Home Archives for February 2014

Information About The Revlon Legacy Collection

February 28, 2014
•



Recently I shared with you all about the Legacy Collection by Revlon. I hope many of you have been finding these amazing shades in your local store but sadly I have yet to find any.

I have been to my local CVS and Walgreen's stores as well as called Ulta and Sally Beauty shops and...nothing! I also searched and searched all over the internet hoping I would find them on Ebay or Amazon or anywhere and again...nothing!

As most of you know I am not one to give up easily so I decided to go straight to the top! I called Revlon's costumer service line and boy did I get heaps of help.

This is what I learned about the collection and with this information I hope it will help some of you find these stunning shades before they sell out!
  • The collection was released on February 1, 2014-it will sell out quickly
  • Sadly this collection will NOT be sold outside of the United States so best bet for those of you that don't live in the states is keep your eyes peeled for it being sold on Ebay or perhaps you can ask a friend to purchase some for you
  • When looking up this product type these words: Revlon Limited Edition Voted by You
  • That phrase exactly is what you should be looking for when you go looking for them at those shops I mentioned
  • They told me it should be in more Walgreen stores by Tuesday, March 4th
  • And lastly, this site is an interactive sightings map and it is showing where they have been found and details of what they found-very informative. Click HERE. 
I am keeping my fingers and toes crossed that I score a few this week. I won't give up and hope you don't either. Good luck finding some!
READ MORE

Must See TV: Parade's End

February 28, 2014
•


At last I have watched Parade's End (2012)! It first premiered in 2012 via the BBC and then in 2013 via HBO so perhaps some of you have come across it already. When I first learned about it I was immediately hooked but four things-Benedict Cumberbatch, Period Film, Rebecca Hall, and Romance. Oh yeah, that did it for me. And I was not disappointed. It has been a day already since I have seen it and it is still haunting me. I already want to re-watch it to see if I missed or overlooked anything.

There are four parts to this miniseries all based on a book named Parade's End by Ford Madox Ford and published between 1924 and 1928. Episode one of the series shows some flashbacks on how the main character of Christopher Tietjens (Cumberbatch) met and married his wife Sylvia (Hall). You get an insight into their situations in life, their personalities, and their flaws-for which there are many.

Sylvia is pregnant with a child that may or may not be Christopher's. He marries her anyway and keeps his distance from her but is very affectionate to the child. He is quite intelligent and she is nowhere near his intellectual equal. Sylvia has an appetite for life that does not match Christopher's which leads her to having an affair and leaving him. But that's just when things start to warm up. Can you imagine a woman leaving her husband for another man let alone unapologetic about not knowing who the father of her child is? Well, pre-WWI was a different time. Watching this series reminding me how much things have surely changed.

After Sylvia leaves Christopher, in an odd turn of events he mets a young woman named Valentine (Adelaide Clemens) who is a suffragette. She instantly understands him and proves to be a match to his intellect. Their meeting is subtle, sweet, and not thrown in your face as it was when he first met Sylvia. 

Unlike other series from this time period I was surprised to find a tad bit of nudity and a risque sex scene in the very beginning of episode one. I really didn't expect it. You just don't see films of women of that time doing what Sylvia was doing. But that is a fascinating aspect of the story-how each of these woman (Sylvia and Valentine) were not the norm of their society and both wanted to live their lives based on their own judgement and decision and not what society dictated to them. Christopher on the other hand was holding tightly to the concept of a gentleman's duties and doing the right and honorable thing no matter the cost.

By the time I got to episode three I was on pins and needles. Where Valentine and Christopher gong to end up together? Will he die in the trenches of WWI? Does Sylvia really love Christopher or is he just another toy for her to play with? I felt like I was being tortured but it was so worth the wait. A love triangle of sorts ensues and you really don't know who Christopher will choose to be with in the end if their is an end in sight. I like how tastefully done the way Christopher is with Valentine but then again it is a testament to his gentlemen-like qualities.

I only really have three complaints about this series. I don't understand why Valentine's hair was short and she was wearing dresses. I suppose they could have put her in some trousers if she were to be such a rebel. I just didn't get that and it actually distracted me a bit. I wish the characters of Christopher's parents and brother were fleshed out more and that we learned how Michael (Sylvia's son) faired in the end. Lastly, although episode four was splendid, I did feel like it was a bit rushed.

Rebecca Hall was outstanding as Sylvia. Her character was so complex and they took the time to flesh it out and show its strengths and weaknesses which was a joy to watch. What they showed of her literally at the last moments did disappoint me and made me want to know what really became of her. You just feel like you want to know how everything panned out. I know others have felt the ending was rushed as well. I think that's why I want to re-watch it because now that I know what happens perhaps the second time around it won't feel as rushed.

