25 awesome red, white and blue-tiful vintage fashion finds for the 4th of July

 It might seem strange to some that I, a born and bred Canadian, would have a deeply rooted passion for America's birthday, but that indeed I do! As I've discussed here in various posts over the years, America's culture is very much intertwined at times with ours and it is impossible, for me at least, to share a border with a country and not be aware of all of its holidays - especially when they're as monumental and important as the 4th of July.

We Canadians, typically a more subdued bunch who are prone to quiet celebrations and understated shows of patriotism, do go all out for our nation's own birthday, which falls on July 1st, but there's still something deeply appealing to me about how gung-ho Americans get regarding Independence Day. From parades to festive foods to epic fireworks shows, it's all so lively, festive and fun (not to mention a marvelous way to kick off the first full month of summer!).

I've never celebrated the 4th of July on American soil, but would very much welcome the chance to do so one day. Until then, I'll happily mark the occasion in spirit from this side of the 49th, as well as here on my blog. This time around, with a selection of 25 exciting, holiday perfect red, white and blue vintage items of clothing, jewelry and accessories.

Naturally, one does not have to be an American or observe the 4th of July to embrace these patriotically hued pieces - the colours of which jive with those used for the flags of numerous other countries around the world, too, including the UK, France, The Netherlands, Australia, Russia, Thailand, Norway, Chile and many more. They're lively and fun, suiting the bold, dynamic months of summer superbly, while also (especially the red pieces) transitioning beautifully into fall.

I hope that you have as much fun checking out these stylish vintage wearables - each of which stars at least one of America's national colours - as might be had at a huge 4th of July bash, with sparklers, star topped cupcakes, and miniature American flags as far as the eye can see!

25 awesome red, white and

blue-tiful vintage fashion finds

for the 4th of July

1. Equally at home as part of both Canada Day and July 4th outfits, as well as nautical ensembles, too (not to mention Christmas and Valentine's Day ones), this beautiful c. 1930s/1940s woven vintage seed bead necklace is such a stylish, versatile piece that you'll be apt to reach for often the whole year through. $28.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




2. A relaxing palette of beautiful blues call this elegant 1950s floral print short sleeve dress home and would be a great choice for any holiday, picnic, birthday party, afternoon tea, or stylish everyday warm weather outfit. Fits up to a 36 inch bust/28 inch waist. $89.00 from Blue Velvet Vintage.




3. As awesome for Viva Las Vegas as it Independence Day, this bold, chunky 1950s/1960s molded red plastic and silvery-gold tone metal panel bracelet is such a chic piece that works wonders in the context of all sorts of vintage, pinup, rockabilly, retro, and modern looks. $35.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




4. File this incredible 1950s red and white wool rodeo queen worthy pants suit under "jaw dropping" because that is precisely what it is. Wow, wow and wow again! Even if it happens to be too warm to wear outdoors on the 4th, this really is the sort of head turning vintage western wear suit that will serve you well in the nippier months for many years to come. Fits up to a 36 inch waist (jacket) and 25 inch waist (pants). $250.00 from The Best Vintage Clothing.




5. Few things give off more of a festive vibe than bows, which this classically elegant 1940s/1950s navy blue ladies plus size crepe dress has in strategically appealing spots on both the neckline and skirt areas. Fits up to a 38 inch bust/34 inch waist. $75.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




6. Fabulous for when you need a little extra warmth after the sun sets - say, while watching festive fireworks or shooting stars whizzing across the inky summer sky - this gorgeous 1950s red angora and white beaded cardigan is will have your back now and see you warmly on through to the chillier months, too. Fits up to a 38 inch bust. From Bobbins and Bombshells.




7.They might not be soaring eagles, but the adorable birds depicted on this pair or white and blue mid-century vintage plastic hair barrettes are still more than worthy of being sported for any July 4th celebration. $15.00 for the pair from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




8. Awesome with shorts, capri pants, skirts, or even as a bathing suit cover up, this delightfully fun 1950s red, white and blue striped sleeveless blouse is sure to become a firm favourite in your sunny weather vintage wardrobe. Fits up to a 40 inch bust/38 inch waist. $35.00 from Blue Velvet Vintage.




