February 22, 2016

Gear up for Viva Las Vegas with these 25 fabulous vintage fashion finds


Now in its 19th year, Viva Las Vegas is a large annual multi-day get-together of vintage, rockabilly, and custom/kustom car lifestyle fans, as well as plenty of others, that features a bevy of fun events, from live musical performances to car shows to a Miss Viva Las Vegas Pageant.

For many in our circle, it's also a time to heavily socialize (something that a lot of folks get little to no chance to do with other vintage/rockabilly lovers in their own respective corners of the world, where they may literally be the only such person or couple) and also to "bring it", as they say, on the vintage, rockabilly, and pinup fashion front.

Though I've not yet had the pleasure of attending Viva myself (I'd certainly love to one day, if possible), I have greatly enjoyed reading blog posts (very much including the large array that Dolly The Rockabilly Socialite has shared on her blog over the years) and seeing photos on social media from many of my friends, fellow bloggers, and others in our community who have taken part.



{Tourists have been flocking to Nevada for many decades now, but likely never in greater droves of vintage fans than when Viva Las Vegas rolls around each year! 1950s postcard image source.}


Viva is an almost larger than life experience, from what I've been told, but by the same token, most see it as a very friendly and welcoming event that has become a cornerstone of the year for so many in the vintage (et al) world.

This year Viva Las Vegas is happening from April 14th - April 17th and promises to be a truly rockin' great time for those in attendance.

As I know that includes many of my readers, with Viva now just a hair under two months away, I thought it would be a blast to share some of the fabulous Las Vegas worthy fashions that have crossed my path online lately, as well as numerous Viva perfect pieces that are currently available in my Etsy shop.

There are no hard and fast rules by any means when it comes to what one wears to Viva and individuality is always a boon in any setting! Generally speaking however, many at Viva favour 1950s and early 60s styles, particularly those of the pinup, rockabilly, tiki culture, greaser, custom car and alternative lifestyle verity, as well as plenty of utterly gorgeous pinup and mid-century glamour girl looks, so those are the sorts of styles that I've opted to shine the spotlight on here today.




1. Anything of a tropical, Hawaiian, tiki, or Polynesian nature is always a huge hit at Viva. Why not channel the Pacific Ocean and put in a nod towards the colours of the Southwest at the same time with this delightfully pretty 1950s metal hula girl and turquoise plastic nugget charm bracelet. $42.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




2. Quite possibly the most perfect vintage inspired brooch to bring with you to Vegas EVER!!! $10.50 from Dolly Cool (also available in a coordinating necklace and pair of earrings).




3. There are few more iconic symbols of Vegas and its legendary casinos than dice, which makes these delightful mid-century aged gold tone hoop and dangle charm earrings the absolute ideal choice to pack in your jewelry roll when attending Viva. $12.50 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




4. Put your best - and most stylishly attired - foot forward when you step out in these iconic 1950s Springolator clear lucite and vinyl heels. Fits approximately a modern size 7.5 - 8 (max). $98.00 from Union Made Bride.




5. With its rich mining history and more modern abundance of casinos, gold always strikes me as being a seriously awesome choice to wear in just about any form while in Vegas. If you're looking for the perfect pair of gloves to partner with your favourite fancy outfits this Viva, may I suggest these sparklingly fabulous mid-century gold Lurex stunners! $16.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




6. Another colour that I always associate with this desert locked tourist Mecca is red. If you're looking to sport polka dots to Viva but don't want to do so in a glaring or overly generic way, why not opt for a classic looking frock like this lovely 1950s style red scoop neck dress that features teeny black spots throughout. Available in modern ladies UK sizes 8 - 24. $78.50 from 1950s Glam.


7. Both guys and gals alike enjoying dressing to the nines for Viva and it's always a joy to see photos of what people sport there each year. If you're a chap (or are buying for a fellow) who is headed to Vegas, why not jazz up your ensembles with these desert hued c. 1950s - 1960s gold tone metal hexagon cuff links that star gorgeous golden brown watermelon style rivoli rhinestones. $17.50 from Chronically Vintage.




8. Leopard print and a glittery red heart both starring in a darling hair bow, if that doesn't channel a stylish rockabilly vibe, I don't know what does! $4.75 from Cute & Creepy.




