SUKI SUKI

DIY Project: Floral Crowns

2017-02-04T22:47:00.000-08:00

I'm gonna show you how to make a floral crown today, a perfect rainy day project.

I worked in a floral shop for many years, and grew up in Hawaii where we were taught at a young age the art of Haku head flower leis (or lei wili). Haku leis typically have a base of braided leaves into which other plants and flowers are woven, and are worn on the head or around the wrist or ankle.

Haku Leis specially made for Free People's catalog

Haku leis are traditionally given with a kiss, and should not be taken off in the presence of the giver, as that is considered disrespectful. They should never be thrown away casually or tossed in the trash – if possible, they should be returned to the spot where they were gathered, or returned to nature by hanging in a tree or burying.

I will save the Haku lei DIY for another rainy day and start with something simpler-artificial flower crowns which are great because you can utilize recycled materials lying around like silk flower arrangements your mom bought back in the 90's(tear that sucker apart and use the wire and flowers).

The floral department at a department store (like Jo-Ann) will have other tools needed like wire and tape. Vintage millinery flowers are my favorite source of flowers because they are just so gorgeous. Those can be found online, at estate sales or thrift stores.

If you are unsure if the crown will fit, measure the total length around the head to about 22.5 inches. If you've already made the circular base, fold it as straight as possible and measure one end to the other to 11 1/4 inches, and adjust the wrapping to the desired length.

Now, let's start adding flowers. This is the fun part. Flowers with wire stems are easy to direct into certain positions. When using floral tape, it's always easier to hold the stem down with one hand and the tape taut with the other.

You can leave the back empty or finish off with more flowers. I find it easier to handle with an empty side.

Here are some pics of the few crowns I've made so far. I will post more here as I make them. Feel free to ask any questions.

floral crowns really elevate your head to an ethereal level.

Très Chic French Wallpaper From 1923

2017-02-04T22:28:00.001-08:00

très chic

C.L. Lyon Paris Lille antique wallpaper sample book

During the last quarter of the eighteenth century, wallpapers were mainly blue, pea-green, and gray papers. Common motifs were geometric small-scale flowers patterns often with vertical bands or white delineated squares.

The 1900s-1930s still saw bold vertical grids in combination with strikingly realistic botanical specimens or highly stylized biomorphic designs.

source:

Off the Wall. Wonderful Wall Coverings of the Twentieth Century

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Psychedelic

So Delicate

love this!!

these colors

yes please

wow

the stud arrives

reminds me of betsy johnson

the variation in colors are perfect

these floral patterns would be great fabric prints

gorgeous

bravo

Mind Boggling

I am blown away at how beautiful these all were.

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-suki suki

Stripes

2017-02-04T22:21:00.001-08:00

When wearing stripes in general, it's all about what you pair it with. Keep the rest of your outfit simple with solid colors, pastel hues, or interesting textures like denim, leather, or lace.

Striped Bottoms

SPRING 2013 RTW: Rufian / Skaist Taylor / Marc by Marc Jacobs / Paul and Joe

A fitted striped trouser or skirt is generally best paired with a fitted cropped top, tunic or layered with a jacket.

A looser billowy striped bottom can be worn with a loose or fitted top. Always remember to keep the outfit classy, simple, and sleek. Don't be afraid to tuck in your tops and accentuate your waistline.

Striped Dresses

Top Row: Christian Dior / Ralph Lauren / Luisa Beccaria / Christian Dior
Bottom Row: Marc by Marc Jacobs / Skaist Taylor / Jonathan Saunders / Marc Jacobs / Vivienne Westwood

Striped Tops

Top Row: Tommy Hilfiger / Y 3/ Helmut Lang
Bottom Row: Moschino / Paul and Joe / Paul and Joe

A striped shirt is essential. This versatile garment can easily create a sophisticated, nautical or paris-chic look in no time. Look for wide, scoop or boat necklines. Striped oxford shirts are huge this year too. Pair with slim jeans, bermuda shorts, or loose trousers.

Striped Suits

Top Row: Philosophy Alberta Ferretti / Marc by Marc Jacobs / Lacoste / Sportmax
Bottom Row: Dolce and Gabbana / Jonathan Saunders / Moschino / Balenciaga

If you truly love stripes, go for the striped suit. Worn head-to-toe, these looks are simply stunning. Be sure to wear the same hued stripes. Be bold and be you.

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-suki suki

Butter Yellow

2017-02-04T22:13:00.000-08:00

BLENDING HANSA YELLOW WITH OTHER COLORS VIA KROMA

Butter Yellow. I'm not sure what started the urge for butter yellow. Maybe it's the delicious taste of butter or that yellow makes me salivate.

In his book, “Remarks on Color,” Johann von Goethe said the following about the color yellow: ‘With yellow the eye rejoices, the heart expands, the spirit is cheered and we immediately feel warmed.’ That was back in 1840, and today's color experts still agree that yellow shines with optimism, enlightenment, and happiness.

