The Brighton Blue Crocodile Birkin $59,500

In the midst running off to the Hamptons from Memorial Day Weekend, FashionIndie editor McArthur Joseph grabbed my beach bag and dumped it out in the loft!  In prompt reporter style, he documented the mess before I hopped in a car and ran off for the weekend.  Here’s what he found, hope it helps you pack for your weekends away!

1. Beach reading – summer edition of V Magazine and the May copy of Paris Vogue

2. Belvedere citrus – personal size, for sipping by the pool

3. Vintage leather top handle bag – because the natural pretention a top handle bag brings is perfect for the Hamptons set

4. Gold studded Christian Louboutins – for the late nights at Hamptons hot spots SL East and South Pointe

5. Balenciaga sunglasses – nothing screams summer like white sunnies!

6. St Tropez Self Tanner and Bronze Enhancer – because the first weekend out means I don’t have a real tan yet

7. Victoria’s Secret “Summer” scent – it’s fresh, energizing, and brings out that summer Bombshell vibe

8. Prada‘s Minimal Baroque sunglasses – because we need multiple sunglass options, these ornate frames are the perfect statement accessory when lounging by the pool

9. LAMB tan platforms – we all need a good heel for the Day & Night brunch parties of Hamptons legend

10. FashionIndie mixtape – best music mix you’ll find all summer, it is the perfect CD to put on at a house party and it lasts an hour before having to worry about what comes on next

11. Crabtree & Evelyn citrus lip balm and body wash – I love feeling fresh and smelling citrusy after a long day in the sun

12. Marimekko Lokki beach towel – this organic cotton towel is HUGE and super soft, plus the cute wave design is fun by the pool

If you have any questions about the above products, tweet me @iamsamlim

**With all of these guides, remember you will be wearing one of the daytime outfits to your destination. And, if you’re like us, you’ll probably be wearing most or all of the accessories too.

The Hamptons

The Bag
Bodhi “Weekender” Bag $648 – Sleek and luxe, just like your favorite string of Long Island beaches

The Accessories
Cutler & Gross Sunglasses $485

Alexander McQueen Mini Ivory Western Wicca Satchel $1,595

Malene Birger Ginau Mixed Bracelet Set $165

Aldo Stewarts Earrings $12

Belle Noel by Kim Kardashian 14KT Gold Stone and Pave Cocktail Ring $38

Marimekko Unikko Pink and Red Beach Towel $85

The Daytime Pieces
T by Alexander Wang Button Down Silk Tank $140

3.1 Phillip Lim Knot Front Pleated Short $295

T by Alexander Wang Silk Chiffon Long Sleeve Shirt $188

Mara Hoffman Ruffle Bustier Bikini $220

Rag & Bone Emma Short $143

Diamond by Julien Macdonald Dark Pink Palm Print Kaftan $52

Topshop Rope Tie Leg Sandals $75

The Nighttime Pieces
Diane Von Furstenberg Bicolour Wrap Dress $535

Alice + Olivia Grace Belted Stretch-Silk Dress $330

Lanvin Ankle Strap Pumps $1,050

The Catskills

The Bag
Fossil Vintage Reissue Weekender $218 – Rustic and bohemian, this bag will hold all your mountainside lake looks

The Accessories
Barbara Bui Floyd Mini Fringe Bag $595

Alexander McQueen Head Skull Necklace $595

Alexis Bittar Gold Ombre Bracelet $270

Rebecca Norman Rocky Ring $135

Linda Farrow Retro Style Sunglasses $425

The Daytime Pieces
Damir Doma Cropped Tank Top $230

Love Sam Lace Top $99

Topshop Green Flippy Skirt $55

Undrest Liberty-Print Cotton Swimsuit $275

Fly London YLVA Platform Sandal $185

Victoria’s Secret Maxi Dress $48

The Nighttime Pieces
Miss Selfridge Orange Twill Crop Jacket $73

AllSaints Aztec Dress $460

Camilla and Marc Blind Call Leopard Frock $705

Yves Saint Laurent Tribute 105 $1,395

Cape Cod

The Bag
Buti Pebbled Calf Leather Weekender Travel Bag $540 – The perfect blue to match the skies of this classic, nautical vacation destination

The Accessories
Robindira Unsworth 22k Gold Hammered Hoops $144

Cynthia Rowley Denim Frame Heart Shoulder Bag $130

Larkspur & Hawk Emma Ring $850

Rag & Bone Short Brim Beach Hat $135

Kenneth Jay Lane Starfish Gold-Tone Bangle $84

Selima Optique Andy Round-Frame Acetate Sunglasses $325

The Daytime Pieces
H! by Henry Holland Beige Cropped Jersey Blouse $26

Rebecca Minkoff Hali Cut-Out Rose Print Shorts $228

Marc Jacobs Floral-Print Silk Tank $198

Karen Walker Belted Swing Skirt $180

Topshop Red & White Stripe Bandeau Cover Up $52

D&G Reversible Halterneck Bikini $300

Keds Champion Austin $50

The Nighttime Pieces
Alice + Olivia Cody Color Block Dress $368

Diane Von Furstenberg Mini Maize Silk Pleated Dress $695

Schutz Laser-Cut Platform $210

What is an absolute must-have for your Memorial Day getaway?

This Boutique Critique is about the amazing designer vintage store, 1 Of A Find.  Curator and self-professed shopaholic Honey Moon goes on buying trips all over the world seeking out beautiful, unique, impossible-to-get-your-hands-on Hermes, Chanel, Gucci, Lacroix, and Lanvin to satisfy her international clientele.  She used me as a Barbie doll and transported me into worlds I only dream of.  Best part? Her prices are as unique as her collection, so we definitely recommend scooting over to her Brooklyn location asap.  Check out all our amazing finds after the jump.

This gown was to DIE for.  It caught my eye immediately as a dress made for the 1950′s movies I play out in my head. When Anna Wintour extends me a VIP invitation to the Met Gala, I will surely be sporting something like this on the red carpet.

Vintage red bow evening dress- $250
Neiman Marcus rhinestone snake shoes- $135
Gold Heart Christian LaCroix earrings- $125
Little Black velvet purse with rhinestone clasp- $65

Oh-la-Lanvin!  This split front evening skirt with matching metallic sandals took my breath away.  I channeled Carrie Bradshaw and paired it with a Levi’s jean jacket and a fun net hat (something so Kate Middleton right now) to mix it up.

Lanvin gold brocade skirt- $850
Black velvet and net hat- $55
1950′s pink silk slip- $65
1960′s gold platform sandals- $68

The perfect summer maxi — the sheer chiffon made it cool in the heat while making a major fashion statement with its bold prints.  Paired with Dior booties, a Gucci bag, and a summer straw hat, I was loving this luxe warm weather look.

Sheer floral chiffon dress- $138
1950′s pink silk slip- $65
vintage coral necklace- $48
wooden beaded necklace- $25
1970s Pottery leaf & corded necklace $55
1970s Gucci “hobo” bag- $345
Chunky Amber Bracelet- $75
Wide brimmed straw hat- $55

You can’t do Brooklyn vintage without channeling a little inner hipster.  These Dior shoes (with the angelic sweet bows), vintage Levi’s and amazing seuqin blouse kept the look casual but party ready.  A python bag and flat brimmed hat made me look MUCH cooler than I am.

