I dream of Halloween all year round, so if you ask me, it's never too soon to start preparing. This is the time of year that the Halloween items start coming out, which I find exciting. Static White of the Etsy Dark Team recently blogged about costumes that you can make yourself using patterns.
Costume themes include:
The Matrix: Unloaded (Neo and Morpheus)
Sherlock Holmes
Van Helsing
Full Metal Alchemist
Uryū Ishida
Victorian travel/driving coats
Interview with the Vampire
Doctor Who
Civil War
Victorian/Steampunk
Firefly
Read the EDT post here:
http://etsydarkteam.blogspot.com/2011/08/costume-ideas-for-seamstress-in-all-of.html
The countdown is on!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Information on Alternative Materials
If you'd like to learn more about alternative materials used in sustainable fashion, read this article by Stephanie Evans: http://greenlivingideas.com/2008/09/07/sustainable-fashions-many-alternative-materials .
Evans explains different options that range from kenaf to material made from recycled plastic. Did you know that it's possible to create textiles from beets? Whether you are a designer or shopper, this is a valuable resource and an interesting read.
The article also mentions working conditions in other countries and the global market.
Don't have the money to spend on new clothes right now? That's okay. The article gives tips on improving what you already own.
Evans explains different options that range from kenaf to material made from recycled plastic. Did you know that it's possible to create textiles from beets? Whether you are a designer or shopper, this is a valuable resource and an interesting read.
The article also mentions working conditions in other countries and the global market.
Don't have the money to spend on new clothes right now? That's okay. The article gives tips on improving what you already own.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Southern Gothic Charm & 70s/80s Vintage
Sultry, demure, and embellished with glitter! Carolyn Lindberg of Killing Moon Vintage is selling this Size Medium 1980s black vintage cocktail dress with sweetheart bust, flared skirt, deep V plunge back, boned bodice, opaque velvet, and burnout velvet. Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/76841833/vintage-80s-bodycon-mesh-burnout-velvet
Here's another one from Killing Moon Vintage. Get this gorgeous 1970s vintage Norman Berg for Denise Fashions jacket here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/76839563/beautiful-vintage-1970s-jacket-norman. It has a ribbon waist sash, lace leaves, and covered buttons in the back that doll it up.
And this is an eclectic, edgy obi-inspired cumberbund belt with Southern Gothic charm. It features black lace, recycled vintage leather, and a skeleton key. bayousalvage is selling this darling here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/54679094/southern-gothic-for-your-waist-or
Friday, August 19, 2011
Secondhand Passion Additions of the Week
Some recent additions for men:
Be the envy of Dorian Gray in this black velvet upcycled blazer with antique white porcelain Bridgeport watch dial pin. The pin features a red vintage cabochon and with a gold-toned watch gear. The watch gear and dial are from the late 1800s or early 1900s. The watch dial shows some signs of age, which gives the pin and jacket an edgy look.
More details:
Brand - Yves Saint Laurent
Size - Approx. Men's M
Length - Approx. 32 inches
Chest - Approx. 38 inches
Sleeves - Approx. 25 inches
2 black marbled plastic buttons in the front
2 roomy pockets in the front plus one smaller one in the front
3 black plastic buttons on either sleeve
2 slits in the back
Jacket condition: excellent
Lined
Professionally dry clean only
Made in France
Just put the jacket on and you'll become the embodiment of decadence and elegance.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/80120927/the-envy-of-dorian-gray-upcycled-yves
This is a short-sleeved button-up collared shirt with unusual details that add subtle eccentricity and undeniable stylishness. It features a diamond-shaped embroidered pattern. There are buttons on the shoulders. It's estimated to be either from the 1970s or 1980s.
More details:
Tag is labeled Size L / 40
Length - Approx. 30 inches (front) and approx. 31 inches (back)
Material - 80% polyester, 20% cotton
Brand - Guayaberas Yucatecas
Made in Mexico
The pin is comprised of an antique glass doll eye from Thuringia, Germany and an ornate solid brass escutcheon that measures approximately 1 3/8 inches wide and 1 inch tall. The pin was assembled using non-toxic silicone glue.
