Gear up for Viva Las Vegas with these 25 fabulous vintage fashion finds

Now in its 19th year, Viva Las Vegas is a large annual multi-day get-together of vintage, rockabilly, and custom/kustom car lifestyle fans, as well as plenty of others, that features a bevy of fun events, from live musical performances to car shows to a Miss Viva Las Vegas Pageant.

For many in our circle, it's also a time to heavily socialize (something that a lot of folks get little to no chance to do with other vintage/rockabilly lovers in their own respective corners of the world, where they may literally be the only such person or couple) and also to "bring it", as they say, on the vintage, rockabilly, and pinup fashion front.

Though I've not yet had the pleasure of attending Viva myself (I'd certainly love to one day, if possible), I have greatly enjoyed reading blog posts (very much including the large array that Dolly The Rockabilly Socialite has shared on her blog over the years) and seeing photos on social media from many of my friends, fellow bloggers, and others in our community who have taken part.



{Tourists have been flocking to Nevada for many decades now, but likely never in greater droves of vintage fans than when Viva Las Vegas rolls around each year! 1950s postcard image source.}


Viva is an almost larger than life experience, from what I've been told, but by the same token, most see it as a very friendly and welcoming event that has become a cornerstone of the year for so many in the vintage (et al) world.

This year Viva Las Vegas is happening from April 14th - April 17th and promises to be a truly rockin' great time for those in attendance.

As I know that includes many of my readers, with Viva now just a hair under two months away, I thought it would be a blast to share some of the fabulous Las Vegas worthy fashions that have crossed my path online lately, as well as numerous Viva perfect pieces that are currently available in my Etsy shop.

There are no hard and fast rules by any means when it comes to what one wears to Viva and individuality is always a boon in any setting! Generally speaking however, many at Viva favour 1950s and early 60s styles, particularly those of the pinup, rockabilly, tiki culture, greaser, custom car and alternative lifestyle verity, as well as plenty of utterly gorgeous pinup and mid-century glamour girl looks, so those are the sorts of styles that I've opted to shine the spotlight on here today.




1. Anything of a tropical, Hawaiian, tiki, or Polynesian nature is always a huge hit at Viva. Why not channel the Pacific Ocean and put in a nod towards the colours of the Southwest at the same time with this delightfully pretty 1950s metal hula girl and turquoise plastic nugget charm bracelet. $42.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




2. Quite possibly the most perfect vintage inspired brooch to bring with you to Vegas EVER!!! $10.50 from Dolly Cool (also available in a coordinating necklace and pair of earrings).




3. There are few more iconic symbols of Vegas and its legendary casinos than dice, which makes these delightful mid-century aged gold tone hoop and dangle charm earrings the absolute ideal choice to pack in your jewelry roll when attending Viva. $12.50 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




4. Put your best - and most stylishly attired - foot forward when you step out in these iconic 1950s Springolator clear lucite and vinyl heels. Fits approximately a modern size 7.5 - 8 (max). $98.00 from Union Made Bride.




5. With its rich mining history and more modern abundance of casinos, gold always strikes me as being a seriously awesome choice to wear in just about any form while in Vegas. If you're looking for the perfect pair of gloves to partner with your favourite fancy outfits this Viva, may I suggest these sparklingly fabulous mid-century gold Lurex stunners! $16.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




6. Another colour that I always associate with this desert locked tourist Mecca is red. If you're looking to sport polka dots to Viva but don't want to do so in a glaring or overly generic way, why not opt for a classic looking frock like this lovely 1950s style red scoop neck dress that features teeny black spots throughout. Available in modern ladies UK sizes 8 - 24. $78.50 from 1950s Glam.


7. Both guys and gals alike enjoying dressing to the nines for Viva and it's always a joy to see photos of what people sport there each year. If you're a chap (or are buying for a fellow) who is headed to Vegas, why not jazz up your ensembles with these desert hued c. 1950s - 1960s gold tone metal hexagon cuff links that star gorgeous golden brown watermelon style rivoli rhinestones. $17.50 from Chronically Vintage.




8. Leopard print and a glittery red heart both starring in a darling hair bow, if that doesn't channel a stylish rockabilly vibe, I don't know what does! $4.75 from Cute & Creepy.




