Outfit Post: Boats and Flags and Bettie Page (oh my!)

Well, the truth is, this week Jayme and I tried to do a "Sister Style-Off" with graphic tees (inspired by her Clarissa Explains It All tee). We both took photos over last weekend, and then I sent mine to her to put them together...

...but the photos were SO drastically different, it's like we were in two different countries! Pennsylvania is still covered in snow, and Jayme had some great overcast lighting. I took my photos on Sunday morning before church, and here in VA, we've barely had a drop of snow and the sun was shining brightly.  I loved this outfit, and it was still a good challenge, but we'll save a real Sister Style-Off for next week!

Outfit details:  letterman jacket-thrifted, tee-H&M (men's section!), brooch-vintage (gift from parents), cardigan-Charlotte Russe (4+ years ago),skirt-vintage (in the shop here!), tights-Target, heels-Jellypop via 6pm.com

I has just given my hair a nice trim the night before...it felt so much shorter, even though I just trimmed all the ends, but it looks super shiny and healthy now!

This silk skirt has been in the shop a while--the pattern is ships on the main part of the skirt, with various flags at the hem.  Besides being cute, I thought it was super flattering.  One of you ladies should snag it!

Hey, guess what?  It's Friday!!! I am so excited. Tomorrow I am helping to host a baby shower for my sister-in-law. There is a LOT of work to be done before that (cooking, cleaning, making pretty things...), so I better get to it!  Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: The Go-To

So here's the part where I complain about how it's already too cold (after two months of complaining that it was still too hot!).  That Sandy really ushered in a cold front.  But no worries--I have the perfect outfit, all ready to go.  This is my late fall/early winter go-to look:  full skirted dress + belt + cardigan + socks/tights + boots.  Easy--and warm (although I did wish I had worn tights today after I spent some time outside!).

Outfit details:  cardigan-thrifted, dress-Anthro (thrift score!), belt-vintage, socks-Target (last year), boots-UO

What do you think of my little beehive? I wore this to Aurora's preschool for their harvest parade/party.  With the cateye makeup I felt very "yummy mummy." But that's not a bad thing, is it?  It feels good to feel pretty once in a while.  Q was a fan too. :)

HAPPY FRIDAY! Yes, yes, yes. Finally.

xo,

Amanda

Outfit Post: Sailor Style

With my love of everything pinup comes a great love for anything nautical. Red, white and navy, stripes, anchors, ropes--they all look great with my red lipstick. :)

I bought this dress on major sale, as a beach coverup for vacations ahead (TWO MORE DAYS!!!), but on this particularly steamy day, I decided to wear it, paired with bright red accessories.

Outfit details: striped tank dress-Old Navy, rope belt-vintage, bracelet-Banana Republic (old), shoes-vintage 

The picture above is a goofy one of me and my handsome photographer (who just clicks when I tell him and has no real photography experience!). He always tries to make me laugh, which helps me to relax and look a little less stilted--I think. But we rarely have pictures together, which stinks! Hoping to get some family shots this weekend while we're on our family vacation. We are heading to Berkeley Springs, WV for swimming, shopping, art galleries, hot springs, hiking, and chilling out with our family for 4 days. I cannot WAIT!

 We have some great guest posts coming your way in the next two days, which we're also very excited about! :)

See you soon! We'll be the ones with tons of pictures and hopefully a sunny, relaxed glow. (I know actual tanning is bad, but damn, I am ghosty in these pics!)

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: Sunday School

Aurora is going to be starting preschool in the fall, just two days a week for a few hours. I volunteered to teach Sunday school for preschoolers this summer to help acclimate her to the classroom and playing with other kids and listening to directions, since she will be in the same room in the fall. This is what I wore for playdoh, circle time, crafts, and jell-o jigglers! I was helping the primary preschool teacher since it was my first time.  I cannot imagine having more than one preschooler in my real life, but having 10 of them was still pretty fun (and crazy!). Of course, Aurora never missed an opportunity to photo bomb an outfit post, either:

Outfit details: fruit print blouse-vintage, wrap skirt-vintage, sandals-vintage

Summer has officially arrived in Virginia, making this top knot-and-bangs look my hot weather staple (adding an occasional turban/headscarf).  I love how my bangs look here, but the truth is, about 50% more of them are pinned back into the ponytail.  My hairstylist went a little crazy with the longer side fringe, so now I'm trying to grow some of it out.  I almost never wear both my hair and bangs down because I think it looks awful, especially at the growing out stage.  But temps are made for up-dos, so it will all be okay.  Grow, hair, grow!

