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January 2, 2015

Twelve things that are inspiring my style (big time!) for 2015


A couple of weeks ago, my lovely friend and fellow vintage blogger Leah posted about her personal style inspiration for 2015, which really got me thinking about that topic in relation to my own wardrobe as well.

This past summer I turned thirty years old and I've noticed a shifting change in some of the styles, garments and even colours that I find myself most drawn to, in part as a result of that milestone birthday and the new chapter of my life that it ushered in, and also simply, I'm sure, because I've always had massively eclectic tastes and tend to love a very wide range of looks. Plus, in the case of at least a couple of the entries in today's fun first post of this brand new year, it's more a matter of reconnecting with old flames that I haven’t sparked up a sartorial conversation with in quite a long time.

In honour of the twelve, hopefully awesome, new months that lay ahead of us in 2015 (seriously, how have we hit the halfway mark year of this decade already?), I've rounded up a dozen of the styles, pieces, and images that have been at the forefront of my lately and which I know will influence me this year and likely well beyond. Are any of them calling your name, too?




1. Nouveau late Victorian/Edwardian style




Endlessly romantic, visually poetic and deeply beautiful, this look channels, if not flat out uses, many of the styles - clothing, jewelry and (sometimes) hair alike - of these eras, while melding them with slightly newer touches like 1960s/70s floppy hats, contemporary make-up, and (again, sometimes) free flowing locks.




2. Woodland animal themed jewelry and accessories (like purses, scarves, and shoes)




Mother Nature has been beckoning me something fierce in recent months, reminding me in her gentle, loving voice that (wo)man was not designed to sit in front of a computer and/or work all day without taking a break to stop and immense oneself in her resplendent world. Just as my soul has been craving the great outdoors, so too has my wardrobe felt a calling towards all manner of woodland animal (think owl, wolf, bat, bear, fox, coyote, and rabbit, to name but a few) themed jewelry and accessories (and garments). I purchased a small, uber cute faux leather cross body owl themed bag last not too long ago and really look forward to debuting it here this year. Wolf Necklace in Solid Sterling Silver from Moon Raven Designs.



3. Coat dresses



Over the years I've discovered that double breasted, curve hugging frocks tend to work wonders on my figure and the older I get, the more I massively adore the sophistication that can accompany some such styles to boot. Coat dresses, a style that is frequently (though not always) double breasted, are immensely chic, very classic, and a stellar piece to see you through fall, winter, and spring (and even summer, if the fabric is light enough or you're wearing them in a chilly air conditioned environment).




4. Uniquely coloured crinolines (pettiskirts)



My passion and history of wearing crinolines is anything but new and I've always enjoyed them in a host of colours, but lately I've found myself very pulled towards unique and/or dark coloured examples like the 1950s beauties above. To that end, I recently ordered both a pine green and a burgundy coloured one (each from the brand Hell Bunny, purchased via Retro Glam during their big 40% Boxing Day sale) with some of my Christmas money and can scarcely wait for them to arrive!



5. Brown lace-up boots



Though it is little talked about in the vintage fashion world, certain garments or accessories trend or become popular and remain so for a good, long while. One such item that falls into the later camp in my eyes, is tall, early 20th century (or more contemporary offerings that look the part) tall brown lace-up leather or faux leather boots, the likes of which have been sported on some of the biggest names in the vintage blogging world for years now. I've been hankering for a pair since I was in my teens and would love it if 2015 was the year a pair finally landed in my closet - thus making my footwear wardrobe instantly a thousand times for fashionable in the process. Rare 1930s brown leather lace-up boots from Lucky Dry Goods.




6. Raw rock crystal/quartz and similar jewelry



I'm not sure if it's the plethora of stylish young women sporting organic shaped rock quartz, crystal, and agate slice jewelry that I've been seeing years on Pinterest now having settled in my subconscious or simply an appreciation for this gorgeous type of accessory (or both!), but goodness, if I haven't fallen head-over-heels for pieces featuring raw, unpolished, completely natural looking semi-opaque stones lately. I'm definitely going to be saving up to buy a sterling silver and crystal or quartz piece or two this year (my pesky nickel allergy means I need to work with nickel-free metals such as brass, copper, or sterling silver for all my metal jewelry). Silver Dipped Raw Quartz Crystal Point Necklace available at Kiss The Future.



7. All (or mostly all) white garments and ensembles



At the risk of sounding terribly contradictory to the twelfth entry here when you get to it (hey, I did fully admit I was eclectic after all - plus in fashion one is allowed to hop around from look to look like a bee pollinating flowers :)), in the past year or so, I've started finding the sight of all white (or nearly so) outfits incredibly appealing. It's not that I didn't appreciate them visually before, it's just that - not exactly having the figure of a lanky supermodel - the idea of actually sporting one scared me like the thought of a huge spider holding an advanced calculus exam while simultaneously confronting me with allegation of something I didn't do. While I'm still not entirely ready to dress like a bride 24/7, the idea of donning white (or cream, etc) in larger quantities isn't nearly as shudder inducing these days.




