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?

The Dreaded "F" Word - Fakelite!

In the last 4 years I have been collecting Bakelite, I been duped a couple of times with "fakelite" posing as Bakelite. One of those purchases took place in an antique mall in South Florida.  I bought a heavy, smooth rootbeer bangle that was listed and priced as Bakelite but it was in fact, fake. I was just starting to collect and still unaware of how to properly tell if a piece was real or not.

What is Fakelite? Fakelite is imitation Bakelite that can have the same look, weight, feel, detailing, colors, marbling, and carving style as real, authentic Bakelite pieces. I have heard from others that a few fakelite pieces can even smell like Bakelite!

I wanted to add pictures showing examples of fakelite but I do not want to get in trouble. Most of the Fakelite I encounter has been found on Etsy and eBay and if I post someone's listing pictures, I may find myself in hot water.

So here are some pictures of REAL Bakelite from my collection to familiarize yourself:

Notice the carvings are basic, not super crazy detailed? See the marbling on the end-of-day pieces? See the colors?

Sadly, I have been finding A LOT of fakelite on Etsy recently.  The fakelite typically in question is usually a bangle with overly ornate carvings and the colors are too marbled.  The bangles are too thick, way too heavy, and the colors are odd. A while back, I saw a bangle that went from red, yellow to green! So fake! What really tips me off when a bangle is fake is the type of carving. I have seen carved dolphins with big bubbles and sea life!

Real Bakelite usually has more simple carvings. You may find real pieces with cut-outs, rhinestones, round grooves that encircle an entire bangle (like a record), leaves, rose petals, etc. But dolphins? FAKE!!!

What burns my biscuits about fakelite is that some sellers will claim a piece passed all the tests (friction, 409, hot water, simichrome, etc) and they will charge Bakelite prices. However, if a piece is listed as 'fakelite' and the price reflects that, then great! I may even buy it if it's cute! But when fakelite is passed off as actual Bakelite, that is wrong!

I recently found a few links for helping distinguish fakelite from Bakelite:

http://www.realorrepro.com/article/Is-it-Bakelite

http://www.angelfire.com/ca3/gale/

And here is a fabulous post from 2012 by amazing vintage blogger, Brittany, of Va-Voom Vintage:

http://www.vavoomvintageblog.com/2012/03/how-to-identify-bakelite.html

I wrote this post in the hopes of helping others who may be in the infant stages of starting their own Bakelite collections.  If I can give just one bit of advice, I would suggest looking for Bakelite in person especially before venturing online to buy. Many antique malls, antique stores, car boot sales, charity shops, and swap meets will have a few bits of authentic Bakelite for sale. Familiarize yourself with the colors, the smell (do a friction test with your fingers and then smell your fingers), the weight, the sound (Bakelite should have a heavy clunk not a light "tink tink"), marbling, and the carvings. Also, the inside of a real bangle or the back of earrings, brooches, etc will be seamless. There will be no pour marks or branding.  The surface may have a patina or age spots. Learn the proper characteristics so when you shop online or visit the antique mall, you will have a better determination of what to buy and what to avoid.

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?

(BOTD) Bakelite of the Day!

Just for fun, I decided to do a "BOTD" i.e. Bakelite of the Day post! I normally wear bakelite in some form every day, usually as bracelets or earrings.

In the last two years, I have been building my bakelite collection. So far, I have spacers, a few carved bangles, some end-of-day pieces, a smattering of smooth bracelets, and two pairs of carved earrings. I want more carved bangles and a beaded necklace or two! I would have more but as we all know, bakelite is not cheap!

In addition to my bakelite obsession, I also love and make resin jewelry. I use pour resin by Castin' Craft mixed with glitter, beads, and/or opal flake. Initially, I just made pendants but in the last few months, I have branched out to making earrings too!

Here is one of the earrings I am wearing today! I made them with resin, green glitter, and mini square silver glitter!

After pouring and setting the mold, I allowed the mixture to set and when it was cured (two days), I popped the resin out of the mold, coated the surface with a clear, protective polymer, and attached the earring posts! Viola! They were done and ready to wear!

