Penelope Nightingale

I remember the lake lapping. I remember how sharp like a thorn was love.

2011-03-17T17:55:00.000-07:00

I adore living in the city, don't get me wrong. It's full of undeniable energy, culture, 4:00am pizza deliveries, and the picturesque greeting card that I receive from the skyline on my way home from work each day never fails to render me awestruck.

However, something bubbles up inside of me when springtime decides to make its sweeping entrance. It begins with a small gust of warm wind that trickles through the screen of my open bedroom window to awaken me with its first cheek-kiss. From that point forward, I am left pining for open fields, abandoned house adventuring, lake picnicking, and silly weekend trips to tacky tourist locations, complete with awkward photos that never cease to haunt for years to come. Most of all, I long for a slow paced environment, where I can be a regular at the local diner, and not have to look left and right ten times before crossing the street.

Today, Justin and I had breakfast and then set off to spend the first warm afternoon of the year in Buffalo's Forest Lawn Cemetery (The sun seemed like a good idea for this extremely pale couple). It's certainly quite visible from the main road, however, as we ventured into its depths, we found ourselves worlds away from typical city behavior. It's much more massive than I initially thought, and we were barely able to cover even half of its grounds, or witness some of the notable people buried there: Millard and Abigail Fillmore, Rick James, Al Boasberg, Aretha Franklin's mother, the first wife of Irving Berlin, Frederick Cook, and Kristen Marie Pfaff, to name a few.

Afterward, we visited the central library so I could borrow Female Chauvinist Pigs: Women and the Rise of Raunch Culture which, so far, is an excellent book and had me nearly cheering in the middle of the library with the introduction alone. I'll be sure to let you know what I thought of the book in its entirety when I'm finished. Then we found the most quaint café called Second Cup that served delicious croissants and strawberry milkshakes (It just wasn't a coffee sort of day!). We found out that they host talent shows every Monday night, so a return visit is certainly in order!

Now, on to (a lot of) photos of our day!

Outfit Details:
Central Park West Dress: Modcloth, a gift from Justin.
Vintage hat: Local antique shop, for 75 cents!
Skirt underneath dress (It was an absolute necessity for this dress!): Thrifted.
Nude floral tights: Kohl's, Apt. 9.
Heels: Thrifted.

I was following the pack, all swallowed in their coats, with scarves of red tied 'round their throats.

2010-12-08T21:29:00.000-08:00

The best little Thai restaurant in the city, walks in the snow, Elmwood Village lit by Christmas lights, silent films, caramel macchiatos at Spot Coffee, and Justin made for a lovely Monday off of work, if I do say so myself.

Unfortunately, our photo-taking festivities were cut a bit short due to a full memory card, dying battery, and most of all, creepy looks from the residents of the neighborhood we were walking in! Do bloggers ever really get over feeling silly during photoshoots?

My photo-woes were quickly dispersed, however, by the discovery of an about-to-open antique shop merely two houses down from my apartment! Excitmentexcitementexcitement.

Outfit Details
Lace Shirt: Thrifted
Scarf: Street vendor in New York City
Gray wool coat: Thrifted
Skirt: Lauren Conrad for Target *ashamed*
Tights: Vera Wang
Gray Mary Jane heels: Thrifted
Pink cameo necklace: Forever21

For your wintertime listening pleasure, I give you "White Winter Hymnal" by Fleet Foxes, which has been playing on repeat in my head all day. This isn't the official video, but I ask you, how could I say no to this one, featuring clips of Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire? I submit that I possibly could not!

Buffalo Central Terminal

2010-09-27T10:37:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, we hopped in the car with the destination of Buffalo's abandoned train terminal. I see this magnificent building in the distance on my way to work every day, and with it's 17 story, art deco style architecture , it wasn't so difficult to locate without the help of our GPS. The building was in it's heyday from the late 1920's through the 1970's. In 1979, the owner of the building defaulted on his taxes, thus forcing a foreclosure sale on the terminal. The only bidder of the building certainly didn't preserve it's beauty, but instead sold many of the artifacts and generally allowed it to decay. This sent preservationists in an uproar, which the owner of the building responded with a "If you think you can do a better job, I'll sell it to you for a dollar." This worked out beautifully, because it is now in the hands of the Central Terminal Restoration Corporation, who purchased a few of the artifacts back, and hosts over 20 fundraising events a year in the terminal.

Exploring this building, it was nearly impossible not to feel connected to the glamorous clichés of traveling to New York City in the 1920's, and a small part of me hoped that when no one was around, the building magically transformed into it's former self, and was once again able to experience the hustle and bustle of the city. If only every abandoned building got to experience an end-of-the-Titanic-movie-moment, ha!

