My Modern Vintage - Australian Vintage and Personal Style Blog

Making the most of your garden this spring

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 10:47:00 +0000

If you plan on starting a garden for the spring season, you might already be a little bit behind. With this in mind, you can still make the most out of the time you have left, and really see those floral beds bloom. Consider some of these tips to have your dream garden, without having to toil too hard to achieve the desired results.

Start indoors -
When growing seeds, start them indoors and transport when the weather is a bit more accommodating. By starting indoors you have a leg up on the growing season, can plant more, and your plants will already have a solid base when you transport them to the outdoor garden area.

Move it outdoors -
Once you have your seeds planted and ready for transport, make sure you have soiled the area, have placed compost ,and have cleaned up the land for planting. This will allow you to ensure optimal growth and enjoyment of the plants and flowers you grow.

Don't limit the space -
An outdoor fire pit, new patio furniture, decorative garden ornaments. When it comes to enjoying the outdoor space, you need to incorporate other elements you'll enjoy. So consider a swing set for the kids, a nice fountain, or other furniture that you can sit outside and actually enjoy what you have cultivated with the time and effort you've put into gardening. The right decorative set and seating will go a long way in helping bring everything together, so keep this in mind when choosing what to grow, and how to design the outdoor area for your enjoyment.

Even in limited space, or places where you don't get too much sunshine, you can cultivate an amazing garden. These are a few simple tips to get you on your way, and to ensure you are going to see the desired results as you move forward through the season

How to save money when renovating your garden

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Sun, 28 May 2017 10:37:00 +0000

If time has come to renovate and update the garden, you know certain plants and flowers are very costly. So how do you keep the cost down when you are going to work outdoors? These are some things to consider.

It is as simple as planning it out. Yes, it is that simple. Draw a "blueprint" of sorts, of the layout for your garden. Describe the space, names of trees/plants, and make sure the plan is well laid out. Doing this will ensure you don't overspend, buy items that don't fit, and ensures you can fit in what you want to fit in the space. If you would like some advice on how to renovate your garden then you could always ask a local gardener service.

Buy in phases. Don't do it all at once. If you purchase two hundred floral beds (for a huge area) this is extremely costly. So do the work in phases, and buy in phases. This allows you to cultivate, spread the cost out over time, and eventually have the space you want in your garden area.

Add furniture. You can add a few furnishings rather than simply add flowers and trees. You can also add decorative stones, path lighting, and other additions to the space. Not only will this break up the monotony of having only one style or item in the garden, it is also going to help you spread the cost, and utilise the space in a manner which requires you to buy less, and still get more when you are reorganizing and working on the garden area of your home.

You want a beautiful entry way and garden; however, this is something that can be quite costly. If you know how to plan, how to shop, and take the time to plan things out (rather than go in blindly and buy everything at once), you can save, and create a space you are truly going to adore once it is finished.

Do You Know The Difference Between Silver Plated And Sterling Silver?

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 06:01:00 +0000

via Morgue File

Silver, like gold, is one of the oldest metals for jewellery design. Silver is highly malleable and reflective, and has been transformed into everything from mirrors to flatware, but by far its most enduring use is as a personal adornment. Since silver doesn’t tarnish when it is worn, it is associated with purity. Both economical and versatile, silver can be worked into bold earrings, thick chains, or even something delicate. Understanding the difference between silver plated and sterling silver jeweller will help when choosing your pieces.

Body Jewelry for Conch Piercing

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Fri, 01 Jul 2016 01:52:00 +0000

So it has been over 3 months now since I got my conch pierced. I am actually surprised at how quickly this piercing has healed up. I got a double helix piercing done last July and the top one still hasn't healed. I am beginning to wonder if it will ever heal.

So now it is time for me to find some new body jewelry (I'm really liking Fresh Trends) for my newly healed (healing?) conch. I had a few ideas of what I wanted before heading online to check out what is available.

I am really into conch piercings, which have the cute ring, which goes all the way around kind of like this one:

Image source

So anyway here are the options I came up with – now to decide which one to get! I often find this is the hardest part especially when Freshtrends stocks such gorgeous body jewelry at affordable prices!

1. Gorgeous gold

I love this simple gold captive bead ring. So pretty and so classic.

2. Daisy garden septum clicker

Available in 16g so perfect for my conch.

3. Vertical captive bead ring

I like the simplicity of this and that it has the vertical captive bead ring which means it will sit perfectly.

So which one is your favourite? Let me know in the comments!

Vintage Watches Shopping Tips

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Fri, 27 May 2016 02:30:00 +0000

photo via morguefile

As you peer into the glass cabinet in front of you, you go deeper into a contemplative trance. To buy? Or not to buy? That is the question. With all the choices before you, a very convincing salesperson and a wad of cash to part with, it’s no wonder buying vintage watches can be a tricky task.

First things first, there are three main things you will need to consider when you first go searching for the perfect antique timepiece. These three things are:

1. Have you done your research?

2. Have you gotten up-close and personal to the item?

3. Have you ensured the seller is trustworthy and reputable?

These may sound like obvious things to do before buying something so expensive. However, missing just one of these elements can throw things off track drastically and cause you unnecessary trouble. Finding a reputable seller should be at the top of your list. It’s clear by reviews and their lengthy presence in the market that Kalmar Antiques have a brilliant reputation for supplying quality antique pieces.