All in all, this was a wonderful piece of work, The writing was fantastic and the cinematography was divine-a feast for the eyes. There was drama and romance and suspense and joy and oh so much. I do recommend to give this miniseries a try and remember to pay attention to how the characters unfold. I placed the photos on this post purposely not in the order of how it is seen on the show because I don't want you to guess how it ends. It is definitely a journey worth going on.
READ MORE

Makeup Alert! The Legacy Collection By Revlon

February 26, 2014
•

Ever had the perfect and I mean perfect shade of lipstick in your hands? The kind that complimented your complexion and just seemed to work with every outfit you wore? And then imagine yourself walking into the store to get some more and they no longer have it. It's discontinued!

Look no further because Revlon is doing something magical for all of us and is reissuing FIVE amazing lipsticks from spanning four decades.


They are coming out this spring and I have to tell you I have a funny feeling they will sell out fast. So, if you see them online or in store snatch as many as possible

Are there any shades you already know that you MUST have? Which ones? Don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for The Legacy Collection By Revlon in a store near you.

READ MORE

Promising Period Films: Part Two

February 26, 2014
•


I am so glad many of you enjoyed some of the promising period films I listed yesterday. Today, I would like to share five more coming to a theater near you.

Grace of Monaco focus on adjustments that Grace Kelly had to make once she was married to Prince Rainier and became a royal herself. I am a huge fan of Grace Kelly so I am intrigued to see this!

The Imitation Game is a tells the story about British wartime cryptographer Alan Turing, who was a key figure in cracking Nazi Germany's Enigma code during World War II. In 1952 he was criminally prosecuted because of his homosexuality as it was illegal at the time. A fascinating tale about what seems to be an incredibly intelligent man who did his duty for his country and in the end was treated unjustly (and cruelly) in return.

Set in 1912, A Promise tells the story of Charlotte who is married to an older man named Karl. Enter Ludwig ( who is younger and becomes smitten with Charlotte) who becomes an assistant of sorts to Karl who is unable to travel. Years pass until they both admit to their unrequited love for one another.

I love the era that Serena is set which is the 1930's. I am sure the costumes are going to be drool worthy. Pairing together again are Jennifer Lawrence and Bradly Cooper who play a husband and wife during the Great Depression. Serena (Lawrence) finds out she is unable to bear children and the story unfolds with their struggles both personally and financially.

A Winter's Tale is a blend of romance and the supernatural which in my head equals perfection. I think it would be vital to keep your mind open to this movie because the films includes characters that are demons and angels.  I do think the story of Peter and Beverly as star crossed lovers who end up together in a non-traditional way will be a beautiful story to see unfold. It begins in 1886 and takes us all the way to 2014. 

I find The Imitation Game and A Promise the most interesting to watch although of course I want to see them all. Actually each film has about two or three reasons why I want to watch them. I mean watching actors like Benedict Cumberbatch, Rebecca Hall, Alan Rickman, Jessica Brown-Findlay, and Jennifer Connelly are good reasons for me. But also themes like romance, love, tragedy, and suffering combined with the characters that are in each film. Gah! I have a lot movies to watch this year but I figure one can have worst problems on their hands, right?

Which of these intrigues you the most? What do you think about the casting of Nicole Kidman as Grace Kelly? Do you think she will surprise us like Michelle Williams did in My Week with Marilyn?

READ MORE

Promising Period Films: Part One

February 25, 2014
•


Sprinkled here and there in the midst of Hollywood blockbusters and 1980's film remakes are some really promising period films. What is not to love about a story set in the past?

The Book Thief is based on a novel by the same name by Markus Zusak, we follow the life of a little girl named Liesel. The film tells her story from the beginning to the end of World War II. The Angel of Death is the one who shares the remarkable story of Liesel and how in the process of learning how to read (and eventually consume books on a regular basis) she changes the lives of those around her.

Belle was inspired by the 1779 painting of  Dido Elizabeth Belle and her cousin Lady Elizabeth Murray. Dido's father was Sir John Lindsay and her mother was an African slave named Maria Belle. Very little is known about Dido's life so this film is a work of fiction but it does attempt to recreate what her life may have been like.

The Invisible Woman is set in the late 1800's and tells the story about Charles Dickens and his secret mistress named Ellen Ternan who was 27 years younger. The Dickens family was stayed silent about his long standing affair with the younger Ellen until his youngest child passed on in 1933.

In Secret is set in 1860s Paris and tells the story of a Therese, repressed young woman who is encouraged to marry to sickly cousin. When she meets her husband's friend Laurent, they begin a illicit affair that ends with great tragedy and torment. Watching the previews  of this film sent a chill through my bones!

The Monuments Men is based on a non-fiction book called The Monuments Men: Allied Heroes, Nazi Thieves, and The Greatest Treasure Hunt in History (which I am super eager to read!) by Robert M. Edsel. Set during WWII, it follows an allied group who are given the job to save art and other important cultural artifacts before Hitler could destroy them.