Silk and Sequin blouse- $85
Stetson hat fedora- $125
Vintage Levi’s 501s- $85
Dior Python and leather shoes- $65
Beige python and leather bag- $135

What screams glamour like a metallic jumpsuit?  Nothing.  What screams glamour-queen? Pairing it with these futuristic shades, a geometric statement necklace, and lace up leather booties. Retro chic and ultra fierce.

1980′s silver colored jumpsuit- $115
Etienne black and gold belt- $35
Maud Frizon brown leather booties- $138
Liz Claiborne 2 tone glasses- $45
Monet black and gold necklace- $65

The Mod Squad would have adopted me in a heartbeat in this Montaldo Op Art dress.  I fell in love with the digital print, it was so eye catching and well, trippy.  Bubbled sleeves and a high neck are hard to pull off without looking like Julie Andrews, but this psychedelic wonderland of a dress with slim cuts made it utterly chic.  I fell in love with the leather wedges and actually scooped them up for myself (sorry shoppers!).

Montaldo’s Op Art Dress- $115
Andrew Gellar white leather clutch with gold trim- $85
Chunky multi-colored beaded necklace- $65
Clegerie leather platform sandals- $88

I never thought I could pull off a Blair Waldorf headband until I found this gem of a velvet headband.  So sweet and a little schoolgirl, it matched perfectly with this lace dress from the 60′s. The chunky heeled shoes kept the look 100% vintage, and the hand painted wooden purse kept a touch of fantasy in the mix.

1960′s burgundy lace dress- $98
burgundy satin headband- $35
1960s hand painted wooden lock purse- $135
Chaos of London stacked black velvet shoes- $85

If you have any questions about the store and more vintage finds, tweet me @iamsamlim

Michelle Madonna, in a cotton vintage floral print button up (True Religion), stone washed denim shorts  (LF), and brown suede sandals (Sam Edelman).

Yours truly from FashionIndie,  in oversized sunglasses (Gucci), vintage wash tank top (True Religion), white denim cut offs (Abercrombie).

Renee from Denim Therapy balances our her cuffed denim shorts (Banana Republic) with a cotton print button up (True Religion) and a pop of bold orange lipstick (NARS Heat Wave).

Look Five: Spring Spins Sheer and Long

The Sheer Tie Dye Skirt: $175

The dyed effect on this clear piece brings ethereality. It’s meant to layer, so I kept my blinding purple American Apparel tights on underneath. The leggings are low slung, and I’ve hiked the skirt up, leaving my skin only partially exposed, good for a summertime peekaboo.

The Summer Vest Dress: $195

Hitting floor length and speckled with florals, this garment is flexible in its wear. Pull it open for an all-encompassing vest, or close it for a lovely sweeping dress. And it gives me slight vibes of Easter Sunday, which I suppose makes sense, as it’s been reborn.

The Cashmere Crop: $105

Soft and delicious is this little top. It squeezes right into this look, its lavender picking up the purples throughout. In the mid-weather Spring, it’ll keep you cuddling warm with a jacket, but will still be working alone with a high waist. The shoulders stay aloft with substantial facing, acting as its own shoulder pads.

Want more from The Reformation? Check what I did with Look 1, Look 2, Look 3 and Look 4. Happy Shopping.

The Reformation NYC | 143 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, (646) 448-4925

Photography by Christopher Hall

Shoes by Walter Steiger.

Look Four: Layered and Lace

The Long Lace Skirt: $205

I chose this skirt because it has to be layered, and the lace is insatiable. It’s perfectly narrow at the waist with a zipper, and it flares so naturally at the bottom. Spinning takes great effect in this.

The Nether Layer Ivory Skirt: $145

I went white underneath so that the lace can come alive in contrast. It’s shorter than the lace skirt, so there’s a cloud of mystery by the ankles. The elastic at the waistband makes this piece ultra versatile and the silk makes it super soft.

The Crop Tank Back-Lace: $125

From the front, it is proportioned just right for this skirt, curving up to the top of the hips. The back is made of white lace, covering sheer from nape to waist.

The Plucked Heart Necklace: Pamela Love, $380

She’s the drummer in a band and inspired by everything from medicine to Hieronymus Bosch. She’s making mighty jewelry, rustic, weighty and evocative.

See what else Fashion Indie found at The Reformation in Look 1, Look 2 and Look 3. And visit them yourself!

The Reformation NYC | 143 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, (646) 448-4925

Photography by Christopher Hall

1. Invest in a tent: Not to camp in silly, to wear! Tent dresses are the best fat day cures in the whole entire world. Just make sure it fits you well through the chest and arms to avoid looking like you’re wearing an actual tent; that’s when this look becomes unflattering. Above: MinkPink Table Manners Dress $88, shopnastygal.com

2. Wear pants at your actual waist: Here’s the thing, low rise pants are not flattering if you carry extra weight in your stomach. Try a pair of high-waisted pants that sit at your natural waist, the smallest part of your stomach. Adding a wide leg is even better – it’s like distributing that weight downward to even-out your figure and make you look taller. Above: Milly Woolen High Waisted Trousers $328, julesb.co.uk

3. Opt for an empire waist: When the waist of a dress sits above your natural waist and flows into an A-line skirt, it draws attention up and away from your problem area. Choose a dress with a structured, well-fitting top in a fabric that isn’t clingy. Above: Marchesa Empire Silk Chiffon Gown $5,821, boutique1.com

4. Go vintage shopping: They don’t make ‘em like they used to, that’s for sure. In an age of fast fashion and mass produced everything, garments are not made of the same high quality they once were. Dresses from the 50s and 60s were tailored to actually fit a woman’s body correctly and give her a waist. Try on some different options and find what looks best on you, but dresses from the 50s, 60s and 80s are good places to start. Above: Vintagephilosophy 1950s NEW LOOK Cocktail Dress $159, etsy.com

5. Buy a bra that fits: And no excuses! As an intimate apparel industry veteran, I can’t tell you how many women I’ve heard say “this new bra changed my life.” A proper fitting bra lifts and separates to give you the shapely figure you deserve. It also improves posture and, I guarantee, confidence that will be noticed by everyone. Stop by a department store with a good intimate apparel department, and someone can measure and help you find the perfect fit. Above: Betsey Johnson Stocking Stripe Lightly Lined Demi Bra $48, betseyjohnson.com

6. Cute shapewear won’t kill you: Shapewear – UGH what a gross word, right? Well, it doesn’t have to be. Shaping and smoothing garments have come a long way since girdles, as many of them can pass for regular clothing. Smoothing and shaping tanks with a touch of lace look like normal slips or camis, so you don’t need to worry about being frumpy when removing your clothes. Above: Shapeez Tankee Long $ 85, unbelievabra.com

What are your tips for hiding a tummy under light spring clothing?

Here are some tip directly from the Gossip Girl herself:

Match vintage pieces with designer items. Flea markets in the summer are the best for finding bargain vintage items.  Try pairing a vintage belt with a designer handbag.

