This is a big post, with lots of pictures - Vizzini too! - so grab a cup of comfort and get settled in.
Kicking us off, L and I went for brunch at the Ruby on Saturday.
In March, I like to get in re-wears of some of my favourite clothes, and some that I'm on the fence with.
Kicking us off, L and I went for brunch at the Ruby on Saturday.
- Jacket - Zara, consignment; last seen here in December 2021 with gold and brocade
- Blouse - Tatum & Olivia, consignment; last worn here in November 2021 with necessary PANK
- Skirt - Twinset, consignment; last seen here in November 2021 with turquoise
- Shoes - Steve Madden, thrifted; last worn here in December 2021 for a shop in Oak Bay with Yvonne
The re-wear here is the ginormous pouffy skirt, which I pack away for spring/summer.
I adore the ginormity of it.
The ruffled blouse is sleeveless.
I know, look at me wearing sleeveless when it's still technically winter!
I enjoyed swanning about in the grocery store after brunch.
After we unloaded and put away the groceries, I walked back to town to have a wee Mental Health Shop.
It was a beautiful sunny afternoon.
I did my mini-Mental Health Walk in the morning, pre-brunch, and then shopped for 3 hours before walking home.
All bundled up - scarf and gloves were enough.
I had intended on wearing this outfit later that night, as we'd been invited to Yvonne and Randall's for dinner, but by the time I got home, the hem of my skirt was festooned with cedar twigs. I removed a ton of them when I got home!
All bundled up - scarf and gloves were enough.
I've decided that I'm done with this bomber jacket. It's fine, but I don't love it - I prefer more structured pieces. I paid $22.00 for it and wore it four times, and I'm completely fine with that. Besides, I had need of jacket hangers after my shop!
Masked up - I also had my sunglasses on.
Accoutrements:
Some favourites.
- Scarf - Pierre Cardin, vintage 70s, thrifted
- Gloves - Club Monaco, consignment
- Mask - by Mom
The stuff:
Bronze bling:
This was far too much jewelry for a clothing shop - I jingled and jangled when I tried stuff on.
- Belt - thrifted; purchased here for $5.95
- Brass/copper cuff - Karen's
- Copper/enamel bracelet - Renoir, vintage 60s, vintage expo
- Earrings - LA Express, c. 1994
- Brass ring - vintage mall
- Feather ring - Fossil, thrifted
Before we left for brunch, I went looking for Vizzini - he wasn't in any of his usual spots, and then I spied his whiskers sticking out of his house.
He has a good view of the maple trees at the side of our building, which are filled with little birds and squirrels.
"Woman, do you mind?"
He has a good view of the maple trees at the side of our building, which are filled with little birds and squirrels.
"I'm keeping an eye on them."
Silly little bub.
I did a little loop of my favourite stores on Fort Street, stopping in at Vanity Fair Antique Mall first. They have a small selection of clothing, which is usually barren of anything interesting, but I spied this beautiful coat that I hadn't seen before.
I was attracted to the stitching...and the plastic coating the cuffs of the sleeves also caught my eye.
It doesn't have a belt, but the gathering above the waist gives volume at the back.
A nice big slit for walking.
I spy a spare button too.
The pockets are large.
And what is that I see?
The original tags!
This is by Tadmore, makers of leather garments. This coat is made in Israel at Kibbutz Ein Zurim. The sizing is pre-Great Size Shift of the mid-80s, so is a modern size 10.
The back of that tag helpfully tells you how to care for suede.
Interesting that rayon is referred to as "artificial silk" here. I appreciate the tip for creases too!
Oh my gosh, an original tag from Woodward's department store! We had a Woodward's in Victoria at Mayfair Mall until it was bought out by the Hudson's Bay Company in 1993 (wiki link here, all links 'cause I love, of course). The current Bay store still has some remnants of the old Woodward's, including original tile in the 2nd floor washroom, and the old escalators.
I have fond memories of their deli and food floor, and their "dollar forty-nine day - Tuesday!" jingle (about it here, with a recording of the jingle - gosh, such memories!).
More labels.
