Becky's Vintage Wardrobe

Photo Game!

2010-07-29T13:44:00.001-07:00

I saw this on another blog and thought it might be fun to give it a go :)

A photo of you in your room:
(I have none of me in my current room but here is a very old picture of me in my room when I lived with my mum)

A photo of you very drunk:
(This is the last time I got drunk, and the most I was ever drunk, over 2 years ago)

The youngest photo you can find of yourself in digital form:
(I'm the curly haired one front centre- I'm 4)
A photo of you on your birthday:
A photo of you in one of your favourite outfits:
(This isn;t actually my favourite outfit, I'm not sure what is, but I do like this one so it will do)
A picture of you making a goofy face:
A picture you MIGHT have edited to make yourself look more attractive:
(I honestly can't find any- brilliant!)

A picture of you truly being yourself:
That's my brother's hair. My other brother is there somewhere.

The most recent picture of you:

A picture of you being ridiculous:
Skanking at Reading to no music, I believe. Or was it QOTSA? I forget.

A picture of you showing off a new haircut:
A picture of a time in your life that's over, but you wish it wasn't:
(Summer 2005- it was the best but also the worst. Odd)
A picture of a time in your life that's over and you couldn't be more thankful that it is:
I have such a moonface! The girl is Kerry who was a close friend at this time. She is nothing to do with the reason why I don't want it back though.

A picture of when you were anything but happy:
I look pretty happy though.

A picture of you that you had no idea was being taken:
(This was quite difficult- I have a reputation for always knowing when a camera is on me!)

A picture of when you were a different person than you are now:
The day everything changed (or at least, the day that led to the chain of events that changed everything).
A picture of you with someone you love:
A picture of how you'd like the world to see you:
Teehee!! This also fits in "A picture of you drunk" and "A picture of you being ridiculous". We found these hats on someone's fridge in halls and decided to 'borrow' them.

A picture that describes how you'd like to spend every day:
With Rich in Whitstable.

A picture of a time when everything was changing:
My limbo time.

A picture that makes your heart ache:
I love this photo but at the same time, it makes me sad. I want to reach out and grab 16-year-old Becky and take her home straight away.

A picture that makes your heart smile:

A picture of one of the best nights of your life:
When we met MCR <3

New Piercings!

2010-07-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

Well, my blogging has been a bit sporadic lately. I've been super busy this month and have barely had time to make anything at all.

I'm currently working on a dress for my best friend. I've had to alter the pattern and I have a gazillion pattern pieces so it's taking a very long time. I think once I start sewing it will move along a lot faster.

Anyway, I just wanted to write a little update about my new piercings I got yesterday. There was a lot of trauma involved with these. I was meant to get them on Thursday but the piercer in the studio was away. So they told me to come back on Saturday. Get there and it turns out that they don't do the piercing I wanted. Sigh. So I trekked all the way back to another place and they did it for me. It went swimmingly, it didn't hurt one bit but then I nearly fainted. Which is odd as these were my 22nd and 23rd piercings, and I've never even been a little light headed afterwards. I was ok in the end though.

So, without further ado, here are my gorgeous (slightly bruised and bloody) new piercings at 4 hours old:

Sorry they're such a state. The right one is very badly bruised right now so I'll wait a few days before taking a better photo.

But aren't they lovely? They're called Sirius and Severus (bit of a Harry Potter geek). I love love love them and wish they would never reject. Sigh, such is the nature of the surface piercing.

Charity Shopping!

2010-07-06T02:50:00.001-07:00

I had a good haul yesterday. Here are my finds:

A pretty duvet cover that I plan to use to make a 1960s dress.

There was a lady taking forever at the counter, asking the woman working there which shoes looked best on her. In frustration, I raised my head up and caught sight of these on the very top shelf. With the Beatles was £3.99 and Sgt Pepper was £5.99. In Brighton, they are over £20 each and locked up in a special glass case to stop theft. Very happy Becky!

I also bought a lovely yellow Crimplene 1960s dress. It fits perfectly, although I'm not sure if it suits me yet. I do hope so because I love it. I'll get a photo later.

It's very hot today but I might go down the road to my nearest strip of charity shops. I have the bug again now.

Snoods!

2010-07-01T09:22:00.001-07:00

A question for the UK followers. Or any others, I'm not fussy, but mainly targeted at the Brits:

I'm looking into ordering some 1940s repro snoods for the website. I was wondering two things and to make it easier I've added a little poll there on the right:

1) Would you be interested if they were priced between £10- 15 with the usual free shipping to the UK? Don't worry- I won't hold you to this, it's just to get an idea of whether they would be of interest.

2) What colours would you like to see?

Thank you :)

I'm going to the beach tomorrow. I'm very excited at the prospect of wearing my 1950s pop up sun hat! It's been a bit cloudy today though so I hope the sun comes out tomorrow. Although I still have absolutely no idea what to wear. Maybe I'll hurridley try and finish my gingham blouse?

Roly Poly

2010-06-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

Today is super hot. I've had a good day though- I've done a whole load of housework, got about halfway through the top to match my dress (although I think it will be a little too small) and done a whole load of promotion for my website. (Ps: www.decembervintage.co.uk).

Anyway, this is how I look today. I managed to do something quite interesting with my hair, which I'm pretty proud of. I tried to get a photo but it's hard to take a photo of the back of your head when no one is around to help out.

I look a little odd in this photo. A bit sinister.

I wanted to get my hair out of the way whilst I was tidying, so I twisted each side back towards my head. Then I decided to get the rest of the hair out the way so I rolled it all up. It was surprisingly easy and looked quite good considering it was so quick:

Sorry for the bad photos, I hope you can make out what it was like. Right now it's all flying away and falling out but it held pretty well.

A complete list of my make up today, seeing as I've changed some products lately:

Foundation: Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection in Biscuit
Concealer: Benefit Boi-ing in 1
Benefit It Stick
Blusher: Benefit Thrrrob
Powder: Benefit Get Even in 1
Highlighter: Benefit High Beam
Eyeliner: Collection 2000 Fast Stroke Liquid Eyeliner in Black
Benefit Eye Bright
Lips: Rimmel 1000 Kisses in Red Dynamite (whole lips)
Benefit Benetint

Yeah, that's a lot of products!

Vintage Village

2010-06-23T09:20:00.001-07:00

Hey guys,

Just a little post today to point you in the direction of a lovely little website I've found: www.vintagevillage.ning.com.

It's a social networking site just for people who love vintage. Well worth a peek if you like the bygone eras.

Now I'm going to see if I have anything red or white to promote for the shop- Might as well make the most of this England love!

New Dress

2010-06-22T02:44:00.001-07:00

I've finished my Butterick dress! I'm about to write a review on Sewing Patterns Review, and I'll link it when I've finished.

Here is a picture of the front and the back:

I think it looks very nice, apart from an issue with the bodice. The shoulders are far too wide and it's nowhere near full enough in the bust. This gives a bizarre combination of bagginess around the top of the bust but not enough fabric to cover my bra, meaning I have to wear a t-shirt underneath to avoid flashing side boob at everyone. Never mind.

So this is what I'm wearing today. Well, tried wearing- I didn't get any more than 5 minutes down the road before realising it was completely impractical and turned straight back home. A house dress only, I think.

I am however very pleased with the waist line. I am quite short waisted so I adjusted this pattern to fit and it sits just about perfectly on my waist. So that's at least one success.

