Tied Up In Historic Gruene

Dress: Designed & Made By Me

Shoes: Modcloth

Bag: Thrifted

Sunglasses: Forever21

**Pictures by my brother**

It's no secret that I LOVE old historic towns! I think if I could go on the ULTIMATE road trip it would be traveling across country visiting each historic town and soaking up the quaint culture, traditional lifestyles, and authentic stories. With that being said, one of my favorite historic towns in Texas is Gruene. This town really is quite legendary around these parts because it is in the New Braunfels area and is frequently visited by tourists and vacationers all the time (especially in the summer).

The focal point of the town is Gruene Hall which is one of the oldest (and still operating) dance halls in Texas (built in 1878) and it is so beautiful! Sadly, I have yet to actually go dancing there because we always visit in the early afternoon, but just imagine old wood floors perfectly worn down from dancing, screen windows, and a well loved stage all wrapped up in a white frame building.

However, the dance hall is not all that Gruene has to offer as there is a fabulous antique store right on main street, an old general store which serves much loved Blue Bell ice cream, a lovely wine room, and countless other shops and boutiques. When you are not busy shopping or eating at one of the many restaurants or bakeries the old houses are one to catch your eye and I am already dreaming of staying at one of the bnb's one day as the old houses are so stunning!

Since I knew we were taking a trip to Gruene I planned ahead and made this red gingham midi dress inspired by this darling tie front midi dress from Anthropologie. If there was any dress that made me realize how much I love sewing it would have to be this creation, because I was able to replicate a dress I fell in love with and tweak it to fit all of my design ideas. This was one of those looks that kind of screams "I belong in an old small town" so it was a no brainer that this combo came together effortlessly and made me feel right at home while exploring shops, eating ice cream, and marveling at old houses:)

What is your favorite historic town?

-Madison