A hit of glamorous mid-century collegiate style for fall

Outfit details

1940s/1950s dark blue velvet platter hat: 2014 Victoria Vintage Expo
C. 1930/1940s long hat pin: Unknown, had for years
Brass heart earrings: Claire's
White button front shirt: Talbots
Brass and blue stone Joy Statement Necklace in Navy: c/o Happiness Boutique
Brown tweed blazer: Thrifted (Suzy Shier tag)
1940s/1950s tawny brown gloves with leaf detailing: Unknown, had for years (probably eBay)
1950s navy blue pencil skirt: eBay
C. 1960s brown patent purse: Purchased from a fellow vintage seller
Nude seamed nude stockings: eBay
Brown 1940s style faux leather round toe pumps: Wal-Mart
Lip colour: MAC Party Line
Photography by Tony Cangiano  

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Vintage collegiate style is amongst my favourite looks ever. It's typically a classy, fairly structured, youthful approach to dressing that one can continue to take a styling cue from long after they've graduated. At my age, I'm not passing for a college freshman any more and am certainly not trying to pretend that I am. Luckily many elements of the mid-century collegiate look - pencil skirts, tweeds, corduroy, knee socks, sweaters, twin sets, penny loafers, leather satchels, basic pearl jewelry, jaunty little caps, and numerous other elements work wonders as one advances in life, too.

Today's outfit used the gorgeous Joy Statement Necklace in Navy that I recently received as a very lovely review gift from the stellar European jewelry, accessories and clothing brand, Happiness Boutique, as its jumping off point. Made of aged brass and lustrous blue stones, this elegant necklace telegraphs the spirit of the past, but could just as easily work wonders in the context of a more contemporary ensemble, too.

I'm wild about this necklace and about Happiness Boutique (which I want to sincerely thank for this awesome review gift). Not only are many of their offerings old school appropriate, but some of their jewelry is also nickel-free. If, like myself, you happen to be allergic to this far-too-commonplace base metal, then you'll definitely know what a substantial struggle it is to find jewelry, let alone pieces other than earrings, that made from metal and actually nickel-free.

The moment I learned that many of Happiness Boutique's were/are, they had an instant fan in me. A spin around this well stocked, frequently updated website - which offers the option to shop in various currencies - only cemented my adoration for this thriving European online jewelry and fashion shop all the more.

Their prices, even when converted from Euros into Canadian, American, etc dollars, are quite reasonable in my opinion, especially for well made, stylish, trendy and/or timeless looking nickel-free jewelry and I have every intention to purchase from Happiness Boutique as time goes on (I need to grow the nickel-free necklace section of my jewelry box something fierce and their chic offerings could certainly help there!).

Now, I fully realize that such a glam necklace would not have been part of one's usual mid-century collegiate fashion look, but I wasn't going for an absolutely true to form ensemble. Instead I wanted to marry elements of that look with some that were of a more sophisticated nature as well - chiefly that stunning midnight blue 1940s/1950s platter hat and the fabulous necklace from Happiness Boutique.

I love this tweed blazer (that boasts faux leather elbow pads for an extra dose of university approved style), which was a thrift find (that originally hailed from Suzy Shier), but rarely wear it because it's a bit tight in the upper arms for me. It’s an extra small and I know that were it a small, it would fit perfectly (in the arms at least).

As much as I adore it, I think it might get the axe the next time I purge my closet, as I don't like to hang on to ill fitting garments, if I can avoid it. The main reason I haven't done so thus far is that it's my own brown tweed jacket and I as I'm a huge tweet fan, I'm rather partial to this blazer - tight sleeves and all. Maybe I'll thrift a similar piece this fall and then I'll have no qualms parting ways with this classic looking topper.

The sun was out in full force on the recent day when Tony and I captured these outfit snaps in the nearby community of Okanagan Falls. As such, I decided to try an experiment and see if I would squint less (something longtime readers will know that I'm fairly prone to doing) if I didn't smile much, but honestly, in reviewing these snaps, I see little difference and as I don't really have the sort of face that can usually pull off a solemn expression without looking sad/mad/blue/worried, I think I'll stick to smiling no matter if the sun is out or not - especially since I was a in a great mood that day, thanks in no small part to this fabulous Happiness Boutique necklace.

In fact, I was even chuckling to myself a little at one point, because it occurred to me that I might have accidentally channeled a Boy George-esque look with my fully buttoned up shirt and wide brim hat. Thankfully in reviewing these photos, I don't really see that, but it was fun to laugh about in the moment all the same.

