Vested Bee Vintage

Old Word Charm .......

2010-12-27T08:45:00.006-06:00

My husband has always had a love of all things made of sterling silver. To be honest I was never a big fan of silver because it just didn’t look great on my skin complexion so gold was my first shiny metal of choice to wear. After years of telling him that silver was boring and bland I have truly come to appreciate the beauty of sterling silver.
Did you know: Sterling was the known and approved silver standard in England, in all probability, from the beginning of King Henry the Second’s reign.

These gorgeous sterling scissors are adorned with beautiful flowers on both sides. I believe they were used in sewing such as button holes, thread trimming and things of that nature.
Magnifying lenses became symbols of intellect and connoisseurship, as is evident in art of the eighteenth century which often depicts magnifying glasses in order to convey knowledge and intellect.
THIS is one of the cutest and most elegant things I've seen. It's an individual Salt Spoon from the early 1900s in a floral pattern by Lunt Silver. A little spoon like this looks much nicer pinned to a blouse, jacket or vest as opposed to just sitting in a salt cellar.

Alice in wonderful would sure appreciate this antique tea spoon. The top has a tea kettle with handle and the stem is like bamboo or straw that ends with a dogwood like pattern.
The pendant between the scissors and tea spoon appears to have made from a spoon end as well. I just love the patina on it.
The Purple glass necklace appears to be an Art Deco piece from the 1895-1935. I’m speechless!

And how could I forget the vintage marcasite pendant at right corner of the table, and the lovely pen. Quite Victorian!

…and the vintage mexican sterling ring which looks like a wedding cake. I’ve named it Claire de lune. I melt every time I look at it!

The round footed baroque mirror is just lovely and is the perfect size on my night stand. The other baroque frame mirror’s glass was broken so I simply framed a lovely print in its place!

My husband is truly a man of Sterling good sense for he gave me all these wonderful silver items (table too…) for Christmas!

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and Holiday!

Freshlyground: Be my love when the fire is low ..........

2010-12-17T12:12:00.001-06:00

Hi everyone! I'm trying to get out of hibernation and also thinking of what to wear in this frigid weather! An island girl just can't survive in the snow you know. Ok I'm thinking layers! I find that coming up with a color scheme can be quite a challenge when layering up a chic look. I hope my next winter outfit post will be tastefully done! fingers crossed!

I leave you with this Friday music that I just came across and I absolutely looooove this song and many others from this band! Enjoy!

I just realized that I have a similar dress like the singer is wearing, looks like it is going on etsy soon!

As always stay beautiful in and out!
Kisses to all! muah!

Music Friday: Freshlyground, Fire Is Low

If you're mad for plaid ..... Suit yourself!

2010-11-02T13:17:00.000-05:00

Well, my luck was in when I spotted this professional and classy double-breasted skirt suit. The profusely plaid cloth in navy blue/ dark green is super feminine and surely stands out from traditional tailoring suits with its matching mini pleated skirt. At first I wasn’t too sure about the buttons which sort of look dated and thought to reinvent the jacket by changing up the buttons for a newer look but then I decided to go beeline with it.

Proverbs: Suit yourself means 'do what you want'. It comes from suiting themselves with ready hemmed clothing rather than going to a tailor.

Outfit:
Plaid skirt suit : Vintage
Black leather purse : Vintage Coach Bag
Black shoes : BG
Hair bow : Vintage Navy blue
Tights : Vintage 80s navy blue
Leather bow belt : vintage, which is a perfect combination of the Sonia Rykiel, Moschino bow belt and Hoss Intropia which can be found via YOOX

P.s. Welcoming ALL new friends reading this blog. Love you all!
Have a great rest of the week and as always stay beautiful in and out!

Kisses to all!
Muah!

This kitty is wild at heart ……………

2010-10-11T10:53:00.000-05:00

It has been a while since my last outfit post. This outfit was quite random but yet turned out to be fun and quite trendy. I originally planned to wear a skirt and a button up blouse but Mother Nature’s atmospheric conditions took a different route and so did my outfit. Instead I opted for this vintage 80s light wool dress in pull over style which is just perfect on a chilly fall Nashville day and threw over my recently thrifted leopard cardigan labeled Express. The Fabric is super soft as well.

Otherwise I really don’t have much to say for this post except that I appreciate all the love from all the new readers and older ones too who emailed and asked for my return. It meant a lot and I love you all very much.

In case you were inspired by my look and want to experiment a little, I found this article below and thought I’d share!

How to Wear an Animal Print
In the past those who wore leopard-print occupied a strange no-person's land. According to Alexander animal print “treads” a fine line between tarty and tasteful.
However, anything goes this season from a single piece to top-to-toe:
•Fashion’s golden rule has always been to keep animal print to one single piece and keep the rest of your outfit simple. The safest way to wear animal print is sparingly!
•Pair leopard print with beige or black to keep it chic and refined.
•Dip a toe into the trend by adding a leopard print accessory to a plain outfit. This could be a scarf, a hat, some tights, gloves, a structured bag or a pair of cute kitten heels.
•For a real celebrity look break the rules by mixing and matching prints. However, this look is not for the faint-hearted. Keep accessories to a minimum to keep it chic.
•Go for good quality fabrics. Cheap material can look less than chic when it’s an animal print.

Outfit:
Black dress : Vintage 1980s light wool
Leather purse : Vintage cognac Pollini
Shoes : Newport News
Fascinator hat : Vintage stunning orange velvet
Cameo brooch : Vintage
Satin opaque black tights : Hue - Personal Shapers

Hope you all have a wonderful week. Until then stay beautiful inside and out!
Kisses to all!

Cause I'm the wanderer ........

2010-09-14T20:52:00.000-05:00

I was in the middle of listing some fall vintage dresses, blouses and skirts when etsy went whoopsie! So I decided to do this quick post to share of whatsoever the mind perceives in itself.

Earlier today while taking some photos for the shop I got sidetracked in favor of a sweet lace trim. You see I was wearing this lace piece or trim to keep my hair away from face and to tell you the truth I'm not even sure what the pretty delicate decorative fabric woven was intended for, but I wore it as headscarf or kerchief. I also thought it would look fantastic as a victorian accent around the neck. I find peace gazing at beautitul things. Hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.

Ok etsy is back! yeah! I'm going to finish up here.

Hope this post finds everyone well!
Kisses to all!

Last day of summer .............

2010-09-07T22:14:00.000-05:00

Photos by Mark

I promised to post this outfit this Tuesday so here it is! I believe it is still Tuesday! ;) Internet was down for a while today which delayed an earlier post, so I’m going to be short & sweet. I have to get my beauty sleep for a very important moment tomorrow and can’t wait to share it.

This intense combination with mangos, peaches and oranges coloring accessories will take you for a walk back to the beginning of summer! But I’m ready for fall, after this post that is ;D To me seasons are like a musical passage moving from one key to another. I enjoy them all.

My saying goodbye to summer ouffit:

Vintage skirt black shiny satin fabric, All That Jazz
Green Tank from Target ( feels really soft )
Vintage Hat : colorful peaches, Loveman’s Inc. Mc Henry’s Hat, Nashville
Vintage Belt : Capezio bright floral with sparkles resembling glazed or sugar delights
Shoes : Vince Camuto black strappy sandals
Vintage Bag : 80's Sharif Black snake skin leather shoulderbag

P.S. As always stay bee-u-tiful inside and out!
Have a wonderful evening.
Kisses to all.

Delicious fruity summer finds and a lucky winner! .....

2010-09-05T22:13:00.000-05:00

This week I found some pretty sweet things(vintage accesorries) that are extremely pleasing to the sense of taste, I meant to the sense of style that is ;) I plan to use them both on Tuesday's outfit post! fingers crossed! :)

Also wanted to thank everyone for entering the Shabby Apple giveaway!!

.... Clare of Between Laundry Days is the lucky winner of the Shabby Apple L'amour Dress Giveaway. She was selected as the winner using the random number generator at random.org. Congratulations Clare!!! Please email me your measurements and dress size as well as your mailing address to vestedbeevintage@gmail.com

P.s. Have no worries, there are many more opportunities to win great Giveaways!! Thanks to Shabby Apple for sponsoring this giveaway.

