Beautiful Birds and Summer Sunshine! My review of the Dolly and Dotty Amanda Dress

Today, I am reviewing the beautiful Amanda Dress in Forest Green Bird Print from Dolly and Dotty.  This glorious summer perfect frock is made of a soft Forest Green jewel toned satin with an allover print of birds and wildflowers.  This dress looks luxuriant and feels amazing!  Amanda features a scooped neckline that tapers into a box pleated flared skirt and comes in a variety of prints.  This dress is a classic that will never go out of style, fabulous for wearing to weddings, graduations, picnics and for any summer occasion.  The Dolly and Dotty Amanda Dress is comfortable, classic and chic, a versatile piece to add to your wardrobe.

Outfit Details
Dress: Amanda Dress in Forest Green Bird Print in size UK 20 from Dolly and Dotty
Glasses: Cat Eye Style 665918 in Red from Zenni Optical
Flower Crown: Claire's
Makeup: Tarte Cosmetics
Lipstick: Forever Red from Besame Cosmetics

 Dolly and Dotty has incredibly consistent fit, I am wearing my normal size UK 20.  I love that I can purchase the same size knowing that it will fit me perfectly!  The satin material is sturdy, it did not snag or run like some other dresses I have had made of similar material.  I love the feminine scooped neckline and straps on this dress, they make it easy to wear a nice supportive bra without worrying about straps showing.  This is a lovely modest dress, before our birding adventures, I wore my Amanda Dress to sing at church with a yellow cropped cardigan and shed my cardigan as the day got warmer.  The skirt of the Amanda Dress is generous, I am wearing a petticoat for volume here but this skirt is beautifully shaped with box pleating that gives shape even without a petticoat underneath.

 Let's talk about this incredible print!  A brilliant shade of forest green featuring brightly colored birds happily fluttering among blue, red and yellow wildflowers and vines.  This print is perfect for me because I am a bird fanatic and it is a shade of green that is sadly lacking in my wardrobe, I have been trying to add more green and jewel tone shades to all the bright prints and pastel florals in my closet.  The print of this Dolly and Dotty Amanda Dress has a variety of colors making this a fun piece to style, you can chose one of the shades to play up or wear different colors for a bold fun look.

I have been an amateur birder for many years.  My love of birds started in high school with bird watching in biology class and grew into a full blown bird nerd obsession when we moved into our home 17 years ago.  Our backyard has such a huge variety of birds, we put out bird seed and suet as well as having several bird baths and planting bird friendly trees.  We enjoy relaxing on our deck while watching our bird friends and helping to preserve their natural habitats in the woods surrounding our home.  I  wore my Dolly and Dotty Amanda Dress for a beautiful day spent bird watching under the apple blossoms with my husband.  I felt like such a dream picking flowers, looking for new types of birds in my bird book, watching the bees busily working among the apple trees and spending some outdoor time in the sunshine with my husband.  A perfect day in a dreamy dress!

Dolly and Dotty has the most glorious selection of vintage style clothing that is perfect for everyday wear, I cannot say enough wonderful things about this company, they are truly one of a kind!

Perfectly Pinup Pumps! My review of the customizable Pixie Cove Elise Pumps plus an exclusive discount

Outfit Details:
Dress: Jade Dress in Watermelon Print from Collectif Clothing
Hat: Watermelon Print Hat from San Diego Hat Company
Shoes: Custom Elise Pumps C/O Pixie Cove (gifted for honest review)
Hair Flower: Daisy Jean Floral
Earrings: Bow & Crossbones
Bangles: The Moby Duck
Lipstick: American Beauty from Besame Cosmetics
Makeup: Tarte

Hey everyone!  Today, I am excited to have have teamed up with Pixie Cove to review the customizable Elise Pumps.  Pixie Cove is an awesome online boutique that features a huge selection of retro styled items including dresses, accessories and the most amazing vintage styled shoes.  I noticed Pixie Cove on Facebook first, they caught my eye with their made to order, customizable retro styled heels, I contacted Pixie Cove and they sent me a custom pair to review here for you as well as offering my readers an exclusive discount!

The Pixie Cove Elise Pumps are a medium height, rounded toe pump that is fully customizable to suit your personal style.  Elise is the quintessential comfortable heel for all occasions, featuring a medium thick 3.35 inch heel and a .79 inch platform at the toe making them super comfy and easy to wear.  For me, heels are usually a no go, these Elise Pumps are great for me, being born with club foot makes my feet extra sensitive to heels, the platform at the toe makes these a breeze to wear and the heel is thick plus at a modest height so I can walk comfortably.  I also have wide feet so generally shoes tend to be too narrow for me, these Elise Pumps are fabulous for wide feet.  I chose a size 9, I usually wear an 8.5 and since heels tend to make my feet swell after a bit I always size up a half size for comfort.  The craftsmanship and materials are high quality, the inner material is soft, the heels are sturdy and the width is just right, these are very well made shoes.

The best part of the Pixie Cove Elise Pumps is the fun you get to have when you make them your own.  These heels are fully personalized and it is a ball creating the shoe of your dreams!  First you chose your material, Matte, Patent, Nubuck or Metallic in a rainbow of colors.

