How to Go Antiquing (A Survival Guide)

 

(Photo taken in Sugar Chest Antique Mall.  Pompano Beach, Florida)

http://thesugarchestantiquemall.com/

Antiquing is one of my favorite hobbies.  I love searching for items for my MCM-themed home and rockabilly myself.  I am always on the hunt for mid-century wares whether it's online (Etsy.com) or in brick and mortar stores like the Sugar Chest Antique Mall.  My mother-in-law lives in Boca Raton, Florida and every time my husband and I visit, I make sure to spend one afternoon browsing the aisles in this huge place!  Navigating the vast rows of cases and shelves displaying antiques from various eras can seem like a gargantuan task.  If I do not have a plan or even know what I am looking for, I get sensory overload.  In many antique malls, you can find stacks of vintage postcards, political memorabilia, lamps, furniture, china, costume jewelry, fine jewelry, statuary, clothing, prints, paintings, ceramics, electronics, chandeliers, pianos, and Barbie dolls.  Let me tell you, there have been times I have left stores empty-handed simply because I was overwhelmed.

There are a few factors that can contribute to what I call, "antique meltdown."  Here are some circumstances that can lead to a lackluster antiquing experience:

1. Lots of cases in one storefront.  Many antique malls are a large, single space with several square footage.  The owner of the mall rents out sections of his floor space and/or cases to various dealers/sellers.  The individual seller (renter) pays the owner rent and the owner also gets a percentage of each seller's sales.  There is typically many sellers in one storefront.  Navigating/browsing from case to case can be a challenge.

2. Poor organization of displays.  Some, but not all, antique malls have so many cases and displays in one space so they are almost smooshed together.  "Clutter" would be the key issue here. Not to worry, I will help you figure it out.

3. Treasures galore and "what on earth is that?!   This is not usually a problem but expect to see a lot of weird and funky wares amongst vintage treasure.  This can be a fun aspect of your shopping experience and yet it can add to your frustration.  Again, I will share my secrets to finding that lucite dream in the pile of velour sweaters.

Here are some fun pictures depicting a few of the wild things I have found while antiquing:

So, how does a gal figure it out?  How can an afternoon sifting through the immense layers of vintage history and mystery lead to shopping nirvana?  Here are my tried and true methods.  After years of trial and error in the aisles, I promise these suggestions will help!

1. Go with a plan.  Have a basic idea of what you are looking for.  Need a table for your MCM kitchen?  Looking for that gravy boat to match your dishes? Want a Sputnik light for the dining room?  Desiring a pair of ceramic cats for your shadow boxes? Pining for a carved bakelite bangle to add to your collection?  Before venturing out, make a list. You may not find EXACTLY what you are looking for but if you ask the staff, their renters/vendors may know.  Finding your dream piece can be as simple as a phone call or getting a business card.  Vintage through networking is a beautiful thing.
 
2. Ask the staff for help.  If you find yourself feeling the beginning twinges of "antiquing meltdown," stop.  Breathe.  Relax.  Ask for assistance.  The staff are very familiar with  the layout of the mall and they usually know where to find various items.  Just ask.  For example, the very first time I visited The Sugar Chest, I was in search of Bakelite bangles.  I am always collecting. I am an addict.  Nevertheless, I had been walking up and down the aisles peering into case after case.  I couldn't find any bakelite and I was like, "Forget it. I will wait until I go back to DC so I can just look on Etsy."  Then, like an angel, one of the amazing staff members appeared and she kindly and promptly took me over to this glorious case of color-blinding bakelite.  It was like I found my shrine. I ended up buying three pieces that day:

3. If you find funky wares, have fun!  Part of the allure of the antique mall is all the funny and wild stuff for sale.  I have seen nude male paintings, Leather Ken Barbie dolls, velour hats ala Dr. Seuss (see above), and tacky holiday sweaters.  Sure, you may encounter a beige,  1980s Members Only Jacket or a pair of cracked, unwearable shoes but just keep looking.