So which films are you eager to see more than others? I definitely want to see them all at some point. Personally I am leaning towards The Book Thief and The Monuments Men. I have to wait to see the others when I am in a mood for romance mixed with tragedy and suffering. I really have to be in a certain mood for those. How about you?


READ MORE

Hello. My name is Daffny and I am an Artist.

February 24, 2014
•


The best part of having an a-ha moment is that you are usually not expecting it. And when it does happen its both like a slap in the face ("the wake up already" kind) and having a bunch of light bulbs go on inside your head all at the same time.

The same day the posts of others bloggers inspired me was the same day I had my a-ha moment. What I didn't know was that someone was going to say something to me to trigger this momentous understanding in my head.

My husband. I told him how I was feeling. A bit blue and drained (I attest that to the winter) and a little discouraged and he wrote me something that now has me feeling this sense of peace I cannot explain. It's like a "where have you been all my life" feeling.

Before I share with you his wisdom that he gifted to me, let me share with you a brief history of my artistic inclinations.

  • I was an avid reader by the age of 6 and have been devouring books every since. My passion for words grew as I read each book.
  • I wrote my first "book" at age nine. Sadly it was lost in a house fire
  • I began pen-palling at the age of 12 which taught me the discipline and dedication it takes to write often
  • I began journaling at the age of 9 and ceased at the age of 31
  • I began writing poetry at the age of 14 and stopped at the age of 24. Some have been published.
  • I started writing a book in 1993 (have not finished it), scrapbooking in 2002, and painting in 2005
  • A camera was placed in my hands at age 12 and have been snapping ever since.
I know all of you are crafty and creative in many ways. I have friends who knit or sing or draw amazing pictures. I think we are all talented and gifted in some way. Looking back at all the things I did as a child and young adult made me realize that I always had a hankering for being creative. I always felt the need for self-expression and often felt relieved and grateful when I had a pen and notebook to write in.

A few years ago my father began to try to convince me to get myself published but I said no, I am not a writer. I have never felt like I was because I always assumed you have to be published by a big name publishing company or have some level of fame. 

I suppose I assumed that if one is to consider themselves an artist they first have to be successful in that art. Silly me. Very silly me.

My husband's words to me: In pursuit of creativity a true artist endures. That is the gist of what he said. Endures what? Endures suffering, struggles, more struggles, challenges, more challenges...and in the end they still create. That is an artist.

So today I say it out loud and proud, "Hello. My Name is Daffny and I am an Artist". 
READ MORE

Instagram is Insta-fun

February 23, 2014
•


I have been curious about the social network called Instagram for a while and during the summer of 2013 I purchased my first fancy phone. You know, the phone that doesn't flip and has internet access? Finally I entered the 21st Century. The first place I went to with my phone was Instagram!

It has been a few months since I have been on and oh my goodness it is such a hoot! I have to admit it is my favorite social network now. Do you want to know why? It's simple-you really get to know people better and I think that's a wonderful thing.

I like to share things that represent what A Vintage Nerd is all about. It's been great to get to know more of my readers on this platform as well. If you haven't been able to use Instagram yet I hope you do someday. It's loads of fun and visually pleasing as well as inspirational.

Here are some articles to help if you are starting out with Instagram:





Hope these links and articles can help you if you decide to venture into using Instagram or if you are already you may learn some things you didn't know before.

Feel free to follow me HERE and don't be shy and say HI! Hey, that rhymed!!
READ MORE

Inspired by Blogs Just When I Needed Some Inspiration

February 21, 2014
•

I have been reading some incredible posts by fellow bloggers lately. Three stay in mind the most because they tapped into the state of being I am in at the moment and reconfirmed my own status as a blogger and a lover of vintage.

Now, I normally don't write about other bloggers but I felt they taught me so much in their post that well, perhaps you would learn something from them as well or perhaps learn something from what I learned. That somehow you may feel inspired as well.

Quite a few vintage bloggers are making a shift in their blogs as well as in their personal style and wardrobe. I mean life is about change right and so therefore it is only normal to evolve and grow. That is all a good thing. A very good thing.


Solanah from Vixen Vintage has been a beacon of inspiration for my a vintage blogger or fan of fashion. Lately she has found that although her love for vintage will never wane, she wanted to have her wardrobe reflect more of who she is at this moment.

This is exactly where I am when it comes to my own wardrobe. Everyone has their different reasons for making changes in their life so here are mine. I love dressing vintage BUT I need my wardrobe to reflect my age and my lifestyle. I am not 20 and I am not 60. Both are beautiful ages and I loved 20 but you know what I am head over heals over being 38. Personally I like Daffny more now than ever before and I have a funny feeling as I get older it will just keep  getting better.

