Shop Preview: The Last of the Summer Dresses

Jayme loves summer while I (Amanda) am a diehard autumn person.  While I'm happy to see September on the horizon, I will miss wearing my favorite sundresses (although in Virginia weather, a lot of them work great with cardigans since it's not officially fall until late October, sometimes later). We took lots of summer dresses to our markets this summer, but we have many left...so they're coming to our online shop! Here is a little preview of some favorites:

Top Row: 1980s Cherry Print Cotton Dress (size M/L) /// 1940s Mustard Plaid Cotton Housedress (Size M) /// 70s Alfred Shaheen Floral Sundress (Size M/L)

Bottom Row: 1970s Swiss Dot and Lace Sundress (Size L/XL) /// 1950s Plaid Cotton Housedress w/ Belt (Size L) /// 1970s Sears Cotton Chevron Sundress (Size M)

If you see something that interests you, let us know! We can get you more details. Most will be around the $25-$35 range.

xo,
Amanda

How To Wear Vintage: Transitions

We haven't been doing a whole lotta outfit posts (in case you hadn't noticed) because: WINTER. This has been the coldest, snowiest, grossest winter I can recall. These spring teasers are driving me nuts! Case in point: yesterday, it was 67 degrees. Today it is 20 degrees with a windchill that makes it feel like 3 degrees.

When we finally get into a regular spring temperature groove, it's not warm enough for sundresses and sandals, but heavy coats are gone too. What's a girl to do? Here are a couple ideas for transitional dressing--in vintage, of course:

SHOP:  vintage high-waisted skirt /// vintage fisherman sweater /// vintage nautical flats

SHOP:  vintage floral dress /// vintage biker jacket /// vintage strappy sandals

Don't put away your jackets and sweaters just yet...for the in-between weather, light layers are exactly what you need.  Also:  don't worry about your pedicure just yet! Boots + a pretty dress is one of our favorite vintage looks for all seasons!

xo,

J&A

Shop Preview: 1970's Trio

Happy New Year!!

It is hard to believe it has been over a month since we've posted anything here.  Sometimes a break is necessary and what better time to take a breather than the holidays?  We hope you all enjoyed your holiday season as much as we did!  And now, back to our regularly scheduled program:  vintage love!

We have been hoarding collecting some amazing pieces to add to the shop in the coming month.  Here is the first of many shop previews to come:  a trio of 1970's maxi dresses.

turquoise floral dress with lace bib panel and tie waist

 brown patchwork dress with lace up front and tie waist

cream dress with sheer lace sleeves and lace up front

All three of these beauties had the same previous owner and are the same size (approximately size medium/ 6).  If you'd like first dibs on anything, just message us!

xo
A&J

Outfit Post: Late Afternoon Sun

I am ready for summer to be done after the last two ultra-humid, 90 degree days we've had here in VA. In that kind of heat, it's hard to find anything comfortable to wear (let alone ultra fashionable).  Vintage dresses are always my go-to, and this is one of my very favorites, purchased for a steal last year on eBay.

outfit details:  50s housedress-eBay, wedges-AE (thrifted)

This is a quick and short post because we still have so very much to do to get ready for the flea market tomorrow! I am equal parts excited and nervous--but at least there's a beautiful fall day to look forward to.

Come on out if you're in DC! And have a great weekend, friends.

xo,

Amanda

Shop Preview: Fall in Love (with Dresses)

Okay, had to go for the "fall" pun because I am SO excited for it to actually be here! 70 degree weather! Campfire smells! Crunchy leaves!  Pumpkin spice lattes! 

This weekend will be our first weekend at the District Flea, and all of these pieces (and much, MUCH more!) will be there. But they're slowly going into the shop as well.

Top Row:  70s Floral Prairie Dress (S/M), 40s Polka Dot Rayon Dress w/ Eyelet Sleeves + Belt (XL), 90s Gunge Patchwork Maxi Dress (M), 70s Rose Print Dress w/ Belt (M)

Bottom Row:  60s Fall Floral Housedress w/ Pocket (XL), 70s Ungaro Sheer Polka Dot Secretary Dress (L), 60s Belted Shift Dress (L), 90s Grunge Mandarin Mini Dress (S)

As always, let us know if you have any questions or if you see something you really like and would like us to reserve it for you!

