Ooh La La

gran's loose change

2011-05-30T10:08:00.000-07:00

I told you to be balanced 'Mariane' mod dress

She thinks of him so dresses in blue dress

I am so excited to announce that Ooh La La Vintage is now selling select vintage treasures through the wonderful NZ vintage site gran's loose change.

Kelly posted a little q & a with to introduce me - you can read it here.

Go and check out all the wonderful vintage goodness now!

if love was a train

2011-04-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

Where does the time go? Summer has turned to autumn. I am constantly reminded of this by the pile of leaves that is steadily growing outside our back door. Lovely shades of orange and red. Perfect contrast to the grey murky sky.

I missed Michelle Shocked in concert.

But I am going to Bob Dylan next week with my Dad.

I have so many exciting things to share that I don't know where to begin. And there are some super secret projects in the works that I can't divulge. Yet. Soon though I promise.

I thought the best way for me to reemerge in the blogging world is to post some photos of my new model. We took some shots for my store yesterday and it has made me really excited about future projects.

If you are interested, check out my facebook page for Ooh La La Vintage.

Back soon,

xx L

The morning sun touched lightly....

2010-12-24T12:27:00.000-08:00

'.....on the eyes of Lucy Jordan
In a white suburban bedroom in a white suburban town
As she lay there 'neath the covers dreaming of a thousand lovers
Till the world turned to orange and the room went spinning round'

y'avait du soleil

2010-12-20T17:00:00.000-08:00

I really can't believe that it is Christmas this week. Along with the fact that four days after that it is my birthday. And then New Year's Eve. And then 2011! Where does the time go? And why does a year seem so much longer when you're say five? (My friend once told me that this is due to the fact that when you're five a year is one fifth of your entire life and therefore HUGE but when you're twenty five it's only a twenty fifth and so of course it seems shorter and so it continues as we get older and older as time seems to gain momentum and move at incredible speed). Ok, so I'm rambling.

I must say that 2010 has been a full on year for me. And I am feeling very much at a loose end right now. I finished up at my job last week. It's strange having my days free. Though they don't feel free. I feel busier than when I was working!

I did though have some down time last week watching the entire series of My So Called Life. I had never seen it. I knew it was something of a cult classic and that it had Claire Danes and Jared Leto in it. But I had no preconceived ideas. And I really loved it. It took me back to being 15 years old and being obsessed with this guy called James who had that dreamy flopsy 90s haircut, played the guitar and wooed girls with his intense serious blue eyes. He was my Jordan Catalano.

I got my hair colored today - not blonde blonde but lighter and my hairdresser curled it loosely for me. So when I got home I thought I would dance around a little in this 1930s dress I purchased from the lovely Francesca of thirteeneightyfive.

I think it is a dress for hair up but who am I to mess with my hairdresser's handiwork.

Anyway, I just wanted to pop in and say hello. Thank you for your comments and taking the time to visit me. It really does mean a lot to me.

1930s black vintage dress (etsy), Vintage Locket (the vamoose), Polka dot tights, Vintage T-Straps (etsy)

wild horses couldn't drag me away

2010-11-16T09:54:00.000-08:00

Oh Marianne. This picture was too much for me. My three years of growing my hair abruptly came to an end last night. Reunited with my hairdresser (who has been overseas for 2 and a half years and only just returned) I took her this photo and gave her permission to chop away my straggly locks.

It's a little shorter than this at the moment (and I am slightly in shock at exactly how much hair I lost) but will be absolutely perfect when it grows a couple of inches. Now I must study you tube videos to learn how to get some volume in my hair and keep the ends nicely flicked out in that 60s style I love so much.

I will also be going blonde in the weeks to come ...

And blogging again soon I promise!

x

the hissing of summer lawns

2010-10-02T16:00:00.000-07:00

I feel like I have been hiding away for weeks. Today the sky is blue, the sun is shining and I have decided to spend the afternoon out on the deck reading Valley of the Dolls and listening to old records. And maybe I'll treat myself to a cocktail. All I need now is a view of the ocean.

I needed an outfit that would reflect the frivolity of my day. These 1950s pin up style polka dot shorts paired with my red bathing suit and 60s mary janes fit the bill. Of course the look wouldn't have been complete without red lips (I wanted red nails too but am so terrible at painting my nails I gave it a miss).

I haven't worn shorts (apart from to the gym) since I was a child. Basically, I have as much trouble finding flattering shorts as I do pants (and I haven't worn pants in years). So, when the lovely owners (mother and daughter team) of the adorable store Swonderful asked me to do a review on a pair of shorts from their Spring collection you can only imagine how excited I was. It is the only store in Wellington (bar vintage and thrift stores) that I ever go to. The only way I can think to describe its cuteness is to say that it is like the handmade section of Etsy in a real life store. Completely sweet and perfect.

I love the high-waist, the simplicity of the design (I am not much for fussy details) and the length - not too short, not too long, to quote that golden haired little rascal, they are just right. And the polka dots - so cute! I am planning on living in these this summer. They will go perfectly with all my little vintage lacy tops and blouses. But I must say, I like them best with my swimsuit as I feel ready for the beach or summer vacation. Not that it's quite that warm yet. A girl can dream.

Now to get some sun on my pale winter skin....

x

Wearing: 1950s style bathing suit, worn as a top (thrifted), Polka Dot Shorts (courtesy of Swonderful), Vintage 1960s Red Mary Janes (Ziggarat)

I've looked at life from both sides now From up and down, and still somehow It's life's illusions I recall I really don't know life at all

2010-08-23T10:03:00.000-07:00

I feel in a kind of limbo right now. The days are melting into each other one by one.