Have a great rest of what is left of the weekend and welcome a brand new week! Kisses to all!
xoxo

The Rendez-vous avec Q!........

2010-08-24T20:33:00.000-05:00

In my first meet up with a lovely Nashville Blogger (with hopefully many more to come!) I had the chance to spend hours with Quincy of Q’s Daydream. Mark and I, Quincy and her husband Johnny met at Jackson’s in downtown Nashville. Quincy and her hubby embraced us as if we were longtime friends reuniting after years of being apart. We grabbed a bite to eat and had a couple of drinks and talked vintage and bloggers like there was no tomorrow. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Quincy was very vintage bombshell femme in a red halter top dress with the prettiest print and a full skirt that flares enormously, a beautiful wedge and vintage cognac woven handbag. Too bad we didn’t take photos that day because she was a stunner! I think the conversations of getting to know one another got in the way of me snapping a shot of her from my camera phone.

This past Sunday was probably one of the longest days that I have ever anticipated on. This time we met at the Parthenon for a photo shoot and here are some of the moments captured by our photographer husbands! Afterwards we went to Starbucks for some refreshing beverages where she introduced me to the iced chai tea with soy drink, I was already a big fan of hot chai tea but this definitely tops my home made tea bags recipe.
I had the most wonderful time with Q which I used to refer to as Queen before I knew her real name. She’s super sweet, energetic, kind hearted and looks gorgeous every time I see her. And can I honestly say she’s a great friend to have and glad to have met her through Etsy and Blogging. (She, too, posted about our experience!) Take a look here.

Outfit on me:
Vintage 1930s floral print dress
Vintage bow belt
Wooden wedge from UO
Vintage Etienne Aigner Woven bag

Visit Quincy's Blog to view a description of her fabulous outfit.

Hope everyone is having a great week!!

And one more thing! Don't forget to enter the Shappy Apple Dress Giveaway!

Kisses for everyone!

Shabby Apple Giveaway! .....

2010-08-22T23:19:00.000-05:00

Mesdames et mademoiselles! I’m pleased to announce that I have partnered with Shabby Apple to do a giveaway! Shabby Apple would like to give the following dress to one of my lucky readers! They’ve chosen the L’amour dress that will flatter different figure types and is truly your solution for the elegant everyday dream dress. The dress FITS GENEROUSLY!

The winner will receive the dress in their size, of course!
And the best part? you have 3 chances to win!

How to Enter:

1. for your first entry just leave a comment on this post before 8:00pm central time on Monday, August 23.

2. If you are a follower of Vested Bee Vintage and/or Shabby Apple's blog leave an additional comment for your second entry.

3. For your third entry head on over to Shabby Apple shop, select a favorite item and leave a third comment telling us which one means love to you!

Giveaway ends on August 31, 2010 at 8:00pm central Time. Giveaway is open for residents of the US only.

Good luck to everyone and thanks to Shabby Apple for their generosity and divine style guidance!!!

When it rains it pours ............

2010-08-20T20:44:00.001-05:00

Is it ok to have an instance of boastful talk? Well in this case I’d like to think that it is perfectly fine..... :)

It’s been a while since I got featured anywhere. Then all of a sudden it has started raining and it has been raining for a month straight. By all means a girl could get use to this prolong treatment of a perfect storm. Just like the song from the SWV titled “rain” I’m caught in a rain that I don’t need no shelter from. And you want to know something I’m super grateful and enjoying the moment while it lasts! ;)

So this post is for the lovely Emilie at Delance Fashion by whom I was selected between the top 100 Delance Fashion community members (base on activity points) that I was selected as featured community member. Emilie asked me some questions and created an article about my blog and placed a picture at the community’s front page. If you would like to take a peek at the article it will remain on the community front page for 10 more days.

Also Delance Fashion is a super fun place to join, you can find people with similar interests like other bloggers, shoppers, vintage lovers, groups like style icon, shoes lovers, vintage inspiration, DYI, daily outfits and more. As for me I’m totally obsessed with the application feature “events” because it helps me stay organize and spread the news of goodies in my shop.

@ Emilie: This is pleasing to the senses. Thank you so much for the feature.

P.s. I will be posting a giveaway this weekend, so get ready to do the hop, skip and jump to win something beautiful.

Kisses to all! muah!

Gay Gibson.... The tender makings

2010-08-14T23:40:00.000-05:00

I love Gay Gibson clothing line because they design their clothes with such distinctive and stylish elegance that will simply woo you! I’d love to find me one of these original lace dresses.

The models are wearing an ecru-colored cotton lace with sentimental trimmings of lavender ribbon. And I absolutely adore their hair and makeup.

From the Left: Bra dress. Center: Angel Float. Right: Party Bib Skimmer. The center dress with the bow is my absolute favorite. Now all I need is sandals with socks. How divine!

I did a search on Google on the label and found this bit of history via vintagefashionguild.com

Gay Gibson was one of the many Kansas City, Missouri fashion labels. The women's clothing industry there was thriving during the 1930s-1950s, producing mid-priced clothing. The Gay Gibson label dates from 1937. The label was actually owned by the Gernes Garment Company. There was not a person named Gay Gibson.

Now you didn’t think I was going to leave you without seeing my version right?! The label of the sweet white dress that I’m wearing is Jessica McClintock not quite like the Gay Gibson ones but rather a combination of the three with a little je ne sais quoi added. And the strappy black shoes seem to follow me around. I want to wear them with everything. I have close up photos of the sandals with my baby blue socks rolled down. As always the hat is the icing on the cake!

Dress: Vintage Jessica McClintock
Hat: Vintage Jardin pillbox
Necklace: Vintage cameo Whiting and Davis
Shoes: Vince Camuto strappy sandals
Bracelet: Vintage chunky faux pearl

Hope you all enjoy your weekend :)
Kisses
Bisous

Ready, Set, Breakfast……………..

2010-08-08T12:01:00.000-05:00

You know how mom used to always say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day? Well, guess what? She was right! Mom knows best when it comes to realizing that breakfast is the fuel that keeps us running throughout the day.

But if you're anything like me, you'd prefer to sleep a little later rather than get up in time to prepare a meal in the wee small hours. When you're not a morning person, it's hard to resist that snooze button, but it will pay off more than those 10 blissful moments of laziness. In time, you'll find that working in a good breakfast will give you much more energy to face the day than spending a few more moments under the covers ever could!

Some may not like the traditional breakfast foods. I hear you, but you can eat anything you want! For example, peanut butter on a slice of wheat bread, fat free milk, and a piece of fruit will do the trick. The important part about breakfast is eating something and eating healthily, not forcing myself to eat eggs or cereal. If I don't fancy the usual fare, that's no reason to forgo a.m. eating altogether.

So after just a couple of weeks eating healthy breakfast I noticed how much better I feel through the morning and the rest of the day when I don't skip breakfast.

So in my house, aside from being "fun" to eat breakfast for dinner, it is usually a rather economical choice at least one night a month.

Hope I didn’t leave you all with an athirst for breakfast meals ! I think my work is done here! Yummmm!

Here’s what I had for breakfast:
2 eggs over medium
2 Turkey sausage links
2 Rice cakes with sugar free grapes preserves
A handful of fresh blueberries
Small glass of almond and coconut milk. I mixed the two for flavoring.

Girly, Tough & Chic!............

2010-08-04T13:53:00.002-05:00

Photos by Mark.

Extraordinary things can be accomplished from the ordinary. This is particularly true when it comes to styling vintage clothing. I think some of the best dresses starts with the simplest designs – and many are home sew and probably lurking in your closet or availabe at an etsy shop right now. Begin with basics, such as pleated full skirt 50s dress, lovely bag, belt, boater hat then pair with a fresh from the market statement shoes and the result will delight you!

For instance this vintage dress I’m wearing is going up in the shop this week! yes it is! I wore the dress for a quick photo shoot when I entered the Chictopia “shoe lover” contest for payless here. I simply adhere to the above mentioned rules to achieve this girl meet tough outfit.

P.s. I know I’m late on the giveaways but wait until you see the next one! I like doing giveaways because it is a way I express my appreciation for following, reading and commenting on my blog and for your friendship.

