The Vintage Link

Where to Find Vintage Goodies?

2011-01-05T22:13:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I talked about the numerous ways that dealers and collectors find their cool vintage items. Today we are going to talk about why they are so important and how to maximize the use of these various places.

Finding and locating thrift shops, resale shops, consignment shops, and re-use centers are all pretty much the same way. You can simply open the yellow pages in your phone book and make a detailed list of locations. You can also compare them too the online yellow pages and possibly read some reviews on potential shops.

One way I like to find newer shops is thru Craigslist. I go to the for sale section and search thru the main header "for sale". I enter various words like, Thrift shop, resale shop, thrift store, etc. I click on all the items that come up and see how many different shops I can locate. I write down the name and address of each individual store and try to read thru the list as to not write down duplicates. There are also a few websites such as: thethriftshopper.com, thriftstorelocations.com, thrifttown.com, and various other websites.

Later this week we will discuss how to group all of these shops by favorites, locations and give them ratings based on your needs.

Estate Sales can be tricky! I recommend going to several different sales by several different companies. Find a company or two you feel is the most fair in price, practices, etc. Then become a regular with that company. Introduce yourself to the cashier or various persons working the estate sale. Make sure to let them know you love their company and you will be back. Be friendly and be fair! Don't haggle unless it's within reason. When they know your face and smile then you can mention that your searching for specifics. Once an estate sale company knows you and how you shop they are more likely to help you. I practice this and now I am very fortunate to have worked my way into estate sales before they are even opened to the public. I very much enjoy the private shopping experience. Networking and building relationships are important with estate sale companies.

Craigslist is basically a virtual garage sale. I recommend searching for your favorites in various departments not just the one category you believe it should be located. Try misspelling the words, try looking in the garage sale sections for your key words. If someone has something similar to what you are looking for email them and ask if they by chance have what it is your looking for. Always use the Items Wanted section and post what it is you want. Be both direct and vague. Many times people have what you want but; they don't realize it. Example: Mention you are looking for clothes your grandma used to wear and also work in the term Vintage. Not everyone knows what the term vintage actually means. Most commonly elderly persons and men.

It has happened numerous times for me. Someone will contact me about hats and purses to find they have dresses and shoes too! Someone will say, "I have all these old clothes but; I dont know how old they are". I usually commend that I am happy to come thier way and teach them about what it is they have. Once I have educated them on exactly what they have I am always happy to make a cash offer. Yes, sometimes it is junk but; never turn down a lead! You never know who they know and what they make choose to call you back for. Also, make sure to reach out to areas surrounding yours. Don't stick to one area if your not having luck. You will sometimes have to travel a bit to get what you want!

Flea Markets, Garage and Yard sales all pretty much work the same. They are individuals selling their items. You have a lot of room for negotiation. Remind them you are paying cash and ask them what their rock bottom get it out the door price is? If it's not a price you can live with give them your number and email address and tell them if they reconsider to please call you. Many times that night the thought of cash in their hands will change their mind. You would be surprised how many return calls I get with this practice. I suggest having some business cards made up even if they just have your name and number only on it. You don't want to be short on time when you find something you love and want to make an offer for them to consider.

Antique Malls are good too. I know many people consider them to be expensive and retail price but; not always! I have seen so many booths that have the desperate feel to them. They will mark prices at a third of everyone else because they really need the cash. These booths are great to find low priced items valued much higher. Many times you would have booths that the owners don't know what it is they have and sell low to push it out the door. Look low! Many people do not and so many countless times I have found my greatest items low because they were dropped or simply never paid attention too.

Thrifty Nickel, Penny Saver and Craiglist or great for not only finding things in current listings but; to place your own listings. Write out an ad for what you are looking for and pop in your email address. Ask for specifics, generals, photos, etc. Ask them to please email you with what they have and that you have transportation to come to them paying cash! I get countless emails myself with people clearing out and looking to sell quick.

Flippers are awesome too! If you know anyone in real estate that buys and resells homes talk to them! I have had a few flippers tell me how an investment property they had was filled with junk and needed it removed. Offer to do this for free if you can keep whats inside! One time I had a flipper contact me where the basement was loaded with about 2,000 garments all kept in proper storage and he sold it to me for $400 if I cleaned up the debris when I left. It literally took me about 20 minutes of sweeping and $400 for thousands of dollars in merchandise for the trade.

Auctions and Storage Unit Sales/Auctions are the same. You view the contents and start with bidding. These are fun and you can get some great goodies. However; it has been my experience to be more difficult to actually win and come out ahead. I know that Storage Wars glorifies this as the hot new way to make fast cash but; in my experience it is not! More times than not there is someone at the auction that wants to win just for the sake of winning. Also, there is a practice at making new bidders pay high prices to cause you to run out of money so the regulars can swoop in and grab the rest at a lower cost. This really takes alot of cash and a good poker face to earn your way in this "club". I am not saying don't give it a shot but; it is tough!

