Cheery Cherries! Dolly and Dotty May Dress review

Its a beautiful May morning here in Michigan.  The sun is up, birds are singing and the world is alive; green with leaves and fragrant flowers blooming that scent the breeze with delight!

Today I am reviewing the adorable May Dress by Dolly and Dotty.  Dolly and Dotty make fabulous retro inspired dresses to fit the modern woman.  Carrying a variety of vintage styles, fun prints and available in sizes 8-24, Dolly and Dotty have something for everyone!

Dress: May Swing Dress in Black Cherry, Courtesy of  Dolly and Dotty
Petticoat: Jennifer Petticoat in Red by Malco Modes
Stockings: Magic Stockings in Natural C/O The Big Tights Company
Photos: Put A Smile In It Photography (in their fab Tiki Set!)
MUAH: Ashley Leathead

 The May Swing Dress in Black Cherry is a bright bold pop of juicy cherries with a flattering vintage inspired design.  May features a V-neck wrap top design tapering to a belted waist and a generous full circle skirt.  I am wearing a size18 here.  The fit is good overall but I feel that the bodice is a bit loose on me and since the material has a fair amount of stretch, I could have easily gone a size down.  The Dolly and Dotty dress fit is generous compared to many UK brands I have encountered.  The dress included both a white and black fabric belt to match and I love this addition because it lets you make the decision which color belt you would prefer with your dress.

 The skirt is a full circle with plenty of twirling potential!  I am wearing the Malco Modes Jennifer Petticoat in Red with my May dress here, it looks lovely and adds a nice shape to the skirt but the material drapes nicely even without a petticoat.   This skirt is definitely large enough to accommodate a larger crinoline or petticoat, depending on your fullness preference.

The Black Cherry print is such a fun bold pattern.  The bright cherries just pop against the black background accented with white dots.  Cherries are celebrated here in Michigan so this dress reminds me of my home state and my favorite juicy treats so I feel positively delicious wearing it!  The May Dress is high quality, fun to wear, comfortable and available in many different prints which makes it a perfect addition to any closet.  I am impressed with the quality and style of Dolly and Dotty!!  I have my eyes on several other color ways of the May dress because I need to add more easy breezy summer dresses to my wardrobe that give me that beautiful vintage feeling.  What is your favorite May Dress?

Pretty in Poppies! Voodoo Vixen Suzanne Dress review.

It has been a tough couple of months here in my household.  Kevin, my husband  has been hospitalized and diagnosed with a mental illness.  It has been a huge adjustment and learning experience for us and doctors visits have kept me busier than I imagined.  This combined with my regular job has meant that I have had take time away from regular blogging to handle this new phase in our lives.  I am happy that things are stable and I can now afford to devote myself to the blog once again.  My blogging and pinup modeling is such a pleasure in my life.  I am so happy to have met wonderful people and discovered a multitude of fabulous creators who are making their mark on the vintage fashion world.  I will be posting many long overdue reviews this coming week from Kiyonna, The Big Tights Company and Dolly and Dotty; as well as reviewing my newest purchases from Pinup Girl Clothing!

Today I will be reviewing the lovely Voodoo Vixen Suzanne Dress.  I love Voodoo Vixen!!  Their flair for retro style, fabulous fit and wonderful fun prints make them one of the best vintage style clothing labels.  I already own the Kitty dress (My review!) and Isabella cardigan, they are such an adorable and lovely set.  I contacted Voodoo Vixen and they were kind enough to send me the Suzanne Dress for review.

Suzanne is a bold houndstooth print dress scattered with with bright red poppies.  Scalloped edges on the bodice and arms are a pretty and feminine touch.  The dress is fits me like a glove with a bit of comfortable stretch in the cotton blend material.  I am wearing a size 2x and the fit is just right, if you are between sizes I would recommend sizing up.  I love the scalloped bodice of this dress, it is so lovely a touch, very vintage styled and feminine.  I find the bodice to be flattering to the bust and the matching belt cinches in at the waist to give a great shape.  Suzanne also has pockets!!  I am a lady who appreciates well thought out design details in my garments and the addition of pockets to this dress is practical while being adorable with the scallop edge detail.

Photo: Put A Smile In It Photography
MUAH: Ashley Leathead
Dress: Suzanne C/O Voodoo Vixen
Stockings: Magic Lady Stockings in Black C/O The Big Tights Company (Review coming Monday!)
Heels: Vintage

The sleeves are also finished with scallop edge detail and are a great length for wearing in cooler weather because they provide a little more arm coverage.  The skirt flares out in a flattering bell shape from the waistline.  Length is mid calf for me at 5'3" which makes this a flattering and modest dress for any occasion.

  This print is so bold and bright!!  I have been trying to step outside of my pastel and floral print box, Suzanne is perfect for that.  The print makes a fun statement that catches the admiring eye of people who just had to compliment me when I wore her out to dinner with my husband!  The poppies would also make this a great dress for Military themed outfits like I wear for my Pinups for Patriots events.  I love wearing these vintage styles, they seem to be a big hit with people both young and old.  Voodoo Vixen is continuously bringing us amazing new vintage inspired designs that are well constructed and high quality,while being fun and flattering to wear!   

Kiyonna Sunset Stroll Bellini Review

It's almost here.  Winter!  I love living in Michigan but I have to admit winter is my least favorite time of year, the snow and the bone chilling cold make it a trying time to live here.  The snow is late to arrive this year giving us a bit of reprieve, because by this time last year we had already gotten 29 inches of accumulation across the state. Winter in Michigan is beautiful but tough!

I will admit, I am not a pants wearing gal.  I have an extremely hard time finding jeans that fit my shape correctly because my waist is 39 inches, which measures a size 18 in most pants but my hip/butt measuring at 56 inches make me a size 22.  I  love how I feel in vintage style dresses, they fit my personality to a "T",  so that in combination with the fit issue, make it a rare occasion for me to wear jeans.  Living in Michigan however necessitates that I must wear pants at times, a dress in blizzard conditions is just not practical or safe!  This means I am always searching for pretty pieces to pair with items in my wardrobe so I can maximize the amount of outfit choices I have on those cold days when I wear jeans.