Luella Bartley Spring 2010

Wikipedia's chart of yellows

Deep Gold and Purple Dress by Eley Kishimoto

Yellow Suede Platform Shoes by Partouf

Yellow Cactus One-Piece by Jeremy Scott

DKNY

Jenni Kayne / Alice + Olivia

Mustard Just Female Oversized Top / Sunlight Equipment Sloane Crew Neck / Lemon Curry Sonja Textured Knit

Yellow is thought to stimulate our mental processes, the nervous system, activate our memory, promote energy, and spark your appetite.

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-suki suki

1930's The Golden Age Of Glamour

2017-02-04T22:00:00.004-08:00

As a vintage garment collector and seller, I am always discovering and learning about clothing and history. The fashion of the 1930's were simply devine. There's so much to learn, but here's some interesting stuff from the world wide web.

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Vintage 1930s Photograph, Great Depression Era Snapshot, Women's Fashion

1930's fashion sparked the arrival of a new age in glamour influenced by the Great Depression, Hollywood films and romance. It was about getting back to a feminine look that enhanced a women's waistline, hips, and bosom. Women wanted to look like the women they were now seeing on the silver screen.

1930's Seductive Bias-Cut Red Rhinestone Satin Hourglass Gown

Hair was still kept short, but soft curls were added to give a more ladylike appearance.

Simple blouses, wrap skirts, v-neck cardigans, long free-flowing dresses, and short stylish jackets were all reflected of the 1930's. Accessories such as fur caps, coats, wraps, trimmings and stoles were worn to add a touch of style and femininity. Women wore shoes with rounded toes and thick heel, slip-ons, lace-ups, buckle-shoes, etc. Gloves were a must and it was imperative that they matched the shoes and handbag. And let's not forget...hats that were worn on an angle. (source)

DEVELOPMENT OF SYNTHETICS

The first openly synthetic fibers were developed in the 1930s. Prior to this, manufactured fibers had been developed to emulate natural fibers.

Dresses before the Depression were often made of fine silks and satins. Following the 1929 crash, materials like rayon were often used. Although not as beautiful or elegant as silk, rayon was notably cheaper, which was crucial in such lean times. It also allowed for more inventiveness in prints and dye, so that an inexpensive day or cocktail dress could suddenly have flair and verve. Rayon was easy to wear and care for, which was increasingly crucial throughout the decade and into the war years.

DEVELOPMENT OF THE ZIPPER

Fashions of the 1930s woman also changed with the advent of the zipper. Now one was less reliant on a maid, sister, mother or husband to finish getting dressed - zippers were easier and faster than tiny buttons. The zipper was also used commonly in skirts and dresses for the first time in the '30s. This helped to save money as one zipper could replace many buttons. Many women of the Great Depression made their own clothing. People often mended and patched their clothes before being replacing them.

According to Fiell and Direx, "the 1930s working woman was an ‘all grown up’ version of the 1920s flapper.” A softer, more feminine style replaced the boyish, flapper look of the twenties.

MATCHY MATCHY

Fashions of the 1930s woman were also characterized by the ensemble - matching dresses and coats or suits with blouses. A smart woman chose outfits in basic colors that were flattering, so that although the coat matched the dress, it could also be worn with everything else in her wardrobe.

SIMPLE SLEEK SILHOUETTES

Fashion design moved toward cleaner, simpler lines to reflect the simpler lives of the public. Silhouettes were sleek with straight lines. The aim was to slenderize with clean, straight lines and a neat, tailored cut to dresses. Some designers approached a 'mannish' look to their clothing lines. Diagonal lines were popular with many of the top fashion designers.

FANCY COLLARS

Necklines were lowered while torsos were sensuously molded beneath squared shoulders. Necklines received dramatic attention, often with wide scallop-edged or ruffled collars. Darts were replaced by soft gathers.

Sweaters of the mid 1930s were often adorned with high necklines, jabots (ruffles or frilling) and bows.

1934 Sweaters

1930's Collars

SLEEVES

Dresses were often adorned with cape, flared, bell, or fluttered butterfly sleeves with puff shoulders.

1930's jacket sleeve types

NATURAL WAISTLINE

Dress waists returned to the natural waistline, sometimes belted to appear narrow and accentuate the waist. Evening dresses had daring low-cut necklines and backs. Moderately full skirts accentuated a small waist and minimized the hips. Dress bodices were designed with inset pieces and yokes.

LONG SKIRTS

At the beginning of the decade, hemlines dropped dramatically to the ankle and remained there until the end of the thirties.

A common shape of the skirt was gore shaped, usually with a little extra "kick" at the bottom almost forming a bell shape. That meant that it hugged the woman's curves through the hips and thighs and swung out with a little flare around the calves. The pleats or gores allowed for maximum mobility. Another trend in ladies' skirts in the '30s was the kick pleat, a style that saw the back hem of skirts longer than the front by 3 or 4 inches.

Skirts were also designed with great detail. Upper skirt yokes appeared for the first time, designed in a v-shape and extending from one hip to the center of the yoke and continuing to the opposite hip. Skirts were commonly worn with sweaters or blouses and a waist-length jacket, as ladies' suits came into vogue.