"New" Cat Eye Glasses!

Last week, I bought these 50s, clear acetate and light gold cat eye frames on Etsy. They are in amazing condition and look unworn! I paid 58.00 USD and with shipping, the total came to be just over 63.00 USD! I love the gold accents:

 
I received my glasses on Saturday and that afternoon, I took my new frames to my local optician and had them fitted with my prescription. One of the lab technicians, who happens to collect Victorian-era accessories and furniture, always ensures that my vintage frames are well taken care of!

In the past, other technicians and opticians have been reluctant to work on vintage eyewear because they are afraid the frames will snap/break when heated. So, I am truly lucky to have found a place where people understand the nature of vintage metal and plastics!

Here is me today wearing my new frames:

 (I am wearing a tee because I was going to the gym)

So, if you are looking for vintage eyewear, give Etsy and eBay a look!

New Atomic Goodies for the House!

I have been off radar for a little while and as a result, I have not been keeping up with my blog duties! Despite my apparent 'blog laziness,' I have been busy updating my house with new atomic housewares! As a result, my glue gun and sewing machine have been busy too!

After searching Etsy for new addition to my slowly expanding vintage housewares collection, I realized the things I wanted were either very expensive or the shipping was too high. I spotted several pairs of amazing lamps, a ton of ceramic vases and platters, and a bounty of starburst-adorned collectibles. I wanted so many things but I decided to search my local Target and Home Goods store for atomic-inspired lovelies.  My local Target left me wanting and empty-handed. But, Home Goods proved to be a wonderful place for my vintage needs. I ended up buying about 120.00 USD worth of goodies!

I would like to share with you all what I got and what I also made:

I found this starburst mirror at Home Goods for 39.99 USD! I almost missed it too! As I was checking out with my initial purchases, I spotted a couple buying the same mirror! I thought to myself, "Where was THAT hiding?! I have to have it!" I bought my stuff, got my receipt, put my bags in my car, and ran back into the store to search for this mirror. Let me tell you, I really had to look hard to find it. It was in a stack amongst different styles! I grabbed the mirror and I did not see any others. I think I got the last one.

 I found this teapot also at Home Goods. I love the aqua color! It matches the aqua already present in my kitchen! I paid 24.00 USD.

This red vase on the left is a ceramic glaze. It matches my atomic pillows and curtains wonderfully! The vase has a small crack on it but I hid it by simply turning the flawed area towards the back of my mantle. I got this for 10.00 USD.

This aqua strainer is a coated metal and it has a nice weight to it. I paid only $4.99 USD! Like my new teapot, it matches my kitchen nicely!

I found this lamp also at Home Goods! It was 29.00 USD. I love the wavy green ceramic base! The lamp shade has a very 50s look and texture!

Here is an upclose view of the lamp's detail:

I also purchased a 4-pack of white and aqua tea towels for 2.99 USD. I decorated two of them with a teal blue and yellow dot starburst fabric (the same as my kitchen curtains). I also added yellow grosgrain ribbon.

 Along with my new houseware buys, I made two more pillows for my living room using the same atomic repro print fabric I bought last summer on Etsy. I used up all of the first batch of fabric and as a result, I got some more last week. Here are the new pillows:

 I also made four placemats using the same fabric:

 I have been having fun adding more vintage style to my home! I wish I could learn to make boomerang tables and I would be set!

So, has anyone made any "retro renovations" to their abodes lately too?  I would love to know!

Re-Mix Vintage Shoes (Select Styles) Available on Endless.com

For those of you who are familiar with/wear Re-Mix Vintage shoes and those of you looking to find good quality vintage repro shoes, I wanted to let you know that Endless.com now carries select styles!

http://www.endless.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_3/189-2725843-3221404/?onsale=&showDesigner=&node=241745011&keywords=remix+vintage+shoes&sprefix=rem

Endless. com offers free two-day shipping and even free returns! I ordered a pair of the Dara wedges last year before a trip and they arrived quickly! I love Endless.com's customer service and I am so happy they now have a few Re-Mix styles online.