9. Given that it's located in an arid desert, Las Vegas gets mighty hot, sometimes even as early in the year as April, so short sleeves and breathable materials like those found in this beautiful 1980s does 1950s rose print dark pink cotton shirt are always a smart styling choice. Fits up to a 34" bust/34" waist. $24.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




10. Few things channel the spirit of the desert as well as a cactus, so why not serve up a stylish helping of this classic arid region plant care of this cuter-than-cute pair of vintage style plastic, resin and rhinestone dangle earrings. $30.38 from Belle Lurette Paris.




11. Those in the know have told me before that accessories are one of the best ways to stand out at Viva. Even if someone is wearing the same dress (be it vintage or repro) as you, thanks to accessories, you can most likely still have a look that lets your own fabulous sense of style radiate through. This eye-catchingly cool Southwestern inspired c. 1950s red plastic beaded waterfall style necklace would be a head-turning piece in any Viva setting, be it with a cocktail dress at night for drinks or with a playsuit while lounging near the pool (I wouldn't take it into the water though!). $28.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




12. If you're looking to turn heads at the speed of light, may I suggest this devastatingly gorgeous 1940s - 1950s style gold hued wiggle dress from The House of Foxy (that is squarely planted on my own wardrobe wishlist!). Available in modern ladies UK sizes 8 - 18. £149.00 from The House of Foxy.




13. Classic mid-century style Ricky jackets like this seriously lovely turquoise hued number are great choice for any Viva bound gent. Available in modern British men's sizes small - XXL. £130.00 from Heyday.




14. If ever there was a place to bring your accessories A game, Viva Las Vegas is it! Ensure even your handbag is accessorized when you tote around this elegantly lovely c. 1940s - 1950s black plastic bead covered handbag that comes complete with a matching black beaded coin purse (too cute!). $38.00 for the set from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




15. Sweepingly dramatic, chic as Vegas is busy, and immensely beautiful, this awesome cream and black 1950s hand painted Mexican tourist skirt is just the thing to sport while you're visiting the Southwest. Fits up to an approximately 28" - 32" waist (it's adjustable). $189.00 from Dreem Co..




16. Viva would just not be Viva to my mind without a field of hair flowers as far as the eye can see. Ensure yours stand out and look downright stunning when you opt for ones that combine lush faux blooms with tropical fruit, such as the wonderfully lifelike looking pineapple in this darling Carmen Miranda worthy hair clip/mini fascinator. $21.95 from Viva Dulce Marina.




17. Understatedly cool and immensely evocative of the era it hails from, this wonderful mid-century modern (genuine) wood brooch is the sort of wear-it-with-anything piece of jewelry that you'll be thankful you packed for Viva (as it will go with a zillion different outfits!) and equally grateful to have in your wardrobe the rest of the year, too. $12.50 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




18. Figure flattering, ideal for the heat of Vegas, and always a surefire way to look the vintage part, classic sarong dresses this beautiful 1960s Hawaiian floral print version in shades of blue, green and purple are always a smart (and highly popular!) choice for Viva. Fits up to a 36" - 38" bust/28" waist. $225.00 from Blue Velvet Vintage.




19. Dazzle them with your stellar styling skills when you enter the room (or head out onto the dance floor) sporting this timelessly beautiful multi-strand gold tone metal mid-century necklace that features rosary style beading. $25.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




20. Anytime I pack for a trip one of the very first things that goes into my bag is a classic pair of black pumps with a sensible heel and endless outfit matching potential, such as this stylish 1940s version that features rounded toes and a charming cutout design. Sole measures 9.25" inches long. $90.00 from Bobbins and Bombshells.

21. Whether you use it to stash coins in while hitting the slots, to ensure you're ready for any parking meters you encounter in Vegas, or for some of the cash you may need to purchase goods at Viva, this marvelously fun rhinestone dollar sign topped c. 1950s metal coin box (purse) is an awesome choice for any trip to Nevada! $18.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




22. Elevate your daily stack arm party - as well as your earlobes - while at Viva with this wonderful combo pack of vintage style bamboo jewelry that features four bangles (two red, two natural coloured) and one pair of natural coloured hoop earrings. $22.50 for the set from Tiki Swag.




23. Belts aren't just for your waist, they can also look sensational when sported around your wrist, too, as this chicly lovely gold tone mid-century bracelet does a great job of demonstrating. $20.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




24. Playing cards, dice, atomic star bursts, silver sparkles - this awesome vintage style jewelry set has it all and would absolutely sensational for Viva - or anytime you're in Sin City! $18.50 for the set (which is comprised of a brooch and matching pair of earrings) from The Star Brite Motel.




