October 15, 2015

New clothes and old habits





Outfit details

C. 1950s brown felt hat with wooden toggle: Purchased from a fellow vintage blogger
Faux pearl stud earrings: Claire’s
Mustard yellow button front shirt: Thrifted (originally from Ricki's)
Pearl necklace: Birthday gift from Tony ♥
Burgundy cardigan: Mexx
C. 1950s/1960s brown wooden circle brooch: Thrifted
Faux pearl stretch bracelets: Super store
Burgundy plastic beaded stretch bracelet: Thrifted (Value Village)
1950s/1960s mustard yellow and pink paisley circle skirt: Red Light Vintage
Lace trimmed white crinoline (not visible): Petticoat Style
1950s taupe gloves: Unknown, had for years (probably eBay)
C. 1970s - 80s wooden beaded handbag: Thrifted (Value Village)
Nude seamed nude stockings: eBay
Burgundy faux suede pumps: Payless
Lip colour: MAC Party Line

Photography by Tony Cangiano
 

































































Before launching into today's post, I must give credit to Tony, whose photography skills shone especially brightly on the day these images were taken. You might not sense if fully from the photos here, but the wind and light that day were flat out bonkers! This shoot now ranks amongst the top three windiest we've ever done and the light was the sort where it changes ever few seconds. Even with this potential impediments from Mother Nature in place, Tony still managed to capture a slew of beautiful photos and I sincerely thank him for that.

Occasionally over the years I've spoken here - and on YouTube - about the fact that I have rather bad teeth. They're massive crowded and crocked (some of which is hidden by my lips, especially on the bottom row), unattractive looking, and four back ones are missing (pulled in my youth because things like root canals could not be afforded). I was teased mercilessly throughout school because of them, know for a fact that they didn't help my dating life when I was single, and continue to feel the various negative ways in which they impact me to this day.

I'm not here to delve into all that again really (and certainly am not pitying myself), but it warrants saying because today, for only the second time ever (as far as I can recall) in my blog's 6.5 years of life, I am not only showing you my teeth (or at least how they look when I try to smile with them showing - I say "try" because I genuinely don't know how to naturally smile with them flashing, as I have spent my whole life trying to cover them up as much as possible, including by usually smiling with my lips closed), but doing so intentionally.

It struck me a while ago that I was already doing just this on YouTube when I speak there, so why keep my mouth closed on camera, too? Why? There are so many reasons for me, some of which I've just touched on, but ultimately, I have accepted this is who I am and how I look. I hope with every fiber of my being to have the financial means to give my mouth a serious overhaul one day, but thus far in my 31 years of life that that hasn't been possible (and likely won’t be for a while to come still).

The older I get, the more I continue to work on building my self-confidence and making peace with the present. As such, I wanted to be brave and smile with my teeth showing in this shoot - and who knows - perhaps in other photos as time goes on as well. Is it a beautiful smile? Goodness, no, but it's the only one I've got and that certainly counts for something.

Now, on to the new - clothes that is!!! Though not intentionally planned, it occurred to me as I was sorting through these photos that vast majority of what I'm wearing in them has been purchased throughout 2015.

This gorgeous 1950s/1960s mustard yellow, pink and burgundy circle skirt is the most recent acquisition, picked up from Etsy seller Red Light Vintage during a recent sale in that shop. The colours in it are amongst my favourite ever and I knew that my first outfit featuring this skirt needed to pull from them.

The yellow button front shirt (which is sleeveless and great for spring - early fall) was a thrifted find back around the start of July. The delightful little 50s felt pillbox-esque hat was purchased a few months ago from a fellow vintage blogger, and the shoes were bought new from Payless this past August (I'd wanted a classic pair of pumps in burgundy for...well...ever! And was elated to score these this year).

The other elements of this ensemble - the jewelry, gloves, beaded handbag, stockings, and burgundy cardigan are all older, but no less important to the over all look here and I must say, I just adore how this colour palette came together. It is so rich, feminine, and ideally suited to the very month that we're in: October.





We took these (very wind blown!) snaps on one of our favourite streets in (the nearby city of) Kelowna, which happens to have some historic homes on it, so naturally I couldn't help but pose in front of one of the most beautiful. This elegant abode is called the J.W. Jones House and is currently used by a law office. Isn't it a stunner? The wrap around front porch slays me every time I see it.

It's great when new and old can collide like that to create something wonderful like this outfit - or, in the case of my teeth, help one continue to grow and better accept themselves, even when doing so is quite the personal challenge.

So while you might not see me flashing my crocked pearly whites in every photos shoot hence forth, don't be surprised if they pop up every now and then. Old habits - like not smiling with them showing - might die hard, but they can indeed be laid to rest and it is my sincere hope that this post will help me do just that when it comes working up the nerve to smile in front of the lens.

101 comments:

  1. Jessica, I'm so proud of you!! I am so, so, so impressed that you plucked up the courage to smile with your teeth. I know exactly how much of a big deal that feels when you've spent years trying not to do that - that one sentence where you said that resonated with me completely; I also don't know how to do this naturally either! It's something I've become really conscious of in just the last fortnight, too, as now that my teeth are straight (at last) and today is the LAST DAY of wearing my braces (!!), and I'm halfway through my 2-week whitening programme, I have no reason not to do this for my blog photos anymore. But every time I try, I look like I'm in pain and it's just because I have no idea how to smile like that!

    Anyway, for what it's worth, the first thing I thought on seeing the first picture above is how beautiful you look - I think, like me, you've probably spent years imagining how your teeth look to others and yet it's not how anyone else on the planet sees them. Other people - who aren't schoolchildren! - are your best judge now and you look beautiful to me.