However, if you want to view/order from Re-Mix directly, visit here:

http://www.remixvintageshoes.com/

At this time, Re-Mix does not have an online shopping cart. You can fax or call in your order. I have ordered from them over the phone and the staff are always kind and super helpful!

I just visited the Re-Mix site and I saw these:

I really like those shoes! They are so classic 40s!!

So, if you are looking for authentic-looking vintage shoes that are amazingly well-made, then Re-Mix Vintage shoes are for you!

Oh, I almost forgot, Re-Mix has a brick and mortar shop in Los Angeles!

Etsy Haul! A new coat, a bag, and a 49er jacket!

Despite my desire to save money (my annual two-week Colorado ski trip and Viva are coming up), I still find myself buying vintage wares! Recently, I purchased a new coat, a black suede handbag, a plaid 49er jacket, and a black angora turtleneck.

The gray wool Banana Republic coat that I wear daily has started to come apart. I bought it in October 2005. The lining is torn on the pleat,  it's missing a button, and the belt that adorns the back is now falling off. Despite the its flaws, I am amazed this coat has served me well for over 5 years!  Due to my coat's demise, I decided to look for a replacement and last week I found this lovely, taupe colored, wool-alpaca blend,1950s deadstock Rothmoore coat for under $60.00 USD:

As my turtleneck situation, one of my most-worn pieces is a black merino blend Forever 21 sweater that has become a pilled mess!  I bought it last winter for 17.00 USD. Forever 21 merchandise is not known for its longevity! Forever 21 is famous for being cute, trendy, and cheap! Nevertheless, I wore that turtleneck with wide leg pants, rolled jeans, and skirts. Because a black turtleneck pairs well with so many things, I got this one:

As for the plaid 49er jacket, I have been wanting one for a long time! It is so perfect to wear with a turtleneck and rolled jeans on the weekends! It is a must have for casual wear!  I got this 1950s, red plaid jacket for under 20.00 USD!

I needed a new black handbag and I think a girl can never have too many accessories! I bought this 50s, black suede beauty for 22.00 USD!

I am pleased with my purchases and I glad I did not "break the bank!" The next 'must-have' I have my eye on is a 50s party dress! I need to update my fancy attire collection!

So, what finds have you girls bought lately?

Wedges Shoes ala Carmen Miranda! Free People "Daisy" Wedges

I recently received a Free People catalog in my mail. As I flipped through the pages, I spotted these wooden soled wedged and I instantly fell in shoe lust! These wedges make me long for warm summer days or even a tropical getaway! They retail for $168.00 USD. Here is the link:

http://www.freepeople.com/daisy-wedge-platform/_/cmCategoryID/fa53f873-3912-44b3-8a95-13af10c515fd/?&productOptionIDs=6ad4e93d-38a6-4b9f-bb17-01f8e9fbc138

These shoes come in black, blue with red bows, and in cheetah print. I am torn between the blue and the black. But I can see myself getting more use out the black pair since black goes nicely with most outfits!  These shoes are very 40s vintage-inspired and they remind me of Carmen Miranda!

I am so jealous of that shoe collection! Oh, what I would do to be able to go back in time and browse Carmen's closet!

Even though I love winter, I am ready to start thinking about my spring/summer wardrobe.

So, with Viva around the corner and the warmer months approaching, what clothing/shoe/accessories are you hankering for?

Baby, It's Cold Outside! -My New Found Love of Berets!

This me after getting home from work last night! It was really cold! I am wearing a black angora beret I bought at Urban Outfitters for 10.00 USD about 10 years ago. I have barely worn this hat until recently. I really like the way it looks on and it pairs nicely with a lot of my 40s and 50s clothing styles.

It has been in the low-mid 30s here in the DC Metro Region for a few days and apparently, my weather "boyfriend" Doug Hill of local ABC affiliate WJLA said that the region is in for more cold temperatures. There is even a slight chance for snow on Sunday into Monday. If the area does get snow, I suspect it will not be much. But any amount, big or small, is good to me!

Since it has been so bone-chilling cold, I have invested two more berets that I bought on Etsy.