I love the Kiyonna Sunset Stroll Bellini in Cabernet.  A lightweight versatile cardigan perfect for every season.  Marsala was chosen as the Pantone Shade of the Year so this shade of Cabernet is trendy, a robust and earthy wine red.  

I am always chilly so I prefer to wear layers and this is the perfect layering piece.  The Kiyonna Sunset Stroll Bellini is very versatile, it looks lovely paired with a lace cami and jeans, over a long sleeve tee and jeggings or worn over a dress.  Made of super soft lightweight jersey knit with 3/4 sleeves that hit just below my

elbow, the bellini is a light but warm outer layer.  The drawstring waist is adjustable so you can wear the bellini open in front or tied shut, whichever is your preference.  I am wearing my Sunset Stroll Bellini tied shut which gives the neckline a lovely gathering that I find very flattering to the figure.

We snapped these photos while enjoying a nice relaxing day together.  My husband, Kevin and I went for a walk on this rather blustery, rainy day and ended our fun shopping in Lakeview at my favorite place, The Peddler's Patch.  The Peddler's Patch has something for everyone with Peasley's Posies Flower Shop, handmade items, Michigan made/themed items, jewelry, clothing, home decor and antiques, a perfect place to find gifts this holiday season!

I love my hometown of Lakeview with its pictureque Tamarack Lake view, lovely historic buildings and amazing small businesses. The beautiful brick and stone buildings downtown were constructed in 1894 after a fire destroyed most of the original business district.  My ancestors came here as pioneers in 1870 and helped build the town.  I find the town history fascinating and love showcasing our little town!


Photography: Kevin Herzog
Cardigan: Sunset Stroll Bellini in Cabernet Size 1X courtesy of Kiyonna
Necklace: Torch Lake Blue Locket by Smitten Design Studio
Camisole: Lace camisole from Maurices
Jeans: ANA Bootcut Jeans from J.C. Penney 
Boots: Twill Boots in Black courtesy of Bearpaw which were a limited release last year.  The Angelina, a similar style are available HERE


Kiyonna clothing really fits beautifully! I am wearing a size 1X, it feels comfortable and flattering on me with enough room for layering underneath.  Being petite, layering pieces can be too long on my frame but this bellini sits just at the top of my thighs, which is just right.  I found the Sunset Stroll Bellini to be comfortable, flattering and versatile.  I love Kiyonna and their commitment to bringing lovely high quality plus size clothing to us!!

Fall in love with Erstwilder!!

Monday morning!!  Coffee's on and I'm hard at work starting out a fabulous new week, the possibilities are endless!! 

Today, I am going to share with you about my Erstwilder obsession.  Last winter, I discovered the quirky Erstwilder through one of my favorite blogs, Junebugs and Georgia Peaches and I was entirely intrigued.  I kept seeing their glorious outfits perfectly accessorized with a seemingly never-ending cast of adorable characters.  Like any fashion fanatic, I had to seek them out and get myself a brooch!! 

Erstwilder is a Melbourne, Australia based company that design collectable, limited edition layered resin adornments.  Their cast of eclectic characters contains a plethora of creative and colorful friends.  I was lucky enough to win my first Erstwilder brooch in a contest.  My review of the She's so Foxy brooch.  I fell in love with my She's so Foxy brooch but retailers in the US were few and far between until recently when Erstwilder began selling direct, before that, I contacted Erstwilder and they were kind enough to send me a few of their lovely pieces for review and to shoot with.  I had a glorious time shooting my Erstwilder feature photos with Renee Ricket Photography! 

I chose the Oscar Wildenfox and Thomas Taffy Cat brooches; and the Betty and Bo Sparrow Necklace.  I had a tough time choosing from their huge selection.  There are so many conbinations that can be made so I took a look in my closet and the choices I made were to match as much of my wardrobe as possible.  One of the most fab things about Erstwilder is the variety which makes it easy to find just the right accessory!

Erstwilder's pieces come packaged in cute round boxes, each containing a collectable card with a blurb about your new pal.  Each character in the Erstwilder universe has their own story and personality just like the people who wear them!  The quality is obvious.  Each character is fully three dimensional and completely unique.  The resin is bright and lovely however the brooches should be handled with care because they can break, I have had no issues with this myself with normal wear.

Oscar Wildenfox 

You can do a lot worse than follow the wisdow of our Oscar: "Be yourself everyone else is already taken." 

Oscar Wildenfox is a bespectacled Fox with a studious expression.  He has been available in a few different colorways but my favorite is this lovely turquoise floral version.  He looks adorable perched on the shoulder of my dresses or pinned to a shirt with jeans.  I love wearing him when I volunteer at the Lakeview Museum.  In my photos I am frollicking around my Mother-in-law's lovely garden and reclining in a friend's apple orchard, I love how much beauty there is in Michigan!

 Being bespectacled myself Oscar and I have a kinship because of the glasses perched on our face.  He has accompanied me on many adventures and I recieve a slew of compliments whenever I wear any of my Erstwilder pieces, but his glasses always get the most remarks.

Dress: Lindy Bop Lana

 Betty and Bo Sparrow Necklace.

Betty and Bo show us that true love is never narrow.  It's rather alive and free.  How it is meant to be.

Love is in the air with Betty and Bo Sparrow.  Lovebirds smooch midair suspended from your neck.  Adorable with a variety of pinup or rockabilly styles.  I have worn them with my Unique Vintage cherry dress print and with jeans and a tee. This particular Erstwilder piece is sold out but the have several other adorable bird necklaces.  I enjoyed having summertime fun cooling off in the pool wearing my Torrid swimsuit and my Betty and Bo Sparrow Necklace.

Swimsuit: Torrid
Shoes: Bearpaw

Thomas Taffy Cat

Just like the candy he is named for, our Thomas is colourful, light and fluffy.  A bit of a stretch?  Surely not.