Wearing: Vintage Cream Lace Scalloped Crop Blouse (with button up back) - Tete a Tete, Vintage Velvet Skirt with Scalloped Hem- Trade Me, Vintage gold and pearl necklace - Tete a Tete, Jazz Flats - shoe shop - can't remember the name!

NB. A special appearance by Kittykins in the second photo. He just loves the sunshine (and he's catching it full on!)

karen elson

2010-08-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

Karen Elson rocks and just look at how darn cute she is with that guitar!

what i love

2010-08-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

I can feel Spring a little today. My office is warm. The sun is streaming in and hitting my computer screen. I can smell coffee. I feel like closing my eyes and curling up on my chair and listening to the many records I have purchased lately - Francoise Hardy, Edith Piaf, Joni Mitchell, She and Him (Volume 2), The Mynabirds. I also have two Patti Smith albums on the way. Oh I do love vinyl! However, it really isn't that practical that I have this sudden impulse to buy records when we are supposed to be downsizing our belongings, not increasing them! But in winter especially I am obsessed with the simplicity of purchasing online and honestly, I just love getting packages in the mail (who doesn't really??).

I also received two gorgeous vintage blouses yesterday and yet another cream dress to add to the collection. My summer wardrobe continues to expand whilst it is difficult to get dressed on the winter days that are still in swing.

I am now just waiting on this lovely dress from Q's Daydream....

One day I will buy winter clothes - preferably by next winter (though I say that every single year.....)

Je t'aime... moi non plus

2010-07-22T13:49:00.000-07:00

The International Film Festival is on in Wellington at the moment. I am going to see Gainsbourg (Vie héroïque) next Tuesday at the Penthouse Cinema. I am so excited!

I have just got back from a lovely mini-break in Melbourne (with a bypass in Christchurch where I got to spend one last day thrifting with Andrea). I am finding it difficult to get back into the rhythm of work and not much play. However, I do feel like it is a downhill freefall from now until December. This will be when I resign from my job, the beginning of a long and hopefully warm summer and finally preparation followed by the actual reality of moving permanently to Melbourne.

For now, I am whittling away time reading, listening to music, and buying far too many summer dresses than is appropriate in the middle of winter.

x

cherchez la femme

2010-06-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

I love this dress. I feel like I have been transported back to the 60s (which of course is where I would very much like to be!). I was taking photos for my Trade Me listings (the usual Saturday drill) and decided that I wanted to play dress up even though I will not be leaving the house today. So I paired it with my new sheer polka dot tights and these cute little oxford heels (which you can't really see too well).

I am listening to old records that we found yesterday at the Salvation Army - Dionne Warwick, Connie Francis, Dusty Springfield, Nat King Cole - and wasting away the afternoon all dolled up with nowhere to go - and happy about it!

Hope you are all having a lovely weekend.

PS. I am currently playing around with my blog template. My boyfriend is going to design it for me! So keep an eye out for various states of change - I'm really excited!

Wearing: 1960s Mod Dress ( RedVelvetArt), Black Sheer Polka Dot Tights (Trade Me), Vintage Black Oxfords (Thrifted)

autumn changing colours

2010-05-15T15:49:00.000-07:00

I must say - Autumn so far has not been too bad. There have been a few clear sunny crisp windless days that have given me a little light in the darkness of an impending winter. Today was one of those days though there is a chill in the air now as the sun starts its descent.

And anyway, I have not been outside. I have missed yet another Saturday as I have been working on Trade Me auctions since I got up this morning. I have a love/hate relationship with the process. But in the end it is worth it. I love seeing vintage treasures make their way to new loving homes.

I am a ghost in the bloggersphere right now, as I thrift, mend, hem, wash and sell (as well as my Mon-Fri 9am-5pm). Also, on Tuesday evenings I am doing a silver jewellery making course with a friend. It is a very fun creative distraction and I am enjoying learning new skills and all the joy (as well as frustration!) that goes with creating something from scratch.

On a side note - the dress above was one that I was going to sell, but I have decided to keep it. I really love cream right now. Cream and navy and all things neutral. Simple. Classic. Pretty.

I hope that you all have a lovely weekend.

x

Wearing: Vintage Cream Dress (thrifted and shortened by me), Vintage Woven Belt (thrifted), Vintage Hair Slide Bow (thrifted)

time and place and beauty

2010-05-06T17:14:00.000-07:00

As the days get colder and the nights get darker I revel in simple pleasures:

coffee ... always coffee

early nights and pretty bedrooms

warm luxurious capes

reading in secret places

red wine and great hats

crisp crunchy autumn leaves

Of course I dream of warm days when the sun beats down and I wear my hair in braids and dance in little summer dresses and walk in bare feet and lie on the grass thinking of nothing and everything.

All images taken from weheartit.com and juliette hogan

Sweet dreams till sunbeams find you Sweet dreams that leave all worries behind you But in your dreams whatever they be Dream a little dream of me

2010-03-21T18:00:00.000-07:00

I love red. It is bold. It is bright. The colour of life. Passion. Anger. Love. There was a time when I wore red every single day in some form. This was the dress that started it all. It was also the dress that led me to vintage. So, it is a special dress. And today I felt the desire to wear it.

Another day of hot Indian Summer. An idle day of wandering into town. To the Farmer's Market. Thrifting. Takeaway coffee. People watching. Lounging in the hammock reading 'Norwegian Wood' by Murakami. Day dreaming. Reflecting. Hoping.

The perfect Sunday.

1950s Reproduction Dress (Devol - Wellington designer), Vintage Black T-Straps (Sally Jane Vintage), Cameo Necklace (Pre-loved Clothing Sale)

it's been a long, long time

2010-03-13T20:57:00.000-08:00

I have had such a good day. You know those days when you walk around smiling and thinking you know what, things just couldn't get better than this? I love that feeling. I treasure it. Especially when it's so easy to get caught up in looking forward and back, but often not really feeling the present. Now. This minute.

