Sara does 1980s does 1940s

There is no end to the number of ways that I adore today' guest blogger. She's a fellow vintage wearer (and redhead), West Coast resident, tilt hat aficionado, and all around truly cool lady named Sara Wood from the stellar blog Lillies & Remains that many of you may know already (if you don't, pop on over to Sarah's and say hello today).

Sara has the sort of charismatic, unflinchingly witty, brilliant personality and mind that instantly makes you take notice of her and her blog, and to want to become fast friends, which I'm happy to say we've been for quite some time now.

Not only is Sara a great writer and hat-doffingly-worthy expert on mid-century fashions and jewelry, this gal can style an outfit like there's no tomorrow, never shies away from colour or glamorous accessories, and has the kind of megawatt smile the instantly lights up a room - or a photograph.

I'm honoured today to present you with this marvelous outfit post from Sara, who, much like myself, is a devoted fan of that far too frequently overlooked genre of clothing that is 1980s does 1940s styles (a topic I chatted about in detail in this post last fall).

Thank you so much for being a part of Chronically Vintage, dear Sara, and for countless ways in which you, your keen vintage fashions sense, and your gorgeous blog never fail to inspire me. ♥


Hello to you all! My name is Sara, from Lilies & Remains. The lovely Jessica asked me to do a guest blog post for you all, while she gallivants off to Vancouver BC. I racked my brain trying to think of a theme, and then my inspiration hit – why, Jessica herself! I admit, I have a bit of an “era snob,” if you will. I don’t mean to be. I know it’s absurd to be such a stickler for *only 40s* fashion. I try to buy cute dresses from other eras, and they sit in my closet. I’m rather embarrassed by it, if I’m being completely honest.


I’ve always admired Jessica’s sartorial skills. She has a knack for finding adorable “80s does 40s” (or 50s) dresses, and pulling off a completely authentic look. This outfit was absolutely put together with her in mind.

{Photos by Jaynie Healy} 

Really, it’s just a flutter rayon 80s dress. But paired with 40s accessories & Bakelite? It’s screaming swing, not new wave. It doesn’t need to be an authentic age to be an authentic style.

I for one will be hunting down more 70s – 80s does 30s – 40s dresses for this summer. They are inexpensive… and most importantly, I feel comfortable wearing them, without fear of ruining something. (This is incredibly important to me, as one of my jobs is at a dive bar! Booze. Everywhere.)

Thank you, Jessica, for asking me to write a post for you! You’ve always been endlessly inspiring to me, and I’m absolutely honored.

xox Sara