Do we, as vintage fans, have a collective name?

✯ Day 212 of Vintage 365 ✯

 

Titles can be subjective, and names, as permanent or temporary as you please (how many of us today go by the nicknames our classmates bestowed on us in grade school?). Yet there's no denying that monikers are important, integral parts of life.

The name I'm thinking about this morning though, is not the one on your birth certificate, the cutesy word your sweetheart placed upon you, or even your job title, no what I've been pondering for quite a while now, is what do we as lovers of all things vintage call ourselves?

Within the sphere of vintage lovers one finds a large scoop of people. Some of us prefer old school home decor to fashion, and deck our houses not our wardrobes out in the gems of yesteryears. Others are all about the clothing, and rarely (if ever) are seen in dudes that weren't culled from the closets of those who came before us.

Some seek out old school books, art, collectibles (Pyrex or Bakelite, anyone?), ephemera, cars, even houses. Many gravitate towards certain decades (say, the 1940s) or even years (1945), others have their eyes light up at the mere mention of anything vintage and flock to surround themselves with all of it.

We are indeed an order of vintage lovers, within which you will find many a family, further broken down into genii and species. No two vintage fans are exactly alike (though we often share many similarities and interests), yet our differences are frequently much smaller than the substantial number of things we have in common.

Society loves labels and has come up with many for a vast array of people. From hispster to hippies, preppies to posers, teenyboppers to Trekkies, it seems that our culture likes to be able to quickly place members into neat little categories. Yet humans are not specimens in a lab and often times we end up belonging to multiple groups or feeling that none of them at all is suited to describing who we are.

Generally speaking, when people have enquired (as to what, as a fan of the mid-twentieth century, I call myself), I've used the term "vintage lover". Indeed, this is a fitting, if somewhat vague title that quickly lets others know I have a passion for the past. However, I'm sometimes left wondering if it's really the best possible term out there.

But, what then, if not "vintage lover" is one in our circle to call themselves? I don't fall into the rockabilly or psychobilly camp, and while I love jazz and swing music, I'm not an actual musician, so define myself by the music I listen to or play, just doesn't feel right.

A term I coined (though others may too have come up with it) here on CV a couple years ago for those who love classic clothing is "vintageista", an amalgamation of vintage and fashionista. This is a darling name, and one I rather like, but some may see it as only covering the style side of being a vintage fan.

{For those who enjoy wearing - or simply admiring - clothes (like the stunning winter ensemble on the September 1948 cover of Vogue magazine, which comes by way of Fashion Covers Magazines on Flickr) from the 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s, the title "vintageista" can be fitting, but does it work for those who primarily area of interest in the past lies elsewhere?)

 

I like to think of myself as a collector, preserver and connoisseur of history, one who jams their dresser drawers and closet shelves with clothing that very well could have come from my grandmother's wardrobe sixty years ago. I go weak in the knees for mid-century architecture and interior design; I would walk to the ends of the earth to preserve old photographs. I've rarely met a vintage book, magazine or movie I didn't affectionately like.

Days gone by enthral me, make me want to know them intimately, to ensure they're not lost like a fading shadow into the abyss of history. I feel a kinship and oneness with the years of the first half of the last century that is as natural as any relationship I've ever formed with a human being. I live the decades I wasn’t there to see in person vicariously through filling my world with vintage elements, as I know many of you do as well.

And so the question resurfaces, just what exactly do we call ourselves? This group of diverse individuals who are smitten with all things yesteryear; what title - if, indeed, we need one at all - do we place upon ourselves?

Vintage lover, vintageista, vintage aficionado, or something entirely different. What term do feel best describes you, and what sort of name do you think members of our wonderful community should place upon themselves?

For the time being, I think I'll stick with vintage lover, because - let's face it - that is after all precisely what I am, but I remain entirely open to new monikers and would love to know what you've dubbed yourself, my fellow vintage ……?

A sunny, gorgeous vintage inspired summer wedding

✯ Day 211 of Vintage 365 ✯

 

Weddings make me happy, very happy. It's tricky to explain precisely, but easy to understand. There's something about the inherent sense of possibility that the union of two people brings to life that sets a smile on my face.

Looking back over my 27 years of life, I haven't actually had the pleasure of attending all that many weddings (I'd estimate 8-10; only one of which I've been in the bridal party, and that was my aunt Lori's wedding where I had the honour of being the flower girl at the tender age of three), but I've been going weak in the knees over images of them since I old enough to deck my Barbie doll out in a bridal gown.

In the past few years wedding have morphed into stunning, creative, imaginative events (in a way that, I’d say, far fewer did before), many of which are sublimely photographed. I adore seeing other peoples' special day, peeping in with great interest at the colour palettes, flowers, attire, cake, and myriad details that the couple carefully hand selected to create the wedding of their dreams.

