Vintage Style for a Vacation Getaway

I am so honored to introduce Sammy of Sammy Davis Vintage! No one lives, breathes, and loves vintage like Sammy. I’m constantly inspired by her ability to make pieces from every decade fashion forward. Thank you Sammy for sharing your love of vintage and killer style on Wore Out!To honor Caitlin’s bon voyage to her warm weather getaway, I wanted to share a few of my favorite vacation-worthy pieces from NYC boutique ALittleWicked, where I style women in drool-worthy vintage and spread my brand’s motto “to spread vintage love!”

While other stores are still selling sweaters, we take cues from designer “resort collections” and come the New Year, stock our racks with stylish spring and summer pieces for vacationing fashionistas. Funky floral print rompers in January? Yes, please!

 My mission is to make vintagestyle more accessible to the contemporary woman — that means you! I know that every lady has a vintage lover deep inside her. So take a peek at these 5 awesome vintage pieces perfect to pack for a happy holiday, and some jaw-dropping vintage accessories you may just want to wear right now!

xx, SDCan you believe this coral wrap dress is from the ‘80s? I could hardly believe it, either … until I saw the shoulder pads!

 Thankfully, a trusty pair of scissors can snip those bad boys out. As for the wrap dress? I don’t want to remove her sexy silk from my body … ever

This dress is an example of how eras-do-eras. The ‘80s was notorious for taking design cues from the ‘40s and ‘50s. This dress has the hourglass cut of a ‘50s house dress, but designed with some crazy color and print!

I think warm weather is the best time to experiment with one-of-a-kind pieces. The weather is so fun and free. So why not suit your style to match?

The more mini a dress is, the more marvelous I feel … and this dress does just that, and more!

 I predict the maxi is on its way out for spring/summer style. The influence of 1920s fashion had hems rising on the runways. So pull out those scissors, sisters and cut those floor-length dresses down!

 When the skirt is short, however, be wary of when and where its worn. Hide a pair of hot pants below for extra security, and watch where the wind blows as you stroll the beach!

I don’t just love — but lust! — after this dress! Until I met this lovely lady, I’d never seen roses printed on a white base, and thanks to this light coloring the look is clean and chic.

 I definitely would want to wear her over a candlelight dinner with my sweetie. Where’s my island lover?!

My favorite thing to wear in the summer is a romper just like this! It’s fitted to accentuate my waist, and the shorts and spaghetti straps give it a modern edge. It looks like it just came off the racks of Urban Outfitters!

Rompers are great pieces for beachside or poolside lounging. You’re covered up without feeling stifled and sweaty.

 (left to right)

 1, 2, 3 / Add color without style shock with a vintage southwest design bag. Their ethnic-inspired geometric designs and unique shapes are enough statement to last all spring and summer long.

4, 5, 6 / These Peruvian belts are handwoven by a village’s women, who create these one-of-a-kind pieces thanks to a secretive art protected over generations from leaking out to “the western world.”

7, 8, 9 / Hardware isn’t just for shoes and bags. These silver and beaded necklaces are just the bling you need to stand out in your bikini — just watch those tan lines! 

Very Vintage

Sunnies: Greece, Faux Fur Scarf: Gifted, Blazer: Originally my mom’s, Sweater: Forever 21, Suede Wrap Skirt: Synagogue Thrift/Charity Shop, Tights: The Sox Market, Boots: Mia Via 6pmIt feels so bizarre being able to see grass in January, this time last year I was frantically calling D to dig me out of my house (there was a 6 foot snow drift pressing against my kitchen door when I got up to go to work, it wasn’t pretty.)

My friend Carolyn introduced me to a wonderful thrift store behind a local synagogue and it’s less than a 10 minute walk from my house! I’ve had some serious luck there and almost died of jealousy when Caro found a gorgeous wool cape with fur trim, that of course looks perfect on her.

While I’m still jealous of Caro’s cape I’ve had some luck of my own at this gem of a thrift store. I scored this purple suede wrap skirt for a dollar! I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw it nestled between a pair of pajama jeans and a flannel bathrobe on the dollar rack! I guess it’s just more proof that one lady’s cast offs are this lady’s treasures. Bottom line, it was a dollar well spent and I’m having a lot of fun styling my new skirt.

What recent fashion finds have your heart all a flutter?

Wore Out’s Look of the Week

I can’t believe Thanksgiving is right around the corner, when did this happen? I’m already feeling the Christmas anxiety setting in!

One of my favorite ways to quell holiday anxiety is to curl up on the couch and catch up on my favorite blogs. One blog that always warms my heart and inspires my wardrobe is none other than Wore Out’s look of the week…

Lora from Madam DonutThis broad has serious style (and I have a serious style crush)! Outfit after outfit Lora’s looks inspire me to see the pieces hanging in my closet in a totally different, stylish new light. She’s an expert when it comes to layering and making unexpected colors, textures and patterns work together in fashionista harmony.