One is made with red wool:

And here is a black, hand-knit "bubble" beret:

I have not received the red beret yet but I got the black one last week. I love it!  I especially like the little 'bubbles' all over it! Too cute! The yarn is super soft and keeps my head very warm!

I like berets not only for their look and warmth but also for their ease of wear! I can be lazy with my hair! I simply style and flat iron my Bettie bangs, put on my beret, secure it with a few bobby pins, and I am out the door.

So, do you gals wear winter headwear? What are your faves?

I Am Now I "Snood Snob" Convert!

This is me, wearing my new black snood that I bought from Arthelia's Attic on Etsy.com! I bought two others in warm red and green. I found out about these fantastically made, beautiful snoods from Brittany of Va Voom Vintage! Here is the link:

http://vavoomvintage.blogspot.com/2010/07/snood-snob-and-dress-she-made.html


Like Brittany, my first snoods were made of rayon. I bought mine from vintage clothing shops and online stores that sold vintage repro clothing. The rayon weave has the tendency to droop over time and it can even shred, causing little strings to hang out. Not a pretty sight, let me tell you! Since my hair is still on the shorter side (I have an original length Middy), the bottom of the rayon snood looks "flappy." If I had longer hair, this droopiness would be more "filled out."

However, with my new hand-knit snood, my shorter hair is not really an issue. The knit-weave is tighter and lays nicer on the head. The elastic band that encircles the snood's opening is also not as tight as the rayon version. Unlike the rayon, these knit snoods do not want to slip off! They fit well and feel secure without being too small in the band. The fit is perfect.


I am so happy with my new snoods! I will never go back to the rayon ever again! So, like Brittany, I am a now "snood snob!"


If you are looking for gorgeous, elegantly made snoods for your vintage wardrobe, be sure to visit Arthelia's Attic!


http://www.etsy.com/shop/artheliasattic

Cute Shoe Find! Red Wedges

These cute, red wedges can be found at Mod Cloth and retail for $34.99 USD! Here is the link:
http://www.modcloth.com/store/ModCloth/Womens/Shoes/Picnic+Pinup+Wedge

I really like the cute bow accent and the ankle strap is a great vintage touch! I already have a pair of red wedges so I wish this came in other colors. If these were in yellow, I would grab them so fast!

So, if you are looking for red, vintage-looking wedges that won't break your wallet, maybe these beauties are for you!

Latest Etsy Find!

After months of searching, I finally found this beauty! A 50s, red leather handbag! I bought this last week off Etsy. I paid $40.00 including shipping. I am amazed how new the bag looks on the outside and how the inside looks so pristine! I really doubt this bag was barely used, if at all!

Here is the bag with me out at dinner with the husband and my brother-in-law. I know it's a bit odd to be taking pictures at a table in a restaurant. I do not have a phone with a camera so I stole the husband's!

So far, I love this bag! I can fit in my wallet, keys, Blackberry, compact, lipstick, and sunglasses with total ease!

Vintage Shoe Spotlight- Wedges!

Here is the famous Carmen Miranda with her shoes! I am SO JEALOUS!

Shoes. It is a word that evokes feelings of fascination and wonder in almost every girl I know, vintage or not! Putting personal taste aside, I have yet to meet a girl who is not obsessed with shoes. I've had a passion for shoes ever since I was able to wear high heels. In high school, I would often steal my mother's heels and as soon as I got my first real job, I blew most of my earnings on clothing, makeup, and of course, shoes! The first high heels I ever bought were a pair of black suede platforms made by Sam and Libby. The shoes had a late-40s, New Look vibe about them. I was 17 and I felt like a vintage starlet as I strutted my way to Spanish class.

In 2006, I started wearing vintage on a normal basis. As I slowly built my vintage wardrobe, I realized my shoe collection needed to be updated as well. I had a few pairs of contemporary heels that 'looked vintage' as well as two authentic sets of late 1940s/50s deadstock saddle shoes. As I searched various websites for inspiration, I noticed several 40s looks were combined with wedge shoes.