I love the colour combination so this afternoon I'm going to start a top made of leftover fabric and bias tape.

This is how I look today. Once again, I have not been at all tired so I didn't get any sleep last night. I hope this isn't going to happen every fortnight.

Make Up: Basics &
MAC Lustre Lipstick in Ladybug

Hair flower:Peacocks
Shoes: Primark
White T-shirt: H&M

Sewing!

2010-06-20T05:21:00.000-07:00

Guess what guys? I'm better! After a week without any pain from Tietze's, I think it's safe to say it has gone away for now. Yay! I just hope it doesn't return any time soon.

So, with my new found mobility, I have started sewing again. This makes me very happy :) I thought I'd ease myself in with something gentle- the Butterick 6015. I'm making the blue gingham version on the front. Which makes it sound like I have no creativity... It's more that I just really love the red trim with the blue gingham.

I started last night and, apart from reading the instructions wrong and accidentally sewing two pieces together that shouldn't have been, it is all going well. I'm hoping to get it almost finished today. Though I reckon that seam binding is going to take forever!

Secret Project

2010-06-18T04:03:00.000-07:00

I can now make my big announcement on Secret Project!

Www.decembervintage.co.uk is now LIVE!!!

Yes, that's right- I've flung open the (cyber) doors on my very own online vintage shop. Woooh!

I'm still listing items as we speak so do keep checking back. I'm even giving a 10% discount to any of my followers with the code Blogger1.

Here is a little sample of what we have to offer:

1950s blue and white stipy day dress- ideal for seaside trips!
1970s Unworn green ruffle cocktail dress.

1960s green paisley mini dress.

1980s black poppy circle skirt. We also have an identical skirt to this in blue instead of black.

Go and have a peek. We are also on Facebook - December Vintage-, Twitter- Decembervintage- and we have a vintage streetstyle blog to go alongside the site- www.decembervintage.blogspot.com.

I hope to see some of you following us soon :)

Suspense

2010-06-17T04:52:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,

Just a little note to say that Secret Project is being unveiled tomorrow at 12pm! (All going well). Here is a little teaser to whet your appetite:

I am very, very excited!

Birthday!

2010-06-15T15:36:00.000-07:00

It was my birthday weekend this weekend. Yay!

On Saturday I had a little party, 1990s themed. I was dressed as Geri Halliwell, although I don't have any photos of that. Then we went out to the local rock club and I wore this cute dress:
Not the best photo of it (or me), I'm afraid, but it's the best I have. That's Marie behind me, whose half-a-face featured several times in my piercing post. Note the football shirts- this was the first England match which also happened to be Download weekend. So all the regulars were up in Donington and we were left with the drunk football fans, stumbling in for a laugh.

The dress is from New Look. You can't really see the detail here but it has ruffling either side of the bodice and a little tie belt.

Then, on Sunday my mum, brother and grandparents came round. I looked like this:

Flower: Peacocks

Dress: Beyond Retro

I'm chuffed that this dress fits me- I haven't worn it in a year. The last time I wore it I had lost 10lbs and it fit about as well as it does now. Then I got bored of dieting and put all the weight back on... you know how it goes. But the fact I can fit into this dress now means I'm about the same weight again as I was then. Yay! (I have no scales so clothes fit is my only measure).

I love this dress. Even if the darts do look like nipples...

Grace Kelly Exhibition

2010-06-11T06:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my Grandma and I travelled up to London to the V&A museum to see the Grace Kelly exhibition. The clothes are amazingly beautiful! It's all so classic but then there are some really stunning dresses. It made my Grandma very nostalgic, bless her. She was telling me all about how she had made a dress similar to this one and her bridesmaids dresses were modelled on that one, and so forth. I like knowing these little things about her life in the 50s.

After the exhibition, we got the bus to Sloane Street and went shopping in Harvey Nichols. She bought me a MAC liptick for my birthday. I'm very pleased as I keep meaning to buy something from MAC and never get round to it. I got Lustre in Lady Bug and it's lovely. As we bought it, the man serving us- who was very hipster cool (shaved head, oversized glasses, military jacket and didn't smile once throughout the whole process in an I'm-too-cool-to-smile way) said, completely deadpan, "I really love your hair". It was a lovely compliment but also very funny in the way he delivered it- too cool for intonation. I don't THINK he was being sarcastic!! My Grandma loved that.

This is how I looked but please do bear in mind that this was once I'd got home. It had been very windy and raining a little so I don't look all that here!
I'm wearing my faithful red suspender skirt and Primark top here. I need some more clothes!

Make Up:
Eyes- Natural Collection Eyeshadow in Barley
Benefit Big Beautiful Eyes (mid brown eyeshadow)

Lips- MAC Lustre lipstick in Lady Bug

Today, I've been out shopping to get my free Benefit pencils in Glamour magazine (yes, I bought all 3!) and played a lot with the Hipstamatic on Rich's iphone. I convinced him to get it and it is the most fun ever!

This is me today, wearing exactly the same make up as above. (Well, a different application, obviously! I meant the same products...):

Here is a picture of me and Rich, because the only other photo I've put of him on here is the one with him drying his hair. It's not really fair to make that the sole image of him on here. He looks like John Lennon.

And finally, this shot I took which I think looks really cute.

Magazine Scans

2010-06-07T13:13:00.000-07:00

From several Woman's Realm magazines 1962

I absolutely love the text in this one! It's oh-so-close but just misses the mark for independent women!

That's it- I'm bringing back the word gay! Look at that pink hair!

This throws all my dating skills out of the window! Nylon "zipps" advertised in the early 60s.

Much, MUCH more to come! I still have about 65 magazines to scan. I'll be kept busy doing this for a fair while I think!

My Day at the Antiques Fair

2010-06-05T09:17:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful time with my Grandma today. In a neighbouring town, there's an antique/collectables and crafts fair once a month. It's a big thing, I've always known about it. In fact, it was there that I saw the elephant earrings I mentioned in my piercing post. That was the only time I'd been.

My Grandma took me there today and I was amazed that I've wasted so much time waiting to discover it properly! There are wonderful vintage things everywhere.

I didn't have much money to spare but I did stumble across something magical- Over 70 Woman and Woman's Realm magazines from 1959- 1962! We had to call Rich and encourage him to come over to carry them for us- I'm not very strong at all and my Grandma's a 5 foot 75 year old! He did it though and we got the lot for £35!

The second-literally- that I got them, another lady asked the stallholder how much they were. She was less than impressed when I picked up both boxes. She was mumbling about "Well, she didn't need to take the whole lot. She could have left me a couple". I would have done, had she only asked. Unfortunately that's the nature of events like this- you need to accept that sometimes other people will get there first. There's no use getting so offended by it. Honestly, the ways she was so bitter you would have thought it was a personal insult to her!

Anyway, I am amazingly happy with my stash. I don't have room for that many magazines so I'll be selling some of them on Etsy. Keep your eyes on my Etsy Mini if you're interested. It's going to be a mammoth task scanning them all though, so don't be too impatient!

Once they're done I'll post some of my favourite pictures on here. They're brilliant- tips for make up, fashion, home furnishings- the lot! Happy Becky!!

Oh, and the secret project? Coming along very nicely indeed! I consulted with my Grandma today and she's very excited about the project. She is an amazing help with it too. Good times!