25. Quite literally shimmer and shine come eveningtime in this sublimely pretty full length 1960s blue and aqua green metallic thread sleeveless maxi dress, which stars a round shawl style collar, full lining, and elegant sash tail-like bow piece on the back for extra glamour. Fits up to a 34" bust/32" waist. $110.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.

{To more about a specific image used in this post, please click on the link in the text immediately below it to be taken to its respective source.}

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Even if, like myself, you can't make it to Viva this year, you can certainly still weave any of these fabulous vintage-party-in-Nevada fashions into your old school wardrobe. They've fun, cheerful, bursting with colour and awesome for vintage and rockabilly fans the world over!

Have you been to Viva Las Vegas before? Are you headed there this year? Which of the items above would you most want to tuck into your suitcase if you were/are going to Viva 2016?

Vintage Link Love: March 2014

There's always a certain sense of contradiction to ending a month of the first day of a new week, isn't there? It feels like you're pulled in two very different directions, with one foot in the past, the other in tomorrow. Today though, I feel like I'm on a pretty even keel and am looking very forward to the coming month for a multitude of reasons, not the least of which is my sweet mother's birthday in two days, followed three weeks later by Easter. I also have some really, really exciting (top secret for the time being) vintage related plans in the work for later this spring, too, which have had me in a permanent smile for quite some time now (as I work diligently away at bringing them to fruition).

One of the things that really kicked March off on a positive note for me this year was winning a giveaway hosted by the immensely talented Emily from the blog Emily's Vintage Visions, who very generously offered her readers that chance to land a darling handmade apron that she created. It arrived mid-month and is so, so cute (and well constructed!). Though I wear one almost daily, I don't actually have a large collection of aprons, so Emily's wonderful gift is a big, and very much appreciated, boon to me there.

March was jumping with activity, online and off, and it wasn't hard in the slightest to find exciting, enjoyable, and/or inspiring entries to share with you here in this month's edition of Vintage Link Love. Quite the opposite actually, I have so many more from March (or that I found in March) bookmarked still that I could fill the next two such posts with them alone! I won't though, as I like to include some from the month that just wrapped up, of course, but I'm sure many of them will continue to appear here over time.

Sit back, settle in, grab your favourite early springtime nibble, if so desired, and come along as we take a peak at some great vintage related links as March embarks on its final day.

♥ Viva Las Vegas Pre-Game Tricks and Tips: With Viva Las Vegas, the largest annual gathering of vintage, rockabilly, and kustom kulture folks in the US (and one of the largest in the world) set to kick off again this year in mid-April, many bloggers who will be attending are hard at work both getting ready for the big event and sharing some of their thoughts on how to prep, pack and dress for it, including this helpful post chalked full of handy tips from Veronica Vintage, which is a great read for new and veteran attendees alike.


♥ Tin cans filled with $10 million in (vintage) gold coins found buried in California: By way of my darling husband (who first shared it with me) comes a story that sounds too unbelievably good to be true, but is in fact genuine. If it doesn't make you want to buy a metal detector and start hunting around for old, buried tin cans of your own (because, let's face, most will not be jutting out above ground a little like the one in this story), I don't know what will!


♥ 10 recipes that defined the 1960s: Though I born in the mid-1980s, what struck me about this fun post, which I discovered via The Glamorous Housewife's wonderful blog, is just how many of the ten my family was still making and serving two to four decades later. In fact, I still whip up some of these classic eats myself to this day and think that many will continue to be popular for a long, long time to come (how can you not adore things like grape jelly meatballs and fondue?).






♥ How to organize a pettiskirt collection: Whether you call them crinolines or pettiskirts, there's no difference in the amount of space these beautiful, but often very voluminous undergarments take up and the fact that storing them, especially if you have more than a couple, can quickly take up a rather hefty amount of room. Thanks to the immensely stylish Frances from the blog Polka Polish, all those who find themselves in this situation can now rejoice because she has hit upon a brilliant, super affordable way to wrangle your collection into a very small space that still allows you to see all of your petticoats at once glance. I love (underline that a hundred times) this clever idea!