9. Given that it's located in an arid desert, Las Vegas gets mighty hot, sometimes even as early in the year as April, so short sleeves and breathable materials like those found in this beautiful 1980s does 1950s rose print dark pink cotton shirt are always a smart styling choice. Fits up to a 34" bust/34" waist. $24.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




10. Few things channel the spirit of the desert as well as a cactus, so why not serve up a stylish helping of this classic arid region plant care of this cuter-than-cute pair of vintage style plastic, resin and rhinestone dangle earrings. $30.38 from Belle Lurette Paris.




11. Those in the know have told me before that accessories are one of the best ways to stand out at Viva. Even if someone is wearing the same dress (be it vintage or repro) as you, thanks to accessories, you can most likely still have a look that lets your own fabulous sense of style radiate through. This eye-catchingly cool Southwestern inspired c. 1950s red plastic beaded waterfall style necklace would be a head-turning piece in any Viva setting, be it with a cocktail dress at night for drinks or with a playsuit while lounging near the pool (I wouldn't take it into the water though!). $28.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




12. If you're looking to turn heads at the speed of light, may I suggest this devastatingly gorgeous 1940s - 1950s style gold hued wiggle dress from The House of Foxy (that is squarely planted on my own wardrobe wishlist!). Available in modern ladies UK sizes 8 - 18. £149.00 from The House of Foxy.




13. Classic mid-century style Ricky jackets like this seriously lovely turquoise hued number are great choice for any Viva bound gent. Available in modern British men's sizes small - XXL. £130.00 from Heyday.




14. If ever there was a place to bring your accessories A game, Viva Las Vegas is it! Ensure even your handbag is accessorized when you tote around this elegantly lovely c. 1940s - 1950s black plastic bead covered handbag that comes complete with a matching black beaded coin purse (too cute!). $38.00 for the set from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




15. Sweepingly dramatic, chic as Vegas is busy, and immensely beautiful, this awesome cream and black 1950s hand painted Mexican tourist skirt is just the thing to sport while you're visiting the Southwest. Fits up to an approximately 28" - 32" waist (it's adjustable). $189.00 from Dreem Co..




16. Viva would just not be Viva to my mind without a field of hair flowers as far as the eye can see. Ensure yours stand out and look downright stunning when you opt for ones that combine lush faux blooms with tropical fruit, such as the wonderfully lifelike looking pineapple in this darling Carmen Miranda worthy hair clip/mini fascinator. $21.95 from Viva Dulce Marina.




17. Understatedly cool and immensely evocative of the era it hails from, this wonderful mid-century modern (genuine) wood brooch is the sort of wear-it-with-anything piece of jewelry that you'll be thankful you packed for Viva (as it will go with a zillion different outfits!) and equally grateful to have in your wardrobe the rest of the year, too. $12.50 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




18. Figure flattering, ideal for the heat of Vegas, and always a surefire way to look the vintage part, classic sarong dresses this beautiful 1960s Hawaiian floral print version in shades of blue, green and purple are always a smart (and highly popular!) choice for Viva. Fits up to a 36" - 38" bust/28" waist. $225.00 from Blue Velvet Vintage.




19. Dazzle them with your stellar styling skills when you enter the room (or head out onto the dance floor) sporting this timelessly beautiful multi-strand gold tone metal mid-century necklace that features rosary style beading. $25.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




20. Anytime I pack for a trip one of the very first things that goes into my bag is a classic pair of black pumps with a sensible heel and endless outfit matching potential, such as this stylish 1940s version that features rounded toes and a charming cutout design. Sole measures 9.25" inches long. $90.00 from Bobbins and Bombshells.

21. Whether you use it to stash coins in while hitting the slots, to ensure you're ready for any parking meters you encounter in Vegas, or for some of the cash you may need to purchase goods at Viva, this marvelously fun rhinestone dollar sign topped c. 1950s metal coin box (purse) is an awesome choice for any trip to Nevada! $18.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




22. Elevate your daily stack arm party - as well as your earlobes - while at Viva with this wonderful combo pack of vintage style bamboo jewelry that features four bangles (two red, two natural coloured) and one pair of natural coloured hoop earrings. $22.50 for the set from Tiki Swag.




23. Belts aren't just for your waist, they can also look sensational when sported around your wrist, too, as this chicly lovely gold tone mid-century bracelet does a great job of demonstrating. $20.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




24. Playing cards, dice, atomic star bursts, silver sparkles - this awesome vintage style jewelry set has it all and would absolutely sensational for Viva - or anytime you're in Sin City! $18.50 for the set (which is comprised of a brooch and matching pair of earrings) from The Star Brite Motel.




