Stunning Swimsuits that Caught My Eye This Summer

by Sarah Desroche on June 27, 2019June 27, 2019

I’ll be honest: I’m not really a big fun-in-the-sun beach person. Summer is one of my least favorite seasons, right above winter, because I can’t stand the extremity of the weather. I’m much more a spring and autumn, and fifty degrees Fahrenheit is my perfect temperature.

That being said, I love fashion. I also love jumping in a cool, chlorinated pool as much as the next person, so I still occasionally browse swimsuits from time to time. These are my favorite swimsuits I’ve come across so far, and even though I probably won’t buy any of them, they are stunning! It’s also noteworthy to add that a few of these bathing suits are very expensive, particularly the ones from Unique Vintage and ModCloth.

The first swimsuit I fell in love with is this retro-style sailor bikini set. I think red is a universally flattering color for all skin types, and the high-waisted shorts would make me feel more comfortable about having a bit of a belly. I love that this bathing suit is covered up in all the most important places, but still remains sexy and flatters all silhouettes. It’s also noteworthy to add that the top and bottom are sold separately, as are all of the two-pieces. It’s a bit on the pricier side, but I know from personal experience that all Unique Vintage items are extremely well-made and designed to last for years.

You guys, I am OBSESSED with this one piece. This is the 1950s Barbie one piece that the original doll wore, and it really encompasses that vintage glamour I love and adore. This bathing suit is perfect for small-chested people like me, who can go strapless to the beach without worrying about a nip slip. I absolutely love the sweetheart neckline as well. This bathing suit retails for $88, which is a little pricey for a one piece, but is still slightly cheaper than buying the red bow halter set.

This is actually the first bathing suit I saw that caught my eye and inspired me to write an article about my favorite swimsuits. Isn’t this two piece just absolutely darling? The design feels very romantic and French to me, and yet again, has that vintage twist I adore. For some reason, it reminds me a lot of something Jane Birkin would wear in the 1960s. I also love that the bottoms are high-waisted, because that’s usually a deal breaker for me when shopping for swimsuits. This bathing suit comes in three other patterns, so pop over to ModCloth’s websites and see their other choices!

How could I not love this bathing suit? It’s from ModCloth, high-waisted, and super gay. I love it already, and I haven’t even worn it. This particular swimsuit set is cheaper than the others, and additionally, it has all five-star reviews. This swimsuit also comes in seven other prints, so if you love the cut but not the print, fear not. You’re bound to find another print you like- I particularly love the floral print as well! As I’ve become more comfortable with my homosexuality, I’ve began expanding my wardrobe into more rainbow attire. If I were to purchase a new swimsuit, this one would definitely be a top contender.

LafyKoly Women's One Piece Long Sleeve Rash Guard UV Protection Printed Surfing Swimsuit Swimwear Bathing Suit (M(US:6-8), Black&Floral&Stripe)

I used to not be a fan of long-sleeved bathing suits, but I’m starting to come around. For someone like my mother, who spends a lot of time in the sun and could easily contract skin cancer, I can understand how this swimsuit would be ideal. I love this pattern as well- it feels youthful to me, and the horizontal stripes have a slimming effect on the waist area. This bathing suit is also comparatively cheaper than the other swimsuits, but still has a four-star review from Amazon. It also comes in a huge variety of other funky fresh prints!

Image result for Aleumdr Womens 2 Pieces Bandeau Bikini Swimsuits Off Shoulder High Waist Bathing Suit

Last but certainly not least, I was intrigued by yet another affordable Amazon swimsuit. This bathing suit has 4.5 stars from 131 reviews, and comes in a variety of adorable patterns. My personal favorite is this cutesy light blue one; it has a vintage feel to it, but the cut and texture both appear very modern. I normally would be wary of trying cheap clothes from Amazon, but the reviews state that this bathing suit is stretchy, well-made, and well-fitting. There are pictures to prove it, and I can confirm- this bathing suit is true to the picture.

Those are my top six favorites, but like I said, I probably won’t have a reason to purchase another swimsuit this year. I’d love to hear which ones are your favorites, and if you’ve purchased any of these, what did you think? Let me know in the comments below!