Anyway, today the sun is shining and I got up early to go to a Pre-Loved Clothing sale in the city. I wasn't really sure what to expect as the emphasis seemed to be on designer clothing and I'm really not that interested in labels. But I went early anyway. Just in case. And I am so glad that I did. While we were waiting in line we got told where the different sections of clothing were. So, I headed straight for the vintage/retro racks and I was the first one to reach them. I swiftly surveyed the racks and started to collect whatever caught my eye. Then to the shoes. Then the jewellery. The belts. The bags. When my arms felt like they were about to collapse I decided I needed to leave. So I paid, and off I went with three bags full of amazing vintage treasures.

The dress I am wearing was actually something I almost put back - it came with a matching blue 60s coat (which I will show you at a later date) and was hidden below it. So in short - I didn't even realise the magnificence of what I purchased. I also got a gorgeous cashmere beaded cardigan which allowed me to tick it off on my 'wishlist' and a stunning cameo necklace (though I think it maybe just costume jewellery). These were my absolute favorites of my haul.

I am currently sorting through and due to items not fitting or being 'quite right' some of them will be up for sale on trade me over the next few weeks.

Now, I really need to get out in our new portable hammock (a gift from a friend) to read the latest edition of Frankie!

x

1960s Mod Dress ($5 at Pre-Loved Clothing Sale!), 1960s Tights (Etsy), Black Shoe Boots (thrifted), Sunglasses (Farmers)

she & him

2010-03-11T17:38:00.000-08:00

She & Him - In The Sun from Merge Records on Vimeo.

Cute!

girls just wanna have fun

2010-03-09T12:34:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted an outfit post in a very long time but to be honest I've been taking so many photos of myself for my trade me listings that I haven't had the energy for it. So here is a candid shot of me and my very best friend taken a few weeks back at one of the weddings I went to.

Last night I had a very productive time sewing, altering and hemming. I am very excited about the lovely items I will be listing to sell this week! Though after working until I went to bed last night (after a full day of work) I slept rather fitfully, dreaming of ripped hems and missing buttons and modelling clothes.

It is such a lovely warm day today and I am already feeling dread at the forthcoming cold weather. I feel cheated. Like an old lover has popped in to let me see what I am missing in the knowledge that he will be leaving any minute. But for now I will enjoy the sun's hot embrace and revel in its kisses.

Well I'm sailing softly across the Sea of Life and it's so comforting to see the bright souls I share it with

2010-03-08T13:04:00.000-08:00

I want to dedicate this post to my friends.

I've reached a point in my life where my closest friends have dispersed to follow dreams in distant cities. The last few weeks has been a series of goodbyes and tears and promises to keep in touch. I am still here. For now. But even I will be leaving at the end of the year. This city has lost a little of its magic, its sheen, its gloss, its light. Without my friends it is a little emptier, a touch darker, and eerie in its silence. Who would we be without our friends? I feel like a stranger to myself without them.

I will miss drinking wine with you and endless chatter on long summer days. I will miss pot luck dinners with you and laughing so much that tears stream down our faces. I will miss being able to tell you something exciting that has happened as soon as it happens. I will miss you being just down the road, even though we didn't catch up nearly as often as we should have. I liked knowing that you were right there. I will miss your hugs. Until then we have email. We have the phone. And maybe, just maybe I will even send you a letter. Be happy always.

x images all from weheartit.com

let me count the ways

2010-02-21T23:37:00.000-08:00

I have serious writer's block. I don't know what to say about the last few days so all I am going to say is that they were AMAZING. We stayed in a holiday house perched on the side of a cliff overlooking Kaiteriteri. I was with my best friends. We drank wine. We ate great food. Two of my friends got married on this beautiful beach. The bride was beautiful, the service was beautiful and we all cried a little. We swam. We sunbathed and I even managed a spot of thrifting. All in all, AMAZING.

x

Wearing: Vintage Red Dress (thrifted), Vintage Black T-Straps (Sally Jane Vintage), Faux Pearl Studs (Silver Moon)

Polka Dots and Thrifting!

2010-02-15T14:00:00.000-08:00

I'm off do some thrifting!

Wearing: Vintage Polka Dot Blouse (thrifted), Black Pleated Skirt (thrifted), Vintage Gold Chain and Pearls Costume Necklace (thrifted), Faux Pearl Studs (SilverMoon), Vintage Black T-Straps (Sally Jane Vintage)

pretty zooey

2010-02-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

Image credit

we're going on a summer holiday

2010-02-13T19:59:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry for another week long absence and please excuse me if I get behind on answering all your lovely comments. I'm away at the moment and will be back home for only two days before leaving on another little holiday. I have just been in Cromwell at the wedding of two of our best friends and next week two more of our very close friends are also getting married. Phew! Wedding season.

It has been amazing being down in the South Island and driving from Christchurch to Cromwell and back again. The north island is great but the south island is spectacular. Rather - it is home. And in the words of Dorothy there really is no place like home.

Here are a mere few snapshots of our trip, with a special appearance by Rowan, my partner in crime and this thing called life. He still stays incognito in his hat and aviators though.

Also making an appearance is the dress I posted about awhile back (it is actually a beautiful vintage cream/champagne colour but it looks white in the photos). It was the perfect dress to wear in the intense Cromwell heat. The shoes I have on were not as perfect. Freshly thrifted from the Cromwell Salvation Army the morning of the wedding, the heel caps melted on the scorching pavement as we walked to the church. Lesson learnt: test shoes prior to wearing. I can't wait to get the caps replaced though as they are so comfortable.

