Alternative Sustainable Fashion

For the Love of Oddities

2012-03-24T07:20:00.003-07:00

I'm a major fan of oddities, which Secondhand Passion has plenty of. Here is a sampling of some quirky items available on Etsy:

This barrette features baby doll heads among lace and flowers. Wear this barrette in your hair or attach it to other accessories. Product listing.

All eyes will be on you if you don this stylish hat! Product listing.

The perfect place to store your treasures! Product listing.

Valentine's Day Sale - 20% Off (Storewide)

2012-02-02T11:29:00.000-08:00

Secondhand Passion is having a Valentine's Day Sale! Use coupon code VDAY12 at checkout to receive 20% off of your purchase. The sale continues through February 14, 2012.

These are some of the items available for sale that would make great V-Day gifts (click on the images to go to the Etsy listings):

And for the darkly inclined:

The perfect place to store your jewelry and darkest love letters. The inside is lined with luxurious blue velvet.

Secondhand Passion Featured on Cute 2 Sophisticated

2012-01-27T09:09:00.000-08:00

Check out the blog Cute 2 Sophisticated to read a post about Secondhand Passion! It includes an interview.

Link here.

Some of the featured items include (click on the pictures to go to the Etsy links):

Thanks, Megha!

You Never Know What Amazing Things You'll Find in Antique Shops

2012-01-26T12:06:00.001-08:00

Visiting antique shops can be quite the adventure. Many times, shoppers are able to find items that are still in style today despite being from decades ago.

A great town for antique shopping is San Juan Bautista, California, located in Central California, east of the Monterey Bay Area. Filled with quaint shops and historic buildings, San Juan Bautista is an excellent place to visit.

These are some treasures I found while browsing shops this past fall:

I fell for this hat! I love the spider pins.

An Egyptian trunk.

More Barrettes Available for Sale in the Secondhand Passion Shop

2012-01-19T16:01:00.000-08:00

More items for sale in the Secondhand Passion Etsy shop:

Very cute and classy!

This small sized barrette is made up of three antique watch dials with a red vintage cabochon in the center of the middle watch dial. One of the outer dials still has its hands, and the other outer dial has a tiny watch gear in the center. Only the silver-toned French style barrette was purchased new. It shows signs of age, which enhance its nostalgic quality.

The entire barrette measures approximately 1 3/4 inches across. The center dial measures about 3/4 inches high. The outer dials are about 1/2 inch high and 1/2 inch in diameter.

International buyers: Please contact me for shipping costs.

Photo by Reija Bolwell of StudioR, Santa Cruz (http://www.studiorsantacruz.com).

Available here.

Introducing another nostalgic barrette from the Victoriana Collection.

The gold-toned center piece with coral roses, which was originally from a bracelet, is approximately 1 1/2 inches tall. It's surrounded by a glass cabochon with various letters and another piece made from two antique watch dials, one of which still has its gold-toned hands. The watch dials show some signs of age, which give the piece a nostalgic feel. All of the pieces are attached to a silver-toned French style barrette.

The entire barrette measures approximately 3 1/2 inches across.

Available here.

January Giveaway Winner Announcement

2012-01-13T16:26:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Fiona/LivedInVintage, winner of Secondhand Passion's January giveaway contest! Thanks to those of you who participated.

There will be more contests in the future.

Happy Friday the 13th!

Secondhand Passion's January Giveaway

2012-01-05T09:52:00.001-08:00

Secondhand Passion is having a giveaway! The randomly selected winner will have a choice between these two items (click on the images to view them larger):

Upcycled Barrette: The gold-toned center piece with coral roses, which was originally from a bracelet, is approximately 1 1/2 inches tall. It's surrounded by a glass cabochon with various letters and another piece made from two antique watch dials, one of which still has its gold-toned hands. The watch dials show some signs of age, which give the piece a nostalgic feel. All of the pieces are attached to a silver-toned French style barrette.

Steampunk Pin: At approximately 1 inch high, this small pin adds flavor to outfits and accessories. Intricate features, such as tiny gold-toned gears, make this piece all the more captivating. Only the pin backing is new. All of the other parts, including the red cabochon, are either vintage or antique. Be environmentally conscious while still exhibiting style.

Photo by Reija Bolwell of StudioR, Santa Cruz (http://www.studiorsantacruz.com).

Your prize will be shipped to you free of charge.