Links

Red Bow Halter (top and bottom sold separately): https://www.unique-vintage.com/products/vintage-style-red-bow-halter-swim-top

Barbie Chevron Onepiece: https://www.unique-vintage.com/products/barbie-x-unique-vintage-black-white-chevron-stripe-one-piece-bathing-suit

Yellow Floral High Waisted Bikini (top and bottom sold separately): https://www.modcloth.com/shop/swimwear/the-sissone-high-waisted-bikini-bottom-in-yellow-floral/163973.html

Rainbow High Waisted Bikini (top and bottom sold separately): https://www.modcloth.com/sho\=

bottoms/modcloth-the-sara-high-waisted-bikini-bottom-in-rainbow/164774.html

Long Sleeve Swimsuit: https://www.amazon.com/TracyGirl-Protection-Printed-Swimsuit-Swimwear/dp/B07CQLD4D4/ref=sr_1_4?crid=3LULVN09YDHME&keywords=swimsuits+for+women+long+sleeve&qid=1561342837&s=gateway&sprefix=swimsuits+for+women+long%2Caps%2C167&sr=8-4

Bandeau Bikini: https://www.amazon.com/Aleumdr-Womens-Printed-Strapless-Swimsuit/dp/B07P9XK9T2/ref=sr_1_44?crid=6KNASNDO0Z79&keywords=swimsuits+for+women&qid=1561342864&s=gateway&sprefix=swins%2Caps%2C207&sr=8-44#customerReviews

Coming up next: The Jeffree Star Mini Rainbow Bundle: My Honest Thoughts

Summer Moodboard 2019

by Sarah Desroche on May 16, 2019May 16, 2019

Hi everybody! I hope you’re all well and enjoying the newfound summertime. I, for one, am not the biggest fan of the warm weather. I don’t mind the sunshine so much, but as soon as the sun starts to heat my skin, I get awfully rashy and blotchy. Per usual, it looks like I’ll be spending a lot of time inside!

I posted my last moodboard about two months ago, and now that it’s summertime, it’s time for another one. My style hasn’t changed much since then, but I am trying to incorporate more colors into my wardrobe, like red and denim. Red, black, and white are all very classically rockabilly colors, so I’m very excited to do some summer shopping and pick up some new garments for the season!

may moodboard

In regards to clothing, I’ve still been finding some great things on Amazon, like those high-waisted fifties style pants you see in the middle. I think they would be a great investment, because they can be paired with a variety of different tops and accessories, and remain historically accurate to the decade I love. I’ve also been very interested in slightly more vampiric, old-school designs, like the two black and white collared dresses. It’s very Wednesday Addams, and because those dresses are short, they would be appropriate for summer wear. You could also, of course, pair the dresses with tights, and make them fabulous for the colder months as well. I’m not sure where the dress on the left is from, but I know the dress on the right with certainty is from the Dollskill website. Another piece I’d like to incorporate into my closet is a red faux-leather jacket, but I unfortunately did not include a picture. Leather jackets, of course, were also an iconic component of the 1950s, and I’d love to add that as a staple to my wardrobe.

In regards to shoes, I definitely need an upgrade. Since my old black pinup heels broke on one of the platforms, I’ve been wearing the same black skechers flat every day. I’d love to get some super gothic platform heels from Dollskill or Killjoy, but they’re so expensive, I might have to settle for these Fashion Nova heels you see pictured instead. I’ve never purchased from Fashion Nova, but I love those shoes, and they actually appear quite comfortable to me. That, of course, is just based on the picture, so if I do buy them, I’ll be sure to update you on the wearability.

Other accessories I will be continuing to wear are red lipstick and over-the-top bumper bangs. I’ve been wearing bumper bangs in my hair for more than a year, because it’s a very comfortable hairstyle, and also quite easy to do once you get the knack of it down. If you’re interested in reading my vintage hair tutorials, I’ll include that link below.

I’m almost out of my Kylie Jenner red lip kit, so it’s time to find a new red lip. The Kylie Jenner formula actually worked really well on me, and I probably will purchase it again in the future, but I do want to try a matte liquid lipstick from Lime Crime. I have one of their metallic red lipsticks, and the color payoff is smooth and pigmented. The lipsticks also smell like cupcakes, so what’s there to complain about?

I think the overall look I am trying to achieve is spooky, high-femme, and ultimate psychobilly. I love the idea that women can be strong and powerful while still being girly, because that is a personal style I really identify with. I also really enjoy looking a little bit edgy, and standing out from what the fashion norms are. If you know of any other ethical shops that I might enjoy shopping on, let me know in the comments! I’m always looking for new style inspiration and ideas.