There's no time of the year, to my mind, that suits a vintage collegiate look better than fall, no matter if one follows it to the letter or just borrows inspiration, as I did with this outfit. The textured fabrics, handy layers, sensible shoes, and warm jackets take to autumn like a duck to water and definitely work well whether one is 18, 38, 58 or beyond. This is a very good thing because at the age of 31, I find my love of this look only deepens with each passing year and I'm sure you'll see me continue to channel this classic style for many an autumn to come!

Back to school edition of 25 vintage deals under $100

Though I went to school in an era of Trapper Keepers, Lisa Frank stickers, Mr. Sketchy Markers (I still madly love the smell of those!), and Lunchables, when I think back on my school days, I can't help but almost view them through vintage tinted glasses and picture and era of pleated plaid skirts, books lashed with one of pop's old brown leather belts, a shiny apple on teacher's desk, and elegant, stately red brick buildings.




{Image via Corbis}

Though I was fortunate to attend a high school that fit the description of the former, by and large, those other elements existed, by the time of my youth, only in TV shoes, movies, and story books. It's a picturesque version of school life, but certainly one that many in earlier generations knew intimately and it's the way that the return of a new school year will always look in my mind's eye.

Thus, as countless families the world over gear up once more for homework, brown bag lunches, and a year chalked full of learning, I thought it would be especially fun to put back to school related/themed items at the heart of this month's 25 vintage deals under $100 post.

It's been a good long time now since I last saddled up to a desk, fresh box of #2 pencils and a stack of crisp notebooks in hand, but as August dwindles down, I still love stocking up on school supplies and items that remind me of my days as a student and all 25 of today's entries definitely make the grade (pun intended :)) on that front.

1. Cute as the day is long and perfect for the class room, home school room, nursery, or play room, amongst other spots, these fantastic, good sized 1950s Mother Goose school day paper cutouts are too darling for words! $30 for the trio from Kris Vintage Clothing.



2. Schooldays and plaid go hand-in-hand like blackboards and chalk, so why not use this time of the year as the perfect excuse to introduce a gorgeous new vintage plaid frock like this circa 1940s stunner into your wardrobe? Fits up to a 42" bust/32" waist. On sale at the time of writing for $57.80 from Rockabilly Raven Vintage.



3. There is something so timelessly cheerful and back-to-school season perfect about this jaunty, beautiful red and white cotton 1950s hat to me. Currently on sale at the time of writing (along with everything else in their fantastic shop) for $31.50 from Dalena Vintage.



4. Quite possibly the most iconic school supply product ever (rivaled only by the fountain pen and ink well, to my mind), the humble, and simultaneously mighty, pencil is a still a must even in this digital age. Stock up on a dozen lovely circa 1939-1940 Venus brand pencils for just $12.00 per box from Peppermint Pigs.}



5. And to go with them… a terrifically cute vintage metal novelty pencil sharpener in the shape of a hen! This would look right at home in any country chic, farm, vintage or contemporary decor setting alike. $4.99 from Quite Right, Slick.



6. Super perfect for all my vintage loving friends in Portland (or those who, like me, don't live there, but adore the city all the same), this vintage Portland High School charm bracelet is all kinds of mid-century jewelry fun! $20.00 from My Yiayia Had That.



7. Great teachers really are like angels for society and this immensely cute 1950s Napco angel of the month figurine pays homage to that in its own deeply sweet way. $10.00 from Molly Finds.



8. Score of some serious collegiate style creed in this vibrant, comfortable (believe me, it was hard not to keep it for myself!) 1960s Chaus cotton plaid blazer. Fits up to a 35" bust/30" waist. $42.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.



9. And the award for what must be the cutest cardboard vintage pencil case goes to – drum roll, please - this massively sweet pink 1950s School Daze one! $12.00 from I Want Vintage.



10. You'll be scoring straight A's in style when you wear this timelessly fun c. 1950s black and yellow letter sweater boasting the first letter of the alphabet smack, dab in the middle of it. Fits up to a 36 bust/34 waist. $55.00 from Zoom Vintage.



11. Maybe it's the toque wearing canuck in me, but I am madly smitten with this splendidly cute hand crocheted acrylic wool apple hat - and its super reasonable price. Fits an adult sized head. $20.00 from Uniquely Ann Made.



