Fashion History File: Vintage vs. Anthropologie

Fashion History File: Vintage vs. Anthropologie

A few weeks ago when the Anthropologie catalog hit my doorstep, I did a doubletake. The dress on the cover is nearly an identical match to a 50s dress in our selection of vintage holiday dresses this season!

Aside from the fact that our version doesn’t have the appliques on the skirt, the color and bodice are spot on. If you needed any more proof how  today’s designers steal from fashions of the past, here it is.  Don’t you find the sash actually dates their version a bit?

(Cover of theAnthropologie catalog, Oct 2012 – photo via my Instagram)

Oh, did I mention our version is under $100?  Or, you could go to Anthro and pay $200…

 (This was photographed before the catalog came – the poses and shoes are close, too!)

Insta-Outfits

Insta-Outfits

I haven’t taken any “formal” outfit photos in months, but here are some quick snaps of what I’ve been wearing here and there. I’ve been thrifting more stuff for me than for the shop lately, which has lead to more excitement about getting dressed. Can you tell I have a newbie crush on Instagram? Cuz I do.

Flowery Fingertips: Vintage Manicure Set

Flowery Fingertips: Vintage Manicure Set

Usually when finding something in a vintage coat pocket or purse left behind by the previous owner, nine times out of ten it’s a disgusting, dirty snot rag.  But every once in a while, you find a sweet little something. I recently was photographing this pretty large 1950s handbag, and found a treasure trove of items left behind by the original owner. Amongst them was this nifty manicure set!

  I almost tossed it, but when I opened it up, it was clear it had never been used!  I love the colors.

 

Folded up inside the case was a little guide. I have to share the copy with you!

 ♥

Flowery Fingertips Beautiful hands demand well kept nails.

1. Always Flowery Emery Board to trim the nails because its flexibility gives you better control of the nail tip curve you desire.

2. Always use a Flowery Manicyre Stick to clean under the nails. A file or other sharp instrument will make scratches under the nail that accumulate dirt.

3. Lift and push the cuticle back with a Flowery Manicure Stick. Remember – a soft cuticle prevents hang nails.

4. Nails need blood circulation. Use a Flowery Buffer on your nails regularly and briskly once each day. This helps materially in promoting proper circulation.

5. Rub a bit of warm olive oil into the base of each nail once a week. This will keep your cuticle soft.

6. Don’t cut the cuticle. This causes it to grow thicker. Use scissors only to remove hangnails.

7. Spend five minutes a day to keep up the appearance of your nails. SEE your MANICURIST at least once a month.

8. Never use very hot water for washing the hands. Always rub toward the wrist. Dry hands immediately after removing them from water. Be sure to apply a good skin lotion.

9. Exercise your hands and fingers regularly:- a. Stretch your fingers collectively and individually. b. With fingers pointing straight ahead, rotate each finger first to the right, then to the left. c. Open and close each hand ten times. Be sure to stretch fingers as dar as possible while in open position.

10. Do not wear tight gloves. They impede circulation.

 

Some New Stuff

Some New Stuff

Historically I’ve tried not to post too many shop updates (besides announcing sales!), but it’s been ages since I’ve posted one! These were all listed yesterday – including a his & hers matching set! Today and tomorrow some purple and gold items will be listed.

Keep in touch more frequently with Archives Vintage on Facebook and Twitter!

 All available in the shop

Five and Ten SALE!

Five and Ten SALE!

Summer is upon us! For this weekend only, I’ve loaded up a Summer Sale section with 50 items all priced at $5 or $10! There’s everything from swimwear to dresses, skirts, shorts, tops and LOADS of accessories. This awesome deal runs now through Sunday, so be quick and take advantage!

Also, the shop has a nice, clean new look – let me know what you think!