Piercings

2010-06-02T05:31:00.001-07:00

I'm taking a little break from what I'm doing (which is all very productive but unfortunately isn't getting my dissertation proposal done!) to blog a little about my piercings. Because I love them that much! It will be a little photo story :)

It will be very long- you don't need to read it. It's more something that I want to do, rather than expecing you guys to sit and read through it all. If you like, you can just skip ahead to the pictures of me. There are some good ones in there!

I got my ears pierced the very first time at 10. I'd gone to the local craft fair with my Grandma and found some wooden carved elephant earrings. I really wanted them (I never got them in the end!) but didn't have my ears pierced. So my Grandma took me to the hairdressers and I had it done. I loved the sensation and giggled like crazy because it tickled. The lady doing it said she also liked getting her ears pierced- I remember she had three studs in each ear. Maybe she was my young influence to get so many!

I thought I was 10 here but actually the board in front reads "March 1998" so I was only 9. I have a little book with photos of me aged 10 so I'll dig that out and scan them later. For now, this will have to do.
Unfortunately, we went on holiday a couple of months after I got them done and my Grandma bought me some new earrings. I changed them over but lost one. When we got back to the room, the maid had accidentally thrown out my other pair. So I had to let them heal up.

Three years later, I decided to get them done again. So me and my mum rushed to F Hinds- I was determined to get them done before the summer holidays! The next year my friend Mel decided to get her ears pierced again so I went along too. Unfortunately the hairdresser pierced them a bit wonky so now they're uneven. It's not too noticeable though.

Here's me at 15 with two piercings in each ear. It's not a great photo- again I'll try and find the original and scan it in. This is a photo of the photo.

I think I was 16 when I decided to get my next two. I didn't get them at the same time, but I think they were in quite quick succession. I remember one (I think the fourth pair) was done at a really dodgy tattoo parlour which was fantastically cheap but also pretty unhygienic.

Just before my 17th birthday. I think if you look at the big version, you can see my various studs. It looks like one pair is pink to me.

By now I was into my rock music and lusting after piercings because they would make me emo and therefore cool. Haha, I know, I know!! I desperately wanted a lip ring but unfortunately my braces put a stop to that!

One day, going to town with my best friend Marie (which turned out to be significant for other reasons too, long sentimental story!), I told her I wanted my nose pierced. She encouraged me to do it so I popped down to the Jobcentre to find my mum (She works there! She wasn't standing in line!) and asked her permission, because I was a good girl like that, and she was cool with it. So I went to the goth shop in town and got it done by the very gothic and very gay piercer who I was absolutely in love with!

Aged 17 here. That's Marie's half-a-face. This is a good photo because you can see my nose ring and all my pretty coloured ear studs.

The next piercing I wanted was a scaffold. I don't know where I even got the idea for it but I desperately wanted it. So a month after getting my nose pierced I decided to go for it. I thought it would be a bit too much for my mum so I did something sneaky- I told her I was going to get the top of my ear pierced. I wasn't lying! Before Dan (the piercer) could put the bar in, he had to put two labrets in to let the swelling go down. When my mum asked why I had two I muttered something along the lines of "Oh.. I just wanted two...".

That's Marie's blonde hair in the corner too! Here you can see my scaffold, my four ear piercings complete with pumpkin earrings and my nose ring.

But that wasn't enough! I wanted another piercing. It had only been 5 months since I got my nose pierced, but I decided I wanted my nose pierced again. So I went back to Dan to get it done again.

Here I am with two rings. I very rarely wear two rings, although that was the reason I got the second one pireced in the first place.

Next month, I wanted more more more! Then came the heartbreaking news that Wicked- the shop where I'd got all of my "proper" piercings- was closing down. I was gutted! The one positive? They were having half price on all piercing. So instead of getting one surface piercing, I got two. One horizontally above my tummy button and one horizontally below. I have no photos of these, unfortunately. They only last a total of 6 weeks. I now have a one-inch scar where each was- the top one is a lovely neat little line and the lower one is just like a smooth smudge. I like them :)

Then, almost instantly, I got it into my head that I wanted another surface piercing. I asked Dan about it but he wasn't willing to do it- he was worried it would be too dangerous. So, a few months later, aged 18 now and armed with my first student loan, I went to visit my friend Steph in Cardiff and visited Blue Banana. The lady in there was more than happy to do it and it became my very favourite piercing. Again I have no photos to show for it but I do have the scars to prove it.. on the back of my neck.

And then, a couple of months later, something miraculous happened- my braces came off! I wasted no time in getting the lip piercing I'd wanted for so long!

This is the very day I got it done, aged 18- as you can see, it swelled up pretty bad. It healed fine though.

And then it all went wrong. I left uni and had to get a sensible job in a nursery. I took the nape piercing out. I was allowed to keep the lip piercing as long as I put a plaster over it. On my first day, I took all my piercings except for my lip. At the end of the day I put them all back in... and my second nose piercing had healed completely. It was a year old yet it healed up in a matter of hours. To make it worse, later that week, I was eating my lunch and my stud fell out into my mouth. Oblivious, I swallowed it... and then felt it was missing. That was only a couple of months old and stood no chance.

So in one week, I'd gone from 13 down to 10 piercings. Bad times! Obviously I couldn't get any more done until I'd gone back to uni. And the second I got there, now 19, I got my lip done again.

I left it 7 months before I decided, on a whim, to get my second nose piercing again:

I like this photo because you can see all of my piercings (if you look closely you can just see my lip ring). And now I have a proper camera because I've just met Rich!

Unfortunately, meeting Rich made me sensible. I moved out of halls and in with Rich. I studied hard. I stopped drinking. I had always wanted a second lip piercing- since before I got my first lip piercing. But I always had a reason not to get it done- usually that I didn't have long until my next school placement so there was little time for the piercing to heal. I didn't want to get it done and then have it heal up as soon as I went into school.

Then, 21 now and on school placement, I found out that my next placement wasn't for 13 months. That was loads of time! So, as a Christmas present, Rich paid for my second lip piercing. Et voila! The Becky you all know has evolved!

In a month, it will be exactly 5 years since I got my first "proper" piercing. I think I'll celebrate by getting my 15th and 16th piercings. I'm very excited about them but you'll have to wait to see what they are (They're family friendly, don't worry!). If you want a clue- the reason I haven't got them done yet is because I wanted to wait until it is warm so I can show them off and they won't last long so getting them done over winter would have been a waste. They'll also be easy to hide if needs be.

I'll be 22 then- Eek! It does not feel like 5 years at all! How time flies!

Love Yourself, Love Others, Love Vintage

2010-06-02T02:48:00.000-07:00

I haven't updated properly in so long! I've just been so busy squirelling away on my secret project that I promise will be unveiled in the next week, or maybe two. I know you're all going to love it!

Anyway, I thought I'd have a little post today. No photos, because I'm wearing my pyjama bottoms and Terry Wogan T-shirt. You can't really get dressed up fancy when you're doing what I'm doing. Well, maybe I could but it wouldn't be as comfortable. And it's quite warm in the flat today so my pjs are nice and cool.

I'm being very cyptic aren't I?! Don't worry- all will be revealed shortly.

Anyway, the very lovely Annie named me yesterday as one of her "Love Yourself, Love Others, Love Vintage". She says, and I quote, "Becky for her sexy silhouette and fresh face". Isn't that lovely :D

I thought I would have a go too. So here goes:

Love Yourself, Love Others, Love Vintage
Pick out 5 things about yourself that you think are beautiful and post them on your blog, facebook, whatever. Then, pick 5 other people in blogland and post one thing about that person that you love (and really envy them for!) Love yourself, love others and love vintage...because that's what brings us all together.