12. How chic and beautiful are these elegant, unused 1930s French notebooks? They're far too pretty (and old/rare) to actually write in, if you ask me, but I think they'd make for sublime office or library decor pieces. $20.00 for all four from A Farm House in France.



13. Gear up for art class or any creative endeavor you fancy with this incredibly darling 1950s dog print artist's smock blouse. One size fits most. $45.00 from Carmen and Ginger.



14. Bring the classroom into the dining room or kitchen with this lovely pair of vintage school supplies salt and pepper shakers featuring a pencil and a fountain pen. $8.00 from Vintage Bakelite 4 U.



15. Instead of tucking a pencil behind your ear, slide this seriously charming vintage "School Days" barrette into your hair before heading off to class or anywhere you fancy. $10.00 from Rosebud Cottage.



16. Perfect for any room in the house, and of course a classroom, too, this lovely, classic vintage map print pencil pen and pencil cup (which could probably hold skinny handled makeup brushes as well, I'd imagine) combines mid-century function and style together splendidly. $12.00 from Hendricks and Daughter.



17. Keep those art class basics, the primary colours, close to your heart - and your head - with this fabulously fun red, blue and yellow polka dot fabric hair flower corsage pin that would look as great on a five year as a ninety-five year old! $7.99 from Blue Velvet Vintage.



18. Ensure you pass your Spanish exam with flying colours care of this lovely trio of 1930s language books. $8.57 for all three from Winter Moon Vintage.



19. Still one of my favourite types of art supplies - not to mention scents - few things compare to the fun and possibilities housed inside of a box of wax crayons like this delightful box of eight different coloured c. 1940s Bri-Ton ones. $12.00 from Red Dress Hanger.



20. Without a doubt one of the most iconic types of shoes worn by students in the mid-twentieth century (along with saddle shoes and white bucks), the elegant and practical penny loafer will always prove to be a great choice for campus, no matter the decade. Red-brown leather ladies size 9.5-10 vintage penny loafers, $24.99 from Manor Born.



21. If cardigans are more your style when it comes to vintage letter sweaters, than this terrific red and white example with a patch indicating the original owner was a member of their school's concert band, is highly likely to tickle your fancy. Fits up to a 38" bust/36" waist. $40.00 from Cricket Capers.



22. Perfect for teaching kids, home decor or craft projects, these classic 1950s multiplication flashcards are sure to bring a wave of nostalgia to grownups everywhere. $12.00 from Boutique.



23. Look back with fondness to schooldays past care of this beautiful 1930s class autograph book which includes writing in the original owner's hand and 18 photos of her friends. $19.00 from Appropriately Frayed.



24. Tote your recess snack and lunch in this endearingly charming 1950s metal kid's lunchbox or use it as a purse, small book bag, decor piece, whatever your heart desires! $30.00 from Retro Rick's.



25. Store everything from paperclips to your favourite autumn candies in this pair of timelessly pretty vintage glass apple containers, or alternatively, give them as a thoughtful present to your favourite teacher. $16.00 for the pair from Little Red Chair Shop.

{Please click on a specific item, or the link in the description below it, to be taken to its respective listing.}

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One certainly doesn't have to be a student, teacher, or parent to enjoy and/or load up on back to school related goodies like these lovely vintage and handmade bargains! In fact, now is often the best time of the year to find great deals all kinds of stationary and office supplies, as well as fall/winter fashions.

When I was growing up, by and large, we usually only got multiple items of new clothing once a year and that was right before school started, so the end of August/start of September will forever be tied to refreshing my wardrobe and my desk drawers alike. Do you find that you're drawn to a lovely spot of shopping yourself as the seasons begin to swap over, the nights grow chillier, and school buses become a frequent sight again on the roads each morning and afternoon?

What sorts of things - school supplies/fashion related or otherwise are you looking forward to kicking off September with this year? I'm going to load up on markers, notebooks, perhaps a new sweater or two (I need medium and heavy weight ones something fierce), and - if I can find a good deal - maybe even a new plaid skirt to go with my saddle shoes for that perfect mid-century school girl/collegiate look! :)

Vintage Fashionista Friday: August 30, 2013

Arlene

{Schooldays and hair bows go hand-in-hand like pencils and erasers, no matter if one is in kindergarten or part of the collegiate crowd. This charming green bow barrette is sure to see your locks through from September to June in timeless style. $8.25 from etsy seller Neon Love Designs.}




{Few things are more iconic than apples when it comes to the start of a new school year, so why not greet this one with a beautiful little pair on your ears with these marvelous vintage red enamel earrings? $24.00 from etsy seller Junquegrl Jewels.}



