A Little St. Augustine Get Away

What happens when a Golden Girl & a carton of Tropicana O.J. have a baby in a Boca Raton Retirement home?

Answer: This tropical 2 piece realness. 

Jonathan and I just returned from a relaxing get away in St. Augustine, Florida, which as you know if you follow along, is where we got married 2 years ago. I stumbled upon this little number in the first thrift store I stepped into for a whopping $3.50, along with many other goodies I'll be posting to the Etsy store today! 

Every time we go to St. Augustine we can't help but entertain the idea of dropping everything in our lives and just moving there. I could shoot weddings and portraits and sell vintage online, and Jonathan could paint (although it's a small town, St. Augustine has a booming art scene), get some part time job and we could gig out together (there's high demand for singer songwriters at the restaurants, cafes and bars there too). We wouldn't be rich, but we'd live near our favorite beach and live simply. 

But we always opt for plan B, which is get rich THEN buy a summer home on the beach. And alas! We materialize back in LA with all the other little fishies. 

Back to the grind. 

I know I'm not the only one with escapism fantasies like that. What are yours? 

Apparently this jumpsuit made me feel so sassy i did this pose. I guess the Golden Girl was Blanche. 

Sorry I'm not sorry. 

Alright, I'm a little sorry.

For real tho, what's this face?

I certainly look proud of myself. Pretty sure I've been making this face since I was 4. 

Tropical Realness: Thrifted (Similar)

Bag: Dooney and Bourke

Shoes: c/o Charlotte Russe

The Ugly Truth Behind Gingham: A Picnic In My Pants

Does anyone else get creeped out by gingham? It seems to have a permanence in the realm of fabric that will forever recollect thoughts of a certain facet of Americana vintage. The same way patchwork recollects American prairie life, or blue and white stripes, that lovely sailing/Kennedy/holiday in the Hamptons/nautical vintage vibe.

But gingham is different than those other well-known patterns. It conjures up a A 1950's American splendor flavor, to be more specific. Gingham is known for picnicking. Picnicking!

I will never forget the scene in Madmen where the Drapers, on a happy little road trip, stop to have a picnic in a meadow! Don (an alcoholic who is having extra marital affairs) looks at Betty (who will later in the episode vomit in her own lap) lovingly while their children Sally (who will soon be forced to visit with a child psychologist) and Bobby (there's not much goin' on with Bobby) play. After lunch they hop back in their brand new Cadillac and go on their merry way...leaving all their garbage to blow in the wind.  Ya know, a regular 1950's picturesque picnic!!! 

So that is what's creepy about gingham. A fabric used for picnicking, which is an act that represents sheer relaxation and happiness, becoming popularized in the height of a time where people were desperate to hide any sort of disfunction of ugliness. 

My life's a picnic....I SWEAR!

Now, thanks to the Oscar de la Renta 2013 resort collection, gingham is back and people are paying a pretty penny to participate in the happy little trend! Trendiness is not, however, why I purchased these shorts. I bought them for 2 reasons.

First, They are totally 90's GAP, a line of clothes which carry their own sort of nostalgic Bush era, 90's prep creepiness (in a good way) vibe. And secondly, so I could say, "there's a picnic in my pants, and you're invited."

What patterns do you love and why? Is it purely aesthetic, or do you get into the symbolism of it all?

Bed Stu Boots · Urban Decay Lip Stain · Kule Button Front Tops
Shorts: Thrifted GAP
Boots: Vintage, Dolly Python
Silk Shirt: Thrifted
Necklace: Stolen (woops) from my mom
 Hat: Thrifted

The 1940's and Our Late 20's

I'm glad my husband tells me I look like a 40's movie star when I wear my $5 dress found at a pile sale. I'm also glad that 1940's silhouettes are having a fashion moment right now. The 40's shape is friendly to a woman in her late 20's. It's sexy but modest. Chic...but basic enough to make one's own; which I attempted to do here with purple sunglasses, bright lips and a gold collar necklace.

In 1939 the war changed everything including fashion. Designers stopped designing. There were restrictions on amounts of fabric women could buy. Adornments were frowned upon. Because of the war, fashion became all about DIY. Improvising. Reworking what you had in your closet to create something fresh and new.

Come to think of it, I'm pretty sure my entire LIFE is having a 40's moment right now.
Aside from the whole frowning on adornments thing.