P.p.s. I have followed 75 new followers up to date but I need a little help, Please leave a comment on this post and I’ll be sure to click on everyone’s name and follow! I wish there was an easier way to do this. “Leave comment here and I’ll follow you”

Outfit:
♥ Dress: vintage 1950’s watercolor (In the shop this week)
♥ Shoes: Vince Camuto "Kimbal Sandal" (thrifted for only $5.00!)
♥ Belt: navy blue, buckles all over
♥ Purse: vintage ASPECRS Python Snake Skin Purse Bag (available here)
♥ Hat: vintage straw boater with black bow ribbon

Until then, have a wonderful day and stay beautiful inside and out! :)
Kisses
Bisous

I was a dancer all along ................

2010-07-26T10:34:00.000-05:00

Lykke Li - Dance Dance Dance

On most Monday mornings I always feel like dancing instead of working .... This adorable song will bring back the kid in you, a smile to your face and a felicitous moment!

Have a happy Monday music!
xoxo

Quick Etsy Shop Update...... And jewelry!

2010-07-23T22:15:00.000-05:00

Here's a quick etsy shop update that I've worked on for past few days! I might somehow be related to the sloth animacules when it comes to shop updates and frequent blog posts but when you don't see me here just hop over my etsy or ebay shop and see what I am up to and ask me anything. Cause believe in "It is a definite NO if one doesn't ask!!! :)

On the otherhand my friends I've made history tonight by simply reading instructions from Adobe and learned how to create a collage on my new software "Photoshop Elements 8" in just an hour! I'm feeling a little self-respect because I could work through it without further assistance. I think the photos could have been larger for better viewing but I'm pleased with this collage for it being my first one. What do you guys think?!

P.s. I have some beautiful old Vintage/Antique 1900s oval and 1800s heart locket pendants and other collectibles of vintage jewelry ending this Sunday on ebay at 9:00pm Central Time. Take a peek!

Currently listening to: Noisettes - Don't Upset The Rhythm (Go Baby Go)

The rhythm of summer time ...................

2010-07-18T21:02:00.002-05:00

Photos by Mark.

Summer time and the living is easy. Fish are jumping and the cotton is definitely high as far laundry concerns in my case. I'm still washing & ironing the finds. Just a quick post to let you all know I'm not buried underneath all the clothes from my last post.

On another note, get an eyeful of my pale legs! I'm wearing shorts for the first this year and they seriously need to atleast match my arms. Looks like it is time for the tanning lotion again!

I also ran across some pretty good old music and wanted to share these versions with you. Hope you enjoy them as much as I did!

Billy Stewart - Summertime (1966)

Greg Kinnear perform's "Summertime" in "Stuck On You"

Sam Cooke - Summer time (w/ Lyrics)

Outfit:
Mustard yellow tank: Target - Mossimo Supply Co. Juniors Long and Lean Tank (currently in stores)
Black jean shorts: Guess (thrifted-new with tag!)
Safari style sheer shirt: J-Crew (thrifted-new with tag!)
Straw Hat: Vintage (DIY band stripe)
Straw leather belt: Vintage
Shoes: Vince Camuto "Kimbal Sandal" (thrifted for only $5.00!)
Bangle braclets: Bakelite and Lucite

P.s. Thank you for viewving the blog and let me what you do to stay cool this summer. Ok I'm off ironing the dresses! Kisses for everyone! muah!

Quote of the day:
I walk without flinching through the burning cathedral of the summer. My bank of wild grass is majestic and full of music. It is a fire that solitude presses against my lips. ~Violette Leduc, Mad in Pursuit

An Avalanche of Vintage purses, Clothes, Shoes Finds in Nashville Tennessee

2010-07-11T17:00:00.000-05:00

I just discovered years of vintage dresses, skirts, blouses, sweaters, shoes, hats and much more. Word of mouth got to their family members that I would be interested in buying some of the vintage clothing from not one but three sisters each with a very different sense of style. For the record the ladies did not believe on throwing anything away. While riffling through the mountainous terrain of cloth meet threads, buttons and zippers I found pieces right in line with spring, fall and summer’s hottest trends from the ‘30s, ‘40s, ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and I could only describe the clothes as an avalanche of wearable.

As an Etsy-obsessed as I am, I will be sharing some these beautiful finds once they are washed, soaked and ironed and at times steam cleaned before they will go on Etsy. So wish me luck!

And yes there’s more……………

Quote of the day:

When fate hands us a lemon, let's try to make lemonade.
- Dale Carnegie

Have a great rest of the weekend and thank you for viewing my blog.
muah!

Jewelry Shop Udate and Previews....................

2010-07-07T18:59:00.000-05:00

I finally go around to show you guys what jewels I've got up for auction this week. Click here to view them.

Thank you in advance for taking a look at the jewls! If you ever looking for something specific just let me know cause I might just have it for you.
Bisous!
Kisses!

Make hay while the sun shines!

2010-07-05T17:34:00.001-05:00

Photos by Mark.

This phrase means to do things at the most suitable occasion.

I take it to mean "don't procrastinate." If the sun is out make hay as in the next moment it is raining you won't be able to. Like if you feel like doing yard work later than sooner you might not get the chance later if something comes up be it rain or something else.

Outfit:
Dress: Vintage 1950’s Full Skirt Yellow Flowers
Vintage fascinator Hat: Loveman’s Inc. McHenry’s Hat Nashville
Purse: Vintage Dooney and Burke beige cognac trim
Shoes: Calvin Klein Beige Gold Mesh Espadrilles Sandals
Belt: Vintage Brown Braided Ceinture

Bee positively beautiful inside and out! muah!

Happy 4th of July!........................

2010-07-04T10:11:00.000-05:00

If you live here in Nashville or just visiting family members & friends here's a list of the local area July 4th Celebrations, and happenings in and around the Middle Tennessee:

Nashville-Downtown
Riverfront Park
The Downtown Riverfront fireworks show is the biggest and most explosive around...it's also the most popular.

Nashville-Nashville Sounds
Greer Stadium
The Sounds offer fireworks displays all season long -Firework shows follow every Saturday home game and for Independence Day too

Brentwood-Crockett Park Concert
Crockett Park celebrates Independence Day following a Concert at Crockett Park - located in Brentwood, 159+ acres.For more information call 371-0060.

Franklin-Franklin High School Stadium
Franklin on the Fourth Fun for all the family, children's activities, food, musical entertainment and a huge fireworks show. The Franklin Lions Club sponsors the charitable event. Normal Hours: 4:00-9:00 p.m. At the Franklin High School Stadium, Hillsboro Rd.

Gallatin-Gallatin Civic Center
Gallatin July 4th Celebration - Food, music and fireworks at the Gallatin Civic Center. Free. Contact the Gallatin Chamber of Commerce, 615-452-4000

Goodlettsville
-Moss Wright Park - canceled
Goodlettsville Independence Day Celebration - Live music, games, and food usually from 4 pm till the huge fireworks display at 9 pm. Moss Wright Park. Contact: City of Goodlettsville, 615-851-2200

- Tresa Street July Jam
The show will be held Saturday July 3rd, outdoors on the event grounds behind the Long Hollow Jamboree, 3600 Long Hollow Pike, Goodlettsville TN. Gates open at 4:00pm, music starts at 5:00pm til' dark. The Shriners Clowns will be on hand, and there will be a huge FIREWORKS display at dark. Tickets are only $10.00 and benefits the Shriners.

Hendersonville-John Paul II High School
Hendersonville Independence Day Celebration -Normaly features a concert at Pope John Paul II High School, followed by fireworks at Drakes Creek Park at dark (around 9 pm). For more information on concert tickets call 615-824-2818

Hurricane Mills-Loretta Lynn's
Loretta Lynn's Family Campground is located in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee, home to Loretta and hosts a wide array of events during the year including a fireworks display and concert this year

Lebanon-James E. Ward Ag. Center
City Of Lebanon hosts an annual 4th Celebration every year with fireworks and it's normally held at the James E. Ward Ag. Center. You can call the City Hall office @ 443-2839 for further details.

Mt Juliet-Providence Marketplace
City Of Mt Juliet host an annual 4th Celebration every year with fireworks and other festivities. It's normally held at the Providence Marketplace and begins at 4:30 with the fireworks display kicking off around 9:00pm.