    I haven't even said anything about your outfit, but the colours, as always, are great. It goes fab with your smile :) xx

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    1. My sweet friend, it is a comfort to know that I am not alone on that front, though it pains me that you have also had to endure years of a smile that you loathed. May we both continue to learn how to smile for all the world to see and to have nary a speck of self-consciousness is doing so.

      I truly appreciate your wonderfully kind comment and am elated that you were able to correct your teeth. I hope to high heaven that I can say the same one day (these photos don't capture the whole extent of the situation going on in my mouth; my own teeth are beyond any real help from braces and if I'm to keep my real choppers and have an attractive smile, it will involve major veneer work).

      Thank you, too, for the important reminder that most adults wouldn't be cruel enough to say anything. Though I have encountered such before, luckily it is a rarity, especially now that I'm quite a few years out of childhood/teenagehood.

      Every last word that you said, and your own immense understanding here, means the world to me.

      Huge hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  2. Jessica, I am só proud of you! You go girl, you are a BEAUTIFUL woman with or without teeth showing.

    I know what a step this must have been for you, as I have always been insecure about my teeth. I have the so-called 'rabbit teeth', plus an upperlip that's a little too short to properly close my mouth which emphazises my 'rabbit' teeth.

    I've had my fair share of people calling me a rabbit, or acting like a rabbit in front of me. Even to this day I am still aware of my mouth while I talk and that makes it that I talk softly, shy-ly and that I mumble a bit. But every day again I try not to.

    Again: I am so proud of you - and you are beautiful. Also: your outfit is so stylish, as ever.

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    1. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, dear Lindsay. I'm so sorry that you have issues with your own teeth. It is hard for those who are blessed to be spared from such to "get" just how much unattractive/damaged/missing/etc teeth eat away at the self-conscious and personal perception (of their own appearance or even worth) of those who are afflicted by such.

      In real life (aka, not on YouTube, which is a very private thing in the moment when I'm filming it at least), I do the same thing, too. I am shy and talk quietly. I try to curl my top lip over my upper teeth. I cover my mouth, cute Japanese lady style, if I laugh, and I almost never smile with my teeth showing, even around my closest family members.

      I'm so sorry that people have teased you, too, and admire you so much for trying to not feel like you need to hide your teeth so much. I too am working on that, as this post demonstrates and hope I can make more progress as time goes on. Let's both cheer one another's efforts and know that we can always talk to each other, if needed, about this immensely personal subject.

      Giant hugs & endless understanding,
      ♥ Jessica

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  3. Despite having a retainer when I was a kid, I still have crooked teeth and I know how you feel. While looking at these photos, I thought you looked adorable and never noticed your teeth. In fact, I was admiring your smile. I was made fun off too as a kid for having crooked teeth. *hugs*

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    1. Thank you so much across the board, dear Sylvie. I'm deeply sorry that you've endured harassment and teasing due to your teeth as well. It just cuts at one's soul to be bullied for something that you, at least as a child, were powerless to do anything about it. I hope with all my heart that no one says a peep to you about your teeth now. I do get the odd cruel comment to this day, but thankfully they're not very common any more.

      Tons of hugs & total understanding,
      ♥ Jessica

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  4. Good for you! You are a beautiful person inside and out. Smile away! Very nice outfit, love the colors.

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    1. Thank you so much, sweet April. I love, and really appreciate, your encouragement.

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  5. Thank you so much Jessica for sharing this part of yourself today:) I am really loving this ensemble! The colors are so charming!!!!
    -Madison
    www.1minniemuse.blogspot.com

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    1. Thank you across the board, dear Madison. I am smitten with the colours in this outfit, too. They're some of my favourite ever and they capture the soul of autumn to a tee!

      Big hugs & joyful weekend wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  6. I think you and this outfit look stunning! I like how you've stepped away from the browns and oranges I associate with fall into a whole different fall colour palette. You've got me thinking!

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    1. That's an awesome thing to hear, sweet Debra. Thank you very much!!!

      Have a marvelous, fun filled weekend!
      ♥ Jessica

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  7. I think you're beautiful! I love your pretty smile and your vintage clothing. Don't let others comments bother you, it's not worth it.

    Alice

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    1. That is very wise advice, Alice. Thank you so much. The older I get, the easier it becomes to let negative comments/insults tear at my soul, be they about my teeth or anything else. Certainly one of the perks of aging!

      Many thanks again & have a fantastic weekend,
      ♥ Jessica

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  8. Jessica, you have a lot to smile about and who cares what any mean person will say? A beaming smile, filled with happiness and love, is one of the most precious things in the world. It doesn't matter if you have perfect teeth or not, your smile lights up the room! So keep smiling, darling gal! Life's no fun when everything is perfect, so embrace the imperfections and have fun with them.

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    1. That is such a smart, beautiful way to look at things, sweet Franny. Thank you so much for the valuable reminder and for being such an upbeat, awesome friend. I cherish you!!!

      Huge hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  9. No need to worry about your teeth. Your smile is so radiant I didn't even notice something odd.
    Love the color of your lipstick!

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    1. Thank you very much, dear Liz. I adore this lipstick colour, too. I started wearing it around the beginning of summer for the first time and I must say, it's now going neck-in-neck with my beloved Russian Red for my most frequently sported shade of lipstick. I love that, much like red, it goes with a plethora of outfits all year round, plus it has a really nice consistency and depth of colour.

      Wishing you a fantastic weekend!
      ♥ Jessica

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  10. Beautiful shoot and wardrobe - I would have never guessed it was a windy day.
    I recall that Ally from Shybiker pointed me to your blog a while back on a post where I talked about my ongoing alopesia. Now that I have been reading you for so long, I see that we have more in common: bad teeth. Half of mine are still milk teeth, which means they are super fragile, need constant supervision, I am more prone to cavities and some of them are actually see through.- I have dreams of them falling off.. I must admit that I hold back on smiling a big wide genuine smile because of that. I think you are such a transparent being that Tony is very lucky to have met you and wise enough to marry you !