Thomas sits with his tail curled looking at you in the typical indifferent cat fashion.  I have always had cats so as a cat lover, Thomas was the perfect addition to my wardrobe and my husband helped me chose him so he's a special friend!  I am wearing him here with my Voodoo Vixen Kitty Dress.  I love the contrast of his bold shiny blue body sitting still, tail curled around him. Thomas seems to watch the black cats on my dress slink by as he calmly contemplates his day.

Dress: Voodoo Vixen Kitty 

Once upon a time, you had to find a retailer for Erstwilder but now thank goodness, there is the new Erstwilder shop so you can find all of their designs in one place and order direct from them.  They are constantly releasing new and interesting collections with something for everyone!  Which Erstwilder design is your favorite??

Wishful Wednesday-Spooky edition

Ooooooo!  It's almost October and I've got Halloween fever!  This past weekend was my Halloween shoot with Renee Ricket Photography.  We had a glorious day at historic Forest Home Cemetery in Greenville setting up fun backdrops, creating spooky photos and making memories!  I love Forest Home Cemetery because it's a beautiful 32 acre garden cemetery with hills, trees and bordered by three lakes.  There are elaborate monuments and glorious mausoleums at every turn, our fall and Halloween shoot could not have had a more perfect setting.  Thank you to Friends of Forest Home Cemetery for welcoming us,  all of their hard work and dedication to restoring Forest Home to it's former glory!  Visit the Friends of Forest Home Cemetery Facebook page for historic tidbits and gorgeous photos or to make a donation.  Here is a sneak Peak!!

Photo: Renee Ricket Photography
Dress: SWAK Designs Harlow Lace Dress
MUAH: Briana Herzog
Accessories are vintage
Location: Gibbs Mausoleum - Forest Home Cemetery 

This weeks Wishful Wednesday is fun, fabulous and spooky style with a Halloween theme.  Most of the items can be mixed and matched for tons of fun combos but these are my favorite pieces for adding fall flair!

1.  Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Peasant Top in Black is a must have.  A basic in every pinup wardrobe.  It's great with pants, skirts and can be warmed up in chilly days with a cute cardigan.

2.  Pinup Girl Clothing Deadly Dames Darling Dames Skirt in Monster.  This lovely gathered skirt, fitted waistband, and flirty flair, offers a shorter hemline and hidden side pockets and comes in the scary cool Micheline Pitt designed Monster Print!  A must have for monster babes!

3. Atomic Mingo Creature From the Black Lagoon Brooch.  I LOVE vintage horror movies and this Creature From the Black Lagoon brooch is kitschy, creepy and cute!

4. Katrina Parker Frocks Scaredy Cats Skirt. 
Scaredy Cats is a playful, gathered skirt that falls just below the knee with a two inch waistband.  This skirt has a purple background with the most adorable print of kitties having comical adventures in a haunted house.  The material for this skirt is extremely limited, so add this creepy creation to your closet quick!

5. Heidi and Gretel Pumpkin Pot Brooch.  Obe of the most iconic images of Halloween, the pumpkin shaped candy pot is something most of us has owned in our lives and this brooch is a fabulous way to wear a piece of childhood nostagia!

6. Summer Blue Jewelry Stray Cat Strut Brooch.  A cool Bakelite (Fakelite) style Halloween cat brooch in classic black with white detail and big colored eyes for a truly vintage feel! Molded from an old Halloween cat piece from the 60's. The perfect finishing touch to any spooky, Gothic, or every day is Halloween vintage-inspired outfit.

7. Folter Retrolicious Seasons Dress.  This beautiful autumn landscape print dress transports me to my favorite spots in the intoxicating autumn that we enjoy here in Michigan. A fitted bodice with a full skirt, a V-plunge back and cap sleeves with cut out detail.
Colorful, whimsical and stunning!!

8.  Buttonsy "Four Seasons" Necklace - Autumn.  Autumn's russet leaves are tumbling down, ready to be kicked through and enjoyed.  Crisp days, apple cider, pumpkins and falling leaves this necklace evokes every happy fall memory!

9. Voodoo Vixen Katnis Dress.  It's raining cats...and CATS! This gorgeous skater style dress is adorable with it's quirky black cat and umbrella print, scalloped neckline and bright green color.  Katnis is cute and kooky for fall and Halloween fashion fun.

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook for behind the scenes, outfit of the day posts and tons more fun!!  Tomorrow I'm shooting at the apple orchard so stay tuned for more fantastic fall photos!

Wishful Wednesday!

Good day dolls!  I apologize for the lack of blogging, summer has me hopping.  Coming soon I have tons more product reviews, new collaborations and my very first giveaway so big things are coming!!  Don't miss out!

This week's Wishful Wednesday is celebrating the release of the new Curvy Kitten line of plus pinup style fashion from SWAK designs.  I have been a huge fan of SWAK for several years and own two of their dresses, I find their clothing to be high quality with great fit and styling!  The Peggy Sweetheart Dress in Blue Astro is my personal favorite!  I love the fun print, winged bust and retro style of this dress.  I would wear this Banned petticoat in red underneath, although it is a great style with or without the extra fluff of a petti.

Lola Ramona shoes are designed to be a small piece of art you can carry on your feet.  Each of their designs are thoroughly analysed and developed ideas, guaranteeing your feet good support.  They are on a mission to find the inner shoe diva in each of us.  I would love to pair the Angie Heels with this dress, Angie is a sailor style platform heel with a Red bow accents.  A perfect match and super adorable styling, the Angie is a great shoe to add to a variety of outfits as a statement piece. 

I believe that hair accessories should be fun and unique that's why I fell in love with Crown and Glory.  They offer a beautiful selection of interesting hair accessories to top off every style in a whimsical way.  I would wear the Whole Lotta Rosie headband in my hair.  The 8 realistic, foam roses in Ocean hues sit on a silvertone base, ready for easy everyday wear.