If you're in DC, we'd loooooooove to see you this weekend too. It's going to be an absolutely gorgeous day for an outdoor market.

xo,

Amanda

Celebrity Looks for Less: Fun with Florals

When spring and summer roll around, florals are always a "trend" in every magazine.  However, something timeless isn't really a trend--it's a classic.  Of course, you can always put our own spin on the classics, just like these celebrities.  And vintage florals are a great investment because they stand the test of time!  Don't forget the vintage shoes to complete the look.

Scarlett Johansson

60s neon floral shift dress (large), $28 + Vintage D'Orsay Pointy Black Pumps (size 6),$35


Diane Kruger

90s Grunge Floral Romper(medium), $34 + Vintage Black Leather Granny Boots (Coming Soon!)

Sienna Miller

Vintage Fit and Flare Floral Halter Dress(medium), $52 + Vintage Black Cutout Pumps (SOLD yesterday!)

Each of these celebrity ladies is super stylish, but they all add their own flair to the floral look.  Which outfit is your favorite?

xo,

J&A

P.S.  Because of all the craziness around here, we extended the Bloglovin' Giveaway until Wednesday of this week. so there's still time to enter (just a comment w/ your email address) if you already follow via Bloglovin'. We'll draw the winner on Friday!

Vintage / Modern Pairings: Dresses + Shoes

I would definitely call myself a “boots” girl, but when summer comes around I like to let my feet breathe and turn to sandals or flats for my full time footwear.  I feel like the shoes can make or break the outfit…and sometimes that can be difficult, being a mom and having comfort as a necessity.  I love pulling out my favorite wedges or heels for date night, but most days you’ll find me in flats or flat sandals. 

It really is possible to look put together and “chic”, if you will, without resorting to heels.  I’ve put together a couple of pairings with dresses (and a romper) from the shop and flat shoes that work well and add oh-so-much style to the look.  Now, you know I love vintage, but I also love pairing modern with vintage.  So the dresses are all from decades past while the shoes are new.

Look 1:  Flirty in Plaid

A plaid, fifties sundress calls for some dainty shoes.  In this case, round toe flats.-- simple but cute.  These ones have a special little element of surprise with the gold panel on the back. 

Look 2:  Daring in Prints

This crazy printed romper is a little off-beat and I think the super short shorts are definitely in need of flat sandals to balance it out.  I love these crochet flip flops—they mimic the colors and also add another element of print.  A perfect look for boardwalk beach trips this summer.

Look 3:  Radiant in Red

A solid colored sundress is a great base for fun shoes.  And a shoe with a print (that includes that red accent) is a no-brainer.  These striped flats with a super flattering pointed toe are the perfect accent piece and add to the seventies flair of the dress.

There you have it!  Another thing to keep in mind:  if your shoes are comfortable, and so are you, it will show.  There is nothing worse than seeing a girl in a great outfit, hobbling around on high heel shoes that are totally killing her feet (and her overall look!).  And with options like these, I may not only forget about heels but I might even hold off on my trusty boots for a little longer.

xo

Jayme

Sister Dreamrobe: Summer Daydreams

We're all about being thrifty around here, but that doesn't mean we can't dream of beautiful vintage things that are just a little (or a lot) outside of our budgets.  We wanted to share a new little blog feature where we scrounge Etsy for our perfect outfit, as though money is no object (nor pregnancy bellies, in Amanda's case). So here, we bring to you the first installment of Sister Dreamrobe:

1.  1940s Sundress with Pockets, $85 via CreatedandCollected /// 2.  1940s Enamel Cherry Brooch, $42.99 via QuiltsETC /// 3.  1940s Telephone Cord Clutch, $55 via VirginiasVice /// 

4. 1940s Red Heels, $78 via therobotparade

1.  1970s Mini Dress, $58 via caramelizedvintage /// 2. Vintage Jade Cuff, $59 via mkmack /// 

3. Vintage Market Tote, $48 via FarmsteadVintage /// 

4. Vintage Leather Boho Boots, $93 via mustlovevintage 

Of course, our personalized styles come through--Amanda's pinup vibe and Jayme's bohemian flare.  This is just a small taste of the great vintage you can find on Etsy (sadly, it's mixed in with a lot of not-so-great or not-authentic vintage).  We hope you see some things you might dream of--and start saving for--too!

xo,
J&A

Shop Preview: Across the Decades

It's no secret that our shop is a little eclectic...just like our own styles! While we each gravitate toward our own decades, we try our best to stock the shop with any piece we fall in love with (or know you'll love!), regardless of decade.  Here are four sweet pieces on their way into the shop, from the 50s to the 80s:

1950s Beige and Blush Eyelet Wiggle Dress w/ Pockets (M/L)

1960s Mod Gold Sparkle Party Dress w/ Bow (S/M)

1970s Floor Length Peach and Beige Lace Nightgown (L)

1980s Strapless Floral Sweetheart Bathing Suit (M/L)

Let us know if you need more details about any item in our shop preview before it comes to the shop--we're happy to answer your questions and give you first go at them!

