Like many of us, in the course of my online travels I encounter a seemingly endless plethora of vintage and vintage inspired items that I’d like to post about. At the best times, of many such finds make their way into blog entries, while other may be stored for future use or eventually forgotten (or morphed into daydreams, if the item is one you’d love to own yourself).
Over the course of Chronically Vintage’s life, I’ve had the pleasure of sharing many of my favourite finds with you. At times I’ve had a "daily" post featuring one extra cool find that caught my eye (I use the word daily loosely, as said posts weren’t always actually added each and every day, but rather dispersed between other blog entries), and while this is something I hope to continue when I’m able to get back into blogging more regularly, for the time being (as I’m simply not blogging anywhere as much as I generally have throughout this site’s life), I thought I’d introduce a new (reoccurring) post to share some fabulous vintage finds with you.
As anyone who spends much time shopping (or scouring for items as sources of vintage inspiration and blog post material) knows, things that are for sale online rarely stick around for months or years at a time. Retailers and smaller scale sellers alike constantly remove older listings to ensure that new items are available for their customers. While product turnover is a great in many respects, for bloggers it can mean that you have a short window of time in which to feature a product that is still available for sale (from the source you discovered it from) on your own site.
Many-a-time I’ve spied an item, bookmarked it for later, and when my mind thought of it again, half a year or more had passed and the item was no longer for sale (tell me this doesn’t sound familiar to you as well?). While it’s probably not realist to blog about every item that captures your attention (especially if you’re the sole blogger on a site that isn’t strictly devoted to highlighting products), at the same time it can be a little sad to see great finds go unmentioned.
To that extent I recently came up with the idea of putting together a (reoccurring) post by the name of The Vintage Shopping Bazaar, which will lasso a bunch of items that I’ve found in my online travels (but which haven’t appeared in previous posts) that I don’t want to miss out on sharing with all of you.
The inspiration behind the name for this new type of post came about from the fact that shopping bazaars are usually marketplaces that swirl with troves of different types of items. One stall might have bolts of fine silk, another handcrafted jewelry, a third mountains of fragrant spices. Such destinations are fascinating mixtures of all manner of goods, that while often quite different from one another, all work in tandem to create the unique shopping experience that comes from visiting the modern shopping mall’s predecessors, a bazaar.
There really won’t be much in the way of rules to such posts. They’ll appear from time-to-time, be comprised of an eclectic hodge-podge of lovely items that I’ve found recently, and will be a spot in which to share some of the online treasures that have been fuelling my vintage inspiration fire lately – and which I hope will delight and inspire you as well.
On that very note, let me welcome you to inaugural edition of The Vintage Shopping Bazaar (
please note that all prices are in American dollars unless otherwise specified). I really hope you have fun browsing and daydreaming!
♥ ♥ ♥
{Steal the show with your radiant vintage elegance when you sport this stunning 1950s inspired, 100% cotton sharkskin frock – complete with flattering boned bodice – which can be worn either as a strapless or halter neck dress. “Classic 1950s Sheath” dress, fits a 39-40 inch bust/29-31 inch waist (size alterations are available upon request for an additional charge), $225.00, from Whirlingturban.} 
{Though they may first call to mind thoughts of distinguished gentlemen from a bygone era, when seen dangling from a delicate tarnished gold hued necklace, there is something deeply beautifully and entirely feminine about pocket watches such as the one used as a pendant on this old fashioned feeling, elegant piece. “Watch as Time Goes By” necklace (with a 27 inch chain and functional watch that simply needs winding first to work), $29.99, from ModCloth.com.} 
{Natural shades paired with timelessly smoky hues are forever in style, and this beautiful collection of gentle eye shadow colours would make the perfect base upon which to build your favourite vintage make-up looks (dip your applicator or brush into a little water and then one of the darker shades and, poof, instant eyeliner for the perfect 1950s cats eye!). Too Faced “Naked Eye Soft & Sexy Eye Shadow Collection” pallet featuring nine essential matte neutrals and soft shimmer eye shadows, $34.00, from Sephora.com.} 
{A cheerful riot of colours come together harmoniously in this delightfully fun, entirely summery pair of plaid peep toe, ankle strap heels, which would partner so nicely with a trove of different vintage warm weather styles (think everything from sailor shorts to flowing sundresses). “Color Theory” stiletto heels, available in ladies sizes 6 to 10 (some half sizes are available), $34.00 per pair, from ModCloth.com.} 