It can be a real enjoyable activity and with lots of knowledgeable communities and resources both online and offline, there’s heaps of learning you can do. This way you get in the know and can discover items of great value.

So let’s get nostalgic! Consider why you are doing it in the first place

The ‘why’ should always precede the how in any case. If you take great pride in vintage watches, you will no doubt invest more time and energy. If it is for business investment, both aspects are of equal importance. From Omega to Rolex to Heuer, there can be no certainty in vintage watch investments. So if vintage watches are a passion, you need to ensure you are grounded in reality when considering your choices.

Considering which brands are most reliable is crucial before bidding or buying a watch. Here are just a few:

Ø The renowned Rolex

Ø Patek Philippe

Ø Omega

Doing more research on consistent top sellers is crucial to you tapping into a winning watch. If you’re actively on the hunt for vintage Rolex watches, Kalmar Antiques, as mentioned earlier, stocks a great selection.

Picking your vintage watch

You know a watch is vintage if it is 20 years or older. It can come from any owner or stock, but the most affordable are normally second hand. Generally, there are two types of antique watches.

The Estate watch or the Timepiece

These two categories include a wide variety of different types of watches. Important timepieces get their value from a famous lineage. It may be important because there have only been limited versions made or maybe it’s of unusually high calibre. Knowing the history is a crucial aspect which differentiates watches too.

Estate watches, on the other hand, are far more expensive than timepieces and are characterised by being part of the ‘estate’ of a deceased person.

Should you go down the pre-owned path?

With a growing number of places to actually buy pre-owned vintage watches, you have the luxury of choice. The places where you can clock the best deals will be flea markets, antique jewellery stores and sites.

Buying vintage watches online

Here are the simple steps you must undertake when buying a vintage watch:

Decide if you are going for a specific brand or style

Determine if you want a specific model within that brand or style

Write down a list for a sound strategy. Split it into two columns: one for wants and one for needs. Consider the material and straps, whether it needs to be manual or you don’t have a preference.

Once answering these questions see if they fit with what you want to achieve and your budget.

So before you make your first purchase, apply the points in this guide and get the vintage watch you’ve been searching for.

The Hottest Prom Dress Styles over Time

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Tue, 17 May 2016 02:15:00 +0000

Image by Peaches Boutique

There are certain prom dress styles that have made serious impact over the years. Of course, there seems to be different trends each year, but it’s more about the right style fitting the right figure.

To make sure you turn up to your prom wearing the hottest dress, we’ve put together a list of which styles flatter different figures. Follow it, and you’re sure to be the Belle of the ball.

Petite Figures

Small frames look sensational in short, poufy shapes. This helps to add the illusion of an hourglass curve. For great ideas, view online store at www.peachesboutique.com.

If you’d prefer to look taller, mermaid gowns have been the way to go. They create a curvy silhouette with their dramatic hemlines and fitted bodices.

Taller Figures

Show your amazing height off with ruche dresses that will keep you looking to lanky. Micro-minis have become hot favorites and in past years high leg slits and high-low dresses have been popular choices as well.

Curvy Figures

Your curves are what make you beautiful. Show them off with a form-fitting dress, one-shoulder strap or an empire waistline that will make your waist look smaller. To keep up-to-date with this year’s hot trends, connect with Peaches Boutique on Facebook.

Apple Figures with Fuller Bust Line

Apple figures are usually “top heavy,” with wider torsos and broader shoulders. Some of the hottest prom styles draw attention away from the waist and towards the bust. Therefore, choose dresses that flow from beneath the bust. A ruched or draped material that gathers and lies across the middle works well, too.

Pear-Shaped Figures

Goddess-inspired gowns have been popular choices for girls who are pear-shaped. Grecian-like gowns that have a high waist and intricate neckline will draw attention towards your upper body and away from the hips. Alternatively, voluminous layers that float over the hips with an exaggerated A-line that plays up your waist will look amazing.

Sheath Evening Gowns

Sheath evening gowns have also made it as hot trends. They’re designed to hug the body tightly and are usually unbelted with a straight drape. These dresses look amazing with or without straps.

A-Line Dresses

A-line evening gowns are timeless classics. These somewhat bell-shaped gowns will fit snugly at the top and gradually widen towards the bottom, without pleating or gathering. A-line styles are simple and elegant.

Trumpet Shaped Dresses

These dresses are typically tight fitting down until mid-thigh or knees where they then flare out. While mermaid gowns hug the body to the knees and then fan out, trumpet dresses are fitted through the hips, down to mid-thighs and then dramatically flare out.

Empire Dresses

Empire shaped gowns involve the waistline coming up to just under the bust and then the skirt hangs loose and straight. It’s a light, breezy style.

The Dropped Waist

With these dresses, the waistline is dropped just below the waist and the skirts are either flared or fitted.

Princess Gowns

Princess gowns are also classics. This style is tight and cut in single pieces, hanging in unbroken lines from the shoulder all the way to the flared hem.

Use this list to help you choose one of the hottest prom style dresses.

5 tips for buying and restoring old houses

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Sat, 30 Apr 2016 05:57:00 +0000

Not many people realise that one of my dreams is to one day buy an old house and fully restore it to its former glory. There is something so beautiful about older homes, they have spirit and warmth. It’s the sort of feeling you don’t really get with newer homes.