There is still so much to learn about this industry so stay tuned! So much more info to come!

Photos Courtesy of: 1. mainetoday.com 2. genrecookshop 3. salesigns.info 4. reinventingclassifieds.com 5. antiquesmallofstclair 6. thenile.org 7. svsgea.com 8. frugalforlife.blogspot.com

Thrift Shops, Resale Shops & Such!

2011-01-04T14:04:00.005-05:00

Each week I come across so many new people looking to get into thrift shopping and reselling their finds. It's not uncommon since EBay has pretty much put this practice on the map. It has also become a popular trend even more so the past couple of years with the worsening of our economy. It's a great way to help out at home and make some extra cash. I have noticed over the years that shops have become filled with just as many resellers as regular shoppers. This industry has truly become competitive in the past five years now.

When you are looking for items to wear, collect and sell there are so many options. Most people tend to go to the local Salvation Army and/or Goodwill and call it a day. People such as myself in this business tend to be tight lipped about anywhere else they may shop. There are actually not only thrift shops but; many other places to look.

Typically most anything past a thrift shop is considered a secret in this business. Even the favorite thrift shops are considered a secret. It is customary even with a fellow reseller to NOT ask where they found their goodies. It's simply NOT done. With so many new television shows like Pawn Stars, American Pickers, Storage Wars (all of which I watch regularly) and countless others. The secrets have become exposed little by little. Yes, there remains some important secrets but; we will get to those thru out the next couple of weeks.

I am going to give you a run down of the type of places collectors and resellers frequent. I know some close personal business friends that will be upset with me. I find the information personally to not be as top secret as it used. Especially with all the shows that have recently developed.

Thrift Shops
Resale Shops
Consignment Shops
Re-use Centers
Estate Sales
Craigslist
EBay
Auctions
Storage Unit Sales/Auctions
Antique Malls
Flea Markets
Garage & Yard Sales
Thrifty Nickel
Penny Saver
Flippers (homes)

Now many of you are thinking that isn't anything I didn't consider or know already. Tomorrow we are going to talk about why all of these are important and how to utilize each one of these differently. How to really find what you are looking for successfully in each different type of shop. Secrets people such as myself use to evaluate and network the top places within our circle. We will discuss the importance of networking and being a friendly community member within your favorite shops.

If you have some type of places to add to our list please feel free to comment! The photos in this article are from an adorable shop in Colorado. The website is http://www.creationseverlasting.com/ and the business is a Boutique and Tea Room! I wish I lived closer as I would probably visit everyday personally.

This Week! Thrift Shopping Articles!

2011-01-03T23:48:00.004-05:00

This week I am writing a serious of articles about Why, How, Where and Tips to shopping in Thrift Shops and Resale Stores. Things that each shopper should and must know about second hand shopping.

Ever have problems shopping with friends? Looking for the same items as your best pal? Learn tips to make it a more fun and friendly experience.

Learn how to track and map out your strategy both with locations and within a shop itself.

Learn about etiquette and how to become a good citizen of the shops' community. Why and how this will help you in future shopping trips.

I will also include a final article about how to truly be successful on EBay thru thrift shopping, garage sales, and estate sales.

Years of time I have invested and the best of what I have learned thru my own personal experience and success. It's definitely a must read for regular second hand shoppers!

Photos courtesy of: 1. bonvivantonline.com 2. greenandchic.com 3. nytimes.com

Rosie The Riveter Dies at 86

2011-01-01T15:54:00.001-05:00

Geraldine Boyle aka Rosie The Riveter passed away at age 86 on December 26, 2010.

I have lived in the metro Detroit area for the past four years. I found out only a year or so ago that the Willow Run Plant in Ypsilanti was the plant that Geraldine worked. This is the same plant that she was scouted and became an amazing female icon. I lived only two blocks away from this plant and found myself wanting to learn more about this iconic figure. The two photos above are common scenes from my daily drive past the historic plant.

Some of you know that I play roller derby and many of the girls in this sport worship Rosie. Not only her look but; the power "Rosie" posessed. Her true strength both implied physically and displayed figuratively has meant alot to the women in my sport. Aside from my personal life she had provided our country with such great service. There are so many reasons to thank Geraldine for being our Rosie. Take a minute and think about what she has meant to you.

We love you Geraldine! Thank you for providing women with so much to look up too and follow over the decades! We surely can do it! Best wishes to the Boyle Family.

1. boston.com 2. and 3. dailylife.com 4. deviantart.com 5. howstuffworks.com 6. geneology.com

Long Story!

2010-12-13T20:50:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

I wanted to send a note about where I have been lately! I have relocated to the Sunshine State (Florida) from Michigan. I have been adjusting to being home with lots of family and getting my little man settled into his new school. Ofcourse it is also the holiday season so that doesnt allow alot of time either for writing.

