles..offering opinions as you come out and model each new thing.   They’re both laughing and joking, trash talking each other’s sense of style and seemingly enjoying the experience as you try on an entire wardrobe.  Two bathing suits, two shorts, navy capris, four tops, one light coverup and two sundresses.   In basic colours that all go together and will get you at least through a week with washing once.

“That’s enough,” you insist, feeling a bit tired and hot from all the changing, wondering what the damage to your credit card will be.  You haven’t worked since all this landed down.  And though Stark Industries has great disability insurance, you feel like you shouldn’t go too nuts.

“But you should have one tank, I think” the owner adds, frowning thoughtfully at all the cap-sleeved tees.  “In case there is a day that is very hot.”

Hmm. She has a point.  The weekend is slated to go from broiling to thermonuclear, but you’d steered away from thinner straps, a little worried at how they’d look.

“Go for it, Y/N!”  Bucky enthuses and Steve nods encouragingly and so you warily take a few wider banded versions into the dressing room.  Tug them down over your head, prepared for a pair of hastily stifled frowns.  

The reaction you get is not what you expect.    

Steve’s frowning, concentrating seriously like you’ve never seen, asessing the three different combinations like the fate of the world is riding on this choice. Finally he speaks up.  “I really like that one.”

You turn to give yourself a better view in the three way mirror.  The actually super comfortable white shorts have a broad waistband that flexes gently and doesn’t bind.  They’re topped by a just slightly flared, surprisingly flattering tank in black with grey overstitching.   Modern and sleek, it moves with you–and as you move Steve’s nodding.  

You glance back at Buck.  His head is tilted, long hair falling across his face as he peruses the combo with as much consideration as he gives a gun.  Which means serious consideration.  “The shape is great, Y/N, but the colour isn’t right.”  He rises up and heads unerringly for the rack it came from, picking out the same top in pale shell pink and walking back, holding it up against your shoulder.  “I think this is better against your colouring.“

You’re amazed.  Now that is getting into the spirit of the thing but still you bite your lip, thinking black is more neutral, but what do you have to lose? Why not try?

When you return and show it off, Steve smiles and the owner looks admiringly at Bucky and nods her head. “You are exactly right Mr. Barnes and pink is this summer’s colour.”

He is right, it’s a warmer tone and makes your skin look less sallow.  You feel better in it.  Surprisingly.  The top goes into the keep pile and Bucky grins, sitting down and stretching out, lacing his hands behind his head and making a face at Steve as if to say ‘I’m not the one to steer you wrong.’  

The gesture gets Steve’s dander up.  The game is on, and no one, no one, gets more competitive then Steve Rogers when he is the mood.  

“Try this…”  

Oh my god he’s actually picked up a sheerly pretty, ice blue strappy top from a rack, the dainty hanger looking hilariously tiny in his massive hands.   Can you wear something that—delicate?   Your brain had been kind of thinking of a heavier cover up….  

“Try it baby.”  He looks so sure of himself and Bucky’s nodding encouragingly and the owner is saying how the only rule is ‘do you like it?” and so you put it on.  The slightly ruffled asymmetric edges look sexy and cool against jean shorts and all of you agree---- it and the shorts are perfect.  

Both are to be kept but then Bucky will not be outdone.  He stalks around the shop, metal fingers quickly riffling through the wares, obviously searching for something exactly right.  

The owner hovers politely just behind.  “Mr. Barnes? Can I help.”

“Bucky,” he answers automatically.  “Nope. I will know it when I see it. 

Finally he pulls out a complicated looking fall of pale leaf green and holds it up.   It’s gorgeous.  And absolutely sexy.  A halter top that falls softly to a just slightly fuller base.   With an oval opening in the back and cut-out, slightly gathered sleeves that will leave your shoulders and upper arms quite spectacularly bare.  

You shake your head.  “I can’t.”  

“It will be perfect with your eyes.”  He’s right on that—it will bring the green highlights in your hazel eyes to life, but it’s seems waaay too revealing.  Your upper arms aren’t toned.  Your collarbones don’t show.  Your…

“Y/N?”  Steve rises and slides over to give your shoulders a quick reassuring squeeze.   His ocean eyes are pleading like a puppy dog’s.  “Please?  I’d love to see you in it.”

How can you resist both of them?