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    1. Sweet Lorena, I'm sincerely and deeply sorry that you have had to face a lifetime of issues with your teeth as well (and also that you have serious hair loss, too). It is a very challenging card to be handed from the universe and one that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. I truly appreciate you sharing such an intimate fact about yourself with me. I'm sure that your smile is beautiful - it would be impossible for one coming from some as sweet, friendly and fantastic as you not to be, no matter the state of your teeth.

      Giant hugs & endless understanding,
      ♥ Jessica

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  11. Please do. I love your smile, as I've told you before, dear. I don't like perfect, but I do love your natural smile. Perhaps you could put aside the money you earn from your Etsy to save for a dentist? This is a fabulous autumn look. That circle skirt is divine and I love that you have paired it with a mustard shirt and that your cardi and lipstick matches perfectly. And you look so happy in the photos, do tell Tony that he really brings the best in you to us. Lovely all the way. XOXO

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    1. Hi sweet Sanne, you have always been so supportive and encouraging to me when it comes to my teeth (and in countless other areas of my life). Thank you so very much. It's not possible for me to save (from any source) for my teeth at this point in my life (other more pressing finical matters have to take precedence), but I hope to no end that it will be one day and who knows, maybe my Etsy shop can help on that front. It would feel extremely rewarding if such was the case.

      I will tell him right now. Thank you for that awesome compliment!

      Huge hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  12. We all have stuff we're sensitive about (for me, it's my skin), and it takes a lot of courage to be real about it on a blog. Way to be brave! Not to mention, looking awesome at the same time!

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    1. Thank you so much, my dear friend. I truly admire you for putting yourself out there, too, even though you have certain points that you're sensitive about, and think that you are an utterly gorgeous person inside and out.

      Big hugs & happy weekend wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  13. Oh Jessica, this post made me tear up a little! I remember the first time I came across your blog--gosh, it's been a few years now, I think!--and saw your photo; I thought you were so beautiful! And I still think so, not least of all because it quickly became apparent to me, even as a new reader, that you possess a wonderful heart and true, undeniable inner beauty as well. And your teeth do not change any of that: in fact, the first photo in this post is my very favorite of all (kudos to Tony, because I would never have guessed that the weather was so difficult by looking at this series)!

    I can, in a very small way, appreciate how hard it can be to accept something that you wish were different or that makes you feel self-conscious (I understand all too well how impossible it is to truly "hide" one's teeth 100% of the time, no matter how much one wishes it were different), and I applaud you for working so hard to stay true to yourself and keep moving forward, whether it's on Youtube or in a few photos here and there for this blog. Your teeth are part of you, and there are a lot of us out here who adore the incredible person we have come to know through this blog--from her perfectly-perched hair accessories down to her beautifully-coordinated footwear, and everything in between. <3

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    1. Sweet lady, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your truly beautiful and incredibly touching comment. I think that as bloggers it can be easy sometimes forget that as we've been presenting ourselves to the world through our own eyes and words, others have been interpreting and getting to know us through their's. Your comment reminded me of that important point and moved me, hand on my heart, to tears in the process.

      Endless hugs & grateful thanks,
      ♥ Jessica

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  14. You have a lovely smile and it made me happy to see you post these photos. I have self confidence issues as well and it is hard to put yourself out there. You never know who is reading that needs to see someone else being brave, so thank you for being willing to open up. <3

    The outfit is beautiful as well. I really love the shoes.

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    1. Wonderful - and very wise - point, my sweet friend. Only a mere fraction of those who read our blogs leave comments and we just never know whose life we might be impacting (hopefully for the better!) with our written words. Thank you for reminding me of that fact and for your caring understanding.

      Giant hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  15. That color scheme is fabulous! I love mustard paired with cranberry, navy blue, red, black, and any other color I can pair it with! I adore that skirt.

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    1. Mustard is such an incredible colour. I rediscovered wearing it about four years ago now and have been thoroughly hooked ever since. It's in my top ten favourite colours and will forever have a place in my closet (have you tried it with royal blue? The two are ahhhmaaaazzzing together!).

      Big hugs & happy weekend wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  16. Beautiful Jessica, before I even read your blog entry, I planned to comment on the fact that you are finally showing your smile! You need never worry about your not-perfect teeth.....you are truly lovely, and your smile is lovely to see. Keep on showing them! Oh, and your outfit is gorgeous, too!

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    1. Thank you deeply, Marjorie. I appreciate your beautiful feedback and encouragement a great deal and do indeed plan, at least some of the time, to flash my less-than-perfect pearly whites here. It's quite liberating to do so at long last!

      Many hugs & joyful weekend wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  17. I can relate to your feelings about your teeth as I went through the same thing when I was younger. I always had overcrowded teeth to the point that my top canines stuck out like 'fangs'. As a teenager I had braces but it didn't correct the problem. I was always hassled about my teeth when I was a model, by friends, and by family, and I too developed the habit of not smiling. As an adult I got braces again and boy was that a painful experience. I required two more extractions that left me with TOO MUCH space. After the braces came off I had to get bonding to cover the space between my teeth. I am not sorry I got the work done, but I never wear my retainer because I purposely wanted to regain some of my original 'character'. My teeth are better than they were but not perfect and I prefer it that way. After many years of not smiling (for other reasons than my crooked teeth) I learned to appreciate the moments I smiled. So by all means, smile wide and bright if you have cause to do so and forget the teeth. Smiles are beautiful and rare in this life, enjoy and express your happiness to the full.