I apologize to our readers for not having any new vintage related articles to read. I am now working hard on developing some good history and trendy fun blog posts to read. Thanks for following along while I transition back into my home state. I look forward to hearing from you and reading your comments. Stay tuned as we will have lots of great things to discuss!

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Michelle Link

WWII Fashion

2010-08-27T13:47:00.000-04:00

What can I say! The WWII Period fashion is truly amazing! I believe this time in fashion was for dreamers. With fabric shortages during the war you truly had to be imaginative and creative with what you had "laying around".

War broke out in Europe in 1939, the same year the first true artificial fiber, Nylon, was introduced at the World's Fair in New York. For the duration (1939-1945), fashion veered between exiting innovations and the shortages, price controls and rationing created by war.

Women's clothing went through the greatest changes in this era, both due to shortages, and due to large numbers of women engaging in work outside the home during the war. Bias cutting was promptly dropped as a waste of fabric, and "Make Do And Mend", wartime advice centered on sewing old clothes in to new ones.

Men's suits were re-cut into women's suits, complete with the tailored details and shoulder padding previously found in the garments. Shoulder pads quickly became stylish in all women's garments, not only suits, and stayed in fashion until 1949.

Most governments issued either construction guidelines, or rationing to curtail fabric use, yet even in Europe men and women managed ways to stay fashionable during the conflict. "The Little Black Dress" was a popular method suggested by style magazines: Having a simple, short (knee length) black dress, which one varied each day and evening with sets of color-matched accessories.

Fashion that was not rationed, like hats, and hairstyles, grew creatively elaborate. Women and girls were actively encouraged to wear pants, both for war work and warmth.

Aloha Shirts for casual wear came to the mainland with servicemen returning from the Pacific theatre. Suit wearing increasingly was confined to work in offices, going to church, and formal occasions.

Could you only imagine the bartering between neighbors and strangers to get the items you needed? I am sure it was literally staring at the most dull boring fabrics and trying to make it FABULOUS! What a challenge for all the artists of this time!

Photos courtesy of: 1. vivenofhalloway.blogspot.com 2. vintageculture.com 3. uffnervintage.com 5. dev.alleykatsstore.com 6. picsdigger.com 7. fortiesfashions.blogspot.com 8. seattletwist.com 9. timesofglory.blogspot.com 10. capitolcharlotte.com

Depression Era Fashion

2010-08-26T18:32:00.000-04:00

The 1920s are a truly special time in fashion to me. If you will notice this is probably a more difficult time to find flawless pieces from the depression than earlier times such as Victorian and Civil War. Why? Because it's the Great Depression!

Not many people had money to buy fine garments. Most items were resewn and repaired and worn nearly everyday in some cases. If you think of wearing your favorite/best garment everyday after a harsh handwashing in a metal tub think of the condition it would be in a month later yet alone decades later!

The 1920s was the decade in which fashion entered the modern era. It was the decade in which women first liberated themselves from constricting fashions and began to wear more comfortable clothes (such as short skirts or pants). Men likewise abandoned overly formal clothes and began to wear sport clothes for the first time. The suits which men wear today are still based, for the most part, on those which were worn by men in the late 1920s.

The 1920s were characterized by two distinct periods of fashion. The early 1920s where nature and change progressed slowly as many were reluctant to adopt the new styles. From 1925, the styles that have been associated with the Roaring Twenties were passionately embraced by the public and would continue to characterize fashion until early in 1932.

1. 1920s-fashion-and-music.com 2. fashionart.onsurgar.com 3. wikispaces.com 4. victoriana.com 5. stylehive.com 6. vintagetextiles.com

80s Fashion

2010-08-19T20:12:00.002-04:00

I feel inspired to write about the 80s today. No rhyme or reason just sounded fun! I am a product of the 70s and very much remember all of the awesome things from the 1980s.

I spent some time in college town the other day. College town being downtown Ann Arbor. The colors and styles really are reminisce of the 1980s. Boy, that didn't make me feel old at all watching youngsters treating it as if it was a NEW thing!

I instantly started having all these flashbacks of wearing outrageous and colorful clothes! I, as an adult do not know HOW my mother let me go into the public dressed the way I did. Ofcourse, my mother was always good at letting us expressing yourself with clothes. Many of my friends today tell me I am lucky they wished their parents let them wear the things I got to wear.

For me personally I had a few different sides. I recall Madonnas' lucky star look was my personal favorite.

I seem to recall flipping back and forth from Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, to preppy fashion and even yacht club looks in the mix. No one ever really know how I was going to come out of the house the next day!

A friend of mine on facebook said she wanted to bring back the sideways ponytail because it so rocked! Well I'm not exactly sure about that but; lets take a look at those crazy do's I so recall wearing myself as an early teen! HMMM, What do you think?

