Aloha

 Aloha!

If you can't already guess today's post is about that hardly discussed fashion/etc. trend of "Tiki". As I will be heading to the Aloha state for my first ever vacation next week I have been running around (well my fingers have been) looking to see how to combine vintage and Hawaii. I felt both a relief and like a big nimrod for not even knowing about this huge vintage trend.  I knew Tiki was a style but was unaware of it's 1950's roots. Also it feels odd calling it a trend, or a style as it's derived from a whole culture of people, though I am guessing, Tiki as it's known now was only a thing here on the mainland.

What is Tiki? you ask. Island, tropical, colorful and floral, would be the best words to describe Tiki. Everything from the pink umbrella in your Mai Tai, to the wrap dress that is covered with purple flowers.

Custom made Tiki dresses on Etsy

Speaking of dresses since the roots of this vintage trend come at the end of WWII there were three main styles of dress that were popular; the usual circle skirt with a halter, a pencil shaped dress that usually came with a matching bolero, during this craze the sarong was made specifically in Tiki colors and patterns, and one must not forget the ever present playsuit.

Anything and everything really can be made into a Tiki style with the right pattern. Though for vintage authenticity and ease the sarong seems like the best bet. Also it would seem that this is a good look on women with curves and that is a big plus for me. So I have one week to find a cute Sarong that won't break the bank.

Can I do it? You will just have to check back to find out. Till next time lovelies Aloha!

PS. I received some lovely Bakelite and Moonglow that I am in love with and must write about as soon I can figure what is going to become a brooch and what will be another accessory of some kind. So look for that as well.

Surprises oh the Surprises!

I'm Back!

After a lot of illness, technical difficulties, and work, I am glad to say I am back. Well in this interim of yuckiness I have got to learn more about knitting and more about the compassion of my significant other. However, he would blush from here till Tuesday if I gave out details so this doll shall not kiss and tell. His clothes are another story. 

Apparently before he met me he was also into vintage, and still is as far as music, movies etc, that's what was so charming about him in the first place but dressing vintage I had no idea!

 While visiting his family this Thanksgiving week, he was digging out some of his old clothes and he showed me these two vintage pieces, the only remains of his collection. This was all after getting a 50's comb over cut, which I was really happy about but didn't give it a second thought as it's in style, then he tells me he wants to go to the Cicada. The Cicada really requires it's own post, but it's THE vintage night club in Los Angeles. Needless to say this doll is smiling from ear to ear at all these new developments.

 Anyway I deeply digress the shirt to the right is a Mr. California button up, and the one to the left is an unknown long sleeve button up. He said neither cost more than $20 seven years ago at a vintage store. My have the times changed.  

  They are both in traditional 1950's button down "sporty" style.  The short sleeve is burgandy with white trim, pearl buttons and two large breast pockets. While the long sleeve differs a little with no pockets and is more of a "Jacket Shirt" bottom. 

On top of this lovely realization that I may have the pleasure of vintage hunting for someone else too, I was gifted a laptop. You heard me right, gifted, by that amazing gal I took a photo with from my Halloween post . I was so grateful, it brought tears to my eyes. Hopefully now I will be able to post more frequently and better quality stuff in the future.

This dame has a lot to be grateful for that's for sure. Till next time lovelies!