SPORTSWEAR

The daywear of the 1920s had been distinguished by a sporty look, with the emphasis on lightness and fun. Suits and even trousers became more popular as more women entered the workforce and everyone had less time for frivolity.

Vintage french magazine, La femme chez elle, august 15 1933 ($10)

1930's photo of pretty fashionista gals in swimsuits on a cruise boat

The 1930s truly represent the coming of age for women’s glamour. Figure hugging gowns and soft feminine silhouettes articulated what the decade stood for. Floor grazing lengths, furs, and elaborate necklines embody the look of the 1930's.

My 1930's Wish List

I rarely come across 1930's garments thrifting at Goodwill, probably because they sell online too. A great place to look are Estate Sales. There are some very divine pieces for sale online too.

Sheer Chiffon

1930s Pink Hydrangea Print Chiffon Dress

1930's Black Lace and Chiffon Dress

Modern Women Rocking the 1930's.

Tea with Vintage Baroness. I just found this doll at her site Tea with the Vintage Baroness. Had to include her in this post. She really embodies the feminine style of the 30's. Check her site here.

Tea with the Vintage Baroness

This Old Life or "Confessions of a Creative Dresser. Nabby is a fantastic sewer and recreates looks of the 30's using vintage patterns. She is bringing tons of style to Arkansas. Check her site here

Nabbysvintagelife

ETC. ETC.

blog about 1930's makeup how tos here

buy 1930s makeup guide here

Shops for 1930s dresses here

pinterest has great 1930's themes too!

Deco Dames by fashionmefabulous

Rhapsody in Blue by fashionmefabulous

WANNA LEARN MORE? Buy this book. . . if it's still available.

By Charlotte Fiell available online here

sources:

FASHION: THE DOWNWARD SLOPE (1920S-1930S vs. 2012, Native Jayne

LADIES FASHIONS OF THE 1930s, Written by Carol Nolan - Edited by Julie Williams

FASHION OF THE 1930S WOMAN, Written by Sarah Jane Stratford

Fashion History - Ladies' Fashion Designs of the 1930's With Pictures

1930s Frugality, Written by Amy Hoover

1930s Fashion - The Definitive Sourcebook, By GlamourDaze

Creating the Look of 1930s Fashion in Today's World: Tips and Struggles

Ladies' Fashion in the 1930's, Written by Nancy Hayden

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Romance Was Born

2017-02-04T21:57:00.003-08:00

When fashion designers inspire you to start gluing pearl-covered origami to your eyes, you know you've come across something special. That special someone is Romance Was Born.

Since they first met while studying at East Sydney Technical College, the pair have carved their niche in the Australian fashion scene with their outlandish designs and theatrical catwalk shows.

They have designed for a number of musicians, including Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Cyndi Lauper, Debbie Harry, Lilly Allen and Architecture in Helsinki. Inspiration for their shows have included Captain Planet and Freddie Kruger.

They are super crafty, weird and seem to have been that way forever. They are psychedelic and futuristic, but I feel like all of Australia is. Their work is on a whole new level, above trends.

Romance Was Born designers Luke Sales and Anna Plunkett

2009

S/S 2013 2014

I Dream Of Rainbows

2017-02-04T21:47:00.003-08:00

No Rain. No Rainbow

"Imagination is more important

than knowledge."

- Albert Einstein (1879-1955)

A Rainbow in the sky,

fluffy, colorful,

ever so high

In the morning,

when the sun is in the east, the shower and its rainbow are in the west.

An evening rainbow means good weather in the morning, a rainbow in the morning fills wells and fountains. Sicilian Proverb

if you love animals and trees, people and rainbows, then maybe you are a "Warrior of the Rainbow".Cree Indian Proverb

I'm A Colorful Rainbow Ombre Hair Addict

2017-02-04T21:40:00.001-08:00

30 WEEKS OF EXPERIMENTATION

A BRIEF HISTORY OF MY HAIR

This is my natural hair color. A medium dark brown.

CHOP CHOP

After trimming it and finding the various lengths lackluster, I went for it and gave myself a short bob. If you're trying to grow out your bangs, this totally works by making most of your hair the same length.

WHY NOT CHANGE IT UP EVEN MORE?

D.I.Y. world of blonde here

HOMBRE, I'M GOIN OMBRE

My Rainbow inspiration here

And the rainbow journey has begun

I used paintbrushes, wide plastic tupperware, plastic gloves, conditioner to protect my skin, and a cape. Conditioner can be mixed with intense colors to subdue their brilliance. I also used manic panic VIRGIN SNOW to cover the areas I wanted no color to seep into.

essential must have

Jazzing Sheer Color #040 Red Hot // N Rage Twisted Teal // Manic Panic Purple Haze

Jazzing Red Hot is semi- permanent color and fades very very quickly. I love the color but wish it didn't fade so fast. Twisted Teal held it's color like glue. All the colors have faded into lovely pastel shades. I highly recommend keeping blonde here and there. It adds great contrast to bright colors.

THE FADE OUT

Looking back at all the phases of colors that is to come, this was by far my favorite. Once you go darker, it is very hard to cover unless you strip the colors out.