Well I know my parents definitely had alot of spunk themselves why else would they allow their children to dress so insane. My family definitely wasn't a little 80s we were all up in those 1980s trends!!!

I think this trip down memory lane calls for a little more info on the trend setting fashions of the 1980s! Join me next time we will talk about the totally awesome swatch watches, denim skirts and over sized sweaters so many of us still love and hate to admit!

Photos courtesy of: 1. Chud.com 2. sitemaker.umich.edu 3. planning.org 4. fibers.com 5. refinery29.com 6. shewired.com 7. unkown 8. MSBlueSky on Flickr 9. marbles.com 10. stylehive.com

History of Jeans

2010-08-16T16:28:00.000-04:00

Jeans are trousers made from denim. The American blue jean was invented by Jacob Davis and Levi Strauss by 1873. The word "jeans" comes from the French phrase bleu de Gênes, literally the blue of Genoa.

Initially, jeans were simply sturdy trousers worn by workers, especially in the factories during World War II. During this period, men's jeans had the zipper down the front, whereas women's jeans had the zipper down the right side. By the 1960s, both men's and women's jeans had the zipper down the front.

Jeans (known as dungarees by then), along with light-blue stenciled cambric shirts, became part of the official working uniform of the United States Navy in the 20th century prior to being replaced by the coveralls, utilities and, more recently, the blue and gray digital-camouflaged navy working uniform. This was to prevent other more traditional uniforms from becoming soiled or torn in the ship's rugged working environment and thus leaving them for wear during ceremonial occasions.

After James Dean popularized them in the movie Rebel Without a Cause, wearing jeans by teenagers and young adults became a symbol of youth rebellion during the 1950s. Because of this, they were sometimes banned in theaters, restaurants and schools.

During the sixties the wearing of jeans became more acceptable, and by the seventies it had become general fashion in the United States, at least for casual wear.

Notably, in the mid-seventies the denim and textiles industry was revolutionized by the introduction of the stone-washing technique by GWG (Great Western Garment Co.). Denim suddenly became an attractive product for all age groups.

Acceptance of jeans continued through the eighties and nineties to the point where jeans are now a wardrobe staple, with the average North American owning seven pairs.

Jeans can be worn loosely or snugly. Historic photographs indicate that in the decades before they became a staple of fashion, jeans generally fit quite loosely, much like a pair of bib overalls without the bib. Indeed, until 1960, Levi Strauss denominated its flagship product "waist overalls" rather than "jeans".

Text courtesy of: Wikipedia. Photos courtesy of: 1. jake.umwblogs.org 2.uvm.edu 3. abundancesecrets.com 4. denimology.com 5. jeanfactory.com 6. fashioninmotion.wordpress.com

Stay Tuned

2010-08-11T15:40:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone! I just wanted to apologize for not being around the past couple weeks. As most serious collectors know the summer is buying season!!! I have just been swamped this buying season.

We have some wonderful topics we are going to talk about soon. I have found some amazing estate pieces that will be added to our new shopping cart. Be sure to click to shop!

If your not a shopper stay tuned for some great vintage fashion topics!

New Shopping Cart!

2010-08-04T02:18:00.000-04:00

We have a new way to shop!!

Instead of the complicated blogger style we have gone with a sophisticated shopping cart!

If your looking for the MUST have vintage dress or accessory be sure to visit us.

http://www.thevintagelinkstore.com/

Please remember its new so we are working around the clock to add our collection of personal favorites and estate finds!

Vintage Pink Advertisments - Part I

2010-07-24T19:37:00.007-04:00

Well probably like most any typical girl my favorite color is pink. Now and then have some spare time to google search just random ideas in my brain and see what comes up. So I thought why not vintage pink ads.

Here is what I found!

These are two different Lingerie Ads. The left is Vanity Fair and the right is Rogers. Yes I know these are not all baby girl pink but; a variation of Pink. Still fun!

I love these two lipstick ads that I came across! DuBarry I know as a dress maker but; I did not realize they produced cosmetics as well. I once owned a 50s pink lace gown by DuBarry and it was an absolute favorite. It's surprising to see what companies are still around today.

I love this Coke Ad! How cute is that! Ok, so I know not much pink in the Dr Williams Ad however; I thought it was humorous they had a pill called the "Pink Pill".

I love the Ray Ban its a before the times 1950s meets Top Gun! What girl doesn't love shoes! I just had to post this ad find.

These are some of the later ads I found. They are Gianni Versace so I just had to put them up! I am a native to Florida and only lived a three short hours from South Beach. Not to mention I so very much love Versaces' work!

Pink, Pink, Pink and more pink! There are millions of ads featuring my favorite color! I literally have another 20 or so ads in pink that I could feature here. I guess that means I will have to do a part II!