Wearing: Vintage 60s Crochet Dress (Trade Me - originally from San Francisco), Vintage Pearl and Gold Chain Costume Necklace (thrifted), Vintage Hermes Bag (thrifted), Vintage Selby T-Strap Heels (thrifted)

sun is shining

2010-02-06T19:00:00.000-08:00

February 6. Waitangi Day. Bob Marley's birthday. The sun always comes out for Bob.

I spent the day at One Love, a music festival held each year in Wellington.

A day in the sun. A free ticket from a friend. I can't complain.

And Bob - you still rock.

Sun is shining, the weather is sweet
Make you want to move your dancing feet
To the rescue, here I am
Want you to know ya, where I stand

......................

So to the rescue, to the rescue, to the rescue
Awake from your sleep and slumber
Today could be your lucky number
Sun is shining and the weather is sweet

x

Wearing: Huffer Dress (my favorite non-vintage dress), Vintage Black T-Straps (Sally Jane Vintage), Teapot Charm Necklace (thrifted)

little black dress

2010-01-31T20:00:00.000-08:00

Every girl has one. Or two. I still search for the perfect LBD. It is my personal fashion holy grail.

After a rainy day spent inside watching season three of Madmen this is what I wore out to dinner with the girls.

x

Wearing: Houndstooth Coat (thrifted), Vintage Black Dress (thrifted), Red Handbag (thrifted), Vintage Black T-Straps (Sally Jane Vintage), Diamante Earrings (thrifted)

my dad

2010-01-29T12:00:00.000-08:00

My Dad has been sending me photos of him when he was a boy. (That's my Aunty Claire with him). Look at those outfits. The car in the background. Perfect.

x

Her surge of silver filled the pane...Till, climbing slowly on her way, She vanished, and was gone.

2010-01-29T10:00:00.000-08:00

I walked into the night as if in a dream. Images captured. Stolen. Exposed.

Wearing: Red and White 70s Dress (thrifted), Vintage T-Straps (Sally Jane Vintage), Diamante Necklace (thrifted), Bow Brooch (fastened onto belt - thrifted)

x

throw on a little cream dress and float into the sun ...

2010-01-27T14:09:00.000-08:00

Everywhere I look cream dresses are catching my eye. So here is the latest. A little 70s floaty number that I shortened. I love the crochet detailing and the dreamy fabric. Oh and I am wearing a Dorothy Perkins blazer that I thrifted yesterday. And my little vintage bow brooch. And my T-Straps from Sally Jane Vintage. It is lovely and sunny and my step felt light as I wandered to work. Ok, maybe I dawdled just a little. I was late....

I want to go back outside.

Oh and I want to say a thank you to Cecile for featuring me with some of my very favorite bloggers from my side of the world. Go check out her post.

x

there are two of me now...

2010-01-25T18:49:00.000-08:00

A Day In Pictures

x

Today my friend and I went on an adventure with our cameras.

We went to a quarry.

We walked the streets of Petone.

We walked by the water.

We went to an abandonned highschool.

And then we went home.

x

dreamy dresses and top knots on rainy days

2010-01-22T17:12:00.000-08:00

It is raining outside. I am wearing one of my favorite dresses. I am listening to Louis Armstrong on vinyl (I love the crackle of a record. My bf found me two Louis Armstrong records and Blueberry Hill - fats domino in a thrift shop last weekend.).

Inspired by the model in the Juliette Hogan lookbooks I have started taking to wearing my hair in a top knot and wearing floaty dresses. It makes me feel like a ballerina. This has coincidently led me to thinking about taking adult ballet classes. I have always wanted to. But looking like a ballerina is rather different to actually mastering the dance.

In other news, I went to one of my old friend's weddings last weekend and it was such a wonderful weekend. I wore the Alice Edwards ball dress I posted about just after my birthday and curled my hair and wore red lipstick. I love any occasion to dress up. It was supposed to be outside but sadly the rain forced everyone inside (this New Zealand summer is the worst I have encountered). In the end, it really didn't matter. It was a lovely personal ceremony.

I hope you are all having a relaxing weekend. I am about to have a coffee, watch an old episode of Project Runway and then do some new listings on trade me.

x

daydream believer

2010-01-13T10:05:00.000-08:00

After lusting after Effie's adorable collection of white and cream lacy dresses I stopped daydreaming and after an exhausting bidding war I won this crochet 60s dress (originally purchased in San Francisco!). I am hoping to pick it up in the next couple of days.

x

sadness is

2010-01-08T01:45:00.001-08:00

images credits here and here and here and here

wardrobe clean-up

2010-01-07T18:07:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of each year (and also about half way through) I like to do a wardrobe 'spring-clean'. I pull everything out. I discard items I haven't worn in months (and am unlikely to again). Some to sell. Some to give to charity. Then I make sure all my dresses and skirts and blouses are all on hangers (with some double ups - there's no avoiding it!). I am not as dedicated as the lovely Cate to colour code but I have my own 'system' per se in categorising.

How often do you clean-out your wardrobe? I find it such a satisying exercise. It's like letting out a very deep breath.

Oh and other news - my bf bought me a tripod today! Exciting! I can't wait to get my camera perched on its steady stand.

x

i'll fly away

2010-01-05T11:00:00.001-08:00

Wearing:

1960s Blue Shirt (with Peter Pan Collar) - thrifted ($4.50 - Recycle Boutique) and altered by me

Vintage Blue Skirt - thrifted ($3 - Salvation Army) and altered by me

Vintage Brown Buckle Shoes - thrifted ($2 - Salvation Army)

Back to work. Starting afresh. Sunshine. Cleaning my office. Listening to Cat Power. Gillian Welch. Aretha Franklin. Edith Piaf. Reading outside on the little deck off the staffroom. Staring out my window. Watching the boats on the harbour. Eating a nectarine. Wandering home. Hemming a skirt and a dress. Drinking Pinot Gris. Watching the last episode of Mad Men Season 2. Lovely.

new year listings!