This rainbow pattern below was inspired by meadham kirchhoff spring 2011. This is the dye freshly applied.

New color added to the mix: Back Ends: N'Rage Bubble Gum Pink • Roots: Manic Panic Purple Haze • Middle: Twisted Teal • Middle above pink, long strip from roots, and right ends: Jazzing Red Hot

CHOP BANGS + THE FADE OUT

PINK BANGS

Inspired by Luella Bartley Spring 2008. The color quest continues.

I'm still using up the same colors but in just different areas.

THE BLEACH OUT
A fresh bleaching to lighten the roots and remove color, but teal is so colorfast.

BROWN // TEAL GRADIENT

My attempt at brown semi-permanent dye. We'll see...

New Color added: Roots: Clairol Beautiful Collection Light Reddish Brown • Tips: Twisted Teal

THE FADE OUT

At this point, I'm kind of sick of teal, but I have so much left so I'm gonna go for it.

ALL TEAL

I went for it •ALL TEAL• A hard look to pull off. I've become an anime character. Surprisingly rainbow hair is way easier to pull off.

The best way to change from a darker color like this is bleaching. Beanies are your best friend.

BACK TO RAINBOW

I added brown and new colors green and black to the mix. Green stains your hair very quickly. I would apply it to my hair and rinse about 3 minutes later and no color would rinse off.

CLAIROL BEAUTIFUL COLLECTION Light Reddish Brown at roots • JAZZING black at the roots • NRAGE Twisted Teal in the middle • MANIC PANIC lizard green at ends

THE FADE OUT

The semipermanent brown and black dyes have very little staining power. They are great if you don't want permanent color, but wash out in just a few washes.

MORE BLUES AND GREENS

JAZZING black at the roots • MANIC PANIC lizard green mixed with NRAGE teal for a darker green • green everywhere else.

GOING GREEN

This shade of lizard green is so pretty and looks great mixed with black/brown roots. I really enjoyed this combo.

THE FADE OUT

FEELING A BIT NORMAL AGAIN

Semi permanent brown dyes were fading too quickly, so I opted for a permanent warm cherry brown box dye and was happy with the result. For a little playfulness, I added more green to the tips.

whew....that was a good ride. more pics to come. I just dyed my roots jet black. My green dye is just about used up.

TIPS I'VE LEARNED THESE PAST 30 WEEKS

•start with whitest blonde possible for colors to be pure. if you start with brown hair, the color will be muted.

•apply conditioner or manic panic virgin snow toner in parts of hair you don't want dyed.

•read lots of reviews on colors to get an idea of how it may turn out.

•always wear gloves and protect your skin with vaseline or conditioner.

•when using multiple colors, use a separate brush for each color.

•use clarifying shampoo to help remove color.

•start with a pastel color and work your way to darker tones.

March is Women's History Month

2014-03-01T20:47:00.000-08:00

click to reach sale

We're having a sale in honor of such a special month. Everything, including newly added garments, are 20% off. Enjoy this deal while supplies last.

types of necklines

2014-01-16T21:27:00.000-08:00

Most of us are familiar with crew necks and vee necks, but what about sweetheart, jewel, and keyhole necklines. When encountering garments from the past, there are so many variations in style.

I keep a notebook of drawings of all types of necklines, collars, sleeves, etc. to help me properly describe vintage garments. It also helps me when searching for a certain style I'm craving in my wardrobe.

Roksanda Ilincic Fall 2013

2013-08-24T14:26:00.000-07:00

Last week we drove up to the top of Queen Anne to have Cuban coffees and toast, and when we left I noticed the leaves were already turning red.

In a few months, the air will be cold.

THE TREES ARE GETTING SLEEPY.

✿✿☺☁✿✿☂✿☹⚛✿✿☻✳✿⚕ ✄ROKSANDA ILINCIC FALL 2013

Roksanda Ilinčić was born in Belgrade (the capital of Yugoslavia) in 1977. She is a Serbian fashion designer based in London. She is known for her elegant day and evening dresses, which are worn by some high profile clients such as Björk, Lady Gaga, Serena Rees, Margherita Missoni, Kate Hudson, Nicole Richie,Emily Blunt, Tilda Swinton, Chloë Sevigny, Liberty Ross, Róisín Murphy, Rosamund Pike, and Thandie Newton.

Roksanda Ilincic's exquisite attention to detail is seen in her bell sleeves, luxurious fabrics, clean lines, and graphic yet simple black buttons.

Melissa Odabash Swimwear & Beachwear

2013-07-29T18:41:00.000-07:00

Even though summer is halfway through, let's embrace the beauty of beachwear. Growing up about an hours drive from either the North Shore or Waikiki, I always had a spare swimsuit, towel and coconut oil in my trunk. I'd buy an iced coffee and rush to the beach after work, bake in the sun, and cool off in the surf.

Right now, there are lots of beautiful bikinis and one pieces for sale. While I was on Designer Swimwear's website, I came across Melissa Odabash's bikinis.