So here are the things I love:

1. My eyes. They are pretty massive and they are a bizarre colour. Sort of a greeny-blue. So depending on the light, they change from grey to blue to green. Sometimes brown too, but I can't really explain that one.

2. My hair when it's behaving! It can drive me mad. It normally does. But when it's just been cut, and when it's behaving, it can look lovely. It makes me feel good when my hair is nice.

3. My essential shape. My waist is always 10-12 smaller than my chest and hips, which are always the same. No matter how much weight I put on, or lose, my shape stays the same. It just gets wider or narrower.

4. My eyebrows. They have a good shape naturally. Admittedly they could do a little bit of tidying up- which I never get round to- but they're perfectly fine without my help.

5. My piercings. I don't know if these count but I'm including them anyway! I got my first piercing at 10 and when the needle went through my ear, I giggled! It felt tickly and then I was hooked. My ears healed up though when I lost an earring so I got them re-done at 13. I got three more ear piercings- one a year- until I was 17 and got my nose pierced. My mum's words were "You can get your nose pierced but no more. No lips or tongues"... Now in total I've had 21! Not all at one time, mind. The most I've had at once is my current number- 14. I'm hoping to get another 2 or 3 done soon though! (If you're reading this Mummy, they'll be surface piercings (like the ones I had on my stomach and neck)- so don't worry. They'll be easily hidden!).

Anyway, after my little rave about my piercings. (I do love them. I think I'll do a blog all about them after this), here are the 5 bloggers I think deserve some love (in alphabetical order, it's more fair that way!):

1. It has to be Annie!She has such a beautiful, classic look. She looks like a young 40s film star. Gorgeous!

2. Next on my list is Viv:

Her hair and make up is always divine- and her eyebrows are incredible! Plus, she's a gorgeous tattooed and pierced girl!

3. Next up is Cici.

She has such a pretty, elfin face and make the most beautiful clothes!

4. Running out of room now- time for Fleur of course!

Unfortunately, well not really, all Fleur's photos look really professional. I don't want to accidentally tread on any toes so I will leave it to you lot to check out her blog. You probably all know her anyway. Just click on her name if you want to take a look.

Anyway, I don't need to give a reason as to why I've chosen her- just look at her!

5. Last one, and I'm only at D! Anyone after the next girl, I might make another list another time and include those who come later in the alphabet!

I'm skipping ahead specifically for this girl, because she is stunning: Cat.

Look at that gorgeous figure and her amazing bouffant hair! Plus, her wardrobe is to die for and do I even mention the trailer??? Look at her blog for photos of the interior- it's heaven on wheels!

So there are my 5 lovely girls. I wanted to include more but just didn't have the space for them all! Another time maybe.

Now I need to go and work a bit harder on my project. Catch you later!

Sewing

2010-05-26T03:28:00.000-07:00

My sewing plans haven't been going brilliantly! I've now been diagnosed with something called Tietze's Syndrome, so at least I know why my chest is hurting, but apparently it will take weeks for it to clear up. I also have an assignment due in next week so I'm squirrelling away on that.

I'm sure I'll be a busy sewing bee once I've got that handed in.

I'll add some photos of myself today later.

Etsy Tastic!

2010-05-24T11:08:00.000-07:00

I've spent many an hour in front of Etsy for the past few days and I have many more ahead of me, too. Here is just a glimpse of some of the fantastic stuff I've got in there at the moment. If this doesn't take your fancy, fear not. I have loads of great stuff lined up for the next few days.

I also have a very exciting announcement coming soon! If you like vintage, keep your eyes and ears peeled!!

Gorgeous 1970s pattern. Just look at view 3. I wish I had the figure to pull this off.

Navy blue wiggle dress with cape jacket. Includes a matching belt. Very Mad Men!

1960s green and white suit. I love this so much but I just never have anywhere to wear it. When you're a 21 year old student, suit wearing opportunities are limited.

1960s mini dress. I love the cut of this. Look how it flatters Gladys!

Hot Hot Hot!

2010-05-23T10:48:00.000-07:00

Wow- today is blistering hot! Suddenly, I'm very grateful for our east-facing flat that gets no sunlight after 1pm. It's certainly been cooler in here than out there!

I haven't posted for a while- I've been in a lot of pain and that has pretty much prevented my ability to do anything worthy of posting. I went to Southampton on Wednesday (with Laura!) and got a lovely makeover at the Benefit counter. I was going to take a photo but then I started crying from the pain and the make up smudged everywhere! Sulk!

I also had a job interview on Thursday and got the job! It's for part time summer work so hopefully I'll be able to start saving money for America/driving lessons. I want a Figaro! (I know they're not real vintage but they are just so adorable!!)

Anyway, today I went to the car boot sale. This is what I wore:

Dress: Me Made (From Anne Adams 4670)
Bag: Beyond Retro
Shoes: New Look

Make Up: Basics &
Eyeshadow- 17 Trio in Pretty in Pink (Light pink shade)
Mascara- Bourjois Coupe de Theatre

I got a few goodies at the car boot sale. A pair of 1950s screw-on yellow earrings from a dear little old couple (my strategy is to hone in on the stalls run by old people/ with old people around them) and a white snood. I loved this hat from the same stall as the earrings, but Rich laughed at me when I put it on so I left it behind :(

But, as my revenge, here is a photo of my gorgeous 1950s/1960s hairdryer. It works like a dream- it's never been used before now!

Yes, that is my dearest. Mwahahahaaa!!!

Blog Award!

2010-05-15T03:57:00.000-07:00

Yay! I have my very first blog award! How very exciting!

It was given to me by the very lovely Annie who you can follow here.

Now I need to find ten bloggers to pass it on to.

I'm going to choose:

Beauty is a Thing of the Past
Mademoiselle Robot
Ruby's Attic
Va Voom Vintage
Vixen Vintage
Wearing History
Yesterday Girl
Welcome to Deluxeville

I don't know if they have one already or not- I want to give them one so nur!

The other two are people who I know already have one but never mid:
Kiss Me Kate
And I'm going to give Annie another one too!

Ok, so seven things about me:

1. I have a little cuddly pig called Fluffy who I have had since I was 8. He still sleeps in my bed and is our pet. In fact, he appears in one of my blog posts- see of you can spot him!

2. I'm engaged to the wonderful Rich and we'll be getting married in just over 3 years (3 years, 4 weeks and 1 day, to be exact. Not that I'm keeping track or anything...)

3. I love art. I also hate art. When I'm not making art, I pine for it and when I am, I'm cursing it. I don't think art and I will ever have a stable relationship.

4. I'm doing my dissertation on the links between philosophy and art in the primary school. Yes, I said art. Why I chose to write 10,000 words on art, I will never know.

5. My favourite band is the Mamas and the Papas. I can't remember the first time I heard them, or even when I realised they were my favourite band. My earliest memory of them is being 7 and, tucked up in bed, I heard my Dad playing their CD downstairs. I called down to him to turn it up so I could hear it better as it soothed me to sleep.