9. Red and white combine forces with warm toned brass in this absolutely beautiful c. 1930s rhinestone and imitation pearl skeleton key and flower brooch that make for such a head-turning piece of 4th of July (or anytime!) jewelry. $24.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




10. Oh my word, how fabulously cute + chic is this magnificent mid-century vintage Sally Victor red, white and navy blue straw hat with navy veil? This yesteryear chapeau would rock for the 4th of July, Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, President's Day, WW2 related events, or anytime you want to sport some seriously patriotic hues on your head. (On sale at the time of writing for) $44.00 from The Best Vintage Clothing.




11. I recently acquired, and have subsequently been listing, a lovely selection of mid-century vintage Mexican jewelry (including both sterling silver and alpaca pieces), amongst which one finds this generously sized, deeply attractive panel bracelet with its chunky blue plastic cabochons and great Southwestern design. $38.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




12. Sweet and feminine, with a gentle hue that plays surprisingly well with red, this lovely 1950s baby blue cardigan is just the lightweight topper to see you through the whole summer in great old school style. Fits up to a 40 inch waist/36 inch waist (at the bottom of the cardigan). $15.00 from Sanne's Vintage Jools.




13. Another delightfully pretty piece of mid-century costume jewelry that will serve you well for a myriad of different events across the calendar, from Independence Day to Christmas, this fun vintage red and white plastic beaded choker necklace will look so sweet with all kinds of vintage, pinup, rockabilly, and glam modern outfits. $16.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




14. Perfect for air conditioned indoor summertime events and cooler days throughout the rest of the year, these classy - and very classic looking - mid-century vintage red, white and blue kid leather gloves are a deeply lovely pair with so much appeal to them. Estimated to fit a modern size small - medium. $25.00 from Carla & Carla.




15. These c. 1980s does 1950s/60s style stunners are, hands down, bar none, one of the most breathtakingly gorgeous pairs of vintage earrings I've ever seen. With luminous AB stones (that call to mind the flashes of light produced by a 4th of July fireworks show), a chic dangle design, and generous size that makes them an instant statement piece, these vintage red rhinestones are truly knock-your-socks off amazing! $22.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




16.A timeless trio of seafaring and 4th of July worthy colours star in this beautiful 1950s navy blue wide brim straw hat. which includes a delightfully fun white hatband woven through red decorative loops. $46.00 from The Vintage Mistress.




17. Hunting for an absolutely elegant maxi skirt to wear to a wedding, garden party or other special event this summer? May I suggest this stunning c. 1970s periwinkle blue silk number that has such an awesome Edwardian revival quality to it. Fits up to a 30 inch waist/free hips. $45.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




18. If you happen to be one of those lucky ladies with very small feet and are presently looking for a seriously cool new pair of shoes for the summer months, may I recommend these darling 1940s/1950s cork and raffia wedges? Listed as being a US ladies size 5. $75.00 from Lucky Dry Goods.




19. Headed to the Jazz Age Lawn Party this summer or know a dapper chap who is? May I suggest this elegant and eye-catchingly attractive c. 1930s/1940s 10K gold filled Swank brand men's tie clip (which could, of course, be rocked by ladies as well) with its beautiful little blue cabochon ends. $25.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




20.The 4th of July's classic colour palette is rendered in gentle shades and teemed with cheerful green in this sweeter-than-sweet 1950s sundress that would be ideal for a summertime tea or garden party. Fits up to a 36 - 38 inch bust/28.5 cm waist. $114.00 from Archetype Vintage.