Recently while perusing the pages of the stellar blog Green Wedding Shoes, I came upon a whimsical, sun-smooched series of wedding photos that featured a country chic vintage theme. There's a simple, down-home elegance to these photographs that makes this gorgeous, timeless wedding a true treat for the eyes.

{Images by photographer Carlie Statsky; click here to see this whole series of vintage summer wedding shots over at Green Wedding Shoes.}

 

While extravagant wedding can be wonderful, it's hard not to have a soft spot in your heart for martial days that are simpler, easier to picture yourself at, and laden with beautiful touches that help turn them into timelessly lovely celebrations of a couple's commitment to one another.

This serene, enchantingly pretty series of vintage inspired wedding photos took my breath away. While not absolutely ever element is strictly vintage (the gals are sporting cowboy boots, for example, something that few vintage brides would have ever worn), there are scores of vintage touches running through most of these photos, such as the newsboy caps and suspenders of the men, the old school bicycles, and classic tea party style wedding day spread of sweet treats.

Whether you're planning your own nuptials or simply enjoy, as I do, being a voyeur of matrimony day images, this enchantingly sweet series of summer wedding photos are sure to make you smile and reflect on the wonder and bliss that weddings are composed of.

Perfectly vintage looking, enamel kitchen canister set

✯ Day 210 of Vintage 365 ✯

 

Having a place for everything and everything in its place really is a wonderful thing. If your storage options are both functional and beautifully vintage looking, all the better! Few places need practical, attractive spots in which to stash the sundry elements of daily life more than the kitchen.

Tracking down full sets of vintage food canisters that are in good shape, in colours the that match your decor, and which are for sale at a reasonable price can be tricky, especially if you don't have many (or any) local second hand or antique stores to scour (and the internet shopping gods are not in the mood to smile on your hunt).

I absolutely adore vintage canisters and always make a point of bookmarking any that I come across for home decor inspiration. Unusually sellers only have one set available (the canisters being vintage items after all), but UK home decor seller Dirty Dollie is currently stocking a four piece canister set that looks every bit the vintage part, yet (I believe) has been produced in recent years.

This darling pale cream and light jade green canister collection features a tin each for pasta, bread, flour, and biscuits (though you could certainly store anything you fancy in them). Made of classic enamelware, these dry goods storage containers are sure to add a marvelous dose of old school charm to any counter or shelf in your kitchen or panty.

 

The set retails for £50.00, which may seem a tad steep, but is honestly quite comparable to what I've seen similar sets from the 40s and 50s going for in recent years (actually, I was watching a similar pale pink set on eBay last year that ended up selling for nearly $200!).

Should you desire, there's also a darling little matching tin for string available, too (for the much more wallet-friendly price of £8.00; scroll about 3/4 of the way down this page to find both listings).

If you're smitten with this lovely vintage style canister set, but don't actually need it in your kitchen, you could easily use it to store everything from craft supplies to fashion accessories, small tools to candles in any room of your house.

Sweet, cheerful and splendidly mid-century looking, this four piece canister set is a terrific way to stay organized and add a hefty dose of old school allure to your decor.

Creative vintage paper dolls that girls of all ages will love

✯ Day 209 of Vintage 365 ✯

 

Perhaps it was because of the copious amount of girls toys that existed when I was born in the 1980s (Barbies, Strawberry Shortcake, Rainbow Brite, Lady Lovelylocks, Gem, and Cabbage patch dolls, to name but a few!), but I don't remember having very many paper dolls to play with (excluding one fun little book of Quints paper dolls that I was given around the time my little sister was born) as I was growing up.

I don't feel that I was toy deprived or that I missed out on anything major by not having a toy chest full of paper dolls, but I have I thought a few times that it might have been cool to have had more of these lovely classic paper toys to play with.

Maybe that's why when I spot a vintage set of paper dolls online, my eyes light up. And goodness did they shine like Christmas lights when I spied this fantastically pretty page (in Charm and Poise's great Flickr stream) with its real photograph cut-out woman and collection of five beautiful aprons that first appeared in the July 1953 edition of Everywoman's Magazine.

 

Designed so that the home seamstress of the day could trim out the figure and each of the aprons to help her decide which style she liked best and might want to make for herself, this innovative idea is so fun, I can't believe it didn't catch on more.

These splendidly pretty vintage paper dolls are both practical and enjoyable. I imagine that after many women of the day used them for their own sewing purposes, they handed them down to their daughters to play with. I adore the idea of paper dolls geared towards women and would love to see a magazine today copy this clever idea.

Of the aprons featured here, I think the pink full length number with white rickrack and the cute butterfly print one are my very favourite, but each one is thoroughly lovely and would be a joy to sew and wear with vintage outfits today (note: I don't think the poster of this image shared the sewing patterns, but you may be able to find a copy of the July 1953 copy of Everywoman's Magazine on eBay, etsy or at a second hand shop).

I hope you enjoyed seeing this delightful vintage paper doll page as much as I did, and that it reminded you of happy memories of days spent playing -whether as a child or a grown-up - with this timeless toy.