2010-01-04T17:23:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year lovelies!

I am enjoying my last day of holidays, soaking up glorious sunshine on our deck. I'm reading 'A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius' by Dave Eggers. It is going to be a difficult feat going back to work in my stuffy office tomorrow!

I hope that everyone has had a lovely break and are revelling in the possibilities that a new year offers us. I started off 2010 with good friends, drinking champagne on the afternoon of the 1st and it has set me abuzz with excitement for the year ahead.

I have just added some new items to both my etsy store and also to trade me. There are many more listings to come so keep an eye out.

x

birthday!

2009-12-29T18:20:00.000-08:00

Wearing: Vintage 50s Alice Edwards Ball Dress (Trade Me)
Vintage Red 60s Mary Janes (Ziggarat, Wellington)

I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas and I'm sure we are all gearing up for the New Year! In between the two holidays was my birthday. I find that my birthday is often a strange day in which I try to keep occupied and not think too much. It's not that I mind getting older (I am now 28) but that I think there is an element of pressure for it to be an amazing day. Something about my perfectionist nature.

So yesterday, I started with a champagne brunch cooked for me by my darling bf. One of my best girlfriends came over to help me with the champagne (my bf doesn't drink it) and we had a lovely time being served croissants with grilled haloumi and crepes with lemon and sugar.

Then my friend and I went into town shopping. I bought the gorgeous red 60s mary janes in the pictures. They are the perfect shoes. Perfect. Then she left and I continued on a vintage dress hunt and ended up buying two gorgeous dresses (not the beautiful one above - that is a recent treausre from Trade Me).

To finish the day, my bf and I went out for a delicious dinner and then we went to see The Lovely Bones at the Embassy Theatre (where they held the premiere very recently) and finally we wandered home. It was weird weather all day. Misty. Humid. Windy. The worst weather for my hair - I ended up looking like I had a bad 80s perm!

It is a lovely day here today and my bf has been taking pictures of me in items I am going to list on Trade Me at the end of the week. I couldn't resist putting on this dress for a quick photoshoot (it will definitely not be for sale anytime soon!).

x

jess chambers

2009-12-13T18:43:00.001-08:00

I went to see Jess Chambers last night at San Francisco Bathhouse. It was lovely. Cabaret seating. Candles. Bubbly. Perfect. Well, ok, our table was wobbly. But that made it an adventure. And we were in the front row!

x

let's rock around the clock

2009-12-03T13:17:00.000-08:00

Inspired by the Dear Creatures range
Wearing:Vintage 60s dress (thrifted and altered by me)

Black Opaque Tights

Vintage Red Boots (thrifted)

I have been tagged (for the very first time) by the ever lovely Cécile of L'armadio del delitto to answer 35 questions. This tag has certainly been doing the rounds! Here are my answers:

1.Where is your phone? Pocket.
2.Your hair? In a ponytail.
3.Your Mother? Recovering.
4.Your Father? Grumbling.
5.Your favourite food? Sushi.

6.Your dream last night? Strange.

7.Your favourite drink? Coffee.

8.Your dream/goal? To run my own little vintage clothing business.

9.What room are you in? My office.
10.Your hobbie? Reading, thrifting, writing.
11.Your fear? Of being trapped in a life I do not want.
(12. is missing)
13.Where were you last night? Home.
14.Something that you’re not? Loud.

15.Muffins? Strawberry and white chocolate.
16.Wishlist item? Anything and everything 60s.
17.Where did you grow up? New Zealand.
18.Last thing you did? Sent an email.
19.What are you wearing? 60s dress, tights, boots (above).
20.Your TV? On a ledge.
21.Your pets? Sadly, none.

22.Friends? Amazing.
23.Your life? Lucky.
24.Your mood? Content.
25.Missing someone? Always.

26.Vehicle? My own two legs.
27.Something you’re not wearing? A hat.
28.Your favourite store? Tete a Tete Vintage (Christchurch)

29. Your Favourite colour? Blue and Red (dependent on mood)
30.When was the last time you laughed? Last night.
31.The last time you cried? Last week at work.

32.Your best friend? England.
33.One place that I go to over and over? Salvation Army.
34.Facebook? Sometimes.
35.Favourite place to eat? Home.

I'm supposed to tag ten people but it's highly possible the ten people I choose have already been tagged! I invite every one of you who would like to do this to please do and let me know in the comments when you have posted your answers on your blogs.

Thank goodness for Friday and all its frivolity.

fly away through the midnight air, as we head across the sea, and at last we will be free

2009-11-30T18:35:00.001-08:00

Wearing: 70s babydoll dress
Red Hair Bow (gift from jessmary)
Heeled Oxfords

November was a crazy month. Writing, sewing, whirlwind trips. Now for December. This time of year is so fast, yet the end of it cannot come quickly enough.

Next weekend I am going to Palmerston North to help a friend who is organising a 'Frock Swap' and then the following weekend I am going on a thrifting mission with a friend up the coast and we are also having a girl's night consisting of watching 'It's A Wonderful Life' (which I've never seen) and drinks and nibbles. Of course, tis the season for festivities so there are of course other dinners, brunches and parties to factor in.

The dress I am wearing is one of many that I altered in the weekend. I always seem to have a neverending pile of things that need to be altered and the weekend just been was successful in downsizing that pile. It feels like I am the proud owner of many new vintage dresses!