25. Quite literally shimmer and shine come eveningtime in this sublimely pretty full length 1960s blue and aqua green metallic thread sleeveless maxi dress, which stars a round shawl style collar, full lining, and elegant sash tail-like bow piece on the back for extra glamour. Fits up to a 34" bust/32" waist. $110.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.



{To more about a specific image used in this post, please click on the link in the text immediately below it to be taken to its respective source.}



♥ ♥ ♥



Even if, like myself, you can't make it to Viva this year, you can certainly still weave any of these fabulous vintage-party-in-Nevada fashions into your old school wardrobe. They've fun, cheerful, bursting with colour and awesome for vintage and rockabilly fans the world over!

Have you been to Viva Las Vegas before? Are you headed there this year? Which of the items above would you most want to tuck into your suitcase if you were/are going to Viva 2016?

44 comments:

  1. that must be such an amazing event. Id love to attend it one day but Im very doubtful I ever will as I am such a homebody thanks for sharing these fab finds though

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    1. My pleasure, sweet Kate. Viva is a bit of a double sided coin for me. There's a huge part of my vintage adoring soul that wants to attend, but at the same time I'm an uber shy introvert who can't drink (not that one has to drink at viva of course) and who isn't big on partying. That said, I'd definitely go if given the chance and just do Viva on my own terms. :)

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  2. I've never heard of this. It sounds like so much fun!!

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    1. Doesn't it though! I'm delighted that I could introduce you to Viva, sweet lady. While I fully understand that putting them together is no easy feat, I really think we need more large scale vintage events like and so happy that Viva continues to thrive and grow with each passing year.

      Many hugs & happy Thursday wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  3. I've never been but one day it would be amazing to see it! I think I'd feel like I have to seriously up my outfit A game to fit in though, everyone looks so unbelievably incredible all the time from the pics you see! Love this collection of pretty things - all of the dresses are fabulous! That gold one... Wow. Love the dice earrings too - how perfect would dice accessories be in Vegas. Ah, I want to go now! xx

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    1. It is a place where folks love to sport their finest vintage threads for sure, but of course, one can wear whatever they desire. If I went, I wouldn't personally view it as a fashion competition - more like an epic source of style inspo! :)

      I really hope you're able to make it there one day, my dear friend. Who knows, maybe I'll eventually beeline it to Vegas for Viva, too. Bit of a long shot, but not entirely out of the realm of possibility.

      Oodles of hugs & happy end of February wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  4. I had not heard of this event, but I can only imagine the real glam and luxe returning to Vegas, as the way it is right now, with all the tourists in shorts and not so dressed up assembles certainly take away from this place.

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    1. Great way of looking at Viva, sweet Lorena - a return to the glittering heyday (minus, hopefully the negative aspects of such, like the mob crime) of Vegas. I second that and bet that Viva participants turn a lot of heads on the shoulders of other (non-vintage/rockabilly tourists) who aren't aware of the event! :)

      Big hugs & many thanks for your lovely comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  5. The clothes and accessories that you chose are perfect! I love those black shoes and clothes ... it's hard to choose! This initiative is too strong! I love the rockabilly style, as aesthetics and the music I find it so much fun to dance!

    A big hug and a great week all to yourself!

    serena

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    1. Same here! Though my look tends to fall more towards authentic vintage (with subtle undertones of goth and gothabilly styling), I truly enjoy and appreciate rockabilly music and the awesome impact it has had on a huge number of areas in society - fashion very much included.

      Sending tons of hugs & happy tail end of February wishes your way,
      ♥ Jessica

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  6. Fun finds! I've never been to Viva either but I love seeing pics from the event! :D

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    1. Me too! The photographer in me can't help but think how cool it would be to go (be it one time or over the course of multiple years) and take great photos of participants and then turn them into a book - perhaps with small quotes from the people you shot, in a bit of a nod to things like Humans of New York.

      Oodles of hugs & happy Thursday wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  7. Oh my, I need to go to this event one day! It looks incredible! I've never been anywhere out west, but this is demanding a trip.

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    1. Doesn't it though! I've never been to Vegas either, but if ever there was cause for such, this is it for me! :)

      Big hugs & happy end-of-February wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  8. I have not yet been to Viva either, but I'm planning to go next year. It seems kindof intimidating, so I'm glad to hear that it's considered a very open and accepting event. It's in my home state, so I guess I have no excuse! :-)

    --Lauren (MissRoyalVintage)

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    1. Super exciting! I hope that you're able to make it there in 2017, lovely Lauren, and truly hope that you do find it to be open and friendly the event through.