Her exotic model makes everything look gorgeous, but I'm pretty sure that any of her pieces would flatter all body types.

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MELISSA ODABASH

As a former swimwear model who lived and worked in Italy for many years, Melissa Odabash has a finely tuned sense of what women want from their swimwear: beautifully designed pieces, with timeless style and cut from superior fabrics designed to suit every body type and make women look and feel their best.

Visit her shop here

Long Sleeved Maxi Dresses

2013-05-14T00:08:00.000-07:00

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.― Albert Camus

It's autumn in Australia, and although I've never been there, I love it. So much good music, fashion, art, people nature are Australian. I'm sure all the dolls down under are working their maxi dreses with minimal effort.

Long sleeve maxi dresses are great in autumn, winter, and even spring. They are a stylish way to stay warm and great for textural layering experiments. They can be dressed up or down for casual or formal wear. Maxi dresses, let alone long sleeved ones, are not a look I go to often, but I am so inspired when they are done right.
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The Row

BALANCE IS KEY

Long sleeve maxi dresses can be tricky to pull off. There are a few tips to help with achieving balance.

Doing your hair and makeup can really keep the dress from looking frumpy. Try soft curls, tousled hair, clean tight up-do, or a messy bun. Pay attention to the cut and fit of the dress. To keep from looking too conservative, try out a maxi dress with cut out designs or high slits on the sides (like the black and white dress below).

LNA Prescilla Dress in Black/ Eggshell [available here]

There's a variety of styles to choose from which include tailored cuts, loose and floaty, stretchy form fitting bodycon, and loosely fitted.

Not all styles work for every body type, but there is something out there for you. Always remember to follow your gut. If something doesn't feel right, it's probably not gonna work.

Also pay attention to the material and color. Patterned fabrics look best on flowy bohemian style dresses. Solid colored dresses are neutral and classic. They can be layered to function as a maxi skirt. Materials will factor in on how the dress will lay and stretch.

Tiered Floral Dress with flutter sleeves. Tracy Reese Fall 2011 RTW

LAYER

Add a sweater or jacket. Try a variety of styles in varied lengths. Layer with a scarf, vest, or pashmina. Don't forget the legs. If it's cold, pair with tights.

Adam Lippes / Tracy Reese Fall 2011

Maxi Dresses Layered with jackets. [Source]

ACCESSORIZE

Wear bold jewelry can balance out the volume of fabric. Wear a long pendant necklace or a bold pendant. Draw eyes up to your face with dramatic earrings.

SHOES

Depending on wether the look you want is causal or fancy, go with what matches the dress. You can dress down with ankle boots, sandals, ballet flats, or loafers. Dress it up with platform pumps and ankle booties.

Free People printed maxi dress with flared sleeves, v neck, and back tie

Types of Dresses

Tailored Cuts

To keep from looking frumpy, try dresses which define the waist and accent curves. Show that you have a great silhouette instead of getting lost in material. Look for dresses with a fitted bodice, cinched waistline, empire waist, princess seems or simply use a belt.

I came across an Arabic site, Sophia Jennah, which sells traditional clothing along with tailored long sleeved maxi dresses. These women dress this way as a part of their culture so it's great to see how they work it.

Black dress with pleated waist / Light blue Dress / Colour Block Dress by Sophia Jennah

One of my favorite runway shows incorporating long sleeve maxi dresses is Roksanda Ilincic's Spring 2013 RTW. Her dresses featured bishop sleeves, an array of collars and cuffs, high wiasts, fluid lines, and long hems that echoed the 60's and 70's.

Roksanda Ilincic's Spring 2013 RTW

Roksanda Ilincic's Spring 2013 RT

Flowy Chiffon

These types of dresses embody the glamour of the 1930's and the bohemian babe of the 1970's. They are fluid and elegant. Flowy dresses easily transform into easy-to-wear dresses when layered. The feminine silhouette is still visible through sheer lightweight material.

Luisa Beccria Fall 2012 RTW

Sonia Rykiel

Valentino Spring 2011

Bodycon Form-Fitting

These dresses are for the fit and confident. Every inch of your body is visible, so engage that core and work those abs. Fabrics range from jersey to soft cottons to synthetic blends.

Body Con Maxi Dresses with Long Sleeves

Loosely Fitted

These are loose, stretchy and almost form fitting. Create texture and a break in the line by knotting the bottom. Try layering it with a different texture like the blue dress below.

Bright wrap dress with knot / street fashion / tumblr

Pretty Maxi Long Sleeved Dresses For Sale

A google search will turn up lots of choices. Vintage dresses will range from formal gowns, mod 60's sac shapes, sexy 70s disco styles, to bohemian tiered hippie frocks (which Gunne sax if famous for).

Vintage dresses on etsy: black gown / peach gown

Here's a roundup of modern dresses with an array of collars, sleeves, sheer material, and shapes.

Daisy Chain Dress / Long Grey Dress / Lace and Mesh Long Dress available at Pixiemarket

Ann Sofie Back Zip Dress. Sold here and here.

Full Tilt Knit Bodycon Maxi dresses. Available here.