Vintage hair tutorials: https://diplomatsdigest.wordpress.com/2018/12/07/3-simple-vintage-hairstyles-that-you-can-do-in-under-ten-minutes/

Coming up next: Taco Tuesday: I Tried Making Those Tofu Tacos from The Sims 4

Fashion Journal: 1970-1979

by Sarah Desroche on April 18, 2019April 18, 2019

We’re more than halfway through the fashion journal series, and the further we go, the more trends and diversity in fashion we are going to experience. The sixties was a budding introduction to this culture of “no rules”, and now that we’re in the seventies, this explosion of fashion is now in full swing!

The seventies were a turbulent period of glam rock, disco, new technology, and ultimately, the overproduction of cheap, synthetic clothes. Like I said, there were a wide variety of styles at this time, but the overall popular figure was tight on top, and loose on bottom. I’m very excited about the garments I’ve picked to talk about today, and I hope you enjoy reading as much as I’ve enjoyed putting it together!

Of course, we can’t talk about the 1970s without mentioning the iconic bell-bottom jeans! By the 1970s, both men and women were wearing sportswear apparel, and this was primarily based on flare or bell-bottom jeans. This fashion staple proved to be the beginning of the “casual chic” movement, and to this day, flare jeans are still popular among women going for a trendy, retro look. Over the years, bell-bottom jeans (and almost all jeans) have been popularized with pre-made rips and tears, which some may see as a nod to the 1970s punk movement.

Speaking of the punk movement, I couldn’t not talk about the heavy metal fashion of the 1970s. As a psychobilly girl myself, I draw a lot of inspiration from the 1950s and 1960s, but also, a ton of inspiration and love from the 1970s. The early punk movie drew a lot of inspiration from hippies, but as the decade progressed, punk became all about combat boots, leather, faded jeans, and chains. The musical genre of punk itself had an enormous impact on the 1970s, and promoted a sense of rebellion and darkness among young misfits and weirdos. The punk movement has translated into modern times with brands like Dollskill, who created those fabulous garments you see on the right. The knee-high combat boots are a fantastic representation of the 70s sex appeal, and the chains on the mini skirt are also clearly inspired by the decade. Once I have a larger disposable income, I’d love to pick up some Dollskill merchandise for myself.

Left: Models in Floral Maxi Dresses, 1973

Another iconic statement piece from the 1970s was the maxi dress, which (again), is something that we can see translated into modern times. Also deriving from the hippie movement, early maxi skirts and dresses were heavily reliant on flower patterns- a symbol of peace during the tension of the Vietnam War. In modern times, Zaful has put a fun spin on the maxi dress by making the slip shorter and adding a semi-transparent overskirt. The dress garnered inspiration from the 1970s by sticking with the flower pattern, and additionally, dips in a v-neck on the bodice. Fashion in the 1970s was generally informal, and the universal maxi dress is a perfect example of that flowy, laid-back statement.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1970s_in_Western_fashion

https://www.farfetch.com

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Fotothek_df_n-15_0000413_Disko

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/566257353119944116/?lp=true

https://www.zaful.com/v-neck-floral-print-belted-maxi-dress-p_313199.html

Fashion Journal: 1960-1969

by Sarah Desroche on April 16, 2019April 16, 2019

For the first time in fashion history, the 1960s brought a number of diverse trends to the public. A number of these trends mirrored the social commentary taking place at the time, including women’s movements, racial movements, and love, sex, and drugs. The hippie movement, of course, also had an extensive influence on the fashion industry, and introduced styles such as bell-bottom jeans, paisley prints, and tye-dye fabrics. Without further adieu, let’s get into it!

The first garment to catch my eye in the 1960s is this black mini dress worn by Anneke Gronloh in 1964. Boxy shapes were very popular in the mid 1960s, because they were symbolic of the “space age look.” Thigh length hemlines were also very popular with the space age look, which we can see in the more modern dress on the right. The two dresses are also ruffled below the waist, and while they are different lengths, they still exude a youthful and elegant style. Skimpy spaghetti straps were popularized in the 1960s, and as we can see from the dress on the right, the inspiration has carried over clearly.