To become a giveaway contestant, comment on this blog post and answer these questions:

1) What is your favorite item in the Secondhand Passion shop and why?

2) From this list, which category of items would you like to see more of? (Select up to 2.)

-Barrettes/hair accessories
-Jackets and outerwear
-Necklaces
-Pins
-Purses

3) Your gender and age (optional, but very much appreciated).

4) Your Etsy user name so that I can contact you there if you win. If you don't have an Etsy account, you can still enter.

5) Additional suggestions or feedback (optional).

Winner will be chosen by next Friday, January 13. Enter between now and January 12. Good luck!

Also, don't forget that customers located in the U.S. can receive free shipping in the Secondhand Passion Etsy shop through January 15, 2012. Use coupon code FREESHIP at checkout.

Free shipping until January 15, 2012

2011-12-29T14:24:00.000-08:00

Secondhand Passion is offering free shipping through January 15, 2012 for customers living in the U.S. Use coupon code FREESHIP at checkout to receive free shipping on any item in the Etsy shop! Buy yourself an after Christmas present or something fun for this year's Edwardian Ball.

This purse is one of the various items you can purchase from Secondhand Passion.

New Barrette Available from Secondhand Passion

2011-12-22T12:50:00.000-08:00

From Secondhand Passion's Victoriana Collection!

A lovely decadent piece to adorn your hair with! You can also clip the barrette onto a hat, fan, or other accessories.

Black feathers, a black sequined fabric flower, black lace, and a vintage iridescent cabochon are affixed to the silver-toned French barrette.

Measures approx. 4 inches high and 6 inches across.

Available here.

Photograph 1 by Reija Bolwell of StudioR, Santa Cruz (http://www.studiorsantacruz.com).

For 20% off, use coupon code HOL2011 through December 25, 2011 to save on this item and all other items in the Secondhand Passion Etsy shop.

Items for $20 and Less

2011-12-19T13:57:00.000-08:00

More mark downs have occurred over the past few days! These items are available in the Secondhand Passion Etsy shop for $20 and under:

Pearl, rose, and watch dial barrette available here.

Beaded necklace with authentic antique skeleton key available here.

Filigree necklace with authentic antique skeleton key necklace available here.

Westclox Bull's Eye vintage pocket watch with chain available here.

Don't forget to use coupon code HOL2011 at checkout to save 20% through December 25, 2011.

Also, there have been mark downs on clothing items as well! Browse around for great deals here.

Secondhand Passion Jewelry Mark Downs + Holiday Discount

2011-12-15T12:08:00.001-08:00

Various items in the Secondhand Passion Etsy shop are now available for less! These jewelry items have been marked down this week:

This upcycled handcuff necklace with red vintage stones has been marked down from $20 to just $12 plus shipping and tax (if applicable). Available here.

This skeleton key necklace has been marked down from $20 to $18 plus shipping and tax if applicable. The skeleton key is an actual antique. Available here.

This is another skeleton key necklace that has been marked down from $20 to $18 plus shipping and tax if applicable. Add some nostalgia to your holidays. Available here.

Also, don't forget to use coupon code HOL2011 at checkout through December 25, 2011 to receive an additional 20% off all items in the shop.

Keep checking the shop and blog for more lowered prices throughout the holiday season. More announcements to follow...

Be The Envy of Dorian Gray This December

2011-12-08T16:01:00.000-08:00

"The Envy of Dorian Gray" black velvet blazer is still available. Use coupon code HOL2011 through December 25, 2011 to save 20% on this exquisite item.

Be the envy of Dorian Gray in this black velvet upcycled blazer with antique white porcelain Bridgeport watch dial pin. The pin features a red vintage cabochon and with a gold-toned watch gear. The watch gear and dial are from the late 1800s or early 1900s. The watch dial shows some signs of age, which gives the pin and jacket an edgy look.

More details:
Brand - Yves Saint Laurent
Size - Approx. Men's M
2 black marbled plastic buttons in the front
2 roomy pockets in the front plus one smaller one in the front
3 black plastic buttons on either sleeve
2 slits in the back
Jacket condition: excellent
Lined
Professionally dry clean only
Made in France

Measurements:
Length - Approx. 32 inches
Chest - Approx. 38 inches
Sleeves - Approx. 25 inches

Just put the jacket on and you'll become the embodiment of decadence and elegance.

Listing here.