Neiman Marcus has an exquisite array of long sleeved maxi gowns. They really show just how gorgeous one can be even when covered head to toe.

Elie Saab Tweed Bodice Gown / Elie Saab Blue Gathered Jersey Gown

Roberto Cavalli Pointelle Knit Dress / David Meister Cold-Shoulder Empire Waist Gown

Give long sleeve maxi dresses a try. There are lots of modern and vintage ones available. Use these guidelines to help make this look work for you. Trust your instincts and be creative.

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-Suki Suki

Dip Dye Hair at Jeremy Scott A/W 2011

2011-05-10T20:58:00.000-07:00

The rainbow hair obsession continues....

Jeremy Scott, I love you. All the playful color is just what I needed in my neck of the woods. I know it's kind of bonkers to go out looking this way, but I'll take it over REI thermals and gray, gray, gray any day.

MAKEUP: Val Garland for MAC Cosmetics

HAIR: Eugene Souleiman for Wella

NAILS: Pattie Yankee for Dashing Diva

SNAPSHOT: Let's Go Clubbin'

THE SCOOP: Jeremy Scott certainly knows how to bring fun and shocking elements into the fashion and beauty scene, and this season was no exception. Hair was decked out with ultra-long multicolor extensions that the Wella team hand-dyed last night, and wrapped the colored extensions around the hair for a very manga-like, Sailor Moon feel. Eugene Souleiman for Wella said his intention was "to create the hair to feel like a dream."

Val Garland for MAC Cosmetics said that the look today is "club girls in the '90s -- kinky and slinky, part of the club scene, and a little bit taboo. The girl should look clubby and doll-like." For makeup she used a bunch of bright hues such as acid green and fluorescent orange on the lids, paired with a smattering of lashes on both the top and bottom, the top of which had some fuzz to them, and she described as "furry little monsters."

Nails went glitter to the max, with Pattie Yankee mixing fine and chunky pieces to get the perfect look. She used different colors on the girls, ranging from blue, silver, orange, red or bubblegum pink, with the plan to clash, not match, with the hair and makeup.

GET THE LOOK - MAKEUP: All makeup by MAC Cosmetics. Use Face and Body Foundation, followed byone of these Paint Stick combos: True Chartreuse Paint Stick as base, followed by Sunny Spot and Landscape Green Pond as the contour; Primary Yellow Paint Stick as base, followed by Canary Yellow and orange as contour; orange Paint Stick as base, followed by orange, and cherry as contour. For eyelashes, apply individuals: No. 35 on the top, and No. 7 on the bottom lashes. Next, use the Hi Def Cyan Pencil under the eye, in order to make a a strong bright-blue line. Finish the look but applying the Cool Pink Paint Stick to the lips.

GET THE LOOK - HAIR: All products by Wella. Use Stay Essential Finish, Shape Control Wet Styling Mousse to prep hair, create two high ponytails and either a zigzag or traditional part in the back, and wrap extension around the hair as you ponytail it. Use Thermal Protector as a straightening component on the ponytails once completed.

GET THE LOOK - NAILS: Pick one of the shades of glitter you'd like to use (Yankee used Young Nails-brand glitter), put brush on glue on the finger, and dump glitter, both fine and large chunks of the same color into a shot glass and stir with a toothpick. Dip nail into the glass and then flick nails over a garbage bin to prevent glitter from going everywhere. Use a topcoat to set. To remove, she recommends the Kiss All or One Remover -- just be sure to use something that's pure acetone.

[photos via That's So Yesterday and Hello Outlaw]

Rainbow Hair

2011-04-23T03:22:00.000-07:00

rainbow hair

You know how an image can be so powerful, it transforms you and suddenly you're racing in a whole new direction? Yes, well it happened... literally minutes ago. While drooling over topshop's pretty blog I came across Meadham + Kirchhoff's 2011 Spring Show and it was as if I was being hypnotized by those rainbow tresses.

About a month ago I was tempted to purchase some manic panic and tip dye my hair, but instead I purchased "Gray Lady" toner. To my pleasant surprise, my hair was streaked blue-gray-white. But, in the back of my mind, images of teal and violet blue were beaconing.

The great thing about manic panic dyes is that they wash out. Having dyed my hair every color under the sun back in the 90's, I've learned that manic panic will bleed from sweating or rain. But enough about that, let's see some rainbow hair!

Gweneth Tang via jak&jil

Gweneth Tang via hanneli mustaparta

I'm loving everything about his from the doll eyes, colorful clothes, and red pouty lips.

Meadham + Kirchhoff Spring 2011

Another current obsession: PILGRIM COLLARS

I came across this very helpful sight called Hair Color Ideas. She basically covers everything and has a section GORGEOUS RAINBOW HAIR....how do these people do it.

This is a combination of manic panic (hot hot pink, electric banana), special effects (napalm orange), pravana (blue, purple), and joico (green). And blonde, of course, by Joico. I used a star pattern at the crown for the color placement, each arm of the star a different color. I also colored the perimeter of my hairline in ROYGBIV order.