Vintage Kool-Aid ice cream recipe is a sure-fire way to stay cool this season

✯ Day 208 of Vintage 365 ✯

 

It's anything but nutritious or low in sugar, but there is something about the classic, wonderfully sugary taste of Kool-Aid in all its vibrant rainbow hues that makes it so well suited to the scorching hot days of summer and ensures it deserves a recipe post this month.

Long before a smiling pitcher was bursting through walls, proclaiming "Oh, Yeah!" in the process, Kool-Aid was a popular drink with fans of all ages. First introduced in 1927 by Nebraskan Edwin Perkins, Kool-Aid's low price, simplicity of use, and assortment of tasty flavours quickly made it one of the most beloved soft drinks on the market.

When Kool-Aid initially debuted it came in seven flavours (Cherry, Grape, Lemon-Lime, Orange, Raspberry, Strawberry, and Root Beer - the latter of which has been discontinued for decades), though as devotees of this powdered beverage mix know, scores upon scores of other varieties have come and gone over the year (though some of those original flavours are definitely still on grocery store shelves).

If we hop back in time to 1949 though, the first six flavours listed above were what Kool-Aid shoppers could add to their grocery cart. In the absolutely charming illustrated ad below from 1949, a recipe is featured that shows Kool-Aid lovers how to combine a package of drink mix with cream, milk and sugar to create quick, colourful ice cream in a flash.

{If you've got a sweet tooth and enjoy Kool-Aid (or have youngsters in your life a day), this super fun ice cream recipe is definitely worth giving a spin this summer. Image via clotho98 on Flickr; click here to see a larger version of this great vintage ad.}

 

Kool-Aid ice cream is a light-hearted, delightfully hued dessert that's been around since at least the 1940s. It's speedy to put together, uses a minimum of ingredients, and is sure to put a big smile on Kool-Aid lovers who  are both young and young at heart, while helping to chase off the sweltering summer heat for at least a few sweet minutes.

Classically beautiful, sweetly elegant vintage style bedroom

✯ Day 207 of Vintage 365 ✯

 

Perhaps its the wearing of breezy linen, the gentle tones of a sandy beach, or pale wicker deck furniture, but there's definitely something about summer that makes it perfectly suited to soft colours.

There can be a fine line between looking like a candy store and injecting ladylike light hues into your home decor though. Starting with a neutral base in a colour like white, grey or cream and then building up the palette of pale hues is often the best way to go about filling you abode with soothing, refreshing pale shades.

Instantly looking sophisticated, this charming bedroom (which comes by way of UK decor site House to Home) is girly, but in no way little girlish. It’s stylish, and instantly telegraphs a strong vibe of elegance that makes it truly timeless in so many ways.

 

From the stately paneled wardrobe cabinets to the swooping headboard, the shabby chic bedding and curtains to the wonderful little bench loveseat at the foot of the bed, everything in this room works together in perfect harmony to create a stellar old school vibe that is positively gorgeous.

With elements of the room - like dark wood ceiling beams and an aged brass chandelier - that feel quite antique, and others that are more mid-twentieth century (the sparkly decorative throw pillow, for example), this is the kind of softly hued boudoir that will always look wonderful.

Ripe with inspiration, pale summery hues, and fantastic little details that up a room's appeal from nice to absolutely marvelous, this terrific vintage styled bedroom is like a breath of fresh air that many of our homes could definitely use this summer – and well beyond.

These beautiful 1940s inspired shoes were made for dancing

✯ Day 206 of Vintage 365 ✯

 

It's interesting, you know, there's something about summertime that sets my soul in the mood for dancing. Perhaps the inherent sensuality of a hot night, the sweet caress of a satin breeze, the fact that you're already perspiring, so why not work up even more of a sweat.

Maybe it's the airy dresses, breezy vintage skirts, hair pulled up and off your face to keep it from being plastered to your neck. It could even be the fact that come summertime, it's often hard to stay still - your body seems to be itching to make the very most of every warm moment of this marvelous season.

If your toes have a hard time staying still this time of year, then chances are you're a fan of good old-fashioned swing and jive dancing. While I don't profess to be overly skilled in this arena myself, I have cut a few rugs in my time - and definitely know what kind of attire to sport for a night spent dancing until the sun rises.

They may not be suede, but these splendidly pretty blue, t-strap shoes are more than worthy of a song of their own - and are precisely the kind of beautiful, yet functional, footwear swing dancers of days gone by and this era alike alike are bound to find themselves drawn to.

 

Styled after classic 1940s footwear, these elegant teal hued pumps feature a walkable (and danceable!) 3.25" heel (including the 1/2" inch platform sole), Maryjane style T-straps, lovely cut-out details, and a sling back that will go a long way towards keeping your tootsies from overheating during this sweltering time of year.

