Shop this Look: Crisp Fall Day

We have been updating the shop pretty regularly (though still not as regularly as we'd like!), and there are SO many good things in there--so many that I almost forgot we purchased them! As I was updating the shop's homepage this morning for fall (warm colors!), I saw some pieces I liked and put them together into an outfit.

A blazer over a dress with some booties: the perfect fall look. I think this would look great with rich brown or plum purple tights, maybe with some added texture. Or even socks (if you're a little more of a fashion risk-taker). I like the romantic dress with the menswear-inspired jacket and slightly tough boots in a neutral color.

SHOP THIS LOOK:

dress, $23

blazer, $18

clutch, $20

booties, $48

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Outfit Post: Miss Match-y

I often seem to find myself accessorizing in a very "match-y" sort of way.  I guess I just can't resist making use of the happy coincidence of owning two items in the same bold color.  Case and point?  This blue, white and grass green houndstooth skirt paired with a blue and white top and grass green belt.  At least I'm mixing prints, right?

jacket-Levi's (old...but not yet vintage!), striped tank top (also just...old.),
houndstooth skirt-vintage, flats-vintage, belt-Gap, bag-Target

My match-y mind is kind of annoyed with the silver buttons on my
jacket paired with the brass hardware on my belt...eek!

This skirt belonged to my great aunt--it was made by her mom (my great grandma) and has a matching jacket.  I'm not really a "suit" type of girl so I don't think I'd ever wear them together (I mean, there's matchy and then there's matchy*) but I could totally see myself pairing the jacket over a dress (perhaps in navy? and perhaps belted with this same green belt?...I can't resist!).  I'll save that for another outfit post.

xo
Jayme

* But I'm sure that my Great Aunt Janie looked totally adorable in the matching set!  I get that that was the style of this decade (the 70s)!  And that is what I love doing with vintage pieces-- updating them for the current day.  Pairing old and new.

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Preview: The Red and The Black

There are many beautiful pieces coming to the shop in the next week (look for shoes today!). I noticed this color palette emerge as I was shooting photos on Sunday, so I thought I'd share a first look with our readers.  I am ready for fall, but far from ready for winter, but this preview contains a gorgeous cape and coat that almost have  me longing to see my breath as I exhale...although, I have a feeling they will sell before I get a chance to test drive them.VA is still balmy as all get out.

German red wool cape, 50s black taffeta party dress, Lacoste red wool boyfriend cardigan, shiny black maxi skirt, black leather a-line skirt, red ruffle blouse/cardigan, black silk shell, fur collar swing coat (I know, it's gray, but I couldn't resist)

See something that floats your boat or want to learn more?  Our readers/friends have special privileges like that. Just drop us a convo/email!

xo,
Amanda

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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

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Preview: Shoe Fetish

I absolutely love vintage shoes...okay, who am I kidding, I absolutely love all shoes, but there are a lot of vintage styles that I love and when I'm thrifting, I tend to find a lot of great shoes for great prices.  So, kindhearted person that I am, I pass those savings and super finds onto our customers!  Here are six fabulous pairs coming to the shop soon!

Clockwise from top left: 9West leather oxfords (size 8), leather Thunderbird moccasins (size 8), Bass navy leather flats (size 8.5), Bass red penny loafers (size 7), Nine West suede platforms (size 10), Turkish Kilim flats (size 9.5/10)

See something you like or want to know more?  Just send us a convo or email!

And: have a fantastic weekend! I sure will be. ;)

xo,
Amanda

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Outfit Post: Buttoned Up

I'm not gonna lie...having my blog roll bombarded with photos from the shows at New York Fashion Week was rather disappointing.  Runway shows are decidedly less exciting when seen through still photos from someone's iPhone.  I did however love seeing many of the street style posts that were shared.  For some reason "real" style is just so much more inspiring to me.  One resounding trend that I saw and wanted to try was the button up shirt, all the way buttoned up.

I love the detail along the front of this shirt and contrasting cuffs and collar.  It will be for sale the shop soon, just fyi!  I wish I had layered more necklaces with it though, because the two that I have on don't really pop enough.  

blouse-vintage, jeans-Tyler Skye, shoes-vintage, purse and scarf-vintage

My little bag is a crochet purse from the 40s--a birthday gift from my lovely friend Sandi!  I added the leopard-ish print scarf to break up all the black and white.  The shoes?  Also for sale in the shop!  Patent leather with an oversized bow... so cute.