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    1. Hi Tanya, thank you very much for your comment and for speaking so very candidly about what you've battled when it comes to your own teeth. I am deeply sorry that you've had to walk a similar path and that trying to improve the situation has been anything but a walk in the park. Braces are awesome and help countless people, but not all of us as in the slightest and I really appreciate you sharing that neither of your experiences with them were ideal. I've always been told (by double digits worth of dentists and orthodontists) that my teeth are far beyond what braces could do much for and I fully believe that to be the case. Implants (for the missing ones) and veneers will be my only hope (assuming I didn't reach a point of needing dentures) of a beautiful smile, and as you know, such are not cheap at all. One day, I hope and pray, but if not, I'll just do keep working at trying to make as much peace as I can with this mess of a mouth of mine.

      Thank you again. I sincerely appreciate your comment and knowing that you can relate through and through to my situation.

      Giant hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  18. Dear Jessica, how I adore your blog and have been following for some time, but never commented. I want to say I understand how you feel about showing your teeth, mine are truly dreadful. I never really smile on my blog, and have a tendency to look a right sulky mare instead. I think you look utterly beautiful, you are so lucky to have someone who clearly adores you. Both you and your blog are truly inspiring, please accept my thanks for giving a piece of yourself to help others. Xx

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    1. Hi Emily, thank you very much for your first ever comment here. I can't begin to tell you how touched I am that you opted to do so on this post and to share about your own teeth struggles with me. I'm wholeheartedly sorry that you've battled a negative dental situation throughout your life, too. It is such an unpleasant problem to be straddled with, especially if you simply don't have the means to do anything about it. I hope that one day we both be able to have our teeth fixed and smile from ear-to-ear with out a speck of self-consciousness for all the world to see.

      Giant hugs & the utmost of understanding,
      ♥ Jessica

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  19. I follow you on IG and was looking at your blog when I read this post and had to comment. I have had similar issues with my teeth my whole life and learned to smile with my mouth closed. In the six years I've been blogging there has been one or maybe 2 photos of me with my mouth open but only after a bit of Photoshop to hide the worst of it. I tried to get them fixed in my 30's but couldn't afford the braces I would need so they will stay this way. At least they are strong and don't have many cavities but I am acutely conscious of them when speaking. Few kids today will know what it's like to be an adult with crooked teeth.

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    1. Hi Shelley, thank you very much for your understanding comment and for sharing about your own very serious dental struggles. I'm so sorry that you've had to deal with bad teeth as well. It is such a challenging thing to contend with, as they're an integral, very hard to hide/disguise part of so much of what we do each and every day of our lives.

      I hope with all my heart that we're both able to get the dental work that we so desperately need carried out one day. I'll need implants and veneers myself, as braces would scarcely do much at all (I've been told this by many dentists and orthodontists over the years), which will likely run me between $10,000 - $15,000. A huge chunk of change, but one I hope with all my heart I can finally afford some day. I'm sure it feel like the best money I've ever spent.

      Huge hugs & endless understanding,
      ♥ Jessica

      *PS* On a lighter note, what is your IG account? I want to make sure I'm following you there, too.

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  20. Glad to see your smile!! my teeth in high school were atrocious, I got braces after I graduated and my bottom teeth have since reverted back to their crocked ways... I feel teeth are something you as a person fret about but other do not notice/judge you on. I personally have found trying to hind something makes it more noticeable I hope to see your gorgeous smile and teeth more on the blog:) also I love that hat! I always look for and try on hats when I see your posts!

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    1. That's a very perceptive and wise point, my dear friend. I wish someone would have reminded me of such back when I started blogging - and earlier in life in general. Fortunately I don't get many cruel comments about my teeth any more and those that I do rarely hit me the way the bullying about them in school did. I might not smile with my teeth in every post going forward from here, but I feel a lot more comfortable doing so after the overwhelming show of support and understanding that flooded in on this post.

      Thank you immensely. I'm very touched that you shared about your own struggles with me and am sure your smile is gorgeous.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  21. I was I was going to comment on this post anyway because I adore both your hat and your skirt, that type of hat looks so good on you and I thought the skirt was really special, but when you mentioned teeth! I have shared before I have very similar issues, if anything I would think my teeth might be worse. I am screwing up the courage to get a consultation about them. In a way I think it is a shame that the world is so superficial we feel this way. I will keep you posted! Anyhow, know you look great. You excel at autumn colour palette dressing!

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    1. Thank you very much, dear Philippa. I flat out adore this style of hat, too, and find that the older I get, the more I'm drawn to this classic, elegant style.

      Tony, true to form, did a stellar job of concealing the worst of the situation and honestly, I can almost tolerate how my teeth look here.

      I'm deeply sorry that you've battled serious dental issues throughout your life as well and really appreciate that you shared such an intimate fact with me (and all of us here). Way to go on mustering the courage to have a consult about them. I've done so multiple times myself, too, and always get told the same thing: implants (for the missing ones) and veneers are the only methods - short of yanking them all and getting dentures, which I do not want to do, if at all avoidable - that will help me in any kind of substantial way. I wonder if you'll hear the same sort of thing? Please feel free to share with me, if you'd like, either here or by email, what you find out.