I am wearing head-to-toe vintage for the first time in a while. The skirt is simple enough to really fit any decade, though, and I knotted the top at the waist to modernize it (and give me some definition).  In a total humblebrag, I have to say that after losing some baby weight, the top was a little big for me this summer (I last wore it here)--but I was cool and comfy.

What are your go-to looks in the hot, hot heat?

xo,

Amanda

Outfit Post: In with the Old, In with the New

I wish that all of the amazing vintage pieces in our inventory fit me well. And I wish they were in great condition. And I wish some of them didn't smell like my actual great great grandmother (not that I ever smelled her, but you know what I mean).  All of this to say:  I love vintage.  But it is not always ideal.

Because pretty much every woman in the fifties had a 23 inch waist, I swear! And because it's sobering to see how sizes have changed since then (Sure, Marilyn Monroe was a size 14, but that's only a size 6 or 8 in today's sizes).

And because sometimes, it's nice to buy new things that fit well, that are just the right colors to fit something else in your wardrobe, that haven't been worn by somebody else. That don't have any kind of smell at all...

So we're starting a new feature on the blog, called "Modern Vintage," where we share our favorite current pieces in modern-day shops that have been inspired by decades past.  We're excited to get to look at pretty things and to be able to share a little bit of the history and details of fashions of the past that we have picked up along the way on our vintage journey.  In honor of this new little venture, I'm sharing a completely modern outfit (gasp!) post with very vintage sensibilities. I even did some pattern mixing! Am I a real fashion blogger now??? ;)

Outfit details: tank (underneath)- Gap (thrifted), polka dot sweater-H&M, patterned skirt-Old Navy, peeptoe heels-Michael Kors (thrifted), clutch-vintage

I also couldn't resist sharing Aurora, in her little horse print dress with her moccasin booties, clutching tight to Teddy, her security blanket.  She was desperate to take some pictures with mama, but did not want to put the bear down.  Also, a little humble brag photo of our awesome hydrangeas.  I am always so sad when they are done.

So stay tuned tomorrow for our first installment of Modern Vintage! We think you'll like it.

xo,

Amanda

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Outfit Post: Blitzed

I am a pretty busy person. Busier than I'd like to be sometimes. I have three part time jobs and a full time job (as a mom).  So even though I am social and love people, I don't get out very much.  I'd rather spend my free time with my husband and my daughter--I can tell how much I have changed because even 3 or 4 years ago, I would have been telling you how, in my ideal world, I would still have events to go to and my husband and I would have very separate lives and interests, but also overlapping ones, but...we're one of those couples.  We're in luuuuuuuuv.  And Aurora is awesome, and I hate missing any of the cool stuff she does.

So, okay, I confess, I am a suburban mom now. I am not ashamed.

But I still like to dress up and meet new people, and so, along with Katie, I stepped out of my homey comfort zone to attend the first blogger event I've attended in a long time(Blogger Blitz DC) .  And this is what I wore (trying  to momentarily hide/forget the fact that I am 30 and a mom, since most of the people at this event were under 25, living fabulous DC lives with shopping budgets and city apartments):

 Outfit details:  tank-Urban Outfitters, belt-vintage, 1950s full skirt-vintage via greatest friend on Etsy, shoes-Blowfish via 6pm.com, hair bow-vintage bowtie, necklace-30th bday gift from Katie, earrings-H&M

I have finally settled into my style. I know what I love, I know what looks good on me, I have a pretty regular hair and makeup regimen, and I have particular places I shop and hunt for inspiration.  I am (most of the time) comfortable in my own (tattooed) skin. 

 But let me be honest: I still felt like an outsider at this event, wearing "old" clothes, wondering what my two year old was doing at the moment (and trying not to text Q every 15 minutes), drinking an Allagash White instead of sipping a glass of wine...no, I'm not 20 anymore, and maybe I'm not really DC, but for a few hours, it was almost pretty to think so.