Versace

Photos courtesy of: 1. pzrservices.typepad.com 2. freefries.wordpress.com 3. Vintagefashionagogo.com 4. adore-vintage.blogspot.com 5. pzrservices.typepad.com 6. glamourcow.com 7. blog.prosperity.ie

8. vintageframes.tumblr.com 9. completeall.com 10. thecheapgirl.com 11 mariankihogo.com

12. coutureallure.com 13. verabattemarco.com 14. thecheapgirl.com

Davis & Whiting

2010-07-21T02:28:00.000-04:00

Whiting & Davis are some of the most highly admired and collectible handbags in the vintage fashion trade.

I was going to write a short article about Whiting and Davis as they are my favorite handbag maker! In the midst of doing my research I found an article pretty much written the same way I would have explained them.

So here is the article that says everything I wanted to say!

http://bagladyemporium.com/BLU/index.php?n=Main.WhitingDavisCo

Edwardian Lace

2010-07-13T18:53:00.000-04:00

There are many gorgeous garments that come from the Edwardian Period. So many we find now a days are usually in yellowed, torn, beat up condition. Edwardian garments are just now hitting the 100 year mark. This making them technical antiques in age. My favorite collection of Edwardian Lace garments comes from http://www.vintagetextile.com/

Left: 1910 Lace and tulle Tea Dress.

Right: 1910 Lace Embroidered Tea Dress

Left: 1905 Lace and Silk Dress

Right: 1915 Tambour embroidered net lace tea dress

Left: 1905 Irish Lace Crochet Bolero

Right: 1905 Irish Crochet Lace Knickers

Left & Right: 1900 Belgian mixed princess lace jacket.

This collection is truly amazing! I would have to say as a professional collector and dealer Vintage Textile.com is absolutely a company to be respected for its knowledge and collection alike!

For all of you Titanic junkies (including myself) this is going to be a great week!

We are going to talk about Edwardian Fashion!

I thought it would be fun to start off with an Edwardian lace feature.

*All photos are from http://www.vintagetextile.com/ and most items shown above are available for purchase thru thier website.

Our Shop

2010-07-12T23:09:00.000-04:00

We have started a new page within our website. We will be selling off our vintage clothing collection and estates we have purchased over the years. We have 2000+ garments to purge!

Shopping on our site is easy!

Simply click on the Shop located in our sidebar. It looks like the photo shown above. We are using paypal shopping cart so simply click add to cart and use a secured check out with paypal. If you don't want to use paypal contact us we do have other methods.

Everyday we will be adding new garments, accessories, shoes, purses, etc.

Everything related to vintage fashion!

Vintage Buying Tips!

2010-07-09T21:56:00.001-04:00

Photo courtesy of: http://digimuse.cis.drexel.edu/

I was reading one of my favorite blogs today, The Vintage Traveler. Newly favorite but; all the same a favorite. She posted a great article about some buying tips when looking to purchase vintage clothing.

I totally agree with article. Here is the link. Check it out!

http://fuzzylizzie.bravejournal.com/entry/55927

Edwardian Era Corset

2010-07-09T17:25:00.002-04:00

http://www.hsl.virginia.edu/

The Edwardian Era is my personal favorite period in fashion. No not because of Titanic. This has been a personal favorite of mine since I was a kid. I always thought the S line silhouette was gorgeous. I mean just look at the photo above. Look how gorgeous they are in the front window!

That is until I learned what it meant to actually wear a corset! WOW! I don't think your ribs are suppose to do this!

http://www.commons.wikimedia.com/

The S shape corset was nothing less than torture. The goal of this corset was to give a very mature look and to create every mans ideal woman. Very small waists and boosted breasts. This remained popular until 1907.

museums.leics.gov.uk

After 1907, a Corset was designed to promote a more health wise garment. Finally someone put a popular end to this. Not just a protest but; a solution. The waists were let out a bit more. The silhouette was a longer and straighter.

Here is an authentic Edwardian corset I found at http://www.allvintageclothing.com/. You can see the huge shift in the waist and bust in this corset. I can already feel my lungs expanding comfortably. Unfortunately, this corset was known for creating what we commonly call "uniboob". Although comfortable and better for your health the appearance was not quite the same as previous corsets.

http://prints.leics.gov.uk/

By 1912 some corsets were reaching nearly to the knees. And ofcourse the unforgiving "uniboob" the corset was reinvented once more. This corset above was the last style of the Edwardian period. This corset allowed the breast separation for a better fit in dresses. More feminine but; still a healthy choice.

commons.wikimedia.org

Soon after WWI women found corsets to be dated and no longer needed. With the invention of elastic belts and bands. These became the new way to hold breasts and waists in place.