Pegram-Town Hall City Park
The quaint city of Pegram offers plenty of family fun at their annual Independence Day Celebration in Town Hall City Park, located just down from the Community Club and the Little Red Caboose at the intersection of Hwy 70/Thompson Road.

Watertown-Watertown 4th of July Parade and Fireworks
The city of Watertown offers a Parade, Food, and Fireworks & More. Call the Watertown Chamber Of Commerce @ 237-0270 for more information.

White House-White House City Park
White House Independence Day Celebration offers Food, music, crafts, games, fireworks at White House City Park

With this explosive list of entertainment going on in and around Music City, USA, this year's Independence Day is bound to be one of Nashville's best ever.

Have a happy and safe 4th of July USA! :)

Fine Art Cameos..............

2010-06-15T23:43:00.005-05:00

If you love cameos as I do you'll want to continue on reading to learn something new and perhaps start your own collection someday.

Here are five Classic Beauties of Shell Cameos that I have in my collection! These are some lovely miniature pieces of art!

I’ve discovered Cameos while selling vintage jewelry and have admired cameos for as long as I can remember. I think my first impressions of cameos came from old movies, to this day, I can recall the way cameos first impinge upon me with their timeless, crafted beauty.

Cameos are heirlooms that are often passed on to another special person. For instance a daughter, granddaughter, niece or close friend. The new owner of the cameo will cherish it as much as the first.

The histor of Cameos:
Throughout history, persons of royalty have set the tone for jewelry fashion. It is said that Queen Elizabeth loved to wear cameos and it is noted that Catherine the Great had a very impressive collection of them. And, the cameo survived the whims of changing fashion during the Nineteenth Century in England. Since Queen Victoria favoured cameos, the cameo was quite popular during and since her reign. They were popular as pins and pendants usually worn on a black velvet ribbon or even sometimes-pastel satin ribbons.

During the Victorian Era, (1837-1901) every decade had its jewelry trends, but the cameo remained a favourite. And interestingly, the intaglio, which was a piece carved below the surface, came before the cameo. In ancient times, the intaglio was used to seal papers or to mark property. Later on, it became a jewelry item worn by women. The cameo is the opposite of the intaglio. It is a portrait or scene carved in relief with a contrasting colored background. In the Nineteenth Century, skilled artisans utilized gemstones, stone, shell, lava, coral and manmade materials to produce cameos.

The making of Cameos:

Italian carvers began using shell for their creations around 1805. the Victorian Era, shell had become appreciated as a medium that was easily carved and inexpensive. Unlike carved gems, the shell cameo was less formal and was worn during the day. Stone cameos came from agate, onyx or sardonyx. These materials offered many colorful layers for carvers to utilize. Although they preferred stone, it was not always plentiful; and these artisans looked for other mediums for their designs.

Popular motifs for Cameos:

Discoveries of archaeological sites in Italy and Egypt renewed an interest in the classics that influenced cameos of the Victorian Era. Motifs included gods and goddesses from mythology and other subjects related to them, such as Bacchante maidens adorned with grape leaves in their hair, the Three Graces, who were the daughters of Zeus, and Leda, a woman shown feeding Zeus and more. Scenes showcased the talent of cameo carvers and were popular with enthusiasts. Others such as Zeus in his chariot and Rebecca at the Well added elements such as houses, trees and bridges. The quality of the carving also varied from dreamlike to realistic. But naturalism appealed to the Victorians. Their love of gardening translated into cameos that also depicted flowers. And, the floral motif continues to be popular as a subject for modern cameos.

The Emerging of the idealized woman:

A prized souvenir for a Victorian was a cameo according to her likeness. While commissioned portraits were in vogue, another kind of portrait appeared with the anonymous woman. Carvers could fashion such images in shell or lava quickly and tourists created a demand for them.

Women pictured on cameos have included Romanesque, with classical features (with long, straight noses and Roman dress), modified images of women with upturned noses, jewelry and upswept hairstyles. The cameo habille depicted the portrait of the idealized woman adorned with jewelry, and tiny diamonds on the cameo represented jewelry such as earrings and a necklace.

The industrialization of the Victorian Era made mass production of jewelry possible. The anonymous woman was molded into cameos from manmade materials such as glass or celluloid.

Dating a Cameo:

To date a cameo with accuracy, many hours or even years of research may be necessary to train the eye. Magnification is vital and a jewelers loupe is a necessary tool in examining a carving and to be able to determine what the cameo is made of. It can detect if it is machine made, or has a snowy appearance. Such a close inspection can help a collector discover if the cameo has been carved in one piece or has been assembled from different materials and glued together.

The motif on the cameo can provide a timeframe for its origin. If a shell or stone cameo contains a classical scene, it may have originated in the 18th or 19th centuries when such subjects were popular. The anonymous woman on a cameo indicates that it comes from the Victorian Era, while the cameo habille did not become fashionable until late in the Nineteenth Century.

Physical traits sometimes reveal when a cameo was carved. The long Roman nose denotes that the piece was originated before 1850. If the nose is slightly upturned, it can be dated after the mid-nineteenth Century. A pert nose is indicative of the turn of the century. An upswept hairstyle indicates a late Victorian cameo, while shorter curls are indicative of the 20th Century.

The medium also provides clues to the history of the piece. Shell cameos were used during the Victorian Era, and later. They have a translucent quality when held up to the light. Lava came from the 17th century, but a large majority came during the 19th century from Mount Vesuvius. Jet gained popularity in the 19th Century in Whitby, England during the Victorian Era.

For the past 25 years, carvers in Germany have produced cameos using the laser technique. It may feel rough to the touch. To learn about cameos, it is important to handle them. This allows the collector to feel, and tap them slightly against the teeth to identify whether they are made of stone, shell or other materials.

Cameos represent a form of art that offers something for everyone.

P.s. I will be selling 4 of 5 of these beauties on my ebay shop and I will do a shop update once their are up!

Kisses for everyone!

Assemblage Des Chapeaux

2010-06-08T10:00:00.001-05:00

Over the weekend Mark and I went to a whole house Estate Sale. I got to the master bedroom just in time to score four beautiful vintage hats thanks my quick hands and eyes like an eagle!

I must admit I am a hoarder of hats. Collecting antique and vintage hats is in my blood and I have been collecting for years now. I think I can seriously spot a hat a mile away. I just love these beautiful objects!

I couldn’t agree more on this quote by Stephen Jones “A hat is the cherry on the cake; the dot on the ‘i’; the exclamation mark,’ he says. ‘In fact, a hat is often the raison d’etre of a fashionable outfit.

Here are some famous collectable vintage hats to keep in mind when you out treasure hunting.
The big couture houses such as Dior.
Schiaparelli and Balenciaga are obviously well known.
Leading milliners include Mr John and Lilly Daché of New York.
Bes-Ben of Chicago. Caroline Reboux of Paris. Aage Thaarup.
Simone Mirman and John Boyd in London.

Finding one of these labels such as Schiaparelli’s dashing pink copperplate or a deluxe designer hat box like Lilly Daché’s striking monochrome containers with their witty needle typeface adds an extra frisson to the joy of collecting.

I hope the list of top hat names helps when you come across a must have beauty.

I’m one of those hat collectors that tend to buy to wear not just to store and display. But that is about to change cause hats are coming out of ears and a hoarder will eventually run out space, you know, so I really need to find a way to display the ones that I wear tastefully without a clutter looking space. Any Suggestions would be swell!

Thank you for your visit. Au revoir!

Ebay Shop Update: Lack of sleep for a great cause..................

2010-06-07T12:06:00.001-05:00

Whohoo!! I have finally listed all the brand names & designer pieces shown above! They are now all up for auction on my ebay shop. These are the items that I have mentioned on my last few posts regarding the Nashville Flood Relief CFMT

My family members are now homless in my homeland Haiti so these listings are going to help them get a tent as well.