To top off this ensemble I chose the uber girly Doily Necklace from Sugar & Vice.  Sugar & Vice offers jewellery made from plastic and metal charms and reclaimed, upcycled items; affordable pieces for a fun-loving crowd.  This Doily Necklace is a huge 5 inch statement piece made from laser cut opal acrylic and hangs from a chunky plated chain. Doilies are a pretty vintage touch that remind me of my Grandmother.  It is a great finishing touch for any outfit!

Keep me in your feed on Facebook and Instagram!

Wishful Wednesday - Lindy Bop love and Lana dress review

Beautiful summertime!  Gardening, hiking, carnivals, fairs, bonfires, beach breezes, grilling, ice cream treats and family fun.  I've been wholeheartedly enjoying every second of my summer!  Projects inside like reorganizong my wardrobe and my environmental writing for work keep me hopping, then there's my blog obsession.  I'm a busy body but I crave adventure and life sure brings it! I've been busy lining up the most exciting blog collaborations. I'm thrilled to announce upcoming features from Erstwilder, Banned Clothing, Rosita Bonita and more.  Fun photoshoots coming too!  Do not miss out, follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more updates!!!

I was humbled and surprised to be included, pictured in my Lindy Bop Lana dress, among some of my biggest plus size inspirations and peers in this Daily Mail UK article about the use of the hashtag #Curvee, the Body Positive community's response to the Instagram ban of the use of #curvy.  I cannot be silent.  I suffered for too many years with self loathing, I refuse to let other women feel that shame, the anguish of that feeling.  I will not be silent when I know better.  I'm overweight but I am NOT a stereotype and neither are most other plus gals.  I workout, I eat healthful foods and I am a clean freak.  I am healthy, happy, active and alive, I will NOT allow discrimination to keep me from living a full and rewarding life!!!!! 

I'm in love with Lindy Bop.  I own three of their dresses myself and I am thrilled with the quality, attention to vintage styling, fit and beautiful fabrics they offer.  I recently purchased the Lana dress in teal floral.  A vibrant teal print with bright pink, purple and periwinkle floral with green leaves, the fabric is high quality cotton with just enough stretch for comfort and fit.  Scooped bodice with a low back, it nips in at the waist and is accented with a cute teal fabric belt that buttons in the back.  The belt is the only issue I have with the dress, it was just a tad too snug.  I can wear it but it feel as if it may break, although I wore it to church without incident I will be altering the belt so it fits comfortably.  Sizing it up a slight bit will help this issue, thankfully this dress is just as cute without the belt.  The shape is figure flattering, the full skirt bells out beautifully and holds its shape nicely.  You can try adding a petticoat to enhance the retro silhouette but is not necessary with this dress, the skirt bells out nicely on it's own.  My verdict, I love the Lana!  It fits beautifully, made with quality and comes in a fun variety of prints from dots to floral so you can find the Lana that best expresses your unique style.  It is my favorite Lindy Bop yet, wearable for everyday and it makes me look as though I just stepped out of a time machine from the 1950s!

Dress: Lindy Bop Lana
Hair flower: Daisy Jean Floral Designs 

Because they consistantly keep coming out with new gorgeous styles this week's Wishful Wednesday is all Lindy Bop lovin'.  My top five choices from Lindy Bop, what I'm dying to wear and why it catches my greedy little, fashion-obsessed cat eyes.

I'm always trying to add new prints to my closet.  I'm a floral girl and I seem to get in a rut of buying florals only if I'm not careful.  I love the Claudine dress.  The bright plaid catches my eye, I adore the cute cheery colors!  The shirt dress style is eminently wearable and flattering to most body types.  This is a quintessential 1950s housewife dress!

I have been looking to add more separates to my wardrobe.  I love the casual elegance of a circle skirt with top.  Easy for everyday wear yet classy and lovely.  I would pair the Paloma top, a lovely red faux wrap top with embroidered sparrow shoulder detail, with the lovely red and white floral Peggy skirt.  Add a ruffly petticoat, cute accessories and you're out the door in style without a ton of effort.

This tropical print Grace dress caught my eye immediately.  I love the blue color combining with the lush tropical floral.  A sweetheart neckline, capped sleeves and full circle skirt with bow accent give the perfect mid-century style.  Add flower crown of orchids for perfect summer festival style.

I've been looking for the perfect polka dot dress and the Deirdre halter neck dress might just be it!  This dress with it's adorable wing bust, halter neck and full circle skirt would be a great addition to any wardrobe.  Add bright colored fun accessories for a gorgeous night out on the town!

The Audrey style is iconic.  Modest, feminine and flattering, Lindy Bop offers the Audrey in a huge variety of colors and prints.  I love this Audrey in floral stripe.  Navy blue with light blue striping and bands of colorful floral, this dress is timeless, a sophisticated style that would be great at the office or on the deck of a boat sailing into the sunset.  Do you own any Lindy Bop dresses?  What is your favorite Lindy Bop design?

Wishful Wednesday

Good day loves!  I've been hard at work writing, brainstorming and planning my summer.  Family activities, Pinups for Patriots events, photoshoots, singing and writing for the blog and work keep me hopping but I rather enjoy chaos to boredom.  I'm excited to have a ton of interesting ideas and have a lot in store!  I recieved my very first Pinup Girl Clothing order, the beautiful Ella dress in Mary Blair lips and roses print.  I have new photoshoots, Brand reviews and am very thrilled to be working on a blog collaboration with the amazing Pinup Persuasion featuring my favorite plus size pinup fashions!  I cannot believe how fast this year is moving and I'm sincerely humbled at the awesome opportunities I've had and those that are coming my way!  The future holds unlimited possibility!

This week my Wishful Wednesday is inspired by the beautiful summer weather, bright clean white clouds, garden beds of fragrant rose blossoms and twirling green vines full of life.  Delightful, whimsical, sweet,  Ahhhhh summertime!

