November 18, 2014

My first photo shoot with the Pacific Ocean + thoughts on being recognized in public




Outfit details

White crochet snood: Handmade gift from a dear friend loving friend ♥
Hair flowers: Assorted sources
Gold bow earrings: Payless
1950s red plaid cropped shirt: eBay
Vintage red and gold anchor brooch: eBay (I think)
Red vintage style faux leather cross body bag: eBay
1940s style side button jeans: Freddies of Pinewood
Gold tone metal bangle bracelets: Payless
Red and black vintage plastic bangles: Assorted sources
Black 1940s style oxford shoes: Thrifted (from Salvation Army)
Lip colour: MAC Russian Red


Photography by Tony Cangiano
 
























































Fame is a funny thing. It can be fleeting, fickle, fantastic, funny, fabulous, and, for some, even infuriating. I don't have any firsthand (or even secondhand) experience with mainstream fame in in the slightest. As someone who is mind blowingly shy and uber introverted, I was definitely not the kind of child who longed for a career in that could project me in such a direction (say, like a singer or actress).

No, in my youngest days I wanted to be either a nurse or a doctor, then as my childhood progressed and straight on into my teens, I was 100% certain I wanted to be a chef (and I adamantly believe I would have gone on to be one had I not fallen severely chronically ill about a month after my 18th birthday).

It's theoretically possible that those career paths, particularly that of being a chef, could have led to fame, but it would not have been the driving reason behind why I wanted that job at all. My life, as you likely know, did not end up with me wearing a stethoscope nor (in a professional capacity) standing in front of a hot stove all day. It took many detours and was eerily silent some years, when I was too ill to bring home even so much as one piece of proverbial bacon.

I worked numerous jobs in my late teens, but from my 20s onward, I have been self-employed (a heading under which I include working, and drawing a wage from, being employed by the online media company that my husband and I run) for every job I've held, including during my mid-twenties when I was a part-time professional photographer (I job I loved with every fiber of my being, but unfortunately had to step back from because of the continued worsening of some of my medical conditions).

These days, on top of working for Netrich Media, I have the incredible pleasure and honour - which I do not take for granted for one tiny second - of being a professional vintage blogger and Etsy vintage shop owner. I get to spend my days writing about, photographing (thus indulging in that passion of mine in an awesome new way), wearing, discussing, shopping for, researching, and surrounding myself with vintage. It a job that I can do from home when my health permits and which I truly adore and feel grateful for.

Vintage has helped give me a career that is compatible with my circumstances and which I can hold my head up high when I tell people what I do for a living (believe me when I say that some folks, wrongly of course, judged me incredibly harshly during those periods in my life when I was chronically ill and didn't have a defined career at the time; it was as though they couldn't fathom someone in their 20s being so ill that they couldn't work, which for many stretches of time the last 12.5 years, I have been).

I mention all this to led to the point I begun this post with: fame. Over the years I have achieved a definite degree of notoriety amongst the vintage blogging world. I've being interviewed by numerous magazines, blogs and websites (and the BBC); have an active social media prescience, and blog prolifically, so it probably isn't a huge surprise that I'd stand to get recognized in public every now and then.

I think part of the reason why it always knocks my socks off when such happens is because I live in a small town in British Columbia, Canada. Penticton is beautiful and I love residing here, but it isn't exactly the sort of vintage Mecca that Portland, LA, New York, or London is and in fact, I haven't been recognized by a stranger on the street here yet. Each time it has happened, I've either been in a larger city in this province or in Alberta.

While on our stellar holiday to Vancouver Island earlier this fall, I was floored and very touched to be recognized by multiple people, both on the street and at the Victoria Vintage Expo that I attended (including, very sweetly, when I had three young ladies who were shopping together recognize, rush over to, and proceed to hang out with me for several minutes - it was the closest I think I've ever come to being on the receiving end of a fan girl experience :)).

One such encounter took place at a consignment store in the utterly charming seaside town of Sidney, which is the first place you'll see when you disembark the ferry upon reaching Vancouver Island (if you're headed to Victoria or any point in that general direction, I mean).

While sourcing a few pieces of jewelry for my Etsy shop, I was approached by a lovely lady who asked if I had a blog. I replied that I did and said who I was, and she very excitedly said that she thought it was me and had to come over and say hello. She too was in town on holiday (from Alberta) and we had a marvelous time chatting for a few minutes and latter ran into one another again on the same day when Tony and I made our way down to the wharf area in Sidney to do a shoot for the the photos that appear in today's post.