As I get closer to my 30's the blue prints of my future are becoming more visible. Tell me I'm not the only one who is just now starting to sort things out. (And by sort things out, I mean start to freak out I'm not where I thought I'd be at this point in my life). I find myself taking pieces (skills) in my closet (skill set?) and figuring out how to utilize them to build towards my goals. You're welcome, world, for that genius metaphor! Since moving to LA, J and I have certainly had to learn to improvise. And the expense of living out here has forced us to flex our DIY muscles more than once or twice.

A real wartime effort, y'all. 

But women in the 40's ended up doing some pretty rad stuff: headscarves, military style, wearing mens suits aaaaaaaand a little thing called THE ALL AMERICAN GIRLS PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL LEAGUE, bitch! A sports entity which was the inspiration for the best chick flick/best sports movie of all time: A League of Their Own. So I guess the moral of the story is these wartime gals, out of their scrapping and improvising, created a beautiful movement in history. One worth replicating.

With that in mind, at this some what uncomfortable transitional period in life called "my late 20's" I have to keep telling myself two things:

1. Ya' gotta have faith that everything you have to do for yourself...all of your improvising, will pay off and the end and one day, you will look back on this time endearingly.

2. There's no crying in baseball.

{Dress: Pile Sale. ModCloth has some awesome 40s style dresses: Here, here and here}

{Shoes: Old (similar)}

{Glasses: Venice boardwalk (similar)}

{Neck: F21 (similar)}

Stuart Weitzman Sandals · Topshop Cocktail Dresses · Urban Decay Lip Gloss

Homegirl Heroes: Emma

I bonded with Emma over cigarettes and the topic of vintage clothing on one of my first nights living in LA. I remember thinking how pretty she was when an Australian accent came spilling out of her mouth as she spoke. It took strength not to roll my eyes. Psssh. Gorgeous AND she has an accent.

She's more than easy on the eyes, though. Emma recently wrapped shooting her first short film, Grace, which she just so happened to write, direct and produce (I helped her out with photos and wardrobe as you may remember from this post). Homegirl's got a keen eye for antiques, and she is ballsy when it comes to rockin' her super rad thrift store finds.

Emma's fuckin' fierce, and I don't mean that in a "Top Model" type of way (although she could be a top model). I more mean it in a "screw with me or my friends and I'll slice you" type of way. Her no-nonsense attitude makes her playful side even more endearing though. She's genuine... and it shines through in her artistic endeavors.

I spent an afternoon closet-digging, shooting, and lounging with Em not too long ago, and decided she would be the perfect guinea pig for this new monthly segment on ol' blog.

Read Emma's interview below.

How did you end up in Los Angeles?

Whilst studying Production Design at film school in Sydney, I found out that upon graduating, I would be eligible for a 12 month student work/travel visa. I was on the plane to LA 3 months after graduation day. That was 2.5 years ago I haven't looked back since.

Of all creative outlets why did you choose film?

I think film chose me really, sounds wanky, but it's true. I was studying Interior Decoration at the time and the head of Design at AFTRS (The Australian Film Television and Radio School) came to lecture us. She spoke about Production Design for film and TV and how it incorporated interiors and furniture and decoration. It wasn't until after her talk that the lightbulb turned on and I realized that was what I was supposed to be doing.

What was the most intimidating part of making your short film, Grace?

Fearing that it would be shit. I feel like I knew I could do it, but I went through ups and downs of self doubt. Apparently that's normal and a sign of wanting to be great, but at the time it's hard to tell those thoughts to shut up. I also feared that I would find out that my film was actually crap and not festival worthy at all, and all this time I thought my idea was good. I guess those feelings faded away gradually throughout the whole filmmaking process. The more it came together.

You obviously have a passion for antique furniture. When did this love affair start? Do you have a early memory with any specific piece?

Good question, I actually have no idea when or how it came about. I don't remember either of my parents having a love affair with furniture or antiques. I do remember always re arranging my room. I loved moving it around to see what it looked like from different angles.    

Vintage furniture and vintage clothing....what do you look for when you're collecting?

Vintage furniture that I love is mainly Mid Century Modern and Victorian. They really go well together. I also love velveteen sofas and chairs. I have found that I have a love of vintage print too, rugs and throws. I love a good bargain. Most of my home is off craigslist or from a thrift store.