BBW Couture is a UK based company offering a broad selection of plus size fashion at affordable prices.  They are a family run business who take pride in providing the latest trends that help you create stylish, unique looks.  I'm in love with their exclusive vintage dress collection, featuring a large selection of perfect vintage silhouettes in a variety of lovely patterns.  The Rose Vine 1950s party dress is the perfect summer frock.  Made of 100% cotton in a beautiful print for summer, the Rose Vine is lovely bright red blossoms with touches of black, pink and coral colors, accented by leaves and green vines on a crisp white background.  A V-neckline flatters the decolletage and the waist tie belt creates a vintage hourglass shape.  The dress is versatile and could be worn for entertaining or a casual day at the beach, it will keep you feeling gorgeous and pinup perfected!

I like to pick up on accent colors in prints when I put together an outfit.  Often I enjoy finding accessories that draw the eye to those colors and create interest.  Ruby Shoo offers contemporary, quirky, definitely fun designs, with a hint of vintage.  Based in north London, England, with a passion for creating unique shoes and accessories that generate smiles whenever they are worn.  Samantha Lines, Ruby Shoo's talented designer, introduces both archive and modern fabrics into every collection, often adding gorgeous embellishments.  The fabulous Ruby Shoo Eva, are a fresh and edgy low cut court heel.  A vintage inspired jacquard trimmed with classic cotton drill finished by contrasting flower trim detail and piping.  I love the contrast of a bold black shoe with the bright white of our dress and the shoes will bring attention to the accent colors black and coral in the rose print.  Ruby Shoo also has envelope style clutch purses available to match many of their shoe styles.

Rosita Bonita has printed leather jewellery, lovingly handcrafted in their East London studio. Original illustrations are screen-printed or foil-embossed onto fine leathers, then carefully assembled into unique and collectable treasures. Their design inspiration comes from glamorous fantasies of past times, faraway lands, encompassing icons of folklore, myth and legend.  These beautiful pieces are what dreams are made of!  The Toledo Hoops in Ox Blood are large leather hoops, foil-embossed with delicate designs of birds and flowers, hanging from embellished shields and gold plated ball studs. These classic vintage style hoops are the perfect addition to this outfit matching our red roses and adding delightful whimsy with their spanish garden inspired print.  I am a fool for detailed and interesting hoop earrings so I can see them instantly becoming one of my most worn pairs.

I recently discovered Lila-Jo on Instagram when I saw a fellow pinup wearing one of her gorgeous designs.  Lila-Jo offers a handmade collection of Pinup and Rockabilly accessories, specializing in floral hair clips and rockin handbags, all handmade pieces paying specific attention to detail and durability.  I love wearing hair flowers to finish off nearly every outfit.  I would wear the White shimmer and the Burgundy and black Rockabilly rose hair clips.  Both colors match our dress, the double hairflower adds fun and flair with a retro touch while highlighting the rose theme.  I am smitten with many of Lila-Jo's designs and I cannot wait to make my first order!!

I hope you enjoyed this week's Wishful Wednesday, I love fashion so I'm constantly on the lookout for new, exciting items and brands to feature!  Follow me on Facebook and Instagram, tons of exciting things coming in the future!!   Which of the BBW Couture UK Vintage collection dresses is your favorite?

Wishful Wednesday!!

I'm starting to get used to being a working mom.  Balancing my time between my family,  work and my blogging has been tough but I'm feeling content with my progress, I'm definitely proud of how far I've come!!  I never would have guessed a few years ago how much different my life would be but its an amazing journey and I'm always excited to see where I'll end up next!!  It's a gorgeous sunny day, a welcome change after a week of chilly rainy days.  Summertime is so close, my son Lennon is excited for school to get out and I'll be happy to enjoy the warm, carefree time together, a less hectic schedule will be a blessing.  I'm hoping for bonfires, nature walks, time at the beach with the family and fun with friends.  I'm especially looking forward to Pinups for Patriots events coming up!  I have been having dreams of exotic vacations lately so my  Wishful Wednesday this week is inspired by Hawaii, beautiful tropical paradise and perpetual summer bliss.

British Retro are a proud British made brand specializing in elegant, vintage style clothing from bygone eras.  They have a variety of fun prints and their dresses are made in small batches so they're a great choice for the gal who is always looking for something unique.  I choose their Hula Hula Scooter Girl dress, 1950s hula girls posing prettily and riding scooters on a background of palm trees and orchids.  This print is too fun, a retro Hawaiian vacation dancing across your dress!  The dress has a V-neckline at the front and back of the bodice, it also comes with a matching belt. The Hula Hula Scooter Girls dress is perfectly styled for creating a sublime hourglass silhouette, the fitted bodice draws you in at the waist and creates fullness to emphasize the full circle skirt.  It is truly a frock meant to swish and swirl about in on a beautiful day.

I recently discovered Bobò Chèrie Accessories on Facebook.  I adore her unique vintage inspired pieces, they are handmade from high quality craft materials.  I prefer items that are handmade, they have so much more charm and interest in comparison to mass produced items.  I choose Bobò Chèrie's Red Cherry necklace with leaves and the matching Bamboo earrings with red cherries.  The tropical tiki style matches the dress while drawing attention to red accents in the print.   Cherries are fun, fruity and bold, definitely not accessories to be ignored!

T.U.K. Shoes have hundreds of interesting and unique shoes perfect for any style you choose to rock,  designed to show your originality.  I love their selection of gorgeous heels, they have many fabulous pinup perfect styles available.  Their Cream Peeptoe Starlet Heels are my favorite!  These adorable faux leather cream peep toe heels include a cute knotted bow on the toe and an adjustable ankle strap with a matching cream wrapped buckle. These heels are about 4 ¼ inches high with a ½ inch platform and as if theyre not perfect enough, they're also vegan friendly!  When I'm buying shoes I want a pair that I know will not only stand the test of time style wise, but that I know will be something I can wear with as many outfits as possible.  I would love to own these Starlet heels in several colors, great shoes are a necessity for any pinup wardrobe!

