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August 26, 2016

Eight things that have really been inspiring my style so far this year


Back at the very start of 2015, I kicked off the new year by penning a post in which I shared twelve of the things (one for each of the upcoming twelve months of the year) that were inspiring my style at the moment. I've thought back to, and drawn inspiration from, that post many times in the roughly 1 2/3rds of a year that have passed since then and am constantly delighted by the fact that each of those twelve fashion elements continues to shape and drive my personal style to this day.

Naturally, they're not the only ones that are doing as much as we start to head into the final weeks of summer, I thought it would be a lot of fun to share a brief overview of eight different things (again, one for each month that we've experienced so far this year) that have been speaking loudly and clearly to me from a sartorial standpoint so far throughout 2016.


1. Stripes




For much of my adult life, especially if we're talking the horizontal version, I largely avoid strips and didn't think that they worked all that well for me, but in the last year or two, I've been noticing a real pull towards them all of a sudden. In particular, I'm finding myself smitten with narrow vertical stripes and/or pieces that combine both vertical and horizontal lines in the same garment. I'm also discovering that stripes can work for me, especially if they're fairly thin and in flattering colours.

Earlier this year I picked up a great 1950s striped dress that I simply had to have the moment I saw it, as its colour palette instantly caused a fun fall time outfit to spring to mind and I can't wait to share such with you here in the near future. So, in short, strips and me are on good terms these days and I'm genuinely happy about that fact.





2. Vintage cartwheel/platter hats





It's scarcely a state secret that I utterly and completely love vintage hats of all types, but did you know that in recent years, I've been gravitating more and more towards especially wide brimmed cartwheel and platter styles? I find that they tend to work wonderfully well for my face type and that they suit the sorts of fashions I'm leaning all the more towards as I progress through my 30s.

Were it not for the super steep shipping prices to send such generously proportioned styles (and really, most things in general) to Canada these days, I'm sure I'd own many more than I presently do. Fortunately I do have a lovely little collection of such and as you may have noticed from some of my recent outfit posts this year, they're getting a lot of use these days.



3. Muted colours





I've already chatted about my current (huge!) passion for "all the vintage muted colours" here in at least a couple of posts this year (such as this one), so I won't do my impression of a broken record. In short, I'm currently madly in love with vintage 1940s, 50s and early 60s garments in earthy tones, be they solids or (especially) patterns, and don't foresee this interest waning anytime soon.




4. Colonial area fashions, decor and crafts




For as long as I can recall, I've felt a strong pull towards the general styles, art, and decor of America and Canada's earliest days, and in particular, am refereeing styles up until the end of the 18th century when I speak of colonial era influences.

Though such can be a bit tricky to interpret overly literally in the context of mid-century fashion, subtle touches (beyond just pilgrim collars, like those on the 1950s frocks pictured above, and shoe buckles), can be had, such as classic fabrics that call to mind those used in the 17th and 18th centuries in North America, traditional looking hand stitched details, certain styles of shawls, and various others.

In this instance, it's less about dressing as though I was from that time period (as fun and exciting as such would be!) and more about letting the general aesthetic of such weave itself throughout various areas of my life and wardrobe alike.



5. Elizabeth Taylor's look during the mid-1950s to early 1960s




From her immensely chic short hairstyles to her elegantly gorgeous attire and her perfectly on point make-up, just about everything that Liz sported during this period is right up my styling alley and has influenced me for many years now, continuing to so all the more in this decade of my life



6. Leaf themed jewelry, accessories and prints




A natural - pun intended - extension, one might say, of my current interest in muted hues and patterns featuring such, I've really, really been digging leaf and fern themed/printed fashions, especially - perhaps not surprisingly to anyone who knows me well - those of a autumnal nature. I certainly won't be retiring my beloved florals anytime soon, but they've been joined by more leaf themed pieces this year and I'm pleased as punch about that fact.



7.Claire McCardell's work




Mid-century American fashion Claire McCardell's work has long resonated with me (especially her way with wrap dresses and draping). Innovative and stylish, McCardell championed a (by the standards of the day) leisurely look and was especially keen on sport and swimwear, as well as a distinct American style that was both refined and playful at the same time.