Chanel Handbag Debate

2010-07-06T17:43:00.003-04:00

OK, So if you recall in a previous post Vintage Chanel Highlight I had mentioned a friend of mine and I were discussing a Chanel handbag she had discovered. She is an avid EBayer and loves going to yard sales and thrift shops for great finds to resale. Which so many Ebayers do. She lives in the middle of nowhere and often times she gets the best things because there are not a lot of people treading on her turf. Actually next to no one in her town knows what Ebay is!

She found this beauty at a yard sale for 50 cents! No kidding! She grabbed first and looked later. Here is the debate. Real or fake? My opinion is fake but; in her heart of hearts she believes it is genuine.

Here's the facts of the handbag and the core issues of our debate.

My friend, we will call her V. She states it has Chanel markings on all of the hardware. The "CC" logo wraps in the correct manner. I say: I have never seen a "CC" logo stamped Paris but; I have only seen a few genuine bags in person previously. I am not a Chanel expert and I am unsure if this was done in the past.

I am familiar with Chanel bags having a tassel on the side and chain handles/straps were very common with the designer. However; the tassel seems a bit short and I don't recall leather covers/padding on the handle being squared on the edges. Usually they are a little more round in shape on the edges.

The interior lining may no look the greatest in these photos. The lining is however calfskin. The specific material that Chanel uses in their handbags. We have looked everywhere for a hologram and/or plate. We have found one spot in the bag that looks like the hologram or plate may have existed. Its the only damage inside the handbag. V does know her textiles do I don't doubt her on that.

Some other small notes are the inside zipper pull. I read somewhere that Chanel uses a fabric tab as a pull. That most often a toggle pull is also a sign of a fake. The name plate I am unsure of how they are suppose to look. V says the stitching of the bag is impeccable. She says the hardware is not cheap looking in any fashion.

Here is a view of the bottom of the bag. Now this baffles me because I have never seen risen letters on a Chanel bag but; again I am not a Chanel handbag expert and that doesn't mean it was never done.

I know this post will strike a nerve with those of you that are Chanel lovers but; this entry is to help a friend. We just want some confirmation and feedback on the situation. Genuine or Fake? This bag has NOT been placed for sale because V and I both agree when in doubt Don't!

Happy Independance Day America!

2010-07-04T18:43:00.002-04:00

Just for fun let's see what awesome vintage patriotic fashion we can dig up!

I started looking at dresses on Ebay and just came across this 1950s full skirt dress randomly. After this I had to see what other patriotic garments were out there.

On the left is a 1950s Grandee Beaded purse and on the right is a 1960s Mod Handbag.

These are two of my favorite finds. Beaded necklace on the left and Brooch on the right. Both are 1960s.

I just adore these patriotic hat and gloves for a touch of sophisticated Patriotism!

OHHH My Goodness!! Here are my absolute two favorite Patriotic vintage finds! A 1940s stripped sundress and 1960s/70s wedge slingbacks! WOW!

This is a vintage magazine cover. It is actually V for Victory Day during WWII. I just loved the colors and graphics. Not to mention what it was respresenting!

Photos coutesy of: 1. Google. 2. Ebay - seller unknown. 3. Memphisvintage.com 4. Ebay - seller unknown. 5. RubyLane - Seller: The vintage merchant. 6. bajanlizard.com 7. vintagejewelrybyteresa.com 8. Eurekaifoundit.us 9. hatfeathersvintage.com 10. dorotheasclosetvintage.com 11. bluevelvetvintage.com

12. myvintagemall.com.

Vintage Chanel Highlight

2010-07-02T16:52:00.003-04:00

A friend of my called and asked me some advice about a Chanel purse she purchased. While we had a lengthy discussion over the purse I was suddenly in the mood for some more Chanel. Who isn't? Shown above is a 1920s Chanel ad featuring Coco Chanel herself.

Coco Chanel took an early rise in the fashion world. She stayed on top of the fashion world even beyond her physical years. She is a true fashion courtier to remember. How can you forget more like? The dress shown above is an early Chanel gown. It is a flapper dress from the 1920s.

I found this awesome site with former Chanel Ads. Why is it so special? Its a 1930s ad featuring Coco herself! Yes she has been in plenty of ads prior to this but; I just really like this one.

This is a stunning 1937 white lace Chanel numbered couture evening gown. What a gorgeous piece. I can see gowns from the 1970s mimicking this piece and even some repeat in today's market. A truly timeless gown.

This is a 1940s Vogue cover shot. The cover is featuring a 1940s Chanel suit. Classic utilitarian style suit during WWII times. Most garments were minimal due to war time rations and shortages. Note how gorgeous the suit is and how well put together the model looks during time of war!

This is a 1950s Chanel Ad. It features a two piece suit. What looks to be silk trimmed with a tweed or wool of sort. Note the use of chain as a belt and necklace. Little has changed over the years with the use of chain. When I think of Chanel today I think of something similar to this set.