      Wishing you a fantastic tail end of February,
      ♥ Jessica

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  9. Great choices! I think my favorites are 11 and 17 - they'd be beautiful with any outfit, Viva bound or not.

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    1. Thank you, sweet lady. Agreed, they'd be awesome almost anywhere and time.

      Big hugs & many thanks for your lovely comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  10. Viva Las Vegas sounds like such a cool event! I really like the cactus earrings :)

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    1. Same here! I can confidently say that I've never had a pair of cactus themed earrings before (but I do have a charming mid-century cactus brooch).

      Wishing you an awesome tail end of February, dear gal!
      ♥ Jessica

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  11. Oh, I am in love with that gold wiggle dress! I would totally wear that! I have never heard of Viva Las Vegas, but it sounds like it would be fun!

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    1. Doesn't it though! So many people to meet, events to attend and awesome things to do. Who knows, maybe us two BC gals will be able to make it down to Viva one of these years. That would be awesome!

      Tons of hugs & happy Thursday wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  12. Jessica, all of these are terrific and terrifically fun finds! Viva has long appealed to and tempted me, but I have to admit, the large crowds might also be overwhelming. And if there are classic cars around, you know I'd end up crawling around on the ground, camera in hand, working away! Still, it's fun to hear others' stories and see the photos. Vicarious enjoyment is definitely a good thing in this case. ;)

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    1. I sincerely hear you there, dear Jen. I'm a very shy, extremely introverted person and don't always leap headfirst into crowd filled situations either. I think here though, my desire to meet so many of my online friends/fellow bloggers who attend and also to finally see Vegas itself would win out. :)

      Big hugs & many thanks for your lovely comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  13. Augh, I did not need MORE Etsy favourites ;-)

    That mirror room dress is AMAZING.

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    1. Thank you so much, sweet Mim. It is even more breathtaking in person - especially when the sunlight hits the metallic threads woven throughout it. Honestly, were it not for the fact that that style of dress isn't usually very flattering on my short, curvy figure, there's a serious chance I would have added it to my own closet. :)

      Many hugs & heartfelt thanks for all of your terrific blog comments this month,
      ♥ Jessica

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  14. Oh, it would be a DREAM to visit VLV! And I would be wearing the golden wiggle dress, the golden dice earrings and bringing the golden coin purse with me - so stylish! But I don't think that dream will ever come true. But another Danish vintage loving lady is hosting a small vintage market next month, which I look very much forward to. Have a nice day, dear. :)

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    1. How exciting, sweet Sanne. Big or small, most any vintage related event is a real treat and such a fantastic way to feel less alone in your passion for the past. I hope the market goes awesomely and lands you some beautiful new treasures.

      Tons of hugs & happy end-of-February wishes!
      ♥ Jessica

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  15. It's not really my style but I do love seeing everyone's photos on social media of Viva Las Vegas. They all look like they're having so much fun. I just wish there was something nearer to me that was focused on the 20s and 30s. Ah, the problems of living in rural England! xx

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    1. I fully understand, sweet Cate. Save for a small number of classic car shows (where I'm still often the only person I see rocking vintage threads) and antiques shows, we usually have no vintage events around these parts whatsoever and it can get lonely at times for sure.

      I've noticed, worldwide, a growth in 1920s and 30s events in recent years, as well the Jazz Age Lawn Parties in New York continuing to attract even more folks, so hopefully and event or two starring that era will pop up near where you live in the UK.

      Many hugs & happy Thursday wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  16. Fantastic post which is making me so giddy for VIVA now :) (not like I was not already!). I love all of them but would probably buy the Hawaiian dress if it was in my size , I just love that style.

    Now I realized that I need to start making notes on what I'm going to bring this year for April will be here before we know it! Now can you do something about the crummy dollar for us Canadians? lol

    Liz :)

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    1. Oooh my word, if only I could! Our poor Canadian dollar has taken the most vicious beating in recent years and is so low compared to the US (and UK, and even, to a lesser degree, the Australian dollar these days). Between that and the fact that I'm finding that Canada Post is cracking down hardcore on making sure they charge import fees on darn near everything that crosses the border, I've had to cut back big time on buying outside of the country. I love supporting Canadian companies, too, of course, but we typically have so much less selection here (online included), so sometimes a US purchase still needs to happen.