4. Be patient.  This is very important.  When it comes to antiquing, do not rush.  Get lunch before you go and make an afternoon out of it.  Enjoy the day browsing and taking it all in.  I was once at a flea market and I found a basket of various plastic and wood bangles.  Each bangle was listed as 6 dollars.  I almost passed it by because there were so many bracelets jammed in that basket.  But I decided to patiently sort through the bangles and lo and behold, I found an orange prystal bakelite spacer.  I quickly (and sneakily) did a friction test and yes, it was the real deal.  I nearly missed out on scoring bakelite for 6 bucks.  See? PATIENCE.

5. Ask about that price tag.  Sometimes you may find something you have been looking for but the price is insane.  I once saw a simple red bakelite bangle listed for $110.  It was about 1/2 thick, smooth, and had no special carvings.  Yep. Way too high for a bangle like that.  I kept on going.  If your gut is telling you a price is too high, go on instinct.  Do not buy if you think you can get a better deal somewhere else.  Remember, patience.  If you wait and stick to your budget, you will find your treasure.  However, you may encounter a situation where the staff is willing to negotiate a better deal or try to get you 10-20% off.  They will offer to call the vendor and ask for a lower price.  This is especially true if the item in question has been on display a long time and thus, hasn't sold. 

So, those are my tips for surviving the antique mall!  What are your methods?

For the Love of Accessories (Rediscovering and Outfitting the Rockabilly Gal!)

As I was getting ready for work this morning, I realized that it has been 8 years since I have been wearing vintage and/or a rockabilly style every day.  In 2005, I lost 33 pounds and as a result, I had a 'clean slate' to revamp my wardrobe and update my look.  After a nearly year of wavering between Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, Gap, and Banana Republic, I decided to return to my 'vintage roots.'  In junior high school, I fell in love with vintage clothes and 50s rock and roll.  By my 11th grade year, I began incorporating 1950s cardigans, pencil skirts, and seamed stockings into my daily look.  I got odd looks from my mall-clad classmates but I didn't care.  I felt and looked amazing.

As college came and went, I wore vintage less and less.  My beloved vintage treasures were put in a donation box and replaced by Gap denim overalls and striped turtlenecks (sorry, it was the early/mid 90s).  By the time I was 30, I was carrying a Louis Vuitton "Alma" monogram bag, donning Prada sunglasses, and 'strutting my stuff' in my Citizens of Humanity jeans.  What happened to the vintage girl?  She was lost in a sea of Neiman Marcus receipts and Burberry scarves.  The girl who once pined for saddle shoes, platform heels, chiffon scarves, and boiled wool cardigans traded her style in for couture accessories, Chanel lipstick, and Gucci G's.

When I lost my weight, I discovered my vintage soul and I "cleaned house."  I sold most of my designer wares on eBay and made a nice 'chunk of change.'  My ski trip in 2007 was partially funded thanks to the sales.  My fancy clothes were donated and I was left with an empty closet and a wish list that contained beaded cardigans, bakelite, Re-Mix wedges, Polly heels, snoods, vintage denim, wool pencil skirts, lucite bags, Hawaiian dresses, house coats, and girdles.

Over these eight years, I have started collecting various "must-have" clothing and accessories that can truly give a vintage look to even the simplest, modern made pieces.  For example, a simple black tee from Target and a pair of  Levis 501s (cuffed) will come to life with a Pendleton 49er jacket, black engineer boots, and a studded belt.  You can also get a cropped, black leather (or pleather) motorcycle jacket, throw on the same black tee and complete the look with a leopard hair scarf and skinny jeans or pencil skirt.

Here are a few of my favorite, must-have rockabilly gal essentials:
1. Warpath Leather Goods! Matt Strickland's belts just incredible and he is super nice! I have this one in tan and another in black.

2. A good-fitting motorcycle jacket that sits above or just at the waist line. This one is by Michael Kors:

3. Trophy Queen Bags! I just got my first Trophy Queen and I LOVE it! I carry all of my daily and work essentials in this bag and not only it is cute, it is well made and sturdy!

4. 49er jackets. They are warm and made any jean outfit look instantly vintage!

5. Engineer boots! (See photo above). These are by Frye and I bought them last September. They took a while to break in but they feel like butter (sorry, "buttah") now! I wear mine with skinny jeans, cuffed jeans, and some skirts in the dead of winter.

So, what are your vintage style accessory musts?

Sparkle, Tara, Sparkle!! My First Whirling Turban!