Outfit details
Dress: Forever21
Tweed Blazer: Thrifted
Gray fishnet tights: I really haven't the slightest idea
Pink Heels: Thrifted
Hat: Thrifted
Black, crinoline slip: Antique shop

Lena Hoschek Autumn Inspiration

2010-09-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

The always beautiful and brilliant Lena Hoschek has meandered her way into my heart once again. This time, with her Fall 2010-2011 collection that has me absolutely weak in the knees and longing to rush off to a multitude of thrift and vintage shops in attempt to mimic each and every look. My words will undoubtedly pale in comparison to the photos, so I will now allow the collection to speak for itself!

Dear Autumn, if you could arrive a bit faster, that would be exceedingly marvelous!

The last of the summer dresses.

2010-08-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

The reasoning behind this post title is due to the abrupt shift in weather here in Buffalo, as many of our days had been graced by 60 degree temperatures (that and this was quite literally the last summer dress left in the store)! I, however, will most likely continue wearing this dress with scarves and tights, being that I've never been a fan of the 'no white after labor day' pish posh.

The clutter of our newly occupied home is finally beginning to disperse, but there is still so much to be done--at least until I'm ready to snap and post photographs of it! As of now, I am still attempting to choose the exact color of our walls, which is a task that has proved itself much more difficult than anticipated. Yesterday, Justin and I decided to take a bit of a hiatus from the city and ventured to the Botanical Gardens, located on the outskirts. It was the most lovely day, chilled and gently sun-kissed behind darker, autumn clouds. Did I mention how I am anticipating autumn? Oh, it's my absolute favorite time of the year, even though it doesn't last nearly long enough for my taste.

After our visit with the flowers, we made our way back into the city and stopped at our most beloved Thai restaurant that is decorated with deep crimson walls and illuminated by candles and paper lanterns.

Now that I finally have the internet set up at the apartment, I hope to blog more plus get my Etsy shop back in gear! It's a sad little place as of now. However, all in all, we are thrilled to begin our lives in this exciting location and certainly can't wait to introduce all of you to the sites!

Outfit details
Dress: Kohl's on supersuper clearance
Jacket: Thrifted
Necklace: Thrifted
Shoes: Thrifted
Needlepoint Purse: Local antique shop

She said she'd like it to snow the same way it did in upstate New York.

2010-06-14T17:27:00.001-07:00

Hello again! I don't have much to say outfit-wise lately, because Justin and I are trying to scramble for our move to Buffalo, New York in less than two months (!!). This is my third move, but my first out-of-state transition, and it's much more complicated than I thought it would be- ugh! Hopefully, though, it will all be worth it when we finally settle into a cozy little apartment (preferably above a shop of some sort, which shouldn't be too difficult- Buffalo is filled to the brim with them!) in the city, where we always knew we were meant to reside.

Here are a few photos from our excursion, I hope you enjoy (I'll try harder to post more next time, because I don't think your computers are going to be lagging quite enough from these ones)! Outfit photos are coming soon, cross my heart!

Alone on a train, aimless in wonder. An outdated map, crumbled in my pocket.

2010-04-13T19:50:00.000-07:00

Straw sun hat: Thrifted
Navy Blue Edwardian Dress: Etsy via Simplicity Is Bliss
Vintage cream, pleated skirt: Thrifted
Needlepoint purse: Local antique shop
Heels: Thrifted.

Despite being a bit on the chilly side for this time of year, we took a pleasant Sunday evening walk, in search of some new photo backgrounds. The weather was just cool enough for this dress to be acceptable, which was blissful, being that it just came in the mail a week ago! For some reason, I have a ridiculously troublesome time wearing a dress by itself. I ended up throwing a cream-colored skirt over it, because I suppose the lace just wasn't enough creamy goodness against the dark, navy blue. Plus, the navy dress is just a wee bit too short for my liking.

I've been looking for a straw sun hat like the one I'm wearing ever since the lovely idea of springtime entered my head. I was exultant when my eyes finally met the hat of my dreams in the local thrift shop- just 25 cents! I set it down for a moment, to gather the rest of my belongings, when an elderly lady sauntered by and snatched it from my pile! When I turned around, she was trying it on, and inspecting herself in a nearby mirror. I watched her with anticipation (maybe even creepily so?), as she fussed with it, looked at it in different angles, and then placed it on top of the shoes on the other end of the shop. Whew! Talk about a close one.

Anyway, I apologize for the extraordinarily mundane story! I visited New York City last weekend, and am trying to gather all of my photos of the Metropolitan Museum of Art to share with you! That place was an absolute dream, and so large and overwhelming, that I couldn't even explore the whole building in one day. Also, I visited a vintage shop on 5th avenue called Cheap Jack's, and well, I'll just say that the prices certainly didn't mimic the name!