Never say never, of course, but objectively I doubt I'll ever be world famous in the context of mainstream society, and that's totally okay. Most of us will never walk that path, after all. But there is, I must tell you, something fabulously fun and rewarding about having a complete stranger know who you are and want to interact with you. I never take such experiences for granted and cherish every last one of them that happens to me - and all the more so because, again, I really don't live in a part of the world that is filled with fellow vintage lovers, wearers or bloggers.

Meeting that lady put a huge smile on my face, which was certainly a good thing when it came time to shoot photos. The fact that I finally, for the first time ever, got to a photo shoot for my blog with the majestic Pacific Ocean (others would also happen during our time on the Island, and I'll be posting about them in the near future as well), certainly helped to cement it there even further.

For a day of fun second hand shopping, sightseeing, and driving, I sported my trusty Freddies of Pinewood 1940s style side buttons jeans, a delightful 1950s cropped waist plaid shirt (if I could clone this shirt in a hundred other patterns and colours, I would in the quickest of heartbeats), a snood that I received as a gift from a dear friend last year, three hair flowers, an assortment of plastic and metal bangles, and an anchor shaped vintage brooch to tie into the nautical-ness of our location.

Though it wasn't gloriously golden, the sun was still out in full force that day, so – no surprise here - I was Squinty McSquinty again in some of these snaps, but I don't mind. I was just elated to capture the memory of that day on camera during one of the rare pauses in the rain while we were on Vancouver Island (it rained for some, or all of, nearly every day we were there).

This trip was absolutely fantastic from start to finish and I loved that it included so many fantastic experiences, very much including being recognized by several people throughout our time there. If any of you who did so should happen to be reading this post, thank you again for approaching me and saying hello. I loved getting to meet you and really appreciate your support of my blog, which, after all led you to know who I am in the first place. :)

79 comments:

  1. Hopefully there will be a day that you and I meet, too, Jessica. I think that would be lots of fun!
    Your outfit is stunning as ever, and so are the photographs made your terribly talented husband.

    xoxo

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    1. That would be so marvelous, dear Lindsay. We have a huge account in common (on top of our mutual love of vintage) and I think we'd grow even closer in person. Hopefully one day a meetup can happen.

      You're so sweet. Thank you! I always share every compliment that comes in about his photography with Tony and know that hearing yours will brighten his day.

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  2. Beautiful colours in this casual outfit - and you're making me again wish that I could get Freddies jeans to work for me, but something about where my ribcage is isn't having any of it. They're so uncomfortable in the size I should be wearing as otherwise fits! I'm completely with you in that I never once dreamed of doing anything that would lead me to fame - I wanted to be a vet for quite a long while as a child. A part of me still does, although I gave up on that idea because I couldn't handle the thought of sick/dying animals! What you describe about people coming up to you because they recognise you from your blog sounds lovely though - I think I could handle that... although perhaps I won't know until and if it ever happens! I'm glad you found it a positive and rewarding experience rather than nerve-wracking :) CC x

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    1. Thank you sweetly, dear gal. Oh no, I'm very sorry that the offerings Freddies that you've tried don't work well for you. Perhaps the overalls/dungarees could come to the rescue for you their. I have a pair and wear them all the time (seriously, they're the #1 garment I sport when at the dog park or on a walk with our dog on all but the warmest days of the year). I have quite the opposite issue. Scores of brands of pants don't work for me at all, but Freddies are my knight in shining armour there. Have you found any repro (or modern) pants brands that feel that way for you?

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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    2. I'm with CiCi on the Freddies. I've had no luck either. But I consider myself short-waisted and I have a ribcage that sits out at the bottom. So high-waisted pants or skirts don't look good on me or don't feel comfortable. They also roll over at the top where my ribs are. I think I'll have to be brave and make a pair, altering the pattern to fit properly. But I'm scared! Love your block Jessica. I'm in Australia and a regular reader.

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    3. Hi Soozi, thank you very much for your comment. I'm sorry that Freddies don't work for you either. That's a shame. Much as I suggested to CiCi, perhaps they're fabulous overalls/dungarees would still do the trick for you? How exciting that you're looking to make a pair of pants. That's a big undertaking for sure. I hope it goes wonderfully for you - definitely feel free to share snaps with of the finished project anytime, if you'd like.

      I'm delighted to have you as a reader, dear gal. Thanks again for commenting!