Available from Plasticland.com (for $59.00), these sweet and sassy vintage inspired swing dance shoes (which come in modern ladies sizes 5-10) are equal parts girl-next-door and pin-up vixen.  Their pretty colour is eye-catching, but far from glaring and would work (nearly as well as a neutral) with a wide range of colours in your wardrobe (think black, brown, grey, blue, burgundy, eggplant, cream, and white to name but a few).

Perhaps, for the sake of my wallet, it's a good thing that I'm not feeling well enough to hit the dance floor this summer, because if I was, I'd be mighty tempted to slip on a pair of these fabulous old school style dance shoes and jitterbug with the best of them!

Isn't it high time you went on a picnic?

✯ Day 205 of Vintage 365 ✯

 

There was a sense of contentment that washed over me yesterday, stemming from the fact that the Vintage 365 project had retuned to its usual daily occurrence once more. I'm comforted by this feeling and believe that it will help fuel my blogging fires in the coming weeks (as goodness knows, I have the energy levels of a comatose slug right now ).

As well, in writing Saturday's post, I couldn't help but be reminded of the myriad reasons why I adore summer, hold it dear to my heart, often wish it would linger on until the end of time. It's far too easy to gripe about the heat (which, yes, for most of us summer does deliver in spades) instead of stopping to find pleasure in the bounty of wonderful points this season holds.

Without a doubt, one of the most delightful things to do when the dog days of summer are upon us is go on a picnic. Whether in your backyard or a hundred miles from home, a picnic - teaming with scrumptious foods, cool beverages, and a few simple ways to pass the time (vintage novels, kites, perhaps a croquet set) is a resplendently lovely way to devote your time.

Sundays, primed for relaxation by their very tranquil nature, are an ideal day in which to indulge in the splendours of a summertime picnic.

{While a trip to Grand Canyon and a feast overlooking its breathtaking views might not be the cards, there are countless other beautiful spots of all sizes that can make for a fabulous picnic destinations. Vintage National Geographic image via the owls go on Flick.}

 

Regardless of if you're more of a beach bunny or a lush green field loving gal, prefer the companionship of just one special soul or a team's worth of friends, pack lavish spreads or just tote along a few simple, hearty foods, a picnic can be tailored to your specs however you fancy.

For those, like myself, who live in a home that lacks a yard you can call your own (fellow apartment dwellers raise your hands), escaping for a few hours to a verdant park, sandy shoreline, or shady wood can feel like manna from heaven for our parched souls.

Even if you have a yard of your own in which to spread out out a checkered blanket, a change of scenery and the opportunity to eat while the golden sun dances across your skin can often be precisely what the doctor ordered.

Treat yourself to an afternoon outdoors, forget the hustle and bustle of this crazy electronic era we're living in and reconnect with with al fresco eating.

Create your own enjoyment, bring friends, let the kids have a second helping of dessert, slip your sandals off and tickle your toes with wispy blades of grass, wear your favourite vintage sundress in the whole wide world - and above all else, have fun! After all, that’s what picnics – and summer its very self – were designed for.

A return to daily Vintage 365 blogging

✯ Day 204 of Vintage 365 ✯

 

Tossing and turning were rampant as I debated earlier this week whether or not to return to daily blogging again. The most recent medical procedure I underwent (on July 8th) left me battling some unpleasant side effects, which I'd been spared from the other two I had back in June. I have not returned to the state where my health was prior to these three procedures and can only hope that as the summer rolls on, I eventually will.

In a way, I almost feel like if I were to do another "Vintage 365 group post", it would be even more justified now then at almost any point in the past six weeks, however I miss blogging. A lot.

In the wake of the events that have transpired lately, some well meaning folks have suggested that perhaps I should step back for blogging or part ways with the 365 project. Such comments were made from a place of care and concern, by those who know me best and have watched me do daily battle with my health problems for years now. However - while I know that I'm usually little more than a moment away from suddenly not being able to blog - for the time being, I'm far from throwing in the towel on either CV in general or the 365 project.

I don't know what tomorrow will bring - none of us truly do - but, right here and now, I know that I've been desperately missing blogging and am very glad to be able to resume adding posts on a daily basis.

I may, before 2011 is done and over, need to (due to my health) put together round-up 365 posts again, but as always we'll just take things one day at a time and enjoy life in the moment.

Indeed, isn't the whole season of effervescent sunshine, stunning verdant landscapes, electric warm night and fabulous seasonal eats supposed to be about enjoyment?

Sure the daily grind and demands of life may mean that you can't run barefoot through the grass, hopping too and fro over a sprinkler any time the urge strikes or ride your bike around town with your friends for hours, stopping for a cold soda pop at the corner store as the sun beats down your neck, like we used to do as kids, but even the busiest or most stress laden of us can find ways to extract fun and happiness from this splendid season.