Here are my tips!

1. Choose something that you can finish

Many people get into restoring homes only to find that the job they have taken on is too big and too costly. So make sure you work out exactly how much time and energy you want to expend into restoring the property. Don’t purchase something that is far more work than you want to do regardless of the cheap price!

2. Budget

Make a budget for the renovationsand make sure you stick to it! Again, this comes down to choosing the right property – for your time, your money and for future profit potential.

3. Choose something with natural beauty

Gorgeous elements such as high beam ceiling or exposed bricks are all the rage, so choose something that has these elements. This will add to the value of the property in the long run and also give you something beautiful to restore.

4. Think about your future plans for the property

Do you want to sell the property, live in it or rent it out? If you choose to rent it out it might be useful to invest in some property management software in order to ensure you get the best bang for your buck!

5. Stick to the theme

There’s no point renovating a beautiful old property to turn it into something lifeless and modern. Stick with the home’s natural feel. If it’s a country feel go with that. A bit industrial style? Roll with that. Restoring is all about bringing life back to the thing being restored so take the house back to its original beauty, nothing more.

Need some help remodeling your home? Check out my previous post on giving your home a new lease of life.

Vintage style earrings by Totally Jewel

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Mon, 11 Apr 2016 05:27:00 +0000

I recently received these beautiful vintage style tribal earrings from an Australian online jewellery shop called Totally Jewel. They have amazing jewellery at great prices and I was pretty impressed with the quality.

The order came super fast and in really nice packaging. It even came with a soft velvet bag to keep the earrings in which was a nice touch.

I've already worn these earrings countless times, amounting to countless compliments!

I also recently got my right conch pierced too which I will also do a blog post on soon when I have the time.

Let me know which Totally Jewel style you like best!

XO Ilana

Planning your Easter Outfit – 5 Must Have Wardrobe Items

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Tue, 22 Mar 2016 11:01:00 +0000

I am so excited that Easter falls in March this year but it has definitely come around quickly. I haven’t had much time to plan any outfit ideas (or lunch ideas!) until now. Here are some cute clothing items I recently found that would be perfect for any Easter event whether it is large or small.

1. Cape Cardigan

This little number is perfect to throw on over jeans and a blouse or even over a dress. Great for all weather and suitable for the Aussie climate. I could see this being worn to barbeques or for casual dates. I love items that can be layered as they are so much more versatile!

2. Cross over draped blouse

Perfect for dressier events or for when you just want to impress. This little blouse has the potential to take you from work to dinner and drinks with friends. Nothing is better than a cute black blouse and I just love the v-neckline – so flattering!

3. All denim midi skirt

Another perfect casual item but also a great basic item for your wardrobe! I just love midi length skirts as they are wonderful for hiding any imperfections but also comfortable and stylish enough to wear a bit dressier with a nice blouse and jacket. I would wear this to a brunch with friends or to visit my family for Easter lunch.

4. Tapestry floral blouse

Oh so pretty and perfect with so many flattering options such as high waisted pants, skirts and of course your staple jeans. The colours of this blouse also means it will go with a lot of different items which is always a good thing. This blouse will be sure to bring compliments your way!

5. Eastern ethnic maxi

Probably my favourite things to thrown on for a casual event is a maxi dress. Nothing is more comfortable but also feminine, cool and fun. These look great layered with denim or leather jackets in the cooler months or just wear as is in the warmer weather.

I hope you enjoy my top picks for Easter outfits!

XO Ilana

How to create a romantic, vintage mood in your home using lighting

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 10:34:00 +0000

I have many dreams of one day owning my own house. I even know exactly what I want it to look like – wooden floors, exposed bricks, high ceilings and of course, romantic lighting.

As you all know I am really into the art deco and vintage farmhouse style look, so I teamed up with Urban Lighting to choose some light fixtures that I would love to have for my own house someday.

Amalfi Pendant Light

This pendant light is art deco style to a tee. I just love this brass colored feature light. I think this would be perfect for lighting in a sitting room - I can already picture it in my head!

Verde Chandelier

Seriously, if I was an industrial designer this is the sort of light I would design! The wonderful leaf design is such an amazing feature, and it looks so unique. This would definitely be a good conversation starter. Depending on your style, I think this chandelier would be equally wonderful in a bedroom or a living room.

Bronze Cluster Wire Conical Pendant Light

I have officially found the lighting I want in my future home office! How perfect are these pendant lights? I love the industrial meets vintage style - perfect for my future home.

So what sort of lighting do you like best? Let me know in the comments below!

Showpo Trendy Workwear Style

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 10:46:00 +0000

I was recently sent a lovely skirt by Showpo, an Australian-based company that stocks trendy workwear. I was sent the whirlwind mini skirt in black. It is absolutely beautiful and wonderful to twirl in. It has a full skirt and is the perfect 1950s style skirt.

Unfortunately the skirt didn't fit me and I would recommend sizing up in this skirt as they run small. For reference I was sent the size 12 but it fits more like an 8-10.

Overall very happy with the quality and customer service from Showpo. The parcel arrived very quickly after it was posted.

I would recommend Showpo - just be sure to order the correct size!