Here's the list of items that I promised to share:

(1) LILLY PULITZER Aqua blueTent mini A-line Dress

(2) Sun Dress DEREK HEART Colorful Floral Dress

(3) FREE PEOPLE Cute Blue Floral Empire waist Dress

(4) JUICY COUTURE white pink Flower dress ruffle adorable

(5) OLGA KAPUSTINA Silk green bead ruched GLAM Dress

(6) DKNY Pink Mauve TEXTURED wrinkle exposed ZIPPER Dress

(7) 90's XOXO red Dress with Gold Chain Belt waist mini

(8) ELLE mini dress WATERCOLOR gray Colorful abstract

(9) Simply Vera VERA WANG Beige White Blouse

(10) GO INTERNATIONAL Flower Navy Pleated Mini Skirt

(11) TOMMY HILFIGER Jeans BROCADE TAPESTRY Metallic Skirt

(12) KAREN MILLEN England brown Tank Top CROCHET Ruffles

(13) J-Crew white Linen City Fit Cuffed Twill Cargo Shorts

(14) JUICY COUTURE Heart Pocket Cropped Denim Jeans 29

(15) Abercrombie & Fitch RARE Distressed Cropped Jeans Pants

(16) Authentic GUCCI ELEGANT brown PANTS

(17) ERIN FETHERSTON Black HEARTS Dressy SHORTS

Not just for one good cause but two..... Nashville Flood Relief and tent for my homeless family in Haiti.
If you're not in the market for any of these listed items, please tell a friend about it!

For the birds.............

2010-06-05T19:32:00.007-05:00

Lack of sleep is precisely why I didn't write my little story with this outfit. It just wouldn't make any sense. Besides pictures are worth a million words! ;D

“I'm youth, I'm joy, I'm a little bird that has broken out of the egg.”

Outfit du jour:

♥ Vintage plaid sundress

♥ Seychelles T-Strap Sandals

♥ Vintage black bow

♥ Vintage Enid Collins box bag

♥ Vintage Heart ring

♥ Vintage enamel blue seagull pendant necklace

Happy trails to you, until we meet again!

Have a wonderful weekend!

And the winner is -------------->>

2010-05-30T17:48:00.000-05:00

Once again thank you everyone for entering my little giveaway and hope to have another one soon!

Meggstatus!!! at http://www.anotherdaytodressup.blogspot.com/ is the lucky winner of the Vintage Gold Bow Brooch of the Vested Bee Vintage Giveaway. She was selected as the winner using the random number generator at random.org. Congratulations!!!

Also If you didn’t win this time have no worries, there are many more opportunities to win great Giveaways!

Have a great rest of the weekend!
xoxo

Vested Bee Giveaway................... Golden Bow

2010-05-23T11:02:00.001-05:00

For this Giveaway Winner will be receiving a Gold Textured Bow Brooch. If you love pretty things then this is how to enter!:

❀Leave a comment here with you name and email address.
❀Must be follower with google friend connect.
❀Do a Hop Skip'n Jump to my Etsy shop & leave the link of the item you like best in the comment.
❀The winner will be announced on May 30th using the random number generator at random.org.
❀Open to US and International readers as well!

Have a great rest of the weekend!
oxoxo

D.I.Y Lace Bracelet and Choker Necklace…….

2010-05-13T19:47:00.002-05:00

These lace Bracelets & Choker Necklaces are adorned with a vintage shoe buckles. They would be the sort of gift you would give to your friend and immediately ask to borrow! Aren’t they just lovely!!

Here’s what you’ll need:

 Pair of Scissors

 Lace hem facing, woven edge seam biding, black ribbon or silk

 A variety of vintage shoe buckles

 In my case all material used were vintage

How to put together:

 Cut desired Lace length for bracelet or Choker Necklace

 Fasten and secure lace ribbon on back of buckle by lifting up the latch then push down to secure lace.

 Make a bow tie then clamp shoe buckle from bottom of bow where ribbon hangs down.

 For the smaller buckle I Intertwined the black ribbon where you see fit so it comes out in same direction at each end.

Please note: Some brooches works better than others due to their unique designs, shapes and sizes. Also I did not use any glue in case I want to reuse the buckle for their original purpose and other future projects!

Wouldn’t these be perfect for wedding themes or simply gifts to the bride maids! Or better yet you’ll have a whole year to treasure hunt and make them for mother’s day!

Hope that you have enjoyed and will have fun with this DIY. Until next time!
xoxo

Down to Earth Weekend............... Floral Romper and Combat Military boots, bow in my hair and almost sans makeup.

2010-05-08T12:40:00.000-05:00

It has been an exhausting week and feeling this way means it is time to go for a long walk at the park. So here I am in a floral romper, military boots, barely sans makeup and hair so natural that I resemble Simba the main character of The Lion King movie. But I feel we all could use a carefree day don't you?! I loved every minute of it of that moment!

Photos by Mark.

Also, please support these two generous ladies MouseVox and LeProust for they are doing wonderful work to aide the Nashville's Flooding Relief. Their Proceeds will be donated to CFMT Bravo Ladies!

P.S. I will be will selling some of personal jewelry collection and some designer clothing on e-Bay to raise money for the flood relief CFMT. More information is forthcoming regarding auction date and list of items.

On a sweeter note, I'd like to wish everyone a wonderful Mother's Day weekend!

This is for my mommy: HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! Muah!!

Outfit:

♥ Vintage bow Fascinator hat ( Estate Sale )
♥ Vintage floral romper ( Thrifted)
♥ RSVP combat boots ( Zappos- years ago )
♥ Woven purse ( Rave- yes i used to work there almost 11 years ago!)
♥ Vintage heart silver ring ( Estate Sale )

Etsy Shop Update.................. Some pretty sweet vintage clothing!

2010-05-04T21:27:00.000-05:00

                                       Vintage 1940s 1950s Pastel Yellow Corsage Chemise Blouse (s-xs)

                                      Vintage 1940s 1950s Orange Lace Chevron Blouse Corsage (s-m)

                                          Vintage 1940s 1950's Pastel Green Tea Corsage Blouse (s-xs)

                                              Vintage 1970s Seashore Coral Polka Dot Blouse (s-m-l)

                                          Vintage 1950's Black and White Pleated Full Skirt (xs-s)

                                 Vintage 1950s Red White POLKA DOT Skirt top Country Set (xs-s)

This shop update was fun changing in out out of one outfit to another and I almost kept every piece!

Until next time lovelies!
xoxo

Vintage Seventeen & Glamour Fashion Magazines………

2010-05-01T08:09:00.004-05:00

While browsing one my favorite vintage magazine seventeen, It was rather coincidental when I spotted a very similar collection of the pale yellow vintage Jonathan Logan dress that I had recently sold. I was thrilled to find the Seventeen magazine to reference and date the dress. Just wish I had found the magazine before I sold the dress.

Also, a few months back I won not one but three vintage Glamour magazines on e-bay dated 1972, 1969 and 1963.

I got them from this wonderful seller that did not hesitate to combine shipping! It was indeed a pleasant transaction and if you’re looking for vintage magazines for inspirations or you’re a collector you should definitely give Magazine Madness and More a try.

As I started flipping through those Glamour pages. I immediately thought I can’t keep it all to myself and that it would be an awesome idea to share some of those pages with you guys! So be on the look out for “Vintage Magazine Pages” Title posts!

Have a wonderful weekend and have fun!

xoxo

The Vested Bee Giveaway Winner Is!!! ......................

2010-04-27T17:49:00.002-05:00

Thank you so much everyone, for entering the giveaway!! Lots of names and lovely people all around the world that I’m going to have chance to visit & follow each and everyone’s blog.
Give me little time cause that’s 100+ blogs!!! :)

Also knowing what you liked in the shop helped me tremendously as I’m in need of updating items in my little etsy shop.

……. Adaisychaindream is the lucky winner of the Vintage Flora Etched Locket of the Vested Bee Vintage Giveaway. She was selected as the winner using the random number generator at random.org. Congratulations!!!

P.s. If you didn’t win this time have no worries, there are many more opportunities to win great Giveaways each Month! Thanks to the sponsor of this giveaway my lovely friend Aya of StrawberryKoi !

Have a great rest of the week everyone!
xoxo

Flashback photo!............. 80's style!

2010-04-24T16:19:00.004-05:00

First and foremost I’d like Thank each and everyone and all that are now a new follower as well a longtime followers for entering the giveaway on Aya’s Blog. Hope to post a lot more often, do tons of DIY projects and more Giveaways for you lovely readers!

Lately, I have been thinking how I used to dress to express myself so this photo shows how outrageously chic I once was! ;) Not that I don’t think I’m chic with my current style but I was more of a risk taker and not thinking about age appropriate styles and all.