And lastly, I must address my hair.  Bye bye long locks.  I love this haircut (photos above I just let it air dry which didn't do it much justice).  I must admit though, I miss my long hair.  It was such a great security blanket and made me feel attractive.  So I'm still in the mourning stage...but I think I am going to like having this shorter hair. As a mom, it is like, a bajillion times more practical.  I just need to learn how to style it as pretty as the day I got it cut (and left the salon feeling like a million bucks), then I will post some better photos.

xo

Jayme

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Outfit Post: Flea Marketing

You would probably be surprised to hear that I attended my first flea market (that I can fully remember) on Saturday with my friend Katie. I have vague memories of one outdoor market that we went to when I was little, but since owning/running a vintage shop, I've been to a lot of antique stores/stalls,etc. but never an actual flea market.

The market we went to was indoors--thankfully, because it didn't just get chilly here in VA, it was downright cold!  It was a lot of fun, and while I didn't purchase anything for the shop (I have a huge pile of things waiting to be photographed for fall/winter) and Katie didn't find the furniture she was looking for, we did find a few fun things for our wardrobes.  I bought a 70s sweater dress that I'll be excited to debut on the blog (but really want an event to wear it to! hmmm....) and some little pieces of jewelry.  I lost the medallion of my new necklace somewhere around the house yesterday and am so bummed.  I hope it turns up somewhere.

Anyway, this is what I wore to explore my first flea market and then have a much-needed late lunch date at the most beautiful Whole Foods ever. Whole Foods Mecca. Whole Foods Heaven. So many delish vegan options. Sigh. (Cue Sarah Mclachlan's I Will Remember You...doobee dum dum dum.)

dress-thrifted, vest-thrifted, scarf-gift from India, belt-vintage, tights-random, boots-BC via endless.com

necklace (now missing) & pointer finger ring via flea market

I love this outfit (and the most expensive and only new thing I have on is my boots, which I had to have, but also found on major sale! WIN!). Finally, my closet is coming together! Almost everything matches (yes, there is a lot of black, but I also have a lot of color) so I can pull out looks to create my gypsy/biker outfits fairly easily.  And I feel like "me."

It was a great weekend, but it was loaded and not a lot of relaxation happened. So today I'm tired, but I still have a lot of work to do, errands to run, etc. I'm on my second cup of coffee, feet snuggled into my favorite slippers, looking decidedly less cute than I do in these photos. :)

xo,
Amanda

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Outfit Post: Birthday Suit

I turned the big 2-8 this past Wednesday.  Birthdays aren't what they used to be.  I've traded in parties for a casual day of shopping with the husband and the babe.  But one thing that remains--an excuse to get dressed up!
I found this double collared peach blouse at the thrift this week and intended it to be for the shop, but once I tried it on and found the fit was perfect (I love that it's a button up blouse but still shows some neck) I decided I needed to add it to my personal wardrobe.  Paired with a simple black skirt and flats and I still felt just a little special for my big day.

blouse-vintage, belt-vintage, skirt-Target (and American Apparel knock off), flats- Banana Republic

With a baby on your hip flats are essential!  

Click over to the Miskabelly blog to see a little more of birthday "celebration".

Oh, and yesterday I said goodbye to that long braid...all 7 inches of it!  Stay tuned for some photos of the new 'do next week (I know....you're all on the edge of your seats).  Until then, have a lovely weekend!  I'm dreaming of strolling through newly falling leaves and sipping on a hot spiced drink....

xo

Jayme

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Shop Preview: Black and Brown

We have a LOAD of things coming into the shop this week and next.  Here is a preview of some things that are in the shop now (highlighted/linked) or coming soon!  These are the vintage basics you want to load up on, in black or brown, to pair with your bright/printed wardrobe!

clockwise from top left:  black velvet fascinator/hat, wool nordic sweater dress, floral keyhole dress, suede bow booties (size 9/10), 1940s double button blouse

clockwise from top left:  olive leather harness pirate boots (size 8), Etienne Aigner leather peacoat/trench, The Villager plaid wool skirt w/ belt, brown velvet fedora, rust corduroy jumper

And if you see anything you like, of course, you get first dibs!  Just send us a note.

xo,
Amanda

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Outfit Post: Black and White and Blonde

First things first:  

Happy Birthday to my awesome sister and business partner, Jayme!
 