Though tragically, her life was cut short due to cancer when she was in her 50s, Claire McCardell was able to leave a very lasting impression of the mid-century fashion scene and is a name that deserves to be known and appreciated by fashion fans everywhere (plus she was an engaging author, whose book, What Shall I Wear?, is one of my favourite written about contemporary style during the fifties)



8. Celestial stars




I can't remember a time when I wasn't drawn to star imagery and fashions pertaining to such (and of course absolutely adore the real twinkling deal, too), but in recent years I've been going all the more wild for such and would love to add another celestial print garment or two (I have a lovely vintage star print dress already) to my closet in the near future. Who knows, perhaps their landing there is already - *cough, cough* - written in the stars! :)



{To learn more about a specific image used in today's post, please click on it to be taken to its respective source.}


♥ ♥ ♥



Now granted, for some people, such is strongly the case, but I think it's very important to make the distinction that what we wear doesn't always equate to what is actually inspiring us - at least not in glaringly obvious ways. It's totally possible to draw inspiration from something, but not to channel it literally in your wardrobe (or home decor, for that matter).

With some of the eight entries above, it's easy for me to weave them into certain ensembles, but for others - such as my passion for colonial era styles - such is not always overly feasible, but that doesn't mean that these things don't hold sway over us and/or that they aren't manifested in subtle, no less important, ways.

Sometimes simply reading about and/or looking at images that speak to us can drive our style and that is one of the most exciting things about inspiration itself. We're free to interpret and run with it however our heart desires (at least within the scope of our means).

I wouldn't say that my style has undergone any radical changes in recent months, though I do notice various subtle things evolving on that front as I get older (including certain points that I raised in this post), and also in part thanks to the various elements that are inspiring me at any given moment.

For example, while I still love (and own a delightful little collection of such) hair flowers, I haven't felt pulled towards wearing them very often lately (florals crowns though, big time!), nor have I been rocking many square shaped necklines, as I've come to realize that such (much like collar-less styles and v-necks) are not always overly becoming on me.

Little things, but ones that I take notice of, just as I do those style elements step in to take their place in terms of what I may opt to wear more often.

I've said it before, but I will happily say it again. Our closets should continue to evolve as we do. It's easy to grow stagnant in what we wear, but continually seeking and recognizing inspiration, as it strikes, can be a powerful tool in combating such.

As we delight in this final month of summer and head into my all-time favourite season, fall, I look forward to seeing how the eight things shared here today continue to influence what I wear, how I'll interpret them in the outfits I share here, and what other fun/beautiful/unique elements will shape my style in the second chapter of 2016 and beyond.

Naturally, I'm sure many of them will enjoy at last a moment or two in the spotlight here. After all, if a vintage fashion blogger can't readily share what's inspiring them on their own site, who can! :)

80 comments:

  1. I've not been wearing my hair flowers this summer much either! Which isn't stopping me buying them when I see a cute one, but I'm finding myself massively drawn towards hairscarves instead. I have no idea why the change...
    That may be my biggest pull at the moment! I think in autumn it might be the colour green, as it's a real gap in my wardrobe... xx

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    1. Ooohh, that's fascinating! It's really interesting that I'm not the only one who hasn't been in an overly big hair flower mood lately (that said, I saw a couple snaps of berets paired with them lately and am SOOOO in favour of that styling trick now, so maybe some of mine will be appearing here again soon :)).

      I think it is in many peoples'. Despite the huge amount of green (grass, leaves, flower stems, etc) in nature, it's often not the most commonly used colour in the fashion world - especially the women's side of things. Add a vintage leaning into the mix and things can get slimmer. I made green my colour of the year a few years back and while I did pick up a little more then (and since), it's still a colour that I could do with a fair bit more of as well. I hope that you're able to find some great verdant pieces for your closet this F/W, my sweet friend.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  2. What a delightful post. From your posts on 'what you have worn' I can 100% see all the above. I have a big love for the wide brim hats too as they also go with my face shape. I just wish I had more places to wear them (when your a swing dancer those kind of hats are not the best on the dance floor lol!).

    Enjoy the last bit of summer Jessica :)

    Liz

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    1. Very true - I can imagine that must be frustrating. Even with industrial strength hatpins, wide brimmed toppers aren't usually the most logical choice for a night of swing dancing. Hopefully more opportunities to sport yours will come your way.

      Thank you very much for your lovely comment (I was touched to read that you can see these influences in my recent outfit posts). Have a fantastic tail end of summer, sweet Liz.

      xoxo ♥ Jessica

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  3. Very lovely list of inspiration! :) Colour preferences do change and with stipes it is definetly somethimes about finding the right combination... :)

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    1. It really can be awesomely satisfying, you're spot on there, my dear.