Vintage clothing never ceases to amaze me. I couple years ago I was obsessed with vests and leotards. I had over 14 of each at one point. I still have most of them in a box in my Mum's garage in Australia. They will make it over to LA one day. Whilst shopping for thrift vintage now I usually just buy what is practical for me. A little 80's/90's silk top I wear tucked into high waist skirt or pants on a night out, is usually easy to find. My favorite always being an oversized wool cardi, I almost have one in every color :)

With both vintage furniture and clothes I feel like they speak to me, like they need me to love and appreciate them.  I get sad when I see once beautiful pieces broken and damaged on the side of the road or alley. 

Choose a super power. 

If I could have a super power it would be to move things with my mind. I love it in movies when people have this power and they get into a fight with their enemy and they just throw them up against the wall with their mind. Badass. I could think of a few people I would've done that too ;)

What's inspiring you currently?

I think what's inspiring me at the moment is the thought of what the future has in store for me. I have only just began to scrape the surface of what I'm capable of and that's kind of an awesome feeling. 

www.emmalesliefilms.com

Mom Pants that Make You Dance

As I approach my thirties I find myself wondering when I will reach the age at which my affinity for looking like a grandma will no longer be "cute" but more just me....looking out of date. When I'm forty and the vertical nature of my footwear begins to take its toll, how will I modernize my sartorially senior sensibilities?! 

These cobalt pantaloons, made out of what seems to be canvas (?) are not chic and are not really that flattering. I was drawn to them at the thrift store because of some humorous quality they seemed to emit. I do this with many clothing selections. Sporting what is otherwise unflattering 'cause I'm young and my body is presently some-what bangin' (according to my husband, anyway). It amuses me, and it works...for now. 

(Right guys? Nervous laughter. Riiiiiighhhht?). 

When pontificating the future I try to visualize myself as the type of woman that can defeat the tinge of vanity that urges one to wear only what makes her look most attractive. I don't want to be a fupa shaming, all black wearing, sensible shoe-sporting dresser at 50. I want to wear pieces that are unique and beautiful. A chartreuse crushed velvet kimono and giant cat glasses. Not with the intention to draw attention to my crazy, saggy self, but certainly not with the intention to NOT draw attention to my crazy, saggy self. In short: I want to not give a shit in the most stylish way. 

This is why I look at Advanced Style on the daily.

At this point, I will admit that vanity does still get in the way. Every now and then I want to wear something "outlandish" but this silly feeling that the piece is too weird or doesn't make me look feminine enough will deter me from rockin' it. I also think it takes a lot of style sense to make extremely unique pieces work. (Man Repeller is the perfect example of this). I have confidence that as I age I will become better and better at pulling off what ever I want to. For now, these pants make me wanna dance, so I wear them...and I do.

Wearing kimonos and turbans and huge jewelry. Life goals, NBD. 

{Pants and Belt

: Thrifted}

{Shoes: Violet and Red}

{Shirt: NY&Co (15 years old, crazy right?}

{Pelican Earrings: Found at a shell shack in St. Augustine. These are also rad.}

Ladakh Pants · Betsey Johnson Pumps · Asos Belts

How to Wear Tropical Print

{Shirt: Vintage, pile sale find (similar)} {Skirt: thrifted vintage} {Glasses: Similar} {Necklace: F21} 

{Shoes: c/o Charlotte Russe} {Clutch: Abas, old(similar)}

Homer Simpson once famously said, "There are only 2 types of people who wear Hawaiian shirts: gay guys and big fat party animals" Although that may have been the case in the 90's, it is no longer. Although I do kinda consider myself a big fat party animal, it can't be said for the masses sporting the tropical trend now-a-days. 

I have this theory that the "Aloha" trend reared it's ironic little head recently due to economic stress. Who has time to drink Mai Tai's while lounging on a yacht listening to Hall & Oats (traditionally what one is supposed to do when wearing a hawaiian shirt, right?) when there's WORK to do? Most Americans can't afford a tropical vacation, so maybe that lack of ability to put ourselves in a sandy paradise is what led us to dress like we are in one (fashion as escapism, yet again). 

"I'll take my tropical vacation in a size Medium for $15.99, please."

Wanna get a piece of this paradise, but unsure what to pair your tropical prints with? I put together a few ideas at the bottom of this post!

