It’s Liebster Blog Award time!

With little more than a month of autumn remaining, it seemed like high time I got around to posting about the fact that not one, but two, wonderfully lovely ladies have bestowed the Liebster blog award on Chronically Vintage over the past year (especially because the first of these two times happened in November 2012, and I really don't want to let more than a year slip by before I write about it here).

First off, the Liebster Award came my way care of the completely sweet Lil from Little Lil of London, then a few months later in February, the thoroughly awesome Holly of Veronica Vintage tapped me for it as well. I really appreciate that you passed this fun Q&A award on my way, dear gals, and am happy to do the same here today as well.

The Liebster Award has been bouncing around the blogging universe for a while now, the general premise being that the person who receives it answers a set of questions from the previous recipient (the person who in turn gave it to them), and then creates the same number of questions to be answered by those that they pass it along to. This is done as a way of both getting to know your fellow bloggers better and also letting your readers in on more about yourself, your blogs, and your thoughts on various topics.

Some versions also specify that the recipient share eleven random facts about themselves, but I shalln't be taking things in that direction myself today (but if you're interested in such things, check out my post from June about The Very Inspiring Blogger Award in which I list seven).

Lil didn't specify a list of questions in her post, but Holly did, and so it's those that I'm going delve right into here today (in relatively short answer form - who wants to start a gorgeous, sunny Monday morning off by reading essay-esque answers?), before laying out eleven of my own questions for the folks I'm passing the Liebster Award onto to answer, if they so desire.


1. What started your romance with all things vintage?

There wasn't one specific event that catapulted my love of vintage, I'm simply been fascinated by, and completely in love with, history since I was a little girl. Growing up I was beyond consumed with the past (hmmm, nothing much has changed there!), reading everything I could get my hands on that had to do with history (especially the years spanning the Victorian era to the 1960s), watching old movies, going to museums, talking to my relatives and elderly neighbours about their youth, you name it, if it was vintage or antique related, I was endlessly enthralled - and definitely still am.




  2. What made you start a blog about it all?

You can read all about that very topic in this post from last March.



3. What is your favourite vintage item you have acquired so far?

Seriously hard to say...I love them all a great deal and have become very selective about what I will and will not buy over the years. I have a small closet and a modest budget, so if something is going to come home and live me - no matter if it costs a buck or a hundred dollars - I have to love it 100% (and have it fit at least relatively well). So while I'm honestly not sure if I could narrow it down to just one, a serious contender would definitely be my dusty rose 1940s tilt hat (which I spotted, fell in love with, and then Tony bought me as a wonderful gift).


4. If you could own one item of clothing from an Old Hollywood film, which would it be and why?

There are so many sublime, creative, gorgeous garments that have appeared in classic films over the years, but I'm going to have to go with a somewhat unexpected answer, and opt for one of the Mrs. Claus themed outfits that Vera-Ellen and Rosemary Clooney both wore in White Christmas, because of the incredible connection to the holidays of my youth that this movie holds for me (and because I think that a vintage Mrs. Claus suit is just about the cutest holiday garb ever!).





5. Would you rather live back in your favourite era(s) or would you prefer to stay in present day? Why?

This isn't the easiest of questions to answer in an elevator pitch kind of answer - and indeed doing so could easily fill many a blog post, as one explored the many sides and implications of going back in time - but the honest answer is that it truly depends on many factors. Because of my severe chronic health problems (which would have been a lot harder to deal with on a daily basis, get treatment for, find information quickly about, etc back then), I would probably opt to stay in the present.

Yet, if one could wave a magic wand and make me healthy as a horse, there are still a bevy of pros and cons to both, and my answer would ultimately lie in whether or not my husband could come with me, because I wouldn't trade any period in time (no matter how much I love it) if it meant not being able to spend my life with him. If I was healthy and he was there, then I may very well opt for the past - though I'd certainly miss all of you if I did!


6. If you could be a female historical figure, who would you be and why?

This is another question to which I have many answers, but no immediate top spot, because I respect, admire, and am fascinated with quite a number of famous historical female figures. One possible choice though would definitely be Florence Nightingale (I even went as her for Halloween one year when I was a little girl).