Keep cool out there, friends...

xo,

Amanda

How to Wear Vintage: Vintage Dresses with Sneakers

If I'm being honest, it's hard to imagine wearing clothes right now because it's so darn hot and humid. However, clothes must be worn.  Flip flops are easy summer shoes, but they're not very good support (and frankly, I still find them frumpy/lazy, if I'm honest), so occasionally, I've been pairing my Converse with a cute dress. This is a great look for traveling, especially if you're going to be doing a lot of walking. Canvas is lightweight and breathable. Sneakers are also just the thing  if your pedicure is looking less-than-stellar.

images via Pinterest

SHOP THESE LOOKS:

1.   80s does 50s Polka Dot Dress + 70s Striped Canvas Sneakers, $24

2.  80s Floral Sweetheart Dress + Vintage Pink Keds, $24

3.  Vintage Striped Silk Dress + Vintage Striped Canvas Skimmers, $18

This look can carry you through almost any weather--or circumstance (including pregnancy!).  Being comfortable is a bonus when you look so cute!

Check out other dresses in our shop, and add your fave sneaks to the mix!

xo,

J&A

Shop Preview: Summer Whites

I'm finally back from the beach, and not without a little color (though I wore my sunscreen!).  And everyone knows that a little bit of bronze stands out when you're wearing white. We have a bunch of whites already in the shop, with many more on the way this week!  Here's a peek:

 Column 1: Vintage White Lace Tee (M)-coming soon! /// 1980s Gunne Saxe Lace Dress (S), $52 /// 

1980s Polka Dot Sundress w/ Cutout Back (M/L), $33

Column 2: 1970s Eyelet Blouse (M)-coming soon! /// 1970s Gatsby Drop Waist Dress (M), $48 /// 

1990s Grunge Lace Dress (M/L), $34

Column 1: 1970s White Leather Moccasins (8N)- coming soon! /// 1980s Cutout Leather Pointy 

Flats (7/7.5)-coming soon! /// 1980s White Huarache Sandals (6.5)- coming soon!

Column 2: 1970s Leather Strappy Sandals (10)-coming soon!, 1980s Leather Moccasin Boots (8), $65 /// 

1970s White Cutout Wedges (6.5), $32

We're re-stocking the shop all week, so keep an eye out for your favorites! And as always, ask away if you're interested in a piece that hasn't been posted yet!

xo,

Amanda

Shop Preview: Dresses to Impress

I have always been a lover of dresses, and when I'm shopping for vintage, they're my first stop (after shoes!).    We have a whole slew of pretty ones coming to the shop in the next couple days. Here's a sneak peek:

Column 1:  1950s Plaid Sundress w/ Pockets (XS) /// 1940s Rayon Contrast Dress (XL) /// 

1970s Gingham Sweetheart Sundress (M)

Column 2:  1970s Red Tie Sundress (M to L) /// 1960s Tent Dress w/ Pockets (great for maternity--or belted on most sizes!) /// 1980s Polka Dot Casual Dress (L)

If something is striking your fancy, just let us know...a few of these will go up today, and everything is already priced--just need to finish getting full measurements!

We are just 2 little sales away from 1500! That's an exciting number. Help us get there b he end of this month?--there's a special coupon code on our FB page for followers that goes until the end of this month (wink, wink).

xo,

Amanda

10 under $20: Vintage Sundresses

It's the MOST wonderful tiiiiiiiime of the year.  I'm talking about sundress season, ladies!  Throw on a pretty frock and a pair of sandals and you look like a million bucks when you only spent five minutes getting ready! And if the weather (or your office) is a little cool, you can just throw on a cute cardigan or jean jacket. Done.

I did some virtual shopping, and found so many sweet sundresses on Etsy, at a price point under $20! (At that rate, you might be able to afford two!).  Here are some of my favorites, with pieces spanning the decades:

Row 1:  1950s dots and lace dress, $20 /// 1960s green picnic dress w/ belt, $15 /// 

1960s black and white diamond dress, $15 /// 1970s abstract circle dress, JUST SOLD!