      It's awesome that you're headed to Viva again, my dear friend. I hope that you have an off-the-charts fabulous time and can't wait to see and hear about it!

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  17. I have to be very careful when I read your posts, dear Jessica, because I want all! And this event in Nevada, the Viva Las Vegas, wow, so cool! Above all, I would love it to socialize, yes! True, sometimes a vintage or rockabilly lover is the only one where he/she lives! That is so good to see other people that share the same passion! I loved the dice earrings, the skirt with panels, the necklace with red beads from your shop, but above all, the amazing beaded little purse! I tell you, my card was cloned, I am waiting for a new one for 2 months - clearly the company did something wrong, so I am thinking of taking legal measures... but as soon as I solve the matter, I will head to your shop! Hope you are fine and that you go to Viva one day, hugs and kisses!
    DenisesPlanet.com

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    1. Sweet Denise, I'm truly sorry that you've been the victim of card cloning. Tony and I experienced that not once, but twice (in a relatively short period) several years ago and while, thankfully, we ultimately got our money back, we had to jump through a lot of hops, have an interview with the bank, etc, so I can fully relate to the headache and hassle (not to mention stress!) of such. I truly hope that everything works out right for you and that it doesn't escalate to the point of needing to involve the law.

      Many hugs & peaceful wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  18. This event sounds amazing, I'd love to be able to go. We have a great event here called twinwood. Lots of music and vintage fashion, perfect. I love the hair clip by the way, its unbelievably gorgeous. I really hope you are nearing the end of your computer troubles. I can't wait to see u inspiring us with a fashion post again, you are second to none xx

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    1. Twinwood looks off-the-charts amazing, too! I especially love how many people sport forties looks to it. That's another big vintage event I'd be elated to attend, if possible, one day. I really hope that you're able to visit, too, sweet lady, and would love to hear all about it, if you do.

      That it's incredibly lovely (and touching) of you to say, thank you very much. I kept bumping up an outfit post that I had ready to go this month, as the period that I was (am) computer-less grew and grew, but I decided last night that I'd post it this week on Friday, so you'll get to see what I sported for Christmas Day at long last. :)

      Big hugs & happy Thursday wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  19. These are fabulous! I love the Ricky jacket! I may have to get Pat on that. I recently purchased those darling cactus earrings from Belle Laurent actually! And the brooch. Love them so much!

    xoxo
    -Janey

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    1. Hand on my heart, I was thinking about you and your passion for Southwestern styles when I added them and throughout this post in general. Too cool that you recently picked up a pair. I really look forward to seeing them on your blog, if you share them there with us.

      Big hugs & many thanks for your terrific comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  20. Never been. Though I'd like to. At least we've got the Hukilau Tiki event here in Florida that isn't too far from where I live. Gives me a chance to wear my vintage Hawaiian dresses. BTW, thanks for sharing a link to one of the dresses I've got for sale. Really appreciate it.
    My favorite items from your list are the gold wiggle dress and those adorable dice earrings of yours! I would definitely pack those in my suitcase if I was attending VLV!

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    1. That sounds like such a fantastic event as well. I love (underline that a million times over) just about anything tiki/Hawaiian/Polynesian/tropical themed/related. I hope you have a blast at the next Hukilau Tiki event!

      You're very welcome, lovely lady. It's a gorgeous frock and suited this post awesomely, so there was no way I could leave it out.

      Big hugs & happy end-of-February wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  21. I will never ever make it to Viva ... as my hub is a punkrock guy and he goes to Vegas a few weeks later to PunkRock Bowling! So I will go on to swoon over the pictures from far!

    Those Cactus Earclips are so fun! Love them!

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    1. Aren't they just fabulous? I'm a total sucker for cactus (and palm tree) themed jewelry and accessories.

      It's cool all the same that you have a chance to visit Vegas. Be it for Viva or at another point in the year, I really hope to be able to do the same one of these days - and will definitely blog up a storm about it, if I do! :)

      Many hugs & happy Thursday wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  22. vegas is very out of my reach - but your fab collection and wonderful descriptions make me dream of it :-)
    xxxxx

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    1. That's really lovely to know, dear Beate. Are there many large scale vintage related events in Germany? Have you ever attended any or felt compelled to do so, if you haven't yet? I know that there are a fair number of vintage/rockabilly fans in Germany, but haven't heard as much about the event scene there as in some other countries (US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, etc).

      Sending lots of hugs & happy almost-springtime wishes your way!
      ♥ Jessica

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