In my Activewear

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Sat, 13 Feb 2016 07:30:00 +0000

As an avid exerciser I am always on the lookout for quality clothing for the gym. Of course I shop at the usual stores like Lorna Jane and Lululemon however sometimes it’s nice to go for something different to stand out from the clique.

I recently came across Lole, a stylish active wear brand. I was pretty impressed with their clothing so decided to come up with a little wish-list on the items that I would be interested in buying. I am really into stylish gym wear but also stuff I could wear casually on the weekend for example

Here are my favourite active wear items from Lole, perfect for the gym or casual

1 Faylinn Tank

Perfect colour and interesting back details. I would wear this to the gym for a low-impact class like yoga or for a casual weekend stroll along the beach. The options are endless!

2 Unite Hoodie

With the cooler weather just a couple of months away in Australia, I am keen for a light jacket I can throw on after a workout. This little hoodie looks perfect to wear after a workout or even at uni!

3 Eliana Capri

Perfect for the gym or anywhere these casual active wear tights would even look cute worn under a short dress or top. I love the capri length too.

4 Jolene top

A perfect throw on for low-impact classes or to wear before or after a gym workout. This top would even look amazing dressed up with some dark jeans, heels and a sparkly handbag for a night out on the town!

5 Alpine bra

Nothing is better than when you don’t need to change your bra when you get to the gym for your workout! I tend to always wear sports bras on days I am going to the gym after work and this one looks just perfect and comfortable – a must have if you are going to be wearing it all day.

Take a look at the website and let me know what items you like the best!

XO Ilana

Top 3 Gift Ideas for Valentines Day

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Sun, 31 Jan 2016 10:35:00 +0000

With Valentine's Day almost upon us I took it upon myself to think up a quick list of Valentine's Day gift ideas for all of you men out there who might be struggling to come up with something simple but sweet. Valentine's Day isn't about spending heaps of money, at least in my book, but a thoughtful gift is always much appreciated by the ladies!

1. Something sweet

Not all goes want flowers and chocolates! Go for something cute and sweet like a teddy bear with a a cute phrase attached to it. This is not only a thoughtful gift but something she can look at when she is thinking of you.
This white bear is just the bees-knees!

Romeo Bear

2. Something beautiful

For the ladies who love the more traditional gifts, grab her some beautiful long-stemmed roses! You will need to get in quick for these as they sell out quickly, especially online!

Pink roses are the best!

3. Something to keep

Of course not all ladies want real flowers - some would prefer something decorative that they can keep forever. Something elegant in a big pot is a must have. I think this dainty orchid would be simply stunning in most homes.

orchid

So gents, best be quick to get in and find something lovely for your significant other before time runs out! Hope this post helped you find something nice!

New Year - New Body Jewellery

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Sun, 10 Jan 2016 23:26:00 +0000

So it’s a New Year and this means a fresh new start and some fun new items.

On my list of things that need refreshing is my body jewellery. I am sort of getting sick of my plain and boring lime green stone belly bar and my boring pink metal rook jewellery. It’s time for something fresh, new and exciting.

For the belly bar:

This year I am really interested in trying a reverse belly bar. It’s something that is relatively new on the body Jewellery scene and looks really cool.

I am thinking of something fun like this reverse cherry dangle belly bar. It is super cute, quirky and bit fun.

For something a bit fancier I might choose this rose non-dangle belly bar. Super simple, sophisticated and less likely to snag on clothing! Definitely a must-buy!

For the rook:

My rook is over 12 months old now so it is officially healed. I was lucky enough to never really have any issues with it which is cool. Anyway so right now I feel like it needs something pretty to celebrate its success at healing.

I have considered a captive bead ring for my rook as I have seen this on other people and it looks nice. For that I might consider this cute dangle cbr or maybe something a bit more fun like this triangle shaped cbr.

Other ideas for the rook would be to splash out on a white gold curved barbell. I’ve actually always wanted something more expensive and nice for the rook as it is my favourite piercing. Something like this curved barbell might be nice!

Hope everyone is having a great New Year so far!

3 Easy Outfits For Those Days You Just Don’t Want To Get Out Of Bed

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Tue, 29 Dec 2015 12:17:00 +0000

Getting out of bed in the mornings is the worst, am I right? It seems there are just not enough incentives in the world to make waking up in the morning just a little bit okay. But alas, although nobody really wants to, we all have to get out of bed at some point. And then we have to get dressed and prepare for the day – no matter what it brings. Sometimes picking out an outfit is much more stress inducing than we’d like to let on. Am I in the mood for a sundress or a romper? Do I like this colour on me today? Flats or wedges? The questions, in conjunction with the possibilities, are endless. And the multitude of options and indecisions make for quite the hectic morning.

That’s why I’m here today. I hate getting out of bed just as much as the next girl, so I know the struggle that comes with choosing an outfit when the last thing you want to do is get dressed. Luckily, there are quite a few fashions out there that are early-morning friendly, yet look like you spent hours deliberating. Below are three no-fuss outfits that are just as easy as they are stylish; refer to this list the next time you’re having a mind block about what to wear. And thank me later!