Go sleeveless with confidence with Dove go sleeveless Deodorant. Whether it is a halter, tank or strapless top or dress, Dove go sleeveless Deodorant gives me the confidence to wear what I want.

Spice up a pair of harem pants with heels. I love styles that are both comfortable and fashionable and harem pants are just that.  They are also versatile—throw on a pair of heels to dress it up the comfy pants for an evening out.

Take a maxi to the max! Longer hemlines are in this season and investing in a maxi skirt is well worth it—you can wear it during the day with a tank top or at night with a sheer, flowy blouse.

Don’t be afraid to mix patterns or colors. If you’re anything like me, you own a few striped shirts.  This spring is about color so spice up the classic top with bright-colored pumps or a floral skirt.  Check out the striped shirt I designed myself at dovegosleveless.com and create your own for a chance to win a shopping spree with me in NYC!

In case you didn’t know Jessica has recently  partnered with Dove go sleeveless Deodorant to launch an online Fashion Challenge (dovegosleeveless.com) where women can create custom sleeveless tops for a chance to win a $5,000 shopping spree with her in NYC.

Look 3: Counterstripes

The Long Skinny Stripe, $170

Skinny stripes cause an optical illusion. They’re a stark black and white contrast and play with the light to look three-dimensional. This bottom shirt layer hangs way low in the back, a completely different length than the front. It would work alone as a dress on a shorter frame, as it’s a small and I’m a giant.

The Mid Layer Shirt Vest, $145

The optical quality of the stripes is thrown into relief with another layer of mini stripes. Black and off-white, it brings the eye to notice the opposing shapes and colors. Cut narrowly sleeveless, and high at the side, it can stand on its own or as a lovely layer.

The Wash Silk Crop Shirt, $85

Breast pockets and a mid waist crop are some elements that make this substantially silky button up so perfect for now. Layered over the optical twins, it acts like a jacket, but looks and feels like nothing of the sort.

The Thin Maxi Skirt, $145

The layers get longer as we go down. Thus, the skirt is an ankle length swinger. Not see-through but certainly light in texture, this skirt and its elastic band will find many ways to live on your body.

See what else Fashion Indie found at The Reformation in Look 1 and Look 2. And visit them yourself!

The Reformation NYC | 143 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, (646) 448-4925

Photography by Christopher Hall

Check here for Look 1 and more about The Reformation NYC.

Look 2: Work It Two-Timer

The Tall Turtle Stretch Silk Top, $175

This tie-bleached black washed silk tank has a cowl on the neck that is the just the size to hug over my ears and contain my hair within it. Imagine that feeling on a cool summer’s eve. The shirt goes longer, falling just below butt level.

The Summer Slack, $135

The pedal pushers in a washed silk twill have an elastic insert at center back for size versatility. When remaking vintage clothing into something new, the sizing doesn’t always carry over. Aflalo uses this method in many of her pieces.

The Slouch Blazer, $165

Once made for shoulder pads, the shoulders are now rounded into a drop shoulder. It’s malleable and light; an ideal warm weather sport jacket.

The Vintage Wicker Slippers,$95

They like these little ol’ guys at The Reformation. A different shape cut from yesterday’s look, but these slip-ons are super practical; a lovely summer flip flop alternative.

The Reformation NYC | 143 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, (646) 448-4925

Photography by Christopher Hall

We began the fashion search at Maguire Steele, the PR company that represents Timo Weiland, a designer we thought would evoke their clean cut hippiness. We arrived to find access to not only Timo, but to the Shipley & Halmos and Billy Reid collections, and Duckie Brown shoes. What a lovely way to start the day. Jeff was surprised to find himself liking this salmon Shipley blazer and green saddle shoes by Duckie; once he put them on, he saw the magic in them. Color and fit; bright and tight. That’s the vision.

Playing the green Timo Weiland vertically striped cardigan against the horizontally striped Billy Reid shirt made for optical illusionism – perfect for on-stage psychedelia. We tried with two Shipley & Halmos ties, one a conglomeration of pin thin geometric shapes, the other made of a mustard velvet (which totally called for heavy petting). We’re taking all of it along.

In the looks above, note the Shipley and Halmos pants: crisp, paper thin, glowing blue. Jeff really dug the look and feel of them. This sparked our next stop – Zara. Known in the masculine for modestly priced, modernly cut suits, I thought he might find a pant with a similar fit. Unfortunately, no fancy pants there captured our attention quite like Shipleys; the drawback to going from such a quality level of design down to one of the quickest of the fast fashion powerhouses (2 week turnaround from sketch to shelf!).

We did however conquer his need for new jeans. Imagine, he’s never owned a pair of skinny jeans! FashionIndie’s first instinct was mustard, for its ability to bring a bright spice to the stage. The look on his face when Mustard Slim Cut Jeans were suggested was dubious to say the least. We insisted he give it a try. In the fitting room, dubious shifted to contemplation, and very quickly to impressed contentment. Sold! To the man in yellow. He liked the fit so much, he got them in heather black as well. (TIP – Gentlemen, go to Zara right now… they’re only $39!)

We perused the rest of rushed retail row on Broadway from Broome to Bleecker from Urban Outfitters to Uniqlo, but nothing was jumping out at us. Man, were we spoiled by the gorgeous goods at Maguire Steele. Plus, mass market seems no place to find pieces to encapsulate the unique Heavy Pets sound. Time to switch things up,take it down real low, down all the way to Brooklyn’s poppin’ top vintage haunt, Beacon’s Closet.

Our instructions for The Pet: grab anything that strikes you. With that we end up with armfuls psychedelic patterns, bronze grommets, cowboy flair and a polyester disaster that shall remain on the hanger.

We pruned the options, ready to take eight new/old shirts in their varying sizes back to the rest of The Heavy Pets. The first piece on the rack? Pierre Cardin, $18.95. He looked at it skeptically, FashionIndie looked at it delightedly on him; we managed to convince acception with the tidbit that Pierre Cardin did introduce The Beatles to the Nehru jacket. Done and done.

The full styling goes down around 6:00 p.m. this evening when they are done with the soundcheck. As they are musicians, and this is fashion, that time is of course a rough estimation. But when it happens, we’ll be live tweeting @FashionIndie & @JessicaLapidos.

Come to The Brooklyn Bowl tonight to see The Heavy Pets perform in their new digs. See you there!

1. Loveday 31, Astoria
Owner and curator Ivona Bilicic knows her stuff – she used to be a buyer at famous rip-off Manhattan vintage store Screaming Mimi’s. But the merchandise at Loveday 31 is far from overpriced and much more carefully selected. Eccentric metallic shirts from the 80s share a rack with silk Givenchy shirts and Prada dresses. Uniquely shaped vintage bags are shown among locally designed jewelry and antique brooches. I recently bought a black, intricately knit shirt with metallic silver threads and 7-inch long fringe for $40.

Credit: Free Williamsburg

2. Beacon’s Closet, Williamsburg & Park Slope
Perhaps the most well-known local Brooklyn thrift store chain, Beacon’s Closet has something for everyone. Both locations have their fine points: the more-crowded Williamsburg store has about four times the merchandise ranging from beat-up tees to Pucci pumps while the slightly more refined selection at Park Slope requires less digging and waiting. Some of my best buys include an $18 Marc by Marc Jacobs sweater and $18 brand new Betseyville shoes.