      Tons of hugs & endless understanding (and support),
      ♥ Jessica

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  22. my dear! you have a very beautiful smile!!! because it comes from your heart!!!
    from my point of view the north american obsession with large, bright and even teeth seem a bit strange - and old europeans complain often about the huge fake smiles with to much teeth from over the ocean.
    for me a smile is not made by the showed teeth. the whole face has to smile - if not the whole person :-)
    as long that teeth are doing their job of chewing food and do not hurt - i would not trow any money in the direction of a dentist. would use that cash to travel with the husband or buy pretty stuff or presents for the family/friends or publish a book.
    i dont have hollywood teeth myself, but why should i? i´m a happy and loved person with that what a got from nature and what pollution left in my mouth. lately a friend with much better teeth then you and i wanted perfection and a implantation - it ended in pain and trouble because his body thrusted it off.....

    your outfit is marvelous! that colors! all the cute details!!!! and as you said - tony did a fantastic job capturing it!!
    love! xxxxx

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    1. That is such an excellent point, dear Beate. I too was struck by that when I lived in Ireland. A lot of people had stellar, beautiful mouths full of teeth there, but I also saw more folks like me who didn't then I usually had here in Canada. It was commonplace for those of my generation to have dental work done (sometimes even when it was scarcely needed) and I was the odd duck out, so to speak, because my family didn't have the means to get this done for me, I was ridiculed even more the older I got (aka, as a teenager).

      I won't lie and say that I love my teeth or that I wish they weren't a heck of a lot better looking, but I do, honest to goodness, agree with you that a smile is more than just one's teeth and that it stems from the whole person. It's so important, especially in this endlessly Photoshopped day and age, to remember that and I sincerely appreciate that you brought up that wise element of this topic.

      I will pass your terrific compliment on to Tony right now. Thank you so much from both of us for it!

      Huge hugs & happy weekend wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  23. Good for you! You look lovely, as ever, and I think your confidence and boldness in confronting those fears adds an extra glow. The idea that nothing about us deserves to be documented unless it is perfect is insidious. Thank you for fighting it.

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    1. What an awesome - and sincerely touching - comment, Megan. Thank you so much!

      Have a fantastic weekend,
      ♥ Jessica

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  24. Jessica, YOU GO GIRL!!!. Love your smile, love your outfit, the colors are so good for you. I am in love with your circle skirt. I am gonna have to make me some!.
    Hugs, Morning Waters

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    1. Thank you so very much, my dear friend! Ooohh, you definitely should (make some). They're one of the loveliest garments ever, IMO. Please feel free to share snaps of any you make with me. I'd love to see them!

      Tons of hugs & happy weekend wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  25. One of the first things that I noticed looking at these pictures was that I could see your teeth, which I didn't remember seeing in photos of you before. I have to say, you look really lovely with your open lipped smile. The way you usually smile is certainly pretty, and there's a mischievous quality to it that I think really suits your personality, but the broader smile really opens up your face beautifully. It can be really hard to get over those childhood traumas, but I don't think you have anything to feel embarrassed about now.
    I love this color palette - as usual, you've put together something deliciously seasonal and striking. The burgundy and mustard look beautiful with your coloring, and they practically scream fall.

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    1. Thank you across the board, sweet lady. I sincerely appreciate your perception of each of my smiles (closed and open mouthed, that is) and love that you shared that with me. It's very encouraging to hear positive feedback about such things, especially after a lifetime (though, albeit, thankfully far less so in recent years) of being bullied and harassed about my teeth and also, at times, for not smiling with my mouth open. I agree that we should try to move past such things and while I doubt I could ever entirely make peace with my teeth (especially since the most crooked one in the front quite literally causes me pain by how it presses onto my tongue day in and day out), I am working hard at obtaining a greater degree of such and genuinely feel like this post - and all of the incredibly kind comments on it - has helped me in leaps and bounds there.

      Huge hugs & my sincerest of heartfelt thanks,
      ♥ Jessica

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  26. We all have our imperfections (unless we're Mary Poppins, who is practically perfect in every way) - but any smile is lovely if it's heartfelt. :-) And obviously yours is!

    And oh my gosh, that house! <3

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    1. That is such a sweet, wise way to look at things, dear Grace. Thank you for the meaningful reminder of where the truest beauty lies in a smile.

      Giant hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  27. Jessica, as I was looking at the pictures of your gorgeous outfit,I was struck by your beautiful smile. I thought, "She should smile like that more often!" Then I read your words. You are simply lovely, inside and out. Smiling with lips closed or open. It is truly a delight to read your blog and to enjoy your photos. You and Tony are a terrific team, and I think the photos are so beautiful because he shares his love through them. Keep smiling!

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    1. Thank you with all my heart for your immensely lovely, supportive comment and encouragement to keep smiling with my teeth. I definitely plan to do so more often here, helped in absolutely no small part by comments like yours and the fact that I feel accepted, bad teeth and all, in this vintage community based corner of the web.

      Many thanks & happy weekend wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  28. Hello Jessica, it's amazing ... When I saw the picture I thought "that's great! In Canada they have good weather, they're lucky ..." and instead it is windy there too ?! So Tony is a great photographer, because here it seems a perfect day!
    For the rest ... if you could do it all that will make you feel better about yourself .. But, out there, there are always stupid people who like to complicate the lives of others. My school years were hell, because I did not fashionable clothes, because I did not love the jeans, whatever reason it was good to offend and humiliate me. These are insensitive people destined to live a life incomplete without passions! You are in any case a young woman beautiful and radiant! That then these beautiful clothes, I love the skirt, the bag is a masterpiece and your lipstick absolutely fantastic!

    un abbraccio

    serena

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    1. My sweet friend, I'm wholeheartedly sorry that you were bullied in school, too. My teeth were certainly not the only reason I was (others included, but were not limited to, the fact that I was short, that I was a very good student, that my parents were divorced, that my family was - at times - quite poor, that I was very shy, and that some kids saw me as ugly), but they were a biggie for sure. No matter the root of bullying (which as adults, we can call by its real name - harassment), it is a horrible thing that impacts us for the rest of our lives. I hope that as time has gone on, you've been able to rebuild your own self-confidence and that no one ever picks on you these days.

      Thank you very much for your intimate comment and for your wonderfully nice compliments about this fun fall ensemble.