Cautiously you come back out and give a little twirl.  It’s flirty and sexy and both guys’ eyes light up right away.  

“Wow.”  

Their comment is in unison.  It is really, really nice, flirty and soft and it makes you even feel a little sexy.  Steve says he also loves the blocky heeled, buff sandals the owner has paired it with.  Bucky is raving about the stretch skinny jeans.  You frown at the size of the ‘keep’ pile.  

It’s growing.  The owner has suggested a really workable set of combinations and there is even a silky printed scarf to give one dress a little bling for evening.  

The thought of the bill is a little daunting but you do need longer pants if one evening turns out cool…

Bucky leans back in the chair and confidently crosses his arms across his chest.  “Buy it all, Y/N.”   Steve nods and gives you one of his precious sunrise smiles.   “We’re a team.  We’ll divide the bill up equally.  Don’t stint yourself.”  

That is so considerate and so very generous.  “You don’t need to…” you begin, but Steve cuts you off.   “We do.  We want you to feel comfortable and relaxed in what you wear, too feel confident.   We can afford it,” he adds and Bucky laughs. 

“Easily.  All he ever buys is paint and vinyl records.”

Steve rolls his eyes.  “And all he ever buys is knives and books.”  

True.  But not necessarily a reason for them to spoil you.  

Bucky turns and takes your hand in his metal one, raises it to his lips and plants a kiss, cementing the argument with one last, cajoling grin.  “After all you’ve been through don’t you think you deserve a treat?”  

Your heart melts a little bit.  Well. Then.  

The loot is packaged up and rung through while you change into a sundress and leave the baggy sweats behind.

Outside the limousine driver nods appreciatively when you climb into the butter soft back seats with what feels like a mountain of tissue-covered packages.  It’s Barry. The soft spoken, grey bearded gentleman who had taken you to the rare doctor visits neither Steve or Buck could attend.  

“Miss Y/N, you look lovely. So nice to see you looking well.”  

Wow.

“Did you pay him?” you hiss to Bucky as you follow a laden Steve up into to the steel cocoon of the private elevator.

“Nope, doll, I sure didn’t.”

-------

Once you are ensconced back in your room again, the guys go off to see if Pepper needs any help while you take another run at packing.  There’s no time to triage.  All the small things that don’t fit are unceremoniously bundled by the armload and stuffed into bags to store.  You set the small suitcase on the bed and start to transfer the new items in.  Dresses and pants on the bottom.  Tops and shorts and smalls rolled up to make up space.  Your toiletries go next.  And then your meds.  Six pills a day on top of the injection.  It comes with its own travel pack—freezer bag to keep it cool, mini disposal for the cartridges.  You tuck in your flip flops and eye the new sandals that Steve liked so much.  Should you bring them?  Will there be a chance to wear them?  Can you walk in heels for long after a year of bunny slippers 

Will anyone notice with Nat’s and Maria’s killer bodies in swimsuits?  

With Pepper in her perfect three inch heels?  

Who are you kidding?  They are all so gorgeous and thin and fit and you are white like a beluga whale. Of course all of them will be so nice, will go out of their way to make positive, encouraging remarks.  Of course Thor, oblivious, will make booming allusions to some obscure ancient goddess of fertility. Of course Tony, overcompensating, will ridiculously call you Marilyn, and Raquel and.. and…

Your courage throws a wobbly.  

You are wearing the new sundress with the yellow print.  It’s presentable and even pretty but turning now in front of the long length mirror that you’ve avoided looking in for months, you see it.  

The rolls that dip and dive along your back.  The bow outward of the bodice where your stomach sags.  Even with this being size XL. 

Dissolving onto the nearby bench, you place your hands across your face and struggle not to cry.  You love the Stark Beach House.  It was actually the place you first realized the months long flirtation with the Avengers’ supersoldiers was more than a bit of harmless fun.  Under hazy stars and moon, the softest of night breezes, you’d raised your cocktail to your lips and caught their eyes meet in glance.  Accept the truth.  Find the courage to admit.

They’d fallen.  For you, just as you had for them, and no matter how complicated, how messy it is to be three they wanted this.  The whole world knew Steve Rogers and Bucky Barnes are an item.  Indivisible and forged like steel by the vicissitudes of life. It just didn’t know they felt incomplete without a third.  Someone softer.   Who could fill in the chips and hollows, let them focus on something other than themselves. 