3. Buffalo Exchange, Williamsburg
You won’t find a ton of vintage merchandise at Buffalo Exchange, but you might come across some cool new digs along the way. Designer denim for men and women usually costs less than $20 and a brand new chunky necklace will set you back about $8. There are great vintage finds too, like a pair of Marc Jacobs sandals I bought for $24 a couple years ago.

4. Housing Works, Upper East Side
Where do all of the wealthy UES women take their Ferragamos and Pradas when they don’t want them any more? Housing Works, of course. In my opinion, this location is the best of the 10 retail stores around the city. There aren’t a million downtown vintage hunters in your face, and the merchandise comes straight from Park and Madison Avenues. It also has the best vintage jewelry selection -  I have at least a dozen pieces from my summer living in the same neighborhood.

5. Monk Vintage, Williamsburg
Where can you buy a rainbow striped bow tie, cummerbund and pocket square matching set? Monk Vintage in Brooklyn has about 10 for you to choose from. From the tutus suspended from the ceiling to mounds of vintage jewelry, you will find super fun and unique vintage pieces here. Dresses run from around $25 – $40 while a full suit will cost you about $100. Everything is in pretty good condition and the store is small, so you won’t spend hours looking for an outfit. The peach Polo Ralph Lauren Western shirt I got for $35 is still one of my favorites.

6. Goodwill, Chelsea
Of all the Goodwills in the city, why this one? Are the workers nicer? Absolutely not, but the selection is all that. This fairly new outlet isn’t too crowded, but it is fairly organized. If you’re familiar with Goodwill, expect all of the same prices and merchandise categories. Last week, I found a leather Coach computer bag in good condition for $20.

7. Vintage Thrift, Gramercy
From Manolos to mink throw pillows, this store literally has everything. You can get a stack of records with your dining room table and Italian designer ties with a retro KitchenAid mixer. Not only has Vintage Thrift been named Zagat’s #1 NYC thrift store four years in a row, profits go to The United Jewish Council of the East Side.

8. Viceversa, Williamsburg
Maybe the most overlooked Williamsburg thrift store, Viceversa is definitely worth your time. Stocked with equal parts men’s and women’s apparel, you can find everything from red cowboy boots to sequined muumuus. Prices here are dynamite – you can snag a fur coat for as little as $40. I bought an 80s rainbow sequin dress for $20 last year; I recently saw the same exact dress on Nasty Gal retailing for more than $200.

9. The Antiques Garage, Chelsea
Lauren from Corvus Noir introduced me to The Antiques Garage last summer when I interviewed her for FashionIndie. This place is insane. From 9 am – 5 pm every Saturday and Sunday, you can walk through this concrete jungle of every antique imaginable. It can be a little overwhelming, so take it slow – one table at a time. I bought a gorgeous leather, color-block bag with a chain strap for $10 the last time I was there.

10. No Relation Vintage, East Village
Nestled among the dozens of nail salons and pizzerias on First Avenue, No Relation Vintage is a rare gem. Little nooks throughout the store hold specifics like shoes or sundresses while scarves sit in a basket by the register, waiting to be impulsed purchased. In true East Village fashion, you won’t find a shortage of leather jackets or distressed band tees. Many a silk scarf from this old school thrift store hangs in my apartment.

Did I miss anything? What is your favorite NYC thrift store?

Who wore it best?

Fine, I see your point. But I’m not a model, she is. How’s a lady to compete with that?

I’m referring to Kate Hudson‘s first and only acting role, as Penny Lane in Cameron Crowe‘s Almost Famous. That was the kind of girl the vintage-inspired clothing line paraded down its runway; a free spirit not afraid of a giant fur or a little sexy.

WGACA’s girl might have also been a regular at 54 — the first look, a leopard print jumpsuit, was born to move under strobe lights. This “Raquel jumpsuit,” named no doubt after 70s bombshell Raquel Welch, was paired with a pair of platform stripper heels — as were the majority of women’s looks, leading to at least one misstep on the Soho Hotel‘s carpeted, and rather cramped, runway.

While the ladies veered between hippie chic and DVF glitz, WGACA’s gents were a little more down to earth. Shearling jackets, vintage denim and billowy blouses kept things loose while a pair of fur clogs had my name and probably a few of my friends’ names all over them.

From the first look to the last — a (Faye) Dunaway dress with a flowing cape — What Goes Around Comes Around presented a wearable, covetable collection that proves once again that the 70s are alive and kicking. And in a 5-inch platform no less.

1. Flowers: The Obvious Choice. Perhaps a brighter bouquet than your soppy Valentine’s Day red/pink/white would make for a pleasant surprise. Add a sweet note and have it delivered to the office desk.

2.      Message AND a Bottle: Ladies, sending your secret man crush a bottle of Maker’s Mark may just put you smack dab on his radar. Gents – a bottle of red fruity vodka might seal the deal. Add a cute, possibly humorous note revealing a bit of your identity. At worst, your crush will drink up all the awkwardness and forget it ever happened. At best, you’ll do that together.

3.      Concert Ticket and/or Dinner Reservation: Send a ticket to a show you know your crush would kill for with a note saying exactly what you’ll be wearing. Make it sexy. You might ask a few friends along as well, in case your crush never shows.

4.      Home Baked Cookies: Nothing gushy and super sweet and Valentiney. Just a sampling of your quality home cookin’ skills. Send it to the place of work with enough to go around.

5.      Mix CD: OK, you could be so two thousand and late and burn a CD, or go on 8tracks.com and create a playlist of 8 or more songs and share. Just make sure it isn’t sappy. Fill it with songs that express your feelings in an upbeat sorta way. You can also send him the download of Fashion Indie’s new mixtape which launches tomorrow.

6.      Locket of Love: This is a tricky one, and use with caution. With the right person, a locket with a note, or I daresay a poem, could instantly melt a heart. Think carefully before you attempt something this romantic.  And perhaps pick up a vintage locket: something with charm that doesn’t look cheap, but is.

Clueless (1995)- If this 90′s classic wasn’t already on your top 10 movies list of style and rich girl ways well then start jotting! Alicia Silverstone is the best prepster out there, and no matter how old we are or how many fashion trends pass by Clueless will always remain a fashion favorite… through knee-high socks, more than enough argyle to handle, feminine school girl blazzers and especially because Britney Murphy was in it too!

Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion (1997)- A little on the dumb-ass side and I’m pretty sure no one would wear as much metallic and glitter as these two on screen best friends, but it’s still fun to watch their adventure in going back to their high school reunion and dominating the Madonna-inspired blasts from the pasts.

Spice World (1997)- Victoria Beckham‘s style may be taking over the style headlines a lot more than the Spice Girls do now, but it doesn’t mean that we would ever forget baby spice, scary spice, ginger spice, posh spice, sporty spice, or any other spices that I’m forgetting in between!

Jawbreaker (1999)- Catty and backstabbing what other way would a girl like their movies, when you accidentally kill your best friend in your favorite pumps?