      Many hugs & thanks for your comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  4. Such an interesting post. Its made me think what is inspiring me right now in regards of what to wear and it either blogs, the upcoming activities I have or just the fact that I continue editing the closet.
    Oh and I have to mention I had not seen that picture of Liz Taylor - as usual gorgeous and I find that dress so unique.

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    1. Those are fantastic things to be inspired by! Fellow bloggers really are some of the best sources of inspiration around. I've been influenced by our upcoming travel plans, too, and trying to put together a fun early fall capsule wardrobe of sorts to take with me to Edmonton. I really enjoy packing for a vacay, so it's been a lot of fun (especially after some of the less enjoyable recent happenings in my/our life this summer).

      Isn't it though? The styling of that dress is powerfully unique and worked amazing on her svelte figure.

      Many hugs & thanks for your wonderful comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  5. I love the large cartwheel hats too. I don't have any vintage ones, but I would like to have a few.

    Sarah
    www.sewcharacteristicallyyou.com/blog

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    1. They're enchanting accessories to wear. I really hope that some authentic mid-century ones are able to come your way, sweet dear.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  6. Oh, I love that star themed photo, so lovely! Lately, I've noticed that I am very inspired by (and often wearing) patterned shirts, especially ones with florals and black backgrounds. Think early 70s! Robert Plant shirts, and that's what I'm loving at the moment. Xxx

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    1. How cool!!! Florals on black backgrounds are a perpetual favourite of mine. I have one (extremely mid-century looking) 1980s does 1940s/50s flower print shirtwaist dress in just that combination that I wore so much one year (back when we were living in Toronto) that I actually had to make a point of sporting it a bit less often, as I was starting to worry that the mailman might think I didn't own any other frocks. :)

      Have a fabulous week!
      xoxo ♥ Jessica

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  7. I can't wait until I can wear normal clothes again! Liz Taylor was such a great beauty - that is a wonderful photograph of her.

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    1. She really was an astoundingly attractive woman. So poised, elegant and classically beautiful - with just the right air of mystery about her, too. She will forever be one of my greatest style inspirations (and favourite actresses).

      Many hugs & thanks for your lovely comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  8. These are such lovely design and fashion ideas. Quite relevant to me at the moment. I've decided my next project will be to create a vintage-style look, by paying my seamstress friend Aimee to make a dress for me. Contemplating ideas (like these) from Thirties and Forties fashion.

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    1. That's extremely exciting, Ally. Thank you for sharing more about your next bespoke ensemble project with me/us here. Please don't hesitate to let me know anytime if I can be of assistance to you with your plans (including just as a sounding board to bounce ideas off of).

      Have a beautiful end of August/start of September,
      ♥ Jessica

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  9. How interesting. I don't think I dress from inspiration, as much as what's not creased at the moment, hehe! Seriously though, there are people or things I see which may spark something but if I don't have something to satisfy the itch, I go without, as I am not in a situation to be treating myself right now xxx

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    1. I fully understand, dear Melanie. It's not uncommon for me to have times like that as well. This summer, for instance, I've spent almost nothing on my wardrobe (or other non-essential areas), as we've been saving for our trip to Edmonton. I realize of course that our vacay is a big treat unto itself and am not, of course, implying otherwise or saying it's the same thing as not being able to spend point blank (which, believe me, I've been no stranger to at many times throughout my entire life). I'm sincerely sorry that things are quite tight for you right now and really hope that they pick up at least a smidge as the year rolls onward.

      Many hugs coming your way,
      ♥ Jessica

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  10. What a fun, thoughtful post, you are so right in saying that our personal fashion constantly evolves and we should always be open to new styles and periods and have fun experimenting. It is great that your fashion draws from so many different periods and styles, I think the residing factor of all of your choices is that all the styles and icons are stylish, for example Elizabeth Taylor's fashion and style is still beautiful and elegant today. Going for tried and true styles that you love is much better than the current fad.

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    1. Thank you very much for your lovely comment and insightful take on the common thread that weaves these eight assorted elements together. I do generally feel a strong pull towards classic, elegant fashions and those who embody such looks, you're spot on there.