One different man came out of Greenland’s ice.  

One different man came out of Siberia’s wastes.  

Both of them understand in their DNA how hard it is to start again. That you are mourning.  For a life that is irrevocably changed.   No one’s breathed a word of you returning to work as yet but you know it will be hard.  Some mornings you’ve staggered into the common room, dopey from the night time meds and poured coffee into your orange juice.   Some weeks doctor visits and movies dates are equally lost in fog.  

Steve says not to worry, take baby steps, understand that pain builds fatigue and fatigue leads to forgetfulness but then you think of the insanely together, curvy woman with the photographic memory and talent for keeping track of every tiny detail.

Gone.  

You will never be that woman again..

You hang your head and cry.

-------------

  “Y/N?!”  

It’s Bucky.  He’s walking in, probably coming to see how soon you will be done and it doesn’t help. “I’m sorry. Sorry..I just…”  

He’s leaning over your half-zipped bag, biting his lip, one tendril of sable hair sweeping across his cheek.  Perfect dimple and chiselled jaw darkened by just a day or so of stubble.  

The sight catches at your breath.  

How?  How could so gorgeous, sexy a man want me??   How could Steve?  Painted golden as a perfect sunrise.  Inside and out.

The tears leak out again.  

Confused, surprised, you think, at the waterworks. Bucky straightens up.  “Baby what’s wrong?”  

You wave your hands at your body.  “You can’t find me attractive like this!   You both are so perfect and I look so…“  

Fat.  

The word is clinically quite simple but in practise it is so complicated. All too often meant to demean.  Trolls on the internet toss it negligently when they want to put someone down. ‘Fat slob.’ “Cow.’  ‘Porky’ may be gentler but the message is the same.  Appearance is all.    As if weight happens because you’re slovenly.  Or stupid.  Or worth less than someone else.  

It is so wrong but thinking judgementally is very so hard to banish when you’ve been bombarded by it for almost thirty years 

“Different..?”   Bucky’s eyebrows crash together into a familiar line of hurt.  “Y/N is that what you think our love is about?”  

“No. No!!’ you exclaim, mortified.  “I know you love me. I just..”  A little voice inside your head says ‘be honest. It’s the only way this will work.’

“I don’t want you to want me any less.”  

There.  You’ve said it.  In a whisper because it feels so unworthy.  Insignificant, when they’ve fought so hard to be together.  

But this worry has been clawing like a rat at your brain since the day you stopped being in so much pain.

Before nothing mattered but relief.  Now you feel better.  Mostly. You should want your guys, and the days you don’t feel so crap you sort of do.  

But there has been no sign of anything other than care and concern from them.  

Bucky’s face is a kaleidoscope of emotions.  Unsure of what he’ll do, you hold your breath, watch him sigh and cross over to the door. “Stevie, pal, can you come here?”  

He walks back to you with the saddest smile.  Warm and cool fingers hold your cheeks as he leans down to place a kiss upon your brow.   Hands glide down to rest upon your shoulders--the metal one, thanks to Shuri’s tech, barely heavier than the right.  

“Nothing.  Nothing could ever make me love you or want you any less.  Nothing.”  Bucky punctuates each word with a little shake.  “Wasn’t I the one who first noticed that exuberant, sexy smile?  Convinced Steve to take a chance?”  

You nod hesitantly.  He had been, and flirted too.  Hilariously. Brazenly.  You’d been so shocked.  It wasn’t until Steve ‘my tongue ties when I have to talk to women’ Rogers was enthralled, quizzing you about your peripatetic upbringing as unofficial assistant to globe-trotting famous scientist parents that you accepted it might be real.  He had touched your arm so casually and easily, fingers brushing lingeringly as he passed over a new drink, smile quirking just a touch seductively.

Magic.  And utterly irresistible.

It felt a lifetime between then and now, but in truth it was just three years.  

Steve arrives, exchanges an almost telepathic glance with Buck and quickly picks up the gist, reads the situation like a book as only he can do.  He leans in to hold his hand against your cheek, while the other cradles loosely at Bucky’s waist.  “You look beautiful.  And edible…” The feather touch wills a little of his certainty to seep in.  “Y/N, what makes you think that only one size is sexy?”  The genuinely bewildered tone usually reserved for odd parts of disco culture comes out.  This is one of the things that gets Steve’s dander up.  Disappoints him that it hasn’t progressed after seventy years of nap.  “That is flat out wrong.   Bigger or smaller, anything outside the ‘norm’ is bad. It’s crap.”