The Virgin Suicides (1999)- When it comes to Kristen Dunst’s careless ways she makes any film look awesome! Sofia Coppola (director) filmed the movie in an angelic sort of sunlight state, and with the simplicity of the style on the girls, from sundresses to school outfits, the obsession of five boys falling in love with mysterious sisters begins, and they watch them on the road to suicide.

Factory Girl (2006)- Starring Sienna Miller as Edie Sedgwick a muse of all muses for the New York City life style of Andy Warhol. Not to mention, Mary-Kate Olsen gets her five minutes of fame getting to rock the furs and the smoking glam of this crazy 1960′s fashion filled film.

500 Days of Summer (2009)- Zooey Deschanel would be the perfect heart breaking type girl, with her vintage dresses and humorous ways as she completes every girls dream to crush the boy who’s insanely in love with her in nonchalant ways.

Whip It (2009)- Ellen Page plays a rebellious small town girl who creates a wicked life for herself in Austin, TX. And along with Drew Barrymoore and Landon Pigg she rocks her indie-child style with combat boots, random skirts, and bizarre rock band tees!

The Runaways (2010)- When hearing the names Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart you don’t normally think of one on one girl make out sessions or drug addict… which in their case would be a good thing but luckily these two actresses rocked the hell out of bringing the Joan Jett and Cherie Curie’s wild child style to life!

Black Swan (2010)- Obviously what kind of timeline would this be without listing Natalie Portman’s surprise act of dealing with perfection and giving us a mental image of just how good Rodarte ballet wear could be!

What made you want to start designing?
I never thought I would pursue a career in fashion. I originally did not have formal and technical training, I didn’t go to FIT. I went to school for fine arts, so I always assumed I’d do something in that realm but didn’t know what that would be. But then I started making my own clothing and got some really great feedback. My pieces developed quick notoriety because of their eccentricity and experimental appeal. It led me to start branding the label and making custom dresses. I realized my passion and that creating clothing was my art. It is what I wanted to do, but I did not want to work traditionally and looked at clothing as wearable art. Although I taught myself about the fashion industry as a business, as far as being a designer, I am first and foremost an artist before anything else – an artist with a fashion business.

Photographer, Robin Souma. Models, Mollie Stein & Vincent Fanwick. Mollie in House wife dress

You started out reworking vintage clothing? Do you still take a lot of inspiration from vintage fashion for your line? Is the line still costumesque?

From what was once an ‘inspiration collection’ of crazy altered vintage clothing, a handful of these pieces were later reworked to create a RTW collection which is consistent with my conceptual ideas yet is more universally wearable. It creates an attainable outlet for girls to dress up in their everyday lives that I thought the fashion world was lacking. I am inspired by vintage but now use new fabrics that are re-orderable.

Photographer, Robin Souma. Model, Flor wearing the Doll Dress

In your bio, it says you pay a lot of attention to the “magic of childhood dress up.” Were you a super girly girl as a child or did you have some tomboy in you? Did you play with Barbies?

I did have Barbies, I loved them, but I wasn’t super girly. I always went against the grain. All of my girlfriends loved pink but I loved purple. But I like pink now and feel it can be extra cute and feminine, but in my collection, there are dark details too. I think it’s more about dress-up and reconnecting to the characters which inspire the dresses and the idea of adding fun to the wardrobe in everyday life. You can explore dress-up in a more grown-up and sophisticated way by wearing Lolli Popitt.

Photographer, Robin Souma. Model, Erin Lucas wearing the Eggplant Flora Fairy Dress

I love your housewife dresses! When you design your collections, do you keep specific people, like the housewife, in mind or are they imaginary, inspirational characters?

The housewife dress is just a satirical piece created for runway.  These dresses are kind of poking at society’s idealistic housewife since they are really short & sexy.

What are some of your other styles?

The Lolli Cupcake dresses are the brand’s trademark. They’re girlie, fun and cute, which all describe the line. We call the feathered dresses “Fairy Dresses.” The psychedelic pieces are 60s mod styles and the “Doll” pieces often have a lot of lace and embellishments.

Cupcake Dress and Doll Dress

Lolli Popitt is for “daring who like to stand out in a crowd.” Could you walk me through the ideal day-in-the-life of a Lolli girl? What does she do? Who does she meet?

If wearing one of our couture pieces, a Lolli girl should probably by prepared to meet and talk to anyone because she is bound to get attention. These dresses are conversation pieces, so she must be daring to wear them. But when wearing our RTW pieces, a perfect Lolli candidate is confident and just wants to have fun with her wardrobe.

When I wear the crazier stuff, I think I kind of become a performance artist. I think the clothes can bring out a personality that you may not have known you had.

So, you don’t always have to be a fashion risk-taker to wear Lolli Popitt? Does the Lolli Girl ever dress down?

Although the line is risky and avant-garde, that is not our entire collection. The line IS wearable. The really crazy stuff is just an over-the-top and accentuated take on our conceptual ideas. But the garments are wearable. They can also be worn every day without the commitment to that non-stop attention that our couture yields.

Black chantilly lace Doll Dress

I noticed a lot of your designs feature inner-wear as outer-wear – corsets, bras, bustiers. What inspired you to focus on this trend for Lolli Popitt?

The feathered bras are technically lingerie, but you can wear them out. You can wear them alone with jeans or a skirt, but I think they look best accompanying something. They are fancy and functional. They can be worn underneath a button down (revealing the feathers) as well as over a slip with a skirt to make them fancier. Musicians have worn them to red carpet events and in their music videos.

The lace lingerie shorts were originally created to go under the dresses that we put down the runway, but we then realized that they compliment the clothing really well.

Photographer, Robin Souma. Model, Erin Lucas wearing Feather Fairy bra &Crystal Knuckles jewelry

Where do you find inspiration? Who are your style icons? What other designers and artists do you look up to?

I was inspired by performance artists like Leigh Bowery, who literally was his art. He dressed-up eccentrically every day for all to see. Joanna Frueh, an artist/writer who studied the correlation between femininity, sexuality and  beauty in everyday life. Twiggy’s signature dresses have inspired my psychedelic pieces.

Recently, I have been dressing musician, Neon Hitch, an incredibly unique performer whose daring and organic style embodies the ideals of both of my lines, especially the Crystal Knuckles jewelry.

My aunt, Carole Feuerman, a well-known photo-realist sculptor, is one of my biggest idols. Learning from her has helped me see how I could create a foundation to turn art into a business.

Psychedelic Mod shorts & cut out bra set

Your Crystal Knuckles jewelry line looks amazing. How did you get started designing jewelry and what is the inspiration behind the pieces?

I’ve always collected crystals. My aunt would give me a crystal whenever I saw her while growing up. My initial collection was started using those stones, the ones that I had from my aunt. I owned several over-sized rings which I loved and thought that using natural crystals to create jewelry would be a really unique idea. In fact, in gemology you’re supposed to have a crystal on you at all times because they are said to bring healing and protective powers. The rings will be featured on Ideeli.com and we are currently in contact with Henri Bendel, Barney’s & Scoop NYC. I will keep you posted on what’s to come!

Amethyst - Photographer, Andrew Werner

Azurite/Malachite - Photographer, Andrew Werner

Artist Neon Hitch wearing Crystal Knuckles

Uma Thurman wearing Crystal Knuckles

You can learn more about Lolli Popitt here.