The song of today is my absolute favorite Andrews Sisters song, and also the ring on my telephone- "Bei Mir Bist Du Schön!"

Warm Weather and Floral Hair

2010-03-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

1. Vintage Supplies, 2. Spring, 3. spring, 4. Brenda, 5. Flowers + Puppies = Magic, 6. Learning to Fly, 7. The Wanderers., 8. space, 9. Untitled, 10. Vintage Spring Blossoms, 11. cream cardigan, 12. 60s Shift Dress13. Not available14. Not available15. Not available16. Not available

Spring spring spring! There have been flowers in my hair practically every single day since it got warm outside. The weather has been in the mid-60s each day, with just a touch of wind, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Oh, how I want to picnic in tall grass and read novels on a rowboat!

I have been wanting to blog for weeks now. Things are so very busy and my days have been filled with the kind of stress that comes with transerring schools and trying to move out of state.. Eeep! Now that the warm weather has made it's grand entrance, however, I am just itching to give my camera an intensive workout. The Justin and I set out a few days ago in search of a beautiful abandoned home we drove past a few years ago. There isn't a road leading up to it, so one must trudge through a vast field for a visit. The trouble is, however, we couldn't find it anywhere! I refuse to but a stop to my search, though; I'm destined to have a photoshoot in this home where there are still traces of hanging wallpaper and old TIME magazines sprawled across the wooden floors.

I hope everyone is having a lovely day!

My Valentine

2010-02-14T13:17:00.000-08:00

Gosh, don't you just wish that quirky little valentines such as these were still nestled on the shelves of stores, in lieu of the glittery Hannah Montana and Twilight ones that seem to be everywhere you turn? How charming it would be to receive one of these little gems!

This morning, I was awoken by breakfast in bed and Lilies being delivered to my doorstep! Their magnificent smell is just permeating through my apartment, and it kind of makes me wish I always had fresh flowers around.

Justin and I have been together for five magical years now, which is somewhat hard to believe, it all went by so quickly! I simply couldn't ask for a more wonderful friend either, because you don't come by nerdy boys who are old souls, appreciate the past, love silent films and enjoy spending countless hours rummaging through antique shops very often. I think I'll hang on to this one forever!

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!

Spring Inside.

2010-02-06T18:06:00.000-08:00

Goodness gracious, Pennsylvania has certainly been getting the treatment from Mother Nature the past couple of days! Just as I thought the winter doldrums were making their way out the door, we receive a heaping 2 feet of snow and counting! This morning, I opened my curtains to discover our vehicles half buried, and not to mention my bare feet having an impromptu cuddle with a blanket of snow when I opened my front door. Yikes!

After sighing a spectacular sigh, I decided to stop being such a sourpuss and take a few wintry outfits shots. That is, until I realized that everyone and their brother was outside shoveling their walkways, and I still feel incredibly silly taking any sort of photo while several people are around. Especially when I'm clad in a dress, making awkward and goofy poses.

Consequently, I ended up hiding away in my bedroom all afternoon, choosing springtime outfits and snapping a few photos of those!

Outfit #1
Pink lace drop-waist dress: Goodwill
Blue Blazer: Via Strawberry Koi Vintage
Antique Pocket Watch: An heirloom from my great grandfather
Brown ankle bow heels: Thrifted
Vintage hat: Local antique shop
Suitcase: Antique shop
Needlepoint purse: Antique shop

Outfit #2
Navy blue polka dotted 1940's dress: Thrifted
Red hat box: Local antique shop

Outfit #3
Cream cable knit cardigan: Thrifted
Baby blue ruffle neck sleeveless blouse: Via Q's Daydream Vintage
Cream skirt: Forever21
Blue suitcase: Thrifted

And the song of the post is David Bowie's "Changes", which has been stuck in my head for what feels like forever! But that's alright, I adore the chorus.

Ch-ch-ch-ch-CHANGES!

30% Off Sale at Penelope Nightingale Vintage!

2010-01-29T15:45:00.000-08:00

Just a short update to announce Penelope Nightingale's 30% off sale until February 12th, in honor of it's brand new Facebook fan page! So, if you see something you like, let me know and I will send you an updated price!

Tea Time Rings, Spring Dresses, and Fancy Hats

2010-01-21T21:23:00.000-08:00

I received my first springtime dress and jewelry of the year a bit ago, which certainly sparks a longing for warmer weather. Well, not that having tea is remotely a springtime event, it's just that the lovely floral design reminds me of the first bloom of the season, when the air smells warm and sweet. The dress isn't very visible at all on me, but I'm saving that for when spring officially makes it's grand entrance! Right now, it's so cold outside, all I can do is wear it only while walking around in the comfort of my heated apartment. I considered just throwing a coat and scarf over it, however this seems like the type of dress that needs to breathe and just can't spend it's days shoved under a multitude of winter layers!