{This hot-off-the-press book (it was just released this month!) caught my eye while it was still in pre-release and is now firmly planted on my reading wish list. Chalked full of information on the time-honoured art of sewing (from the history of the sewing machine to highlighting modern fabric pattern designers like Amy Butler) and boasting 25 vintage inspired projects, this title looks like a must-own for anyone with an interest in vintage fashion, sewing or twentieth century costume history. Sew Retro: 25 Vintage-Inspired Project for the Modern Girl & A Stylish History of the Sewing Revolution, written by Judi Ketteler, $16.49 from Amazon.com.} 
{Looking as though it could have been plucked right off one of the walls at Sterling Cooper, this fantastically retro inspired, white frosted glass clock would look sensational in your own office – or any room for that matter. 13.8 inch square “Jazzy” clock, $48.00, from Chiasso.} 
{A novel idea if ever there was one, this sophisticated tin looks at first glance to hold Chamberlains face powder, however its vintage interior instead houses (100% all natural) modern day lip balm. This example and many other salvaged beauty product tins have all been sterilized and turned into lip gloss receptacles, providing you with both a beautiful heirloom tin and a fantastic way to ensure your lips stay soft while at the beach, on a picnic or any place you can imagine. “Lovely Lip Balm” in a vintage tin, £24.00 (UK pounds), from Andrea Garland (note that refills are available for £5.00 plus £1.50 shipping within the UK).} 
{Just because summer is half way over doesn’t mean you can’t justify picking up a new swimsuit, especially when it’s one that’s as agelessly perfect as this graceful vintage inspired, black two piece. “Lisa” halter neck bikini, available in ladies sizes small to XL, $110.00 (for both pieces), from Stop Staring Clothing.} 
{Cute meets spunky in this fabulous red, grey and cream hued vintage tattoo print fabric. I can easily envision this lively material being utilized by everyone from quilters to scrapbookers, seamstresses to mixed media artists for a myriad of diverse uses! “Love Tattoo” fabric (designed by Michael Miller Fabrics), $9.50 per yard, available from eQuilter.com} 
{Old School postcard style art reigns on this cheerfully coloured 11 x 17 inch poster featuring a jaunty image of the Empire State building. “New York framed poster”, $32.00, from Urban Outfitters.} 
{Measuring in at a petite 2.25 inches, this vibrant vintage flower brooch positively sparkles with summertime energy and lively beauty, and would look wonderful clipped to a purse, lapel, blouse, scarf, or hat. “Vintage Blue Flower Pin”, $12.00, from picnicbyellie.} 
{Refined French style teams up durable cotton in this sleek throw pillow sham (note that a pillow itself is not included with this listing) featuring silhouettes of dressmakers dummies on a soothing cream hued backdrop. “Chic Paris Mannequin” cotton burlap looking pillow sham (fits a 14 inch pillow), $16.00, from amongst the items available from etsy seller Berry Lane.} 
{Every bit as refreshing as an ice cold lemonade on a scorching hot day, this immensely cute short sleeved dress is just the ticket to carry you through the rest of this summer and many, many more to come! Vintage inspired “HepCat Dress”, available in ladies sizes small to 3X, $49.99, from ModCloth.com.} 
{Ahoy, vintage fashionistas! Gather ye treasures (ransacked or otherwise ;D) up this marvellously fun 1950s, half-moon shaped purse. Composed of a tweedy cream hued fabric adorned with sequins, shells, gold coins, faux pearls, and precious little fish embellishments, this whimsically sweet handbag is sure to make you smile (and perhaps want to take to the high seas!) every time you use it. Vintage Claire Fashions “Pirate’s Treasure” handbag, measuring 10 inches tall by 15 inches wide, $75.00, from Viva Vintage Clothing.} 
{Set a flock of darling birds free upon your home decor with this endearingly sweet group of sparrows shaped mirrors. Whether displayed all together or dispersed throughout your home, these lovely birds add a whimsical vintage touch to any room. Set of six 7 inch by 12 inch glass “Flying Sparrow” decorative mirrors, $24.00 (for all six), from Plasticland.} 
{Help ensure your project stays tidy while adding a captivating dose of antique French charm to your craft space with this elegant printed cardboard thread organizer, which is equipped with 16 holes. “Saintes Thread Organizer”, $16.00, from Acme Notions.} 
{Channel a sweet, subtly ethereal vibe with this classically tailored, ruffled cap sleeve blouse in the cheeriest of lipstick red hues. I could see this pretty top making fast friends with high waisted pencil skirts and vintage trousers alike, putting in tons of wardrobe millage all year long. “Special Engagement Blouse”, in sizes XS to XL (also available in navy blue), $45.00, from Fredflare.com} 
{Ensure your skin stays glistening and healthy this summer with a little help from this incredibly cute set of four skincare products (SPF 30 sunscreen, “After Sun Soother” lotion, foaming facial cleanser, and facial moisturizer), each bottle of which is decked out with a darling image of a vintage gal enjoying a day at the beach. Four piece “Beach Diva” set, currently on sale for $16.95 (for the whole set), from Sterling Richards.} 