Row 2: 1970s multi-stripe dress, $18.84 /// 1970s red terry dress, $18 /// 

1980s nautical stripe dress, $12 /// 1990s floral skater dress, $18

Row 3: 1990s floral halter dress, $15 /// 1990s floral mini dress, $18

Which dress is your favorite?  Go snag it, now, because at under $20, I don't think any of these lovelies are going to last very long...especially once the sun comes back out.

xo,
Amanda

Splurge vs. Steal: Anthropologie Edition

If I could have a gift certificate to any larger, upscale chain store, Anthropologie is probably the place I'd choose.  It's way pricey for my everyday purchases, but if you're looking for something special, it's a great spot. I peruse the sale section of the site fairly frequently (even though I'm sort of on pregnant shopping hiatus!).

Another place you can find something special...for a lot less cash?  Vintage shops on Etsy, like ours! Today's splurge and steal takes an Anthro find and pairs it with a similar piece from our shop, at a fraction of the cost.

Anthropologie Construct Maxi Dress /// Miskabelle Vintage 70s Striped Maxi (Size Medium to Large)

Anthropologie Ivete Patchwork Dress /// Miskabelle Vintage 70s Patchwork Maxi Skirt (Size Medium)

 Anthropologie Pearled Posy Cardigan /// Miskabelle Vintage 50s Beaded Cardigan (Size Small to Medium)

Which "steal" is your favorite? I love the patchwork maxi, even though it's more of Jayme's style than mine...I just think it would be amazing with a basic tank, piles of jewelry, and pretty leather sandals!

xo,

Amanda

Shop Preview: PLD's (and PLS's)

If you don't want a silly song stuck in your head all day, you better stop reading now...or just scroll down to the pretties!

Here's what went through my head while photographing items yesterday and thinking about this blog post, to the tune of Michael Jackson's PYT (Pretty Young Thing):

I want to love you (PLD)
Pretty L'il Dress
You need some lovin' (TLC)
Tender Lovin' Care
And I'lllllllllll take you there

Yup, I was serenading the dresses (PLS for pretty little skirts didn't work as well for the song rhyme).  Sometimes I am the silliest person in the world. But still...these pretties may be worth it:

Top Row:  90s Grunge White Lace Dress, 80s Bob Mackie Cutout Folk Skirt, 

70s does 50s Hawaiian Print Sundress

Bottom Row:  60s House Dress w/ Pockets, 90s Floral Grunge Midi Skirt, 

60s French Print Dress w/ Ruffle Bodice

As always...if you see something lovely, I can get you the measurements/first dibs, just for being a reader!  There are several pieces here I'm wanting to hoard in my own closet...beware.

xo,

Amanda

From the Shop: Festival Dreams

I am a music fiend, and going to a festival is a big dream of mine (that is nowhere in the foreseeable future, and by the time it is, I will probably be too old and jaded). But SO much style and inspiration comes from this big outdoor fests, so I did a little brainstorm of what I might put together (head to toe vintage!) to rock out to my favorite musicians:

You're probably gonna sway to: Band of Horses, Shovels and Rope, The Lumineers, Lord Huron
What to wear: cropped knit tank, peasant floral skirt, campus boots, leather crossbody bag
Just add:  a flower crown, a wrist full of friendship bracelets from all your new best friends

You'll be bobbing your head to: Grizzly Bear, Local Natives, Passion Pit, Phoenix, Vampire Weekend
What to wear:  key print scarf, striped sweater tee, gray denim cutoffs, chain maille bag, huarache sandals
Just add:  wayfarers, a PBR

You'll be dancing to: Bat for Lashes, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Purity Ring, the XX
What to wear:  black cutout maxi dress, statement necklace, t-strap sandals, woven clutch
Just add:  thick black eyeliner, a lower back tattoo (fake...or real!)

Which look would you take to your favorite shows? (And who are you dying to see live?)

xo,
Amanda

Outfit Post: 16 Weeks

We've hit the official 4 month mark!Woohoo! I was 16 weeks on Easter, and even though it was dreary, we managed to get some photos in our Sunday best (more images from our family Easter in VA on tomorrow's blog!).

 outfit details:  dress-1940s vintage via antique shop, blazer-vintage/thrifted, lipstick brooch-vintage via eBay, nude fishnets-Spanx, mustard heels-B.A.I.T.