Holiday Sale - 20% Off

2011-12-01T15:02:00.000-08:00

Enjoy holiday savings on all Secondhand Passion items between now and 12/25! Use coupon code HOL2011. Find the perfect apparel for the Edwardian Ball in January or holiday gifts for family and friends. These and other items are available in the Etsy shop:

Click on the images to view the product listings on Etsy.

For the Love of Antique and Vintage Shops

2011-11-17T16:10:00.000-08:00

California's Central Coast is fortunate to have a number of antique and vintage stores filled with treasures from the past that you can use, decorate your home with, and wear.

Monterey's Cannery Row is home to the largest antique mall on the Central Coast. With over 21,000 square feet and 150 dealers, shoppers are bound to find something that catches their attention whether it happens to be science fiction books, jewelry, china, or lace. Even the building itself is an antique - it used to be a Carmel Canning Company building back in the 1920s.

Even if you don't live on the Central Coast and can't make it out here, I encourage you to check out antique stores in your area. The quality and beauty of antique items make scouring shops completely worth it.

New Items - Skeleton Key Necklace, Bolero, and Floral Fairy Hem Skirt

2011-11-10T18:44:00.000-08:00

New items from Secondhand Passion:

This black skirt with gathered waist (front and back) and asymmetrical hem has been decorated with two removable black floral pins (approximately 4 inches tall) and a blue floral appliqué attached to a pin (measures approximately 6 inches across). One of the black floral pins is sequined and the other is made of lace and has a beaded center. The blue floral appliqué has iridescent sequins and purple beads. The skirt measures approximately 26 inches at the longest point starting at the top of the waist.

More skirt details:

Brand - Wet Seal
Size - Small (listed on tag)
Material - 47% polyester, 47% rayon, 6% spandex (very stretchy)

Listing here.

This upcycled black crushed velour bolero with navy blue beaded and iridescent sequined appliqué pin works well with skirts, dresses, pants, or jeans. Closes with tab and button.

There is no size tag, but this would best fit someone who wears size X-Small or Small. Fabric is stretchy.

Measurements (taken flat and unstretched):

Length - 13 inches
Chest - Approx. 30 inches (will fit a bust up to about 34 inches)
Sleeves - 24 inches each

Brand:
Jumping Joy

Appliqué measures approx. 3.5 inches across.

Listing here.

This elegant and nostalgic necklace has white marbled beads with a subtle yellow tint. An approximately 2 1/2 inch tall antique key from the late 1800s or early 1900s hangs from a large jump ring with an antiqued/oxidized patina. The necklace itself is approximately 15 inches long.

Listing here.

Photos by Reija Bolwell of StudioR, Santa Cruz (http://www.studiorsantacruz.com).

New Secondhand Passion Item - Upcycled Steampunk Purse

2011-11-03T15:20:00.001-07:00

This upcycled black purse has braided fabric and a watch dial pin with a red vintage cabochon in the center. The watch dial is an antique from either the late 1800s or early 1900s. It's in great condition and still has its hands. The pin is removable and can be placed on different parts of the purse or on other items.

The fully lined inside compartment of the purse zips to safely secure contents.

The purse measures approximately 8 1/2 inches high and 7 inches across. It hangs down approx. 31 inches including the strap.

Material: 60% cotton and 40% olefin.

Available here.

Secondhand Passion Sale (10/27-11/3) - 20% Off!

2011-10-27T10:10:00.000-07:00

The Pre-Halloween/Post-Halloween sale is now on! Enjoy 20% off of all items for one week (10/27-11/3). Use coupon code SCREAM11 at checkout.

These and many more items are available in my shop:

Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81678570/radiant-red-rockabillypunk-vintage-1980s

Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/80120927/the-envy-of-dorian-gray-upcycled-yves

New Item - Upcycled Oddity Trinket Box

2011-10-20T16:08:00.000-07:00

This is a thrifted wooden box that has been decorated with a skull bead, red vintage cabochon, black resin rose, antique doll arm, and a vintage black metal keyhole. It's a wonderful place to hide your secrets and trinkets. The box and vintage keyhole show minor signs of age, which enhances the box's nostalgic quality.

The inside of the box is lined with blue velvet.

Measures 7 inches across, 4 1/2 inches wide, and approx. 3 1/2 inches high (with the lid on).