Pair with the "All Eyes on You" fedora (http://www.etsy.com/listing/49754761/all-eyes-on-you-fedora) for double the intrigue.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/80116054/mens-vintage-button-up-shirt-with-eye
Upcycled and ready to rock! This black and white pinstriped Tripp NYC jacket, which is a conglomeration of steampunk, goth, and punk, has been adorned with a black and silver toned cross with grommets and a vintage laundry pin with Tripp NYC handcuffs that came from another Tripp jacket attached to it. The pleather (vinyl) cross pin measures 5 inches x 4.5 inches, and the vintage numbered laundry pin is 2 inches long. The brass laundry pin is embossed with "A 5", and it has a silver toned watch gear from the late 1800s or early 1900s that was added using non-toxic silicone glue. Both pins are removable and can be placed on other parts of the jacket as well so that you can customize as you please. The removable pins also make for easier cleaning.
Other features of the jacket include 3 black plastic buttons and two roomy pockets in the front. There is also a third smaller pocket in the front.
The jacket is a men's size XS (fits chest measurement 33-36 inches). Although it's a men's size, it would also work for ladies (approximately size S/M for women). The sleeves measure approx. 26 inches. The length of the jacket from top to bottom is 27 inches. It's 97% cotton and 3% spandex. It's in excellent condition.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/79784145/tripp-nyc-upcycled-pinstriped-jacket
Be the envy of Dorian Gray in this black velvet upcycled blazer with antique white porcelain Bridgeport watch dial pin. The pin features a red vintage cabochon and with a gold-toned watch gear. The watch gear and dial are from the late 1800s or early 1900s. The watch dial shows some signs of age, which gives the pin and jacket an edgy look.
More details:
Brand - Yves Saint Laurent
Size - Approx. Men's M
Length - Approx. 32 inches
Chest - Approx. 38 inches
Sleeves - Approx. 25 inches
2 black marbled plastic buttons in the front
2 roomy pockets in the front plus one smaller one in the front
3 black plastic buttons on either sleeve
2 slits in the back
Jacket condition: excellent
Lined
Professionally dry clean only
Made in France
Just put the jacket on and you'll become the embodiment of decadence and elegance.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/80120927/the-envy-of-dorian-gray-upcycled-yves
This is a short-sleeved button-up collared shirt with unusual details that add subtle eccentricity and undeniable stylishness. It features a diamond-shaped embroidered pattern. There are buttons on the shoulders. It's estimated to be either from the 1970s or 1980s.
More details:
Tag is labeled Size L / 40
Length - Approx. 30 inches (front) and approx. 31 inches (back)
Material - 80% polyester, 20% cotton
Brand - Guayaberas Yucatecas
Made in Mexico
The pin is comprised of an antique glass doll eye from Thuringia, Germany and an ornate solid brass escutcheon that measures approximately 1 3/8 inches wide and 1 inch tall. The pin was assembled using non-toxic silicone glue.
Pair with the "All Eyes on You" fedora (http://www.etsy.com/listing/49754761/all-eyes-on-you-fedora) for double the intrigue.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/80116054/mens-vintage-button-up-shirt-with-eye
Upcycled and ready to rock! This black and white pinstriped Tripp NYC jacket, which is a conglomeration of steampunk, goth, and punk, has been adorned with a black and silver toned cross with grommets and a vintage laundry pin with Tripp NYC handcuffs that came from another Tripp jacket attached to it. The pleather (vinyl) cross pin measures 5 inches x 4.5 inches, and the vintage numbered laundry pin is 2 inches long. The brass laundry pin is embossed with "A 5", and it has a silver toned watch gear from the late 1800s or early 1900s that was added using non-toxic silicone glue. Both pins are removable and can be placed on other parts of the jacket as well so that you can customize as you please. The removable pins also make for easier cleaning.
Other features of the jacket include 3 black plastic buttons and two roomy pockets in the front. There is also a third smaller pocket in the front.