8. Cute/cool vintage or vintage appropriate t-shirts worn with vintage skirts or high waisted jeans



This a look that I've long admired on fellow vintage bloggers such as Janey and Solanah, and do wear occasionally, but not nearly enough - especially come the sweltering summer months. I know that in part this stems from the fact that t-shirts weren't overly common for women in the 40s and 50s (at least not anywhere near to the degree that they are these days) and while not full on vintage purist 24/7, I sometimes all but forget about certain more modern garments, even those I really like. I have several fun, vintage-y ones with images/patterns I just adore and it's high time they saw more action.



9. The Mori Girl look



The Mori - which means forest in Japanese - Girl look is a street style that arose, and is currently most popular, in Japan (it is the softer sister, if you will, to the Japanese Dolly Kei style). It is largely based around soft, loose fitting dresses, cardigans, skirts, shawls, fur scarves and wraps, and sweaters, often in natural fabrics and fibers, frequently in muted, gentle hues and delicate, feminine patterns like florals and gingham. Boots (suede, rubber wellies, leather, etc), chunky (such as clogs), understated jewelry, tights, and flowing curls commonly partnered with bangs, are also mainstays of this fashion style. The overall look is sweet, tranquil, folksy, sometimes vintage-y, and redolent of someone - very much including a fairy tale character - who might live in the woods or a on quite country farm.


10. Silver...everything!



I adore most metallic shades, but silver (and white gold) have always had a particularly big spot in my heart. As of late, I've been feeling everything from silver eye shadow to silver clothing, and of course good, ol' silver jewelry - all of which this strikingly elegant early 1950s image includes.



11. Solid coloured dresses



It's no secret that I'm crazy for all kinds of patterns, from florals to plaid, novelty prints to polka dots, but sometimes, especially during the winter, I really, really just want to wear solids, particularly in dress form, which I usually them accentuate with solid or patterned accessories, a killer vintage hat, and grey or black vintage winter weight vintage princess coat.



12. Goth and Gothabilly fashions



Way, way, wayyyy back in time (or so it feels more often than not!), like many teenagers, I went through a goth phase. It was a look and subculture I adored (and still do), yet for some reason the styles never really clicked for me. As I've essentially said here a time or two over the years, I ended up looking like I had a mild sunburn (black hair + black clothing brought out the pink undertones in my skin something fierce) and was perpetually sporting a Halloween costume. Not cool and not substantial, so as my style shifted into the vintage world, I all but relegated my black maxi skirts and fishnet tights to the back of the closet.


Then suddenly last fall, like a bolt from above, the desire to rekindle my goth side came out with a fiery passion (and I indulged it in my choice of Halloween costume). As much as I madly love colour (which, goth clothing, for the record, does not have to be devoid of entirely by any means), and no doubt always will, black was beckoning me and I suddenly started wearing more of it again. Certainly the icy cold winter weather and darker palette outdoors plays a roll there, but I feel like my inner goth girl has been awoken - from her crypt? :D - and is here to stay, be it in big or small doses of this particular style channel.



{To learn more about a specific image, please click on it - or the name of the shop it hails from, where applicable - to be taken to its respective source.}



♥ ♥ ♥



I firmly believe that one's personal style should be a continually evolving entity of sorts. There's absolutely nothing wrong with gravitating to the same key styles, decades, garments and accessories, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't at least be open to drawing inspiration from alternative sources and shaking things up sometimes. We only live once after all and that very much applies to our fashion choices as well.

If an image/style speaks to you, that doesn't mean that you have to interpret it literally. You can take subtle hints, reinterpret it in your own way (I do this frequently with looks from decades prior to, and later than, the ones that I usually dress in), or simply give it a full go in the privacy of your own home. If it doesn't feel like you, seems too costume-y for your comfort level, or otherwise just doesn't hit the mark, you haven't even stepped foot outside and no one (save perhaps for anyone you live with) has to know. You tried and you'll try again with different styles in the future, no doubt finding many that do make the grade - and then some, in certain situations!

It always helps to look at your wardrobe like you would the meals you cook. While you might adore pizza, tacos, pho, grilled veggies, red velvet cake or any other dish to no end, but chances are you'd never want to eat it and it alone for the rest of time. Variety is the spice of life on all fronts and fashion is most definitely no exception. Try new wearable "recipes" if you will and have a blast!