In the late 1960s, white mini wedding dresses were very popular among young, stylish brides. With the mini dress being a fresh, new, exciting celebration of youth, it’s no wonder so many women wanted to celebrate their bodies with super-short dresses. There is a lot of “flower power” influence in the dress on the left, while on the right, the dress has been slightly updated with new materials. The modern dress uses lace on the sleeves, and appears to be a little bit longer than the 1960s dress. Nonetheless, both dresses are true to the 1960s style- flowing, short, and feminine. (Also, I apologize for the bad quality- this is the best shot of the dress I could get!)

With the popularity of psychedelic drugs in the 1960s, many garments began incorporating brightly-colored, Pop-Art patterns into women’s clothing. This was frequently combined with multiculturalism, which was also very popular in the 1960s. A lot of style inspiration was drawn from Morocco, Nepal, India, Bali, and African countries, and in this particular dress on the left, there is a great deal of global influence in the print. This modern Pucci dress, seen on the left, is iconic and reminiscent of the 1960s, especially in regards to the bright, psychedelic print. There is definitely royal Italian influence in the dress on the right, but I also see nods to both Indian and African cultures.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1960s_in_Western_fashion

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Anneke_Gr%C3%B6nloh_1964_Eurovision_dress

https://www.lucyinthesky.com/shop/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=48886&gclid=Cj0KCQjw4qvlBRDiARIsAHme6ova23PcNE5-Gm1YHEsTlYf5HZYI3EulF7jUR_cxt9Fnm0n_4k_PMX8aAmDfEALw_wcB

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:BrideMiniskirt1968

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1960s_in_Western_fashion#/media/File:GamMonkey67

https://www.farfetch.com

Fashion Journal: 1920-1929

by Sarah Desroche on April 9, 2019April 9, 2019

When you think of the 1920s, you may think of glitz and glamour, parties and flappers. And certainly, the Gatsby-era we associate with the 1920s is a pretty accurate representation of the times. The 1920s was a mish-mosh of modernization, jazz, sportswear, and feminism- and the clothes definitely represent those themes. Let’s take a look at three iconic styles from the 1920s, and see how they’ve translated into fashion today.

The boyish figure was a newfound revelation of the 1920s, but ironically, the flapper was not considered “stylish” by any standards at the time. The midi dress we see on the left is a perfect example of the rebellious young gal of the 20s- her dress is embellished with theatrical details and beading, and she’s dripping in luxurious amounts of jewelry. On the right, we can see how the flapper dress inspired the brand Venus- this midi dress is only one of the dozens of dresses that draw inspiration from the 1920s flapper. The slimming fringed dress is extremely similar in style to the 1920s dress, from the color and cut to the actual embellishments itself. Fringe on dresses budded as a popular trend in the 1920s, especially for the flappers. Can you imagine how lovely it would be to dance in a fringed dress, swinging all around you with movement? Now, with these vintage-inspired evening gowns, you can.

One of my absolute favorite websites for vintage-inspired clothes is Unique Vintage, because they consistently deliver great-quality clothes. They’re also generally historically accurate, and draw a lot of inspiration from a variety of different decades. You may look at the dress on the right and assume it’s based on the 1940s, and while there are certainly elements, I actually see a lot of 1920s inspiration. Sometimes we forget that there were other women besides the flapper, such as a the mother pictured on the left. Besides the obvious similarities in pattern (polka-dots were a popular pattern at the time), there are similarities in the collar, dress length, and slight flare in the hip area. A notable difference, however, is the way the two dresses hang differently. A more masculine figure was seen as beautiful in the 1920s, so many women liked their chests and hips to look flat. On the right, however, the dress has been updated to hug the model’s curves, and emphasis a more feminine cut.

Left: Joan Bennett wearing Coco Chanel in 1928

Of course, if we’re going to talk about the 1920s, we cannot leave out the emergence of the little black dress. You may have remembered it, in some form or another, on a more modern figure like Audrey Hepburn. However, Chanel’s little black dress had already started picking up momentum long before that. On the left, we can see Joan Bennett wearing a 1928 LBD designed by Coco Chanel, and on the right is a modern Grace Karin evening gown. I was immediately stricken by the similarities in the slightly-revealing mesh collar area, and, of course, the sleeveless, slinky shape of both garments. Keeping with the trends of the 1920s, Chanel’s dress falls on Bennett in a masculine shape, concealing her curves and womanly figure. While the dress on the right has been slightly modernized, it still delivers that old-Hollywood glam that Chanel first pioneered, and personally, I think it’s a great interpretation of the golden age of glitz and glamour.