{Then as now, always and forever, summer is at its finest when we embrace it with open arms and the wide-eyed wonder of a child. Vintage photograph via Paper Dolls for Boys.}

 

Summer is a season that is grand in scope, but built of simple pleasures. I'd love nothing more than be able to hit the open road and travel this month, but that's simply not feasible for me right now. Instead of bemoaning this fact, I need only catch the scent of a summer rain shower, watch roses swaying in the breeze, bite into a silky, juicy peach, or stand in a ray of sunlight and feel the very essence of serenity bathing over me to discover the power and possibility that summer holds.

It will be winter far too quickly, Canada being as fond of the frosty season as it is. Yet for now, no matter how I'm feeling or what I think it might be nice to be doing, I am content with the timeless, alluring, almost whimsical components that make summer the unmatched pleasure of life that it is.

I'm very happy to be blogging again, my sweet friends, and hope that no matter what's transpiring in your world right now, you're able to bask in the beauty and magic that is summer.

The next three week's worth of Vintage 365 posts

Hello, my sweet dears, happiest ongoing Canada Day wishes to you each!

As you may have read in this morning's post (which was my first in three weeks), while the medical work I had done in June is now behind me (phew!), and the two procedures I had went smoothly enough (again, phew!), I'm taking longer than initially (or perhaps or accurately, optimistically!) anticipated to recoup from them (though on the tail of the first two, I've been scheduled for a third, on July 8th, so the process of recovering may continue to take longer than previously thought).

As a result, despite July being one of my absolute favourite months of the year (for a plethora of reasons beyond the fact that it houses my birthday), it looks like in order to keep up with 2011's Vintage 365 project, another round-up post is is order.

My health is very unpredictable at the best of times, so it's tricky for me to gauge just how far in advance such an entry needs to cover, but as we went with three weeks last time, that seemed like a pretty realistic period of time to cover again today.

Just as last time, I sincerely apologize to all those who have been checking in often (or daily!) for the Vintage 365 posts this year. I've adored brining you this daily series and hope that it won't be too much longer until I'm feeling well enough to return to posting daily.

I wholeheartedly appreciate your understanding regarding this matter, and hope that you absolutely enjoy the wonderfully fun array of vintage topics below.

Without further ado, my I present the next twenty-two instalments of the Vintage 365 project.

July 1 ~ Day 182: In the spirit of Canada's Birthday, today's find simply had to feature the colours of the Canadian flag (red and white) and be perfect for this toasty time of year.

Hitting both of those targets spot on, the gingham print, halter neck Picnic Paradise top is sure to catch the eye of many a vintage fashionista. Sporting adorable red piping and a figure flattering front tie at the waist, this darling shirt would look fabulous with everything from skin-tight vintage capri pants to prim and proper pencil skirts.

Currently on sale for $29.99, and available (at the time of writing) in ladies sizes small, medium and large, this country chic, super summer appropriate vintage inspired top is too sweet to pass up!

 

July 2 ~ Day 183: One fascinating fact about today (July 2nd) is that it's the midpoint of the year, with 182 days falling on either side of it. From this day onwards we speed ever closer to 2012 (I know, how can that possibly be? We're we just giving a spirited rendition of Auld Lang Syne are all and enthusiastically blowing noise makers?!).

Another, entirely unrelated, fun fact about today is that it's the date on which, back in 1962, the first Walmart opened its doors in Rogers, Arkansas.

While founder Sam Walton (so hence the "Wal" in "Walmart") probably never imagined just how massive an empire that first little store would spawn in the ensuing decades, it's undeniable today that Walmart (whether you love it, hate it, or fall somewhere in the middle) is as much a part of the North American landscape as the golden arches of McDonalds and the mermaid adorned Starbucks' sign.

With their high volume, low price approach to business, Walmart appears to have been popular from the very get-go, if this 1962 photo of crowds eagerly queuing up for the opening for the first store is any indication.

 

July 3 ~ Day 184: Though Betty Crocker wasn't a real woman (indeed, this fictional cookery guru was portrayed - both on the radio and in person - by many women over the years), one can't help but believe through and through, that the elegant woman presenting the commercial for Betty Crocker cake mix in today’s entree isn’t really the lady whose name graced millions of baking mix boxes.

Let the hustle and bustle of the modern world drift away for a minute as you escape into the inviting world of the 1950s, where products like packaged dessert mixes were new and exciting, something tasty was always in the oven, and every TV set was a black and white one, care of this endearing General Mills Betty Crocker cake mix commercial.

 

July 4 ~ Day 185: Because, I firmly believe, that the heat shouldn't be the only thing that has you swooning this month, may I present a rather gorgeous Enna Jeticks ladies shoe ad from 1953.

Featuring five styles that are equally functional and fabulously pretty, these elegant shoes (each pair of which would work wonderfully with summertime outfits, especially the peep-toe and sling back styles) with their cute and clever name, are definitely worth getting a little weak in the knees for - and then trying to hunt down in vintage shops, or at the very least draw scores of stylish footwear inspiration from for the next time you go vintage shoe shopping.