It came to me in the most charming packaging and a lovely buttercup-colored ribbon that looks rather wonderful tied around the waist of the dress!

Vintage springtime floral dress: Good.Wiu Vintage
Tea kettle and cup rings: The Lovely Teaspoon
Pink Bow: Local thrift shop
Vintage hat: My favorite junky little antique shop

Currently listening to "Fallen Snow" by Au Revoir Simone. This video happens to be one of my favorites, and it's perfect for the beginning of spring, or at least for one who is desperately hoping for the beginning of spring!

Antique Sundays.

2010-01-12T19:45:00.000-08:00

Sunday afternoon, the boy and I decided to brave the cold and pay a visit to an antique mall in Fayetteville that was four buildings large! The wind was wickedly frigid, walking from building to building, but all of the adrenaline of exploring the ins and outs definitely made up for it! It took us over five hours to finally complete building number four, however, at a place as gloriously cluttered as this, it was impossible to look at absolutely everything.

We embarked on our journey with a destination of as much needlepoint as we could find, preferably a few small stools. While we found several, all seemed to be a bit out of my price range, so the search continues! We did find many antique cameras that held the boy's interest, while I spent most of my time digging through boxes and boxes of wonderfully dusty photographs, while pining for eras I've never had the pleasure of experiencing. I ended up purchasing a few of the photos I found to be especially charming, plus a few silly vintage Valentines which were a pleasant surprise amongst the photographs!

All in all, it was a magical day filled with odd little trinkets, outrageously expensive, yet wonderful 1920's dresses and dress forms, parasols, quirky little children's drawings from the 1930's and antique cameos that made me just want to melt into a puddle right on the crickity wooden floors.

Plus new glasses! Which I'm just itching to get to the optometrist and have my prescription fit into them!

Etsy Updates and Elegant Snowfalls.

2010-01-07T14:15:00.000-08:00

Happy belated holidays to everyone! I hope that they were wonderful for all of you! I went home to Pittsburgh for Christmas and New Year, and made the silly mistake of not packing my camera charger with me, so I didn't get a photo of my Christmas dress or my finger waves that I worked so very hard on. Such is life!

It was a lovely holiday, however, and I'm pleased to say a very white Christmas! I had a wonderful time catching up with my family and a few old friends, and I forgot how lovely it felt to watch glittery snow, swirled in a downward spiral under the streetlights from my parents living room window. It was just beautiful how it danced in perfect time with my dad's old vinyl records that crackled in background of the illuminated Christmas tree.

The elegance of snow always has a way of making me stop rushing around, if only for a few moments, and appreciate the beauty that's surrounding me. I do believe it is one of the true forms of magic left in the world. Plus, looking at a winter sky always yields a rather cute and perfect quote that I once read in a book:

"He came out of nowhere and looked at the sky and told me to see the stars. So, I looked up, and we were in this giant dome like a glass snowball. He said that the amazing white stars were really only holes in the black glass of the dome, and when you went to Heaven, the glass broke away, and there was nothing but a whole sheet of star white, which is brighter than anything, but doesn't hurt your eyes."

As much as I would love to continue ranting about the loveliness of snowfalls, I have a few Etsy shop updates to share with you! I did get many opportunities to visit my most beloved thrifting locations this winter break, and have finally started working through the pile of vintage goodies for the store! Including a few lovely 1940's secretary dresses, Marie Antoinette-esque shoes that I wish with all of my heart would fit me, a lovely floral brooch, and a sweet little drop-waist lace dress!

Currently listening to: "Postcards From Italy" by Beirut

(I have so much music I would love to share, that I decided to add a "Currently listening to" section to all of my future posts. I'm sure most of you already know of this amazing song, but It's just too wonderful not to post! Plus, the video that accompanies it is just absolutely charming in every way. Enjoy!)

Tea and Toast.

2009-12-12T16:19:00.000-08:00

Oh, internet, how I miss you. I await the moment when finals are over, and I can enjoy you to the fullest extent during Christmas break. I also wish to extend my apologies to all of the thrift shops I've been missing out on, the abandoned buildings I've discovered, but haven't had the time to explore, and my lonesome camera who has been crying tears of dust on my bedroom desk.

Lately, my time has been consumed by studies and work. When I am able to grasp a few free moments, I use them to sip tea by the Christmas tree, squeeze in a festive Doris Day film, and of course, covet absolutely everything in my newly acquired Toast catalog.