I plan to do just that this year and look forward to celebrating old favourites and new loves alike in my outfits, many of which will no doubt show up in photos here. I'm psyched to have so many great things inspiring me as we kick off the new year and hope that some of them speak (or flat out shout!) to you as well.

Here's to the prospect of truly fantastic, adventure filled, and very stylish 2015, my dear friends!



70 comments:

  1. How fun! I often feel like I have conflicting or at least wildly different fashion moods sometimes. I'm particularly drawn to #11 solid color dresses. I've been wanting a red shirtwaist dress for forever. I even bought a pattern with my dream dress in mind but it never happened. Maybe 2015 will see it be a reality.

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  2. Ah Goth and Gothabilly ... I see that I'm just in time. *snicker* Sending you batty hugs and macabre inspiration. :)

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    1. Tee-hee-hee! :) I swear, hand on my heart, I was thinking of you soooo much as I wrote that part of this post. You've been my go-to goth style inspiration for ages now and I truly love that your blog has helped fuel the fires of my goth loving heart in the midst of my usual vintage filled universe.

      Huge hugs coming right back at you!
      ♥ Jessica

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    2. :D And you've been my vintage go-to style inspiration! Think about what kinds of things we can do if we harnessed our powers. WAHOO! There would be LOTS of Halloween stuff everywhere. HA! Too fun. I was just saying to Ed that I really want to get back to what I was doing before my Mom passed: a good mix of my normal Goth style with a retro/vintage sensibility. Here's to a wonderfully creative New Year, deal gal!

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    3. Ooohh, now that is a thoroughly exciting thought! I so wish we lived nearby and could avail of each other's knowledge and wardrobes in person. Though not possible, thankfully we can still chat up a storm online and that's pretty darn cool, too. :)

      Huge hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  3. In the US in the 50s when full skirts were so popular we called them can-can petticoats not crinolines - I lived in Los Angeles in that era - seems no one seems to call them anything in reminiscing now but crinolines - we had some with hoops in them too (2 or 3 hoops) and those we called Hoop skirt slips.

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    1. That is thoroughly interesting, dear lady. I love learning new terms for vintage garments and appreciate you sharing that one with me. I would love to add a hoped crinoline/petticoat to my wardrobe one day - I may need to wait until I have a bigger house (my teeny closets are already rather full) to store it in though! :) (Though, perhaps I could put it in a plastic under-the-bed-storage bin for now. No matter when, I would definitely adore sporting one some time! :)

      Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a truly fantastic New Year!
      ♥ Jessica

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  4. The Edwardian style will be gorgeous on you! I really need to sit down and think about my wardrobe. Thanks for making me think about it!
    And brown boots - I bought my daughter a pair of dark brown combat-style boots for Christmas and she hasn't taken them off. I'm going to have to get a pair for myself because they do look good with nearly everything and have a bit of both steampunk and rock and roll attitude.
    Happy new year to you both!

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    1. That's so sweet of you to say, dear Bobbi. Thank you!!! While I may not be slipping into a full on Edwardian ensemble any time soon (as fun as that would be), I do feel the general styles of this area speaking to me more than ever and know they'll influence me in many stylish ways - from white lawn dresses to high necked blouses, sheer layers to art nouveau jewelry.

      Very much so! Brown boots rock and I'd venture to say that they stand out even more than black ones because they're not quite as common these days. I love the rock and roll vibe they can telegraph as well and do really hope a pair finally lands in my closet this year.

      Huge hugs & countless happy New Year's wishes to you and your family!
      ♥ Jessica

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  5. I love this post, Jessica! And I love imagining you in some of the styles/pieces you've picked out here. I'm still rooting for your inner goth to make an appearance ;) Of course, I recently got hold of some brown lace-up boots and I honestly don't know what I wore before I had them in winter... did I just leave the house without shoes?! They seem to be all I ever wear now! So I definitely approve of that one. I love coat dresses too and you'd look so fab in them. Some of the more eclectic things you've put here I'd love to see you in. Oh, and I love separates as you've probably gathered, so I'd be excited to see you styling some tees :D I haven't quite worked out what I want to do with my style this year, but it definitely involves more accessories, I think. CC x

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    1. Your patience will not have been in vain, my sweet friend, I promise you! She's waking up from her lengthy slumber and will be making an appearance here, I'm all but certain, multiple times in 2015. I might not go 100% full on goth, but there will be influences at work for sure - very much including some recent Black Friday (fittingly! :)) and Christmas money fashion purchases that are of a very goth approved nature (such as an Edgar Allan Poe themed t-shirt; which come to think of it, nails at list two of the entries on this list in one go! :D).

      Huge hugs & many thanks for your wonderfully nice comment.
      ♥ Jessica

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  6. This is a beautiful collection of inspiration. All my good wishes to you and yours family too, dear Lady !!