This is a vintage Chanel triple strand chain necklace. The "CC" logo scattered thru out as embellishments.

1960s photo of Coco working her magic! Wow could you image being the one in that suit while Chanel works her magic around you? OH so lucky!

This is also a 1960s photo. It is a panel of women wearing Chanel garments. Such lucky ladies! Chanel has a vision for her line and today 80 years later stands true to that vision. Truly remarkable and a truly timeless!

Here are two vintage suits I found while searching the Internet. The suit on the left is a 1960s Chanel Haute Couture. This suit retails for 2,750 Euro. The suit on the right is from the 1970s Chanel Haute Couture. It is a two piece skirt suit. This suit sells for 4,950 Euro. Oh I so wish! But, if you are lucky enough check 'em out at vintageacademe.com

1980s Chanel Skirt Suit. A definite power suit of the 80s.

Thanks for riding along with me on my quick trip of Chanel highlights. I was just feeling like a little Coco Chanel today. My glass is raised to you Coco!

Coco herself on the beach in the 1930s.

Photos: 1. katyawk.com 2. fitnyc.edu 3. styleite.com 4. vintagetextile.com 5. rdujour.com 6. chanelglamour.com 7. frugal-cafe.com 8. childrensalon.blogspot.com 9. childrensalon.blogspot.com 10. vintageacademe.com 11. vintageacademe.com 12. retrodress.com 13. jamesstuartduncan.com

Charles Frederick Worth

2010-07-02T03:56:00.000-04:00

We mentioned earlier Charles Frederick Worth. He was the first real fashion designer. Up until his time most garments were merely tailored and fitted to the clients request. Worth actually designed and made couture clothing by his own design. In other words the first to design and not tailor.

Charles Frederick Worth is considered the Father of Haute Couture. Though Worth is an English Designer in start. He later relocated to Paris. For some that may not know. Fashion not produced in Paris can not be considered Haute Couture.

Once Worth arrived in Paris he started working for a famous Parisian draper. While working in this shop he married the shops' model. After becoming married began making simple dresses for his wife. These simple dresses were well noticed and he often received requests for reproductions by shop clients.

Worth now being a business partner in the drapping firm. He urged his partners to expand the company and begin to make dresses. The partners in the firm denied the request. Worth later left the firm and found a wealthy investor. The investor helped Worth and he started his first firm known as Worth and Bobergh.

Soon after the opening of his firm he was commissioned by French Empress Eugenie. Before long, many of the rich and famous traveled to Worth from other countries. They traveled to have dresses made by the now famous Charles Frederick Worth.

Charles Frederick Worth had a hugely successful career by any standard. I love his pioneering ideas into what really became the beginning of modern day fashion as we know it. After his passing he left the House of Worth to his sons. His sons who also continued to flourish; bringing the company even farther into success.

Late Victorian Period

2010-06-29T21:35:00.001-04:00

The Late Victorian Period dates from the 1880s to 1901. In this time dresses change drastically. The princess cut dress replaces silhouettes of the past. The princess cut dress had no waist seam and was a long looking bodice around mid thigh. Sometimes longer. These dresses also had long trains.

This dress really required a steady and skillful hand. Many times due to lack of skills by the tailor and or designer pieces were added along the bottom and around the dress to cover up the mistakes made. This dress looked best on a tall thin woman so this style only lasted a few short years.

In 1883 the bustle returns! This time the bustle had a very different look to them. The rear of the dress was essentially a shelf. A few years later heavy corsetting becomes the ultimate glamour. The dress sleeves are still tight and form fitting.

By the 1890s the Victorian Dress becomes similar to a power suit in today's world. The bodice was a tight form fitting jacket. Sleeves do begin to develop more. This time in fashion women begin to show "masculine" strength in clothing.

courtesy of mintmuseum.org

During the 1890s dresses become more of an S shape silhouette. Skirts become wider. Corsets are less extreme and bustles begin to diminish. This takes us into the Edwardian period. Which we will talk about tomorrow.

*all photos are courtesy of cwrl.utexas.edu

Late Mid Victorian Period

2010-06-28T20:08:00.001-04:00

Again the Mid Victorian Period is from the late 1850s to the 1880s. In this segment we are going to talk about the years of 1866 to 1880. By the 1870s the bustle was being worn towards the back of the dress. Elaborate petticoats with pleats, folds and tiers were needed to make the skirt look as full as possible. With heavy draping and tape being used to hold the top layer and bustle into place. Wow could you only imagine the weight of the garment with no air conditioning!

Day dresses also were such dresses as walking dresses. These dresses had high necklines that were either closed, squared, or V-shaped. Sleeves of day dresses were narrow throughout the period, with a tendency to flare slightly at the wrist early on. Women often draped over skirts to produce an apron like effect from the front.