Sources:

https://www.lcps.org/cms/lib4/va01000195/centricity/domain/5366/fashion_in_the_1920s.pdfhttps://video.vogue.com/watch/vogue-125-anniversary-video-twenties-fashion-history-sarah-jessica-parker

https://www.scribd.comm/doc/29535056/American-Pop-Culture#outer_page_317z

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1920s_in_Western_fashion

https://www.venus.com/productlanding.aspx?BRANCH=7~72~&ProductDisplayID=34365&clr=BK&sc=XWEBSEM75&cm_mmc=PLA-_-Google-_-Z48563-8-BK-_-BKT_M-UN&hc_source=google&hc_medium=cpc&hc_campaign=UN_Mid&hc_term=Z48563-8-BK&gclid=Cj0KCQjwkIzlBRDzARIsABgXqV8AP-SBMqe4jJWF2wixKPt5VcCp1tOBYPjMMGdNe1qbh7iVnoDZYOUaAgm-EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

https://www.unique-vintage.com/products/unique-vintage-plus-size-1940s-navy-white-polka-dot-lace-collar-margie-dress?variant=15984667590758?glCountry=US&glCurrency=USD&gclid=Cj0KCQjwkIzlBRDzARIsABgXqV-0sDlfDDBg62eQ6Dni9imdwDI4Wx7GjuawMZOUcuOJvvztG301lt8aAmCZEALw_wcB

https://www.elle.com/fashion/g8192/evolution-of-the-little-black-dress/?slide=1

https://www.gracekarin.com/collections/evening-dresses/products/short-sleeve-round-neck-high-low-black-lace-evening-prom-dress?variant=1949487497225

Spring 2019 Lookbook

by Sarah Desroche on March 29, 2019March 29, 2019

Happy Spring, everybody!

It is indeed officially spring here in New England, and I couldn’t be happier. I do appreciate all the changing seasons, but spring will always hold a special place for me. I am a spring baby, after all, and I’ve always felt a very strong connection to nature. There’s something so sweet and humbling about the bursting of life around me- it inspires me to be the brightest version of myself that I can be.

Ironically, I’m sliding into spring with a quite darker tone. I’m still going to be rocking my vintage style, but I’ve amped it up from retro to rockabilly. I recently got my hair colored bright teal at a local hair salon, and since then, I’ve just been having so much fun playing around with this gothic-psychobilly aesthetic.

The first look I’m wearing is this lovely collared button-up dress by Gowntown. I love how stretchy and comfortable it is, and it looks gorgeous with and without a petticoat. Not that the weather is getting warmer, I probably won’t want to be wearing too many layers. I paired this dress with a black elastic headband, also from Amazon. Actually, now that I think about it, most of this stuff is from Amazon. The only downside that comes with constantly wearing black is the outrageous amount of lint my clothes gather, but luckily, I keep a lint roller in my purse at all times.

I also ordered this lovely off-the-shoulder scalloped dress, and I am absolutely in love with it. This dress hugs me in all the right places, the fabric is stretchy and comfortable, and the material feels thick and well-made. I’ve consistently been happy with my dresses from Belle Poque, so if you’re interested in getting into the vintage look, they are a great company to start with. As with any black garment, of course, this dress picks up dust and hair quite easily, so keep a lint roller nearby!

The third and final dress I’m adding to my spring wardrobe is this tight-fitting black polka-dot dress, and I have to say, I think this is my favorite dress at the moment. I’m not used to wearing bodycon dresses, as you may have noticed, so it’s definitely a new change for me. But hey, I’ve got a snatched body, so why not show off my curves proudly and work them? I’m also wearing a body shaper underneath this dress, which isn’t really doing much, but I’m still kind of obsessed with the concept of a body shaper. Is it a bra? Is it underwear? Is it just undercover lingerie? We may never know.

If you checked out my spring mood board that came out a little while back, then you know that I’ve been really into gothic arts, metal music, and alternative spirituality lately. I knew I had to add Ghost merchandise to my ever-growing collection of black t-shirts, and honestly, it was well worth the $23. I also went ahead and bought myself a copy of The Satanic Bible, because hey, why the heck not?