(Image courtesy of Whirling Turban.com)

For the longest time, I have pined for my very own Whirling Turban dress.  After spending several months browsing the website and then seeing a few of the dresses in person at this year's Viva, my obsession was firmly cemented.  I HAD to have one. A few weeks ago, I decided to 'take the plunge' and finally buy my first dress.  Yes, I said "first."  Anyone who has the honor and privilege of owning a Whirling Turban usually gets another.  Like Lays' brand potato chips, "you just can't have one."

The dress I purchased is a two-piece sarong dress with a detachable strap.  The fabric is a gorgeous blue silver metallic lurex type material that just sparkles and shines.  I have NEVER seen anything like it.  Moreover, the fabric has a lovely weight to it.  It is not too heavy or too thin.  The details are stunning and the measurements are perfect for my body shape.

As soon as the dress arrived, I immediately tried it on.  The fit was incredible.  Even though the dress was expensive, let me tell you, it is SO SO SO worth it!  Talk about an investment!  I can see myself wearing this dress for years and years to come!

I bought the dress for my company's annual holiday party.  The party took place on Saturday, the 7th of December at the Hyatt Regency in Reston, Virginia.  Big Daddy, aka el hub, wore a vintage-style black tuxedo.  I, of course, wore my Whirling Turban dress!  I paired it with vintage rhinestone jewelry, my silver Pollys, and one of my lucite bags.

Here is Big Daddy (isn't he just dreamy?!):

And here is my look:

I had a great time at the party (even though my entree, grilled salmon, was not good)!  I had a couple of vodka tonics and a glass of wine. (Party time!)  Everyone was complimenting my dress!  I felt so amazing!  When the night was over, I was sad to take the dress off and change into my pjs.  Nevertheless, we have a 10-day family cruise coming up over Christmas and I am going to wear my dress again for sure!!

So, for anyone contemplating whether or not to buy a Whirling Turban, all I can say is, do it!!  You will not regret it!  Now, if you decide to buy a dress of your own, please take some advice from me: when selecting your dress, please go on your measurements!  Do not guess!  These dresses are made to fit your body and hug your curves!  If you have any questions regarding fit, please ask!  The people at Whirling Turban are very helpful when it comes to answering questions!  They are quick to answer e-mail and very friendly to do business with.  My overall Whirling Turban experience was above and beyond any expectations! 

I am so happy with my dress, I went ahead and ordered another last night!

Now, I will have two Whirling Turban dresses for my cruise!  Because this cruise is 10 days long, there are four formal nights and you know a girl has to look her best! ;)

Again, if you are considering buying a Whirling Turban,  you must!   The quality, the detailing, the materials, and the customer service are simply wonderful!

Great Link for Help With Measuring Vintage Eyewear (The Optometrist Attic!)

 

After posting about my new vintage eye wear the other day, a fellow blogger and friend of mine asked me how to measure vintage frames.  She wears modern frames and wants a vintage pair but in many cases the frames she buys (particularly online) are too big or too small. Being able to decipher all those numbers can be tricky but I have found an AMAZING website that will help you determine your correct size!

http://optometristattic.com/measure.htm

I buy most of my frames online (Etsy and eBay). I occasionally find frames at various flea markets, antique malls, and at events like Viva (Allyn Scura is pure cat eye heaven). After wearing vintage glasses for 15 years, I am familiar with my measurements. However, if you are not sure about how to measure, just visit the link above and I bet you this site will help you find that vintage pair that fits like a dream!

New MCM Wares for My Ever-Updating, Rockabilly Abode! (Oh, and Vintage Eyewear Too!)

This past Saturday, my sister and I went to Southeast DC to visit the District Flea Market.

http://districtflea.com/

The day was sunny but the air was crisp with a windy autumn bite.  I wore my Freddies of Pinewood classic indigo jeans, a 50s camp shirt, and a red 49er jacket.  I thought about wearing a housedress with tights but jeans seemed like a better, more logical (and warmer) choice.

As we grabbed a hot coffee, we browsed several booths containing vintage records, hi-fis, books,  prints, art, clothes (mostly 60s-80s but I did spot a cute 50s patio set with gold ric rac but it had holes), jewelry, wall scones, lighting, mirrors, melmac, shabby chic furniture, vintage eyewear, and mid-century furniture.  In addition to the shopping vendors, the District Flea also boasts food vendors. 