Everything's Better At Macy's, We're Known As The Quality Store!

2009-11-15T11:05:00.001-08:00

This commercial still brings out the weepy little baby girl inside of me. Someday, I'd love to experience the Macy's Day Parade live. If only I could get past practically standing on the shoulders of strangers part!

This is just a quick update! I've been itching to add a bunch of new things to my shop, but time just hasn't been on my side lately! I'm hoping to post them during Thanksgiving break and also perhaps squeeze in an outfit post or two ::Fingerscrossed::.

Break simply can't come fast enough, though. I miss my family so much and await waking up to the sound of the Macy's Day Parade that accompanies the familiar song of pots and pans and the overwhelming scent of our Thanksgiving feast!

Halloween!

2009-10-31T18:27:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone has a fabulous Halloween! The one day that it's acceptable to dress as silly as possible without getting too many strange looks! What's everyone dressing up as? I love hearing people's creative costume ideas!

Under The Weather Inspiration

2009-10-28T16:38:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to return to the blogosphere for days now, but I can't seem to release this nasty little bug that, for some reason, has decided to befriend me! I'm having a bit of trouble bringing myself to do much of anything, aside from whine almost constantly and cater to my incredibly crimson nose. The most glorious thrifting day was had a bit ago, and I'm just itching to rid of this sickness so that I can photograph and update my Etsy shop!

However, I suppose I shouldn't let a silly thing like the flu get in the way of at least doing an inspiration post!

I've been a member of Netflix for over a year now, but haven't bothered with searching for instant films until a few days ago. I was stunned to see so many wonderful classic films that were sitting right in front of me just waiting to be watched! I decided on "For Me and My Gal" because it seemed lighthearted enough and was directed by Bubsy Burkeley, so I figured it couldn't be even the slightest bit terrible. One of the only drawbacks I had was that Judy Garland is the main character, and ever since being a bit creeped out by The Wizard Of Oz as a kid, I was sort of so-so on the idea of pressing forward with said film.

I'm pleased to say, however, that afterward, I was in Judy Garland heaven! Not only is she downright stunning, but she makes the most charmingly exaggerated facial expressions that cause my heart do a complete dance each and every time! The fact that I doubted her for so many years is just disgraceful.

Etsy Shop Update!

2009-10-13T12:05:00.000-07:00

I just added a few lovely vintage pieces to the shop, including an adorable 1970's plaid blouse that I'm having the most trouble letting go of, because it looks dangerously charming with a cardigan.

A floral dress with the sweetest little crocheted Peter Pan Collar and puffed sleeves.

Vintage T-strap heels

And a vintage Carry-On that I couldn't help but use as a large purse!

If someone happened to be hiding in the woods watching The Boy and I trying to take these photos, I'm sure it would have been quite the comical scene for them. To get the aerial views, he courageously balanced on the most unstable of tree limbs, and wouldn't get down no matter how much I begged him to! And to make sure that the placement of my dress was just right as I laid on the ground, I had the bright idea to stand up, hold my dress out, and fall flat in sort of a dramatic fainting style, which I'll admit, felt just about as graceful as it must have looked. Ouch. Regardless of all the silliness that this photo shoot brought, my lovely boyfriend and I did have a most charming time doing it!

Etsy Inspiration: JitterBonesBaby! Vintage & Recycled Couture Clothing

2009-10-09T13:03:00.000-07:00

When I first discovered JitterBonesBaby! Vintage, I couldn't decide which I'd rather have more; The gorgeous outfits that the models were wearing, or the actual photographs that displayed the clothing! I love the amount of time she puts into displaying her vintage pieces- the hair, the makeup, the pure emotion in each photo. She really has a spectacular way of not only showing you what the item is, but showing you what the item might have been.

Open For Business!

2009-10-03T20:12:00.000-07:00

Somewhere in between midterms and work, I finally managed to start my Etsy shop! There isn't a lot at the moment, but I have high hopes of doing some thrifting during the week *Fingers crossed!*. A vintage shop just opened in town, and I recently discovered another not too far from where I live. I've just been dying to get my hands on both of them!

I featured two of my favorite pieces; a 1950's blue and white polka dotted dress and a 1950's red dress with a lace overlay. The blue one is so very hard to part with, as I had the most glorious day wearing it a couple of weeks ago! It was nearing the end of summer, and it was the only day I was able to explore my favorite train tracks on my favorite bicycle. It was the only time I was truly able to stop rushing around for a moment and savor the last few breaths of the season.

I do hope I acquire a frequent visitor or two! To get to the shop, just click on the very tiny (Which I will eventually make a bit larger) luggage tag located on the right hand side of my blog!

Fashion Inspiration: Zooey Deschanel.