I would finish this lovely outfit off with the Double teal blue cymbidium orchid hair flower from Sophisticated Lady.  Sophisticated Lady specializes in high quality handmade accessories in vintage styles inspired by the 1930s, 40s and 50s.  The Double teal blue cymbidium orchid perfectly accents the blue orchids on the dress adding just the right finishing touch.  I am a huge sucker for hair flowers, whether dressed in pinul style or not I love to finish off almost any outfit with a big colorful flower clipped in my hair!  Sophisticated Lady accessories are worn by some of my biggest Pinup inspirations like Miss Victory Violet and Acid Doll!! 

I have so many exciting plans, my summer is filling up fast with plans, some of which are photoshoots and Pinups for Patriots Michigan events.  I have some awesome items in the mail so I'm looking forward to future blogs, reviewing new brands and a few more personal stories I feel I need to share.  My passion is to help each person see the beauty in themselves but I am also hoping to show people that there's an entire universe of beauty waiting to be explored within each person we meet.  Check out my Facebook or Instagram pages for more fun!

Wishful Wednesday!!

It has been very busy for me since last weeks photoshoot and is not slowing  down anytime soon!  I'm preparing for our first official Michigan Pinups for Patriots event tomorrow in Grand Rapids, then I will be going back to Jackson to have fun with Put A Smile In It Photography at their Pinup Picnic event on Sunday, so my bedroom looks like a tornado hit between planning and packing for both!  It feels good to be busy again though.  I look forward to summer in Michigan because there is so much to be done!  Michigan has much natural beauty, many fun festivals and gorgeous locations to be explored, you cannot possibly get bored.  I'm looking forward to adventuring this summer and have plans to shoot on the beaches of Lake Michigan, at antique car shows, in amazing vintage locales and wandering in flower laden botanic gardens.  I'm wistful and ready for summer, long hot days full of fun and friends.  Today's outfit is perfect for cool fun in the summer sun!

We all scream for ice cream!!  It's my favorite summer treat, the perfect way to cool off on a hot day, available in every shape, flavor and color, your ice cream choice is every bit as unique as you are.  That's why I adore this cute Flavor Fave dress from Modcloth.  It screams summer, I imagine walking around in a beachside town, browsing shops and enjoying an ice cream cone while walking on the pier at sunset.  The pistacio hued dress has pastel ice cream cones, a sweetheart neckline and cute white trim, pretty pastels look super chill on a warm day.  It has a boned bodice for shaping with a full skirt, creating a very feminine silhouette.  Another great feature is adjustable straps, as a petite girl who often has to pin or alter straps because they are just too long I prefer adjustable straps, having to fix a brand new dress to fit is my biggest pet peeve!  The straps also allow you the option of a cute criss cross back.  I love Modcloth's philosophy that all fashion is vintage inspired in some way, their varied selection and I am even more impressed that they carry many of their items in sizes from xs-4x.  I believe every woman deserves stylish clothing available in her size!!

While looking for accessories I used Google, I searched for the perfect ice cream fascinator.  I found the fabulous Pearls and Swine, they specialize in pop surreal millinery: hats, half masks, fascinators and avant-garde hair accessories for people who really want to get noticed.  That is exactly what I was looking for, a bold noticeable accessory.  I love this Ice Cream Hair clip from their Etsy shop.  The colors are a perfect match for this dress and what a yummy conversation piece this is!  Triple scoop ice cream cone made of felt with bead sprinkles and hand stitched accents.  Deliciously girly and creative, it is the perfect matching piece of whimsy and fascination!

I've mentioned before that I'm just starting my love affair with shoes.  I was born with clubbed feet, therefore I have wide feet, weak ankles and support issues.  Because it was hard to find shoes that are cute and supportive for many years I only wore plain shoes, no heels, nothing interesting, but lately I've grown sick of plain shoes so I've been looking for shoes that strike me, that make a statement!  I noticed John Fluevog shoes on Facebook first, they stand out because of their vintage sensibilities, interesting design elements and fabulous high style.  I absolutely love the Queen Transcendent Nefertiti, these shoes are amazing!!   Pink and black Polido leather gives a timeless antique feel, braided ankle straps, a slight platform, with aqua accents and the incredibly unique ball and claw heel, based on the legs of antique furniture.  They remind me of neopolitan ice cream, perfect to both match and add contrast to this outfit with the black trim.  Unique shoes are a must for me and the Queen Transcendent Nefertiti are incomparable!

What woman doesn't love a gorgeous purse?  They're a functional fashion statement and can make or break your outfit.  I personally keep half of my life with me in my purse.  I always try to chose a bag that I will love well also because of budget constraints I try to make a choice that will remain fashionable and well made enough to last several years.  Lux de Ville are created for women who love fashion.  Vintage sparkle with a punk rock edge and just the right finishing touch.  I chose the Bon Voyage kiss lock in black and baby green sparkle.  The fabulous sparkle baby green diamond patterned body matches this outfit while the black accent echoes the black on the shoes and adds a bit of interesting contrast, a little edge to all of the pastel colors.  The bag is also large enough to bring plenty of pinup essentials making it the perfect finishing touch!

Coming Friday: All about my first official Michigan Pinups for Patriots event!!!  Stay tuned!

Monday musings and Bearpaw Scarlet Review

The beautiful spring weather has given way to rain today.  I love the rain but its tough to stay inside when I have so much pent up energy! They're predicting snow possible on my birthday Tuesday but I'll celebrate anyways!!  I'm extremely excited for my upcoming shoot with Put A Smile In It Photography on Wednesday.  I haven't shot since December so I'm anxios to make some beautiful art.  It's funny how no matter how many times I'm in front of the camera, I always feel like its the first time.  I'm anxious and jittery, always a bit unsure but once I get in front of the camera it all seems far away, I absolutely cannot wait!  I have been in prep mode readying my vintage hats, going through accessories, picking the perfect shoes to match the beautiful dresses from Vivien of Holloway, Hell Bunny, Lindy Bop etc. that I have the privilege to review and wear in fun, creative retro shoots.  I am also thrilled to collaborate with Brandy at Put A Smile In It because she is a sweet supportive person with a gorgeous vintage studio and an amazing artistic eye.  Bring it on!!  This is going to be such a fantastic adventure!!!