Wedge shoes, are a category of platform shoes. In 1935, Italian designer Salvatore Ferragamo designed the first prototype of the wedge. This primary model didn't have an obvious heel. It was almost like a flat-type of shoe. Ferragamo's inaugural creation was in the form of the traditional 'angled' wedge. In 1936, the designer introduced a higher, heeled version. In the following years, different kinds of wedges were made in a myriad of styles and heights. Some wedges were designed with heels as high as five inches!

In the late 1930s and into the early 40s, many shoe designers began to make wedges in a variety of colors and materials. Wedges made with cork, wood, rubber, and/or leather. However, cork became a widely used medium due to its light weight. Moreover, cork soles were long-lasting and sturdy. Women discovered that wedges were not only dependable, they were easier to walk than their high heel counterparts.

During the war years, wedge shoes became fashion mainstays due to comfort and rationing. Heavy restrictions were placed on rubber and leather. As a result, cork continued to be a major component in the wedges' construction. As for the upper balances of wedges, some were made with cottons, velvet, and raffia.

In the late 40s and into the early 50s, wedges were made with lower heels and were usually deemed for casual and summer wear ie, “play wear.”

In the 1970s, the wedge made a huge comeback. The wedge was found in every style from day wear to disco couture.

In the early 1980s, espadrilles (especially those made by Pappagallo) were extremely popular with the “preppy set.” (I remember my sister begging our mom for a pair of espadrilles.)
Throughout the later years of the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, various forms of wedges have come and gone. I have noticed that in the last two to three years, wedges have been a major feature of the haute couture collections ranging from Gucci, Galliano, Yves Saint Laurent, Stuart Weitzman, Prada, Louboutin to Chanel. Even the 'retail' market brands like Roxy, Rocket Dog, and Volatile have been coming out with wedge designs.

In my shoe collection as it stand now, I have wedges from Punk Rose, Natural Comfort, Miss Sixty, Castañer, Re-Mix, and Ayers Allen. I would do anything to have the real thing but most of us vintage girls know how hard it is to find vintage shoes that are in good condition, let alone our size!


(Re-Mix Vintage wedges in red)


(me wearing wedges from Miss Sixty)

Despite fashion's fickle love affair with the wedge, I am going to keep wearing them! They are comfortable, cute, and so 40s! On the weekend, I love pairing my red ribbon espadrilles with my dark rinse, denim capris and plaid, 50s camp shirt. Wedges go with everything from 40s house dresses, 50s pencil skirts, sundresses, and vintage playsuits! Instead of flip-flops, I compliment my summer looks with wedges.

So, vintage girls, whatever your budget, be sure to include wedge shoes in your collection!

Vintage Jewelry Spotlight- Moonglow Lucite!

Here is me, wearing a vintage, 1950s necklace made with green moonglow beads. I bought this piece from a vintage boutique in Lower Manhattan in February 2007. When I saw its intense green color flashing under the store lights, I knew I had to have it! Until I bought this necklace, I had never seen, let alone heard of moonglow before. After being introduced into the world of vintage lucite/plastics, I became hooked! I began searching eBay for anything moonglow. Over the last few years, I have collected items like my baby-pink hued, beaded necklace and bracelet set, a pair of olive green ball earrings, a 14mm pearl-white beaded necklace, a luscious cherry red, bead necklace, and a thin, tangerine orange bangle that still has its 29 cent price sticker still intact on the inside.

So, what is Moonglow? It is a form of lucite that first gained popularity in the 1940s and 50s. Moonglow gets its name due to its moon-like shine and schiller when light hits its surface. It has a moonstone, almost cats' eye look that seems it has its own inner light.

Moonglow lucite was made into earrings, bangle bracelets, beads, buttons, and man-made cabochons that were set into earrings and brooches. Moonglow came in many colors ranging from bright sunshine yellows, bold blues, radiant reds, soft pastels to deep emerald greens. Although moonglow was primarily fashionable during the 40s and 50s, it continued to be used in jewelry until the 1960s.