The jacket is a men's size XS (fits chest measurement 33-36 inches). Although it's a men's size, it would also work for ladies (approximately size S/M for women). The sleeves measure approx. 26 inches. The length of the jacket from top to bottom is 27 inches. It's 97% cotton and 3% spandex. It's in excellent condition.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/79784145/tripp-nyc-upcycled-pinstriped-jacket
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Latest Items in the Secondhand Passion Etsy Shop
My latest additions:
Perfect for the stately gent (or lady)!
The exact age of the black wool vest with satin back is unknown, but it appears to be from the Edwardian Era (1901-1910). The Edwardian Era is also sometimes extended to 1919.
The vest has four covered buttons, two pockets in the front, and an adjustable back with buckle. After being tried on by a few gentlemen who wear clothing sizes ranging from S-L, I would say that it would probably best fit someone who wears a men's size medium, but given the adjustable back, it could accommodate a size small. It fit someone who typically wears sizes M-L, so it could work for the smaller end of size large as well. Unbuckled and lying flat, the length is 26 inches from top to bottom (highest to lowest points) in the front, and in the back, 20 inches.
Other measurements:
chest area - approx. 20 inches in the front (approx. 40 inches total)
stomach area - approx. 20 inches (front side side) / 40 inches (total)
shoulders - 15 1/2 inches (front) / 21 inches total
The vest is in great vintage condition. It shows only minor signs of wear. There is slight staining on the lining, but when worn, it never shows. There is also a slight tear at the top of the vest in the back, but it's hardly noticeable.
It looks fantastic with a pocket watch or chain (not included).
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/79339477/mens-black-stately-antique-vest
"Class It Up"
This purse is classy, elegant, and chic, and although it's from the 1950s-1960s, it's perfect for a lady of today. I could see this working fabulously for an Old Hollywood-inspired outfit, or perhaps even a Steampunk outfit if you're not afraid to mix your eras for a timeless, eclectic outfit.
It features gold-toned metal, floral accents on the metal, and two purple marbled teardrop-shaped vintage cabochons surrounding a circular red cabochon in the center on the front of the purse. The cabochons were affixed to the purse using silicone glue, which is non-toxic. The purse has a beaded texture in addition to black flowers and zigzag pattern. The lining is black, and there is one small pocket inside of the purse.
The purse was found at the Moss Landing Antique Fair without a chain. The purse now has a new chain with an antiqued finish.
Including the chain, from top to bottom, it measures 24 inches. It measures 8 inches across at the widest point.
The purse is in good condition with only minor signs of age, which enhance its character.
Listing here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/79402699/upcycled-class-it-up-1950s-black-floral
Perfect for the stately gent (or lady)!
The exact age of the black wool vest with satin back is unknown, but it appears to be from the Edwardian Era (1901-1910). The Edwardian Era is also sometimes extended to 1919.
The vest has four covered buttons, two pockets in the front, and an adjustable back with buckle. After being tried on by a few gentlemen who wear clothing sizes ranging from S-L, I would say that it would probably best fit someone who wears a men's size medium, but given the adjustable back, it could accommodate a size small. It fit someone who typically wears sizes M-L, so it could work for the smaller end of size large as well. Unbuckled and lying flat, the length is 26 inches from top to bottom (highest to lowest points) in the front, and in the back, 20 inches.
Other measurements:
chest area - approx. 20 inches in the front (approx. 40 inches total)
stomach area - approx. 20 inches (front side side) / 40 inches (total)
shoulders - 15 1/2 inches (front) / 21 inches total
The vest is in great vintage condition. It shows only minor signs of wear. There is slight staining on the lining, but when worn, it never shows. There is also a slight tear at the top of the vest in the back, but it's hardly noticeable.
It looks fantastic with a pocket watch or chain (not included).
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/79339477/mens-black-stately-antique-vest
"Class It Up"
This purse is classy, elegant, and chic, and although it's from the 1950s-1960s, it's perfect for a lady of today. I could see this working fabulously for an Old Hollywood-inspired outfit, or perhaps even a Steampunk outfit if you're not afraid to mix your eras for a timeless, eclectic outfit.