21. It's never too early to start planning your fall time outfits, especially when they involve beautiful vintage earrings like these glamorous mid-century vintage red leaf and aurora borealis charmers that can just as easily be worn at other times of the year - July 4th very much included - as well. $15.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




22.Equal parts patriotic and pretty, this fantastic c. 1930s/1940s molded plastic and reverse carved glass brooch would be an especially fitting 4th of July vintage jewelry choice for those who live in, or have family ties to, New York. $18.50 from Yesterday's Attic.




23. As serene as a summer's day spent at the beach, this wonderful c. 1930s/1940s graduated blue glass bead necklace is the sort of sophisticated vintage jewelry box staple that goes with a million and one outfits, no matter if it's January or July. $35.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




24. So immensely sweet for the littlest holiday celebrators in your life, this darling vintage red, white and blue infant's dress is as home on July 4th as it at the beach all summer long. Listed as being suitable for a 12 month old child. $24.99 from Old Fashion Baby.




25. The 4th of July just wouldn't be the same without some eagle imagery, which speaks to the rich history of the nation's association with this majestic bird and the freedom it represents. Channel some of that same patriotism with you sport this beautiful little circa WW2 era rhinestone adorned eagle stick (or hat) pin at any time of the year. $14.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.



{To learn more about a specific item or image featured in today's post, please click on its photo or on the link in the text below to be taken to its respective source.}

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No matter if your country is celebrating a birthday or other big event in the near future or not, there is an energetic giddiness to these first days of summertime that fills one's heart with joy, giving a much needed sense of promise and wonder alike to this hottest (in the Northern Hemisphere) chapter of the year and that alone is worth toasting with great enthusiasm.

I'll be doing just that in the coming weeks, as they lead into various family birthdays (including my own), Canada Day, July 4th, and many other great points that make the early days of summer to incredibly enjoyable.
 

Here's to an sun-kissed, carefree, beautiful season ahead for all of us - and the very happiest of July 4th wishes to all of my dear US friends and blog readers!

CV interviews etsy vintage seller Rebekka Adams of Bloomers and Frocks

Names, especially business and brand names, have long been a source of fascination for me. I'm intrigued by the history behind them and can fall head-over-heels for a shop or company before I've even become a customer, based solely on its name. It may come as no surprise to those who know me then, that when I was first introduced to etsy vintage seller Bloomers & Frocks, I was smitten from the word go!

With a moniker based on two endlessly classic garments - one inherently feminine, the other famous for the ways in which it often allowed women to break traditional gender molds, Bloomers & Frocks is the perfect name for a well curated etsy shop that focus on vintage fashions spanning the late Victorian era right on up to the 1980s.





In the past little while, I've had the great pleasure of getting to know the beautiful, intelligent, passionate woman behind this shop, Rebekka Adams (pictured above), and have found that we have much in common - including a love of mixing vintage appropriate modern pieces with genuine old school articles to great a timelessly lovely vintage look all our own.

Another commonality that we share is that Rebekka is, in addition to running her etsy shop, also a blogger, regularly writing posts on a myriad of vintage fashion related topics for her eponymously named blog, Bloomers & Frocks.

This summer Chronically Vintage welcomed Bloomers & Frocks as one of our newest blog sponsors, and I recently sat down - via email - with Rebekka to learn even more about this entrepreneurial woman with a deeply rooted passion for the past, and I'm pleased as punch to share our wonderful interview here today with all of you.


Your etsy shop has such a charming lovely name – which instantly conjures up thoughts of fashions past – what inspired you to come up with the name “Bloomers and Frocks”?

I had been contemplating a vintage store for a while and during a long road trip, my husband and I were brainstorming ideas for the shop. We were conjuring vintage words to describe the business. The name Bloomers and Frocks was actually his idea. He is a word nerd!
Bloomers and Frocks is a curated online vintage boutique that caters to women of all sizes to incorporate mixing vintage fashion into modern wardrobes.


How long have you been operating Bloomers and Frocks on etsy? What inspired you to launch your shop?