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: Anchors

On a little thrift excursion this week, I hit the jackpot. This vintage skirt would normally go in the shop, but it has an anchor print and it fit me, so basically, there was no chance I could let it go.

I have been on a very 50s pinup kick (with a modern twist)--I don't know if it's the new tattoo or some other outside inspirations, but I'm all about the cateye and red lips and cute scarves and feeling very girly. So don't be surprised if you see more looks in the same vein...

Outfit details:  headscarf-vintage, tee-Threads for Thought, rope belt-vintage, skirt-vintage, shoes-Pink Studio (thrifted)

To be honest, after I took these shots, I went right back inside and put on jeans instead of the skirt because even though it looked sunny and gorgeous, it was a little chilly and windy for bare legs.  But I can't wait to actually wear this skirt out...and sunless tan my legs (ugh, are you blind yet?).

Happy Friday!

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: Ketchup and Mustard Redux

We went straight from winter to summer here in VA (it was 85 degrees yesterday). I don't want jinx it, but that was a little too warm. And I am in need of a good sunless tanner and a pedicure. I felt weird in sandals and a sundress in March, so this was the compromise, my much-loved mustard skirt and some other basics. I'm also modeling this great 70s (vegan) red carry on bag as a purse...it's on sale in the shop now for a steal!

Details:  tank-Target (best basic tanks!), belt-vintage, skirt-vintage, boots-thrifted, scarf-random, bag-Miskabelle

I have been looking for a pair of low boots to wear with spring and summer dresses, and I adore these ones. Now I am on the hunt for some medium heel/wedge sandals. Almost all of mine are too high for comfort or are too flat and make me feel frumpy. So that's the top of my shopping list now-- what's on yours?

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: Checkmate

I love bright colors, and neutrals in the brown family, but my go-to color is black.  Not just because it's slimming, but it's just classic and a little sexy and a little rock and roll. Black is my comfort zone, especially when I'm throwing something on to run errands, etc.  This is what I wore to hit up the party store, as we have two VERY big birthdays coming up in the next week!

jacket and top- Mossimo (thrifted), belt-vintage, jeans-Banana Republic (thrifted), lace up wedges-Charlotte Russe

I have been living in my thrifted black Banana Republic skinnies, and I found this buffalo plaid shirt at the thrift last week that has become a new wardrobe staple!  It's a warm winter here in VA, but you still need a jacket. I thrifted this green coat (it's like a big, soft sweatshirt AND the hood is removeable!) that will be great for spring too.

There are many dressy outfits in the works for birthday festivities and roadtrips, but this is a just a little peek at my day-to-day, work-at-home casual wear.

xo,
Amanda

P.S. Do you like our shed?  So rustic, am I right?  ;)

Outfit Post: A Casual Friday in 1970

This is one of my favorite outfit posts in all of blog history...the individual vintage pieces are awesome in and of themselves, but the way it all came together made me feel so 70s chic, and to top it off, it is super comfortable. I could wear this out to dinner with friends or to go to the post office with Aurora. It's casual with a little bit of oomph courtesy of the vintage pieces.

I wore this camel jacket,etc. to run some Friday errands and then have a casual night in with Q. We made dinner together and watched The African Queen (1951)...maybe Love Story (1970) would have been a more appropriate film decade-wise, but this was my first Humphrey Bogart film, and I really loved it. Our veggie burger-and-oven-fries dinner wasn't too shabby either. Sometimes a Friday night at home is just what I need!

mustard fedora-vintage, corduroy blazer-vintage, dove tee-vintage, scarf-random, jeans-Gap (perfect boot), boots-AE (thrifted)

I love how a blazer and a few accessories can makes jeans and a tee look totally put together. I think these are my new wardrobe staples! Now, if only I could find some more sweet vintage tees. They are seriously rare at the thrifts (around here, at least)! I believe I found this one somewhere in South Carolina on a spring break, once upon a time. Maybe I'll find some on my 30th birthday road trip? (More on that later...)