6. I was a massive emo between the ages of 16 and 19. I may not wear red eyeshadow anymore, but there will always be a special place in my heart for Gerard Way. I met him in 2005, and the rest of MCR. It was a very very cold November night, I was only wearing a skirt and we decided to miss our train so we could meet them after a gig. We had to sleep outside Waterloo afterwards- I say sleep, it was too cold to even doze. I have never been so cold or so tired in my life, but it was worht every second.

7. I know a lot of people but I don't have a lot of friends. This is a good thing- I don't make friends for the sake of it. Once you become a good friend of mine, you will pretty much be a friend for life.

So there's seven things you may not have known about me before.

Now I'm off o work out how to put my award in the side bar.

My Sewing Challenge

2010-05-14T07:42:00.000-07:00

Inspired by http://www.sewweekly.com/, I have decided that I am going to take on a similar challenge over the summer. Starting next Sunday, I'm going to make one garment every week until I start uni again.

My rules are as follows: I cut out on Sunday and the garment needs to be ready to wear in public by Saturday. (Unless it's underwear, of course!!)

At that rate, I should have around 20 new garments by the time I go back to uni. It will also give me a chance to work through my gigantic pattern stash.

This is what I look like today, a little messy:Cardigan: Etsy
Blouse: Next
Dress (worn as a skirt): Vivien of Holloway
Shoes: New Look

Snuffles

2010-05-12T14:27:00.000-07:00

I've had a horrible cold for the last few days. Yuk! I'm feeling a bit better today so headed off to Southampton with Laura- who I am deliberately name dropping as she is keeping a tally of how many times I mention her in my blog.

I'm not wearing any make up because I thought we had appointments for Benefit counter makeovers. Turns out, it's next week but Laura didn't discover that until I was already on the train. So I went all day without make up- and I was already looking worse than normal due to this cold. Fandabidozey!

Snood: Arthelia's Attic
Earrings: Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair
T Shirt: H&M
Skirt: New Look
Shoes: Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair

Green Apron

2010-05-10T08:03:00.000-07:00

I have nothing to say about today. I went to uni and had lunch with my old housemates. Nothing much has happened.

**EDIT** Actually, I just remembered. When I left the house this morning, a woman who lives in our block of flats (but who I have never seen before) called after me and said she loved my look. Yay! That's 3 random strangers in a week- I must be doing something right!

(Excuse the fact I look like a serial killer with a secret in this photo!)

Blouse- Next
Apron- Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair
Tights- Evans
Shoes- New Look
(I also wore my Beyond Retro cardigan)

The necklace, seen in the photo below, was a gift from my Grandma on my 21st birthday. My Grandad had bought it for her in 1980 as a 25th wedding anniversary present. It comes with amatching bracelet but as we both have ridiculously tiny hands and wrists, neither of us have ever worn it.

My lipstick has all but worn off here because I'd been to uni and everything before I took this photo. I mainly liked it because you can see the necklace.

Make Up: Basics &
Eye Shadow- 17 Solo in Viva Diva
Lipstick- Natural Collection Moisture Shine in Raspberry

Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair

2010-05-09T09:57:00.001-07:00

Today was London's turn for Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair. I'd never been to one before and as I have only recently got my student loan- and finished a massive heap of coursework- I thought I would toddle along and treat myself.

I wore pretty much exactly the same outfit as yesterday, paired with black tights and red ballet pumps, so no photos of my outfit. I need to make another one of those Du Barry skirts. It's already become my staple wardrobe piece!

Anyway, I had planned to get there for about 11:30, seeing as it opened at 12. However, National Rail had other ideas and my train was diverted due to engineering works. Then, when I finally reached the underground, central line was closed past Liverpool Street Station- a meagre one stop away from my destination.

'Never mind', I thought, 'It's only one stop. I'll walk it. How far can it be?'. A quick call to Rich, back at home with Google Maps at his fingertips, proves that, actually, it can be very far indeed. There is nothing else for it- a bus.

Buses in London scare me a bit. There are just so many of them and they go to so many different places. And then once you've found the right one, how do you know where to get off? I had a look at the nearest bus stop and found that a number 8 would go to Bethnal Green... and there was a number 8 approaching now!

So I jumped on, crossing my fingers, and sure enough- I got to Bethnal Green. Phew!

So after that trek, how was the vintage fair? Wonderful! It was much less busy than I thought it would be, which I put down to the problems with transport. The clothes weren't much- it seemed to me that the vintage sellers take all their unsold tat there to sell off at a cheaper rate (although I wouldn't agree with the claim that clothes are 75% cheaper than high street vintage sellers) - but the trinkets were lovely.

Here are my goodies:

Hair Barettes- £1 each.

Coronation Kirby Grips- £1.

Ribbon- £1
(They had all sorts of sewing paraphenalia but most of it was badly yellowed)

Earrings- 3 for £5
All clip-ons. Despite having 10 ear piercings, I will only buy clip ons. The thought of wearing someone else's studs is yukky!

Necklace- £1
Part of my quest to startw earing more yellow. There was a cute yellow cardigan that I passed up. Wish I'd bought it now though. Oh well, I'm sure yellow cardigans aren't too hard to find.

Pattern- £2.50.
Missed out on an exquisite 1950s McCalls pattern that a woman snatched from right under my fingertips. Grrr!!

Amazing 1950s pop up sunhat - £2.50
I've never seen anything like this before. It folds up into the little bag and pops out like one of those pop up tents. It's a very classic 1950s shape and just perches on top of the head rather than fitting snugly, but the little bow ties under the chin to keep it in place. This is the perfect seaside hat!

Cute shoes- £10
These have me stumped. I really have no idea at all how old they are. Regardless, they're cute, red and have tiny little heels- perfect for me seeing as I have all the ability of walking in heels as a baby giraffe.

1960s bag- £22.
This was the most expensive thing I bought but also the most practical. I've been needing a nice big bag to take to uni with me since my current one broke. I wanted a vintage one ideally, but it's hard to find much bigger than a handbag normally. So I am completely in love with this and it's absolutely perfect for me.

Late 60s/70s jumper- £15.
Yes, it's red again. Every time I bought something red, the stall holder commented that it matched my outfit. I really need to stop buying red things!
On my list of "Things I Should Buy" was a jumper. I need more seperates seeing as they're more practical in the cold weather than pretty dresses.

1950s Apron- £15.
I love this. I'm going to wear it over a t shirt as a dress. I don't care if that wasn't done then- it's adorable and I want to wear it in public!
Also- is that pocket hand shaped? I think I need to inspect this a little closer. (On closer inspection, I discover that yes- it is a hand shaped pocket. It's like a little glove for when my hand gets chilly)

So, there are all my lovely treats. And it all came to less than £100- bargaintastic!

I also had a girl on the tube say she loved my snood (cue awkward "do I strike conversation or ignore her from now on?" silence for the rest of the journey) and a guy from the fair took a photo of me for the website. Now I know they must take photos of loads of people and I don't know if it will even make the website, but to me it says something that I looked nice enough to even contemplate photographing. Yay!

Now time for a well deserved rest and an ice lolly, I think.

Me Made May 8

2010-05-08T05:33:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I haven't been too good at this Me Made May thing. In my defence, though, I have only made 2 summer dresses and a skirt. With the weather having taken a massive downturn, I don't really have anything practical made by me. I've started a pair of black cullottes now though, so hopefully they'll be finished this week.