      ♥ Jessica

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  3. What a beautiful outfit! I love high-waisted pants, especially with a cropped top. The colors and patterns are gorgeous.

    And congrats on getting recognized in public! That must be a big ego-boost. You deserve attention and applause so I'm glad to see you getting it.

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  4. How wonderful that you had a fan stop you just to say hi. That was truly quite sweet of them. I have never been stopped and most of the time people forget my name or call me by my sister's name. I'm pretty much used to it, but I guess one day I'll be stopped as well, probably after I'm published {or whenever I'm published for that matter!}. I'm not at all good at being the center of attention and hate public speaking to no end, but I hope to accept it as gracefully as you have. :)

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    1. I have total faith that it will happen to you, especially once you're a published author. Like so many things in life, it's the most unnerving/strange the first time it happens (but that's also the coolest time in a lot of ways). I think that because I get such a high volume of comments and compliments on my vintage outfits when I'm out and about in general, having someone come up to be because they recognize me isn't all that different - either way they're a stranger who is no engaging with me in conversation only in this case, they already know my name (or at least my face :)). It's fun and flattering and who knows, maybe one day it will even happen here in Penticton.

      ♥ Jessica

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  5. First off, love that outfit! You look so cute and easygoing! :)
    I think fame via blogging can be different than that of other sorts, because it's awesome to be recognized particularly for a hobby or interest dear to your heart (like vintage). It shows genuine interest and that you really have reached people with similar passions!
    (Once in a while a stranger or a friend-of-a-friend who has seen me on Instagram will come up and say, Hey aren't you that girl...? And that's pretty neat.)

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    1. Excellent point, dear gal, I completely agree. There is an instant kinship with someone who recognizes a niche blogger (and, let's be frank, objectively vintage blogging is a very much a niche) that I doubt often happens when mainstream celebrities, including mega famous bloggers, are recognized in public. How cool that you've had folks recognize you from Instagram! I had that happen for the first time when on a trip to Alberta last year (which was pretty cool, because I'd only been on Instagram at that point for about nine months). There should be a word or term just for when someone who only knows you online recognizes you in public, don't you think? It's definitely a thing these days, yet it's an act that doesn't have it's own quick word or term yet. Time to put on the ol' thinking cap there. :)

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  6. if someone deserves fame than you! you work so hard for our pleasure - here on the blog, for your well sorted shop and by styling yourself with perfection! like we see in this post! soo cute - i want cuddle you! that blouse is really fantastic. if i were near you i would not only share a cup of tea with you, i would sew you such blouses! which could be easily done by using existing button down blouses/shirts of any kind :-)
    much love! xxxx

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    1. That is so tremendously sweet, dear Beate. Thank you! I admire your sewing talent immensely and wish you lived nearby for a thousand other reasons, too. We always hit it off so well online and I'm sure we would in person, too.

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  7. Wow, so nice outfit, you look divine as always my dear.

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    1. What a high compliment, darling gal. Thank you so very much!!! (I'm smiling ear-to-ear right now!)

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  8. You are one of the best bloggers out there, in my opinion. And you are so deserving of it as well - you are hard working, knowledgeable, and super sweet to boot. And always impeccably dressed! I am so glad you had a wonderful holiday and that you had some great face-to-face experiences with your readers as well. Enjoy it! <3

    -Holly
    Veronica Vintage

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    1. That is immensely kind and very touching of you to say, dear Holly. Thank you deeply.

      I've got, if memory serves me right, four more outfit shoots from our trip to post, so I'll be interspersing them amongst other (newer) shoots as we head towards winter. I love that they allow me to relive our fabulous time on the island and daydream about future trips both there and elsewhere in the process.

      Tons of hugs & thanks again,
      ♥ Jessica

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  9. I can really relate to this post. I was a professional singer/songwriter/musician for most of my life starting in childhood and achieved a certain level of success in that arena. I still get recognized on occasion even where I live. But my dad had a major heart attack followed an emergency quadruple bypass heart surgery while at a show in 2007, then I had our oldest daughter, cared for my grandparents until they both passed away of Alzheimer's, had babies 2, 3, & 4, and had some health issues of my own. During this time, I still gave private music lessons (violin/fiddle, mandolin, guitar, and bass), but am primarily a stay at home mom. People did and still do sometimes believe very untrue things about me just because I don't have a regular full time job, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I've especially missed making music and am hoping that after having our four kids now, my health will get back on track and I can again pursue music a little bit as it will always be what I am most passionate about.
    And if I ever saw you out somewhere I might just act like a total fan girl, too. You're famous to me.
    Sarah

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    1. Sweet Sarah, thank you for sharing such immensely personal things with me (us) here today. You have walked such a challenging path in recent years and I'm deeply sorry for each and every hardship you've encountered and had to deal with. From the bottom of my heart, I hope that from this day forth, life will be far kinder to you, my talented, strong, awesome friend, because you and your family truly deserve it.

