Lady Sings the 'Vintage' Blues

Lately at work, my days have gone by quickly because of the new trick I learned. MUSIC! Who would have thought that soothing tunes blaring through my headphones would do the trick. So now-a-days, as soon as I plop down in my standard desk chair, my high tech ear buds are strategically placed for the majority of the day.

As you would expect, my love of vintage extends well beyond fashion & resides in the world of music too. My faithful go-to station is "Billie Holiday Radio" Some of my favorite artists that frequent this station are Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Eartha Kitt, Doris Day, and Sarah Vaughan. But obviously, Billie Holiday is hands down one of my favorites.

Not only does she hold this #1 spot because of her angelic musical talents, but also because of her glorious fashion sense. Below are some gorgeous images only fit for a vintage diva. See if you can handle it.

Fabulous Off the Shoulder Gown

Divine Sweetheart Cut Strapless Dress with Flower Detail

Young Billie Holiday Styled in a LBD

Simplistic Collared Blouse and High Waist Skirt

Gorgeous Fur and Beaded Cap

Whoever says floral hairpieces are a modern look has overlooked Billie Holiday's infamous signature style. A flower pinned to the side of her flawless updo. Doesn't it make you want to start up a DIY project right now?

Get some inspiration from the wonderful looks below.

photo source can be found here

Trying to digest all of Billie Holiday's sexy vintage style reminded me that I haven't seen one of my favorite movies in months. "Lady Sings the Blues" was released in 1972 starring one of my other favorites Diana Ross and I can't get enough of it. This film is now on my wish list for the boy so hopefully this post nudges him a little more and reminds him of the hints I left in his email inbox.

Diana Ross in the 1972 film "Lady Sings the Blues"

If your not on vintage overload yet, take some time to listen to some of Billie Holiday's classic tracks.

xoxo

Elan <3

Don't Be Square, Come a-Round to Vintage this Year

People always tell me that they love vintage fashions and are dying to get into wearing more vintage pieces. Well here's your chance. You've already made your New Year's Resolutions, so add some fashion changes to your to-do list. Here are some simple ways to try vintage without building a time machine.

Go All Out Vintage
Instead of just mixing new and old, vow to rock an entire ensemble from decades past. Try a blazer from the 80s, a funky dress from the 70s. Top off your look with chunky vintage jewelry. Use a vintage belt to spruce up your look and try a mix of oversized and fitted pieces to master the art of vintage layering. Vintage pieces are super funky so be careful to not style yourself in too many bold pieces. You don't want anyone to mistaken you for an 80s party host.


Channel A Vintage Style Icon
You don't have to wait until a costume party to dress like your favorite vintage glamor girl. Watch a movie staring a fabulous style icon to get some extra inspiration. If you prefer a classic vintage style find inspiration in Audrey Hepburn's simple flirty style. Try Diane Keaton for menswear inspiration. If you want to stand out, take tips from Diana Ross for a glamorous effect. Debbie Harry as style inspiration is perfect for the wild child fashionista. Mix modern and vintage pieces to emulate the style of one of the greats.

Audrey Hepburn

Diane Keaton

Diana Ross

Debbie Harry

Be a Copy Cat
We all come across fabulous runway looks as we peruse magazine's and online sources. Instead of just lusting after these looks for a few moments and then diverting your attention to the H&M catalog, save the image. We know your new years resolution budget won't allow any couture pieces (except that great pair of shoes you always splurge on). Try to use vintage pieces to copy the look. Head to your local vintage, consignment, or thrift store with the image in tow (either a cut out, a print out, or saved on your phone). Think about the shape and color of each piece and go hunting. Even if the look is not exact, you'll be able to flaunt around in a "designer inspired" look. Check out my A Love Letter to Color post for details on the look below.

Shop Vintage

1. Shop Vintage Stores Online
2. Support Local Shop Owners
3. Check out a Thrift Store

DIY Vintage
Not all vintage is made one size fits all. Some vintage styles have super outdated elements that your modern style eye may not agree with. Simple solution. Alter it. Here are some simple DIY suggestions to get you started.

1. Add/Remove Shoulder Pads: if you come across a fabulous vintage dress with crazy shoulder pads installed, cut them out.
2. Tailor It: Instead of paying your local seamstress to take in that awesome vintage blouse hanging in your closet, DIY. Why pay $5-$10 for something you can do yourself? Sorry, that's my broke college student rationalization. Even if you don't have magnificent sewing skills, you can make a few stitches. Check out youtube for some tips. 
3. Stud It: if a solid colored vintage blazer is a little to plain for your dramatic fashion sense, add studs to it. You can find studs in numerous shapes and colors at craft stores or even on ebay.

Check Out This YouTube video for a DIY Studded Collar Tutorial

xoxo
Elan <3

A Little Style Makes the Holiday Right

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVE EVERYONE!!!

I hope you scoured the malls and vintage shops using the gift ideas from my "Give a Little Vintage Cheer" post and found the perfect items for everyone on your holiday gift list. I too was one of the unlikely masses standing in 30 minute long lines hoping to put a smile on the faces of my loved ones. By 2 o'clock pm I finally unloaded my car and did my happy dance singing "I did it, I did it, I did it yay". (in my Dora the Explorer voice of course)

Since the boy bailed on me this year to hang with his family (yea I'm a little salty) our Wrapping and Wine tradition is a no-go. Instead I've resorted to pizza, holiday music, and blogging. I have so much time on my hands and holiday inspiration from the tunes blaring throughout the house that I've come up with some last minute holiday look essentials. Hope these vintage must haves make holiday styling much easier.

 RED LIPSTICK

Say Merry Christmas with pouty red lips. Instead of wiping your cheeks from the lipstick of grandmothers and aunts, mark them with your favorite shade of red. Don't be afraid to pair this bold lip color with other holiday inspired attire. No need to be matchy matchy. Holidays are for extra-ness!!! Take tips from Jennifer Hudson, Kourtney Kardashian, and Rosario Dawson for some holiday inspiration.

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BABY BLUE

Who woulda thought baby blue to be a holiday color? It didn't start with me. Take advice from Diana Ross The Diva. Accessorize your holiday look with baby blue jewelry. Style yourself in blue on blue in contrasting shades. or pair with red. Have a holiday blast.

Diana Ross, 1978

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LACE

How many holiday outfits do you remember wearing as a kid with lace? Well personally I can't remember a year I went without it. So why change the tradition. Wear your grown up lace dress with tights and a cardi to keep you warm. Try holiday colored lace to combine all holiday inspiration in one. If opting for winter white lace pair your look with bold accessories.

Twiggy

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Available at Asos

Get in the holiday spirit as you prepare for tomorrow!!! Happy Holiday's!!!

xoxo

Elan <3