California Dreamin'

There's something about a big, floppy sunhat that I love. Maybe it's that easy-going California girl in me, or maybe I just love the way it looks. Or, it could be the fact that I am all for protecting my skin from sun damage, especially when I can look effortlessly chic doing it.

A breezy tunic kept things light; I especially love its sheerness and watercolor-brushed look.

A friend and blogger (http://theurbanfashiongal.com/) bought me the ring at a boutique in L.A. It's a pretty touch to this summery look.

Tunic, Da-Nang; Hat, Hat Attack NY; ring, unknown

Peaches and Jemima

Today I was feeling on top of the world with an extra skip in my step when I found this long-forgotten Leeba Marks skirt. Made from vintage fabrics, this skirt is bursting with color and eludes pure joy; I am especially fond of the bottom, as it is made from cute, vintage handkerchiefs. While I do love the length of the skirt, I decided to try wearing it as a dress. If you've tried this with other skirts, you know it doesn't always work; however, this breezy skirt worked just fine as a dress.

I call it my "Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary" skirt, as it makes me think of the English nursery rhyme:
Mary, Mary, quite contrary,
How does your garden grow?
With silver bells, and cockle shells,
And pretty maids all in a row.

Since the fabric is rather busy, I kept the jewelry simple and understated; a long necklace dangling with little beads and a gold ring finished off this sweet look.

Say hello to Peaches, one of the many chickens that live in a little coop on our property; Peaches is of the Ameraucana breed. Jemima, a Rhode Island Red chicken, also ran in and out of the photos; however, she was more interested in the bugs crawling around in the soil.

Leeba Marks is located out of Los Angeles and continues to construct beautiful pieces made from vintage fabrics like tablecloths and handkerchiefs.

Skirt, Leeba Marks; necklace, unknown; ring, unknown

One Woman's Trash Is Another Woman's Treasure

The first Sunday of every month marks the day of the largest antique flea market in all of Northern California, the Alameda Point Antiques Faire. One should be aware that all items at the faire are at least 20 years old, although some people sneak newer items into their booths. The market showcases literally everything vintage: vintage clothing and accessories, antique furniture and home decor, old art prints and posters, every vinyl record imaginable, and any other miscellaneous items you can think of. The gates open at 6:00 a.m. and stay open until 3 in the afternoon. While the admittance fee reduces as the day goes on (2-3 p.m. is free), it is advised to come early before many of the big ticket items sell; however, prices may lower as the day goes on. Often times, people forget this is the market to negotiate prices with the seller; suggest a reasonable price and the seller will usually alter his or hers. Be advised, however, that these items are typically one-of-a-kind, so prices do not necessarily match those of a Goodwill or Salvation Army. But I love antiques for this reason; no one can ever duplicate an item quite like yours.

In the past, I've bought items like a set of milky pink bangles embellished with rhinestones from the 1950's, a collection of rings, a cream sweater with a floral beaded collar, a bracelet made with buttons from the early 1930's, a colorful flower pin from the 1950's, and a black, sleeveless vintage Chanel blouse -- all precious items in my closet.

Such gorgeous vintage jewelery! Rings like these, of course, would definitely be an investment. But, a smart investment if you're thinking long-term. I always ask myself, do I want this or do I need this?

This booth specializes in vintage eyeglasses frames; they can even put lenses in on the spot or order some if they don't have the right ones in stock.

What a crafty world we live in! The seller decorated her dress form with a collage of old family pictures.

I highly recommend attending the Alameda flea market if you haven’t already done so; it is truly an event not to be missed. So grab a shopping partner, make sure to bring a warm coat or scarf, a wagon or cart to haul your treasures in (they sell and rent carts at the market), and some spending money (trust me, you’ll need it). Also, no need to pack a snack; dozens of local food vendors set up at the market, offering any type of food to fit your needs, including the quite famous kettle corn (I recommend the Mediterranean wraps for a lunch option). For more information on the flea market or the area, log on to www.alamedapointantiquesfaire.com

Why Not Learn From The Best?

Fashion books come in handy, especially when you love fashion as much as I do. Some people think fashion books are only for those less educated in the world of fashion than they are or for those who are seeking to alter their personal style. While these claims may be true for some, even the expert fashionista can learn a thing or two from these “bibles,” as I like to call them. I own several, however, my favorites include Tim Gunn’s Guide to Quality, Taste & Style, and Lauren Conrad’s book titled Style.

Gunn’s book is definitely worth buying because he addresses topics like finding the right fit, items all women should have in their closets (and no, some of them are not as obvious as the LBD), and ways to add to your signature look, all while using a witty and encouraging voice to help you on your way to quality, taste, and style. And, if you’re an avid Project Runway viewer like me, you’ll devour this book in no time! In the words of Tim Gunn, “Make it work!”

Conrad’s book is more suited for the an everyday lifestyle, as she touches on practical yet chic tidbits every girl ought to know. Conrad acknowledges that while she didn’t nail every outfit starting out in the fashion world, she’s learned a wealth of knowledge, all while creating her own personal style. And, a name for herself! “It’s all about trial and error,” says Conrad. In this way I can relate to Conrad, as not every outfit I put together is “wow” worthy. She’s humorous, relatable, and educated in every matter of fashion. She addresses topics like pieces appropriate for work and school, packing tips, and even ways to hem jeans yourself. The glossy photos and great outfits are merely a plus.