      Huge hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

      *PS* I would hardcore fan girl out if I saw in you public, too! :)

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  10. Very nice! Love the background, too!

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  11. First off, I ADORE this outfit! It is so delightfully autumn, and has a wonderful nostalgic feeling about it. You have also reminded me of my snoods that I have been neglecting!

    I think that blog type fame is a funny and unique thing. It's not main stream fame, as you discussed, because I think we, as bloggers, just don't think about being "famous" a lot of the time, and when we do get recognized, by either someone on the street or being contacted to be interviewed, we are sometimes caught off guard by it. But it's a warm and fuzzy feeling, being told, in person, that someone enjoys your blog.

    xoxo
    -Janey

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    1. Oooh, it really is - and there's a certain surrealness to it as well. Perhaps if one was more mainstream famous (say, like an actor, singer, pro athlete or world famous blogger), it would loss that magic spark of "warm and fuzziness", but for those of us who operate in much more niche circles, I doubt it ever will and I rather love that fact. I think it helps further create a bond with the stranger who has just come up to you and make the experience all the more memorable. I know that I can clearly recall each time someone has know me by name/blog name or face and hope I never forget any of them, because such moments are really precious to me.

      I tend to go through waves of snood wearing (aka, I'm either sporting them almost daily or taking a breather between wearings for a few months; this pattern isn't intentional, it just tends to play out that way randomly). They work so well for traveling because they're small, lightweight and fairly indestructible, so you can toss them in your suitcase (unlike, say, a structured 40s/50s hat) and forget about them until you need them during your travels.

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  12. You deserve all the recognition in the world my friend. You have been such an inspiration to me and, I'm sure, so many others. I love seeing and hearing all about your fantastic vacation. This outfit could have come strait out of my closet. Plaid shirt, high waist jeans and a snood is my go-to standard for running errands (especially in the fall and winter months). You look fabulous as always. Thank you for sharing your world with us.

    She Knits in Pearls

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    1. That is a fabulously sweet compliment, dear Cherry, thank you deeply. Don't you wish we lived nearby and could run errands together in your snood + jeans + plaid shirt ensembles? I think we'd look like two hard working 1940s ladies (possibly home front war workers) doing the same thing back in the day and I'm sure we'd turn heads wherever we went.

      Huge hugs & many thanks again,
      ♥ Jessica

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  13. You are looking beyond adorable in this casual 1940s outfit. I can see why you want to clone that shirt! In fact, why don't you? I am known for chopping off simple straight shirts , fitting them with two darts at the front and two at the back and adding a waistband with the cut off fabric. This turns a straight and boring number into cute little shirt gab jackets that are a treat to wear with Freddies and other high waisted garments. No pooling at the waist :)

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    1. Hi Sascha, thank you very much. That could totally be done, yes. I'm not a sewer myself, but sounds like something I might be able to tackle. If I had it in my budget one day, I could also have a seamstress copy the existing one. It's a really great, comfy 50s style, so I might have to do just that.

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

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  14. Love the look girl !
    You look ravishing like this. The snood is great and yo wear swing pants so well !

    Lucky you having such a sun (even the cold I could imagine) I nearly spent the day in the night in Paris today haha

    Lots of love,
    Lorna

    http://lornasharp.blogspot.com

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    1. Thank you ever so sweetly, my dear friend. Most pants like like a tragic train wreck on my short curvy frame, but thankfully wider legged 1930s - 50s styles (and to a lesser degree, 70s bell bottoms, though I haven't worn or owned those in many years now) are my saving trouser/jeans grace there.

      Thankfully it wasn't too chilly that day, which was back around the end of September during our trip to Vancouver Island, but these days, as winter moved in hard and fast here in Penticton (it's several degrees below the seasonal norm for this time of the year), it is freezing already (-5 to -10C most days) and so we enter the period of less photo shoots and more with coats, scarves, boats and all that winter kit when they do take place.