I really appreciated Solanah's candor and I think its nice for a blogger to come out and say "hey this is me and it doesn't mean I love vintage any less than any of you but it just means that vintage has a different place in my life than it does for others." And although her current posts reveal why she is making her changes, I feel like her latest post is what was the cherry on top for me. A post about great fitting jeans. I know it sounds weird that a post about jeans hit home to me but I am a jeans wearing girl. Although I will wear complete head to toe vintage outfits for special outings and events I do want to be more accessible as a mother and yet still incorporate vintage into my daily dress. That way I get the best of both worlds! And scoring a few pair of fabulous jeans will hit the mark for me!

The second post that recently hit home to me came from Jessica from Chronically Vintage. Most bloggers (or people for that matter) don't often share trade secrets. They don't want you to compete with them and they don't want you to be more successful than them. I appreciate when a fellow blogger helps out another but Jessica took an extra step and shared 30 tips that will help you succeed as a new blogger. I think even pro bloggers can learn a thing or two about Jessica's list.

Gosh I feel like every tip hit home with me but I made the changes on my blog from Bunny's Victory to A Vintage Nerd because of tips #3, #4, #5, and #19. I was being myself when I projected myself as Bunny but I wasn't being fully me as I am now which makes me happier. When I first came into blogging in July 2011 I was trying to keep up with the Joneses and it wasn't any fun. I learned a lot from blogging theses past few years so Jessica's tips are spot on. I can attest to them!

I loved tip #19 Don't be afraid to change. Like I said earlier, many bloggers are making shifts and changes to their lives, wardrobes, and blogs and we shouldn't be afraid to make changes. When one night my Bunny's Victory blog link didn't work I said to myself well maybe this is meant to be. You don't know how many uphill battles I have faced since becoming a blogger in 2011 in trying to get my blog where I wanted it to be. Talk about hitting a few walls but you know what, if you love to write, if you love to express yourself, and if you love being creative then stick with it because even if 10 people read your blog it doesn't matter as long as you enjoy what you are doing.

Lastly, was a post written by Candice from Super Kawaii Mama. She posted a photo of herself wearing a wig that was a light shade of purple and from that was personally inspired to write a post called The cultural myth of age appropriate. In creating a style for yourself should you be affected by the way people think of you? Should your age get in the way of being an inspiration for others or in accessing opportunities. Candice speaks about a whole slew of topics all inspired by her wearing that wig. Is it okay for someone her age (I believe we are around the same age) to wear a purple wig and should that affect how others view her.

Truly youth is a fleeting thing but being youthful in how you live your life can be a part of your everyday existence. I have experienced a loss of opportunities because of my age but also because of the size of my waist and not to mention my everyday must have accessories, my leg braces. I see it as their loss that they couldn't see all the amazing things that I see in myself everyday. That's okay because at the end of the day darnit, I am still amazing!

All three of these blog posts hit home for me for the reasons I shared above but also because sometimes dare I say I can get frustrated with myself because I feel like I cannot do everything I want or need to do blogwise. My husband said to me today, "it is what a true artist endures". Those words meant a lot to me and reminded me that part of creation is the struggle.

At the end of my day I am happy to be able to use blogging as a means to be creative. If no one notices it then its okay. What's important is that I keep doing what makes me happy, what gives me an outlet to be my vintage nerd self, and allows me to be exactly who at am at this very moment. Nothing less and nothing more.


READ MORE

Classic Cinema Spotlight: The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947)

February 21, 2014
•


The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947) starring Gene Tierney as Lucy and Rex Harrison  as Captain Daniel Gregg was based on the 1945 novel written by Josephine Leslie under the pseudonym of R. A. Dick. It is defined at a romantic fantasy film as the lead characters are a widow and ghost who happen to fall in love with each other.

Lucy along with her young daughter Anna, moves into seaside home that is supposed to be haunted by its original owner. Lucy forges on and creates a life for herself and her daughter and then something happens. Lucy encounters the brash and arrogant ghost of Captain Daniel Gregg and instead of being spooked by him she confronts him and from then on they forge a strong bond and friendship.


I love this portrait of the Captain. If you ever wanted to know more about it you can read an interesting article I found HERE.

A very young Natalie Wood costars as Anna and  Edna Best as Martha Huggins, Lucy's maid and confidant. And lastly, the ever so fabulous George Sanders plays the the role of a  dashing writer named Miles Fairley who is married but tries to pursue Lucy anyway. Daniel tries to help Lucy in every way he can. He encourages her to write down the stories of his life and get them published in order to help her provide for Anna and keep her independent.

Towards the end of the film Daniel reaches out to Lucy while she is dreaming and tells her that he was never real. He does this out of love for her and in knowing that life is meant for the living.Years pass on and Anna is grown and Lucy is a grandmother. One day as she is passing on, Daniel comes and lifts her younger self from its body and off they go arm and arm to another life beyond.