Evening dresses had low necklines and very short, off-the-shoulder sleeves, and were worn with short (later mid-length) gloves. Other characteristic fashions included a velvet ribbon tied high around the neck and trailing behind for evening (the origin of the modern choker necklace).

Anti-fashionist and non-supporters of such fashion like the bustle preferred what is commonly known as the tea dress.

Leisure dress was becoming an important part of a women's wardrobe. Seaside dress in England had its own distinct characteristics but still followed the regular fashions of the day. Seaside dress was seen as more daring, frivolous, eccentric, and brighter. Even though the bustle was extremely cumbersome, it was still a part of seaside fashion.

photos courtesy of reviews.ebay.com

Hair was pulled back at the sides and worn in a high knot or cluster of ringlets, often with a fringe (bangs) over the forehead. False hair was commonly used. Bonnets were smaller to allow for the elaborately piled hairstyles and resembled hats except for their ribbons tied under the chin. Smallish hats, some with veils, were perched on top of the head, and brimmed straw hats were worn for outdoor wear in summer.

photos courtesy of www.cwrl.utexas.edu
some text and most information from www.wikipedia.com

Early Mid Victorian Fashion

2010-06-25T19:43:00.013-04:00

Mid Victorian Fashion Dates from the late 1850s to 1880s. We are discussing the early Mid years from 1857 to 1865. Fashion changes drastically during the Mid Victorian period so I have broken it down into two segments. This way we will get to view more beautiful photos!

courtesy of metmuseum.org

In the Early-Mid Period dresses became more and more daring in their pattern and color. During these years women wore both dark and light shades of color such as silvery grays, lavender and magenta. These are just a few among the many popular colors worn. We also find plaids in women's wear begin to emerge.

Popular fabrics included: silk, taffeta, cashmere, muslin, tulle, mink, seal, beaver and countless other fabrics.

(left) courtesy of blog.historicalfashions.com

(right) courtesy of fashionismymuse.blogspot.com

Corsets with lacing in the back are introduced. The steel cage crinoline was introduced in 1856. On top a petticoat was worn with an elaborate design at the hem.

courtesy of uhist.com

Skirts were made fuller by using more tiers which are commonly known as flounce. Hooks and eyes are now introduced into fashion.

Dresses for day typically had what is called a Fan Front. Which has a typical tight narrow waist. A wider bell shape sleeve does starts to appear toward the early 1860s.

courtesy of metmuseum.org

Evening dresses were very low-necked, falling off the shoulders, and had short sleeves.

courtesy of www.osu.edu

In the Mid Victorian period we start to see white gloves and colored hosiery. The Indian Shaw becomes another fashionable garment. Hair styles become much simpler. It becomes a simple part down the middle with a bun or braid in the back. Earrings go from simple dangles to tassel-like in form.

courtesy of yourwardrobeunlockd.wordpress.com

Tomorrow we will discuss dresses from the Late-Mid Victorian period and the bustle.

Early Victorian Fashion

2010-06-24T03:33:00.019-04:00

photo courtesy of www.thepelisse.blogspot.com

Early Victorian fashion dates from 1837 to late 1856. In this time women's fashion was very modest.

Dresses from this period include:

Narrow shoulders and bodice.

Very small waists.

Exceptionally full skirts in the hip.

Hoops needed to support the petticoats and fullness of the skirt.

Long skirts completely covering the body.

The goal of dresses from this time period were to give the appearance of a weak and dainty upper body with extremely full hips and large lower body.

photo courtesy of www.timelytresses.com

Deep set bonnets were worn to hide the face and neck of the wearer. Mostly commonly the face of the wearer was only seen when they looked directly at you.

courtesy of www.cwrl.utexas.edu

Evening gowns covered literally every bit of skin minus the face. This is also the first period in time we see protesters against wearing such garments. The protesters were fighting against the health issues the came from wearing such restrictive garments.

Towards the end of Early Victorian fashion going into Mid Victorian fashion fullness of skirts begin to look asymmetrical and full in the back which is commonly referred to as bustle or bustling. Geometric shapes and stripes become more popular in garments.

Popular accessories worn or used in this period were necklaces, wraps, shawls and parasols. During the early Victorian period earrings went from flat and round to short dangle style.

Neck ribbons were popular and usually had a cameo place in the front of the neck. Under sleeves were similar to today's layering. It was a shirt that had sleeves that extended out past the dress being worn.

We can't forget the best part! Here are some examples of Early Victorian Handbags and shoes. The handbag is a silver mesh handbag. Many mesh handbags were made of actual gun metal.

In this period of fashion history we meet the first couture designer. Charles Frederick Worth is the first real fashion designer. Not to be confused with a tailor. Meaning: he designed gowns from his own inspiration and not from his client telling him how to fit a garment for their needs.