      Lots of love & hugs coming straight back at you!
      ♥ Jessica

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  15. It seems like you've made quite an impact in the vintage blogging community. I'm not surprised people are fangirling you - you're a great blogger, with thoughtful posts, cute outfits, great advice, and a really welcoming and sweet personality. I definitely see why people take a shine to you.
    I'm loving this outfit. I've been wanting a good pair of high waisted jeans, and those Freddie's catch my eye every single time. That blouse looks like a perfect fit, and I can see why you want to clone it. Love the accessories, as always.

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    1. That's tremendously kind, dear Jessica, thank you very much (seriously).

      Freddies are quite the investiment when you factor in the exchange rate, shipping and import costs, but they're beyond worth it, IMO. I've had the pair you see here (and my overalls and some of my other offerings from them) for three years now. They've all been worn dozens of times, gone through numerous washings (I always air dry them - no dryer for these babies as they don't have stretch to them and I don't want to risk having them shrink at all), and are holding up as wonderfully as the day they arrived. If something awful happened and they bit the dust or were ruined, I'd order another pair that same day. No joke. They fit really true to size, so if you're between sizes, fluctuate in weight much, or aren't a fan of super tight waists on pants, I'd suggest going up a size. Definitely shot me a line if you ever want to chat more about Freddies offerings.

      Thank you again - huge hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  16. That is so cool Jessica, to learn that you were approached by people that read your blog! Yep! Very cool! Ironically, we were in Penticton during the time you were on the island. Anyways, great outfit today...I love those jeans girl!

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  17. What a lovely snood! I really like snoods but sometimes chicken out of wearing them because (like a good 40's tilt hat) they seem to scream vintage and get a lot of attention. They really are lovely though, and I like that they can look very retro or even renaissance depending on how you style them.

    I cant imagine being recognized, it would be so strange but oddly rewarding! For someone with a small audience like me, it would be such a surprise! I did have a sort of "fame" related experience earlier this fall that made me feel rather "famous" in my own way; my internship supervisor from the Denver Art museum was at an exhibition opening night event and was speaking with a donor who mentioned she liked reading blogs, and when my supervisor asked her which ones she said mine! My supervisor was like "oh that girl was my intern this summer!" such a coincidence! She e-mailed me the story and I was (as the English would say) chuffed for the rest of the evening!

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    1. That's such a fabulously cool story! Isn't it fascinating how when we put something out there publicly online, we never know for sure who is going to read it and get to know us through our writing, photos, etc.

      Snoods are the bee's knees! They do certainly announce to the world that you're rocking a vintage look (or, and I've had this happen several times, people in this day and age mistakenly think you're a member of a religious sect such as Amish or the Mennonites, even though neither wears snoods like those we associate with the 40s), so I can understand why that might not always be desirable. I often get asked where I got them from or have elderly ladies say that they haven't seen anyone "wear one of those in sixty years!", the latter of which I madly love hearing. :)

      Interestingly, I find that some snood colours tend to garner more attention than others. Generally the more of a contrast there is between the snood and my hair colour, the more people (understandably) tend to notice them, so if you're looking to keep your snood on DL, stick with one close to your hair colour.

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

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  18. I love that cheery bright red check! :) And reading your story of being recognized. Not being a niche blogger like yourself, I definitely don't think I've gained much notoriety from blogging, but this summer a blog reader did recognize me at one of Angel's races. She said she saw us together at the beginning of the race and then came to say hi after finishing the race. My guess is that maybe because I include Angel a lot in blogging, we're extra-recognizable as a combo, haha!

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  19. What a super casual outfit! Yet still very polished. I think that's your signature style. How lovely to be recognised, that's really nice. See, you're famous!! P x

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    1. Thank you very much, lovely lady. It's really cool that you feel that's my signature look. It certainly is a style I wear often, especially when traveling (though, interestingly, I usually get quite glam on the road at least once or twice, too, as I did on this trip for the day of Victoria Vintage Expo). It means a lot to me that you think I always look polished. Thank you!

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  20. I think you are the fist vintage blogger where I can actually picture you in the 1940s your outfits are so realistic!

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    1. That is truly one of the nicest, most uplifting comments I've ever received about my vintage style, dear Maria. Thank you deeply (I swear, I will be smiling and feeling cheerful for days to come thanks to it.)

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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    1. That's immensely sweet of you to say, dear Nina. Thank you very much!

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  22. You looks fab, stunning... i have no words! Wonderful snood <3

    Love, Pri
    vintagepri.blogspot.com

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  23. Beautiful outfit! I adore that anchor brooch… it's gorgeous!