This film is endearing and romantic as well as funny and unique. I say unique because the concept of a woman falling in love with a ghost can be portrayed and filmed in many unflattering ways but the cast and those behind the making of this film made it tasteful. In the 1960's there was show created by the same name. It is also available on dvd.
READ MORE

TCM Presents a FREE Screening of Casablanca

February 19, 2014
•


TCM (Turner Classic Movies) is hosting a FREE screening of the 1942 classic Casablanca. Click on this link HERE and it will take you to TCM's 20th Anniversary page where they have been hosting free events all year long. In December my husband and I went on their movie tour all throughout Manhattan. It was amazing and all FREE.

All you have to do is get on the site I just shared and click on FREE TICKETS. Choose the city where you will like the see the screening. From there they will ask you for your name and address and some other information. They only give out two tickets per person. Once all the important buttons are clicked they will email you the free passes. Simply print them out and mark the special date on the calendar!

It will be screening in those selected cities throughout the country (U.S.) on Tuesday, March 4th at 7:30 P.M. Don't miss out on a great opportunity to see this classic on the big screen. I saw it once for its 70th Anniversary and it was amazing. I wish they would screen more classic films all over the world! It is a sight to behold.
READ MORE

Must See TV: Sherlock: Season Three

February 18, 2014
•

Sherlock is back and this season is more exciting than ever. It is based on the stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, this series takes on not only the iconic stories and characters of Sherlock Holmes and John Watson but puts a modern spin to it. I know, take a classic tale of a genius detective which has been told and retold on screen since 1921 and reinvent it? To top it off it is the most portrayed movie character of all time! How can it be retold differently? I am sure it wasn't easy for the head writer Mark Gatiss and his co-conspirators (writers), Steven Moffat (Doctor Who Head writer), and Stephen Thompson but they took the challenge anyway and the game was on.

At first it took me a little while to adjust to the backdrop of modern London and the portrayal of these characters with cell phones in hand but once you give it a try you just get sucked in. Benedict Cumberbatch (Star Trek) and Martin Freeman (The Hobbit) are both OUTSTANDING actors. No really, I needed to put that all in capital letters. They are amazing.

Sherlock is what you get when you have incredible writing, jaw dropping stories to tell (or retell), strong direction, and a cast that gives 110%. Each episode is like a little movie. The first season arrived in 2010, the second in 2012, and now we are in the third season. I know it sounds strange for a show to have two year breaks but with the rising film careers of both Cumberbatch and Freeman as well as the responsibilities of Doctor Who for Moffat, it has been a challenge to get everyone in one place at the same time. But by golly-they did it.

I have never heard of anything like that happening in Hollywood or within American television so I say Bravo to the executives who keep bringing this amazing show back. Sherlock is alive. Watson marries Mary. Molly, Mrs. Hudson, Mycroft, and Detective Inspector Lestrade are back as well. And the introduction of another nemesis for Sherlock and Watson as well as the possible return of another. 

I think out of all three episodes of Season 3 I feel like the Best Man speech during Episode 2 (The Sign of Three) was the part that had me feeling uncomfortable, worried, stressed, confused, wondering, emotional, moving, excited, and scared all at once! I know that is a lot happening in once particular part of an episode but you will have to watch it to see what I mean. Sherlock is a part of some great British television that is happening and if you love a good story, I mean a GOOD story, then don't miss out on this brilliant retelling of the genius detective and his partner Watson.
READ MORE

Finding Inspiration In The Words of Others

February 17, 2014
•


Do you ever find yourself coming across amazing photos or quotes while searching the web or prepping for a blog post? You may then admire it and then decide to save it just in case you want to remember it?
I thought I would share a bit of a few that I love and find inspirational. 

Lucille Ball
"Love yourself first, and everything else falls into line. You really have to love yourself to get anything done in this world."

Lena Horne
“It's not the load that breaks you down, it's the way you carry it.”

Doris Day
"There were times when I wasn't always up. Everything could be calm and peaceful, then the next day the bottom dropped out. What can you do? Moan and groan and feel sorry for yourself? No, you pull yourself up by your bootstraps and you get on with life."

Mary Pickford
"You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing that we call 'failure' is not the falling down, but the staying down."

Helen Hayes
"Everybody starts at the top, and then has the problem of staying there. Lasting accomplishment, however, is still achieved through a long, slow climb and self-discipline."

Julie Andrews
"Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th."

Sophia Loren
"After all these years, I am still involved in the process of self-discovery. It's better to explore life and make mistakes than to play it safe. Mistakes are part of the dues one pays for a full life."

Eartha Kitt
"My recipe for life is not being afraid of myself, afraid of what I think, or of my opinions."

Gina Lollobrigida
"We are all born to die — the difference is the intensity with which we choose to live."

Audrey Hepburn
"As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others."