I feel the older I get the more reserved my style has become but I don’t want to miss out on all fun part, which is being comfortable and happy and stylish! Right?! Just a little bit different side of me but I don't think I'm going back to this style anytime soon.

Just reminiscing a little!!! ;)

Soooo! What do you think of this look? This photo was taken last year and posted only on LOOKBOOK.NU and Chictopia but I never had the chance to a post on it.
Today we are having Thunderstorms and Tornado watch. Hope you’re having a much better weather than we are in Tennessee.

Have a wonderful weekend!
xoxo

One (1) Year Anniversary Photoshoot in vintage novelty print belted dress, wedge clogs with socks, vintage navy straw hat and leather purse………..

2010-04-17T08:46:00.006-05:00

Photos by Mark.

I wanted to make this photo shoot special for all who are following this blog. Without your lovely & encouraging comments I wouldn’t be celebrating today. I have something special planned and can’t wait to share it with you.

Well that something is already happening cause of my really great friend Aya of StrawberryKoi! She posted my giveaway on her blog and she did it fabulously!

To enter the Vested Bee Giveaway:

Please visit http://www.strawberrykoi.blogspot.com/

xoxoxo

Outfit:
♥ Vintage Straw Hat ( Estate Sale )
♥ Vintage Novelty Print Dress ( Estate Sale- Going on etsy this week along with others! )
♥ UO Wedge Clogs Sandals ( couple years old I think )
♥ Vintage Purse ( Estate Sale: Going on etsy too! )
♥ Nude textured socks ( Thrifted )
♥ Vintage heart silver ring ( Estate Sale )
♥ Rouge Lipstick by Clinique “Rainbow”

Have a great weekend!

Passez un bon weekend!

Bonne fin de semaine!

Sam Edelman Shoes.....

2010-04-07T19:06:00.000-05:00

I have been drooling over these wedges for quite some time now and thought I'd share my heart throb of the moment with you all. Gasp!!!

These shoes are a tad bit on the expensive side but I truly think they are definitely worth it! don't you?!
Which of the two would you pick?! As for me I love them both equallly!! but If I really had to choose I'd have to go for the Zebra pattern first.

Sam Edelman

Exotically printed calf hair lends safari inspiration to a sky-high platform with a cork wedge heel. Color(s): black/ ivory zebra print. Brand: SAM EDELMAN FOOTWEAR. Style Name: Sam Edelman 'Katrice' Wedge Sandal.

Forsythia Fever, Swiss dot Dress, Denim J-Crew Vest & Wedge Sandals

2010-04-03T21:49:00.001-05:00

Photos by Mark.

The forsythia was named in honor of the royal British gardener William Forsyth who lived from 1737 to 1804. Its lovely but audacious flowers are one of the first signs of spring and the promise of warm weather to come.

Like the forsythia I too have lain dormant the past few months as the cold kept me inside most of the time. I thought of many outfits I would like to wear and the photos I would take but the forsythia and I thrive best In full hot sun so my best outfits would have to wait.

But… no More!

It is time for me to shout like the forsythias bold yellow blooms, “Winter is over! I will not stay inside any longer!” So I celebrate the beginning of the warm weather with this spring inspired outfit.

I’m sporting:

♥ Vintage 70s Cream Sheer Swiss dot Dress ( Estate Sale )
♥ J-Crew Denim vest ( Thrifted )
♥ Tan Flatform Wedge Shoes ( Thrifted )
♥ Vintage Decoupage Box Bag Purse ( Estate Sale: will be on etsy soon! )
♥ Vintage oversized pearl bracelet ( Church Sale )
♥ Vintage heart shape pearl pendant necklace ( Estate Sale )
♥ Navy blue tights ( Target )

Have Happy Easter Everyone!

Joyeuses Pâques!

New Arrivals........... Fa la la la la la la

2010-03-16T18:49:00.001-05:00

Most of these items are already in the shop. Click here to view items on etsy.

*** Jewelry Galore on ebay ***

Check out the jewels!

Springing ahead to longer days.......

2010-03-13T21:06:00.001-06:00

Photos by Mark.

Beginning this weekend, there will be a little more “day” in everyone’s day. whoohoo!!!

Thanks to the Energy Policy Act of 2005, most Americans will be setting their clocks ahead one hour this Sunday, March 14, at 2 a.m. (or doing it before they go to bed on Saturday night). Since 2007, daylight saving time (DST) begins the second Sunday of March and ends on the first Sunday of November.

Wearing:
Vintage Jonathan Logan Petites ruffles Dress ( going on etsy shop )
Vintage floral enamel locket necklace ( oh yeah talking about jewel I have close to 30 items listed on ebay!)
Vintage Boater Hat with black ribbon bow
Vintage Coach shoulderbag purse
Tights Thrifted
Newport News peeptoe shoes

And i'm off working on what might be the giggest etsy shop update for me. Hope you all have a wonderful rest of the weekend! au revoir mes amies!!

I adore your hats too, Vintage Queen no 55......

2010-02-28T20:14:00.001-06:00

Gotcha! It's only me.....

I was featured on QueensOfVintage.com and was contacted by Lena Weber.

Hi, my name is Lena and I’m a vintage addict. Yes, I admit I spend all day every day browsing the net for the latest vintage gossip, the coolest thrift finds, and the most inspirational style queens. My bank balance suffers heavily from me ‘just having a look around’ every vintage shop I pass, and I never stole those Panton chairs from my parents, I just borrowed them…

I’m excited about:Sharing all the latest gossip and news with you, bringing you the best vintage from around the world, and that 60s Chanel bag I spotted on eBay!

Here's what QueensOfVintage.com is all about:

Unlock your attics, throw open your trunks, and dust off your great aunt’s frock collection, QueensOfVintage.com the first daily vintage glossy has landed and we’re sharing all our vintage fashion, beauty, and interior style secrets just with you. Whether you want to find the hottest vintage action By Location or By Decade, if you have a vintage piece ready to be revamped in our exclusive Make and Mend section, or even if you want to steal the style from our 100 Vintage Queens, we’ve got more vintage style advice and gossip than you could wave a Mark Cross overnight bag at! So if you bask in Bakelite and frolic in frills, our dedicated team of vintage-obsessed writers and gurus are making it their mission to bring you all that’s fabulous in the vintage world.

Thank you QueensOfVintage for turning me from a princess into a Queen!

Swoonsome Finds.............

2010-02-13T16:39:00.000-06:00

Lately vintage finds have been quite scarce, although I am looking forward for spring season to dive back into the scene of a treasure hunter…. After finding these photographed finds I still can’t complain for they are swoonsome worthy.

♥ Vintage Schiaparelli Hat

♥ Vintage wooden spool ( I use them as hat stands display – great décor as well )

♥ Vintage Cole Haan Cognac fringe tassel shoes (going up on etsy-they don’t fit me)

♥ Vintage Wicker handbag ( has Lucite handle, intertwined weaving beaded work)

♥ Vintage Skeleton keys ( I collect & wear them as pendants)

♥ Vintage filigree brooch/pendant (love the patina)

♥ Antique oval frame with sweet roses on porcelain ( made in France )

♥ Vintage Fairy heart necklace ( old silver )

♥ Vintage heart shape trinket box

♥ Vintage lace collar

♥ Vintage teal leather belt

♥ Vintage Etienne Aigner brown cognac shoes

♥ Vintage Etched flower glass footed bowl ( It holds cotton balls on my vanity)

Once I do my last hunt of the week tomorrow then I might decide what will stay home with me forever and what will go in my little etsy or ebay shop cause I realized if I don't start sharing the finds I might need a storage place soon. Keep on checking both shops for updates!

Have a lovely day!
xoxo

Lace Bodice Dress.....

2010-02-07T18:09:00.000-06:00

One night while browsing one of my favorite online clothing shops I spotted this dress! I melted and froze at the same time oh yes. Sadly, the money well has been running a little dry these days so off I ran to my local thrift store to quench my fashion craving.

I found two great pieces within ten minutes of picking and pulling. First a navy blue Isaac Mizrahi in amazing condition then a gorgeous former resident of the limited in a cream lace with spaghetti straps made to look like tiny roses.