1. Wear more fur. I want to be on PETA‘s “Most Wanted List” in 2011. Hell, I’d kill a family of chinchillas, skin them and wear them if I could. Nature is going to shit anyway, so why not put those endangered species to good use? Drape me from head to stiletto in fur and if possible, blood diamonds — I will single-handedly ruin what’s left of this world.

2. No more jeggings. This is a hard one. I officially own more pairs of jeggings than I do of actual jeans, but the trend is already becoming horribly outdated. Still, on a bloated day, there’s nothing more comfortable than breathable cotton. Except maybe breathable cotton and a pint of Mint Chocolate Chip iced cream. I mean, you’re already bloated, might as well go down with the ship.

3. Find shoes that actually fit me. Yesterday I found a bit of blood in my socks from my combat boots digging unmercifully into my heels. And my pinky toe is all but dead from being constantly wedged into vintage shoes. But sometimes you have to pounce on a Cuban heel and suck it up for the sake of fashion.

4. Learn to tie a bowtie. Right now I only (sadly) have one bowtie, a clip on chambray from American Apparel. However, it behooves a gentleman to know how to properly affix a bowtie. That, and to mix a proper cocktail and to properly kiss another man with tongue.

5. Rely less on H&M. Gaga knows I love those damned Swedes. The majority of my wardrobe derives from Hennes and Mauritz, but as my style and tastes develop, I will inevitably have to stray from the flock. However, if they continue with their all-star collaborations, I might have to throw this resolution under the bus, much like the year I decided to “cut back on drinking.”

6. Bring back the ascot. This has been a resolution of mine since I was about 14 and why not?, it’s a perfectly reasonable neck accessory that doesn’t at all remind people of hapless, blond, teenaged snoops.  Over the years, I’ve periodically worn ascots to varying degrees of success. Once, I wore it on a job interview and I like to think it had nothing to do with my not receiving a callback.

7. Get photographed by The Sartorialist. This is partly just me stroking my own vanity. Okay, it’s completely just me stroking my own vanity, but dammit, do you think I’m walking around in capes, sequins and harem pants for fun?! Okay, I totally am, but I would at least like it documented for posterity’s sake.

8. Find a practically-sized day bag. When traipsing about New York, I like to be prepared for any and everything, thus I carry a man purse that would put Mary Poppins’ magical carpet bag to shame. More than once have I pulled out a coat rack from the depths of my tote, but no longer! I’m actually contemplating a stylish backpack (suggestions, anyone?), or a medium-sized tote for my everyday travels. And that’s what I like to call “progress.”

9. Find a good tailor. A good tailor is absolutely essential — not just to let out one’s clothing after gorging on holiday fare, though that in itself is god’s work — but sometimes the perfect pair of pants can be a bit too big or a bit too short. Enter a tailor and for a few bucks, those Cheap Mondays look a little less cheap.

10. Shop more. The bottom-line to all this resolving and promise-making is that I need to step up my shopping game. That means I’ve got to throw around more plastic than an Ultimate Frisbee championship, roll out more dough than a pizzeria and carry more bags than Oprah‘s eyes.

It’s a tough job, but in order to truly make a change in 2011, it’s necessary.

Yes. I. Can.

Cartoon: Political Graffiti

Mo wore the couture confection for the taping of TNT‘s Christmas in Washington special airing Saturday night at 8 pm EST.

Jon Schneck, co-owner of New York Vintage (along with his wife Shannon Hoey) thinks that this might be “first time a First Lady has worn a vintage dress” and is “truly honored” that Mrs. Obama chose his store for her “first venture into vintage clothing.”

First, but apparently not the last. Schneck says that Mobama has scheduled other dresses from their archives, therefore we can expect a fervently renewed interest in vintage clothing. After all, whatever Michelle Obama wears has resounding effects in the fashion industry and in women’s personal lives.

I wouldn’t have even looked at a kitten heel two years ago, but then came the statuesque First Lady catwalking from Air Force One, wearing a Jason Wu dress and a J. Crew sweater set, an Isabel Toledo bag in one hand,  the world’s problems in the other, wearing a dainty 2-inch heel. And my mind. Was. Blown.

New York Vintage, in particular, will probably get some serious business as a result so get your classic couture now before everyone and their gay best friend invades their Chelsea store and strips them clean.

LINK LOVE: The Huffington Post

Walking through the Hester Street Fair at the beginning of summer, I was struck by fancy when I approached the Corvus Noir table. I admired the gorgeous, re-worked vintage jewelry, tried on a few pieces and thought about them all day. I serendipitously got to meet Lauren soon after, and I can’t get enough of hanging out with her.

Recently, Lauren took me out to the antique malls and flea markets where she hunts for her vintage pieces, showed me her closet and the Corvus Noir studio. I bring you an interview and photos from our trip so you can take a peak into her inspirational world.

I know this question might be over-asked, but what made you want to start designing jewelry? Was it a person or particular piece or a calling from the heavens?

I have always had a love for fashion, and I wanted to be a clothing designer in high school. I was never very good at sketching and can’t sew, so jewelry seemed like the best alternative. I took a trip to a local bead store, picked some beads that I liked and made a necklace without any jewelry knowledge. When I saw I had the ability to create jewelry with my own two hands, I was hooked on it. For the last year I have found my calling designing reworked vintage jewelry, my favorite style.

You talk a lot about your grandmother’s style and showed me her jewelry and bags. What about her personal style influences your personal style? And if it influences you when working, how does it influence your designs?

My grandmother was a very fashionable woman. She loved to dress up all the time, head to toe, and would never leave the house without being completely “done up.” I think I am most influenced by her mix of high and low fashion when I style myself. She would pair a $20 costume jewelry pin with diamond and gold pieces or a Chanel bag with a polyester top. She always knew what looked good together and price was never important. I definitely dress with that in mind. I shop at stores like H&M and Zara and will mix those clothes with vintage. I also love to mix fine jewelry with my costume vintage jewelry. My grandmother had a huge love for jewelry. I think it was her favorite part of getting dressed in the morning. She could afford to only wear the “good stuff,” but she loved her costume pieces just as much as her real jewelry. She always wore a brooch, mostly animal designs, and I tend to look for those most when shopping for Corvus Noir.

Lauren was carrying a vintage Vanna White bag from the 80s the day we went shopping.

Lauren holding two Chanel bags that belonged to her grandmother. She is wearing a vintage dress from Market Publique.

This gold and malachite bracelet was also Lauren's grandmother's.

When you’re shopping for pieces, what do you look for? Is it what catches your eye at the moment, or do you go through phases where you look for certain styles and specific objects?

I tend to look at everything when I shop for jewelry, my eyes just get drawn everywhere. I sometimes go with a list and look for particular items such as vintage gold-filled pencils and pen knives, animal pins, lockets and cameos. But I try to look with an open mind and let a particular piece I stumble upon draw me in. Price is also a huge factor for me when shopping. I always set a strict budget per piece so I can keep my jewelry reasonably priced for my customers. No matter how beautiful a piece of jewelry is, I usually will not buy it if it is out of budget. Sometimes I have to break that rule, but when that happens, I tend to keep the piece for my personal archives.