So, how was it made? Moonglow is comprised of acrylic resin and of heat-set plastic. This process was called "thermosetting." Unlike today's comtemporary plastics that feel hollow and insubstantial, vintage lucite, especially moonglow, has a nice weight to it. It feels strong and cool against the skin.

So, where can a vintage girl buy herself some moonglow? Websites like eBay and Etsy are chock-full of moonglow jewelry! The prices range from an average of $14.00 to $40.00 USD. I have found many auctions and online sales featuring necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and sets. I could go nuts buying more moonglow myself but have already amassed quite a collection as it stands. What I do need is a nice red, 40s/50s handbag! I am still looking for the "one."

Anyway, if moonglow jewelry is your 'cup of tea' and/or you are looking to start, I wish you happy hunting!

Saddle Shoes!

Here is me, wearing a pair of black and white saddle shoes I bought from Muffys.com in 1999! I think I paid around $80.00 USD. These were vintage 50s deadstock and for 11 years, I have worn these many times and they are still in great condition! Not only are these shoes super cute, they are amazingly comfortable. I often wear my saddles on days when I need a 'break' from high heels. I think these shoes go great with pencil skirts, circle skirts, a-line skirts, rayon dresses, capri pants, and rolled up jeans!

I loved these shoes so much that I bought another pair of saddles from Muffy's. I ended up getting a 1940s pair of brown and white saddles! I recently visited the website, and saw that the prices are still great and the stock looks like it has gotten even bigger! The store owner, Muffy, is a doll and she has a true passion for all things saddle shoe!

Here is the link:
http://www.muffys.com/modern_traditional.html

Guide to Buying Vintage Jewelry

This is me as a blonde (!) in November 2008. My husband and I were guests at professional banquet in Chevy Chase, Maryland. I am wearing one of my vintage hats and the earrings and necklace were from my husband's bubbe's collection. This matching set is from the late 40s or early 50s. It also included a hinge bracelet adorned with green and clear rhinestones. The pristine condition of this set is just amazing. All of the rhinestones are clear, none of the prongs are loose, no stones are missing, and the metal has not tarnished! My mother-in-law has given me several items from her mother's collection and I am impressed everything looks brand new. Most pieces even have their original boxes!

When it comes to my vintage style, I accent my look with vintage and reproduction jewelry. Sweet Romance, El Dorado Club, Classic Hardware, Lucky Loo Loo, and 1928 are reproduction companies making earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings. I know there is more! I have a pair of cherry earrings from Sweet Romance that I bought in 2006 from Baby Girl Boutique. They are made of green glass leaves, red rhinestones, and soft-toned gold metal. Even though these earrings are "new," people ask me if they are vintage. I prefer vintage over reproduction but if see something cute that 'looks' vintage, I will buy it.

However, when buying the 'real thing' at yard sales, estate sales, or vintage shops; here are some tips:

When it comes to vintage jewelry made with rhinestones, look for items in good condition. Make sure all stones are present and look for oxidized stones and/or ones that are chipped.

If there is tarnish and it is sterling, it more than likely can be cleaned with polish or even toothpaste (more on that later). If any metal is not sterling (or real gold) and you see flaking, tarnishing, or even rust, judge for yourself. We all know that vintage by its very nature is not perfect. An item that shows a little age can be charming but if something looks ravaged, then it will not be a good investment.

Speaking of sterling silver, if an item claims to be silver, look for the .925 stamp. This will more than likely be found inside of a ring or on the clasp of a chain and/or necklace.

Make sure earrings' screw backs are in good working order. If the screw back cannot tighten and untighten, then it will not properly stay on. If the earrings are clip, ensure the clip can grip the ear lobe. Also, if the clip is too tight, it can actually pinch the ear which can cause skin damage.

If an item (necklace, brooch, bracelet, or ring) has prong-set stones, make sure the prongs are tight and also check to see if any are broken. If you are crafty, you can buy a pair of prong tightening pliers from jeweler websites like Fire Mountain Gems. If you are nervous about doing this yourself, you can take your jewelry to any reputable jeweler that has a repair shop on its premises.