1.The No-Hassle Dress

Cosmo said it, not me: “Get a work uniform and be done with it. A shift dress is the easiest thing in the world.” Although I have to say, I wholeheartedly agree. Not only do shift dresses look put-together and polished, but they leave extra room for those days that you’re feeling extra hungry or not-so glamourous. Either way, a dress is a simple on-and-off item that will work wonders for your fashion reputation even while you’re sleeping at the conference table.

2. The Romper

Rompers come in at a close second for easiest garment to wear – just behind dresses, of course. The only thing that make rompers just a tad more complicated is the whole undressing part when you need to use the toilet. Other than that, though, these one-piece wonders are perfect for an easy outfit that packs a lot of personality. Rompers come available in all kinds of styles, so one is sure to suit your fancy. If you need assistance, this article helpfully gathered a gamut of rompers for every occasion.

3. Skirt & Hat Combo

Play up the girlishness and trick everyone into thinking you tried with your outfit. A skirt automatically gives the impression that you’re putting in extra effort, and top your greasy hair with a chic hat, and you’ve really got them fooled! There’s no sense in doing your hair when you’ll likely just replenish your bedhead as soon as you return home. Try a trendy, yet comfortable, skirt option like a flirty floral piece, and offset the feminine vibe with a cool Western wide-brim topper. Plenty of inspiration can be found in the lists this website compiles for confused, comfort-conscious shoppers like us.

Last Minute Christmas Gift Idea – Get Her Flowers!

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Mon, 21 Dec 2015 11:18:00 +0000

So you may be a last minute man (or woman) and that’s ok. It happens to all of us and occasionally we just become so time poor that things like Christmas gifts for love ones take a back seat over seemingly more important issues.

But with Christmas just a few days away you better start making that list and checking it twice! Fortunately I have done some of the hard work for you!

If you are like me and extremely fussy when it comes to flowers (for yourself and others) then I have found the place for you!

Flowers For Everyone is literally just that – a flower shop for everyone! Whether it’s a gift for your mum, wife, colleague or just for yourself, this shop has it covered, and for a reasonable price too!

I have listed some of my favourites below based on what I believe would be suitable for different people but feel free to check out the website yourself and grab a bargain!

For Mum

My mum likes delicate flowers so I have picked this beautiful bouquet for her. It’s just perfect and so pretty too.

For Nanna

My nan loves gerberas so this is the perfect floral arrangement for her. I might even put through an order right this second!

The Colleague

Got a colleague who’s celebrating a birthday around Christmas. Don’t let them miss out. This beautiful orchid would be the perfect touch.

The girlfriend/wife/significant other

Pink peonies! Perfect for the love in your life!

Let me know how you go with your Christmas shopping in the comments below!

The Perfect Vintage Wedding Theme

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 11:17:00 +0000

With 2016 just around the corner many people are gearing up for fun-filled summer weddings. A friend of mine recently got engaged and although the wedding is a bit far away she is really wanting to go for a rustic or vintage theme.

So being the good friend that I am, I decided to conduct some research into designing the perfect rustic/vintage wedding bouquet. After all, the flowers are super important especially to the lucky lady who wins the bouquet toss.

I came across Tesselaar Flowers, an Australian company that delivers wholesale flowers market-fresh nationwide. I really enjoyed poking through their wedding floral style guide which gave me some pretty cool ideas to put to my friend.

1. The floral wreath

First of all I know she loves floral hair wreaths so picked this one to suggest to her. Super pretty, feminine and just the right touch of vintage style.

2. The bouquet

There’s nothing more gorgeous than soft pinks and muted whites. I think this lovely bouquet will be a perfect addition to the vintage/rustic wedding theme.

3. The décor

Nothing screams rustic like some well put together floral décor! Throw in some rustic items like some vintage crates and you have yourself a winner!

Let me know how you would style a rustic/vintage wedding theme in the comments below!

Why the 1920s and 1930s are so popular right now

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 23:42:00 +0000

source

Wherever you look at the moment, whether it's in music, fashion or films, you're unable to escape pieces of work that have been inspired by the 1920s and 30s. But since most of us weren't alive nearly 100 years ago, why are we all getting so nostalgic about the 20s and 30s?

Probably one of the big reasons this era has been so popular is thanks to the American period drama Boardwalk Empire. The HBO series is set in Atlantic City, New Jersey during the famous Prohibition era. HBO took a real risk on this programme, as the pilot episode which was directed by Martin Scorsese, cost $18 million to produce. But their risk paid off, as audiences fell in love with lavish nature of the darker side of politics portrayed by Steve Buscemi. The show premiered back in 2010, but like a lot of cult shows it didn't begin to have a big, worldwide following until the series ended last year.

The success of that show led the way for the successful remake of The Great Gatsby in 2013. The movie really embraced the glamour we all love about that era, following the life of millionaire Jay Gatsby, played by Leonardo DiCaprio. The attention to the period was an important part of the movie's success, so much so that the film won both Best Production Design and Best Costume design at the Oscars.

source

Since then so many different genres have been inspired by the 1920s and 1930s. Some of the world's biggest artists like will.i.am with Bang Bang and Beyonce with Dance For You have made the era sexy with their 1920s themed music videos. It's also had a big impact on the clothes we buy on the high street, with the likes of Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel and Colleen Moore clearly inspiring a lot of fashion designers.