I adore history, I'm fascinated with bygone eras, fashion, customs and faces.  I took up genealogy because I wanted to know our family history.  I spend a lot of my free time pursuing my hobby of genealogy as our family history has not been well documented.  This often means long walks through acres of cemeteries searching for relatives tombs, clues or just history to solve genealogical mysteries.  I've been working on my family tree for a little over two years and have traced some branches to the 1500s.  I'm thrilled that spring is here and with it the opportunity to get out in my community and find more about my ancestors amazing stories.  My ancestors have gone from only names on paper to fascinating people with interesting, triumphant and sometimes tragic stories.  I'm lucky to have four generations of family from our local area and have used the internet to fill in history beyond that. There are many free websites and applications to use for records and research, it is a very rewarding hobby.  Ancestry and Family Search offer free family tree builders on their website alpng with huge records databases searchable for subscription fees however many local libraries have an Ancestry library subscription you can use to access records and research if you cannot afford the fees.  It's been such a pleasure to not only learn about our local history but to teach my son too!  I'm looking forward in the future to putting together and teaching a class on our area history to local homeschool students.

Because I do a lot of walking I'm always looking for practical and comfortable shoes.  I was thrilled when I saw the Scarlet moccasins in the Bearpaw spring line because first, I've always loved a cute, comfy pair of mocs and second because I am Sassy SCARLET, perfect!!  I like to wear moccasins with jeans, cute hippie dresses or just puttering around the house, They're very versatile.  The Scarlet moccasins are buttery soft suede with fringe toe detail, a cute tie and driving moc soles. 

The wonderful thing about Scarlet (and honestly all Bearpaws I've tried) is that they fit beautifully, I walked nearly two hours around our local park and cemetery in my Scarlet mocs, no back of the ankle rubbing, chafing or sore feet. The tread is good for indoor or outdoor wear and very good for walking, although I would not recommend them on a wet day or for trekking through rough woods.  I love their stylish simplicity.  Scarlet have become my fave casual shoe of the moment, they're rarely off my feet!!  I cannot help but gush over how much I love Bearpaw, they make a great variety of amazing quality, super stylish footwear for a great price!  I'm blessed to be a proud brand ambassador for them but I have been a huge Bearpaw fan and customer for years.

Wishful Wednesday!

It's Wednesday again!!  I apologize for my lack of blogs in the last week.  Our family has really been struggling to stay well and unfortunately were hit with another bug.  The weather had been fluctuating rather wildly and this does not help our immunity.  It seems as if our weather has finally made a decision, it is finally warm and sunny and there are flowers coming up all around our yard.  I've been thinking a lot about casual wear outfits for spring and summer daily wear.  While I'm generally a dress girl, I've had my eye out for seperates that will add some mix and match variety to my wardrobe.  This week's look is an easy breezy casual sunny day look.  Great for everyday wear at home, running errands around town and picnicking or a fun afternoon outing with the family.

The Oblong Box Shop has just released their Palm Springs Swing skirt line inspired by the architecture of Palm Sprins and the Tiki life.  Available in a variety of unique novelty print patterns custom designed by Denialle Von Fitch, these skirts are medium weight polyester full circle skirts that use over 2 yards of material for the classic 1950s silhouette.  I chose the Mid Century House print with its kitschy atomic house print, boomerang pools, bright astro turf green background and salmon accents it is eye catching and a lot of fun.   The skirt is large enough to be full on its own or you can add a petticoat for extra flair.  I would pair this skirt with a simple black top to make the skirt the central statement piece of this outfit.  Their criss cross sweetheart pin-up top is the perfect compliment to this skirt.  The sweetheart neckline with twist accent, gathered material and criss cross straps make this a great retro styled wardrobe staple that can be worn with a printed skirt or a cute pair of bright capri pants.  I've been trying to add wardrobe staples like these to my closet and plan to add a a criss cross top and Palm Springs Swing skirt (or several!!) to my closet as soon as possible!!

Match Accessories is a fabulous handmade line of accessories inspired by a love of 40s, 50s and 60s fashion.  They offer a variety of unique and beautiful vintage inspired pieces including their gorgeous Sparklite.  I would wear their Hand Carved Teardrop Sparklite brooch in white with this.  The star motif matches atomic accents on the skirt and the white sparklite will stand out of the black criss cross top.  I would also wear their Hand Carved Teardrop Sparklite earrings in white to match, I love to match my accessories but I also often use them to draw attention to accent colors in whimsical prints such as this skirt.

I love Bearpaw!!  I've been a Bearpaw brand ambassador since February.  Every pair I have recieved is perfectly stylish, comfortable for walking and fit great.  Since I began working with them in einter I have only reviewed boots thus far so I have been dying to get my hands on their new spring line of colorful sandals, cute moccasins and adorable wedges.  I would wear my personal favorite from the spring line, the Flora wedge in white to finish this look.  I have a tendancy towards clumsiness so I prefer wedges for every day ease, they give me the boost in height I want without worry of falling over or tripping on things.  These wedges with their soft faux leather straps and jute wedge will keep you looking stylish but give the comfort of wearing flats.  I have yet to find a pair of paws that I do not absolutely love wearing!!  Thank you Bearpaw!

I love writing these blogs and sharing my thoughts.  I have been enjoying the planning and window shopping that I do in the days leading up to my posts.  This spring and summer I have so much planned.  It seems it's all just a waiting game at the moment but my dresses are chosen and I'm planning a pinup shoot next week.  It's been a very long time since my last shoot in December and so much has happened, it seems like years, not months, have gone by.  I am excited to get out there in front of the camera again, I will enjoy another fun summer season of photo shoots in many exciting locations and skipping around looking lovely in beautiful dresses.  I'm very much looking forward to our Michigan Pinups for Patriots events and will be writing my impressions and posting many photos from those as well.  Follow me on Facebook or Instagram for more fun! 

Indie Czar review and more winter for Michigan?!