Thank you for your attention to this very important message. :)

Finally!  Here is my first outfit post with new hair...I'm not sure it looks all that different (until I look at past photos). It's a strawberry blonde with some golden blonde tones.  And it took 3 tries. Yes, terrifyingly, I did it myself!  But I have extremely thick hair, so I usually have a pretty positive experience with colors.  Of course, if it turned out green or flourescent orange, I would have gone to see a professional.

I am getting really excited as my fall/winter wardrobe comes together...we have several large bags of clothes on our porch this morning, waiting to be picked up by Purple Heart (you can set up the date of the pickup and they come and get your stuff! So convenient!). I only pulled 1 or 2 things out as I closed the bags (shoes!), which is saying a lot for me.

I had a fantastic morning yesterday catching up with an old friend over breakfast, but by the time we knew it, it was one o'clock! I had to run to the post office and to pick up some hangers and do one last perusal of my thrift that's having a 50% off sale (score!).  It was way hotter than I expected, so I actually changed into this outfit after errands.  I picked up some groceries and dinner.

blouse-vintage, skirt-Silence&Noise (thrifted), necklace-vintage, harness boots-Durango

I hope to have a better shot of the hair (down) later this week...and some more outfits as the weather cools down!  In the meantime, we have some KILLER shop updates to usher in those cold evenings.

xo,
Amanda

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Shop Preview: Flirty Dresses

Nothing flatters an hour glass figure more than a pretty dress with a fitted waist and full, flowy skirt.  I love the idea of a longer, fuller skirt peeking out from underneath my favorite fall trench (a la Carrie Bradshaw).  Here's a sneak preview of some dresses coming soon to our shop that will do just the trick!

red sweetheart neck 50's prom dress

heart striped scoop back 1950s dress

1970s plaid square dance dress

Red print 1950s boatneck dress

See something you like?   Email us if you'd like first dibs!

xo

Jayme

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Outfit Post: Cherry on Top

I must admit--I wore this outfit to a coffee date with a friend and originally did not think it was really 'outfit post worthy.'  Ripped up jeans, an old t-shirt and a cardigan isn't the most interesting combination, but add some cherry red lips and a mustard yellow beret and the outfit instantly has some pop!  We found this beret while antiquing over the weekend and it will soon be for sale in the shop (it is an actual FRENCH beret and in perfect condition....and the rich mustard yellow color is to die for!  Email us if you'd like first dibs--I think we'll price it around $25).  {Just realized my shirt says "New Orleans French Quarters" and I paired it with a French beret!  Um, I mean, I totally did that on purpose.} I am super pumped to start wearing hats--though I'm afraid it will give me even more of an excuse to skip washing my hair on days I'm extra tired from being up all night with an 8 month old.  I definitely feel much more fashionable during fall/winter because scarves and hats can pretty much make any ol' outfit look cool.  Red lips have the same effect but when I try wearing them I just don't feel like myself for some reason.  So hats and scarves it is.  What's your go-to for making a boring outfit look "cool"?

beret-vintage, tshirt-vintage, cardigan-old/unknown!, purse-vintage, jeans-Paige, flats-Banana Republic

Also--I have a confession:  I found my first gray hair over the weekend.  So of course I immediately went out and bought a box of hair dye.  So while everyone is updating their hair color for fall, I pretty much just did it out of necessity (yes it is necessary not to have gray hairs at age 27).

Hope all my fellow east-coasters are staying safe in lieu of all the rains and flooding.

xo

Jayme

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Shop this Look: Rainy Day Lady

Today's post was supposed to be more exciting, but the rain makes for poor lighting conditions, so I couldn't get the new photos I wanted.  Maybe things will clear up for tomorrow...

It's Fashion's Night Out in many places, and while I'm not partaking in any festivities (due to work, rain, and a decided lack of interest this year), I thought about what kind of outfit might be appropriate and chic for a drizzly night.