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    1. Thank you very much, darling gal! I love that brooch, too! It goes with so many colours, from denim to black, navy to white and is always a must for me when I'm traveling near or to the ocean. :)

      Bit hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  24. Wow I have to say you look stunning. I love your whole ensemble. The background was stunning as well. I would say it was definitely a successful shoot. I've been meaning to check out your etsy shop going right now!
    Xo
    Kelly

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    1. That's immensely sweet of you to say, dear Kelly, thank you very much.

      I'm tickled pink that you're going to check out my Etsy shop. Please email or Etsy PM me anytime if you'd like to purchase anything and I'll share a private discount coupon code with you that I reserve for blog readers/online friends.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  25. You're famous! How wild to be recognised like that! I love the red, white and blue (brings out the british patriot in me)

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  26. You look lovely as always. The shirt is adorable, especially with that anchor pin.

    How fun to have been recognized while at Vancouver Island. Sidney looks like a lovely place to visit, too.

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    1. Thank you very much, sweet Dawn. It really was a thoroughly charming little community, which interestingly - and much to my great delight - is famous for having a really high concentration of used book stores (see this link for me info: http://www.sidneybooktown.ca). We only got to two, plus some thrift and consignment shops on our day there, so I'll definitely be hitting more the next time we're in town.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  27. Ahh, so you are famous!! How wonderful that you met fellow vintage lovers while on your trip, it must have been really exciting (or perhaps terrifying) to have people rush up to you like that. I love your outfit and the sea is certainly a great backdrop for your photos. (I'm a huge beach-lover since growing up in a seaside town and currently live in another one)

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    1. Thank you sweetly, dear Shelly. It's actually really awesome! Though I am a very shy, and at times private person in some respects, I've grown so accustomed to my vintage garb garnering comments nearly everywhere that I go over the years, that having a strange approach me is no longer a scary thing (assuming they're not going to attack me - I'm talking a stranger who just wants to chat or say hello). It's an honour to be recognized and I treasure each such encounter (holding out hope all the while that one might happen in my own town as that would mean that I had a local reader aside from my mom :D).

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

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  28. Ah, the pictures look stunning as usual :)

    I enjoyed reading this! I can't say I share your longing of behind the scenes work though, even at a younger age. I have always had quite a flair for the dramatic and don't mind being watched. I know I was born that way, and being so tall helped. I really am sad that I didn't get into theatre in high school, but like you said, never say never! Maybe I'll be a fabulous actress yet!

    Glad you had a nice time, and if I ever saw you on the street I would be sure to introduce myself (although I doubt I will find myself roaming the streets of Canada any time soon...but you never know!)
    Abbi <3

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  29. All Aboard!
    The fashionable post ahead! :)

    First of all, let me tell you: people are mean. They are, and always will be, affraind of something (anything!) that is different in any way - and ileness is one such thing. I feel such paind and anger when I read the words you wrote; it's clean and rude discrimination.. no one should ever judge you because of what you are (or: are not). Even if you were a 20-something girl doing nothing - it's your life you're doing nothing about..

    Then comes the time of joy: you have been blessed with meeting a fellow vintage-lover, and more over: were reognized by her. Gosh, that must have been a thrill.
    I'm glad you had such an enounter, darling. I don't dare dreaming of being famous, or even recognized on the street - it is such a scary topic to me.. I prefer staying WAY OFF the spotlight. :)

    Many, many hugs!
    And: thank you for your comments on my turban-post. It was what I needed.

    Marija

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  30. I love your brooch and your jeans! being an introvert too, I think I wouldn't know how to react in those situations, but it's so cool that there are so many people out there who appreciate your blog. You definitely deserve the recognition for all the effort you put in.

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    1. That is immensely kind, honey, thank you very much! I think that if I wasn't used to being approached by total strangers almost every time I go out (because of my vintage attire), it would be significantly more nerve wracking. Now, I really enjoy it and don't mind at all, even if I still feel a bit shy all the same. :)

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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    1. Thank you very much, sweet gal! I adore the blues of the sea. We have some enchantingly lovely lakes and rivers around these parts, but none can match the same tones and colour depths of the vibrant blue Pacific. I eagerly look forward to the next time I'm able to use it as a backdrop, whenever that may be.