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  7. You know what I like before I know what I like. You lead me to my promised land. I ought to be paying you for this!

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    1. Knowing you enjoy my posts is always payment enough unto itself, Ally. Thank you so much for bringing a massive smile my way with your wonderfully nice comment.

      Have a fabulous first weekend of 2015!
      ♥ Jessica

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  8. This is a really lovely post, love your style inspirations and can't wait to see how your style evolves over the year. I too have been drawn to quartz jewelery and have been eye-ing a pair of natural rock earrings!

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    1. Perhaps it's a Canadian thing? We're a nature filled country and find ourselves pulled towards organic, natural jewelry as a result. (Good theory at least! :D)

      Thank you sweetly, dear gal. I genuinely excited myself and really look forward to trying my hand at new styles and garments, stretching my creative fashion muscles, and having a fabulous time with my outfit choices this year.

      Oodles of hugs & happy weekend wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  9. Some fabulous ideas here Jessica! I personally hope to embrace more '60s and '70s fashions in 2015, perhaps with their more folky edge. We'll see!! I'm excited to see how these inspirations will translate into what you end up wearing x

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    1. I think you would/will look positively stunning in 60s/70s look. Interestingly I was really into those decades, specifically the flower child look, when I was a kid. I think it came in large part to being raised on my parents extensive record collection from those decades. These days my favourite styles from those decades what I'd call the "glam boho" ones and the prim secretary looks from the 70s - ohhh, and a bit of Gunne Sax/romantic prairie never hurt either. :)

      I really am, too, as for the most part, they're just that. Inspiration. I don't plan to necessary sport these looks exactly (though in some cases such might happen), but rather to translate them into the context of my mid-century wardrobe and the pieces I already have to hand. Likewise, sweet dear, I really look forward to your splendid 60s and 70s styles or influenced looks.

      Huge hugs & the very happiest of New Year's wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  10. LOVE all this inspiration! Can I just say that I didn't even know Mori Girl style was a thing, but I think it just changed my life haha! My style has been leaning very much that way lately (comfy dresses and boots forever!!), and I was wondering if it made sense ...I hate that it's human nature to question our inner voice until we notice others doing it then KNOW it's accepted as a "thing". I hate that!! But, now I know Mori Girl is a thing so thank you for that, Jessica lol :)

    I'm really excited to see how your style evolves in 2015!

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    1. Yay!!! I swear, when I discovered the Mori look last year, I thought of you and how elements of your style fit that fashion genre so immensely well. I love that you feel a connect with this style, too. It's so darn charming and suits the colder months, when layers are a must, super well.

      I'm looking forward to seeing how these influences shine through in my wardrobe, too. I think it's going to be a really fun year for me on the fashion front and hope it's one for you as well, honey.

      Huge hugs & tons of happy New Year's wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

      *PS* Soooo true!!! (re: human nature)

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  11. What a cool idea for a post! I adore most of these trends too. I really like the way Florence Welch dresses because she incorporates some of these things, but she has a bit of a 70s vibe going on as well. I think it's refreshing to see someone inspired by something different. While I love the typical 40s, 50s and 60s styles, I do think they can get a little tired sometimes, so pairing them with other styles is always something I'm a big fan of. I hope you have a wonderful stylish year. I don't really know what my style inspiration is for 2015, but i'm thinking lots of blue and glitter...

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    1. Me, too, big time! She is such a stylish lady who really seems like she'd be fun to hang out with, too.

      For sure, mixing things up and not being afraid to step out of one's usual decade(s) is really important. There's nothing wrong with having firm favourites, but I think that we grow as people and dressers alike the more we stretch our creative fashion muscles and take new risks - at least once in a while! :)

      Thank you very much for your wonderful comment, honey. Have a seriously terrific first weekend of 2015!

      ♥ Jessica

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    2. I ended up doing a similar post on my blog and linked you in it :) Mine is mostly about colour, because i'm obsessed with certain colours now.

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  12. I also experienced a goth fashion phase in my teen years (one of my friends once told me "You're the happiest goth I've ever met"--I've always thought that was hilarious) and I still have a soft spot for it. And I've always wanted a colorful petticoat...

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    1. That's awesome! :) I swear, I had similar things said to me as well (by non-goths), which as us goths at heart know is rather silly because the stereotype that all goths are gloomy Guses is just that - a total myth. In fact, some of the goths I've known over the years have been amongst the most cheerful, outgoing, happy-go-lucky folks I've ever know. As in any subculture, there are folks in all kinds of emotions states/frames of mind at any given moment and just because goths favour dark clothes, music and macabre things doesn't mean they're/we're all mopey 24/7 by any stretch of the imagination! :)

      Tons of hugs & happy weekend wishes coming your way!
      ♥ Jessica

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  13. Great post Jessica. I'm really hoping to add more variety to my wardorbe and recently been leaning towards casual 70's clothes, not sure why. Funny you mention goth style, while I I too had a goth phase as a teenager, even had purple hair. While I wouldn't wear a goth dress to go teach class there is something still alluring of a Mortica Adams gown.