Which did you like best? I just love hearing what other people think or thought and what their personal beliefs or philosophies were. It's fascinating.


READ MORE

6 Ideas For Getting Out Of The Mid-Winter Blues

February 17, 2014
•

Winter is dragging along with its usual cold and frosty self and leaving many of us feeling blue or stifled by the constant cold. But just because we are in the middle of winter doesn't mean we cannot attempt to bring a little sunshine and warmth into our days.

Here are a few ideas that work for me in keeping my spirits up until the warmer weather begins:


 Makeup Counters

Oh pretty, pretty things how I adore you?! I don't get a chance to do it often enough but when I do I am sooo happy. I love going to Ulta and looking at all the new products for hair and makeup and one of my favorite areas is the Benefit Cosmetics counter. It has a retro design and I adore their products ( I will review some of them soon!). I think any girl, young or old, can appreciate a little stroll around their favorite makeup counters, don't you?


Starbucks

Whether you enjoy a good cuppa (of tea), a strong coffee, or a frosty margarita-a nice cup of your favorite beverage is sure to bring a little joy into your day. My favorite is Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha with whip cream on top. Swoon! It's like a cup of coffee candy to me. Mind you I am not a daily drinker of coffee or tea but I sure love it when I have one. Its a treat that is sure to brighten my day. Speaking of which-I will need to grab one this week!!!


Spring Colored Dresses

Pretty dresses are a weakness for many of us so imagine seeing a slew of pretty spring colored dresses? These you see are from Modcloth. Get online and skim through all the pretties. Just puts a smile on my face thinking about it!


 Watching Musicals

Musicals may not be for everyone but come on...I mean how can one not help by tap their feet when they see the barn dance scene in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers or snap their fingers along with Riff and his gang in West Side Story? A good musical should bring your spirits up and have it soarin' all day long!


Reading Inspirational Stories

Reading is always a good hobby to pick up and one of my favorites since I was a child. Nothing better than to feed your brain with interesting information but how about feeding your heart and soul? You can scoop up some motivational or self-help books at your local library and you can also pick up some inspirational stories that are either true stories or based on true stories.

I find that reading and learning about the struggles and triumphs of others picks my mood up and gives me a swift kick in the tush. Often times it is when I need it the most. The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio did that for me. I cannot wait to share my review of it with you (soon!).


Beautiful Photos

People are visual creatures. Looking at what we consider to be "pretty" things is a delight to our eyes and our sensea. Next time you surf the net check out some beautiful photos either by researching them or simply looking at some blogs or Pinterest boards. You will be amazed at how quickly looking at some colorful and stunning photos can put a smile on your face.

I hope these ideas help you get through the rest of this seemingly long winter. I am a big fan of Mother Nature and I have much respect for her and her ways BUT all of this darkness and cold can really put a damper on your spirit.

My hope is that those who need the little pick me up will try out some of these ideas and find their smile once again.




READ MORE

The Perks and Downside of Winter {Spring} Cleaning

February 16, 2014
•


Many of us are still smack dab in the middle of winter. Snow is falling, rain is even falling, and it seems like spring is nowhere in site. What can you do with your time at home while you wait for the sun to shine and birds to chirp? Winter cleaning of course!

Perks

# 1  You can pace yourself and work on things more slowly because of all the extra time you may have being home because of the cold weather.

#2  All that extra time can allow you to do a whole lot of purging! Whether you live in a large home or a small apartment (or flat) it is important to make the most of the space you have. Allowing the clutter of stuff to consume your living quarters can led to feeling stifled, overwhelmed, and basically annoyed. Avoid those nasty emotions and rid yourself of things not needed, wanted, or going to be used like ever!

#3  Think about all the things you WON'T have to do in the house when the warmer weather starts slowly streaming in because you accomplished it in the winter.

Downside

#1  Once the snow comes rolling along it makes it so much harder to rid yourself of all the things you decided to throw out. You may have to wait a week or two depending on the area that you live in and the amount of snowfall. And that can be annoying.

#2  Because of the snow you may get stuck with loads upon loads of garbage in your home waiting for the garbage men to come swing by. It has happened to me a few times already. Thankfully the children ignored the mess and didn't take a peek inside the bags because I threw away a few bags of toys-eek!

#3  You won't be able to open to windows to bring in some "fresh" air because its too cold outside. It is important that you use your cleaning products wisely so that the smells won't overwhelm your household.

I hope  you consider getting as much of your spring cleaning done in the winter and hopefully it will create more time to do other things like enjoying the weather!

Happy Winter {Spring} Cleaning to you all!
READ MORE

Happy Valentine's Day!

February 14, 2014
•


Happy Valentine's Day to you all! 