7. Same question, but as a male historical figure and why.

Same opening line as my previous answer through and through! In a strange way - perhaps because there have been even more famous male historical figures - this is even tougher to come up with a single name for. I've always longed to have the skill of a great master when it comes to painting, so someone like Leonardo da Vinci might make for a very exciting (and creatively fulfilling) choice.


8. How do you come up with topics to write about?

Pretty much anything is fair game here in terms of what I might potentially write about and I constantly keep my eyes and ears peeled for blog post inspiration. I like to pull from a range of sources, including my own life (and my vintage wardrobe), magazine articles (past and present), famous moments in history, fellow bloggers, Pinterest, books I'm reading, recipes I adore - you name it!


9. What nationalities/heritages are you?

I'm what I like to call a Heinz 57 of nationalities, with ancestors hailing from Germany, France, Russia, the UK, America, and a few wayyy back from Poland, too.




  10. Do you pre-plan posts of write off-the-cuff?

Having a blogging schedule is paramount to my ability to post here on a regular, frequent basis and I generally write the bulk of my posts anywhere from one to four weeks in advance of when they go live. That said, I like to write a few off-the-cuff posts each month, and welcome the "of the moment" nature they make possible when it comes to recording various things that have recently happened in my world.


11. Where do you see the future of your blog? What would you like to see it as being in about one year? What about five years?

For me, every day of blogging is a way of letting my health know that it hasn't taken over my life completely, while at the same time serving a marvelously relaxing way to unwind and take my mind off of such things. So as long as I'm able to keep on keepin' on (so to speak) here (point blank) with each passing year, I will be exceedingly happy.

{To learn more a specific image, please click on it to be taken to its respective source.}

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As eleven seems to be the theme of this award, I'm pleased as punch to bestow the Liebster Award onto the following eleven wonderful ladies.

If you've already received it before (and don’t feel like writing about it again), aren't a fan of blog awards, or would otherwise prefer not to take part, please don't worry the tiniest of moments. Blog awards are just for fun, and if it they don't feel like such to you, no worries at all, just know that I think you and your blog are worthy of one all the same.


1. Bonita from Lavender and Twill

2. Collette from Serendipity Handmade

3. Elle from Elle Buckle Vintage

4. Hannah from Just Peachy, Darling

5. Lisa from Butterflies and Daisy Vintage

6. Liz from The Vintage Inn

7. Paige from Baby Steps into Vintage

8. Patricia Lynn of Lady by Choice

9. Porcelina from Porcelina's World 

10. Sean from The Fictionista 

11. Stephanie Lynn from The Girl With The Star-Spangled Heart

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Here are my questions for you to answer, dear ladies - I hope you enjoy them as much as I did Holly's.


1. What are three of your favourite things about blogging?

2. What kind of sagely advice would you give to a blogger who is just starting their first ever blog today?

3. Do you find yourself drawn more towards creating word heavy or image heavy posts, or do you prefer a fairly even mix of the two in each post?

4. What is your favourite ten year span (note, this doesn't have to be a specific decade, such as the 1930s, you could pick 1925-1935) of all time from a fashion standpoint?

5. If you could go on a shopping spree (and money was no object), what are five vintage wardrobe items that you'd buy today?

6. What are five of your favourite savory foods, and five of your favourite sweet ones?

7. What's your favourite place you've ever lived? What are some of the reasons that makes this spot so near and dear to your heart?

8. If you could go on an all-expense paid vacation for two weeks to anywhere in the world, where would you go and what vintage clothes would you bring with you?
9. Currently, what are your three favourite colours? Do you wear these colours often or simply enjoy them in general?

10. If you could attend a concert from any musician/band throughout all of time, who would you pick to see live?

11. What's your favourite time of the day (morning, dusk, etc) and why?

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Thank you again very much to Lil and Holly for sharing this delightful blogging honour with me. I always sincerely appreciate each and every blog award that Chronically Vintage and I receive, and am so happy to finally get a chance this morning to share my answers to the questions involved with this one here today.

Ten of my favourite items from etsy shop Dalena Vintage

One of the most delightful and touching elements of partnering with blog sponsors here, is when I receive an email from an etsy shop (or other type of site) that I've already caught wind of, perhaps long adored, and/or even purchased from over the years.

