Empowered Traditionalist

A reader sent me this pick, and I  love how effortless this woman combines the classic elegance of the 50s with modern elements.The key to this vintage look  is pairing your strong vintage base (her dress) with modern pieces that complement, and keep it from looking to out-dated. The strong pieces here are her men’s inspired watch, neutral mary-janes and  the structured handbag.

Do:

-Choose a pair of heels that have a contemporary feel, the double ankle straps in patent leather are contemporary, providing the grounding necessary for an updated feel.

-Have fun with men’s inspired accessories. There is something surprisingly charming about pairing a mens ties knee socks with your retro base.

-choose a modern handbag. Whether a clutch, “briefcase” style or full-fledged handbag, keep it smart and classy. Avoid a slouchy or hobo style bag.

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I’ve been told that the clothes in Madmen are to die for, while I’ve never seen a whole episode, I have to admit- the clothes are lovely.

Who wouldn’t want that maroon dress shown above?

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Just another darling ensemble. Note the chunky heels underneath.

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More than you would think… Check out these famous ladies and their long layers. You can wear long skirts too!

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Thanks to my good friend Elaini for sharing this JasmineStar photo with me!

What I love about the outfit above is how practical it is for Spring. Here we are facing sunny days (or at least some of us- our heart-felt sympathies to those of you burried in snow on the East coast) but still nippy tempatures!

Solution? Keep the tights.

Do:

-Pull out your Spring frocks

-Pair it with fun Summer heels in lighter tones (anything but white)

-Have fun with bright colored accessories. Break out that poppy bag or bright yellow scarf! Notice our models buttercup headband?

Don’t:

-Forget your cardigan or jacket. Even with the tulips popping up for air, you’ll need your jacket handy.

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Again to grace the pages of our blog, First Lady Michelle Obama.

Mrs. Obama has a few key elements in her outfits that are always the same, can you spot them?

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I do like it, especially the oxford shoes.

Photo Credit:

The Sartorialist

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Mrs. Obama continues to amaze me with stunning sense of style. Graceful, classy, always fitting for the occasion.

Her pieces are simple, flattering to her figure and skin tone. Totally reminiscent of Jackie Kennedy.

More Pics coming soon!

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Always wanted to wear that little vintage hat in the back of your closet? Now is the time to break it out.

This pic, shot on the streets of N.Y shows you how to mix some bold floral patterns without looking like antiquated wallpaper.

(Please excuse the low neckline…cleavage is not part of your ensemble I’m sure

Do:

-Cement the outfit with some basic black. The black tights here act as the anchor for the prints. She lengthens her legs by wearing shoes in the same color.

-Mix prints, but keep them in the same color family. Pull a color from your dress, using that to go on.

-Go to a thrift-store and practice. Find some prints and mix and match.

-Wear your hair up. Most vintage hats were designed for women wearing their hair 1)very short or 2) up in the back. Do your hair up, but keep it messy (nice and playful).

Don’t:

-Wear bulky or textured fabrics, particularly for the blouse. When working with prints, adding a massive amount of texture confuses the eye.

-Go overboard on jewelry. Simplicity is key when working with prints. Maybe a pair of pearl studs- but leave it nonchalant.

Any ideas from the Peanut Gallery? Love it, or wish you’d never seen it?

____
Glamorous fashion, with just the right touch of modesty.

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I never knew Vintage chic could be this easy! Check out the laidback feel drawn from the peasant skirt. The Ballet flats just keep it “down to earth” and set apart from your normal business causual.

Do:

-Pair and embroidered shirt, or any shirt with texture, with  an floral print skirt for a magpie-chic look.

-Play with colors. Just because the sample is shown wearing earth tones, doesn’t mean you couldn’t do the same with a bright blouse and skirt.

-Layer on a scarf and hat to keep warm.

-Wear flats. Ballet flats, flat boots, anything flat.

-Throw in some jewelry. A cuff, ribbon choker, layered necklaces would all pair well with this look.

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