      Have a terrific week,
      ♥ Jessica

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  11. Gorgeous inspirations! I can totally see you rocking a colonial era styles especially in the form of the colonial era inspired 50s dresses you posted above. <3

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    1. That's really sweet of you to say, my dear. If I ever strike it rich (or, objectively, opt to really save up for such), I'm sooo going to a commission a historical fashion seamstress (or multiple seamstresses, as needed) to make me at least one colonial era and numerous Victorian + Edwardian fashions. I'd really love to experience the thrill of wearing - and seeing myself sporting - such styles at least once in my life.

      Many hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  12. This is such an inspiring post! I really love stripes, too. And all the other stuff you shared. ;-)

    Many hugs,
    Sandra <3

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    1. So fun! It's awesome that you're a fan of these styles and inspiration sources as well, my dear. Three rousing cheers for stripes! I just seem to be getting more enamoured with them as the year rolls on (I totally want to find a candy cane inspired red, white and green striped dress for Christmas! :)).

      Oodles of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  13. Always so inspiring. I am loving the celestial stares! I've been seeing star inspiration creeping up in the retro community lately and it's a little bit magical.

    xo Miss Betty Doll

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    1. Isn't it though? I'm seriously hoping this is a trend that will plant even firmer roots (and that more repro brands will jump on board). Stars are no less wearable, IMO, than polka dots, yet they carry an enchanting allure all their own and can be anything from cute to fun to wildly glamorous, just depending on the context.

      Many hugs & thanks for your lovely comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  14. Great list. I'm loving the colonial collars

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    1. Aren't they just fabulous? It would be wonderful to see more repro/vintage inspired brands embrace bold mid-century collars like that.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  15. Elizabeth Taylor is such a style icon! If only I could have a jewelry collection like she did...

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    1. Oh my stars, it's near impossible not to swoon up a storm at the mere thought. It was an astonishing collection for sure, amongst which, IMO, she herself was the ultimate crowning jewel.

      Have a fantastic week!
      ♥ Jessica

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  16. Short hair often gets overlooked as an authentic vintage style, so I love to see photos like this one of Elizabeth Taylor. Her make-up is always beautiful too. And that picture of Hedy Lamarr! Imagine getting to design costumes like that! Samantha x

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    1. It really does, and you know, that's a sincere shame, as it was popular (albeit in various lengths and styles) from the very late 1910s (when bobs began to come into vogue) onward - including during the 40s and 50s. I really admire those in today's vintage fashion world (such as Stephanie Lynn and Nora, to name but two) who confidently rock short locks. The older I get, the more I feel pulled in that direction, too - or at least a few inches shorter. :)

      Big hugs & thanks for your great comment,
      ♥ Jessica

      *PS* That would be amazing - as would getting to wear them. :)

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  17. What a wonderful post, I loved reading out the specifics of what has been inspiring your wardrobe lately. In fact, would you mind if I did a similar post and linked back to this one? I can already think of a few things for my own list! I love that fern print dress, I'll take one just like it (well, plus sleeves) for my wardrobe thanks! I love ferns and fern print things, I need to find some fern print fabric. The striped dress is striking and fun too, another fabric on the list of those I'd love to find one day. As you know I love me some 18th century fashions, I need to make a dress equally 1770s and 1950s inspired for fall ;)

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    1. Thank you sweetly, my dear friend. Not in the slightest - in fact, I'd be thrilled to read more about some of things that have been inspiring your own personal style big time lately. Thank you very much for asking - please post away! :)

      Ferns are so awesome! They're something of the underdog of the botanical related print world, but are no less worthy, IMO, of their rightful place in the sun as flowers and leaves. I adore that a passion for ferns and fern prints is something else that we share in common.

      That would be a gorgeous frock, I'm sure, and if you do whip one up, I'll be waiting with eager excitement to see it.

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

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  18. It's always interesting to hear what other people's fashion inspirations are. I particularly like the celestial and leaf styles. I love nature and the stars, and always like the chance to get a clear enough night sky for star-gazing. Seeing the stars always makes me think of Dante, since each of the three sections of The Divine Comedy ends in the word "stars," this beautiful symbol of hope and grounding.

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    1. Eloquently and beautifully said, dear Carrie-Anne. Indeed, throughout the ages, no matter what has transpired to humankind here on this ol' rock of a planet that we call home, the stars above have united, inspired, and spoken to us.

      Thank you very much for your wonderful comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  19. Oh dear, I love the dresses and colours from the muted colour section. Just so lovely and completely my style!