2009-08-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

First and foremost, I would like to take the time to sincerely apologize for my lack of blogging! In my defense, things have been a smidge chaotic, as I have moved away to attend university. After experiencing the abomination that is packing, trying my hardest to gather some sort of moving crew, and becoming acquainted with my new found surroundings, I do believe I am finally nestled in my new home and prepared to resume my humble little bloggette. I'm so very thrilled, and equally nervous to start classes in a few days, but am eternally grateful for the Mayberry-esque town I now reside in; I'm hoping that it will balance out all of the other miscellaneous craziness!

Today's Fashion Inspiration is very much a no-brainer. Zooey Deschanel has been one of my most prominent fashion go-to icons for quite some time now. After seeing this video, however, she has most certainly caused an obsession that must be dangerously close to the brink of unhealthy! I'm loving her little 1950's-inspired outfit, and have been exploring the depths of my wardrobe so that I can blatantly be a copycat (Perferably a cat with that identical color combination and that wonderful beaded detail on her cardigan)!

I haven't seen 500 Days Of Summer yet, and am almost afraid to. I've heard many things about the movie itself, and none of which were very good. For fashion inspiration, however, I must see it! I just hope that it doesn't taint my immaculate view of Zooey Deschanel.Photos of my new apartment and details about my up and coming Etsy store soon!

Tim Burton's Alice In Wonderland.

2009-06-28T10:48:00.000-07:00

I have been hearing rumors for almost a year now that Tim Burton has been working on a version of Alice In Wonderland that is expected to be released in 2010. Since my ears met this spectacular rumor, I have been scouring the internet, attempting to learn more about said movie. Finally, after months of sheer anticipation and whipping up ideas of what the characters might look like, IMDB has released photos!

Mia Wasikowska as Alice.

Johnny Depp as The Mad Hatter.

Helena Bonham Carter as The Red Queen.

Matt Lucas as Tweedledee and Tweedledum.

Anne Hathaway as The White Queen.

I'm not sure how this could be any more of a feast for the eyes! It's so much more than my mind could ever have conjured. I find myself coming out of my skin with excitement, as I have been a fan of the whimsical tale of Alice In Wonderland for quite some time. I now await in incredible anticipation for March 5th 2010, when I shall race to the ticket booth with dollars in hand, bursting with child-like glee!

"If I had a world of my own, everything would be nonsense. Nothing would be what it is, because everything would be what it isn't. And contrary wise, what is, it wouldn't be. And what it wouldn't be, it would. You see?"

My Perfect Lemonade-Sipping Dress.

2009-06-15T08:09:00.000-07:00

Vintage Wedding Refashioned Frock GIVEAWAY!!!

I instantly fell in love with this dress that is featured in Grosgrain's Giveaway! The delicate cheesecloth fabric sleeves, with tiny buttons parading down the sides, especially. It's a perfect summer frock, and I've had my eyes peeled for something just like this particular dress. Romantic, flowy, and perfect for partaking in a child-like picnic in the midst of vibrant, uncut blades of grass; sipping lemonade, sharing outlandish stories amongst best friends, and welcoming the summer afternoon wind embracing sunkissed cheeks.

I think it's silly that certain outfits make me want to do certain activities, but it seems almost impossible not to do something lovely while wearing this dress! And I can't even think of what shoes I would wear, because nothing would look as wonderful as going barefoot!

An Evening In The City, And A Slightly Disappointed H&M Shopper.

2009-06-14T14:22:00.001-07:00

Navy Blue Bow Jacket: Local Antique Shop.
White Dress: eBay.
Vintage Slips: Thrifted.
Navy Blue Net Hat: Local Antique Shop.
Navy Blue and White Spectator Heels: Thrifted.
Red Hatbox: Antique Shop.

Yesterday, I spent a lovely evening in the city with one of my very best friends, whom I've lost contact with over the past 2 years. It was wonderful to catch up with her, and I regret the time we spent apart from each other. After 20 years of friendship, however, we were able to pick up right where we left off, and brush off those 2 lost years! Our tiny adventure led us right into the arms of H&M. I always have rather high hopes upon entering this store; I seem to have a way of over-glamorizing it. The very first thing I noticed was the obnoxious techno music that was playing, then the overabundance of brightly-colored, collarless, short sleeved blouses. Not that I don't enjoy sifting through a plethora of blouses, but It just seemed as if they completely and utterly consumed the entire building, and I was left suffocating in a raging sea of hot pink and purple Bohemian prints (Which I never really got along with)! I ended up leaving with a floral dress that was on super-sale, and a very pretty pair of floral sandals. Not all was lost! Forever 21 was right next door to H&M, and it was able to gently gather and mold together the pieces of my heart that H&M seemed to carelessly stomp all over. Shopping for new clothing always has a way of making me appreciate thrift shopping much more, though. I was having so much trouble actually making my way to the register to pay just $20 for a dress. When you're a consistent thrifter, there's nothing but guilt in those situations, as silly as that may sound.