Etsy listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/83484888/upcycled-oddity-trinket-box

A Chilling Upcycled Beauty

2011-10-14T15:06:00.000-07:00

Here's a new necklace available from Secondhand Passion. I've named this piece "Theatre of Tragedy." The pendant has brass-toned skull theater (comedy and tragedy) masks and silver-toned staff with court jester skull head on top of it. Attached to the chain are a resin black rose and an antique gold-toned watch dial on bezzles with an antiqued finish.

Check out the listing here.

Secondhand Passion also has its own website, secondhandpassion.com. Check it out!

More Items from Secondhand Passion - A Corset Cami & Barrettes

2011-10-06T06:48:00.000-07:00

Just added yesterday:

Black Corset Style Camisole with Antique Watch Dial (Size Small) & Free Gift

Black lace, velvet ribbon, and an antique watch dial pin adorn this alluringly stylish black velour camisole with corset style lacing in the front and adjustable. The watch dial pin is removable and was made from an antique watch dial. The cami has no boning and is very comfortable.

Great as either a costume piece or as lingerie.

Size Small (The fabric is stretchy, but this would probably best fit someone with a chest measurement of 32-34).

From the middle of the top of the chest portion to the longest part, the garment measures approx. 10 1/2 inches.

The corset cami comes with a free black braided choker with metal filigree heart. An artificial pearl hangs from the heart. The choker measures 12 1/2 inches without the chain and clasp and approx. 17 inches including the chain and clasp. It can be closed starting at approx. 12 3/4 inches up to almost 17 inches.

Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82973819/black-corset-style-camisole-with-antique

Antique Watch Dial and Black Rose Barrette

This darling French style barrette has two black roses made of resin and a watch dial with a red vintage cabochon in the center. The white porcelain watch dial is from the late 1800s - early 1900s. It has signs of age (a couple of minor cracks), which enhance its character.

Measures approximately 3 inches across. The watch dial and the flowers each measure about 1 inch high.

Made with non-toxic silicone glue.

Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82997978/antique-watch-dial-and-black-rose

"Annabel" Pearl, Rose, and Watch Dial Barrette

With parts beautified by age, this French style barrette evokes nostalgic longing. The blue stones in the center of the watch dials came from a bracelet, the gold-toned center piece with coral rose came also came from a bracelet, and the pearls came from a necklace. Only the clip was purchased new.

Measures approximately 3 1/2 inches across. The watch dials are approximately 1 inch high and the center piece with coral rose is approximately 1 1/2 inches tall.

Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81678153/pearl-rose-and-watch-dial-annabel

New Secondhand Passion Items - Upcycled Handcuff Necklace and More

2011-09-29T18:18:00.000-07:00

The newest additions to Secondhand Passion:

Radiant Red Rockabilly/Punk Vintage 1980s Dress

Perfect for the rock n' roll vintage lover! This 1980s collared V-neck red vintage dress with military tabs on the shoulders gives off a retro 1950s vibe. There are two pockets that close with silver-toned snaps on the chest. The dress also has metal silver-toned snaps that start at the bust and go down the front of the rest almost to the hem.

The 2 x 3 inch skull and 3 x 3 1/2 inch cherry/skull patches are attached to pin backings. Place them wherever you want and customize to your liking. For a different look, you can also remove them, or place them on a purse or other item.

Measurements (taken lying flat):

Length - Approx. 44 inches total / 26 inches (waist to hem)
Waist - Approx. 28 inches
Bust - Approx. 32 inches
Sleeves - Approx. 9 inches

There is no size listed on the tag, but it would best fit someone who wears a size XS/S.

It looks great with a black belt (not included).

Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81678570/radiant-red-rockabillypunk-vintage-1980s

Upcycled Handcuff Necklace

This necklace is edgy and elegant. The silver-toned handcuffs came from a Tripp NYC garment. Two red vintage cabochons have been added for a touch of glam. The necklace is attached to a 16 inch chain resembling gunmetal. Each handcuff is approximately 1 inch. Both cuffs and links measure approximately 3 3/4 inches all the way across. With the cuffs and the chain, the entire necklace is approximately 19 3/4 inches. The cuffs have levers that open and close, which make the necklace easy to put on and take off.

Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82477773/upcycled-handcuff-necklace

Upcycled Vintage "Clytemnestra" Bustle Dress Size Small

Just in time for Halloween!