For quite some time now, I've been eyeballing the expertly curated, and superbly photographed, offerings from etsy seller Dalena Vintage, and must say, it's a sincere joy to welcome them as one of Chronically Vintage's newest sponsors this fall.




Of her popular shop, founder Leslie Torbett says, "Dalena Vintage was born of an ongoing love affair between one girl and her adoration of vintage clothing. Each piece is hand-selected for it's beauty, purity and quality. We like to think the result is a collection of dreamy vintage in which girls can lose themselves."

And it precisely that which I’ve done – and continue to do – every time I've ever visited this lovely etsy shop, which houses a superb selection of mid-century offerings, such as frocks, hats, jackets and coats, shoes, accessories, and even wedding dresses. The pieces that Dalena Vintage offers are right up my style alley - brazenly feminine, timelessly classic, and so incredibly wearable.

It's too hard to pick just one or two items from Dalena Vintage that really speak to my personal style - and which I know will appeal to a great many of you as well, my sweet dears - so today I'd like to share ten (and believe me, it was hard to cap my list there) of Dalena's latest offerings that have really jumped out and nabbed my attention.

{Everything from picnics in July to a day at the rodeo spring to mind when I look at this fantastically charming 1950s red bandana two piece dress set. I'd partner with with a woven straw or tooled leather bag, cat's eye sunglasses, and open toe sandals for one of the most darling vintage looks you could ever hope to find. Fits up to a 35" bust, 26" waist.}

{Even though I've been blissfully married for nine years already, I still love - and know that I always will - looking at, and daydreaming about wearing, vintage wedding dresses. This sophisticated short sleeve yellow lace dress from the 1950s would make for a gorgeous alternative to classic white for your big day, then could easily remain in your wardrobe, to be worn time and time again, for special events long after. Fits up to a 34" bust, 26" waist.} 

 

{I have an unending passion for vintage clothing and accessories that feature fruit (or vegetables), so my eyes lit up like the lights on a Christmas tree when I saw this darling 1950s straw hat bedecked with green grapes. Inner circumference of 22".}

{Calling all fans of gingham and 1940s house dresses, this adorable green and white vintage frock is definitely for you. Featuring an a-line skirt, lace detailing, green plastic buttons with teeny rhinestone centers, and two generous sized front pockets, this dress is just as cute and practical as they come. Fits up to a 38" bust, 32" waist.}

 

{This is one of this mid-century dresses that simply takes your break away. A warm golden palette, large velvet ribbon detail across the skirt, and a flattering swooped neckline all add up to an unforgettably beautiful 1950s day dress that could very easily work wonders for a party or semi-formal event as well. Fits up to a 34" bust, 26" waist.}

 

{Oozing classic sophistication, stylish form, and a whisper of femme fatale allure, this striking dark pine green 1940s felted wool hat would surely stop anyone who saw you wearing it in their tracks. Inner circumference of 21.5".}

 {Shake up your usual vintage LBD routine by injecting a hit of cream applique and two pieces instead of one into the mix care of this resplendently lovely 1940s peplum dress suit set. Fits up to a 32" bust, 26" hip.} 

 {You'll be all kinds of pretty in pink when you sport this fun 1950s Hattie Leeds plaid day dress in shades of bubble gum and white with hints of gold swirled through the lovely mix. Fits up to a 42" bust, 34" waist.} 

{Whether you're a fan of scores of colour in your outfits or prefer to just inject a well placed hit of hue here and there, these wonderfully fun 1940s Miramar De Luxe straw heels are sure to tickle your footwear fancy. Fits an approximate size 7 foot.}

 {Beat the throngs of shoppers next spring and pick 2014's summer attire months in advance, starting with this endlessly cute 1940s Juliet Original polka dot swimsuit, complete with matching terrycloth robe. Bathing suit fits up to a 32" bust, 26" waist.}

 

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Aren't these pieces exquisite? I love the fact that Dalena offers a wide range of items, yet they all seem to have a common thread of sophistication, beauty, and ageless charm to them that speaks volume to my vintage loving (and wearing soul).