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    1. I've heard it said before, once a goth, always a goth and I think that there is such a degree of truth to that. It's a subculture and way of dressing that really imbues itself to one's soul (much like vintage!) and that even if we're not sporting, we always carry in our hearts and let come out, if only once in a blue moon, in our wardrobe choices.

      I totally dig laid back/boho 70s styles, too! They could very easily have been the 13th entry here had the list kept on going.

      Huge hugs & the very happiest of New Year's wishes to you, dear Akram!
      ♥ Jessica

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  14. Jessica, The Mori Girl look was what I wore when in my teens... only then it was called California Hippy Chick (chic), or Little House On the Praire look. So well suited to young innocents.

    Best
    Celtic Lass

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    1. Very true, my sweet friend, I definitely see the California Hippy/boho look as being an influence on the Mori Girl styles of today. I think that they're also more than a little bit influenced by European gypsy fashions (another fashion genre that has long spoken to my soul).

      I love the Little House on the Prairie/romantic prairie look. One of these days I'll finally add a Gunne Sax dress to my closet and fulfill a childhood dream in doing so! :)

      Countless hugs & joyful New Year's wishes coming your way!
      ♥ Jessica

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  15. I had never heard of Mori style before!! I'm off to do some internet research about the style now. So pretty!

    Can't wait to see how these inspiration photos influence your style this year!

    Lisa.

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    1. I discovered it last year myself on Pinterest and have been thoroughly smitten ever since. I have no qualms with admitting that more than one evening has been devoted solely to looking at photos of, and reading about, the elements that go into this beautiful style. I find it a very soothing, relaxing, peaceful fashion genre and as those are things I strive for in my life (who doesn't want a tranquil existence?), I think that's a big part of why the Mori Girl style speaks to me so much.

      I'm really excited to see that as well. I feel like I want to flex my fashion muscles big time, take new risks, marry old and new favourites, and just have a blast with my outfits in 2015.

      Tons of hugs & super happy weekend wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  16. As much as I enjoy the round-up posts appearing with the new year, there is something much more exciting about looking forward! I can just imagine some of the outfits you will create using these inspirations.

    Coat dresses are absolutely perfect in my eyes! I hope you find some good ones :)

    Meet Me In St Louis always makes me want an all-white ensemble, and also looking at WWI-era dresses too. I often am drawn to, and buy, white clothing, but then I am usually sadly reminded of how clumsy I am when eating and how much pasta I eat and it all seems like a silly mistake. Oops. Still, I love white :)

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    1. Same here!!! That movie has influenced me on the fashion front more times than I can count (I will forever have a super soft spot in my heart for 1930s, 40s and 50s does Victorian/Edwardian looks like the ones in this classic musical film).

      I'm really excited to see as much, too. I don't plan to take all of these images and create literal interpretations of them, but rather to let their styles and vibes, if you will, influence my outfit choices and help me to make some bold, fun new fashion choices in 2015.

      Tons of hugs & happy wishes for a super stylish year ahead!
      ♥ Jessica

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  17. for a wonderful and chic 2015!!!!! salut!
    :-)
    i make my X under every number here! as ever, you don´t fail to inspire me. luckily the long searched brown boots came to me end of the last year. a double breasted dress - in summer weight - is on my sewing list for the last 2 years. should do something....... you know i have a weak spot for all things woodland themed, should use the things i own already much more in my attire. thank you for the lovely reminder!!!!!
    hugs! xxxx

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    1. You are very lucky to have found your beautiful brown lace up boots, dear Beate. You have inspired me all the more to try and finally add a pair to my wardrobe as well. Oooh, please feel free to share photos with me and/or on your blog if you make a summer weight double breasted dress. I can already picture in my mind's eye how marvelous one would look on you.

      Huge hugs & the very happiest of New Year's wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  18. What a fantastic post. I had forgotten how much I loved your blog (I just didn't have the energy to visit many blogs in 2014 - the year from hell). This is exactly what I needed. Thank you for always having such fabulous thoughts and words and pictures. (((hugs)))

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    1. Aww, that's immensely sweet of you to say, honey, thank you very much. I always adore it when you visit and completely understand that sometimes there may be long spells between such visits.

      With all my heart, I hope that 2015 treats you to a far better, less stressful, more joyful year. I know a bit about what you endured in 2014 from your Instagram posts in particular and am truly sorry that it was such a brutal year for you, sweet dear.

