Heat Wave

 

Something about summertime lately makes me want to dress like a member of '70s girl gang all the time.  (The new fringe and flare jeans must have something to do with it.)

Carnival at Dusk

 

 

 

 

Molly, Ivie, Whitney and I went to the local cheap carnival and stomped through the mud, got on rides, and played games.  The dress code for the evening was 70s-80s girl gang, which was even more fun!  An excuse to dress up makes everything better.

1950s for Spring

     I'm so happy it's springtime.  I think this winter was the last straw and I'm ready to migrate south next year; I guess I'm finally accepting the fact that I'm always freezing.  Here is what I'm normally wearing out and about come springtime, when it's time to shed the dark colored clothes and heavy boots.  

     It used to feel overwhelming trying to find something vintage and comfy and pretty to wear during the day; a lot of vintage shops and stores highlight dresses over all else, and that isn't always practical.  But with some trial and error, I found my go-to outfits for a day of shopping or running errands.  I get a lot of inspiration from teen outfits in the '50s, actually.  They're cute, functional, but still body-hugging and grown up.  If you don't have a pair of saddle shoes, go get some; it'll change your life (for real, ladies).

Image via the50shousewife.com

Image via Wikimedia, from an ad for T. C. Beirne's department store

Image via VintageDancer.com

Jeans by Merona, at Target

 Shirt from Lands End

Shoes from Payless

Book Review: Dig That Beat!

This month I had the pleasure of reading the book Dig That Beat! by Sheree Homer.  I'm not well versed on the early rockabilly scene, but I was interested to read about how the music we love today came into being.   Dig That Beat! presents a rich history of the musicians and singers that helped to evolve rock and roll into what it is today.  

There are interviews with countless artists from varied genres, from blues to soul to pop, displaying how each has shaped rock and roll.   There are also run-ins with familiar faces like Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, and even Mae West (!), but the real gem of this book is getting to know some of the lesser-known stars of the era and those that are riding the resurgence of old school music today.  The end of the book highlights international artists that may not be on your radar, but are well worth checking out.  Dig That Beat! is an essential history and delightful tome for any vintage pop culture enthusiast, and definitely for anyone that would like to expand their knowledge of music history.

The book is available to purchase through Amazon or your local indie bookseller!

The Grand Opening of My Art Shop

Hello, friends!  

I'm so excited to announce that my Etsy shop, Inky Notions, is officially open for business!

This is where I am offering art prints from my many watercolor paintings and ink drawings.  When you look through the shop offerings, you'll surely see a few familiar famous faces, as well as plenty of characters I dreamed up.  These are high quality art prints that look crystal clear and bright (I was so chuffed when I first got them in the mail; they looked amazing).

Take a look at some of the offerings there, and be sure to keep tabs on the shop since I'll soon be adding stationery and postcards, too.

Click below to visit and see many more prints offered!