    -Kati

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    1. That's awesome, my dear. The official season for muted colours is rounding the bend again, and I can hardly wait to put them into extra heavy rotation this fall. :)

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  20. What a lovely, inspirational post, Jessica! Hugs, and wishing you a wonderful week ahead. xxx

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    1. Thank you sweetly, dear Anne. You're such a warm, kindhearted person. I really hope that this week - and coming month - is marvelous for you guys as well.

      Scores of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  21. Hello Jessica.
    Every word is spot-on. What we chose to wear changes. Because we change. We change with the seasons, we change as we grow old(er), we change when life throws some de-tours on our path.. change is normal. It's a part of life.
    What once was an essential part of out look may no longer seem interesting. Some time ago I stopped wearing long earrings - and they used to be my favorite thing to chose in the morning. Now I'm "into" studs more. (sounds like a silly comparation, but this was my case) :)

    Have a happy Sunday.
    RELAX.
    (really: relax, please!)

    Marija

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    1. Very well said, my dear friend. It really is and you know, I sincerely love that element of personal growth - being able to look back on your tastes and interests, like rings on an aged tree trunk, is a rather magical experience.

      I hear you there! I was a huge fan of longer length earrings in my late teens and early 20s, but now often go months between wearing them. I still appreciate and enjoy them though, they're just not often the best match for my usual 40s - 50s daytime style looks.

      Many hugs & thanks for your caring words,
      ♥ Jessica

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  22. Wonderful display of midcentury fashions! Love the Leaf Theme and stripes. I am looking forward to the marvelous posts for the upcoming fall season. How exciting Halloween is 64 days away??!!

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    1. It's jubilantly exciting! I have so many fun and exciting plans for this fall, both in the online and offline spheres. Soon though, I need to nail down my costume for this October 31st. So many ideas!!! :)

      Many hugs & joyful early autumn wishes!
      ♥ Jessica

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  23. Such great inspiration! I'm so excited for fall too! :)

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    1. That's awesome! I can literally feel it inching back into the air and swear I'm getting giddier and giddier for autumn to fully return with each passing day. Here's to the hope that it's a fantastic one for both of us and our families.

      Many hugs & joyful summer-into-fall wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  24. I'm right with you on some of these inspirations - more stripes, more green! - thank you also for the tip on Claire McCardell, I hadn't actually heard of her and just adore vintage fashion books, so I will be checking that one out for sure. I love that picture of Hedy Lamarr you've shared, isn't that stunning? I could see that being re-interpreted for a bridal outfit. xx

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    1. You're very welcome, my dear friend. I adore that book! It was out of print for years and most copies I saw online were going for a hundred or more (US) dollars, so when it was released again in recent years, I jumped on it instantly - and the long wait was more than worth it. :)

      She truly was! I have immense respect for Hedy and all she accomplished.

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

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  25. Loved this post as always. I have many of the same likes (stripes, stars, leaf patterns, and muted colours) but I have yet to find anything this year that ticks off those boxes. This is a great post for me to keep an eye out for you:)

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    1. That's really sweet of you to say (and do), my dear. Thank you! It's wonderful that you feel pulled towards many of these elements as well.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  26. That's so great that you outlined the difference between inspiration and implementation. While it's wonderful to actually act out (in clothing, decor, or whatever else) things that we're inspired by, it's not always possible to do so. And sometimes, inspiration leads to other, more exciting things. :) I look forward to seeing how your inspiration and your style continue to grow and change. Thanks for sharing this post!

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    1. Excellently said, dear Grace. Thank you very much for your insightful comment. It's a joy to be inspired, whether we replicate the things that speak to us or merely let their creative power wash over us and perhaps materialize in different ways (or simply as a deeply rooted appreciation).

      Many hugs & happy late summer wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  27. i am loving all of these vintage photos! The dresses are totally my style
    xo
    www.laurajaneatelier.com

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    1. That's wonderful, my dear. It's fabulous that vintage looks speak to your fashion loving soul as well.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  28. i totally want that fern dress incl. all the green accessories!!!!!!
    awwww!!!!!
    love your "mood board" - and it could be mine :-) mc cardells`s clean, casual elegance is iconic for me - i try to dress in that sense most of the time. and liz - is´t she gorgeous!!!
    can´t wait to see your new stripey dress!!!!
    much love! xxxxxxx

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    1. We're two peas in an earthy green pod, my dear friend. :) I have such deep respect for McCardell's work. While I wouldn't personally be apt to wear everything that she designed, there's plenty that I would, and I appreciate all of it. She did such amazing things with wrap dresses, sports/casual wear, and draped fabrics.