      ♥ Jessica

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  32. But you are already world famous, dear. I'm here in Denmark and use you very much as a reference when I tell others about vintage, and Denmark is pretty far away. I met Laurence from Lost in the Fifties, and I still hate myself for my reaction. I got so exited I ran to her and told her I read her blog and loved it, and she looked a bit puzzled. I completely forgot to tell my name, but did remember to wish her a nice trip. I felt VERY stupid afterwards, but what is the chance of meeting someone in the middle of the night on a Danish ferry? When I came home I wrote her a mail and apologized, and she forgave me. So it ended well in spite of my childish behaviour. :)

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    1. How seriously cool that you met Laurence while she was traveling. I would be have been beyond touched had you recognized and come up to me, no matter if you remembered my name or not. It's such a honour to have a stranger know who you are and want to interact with you. I'm glad that in the end all was well between you two and hope that you've been able to forge a friendship from your chance encounter.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  33. you look really cute and Im not at all surprised you get recognized as your blog is so well known. Its such an inspiration for other vintage lovers.

    retro rover

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  34. Isn't always the way that you find the perfect shirt, or jeans or dress and you just wish you could clone it. I absolutely love your brooch y the way.

    The power of the internet! though it's no more than you deserve for having such a fun and interesting blog.

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  35. Gorgeous photos and I love, love, love the shirt! Such classic colors. When I was at the Rhinebeck Sheep and Wool festival last month I had a few people come up to me and introduce themselves as readers of my blog and it's such a funny thing! I don't think I'll ever get used to it. Not that it happens all the time (I'm glad it doesn't haha! I couldn't handle that kind of pressure!) but it still always makes me laugh. The internet is such a strange, wonderful thing.

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    1. Thank you very much, darling gal! That is really and truly is!!! One never knows (and I don't say this in a spooky, ominous kind of way at all) who is watching and connecting with you on their end. I, myself, haven't spotted any other bloggers that I follow on the street yet, but did connect with one thoroughly lovely lady at that same Vintage Expo in Victoria who I had recently started following on Instagram - which was really cool!

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

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  36. Wonderful photos, the light is lovely. I really like your casual sightseeing outfit, it is so stylish and yet still looks comfortable. That is a look that I never seem to manage very well. I like all the co-ordinating touches, especially the bangles and the snood. How nice that people recognised you and came for a chat. That must have been such fun!

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    1. Thank you very much, sweet dear! I tend to really create a capsule collection when I travel, especially while on the road for as long (two weeks) as we were on this trip (with a car that has a truck that's scarcely larger than a matchbox, meaning I get one suitcase and maybe a small carry on bag for everything I'll need during that time) and focused mine on this trip around navy/dark blue, red, pine green, black, white and gold (there were other colours present in my bags, but that was what was at the heart of my outfits most days. By doing so, I can help try to ensure I still look well coordinated and put together, even on the 10th day, say, of living away from my (full) closet! :)

      It really was fun and is always as touching as can possibly be. Even if I was famous in any kind of real capacity (say, like a leading Hollywood star), I would still be incredibly touched each time someone I didn't know wanted to connect with me in person. (Though I suppose that could eat up all your time if you were considerably famous - still, the I hold to the sentiment.)

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  37. Love your look! Best to me are the jeans dear Jessica! It looks like such a great area!
    http://inkandlacedesigns.blogspot.com.au/

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  38. Your blog is such an inspiration that it deserves a big star in the vintage walk of fame:) You touch so many people's lives with your thoughts and generous nature. So fun to hear your story of others recognizing you:))

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    1. That is a humbling, incredibly beautiful compliment, dearest Joanna. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

      ♥ Jessica

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  39. I am not at all surprised that you often get recognized, you are one of the most influential vintage bloggers out there! How amazing are Freddies Jeans? I love my red ones so much and these photos make me want a pair in blue :D

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    1. That's so very sweet, dear Harlow! Thank you! Freddies are the absolute bee's knees and then some! I know that they don't work for every last person out there, but for my short, curvy frame they're the only jeans (repro or otherwise) that I've ever truly loved and felt as though they fit me well/were flattering. It's awesome that you have the red ones! I'm thinking that next summer I might put my birthday money towards investing in a new pair or two of Freddies, possibly in coloured denim. We'll see! For now the pairs that I have are holding up fabulously and never fail to serve me well wherever I sport them.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  40. what a lovely feeling that must have been to get recognised in your own home town! and forget those people who made you feel bad about yourself for not having a job when you were so unwell. it's wonderful that you've managed to find a job and a hobby that you're so passionate about and that you can fit in with your schedule and health. it's not your job to live up to anyone's expectations but your own and as long as you're happy with where you're at in life that's all that matters, and its sounds like you've made the absolute best out of a poor situation (with your health) and i commend you for it!

    little henry lee

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  41. Oh public recognition! That's lovely. It has to be such a gratifying experience to be acknowledged for your style, hard work, and vintage know-how. I've been recognized as "the thrift blogger" a few times...in thrift stores, by employees and volunteers. And it's a nice validation for sure!