Now, I admit that I went to this market with a few doubts.  I was not expecting to walk away with anything.  I was hoping to see the vintage eyewear booth and maybe stumble upon some bakelite, but my hopes were reserved.  However, my doubts were soon proven wrong when I found two Lane two-tiered end tables in gorgeous condition.  I was floored.  The tables only had minor stratches (nothing Scott's Liquid Gold couldn't fix!) and the seller wanted $250 for the pair.  I recently spotted similar tables on eBay for $500 or so.  I took notice of the tables and decided to think about it.  After a few sips of coffee and some brief hemming and hawing, I went back and told the gentleman, "You have a deal."

While I was coming down from my "end table high," my sister and I found the vintage eyewear booth.  I was in total acetate, cateye, and aluminum heaven.  I tried on a few pairs of various colors and styles and then found the pair I wanted: a 50s silver aluminum modified cateye frame for $55.  The hinges needed to be cleaned but overall, they were perfect.

I already own four pairs of vintage frames that have been fit with my prescription: a solid black cateye, a clear acetate and soft gold cateye, a pale blue and clear acetate cateye, and lastly a black, brushed silver, and clear acetate cateye.  In addition, I have three pairs of vintage sunglasses also fitted with my near-sighted/astigmatism prescription.  I am addicted to vintage frames. Yes, it's true.  I am not ashamed.

Here are my new frames:

After returning home from the flea market, I placed the two Lane tables in their spots in my living room.  I treated each table with the Liquid Gold and then let them cure.  Then, I accompanied Big Daddy to his barber appointment, we had lunch, and we went to my local optician to have my frames fit with my prescription.  I love them!  There is nothing like a great pair of vintage cateye glasses!  I used to despise the fact I needed to wear glasses (modern frames are typically boring to me)  but once I discovered vintage frames, I am happy to wear glasses again!  It is just another way to accessorize and accent my daily vintage style!

So, overall, this weekend was a huge success!  I got some pretty new frames to wear and my home is continuing to be updated in proper, mid-century style!

What are your newest vintage treasures?

Lipstick Review: Lipstick Queen Lipsticks in Red Sinner and Scarlet Sinner

Yesterday, I met my sister and niece for a day of shopping at Tyson's Corner Center, located in Tyson's Corner, Virginia. Tyson's is part of the Northern Virginia/DC Metro area.

During our fun day out, I went to MAC Cosmetics for a few basics and we browsed the stores and had a lovely lunch at La Sandia (a new, upscale take on classic Tex-Mex cuisine). We ordered table-side guacamole and dined on enchiladas, black beans, and tortilla soup.

After lunch, we made our way to the makeup counters in Bloomingdale's. I saw a few things that peaked my interest but I decided I didn't need anything. As we were leaving, I spotted something that caught my eye and lo and behold, there it was! Lipstick Queen!!!!

I have wanted to try Lipstick Queen lipsticks for a long time but no store carried them in the DC area. I have read countless online reviews that detail the quality, pigment, and color. One review said Lipstick Queen "Sinner" lipsticks are "not for the faint of heart" or the "shy." Well, you got my attention!

Nevertheless, you can imagine my joy and excitement when I saw the pretty colors just packed with pigment. According to the sales associate and Lipstick Queen packaging, these lipsticks boast 90% pigment and after trying on "Red Sinner," they were not foolin' around! These lipsticks mean business!

After swatching a few colors, I decided to buy "Red Sinner" and "Scarlet Red Sinner." (Lipsticks retail for 20.00 USD each).

Red Sinner is on the left and Scarlet Red Sinner is on the right. Red Sinner is a neutral bright red that leans slightly cool. The color is similar to Besame Cosmetics, "Besame Red" lipstick. The lipstick goes on opaque with one swipe. The texture is very smooth and rich. These are touted as matte but they have a little creaminess and feel very soft. Moreover, despite the matte description, they are not drying at all. Not one iota.

Here is me wearing Red Sinner:

The other color I purchased, Scarlet Red Sinner, is a berry red. It has a little bit of a claret undertone. The shade reminds me of a lighter, brighter version of Besame lipstick in "Cherry." MAC lip pencil in "Beet" pairs well. Beet is a touch darker than Scarlet Red Sinner.