{Crisp tailoring and a timeless pallet of black and white lend this exquisite two piece 1950s playsuit a wonderful sense of grace and summertime allure. Originally produced by “Style Plus California”, this delightful set is “new old stock” and has never been worn (the shirt fits up to a 39.5 bust/33.5 waist, the shorts fit up to a 28 inch waist/38.5 inch hips). Two piece set featuring circle print top and black shorts, $98.00 (for both pieces), from etsy seller Planet Claire Vintage.} 
{Imagine the year is 1943 and you’re receiving a long anticipated letter from your beloved (who is valiantly off serving on the front) every time you use this endearingly sweet, eco-friendly, water-proof pouch. Perfect for storing modern day postage stamps, coupons, accessories, make-up, or anything else you can fit into 9.5 x 7.25 inches of space, this wonderful vintage inspired bag is certainly something to write home about! “Airmail Pouch”, $9.95, from FredFlare.com.} 
{There are shoes that are cute, then there are shoes that are so adorable they practically make you squeal aloud when you spy them! These fantastically playful nautical meets tattoo art inspired flats are just such a pair. Perfect for evening strolls along the beach, marathon shopping trips, breezy vacations, even tucked under the long folds of a wedding dress hem (should you wish to keep your toesies extra happy on your special day). “Tattooed Sailor Button Ballet Flats’, available in ladies sizes 5 to 10, $43.00, from Plasticland.com.} 
{Believing (much as I do) that many recipes housed within the pages of vintage cookbooks (and our grandmothers’ collections) deserve to live on in today’s busy world, author Lari Robling gathered up a fantastic assortment of 80 yesteryear recipes that are sure please just many crowds today as they did during when they first appeared several decades ago. Endangered Recipes: Too Good to Be Forgotten, $13.46, from Amazon.com.} 
{The perpetually romantic charm and beauty of lush summertime roses tumble forth across this feminine gold toned (stretch) bracelet, which features a row of chunky crimson blooms. “Carved Red Rose Bracelet”, $10.99, from Enchanting Jewels.} 
{Stay as cool as a cucumber and as pretty as a peach through the long, hot days of summer in this airy, playfully pretty 1950s chemise and panty set. Soft layers of white and pastel yellow chiffon give this nightgown a light-as-air look and feel that is sure to help anyone sleep more peacefully. “Lemon Drop Cream Puff Chemise”, chemise fits up to a 40 inch bust/50 inch waist and the (elastic waist) panty fits between a 22 and a 30 inch waist/38 inch hip, ($36.00 (for both pieces), from etsy seller StilettoGirl Vintage.} 
{Retro flare oozes from this immensely cute little business card holder shaped like a classic rotary dial telephone (which, if one felt like picking up multiples, could also be used as a fantastic place card holder). Aqua hued “Call Waiting Card Holder”, $9.99, from ModCloth.com.} 
{Summon up tasty childhood memories with an generous sized box of old fashioned salt water taffy (made at the Jersey Shore for added authenticity), packaged in an adorably wonderful vintage inspired plaid box (with a darling Scottie dog on it to boot!). 1LB 8oz box of assorted flavours of classic salt water taffy, $10.95, from Douglass Candies.} 
{Let sleek, understatedly cool mid-twentieth century home decor charm radiate from your living room, bedroom, den, study, family room or any other spot you’d like to place this classic wooden media stand. Use this tiered table to store anything from your music player of choice to craft supplies, or simply put it to work as a tasteful side table (which measures in at 18.25 inches wide, 13.75 inches deep, and 25 inches high) that is sure to garner compliments from your design savvy friends. “Manchester Media Stand”, $88.00 from Urban Outfitters.} 
{Rich with shades of buttercup yellow and tropical turquoise blue in a playful polka dot and strip pattern, this immensely pretty 1950s full skirt is the kind of feel-good, light-hearted piece every summertime wardrobe needs at least a few of. “Coffee Seeds and Absinth Circle Skirt”, fits up to a 32/33 inch waist (with free room in the hips), $70.00, from etsy seller LaMistinguette.} 
{Sometimes I wonder if I’m secretly Dutch and don’t know it, because I think that there are few ways more fantastic to explore the world than on the seat of a fabulous (and massively stylish!) bicycle, such as this gorgeous (and really reasonably priced) aquamarine hued beauty! Fittingly called the Bella Cruiser, this lovely, delightfully vintage feeling bike is just sort of ride that one could so easily picture Audrey Hepburn jauntily riding – or a pin-up girl posing playfully with. Available in baby blue, mint green (shown), pink, and vanilla, the Bella Cruiser is available for $179.99, from Chubby’s Cruiser Shop.} Having been blogging considerably less often over the course of this summer (and most likely still for the next while onwards as well - especially with my surgery coming up at the end of this month), there were so very many items that I wanted to include in this post, but I did try and keep it from getting too ridiculously big :-) Though, that said, it might be a tad chunkier in size than future editions. However, I think that it does a splendid job of encapsulating the spirit of what this fun virtual shopping (or inspiration gathering) foray is all about.
Thank you, beautifully dear friends, for your ongoing understanding, support and wonderfulness. I wish you each a glimmeringly gorgeous month of August and hope that life is showering you all with endless inspiration and bliss!