I harbor no complaints for the city, however. The weather was ideal and the air had a muggy, summery, cook-out type feel to it as the sun started to set. The Pittsburgh art festival was going on all around us, there was live folk music playing, and the ground fountains were proudly making their appearance in an assortment of brilliant colors. The only thing that topped all of this were the slices of white chocolate raspberry truffle cheesecake that we both devoured before saying our goodbyes to the city that we seem to fall in love with all over again, each time we venture to it.

I've Been Tagged!

2009-06-06T15:01:00.000-07:00

Hope, from Pansy Lane, recently tagged me, and I just discovered it today! I'm probably one of the worst bloggers in the history of blogington, because I've started to neglect it after my very first post! My life has been sort of a bore as of late, and I've been a bit caught up in silly things, like work and sleep. Ugh, still no excuse, though.

1. What is your current obsession? The sea, and every beautiful thing that's associated with it. Historic harbor towns, ships, dunes! I'm beginning to think that I've viewed every single photo available to me, and I've been looking everywhere for a ship print dress. I've also been addicted to searching for vintage photographs of ship passengers. It's so charming to me to see them all dolled up in their minks and extravagant dresses, and I love whipping up detailed scenarios of what adventures they may have partaken in on their way to their destinations!

2. What is your weirdest obsession? Collecting vintage perfume bottles and makeup containers. I have so many of them, it's hard to keep track! Most of the vintage makeup I have still has most of the actual makeup inside. My sister thinks it's gross that I keep such things around, but the bottles and containers were just made so much more glamorous than than they are today, I feel they need to be appreciated! I'm lucky because I can usually find them on the "Everything is a dollar" shelf in antique shops.

3. What do you see outside your window? Tiny chipmunks! I don't know what it is about this year, but I'm noticing so many of them, it's almost unreal! They tend to gather and frolic about right outside of my apartment window. When they're not chasing each other in an endless circle, they're popping their chipmunky heads out of small holes in the ground. Not only chipmunks, but birds have been perching on the deck more than usual and I've even caught squirrels staring into the windows! It makes me wonder if my parents forgot to tell me that I am, in fact, Snow White.

4. What is your favorite color? I've been falling deeper in love with mint green. When mint green is an option for an item I'm interested in, it's as if the other colors don't even exist! It's just so fresh and summery, I want to eat it! I'm sure this will change with the weather, however.

5. What is your weakness? The two words that make my scanty bank account's knees quiver at the very thought of them! Antique Stores!

6. What animal would you be? This changes frequently, I think. When I'm exhausted beyond the point of exhaustion, I would love to be a sloth. They sleep 15-18 hours a day, and sometimes that just seems beautiful to me! Any other time, however, I would love to be bird. Flying would be magical, and I could visit so many wonderful places that both distance and money prevent me from visiting.

7. What would you like to learn how to do? Oh, this is an easy one- sew. Life would be a bit simpler, if I knew how to properly sew. Ah, I would be fashionably boundless!

8. What do you want to never happen in life? I would never want to back down from my morals, because of the current era I'm living in. When I believe in something, I get almost annoyingly passionate about it. It has ruined past friendships and labeled me an absolute drag to be around, in today's standards. I'm content with it, however, and like to believe that in the long-run it's one of my not-so-bad attributes.

9. What is on your bedside table? A fairly large model of the Queen Anne's ship, a ceramic rose, and a framed photo of Justin.

10. What's the last thing you bought? I went yard sale-ing this morning, so I purchased lots of lovely items, for cheap! A vintage hat box, cream dress gloves with pretty bows on the tops, a 1940's hat, a picnic basket, and finally an exercise bicycle, so I can exercise whilst I feast my eyes upon old movies!

11. What do you think about the person who tagged you? Aaah, she's one of the most adorable girls ever! She has a Colleen Moore hairstyle that I envy so, and she collects vintage suitcases, like I do!

11. What was your favorite children's book? When I was a wee girl, Peppermint was my favorite book. The illustrations were so soft, and I loved that each of the kittens from the candy store were named after an assortment of candies that each matched the kittens' fur!

13. Who do you want to meet in person? Sadly, everyone I want to meet is dead =(. Corinne Griffith is first on my list, preferably when she was going through some sort of supposed identity crisis, because it's just so interestingly odd to me. Also, I would have loved to have a conversation with Elliott Smith or, at the very least, made it to one of his concerts before he died.