      Tons of hugs from Canada,
      ♥ Jessica

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  29. Jessica,
    I smile at your smile, because my smile is worse :)
    You see, while back I have gotten a comment on my Instagram saying that I should get an award fot most consistent face in pictures (and a plea to smile). I do smile, and laugh and even burst to tears from laughter.. however, not on camera. Reasons being multiple: for one, I have round face and huge cheeks, and when I smile, my eyes close, secondly, I'm Eastern European - hence: ridiculous teeth. :) I've got the "gap" and though I don't mind it, lots of folks ask me about my "missing front tooth".. and leave me wondering about their ability to count... I got all my teeth.. nothing's missing, just gaped. :)
    ..
    Onto brighter topics (day is not bright, but the topic can be) you look magnificent. Your hat is so lovely I did not even notice it's brown :)
    Being back home is great.. and will get even better once I get some sleep.

    Marija

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    1. My treasured friend, I am truly sorry that you have to live with far-from-ideal teeth as well and sincerely appreciate you speaking so openly here about that fact. I'm sorry that someone was giving you gruff on IG about your smile. I've run into that occasionally (about mine) online as well and am sure I always will from time-to-time. There is no shortage of people out there who, at best, don't think about their words before they say them, or at worst, say cruel thing to purposely hurt you.

      I'm sure that your smile is beautiful, Marija. It would be impossible for someone as a fantastic, compassionate, and lovely as you not to light up a room when you smile.

      Hugs, smiles (teeth and all!), and happy weekend wishes coming your way,
      ♥ Jessica

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  30. Gorgeous Jessica! I love that skirt and the shirt + cardigan are a perfect pairing to really make it pop! x

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    1. Thank you very much, sweet Kayla. I am wild about this cardigan, especially in terms of how flattering the arms on it are (to my less than stick thin arms). If I could clone it in a rainbow of colours, I would in a heartbeat.

      Have a fabulous weekend!!!
      ♥ Jessica

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  31. My darling, when you smile with all of the kindness in your heart, all I see is beauty! I guarantee you have magnified something that most people don't even notice into a problem. It is so difficult when we are teased for something as a child because that insecurity finds a home within us. I promise you that you are beautiful just as you are! Always remember that!

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    1. That is a truly beautiful thing to be told, dearest Christina. Thank you with all my heart. Your words will stay with me for a very long time to come and genuinely help me continue to grow my confidence levels when it comes to letting my teeth appear on camera.

      Giant hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  32. Really glad to hear that you're more confident with showing your teeth, we all have things that we don't like about ourselves but the chances are that we see them worse than they really are! The colours of your skirt are lovely! x

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    1. Agreed completely. So often we make mountains out of molehills when it comes to our own insecurities and points that most others would give little to no thought to. If only that message could be drilled into us as children - what happier, less stressed adults many of us would be.

      Thank you very much for your wonderfully lovely comment.

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  33. I adore the color combo you are wearing it's lovely. Also cheers for showing us your smile ;) You have a really bubbly personality and your smile just adds to that!

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    1. What a fabulously lovely thing to be told, dear Akram. I honestly don't think anyone has ever said that to me before. You are so sweet!

      Giant hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  34. Dear Jessica, teeth are good to eat - if someone has what people say a "pearly smile" fine, but teeth are there to eat, this is the main reason. So if you get the chance to fix them to western standards - yes, all are standards imposed by society - then fine, if not, you are beautiful the way you are! I am very glad to see that you were smiling in the pictures! No one is perfect and by the way, what's it to be perfect? I admire much more someone who does good things to people, than a superficial selfish Barbie (nothing against the doll!) By the way, I loooooved this outfit!!! My favorite one, I guess! I loved the shoes, the hat, the burgundy shirt/cardi, all! You look really amazing and you should wear this skirt more times!
    DenisesPlanet.com

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  35. Congratulations on being brave! I don't smile much in photos either, I have very rabbitty teeth.

    People who come back to a blog time and time again aren't coming for the pictures, I believe, they're coming for the person. And everyone needs to be able to smile from time to time :-) <-see?

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    1. Very well said - and wise! That is true indeed, dear Mim, and I really appreciate that you raised that point.

      Big hugs & many sincere thanks for your understanding,
      ♥ Jessica

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  36. Jessica, this post really struck a cord with me. I chipped my front tooth when I was 12, and at the time was not able to get it fixed. That one chip has now affected the alignment of most of my front teeth, making them appear wonky, so even if I had the chip fixed now, my teeth would still need re-aligning. I also drink way, way too many cups of tea, which have stained my teeth (but I am no way going to stop drinking my beloved tea!).

    I have a jaw condition, where my jaw will lock itself, so even though I visit the dentist regularly, I am always terrified that my jaw will lock when I am there.

    In photos my default smile is 'smile with mouth closed', as the past year or so, I have been really self-conscious about my teeth.I mentioned my paranoia on my first Youtube video I did back in May, and it took me quite a while to actually upload and publish the video, as I was so worried about my teeth. I am trying to not be so aware of them, and your post here really helps! Your smile is beautiful, you have lovely teeth!

    I shall continue to try not to obsess so much about my teeth, as really, I'm just happy that they all function correctly! Lets continue to smile our fullest!
    Jenny xxx

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    1. Hi sweet Jenny, thank you so much for sharing with me about your own dental and jaw struggles. From the bottom of my heart, I'm truly sorry that you've faced such issues, too. I consider a smile to be a smile even if teeth are not shown, but, as I'm sure you've encountered, too, not everyone views it as such, which is almost baffling to me, as the defining factor in the way the corners of one's mouth are positions, much more than if teeth are flashed. It's comforting that we can relate to one another so much there and that our default smile, as you so perfectly put it, is carried out with lips pressed firmly together.