It's March 24, spring is officially here but still we find ourselves under a winter weather advisory here in Michigan.  I'm still dreaming of fragrant lilac blossoms, the scent of fresh mowed grass and open windows letting in pure breezes.  While I daydream away these last dreary days of a very long winter I'm busy working on exciting things!  I've been working the last few weeks on my Facebook page.  I'm getting more collaborations planned and I am absolutely thrilled to have several amazing companies that I will be working with very soon.  I love bringing fabulous new companies to the states.  I'm always looking for the newest in vintage dresses, clothing, accessories and items to bring to you!! 

Indie Czar is a hot new jewelry designer from Australia.  They make handmade custom pendants with fun, kitschy and beautiful vintage photos, art and the best of Hollywood's Golden movies and icons.  I noticed their work through a vintage shop on Facebook and they were kind enough to send me their Can do Rosie pendant to try.

  I adore my Rosie!!!  She's classy, sassy and beautiful!   The pendant is high quality, image is crisp under a glass dome and the chain is sturdy.  It falls in just the right place to be flattering and comfortable. 

Dress: Torrid

Hair flower: Vintage Box 1947

Necklace: Indie Czar

Sweater: Vintage

I have recieved numerous compliments and inquiries while wearing her out.  I recommend Indie Czar very highly.  They are friendly with great customer service, fast shipment, high quality merchandise and trendy designs!!   Thank you Indie Czar!!!!

Wishful Wednesday tomorrow, I cannot wait!!! Xoxo

Bearpaw Twill review!!

I'm an unabashed Beatlemaniac!!  I've heard their music my entire life at home, on the radio and on TV. My official love for the Beatles started when I was 16 when the Beatles Anthology was on TV.  I was intrigued with their talent and charisma.  I loved their fun style from the matching suits to full on hippie garb.  My son is named Lennon!  Yup, I'm a Beatles freak!  When I saw the Bearpaw Twill boot it immediately reminded me of a modernized version of the Beatle boots of the 1960s.

Streamlined and stylish but functional.  The Twill are everything I need in a boot.  

Comfortable, versatile and too cute!!  I wear them with everything, jeggings, leggings and dresses.  It is important to me that most of my boots are able to be worn with dresses as I wear dresses most often, these are perfect to dress up or down.  The hidden wedge heel is just the right height and very easy to walk in. I love the funky cut and shape with three silver snap accents on the side.  I'm also very pleased that I have not had to worry about Bearpaws fitting around my calves, they are great, very roomy.  I highly recommend them for plus size women like myself, who have a hard time getting boots that fit their calves!   They are super soft inside too, I just cannot get over how soft the Bearpaws are and warm because while it looks nice outside, it was only 38 degrees here in Michigan!  Here I am having fun in my Twill walking my Pomeranian brothers Smokey and Teddy around the neighborhood.

Leopard babydoll dress and leggings by Torrid (last year). Necklace courtesy of Indie Czar.  Sweater is vintage.

For more pics and fun check out my new Sassy Scarlet Facebook page!!  Tomorrow I will post more pictures and review my Can Do Rosie pendant from Indie Czar, hot new customizable jewelry from down under!!   I'm working on Wishful Wednesday already because I found the perfect dress.  I cannot wait to show you!  Xoxo 

Wishful Wednesday and Lucky Lous review

Happy Wednesday to you!!  This morning's wishful Wednesday post was inspired by Viva.  Everybody's been talking about it and I'm unable to go but I see that many of my friends, aquaintances and style muses are going.  I want all of my friends that are going look their best and if they ask for help I will offer it!   I think as women it's important that we try to support one another, to uplift each other, it's what sets us apart!!  My post this morning is inspired by the sweet Ceci Punch who was wondering about Viva outfit ideas on Facebook the other day.  I quickly realized her delightful Tiki skull earrings match the Hell Bunny Sasha dress perfectly.  Tiki party time!!

I love Ceci Punch designs!  She is a San Diego based company that designs unique vintage items with a modern edge and her items are 100% handcrafted.  I absolutely adore these Tiki skull earrings, they're my inspiration today.  The wooden hoops, turquoise flowers and adorable little bone skulls scream Tiki party and summer.  I love the contrast of feminine florals with skulls,its perfect!  Ceci designs awesome vintage style pieces and as a bonus her personality is sweet as pie, I cannot recommend her highly enough. 

Hell Bunny is my personal favorite at the moment.  I've worn many of their dresses for photoshoots and have two coming in the mail.  They are high quality, retro stylish and fit like a dream.  I  definitely want the Sasha dress.  Turquoise is my favorite color right now and the sugar skull print is trendy!  The skulls are playfully peeking out of florals and vines.  The cut is gorgeous with a sweetheart neckline, bolero style panels at the shoulders and perky capped sleeves, it frames perfectly and is finished off by a full circle skirt, lovely with or without a petticoat.  I love petticoats and I'm a creature of habit, once I like a brand I will wear them often.  I would pair this dress with the Malco Modes Jennifer petticoat in Red for contrast.  I cannot get over how lovely soft and full these pettis are!  Swish away!!!

I would carry on the cute Tiki theme by wearing Lucky Lous Rockin Tiki in red.  I was fortunate to win a pair in a collaborative Facebook giveaway by Rosabilly Retro and Lucky Lous Shoes.  I had never heard of Lucky Lous before this but their style immediately caught my eye.  I can't begin to describe how gorgeous these heels are, you really must see them to believe.  I was dumbstruck when I opened the box!!  The wood is beautifully grained, the tiki is hand carved, gorgeous and glossy, the leather bright and butter soft.  They fit like a dream and are perfectly balanced, I'm not the most graceful in heels but these are easy to walk in!  Michigan is just thawing so I'm still waiting to wear my Rockin Tikis out on the town.  Pinup photoshoots, Pinups for Patriots events and warm weather cannot come soon enough for me!!

Coming soon I'll have reviews for the wonderful vintage store Retroglam, the Hell Bunny Eloise and Black Dahlia dresses and the delightfully versatile Bearpaw Bonnie boots!  Wishing beautiful days to all!!!