 

July 5 ~ Day 186: As a paper crafter and a diehard vintage fan, I'm always on the prowl for products to use on my scrapbook pages and cards that instantly invoke  delightful old school charm. One recent line from the brand Crate Paper, called Emma's Shoppe, fits that bill to an absolute tee!

Bursting with soft, beautifully aged hues (think gentle pinks, grassy greens, sharp turquoises, and soft mustard yellows) and delightful vintage inspired images (like old fashioned baby buggies, doilies, children's toys, and paper dolls), this marvelous collection is bound to quickly win over tons of hearts!

Whether you like to make your own home decor, cards, scrapbook pages, ATCs, mixed media creations, or other paper related projects, the Emma's Shoppe collection (some of which I picked up, and must say, is even more precious and delightful in person), is a fabulous way to inject darling vintage charm into your summertime crafting adventures.

 

July 6 ~ Day 187: Today is a particularly special date to me because it's the day on which, back in 2004, my darling husband proposed to me - at, may I add, no less than just about the most romantic setting one could possible envision, a stunning Irish castle.

In a nod to the fact that my DH is Italian, born and breed, and the splendid setting of where he proposed (over a candlelit meal), this hearty Irish-Italian Spaghetti recipe embraces elements of both cultures for a stick-to-your-ribs pasta meal that is sure to please fans of both cuisines alike.

 

July 7 ~ Day 188: For those of us who live in climates that are snowy (or at least chilly!) most of the year and who lack their own backyard pool, summer can mean the return to swimming trips at the lake, river or ocean once more (and indeed, when I was growing up, there were truly few things I adored more about this already awesome season!).

Whether you prefer to get your toes went while sitting on an aged wooden waft or the side of a glitzy resort pool, stylish vintage swimwear is a must for all those who enjoy a good summertime dip.

For oodles of old school bathing suit inspiration to help you look your most enchanting this summer, be sure to devote a couple of minutes to this thoroughly lovely full colour video clip of 1930s swimwear (the styles of which will have you pining for a vintage bathing suit and a good splash in the water, for sure!).

 

July 8 ~ Day 189: Anytime a room comes complete with generously sized roses adorning the ceiling, there's a very decent chance I'm going to love it!

This ultra feminine bedroom from the forties not only has flowers on the ceiling, it's bubbling over with blooms scattered across the room (on the tiles, curtains, and cabinetry), all set against a captivating pink, green and black colour palette.

While this certainly isn't a room for those who lean towards minimalist or subdued decor, if vibrant rooms bedecked with gardens worth of roses set your heart aflutter, than this pretty 1940s bedroom might just be up your ally, too (seriously, how could you not love roses on the ceiling?! ).

 

July 9 ~ Day 190: South of the equator, the seasons are reversed, which means, as we're perspiring our hearts out up here on this side of the globe, those down under are contending with winter (hmmmm, how about a weather exchange program for a few days? :D).

Likewise, their spring is our fall and vice versa. This means that if you're looking for vintage summertime fashion inspiration in the dead of a (north of the equator) winter, our fine friends in Australia are a great source.

To celebrate the fact that today is the Constitution Day in Australia (which, while not a public holiday, is still an important date that's worth noting), why not garner some warmer weather sartorial inspiration from the October 1961 cover of Australian Home Journal.

Here we see two women and a young lady decked out in elegant everyday attire that would work splendidly (thanks to the shorter sleeves and hemlines) for those of on this side of the equator right now.

 

July 10 ~ Day 191: While you'll find a few more candles on my cake (a dizzying 27, to be exact), I share Shirley's wide-eyed excitement for birthdays (as seen in the adorable photograph of her below), no matter how old I get (and, goodness, does 27 seem like I'm getting on in age! Long gone are the jaunty teen years, looming ever nearer are my thirties!).

As the 10th falls on a Sunday this year, it means that my sweet husband will be home, able to spend the whole day with me. Though, writing this post ten days in advance, I'm not sure what sort of activities my birthday will include, I know that my hubby - bless his entirely dear heart - will help make is shine even more than the flames on my cake, as he so thoughtfully does each year.

{Darling Shirley Temple birthday cake photo via Songs I Sing.}

July 11 ~ Day 192: First released by Bobby Day in 1958, Rockin' Robin is one of those splendidly toe-tapping classic rock songs that can't help but put a smile on your face every time you here it.

Rockin’ Robin is also one of the first 1950s songs I remember listening to (and falling in love with) as a youngster. To this day I still enjoy belting out the words ("he rocks in the tree tops all a dayyyy long!") and imagining I'm at a good ol' fashioned sock hop, especially during these wonderfully fun summer days when something about the season just makes you want to sing and dance.

 

July 12 ~ Day 193: I'm a fan of clocks, practical yet often visually gorgeous objects that they are, especially those with a distinctly vintage feel to them. Recently on ModCloth I spied a splendidly cheerful aqua hued clock featuring a clean white face with timeless typography, darling sky blue hands, and easy to read hour numbers that really caught my eye.