      I can't begin to tell you how much I admire that you're also working on becoming more comfortable with sharing your teeth in public. It can be utterly and completely frightening and nerve wracking for those of us with less-than-ideal chompers. I honestly think I would have started YouTube back around the same time as this blog, if not even earlier still, were it not for my teeth. It wasn't until I was 30 (last year) that I could finally muster the courage to do so. Even now, with numerous videos under my belt, there's still a degree of self-consciousness and uneasiness when it comes to showing my teeth on camera (video or still image), but I do find that YouTube is helping me there. I honestly don't know if the photos involving my teeth in this post would have happened at this stage in my life, were it not for them (videos). I truly hope that you find the same to ring true for you as well, as time goes on.

      Many thanks again. I'm always here if you'd like to talk more about this subject.

      Huge hugs & the utmost of understanding,
      ♥ Jessica

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  37. I didn't even notice your teeth (which by the way look fine) because I was slayed by the freshness of your skin! This has been my area of difficulty.
    Isn't it interesting how we carry these hurts past their use by date.
    I'm glad you found the courage to explore this and share it :-)
    Gorgeous outfit as well. Creates a lovely feminine silhouette esp. with the tied cardy.
    I came over from Charlotte Issyvoo's Google plus feed.
    Jazzy Jack

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    1. Thank you very much for your absolutely lovely comment (and compliments) and for letting me know how yo discovered my site. It's always such a pleasure to connect with new readers and I sincerely appreciate your kind words.

      Indeed, early scars often run the deepest, especially if we've continued to be troubled by that same problem and/or people being cruel to us about it long after childhood. While I do get the occasional unkind word about my teeth still, thankfully such rudeness/insensitivity is not common and certainly all the more rare amongst my lovely fellow bloggers and readers, which really helped me muster the confidence needed to post the "teeth photos" here this week.

      Many thanks again & have a beautiful weekend,
      ♥ Jessica

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  38. Dearest Jessica, I am glad to see you smiling! It's tough to summon up the courage sometimes to share a side of ourselves we're less than happy with (I myself rarely smile with teeth showing as I have my own dental imperfections!) but I think it's wonderful when we can do that and build our confidence - as well as providing some valuable real-life, non-airbrushed reality. I look forward to more of your smiles xx

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    1. You are so wonderfully sweet, dear Porcelina. Thank you very much. I'm sincerely sorry that you have dental issues of your own. They're such a trying thing to have to live with day in and day out and I'm honestly floored that fixing such problems is not covered by the national health systems of most countries. Just imagine the vast number of lives that would be improved immeasurably if such were the case.

      I really appreciate your understanding and that you shared such an intimate element of yourself here with me (and my readers). I'm touched that you did and want you to know how much you have my complete and total understanding.

      Huge hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  39. It's very impressive to see your were able to post these pictures even though you have an insecurity. It can be so tough and I know we can be hard on ourselves. Take some confidence from what you've done today. I hope you'll be able to have the financial means to have your teeth the way you want one day. It's definitely not necessary because you are beautiful but if it's what you want I hope you have the chance. My mum always wanted straight teeth and couldn't afford it the whole time we were kids, but this year at age 58 she now has the money and got braces a few months ago. I was happy to see her do it because I knew it meant a lot.

    Your outfit is absolutely perfect. I adore the colour scheme and I love vintage style. Every single element of the outfit combines perfectly.

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    1. Thank you very much for your absolutely lovely comment, dear Imogen. This step has definitely helped to fuel my courage to share more photos with my teeth showing in the future and I'm delighted about that. Not since I started making YouTube videos last year had I experienced such a jolt of confidence on the teeth front.

      I'm elated for your mom and it warms my heart to know that she was able to start correcting her smile in her 50s. Who knows, maybe that's when I'll finally have the means to as well. My teeth (these photos are a very kind view of the over all problem) are beyond the means of what braces can do much for, so I'd be looking at implants and a lot of veneers, which would total a five figural dental bill. One day, I hope with all my might, I'll be able afford that and to finally know what it's like to look in the mirror and like my own smile (with teeth showing).

      Many thanks again & have a beautiful weekend,
      ♥ Jessica

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  40. As a new follower of your blog, I hadn't noticed crooked teeth. Frankly, I was checking out the lipstick color :) This very much reminds me of being in graduate school at Gallaudet University, the college for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. One of my peers, a Deaf woman, laughed but it made no noise whatsoever. I remember this happening with some other Deaf students so one day a naive student who could hear asked. The response was heartbreaking. At some point in her life someone told her that her laugh sounded squeaky like a mouse. Because we were all friends, we asked her to demonstrate a laugh. It hardly worked. She had learned to suppress any sound for so many years. She couldn't hear herself so she actively tried to not add breath to the vocal chords and one day all noise goes away. When she did let out a laugh, she sounded like a girl laughing and we told her so. Sometimes people laugh loudy; sometimes they snigger. I think it's all beautiful. So while you always have to be comfortable with you, *straight* culturally-constructed smiles are a bit overrated in my book. You look beautiful!

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    1. Oh my word, that story brought tears to my eyes. The poor, sweet woman. How awesome that you guys encouraged her to let her laugh shine out. I really appreciate you sharing such an intimate tale with me and for the reminder that one never knows just what it is someone else might be trying to unnecessarily conceal.

      Many hugs & sincere thanks,
      ♥ Jessica

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  41. You have a beautiful smile! My favorite is the top photo. One of my dear friends has a space between her front teeth.It always made her self conscious. I never understood why because when she laughs she looks even more beautiful! Children can be cruel. I was teased as well for different reasons. Especially the teen years, those are the most difficult. My step mother always says you use fewer muscles to smile, do it more often!