“Girls don’t get criticized for being skinny,” you blurt, not quick enough to block it in.  You flush, but in your defense.. it is true.  “There is no such thing as too thin for the magazines.”

“Screw the magazines,” Mr. ‘fight me’ growls.  “No one should be criticized for their body shape.”  

Bucky’s nodding.  “It is so demeaning.  In our time girls were made to feel inadequate for not being built like Rita Hayworth.  Flat chested was considered a disaster.  Guys were ragged on if they weren’t built like George Atlas.”  His gaze turns serious and he pulls you little circle closer, prosthetic hand tight on Steve’s shoulder, hair swaying back and forth as he vigorously shakes his head.  “That just isn’t how attraction works.  I have loved and wanted Steve since he was tiny as a matchstick.  So emaciated his hip bones fucking hurt when we were fucking.”

You gasp at the explicitness of the imagery.  Oh lord.  Yes that paints a picture.  Bucky grins and looks adoringly up at his boyfriend.  “I wanted him anyway.”

Steve drops a searingly hot kiss onto Buck’s lips before tearing his own away.  “You did.   Every day and twice on Sundays.”

This is not an earth-shattering revelation.  Bucky is the one with the raging libido.  ‘Hair trigger’ describes pretty much every part of him and honestly, you’d been too.   Before.  It was Steve who sometimes had too much in his head to play. Could not let the day’s anxieties quite go.  Wound himself in strategy until it took two to pull him down—a lion and lioness on their prey.  

The pair of them sexy snarking once again feels so good.  It’s been on hard mute of late.  

Steve runs a thumb thoughtfully across your lower lip.   “He loved and wanted me.  As I was..  Just like I love him for him.  And love you for you.”  The thumb trails down and deliberately runs along your collarbone, leaving precious, welcome little shivers in its wake.  “Y/N you are so sexy.  In every way. Every bit of you.  There is nothing to be unsure about.  You— curvy as you are,   you are perfect.   If we’ve held back from showing you, it’s because we didn’t want to pressure you into something if you weren’t ready.”  

Of course he has it exactly right.  Before, the constant pain and migraines had demolished your libido.  Constant worrying about you had killed theirs.  Bucky takes a deeper breath, leans in to leave a trail of butterfly kisses on your shoulder.  “I’m sorry we didn’t speak up sooner.  There is no way that you could look that would stop us wanting you.”    

He is reading your mind again—seeing that you worry your condition will change with time.  Relapse. It’s hard to entirely banish that fear.   “I’m not gonna go back the way I was,” you say forlornly.  

Steve hums and buzzes a sympathetic kiss upon your neck.  “Mhmmm.  The drug’s changed your metabolism… My serum won’t change either. Or Buck’s.”

“Don’t be so sure with Hydra tech,” Bucky mutters below his breath and Steve rolls his eyes expressively.   “The point is our change is permanent too.”

“But that’s not the same!”  You’re trying to not let your mouth hang wide open.  “You are both perfect since your change.  You’re gorgeous!”  

“So are you.”  Steve punctuates each word with a kiss.  “I get it, sweetheart, I really do. I don’t always love this body either.  Sometimes it just feels like a freak show, but I’ve learned to accept it’s me.”  

Steve? A freak?  This is not an adjective you associate him with.  He’s gorgeous.  Stunning. A perfect specimen of masculinity and that he wouldn’t be utterly thrilled to step into a machine and come out magically a new man has never occurred to you.  You know it hurt.  That he suffered for it.  But the change was absolutely for the better.

“But you’re strong?  And healthy now?!” you exclaim.

“Yes, and god knows it’s better than being sick all of the damn time but it isn’t me. In my head I’m still the matchstick.  There are days when I get caught off guard.  Feel big and clumsy.  And it’s not always such a thrill.”  He pulls a pouty face.  “Can’t turn off the heat that makes you two cuddle on the other side of the bed without me.”  

Bucky bumps him in the hip.  “Awww.  Rogers, you are such a sap.”  