      Endless hugs & happy New Year's wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  19. I'm really looking forward to seeing more of your style evolution! I'm actually really with you on the Edwardian/Victorian inspiration - it's such a beautiful, soft era in fashion. I've also been looking for ways to incorporate vintage style into more casual looks, and I'm officially on the hunt for a great pair or 40s/50s style jeans.
    You're absolutely right that style is always evolving (at least for most people), and I think it's really fun to see what's piquing your interest.

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  20. Now, now...
    I know about "mori girl" fashion, but have I ever imagined someone else (in the Western world) knowing it? No. And, there lies the surprise; since the Japanese street-fashion subculture is such a rare subject (we,, truth to be told - I've never spoken about it with anyone, since NO ONE here even knows about it's existence). :)
    Here's to new fashion frontiers! :)

    Hugs
    Marija

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    1. It comes as no surprise to me that you, my sweet friend, are a fan of Japanese street fashions/culture as well. I was massively into Japanese culture, especially the fashion and kawaii toy sides of it, in my early to mid-20s and even sold Japanese toys online for a while. Though it's no longer quite such a big part of my world any more, I still have a huge soft spot in my heart for many Japanese things, chief amongst which lately has definitely been Mori Girl looks. :)

      Beautiful charge - I will second it entirely: here's to new fashion frontiers for both of us!

      ♥ Jessica

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  21. All such stunning wonderful styles, and i can't wait to see your posts, Jessica. I'm especially fond of numbers one, two and eleven. Oh, and the silver. Love, love, love silver. :) 2015 will be an excellent style year for you.. i can tell. (Of course, that said, you always look fabulous in your vintage outfits and accessories!

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    1. Dear Mary, you are always as sweet and kind to me as the day is long. Thank you for encouraging words and excitement about the outfits I'll be sharing here this year. I've got a small number of shoots from our trip during the fall to Vancouver Island still to post, but beyond that, everything else that I share from here on out will be new to 2015 and will no doubt have notes of these influences in many of the ensembles I create.

      Big hugs & joyful Tuesday wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

      *PS* Silver rocks to no end!!!

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  22. great list I want to try a petticoats myself its one vintage look Ive never worn

    retro rover

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    1. How cool that you'd get to try one for the first time, if you did. I've been wearing them (first as part of costumes for dance, theater, etc) since I was a child and love them to bits. Be forewarned though, I find that pettiskirts/crinolines are a lot like potato chips. Stopping at just one is almost impossible, as you instantly fall in love with them! :)

      Big hugs & many thanks for all of your terrific recent comments,
      ♥ Jessica

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  23. The red dress is a dream! To compare it to food is wonderful! You made a solid point!
    http://inkandlacedesigns.blogspot.com.au/

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  24. Oooooh, what a gorgeous collection of style inspirations you have! I love taking a peek at the things that others are wearing or hoping to add to their wardrobes, and there are so many lovely things in your list. I'm definitely in agreement on the block-coloured dresses. I had a beautiful red shirt-waist dress that I wore until it fell apart last year. I'd really like to buy some more single-colour dresses, maybe in green or blue or purple, to replace it because it was so easy to style.

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    1. Thank you sweetly, dear gal! They really are! I have a 80s does 50s purple (think grape soda coloured purple) shirtwaist dress that I adore dressing up and down with myriad other colours all year round. Interestingly, I think my favourite colour to partner it with is actually purple. The two go so nicely together and are an unexpected pairing, which is something I generally enjoy when it comes to fashion.

      I hope you're able to find some great single coloured frocks to replace your beloved red one this year, honey.

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  25. happy new year!
    i can't wait to see your style evolve in 2015.

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  26. Thank you for mentioning my work. I'm glad it became an inspiration for new year for you! You've collected great style ideas. Very beautiful.


    ___________________________________
    Style stories: http://elenwhite.blogspot.ru/

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    1. Your work is absolutely gorgeous, Elen. It's new to me, but you can already count me as a firm fan.

      Many thanks for your comment. Have a splendid New Year!
      ♥ Jessica

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  27. I love Edwardian fashions too, I said to you before I think that the autumn months always make me yearn for such clothing. I like the woodland idea too, I have of course had as you pointed out, a birthday littered with wildlife themed gifts, something I didn't even notice myself!

    The coat dress is really exquisite, so very flattering. I have a nickle allergy too, so all the findings I use are 925 sterling silver.

    For years I wandered confused in the fashion forest so to speak before I finally went back to the style I loved when I was eleven, which expertly flatters my figure. I cringe at some things I wore in the past!