When wearing a bold print it's always safe to go all black with the other pieces in your look:

Karmaloop Sunglasses · ModCloth Sandals · Topshop Dress Pants

Matching your shoes or accessories with a bright floral in your print can easily brighten your day:

Forever 21 Day Dresses · Need Supply Co. Sneakers · Nasty Gal Platforms

Pattern mixing with tropical prints is bold, but with traditional patterns like dots and stripes you can pull off something a little more fashion forward:

Juicy Couture Shortsleeve Tops · Stella Jean Button Front Tops · Delia's Skirts

Whether your print is on top or bottom there's one fabric that makes sporting patterns a breeze: denim/chambray(period)

jcpenney Skirts · Madewell Button Front Tops · J.Crew Factory Skinny Denim

Festival Season: Loquat Cocktails, Crazy Pants, Hippies, Phish Dancing etc.

 What would happen if a kooky art lady and a ninja had a baby? 

These pants. 

Our weekend was full of grass sitting, beach hanging, BBQ having, and regret.......of everything we ate at aforementioned BBQ's. On Saturday we made our way up to hippie heaven, aka Topanga Days. It's a small music and arts festival in Topanga, CA. Great place to watch people Phish Dance. You know, the gyrating/flailing dance that hippes do at jam band concerts. So I says to myself,
"what a perfect excuse to wear the crazy pants!"
I love them even if they resemble the innards of a clog-wearing art lady. I threw on my Ramones denim jacket and the hat to even out the hippie vibe.

After the grass grazing and people watching at Topanga Days, we cruised to a friend's house for a BBQ, and Loquat cocktails. I know...wtf is a Loquat? Growing up in Texas my exposure to fruit consisted of 

 apple. 

Since moving to California our fruit horizon has broadened, and now we eat (and drink) things like Loquats, which have a mild peach-citrus-mango flavor. Check out our friend Zach's recipe at the bottom of the post! 

 Topanga thugs, up to no good. 

Boys that like to snack. I told Jonny he could keep the mustache if he rocked it with the Fresh Prince hat. The outcome was amazing. 

Loquat Cocktails
1 loquat, muddled (you can use mango too)
Club Soda
Pinch of brown sugar or simple syrup
1 shot of dark rum

In a glass, muddle your loquat (or a peeled mago) with a bit of brown sugar, and a splash of club soda. Add a shot of rum, and ice that mother doooooown, stir and enjoy!

Style Slip-Ups: Learning from Our Mistakes.

Besides how oddly shaped my skull is, what is the first thing you think when you look at this photo? Maybe it's, 

"Girl you a 'ho in dat see thru dress" 

or maybe it's, 

"A license plate clutch? What is this, 1994?"

If it's either of those things you're wrong. I'm not a 'ho, and the license plate clutch is CHEESY AND AMAZING. The answer I am looking for is: the shoes are wrong. However, I decided to go ahead and post this look so we could have a chat about how mistakes like this can be used for growth in the sartorial departments of our lives. 

After taking these photos almost a month ago, I hesitated posting them because I felt so strongly that I made the wrong choice as far as foot accessory. Leaving the house at the time I felt totally confident and even proud of my entire ensemble . Hellllooooo.. sheer secretary dress revealing hot pants underneath? The answer is almost always yes. However, after reviewing the photos I wondered how I could've chosen these dainty little wedges as opposed to a shoe that balances the look out more. (Maybe some sort of black boot?)

I decided to go ahead and post the look to make this very point: it's important to learn from our style slip-ups, and what better way to learn than from documenting and analyzing? What else am I getting from this (or any) style blog? 

A false sense of importance? Yes, most likely.

But really...with each outfit posted I discover something new, or become more brave, or learn to deal with the shame of looking like a complete and utter idiot in front of my millions of readers (sarcasm, a little self deprecation never hurt anyone). It's alright to look back and cringe not only at poor style choices you've made, but at any poor choice you've made.

(Unless the choice was clear bra straps with a tube top. In that case DON'T LOOK BACK. DON'T EVER LOOK BACK!!!!).

The silver lining is that we're learning and growing from our mistakes, and never shall we ever sport clear bra straps with a tube top again.  

Any style mishaps you've learned from? 

What shoes would you have rocked with this outfit?

{Dress: Vintage (Similar)}

{Jacket: Vintage (Similar Here)}

{Shoes: Red and Violet available here}

{Licence Plate Clutch: Gift}

{Belt: Grandmother's}

{Glasses: Cotton On (Similar Here)}