Anyway, my Grandma is coming to visit today so I thought I would look nice. Here I am today:

Snood: Arthelia's Attic
T Shirt: H&M
Skirt: Me Made (DuBarry 2352B)

My hair took all of 3 seconds and it looks great. I hate it that I can work on my hair for hours and it looks awful, but when I don't bother it comes out perfect. Sigh.

And a close up of the roll and snood:

Make Up: Basics &
Lipstick- Natural Collection Moisture Shine in Raspberry

The snood, by the way, is amazing. This is the first time I've properly worn it (as opposed to playing with it when it first arrived). It's going to be perfect for all those days when I spend hours on my hair and it fails miserably. You can find Arthelia's Attic on Etsy. She makes them in all sorts of different colours.

In other Arthelia's Attic related news, I came runner up in her amazing giveaway! Yay!! I never win anything but now I am going to be in possession of a second snood. I've chosen a bright yellow- my colour of the month in homage to Mr Clegg himself. That's not the only reason, I don't base all my outfit choices around my political inclinations. (I wear red a lot more than any other colour but it's not an announcement of my love for Gordon Brown!). The main reason I chose yellow was because it's such a fun, summery colour and I thought seeing as this was a win I'd go a bit more daring.

I'm already planning to buy a black one next. I'm going to have a snood for every outfit at this rate!

Anyway, gushing over, I'm going to eat my tuna on toast. Yum!

Election Day!

2010-05-06T08:31:00.001-07:00

It's Election Day and I have no shame in showing off my political colours!

Earrings: Ebay
Cardigan: Beyond Retro
T Shirt: H&M
Dress (worn as a skirt by cunningly tucking in the bodice): Vivien of Holloway
Tights: Evans
Shoes: New Look

Make Up: Basics &
Eyeshadow- 17 Solo Eyeshadow in Funfair

I've had a great day so far- got a 2i in my Science assignment, a girl in Cath Kidston said she loved my dress, our Band Hero bundle and Beatles Rock Band turned up... and I found a Mamas and Papas record in Oxfam!! *squealgaspscreamjumpaboutlikeafangirl*

(Excuse my more-than-a-little-bit crazy hair!)

The only thing that could possibly make this day better is for the Lib Dems to get in. Go Nick!!

Finally!

2010-05-05T05:07:00.000-07:00

Yay! It's finally working!! And I've discovered that Firefox works much better for his- I can paste into the text box and everything. Yay!

So, on this note, here is my Gnome costume from Saturday. Laura is an aphid, apparantly. I don't know what we're doing and, contrary to what you may believe, we were both sober!

Flower- Peacocks

Jumper- New Look

Skirt- Me Made (Du Barry 2352B)

Leggings- Primark (I hate leggings and wear them purely for comfort reasons- you're not supposed to see them!)

Shoes- Sainsbury's

Gnomes- Me Made May 1

2010-05-03T11:25:00.001-07:00

Ok so I STILL can't get my photos to upload! So I'm attempting to use Flickr. I haven't quite worked it out yet though.

EDIT: I have now got it working, so here is a normal photo.

In the meantime, this is how I looked on May 1st (before changing into a green jumper for full gnome effect)

Flower: Peacocks

Make Up: Basics &

Lipstick- Natural Collection in Poppy Red

Hair: I just whacked some serum in it.

I am still here!

2010-05-03T05:19:00.000-07:00

For some unexplainable reason, photos aren't uploading. But I am still here, just waiting for photos to work again.

Happy Days

2010-04-30T07:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went shopping in Southampton. It was fun but also knackering! I bought myself some fabric to make culottes which I think I'll start tomorrow. If I'm quick, I'll get them done in time to extend my Me-Made-May lite. I now have about 4 days sorted, so I could get a couple more out of these.

I don't have a picture of my outfit because it was cold so I just wore a boring trouser and cardigan combo (I really need to make some trousers for the chilly days!) but here is my make up (Excuse the startled look!):

Make Up: Basics &

Eyeshadows- Boots Natural Collection in Snow Storm and Midnight.

Hair: I originally planned to put it in a beehive but that wasn't working so well so I thought I'd straighten it. This is my hair when it's been straightened! Yep- still curly. Crazy hair!

Fingers Crossed!

2010-04-28T16:57:00.001-07:00

Just a little note to say, Arthelia's Attic has an awesome giveaway right here >> www.artheliasattic.blogspot.com/2010/04/giveaway-time.html

I'm sitting here in my beehive pincurl set hoping it's going to work out ok- The beehive gets its first public outing tomorrow!! Wish me luck!!

I'll also be getting lots of lovely new fabric so I can make new things. Yay!!

DuBarry 2352B

2010-04-27T12:19:00.000-07:00

Ok, so my latest project was the DuBarry suspender skirt, circa 1939.

Isn't she a beauty?

I decided to make it in red linen. For a number of reasons: Red is my favourite colour to wear, and I think it suits me pretty well. I love linen. And I thought it would look great for Laura's upcoming Gnome Party. (I'll be sure to get photos!).

My verdict? Bejeesus! It's my favourite pattern ever! It was so SO easy to understand, the fit was near perfect and it's really quick. The longest part was making the 4 buttonholes which is something I've never done before. They took 90 minutes each!

I've never worked with such simple instructions. I often hear that people find it hard to work with vintage pattern instructions. This is the oldest pattern I have and they were easy peasy. I love that it gives information on how to dress for your height and details sewing tips (such as how to make button holes- exactly what I needed to know!).

The one problem I had with it was the waistband was too short and didn't fit onto the top of the skirt, but I presume that was me not taking much notice of the seam allowance. Still, better too small seams than too big! I just cut a longer waistband, using the original as a template and it fit perfectly.

I also thought I'd ruined the suspenders by making them too long- until I remembered they were supposed to cross at the back! Silly me!

So, all in all, I was over the moon with this skirt. I got a lot of compliments on its first trip out today. I just can't wait to make it again- I have plans for a nautical style navy version with white buttons next.

Here is the picture. I used it in my last blog post but it's the only one I have (excuse the silly face again!). I'll get a picture of the back asap.

New Skirt!

2010-04-27T12:11:00.000-07:00

I finally finished my new skirt yesterday! I say finally- it only took me about 10 hours to sew in total but I made it so sporadically that it's taken about a week from cutting to finishing.

I'll do a review in a moment, but here is what I wore to uni today:

Excuse the silly face- this was 7am and after a whole month off, I'm not at all used to the early mornings!

T Shirt: Primark

Skirt: Me-Made (Du Barry 2352B)

Shoes: Sainsbury's

Hair band: Me-Made

No hair and make up photo because, like I said, it was very early and I snoozed the alarm a lot! Whoops!!

Enigma

2010-04-23T08:03:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I went to see Derren Brown's "Enigma" show. It was incredible! That man is amazing.

Anyway, I had planned to dress up and look nice but unfortunately it looked like I wasn't going to be able to go after all. So when it did transpire that I could make it, I only had a little time to get ready and therefore my outift wasn't particularly interesting.

But here goes:

Jacket: Primark

Bag: Beyond Retro

Dress: Me-Made (Simplicity 3044)

Shoes: New Look

Socks: Peacocks

It's nothing special but meh.

The skirt is very nearly finished. I didn't get to finish is yesterday as I was too busy to work on it at all, but I made about two thirds of it on Wednesday. So it should be finished today. Yay! It's looking amazing so far, even if I do say so myself!