Me wearing Scarlet Red Sinner:

Another thing I want to mention is how Lipstick Queen classifies their lipsticks. The full pigmented version is called "Sinner" and the more sheer, less pigmented formula is called "Saint." Many of the shades have a light and full-bodied version of each other.

So, how do these lipsticks compare with Julie Hewett? Besame? MAC? I think these lipsticks have more pigment than both Besame and Julie Hewett but only slightly more. The texture is heavier than Julie Hewett and Besame and as a result, the lipstick lasts much longer throughout the day and survives eating and drinking better.

However, when I compare Lipstick Queen to MAC, Lipstick Queen wins out hands down. I am usually a MAC girl but in the last few years, small companies like Julie Hewett, Besame, and Lipstick Queen are out-pacing MAC in spades. For example, I recently purchased RiRi Woo (a retro matte) from the "Rihanna loves MAC" Collection and as much as I love the color, the formula is so dry. It literally tugs at my lips when I apply it. In addition, the texture dries my lips out. I find that I can only wear MAC's Retro Matte lipsticks (ie Ruby Woo and RiRi Woo) for a few hours at a time (ie date night).

Overall, I am pleased as punch with my two Lipstick Queen purchases! If I didn't already have a huge cache of lipsticks on my vanity, I would go out right now and buy more shades. I cannot rave enough about them!

Antique Shopping in South Florida

As some of you know, I was recently visiting South Florida (Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale to be exact). While I was there spending time with my in-laws and participating in the Hukilau, I also had the opportunity to visit two of my favorite antique malls, Sugar Chest and Hillsboro Antique Mall.  Both malls are located in Pomano, Florida.

http://thesugarchestantiquemall.com/

http://www.hillsboroantiquemall.com/

Of the two malls, I have to admit that I prefer Sugar Chest. The layout is easier to walk and browse through and the bakelite selection is fantastic. Hillsboro has a cool vintage post card section (it's huge!), furniture, a great number of vintage housewares and kitchenware, and loads of costume jewelry. The only drawbacks are the small amounts of bakelite (and what you do find is so overpriced) and the layout is a bit chaotic. If there is such a thing, I feel like there is too much to see. I call it "sensory overload."

Nevertheless, I bought some post cards from Hawaii to frame for my tiki bar, three thin red bakelite spacers, a pumpkin-colored carved bakelite bangle, and a Hobnail dish for my mother-in-law.

(The pumpkin, carved bangle is on the far left. One of the new red spacers is second to the far left and the other new red spacer is second to the far right.)


During my trip to South Florida, I also visited Sugar Chest Antique Mall in Pomano, located on Federal Highway. This mall is about 15 minutes south of my mother-in-law's house. Every time I visit, I always make a stop at Sugar Chest! I call it my "bakelite haven."

On my recent visit, I bought three carved bakelite bangles. Each one was listed as 65 USD and there was a sale going on and as a result, my bangles were 40% off! I also scored a pristine opalescent, glittery lucite bag. I was floored when I spotted it glowing from within its display case! The seller originally wanted 400 USD but I felt that was way too high. Between my mother-in-law and the lovely attendant, Joey, who always helps us when we visit, I managed to get the bag for 200 USD.

One of the many charms of shopping in antique malls is finding hilarious items! You never know what you are going to find!

Let me show you what I discovered:

This reminds me of David Bowie in his "Blue Jean" video!

The King, complete with "sneer detailing."

A very macho cowboy Ken doll!

A sequin nightgown? Dress? Robe? I am not sure. So shiny.

A velvet poker hat. Do you think I should go back and get it?

A Ken Doll from the 80s. Kind of reminds of "Jersey Shore" Ken. GTL!

And as we were leaving, I saw this book. Pose! Werk that camera, honey!

At the end of my Florida visit, I had some great new bakelite scores, a pretty lucite bag, some fabulous vintage post cards, and I got a gift for my MIL. Overall, it was a fun time! I cannot wait to go back when I return to Florida in August!

Latest Vintage Finds (Picture Heavy)

During my recent 'back and forth' trips to my hometown of Mechanicsville, Virginia, not only was I able to hang out with my best friend of 23 years, she and I got to visit the Cold Harbor Antique Mall on Rt. 360 in Mechanicsville.

http://www.coldharborantiquemall.com/


Due to the many pictures in this post, I will keep my commentary to a minimum.  I was floored with the number of mid-century goods, especially lamps and furniture! If I was richer and/or had a bigger car, I would have bought so much more!