The Roaring 20s have even made a big impact on gaming. The popularity of the decade has inspired casino website Royal Vegas Casino to launch their own Golden Era online slot. The new game has brought a bit of old Hollywood glamour to the world of casino games. Pull back the red curtains that surround this slot machine and you'll find a game that wouldn't look out of place in the era. The iconic characters of the glamorous movie model, the smart gentleman and the wealthy elderly woman all feature in this fun game. Royal Vegas Casino's double feature bonus game even gives you to pick from a whole host of vintage movie posters, which have been lovingly recreated for the game, to see if you can win some extra money hidden behind one.

But maybe the real reason we're romanticising this era is because it's so easy to fall in love with. The glitz and glamour of flapper girls and gentlemen in smart suits and bowties is something so beautiful it would be a shame if it didn't continue for generations to come.

Discover The Story Behind Wedding Rings

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Thu, 29 Oct 2015 09:44:00 +0000

photo via Morguefile

Wedding rings symbolise different things to different people. What a wedding ring means to one person could mean something completely different to another. However, there is an underlying and historical symbol behind the ring which has been accepted globally. Whether you are religious or not, wedding rings represent an outward symbol of your love and commitment to the other person.

You may be on the lookout for a stunning ring to show that special someone you want to commit and spend the rest of your lives together. If that’s the case, there are plenty of beautiful wedding rings in Melbourne from Simon West Jewellery. You will find a selection of bespoke and handmade engagement rings for your fiancé. Choose from unique designs that reflect your love and individuality.

Wearing the ring on the fourth finger of the left hand is common in the majority of western cultures. It has been a long-standing tradition, so much so the fourth finger has now become known as the ‘ring finger’. But where did it all start? Like everything, there is a history which explains the reason behind how it came to be as it is. This article will explore what wedding rings stand for and why they are worn on the left hand.

What do wedding rings symbolise?

Many people know wedding rings are a priceless sentiment of lifelong love. Even though it is a worldwide symbol of love, no one is ever sure of how the tradition originated. Some think it dates back to roughly 4800 years ago in Egypt when the first wedding rings were exchanged. In Ancient Egypt, it was popular for women to adorn their fingers with reeds, papyrus, and more as decoration.

To the Egyptians, the circle shape symbolises eternity. A circle, after all, has no start or no end. This was also a significant meaning to many other cultures too. The space within the circle also stood for something important. It pointed towards an opening that led to new things. So if a man was to give his love a ring, it would be a symbol of their endless and indestructible love.

The ring giving practice was also accepted and widely practiced by the Romans who instead used it to represent ownership. When a man gave his love a ring, it would show others he had ‘claimed’ the woman. The rings would be made with iron and represent a strong and permanent love.

Photo via Morguefile

Moving forward in time, the early Christians would use the wedding ring in marriage ceremonies. By the 13^th century, rings were simple and represented the ‘union of two hearts’.

If you are a hopeless romantic looking for your symbol of eternal love and commitment, there’s a beautiful selection of rings at Simons West. In fact, when searching for wedding bands for women, Melbourne boasts a strong collection. But if you want a reputable brand, Simon West is a great place to go.

When it comes down to the finger it is worn on, there is significance behind it. Despite the ring finger changing throughout history, the fourth finger on the left hand has become the permanent ‘ring finger’. How did this originate however?

Why the left hand?

In Roman times, the wedding ring was always placed on the left hand because it was believed there was a vein on that particular finger. It was often known as the ‘Vein of Love’ as it was thought to be connected directly to the heart. Even though scientists have proved this is not the case, some people still choose to believe it.

Looking for new jewlery for my double helix peircing

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Wed, 02 Sep 2015 02:57:00 +0000

As someone who loves body piercings I am always after fun new jewellery at good prices. Recently I just had my double helix piercing done so once it reaches the three month mark I will be replacing the original barbells with something more fun.

I really like to wear captive bead rings in helix piercings and because they are so close together I think it would be cute to get the same jewellery for both holes. I really like this 4mm Diamond Pave Ball 14K White Gold Captive Bead Ring from Fresh Trends. It is pretty but also sparkly which are both plusses in my book. I can’t stand boring piercings or plain steel bars so anything with a bit of bling is always a good thing.

FYI I currently have 11 piercings and I find it so hard to find nice jewellery. I will probably also be looking for a new tragus jewellery and a new belly bar. I find my belly bars all eventually fall off so it is definitely a good thing to keep some spares on hand! Will put some pics up of my jewellery once I have reached the three month mark!

Beginner’s guide to creating your first flower crown

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 22:41:00 +0000

A floral crown is the perfect accessory this summer – or for weddings, outdoor parties, festivals, events, you name it! And it’s not even too hard (or expensive) to make one.

With a bit of imagination, tools, lovely flowers, and this guide, I’ll show you how easy it is to create your very own flower crown!

What you’ll need:

· Scissors and garden shears

· A 30- to 35- inch grapevine strand

· 4-6 feet of florist wire

· Your most important consideration, of course, are the flowers you’ll use. You can either use cheap faux flowers from outlets or better yet, try fresh flowers. Not only does it smell lovely, no faux flower can replicate the natural beauty of living flowers. The real thing is better anyway, don’t you think? *wink* *wink*. If you have no garden or way to get them garden-fresh, then have it delivered straight at your door step by ordering flowers online. Sites like FreshFlowers.com.au make flower deliveries in Brisbane and other cities.