{Though the mercury might still be bubbling away, in matter of weeks (or even days, depending on where you live), chances are it will be time to bust out the knits again and settle in for a season of cozy vintage sweaters like this classic blue number from the 1950s. Fits up to a 40" bust/waist not specified. $42.00 from etsy seller BombshellShocked.}



{Get right back into the school spirit with as much enthusiasm as a whole team of vintage cheerleaders when you wear this fabulous 1940s football themed dangle brooch. $29.95 from etsy seller A Magnificent Mess.}
 


{I absolutely adore a good mid-century plaid skirt and this wool 1950s gem from Pendleton is no exception! Vintage size 18, fits up to a 33" waist. $50.00 from etsy seller Peach Tree Vintage.}



{This past April I chatted about Ten of My All-Time Favourite Scents, and should I ever do a second edition of that post, it's likely that the smell of freshly shaven pencils will make the list. I'd be hard pressed to sharpen this rainbow of1950s/60s beauties though, instead I'd use them as pretty decor pieces on my craft desk. $24.99 for ten pencils from etsy seller Pezzaz.}



{Start the school year off right by brushing up on your spelling with this lovely 1940s textbook entitled Refresher Speller. $4.75 from etsy seller Vintage Antique Lane.}




{Sharing the spotlight with penny loafer and bucks, saddle shoes - like this fantastic navy blue and white pair - are amongst the most well known and beloved vintage schooldays shoes of the mid-twentieth century. Grab a pair of your own with care of UK seller Rocket Originals who offers the pair seen here (as well as several other saddle colour combos) in modern ladies UK sizes 3-8 for £75.00.}

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As it has for so many the world over for ages now, the morning immediately following Labour Day always ushered the school year back in when I was a youngster. I can recall vividly always hoping each year that Labour Day would fall toward the end of the first week of September, instead of the beginning, as it ensured a few more days of cherished summer vacation.

I loved school and didn't dread returning, it's just that I was also exceedingly keen on spending my days at the beach, playing in the long, dry grass of our backyard, picking cherries from our neighbours trees, staying up late around the fire pit at night roasting marshmallows, jumping through the sprinkler, and myriad other things that made summer so incredibly awesome to us when we were knee high to a pair of water wings.

This year, much I'm sure, to the chagrin of a whole new generation of school kids, Labour Day falls on September 2nd, meaning that school will commence once more, bright and early, on the 3rd. As this the last Friday before that happens, it seemed like the perfect time to devote an edition of Vintage Friday Fashionista to a charming schooldays inspired look, which is sure to appeal to you whether you're hitting the books again yourself, sending your wee ones back to class, or simply recalling the excitement of schooldays long past.

{Image source}

No pattern evokes thoughts of vintage student garb more than plaid, and the pairing of a classic plaid skirt with a sweater (or cardigan and/or blouse) is a look that was hugely popular, in particular, from the 1940s on up to the early 60s (as seen in the great still from the 1943 movie Young Ideas pictured above).

It's a long I've always enjoyed it, too, going right back in time to when I was in high school and would sometimes skittle off on my lunch break to the thrift stores that were located down the same street (my high school was/is on Main Street), and pick up 1940s and 50s plaid skirts like this for a couple of bucks a pop. Sadly, those days are no more, but I still love this look just the same and enjoy recreating it as summer gradually slips into autumn and the weather dictates knits, wool, and tweed of all kinds once more.

Today's Vintage Fashionista is named Arlene, in honour of one of my all-time teachers, Mrs. Arlene Kuben, who taught me during forth grade. She was a sweet, kind-hearted, lovely lady, who very much struck me as embodiment of the classic, good natured, caring educator, fitting in just as easily in the early 1990s when I was in her class, as she would have at any other point in time.

As we sit here on the second to last morning of August, the world and weather still feel far more like they have their feet firmly grounded in summer. Young beach goers are frolicking in the lakes as I once did (day in and day out), the scrumptious scent of barbequed meat lingers in the air from weeks of dinnertime grilling, and one can still buy fresh peaches and cherries at the plethora of local fruit stands.

Soon though, with the same speed with which the morning after Labour Day used to arrive, autumn in all its golden hued glory will be here, and the ebb and flow of another school year will be second nature will be second nature once more. Much as I adore fall, I'm not rushing it out the door quite yet - at least not until I hear the first local school bell chiming in the distance come September 3rd.