I feel like my approach to spirituality is much different than what people would assume, especially when it comes to green witchcraft and LaVeyan Satanism. To be honest, most people who are interested in satanism don’t even believe in the devil or remotely worship him, including myself. To me and many others, LaVeyan Satanism is appealing because it’s actually not about worshipping another being or a higher power- it’s about finding a higher power within yourself. I’m also attracted to the satanic ideologies of sexual freedom, creative rebellion, and connection to nature. That’s pretty much the extent of why I like satanism. I’m not going out into the woods wearing a mask and a cloak to sacrifice woodland animals or anything, so mom- you can relax!

Anyway, that was a bit of a tangent, but I like to make my views on religion/spirituality as clear as possible, and clarify that I don’t condemn violence or animal sacrifices, or anything fucked up like that. Moving on!

That’s pretty much the bulk of what I ordered this season, but I also brought some goodies from home, like my itsy-bitsy black pencil skirt, a hot topic dress with chemistry symbols on it (ADORABLE) and a pair of high-waisted mom jeans. I like my style to be flowy and interchangeable, and lately, I’ve also enjoyed drawing a lot of attention to my hips (it’s not like I have giant rack to show off anyway). The statement piece, of course, is my hair, and I am so thrilled with how it came out. Some people have actually asked me if it was a wig, which 1) I do take as a compliment, and 2) I totally agree with. I think that any time you dye directly all over your head, including the roots, you do tend to give your hair that wig-like appearance.

I hope you guys have enjoyed seeing all my spring outfits, as much as I have enjoyed showing them off to you! I’m happy to leave links to where I bought everything as well, if that’s something you’d like for me to add in. Happy Spring, everybody!

LINKS:

Gowntown Black and White Dress: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EG6PLSO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Scalloped Dress: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XZNGFDF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bodycon Dress: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0711T7QNT/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bodyshaper: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N3N5V5U/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Ghost Shirt: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GL16XKW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

*Unfortunately, I don’t have a link for the chemistry dress; I don’t think Hot Topic makes it anymore*

Coming up next: What’s in Season in April?

Spring 2019 Moodboard

by Sarah Desroche on March 18, 2019March 18, 2019

The first day of spring is coming up, and I couldn’t be happier. I’m a total nature girl, which makes sense, seeing how I have a spring birthday. Flowers, rain clouds, and seedlings hold a special place in my heart, and I’m grateful to experience these gifts in lovely, little New England.

With that being said, the direction my pinup style is going in this spring is actually quite ironic. I’ve been interested in the metal scene lately, especially bands like Opeth, Ghost, and In Flames. I still love pinup clothing, makeup, and hairstyles, but Spring 2019 is going to bring a bit of a gothic twist. In case you didn’t know, I recently had my hair dyed teal, which is adding up pretty nicely with my -ever-evolving a e s t h e t i c.

spring moodboard

Most of the clothes in this moodboard are actually items I found on Amazon that I’m planning on purchasing for myself, as soon as I have a bit of disposable income saved up. While I do love wearing all colors, I think that black will be the best color to complement my hair and the overall lewk I’m going for. I have quite a few black t-shirts of my favorite bands, and I think they’ll look super cute with heels and a pencil skirt. Speaking of heels, I absolutely LOVE those little platform heels with the bows on top. Aren’t they fantastic?

In regards to music, like I said, I’ve been really into Ghost, Opeth, Rush, and In Flames lately. This musical influence is really evident in both my clothing and personal idealisms- witchcraft, LaVeyan satanism, nature, and metal. I love taking these darker elements of my personality and combining it with my pinup aesthetic- I think it really makes for a unique twist of femininity with a metal smokiness. It certainly makes me feel very empowered and strong, while still remaining girly.

It might seem like a lot of changes to what I currently have going on, but I’ve been attached to green witchcraft, dark arts, and even gothic style since high school! I did have a “goth phase” in 2016, and this new direction is more or less just the new-and-improved version of that. My bumper bangs and bright red lips aren’t going anywhere!

If you have any band suggestions, clothing shops, or book suggestions for me, let me know! I’m always looking for new pursuits, in both fashion and arts. My spring lookbook is coming up April 1st, so you’ll get to see my newest fashion pieces and outfits very soon.