I bought this blond wood, mid-century side table for $15.00 USD!

I got these two lovely "TV cats" for $7.00 USD and $5.60 USD.

Another view:

I purchased a Starglow platter for $9.00 USD:

And I bought a pie plate for $7.00 USD:

I was so happy to have found this set of 4 cocktail glasses for $18.00 USD:

I love the still crisp detail of the design:

Look at this gorgeous flour container! It is deadstock and I only paid $12.50 USD!

I adore this green glass sculpture ($14.40 USD) and TV lamp ($38.00 USD):

Here is a detail view of the sculpture:

I bought this mid-century, Danish pewter circle candle holder for $10.00 USD:

This cute, 50s-era metal music stand was $25.00 USD:

Now, here is the "piece de resistance!" My first-ever, genuine mid-century lamp!

For so long, I have pined for an Eames era lamp but the prices on Etsy and eBay tend to be quite high and the shipping alone (understandably) is steep. Nevertheless, when I saw this lovely priced at $85.00 USD, I knew I had to bring her home!

Here is the detail of the shade:

And an up-close view of the ceramic base:

I cannot get over how wonderful the Cold Harbor Antique Mall's selection was! The prices were so reasonable and the staff was a delight! I will always be sure to make a trip there part of my visits home!

I WANT This! Self-Adhesive Wallpaper with a Vintage Look!

Today while getting my red hair color refreshed and getting a hair extension colored to match (more on that in my next post), I was flipping through the latest issue of Lucky Magazine and came upon a feature that listed self-adhesive wallpaper. The company is called "Tempaper" and they make self-sticking wallpaper that can be easily installed and removed without destroying your walls!  Not only is this idea peachykeen, I love this "Alto" paper! It looks very mid-century. Uh, can we say, YES PLEASE?!

Here is the link:
http://tempaperdesigns.com/collection_alto.nxg

The average price per roll is about $60.00 to $74.00 USD. I know that is a bit pricey but to me it's worth it because I do not have to buy adhesive, tools, or deal with the mess. I have wallpapered before and it's a pain in the posterior! Moreover, the look of that Alto paper is gorg-e-ous! The paper also comes in a black and white print that is currently on sale! Want, want, want!

So, what do you gals think? Is the price worth the convenience and look?

A Vintage Girl's Must-Have: Freddies of Pinewood Dungaree Dolls Review

(So sorry for the blurry photo!)

First and foremost, I want to apologise for my lack of posts as of late! I have been well busy with family issues and work! This summer has been non-stop! I feel very disconnected and 'out of sorts,' but never fear, I am back, gals! Be damned earthquake, Hurricane Irene, work, and cheeky home decor, I am "back with a vengeance!" 

Nevertheless, I would like to share my review of the Freddies of Pinewood Dungaree Dolls overalls! I purchased these directly from their website on 22 July 2011 and on the afternoon of the 29th of July, they arrived in my mailbox and ever since, I have have fallen under their spell! On the weekends, I find myself reaching for these overalls along with my Freddies' "Classic Indigo" jeans. Not only are the jeans and overalls comfortable, their design epitomises proper vintage detailing and style! Moreover, the quality is top notch!

http://www.freddiesofpinewood.co.uk/

The Dungaree Doll Overalls cost 50 pounds UK or $80.50 USD. Despite the higher price, these overalls are SO worth it! The denim is a heavier weight and the colour is a true dark rinse. The waist is fitted and the pant legs are wide. In addition, the inseam is long enough (at least for my 5ft., 3 in height) to roll up (cuff) twice. Now, most overalls are too baggy and as a result, are not flattering on a feminine shape.  I had a pair of Gap overalls in the early 90s (when I was at university) and I recall looking very shapeless! However, the Dungaree Doll overalls are tapered in the waist and the bib is adjustable (the two shoulder straps both have two button tabs for a proper fit).