The vibrant vintage dress she’s wearing is perfect with her fun pattern tights and vintage cardigan. In fact she added the fur collar to the cardigan herself! I think what draws me most to Lora’s style is that her style seems effortless and fluid. Each piece fits together perfectly creating a finished look that is both stylish and surprising.

I mean what else is there to say? She’s got an amazing eye for fashion and an unmatched penchant for donuts; pretty much she’s the coolest chic around. So make sure you stop by her blog often for inspiration, witty commentary and stunning vintage pieces.

What bloggers/blogs have inspired you lately?

Wore Out’s Look of the Week

It’s Friday again and I couldn’t be happier! This weekend D and I were careful not to make any plans. We wanted to enjoy some down time with each other and get a few things done around the house before the winter weather really sets in. One plan we did make, pumpkin carving! I’m so excited because this year we live in a much more residential area and we’re going to get lots of trick or treaters!

I’m not the only one with pumpkin carving plans. Not only is this Floridian a pumpkin carving enthusiast but her sartorial style and love of vintage make her Wore Out’s Look of the Week…

Steffy of Steffy’s Pros and Cons!Not many Floridian’s can pull off fall fashion so effortlessly but Steffy’s casual chic approach to cooler temperatures hits all the right notes.

Steffy was one of the first bloggers I started to follow after I launched Wore Out and her style and effortless looks constantly inspire me to get outside my comfort zone.

The color/print of Steffy’s sweater really pop but my eye is drawn to her perfectly selected accessories. The Diane Keton-esqe felt topper, neutral wedges and great leather bag Steffy selected tie everything together perfectly while keeping with the fall theme.

The thing that I find most inspiring about Steffy’s Pros and Cons is her imagination when it comes to putting outfits together. She has a way of transforming thrifted pieces into perfectly put together on trend looks. Steffy’s online store, Tea and Tulips, is full of quality pieces she’s thrifted and the perfect way to steal a bit of her effortless style. I love how Steffy styles each piece she lists, so you the shopper can be inspired by her killer style.

So do yourself a favor pop on by Steffy’s blog and then head over to her store and shop her closet. Don’t worry, you can thank me later.

What are your weekend plans? What do you think of Steffy’s fall look?

Dress-up Downtown

Top: Florence, Italy, Gold Belt: Battery St Jeans, Skirt: Downtown Threads, Heels: Michael Antonio (via Endless), Earrings: Gifted, Ring: Northern Lights

I stopped by Downtown Threads after work yesterday to check out their new fall inventory (SO many ah-mazing sweaters) and to see how they were preparing for Burlington’s Fashion’s Night Out festivities. Thursday, September 8 from 6-9pm Burlington’s most fashion forward retailers will celebrate one of fashion’s biggest nights with fashion shows, exclusive discounts, giveaways, makeovers and more!

I suggest visiting Fashion’s Night Out – Burlington facebook page and reading up on all the exciting activities taking place. Than grab you favorite shopping companions and head downtown to take advantage of some seriously stylish savings. A $5 donation to the Red Cross in support of those affected by Tropical Storm Irene gets you 20% off your entire purchase, free nail art and more at Downtown Threads. Oh yeah and I’ll be there too so come say hi! I’d love to shop with you!

…speaking of shopping, if D asks I’m just browsing…I put a few things on hold yesterday while I was at Downtown Threads including the vintage hippo sweater I’m holding in the picture above. Part of me is screaming, “it’s too cute to past up!” While another much smaller part of me is saying, “be practical, when would you ever wear this?”

Are you participating in Fashion’s Night Out? What are your thoughts the hippo sweater? Should I buy it?

Zebras and Champagne

Top: Charlotte Ruse (via Burlington Clothes Swap), Belt: Forever 21,

Skirt: Vintage via Downtown Threads, Rings: Gifted & H&M, Heels: ALDOI’m not sure if zebras actually enjoy champagne but pairing a shimmery zebra striped top with a vintage champagne midi skirt seemed totally natural. I was worried that I would look too… tacky Vegas when I added my black sequin belt but I think everything came together in a perfectly understated sparkly kind of way.

To balance out the glitter and shimmer I wanted a bold but simple shoe and these ALDO pumps fit the bill perfectly. The coral heels worked well with the skirt’s neutral tone but also made the top’s print pop, highlighting the whole outfit successfully. I also wear higher heels with midi length skirts because the added height helps to slim and streamline the calf and ankle area. The midi skirt and stiletto combination always makes me feel just a little bit glam and that’s never a bad thing!

What shoes would you have paired with this look? What makes you feel glamorous?

Troop Leader Pleats

Sunnies: Greece, Earrings: Antique Store in Maine,

Top: H&M (via Clothes Exchange), Belt: came with another dress,

Skirt: The Clothes Line, Wedges: Vintage (via my Mom)

It feels SO good to get back to blogging, I’ve missed posting so much! Thanks for sticking around while I got my life apartment in order. I promise lots of fun and exciting posts are on their way now that my blogging schedule is back on track! Fingers crossed we should have internet and cable all set up by the 16th so I can blog from the comfort of our new couch!