    I look forward to seeing you introduce the looks and influences in this post into your every day life xxx

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    1. Hello my sweet friend, thank you very much for your great comment. I'm sorry to hear that you have a nickel allergy as well. I make a lot of my own jewelry, just as you do, to help ensure I can wear metal, but not being able to pick and chose at will from all the beading/jewelry making supplies out there does certainly impact the kinds of pieces you can create. Have you tried brass and copper findings, too? So long as they're pure, I haven't run into issues with either of those metals either, which is quite handy.

      It's really wonderful that have hit upon a style that makes you happy and does lovely things to your figure. That's so much of the goal of fashion right there, isn't it?

      Huge hugs & nothing but joyful wishes to you for 2015,
      ♥ Jessica

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  28. Ah hah! I've been enjoying your blog for your vintage vibe, but I have to smile, because Edwardian, Mori Girl, and Goth (influences, rather than the thing itself) are my special loves, so I'll be interested to see how you incorporate those influences.

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  29. I've been enjoying following your blog for the vintage vibe, but Edwardian, Mori Girl, and Goth are my three special passions, so I'll be interested in seeing how you incorporate those influences over the coming year.

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    1. As will! :) This post wasn't a way of saying that I was getting tired of vintage fashions (I seriously think that would be impossible!), but rather that I'm looking to incorporate more of the many, many things that are currently inspiring me into my vintage wardrobe. I feel creativity pulsing through my veins on many fronts this year and my wardrobe is no exception there, so it will be a lot of fun for me to look back in twelve months and see how these various things ended up shining through in my daily looks.

      Big hugs & many joyful wishes for 2015 to you, dear gal,
      ♥ Jessica

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  30. So much fun! I love the woodland jewellery and the dress-coats. I like the idea of a dress warm enough to wear without a coat!

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    1. Coat dresses are awesome! Some are thick enough to wear as coats in spring and fall (or winter, too, if you live in a warm climate), but I've seen them in summery fabrics like silk and linen, too. They're a really flattering style on a lot of folks (especially if you're curvy) and I highly recommend adding one (or more) to your wardrobe, if this style is speaking to you.

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

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  31. pettiskirts and nÂș12 are really making me look to my wardrobe and picture them among my clothes. I also had a goth fase but now I want to do a more adams family goth kinda thing, never heard of gothabilly ^^'

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    1. At the risk of massively oversimplifying a subculture, gothabilly is like the marriage of goth and rockabilly. Think lots of cute/sexy pinup girl styles, but in darker shades, with bat, skull, zombie and similar themes running through many such pieces. It's a totally fun and if you feel pulled towards goth, is a great way for us vintage gals to incorporate some such looks into our vintage wardrobes.

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

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  32. Dear Jessica, I love your inspirations! Lately I've fallen totally for Edwardian blouses and skirts, oh my Gosh, I love them! I think the T-shirts idea is so nice for summer, I really need to get some high waist jeans too. Also I was delighted to know that you were a fan of Japanese culture, since I'm and always have been into Japanese culture. Did I tell you that my MA thesis was abouthistory of Japanese kawaii characters/toys? :o)

    Hugs xx
    Beta

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    1. Ooohh, I think that Edwardian styles would look sublime on you, my sweet friend. You have such a gentle, beautiful personality and fashion sense, too, and the romantic, flowing styles of that era would suit you immensely well.

      How awesome that you are a huge fan of Japanese culture and fashion. You know, I don't believe you have mentioned that before. What a fascinating topic to devote your MA thesis to. I was massively into all things kawaii in my early to mid-20s and even sold Japanese toys on eBay for a while. As my blog (here) took off more and more and my interests shifted somewhat, I stopped being quite so into that darling side of Japanese culture, but Japan and its incredible culture will always be an important part of my world and something that perpetually inspires me in many ways.

      Once again, we're too peas in a pod, sweet Beta.

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  33. Another lovely post! I know exactly what you mean about changing tastes especially after reaching 30. This year I'm more determined then ever to refashion my wardrobe and start wearing things that really make me happy and feel good! I find myself inspired by so many different things. I saw an absolutely stunning red coat dress on Ebay but sadly it got away. I absolutely adore my 1930s/40s leather lace up boots! Depending on your shoe size I might have a pair of similar boots that would work for you. I have them listed on Etsy right now but I would be more then happy to work with you on the price or even trade for them. I've been eying some lovely things in your shop!
    -Emily

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    1. I wonder, was it a red coat dress for around $99? I was watching that around Christmas, but couldn't begin to justify spending that on a single dress around the holidays (especially since I had already bought myself a little vintage Xmas present over on Etsy).