Coming up next: Women Crush Wednesday: Regina Spektor

Why I Buy Most of My Clothes on Amazon

by Sarah Desroche on February 22, 2019February 22, 2019

Whenever people find out that I buy most of my vintage clothes on Amazon, the general reaction is shock. I totally get that- after all, most of us turn to Amazon for electronics, home decor, and books, but not so much closet pieces. I do enjoy stores such as Modcloth and Unique Vintage, but the reality is, I don’t have the disposable income to support buying all my clothes on those websites.

That’s more or less the biggest reason I buy clothes on Amazon. Reproduced vintage clothes are going to be a little pricey wherever you shop, but some of the least expensive brands out there are available on Amazon. Grace Karin, Belle Poque, Gowntown, and Dresstells are all within the $20-$40 range, and the quality is actually pretty nice. Meanwhile, an average reproduced vintage dress on Modcloth can cost anywhere between $80-$200. The dresses are beautiful, but when you only make $11 an hour, it’s not really possible to consistently shop there for clothes.

I do want to acknowledge the fact that although Amazon offers cheaper vintage-style clothes, they are often not as ethically sourced as those that are based in the UK, like Modcloth and Unique Vintage. Whenever possible, I like the clothes I order to be ethically sourced and produced using environmentally friendly, but it’s not always that easy. I like brands like Grace Karin and Belle Poque because the garments are made of high-quality cotton, and thus, they’ve lasted a long time. I’ve been wearing the same dresses for more than a year now, washed them more times than I can count, and still, I haven’t lost a button or had to throw out a dress. They definitely are not cheaply-sewn, throw-away dresses destined for a landfill.

Another reason I usually don’t shop for higher-priced vintage clothes is because of the shipping/ordering process. It can be tricky to translate EU sizing into US sizing, especially if the chart claims that sizes aren’t perfectly aligned in the first place. To order a dress that’s already $80, and then pay $20 for shipping, and then wait 8-14 days for the package to arrive, is just way too risky for me, especially since there’s a chance the garment won’t even fit. With the brands I already know, I’m confident in my ability to consistently choose the right size. It saves me a lot of time, and it certainly saves me a lot of money.

I’m the first to admit I can always do better. Of course it’s better to always choose the better-sourced item, but it’s usually not the most cost-effective. In five years, I see myself working a higher-paying full-time job, and using my privilege to afford some better vintage clothes. In the meantime, though, I’m satisfied with what I’m doing so far. I believe we should all strive for the best option available, but we also need to take our personal situations into consideration.

If you know of any vintage reproduction shops based in the US, let me know! I’m always looking for new places to pick up a good deal. What are your favorite pieces you’ve picked up over the years?

Coming up next: Movie Meaning Monday: WALL-E is a Warning, Not an Instruction Manual

Vintage Winter Moodboard

by Sarah Desroche on January 30, 2019January 30, 2019

Hump day, everyone!

I hope you’re all having a lovely week, filled with lots of positive energy and warmth. I sure am keeping warm in my black faux-fur Hell Bunny coat. It looks absolutely extra and luxurious, and that’s exactly the kind of energy I’m trying to give off in 2019. With this coat in mind, I drew my inspiration from soft, luxurious, neutral tones, with pops of red and texture throughout. Black carries power because it can be toned-up, toned-down, and essentially paired with any color palette you’re trying to create. Along with browns and reds, I’ve also incorporated other neutrals, like dark blue and gray, into this collage below. All of these color schemes can be naturally paired together, giving you maximum matching abilities and dozens of combinations to choose from. I’ve put together my own mood board (using Microsoft Paint, of course), and unfortunately, I can’t make the picture bigger without turning the picture vertically. I’ve been zooming in on my laptop myself to see it better, so I recommend that to you if your eyesight isn’t great. Anywho, let’s jump into it!

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When I think of winter in New England, the first thing that pops into my head is “F*ck, it’s cold.” Shortly after that, however, I’m captivated by the beauty around me- the colors, the textures, the way my environment makes me feel. And, ultimately, how to incorporate fabulousness into every outfit, especially on those unbearably frigid days. Luckily, it is possible to remain stylish while staying warm. Faux fur on coats is an excellent way to stay both fashionable and safe in dreary, snowy weather. I was in Boston this New Year’s Eve, and though it was raining profusely, I hardly even noticed. My big, fluffy hood and arm muffs kept me warm and protected, and I got quite few compliments throughout the night!