That is a really old CA number - they all have 5 digits now.
The backs of the buttons are all reinforced with smaller buttons (a mark of quality).
More labels. This was $145.00 - which is a lot, but it's a perfect fit and for a heavy suede coat, that felt about right. I am sure it's from the early 1970s, based on the style.
From Vanity Fair, I popped into Heart and Sole shoes (link here, 'cause I love), a retail shop that carries some really cool shoes.
They are no longer carrying Channi B shoes, and all of their remaining stock were marked down 70% off.
I snatched up these lovely metallic lilac dress sandals.
I have these Chanii B shoes (last seen here) that I bought for close to $300 new. With that platform (which is nice squishy cork), the heel is a mere 1.5".
The ribbon ties behind the heel.
So pretty!
They are made in Portugal, similar to Fluevogs.
The original price on these was $310.00 - with the discount, they came to $93.00. Done! What a pretty shoe!
I spent some time going through the Velvet Crease's stock - it's been a couple of months, so about 2/3 of their stock was new. Everything was 20% off, with a small selection at 50% off.
I liked how this jacket fit.
The splattery design is velvet flocking, in shades of black, white, red, pink and chartreuse.
It's nice to touch.
It has front pockets, hooray!
I fell for this pretty butterfly silk scarf.
This will look fabulous when I'm riding in Vlad the Jag with the top down.
Movie star!
No tags or anything, but it feels very much like silk.
This was $12.00.
I am fond of black and white prints - they go well with my bright solids.
I liked this off-the-shoulder styling as the straps cover my bra.
Detail on the bell sleeves.
It's by Yest, another Dots brand.
This was $19.00. It's a tunic-length, but I'll probably tuck it into my pants/skirts.
I loved the colours and print on this dress.
The sleeves are full and sheer - it's made of rayon, but feels like silk. The waist is smocked with elastic.
It's by Guess by Marciano, and I loved the fit - this will be a lovely summer dress.
It was half price at $24.00, which is an awesome deal. Add another zero for the original retail!
I have been stalking this cream leather jacket for a couple of months.
L took one look at it and said, "That's not staying like that."
Correct - I'll be decorating the heck out of this jacket. I have ideas!
A peek at the "kiss" print lining, and the reinforcing buttons again.
But what is that I see? Shoot, they forgot to remove the security tag! And the store is only open Mon-Sat, 11-4 - I'll have to pop in on Thursday afternoon and get them to remove that.
It's by Danier.
So we know it's good quality - this would have retailed for close to $300.00 new. It was 50% off, so only $37.50 from the original $75.00.
Flush with my purchases, I popped in next door at MONA, where I was thrilled to find my Pink Ladies jacket!
It's not real leather, but that's fine - you just do not see this shade of pink every day! The cut, the colour…it's going to be so fabulous when I decorate it.
Okay, I have to stop buying jackets for decorating - I have 3-4 in the queue, so no more, Sheila (unless they're really, really cool...or a really good price!).
Only the two lower pockets are real.
It's by Only.
It was $38.00, which I thought was a good price.
Found the tag that shows it's only 4 years old, from 2018.
It likely retailed for around $89.00 or higher.
I fell hard for this rainbow skirt!
Give it to me! I must have it!
Look at that wonderful pleated chiffon!
That's a better representation of the colours - the first picture makes them look muddier.
It's from Holiday 2019 - only 3 years old!
It's by J. Crew, so I know it wasn't cheap to start with. It probably retailed for around $200.00.
Size 14 is quite large on me, so I'll be doing my ol' safety pin trick on the waistband. I happily paid $52.00 for this.
I was exhausted by the time I got home in the late afternoon, so I napped for a while before getting ready to go out - AGAIN. I am just swooning for all this wonderful sociability!
I have a long-sleeved silk thermal vintage top on under the sweater dress for extra warmth.
This is basically a jammy dress for hanging out in all night, which is what I did.
- Dress - H&M, consignment; last worn here (2nd outfit) in October 2021 for Thanksgiving at Chris & Ali's
- Shoes - Vince Camuto, consignment, Powell River; first seen here (2nd outfit) in January for a mini-daytime Winesday in the park
- Capelet (below) - no label, consignment; first worn here (2nd outfit) in January
My view of the Castle from the stairs.