I changed my outfit idea for Easter 3 or 4 times as the weather changed.  What stayed the same in every outfit was my adorable mustard 1940s-style peeptoes (which I had been eyeing FOREVER and finally bought on super sale in February!).  They are cute and so comfortable...as I'm trying to come to terms with the fact that I won't be wearing a lot of my pretty heels in the upcoming months.

The 1940s polka dot dress was a birthday gift from Q, and it's still a little big, so I think it will a great piece for the next few months as the weather warms up.  It has the prettiest eyelet sleeves (That are covered up here by my blazer!).

The 16 Week Rundown

Baby Size:  An avocado! Yummy, yummy.

Feeling: Pretty great. A little tired, but I'm more energized if I'm active/outside/etc.  I'm also eating more and feeling less aversions to food.

Weight gain:  Still the same as last week, but I imagine I'll start gaining soon, since I'm eating normally!

Cravings/Aversions:  Iced Tea Lemonade (still). Jayme's homemade Broccoli soup. Pickled Beet Eggs. 

Preparations:  Jayme brought down some more neutral vintage clothes from Pennsylvania, so I have a little collection going.  We are starting to plan and create an invite for our BBQ/Gender Reveal party, which is super fun!  

Sidenote (not baby-related!):  Do you have a vintage or handmade shop or blog that you'd like to get more exposure?  We'd love to collaborate with you. We are offering 30% off all ad partnerships this month through Passionfruit ads with code AprilShowers. We also do small ad swaps with businesses/blogs that are a good fit! We'd love to have you--to encourage you and promote you! (And your support for us means the world!)

xo,

Amanda

Celebrity Looks for Less: Ladylike Cool

Today we're sharing some inspiring looks for some very stylish celebs...each look has an element of prim-and-proper, but there's also some quirkiness. Which I love! And all of these looks can be easily re-created with vintage pieces (including the featured ones, all in the shop now--and at 20% off for Spring!).

 Jessica Alba is wearing a very buttoned up top half, but I love that she paired it with those adorable shoes!  Just add your favorite skinny jeans.

blouse //  coat  //  heels

Allison Williams has been killing in the LBD category lately.  These dresses have a similar style (a very 1950s silhouette), and the pointy patent pumps add a touch of sexiness.

dress  //  heels

Diane Kruger definitely has the most daring style of the bunch--but a longer length leather skirt tones down the shorter top.  Our burgundy leather version is also a little more "everyday" than the lipstick red.

top  //  skirt  //  heels

Vintage is always in style...before you buy up something you like, why not see if you can find a vintage version? Not only may you score a one-of-a-kind piece, but you'll also probably save a lot of cash!

Which look is your favorite?

xo,

Amanda

Shop Preview: RWB

I am all about nautical styles, and the color scheme of red, white and blue is an easy way to get a sailor-y look without going overboard (ha-PUN!)...unless you want to! Here's a little collection of items coming to the shop next week that all vibed in the same colors. They're a variety of decades and styles, so there's something sure to please everyone!

Row 1:  1970s Nautical Maxi Dress (on reserve!), 1960s Buffalo Plaid Tent Dress, 1950s Shirt Dress
Row 2: 1970s Plaid Blouse, 1970s Waitress Dress w/ Reversible Belt, Vintage Red Roses Maxi Skirt

See something you like or want to know more? Our readers get first dibs on any items in our shop previews. :)

Have a wonderful weekend!

xo,
Amanda

Shop Preview: Sweetest Blues

On Monday, I shared a little bit about our daytrip to Leesburg, VA.  I mentioned I'd found a couple things for the shop, and that Q got a little early birthday present for me.   These are truly 3 of the most beautiful vintage dresses I've ever had in my possession (but you may soon have one in YOUR possession, once they're in the shop!) Without further ado:

1940s Rayon Floral Button Down Dress w/  Pockets + Velvet Ribbon at Collar, Size Large (12/14)

1950s Waitress/Stewardess Wiggle Dress with Navy Trim and Large Buttons,

 Size on tag 16 (fits like modern 10)

 The waitress dress has its original tags...it's never been worn!

And my 1940s birthday beauty...polka dots and eyelet sleeves + a belt.  

Because we live in such a transient area, it's really difficult to find vintage pre-1960s.  I always feel so lucky when I do. And this sucks since the 40s and 50s are my favorite decades for fashion.  I didn't pay thrift store prices for these dresses, but I was pleased with how reasonable they were, and I may start hunting antique shops more often...

xo,

Amanda