Wool in general is an excellent staple for any stylish winter accessory. As you can see from the mood board, wool coats with large lapels and buttons look very posh and elegant. Wool can also extend to hats, scarves, gloves, shoes, etc. Seriously doesn’t that wool hat look absolutely lovely? Pillbox hats (among other hats), look absolutely perfect paired with woolen winter coats. Browns, reds, and cremes will look great on any skin tone, especially against the striking whiteness of the snow.

As for makeup, deep/cherry reds are always in! Besame Cosmetics is a fantastic place to start if you’re looking for new vintage makeup. All of the colors are replicas of real lipsticks sold in the 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s. My personal favorite shade is the 1946 lipstick. I forget the name on the tube, but it’s an absolutely lovely rusty red. I always make a point of popping on some red lipstick when I leave the house, which looks lovely when paired with a coat and hat. Lipstick really can tie a look together, and adds a bit of brightness to the stark, winter day in front of you.

Finding vintage footwear for the winter can be tricky, but there are still lots of options available. Boots, of course, are extremely versatile and come in a variety of styles and colors. I like to add thick socks under my boots to add extra warmth and texture, and it certainly does give my entire outfit an added flounce of vintage. Above all, be safe, be comfortable, and use common sense! I hope you have a good time analyzing my mood board, and leave me your thoughts below!

Coming up next: The Psychology of the Sims

January Lookbook

by Sarah Desroche on January 2, 2019January 2, 2019

Happy New Year, everybody! I hope you are all enjoying your holiday season, and spending it with your friends and family. I had a wonderful time myself, and was happy to spend quality time with my own immediate family. I also received some lovely gifts from Unique Vintage from my mother, which I’m excited to share in my lookbook for this month. I also received some Besame makeup, which I intend on writing a review for as well.

The statement piece of the new year is this black faux-fur hooded coat by Hell Bunny. It’s a classic silhouette with some added pizzazz on the sleeves. The coat is thick and heavy, but not uncomfortably big, and has done an excellent job keeping me warm in the frigid cold. I appreciate the coat because it’s not something I would ever pick out on my own, but something I’ve loved and appreciated since I’ve gotten it. It’s rare you’re able to find something both stylish and functional, but this coat is a perfect option.

And what will go perfectly with such an extravagant coat? An extravagant matching black purse, of course. Though it may look rather compact from the outside, it’s actually a relatively roomy on the inside (that is, big enough to hold my keys, wallet, phone, deodorant, and a lint roller stick). I don’t own a lot of black in my closet, but I do think it’s important to collect a few neutral basics, such as a classic everyday purse.

The next item I’m adding to my wardrobe is this pale pink sweater with a lace-detailed collar. I actually got it at Marshall’s for twenty dollars, which just proves you don’t need to invest in a fully true vintage closet to get the retro look. I liked this sweater for its simplicity, and it’s also a very comfortable, neutral piece that I can pair with items I already own. I’m very much a pink girl, and am drawn to girlish details and embellishments, so I consider this sweater a reasonable investment. Mostly, I tend to period dress in the 1940s during the colder months, and the 1950s during the warmer months, so I feel like this sweater will be a nice transitional piece between the two decades!

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Speaking of transitional pieces, how do we feel about this Banana Republic blouse I picked up at Goodwill? I’m very fond of soft, elegant colors and materials, especially during the wintertime when everything is white and bleak in New England. I prefer to wear this top with a fitted skirt to balance out all the volume on top, which I feel gives it a more 1940s silhouette. It’s yet another example of how modern, neutral pieces can be used to achieve a nearly authentically vintage look.

I suppose that is it for now! I don’t have the time or money to go all-out and buy myself a completely new wardrobe for every season, but these are the basics I am loving right now. I’m interested in doing some more shopping on higher-end websites like Unique Vintage and ModCloth, but I suppose I’ll have to wait until my next tax refund ;).

Let me know what trends and aesthetics you’ll be following in the winter/spring months! Do you lean more towards neutrals and pastels, or brighter colors to counteract out the bleakness of winter?

Coming up next: Fashion History Friday- The Godey’s Lady’s Book

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