      Definitely! I honestly couldn't fathom ever being without my beloved 40s and 50s styles, but there's nothing to stop me from incorporating other elements that currently speak to me into my vintage outfits and branching out sometimes, too, such as to early or later decades. Fashion should always be fun and reflect who you are (and what your interests are) in a given moment.

      You are always as sweet as sugar. I checked out the boots you have and if they were my size (alas, they're too small), they would be perfect! I usually wear a size 8 and have feet that teeter between average and wide in terms of width, depending on the brand. Interestingly (oddly?) though sometimes with boots, I find I need to size up half or even one full size. My feet are hard to fit in general, largely due to crazy high arches, so I almost never buy shoes online any more (most attempts have resulted in returns of reselling what I bought) and just try my luck thrifting and with local shoe stores. All that said, if you get any similar boots in a size 8, 8.5 or 9, please don't hesitate to let me know (and it's awesome to know that you'd be okay with doing a trade; I would be down with that big time).

      Huge thanks & happy Tuesday wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  34. Oh, you bought the green Hell Bunny petticoat I featured! I also adore coloured petticoats, and tried it on on my birthday shopping tour (blog coming up with photos soon), but I thought it was too full, which DH hates. I never use skirts so full, but it was truly lovely. :) The colour was fantastic. I like you mentioning that you can try different style in the privacy of your home, that's what I've started doing. Remember my Austrian dirdln dress? I wear it on Wednesdays and weekends, and I love it. If I'm running errands, I just put on a dark green cardigan and it looks like a normal dress. But what the heck, I think most people thinks I'm geek anyway. ;) Thank you for a great list, I will be looking forward to seeing you interpret (?) it. I'm still hopelessly in love with the fifties (have always been), and am daring to wear it every day on my job. 2014 was a plaid and wiggle dress obssession year, I wonder what 2015 will be? In fact I have a project of sorting my wardrobe, makeup and nail polish. I try clothes on (wear it a day) I haven't used for long to figure out why. Perhaps I can change it, perhaps I will find new favourite, make new sets, or donate some to charity. I will blog about it soon. Wishing you a lovely day, dear. :)

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    1. Hi sweet Sanne, goodness, you are right! I forget that you shone that spotlight on that green Hell Bunny stunner, but as soon as I read your comment, it came back to me and I do believe we're talking about the same one. Yay! That's another cool thing that we have in common now! :)

      What a fantastic way to get even more wear, and easily disguise, your dirndl dress. I tend to only wear mine around Octoberfest time, but you've got me thinking I should toss a big sweater or cardigan over it for more year round wear. It's it fantastic the way in which we fashion loving folks can inspire and help one another out with great ideas like this?

      I will never, every lose my love of the 1940s and 50s, nor stop dressing in styles from those decades. These things inspirations, not replacements for the way I've been dressing for half my life now. My style evolves and changes every now and then, but at its root, there will always be vintage. It's just tons of fun to see how you can expand on that and incorporate other styles that speak to you in the context of a vintage/repro/vintage appropriate wardrobe.

      I wish you all the very best with your big wardrobe sort/culling and am sure it will help this year feel like you've gotten off on an even fresher start once you're finished.

      Tons of hugs & happy January wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  35. Oh goodness! Some of these are finding their way into my close too! Especially the Victorian, animals and silver!

    I look forward to seeing more of these items on your blog!

    xoox
    -Janey

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    1. You are such a huge fashion inspiration to me, sweet Janey. It's awesome that some of these things are speaking to you as well. I can picture you look nothing short of magnificent in a heavily Victorian or Edwardian inspired ensemble.

      Thank you for splendidly nice comment - I hope that 2015 is already off to an awesome start for you,
      ♥ Jessica

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  36. Hope you had a marvellous NYE !
    You had me at coat dresses and crinolines Jessica ! If today they were only the quality and price of the ones pictures in the ad :)
    I totally agree, as we age we evolve and our tastes change, in other cases we may still like the same things but we do not wear them anymore as we may feel they are no longer appropriate for us.
    In my case, I have been looking at really short dresses and getting rid of them, also at big fuzzy headbands
    I will be 40 soon and fear looking childish.

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  37. What a marvelous list for the new year, Jessica! Some of these things have been on my radar too lately. I've pulled off a few semi-Victorian inspired outfits in the past months (when you're wearing a shirt with an illustration of the White Rabbit and there's a snood nearby, one does not quibble), have been debating getting a red petticoat, really want to try to make some solid color dresses, and I've got a 50's coat dress pattern that I think I'm finally ready to give a go. I can't wait to see what directions your styling go with these too!

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  38. I've been having a similar style inspirations. I'm really into the English hunting styles with all the tweed glory, rockabilly naturally {can't do without my rockabilly}, a bit of boho, though I'm not sure it looks as good on me. I'd like to have a knee length peasant dress one day. That's about it...

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