I bought this skirt over the weekend at The Clothes Line, a great vintage store in Burlington, and I couldn’t wait to wear it. The color of the skirt and pleating remind me of something that a 60’s girl scout troop leader would wear; and I mean that in a totally great way.

We’re in the midst of a heat wave (85+ for 3 or more days is a heat wave in Vermont people) so I opted to keep my look simple and cool with a breezy white blouse and fun woven belt. Even though I’m in love with my new skirt I have to admit that my favorite piece of this outfit has to be my wedges. My mom bought these wedges during her first visit to Italy and passed them down to me shortly after my return from Italy. They fit like a dream and are one of my most treasured pieces in my closet.

What’s the best hand me down you’ve received? What outfits help you keep cool in the summer months?

Wore Out’s Look of the Week

Please excuse my absence these last few days, I forgot how hectic moving is! D and I are all moved in to our new place and this weekend we have grand plans of unpacking (with a trip to the farmers market and dinner with friends mixed in!)

I’ve still be taking outfit pictures and I have a lot to share with you all so bare with me as I get settled and I promise to return to my regular posting schedule as soon as humanly possible… ie when we get the internet hooked up at the new place.

Enough about me though…

I am thrilled to announce that Wore Out’s Look of the Week goes to Hannah of Heart City Vintage! The title Hannah choose for this look says it all, “Sparkle Power.” Girl, you had me at sparkle. I love everything about this look. It shows just how easy it is to dress up a pair of cutoffs and make a show stopping top a bit more casual. Hannah’s sparkly vintage top is what dreams are made of and doesn’t it just look amazing with her red hair!? I can only imagine the parties this top has seen. Can’t you just picture a 60’s vixen rocking this top with a pair of black hot pants at Studio 64 or the roller disco?

Not only does Hannah blog but she also curates a wonderful etsy shop (where this amazing top is for sale!) Hannah’s looks are a constant source of inspiration and her style is effortless. Don’t miss out,  stop by Heart City Vintage and check it out for yourself!

Downtime at Downtown Threads

Happy Memorial Day!

Hat: Vintage (via Downtown Threads), Blouse: H&M (via Clothes Exchange), Brown Tank: Old Navy, Belt: Goodwill, Jeans: Consignment Shop in Philly, Wedges: Target, Watch: Gifted, Bangles: Vintage & Gifted, Ring: Gilt

D and I are moving into our new place on June 1st so packing, planning and cleaning has started to consume our lives. I stopped into Downtown Threads for some retail therapy and James was snapped these photos for me. While I was there I also picked up two amazing skirts (both of which I can’t wait to share with you)!

Even though it’s been hot and humid these past few days I’m still sporting layers. Since my white linen top is basically sheer I layered a dark brown cami underneath. Having the cami not only protected my modesty but it also perfectly offset the browns of my accessories.

I was comfortable and cool in this outfit and the hat kept the sun off of my face for the most part. I can already tell that this hat is going to become one of my favorites. The brim looks like it’s been cut down so I think it used to be a much broader but the smaller size and shape suit me just fine!

Do you wear layers in the warmer weather? What are your holiday plans?

Twirling Dervish

Sunnies: H&M, Necklace: Forever 21, Top: Thrifted in Italy, Belt: Target, Skirt: Vintage (via Downtown Threads), Boots: Vintage (via Old Gold)

Please tell me I’m not the only one who has the uncontrollable urge to curtsey when wearing perfectly pleated summery skirts.

Maybe it’s all the sunshine Burlington has been getting (or all the cold meds I’ve been taking) but as soon as I put this skirt on I felt like twirling! I bought it a few months ago during one of my retail therapy session at Downtown Threads and I’ve been anxiously patiently waiting for the perfect sunny day to wear it! I’m usually not much for pastels but when I saw this skirt hanging up I knew I had to have it and for $10 how could I resist?

Ever since I bought it I keep pulling this skirt out of the closet and staring at it. Something about the colors and pattern are so familiar to me but I just can’t place them. I remember this skirt but I just don’t know from where, so frustrating! It seems as though I’m having a serious case of fashion déjà vu!

All mystery aside I had trouble styling this skirt. I wasn’t sure if I should pair it with wedges and a girly silk top or channel the vintage vibe with flats and a cute blazer. In the end I just walked into my closet, grabbed an arm load full of options and proceeded to try everything on at least twice before I found a look that felt right. I go through this process at least twice a week… or anytime that I don’t plan my outfit out before hand. This process lets me see all my options and then slowly helps me focus and refine my overall idea. Yes, it’s messy and time-consuming but it works for me so I’m sticking too it!

Have you ever had fashion déjà vu? Do you have a routine/process that you rely on when you’re styling a new piece or outfit?