When we talk transitional, we're talking cardigans, skirts, boots, and lightweight knits. We're also talking pieces that make your outfit pop. Throw on all of the above and cinch them with something exciting, like this Elaborate Vintage 1980s Woven Cord Belt With Gold Medallion Detail ($44). It will cinch you into the holidays and beyond . . .
This Vintage Feather Headband Hat ($35) may look a wee strange, but strange is the name of the fashion game lately. Feathers are still going strong — just ask Rihanna — but it's such a novel, expensive adornment. Wearing this feather topper will certainly set you apart from the crowd. The jet black feathers are also subtle enough you won't look like you're getting attacked by a bird, although Tippi Hedren made it look so stylish.
I recently had a long day of wine tasting in Napa Valley, got home around 7 p.m., and had to get ready to go back out again. As fun as a social life is, it can be exhausting and challenging.
Challenging, in the closet arena. I definitely have some go-to items for lazy Sundays — jeans, moccasins, cardigans — but a Friday night on the town? So I grabbed my black Corey Lynn Calter maxi dress, threw on tons of jewelry, a vintage clutch, a light-washed jean jacket (to dress the look down), and called it a night. And yes, I felt quite Fab.
This black disco dress, size small ($34), can also do the LBDisco. You don't have to be an expert to learn these moves. Plus, if you're not so sure about loud print maxi dresses, this caters to the trend in a more subtle way.
With Fall, the return of the classic pump will come. And just in the nick of time; I was about to resell a pair of black patent Manolo Mary Jane wannabees — what was I thinking?? Black pumps are a Winter necessity, and these Vintage Stuart Weitzman crystal trim heels, size 8 ($99) have an added flair, ahem, crystal trim, and a fair heel, three inches, for the vintage epicure.
Never, ever, rid yourself of a denim skirt. It's a classic. OK, maybe you can toss it if it's acid wash, but still, you never know.
Little Miss Naughty is looking just that in this Vintage '80s high-waist denim pencil skirt ($20). I could totally see Rachel Bilson in this with a simple tank and the bag to have. Scratch that — I could see me in it with a naughty tank and vintage clutch. See, denim skirts appease everyone.
Do you consider yourself festive? Does wearing an emblem of Summer around your neck count as festive? Whichever way you slice it, this sweet Vintage Monet Shell Necklace With Snake Chain ($125) may not be cheap, but it's one-of-a-kind and subtly festive. Dig how the chain contours to the charm.
A neutral belt is a key accessory. A neutral belt with a piercing, gold Fabtastic clasp is a treasure. I admit I was hesitant in sharing this Arrowhead buckle snakeskin belt, size S/M ($45) with you. Alas, I have belts a plenty. Make a poignant statement like this around your womanly waist.
I have flashbacks to outfits in the Sex and the City movie. Not that that's a bad thing, it's just slightly odd, no? Anywho, I stumbled across this 1960's Black Silk Polka Dot Puff Dress, size small/medium ($169) and thought it was one of those dresses that could be funked up a la Carrie or prissed up for Charlotte. The big polka dots are super fun and the puffed tiered ruffle hem is probably a party to walk — no, strut — in. Many a belt can morph the look of this vintage frock. Any takers?
Shorts had some really good years during the '70s. The Fab fave decade also bared a lot of skin. One of my mottos is if you've got it, and many of you have got the gams, flaunt them. If you aren't comfortable in a mini skirt or short shorts, consider these Vintage Denim High Waisted Shorts ($24). The waist is 28, and on that topic: the high waist is just right. The little dots are adorable and you can jazz these up or down.
Before you excuse this 1980s Missoni Dress ($95) for being too frumpy, hear me out. The thing about vintage is though it is oft one of a kind, it is also oft of another era. Read: old fashioned hemlines. Do you know how many vintage dresses and skirts I've had hemmed? Sometimes vintage items need updating, whether it's a modern hemline, new buttons or a freshly sewn sleeve. That said, imagine this deal of a Missoni dress with a shorter hemline and cap sleeves. I estimate the nip/tuck will run you another $25-$30 on top of the $95. See what I'm saying?