    <3 Jackie @ Let's Go Thrifting

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  42. I always adore the 'casual vintage' outfits you wear and this one is no exception. It's perfect for the setting too, which looks just lovely for a day out (yet again I wish I could visit Canada!). Even though you are shy in real life, I can imagine it was nice to be approached by people who recognise you especially as you mention there aren't really any other vintage loving or wearing people in your home town that you know of. A shared interest is always a great jumping off point to get to know someone. As for your work situation, I identify. There can be unfortunately a judgement attached to those who genuinely can't work for whatever medical reason. I have definitely been on the receiving end of that myself in the past and it does feel like a burden to add to the pain I was already carrying. Power to you for finding a creative way to deal with your health/work situation. My health has now improved to the degree that I can work part-time out of the home for the first time in some years (hence being so behind on the blog reading front). I know you will celebrate that with me!

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    1. Thank you very much, sweet Philippa. I'm rather fond of these sorts of outfits, too, especially when traveling and working with a fraction of my usual (full) wardrobe. They commonly remind me of my maternal grandma, too, who has always had a classic, causal, understated type of wardrobe (and indeed, I have a photo from right around the early 50s of her in jeans and a button front shirt that, come to think of it just now, doesn't look a million miles off from this one), which certainly makes me like them all the more.

      It is really nice. It's interesting, but I suppose that in a sense my shyness is more pronounced when I'm the one who is doing the approaching rather than the other way around. I've had the great pleasure of being approached by so many folks over the years now who commented on or compliment my vintage looks that I rarely feel flustered or shy when such happens any more, and should the person happen to know who I am, I feel like that is such an incredible honour.

      Thank you deeply for your understanding regarding the ups and downs I've faced with employment over the years. I'm truly sorry that it's a boat you've found yourself in before, too. I'm elated for you that you've recently been able to work (outside of the house) on a part-time basis and hope with all my heart that you're able to for as long as you desire.

      Endless gentle hugs, my dear friend,
      ♥ Jessica

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  43. What a wonderfully casual outfit. I tend not to wear trousers as they never fit me properly. I have to get the correct leg length and then a hip fit and then the waist fit and rarely if ever have all three made themselves apparent in one pair of trousers, but that's okay, as I love to wear skirts and dresses xxx

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  44. I have yet to be recognized by someone who reads my blog (although mine has a much smaller audience base than yours due to the fact that I am a hobby blogger and not a pro ;) ). I have, however, been recognized out in public when I was acting. It IS a very exciting thing to have a stranger know who you are. Reading about your experience - especially the girls who ran over to you - put a huge smile on my face.

    And btw...I freakin LOVE that outfit!! There is something about a plaid shirt and jeans that gets me every time. You look soooo great!

    Lisa.

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    1. That must have been fantastic feeling, too. Have you ever had anyone ask you for an autograph? I haven't yet. I think that must be such a touching thrill, too.

      Aww, thank you very much, darling gal. I madly love that classic combo, too. In any era from 40s home front worker to the 90s grunge of my youth.

      Thank you for the terrific comment - tons of hugs coming your way!
      ♥ Jessica

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  45. Hi, Are you still there?
    I found your page while looking for info on the (ketchup, beer, make-up & aspirin) bottles I just found while looking for my cat. I score & restore vintage aluminum kitchen tools.
    I would love to see pics of your kitchen!!! (Do you have a vintage camper?). Just wondering...
    Love your page !!!
    Thanks
    Liz Bullock
    ZERODESTRUCTION
    "Save a can.
    Save a cat.
    Save the world."
    :)

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    1. Hi Liz,

      Thank you very much for your comment and for letting me know what lead you to discover CV. Though this blog is now, following an immense personal tragedy, retired, I'm certainly still here (as in alive and online) and have opted to keep CV online, too, so that others can continue to enjoy its posts for a long time to come.

      I don't have a vintage (or modern) camper, no, but am certainly a big fan of them and would happily would jump at the chance to own one some day.

      I really hope that you were able to find your cat. Fingers beyond crossed!

      Thanks again for the visit. Have a terrific weekend!

      ♥ Jessica

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