The sun is just starting to set, in glorious shades of pink and yellow. The weather's been awesome all weekend.
L and I walked to Yvonne/Randall's, about a half hour through the Fairfield neighbourhood.
And those are my fleece-lined tights in olive green.
We had an incredible salmon fillet for dinner, with rice pilaf, roasted carrots and parsnips, and salad, plus cheese and crackers, and chocolate and nuts, and so many drinks.
Nick was there as well, and the five of us had a raucous time.
Sorry about the white "wave" in these pics, by the way.
It's my cream jacket, folded up and sitting on a short scratching post, in front of where I set my camera.
Outerwear - we walked briskly both ways, but the night air at 2am was very chilly.
I'll be packing away the dress, cape and shoes for spring/summer - I just don't have room to have everything out - but they are all keepers.
My backpack (with my slippers inside) tucked nicely underneath this.
We had such a fun time, just hanging out in our friends' home. It's been SO LONG.
Accoutrements:
That's my Dad's scarf, from the 1960s. He used to play in dance bands as an extra-wage gig when he and Mom were first married - he played saxophone.
- Scarf - vintage 60s, Dad's
- Gloves - Club Monaco, consignment
I pilfered it from his stuff back in the 80s. I wore it kerchief style in my hair, and also rolled it and knotted it at my neck, back in 1984+
It's still in good condition, although the edges are getting worn.
The stuff:
I always decide on shoes first if I'm walking anywhere. These are a perfect fit.
Green bling:
Lots of loose layers for sitting and chatting over brunch.
I love that my tassel earrings match this necklace so well!
- Brass cuff - Karen's
- Poe cuff - Jezebel Charms, gift from L
- Bronze ring - P. Sarpaneva, vintage 70s, vintage expo
- Poison ring - Taxco, Mexico, Karen's
- Jade/brass ring - vintage 70s, Mom's
- Earrings - consignment, Powell River
- Necklace - Plum, c. 2007
On Sunday, we had a leisurely morning - I dyed my hair, then got ready for Book Club.
- Silk tunic - Sympli, thrifted; first seen here in July 2021 for the D(el)ay of Indolence, worn two ways
- Trousers - Soaked in Luxury; last worn here in September 2021 with dotted whites
- Shoes - Matisse, Sidney; last seen here (3rd outfit) in May 2021 for an outside Book Club
- Coat (below) - River Island, consignment; last worn here in February
I have a camisole under the silk tunic.
The side slits go really high on this tunic.
We went to House of Boateng (here) in Langford, and the food was delicious - I bought a jar of hot sauce for home.
We had a lovely time, catching up - in person! indoors!
Masked up.
Ah, my cup is full - seeing so many friends this weekend has helped so much.
Outerwear.
Many, many layers.
Did not need the gloves.
Accoutrements:
The usual suspects.
- Scarf - fake Louis (Lewis!) Vuitton, thrifted
- Gloves - Cejon, thrifted
- Mask - by Mom
The stuff:
I haven't worn these shoes in ages - they are super-comfy.
Gift bling:
All of my jewelry pieces were gifts from L.
- Cuff/earrings - Alexis Bittar, consignment
- Gold-plated necklace - Robert Larin, vintage 70s, vintage mall
- Bracelet - Robert Larin, vintage 70s, vintage mall
And now, my friends, I will leave you with possibly the cutest picture of Vizzini ever.
"I accept your adulation."
It is hard to deal with all of the emotion and turmoil in the world right now, isn't it? I hope this post was a temporary balm and distraction for y'all.
Oh I love the jackets you got and I'm looking forward to seeing the designs you add to the white and pink ones! And I really like that rainbow skirt, what a pretty piece! what's the saftey pin waistband trick? I have a skirt I thrifted that the elastic is starting to go on and due to covid concerns the lady that did such a good job tailoring my other pieces isn't doing nay alterations for a bit. Do you just fold over the excess and pin it? (Apologies if you've shared the trick before and I've missed it!).