Me-Made May

2010-04-21T06:53:00.000-07:00

So, with my new found love of sewing, I have decided to join in with So Zo's Me-Made May. The idea is that you wear as many home-made garments as possible throughout the month.

Of course, the problem with this is that I'm only just starting my 3rd garment. So it looks like I'll only have 3 garments to wear at the start of the month. By then I'll have my loan and will be able to stash up on fabric but I can only work at so fast a pace.

So, my idea is a Me-Made Weekend. The 1st, 2nd and 3rd of May, I will be wearing my own garments. Of course, if I manage to whip out something else before the 4th, which I may, then I could extend it. But that's my plan.

More information is here: www.sozowhatdoyouknow.blogspot.com/2010/04/me-made-may-join-me.html

I'm a little worried that my amateur beginnings will look silly next to the more accomplished sewers but meh!

In other news, I've started my red suspender skirt. My friend Laura is having a gnome themed party next week (I know, I know!) and I thought a red linen skirt would look perfectly gnomey with my green jumper. Plus, I could wear it afterwards with a plain white shirt/ T-shirt. I've cut out all the pieces and plan to finish it tomorrow.

I accidentally bought too much fabric so now I need to work out what else I can make with two metres of pillar box red linen...

Pattern Review: Simplicity 3044

2010-04-21T02:52:00.000-07:00

I finally finished the blue dress last night!!

This is the pattern, Simplicity 3044:

I made view 2 for our upcoming trip to see Derren Brown. I wanted something dressy but not formal. I chose blue as I want to wear the sapphire earrings Rich bought me for my birthday in June that I haven't even worn yet!

I found it really simple! I only looked at the instructions once and just improvised the rest. As I have said before, I could have made it in one day if I wasn't so lazy!!

I don't really know what to say about it. I didn't have any difficulties with it at all. I thought the bodice was going to be too big but it turned out perfect.

I have discovered that I have a high waist- just like my last dress, the bodice is too long and gets a bit baggy around my waist. That's something to bear in mind for next time.

Here it is:And the back (I got the collar a little wonky!!)

Overall, I'm very pleased with it. I think I've done a good job. I just can't wait to make my red skirt now!

Beehive

2010-04-20T05:26:00.001-07:00

Today, I've attempted a beehive. I went through a stage a couple of years ago of wearing a beehive everyday but I had very long hair then and cheated using a hair net and fake hair. I hadn't tried it with my short hair. I didn't want to back comb so instead I made two rows of two stand-up pin curls on the crown of my head, and brushed the front section of my hair over the top, pinning it into place at the back. This is how it looks:

I think it's alright. For my very first attempt. I wouldn't leave the house like it but it's ok.

Make Up: Basics &
Eyeshadows- Natural Collection in Snow Storm and Midnight
Lipstick- Natural Collection Moisture Shine in Pink Mallow.

Here is my outfit:

Dress: Ebay

(And there's Fluffy in the armchair!)

And, as promised ages ago, here is my gorgeous typewriter:

Squeal!! Isn't it wonderful!

Anyway, best press ahead with those assignments. I'm planning to finish one today which will be a huge relief so the sooner the better.

Ps: Blue dress? Still very nearly finished but a little while to go yet. Hopefully I'll be able to finish it after my assignment. Just need to neaten up the armholes, sew the raw edges on the collar, put in the zip and hem it. Shouldn't take more than a couple of hours.

Time to Work!

2010-04-19T06:29:00.000-07:00

I have been really slack with my assignments lately so I'd better get cracking today!

Here, finally, is a proper picture of my new dress:

Sorry for the bad lighting, it's only mid afternoon but it's quite a cloudy day so our room is pretty dull right now.

Dress: Beyond Retro

Here is my hair and make up. I'm a bit of a mess today seeing as I'm not going anywhere.

Make Up: Basics &

Eyeshadow- Barry M Dazzle Dust in Pale Purple

Hair: Just half up-half down in a set I made up. It looked better in my head than it does in real life.

2010-04-18T11:10:00.000-07:00

Here are the promised pictures of my new sofa and armchair. None of the typewriter yet, but I'll sort that out tomorrow. Also, I look a mess today so no photos of me.

Here is the set in our living room:

Check out those gorgeous curved sides with brass detailing.

Close up of the chair:

(Cushion from Past Times)And a close up of the sofa:

They are beautiful! I'm a very happy bunny.

A wonderful atomic design dining table that I've seen is on our list for payday. Then, eventually, a coffee table and sideboard for the TV to live. Happy happy!

The Beach

2010-04-17T15:03:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in a few days as I've been uber busy! I went to visit my friend Laura on Wednesday near Brighton and had an amazing couple of days exploring the little lanes with all the vintage shops. I picked up some wonderful treasures, which I will post photos of tomorrow! As for this weekend, I just got a lovely 1950s sofa and armchair so have been re-arranging the whole living room to squeeze it in. It looks great- I'll show you tomorrow!

Anyway, no wardrobe photos of the past few days I'm afraid, but here are a couple of make up ones.

Wednesday:

Make Up: Basics (liquid eyeliner) &
Lipstick- Natural Collection Moisture Shine Lipstick in Raspberry.

Hair:
A very loose interpretation of this beauty www.beautyisathingofthepast.blogspot.com/2008/11/beauty-at-beach.html

Thursday:

Make Up: Just the basics, with liquid eyeliner.
Hair: Brushed out from Wednesday's style.

I apologise for the sleepy face- we'd been up until 3am like teenagers, giggling at Laura's unconceived son's name should she and her partner combine their surnames.

Edit: I've actually just found this picture of Thursday's outfit. I bought the dress and cardigan on Wednesday. Tomorrow I'll wear it and post a more clear photo.

Dress: Beyond Retro (Yay! Some real vintage at last!)

Cardigan: Beyond Retro

Bag: Beyond Retro

(Haha, I see a recurring theme here!)

You can't see my feet but it's the Peacock's socks/ New Look pumps combo.

Sunny Day

2010-04-13T03:38:00.000-07:00

It's a lovely day today. The dress is making very good progress but the bodice is too big (again!) so I need to add some extra darts. Hopefully I'll get that done today.

(Picture to come)

Here is my hair and make up:

Make Up: Basics &
Lipstick- Natural Collection Moisture Shine Lipstick in Raspberry

Hair:
It was very loosely based on this set. I wasn't expecting it to go into the gorgeous coils pictured but I'm still pretty happy with it.

www.beautyisathingofthepast.blogspot.com/2010/04/two-brief-cases.html

Monday, Monday

2010-04-12T11:36:00.000-07:00

Today I intended to do lots of my assignment. I didn't do so well, but I am halfway through my new dress! Should be finished tomorrow, I hope, so look out for photos!

Anyway, here is me today in some real vintage for once!

T Shirt: H&M

Necklace: Unsure

Skirt: Beyond Retro

Shoes: New Look

Socks: Peacocks

My hair is just up in little bunches because I haven't set it in a couple of days and it is wild!

Make Up: Basics &
Eye Liner- Collection 2000 Fast Stroke Liquid Eyeliner in Black
Eye Pencil- Natural Collection Eye Lines in Black
Eye Shadow- Natural Collection in Midnight
Lipstick- Natural Collection Moisture Shine Lipstick in Mallow Pink

Mod

2010-04-10T07:34:00.001-07:00

Today is a lovely day so I'm chanelling a 60s vibe. Here I am:

Blouse: Next
Skirt: New Look
Shoes: New Look

I know, yet again, I'm not wearing real vintage. I swear I do have it. It's just a bit too small at the moment.