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: Invisible Riverside

It was a great Christmas here at our house--probably the best ever. Mostly because we had so much family down time and because Aurora was so excited about everything, since she was finally aware of all the special holiday things.

The gifts were just icing on the cake: Q surprised me with an iPad (I cried!) and I got him (well, US) tickets to see Ryan Adams. The great thing about concert tickets is that the show wasn't until January, so it spread out our celebrating a little further, and made for an awesome date night to break up the winter blahs!

For some reason, the outfit pics were really blurry except for this one--and I had closed eyes in the other clear pic--but Q looks quite handsome, so I guess this is a husband/wife outfit post! This is what we wore to see one of our favorite singer/songwriters:

Details---> On Amanda:  sweater-Anthropologie (thrifted!), dress-Old Navy, belt-vintage, tights-Target, boots-Steve Madden (thrifted)   On Quentin:  western button up-thrifted, jeans-Levi's, shoes-no idea.

The show was pretty lowkey, since it was just Ryan and no band. The opener, Jason Isbell (of the Driveby Truckers) was fantastic, and the encores where the two of them sang together were probably the highlight of the show. Ryan, I'm pretty sure, was wearing a vintage tee and jacket. (Swoon, disregarding his horrible, horrible hair.)

The setlist, in case you were interested, can be found here.

But onto the outfit! I have been wanting a beautiful long sweater, and I lucked out with this Anthropologie find at my thrift. I also have been wanting brown riding boots, and lo and behold, last week I found these babies in my size at the thrift.  I love how this outfit came together, with the brown and black accented with ivory.

It's Thursday! I am ready for another weekend....

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: Baby Got Back

I had to indulge myself with the title of this blog. And while I have plenty of junk in the trunk and know every word to Sir Mixalot's booty anthem, this outfit does not pay homage to my derriere, but actual back.

If you follow any fashionista-type people on Pinterest, you may have seen this outfit posted as inspiration last week. I have this low back sweater and was inspired to create my own look, with a more Bohemian vibe.

sweater-UO (thrifted), skirt-vintage, turban headband-gift from Jayme, tights-Target, boots-AE (thrifted), trench-Banana Republic (thrifted!)

Of course, it was freeeeezing outside, so we started with the trench, which I then threw over to my husband/photographer and shouted "Hurry up!" all while trying to remain pretty. And, of course, no photo shoot is complete without my little sidekick trying to get in on the action.

 I think a low back is almost as sexy as showing cleavage, if not MORE sexy...what do you think?

xo,

Amanda

Outfit Post: Reds

Red lips are still my favorite little indulgence. They make me feel a little vintage-y, even if my outfit is not. They are so glamorous!  When I wear something red, I can't help but put on my favorite lipstick.

This is another cozy outfit for winter--I have been living in these Gap jeans (thanks, Jayme!) with boots and sweaters and of course, my favorite scarf.  I found this sweater while thrifting this week, and may hoard it for myself at least a little while.

sweater-vintage, tee-random, jeans (perfect boot)-Gap, scarf-thrifted, boots-vintage, purse-vintage

This was a Sunday-errands look. Although I'm a major skirt and dress lover, I have been trying to find a selection of jeans I don't hate to improve my casual wardrobe since that's the wardrobe I go to most of the time during the week (running to the post office, blogging, chasing after Aurora). I need to add a few more basics, but first:  on the hunt for an amazing 30th birthday dress. I think it's gonna be impossible--but I'll keep you posted!

xo,

Amanda

Outfit Post: Hysteric

We had quite an eventful weekend here (Saturday's snow being the LEAST exciting of these events).  My stepdaughter's high school had an "American Idol" contest...she made it to the last round, which was Saturday night.  She learned to play some guitar chords for both nights to do her songs acoustically (how awesome is that?), and honestly, I should be sharing her outfit here because she looked so great for her final performance (to her dad's dismay).