When buying brooches or earrings with in-set or glue-set stones, make sure all stones are present and/or not loose. Should a stone fall out, you can glue it back in. Jeweler's glue (available at Fire Mountain and most craft stores) and even basic Krazy Glue can be used to re-adhere stones into their 'sockets.' Simply apply a tiny dot of glue inside the socket and using a pair of tweezers, place the stone onto the glued area. Let dry overnight or per package directions! Be sure not to get any adhesive on your fingers! If this happens, soak fingers in an acetone-based nail polish remover. NEVER try to pry your fingers apart! You can rip the skin!!

When buying vintage chains, make sure the clasp closes and opens. Test the clasp to ensure it closes completely. Also, scan the chain for any weak or stretched links.

When buying vintage lockets, make sure the locket snaps tight after being opened.

When buying vintage plastic ala lucite or bakelite, check for any cracks or chips. I once bought a red 50s plastic bangle that snapped on me after a month due to a hairline crack.

If an item is made with genuine pearl, turquoise, or opal, DO NOT submerge these items in water and DO NOT EVER use jewelry and/or metal cleaner! You WILL damage the stones! Simply clean jewelry with a soft cloth. If the metal is tarnished (especially if it is made with sterling or gold), take it to a professional jeweler.

When cleaning vintage sterling, you can use silver polish. If you do not have any on hand or you feel nervous about using chemicals, you can use toothpaste! Simply get a soft, clean, dry washcloth and some q-tips (if needed). Squeeze out a small amount (a pea-size) onto the washcloth and rub onto the tarnished areas. The toothpaste will more than likely turn black. This is okay. When the sterling looks clean and silvery again, clean under warm water with an old toothbrush. Blot jewelry with a clean paper towel, lay flat, and allow it to dry on a clean towel.

When it comes to dressing vintage, not only is investing in a vintage (even repro) jewelry collection is a must for any retro gal, it is fun!

Here's to finding all things sparkly and bright!

Pearls! A Vintage Girl's Must Have!

Here is a pic of me in my kitchen. I am wearing my pearls with a simple black tee I got at Wal-Mart!

Pearls. Whether they are glass, man-made, cultured, or real, pearls are timeless and a must have for any vintage girl! Pearls make the most casual outfit look polished and chic. Adding a pearl necklace to simple white tee and a pair of high-wasted sailor pants gives your look an "instant upgrade!" Pearls come in many lengths. There is the 16 inch choker strand, the 18 inch princess length, the 32 inch opera length, and the 60 inch rope. Depending on the time of day and what clothing you are wearing, pearls are always appropriate!

The 16 to 18 length are good for simple house dresses and most daytime wear. This length invokes a sense of casual elegance. I often wear my 16 length pearls for the office and for running errands during the day.

The longer lengths are good for evening and even some office attire. It all depends what you wear with it. For example, I have a Majorica 60 inch rope strand that I recently got for my 35th birthday. I can double the strand and create a opera length look that goes wonderful with boatneck style dresses and tops and most cocktail wear. If I triple the strand, I have a 18-20 inch, three strand necklace that pairs well with evening attire and if I wear a simple black suit with a camisole underneath, I am ready for the office. Like most accessories, wearing pearls will depend on your clothing.

Another thing to consider when it comes to pearls is how much you are willing to spend and how often you will be wearing them. I think buying good quality, man-made pearls like Majorica or Carolee are a good choice. Majorica is not expensive like the famous cultured Mikimoto pearls, but it is not cheap either. For example, a 16-inch strand will often cost anywhere between $185.00 to $200.00. The price also depends on the millimeter or "mm" of the individual pearl size. In my opinion, the best pearl size is 8 mm. This is the classic size that is not too small nor too big. Anything over 12-14mm can look too bulky ala "Wilma Flintstone."

As for Mikimoto pearls, unless "money is not object" for you, a 7mm, 16-inch strand will cost about $2,300.00 USD! Take the price for a 32-inch strand and you will pay about $6,000.00 USD! The Mikimoto quality is legendary but their prices are infamously sky-high! I would love to have their pearls but I cannot justify spending that kind of money. So, what is a vintage gal to do?