      That's sweet of you to say. :) I'm really looking forward to sharing it. I've packed it along with us for Edmonton, so perhaps it will land on camera then (if not, almost certainly shortly after we get back).

      Many hugs & happy tail end of summer wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  29. This was such a great post to read and I love seeing what's inspiring you at the moment. I wish I had half the vintage knowledge that you have! Love Elizabeth Taylor's look and the stripes and cartwheel hats are fabulous. From your outfit posts, you certainly are channeling your inspiration, whether it's the stripes, hats or muted colours, your outfits always look great!
    Thanks for commenting on my blog by the way, I really appreciate it. I've now done the 60s-90s vintage inspired swimwear on the high street in many countries if you fancy having a look. Thanks for a great post to read. XxxX

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    1. You're such a dear, thank you so much in turn for your own wonderfully nice comments - this one entirely included.

      That's really sweet of you to say. One of the best and most appealing things about the world of vintage is that there's always more to learn. I'm sure I could live a thousand lifetimes and still not learn all there is to know on the endlessly fascinating topic of early to mid-twentieth century fashions. It's downright exhilarating to reflect on the fact that there's always more to be inspired and educated by out there.

      Lots of hugs & happy summer-into-fall wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  30. Hey Jessica! I can see from your photos (and your personality), that you love bright colors too. Are you one of those people who choose clothing according to your mood?

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    1. Hi there, thank you very much for your comment and question (I popped over to your site today and had a fun read through of many of your engaging posts).

      My mood can factor into my outfits sometimes for sure, but I wouldn't say that such is the most common driving factor. Things like the seasons, elements (such as these eight) that are currently (or perpetually, as the case may be) inspiring me, newly acquired pieces that I'm eager to wear, holidays (Christmas, Valentine's Day, Canada Day, Halloween, etc), and our travels tend to inspire me more often.

      Thanks again & have a wonderful week,
      ♥ Jessica

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  31. Dear Jessica, I love hair flowers as well, but I am not wearing them lately! I loved your inspiration, and yes, the year is running so fast! End of August... wow. I love stripes and colonial fashion and also starts and Liz Taylor's style in the 50s and 60s, wow! I really loved her style, so feminine! I hope you are enjoying the end of summer! And wishing you a great week! Hugs and regards!
    DenisesPlanet.com

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    1. That's really interesting - that's at least three of us now (CiCi also commented above that she hasn't been feeling hair flowers too much lately us) in that same boat. That said, I've seen a couple of photos lately of berets paired with (small to medium sized) hair flowers and now I'm eager to give that look a spin.

      It is just amazing, I agree! Even though there have been long moments, as usual, the year as a collective whole has just whizzed straight past. Soon we'll be bundling up in cozy sweaters and welcoming fall's return with open arms (yay!).

      Many hugs & joyful end of August/start of September wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  32. Great inspirations you've listen. Elizabeth Taylor is goooorgeous! And so are you!
    I enjoyed reading this post very much!
    Autumn is my favourite season too ;)
    Hope you're doing good.
    Much love,
    Mona

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    1. Bless your kind heart, that is so sweet of you to say. Thank you very much, dear Mona. You are a ravishing beauty yourself, too (I wholeheartedly mean that).

      How wonderful! I really look forward to seeing your fall fashions and celebrating this beautiful season together through the magic of the internet.

      Oodles of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  33. Dear Jessica, Thanks for the inspiration!! I have been looking for leaf items (home decor) recently, especially Ferns. My new bathroom is lavender, white and green. A Fern dress and green gloves...so refreshing! Isn't it funny how things change...some things I didn't like before I suddenly like. LOL

    Best wishes,
    Dee

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    1. What an inviting, beautiful colour palette for your new bathroom, dear Dee. It sounds equally serene and invigorating, which is usually so welcome in that particular part of the house.

      I hear you there. Sometimes it practically feels like a switch has been flicked on and suddenly we're smitten with something that we might not have noticed much before is our newest love. I think that is a really cool experience and welcome when it happens in my life.

      Many hugs & thanks for your great comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  34. I KNEW I recognized that photo of the woman in the leaf-themed print. It is on the cover of a book!