She didn't become the Idol of the school, but she did an amazing little performance of Yeah Yeah Yeahs "Hysteric."  And this is what I wore as part of her fan club... (sorry for the inside photos: blame the snow and the early darkness that comes with it).

long sleeve tee-J. Crew (thrifted), jumper-vintage, belt-vintage, tights-random, boots-Frye, necklace/bracelets-random

I found this jumper/dress at the thrift this week and had to keep it (at least, for now).  It would be great as a summer tank dress, but I thought it would look cute with a top underneath and a belt.  You can't tell but the top half is thermal and the bottom is a lightweight cotton.  I like the contrast of fabrics, as well as the contrast of such a utilitarian fabric, like thermal (so grunge!) with this pinky nude color.  I paired it with my tough boots and black accessories so it wasn't too sweet.

Speaking of sweet:

She was excited to pose with me (and even more excited for the SHOW!)

I wore an entirely different costume for Halloween (which I'll share with you all later!). We had a neighborhood block party/celebration yesterday. Thankfully, the snow had melted and the sun came out.

Hope everyone had a fantastic weekend! I'm looking forward to taking Aurora trick or treating for a little bit tonight, and this is the first year in a while that I'll be sad to see this crazy Halloween season end!

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: Channeling Sabina

Sorry for the bit of quiet here on the blog. Jayme and family were in for a couple of days, and we've been working a lot at our *real* jobs.  Even the shop updating has been slow.  But next week we'll be back on the ball, promise.

I think that some people are hat people, and I am fortunate to be one of those people.  It doesn't mean I don't get a little shy (in fact, I opted out of wearing the hat part of this outfit to brunch, but it's a good thing because I may have lost it in the end), but I love hats and own quite a few of them.

Milan Kundera's The Unbearable Lightness of Being is in my top 5 favorite books list. For those who haven't read it, Sabina is one of the primary 4 characters and an artist--as well as many, many other things. The bowler hat (a common image on the cover of many editions of the book) plays a memorable role in one piece of the story and is a pretty powerful symbol...but this is a blog, not a graduate lit paper, so I will just suggest you put it on your reading list, and move on to the photos. (Thanks to Jayme, for taking these lovely shots!)

 

hat-vintage, jacket-thrifted, tank-Target, skirt-H&M, tights-random, scarf-old, booties-BC

 

We went for a brunch/coffee in Arlington and for a walk/shop, and this is what I wore (sans hat this time). I am not sure why I didn't wear the hat...I guess I didn't want to draw too much attention to myself?  Also, I was feeling a lot like Demi Lovato and worried the look was a little too "tween-star-post-rehab-comeback." I do plan on wearing the hat again, though...

I went in to my favorite consignment and had some store credit, so I got to make a few purchases--for free! Two girls complimented my outfit, as did the cashier, mistaking my jacket for something much more pricey that they'd been selling in the store a few weeks ago.  Bonus. I dress for myself (and of course, the blog), but I certainly do not mind receiving compliments.  I actually hadn't worn this nude H&M skirt since I got it in the spring because it felt too breezy without some tights under it.  But it's tights weather again, so out it came! I love nude + black together.

I took some photos of Jayme too, but you'll have to wait for next week to see hers. ;)  I'm ready to update the shop a little and begin my weekend!

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: True Work of Art

Selling vintage and blogging are two things that bring me great joy, but my first love has always been fiction writing.  Being a mom with 3 jobs doesn't leave me much quiet time or space (mentally or physically) to write, but occasionally, I write something.

One of my closest friends, Amy, created a little project called Spark, which pairs visual artists (or even composers!) with writers so that they inspire each other and make new work.  It is a 10 day project she oraganizes 4 times a year and all artwork and writing ends up on the blog. I have participated several times with Jayme (and my handsome, talented husband even participates as a writer!). It's a great little "spark" with a short word count and a deadline, which is just what I need in this season of my life.

Typically, the work is all displayed online, but there have been several exhibits happening in galleries recently that allow for writers to see the artwork in person. Amy also organizes readings so that we can share the written pieces aloud.  Amy is currently doing some awesome things in Portland, OR right now, so she asked me to help facilitate a reading this past Friday in Del Ray (Alexandria, VA).  I was thrilled to be a part of the reading, and of course, wanted to "dress the part." This is what I wore:

dress-vintage, obi belt-H&M, tights-random, platforms-Michael Kors via DSW

brooch-1929, rings-random/vintage, bracelets-vintage

The exhibit was amazing!  My written piece was posted in the center of a wall, surrounded by the artwork it had inspired, as were 5 or 6 other writers' pieces around the gallery.  Below is a shot of "my" wall.

