Nikki Napalm's Pin-Up Hair Tutorial

Check out this great little video by Nikki Napalm on how to get her sugnature victory roll hair

...they're back

Mad Men is back. After a much too long break. As a lover of vintage, I, of course, am a lover of Mad Men. I spend quite a bit of my time imagining what it would be like to live in the 50's and 60's ( and when I'm feeling even more imaginative, the 20's and 30's). I love the fashion... the wiggle dresses, the dainty purses, kitten heels, even the undergarments. I love how the women always look beautiful and the men look so dreamy and handsome. The beautiful, shinny cars and the home decor...it all makes me melt. Enter Mad Men. If I were an actress, if would be my ultimate dream to be on the show... it is a dream actually, even though I gave up acting in grade 12...

Well, lets recap last nights 2 hour premier then.

The time line is pushing the late 60's and the fashion is reflecting it; short, brighter dresses and mod style cuts have made their appearance. Joan however, and I'm sure Betty, too are still wearing shapes that flatter their lady-like silhouettes, in more traditional cuts and colours. The 70's are my absolute least favorite era, but since the show isn't quite there yet, I am still hoping to see some great fashion.

What did everyone think about Megan Drappers lovely birthday gift to Mr. Drapper?! It's a copy cat of many typical performances of movies from the 60's -  think: any Elvis Movie, Ann Margaret, The Party, etc - a sexy women, dressed in a sexy short dress, sings with a full band to back her up, with all the moves to make it a knock out performance. While Don is quite embarrassed, his colleagues get a good laugh out of it- as did I. This scene very much reminds me of the 60's- the dress Megan wore was spot of the time period, the live band ( which included not just an African American, but a homosexual at that), the home decor complete with teak, white carpets, and gorgeous lamps, and cocktails and cigarettes.

 

The episode seemed to re introduce us to most of the characters and shed a little light on things to come. An affair or two surely will be in the mix; Don and Megan seem to have a rocky marriage; Pete's looming depression and dissatisfaction; the introduction of a new character, which looks to be like the companies first African American employee; Joan's return to the office and struggle with raising a child; Roger's extreme distaste for his wife, which will lead to either divorce or an affair. The season premier has lined up quite a bit for this year and I am certain we are all waiting in anticipation for the drama to unfold.

xoxo N

Elizabeth's Antique and Collectable Sale

With spring comes the start of antique fairs and the anticipation of garage sales ( in a few more months that is). I've already been on my first vintage shop this year, at the vintage pop up shop on 124st a few weeks ago. But what I really can't wait for is finding lovely treasures of the furniture and housewares variety. Last year I found quite a few treasures at garage sales and antique shows. This year, I hope to do even better. To kick off the season, this Friday and Saturday, at the Alberta Aviation Museum downtown, is the Elizabeth's Antique & Collectable Sale. It runs 2pm-8pm Friday, and 10pm-4pm Saturday, with a $5 entrance fee and over 120 tables of vintage glory to feast on. Expect to find vintage tableware, toys, furniture, clothing and shoes, military memorabilia, knick knacks, and well, who knows what else!


I will be posting tons of dates for vintage fairs and shows this spring and summer so keep a watch out for them! If you have never been to a vintage show, you should make this the year! There are so many treasures just waiting for someone to take them home to love; often you can get a really good price on a great item! I've found many great deals in the short time I have been thrift and vintage shopping. And you just never know what you are going to find!

What is the best vintage piece you've purchased at a sale- garage, thrift, or antique?

Prada Spring/Summer 2012

Be still my heart. Prada's new spring/summer collection screams retro, 1950's decadence. Styled to perfection, with red lips, glossy curls and waves, and not to mention the rocking handbags and heels, the collection is everything a vintage loving gal like me could want ( if only I could afford it). The garments are dripping in retro patterns and pastel colors, with pops of deep, decadent burgundys and greens. The models donned cat eye glasses, chic scarfs, and stunning necklaces and earrings. With a little modern edge and a whole lot of vintage inspiration, Prada's spring/summer 2012 collection has been the talk of the town.

Check it out for yourself:







xo N.

Saturday in Review

A few girlfriends and I went checked out the vintage pop up shop yesterday afternoon. While I didn't find anything ( besides a belt) that I liked, I think may others probably found some treasures. I think the majority of people who wear vintage in Edmonton, are hipsters and indie kids, who are less into authentic, beautiful, 50's pieces, and more into unique, awkward, 80's pieces. That being said, I found there were more 70's and 80's pieces at the pop up shop. However, I also heard that it was really busy on Friday and perhaps all the good stuff got snatched up then. But like I said, I think it was a great idea and this is the kind of thing Edmonton needs more of.
After we checked out the shop, we went next door to a very busy Duchess. I'm sure we waited in line for 20-30 mins, but it was worth it. Once we finished eating our goodies we strolled down the street to Redemption Boutique- an alternative clothing store. Then we checked out Thread Hill- a high end clothing store. Buried on the sale rack in the back of the store I found a great Betsey Johnson top and a l0vely, patterned sheath dress ( pictures to come).

My one friend and I then made out way to City Center to a little shopping. Nine West had some great shoes on sale and I picked myself up a nice, sophisticated pair of pumps.

Later that night I cleaned the heck out my closet, which was long over due. Now, I have room for more new clothes!


xoxo N.

Up and Comming

Announcements which may interest you:

• J. Crew is finally making its way to Canada, this I am sure you already knew. But perhaps you didn't know to expect it so soon... J. Crew is expected to open this spring in West Edmonton Mall.

Despite my dislike for the mall and mainstream, mass apparel, I am looking forward to scooping of J. Crew, for basics, if nothing else.

• March 4- 11 head back down to the illustrious 124st for yet another lovely pop up shop. This time shop Coup, Dote Baby, Glass.ful, and So Pretty Jewelry at amazing discounted prices!
• A reminder that the Vintage Pop Up Shop beside Duchess is happening this weekend, March 2 and 3.

Hope your all enjoying the snow... and just when I was thinking it was time to boot my winter boots away for the year!

xo N

Vintage Pop Up & Duchess

March 2nd and 3rd, a very exciting event is coming our way! A vintage pop up shop! For two very special days, right beside the newly expanded Duchess on 124st, we will be able to scout out vintage treasures- from clothing, jewelry, and an assortment of nic nacs!

This is basically a dream come true for me.Not only do I love vintage shopping, but Duchess is one of the best pastry shops in town. The two combined create a magical afternoon. Duchess Bake Shop has become famous for is french macrons, meringues, and assortment of fine pastries, including their decadent cakes- there is something to suite every taste ( from sweet and sticky to flight and fluffy)
This is sure to be an event you wont want to miss. I hope to see you there, with brioche and vintage in hand.

xoxo N.