ReplyDeleteThanks, Mica! I'm excited to decorate those too. Yes, that's the trick - just fold over a pinch and pin it. You can even it out by doing it on either side.
DeleteI'm going to have to give that a go next time I wear my skirt, thank you!
DeleteGah! Blogger ate my comment.
ReplyDeleteThat is a gorgeous photo of Vizzini and your weekend spent with friends, retail therapy and fab outfits have put a big smile on my face.
I love the vintage deadstock suede coat, I'll happily steal that off you when you're done with it! xxx
It was a fabulous weekend - unparalleled lately, Vix.
DeleteI know, isn't it gorgeous! I literally gasped when I tried it on.
Oh my, you've certainly been shopping like a pro. I find a wee bit of shopping can do wonders for the soul. Swooning over the suede coat, I'd definitely have picked that up too. The stitching is gorgeous and reminds me of a vintage raincoat I've got. Isn't it marvellous to find deadstock vintage? Loving the jacket, rainbow skirt and butterfly scarf too, and ooh, more projects! Isn't that Pink Ladies jacket sweet though.
ReplyDeleteThe orange knit dress looks like the ultimate jammy dress, and how fabulous are that scarf and cape! I'm also loving the wide legged trousers you wore for Book Club.
Oh, and how cute is Vizzini in his house. Bess seems to be a bit bored with her two lately. xxx
That suede coat is incredible, Ann - it's even better in person. I love that it was deadstock. Thank you - I'm really happy with most of my purchases.
DeleteI love the orange dress - so snuggly and comfy.
Lol, that's how Vizzini has ended up with 5 scratching posts! "Aw, he seems bored, let's get him another!"
Good riddance to your first jacket (I wasn't a fan) and Hazaah for your thrifting purchases ESPECIALLY the gray jacket with the colorful flocking! Super pink jacket (it looks like it will go with your colorful striped skirt!) and I am eager to see the black * white dress styled.
ReplyDeleteLOL on L's comment regarding the leather jacket purchase but if he hadn't already said it than one of us commentators would surely have offered it up. ;-)
The orange jammy dress is just perfect, both on its own and on you, and the more I look at your Book Club outfit, the more I like it. Most of all, though, how fabulous to have been out and about with FRIENDS!!! Here's to more outings with friends and Vizzini cuteness (he looks so calm and cozy in there!)
Ha ha! It's not to everyone's taste, I admit. That flocked jacket is one that I regretted slightly when I got home. It's...fine. The pink jacket will go with a lot on my wardrobe, but I'm really excited to snazz it up with some roses.
DeleteHa, he knows me well. :) As do many of you!
I love it too. The Book Club outfit wasn't anything exciting, but it was comfy and flowy and I liked it.
Vizzini is so danged cute, isn't he? Thanks, Laurie!
You indeed had a amazing weekend! It is so good to be with friends again, unbelievable how we missed that right! Gosh those sandals! I have no words for them, so gorgeous! And they are even wearable!! If not I would have bought them anyway! Very much fantastic finds!
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh, I can't even express how amazing and sustaining it was to see so many of my friends this past weekend. It almost feels normal, Nancy. Thank you - I love those sandals, and I'm excited to wear them - come on, warm weather!
DeleteI love the Dolcezza jacket. I like the orange dress outfit. The pant outfit is also great. I'm glad you had a great weekend. I hope in continues into the week.
ReplyDeleteThe Dolcezza jacket is actually my least favourite thing, Vicki - I have slight regrets over it. Thank you so much!
DeleteGosh Sheila, you have done really well with your shopping spree. So many beautiful items. And you reminded me to wear my tiered ruffle skirt before it is too warm. I like it a lot, but Ron doesn't. Which always makes it harder to wear.
ReplyDeleteYour metallic shoes are beautiful. Always a good investment, metallic footwear.
Greetje
Oh, pffft to what Ron thinks! :) I know, though - I also like to wear things L likes, but sometimes we have to give in to our men.
DeleteI agree - metallics go with everything! Thanks, Greetje!