We did a moving reading where each writer would stand in front of the wall where the work was hung and read her piece (we happened to all be female!). Some of the artists also attended and shared a little bit about their creation process.  It was definitely inspiring!

reading my short fiction piece, "Not a Love Letter"

I went home feeling a little tired (why, oh why did I wear heels?), but mostly re-energized artistically.  I miss writing and have been hoping to find some time this week to sit down and work, even a half an hour. It's not the same immediate gratification that blogging is, but the reward for me is definitely greater...I forgot how good it feels to make art.

If you're an artist or writer, I also have to recommend that you try a round of Spark (one round just finished, so it will be a couple of months until the next) to get your creative juices flowing. It's a really amazing project.

That's all for now...

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: The One That Got Away

If you've ever geared up for a little photo shoot only to find that your camera battery is deathly low, this post is dedicated to you.

Unfortunately, there was only enough juice (and daylight) for one shot.  Thankfully, it was a decent shot where my eyes are actually open!

dress-Rachel Pally (old), scarf-random, wool vest-vintage, arrow belt-vintage, tights-random, lace up boots-vintage

I loved this little outfit, though in hindsight, it's a bit Pirate-y, isn't it?  Oh well, I like pirates. Arrrrrgh and all that.

You know what I like even better than pirates, though? THE WEEKEND!  Which is here. So I'm about to go and enjoy it, rainy though it may be.


xo,
Amanda

Sister Re-style (Part 2)

Typically, our Sister Restyles will probably happen in two different states and we'll share the piece by mail, but Jayme and I were lucky to be in the same city this weekend, so we took her (brilliant!) idea and ran with it.

We style this vintage netted sweater (coming to the shop next week!)--Jayme's look was romantic, and mine was a little tough (as are my facial expressions here. Sheesh.).

sweater-vintage, tank-random (borrowed from Jayme), skinny jeans-H&M, belt-Lucky Brand (old), booties-vintage from the shop, rings-vintage

I am loving red lips lately, especially against the blonde hair (which is blonder and even better than in these photos, thanks to my personal hairstylist/highlighter who fixed me up on Saturday night!).

Admittedly, I don't love how this sweater fits...it doesn't hug in the best places (cough, baby chub, cough). I like the way it is slouchier, and I think that's how it's meant to be worn.  I finally found black jeans (glorified jeggings, but they are comfy and work with everything and they were at H&M, so they were a steal!).

And no sisterly photo shoot is complete without an outtake of one of us laughing:

Here's to our future restyles looking better and better! Hope you enjoyed the first one. 

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: Major Remix

Sometimes I look back at previous outfits posts on the blog and wonder why I bothered posting them.  At times, I feel like since I did the work to get the photos, upload and edit them, I should post the outfit.  But later, I will see an outfit post and wish I'd done something different.

I don't have an unlimited clothing budget (or generous sponsors who send me whatever I want from their shops, unfortunately---but hey, if you're interested, call me!), so I remix all the time.  But this time I wanted to intentionally update a look from a few weeks ago.  I think it was a successful experience!

All it took as the addition of a belt and a knot to the bottom of the dress (which I've seen on several fashion bloggers and thought was a really cool update on the maxi dress or skirt), new shoes and voila! The whole outfit is much more interesting. My only beef with the second look is that it shows off my curves (of which there are many) a little more, which can make me feel a little self conscious.  But, what the hell? I'm a mom, I'm healthy, I'm gonna work it.  You know?

Dress-vintage, obi belt-H&M, shoes-Jessica Simpson (4 years ago!)

The details...corset belt, dangly earrings, sideswept updo.

The truth is, I didn't wear this outfit anywhere. I just got dressed up for my photographer aka husband.  I did leave my hair like this, though. I am loving messy/romantic updos for this in-between length of my hair.  It's also funny that I feel like my hair looks so much lighter in person than in these photos!  I'm actually thinking of going even a little bit lighter (do you hear that, Jayme, highlighter extraordinaire?).  Taking the first plunge was a good step--I found that I love lighter hair. We'll see in October...

Happy Monday!

xo,
Amanda