This is a gorgeous 1980s vintage blue stretchy velour dress with a ruffled hem and a fun criss cross back. The bustle features a black ribbon bow and lace with silver and blue spider and cobweb print. The straps tie in the back and can be adjusted. The tag is labeled size Small.

Upcycled with two pins, one made with a skull bead and the other with a vintage iridescent purple/blue cabochon and metal escutcheon with floral design.

Measurements (unstretched and lying flat):

Bust - Approx. 30 inches total
Waist - Approx. 26 inches
Hips - Approx. 33 inches
Length (from bust to hem) - Approx. 37 inches

Brand: Pilot 10
Made in England

Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81765806/upcycled-vintage-clytemnestra-bustle

Upcycled Velour and Iridescent Blue "Marina Fleur" Skirt Size M

Black velour skirt has an iridescent blue ruffled hem. A purple satin rose with black organza petals (2 ½ inch diameter), a 3 inch black flower applique with multicolored sequins, and two black 1 ½ inch fabric roses add sparkle and flair. All of the flowers are removable and are attached to pins. The blue and the sequins glimmer in the light beautifully. Skirt zips in the back and is fully lined.

This would be a great component of a mermaid or fairy costume. It would also work well for a Goth night.

Brand:
Sylvie & Mado (Mill Valley, California)

Measurements (taken flat):
Length - Approx. 32 inches
Waist - Approx. 32 inches

The tag is labeled size M.

Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82288171/upcycled-velour-and-iridescent-blue

Old-Fashioned Charm

2011-09-22T16:15:00.000-07:00

The latest addition to my Etsy shop:

Here's to old-fashioned charm! This necklace is made up of a 1 1/4 inch tall actual antique glass vial filled with tiny watch parts attached to an approx. 15 1/2 inch 925 sterling silver braided chain. The vial's label reads "2132 Swartchild." The watch parts range in color from silver to gold. There is a tiny approx. 3/4 inch tall vintage-inspired skeleton key charm with antiqued finish right beside the vial that has been attached with a silver jump ring.

Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82080059/necklace-with-watch-parts-skeleton-key

Newest Items Posted to Etsy (A Delightful Top Hat and More!)

2011-09-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

The latest additions to Secondhand Passion, my Etsy shop:

Upcycled Steampunk Top Hat

This vivacious upcycled black top hat has been decorated with a tiny antiqued skeleton key, cream-colored vintage lace, an antique watch dial with peacock feathers, and black flowers (millinery flowers and a black rose applique).

The watch dial with peacock feathers features a repurposed bracelet piece with blue stones. The dial, which came from a Cervine watch, is an antique, and was made somewhere between the late 1800s and the early 1900s.

The hat measures approx. 5 inches tall and has a circumference of approx. 24 inches. The hat itself is 100 percent and was made in the U.S.A.

This would be great for a Steampunk event or even Burning Man.

Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81764818/upcycled-steampunk-top-hat

Doll, Lace, and Rose "Victoriana" Barrette

The barrette consists of a vintage purple and blue fabric rose, lace, and two antique frozen Charlotte heads. It's spooky, cute, classy, and charming all at once!

In addition to being worn in your hair, the barrette can also be clipped onto scarves, headbands, fans, and other accessories.

Measures 3 1/2 inches across.

Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81677761/doll-lace-and-rose-victoriana-barrette

1950s Vintage Black Rose Floral Dress Size Small

Not your typical 50s housewife dress! This dress shines with elegance, but is also demure. It could work splendidly as part of a Halloween costume, as a cocktail party dress, or even as part of a rockabilly outfit. Be both classy and eco-friendly in this dress.

The dress features four covered buttons and two front pockets with two additional covered buttons. There is also a zipper on one side. The satin-like fabric with a lovely black rose pattern is durable. You don't see quality like this that often these days. You'll be able to enjoy it for years to come.

Measurements (taken flat):

From hips - Approx. 27 inches
Length of entire dress (neck to hem) - Approx. 43 1/2 inches
Sleeves - Approx. 12 1/2 inches each
Waist - Approx. 14 1/2 inches (front side) and 29 inches all the way around

The dress does not have a tag, but it would best fit someone who wears a modern ladies' size small.

Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81845533/1950s-vintage-black-rose-floral-dress

Vintage Westclox Bull's Eye Pocket Watch with Chain

Here is a vintage Westclox Bull's Eye wind-up silver-toned pocket watch. The clock is no longer working, but it makes a great accessory nonetheless. The watch is estimated to have been made sometime between the 1930s and 1950s.