I could easily see this fun, entirely cute (yet classy enough to work equally well at home or the office) 1950s inspired clock (which retails for $39.99) working with a myriad of other colours (think peppy pinks, sunny yellows, warm reds, crisp blacks, soft greys and sweet peaches, to name but a few) and in everyplace from the kitchen to a dorm room, bedroom to home library, ensuring that your walls would be beautifully adorned and you'd slash your chances of being late all in one fell swoop.

 

July 13 ~ Day 194: Help chase off the pesky heat with three wonderfully refreshing summer drink recipes from the 1950s. These classic beverages (citrus sunshine punch, old-time lemonade, and limeade) - all of which are child-friendly and call for very commonplace ingredients – are sweet and satisfying, every bit as timelessly spot on today as they were over fifty years ago.

 

July 14 ~ Day 195: Equal parts chic and fun, this fun little vintage Catalina women's clothing ad boasts a slogan that we should all adhere to during the summer: Play it cool!

From the splendidly inviting slices of watermelon these three gals are nibbling on to the playful, casual summer ensembles (don't you just love that breezy sundress?), this great ad brigs stylish July inspiration your way in spades!

July 15 ~ Day 196: Vintage compacts can be utterly stunning little works of art. From ornately decorated examples crafted from precious metals and stones to more "everyday", but no less lovely, versions, powder cases from days gone by can make for fabulous additions to your vanity and make-up bag alike.

Oftentimes fans of these handy items wonder about how to go about refilling them, especially if they're new to collecting old school powder cases. Fear not, this useful how-to post from the blog The Powder Compact Diaries guides you through the steps to take if you want to replace or refill the powder in your vintage compact.

July 16 ~ Day 197: Channelling a vibe that reminds me a bit of the slumber party in Grease, this perfectly darling two piece pajama set is just the ticket to help make getting through even the toastiest of summer nights more bearable.

Featuring short-shorts and darling bow bedecked, tank top style shirt, and a super sweet pink polka dot pattern, these cute, entirely girly jammies (which are available for $85.00 Australian from online retailer Hot Couture) have a seriously great vintage vibe to them - and would definitely be what I'd want to sport if I was holding a vintage themed sleepover of my own this season.

July 17 ~ Day 198: There's a reason he was dubbed the King, just look at the mischievous eyes and that flirty meets devil-may care expression in this fabulous Elvis photo.

Awww, Mr. Presley, you'll always be one of the coolest musicians to see us through these hot-as-a-griddle dog days (or should I say, hound dog days :) ) of summer.

 

July 18 ~ Day 199: Don a pair of Mickey ears today because it's time to celebrate the fact that on this date back in 1955, the first Disneyland theme park opened in Anaheim, California.

While we don't have a time machine to zip back to the fifties and attend the park in person, this entertaining series (a blend of both colour and B&W images) of vintage Disneyland photos from the 1950s and 60s is the next best thing (or perhaps even better, this way you get to skip the mile-long lines! ).

 

July 19 ~ Day 200: Thorough round-up lists of online links for a particular topic can be super finds. They can save you hours (or days!) of searching for numerous sites on a certain topic yourself and are just the thing to bookmark for future reference.

If you're a fan of vintage sewing patterns (and who isn't?!), then this wonderful list of websites that sell (or have information pertaining to) vintage sewing patterns will definitely tickle your fancy. Some links are geared towards more modern styles, but there are quite a few sites that deal with old school sewing ideas and patterns, all corralled into one handy-dandy spot.

 

July 20 ~ Day 201: In a season rich in incredible fruits - many of which are at their peak right now - it's hard to pick a favourite, but many-a-day I can't help but veer towards cherries, calling to mind as they do, so many charming childhood memories of days spent picking them from trees in my neighbourhood.

No matter what your favourite summertime fruit is (watermelon, peaches, nectarines, berries, etc), chances are you like cherries, all the more so if they're whipped into a scrumptious dessert. Classic as a Fred Astaire film and every bit as fun, a good cherry pie is a treat that's not to be scoffed at.

Bursting with juicy dark red fruit, sugar and just a dash of spice, this picture perfect cherry pie recipe from the 1950s is a tried-and-true standard that deserves a spot in your cookbook - and on your summertime table!

 

July 21 ~ Day 202:I'm somewhat selective about the decorative objects I display around my home. I like them to have an antique or vintage (or at the very least strikingly timeless quality) and not be too flashy (generally speaking), which is why I fell hard for this elegantly lovely pair of 1920s bathing figures from Plasticland (where the pair retails for $30.00).

Crafted from cast resin, hand painted in gorgeous shades that instantly telegraph an aged look, and distressed to further add the appearance of being weathered by the years, this pair of (6.5" tall) summertime beauties would be exactly the kind of decorative object I'd gravitate towards (as I'd imagine many of you would, too!).