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    1. Wise words from you mom! I smile a lot (and always have - I'm happy person by nature, so smiling goes hand-in-hand for me with that), but not with my teeth and I know that the two are not exactly one in the same. Every day since these photos were taken, I've practiced smiling with my teeth on display (albeit in the mirror) and am convinced I can teach myself to feel natural in smiling with them in the picture. It will likely be many years or longer (if ever) before I have the means to correct myself and I don't want to keep hiding it entirely, especially in the company of my treasured online friends, who have shown here once again, how incredibly supportive and sweet they are.

      Huge thanks for your wonderfully nice comment, dear Kim.

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  42. You look as lovely as ever ... and as always I totally love the hat. :)

    Have a great weekend!
    XX

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    1. Thank you very much, sweet lady! I had a feeling you'd like this jaunty little hot chocolate hued 50s topper. It's such a sweet, fun hat and I'm sure it will appear here again in the future, especially given that brown is one of my favourite colours.

      Big hugs & happy weekend wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  43. Jessica, you look absolutely gorgeous!! Congratulations on making the decision to share your smile! I truly love these pictures, they're some of my favorites I've seen of you yet!
    Have a wonderful week, dear Jessica!! :)

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    1. That's splendidly sweet, kind and thoughtful of you to say, dear Esther. Thank you deeply! I adore these windswept autumn vintage fashion photos, too, and also the leap forward in my own confidence levels that they attest to.

      Many sincere thanks & tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  44. Hey, pretty lady! You're an inspiration. Another lovely outfit, and some truly brave words. I'm working up the the courage for full-body shots of thrifted fashion for Let's Go Thrifting...and it's hard. We are all are own worst critics, it seems. But keep on being you, because you're wonderful.

    <3 Jackie @ Let's Go Thrifting

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    1. Thank you very much, dear Jackie. Aren't we though and it so horribly unfair to ourselves. I must say, one of the biggest perks to aging is that with each passing year I grow more and more comfortable and confident in my own skin. I'm cheering you on all the way when it comes to full body photos on your blog and want you to know that I'm always here if you need someone to talk to about anything pertaining to self confidence/esteem and the like.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  45. I am so happy to see your teeth! I noticed straight away and you have no reason to cover them up - they are beautiful! :D xo

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    1. You're so wonderfully sweet, dear Chantal. Thank you very, very much.

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  46. I'm sitting here enjoying Sunday morning coffee perusing my favourite blogs. I read and scrolled through this one over. No one is looking at your teeth... we see the beauty in your eyes and soul. The passion in your heart for something we all feel. And that outfit... amazing colour pairing..! (Those burgundy heels and skirt make my heart weep..gorgeous). I can only wish we can meet up sometime in the next year. xx

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    1. Thank you so very much, my super lovely friend. That means a great deal to me! With all my heart, I hope that we're able to meet up as well. How on earth have I still never been to Edmonton?!!!

      Tons of hugs from this side of the Rockies,
      ♥ Jessica

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  47. I particularly love that first photo, you look wonderful in it, complete with teeth! It is so hard to move past other's comments and the feelings that they triggered when we were younger and it makes us judge ourselves so harshly, much harsher than others around us would. So keep going with your lovely smile, no reason at all not too! Your top and cardi are the perfect colours of turning leaves and that hat is so cute. This is a very lovely outfit indeed.

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    1. Thank you so much for your heartfelt, caring, super encouraging words. I swear, this post and the wonderful ensuing comments have done more to bolster my confidence when it comes to showing my teeth than anything else prior to now in my whole life and though I doubt I'll ever be at peace with them entirely in their current state, I now have far less qualms about showing them here sometimes. I've always said that blogging is the best therapy (for some things at least) and this experience has proven that yet again for me.

      Huge hugs & joyful second half of October wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  48. I have to say, I think you're lovely, and so does my wee boy :)

    I'm sitting here, scrolling through this post, and he comes up and sits beside me. He says "Wow, look at her! She's pretty!"

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    1. That is beyond sweet, thank you both so much. Hand on my heart, your comment just made my whole week!

      Huge thanks & oodles of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  49. Oh I adore the colors here! They are just so nice and rich and pretty! Those are actually my old school colors which is probably why I like them so much :)

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    1. Thank you very much, sweet Katie! That's really cool! Burgundy and silver were my elementary school colours, whereas gold and purple were my high school ones, so between the two, I can come up with this palette there, too. I hadn't thought about that in relation to this outfit yet. Neat! :)

      Wishing you a fantastic second half of October,
      ♥ Jessica

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  50. All I can say is that I think your smile is beautiful, and I'm so glad you were able to share that with us. ❤

    xox,
    bonita of Lavender & Twill

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    1. That is so touchingly lovely, Bonita. Thank you deeply.

      Giant hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  51. It is wonderful to see your smile and I look forward to seeing your smiles and confidence blossoming. I am a member of the crooked tooth club too, as you know, so I sympathise. I don't know whether it is because I made the choice myself or was just less self-conscious as a child, but I tend to still smile naturally, and only when I'm on camera do I later realise!

    I love the colour combos in this outfit too, and well done to Tony because you would hardly even notice that there was a breeze!

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    1. Thank you very much, my sweet friend. I'm sincerely sorry that you've had to battle less-than-perfect teeth throughout your life as well. It really means a lot to me that you can relate on this front and I absolutely commend your ability to smile in the moment without worrying too much about it. Believe it or not, since taking these snaps, I've gotten a bit better on that front, too, and smiled on camera again for our most recent shoot (which I'll be sharing here next week). That is a major leap forward forward for me, I tell you.

      Tons of hugs & heartfelt thanks,
      ♥ Jessica

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