I flew home very excited about my new finds and began rifling through my wardrobe draws searching for a little cream lace shrug I new to be hiding in there. This was a hand me down given to me by my friend Lee Ann. Then it was off to my accessory vault to pick out this pearl bow brooch and a vintage hat to complete the outfit.

And there you have it. The crave….a $75.00 vintage inspired dress and the cure….a trip to the local thrift and $18.00. Not that there is anything wrong with spending $75.00 on a stunning vintage inspired dress but when the budget is tight we can still satisfy our vintage fashion compulsion.

The outfit:

♥ Isaac Mizrahi Navy blue dress (Thrift store, New with tag!)

♥ Lace shrug ( hand me down from my friend Lee Ann )

♥ Cognac peep toe shoes ( Newport News- couple years old)

♥ Vintage Wicker handbag ( Estate sale last year )

♥ Beaded pearl bow brooch ( Thrifted)

♥ Vintage floral hat ( Estate Sale last year)

♥ Navy blue tights (Target )

Have a great rest of the weekend everyone until next time!

Haïti chérie …………..

2010-01-24T16:55:00.001-06:00

The past couple of weeks have been rather unbearable for me due to the devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake that shattered parts of my homeland Haïti. This blog post is a reflection on what Haiti means to me.

My title alone got tears pouring down my cheeks. Haiti Cherie means: My Darling Haïti and is a traditional patriotic song of Haïti.

I was Born in Port-au-Prince on and raised by my aunt & Grandma when my parents emigrated to the US when I was at the age 5 in search of better life for myself and my little sister Sophia. I spent my childhood and part of my teenage years there. I Left Haïti when I was 16 years of age and I’ve been in the US now for 17 years.

Port-au-Prince, like any large capital city is a busy place. A nonstop beehive of activity. Cars and people heading this way and that. Lots of markets, stores and merchants selling just about anything you could ask for. Smells of fresh food cooking fill the streets. I walked, ran and rode my bike through many of those streets as a girl with my friends. When we would get hungry we would shout for the “marchand du riz” the rice seller for a cup of hot rice or we would shout Pistache griye! Pistache griye! for my favorite, roast peanuts. My Family and I lived in Port-au-Prince for most of the year but since my grandma is originally from the country side town of L’asile, which is southwest of Port-au-Prince, we would spend the three months of summer in the countryside. Those summer days are some of my most fondest and vivid images when I think of Haiti. The countryside folks are super polite, the most respectful and friendly. So friendly that a total stranger would ask you to stay for dinner and sleep over for the night or as long as you needed.

It wasn’t always a smooth ride getting to L’asile in those colorful yet jam packed buses and bumpy roads but the scenery is gorgeous and once we were there it was truly like paradise. As soon as I’m off the bus I’d drop my luggage and run to see if there are coconuts that have fallen and are still fresh to drink and eat. We took our showers and baths in a spring fed waterfall and if we forgot to pack soap my grandmother would pick the leaves of a tree that would foam just like soap and smelled delicious. lots of land to roam around, fruit trees of every sort and a short walk would take us to an excellent fishing spot. There was no such thing as poor in L’asile because you had everything you needed. Port-au-Prince was much harder to make ends meet.

I do have family members currently in Haïti . We got word that my Aunt is alive as well as my cousin and we are waiting to hear more news about our extended family members. Unfortunately my uncle is not doing so well due to a severe head injury.

I’m one of those people that don’t cry often and said that I’ll save my tears for something worth crying over. Well this is it for me I’ve been leaking for the passed two weeks especially when I’m home alone. I finally got the courage to write this blog.

I don’t want to sadden everyone’s heart like mine so I’m stopping here and leaving you with a song titled Haïti sung by Josephine Baker in the 1934 film Zou Zou. I think this song truly describes my cry for Haïti.

The last two films are from the 40s and 50s of Haïti.

Shops Update.................

2010-01-06T18:25:00.001-06:00

Click on photo to see ebay's store update!! That's tomorrow evening!

All the sweet vintage dresses, skirts and tops that you see flashing in the slide show are currently available on etsy! promise I don't tease! ok may be a little cause I'm working on my next blog and it's something I've never done or talked about before... stay tuned! It will be nice!!

PLAID-itude…..

2010-01-02T16:33:00.001-06:00

I Acquired this dress and quite a few others at a church sale about three months back and I have been meaning to share this sweet 1950s Jonathan Logan plaid dress with you all before the new year or right at the new year!

It was a frigidly cold & windy day and the photos are proof that I didn’t need a crinoline to show the best feature of this stunning dress! Check my Etsy shop for this dress and some cute skirts that are going up later tonight. This is a taste of what is coming at my little Etsy shop this year!!

Ok here’s a condensed list of my resolutions for the year 2010 and would like know what yours are as well!

-sing more.

-dance more.

-laugh more.

-read more!

-stay organize all year round.

Have a wonderful weekend and Joyeux 2010!!!

P.s. I wanted to thank each and everyone for commenting & making my little blog a place of joy in 2009.

Puppy Love...........

2009-12-22T13:01:00.001-06:00

Outfit:

Hats: vintage

Earrings: thrift store

Sheer top: vintage

Sweater: vintage

Pants: thrift store

Shoes: thrift store

Tis the season again for a great reason to wear red! My heart literally grew three times larger when I spotted this puppy love sweater. It has a lovely shade of red with a black schnauzer print profile theme, puffy sleeves, collar that can either be tied or let loose.

The bonus point about this sweater is that it is very suitable for a festive event or can be worn year round as a little jacket. On that note I’d like to take the time to wish you and your family happy holidays and peace.

Jeweled Waist....

2009-12-08T22:05:00.002-06:00

If you’re like me you probably like something a bit out of the ordinary in your accessories and perhaps you like to experiment with vintage accessories in a new ways. A new belt from Topshop, ASOS or ModCloth, though seriously gorgeous, to match that vintage dress you’ve just acquired will set you back more than a few pennies. Sweater guard clips are a small investment that can help you achieve the look of those magnificent belts without spending a fortune. These little jewels are easy and inexpensive to find and can turn that ordinary cloth belt into an eye-catching compliment to your ensemble. One guard in the center for an understated look or a few in a row to make more of a statement.

P.S. Some vintage sweater clips you find may have weak jaws from years of use. Make sure your jaws are strong!! One more thing! Please take a look at some fabulous jewelry coming up on my little ebay store and if you see pieces that aren't yet listed just contact me and I'll be more that happy to add it as a buy it now since the holidays are just around the corner. Please see photos below.

Light at the end of the tunnel.............

2009-12-01T17:32:00.004-06:00

Photos by Mark

My Vivetta inspired outfit with a twist!

Hat: vintage 1920s estate sale

Top: vintage 80s-90s thrifted

Skirt: vintage 80s estate sale

belt: vintage 80s estate sale

Tights: Target

Shoes: GB moving sale

Ahh…the light at the end of the tunnel. It was great to know it wasn’t a train. It did though lead to an amazing bridge scene. Soon this scene would take on a much more ominous appearance as the sun disappeared and the clouds quickly rolled in. An unexpected storm approaching!

So as we make our way for a snapshot on the bridge the dark comes on fast… as if the bridge was angry for us being there. But thanks to my quick photographer husband we managed to get the lucky shot right before total darkness set in. Then it was a total rush back to the car before the bottom of the sky fell out.

Last but not least today is my Birthday and I’m 33 years old!!

Estate Sale Finds......

2009-11-23T12:10:00.003-06:00

Well I also stepped into one of America’s most wanted closets lasts Thursday! I found myself in a gigantic closet , more like a small bedroom, filled with breathtaking vintage pieces. Everything from true Victorian and Edwardian era apparel to 40s and 50s day dresses to cool 80s wear. This post might sound like something you've already read last Friday!

I actually made it to the sale on Thursday morning at "dark-thirty" since it was too early to even mention the real time!! hehe! But the key to finding great pieces at any estates sale is to be the first in line but there can be one disadvantage by being there on the first day… they might not budge on their prices so it's best to go back on the second or last day.
Well guess what?!! I was at the exact estate sale as the gorgeous Kristin @ Leproustvintage and she couldn't have said it better!!! So she read my mind and I guess you can say great minds think alike or maybe it's because we share a common interest!