The plastic crystal has a couple of cracks, but otherwise, the clock is in excellent condition. The diameter is approximately 2 inches and it measures approximately 2 1/2 inches tall.

It comes attached to an 18 inch embossed silver-tone chain with a 23 mm matte black-plated brass lobster clasp (looks like gunmetal).

This would make a fine addition to a Steampunk outfit.

Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81602077/vintage-westclox-bulls-eye-pocket-watch

Skull and Black Glass Bead "Loviatar" Necklace

This black bead necklace, named after the Finnish goddess, is both elegant and edgy. The vintage 1970s skull pendant is connected to the black glass bead necklace by a silver jump ring. The skull measures approx. 1 inch tall and approx. 3/4 inch across.

The necklace measures 18 inches long. It can be closed starting at around 15 1/2 inches. Clasp is gold-toned and the beads rotate from small to larger.

Perfect for Halloween or all year long.

Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81601033/skull-and-black-glass-bead-loviatar

Upcycled "Eleanora" Sequined Purse

This beaded and sequined purse has been upcycled with a vintage chandelier crystal and a black millinery flower. The strap is a black braided rope. From the shoulder, it hangs down to about 32 inches including the beaded trim. Not including the rope and beads, the purse is approximately 6 inches tall, and with the bead trim, it measures approximately 9 inches not including the strap. Across, it measures approximately 5 3/4 inches.

It features a black floral pattern comprised of beads and sequins on black lace over grayish fabric. The bottom of the purse has a black beaded trim that hangs down, and it also has a beaded trim near the top.

It closes and opens with gunmetal-colored clasp. The rest of the metal on the purse is also gunmetal-colored. The crystal catches the light beautifully.

It's absolutely gorgeous and is perfect for a Steampunk event, cocktail party, or flapper outfit.

Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81809322/upcycled-eleanora-sequined-purse

"Imaginary Maps of the Real World" Gallery Opening at the Alternative Cafe

2011-09-10T20:17:00.000-07:00

I attended the opening of "Imaginary Maps of the Real World" featuring the art of Ales Bask Hostomsky (Bask) this past Friday night at The Alternative Cafe in Seaside and took some pics. I try to make it to each of the gallery openings at The Alternative Cafe on the second Friday of each month. I highly recommend going to the Alternative Cafe. The atmosphere is inviting, and it's a great way to break away from the norm and broaden your horizons. The place adds excitement to my life, and if I lived closer, I'd be there more often.

Here's the cafe's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Alternative-Cafe/56127099192

Click on these photos to view them larger:

Good company, art, and an hors d'oeuvres tray to orbit and grab appetizing snacks off of.

I don't think Ugly Dolls could be much cuter. They're available for sale at the cafe along with other merch.

Ian Tomasino's artwork interspersed with merchandise available at the cafe.

The walls were well decorated.

A wall with Maryia Grigor's impressive artwork.

This painting by Maryia Grigor really caught my attention.

And now for the works of street artist Bask:

Scream it out!

You can see this artwork displayed at the cafe through October 11, 2011.

For more images of Bask's artwork, go here.

Monterey Media Circus Digital Photography Group Photo Shoot

2011-09-10T15:40:00.000-07:00

Monterey Media Circus Digital Photography Group held a fantastic photo shoot on August 21 at Xpressions Studio in Monterey. It was a day of lights, cameras, playfulness, elegance, and whimsy. Christine Holding, hostess of the event, was joined by fellow photographers Michelle Robertson, George Haas, and Todd Davalos. Not only was there one talented photographer present, but four. My clothing business, Secondhand Passion, provided the upcycled and vintage clothing and accessories. Make-up artistry was provided by Gaia, and Jessica, Laura, and I modeled. Thanks, everyone!

The shoot wouldn't be complete without some radiant red and cobwebs. That's what I look like in a black punky wig and all done up.

Peacock feathers, lace, and glamour.

For a look reminiscent of the Dresden Dolls' style plus Steampunk and Victorian flair, wear striped accessories, top hats, feathers, and antique key necklaces with Victorian-inspired dresses. Don't be afraid to mix it up!

Black lace never goes out of style.

Check out http://www.meetup.com/Monterey-Media-Circus-Digital-Photography-Group/events/23139621 to view more of the pics from the shoot.