My first vintage sales experience was as a child at the Trufant Flea Market with my grandparents in the early 1980s. I didn’t totally understand it at the time, but as I have aged, I have come to appreciate the fine craftsmanship that comes with vintage items. After dabbling in other careers, I have come to follow my passion of finding and sharing vintage with others who are as passionate about craftsmanship as I am. I finally opened shop on etsy in November 2012.






Is a bricks and mortar shop something you'd like to see happen one day (whether in conjunction with your etsy sales or otherwise), or do you prefer to sell online?

Right now, I enjoy being able to share vintage with customers worldwide. If the right opportunity presents itself in the future, I may open a B&M in conjunction with my online shop.


Your etsy listings are chocked full of clear, excellent photos that really highlight the garments and accessories you’re selling. I think that this is one of the most crucial steps any etsy seller can take. What are some of the other key points that you feel really help your etsy shop stand out from the pack?

I try to set my shop apart by curating a collection that is wearable. Many items have not been properly cared for over the years, and older garments especially, are very fragile and not meant for daily wear. I also clean all of my inventory so that it is ready to wear upon arrival. I do carry goods from a variety of eras and actively seek out a range of sizes. I want every women to be able to look and feel good in vintage clothes and accessories.


What are some tips that you would give to new vintage fans who are just starting to venture into the world of buying vintage fashions online?

First of all, sizing numbers have changed dramatically over the years. Make sure to base your shopping off your measurements and not dress size. You will need to know your bust, waist, and hip measurements. I have put together a handy resource guide on how to measure your body if you are new to shopping for vintage.

Secondly, go to stores and try on garments to get a feeling of what looks best on you. Even if you are trying on modern clothes, know which shapes of garments look best on your own figure. Take an honest friend shopping with you so that you have another opinion. Also, try on clothing that is outside your comfort zone. Many garments look amazing on your body that look less than stellar on a hanger. Don’t be afraid to try something new once and a while.

Once you know your measurements and have an idea of what you like, you can turn your shopping online. This opens you to many more options in terms of styles, sizes, and eras. There is no better place to search such a large inventory of vintage. If you have any questions about a garment, don’t be afraid to ask the seller. I personally love hearing from my customers and it helps me become a better seller.







What decade, or decades, is nearest and dearest to your own heart? Do you tend to gravitate towards this/these decade(s) when sourcing items for your shop?

I love post WWII vintage fashion. My first love was Buddy Holly and I gravitate towards clothing from the 1950s Rock and Roll era. That said, there is something I love from every decade, from the lace details of Victorian clothing, the flapper styles of the 1920s, 1960s mod, 1970s maxi dresses to over the top glam of the 1980s. So many vintage styles allow me to choose what I like best from each decade. I like to mix and match different eras with modern pieces to create my own custom look. When sourcing for the shop, I look quality craftsmanship and wearability from the 1890s to the 1980s.


You wear vintage clothing yourself, which I just love! I think that those (vintage clothing) sellers who do just that often have a special affinity for vintage and are able to connect on an even deeper level with their customers. Have you found that running your own etsy clothing shop has altered the way in which you dress in your day-to-day life at all?

I am often found in jeans and a vintage blouse and accessories for daily wear, mainly because I am running around a lot and am a somewhat clumsy person. Heels don’t quite agree with me. When I am heading out to meet friends or on a date night, I like to pair fun printed vintage dresses with bold accessories. Running the etsy shop has definitely expanded my wardrobe.


How does wearing and selling vintage make you feel?

Fashion is not only an expressive art, but a sign of the times. Garments have been inspired by everything from military utility to weather to political movements. Wearing vintage makes me feel connected to the women that came before me. Wearing their clothes helps me understand where we have come from and some of the events that have helped shape the world as it is today. Wearing vintage makes me feel unique while respecting a piece of history.






What are five of your all-time favourite vintage garments and/or accessories?

1. Vintage Silk Scarves – You can do so much with scarves to dress up an outfit. You can wear a vintage scarf around your neck, wrist, waist, or even as a top.