14. What did you want to be as a child? Most of my passions have always circled around the arts. I wanted to be a freelance photographer and capture the lovely, yet sometimes overlooked things that life has to offer. I believe as some point, I wanted to be a Child Psychologist, as well, but for the majority of my life, I wanted to be some sort of an artist.

15. What did you dream about last night? I was exploring an abandoned house, but couldn't enjoy it due to the fear of Asbestos. Which, in real life, I fear far too much.

16. Which do you prefer, day or night? Oh, I love the tranquility of nighttime, especially during the summer. I live for nights of laying on the porch swing, getting lost in a good book, and being serenaded by the lovely song of crickets. Morning, however, has it's perks, too, because sunsets are magnificent and I love feeling like I have a whole day ahead of me. Especially when I don't have to work and my day is a complete blank slate, just waiting to be painted on with all sorts of adventures!

17. What's your favorite piece of clothing in your closet? Aaah, a very difficult question! Right now, it's my red, sleeveless 1950's dress that I thrifted several months ago, because I feel elegant when it's paired with a crinoline slip and peep-toed pumps. Being that I don't feel elegant very often, it's a nice change of pace!

18. What's your plan for tomorrow? Tomorrow morning, I'm teaching the 4-year-olds at church, then who knows! Sundays are usually wonderfully lazy, because most places close rather early. I would love to visit the abandoned factory a few miles down the road, but Justin works, and I just can't go on an adventure without my partner in crime!

19. What would you like to get your hands on right now? A dress that I recently won on eBay. It's sitting at the post office as I type, and I can't get to it because it's closed until Monday! Also, this mug because I would love to look more distinguished as I drink my morning tea:

20. What is your must-have of the moment? Anything of vintage travel decor. I'm moving three hours away in August, and I'm already decorating my future living room.

21. What's your favorite tea flavor? I like a fruity flavor in the morning; blackberry tea is probably my favorite. However, Justin bought me Raspberry Chocolate tea, and it's perfect for the evening when everything is calming down.

22. If you could go anywhere in the world right now, where would you go? In the completely unrealistic sense, I would go to Capeside, Massachusetts! While ashamed to admit it, I've been hooked on Dawson's Creek reruns lately, and have been sort of swept away by a fictional town. Realistically, I would really fancy visiting a harbor town right now, so I could watch ships for the remainder of the night.

Now, I tag.. anyone who wants to fill this out =)!

On a side note, I smelled summer for the first time this year, as I took a barefoot night drive. In the distance, random fireworks burst in magnificent color over the treetops, and the summer wind trickled in through the open windows and brushed against my face. It was the first magical experience of the summer, and made me anticipate hopefully many more to come. Oh, but then I got pulled over by a policeman because of my expired registration sticker. He gave me a $160 fine, and informed me that if I get caught again, I'll lose my license for a year. Such is life.

The Official Transition From Xanga To Blogger And a "New" Dress From Liebemarlene Vintage!

2009-05-25T10:56:00.000-07:00

I've been a Xangian..er..ist for several years now, but have come to the sorrowful conclusion that it is an official wasteland over there. It seems as though every Xanga account hasn't been updated since 2006, which seems very odd to me, honestly. It's as if I missed the Xanga apocalypse or something of the sort. I digress, however; I am now taking the plunge into Blogger, in hopes to not feel as lonely while ranting about my obsession with everything pretty, frilly, and vintage. And because an option to state what music/book/movie/video game you're listening to/watching/reading/playing doesn't always equal a quality place to blog!

I do believe I will rather enjoy myself here, but that really depends on whether I will be able to figure out how to rid of the large, empty space that inhabits the side of my blog (Which I'm pretty sure I just fixed..)

A few weeks ago, I had the honor of winning an eBay auction from Liebemarlene Vintage. I've made numerous attempts before, but have walked away from the computer without so much as a dent in my paypal account. Sometimes I don't think I'm aggressive enough for eBay. Everything changed the moment I saw this dress of ethereal magnificence, though! I felt as if I would stop at nothing (within reason) to walk away triumphant, albeit a bit more on the poor side. It's airy and yellow, and for some reason, I find myself attracted to pale yellow this summer. Which, if you knew me, you would be making the same perplexed facial expression I did at that very moment I realized such a thing! Even though it's long sleeved- which I actually prefer, due to the hatred I harbor for my arms- it's my perfect summer dress so far, and because of said airiness, I often forget about said long sleeves!

1960's Yellow Dress: Liebemarlene Vintage
Cloche Hat: Forever 21, on Über sale.
Pink Cameo Necklace: Local Antique Store.
Brown Oxford Heels: Thrifted.
Purse: Not-so-local Antique Store.

Happy Memorial Day, Everyone!