60s wool trench - $65, Italian mosaic brooch - $18

60s heels (Size 10) - $23, Chambray dress - $27

The chambray dress has red contrasting stitching, which would look great with the red trench.  I also love the brooch on the jacket for some extra interest, and of course, heels or boots are the best shoes to avoid puddles. The whole outfit comes in under $150, head to toe.  And I can guarantee that no one else will be showing up in the very same thing --could you imagine a worse fate at a fashion event?! (Faint.)

If you're going out tonight, enjoy yourself and stay dry!

xo,
Amanda

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Outfit Post: Summer's End

Hello everyone!  We had a fantastic weekend camping with the family, but after wearing the same jeans for three days in the row (and avoiding the community shower), I decided to get a little dolled up for the Labor Day holiday.  We spent the day doing a little thrifting (crazy 50% off day), grocery shopping, and dinner...and I really did indeed wear this.

My style is evolving...I have a vision of all the things I love and how they might come together. There are looks I love on other people that are just not me or don't fit my body the right way (making me feel less than confident).  I love girly and bohemian looks, but also rock and roll...so I'm taking cues from that (and a lot of back...since I'm buying and dressing on a budget, and everything black matches! ha.) to create my fall wardrobe and clean out items from my closet.  I also love that with a cap sleeve maxi dress in basic black/ivory, I can add color or cardigans/jackets/accessories and make it a totally different look.  To keep it simple, I added a vintage pendant and platform sandals.

dress-thrifted, horse pendant-vintage, sandals- MIA via 6pm.com

I loved this dress on the rack, but I knew it could look a little mom-ish.  Still, it fit into the categories of the things I love, and it makes me feel comfortable and confident.  And even though it's somewhat simple, it also has the great detail on the bodice (front and back). I'm a sucker for a good detail.

So excited to share new looks with you for the cooler months!

xo,
Amanda

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Outfit Post: Kimonomania

I was immediately enamored with this kimono when I found it at the thrift--it's made of a heavy, linen-like fabric in a real cool tribal-esque print and color scheme AND it has pockets. I always see things that I think are cool that might work on other, fashion-risky people, but not on me. So I put the kimono in the shop. But today, feeling uninspired, pulled it out and created two looks: one for day and one for night. I think that I might even be able to pull them off in the real (read as: not blog) world without getting strange looks. Not that I'd care because, personally, I think this jacket is really cool, a great alternative to a blazer, and definitely one of a kind!

Look 1:  Kimono as a Faux Wrap Dress

I added a vintage belt to cinch the kimono and added a pair of boots and a wrist of bangles for a bohemian feel. I wore my simple black dress underneath, just to avoid any flashing. It reminds me of a wrap dress, though I still think it may be a *little* too robe-ish at the neckline...
kimono-Miskabelle, boots-UO, belt-vintage, bangles-random

Look 2: Kimono as an Alternative to a Blazer

I have to say: I'm in love with this look. Enough that I almost want to keep the kimono.  I paired it with a simple black dress (the key is the proportions: the dress should be shorter), neutral belt, a vintage tribal bib necklace (a recent find that I really can't give up) and my black platforms.
kimono-Miskabelle, dress-Old Navy (thrifted), belt-H&M (5 years ago), heels-Michael Kors via DSW, necklace-vintage (thrifted)

kimono-$38, Miskabelle

How would you (or would you?) wear the kimono? It's in the shop now! Snap it up before it's too late...

Happy weekend!  We're off to camp, where I will be looking decidedly less stylish...

xo,
Amanda

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Welcome, September!

Kind of hard to believe it's September 1st!  I must say, I am welcoming autumn with open arms.  I have been tired of my summer wardrobe for a while now and am excited for layers and boots!  Here's a little splurge and steal.... 3 pieces from the shop that total less than the cost of one pair of (ah-mazing) jeans.  Put it all together, and it is the perfect fall outfit!

THE STEALS:

THE SPLURGE:

I hope to invest in an awesome pair of flares for this fall--I love this cognac colored pair from Rag & Bone.  They are the perfect vintage-inspired pants to go with chunky grandpa sweaters, oversized jewelry and leather boots.

Sorry we've been neglecting the blog a bit this week--as you can see from our redesign, we've been busy!  Hope you're digging our new look as much as we are.

xo
Jayme

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