@Kristin: That little floral peach dress that you're going to wear to a wedding in the spring? I can say it was destined for you cause that dress was in my hand then I decided to put it back along with others that were a little beyond my budget. I can't wait for spring just so I can see it on you! I'm sure you'll look stunning!

I also ran into another vintage lover by the name of Aria @ loveroffashion while standing in line and we hit it off right away check out her blog!!

Since many of the pieces I would have liked to buy were priced pretty well over my head I only purchased one tea dress from the 1930s that I didn't have the time to photograph. I also went to another sale that day and found those lovely dresses shown above & below which I will list on etsy this week. I think this post might be the longest that I have written so far

P.s. Once again I have been working my little fingers off on some cool boots on my little corner ebay shop starting this Thursday at 9:00pm central time.

Lagelle's Blog giveaway!!

2009-11-16T13:41:00.002-06:00

I must say these are the most adorable & stylish knit hats with the most beautiful color combinations ever and the opportunity to be lucky winner is just few key strokes away!!!... And the photo shown is the one I love to win! I sure hope to be the lucky winner of the most perfect handmade knit hats by Lagelle!!

Good luck to me and everyone else!!!

Radnor Lake Tennessee...............

2009-11-10T20:59:00.002-06:00

Photos by: My husband Mark

70s wrapped skirt: Thrift store
Hand knit sweater: Thrift store
Locket: Thrifted
Tights: an old pair
Maxstudio shoes: Flea Market
Vintage Coach purse: Thrifted
Vintage Hats: Flea Market

While Thrifting last week I found this lovely 70s wrap around skirt that actually fits! So to celebrate the find my photographer/husband Mark and I went out for a fun day in the park once again, except this time it was at Radnor Lake which was the first park we went to when we moved to Nashville Tennessee in 2004 and the picture of that old wood fence was ingrained in my mind. That may sound silly to some but we truly enjoyed the beautiful day spent outdoors.

When I was putting the outfit together I thought to myself since I'm ussually 15-20 degrees colder than most people I know I might want to wear a more chunky top + tights to keep warm.

Have a great rest of the week everyone and until again.

Introducing Mr. Popcorn!

2009-11-02T17:42:00.005-06:00

* Mr. Popcorn is cute!

* Poodle mix

*Rescued at a yard sale.

*Found chained to a fence without water.

*Bad health - weak immune system leads to skin problem.

*Very needy- High maintenance at home & at the doctor's office.

*He thinks he's the biggest dog in the whole world.

*But he's luckyest dog in the world cause despite of it all, he's got a loving home & family.

*oh heah one more thing he's a lap dog and gives kisses too!

The Rubber Necking Boots..........

2009-10-20T12:22:00.016-05:00

Dress: vintage blue pleated bodice with full skirt (in store soon)
Belt: vintage brown leather
Boots: Wrangler- vintage
Purse: Indian bucket fringed – vintage

The pair of vintage Wrangler boots that I’m wearing I'm still contemplating whether I should sell them or keep them…Here’s of photo of me wearing them and close up shot my heartthrob below.

All summer long I have collected some amazing vintage boots that most of them have a similar history. Once found sitting in closets patiently waiting for a lovely owner to snag them up and I cannot tell you enough how excited I am that I have worked non-stop to put them up in my little ebay shop for fall season!

Here's a quick list of the boots I have scheduled to start this Thursday 7 ish central time:

~ Killer COWBOY boots with inlay

~ Vintage ACME western

~ Tall EQUESTRIAN ridding boots

~ Leather studded booties

~ CAPEZIO Western cowgirl

~ 80s booties

~ Pixie wooden Stacked Heels

~ ZODIAC western boots

~ Nordstrom

~ BCBG BCBGirls Booties

P.s. I will be updating the store with more boots, stop back when you can.
Have a great rest of week.

Kate Spade Inspired.....

2009-10-15T09:59:00.007-05:00

I do usually pay attention to designers or trends as I do enjoy styling things up—I occasionally read women’s magazines for fashion ideas because they inspire "my style" sometimes. I prefer to find my inspiration amongst regular people from fellow bloggers or when I’m milling about & running errands.

However, when I spotted a Kate Spade ad for their fall collection. I so was amazed of this one piece that I made it my mission to find a similar one but yet vintage. I love the classic look mixed with my taste— I pretty much strive for any piece that makes my heart sing in my wardrobe.

I think their pieces are completely lust worthy, and unfortunately way too expensive for my budget. It’s still nice to look at though! But above is my absolute favorite Kate Spade inspired look!

Got the dress while treasure hunting last weekend! Isn’t it a sweeeeet looking dress! It will be on Etsy soon once I figure out how to clean 65% Dacron, 35% Cotton and lining is 100% cotton. Label is a Junior BAZAAR, Sears Roebuck USA. Any advise on how to clean this cute dress would mean so much.

A little aventure.....

2009-10-05T20:57:00.011-05:00

Dress: My First Topshop-Kate Moss – yard sale $1.00
Vintage Hat: Mile long yard sale in Lebanon Tennessee $2.00
Purse: Vintage $ 5.00Wedge: yard sale $5.00 bongo
Necklace: vintage chandelier pendant with 3 hearts Thrifted

These photos were taken at the historic Buchanan house located just outside metro Nashville.

Built in 1807 James Buchanan and his wife Lucinda raised 16 children in this log home.

FALLING IN LOVE.....

2009-09-20T08:40:00.006-05:00

Beautiful green leaves are fading away fast but I think we give mother nature a helping hand by wearing beautiful & colorful pattern as shown in photos above! Also over the weekend I updated the store with some very desirable vintage dresses & coats designer brand and will blog it later this week!
Au revoir mes amis = this literally means in French " Till seing again friends"

While I was gone part 2.....

2009-09-16T08:18:00.007-05:00

The Bird......
This bird got in the house through the dryer vent and creating the
nest below!

While I was gone......

2009-09-15T17:53:00.005-05:00

Baby rabbits in backyard.

My husband Mark discovered them and told me to get the camera and I took
these photos!

The park near home.... A walking distance paradise

2009-06-30T07:40:00.004-05:00

I have been going on this 2 mile walk at the park down the road from my house for five 5 years now, and I would often imagine taking photos at several spots while walking the trail. And guess what? Today was the day that I decided to be brave and start taking photos outside with mother's nature light and filter! Not sure how long this is going to last but I'm up for challenge especially if the photos are going to be as nice as this shot. Tired after the shoot but well worth it!

Tank top: bought about 10 years ago
Skirt: vintage Calvin Klein
Belt: Thrifted
Shoes: Thrifted
Hat: Vintage Boaters
Purse: Vintage Kids suitcase

Riding in Style......

2009-06-14T12:26:00.006-05:00

When I came across this black & white vintage photo I was floored not only because of the story behind it but what she was wearing to ride her Rollfast bike. The dress couldn't be any more perfect, I assumed the color of the dress was navy blue with big white buttons and hat was also white.

Her parents got her this Rollfast bike to make the 2-mile trip to high school and she was so grateful, as money was scarce in 1938.

What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Now in store!......

2009-06-07T07:32:00.005-05:00

From the top row: Vintage coro lock & key locket brooch pin & Vintage silvertone guitar brooch

From bottom row: Vintage Amethyst rhinestone gemstone brooch & Vintage Rose flower pin.

See all four of them on my eBay store

Distinctive Styles....................

2009-05-17T14:16:00.010-05:00

ELLE magazine issue on Distinctive Styles and I thought it would be fun
to do a condensed version. The article details fashion trends by breaking
them down into ten distinct styles: I've this blogged somewhere
else not sure where.

1. The Minimalist

"There's rigorous order in all she does, from her sparse, white bedroom
to her carefully written thank-you notes. Her eye is placated by clean
lines and deceptively simple tailoring; her closet is a cool sea of
moody grays, blacks and deep blues."

2. The Rocker

"Her biker jacket is the one constant in a life filled with frantic taxi
rides to gritty shows and spontaneous trips to London or Tokyo. She is
nostalgic for the raw energy of New York City in the '80s."

3. The Architect

"Although she's a power broker - or a ceiling breaker of some kind -
she's in love with the style of Wallis Franken, designer Claude
Montana's muse. She wants clothes that propel her."

What do you think? Would you wear these Architectural designs?