Okay, so this look is very bold and looks stunning on these gorgeous models. Being hapa and platinum is strange enough, however rainbow hair is calling my name.

dip dyed hair

I feel like the dip dyed / ombre hair has been going for some time now, but it seems bigger than ever at the moment. Colored tips are all over the runways this Spring. Colors to try out are seafoam green, pale blue, candy pink, and lavender. The more stringy the color, the better.

Via Tumblr

Dip Dyed Faded Green

Tip Dyed Turquoise Blue

Tip Dyed Black

Dip Dyed Emerald Green

Tip Dyed Red

Tip Dyed Buddies

Pink Hair: Free Charlotte via

Okay, time to go to bed and maybe wake up with a weekend of rainbow possibilities ahead. Good night.

Pretty Postals

2011-03-18T02:22:00.000-07:00

Remember penpals? Wouldn't it be fun to have one again? I came across this set of letters on flickr here. They are all so lovely and make me want a penpal so bad!

When mailing out packages to customers, I try to decorate the packaging with stickers and include a mixed CD just to personalize their purchase. After seeing these, I will be taking it to the next level with fancy tapes and more!

What a delight it would be to come home to this waiting for you!

Love Love Love

More stamps, the better! The goal is to fill the entire surface.

All it takes is a little extra time and fun stickers!

Such a lovely collage.

If you don't have the time, find premade ones on etsy.

Snail mail is making a come back.

I can't get enough, can you?

Download Song Found Love In a Graveyard

Artist: Veronica Falls

1930's Vogue Couturier Pattern Catalog

2011-01-27T03:38:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite ways of understanding vintage fashion is by looking at patterns.

Ebay is a fabulous search engine because sellers usually include large images. I could spend hours and hours gazing at these lovely images.

The illustrator does an exquisite job. Check them out below. Click on title for link to auction.

June-July 1937

Long Full Skirts & How To Wear Them

2011-01-06T04:09:00.000-08:00

eley kishimoto 2008 fall

Call me old fashioned, but I just adore knee length FULL SKIRTS. They make you feel like a woman and can be very seducing. However, one must be careful with retro garments like the full skirt and avoid looking like a recluse granny. (This doesn't mean you cannot raid her closet)

I am not blessed with curves and find full skirts make me look feminine and curvy, but also slim. Full skirts will instantly hide your bulges. The flare on the hemline balances out your frame. Not to mention, a full skirt will accent your waistline which makes it look slimmer. Yay! I need that after all this hybernating and winter feasting.

Louis Vuitton Fall 2010

So how do you wear a full skirt without looking like a frumpy mummy?

Quality is very crucial. Wearing a fashionable full skirt means buying fine fabrics, preferably soft with a simple pattern. You can't beat a vintage skirt. They just don't make em like they used to.

Louis Vuitton re-vamped the full circle skirts of the 50's era. But who can afford those beauties? A quick search on etsy will provide some mouthwatering selections to choose from.

Louis Vuitton Fall 2010

Just looking at Louis Vuitton's skirts above should inspire the most timid of hearts. The key to making this look fabulous are feminine tops, emphasizing the bust. Think bustier, princess necklines, plunging necklines, boat necks, scoop necks and exposed collar bones. Remember the golden rule of proportion: If you have width on the bottom, go slimmer on the top.

With this look, it's all about the bust, waist, and hem. Find a cut that sits high, over the hips. Vintage high waisted full skirts have sizing that don't match with modern ones so always try them on or compare the measurements to skirts in your closet.

A handy old trick: Wrap the waist of the skirt around your neck. If you can put the waist part around your neck, it should fit your waist. It's odd, but really works.

So what if you want a more casual look? Think light, minimal and monochromatic. The voluminous tops work because of their minimal color. They almost disappear.

dirndl style full skirts Marni (top) and Prada (bottom) for spring/summer08 via

When searching for a full skirt, try out different pleated styles and hemlines to see which fits your body type best. Pair it with stockings and play around with a variety of shoes.

What about with a button down shirt?

It can be done! The goal is to make it appear like a shirt dress. Monochromatic, fitted with a belt.

left: Adam Lippes and Peter Som 2010 fall. Right: Salvatore Ferragamo

left: Marc Jacobs 2010 fall. Right: Street Fashion

Skirts are wearable any season. It just takes good layering. Pairing skirts with knits is one of my favorite ways of wearing maxi skirts. This look works best with flowy lightweight skirt.

Peter Som / Richard Chai

Paris Fashion Week / Georgina Skalidi

Tracy Reece Fall 2011

THE FULL SKIRT SELECTION AT SUKU SUKI VINTAGE. TAKE A PEAK!

Animal print skirt / Black lace skirt / Winter scene skirt

Terracotta lightweight skirt / Blue chiffon full circle skirt / Floral rayon skirt

Erin Wasson Is So Succsexy

2010-08-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

Erin Wasson is an American model, stylist, and designer. She hails from Texas and is of Irish ancestry. She has graced the covers of countless magazines, walked the A-list runways, and has launched her own womenswear collection - Erin Wasson x RVCA. (shop here)

She has an effortless low-key sense of style despite being notoriously hard-working.