Here's hoping that everyday is filled with love and wonder to each and every one of you!!!

xox
READ MORE

A Vintage Nerd Book Club: Wearable Vintage Fashion

February 14, 2014
•


If you love vintage as much I think you do then this is a book that you MUST gift yourself. For Valentine's Day or any day. Written by Jo Waterhouse and Clare Bridge who run a vintage shop in Worchester, England called Second Hand Rose. These two amazing women put together an incredible guide for anyone to dress any decade they want with confidence and a dash of fun.

Each chapter is dedicated to a decade ranging from the 1920's to the 1980's. Within each chapter the ladies give a marvelous introduction to each decade explaining the fashion of the times and why women wore them. I love, love, love their introductions! It's like little mini fashion history lessons but with a lot of inspiring visuals that come after.

Within each chapter you will find images and information on what you can look for to achieve a certain look. You will find inspirations for daywear, evening wear, look book, and they even put a icon section.

For each decade they included a fashion icon and explained why they chose them as well as how you can achieve their look. I was thrilled when I found that the last chapter of the book was called Vintage Street Fashion. The authors included various women from all over the world who are inspirational in their style of dress whether it is strictly 1940's or fun blend of modern and vintage.

The entire book is a fantastic read and goodness even the back cover is beautiful. These ladies really outdid themselves. I really felt like I can put together any look from the 1920's to the 1980's with ease as well as have fun while doing it.

Have you read this book? If you would like to learn more about these lovely ladies and authors of Wearable Vintage Fashion you can take a peak at their Facebook page HERE.
READ MORE

5 Ways To Add A Little Vintage In Your Home

February 13, 2014
•

How many of you have found it challenging to add a little vintage in your home? How many of you have a spouse/partner that isn't so keen on having "old stuff" around the house? Adding vintage decor to my home has been a double challenge for me for two reasons; my husband only likes vintage if its brand new-basically retro things and I have three small children. I am sure you all know how tricky it is to keep little hands and fingers out of things. While I have been redecorating my house I found a few simple ways to add some vintage as well as compromising with my two challenges.

FIRST-frames.The walls are a great place to add something vintage or retro without it getting in the way of children. I created a wall collage in my bedroom of women I admire. I scored the frames at Century 21 for less than $10 dollars each and I found the photos on Ebay from various sellers which cost $3.99 a piece. Hanging photos on the walls brings both warmth and helps to express your personal likes, beliefs, hobbies, etc.

SECOND-are hats. Hats are tricky to store (and handbags!) but simply take a nail and hang your hats up! You can also use stick on hooks as well depending on your wall. I love having my favorite hats up and it instantly added that something vintage into my home.

THIRD-are favorite objects. I purchased a mask like the one Audrey used in Breakfast at Tiffany's for Halloween and a Barbie of Audrey from Roman Holiday was given to me for Christmas. So having them on my dresser adds that little something vintagey as well as having something pretty and special to look at.

FOUR-practical vintage objects that have a special purpose. It can be a jar for pens, a vase for flowers, or like this amazing poodle that is a letter holder. That way I can put some important papers out and still have a piece of vintage to look at and admire. 

FIVE-kitschy figures. I just love kitschy figures. They are vintage, super cute, and well....adorable! You can find so many of them on Etsy in various animals forms-deers, dogs, cats, bunnies. I just adore them all and defiantly want to add more to my home.

Not everyone wants to live in a vintage home or have "old stuff" in there house but these little ways one can have the things they love around them without it becoming overwhelming.

In what ways have you added vintage into your home?
READ MORE

Vintage Valentine's {Heart} Day Brooches

February 11, 2014
•

Yesterday I shared with you a little peak into my Valentine's day outfit for my special day out  and I showed you one of the brooches in my Valentine's brooch collection. My collection is still small but that's because I am a particular person. I love my brooches to be celluloid or some form of vintage plastic and I love them to each have a meaning for me. 

I know many of you know that feeling of when you find that vintage something that you have been looking for ages and finally finding it. I am very pleased with my collection so far. What sort of vintage brooches do you collect? Are there any that you are looking for but never seem to find? What is your best score yet?
READ MORE

Valentine's Date with a Cuppa

February 10, 2014
•


Valentine dates have been scarce since my husband and I starting having our children but it doesn't mean we didn't do little things for each other to remind the other that we loved them. Honestly, I feel like Valentine's day can be everyday really and showing our loved ones we care in little ways I think is so thoughtful and loving.

This Valentine's day my husband and I are actually going to go out. For my outfit, I plan to pair my dress up with a navy cardigan and wear for the first time one of my vintage celluloid brooches. Tomorrow I will share with you a few of my "new" brooches and a huge score I made with one of them. Hubby and I plan to enjoy our afternoon at Tea and Sympathy. We may shoot over to A Salt and Battery for lunch (fish and chips!) and then have a proper afternoon tea experience at Tea and Sympathy. Either way I will be in UK bliss! Tea and Sympathy even has a shop for English foods and goods. It is so much fun to shop there.