· Imagination. These steps serve as your down-to-earth guide to creating your very own, personalized flower crown, but do remember to have fun and improvise as you go. There’s no better reward than seeing the end result of your own work. Have fun!

Step 1

Gather 2-3 small sprigs of fresh greenery, cut excess leaves and stem till they are no longer than 4-5 inches. Using the grapevine, press the band together with your thumb and index finger. Start molding your crown by wrapping the florist wire through the band to secure.

Step 2

Add the flower to the base of the greenery, carefully covering the wrapped wire with the petal and enfolding it into the strand. I used white flowers because I’m tasked by the bride to create one. 99 more crowns to go after this one.

Step 3

Pinch the band together and start securing the flower to the bundle using florist wire. Wrap them together in a downward spiral motion, three to four times around the stem will do. Be careful not to overly squish the stem as this could cause the flower to lose moisture quickly.

Step 4

Add more greenery and bunch it together by wrapping the stem to the strand using florist wire. Add sparingly so that you don’t overwhelm the flowers. Continue adding flowers one by one and wrapping them to the band in your desired pattern.

Step 5

Once you’re finished creating a chain that is about 28-30 inches long, pull the end of the strand to form a circlet. Secure the end about halfway through the chain by wrapping the two together using a piece of florist wire, carefully covering the wire with greenery.

Done!

And you’re done! Once you have connected the whole circle, the crown should look like this! You now have a beautiful piece of hair accessory for your next event.

Remember to use real flowers over fake ones because not only will it look a heck of a lot better, but using the real thing ensures a more authentic vibe that will match your outfit.

Do tell us how your spree went!

How to Authenticate Your Antique Diamond Engagement Ring

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 04:06:00 +0000

As if choosing the right antique diamond engagement ring for your fiancée-to-be was not hard enough; authenticating the worth and age of your antique diamond engagement ring is an even more daunting task.

Age before Beauty

When it comes to antique diamond engagement rings, age is not everything although it is most certainly a focal point when verifying its value. Diamonds have been in circulation since 800 BC when they were first discovered in India, yet the most sought-after baubles seem to originate in the Georgian era (mid 1700‘s to mid 1800‘s) and are commonly known as “regency style”.

Starts with C

When it comes to verifying the value of an antique diamond engagement ring, the other traditional values come into play as well; carat, clarity, colour, and cut.

Carat – A metric carat weighs in at 200 milligrams and each carat can be sliced up into 100 points to provide a very clear, concise weight measurement.

Clarity – Internal attributes that affect clarity are called inclusions, while external attributes are called blemishes and together they dramatically affect clarity and value of a diamond.

Colour – Diamond colours range from colourless to light, leaning towards a yellow colour. The value of most gem-quality diamonds is founded strictly on the absence of any colour in the stone.

Cut – With an assortment of cuts to choose from, how a diamond is cut will affect the overall brightness of a stone due to its ability to reflect light through the rock.

Raw Material Testing

When it comes to testing the integrity of both gold and diamonds, there are standardized ways to do so which have been around for centuries.

Gold - Testing gold has been done the same way since before the world’s obsession with alchemy, which is the practice of (trying to) turn metal into gold. Alchemists were never successful although many people pursued the practice much akin to the great gold rush of generations past and the word now rests largely in metaphor.

In order to test gold, the practice is simple; since stamp marks made by the manufacturer can often help although they were not mandatory until the 19th century. Instead, testing gold is best done by exposing gold to acid.

Simply give the gold a little rub against slate and expose the rub-off to acid. If the little amount of gold that rubbed off disappears under the acid, you’ve got fake gold, also known as “fools gold”.

Diamonds - The science behind testing diamonds is much more recent than that of gold testing, and it can also tell a synthetic diamond from the genuine article. The testing of diamonds is facilitated by measuring the speed of which heat passes through the gem, and it is by no means a simple task. We suggest consulting a professional for this one.

Get Help

When appraising the value or authenticity of any antique diamond engagement rings in Sydney, you are still best suited to seek out an appraiser you trust.

Appraisers have a trained eye and are generally quite honest (especially when you are not buying from them directly). Testing gold or diamonds cost a nominal fee at most and it is good practice when you are considering dropping a few pay cheques on a single purchase such as antique jewellery.

Tips for Searching for the Perfect Homecoming Dress

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Wed, 15 Jul 2015 03:05:00 +0000

The only thing worse than not being able to find a suitable prom dress is finding one that you can’t have. It could be for any number of reasons; money, stock, sizes... Finding the right dress takes time and above all patience. Be careful of falling into the trap of loving one dress and hating all of the others. There truly is a massive variety of evening gowns out there, so being uncompromising is never a good start. Whether you absolutely have to have a certain outfit, or genuinely can’t find one that you like, here is a guide to make the dress finding journey easier a bit easier for you.

Have an idea of what you want

Do a little research before you go out hunting; check magazines, fashion catalogues and the internet for styles that tickle your fancy. If you already have an idea of what you want, jot down some of the key features of the dress to narrow down your search. There is, after all, no point in going to the shop if you have no idea what you want to buy. Take into account your body type, skin tones and budget. These are the things which will ultimately make the dress right for you.