Download SongI'll Be Your Mirror

By Velvet Underground

Atlanta Noo De Cadenet Taylor

2010-08-08T21:56:00.000-07:00

Muse

May 1987 issue of Tigerbeat is for sale here

Atlanta Noo De Cadenet Taylor is the daughter of Duran Duran bassist John Taylor and Photographer Amanda de Cadnet. The poster of Atlanta's dad above really shows the resemblance between the two of them. Atlanta has great features from both of them, and it just shows that rock stars make beautiful babies. Amanda de Cadnet is now married to Nick Valensi, the guitarists for the Strokes.

More Atlanta...

She can manage to put on a gazillion accessories and look effortless. She's got some of the best hair I've seen. I first noticed her in cobrasnake, and was instantly drawn to her free spirited look & radiant smile. Atlanta's name alone is pretty damn awesome. Who knew a capital as a name would sound so good. Madison's another good one. (On a side note, names of US states and capitals here.)

ATLANTA FOR EXIT - The Cobra Snake

2010

Exit Magazine pairs the dream team of Mark Cobrasnake, Atlanta de Cadenet Taylor and The Girls of Wildfox for its latest issue.

I have been drooling over Atlanta even more than ever since seeing this shoot. What a doll.

Photos: The cobrasnake

Makeup: Amy Chance for Chanel at Celestine Agency

Hair: Christian Marc for Renee Furterer at Celestine Agency

Styling: Emily Faulstich and Kimberley Gordon, Wildfox couture

Model: Atlanta De Cadanet Taylor

70's fashion is making a big comeback. The free love and revolution of the 1970's never felt so nostalgic, even if I weren't there for it. I am a child of the 70s and went thru a disco phase in my teens. (I'm sure the hallucinogens played a big role).

Check out this great collection of vintage 70's patterns here.

Download mystery song here

AJE - Lair it up

2010-08-06T15:09:00.000-07:00

Aje

model: Fahrani Empel

It's so exciting to see tatted up models who keep it delicate and feminine. Fahrani Empel is an Indonesian superstar. Hope to see more of her soon. Aje is an incredible Australian brand. This is their summer 2010 collection. The winter collection is online and seems like sequined shoulders are going to be a huge trend. It's easy for sequins to look cheasy, but in subtle amounts - they are great embellishments.

Australian Love Affair

2010-05-07T19:41:00.000-07:00

Shakuhachi

It's like they put a bunch of random pieces together and it completely works.

images via Shakuhachi

SUKI SUKI

DIY Project: Floral Crowns

Très Chic French Wallpaper From 1923

Stripes

Striped Bottoms

Striped Dresses

Striped Tops

Striped Suits

Butter Yellow

1930's The Golden Age Of Glamour

1930's Seductive Bias-Cut Red Rhinestone Satin Hourglass Gown

DEVELOPMENT OF SYNTHETICS

DEVELOPMENT OF THE ZIPPER

MATCHY MATCHY

SIMPLE SLEEK SILHOUETTES

SLEEVES

NATURAL WAISTLINE

LONG SKIRTS

SPORTSWEAR

My 1930's Wish List

Modern Women Rocking the 1930's.

ETC. ETC.

✿✿●☻✿●✿☂●✿✿●☹✿

Romance Was Born

I Dream Of Rainbows

I'm A Colorful Rainbow Ombre Hair Addict

A BRIEF HISTORY OF MY HAIR

CHOP CHOP

WHY NOT CHANGE IT UP EVEN MORE?

HOMBRE, I'M GOIN OMBRE My Rainbow inspiration here

HOMBRE, I'M GOIN OMBRE

My Rainbow inspiration here

And the rainbow journey has begun

essential must have

PINK BANGS

TIPS I'VE LEARNED THESE PAST 30 WEEKS

March is Women's History Month

types of necklines

Roksanda Ilincic Fall 2013

Melissa Odabash Swimwear & Beachwear

Long Sleeved Maxi Dresses

BALANCE IS KEY

LAYER

ACCESSORIZE

SHOES

Types of Dresses

Tailored Cuts

To keep from looking frumpy, try dresses which define the waist and accent curves. Show that you have a great silhouette instead of getting lost in material. Look for dresses with a fitted bodice, cinched waistline, empire waist, princess seems or simply use a belt.

I came across an Arabic site, Sophia Jennah, which sells traditional clothing along with tailored long sleeved maxi dresses. These women dress this way as a part of their culture so it's great to see how they work it.

Flowy Chiffon

Bodycon Form-Fitting

Loosely Fitted

Pretty Maxi Long Sleeved Dresses For Sale

Dip Dye Hair at Jeremy Scott A/W 2011

Rainbow Hair

Pretty Postals

1930's Vogue Couturier Pattern Catalog

Long Full Skirts & How To Wear Them

Erin Wasson Is So Succsexy

Atlanta Noo De Cadenet Taylor

AJE - Lair it up

Australian Love Affair

HOMBRE, I'M GOIN OMBRE

My Rainbow inspiration here