2. Vintage Dresses – From day dresses to cocktail dresses, when you slip on a vintage dress, you are setting yourself up to create new memories. In the summer, dresses are a must have to stay cool.

3. Vintage High Heel Shoes –As I grow older, I seem to get clumsier and my heels seem to be getting shorter. However, I still love a sexy pair of heels.

4. Vintage Lingerie – Vintage lingerie, especially vintage shapewear, is meant to be worn all day and gives your body just the perfect squeeze to create curves and make them pop.

5. Vintage Blouses – I love to mix and match vintage blouses with a pair of comfy jeans or a skirt. They can be dressed up or down depending on your pairings and accessories.


During the process of running your etsy shop, what are some things that have surprised you about the vintage fashion world that you didn't know before launching Bloomers and Frocks?

I was surprised at how amazingly resourceful and supportive the vintage community is. From blogs such as yours, to Sammy Davis helping vintage sellers out of NY to local collaborations with shops like Amelia’s Retrovogue here in Austin, there is some amazing resources for both buyers and sellers of vintage. Vintage is a passion and those that have the passion seem to assist each other.






It’s natural to want to see pieces that resonate with our own personal tastes, do you tend to stock your shop with items that might fit right at home in your own closet, a wide variety of pieces that appeal to many different types of vintage clothing fans (though are not per se what you’d wear yourself), or a mix of the two?

I stock my shop with a combination of pieces that I would wear myself as well as current trends in vintage fashion. I do have to admit, that I buy many pieces for the shop that end up in my own closet.

Before launching the shop, I wasn’t a big fan of 80s fashion, perhaps because I lived through it. However, there is a big demand for 80s right now – from casual daywear to beaded dresses. Clothing was still made in the USA in the 1980s. Once you weed out the ridiculous trends, there are some amazing pieces with great craftsmanship, a wide range of clothing sizes, and tributes to earlier eras.


What kinds of things can customers look forward to expecting from Bloomers and Frocks in the years to come?

Bloomers and Frocks is always on the lookout for high quality, wearable vintage clothes that will fit into a modern wardrobe. You can expect to see the selection growing as I process more clothing. I currently have a backlog of several hundred pieces. I will have a great selection of scarves coming in the near future.

My husband is quite the collector and he stocked up on some men’s goodies on a recent buying trip. Further down the road, there may be a "Mr. Bloomers and Frocks" coming.




In addition to Rebekka’s gorgeous etsy shop and blog, you can also connect with Bloomers & Frocks on the following sites:

-Facebook

-Instagram

-Pinterest

-Twitter


{All image used in this post were kindly supplied by Rebekka and are a stellar overview of the kind of immensely pretty, timelessly stylish vintage items that Bloomers & Frocks offers their customers.}

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 A name may hook you at first, but ultimately it is the substance that counts when it comes to shops, and Rebekka's is teeming with excellent array of hand picked, excellently photographed, perpetually lovely vintage garments, shoes, accessories, and household objects that any vintage fan would delight in the chance to browse though, which thankfully you can whenever your heart desires in Bloomers & Frocks etsy shop.

And should you be headed over to do just that anytime soon, I'm thrilled to let you know that all Chronically Vintage readers can save a hefty 20% off their total purchase price on all items bought from Bloomers & Frocks between now and September 30, 2103. All you have to do is use the coupon code ChronicallyVintage when you checkout to receive this discount.

In addition, if sign up for the Bloomers and Frocks email list, you will automatically be entered to win a $50.00 gift certificate to spend on anything you please at this terrific etsy store.

Thank you very much, Rebekka, for both this great interview, as well as for becoming a sponsor of Chronically Vintage. It's an absolute pleasure to share your shop with my fellow vintage loving readers the world over. If your husband does indeed decide to launch his own shop one day, be sure to let me know so that we can shine the spotlight on his fabulous old school offerings as well!