Should you have fallen hard for Dalena Vintage as well, and wish to connect with them elsewhere online, too, you can do so via the following:

-Dalena Vintage blog

-Dalena Vintage mailing list

-Facebook

-Instagram

-Pinterest

-Twitter


Feel like doing so shopping from Dalena's marvelous yourself? Of course you do! :) In that case, I'm pleased as punch to share a special coupon code for Chronically Vintage readers for you today.

Use coupon code at VintageLove when you check out and save a substantial 20% off your Dalena Vintage etsy shop order between today and November 25, 2013.

With an inventory that frequently spans the 1900s to the 1960s, there is something amongst Dalena Vintage's beautiful offerings that's bound to appeal to most vintage lovers the world over, and which will, without a doubt, ensure I remain a fan of this etsy shop for a very long time to come.

 

12 vintage Marie Claire covers featuring fabulous hats

Though I joyfully wear vintage hats all year round, there is something about the unmistakable return of winter's first chill that tends to come part and parcel with November, which always puts me in the mood to shop for (even if that means just window shopping) yesteryear chapeaus.

Far more than just a wonderful fashion statement and accent (if not full-fledged focal point) to our daily vintage outfits, hats really come into their element as the mercury drops and once more they provide not just chic style, but physical warmth for heads and/or ears (depending on what style of hat you're sporting).

For those who live in colder climates, you may find yourself especially drawn to vintage hats made from materials such as felt, fur (real or faux), feathers, wool (including Persian lamb's wool, which is usually seen as being more of a fur), and thick, tightly woven straws (that lets to no air flow throw), as these are typically thicker and/or better at providing your lovely noggin with plenty of much needed warmth as Old Man Winter comes calling once more.

Just as certain materials find their way more into fall and winter hats, so too does the colour palette often shift. Out are the light straws, pastels, flower bedecked Easter bonnet styles, jaunty boater hats (traditionally, for chaps at least, they rarely stayed in rotation past Labour Day), and cute little half hats that look more like headbands than protection against the chilly elements. In come dark hues such as navy blue, black, camel, brown, forest green, burgundy, garnet, aborigine, grey, and wintry creams in substantial, head enshrining styles.

Though I do find myself reaching more for hats in such hues and materials as the seasons shift yet again, ultimately there aren't too many of my toppers that I won't at least try to weave into a winter ensemble (case in point my endlessly beloved dusty rose 1940s tilt hat - a hat some might see as being more in keeping with spring and summer - worn with black velvet and tights last February on a very snowy day). This same principle rings true across my wardrobe as a whole (that is to say, I rarely relegate pieces to just one half of the year), so it's no surprise that I keep sporting some of my more summery hats while silver bells and strings of festive lights pop out again.

Because I've got hats on the brain (even literally, if you think about it! :)) this nippy November morn, I wanted to share a selection of fantastic late 1930s and very early 1940s Marie Claire magazine covers with all of you, which come by way of a great Flickr user named Pilllpat.

Though not all of these hats scream autumn or winter, each is a beautiful, timelessly classic work of military art that would not be too tricky at all to partner with a cold weather ensemble, such a two-piece suit, heavy weight black cocktail dress, or pencil skirt and a thick knit twinset.

{All image via Pilllpat on Flickr.}

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Ohhhh, my wallet is in serious danger because it's all I can do not to go on the prowl for similar versions of some of these amazing vintage hat gems right this very moment! Good thing (for my wallet, though perhaps not quite as much for my hat collection) that Christmas is around the corner, and I'm already keeping an extra close watch on my spending, so that I can splash out on my loved ones. Still, winter isn't exactly famous for being short here in Canada, and there's always the new year to go hat hunting in!

As the last handful of leaves turns amber or crimson and comes tumbling to the cold, slate hued pavement below, what sorts of hats are you daydreaming about for this fall and winter? Do you have a beloved vintage topper (or ten!) that you reach for each year time and time again as the snow banks grow ever higher (this classic black felt number with two simple coloured bands is one of mine in that department) or are you are currently shopping for some suitable cold weather headgear?

Whatever the case may be (including if you're not much of a chapeau wearer at all, but instead just a devoted admirer), I hope that you enjoyed this selection of great vintage hats, any one of which would still be more than worthy of a magazine cover unto itself still these days!