Posts Tagged With: Retro

Nothing Like the Gentle Touch of a Sea Breeze

Last year, Bettie Page Clothing released the breathtaking Sea Breeze Dress for their 2012 Spring/Summer collection. I knew instantly it would find a home in my closet as the beautiful aqua blue was shouting buy me, buy me! Knowing I had more than enough dresses to wear for the summer, I waited for the end of season sales and snagged it for a steal of a deal at JBR Clothing.

Available in sizes XS to 4X – MSRP $126 USD.

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In my experience with Bettie Page, I find their sizing to be a bit inconsistent as they do not offer individual item specific size charts. Knowing the Sea Breeze was made from a 4-way stretch material, it was safe to say a Medium would be the way to go. With my measurements 36-29-41, the sizing was spot on and the fit was perfect. The crisp white trim, buttons and belt are a fabulous accent to the aqua blue; a truly beautiful vintage color combination. The material is not only stretchy but has substantial weight and thickness as well. One of the greatest features I must mention…POCKETS!!! The wide white straps allow you to wear your favorite bras while not sacrificing comfort and support. At 5 feet 4 inches tall, the lovely swing skirt falls a couple inches below the knee.

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The Sea Breeze is one of the most comfortable dresses and suitable for various body types. I absolutely adore the fabulous quality and feel of the fabric, perfect to keep you cool on those warm summer days. The contrasting white belt defines your waist while the swing skirt drapes flowingly away from your hips. You can skip the shapewear and wear the Sea Breeze with confidence.

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This little number is perfect for the office or afternoon party when paired with a white cardigan and ballet flats. Kick it up a notch with a pair of pearls, high heel Mary-Janes and short white gloves for a timeless ensemble . The Sea Breeze has a classic vintage design sure to appeal to those seeking a true 1950′s look.

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I have always been a sucker vintage reproduction designs that truly capture the classic elements of the era. The Bettie Page Sea Breeze is definitely a winner in those regards and a fabulous go to dress when you’re short on time but don’t want to sacrifice style.

Categories: All Posts, Clothing | Tags: , , , , , | 2 Comments

Ribbon And Bows Galore!

Recently I was introduced to the lovely Punk Up Bettie, a one gal operation creating the most fabulous Retro/Rockabilly accessories. Inspired by the designers love of all things pin up, vintage, rockabilly, punk, horror & more!  Lina hand crafts all her creations, with the utmost care down to the smallest details. You would have also seen Punk Up Bettie as one of the fabulous sponsors for our blog anniversary giveaway.

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I am not going to lie…I had reservations about wearing bows as it has always been something I shied away from with accessories. Looking through Punk Up Bettie’s designs, they were all so incredibly beautiful and surprisingly intrigued to give them a chance. The bold colors and fun polka patterns with a rockabilly edge are bound to make a statement with any outfit. There’s something for everyone – roses, skulls, swallows, cherries, anchors with a mix of animal print, polka dots, bandana print & much more! If bows are really not your thing (trust me, you should definitely reconsider that stance) Punk Up Bettie has a fabulous selection of hair flowers with coordinating rings, necklaces, earrings and wristbands at very affordable prices.

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When my goodies arrived all the way from Denmark, I couldn’t wait to see what I got! Immediately I was head over heels about them and super excited to share my review with all of you. Bear in mind, not all hair accessories are made equal. It is essential to be conscious of quality products in order to prevent damage to your locks. First, the hair clip is the determining factor of great quality vs junk. The Punk Up Bettie accessories not only grip well, they do not snag or pull therefore preventing any accidental breakage to your locks. Second, the clips must be well fastened to the base while remaining esthetically pleasing to the eye. As you can see in the review photos, Lina is unmistakably attentive to the finest details.

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What I love the most about Punk Up Bettie’s accessories is the fact they coordinate perfectly with the majority of my retro wardrobe but would also be suitable to wear with jeans and a tank or tee. The simple, clean lines make it a statement piece sure to get you noticed. They are super cute and fun but not in a childish way. Punk Up Bettie delivers the highest quality I have seen in handmade accessories, definitely giving you a lot of bang for your buck! Don’t be fooled by cheap imitations, quality handmade products are hard to find these days.