I don't define myself as an Anglophile but I do find myself gravitating to all things English. I have always felt comfortable there and I enjoy the culture. I sort of feel like the English are my cousins, being American and all.

Do any of you have any special plans for Valentine's Day?
READ MORE

Classic Cinema Spotlight: The Tender Trap (1955)

February 10, 2014
•

In 1955 we see two Hollywood darlings come together in a most modern romantic comedy-Frank Sinatra and Debbie Reynolds. Reynolds was known for her sweet characters and Sinatra for his suave demeanor so seeing the two pair off in backdrop of New York City was just splendid to watch.

The film also stars Celeste Holm and David Wayne as Charlie's (Sinatra) childhood best friend. Charlie (Sinatra) is a theater agent who is living the ideal bachelor life. He keeps company with a handful of women who come and go from his apartment doing all sorts of things for him (ie walking his dog). Then comes a breath of fresh air named Julie Gillis (Reynolds) who is an aspiring singer and actress. Julie has her whole life planned out for herself and aiming to retire from theater at the age of 22 and get married. She begins to see that Charlie could be that man for her.

To make Charlie's life more interesting and complicated, Charlie's best friend Joe is staying with him because he is considering leaving his wife of eleven years. He meets one of Charlie's lovers named Sylvia who catches his eye and he falls in love with her. Talk about complications. Looking for love, finding it, losing it, and finding yourself are all included in The Tender Trap. I just adore this film and seeing Sinatra with Reynolds together is just the bees knees.
READ MORE

A Vintage Nerd Book Club: Hello Gorgeous!

February 08, 2014
•

When I discovered this little book I knew that it would easily be one of my favorites. It's main focus is sharing beauty products and their advertisements from the 1940's to the 1960's. It is both immensely visually stimulating and also informative. 

The author, Rachel C. Weingarten writes a seven page introduction to her book. Seven pages that I just loved! Seriously, I have never read such a wonderful introduction before. You can tell that the author is passionate about her love beauty, how it is attained with products, and the force behind the product which places it in the hands of women-advertising.

There are five chapters in this book and each gives an informative synopsis to the topic at hand such as; The Scent of Beauty which focuses on perfumes. I appreciate reading a book that is preparing me for what I am about to see and learn. All the ads are amazing to look at and the author adds a special touch by including snippets of information on almost every page.

This book is the sort of book I can go back to many times because I feel like I am taking a peak into the past. The author outdoes herself. It is a small book packed with big charm. If you are interested in learning more about the history of beauty products in America I do believe this book is one you will enjoy greatly. You can find it on Amazon HERE.
READ MORE

Must See TV: The Making of a Lady

February 08, 2014
•


I just adore the children's stories written by Frances Hodgson Burnett; The Little Princess and The Secret Garden. I own and have read them both and they are truly magical tales. When I heard about The Making of a Lady and saw that Hodgson Burnett wrote it and that they were bringing it to life in a feature length film, I knew I had to share it with you.

This is the story line:

1901:- Poor but intelligent Emily Fox Seton accepts a marriage proposal from the older Lord James Walderhurst, a widower pushed into providing an heir by his haughty aunt Maria, Emily's employer. It is an arrangement for them both - in James' case to stop the family home passing to James' cousin Alec Osborn and his Anglo-Indian wife Hester. However, affection soon grows between them but James is posted to India with his regiment and the Osborns come to stay with Emily,telling her James sent them to look after her. But they have lied and Alec's alarming mood swings brought on by illness threatens Emily's pregnancy and drives the staff away. Soon Emily realises that the couple mean to kill her and take the house for themselves. With only her loyal maid Jane for support how can she thwart their plan?

If you would like a preview of the film you can watch it HERE on Youtube. It stars Lydia Wilson (who also can be seen in About Time. Oh that movie is soo good!) as Emily, Linus Roache (whom I first saw in the film The Priest ages ago-he is amazing!) as Lord James, Joanna Lumley (Absolutely Fabulous fame) as Lady Maria, and James D'Arcy (who will be starring in the film After Dark this year) as Captain Alec Osborn. 

It will be airing here in the states this Sunday, February 9th on your local PBS station. Here in New York it will be airing at 10pm til 11:30pm. It will most certainly be airing right after Downton Abbey. I will defiantly be watching this Sunday. Will you?
READ MORE

Old Hollywood In Love

February 07, 2014
•
Photo Source: Radio Times

Relationships are can be fascinating and when you add romance and love it becomes more complex and intriguing. Here are some stories about Old Hollywood romances. 




I do think it is really is nice to see people in love and when blending it with the allure of Hollywood. It doesn't get any better than that.
READ MORE
Subscribe to: Posts ( Atom )
 
Copyright © A Vintage Nerd || Exploring Old Hollywood Through Fashion, Film, & Books. Designed by OddThemes