Vintage gold-filled pencils and pen knives in one of the antique centers.

Cameo earrings and a cute ivory owl.

We went to so many great places when you took me out to the antique centers and the garage. What is your favorite place to shop for your jewelry and why?

I love to shop at antique centers and flea markets in NYC and Connecticut for vintage and antique jewelry. I prefer to buy vintage because I believe the quality is better, I find them more unusual and beautiful and I love to wear things that no one else will have. You will never find me in a wholesale jewelry store. I prefer quality over quantity. I also love to shop at independent jewelry stores such as Catbird in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. They have a great collection of beautifully curated jewelry made by local, young designers. I love to support other independent artists when jewelry shopping for myself.

Lauren looking at beaded necklaces in one of the antique centers.

Brooches in every size and color imaginable. It inspired me to wear some of mine again.

Lauren and her favorite antique jewelry vendor Helen. A photo of their gorgeous rings.

Jewelry in the case at Helen's shop

My favorite ring at Helen's - opal and diamonds

Who are some of the jewelry designers from the past that influence and inspire you? What about modern day?

My favorite jewelry designer of the past is David Webb, who made beautiful fine jewelry out of any animal you can think of in the 70s and 80s. Zebras, panthers, owls – you name it, he’s done it. His jewelry is composed of striking enamel shades with yellow and white gold, diamonds and gorgeous gemstones. I also love vintage Cartier jewelry from the panther collection, hence my love for animal pieces. Pamela Love is a modern designer who I love; she makes macabre metal jewelry. My favorites are her bird claw bracelets and rings and her crow skull pendants. I also love unsigned vintage jewelry. My favorite, which I have yet to add to my collection, is Victorian Mourning Jewelry. People would engrave lockets, rings and pins with a loved one’s initials who had passed on and would have a braided lock of his or her hair inserted into the jewelry. Some were hidden in lockets and some were placed under glass so everyone could see the braid when worn. I am dying to add a few mourning rings to my personal jewelry collection.

Victorian mourning jewelry

More Victorian mourning jewelry

I got a chance to look at your wardrobe and accessories, and you have such unique and impressive taste and style. Who are some of your favorite designers outside of the jewelry industry?

I can’t afford him yet, but I love Alexander Wang. I love, love, love his leather bags and shoes, especially his bag that is covered in studs on the bottom. I also love anything by Erin Featherston. Her designs are so romantic and have a great vintage feel to them. My favorite designer however is Rodarte. I love everything about their clothing – the beautiful mix of patterns and colors and all of their knit work. Their dresses look like they were painted on the body.

What trend(s) are you loving at the moment? Is there something you’re constantly looking for when you’re shopping right now?

I buy mostly vintage in my wardrobe but will mix it with basics from H&M and Urban Outfitters. Right now I am obsessed with 90s dresses in floral patterns. I love mini dresses and long maxi dresses, which will look perfect during fall when worn with boots and a tight fitted leather jacket. I also love to collect vintage wool sequined shell tops from the 60s. They are covered in amazing colored sequins, and I wear them unzipped over tops and dresses as vests. I have quite the collection of blazers now, vintage and new, which I love to wear with leggings and a top or with a dress and heels for night. I also collect vintage dinner jackets in fantastic silk patterns and sequins. The louder and more colorful the better. Anything with an animal print is also a favorite of mine. I am looking to add a vintage faux fur coat to my closet.

Seeing Lauren’s studio and closet was so much fun. Below are some photos of her inspiration, favorite pieces and gorgeous, hand-made jewelry.

A few of the many bags in Lauren's collection. She found the vintage Gucci on eBay a few years ago.

A vintage fox fur hat Lauren bought from Artists & Fleas in Williamsburg.

Awesome leopard heels. Lauren and I share a love for animal prints.

A vintage wool sequined shell top hanging in Lauren's studio

The inspiration board in her studio. Loving the Leighton Meester clipping!

Vintage pin-up girls in the studio

Pieces from Lauren's collection of jewelry to work with for Corvus Noir

An amazing dolphin pin from Lauren's collection

My favorite Corvus Noir piece - A Gold Tone Reworked Vintage Rhinestone Necklace from the 1950s

Lauren has been really into working with beads for Corvus Noir. I love the elegance of this piece.

A Porcelain and Enamel Reworked Vintage Liquor Tag Gin Necklace from the 1920s

An antique Ambrotype from the 1860s. Original photo and frame. The film was exposed while the people were posing. They look so serious because they can't move. Photo printed on a metal plate

An incredible black panther necklace that shows Lauren's love for animal jewelry.

A Gold Tone Reworked Vintage Siamese Tassel Necklace from the 1960s

Multi Charm Reworked Vintage Cross Necklace from the 1970s

You can shop for some of these pieces and more online at Corvus Noir.

]]> http://fashionindie.com/get-inspired-by-vintage-elegance-with-lauren-vitellos-jewelry-line-corvus-noir/feed/ 1 http://fashionindie.com/affordable-vintage-from-projecto811/ http://fashionindie.com/affordable-vintage-from-projecto811/#comments Tue, 12 Oct 2010 04:15:12 +0000 Rebecca Alexander http://fashionindie.com/?p=167926

Project0811.com specializes in vintage, vintage inspired, mod and retro clothing and accessories. Based out of Miami, the stores vision and statement is to provide fashionable clothing and accessories from independent designers from all over the world at an affordable price.

Store owner Yenipher believes that you don’t have to break the bank to look fabulous, especially in these hard times. She hand picks all the vintage items and always thinks outside the box when it comes to shopping. The difference between Projecto811 and the competition is simple; intimacy. They are here to serve the customer and when they buy new merchandise, they are only thinking of them. Their customers always feel the thrill of high fashion without having to spend a fortune.

Check out their Facebook page here for updates and giveaways.

The clarity and expressions in these photos are bizarre, you need to check out the rest on FashionIndie’s ENVY.

Originally published in Vogue Italia (March 1994)
Hair – Garren
Makeup – Denise Markey

Hyoni as discovered on Crosby Street in Soho today. She own her own vintage reworking store. Have a look at their site by clicking HERE

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Bradley Smith and The Tank

Hanes Tank, Oak Pants, Osklen Silver Sneakers, Mateo Bijoux Necklace, Vintage Belt

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But then, you get people who buy stuff from your Etsy, complain about shipping price, and then turn around and sell it for more on Ebay?

I am always so happy when I make a vintage sale because I expect it to go to someone that is gong to love and cherish that item. It kind of makes my heart sink to see this happen.

How does everyone else feel about this?

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Even I have been found guilty of being stuck in a style box.  I used to have a signature look that consisted of fitted crewneck t-shirts in solid colors from Target.  I wore them with jeans, skirts, or black pants (capri’s, gaucho’s, palazzo pants…whatever was in style at the time).  Until one day I looked in my closet and thought to myself “this is not the closet of a girl with a distinct sense of style”.

I decided it was time to incorporate more prints and dresses into my wardrobe…and I haven’t looked back since.  From my vintage dashiki to my embroidered floral JWLA dress, I not only stepped out of my style box, there is no longer a box in sight!