 

July 22 ~ Day 203: Tumblr is one of those addictive sites that, if I were able to spend more time online, I could very easily seeing myself devoting a lot of time at (in many ways it's akin to StumbleUpon, which, a few years back, was one of my biggest online haunts). The sheer volume of diverse images Tumblr teams with is positively addictive!

Amongst that vast array are oodles of vintage finds, some of which can be seen in one the marvellously fun Tumblr account The Golden Age of Hollywood.

This charmingly fun page is chocked full of tiny (think one or two second) vintage movie and television clips, often paired with the respective quotes from those very films and shows (that the actor/actress in the clip/image said) .

The Golden Age of Hollywood is a positively enjoyable, entirely neat site that's worth bookmarking or following, no matter if you're a hard core Tumblr user or a casual visitor.

♥ ♥ ♥

 

By the time the days that this post covers have wrapped up, we'll be well into the scorching, sun-drenched, often delightfully pretty hours of late July. A time for drinks as cold as Antarctic ice, the lightest, most beguiling of vintage sundresses, and as many escapes to cooler spots (breezy beaches, picnics under shady trees) as we can possibly muster.

I hope very much that come July 23rd, daily Vintage 365 posting can resume again, but just as with June's post, we'll take each day as it comes and keep our fingers crossed for the best later on this month.

As we embrace July and celebrate the many splendours of summer, you are each in my thoughts and heart - and I'm wishing you all a month that sparkles with good times, great summer weather, and tons of happiness!!!

Celebrating Canada Day with a new Vintage Canada Flickr group

Good morning and happiest Canada Day wishes! As followers of this blog may know, this is my first post in about three weeks. As discussed here, I recently underwent two investigative medical procedures and have been trying to recoup from those in the days since they transpired (thank you deeply to all those who left sweet, caring comments and sent emails my way for a speedy recovery, I am so fortunate to have understanding friends like you).

At the moment I'm not as far along in that regard as I'd ideally hoped for, so later on today I will be posting another round of Vintage 365 entries (in one larger post) to see us through the first part of July.

For right now though, let's bypass that topic and delve into celebrating Canada Day! The first (and one of only a couple) statutory holidays that we canucks get treated to each year, Canada Day marks the day when, back in the thick of the Victorian era (1867, to be exact), three Canadian colonies official banned together to form a nation (Canada!). In the years and decades that followed other provinces and territories joined the Dominion of Canada, to ultimately create the vast, maple leaf flag waving, country that we know and love today.

Toasted annually with firework celebrations, community parties, outdoor barbeques, and the sporting of red and white (not to mention many maple leaves painted on the cheeks of young and old alike), Canada Day not only honours the founding of this beautiful nation, it also pays homage to the many elements that help make it a fantastic place to live today.

Sometimes also referred to Canada's Birthday, July 1st, is the perfect day to stop and think about all of the things that one loves and holds dear about our marvelous nation. From a bounty of important rights and freedoms to a splendid melting pot culture, sunsets and rises so dazzling they defy adequate description to the home-grown cuisine of this fine nation that includes everything from perogies to poutine, it would be impossible for anyone living under Canadian skies not to have a lengthy list of things they treasure about Canada.

To mark today's holiday - and in the spirit of my love for all things vintage - I recently created a new Flickr group (adoring Flickr groups as I do!) devoted entirely to helping preserve images of Canada's past.

Dubbed, fittingly enough, Vintage Canada, this group is devoted to corralling and celebrating Canadian images (photographs, postcards, illustrations, advertisements, etc) that depict Canada and Canadians in the years prior to 1965.

Though the emphasis is on mid-twentieth century images (which I bet doesn't surprise anyone here who knows me), any early Canadian image (that's family friendly) is more than welcome to call this group home.

{1. Colourful Canada, 2. Capilano Canyon and Crown Mountain, Vancouver, BC, Canada, 3. Laura (Lauga) Ann (Hanna) Chris Arny in Lundar, 4. Busy Beavers, 5. MY MOTHER IN LAND ARMY 1943., 6. Mom & Dad , 7. 5 Sisters, Stjana Lauga Arny Hanna Rakel. 1915, 8. Drapeau de la Province de Québec, 9. Ottawa, Canada - Large Letter Postcard, 10. Michael in RCAF uniform, 11. Victorian Album 7 - (1880's-1890's), 12. Oshawa Generals Hockey Team 1937., 13. Chateau Lake Louise.

A very Canada Day approved selection of some of the stellar images that members have already added to the Vintage Canada Flickr group. Don't you just love that smiling vintage Mountie in the middle?! }

If you're on Flickr and enjoy Canadian history and/or interesting vintage images in general, I would absolutely love it if you joined the group (should you have any vintage Canadian images of your own, please don't hesitate to share them!).

As the sun embraces the sky this fine summer morning, I'm thinking of you each and am wishing you all an utterly terrific Canada Day (whether you live on canuck soil or not). Later today I'll be posting the aforementioned entry with another roundup of Vintage 365 entries to see us through the next little while.

 

Happiest Canada Day, sweet friends!!!