It was the final day of Nanowrimo yesterday and I am a little sad to say that I burnt out over a week ago. There was just so much going on that writing ceased to be fun and rather became an added stress. I am so happy that I participated though. Anything to get the words flowing. To write is to breathe. I think I was suffocating before.

x

i am your shadow; you were my sun, you made me and I followed you

2009-11-20T22:22:00.001-08:00

First of all, I apologise for my lack of posts. I promise this will change come the 1st of December! (Though I must admit to a slight halt in Nanowrimo proceedings). I thought today I would post a quick Trade Me update (NZ readers only - however, if you are overseas and are really interested in something I do have a Paypal account and we could maybe sort something out). The first and third picture were taken with my bf's camera and the middle one was taken a week ago with my new camera (which I am sadly still a little scared of - I only have the large zoom lense that it came with and am in desperate need of a 'normal lense' - oh, and a tripod!).

I have had a very busy week, which included two days down in Christchurch. I flew down Wednesday morning and spent the day with my Mum (it was her birthday). We had such a good day, starting with a spot of thrifting - a $1 sale at the local Salvation Army (I went a little mad!) - followed by a movie at the Art Centre movie theatre (An Education), and then a trip to my favorite vintage store in Christchurch (where I 'vintaged' my Mum up - I bought her a 60s dress and some vintage heels, which she left wearing!) and then finally we concluded with tapas at a local restaurant.

I spent the night and then my second and final day was spent with the lovely Andrea of A Cat of Impossible Colour. It is such a nice experience meeting bloggers in 'real life' (actually, Andrea is the only one who I've met so this is based on one experience only). Brunch, thrifting and a glass of wine in the sunshine = the perfect day. Thank you Andrea!

Then it was back to Wellington on Thursday night and back to work on Friday - which felt like another Monday (not the best way to end the week). Today in contrast has been a very lazy relaxed day, consisting of far too much bad tv and takeaway coffees and chocolate danishes. Oh, but I did manage to take some photos and get my listings up on Trade Me of course! Along with much washing of all my precious new vintage acquisitions.

I hope you are all having a lovely weekend

x

vintage patterns and writing challenges

2009-11-14T16:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I took a break from the computer and went to a Fabric sale at the community centre in my suburb. I didn't intend to spend any money but of course, put me in a room full of vintage fabric and patterns and I go a little crazy. These patterns were only 30 cents each.

I also bought a whole lot of pretty fabric that I just need to wash and then hope to spend my christmas break trying some of these designs out. Counting down til December!

My writing has been scaring me a little these last couple of days. My novel is taking me to some very dark places and it has taken a lot out of me emotionally. It's strange sometimes the words that come out of us. The different selves. The exploration of things we really know little about and yet feel compelled to write about.

When I was eleven I wrote a poem and the first line 'I look at white and think of black/of death, murder, suicide and no turning back' has ensued a morbid fascination with the horrible things that we do to ourselves and to others.

However, I am pulling myself out of it this morning and am concentrating on some of the happier moments the characters in my novel experience.

To close, I will give you a snapshot of me today:

Wearing: Vintage Lady Bond Blue striped shirt (thrifted)

Vintage skirt shortened by me (thrifted)
Black tights (thrifted)
Black oxford heels (thrifted)

alone in my mind

2009-11-05T18:44:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry in advance if I neglect my blogging duties over this month. Just know I really appreciate all your lovely comments! I will every now and again post little excerpts from my work in progress. I am finding Nanorwrimo great fun but challenging for my creatively stunted brain. I am also in the midst of planning many trips for next year (lots of my friends are getting married) and have so many thrifted finds that I want to fix up and sell (an update this weekend). Oh, and if any of you NZ readers are in Wellington, please stop by and visit me at the Mighty Mighty Market tomorrow! My friend and I have a stall.

As you can imagine I am feeling slightly overwhelmed by this lovely adventure we call life.

tangled up in blue

2009-11-03T15:31:00.001-08:00

I have always wanted to be a red head.

That is why one of the characters in the novel I am writing for Nanowrimo will have to be instead. Writing is strange. At times stilted, then fluid. I am man, woman and dog. Delving into hidden facets of my mind. I am afraid of what will fall out.

Image taken from here

let me see through your eyes

2009-10-29T19:38:00.000-07:00

I just bought this off Trade Me. It's a Canon EOS 1000D. I have wanted one for the longest time.

dreaming of a night sky

2009-10-27T23:59:00.001-07:00

The sky is darkly pretty tonight. I love how it is light and passionate yet yields a kind of fury.

x

road to recovery

2009-10-27T22:31:00.000-07:00

Wearing:

Floral blouse (thrifted, but originally from TopShop)
Vintage blue skirt (thrifted and shortened by me)
Vintage 60s Heels (thrifted)

Listening to: The new Fat Freddy's Drop record - it just sounds better on vinyl!

My name is Laurel and I am a thriftoholic.

I am from a family of addicts with various afflictions. I thought that I had escaped, but alas I suffer from a neverending desire, thirst, hunger for a bargain. I dream of thrifting. I think about it multiple times a day. I cannot go a week without a fix. At times, not even a day.

I am currently trying to find a support group of others who suffer from this disease. Please post a comment so that I do not feel so alone.

Now, let me introduce you to my new best friend. She is a little shy so she won't let me show you all of her just yet. But let me just say she is beautiful. She is gold and shiny and perfectly made. She was born in the 1950s. She loves to dance and twirl around and around in her full skirt but for modesty's sake keeps her underskirt close.

She hasn't been out in public for a very long time so needs some time to adjust to this new era that we live in. But I have a feeling that she is going to fit in very well.

dreaming of faraway places

2009-10-19T15:55:00.000-07:00

seeing the sunset
in the same sky;
but across the ocean
and far from home

seeing new stars
in the same sky;

you are shiny and
different
but i miss the
southern cross

soaking up the same sun

but on the other side of the world;

you are not as intense

but rather

hot and delicious

swimming in the same sea
but on the other side
of the world;
you are warmer
but still salty

the same but different
different but the same

wish i was there
wish you were here

images all my own

the answer is blowing in the wind

2009-10-17T22:22:00.000-07:00

It is another stunning Spring day here in Wellington. It is official. I am so ready to move. In order to get outside photos today I have had to run out every time there is a break in the rain and attempt to get shots that do not have my skirt blowing up to my waist.