I brought about this change through my approach to shopping.  When I enter a store now I ask myself the following questions when I gravitate toward a piece of apparel or an accessory:

• Do have something like this already?
• Would this piece stand out or blend into my closet?
• Is this a color or print that I already have plenty of in my closet?

That last question is actually one that I reference often.  I own so much black, white, and gray that I literally slap myself on the wrist when I try to grab something in one of those colors.  I now skim across racks and if there is a particular block of pieces in a color or style (ahem…empire dresses) that I don’t need, I just move on.  There’s a reason why I don’t even step into a White House, Black Market…I’m not buyin’ what they’re sellin’!

Guys, the same goes for you.  Are you stuck in a polo and jeans/shorts look?  Maybe consider trying a cool screen-printed tee or some bermuda/board shorts.  I have several girlfriends that complain that their husbands are in a style rut.  This is a fact.  Consider changing up your look and I bet the lady in your life will notice…

So go ahead.  Take the plunge into a whole new world by breaking out of your style box.  Whether it’s going from solids to prints (or vice versa) or from a hipster to a preppy style (Kristine…holla!), try something new.  Maybe you’ll end up like me…without a box!

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Keeping denim alive by researching the archives, the Levi's Vintage line has created the “Iron Palace Repaired Straight Jean’ for the upcoming AW10 season.  Inspired by an original 1940s pair of 501’ found at a thrift shop in Vancouver, the denim is aged to a 6 month level of wear for authenticity.  So all the work is already done for you.  Detailing features a 5 button fly fastening, 3 front pockets, 2 back pockets and 5 belt loops, all a feast for the eyes, and hopefully your rear end as well.  For these pair, I really might not wash them until absolutely necessary, keeping with that 6 month rule of thumb.  I'm loving the whole vintage inspired design and can't wait to try on a pair myself.  Grab those old school cowboys boots, throw on a nice fitted T and you are all set.

Iron Palace itself is the name of a famous brothel in Monterey, Levi Strauss’s home town and the building now stands as a bar on Main Street, Monterey.  The Levi's Vintage collection offers rare and one-of-a-kind inspired pieces from history.  You can get your pair exclusively online at my-wardrobe.com.

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I knew absolutely nothing about Kypre, a 1935 Lancome perfume, when I scored a sealed(!) old bottle of the extrait de parfum in an online auction. The name, of course, was hinting big time that this is a chypre, but that was about that, other than the very little info I gathered here and there. The authoring nose of Kypre was Lancome founder Armand Petitjean (1884-1969) who released it the year he started the company along with four other fragrances. So it was a thrilling moment when the package arrived and I could crack it open and start playing.

My bottle is probably from the 1950s or so (based on its style and the little insert in the box listing Lancome’s address as 29 rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré). I was thrilled to discover the juice was very much alive, rich and sweet smelling. There’s no question this is, indeed, a chypre, as I could smell enough of the structure right away. I don’t know what else was in its top notes, but I was surprised to find out enough bergamot has survived and smelled like the remains of yesterday’s Earl Grey tea- strong and a little bitter. The rest of the scent is a lot softer. There’s a floral element that is probably a jasmine, non-indolic but a little heady even after all these years. Then comes the beautiful dry-down, a buttery leather, opulent and warm, and the oakmoss which is all velvet.

I never smelled the original Lancome Cuir, the more famous leather perfume Petitjean had created (originally named Revolte and released in 1936), only the reissue (which I love love love). The latter is a floral-leather, a bit crisp and somewhat related to Chanel Cuir de Russie (at least in its extrait version from the early 2000s. Who can keep track with all the changes and reformulations happening around us?), so I’ll have to assume the style was somewhat similar. Kypre, while definitely leathery, smells like it belongs to the school of Mitsouko, though the dry-down is very pulled-together and a lot less dramatic. The part that makes me think of Mitsouko every time I wear Kypre is a certain boozy fruitiness when the heart morphs into the base of the perfume. Maybe fruitiness is the wrong word. It feels like the softest pair of exquisite boots in a dark cognac color.

The late dry-down is a muted soapy oakmoss that would easily appeal to a modern man just as much as to a woman. That is, if said man is the kind who trolls the net searching for long forgotten perfumes.

Vintage 1941 Kypre by Lancome perfume ad from hprints.com
Photo of Armand Petitjean from somewhere on the web (unfortunately I lost the link)
Photos of my bottle by me with the help of Lizzy.

Copyright ©2006-2010 Gaia Fishler, The Non-Blonde. Content poaching is both illegal and ugly.

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Indie Virginia Sena put together this chic look featuring a 3.1 Philip Lim dress and Harvey Nichols pumps. A great power look for the woman set to take over the corporate world, or just nab a great internship…

Outfit #24 by VirginiaSena featuring 3.1 Phillip Lim dresses

Rolled Sleeve Gathered Dress
$495 - lagarconne.com
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patent tribtoo pumps
515 GBP - harveynichols.com
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Graphic stone necklace
$466 - net-a-porter.com
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Bex rox jewellery GOLD
155 GBP - matchesfashion.com
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CHANEL RADIANT GLOW HIGHLIGHTING POWDER LIMITED EDITION – Bronzer -…
$65 - bloomingdales.com

Chanel Les Folies Noirs Eyeshadow Quad Limited Edition
$60 - izzysbeautyshoppe.com

Saks.com – CHANEL – INIMITABLE MASCARA MULTI-DIMENSIONAL VOLUME LENGTH…
saksfifthavenue.com

balmain, Black Multi Zip Detailing Jacket
imageurlhost.com
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Roger Vivier ‘Metro’ handbag – ELLE UK Spring / Summer 10 Accessories…
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VINTAGE COLLECTION Gold Rolex with Black Dial Watch
chickdowntown.com
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John Richmond – ?????????? | Sur la terre
surlaterre.ru
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Balenciaga tortoiseshell sunglasses – ELLE UK Spring / Summer 10…
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Maquillage Yves Saint Laurent Beauté – Teint Yves Saint Laurent :…
myprestigium.com

Maquillage Chanel Beauté – Lèvres Chanel : Lèvres scintillante -…
myprestigium.com

Maquillage Givenchy Beauté – Ongles Givenchy : Vernis Please ! -…
myprestigium.com

LINK LOVE:Outfit Of the Day

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LINK LOVE:Vintage Sailor Stripe Jacket

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Osojoss Bootie

Stone Boot

Available in-store and online 9/21.

LINK LOVE:COOL COLLAB ALERT: JOSS STONE x Nine West Vintage America Shoe Collection

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My Face hunter

LINK LOVE:Vintage Jumpsuit

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I’ve always adored all types of paper lanterns, and I’ve been trying to find the perfect spot in my apartment to hang some. I’ve been going back and forth between over my head or in my workspace. This morning I saw this girl’s workspace and instantly fell in love. The use of the vintage Chinese lanterns makes her desk area look extra dreamy and filled with so much inspiration. I’d absolutely love to do something similar, but I think I’m still leaning towards hanging them over my bed. I guess we shall see. . .

LINK LOVE:Decorate Your Space: Paper Lanterns

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My Face hunter

LINK LOVE:Lookbook – Levi's Vintage Shorts

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My Face hunter

LINK LOVE:Lookbook Sweden July 2010

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