I bought some new make up yesterday so I've been experimenting. Here's my Twiggyesque look:

Make Up: Basics &

Eyeshadow: Boots Natural Collection Eyeshadows in Snow Storm and Midnight

Eyeliner: Collection 2000 Fast Stroke Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Black

Eye Pencil: Boots Natural Collection Eye Lines in Black

Lipstick: Boots Natural Collection Moisture Shine Lipstick in Pink Mallow

Hair: I tried to set it so that it would flick out at the ends but my hair was having none of that!

One of those days...

2010-04-09T04:35:00.000-07:00

I knew what outfit I was going to wear today. I had it planned out last night. Then I go to try it on and a) the dress is too small now and b) there is a hole in the skirt. Sigh.

So I try a second outfit- my new dress. And then remember that it's not quite fit for human interaction yet as it still has markings all over it. So I try a third and this seems to be successful- my black linen trousers and a black polkadot halterneck. It looks great! And then I start to walk away from the mirror.. and catch a glimpse of how "unsupportive" it is. It would be fine if I was with someone, but I don't much fancy walking around a crammed shopping centre on my own jiggling all over the place.

So now I'm wearing the dumpy outfit from a few days back- the red and white cardigan with the linen trousers. I'll probably change back into the halterneck when I get home, because it did look good. Here it is:

Ignore the fact I look 6 months pregnant in this picture. I think today is just one of those days.

Halterneck: Peacocks
Trousers: New Look
Shoes: Sainsbury's
Necklace: Unsure, probably Primark

On the plus side, my hair looks flipping fantastic! From the front:

From the side:

Make Up: Basics &

Lipstick- Boots Natural Collection Moisture Shine Lipstick in Cranberry

Hair: Adapted from www.beautyisathingofthepast.blogspot.com/2009/07/halo-of-soft-feathery-hair.html

Scruffy

2010-04-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

I haven't left the house today so I'm a bit of a scruff bag. I'm not wearing any make up and I've only brushed my hair. No products at all today. Nevertheless, here's me today in my blue Swirl dress. Unfortunately it's quite badly yellowing and it's a bit too small so it's strictly a house dress.

I apologise for the funny lighting, it's early evening and I don't get much light in my flat after midday. It's a glorious day though.

Dress: Swirl, from Etsy.

I'm going shopping tomorrow so I should be a bit more exciting for you.

Gig Day!

2010-04-06T03:28:00.000-07:00

Today, I'm off to see AFI so I'm not very vintage. I don't want to ruin any of my pretty vintage dresses in a sweaty moshpit.

T Shirt: Peacocks

Trousers: New Look

Shoes: Sainsbury's

I also have an AFI hoodie and handbag but I haven't photographed that- I don't want to show the extent of my fangirl to the world!

Make Up: Just the basics but with extra eyeliner

Eyebrow pencil- Benefit Bad Gal Eyeliner

Lip balm- Boots Original Formula

Hair: Brushed out from yesterday's "Golden Girl" style.

Home Made Dress

2010-04-05T12:21:00.001-07:00

Excuse the bagginess around the bust in this picture! It's the first dress I've made and it was a little bigger than I was expecting! (Pattern review found here: www.beckysvintagewardrobe.blogspot.com/2010/04/anne-adams-4670.html )

Dress: Made by me! (From Anne Adams 4670)
Shoes: Primark

Make Up: Basics &
Natural Collection Moisture Shine Lipstick in Cranberry

Hair: Adapted from the "Golden Girl" style
www.beautyisathingofthepast.blogspot.com/2009/11/to-try-your-skills.html

Anne Adams 4670

2010-04-05T12:05:00.000-07:00

Today I made my first ever dress! This is very exciting to me. I started with Anne Adams 4670- a pretty sundress from 1954.

I opted for pink gingham with white ric-rac trim: Perfect for summer!

I found this pretty good for a beginner pattern. I have very limited sewing experience and managed this without too much of a problem. It didn't take too long either- about 24 hours in total.

Everything was fine until I got to the collar. I'd already read the instructions and couldn't make head nor tail of the directions for making the collar but thought it might be clearer once I started making it. Not at all. In the end I had to improvise, because I really had no idea what it was telling me.

If I thought that was difficult, the pocket was nearly impossible! Just a little pocket, a sneaky, deceptive little pocket. Again I had to improvise. I made a pretty good pocket but when it came to sewing it on it was very fiddly. But I got there in the end.

The skirt was easy peasy. Would have been a lot easier if I hadn't accidentally cut notches out on the fold rather than the edge. I didn't have enough fabric to make a new panel so settled for sewing a patch of gingham behind the cut out diamonds. Now you'd hardly know. It was a lot longer than I was expecting so I shortened it considerably when it came to hemming. It was hitting me at a really unflattering length so now it sits right on the knees and looks a lot better.

So the making wasn't as bad as I was expecting. As for the fit- it's a bit too big! Which is great news for me as I thought the 41 bust was pushing it a bit. Turns out I've lost weight. Yay! It's not far too big- it's wearable (I'm wearing it as I type) and just needs a bit of adjusting now and then.

The shoulders are very wide however. I don't have particularly narrow shoulders, but they keep slipping and showing my bra strap. So do excuse the glimpse of bra in the photo below- classy! So that's something to bear in mind for next time.

I'm sure I'll make another version of this at some point... If I can remember how I ended up making the collar and pocket!

Beauty Basics

2010-04-04T14:08:00.001-07:00

As I intend to talk about my hair and make up as well as my outfits, I thought it would be worthwhile to write a list of the products I use every day. This will save me the hassle of writing the same thing every day:

Make Up:
Cleanser- Boots Original Formula
Toner- Boots Original Formula
Moisturiser- Boots Original Formula
Foundation- Collection 2000 Natural Matt Foundation (in Natural Blonde)
Concealer- Benefit Boi-oing in 1
Blusher- Benefit Thrrrob
Powder- Benefit Get Even in 1
Highlighter- Benefit High Beam
Eyeliner- Benefit Bad Gal Waterproof
Mascara- Benefit Bad Gal Lash
Lipliner- Rimmel 1000 Kisses in Red Dynamite
Miscellaneous- Benefit Lemon Aid
Benefit Ooh La Lift
Benefit Powderflage Concealing Powder

Hair:
Shampoo- Frizz Ease Curl Around Shampoo
Conditioner- Frizz Ease Curl Around Conditioner
Serum- Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum
Mousse- Frizz Ease Curl Reviver
Gel- Frizz Ease Curl Controller Styling Gel
Hairspray- L'oreal Elnett Original

As you can see, I'm a sucker for sticking to the same brand!

Lazy Day

2010-04-03T04:02:00.000-07:00

Hello!

I've decided to document the vintage and vintage-inspired clothes I wear on a daily basis. I'm starting to make my own clothes so this will also serve to record those as I make them.

Today, I'm feeling lazy. It's Easter Saturday and I would be doing nothing except my little brother wants to visit and get his Easter eggs. So I'm not too vintage today.

White T Shirt: H&M

Cardigan: New Look

Linen Trousers: New Look

Hairband: Self made from scraps of fabric

Hair: Brushed out from yesterday's pin curled style.

Make Up: None (Told you I was feeling lazy!)

I've just realised how dumpy this outfit makes me look. It needs a belt really.