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After testing out these pretties…I anxiously compiling an order for more bows believe it or not! If you haven’t already, check out Punk Up Bettie’s Fanpage where you’ll find the latest designs and sales!!!

Categories: Accessories, All Posts | Tags: , , , , , , | 4 Comments

A Closet Full of Dresses With Nothing to Wear!

Oddly enough with a closet full of dresses, I still have times when it seems like I have nothing to wear to formal events. It is essential to have one or two options that are suitable for multiple occasions at a moment’s notice. The Vivien in Plum Taffeta by Pinup Girl Clothing was a perfect candidate for the job. Luckily Rowena/Retroglam.com had them on sale during their end of season blow out.

Available in size XS to 2X in a variety of colors – MSRP $102USD

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The Vivien is known to work well for the less busty as a result the busty ladies are required to size up. Based on the size chart, I was in-between sizes (measurements 36-29-41) and decided it was definitely best to order the Large since the taffeta does not stretch. Immediately I fell in love with the classic one shoulder design as it showcases my tattoos wonderfully. Pair it with your favorite strapless bra, in my case the Victoria Secret Miraculous for a little extra oomph! The taffeta material has a gorgeous sharkskin sheen and quite form flattering with the side gathering design. The color is absolutely breathtaking!

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Recently PUG re-released the Vivien in three new bengaline colorways with a stunning rhinestone shoulder detail. The same fabulous design but in a new stretchy fabric for those not keen on the taffeta. I personally love the taffeta as it is truly unique and very figure flattering for someone with curves. Pairing the Vivien with my Rago shapewear is a perfect complement to create the illusion of a perfect hourglass silhouette.

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We can safely say the Vivien is not something you can wear to the office or a family barbecue but is perfect for those special date nights or a wedding reception. With the off the shoulder detail, I recommend wearing your favorite vintage pendant earrings and skip any neck jewelry. A pair of classic round toe pumps will complete the look beautifully.

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Now I know there is at least one dress in my closet that will work for those fancy functions and won’t fall into the “nothing to wear” predicament anytime soon. Check out Retroglam.com and other online retailers to snag the Vivien in taffeta at greatly discounted prices.

Categories: All Posts, Clothing | Tags: , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Add A Dash of Ginger To Your Wardrobe

Occasionally there are certain designs that fly under the radar until you happen to see how truly amazing it looks on someone else and wonder why you didn’t get it sooner? The Ginger in Bandana Print from Pinup Girl Clothing is a prime example of this case in point. As soon as I saw my gorgeous friend Maralynn wearing hers, I HAD to have it! Luckily my size was instock during the PUG Black Friday sale and scooped one up at a fabulous price. If you happen to see the Ginger in stock anywhere, grab it as this particular style has been discontinued in all prints.

Available sizes XS to 2X in a variety of colors & prints – MSRP $118USD

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Normally I find the PUG size charts very accurate and follow it without question but the Ginger in Bandana Print was an exception to the rule. Based on my measurements (36-29-41), I should easily fit in the size Medium but found the bust line cutting in considerably and rather snug in the waist. Sizing up to the Large was a perfect all over fit to my surprise. The Ginger has an elasticized gathered bodice with halter straps to provide support for the bustier ladies. Made from high quality cotton with little to no stretch. The full skirt is a perfect length falling just below the knee (at 5ft 4 inches tall) with a dainty eyelet ruffle trim.

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The Ginger is definitely a much understated dress as the construction and overall design is remarkable for all body types. I truly believe the higher price point was the demise of this beauty since overall sales were low and led to its retirement after last season. It’s a fabulous dress for the summer and a wonderful staple to have in your closet for those days you need to get dressed on the fly.

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By adding a cardigan or shrug, the Ginger is perfect to wear to the office or an afternoon out with the ladies. For extra fullness, pair it with your favorite petticoat and a little hair flower to finish off the entire ensemble. The Ginger looks perfect with heels or flats…pretty much everything goes from casual to semi-formal outings.

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If you have been lusting after the Ginger or on the fence…now is the time to grab one while they are on clearance at retailers like Retroglam.com as they have been removed from the PUG site altogether.

What styles have you purchased after seeing them on other ladies that you never thought twice about?

Categories: All Posts, Clothing | Tags: , , , , , , , , | 10 Comments

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