 Next, you can chose to add Pixie Cove's pretty lace look trim in the color of your choice or no trim if you prefer a simpler style.  After you chose your trim you can add a bow if desired, there are three different choices in different styles to suit you.  Do you like your shoes with a strap or without, what style strap you prefer is up to you and the color is your choice too.  Every detail of your Elise Pumps is within your control!

I chose Black Matte Material, White Trim, a White Bow in style number 2 on the toe and no straps but the possibilities are endless and if you do not see the combination that you are looking for on the website, Pixie Cove is more than happy to accommodate special orders.  I was going for a very versatile, neutral and classic design, the shoe that can be worn with everything.

 I love these beautiful heels!  Pixie Cove did not leave any detail behind, they even have the prettiest vintage floral material inside the Elise Pumps.  I was also impressed with the turn around time on these shoes, my order was placed, my shoes were made to order and they were at my door within 10 days, that is incredible considering these shoes are completely customized!

 I chose to wear my customized Elise Pumps with this gorgeous and bold Collectif Watermelon Print Jade Dress and this incredible matching hat from San Diego Hat Company so these classically styled Pixie Cove Black and White Elise Pumps would stand out among the bright colors.  I cannot wait to wear these beautiful custom creations with all my pinup pretties because they match everything!

These shoes are as fun to wear as they are to customize and every single detail is perfection.  Pixie Cove has also generously offered an exclusive discount code so you too can customize a pair of Elise Pumps or shop to your heart's content, save 25% off ANY order at Pixie Cove using code AM_BRIANA_25.  Happy Shopping!!

Beautiful Brocade! My Review of the Lindy Bop Tiana Twin Set

 Today, I am reviewing the Lindy Bop Tiana Twin Set in Burgundy.  The Tiana Twin Set consists of an off the shoulder dress with a flare skirt and matching bolero jacket.  The Tiana Twin Set is made of  luxuriant burgundy floral brocade, brocade is a heavy fabric with very little stretch.  This beautiful set is practical and perfect for the seasonal transition from summer into fall.  I love the vintage style of this set!  The best thing about the Tiana Twin Set to me is how versatile it is.  Michigan weather varies wildly in the fall months, some days it is 60 degrees and other days it is 80, this makes dressing for the day a bit difficult, Tiana solves this problem for me!  I can wear the jacket and dress together when the day starts out chilly but if the temperatures warm up the dress looks lovely on it's own. 

Outfit Details:
Dress: Tiana Twin Set in Burgundy Size UK22 Care of Lindy Bop
Earrings: Mystic Drop Earrings in Ivory From Ceci Punch Designs
Makeup: Tarte Cosmetics
Lipstick: Red Velvet from Besame Cosmetics
Shoes: Steve Madded-Thrifted
Hair Flower: Handmade by Me
Hairstyling by Alyx Halsey

 The Lindy Bop Tiana Twin Set flatters my curves and makes me feel like I just stepped out of a retro movie.  The dress is an off the shoulder style with bow detailing on the shoulders, a nipped in waist and full flared skirt.  I am wearing a petticoat under my skirt for fullness.  The jacket is a 3/4 sleeve bolero style with a rounded neckline that hits just at the waist.  Comfortable and classy for day wear or dressed up, this set can be accessorized to be appropriate for almost any occasion.  The floral brocade material is so luxurious and really feels like it is a true vintage piece.   It is a poly/spandex blend with very little stretch so be sure to look closely at the measurements on the size chart before you order, I generally check these because each Lindy Bop garment has a unique fit according to its style.  I am wearing The Tiana Twin Set in a size UK20.  Fit is just right, the bodice is snug with a bit of stretch, the waist nips in to flatter and the skirt can fit a full petticoat but also lays nicely without due to pleating at the waistline.  This shade of burgundy is just right for the coming fall colors but will also be lovely for the Christmas season.

This is my first Lindy Bop Twin Set but it makes me want to go snap up their other sets because these make a great addition to my wardrobe!  Lindy Bop consistently releases beautiful new designs, I cannot wait to see what else they have in store for the Autumn/Winter season.  The Lindy Bop Tiana Twin Set will give me a ton of wear for the upcoming holiday season, it is classy, timeless and versatile.  I adore Lindy Bop, they give me beautiful vintage style clothing with a huge variety of styles to choose from, great quality and an affordable price so I can refresh my wardrobe for each season without breaking the bank!

A Whimsical Walk in the Park! My Review of the Karina Dresses Megan Dress in Walk in the Park Print

 Disclaimer:  This blog post contains links that when clicked on and purchased from will result in a small commission for this site.

 Hello Everyone!  Today, I am reviewing the Karina Dresses Megan Dress in Walk in the Park Print.  The Megan Dress is one of my favorite styles that Karina offers, I could not resist adding this gorgeous Walk in the Park Print to my wardrobe even though I already own Megan in the Blue Moon Print.   Karina Dresses are an easy breezy must have wardrobe staple for summer and this print is just perfect for the season; bright, bold and fresh!