There are a lot of good imitation, ie "man made" pearls out there. Carolee is a great brand that carries many styles of pearls and their stock can be found at most department stores. These pearls will cost about $55.00 to $200.00 USD. An 18-inch strand made with 8mm pearls will cost about $65.00 USD and a triple strand will cost about $195.00 USD. Carolee offers a lifetime guarantee as well.

The only pearls I do not recommend are the plastic ones or pearls that are painted glass. The plastic type looks cheap and the painted variety will eventually flake and peel.

When it comes to caring for your pearls (man made or not), here are some basic rules:

Do not wash your pearls in jewelry cleaner! EVER! Most soap-based cleansers will destroy pearls. If you need to clean your necklace, simply wipe with a soft cloth and when you are not wearing them, keep pearls safely stored in a jewelry pouch.

Do not wear your pearls when you are applying hairspray or spray perfume! These sprays WILL ruin the pearls' luster and finish! Moreover, it is best to wait 30 minutes after putting on perfume before wearing your pearls.

In conclusion, a vintage girl can never go wrong when it comes to wearing a classic, white pearl necklace! Wear them with elegance and be sure to properly care for them! You will be glamorous for many years to come!

Making Hair Flowers

This is a picture of me wearing a yellow rose hair flower (silk/fake flower) I made a couple of years ago. When I started buying retro clothing from online stores, I found several sites that sold hair flowers. I bought two for about $6.00 to $8.00 USD. When my package arrived and I opened up my goodies, I looked at my new flowers and realized they were nothing more than a flower attached to a silvertone barrette using a hot glue gun! I said, "Wow! I can do this!" I also thought "Dang it! Why didn't I think of this first?! I could be selling these!"

Anyway, those two cute flowers were the only ones I ever purchased and I must have at least 10 that I have made myself. These are easy to make and they are cheap too!

Here is what you are going to need:

A trip to the craft store

Fake floral picks

A Glue gun

Glue sticks

A package of plain barrettes

A wire cutter

Pot holder

An old towel or sheet

First step is going to the craft store. Michael's is wonderful and AC Moore is even better. I could go nuts in AC Moore. Believe me, I have been known to spend over $100.00 on crafts!

Try to select flowers that look clean and with all their petals intact. Also, buy flowers with leaves attached. You are going to need these in the fabrication of your barrette.

If you do not have a glue gun, buy one. In additon, if you do not have one, you more than likely do not have glue sticks. Get a pack.

The bridal section of most craft stores have multi-packs of plain barrettes. They usually come in a pack of 10 and there are usually different sizes. I find that the two inch barrettes are the best. Now, buying a pack is good because there may be a barrette or two that will not close correctly or you may mess up a flower and need to start over.

Buy your goodies.

When you are ready to start, this is what you do:

Get a an old towel or old sheet and cover your work space. Put a stick into the glue gun and turn on. Set aside and place on top of a pot holder.

Take your flower and turn it upside down. The flower is attached to the 'stem' made with a wire that has been coated with heavy plastic. Look at where the wire and flower connect. Using your wire cutters, cut off the wire stem. If there is a bulbous end that cups the flower, cut the wire just to the edge of this area. DO NOT CUT INTO THIS. THE FLOWER WILL FALL APART.

Using a pair of scissors or wire cutters, cut off a leaf. If you have work gloves (preferably clean), put them on now if you are nervous about using the glue gun. You should be okay but watch how much pressure you apply to the handle. Using too much can cause glue to quickly ooze out and burn your skin! This glue is hot! I have been burned many times by not being careful.

With the flower upside down, apply a small, thin line of glue and then press the leaf onto it. Let cool. Be careful because the heat of the glue can come through. By gluing on the leaf, you are creating more of a flat surface for the barrette to adhere to.

Take a barrette and test it. Open and close it a few times to make sure it's in good working order.

Once cool, squeeze a small, thin line of glue and gently press a barrette onto the glue line. Do not press too hard. Keep flower upside down and set aside. If you are not making other flowers, turn off glue gun and let cool completely before putting away.

When your barrette is cool, you are ready to wear it! Enjoy!