Give yourself space to compromise

Limiting your choices to fit an exact style will make the dress far more difficult to find, more expensive to make and ultimately raises the chance of a disappointing dress hunt. While it’s good to know what you want, sticking to a rigid plan could end up being unnecessarily stressful. While there is a huge number of dresses to choose from, the designs are not infinite; so being particular could lead to expenses or problems. Know what you want, but give yourself parameters to cross. You might find that the unexpected change you had to make looks perfect.

Be an investigator

So you know what you want, but not where to get it. Where do you start looking? Well, we do live in the 21^st century and information is freely available on the internet. Start by looking at websites of different designers, try searching something like ‘homecoming dresses 2015,’ or browse online catalogues of local suppliers and outfitters. There are plenty of them. Be careful of buying dresses over the internet; you’ll want to try them on, maybe tailor them a little bit or see what other suitable dresses the store has in stock. If the dress you want isn’t in stock, many of the designers’ websites will give you a list of outlets they supply to.

Be prepared to travel a little

Unless you live in fashion central there is always the chance that your local options are limited. Scouring the web for suppliers in your neighbourhood will likely not give you as many results as you would like. Pick a radius out on a map from where you are, and explore your options within it. You may find you need to travel out of town to get what you want, but with the kind of money you are spending on a homecoming dress, you’ll want to get it right. So putting in the extra effort should be a necessity.

Good choices take time to make

If you’re anything like me, you’ll leave the search right up to the last week and then likely panic because you can’t find what you want. Take your time and start early. If you give yourself time, you’ll also give yourself more options. If you force yourself to rush your decision, chances are that you will encounter a disaster somewhere along the way. It’s also important to remember not to jump to a decision too readily. Feel it out and see how it works. Think of the pros and cons of the dresses you’re looking at. Consider everything. Settling on the first dress you see might work for you, but you never know which one of the dresses around the corner may have been absolutely perfect for you. Although having said that, there’s no reason to spend an entire year searching for your dress. Fashions change, we all know this. If you take too much time, your options could end up being a bit outdated.

New Sunglasses- Wishlist- Help Me Choose!

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 22:37:00 +0000

I recently just had an eye-test and confirmed that my eyes have gotten worse for wear again. However the optometrist told me I don’t need to update my regular glasses only my sunglasses as the prescription is a few years old now.

So I have been searching online for some sunnies as I find purchasing them online so much cheaper. I usually buy Ray Bansunglasses however I am of course open to other brands.

I came across the website iFrames, an Australian website which means I can get the sunglasses even quicker- a bonus!

I decided to check out the Prada and Oakley frames for something a bit different. Here are some of my favourites.

1. Oakley Frogskins -These are so cute- perfect for summer!

2. Prada Handbag - Just gorgeous and so posh looking!

3. Prada PR07PS - These are my favourite- can't go past multicolor!

Which one should I pick?

Vintage finds that only collectors know about

noreply@blogger.com (My Modern Vintage) — Mon, 11 May 2015 07:25:00 +0000

image source: https://flic.kr/p/4M8Ge3

Nothing helps a space or outfit feel unique better than vintage items. You can keep them as they are or renovate them to give them a different feel and chances are that you will be the only one with something like it! Whilst vintage is really popular at the moment, most people don’t really know what they should be looking for. If you’re interested in vintage furniture, there are lots of items out there that are worth a lot more than people realise, here are some of them:

Sewing Machines

In the latest series of the “Great British Sewing Bee” contestants were challenged to create garments using a vintage Singer sewing machine. Without the fancy stitch settings that modern machines can offer their users, the contestants initially struggled to get to grips with the machines their grandmother’s would have owned. After a while though, they began to appreciate the machines as a piece of history. And they aren’t the only ones, there are even museums dedicated to vintage sewing machines! New machines can cost a small fortune, yet the originals can often be found for a lot less at sales as people assume that old means worthless. However, it’s important to remember when you’re rummaging in fairs or second-hand sales, that these machines will often be kept in a box rather than displayed, so don’t be afraid to ask what’s inside!

Vintage Poker Chips

As more of us are choosing to play poker online, few of us are familiar with the value and prestige of vintage chips. With sites such as http://www.spinpalace.com, offering the opportunity for us to play our favourite games online wherever or whenever we want, this means that we’re more unlikely to visit a land-based casino and hold chips of our own. Yet vintage poker chips are collector’s items! Those who are familiar with poker and the world of casinos may be aware of this, but most of us don’t realise the value of the chips that may be part of their own personal collection and so sell them in garage sales without knowing how much they can be worth to an expert in all things vintage. The key is to have a good rummage in shops, and second-hand sales so you don’t miss out on these gems.

Interesting Door Knobs

Brian Cairns, a former builder, is set to become a multi-millionaire after purchasing a 12-tonne collection of brass fittings, that included some vintage door knobs. He decided to have them valued and was surprised to learn that the handles were worth between £150-200 and given the amount he had purchased, this added up to a staggering £2 million. Monetary value aside though, collectors find that vintage handles often have more intricate designs and can easily transform a door. They are easy to change over and yet people often don’t consider the variety of handles available, for chests of drawers or doors, changing the handles can mean your piece stands out from the rest.