It has been a tough challenge.

I am now ready for a glass of red wine and some mindless movie watching.

Check out my listings on Trade Me here.

Etsy is still on my mind but as I am trying to get the money together for a number of flights I have to book for next year (many many weddings) Trade Me is a more regular source of income - for now anyway.

x

queen sophie-ann

2009-10-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

Evan Rachel Wood. Vampire queen. A retro vampire queen no less. Wow. Evan gains my undying respect and admiration yet again. She is one sassy blood sucking fiend.

It's no secret - I am a fan of True Blood. It's by the creators of Six feet Under (oh how I love that show - two more seasons to watch!). It's a little weird. It has vampires. A kiwi and an aussie take on two of the leading roles. It's dark. Quirky. And more than a little addictive.

And when Evan turned up with her bold red lips and pin curls I actually shrieked. Yes, I did.

She is so versatile. Every role is different. She is for lack of a better word, fabulous.

I also loved her in Across the Universe.

Images taken from here and here.

pipe dreams

2009-10-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

Swinging between days where anything feels possible and those where it seems that you are clutching to a pipe dream. The light vs the dark. The sun vs the rain.

Stuck in an inbetween wonderland.

x

the reminder

2009-10-08T17:55:00.001-07:00

Ooh, I am listening to the new Feist album. What's another word for wonderful?

I am actually just replaying it over and over and over again (my friend gave me a copy last night). Listen here.

So yes, this maybe a result of seeing 500 days of Summer last night. Andrea - you are so right. The soundtrack was the hero for me too. I thought that without the music I might have left feeling a little let down.

But Summer's wardrobe was as amazing as hoped. I would wear every single adorable outfit she dons in the film. Zooey is even more beautiful than usual in this role. And Joseph Gordon-Levitt's character, Tom, is adorable. I fell a little bit in love with him. More so than Summer, which was natural considering the slant of the film.

I'm not going to do a full review - I'm just going to say that for me, it was a lovely little escape, a touch heart breaking and both visually and musically enchanting.

x

image taken from here

500 days of zooey

2009-10-07T19:38:00.000-07:00

I know posts on 500 Days of Summer are popping up on blogs far and wide and I really can't add anything to the mix that is in any way original or eye opening.

I just want to say I am looking forward to sitting in the delicious Embassy Theatre this evening and watching this lovely little film with a glass of red wine and some adorable young ladies (you know who you are!).

Oh, and this dress alone makes me swoon.

put your right foot in, put your right foot out

2009-10-07T14:53:00.000-07:00

I took my time walking to work today. I stole my bf's camera and saw my little journey through new eyes. Though the darkened sky kept me on edge as I waited for the downpour that thankfully didn't come.

I enjoy my morning meandering. It gives me time to think and reflect before I get to work. Most importantly, I like to breathe in the fresh air that is so lacking in an air conditioned office.

It's the only time during the day that I am guaranteed quiet time. It is me and my music and my thoughts. Sometimes the walk is like a one on one counselling session. But it allows me to work through what I don't want to take to work with me. This is the same on the way home.

x

singing in the rain

2009-10-03T20:37:00.000-07:00

I have not been feeling very inspired fashion wise the last few days. Spring sporadically disappears. Though the light in our hallway would dispute that...

I spent most of yesterday taking photos and loading things on Trade Me. I do have some items for Etsy as well but by the time I got all the measurements, photos etc. done for Trade Me I had no energy left for Etsy!

Instead, I spent the evening hemming vintage dresses and skirts, sewing buttons onto thrifted cardigans and coats and dancing to Rock Around the Clock in my living room. I love domesticity.

Now, I am going to indulge in watching 'Across The Universe' and drinking hot coffee on this windy Wellington day.

x

blueberry nights

2009-09-30T23:04:00.001-07:00

Today the sun came out and flashed its lovely golden self. It was still cold but walking home I felt like spring was really here. I could smell the faint sweetness of a distant summer.

I am a summer girl through and through. I hate the cold. It gets into my bones and squeezes off the circulation to my feet and hands. My skin turns purple. Orange. Weird distorted colours.

In the sun I am happy. I am free.

Let me put flowers in my hair and run barefoot through the sand. Let me be a cliche.

Until then, I am content with the sweet blossoming of spring.

I love this dress

x

trade me!

2009-09-25T22:43:00.001-07:00

I decided to list a few things on Trade Me - so for all you NZ readers out there, here is a look at some things I am selling. These are just a few. Click here to go to my listings:

OohLaLaVintage

x

sewing inspiration: maryy

2009-09-22T13:19:00.000-07:00

I thought that I would share some images of one of my favorite members of Burda Style.

Maryy never uses a pattern and her creations have a vintage inspired aesthetic, enhanced by her beautiful romantic pictures.

I love all her work but these are some of my favorites.

x

don't blame it on the sunshine

2009-09-20T00:58:00.000-07:00

Today was the loveliest of Sundays. It was bright and warm with only the slightest breeze (which for Wellington is always a blessing). After a lazy morning, we headed to the Farmers Markets, followed by a little thrifting and lunch at Offbeat Originals in Left Bank.

I also managed to get some sewing done and the rest of the afternoon was spent in the sun reading 'Paris Trance' by Geoff Dyer (not the first time - it is one of many books that I read over and over. I love how reading the same book at different points in your life changes the words, the experience, your interpretation).