How fabulous to spend lots of time with friends and indoors! It is almost back to normality.
ReplyDeleteTerrific outfits and didn't you do well on your
shopping trip? I think you should have called this post 'Jacket Day'! Imagine finding 3 wonderful jackets and a coat! My favourite was the flocked jacket. I will be very interested to see how you adorn the leather jackets in the future. Your dad's scarf is beautiful. He must gave been a very stylish man...
I adore those Alexis Bittar earrings - so art deco!
Hope you have a great week.
xxx
It did almost feel normal, Vronni. What a great feeling it was!
DeleteThank you - and yes, I did consider a nod to all the jackets/coats I found! Some days, they seem to just come to me. :)
Dad was not really stylish - apparently, all the guys in the band wore these scarves, and matching olive corduroy blazers (I used to have Dad's blazer too).
Thanks - I love them! Happy week to you too - I'll be over to visit soon.
Fun outfits. You are always so stylish.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Ivana!
DeleteVizzini- us mere peasants adore you!!!
ReplyDeleteYou did well on the purchases! I love the splattered jacket and of course the rainbow skirt which I might steal from you (where do you live? Am heading there now with my black mask, striped jersey and crowbar!) x
He's awfully cute there, isn't he, Kezzie? :)
DeleteThanks! I wasn't convinced entirely on the flocked jacket, but I may change my mind. Ha! I am on the west coast of Canada - keep your burglaring self on your side of the Atlantic, my dear! ;-P
Deadstock vintage growers rarer (understandably) with each passing day, making your awesome c. early 70s blue coat all the more of a stellar find.
ReplyDeleteThat same adjective could easily apply to all of the other treasures that you unearthed that day, too. I am personally particularly taken with that incredible multicoloured skirt and how, while definitely a rainbow, it is one that is rendered in a more muted, autumn-y palette. Such a great score!!!
Autumn Zenith 🧡 Witchcrafted Life
It does! I rarely see vintage deadstock, aside from a few vintage fairs, and at the Patch locally (which has gone into receivership, sadly). I had to snap it up, especially when it fits so well.
DeleteI love the rainbow skirt, and yes, I like the more muted palette too.
Oh I love that skirt, it would definitely fit in my wardrobe, the blouse too!
ReplyDeleteVizzini is a cutie!
You have so many great masks! Your mum is very talented!
I can't believe that suede jacket was unworn! I am making up reasons in my head: they got a size too small, they were saving it for "Best", they lived in a really hot area and Winter wasn't cold enough.
Thanks, Laura! Vizzini is a little monster, but we love him.
DeleteI have loved having so many masks over the past 2+ years. Who'd've thought we'd still be needing them?
I know, right? What a great steal. I always suspect unworn items were gifts that didn't appeal to the recipient and then they sit in the closet for years until they die or have to downsize.
Both of your outfits in this post are winners for me - I love the orange dress and those leopard print wide-leg pants. I always enjoy seeing what you find at the secondhand stores - the blue suede coat is a wonderful piece of 70's style, and the original tags are an extra perk. I would have squee'd over the rainbow pleated skirt too! I don't even bother looking at leather jackets anymore because I buy them and never wear them. The season to be able to wear them here is so short it's not worth it. That being said, I have two 80's leather jackets in my closet that I should probably get rid of...
ReplyDeleteThanks, Shelley! I'm always amazed at what's out there. I agree on the NWT coat, and do not even get me started on the rainbow skirt, which I want to wear every day! If you ever find a leather jacket for me to illustrate, take pics and send 'em to me - if I can decorate it for you, I will!
DeleteLovely outfits and lovely&comfy shoes!, great idea to pick your shoes first when doing some walking/shopping.
ReplyDeleteI love your sneakers and brass accessorizing, love your jammy dress in magnificent colour, and love your massive trousers with the tunic. Lots of fabulousness!
And totally amazing purchases, those jackets are fantastic, the leather one and the velvet on denim one are my favs!. I'm running to see your rainbow skirt in next posts!
besos
Thank you! I have to do shoes first, or I'll pay for it later! I'm excited to work on those jackets!
Delete