    See it here: https://www.amazon.ca/Secrets-Charmed-Life-Susan-Meissner/dp/0451419928/ref=pd_sim_14_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=P2JP6M8R18MFT9T3ZM42

    I noticed only because the cover image appears on the same Amazon page as my book Bird's Eye View, and I see it every time I visit my page, listed under "Customers Who Bought This Item Also Bought . . ."

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    1. Fantastic spotting, Elinor. It's really cool that you and your (wonderful) book have a personal connection via Amazon with this elegant mid-century fashion imagine. Thank you very much for sharing that fun fact with all of us here.

      Wishing you a splendid tail end of summer,
      ♥ Jessica

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  35. What a delicious collection of fashion! I love it all. xx

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    1. Thank you very much, Elizabeth. This post was a lot of fun to put together - it just flowed so naturally, as these eight elements have been at the helm of many of my wardrobe choices this year.

      Many hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  36. Those are good things to be inspired by. I find the Colonial one particularly intriguing - as you say, it's not something that translates exactly, it's more of a subtle influence.

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    1. It is powerfully fascinating to me. There was often a practicality to the fashions - especially when viewed through those of the past couple of centuries that came before that period - that, in some ways, would be quite at home in today's world, though the literal styles themselves have largely claimed. I like the earnestness and the beauty of colonial styles and were I historical costumer, know that I'd whip up many a fashion from that time period. It's awesome that you feel the pull of the colonial era's styles as well, dear Mim.

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

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  37. I think that when we are younger it is harder to step back and see our styles evolve and change and the different types of things that are inspiring us, but now I find it easier. It seems really beneficial to pull those ideas together and put them in writing (or a mood board or something) and see it as a big picture. And I love seeing yours! What a wonderful set of themes to explore.

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    1. Very well said, my dear friend. That is true for sure - especially since we, quite literally, haven't been around and exploring our own personal style for as long yet. There are certain things (floral prints, the colours pink and burgundy, food themed fashions, etc) that I've loved since childhood, others that have been passing fancies of various lengths and no doubt some that haven't even entered into the picture yet. Where my style is today is not where it was ten or even five years ago, nor, I'm sure, will it be in another half a decade. I plan to keep penning posts like this periodically to track my interests and the development of my personal style and adore having them to look back on as the years roll forward.

      Many thanks for your great comment & have a fantastic week,
      ♥ Jessica

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  38. I also love Elizabeth Taylor's look- so timeless. And platter and saucer hats are so lovely I agree. They really do suit you very well, and I always love the ones you wear.
    The Artyologist

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    1. Thank you very much, honey. That's so sweet of you to say. I'd really, really love to find both a brown and a navy blue platter hat, as those are two neutrals that I wear a ton of (though really, I doubt there's a colour out there I wouldn't happily sport this classic style of hat in). Who knows, perhaps one will come my way while we're still out here in Alberta (that would be awesome!).

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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    2. Oh Liz! She was such a beautiful and fabulous lady, and with the most fantastic figure. Her makeup was incredible.

      I'm having a difficult time with stribes too. I really love them, but if I buy a garment, I never use it, so I've stopped doing so. I look very much forward to seeing your dress, though.

      And muted colours. I've been on a colour change journey for the past 5 years or so. Moving from only wearing pinks and reds to green, grey and other colours in general. I had never thought I would love muted brown, but in plaids they work so very well - and they become autumn so very well. :) Have a lovely day, dear.

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  39. Lovely to read all about your style inspiration. You have chosen some lovely images to go with it. Elizabeth Taylor is one of my top beautiful people, I always enjoy seeing old photos of her. She was stunning.

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    1. She truly was. The older I get, the more I find I'm inspired by her - her shorter hairstyles of the 50s and early 60s majorly included (I've been hunting for a good wig in that sort of style for quite a while now, but haven't hit on a winner - hopefully one day). It's awesome that you're a huge Liz Taylor fan as well - another fun point that we share in common. :)

      I hope that you're doing well and having a great week. We got home from Alberta last night and though I'm pretty bushed from our travels, today I'm starting on the gigantic number of things that need to get done asap online and off alike. So much to do - especially with fall just around the corner. It's almost always the busiest season for us, but you know, I've grown so accustomed to such that I don't think I'd want it to be any other way at this point. :)

      Tons of hugs & blissful summer-into-fall wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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