Hope you all had a lovely weekend! x

shop update

2009-09-13T17:48:00.000-07:00

Here are a few new items that I will be adding to my Etsy shop this week. I have already added a couple of other dresses (check them out!) and hope to take some further photos of more stock very soon! The little blue dress top right is the very first dress I ever made. I fell in love with the vintage fabric (my bf gave it to me).

My bf has also completed my banner which I have placed strategically above my little photo collage (it is very amateur but I am learning!).

I have just had my very first sale - a momentus occasion - and I wrapped it up to ship today. It was very exciting!

homeward bound

2009-09-08T19:21:00.001-07:00

source

I took this week off work to:

1 - test out what it would be like to work from home.
2 - to start up an Etsy store.
3 - to try and get my new flat more sorted.
4 - to sew my little heart out.

Of course, as I am off to Christchurch tomorrow for a 'mini-break' with my bf it has only really given me the last few days.

I have realised that:

1 - as I knew, I put a lot of pressure on myself as my own 'boss'.
2 - the internet is a complex world - I am more than a little computer illiterate but do get excited when I manage simple tasks. Though can someone please help me with adding images of my Etsy store to the side on my blog???
3 - the 'good' sewing days are always equated with the 'bad' sewing days.
4 - we have too much stuff!!! (Though the place is looking much cozier - I really do love it!).
5 - I could very much be a hermit. I like my own company. I like listening to old records and sewing and cooking and talking to no one. (To be fair, when my bf gets home I jump all over him and force him to engage in conversation).

One day this will be my life.

I would love to hear from all you lovely bloggers for whom working from home is a reality.

x

it takes a lot to laugh, it takes a train to cry

2009-09-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I had pancakes in bed while watching Amelie, played in the sun, read my book on my rooftop patio, and ate salty cashews while drinking icy cold beer.

Today I am sewing this:

and listening to this:

Have a lovely Monday

xxx

a day in pictures

2009-09-05T22:38:00.000-07:00

reconstruction

2009-09-03T14:26:00.000-07:00

This now chic little black dress was once a staunch 80s power dress, complete with shoulder pads.

- I removed the shoulder pads, shortened the arms and hemmed the dress to above the knee.
- Then I lowered the neckline into a v-neck and added the antique lace collar.
- For the finishing touch I made a bow from some of the material I took from the length, and sewed on a little vintage button.

Now it is all ready to sell at the Mighty Mighty Market in Cuba Street on Saturday.

This is held on the first Saturday of every month, from 2pm - 6pm. I sell a selection of vintage clothing (both untouched and reconstructed) as well as items I have made from vintage fabric.

What greater way to spend an afternoon, than surrounded by vintage clothes, old records and like minded people?Oh and because the market is in a bar we can even enjoy alcoholic refreshments while we 'work'!

I will be sure to take some photos and post on Sunday!x

style icon: sarah blasko

2009-09-01T17:14:00.001-07:00

source

source

Sarah is one super stylish lady - I covet every dress she wears.

And she can sing too.

frocks on bikes

2009-09-01T14:50:00.000-07:00

I love the idea of riding around on a bicycle this spring in a pretty vintage dress. I especially would like a bicycle with a basket. Even though my boy tells me that it is impractical and that knowing me I would fill it up, go off balance and fall off.

I unfortunately don't particularly like being on two wheels when faced with narrow streets. And hills. There is also the wind to contend with here in Wellington. And often, sideways rain.

If I did decide to brave these elements, I would would go straight to my friend Felicity's blog and check out the beautiful creations she has on offer:

http://thenewbicyclempire.blogspot.com/

swamp hen

2009-08-25T16:11:00.000-07:00

My very talented sister-in-law is the master behind these beautiful creations. Each piece is unique and handcrafted.

these boots are made for walking

2009-08-24T15:23:00.000-07:00

Ooh La La

gran's loose change

I told you to be balanced 'Mariane' mod dress

Any which way Tea Party dress

I feel like dancing skirt

She thinks of him so dresses in blue dress

if love was a train

The morning sun touched lightly....

y'avait du soleil

wild horses couldn't drag me away

the hissing of summer lawns

I've looked at life from both sides now From up and down, and still somehow It's life's illusions I recall I really don't know life at all

karen elson

what i love

Je t'aime... moi non plus

cherchez la femme

autumn changing colours

time and place and beauty

Sweet dreams till sunbeams find you Sweet dreams that leave all worries behind you But in your dreams whatever they be Dream a little dream of me

it's been a long, long time

she & him

girls just wanna have fun

Well I'm sailing softly across the Sea of Life and it's so comforting to see the bright souls I share it with

let me count the ways

Polka Dots and Thrifting!

pretty zooey

we're going on a summer holiday

sun is shining

little black dress

my dad

Her surge of silver filled the pane...Till, climbing slowly on her way, She vanished, and was gone.

throw on a little cream dress and float into the sun ...

there are two of me now...

dreamy dresses and top knots on rainy days

daydream believer

sadness is

wardrobe clean-up

i'll fly away

new year listings!

birthday!

jess chambers

let's rock around the clock

fly away through the midnight air, as we head across the sea, and at last we will be free

i am your shadow; you were my sun, you made me and I followed you

vintage patterns and writing challenges

alone in my mind

tangled up in blue

let me see through your eyes

dreaming of a night sky

road to recovery

dreaming of faraway places

the answer is blowing in the wind

queen sophie-ann

pipe dreams

the reminder

500 days of zooey

put your right foot in, put your right foot out

singing in the rain

blueberry nights

trade me!

sewing inspiration: maryy

don't blame it on the sunshine

shop update

homeward bound

it takes a lot to laugh, it takes a train to cry

a day in pictures

reconstruction

style icon: sarah blasko

frocks on bikes

swamp hen

these boots are made for walking