It features gold-toned metal, floral accents on the metal, and two purple marbled teardrop-shaped vintage cabochons surrounding a circular red cabochon in the center on the front of the purse. The cabochons were affixed to the purse using silicone glue, which is non-toxic. The purse has a beaded texture in addition to black flowers and zigzag pattern. The lining is black, and there is one small pocket inside of the purse.
The purse was found at the Moss Landing Antique Fair without a chain. The purse now has a new chain with an antiqued finish.
Including the chain, from top to bottom, it measures 24 inches. It measures 8 inches across at the widest point.
The purse is in good condition with only minor signs of age, which enhance its character.
Listing here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/79402699/upcycled-class-it-up-1950s-black-floral
Color and Eclecticism
Blue Apple Vintage sells a plethora of enthralling vintage wearables. These recently caught my eye:
Up for unique glam? This shimmering blue vintage 1980s Scala India couture is available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/77609516/vintage-80s-bohemian-scala-india-couture
I don't know what draws the eye more than radiant red. This vintage 1920s glass bead necklace is available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/60648468/vintage-20s-red-bohemian-glass-beads
Be intriguing and vivacious in this vintage 1970s bohemian turquoise blue lace mini dress by Indorables of California. The dress is a size large. Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/77486268/vintage-70s-bohemian-indorables-of
Lovely, bohemian, floral, and dramatic. In addition to the vintage 1960s dress, you get a pixie sleeve wrap shirt, too. See the listing here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/70249803/vintage-60s-bohemian-salsa-ruffle-orchid
Up for unique glam? This shimmering blue vintage 1980s Scala India couture is available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/77609516/vintage-80s-bohemian-scala-india-couture
I don't know what draws the eye more than radiant red. This vintage 1920s glass bead necklace is available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/60648468/vintage-20s-red-bohemian-glass-beads
Be intriguing and vivacious in this vintage 1970s bohemian turquoise blue lace mini dress by Indorables of California. The dress is a size large. Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/77486268/vintage-70s-bohemian-indorables-of
Lovely, bohemian, floral, and dramatic. In addition to the vintage 1960s dress, you get a pixie sleeve wrap shirt, too. See the listing here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/70249803/vintage-60s-bohemian-salsa-ruffle-orchid
Friday, August 5, 2011
"Rhymes of an Hour" is Running Through My Mind
I've been on a Mazzy Star kick lately, and "Rhymes of an Hour" is the song of the moment for me these days. This blog post is dedicated to country life.
For a country-themed look, check out littleleaguevintage's items, which are currently for sale on Etsy:
This dress is 100 percent cotton and very comfortable looking. The brand is American Laundry, and the dress is in perfect condition. See the listing for measurements and further details here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/76171482/country-girl-denim-dress.
And this is an adorable denim babydoll dress that will fit someone who wears a size XS/S. It's also 100 percent cotton. Listing and details: http://www.etsy.com/listing/71620473/denim-babydoll-dress
This rose print scarf would work marvelously with either denim dress. Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/72937481/vintage-indian-rose-print-scarf
These aren't wearable, but as a photography enthusiast, I couldn't resist. They're both stunning and hauntingly beautiful. Take a look at these:
This fine-art photo print by Randall K. Roberts is available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/60305979/rustic-scene-of-victorian-house
And this photograph of a white barn by Sue of firstlightphoto is for sell here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/68966255/white-barn-in-winter
For a country-themed look, check out littleleaguevintage's items, which are currently for sale on Etsy:
This dress is 100 percent cotton and very comfortable looking. The brand is American Laundry, and the dress is in perfect condition. See the listing for measurements and further details here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/76171482/country-girl-denim-dress.
And this is an adorable denim babydoll dress that will fit someone who wears a size XS/S. It's also 100 percent cotton. Listing and details: http://www.etsy.com/listing/71620473/denim-babydoll-dress
This rose print scarf would work marvelously with either denim dress. Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/72937481/vintage-indian-rose-print-scarf These aren't wearable, but as a photography enthusiast, I couldn't resist. They're both stunning and hauntingly beautiful. Take a look at these:
This fine-art photo print by Randall K. Roberts is available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/60305979/rustic-scene-of-victorian-house
And this photograph of a white barn by Sue of firstlightphoto is for sell here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/68966255/white-barn-in-winter
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