If you are unsure of your size, please refer to the size chart listed. The chart is VERY accurate and if you select your size based on the specific measurements listed, you will NOT be disappointed! I am a 27.5 waist, a 36 bust, and 37.5 hip and the 28 size fits me PERFECTLY! The fitting is so perfect it felts like these overalls were individually tailored for me! Many size charts tend to be an estimate (either too big or too small) of size whilst the Freddies of Pinewood chart is spot-on!

When you order a pair of Freddies, you will need to wash them before wearing.  The darker rinse needs special care. Turn the denim inside out and wash in cold water. Tumble dry low and iron as necessary. If you have any light-coloured furniture or clothing, be mindful as the denim may stain. I have not experienced this with my two Freddies items but I have stained my hands (putting them in the front pockets) with a pair of dark-rinse J. Crew capri denim jeans.

So, if you are looking for an authentic 40s/50s denim style, give Freddies of Pinewood a try! Not only does their product line feature an authentic vintage look, their quality and customer service are amazing! 

Today's Makeup and New Shoes (cheap!)

Hey all! I hope everyone is well on this Wednesday! It has been so hot here in the DC area! This afternoon while I was at work, we had a major thunderstorm go through. The lightning was glorious! Ask anyone and they will tell you that I *love* thunderstorms! There is just something so powerful and beautiful when Nature puts on a good 'light show!'

The pic above shows me this morning before I left for work.  As I was taking the picture on my Blackberry, the cat was yelling at me (very loudly), demanding my full attention. She gets extra needy whenever her 'daddy' is away on business. Let me tell you, getting her to go bed last night was practically impossible! Brat!

Nevertheless, I would like to share with you today's makeup!

MAC Paint Pot in Rollickin' (a pearly, seafoam, green-blue cream shadow base) was applied to the lower lids.

MAC Aquadisiac eyeshadow (a shimmery teal) was applied on top of Rollickin' Paint Pot.

MAC Surreal Shadow (a shimmery green-based light blue) was blended onto the crease.

MAC Crystal Avalanche (a bright white pearl) was applied to the browbone.

MAC Liquidlast Liner in Point Black was applied in a cat-wing shape using a MAC 208 brush.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-on Eyepencil in Electric was applied to the lower lash line and then was set with MAC eyeshadow in Aquadisiac (using MAC 212 brush).

Maybelline Volum'Express One by One Mascara in Black (Waterproof) was applied to top and bottom lashes.

MAC Eyepencil in Fascinating (a stark white) was applied to my waterline. 

On my face, I am wearing Guerlain's Parure Gold Foundation in Beige Claire 01, MAC blush in Pink Swoon, and Murad's Acne Treatment Concealer in Light (to cover a few breakouts). I set my face makeup with Coty Airspun Loose Powder in Translucent and finished the look with Make Up For Ever's Rouge Artist Intense lipstick in #45 and MAC Lipliner in Cherry.

Today, I am also wearing a new pair of Miss Me? black velvet-esque fabric (almost a faux suede-like material) platform shoes. I bought these on Endless.com (a division of Amazon) for $40.00USD! They also come in purple!

That 'thing' on the far right is my cat's plush catnip mouse toy. She wanted me to play fetch.

These shoes are very comfortable but they do run a 1/2 size+ too large. I am normally a 7 but I ordered the 6.5 (based on the online reviews stating the shoes run big) and they are still a little too roomy for me. I put a pair of Foot Petal inserts in the ball of each shoe and I can feel my heel sliding forward a tiny bit. I can make the shoe tighter by buckling the last hole in the ankle strap. I can also buy some heel inserts or the Foot Petal Killer Kushionz:

 Moreover, one curious and potentially comical (and dangerous for the clumsy like myself) feature of this shoe is that it has velvet soles.

 When I tried them on in my bedroom, I walked for a second and I felt like I was traversing on a "Slip n' Slide!" I pictured myself 'sliding' to my death on my carpeted stairs! Imagine the husband, coming home and finding me at the end of the staircase having been eaten by the cat. At least I died in style..... (JK!)

Interestingly enough, when I walk on concrete surfaces or asphalt, these shoes have great traction. They are a bit tricky on carpet and wood flooring. I suspect the velvet soles will get rougher and therefore easier to control after a few wears.

Overall, I know I will be wearing these shoes a lot! They have a great 40s style that will pair well with many things like dresses, skirts, and even wide leg, high-waist trousers.

I hope everyone is having a good 'hump day!'