“Unh hunh, well I’m your sap, pal. Forever.”  Steve reaches across your shoulder to kiss Buck’s cheek but then his eyes darken seriously.  “I am hungry all the goddamn time.  And it’s a crazy waste of money to buy custom everything.  Even T-shirts for crissake.”

That makes you smile.  It’s hard to take the frugal Irish boy of the Depression out of the modern man. “I kinda like it when you don’t and wear them a little tight.”  

Bucky grins and nods.  “And your pants.”   It is Steve’s turn to bump playfully at his boyfriend’s hip. “What?” Bucky’s eyes are wide and innocent.  He turns to you and becomes more serious, letting go Steve’s waist, turning his metal hand and flexing the matt black plates.  “I get it, too.  It is not easy to become used to looking different.  Took me ages to accept my arm.”   You nod a little hesitantly. You were not there when he first came back, broke his conditioning to seek out the man he loved, beyond time and all the cycles of the world. “I wanted to hack this thing right off.  Felt as if it wasn’t me.  I still catch myself in the mirror, seeing that, despite Shuri’s good work, I’m half a cyborg with a mass of scars.”  His tone turns low and serious.  “Do you find my naked body unattractive?”  

You gasp, appalled, reaching to catch his hand.  “No! Oh god, Buck no! It’s sexy as hell.  And your scars, they’re badges of bravery!”  

His eyebrow quirks.  “Yeah, love you babe for saying so but let’s be real.  I am a mass of metal and red keloid scar tissue.  Lots of it.  It’s not exactly conventional beauty pitched in the papers or TV.”  His flesh fingers dig into the junction of the prosthesis with his pec. “The internal struts at one time went in here.  The Wakandan version is far lighter and easier but I feel it still.“  

“Buck.”   Steve’s reaches to squeeze his left bicep as Bucky sighs and then his eyes drop to catch your gaze. “It’s taken a lot of time for me to feel it’s a part of me. Accept that I am sexy with it.  Give yourself time.  You will feel it too.  There is no one size or shape for sexy.”

Steve is nodding.  “There sure isn’t.  You both look beautiful.  And I love you beyond reasoning.”  He holds your hand but leans toward Bucky, wanting to support him too.   There’s just a hint of mischevious glitter in blue eyes and his voice is rough with sudden desire. ’I remember the feel of your left arm.  But I love the one that is here right now. ”  

You watch them kiss.  Soft lips meet at first gently and then hungrily, deepening the kiss until it is a barely reigned flame of need.  So enticing. And arousing.  As always the sight leaves you breathless.  The black and gold of the prosthesis is cool below your fingertips and little arcs of light sparkle in the pale gold of Steve’s soft hair.    

They were first.  The foundation.  But you are here now, a solid point of the triangle, and you know it, yet sometimes, as now, you feel the need to let them be.   They’ve been holding off because of you, and you’re uncertain you feel ready for attention yet.  

As you start to slip below the circle of their arms, a hand snakes out.

“No, no, no. Don’t you go anywhere, Y/N.”  Bucky has broken off their kiss, moved lightening quick to cut you off.  He turns your shoulders to face Steve, runs a hand encouragingly along your arm, lacing your fingers in his own.  Steve is smiling, slow and sultry, right at you, a wall of blast-furnace warm and sexy muscle, wedged almost touching right in front.  

Your body sings.  It remembers this, being caught between dark fire and golden glow.  Celebrated.  Revered. Taken to dizzying heights and a now melting grows in your core that you haven’t felt for months.

Perhaps it is that they are right.  You can, in time, adjust.  

And they will show you every hour of every day how much they love all of the woman that you are.

You let yourself fall back upon the bed when a hand with freckled pushes gently on your chest.  So many hands.  Pale. Black-gold.  Irish fair and English tawny warm.  Somehow Bucky has caught you as you fall.  Your head is in his lap.  His blue-green eyes are sparkling just above and one hand is palming, lightly, gently, at the nipple peaked below your dress.  It feels right.  And good. Home, after too long away, and then Steve crawls up the bed, lays himself warm and pliant between your legs. Grinning broadly, excitement glowing in his gaze.  His hands lift the cotton of the hem, ruch the pale yellow flowers up to see a view of your new lemon thong.  

A blond eyebrow raises. “T-2 hours before we go.  Time enough to change into another pretty dress?”

Oh god.  

“Yes.”  

So yes.  

----------------

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