Outfit Details:
Dress: Megan Dress in Walk in the Park Print size XXL C/O Karina Dresses
Earrings: Pearl Drop Earrings from Ceci Punch Designs
Flower Crown: Turquoise Flowers and Berries from Claire's
Shoes: Red Wedges from Mudd- Thrifted
Beaded Purse and Pearl Necklace are Vintage
Makeup is Tarte except Crimson Red Rouge and Victory Red Lipstick from Besame Cosmetics

 Megan is a very 1940's cut; a wrap bodice with gathered cap sleeves, a nipped in waistband and flowing skirt emphasizing your curves perfectly.  I love the fit and flow of this dress, it is light as air on and comfortable making it perfect for the warmer weather of the coming summer months.  I have reviewed the Megan style before, so check out my former Megan Dress review to read my thoughts on fit and sizing.  This dress is a perfect fit on me in size XXL.  The beauty of Karina Dresses is that they are so low maintenance, the microfiber blend material means they do not wrinkle so they are a pull on and go garment.  It is so nice to be able to grab a dress and go without a ton of anxiety about wrinkles and Karina's signature prints are all so gorgeous that it is easy to look polished with very little effort.  I love wearing flowing comfortable dresses around the house on a summer day and this Megan dress is perfect for dressing up or down.  Easy wear for a summer wedding, a romantic picnic on the beach or a relaxing day on the deck at home.

The Walk in the Park Print is a lovely turquoise background with bold red and cream flowers.  Beautiful and eye catching, this floral is gorgeous anytime of year and has so many lovely colors to highlight with accessories.  I wore my Megan Dress with bold red wedges, a pretty beaded vintage purse, pearl jewelry and a turquoise and berry flower crown.  It is a dream, whirly, twirly and whimsical, this dress will be in heavy rotation in my summer wardrobe.  Karina Dresses has all your bright and beautiful summer wardrobe needs covered!

Outrageous Oranges! My Review of the Lindy Bop Saskia Polka Dot and Orange Print Swing Dress

 Today, I am reviewing the delightful Lindy Bop Saskia Polka Dot and Orange Print Swing Dress 

 Lindy Bop is one of my favorite vintage style clothing designers.  They have such a fabulous selection of retro styled dresses, tops, skirts, accessories and even shoes that they have quickly become one of the leaders in the vintage fashion movement.  I love the huge variety of styles and prints available, something to fit every personality.   Lindy Bop also has some of the most competitive prices available for quality vintage style garments, there is definitely something to please everyone at Lindy Bop.

Outfit Details:
Dress: Saskia Polka Dot and Orange Print Swing Dress in Size US18/UK20 C/O Lindy Bop
Hair Piece: Orange Blossom Fascinator by Lila Jo
Petticoat: Dancing Days 26 inch Petticoat in White by Banned
Earrings: Green Glitter Rectangles by Put on the Ritz
Makeup: Tarte
Lipstick: American Beauty by Besame Cosmetics
Glasses: Zenni Optical

The Lindy Bop Saskia Polka Dot and Orange Print Swing Dress is a lovely vintage styled dress with a fitted bodice, full skirt and deliciously juicy orange border print.  I love the contrast of the black polka dots and bright, bold orange print.  The polka dot background is draped with bunches of delectable, juicy oranges that look good enough to eat and lovely frilly white orange blossoms for a dress that is both classy and whimsical.  

I am wearing the Saskia Polka Dot and Orange Print Swing Dress in size US 18.  The Saskia dress is sized well, the measurements are spot on but the elasticated panel in the back gives a huge amount of stretch to the bodice.  The size 18 is my usual Lindy Bop size but in this instance I could have easily sized down for a better fit because the elastic back has a ton of give and the material has a decent amount of stretch to it as well.  The soft matte finish stretch poly blend fabric feels lovely on my skin and makes the dress as comfortable as it is cute.  The only drawback is the lack of adjustable straps, as a petite gal, adjustable straps on dresses and tops save me from the expense of having to have a seamstress adjust them to get the correct fit.  The straps were quite a bit too long for my torso so I had to have them fixed to get the fit just right before I could wear the dress, however this dress is so cute that it was worth it and I find that the straps being too long is a common problem I run into at my height.  The Skirt has a lovely fullness that looks pretty on it's own but is large enough to accommodate a petticoat for extra flair.

The bodice is adorable, I love the orange accent of the straps, on the cute split collar and along the border of the dress.  The polka dot print is very interesting and eye catching with its alternating pattern of solid and scribbled dots on a black background.  The oranges are the clear star of this dress.  The print is so lifelike, I can almost smell the fresh floral scent of the orange blossoms intermingling with the tart citrus from the oranges.  I love wearing fun food prints, we all love food and these bold prints make an outfit really stand out.  I received a ton of compliments on this glorious dress, almost everyone commented that it made them crave oranges!  The Saskia Polka Dot and Orange Print Swing Dress was a hit with everyone that made me look and feel sweet as well.  I have many Lindy Bop dresses in my closet because they give me exactly what I am looking for, amazing style, high quality and a reasonable price that allows me to afford a dress to perfectly fit my every mood!  Thanks Lindy Bop!!