♥ 7 Things Vintage Stars Can Teach Us About Body Confidence: This charming series of vintage photos, each partnered with a quote from one of yesteryear Hollywood's greatest stars, helps to succinctly remind us of how we might want to approach and deal with certain things that we almost all struggle with at one point or another when it comes to our own appearance and self-confidence levels.


♥ The Manly Origins of Cheerleading: When most people (especially 21st century men) here the word "cheerleader", the first thing that pops to mind is a cute girl in a short skirt, dancing, cheering and waving a pair of pompoms around, and while that has certainly often the case in recent decades, as this engaging post examines, cheerleading actually has a longstanding history as a male centered activity (up until the 1930s in many places).




♥ Man Buys 10,000 Undeveloped Negatives At a Local Auction and Discovers One of The Most Important Street Photographers of the Mid 20th Century: Gold, it would seem, is not the only treasure that lucky folks have been unearthing lately. In a story that sounds like a dream find to me, as I'm sure it will to many vintage photography fans, a man purchases a huge number of yesteryear photography negatives (for just $380) and soon finds that he's hit upon some of the great, most appealing never before seen street photography of the 20th century all captured by a tremendously talented woman named Vivian Maier.


♥ The Toronto Vintage Society launches a blog: If you've been following Chronically Vintage for any length of time, you'll likely know that I'm A.) a Canadian living in Canada and B.) wildly passionate about anything and everything to do with vintage in this country. Unfortunately, especially in most smaller towns and cities, that's not a ton to be hand though thankfully in various corners across this great nation like-minded vintage loving folks do gather and hold events centered squarely around their passion for the past. Previously operating primarily out of Facebook and Twitter online, one such stellar group, The Toronto Vintage Society, recently launched a blog to help spread the good word about their events and vintage in Toronto in general, that is well worth following regardless of if you actually live in Ontario or anywhere in Canada yourself, as vintage truly does transcend borders.


♥ 1920s: English women in colour: This thoroughly engaging and highly beautiful collection of early vintage colour photographs (which reminds me very much of my 2012 post 20 gorgeous Edwardian colour photographs) has been making the rounds big time on Facebook lately, but in case you haven't seen it there or elsewhere, I simply had to share it with you here today. It's always such a special joy to see very early colour photos like this, which truly help the past seem all the more alive and easy to relate to.





♥ How to make a 1940s headscarf/bandana: A little earlier this year Emileigh of the highly enjoyable, informative blog Flashback Summer ran a great series on 1940s working women's style, of which this handy, super easy to follow tutorial was a part. If you're a fan of this classic style of headscarf, you'll want to bookmark Em's post immediately.


♥ 50 vintage inspired & retro clothing stores: Searching for the mother load list of online shops that stock vintage inspired and retro fashions all corralled into one handy-dandy spot? Look no further than this post from Vintage Dancer which houses 50 sources that are sure to appeal to vintage fans far and wide - and cause many a wishlist to swell to new, epic proportions! :)


♥Marlene Dietrich | The World's Most Glamorous Grandmother Sale: Earlier this month some of legend actresses Marlene Dietrich's personal affects (including a love letter from Ernest Hemmingway) were auctioned off, with a sneak peak of the selection appearing in this post from Shimpton Couture. Dietrich is amongst the classic Hollywood stars that I most admire, not only for her acting but for how she lived her life, and I must say, if money was no objection, I would have loved to have raised my paddle when the auction began on some of the pieces in this elegant array of vintage and antique items (such as the resplendent piano compact pictured below).





{All images throughout the list of links above come by way of the post that they are displayed directly beneath the write up of here. Please follow the links provided to learn more about these images.}

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Electricity charged thunder storms, flocks of new blooms in every garden, early season produce, the shedding of at least a layer of two of clothing in our daily attire, Easter egg hunts, there are so very many reasons to eagerly look forward to April and all that it holds in store for us. I can hardly wait and feel like I'm in such a positive, productive place in my life right now on certain fronts that it's hard to contain my joy and eagerness for what April and the coming months beyond it will hopefully deliver.



{Image source}

I sense April is going to be a beautiful month in a lot of ways and am really hoping that the weather will follow suite. March's, though differently than February's, was often lousy and rarely permitted me to do photo shoots, which is always a drag, because I do enjoy getting in as many as my health will permit when the weather is in a more cooperative mood. I've got some marvelous springtime fashions to share with all of you, so with a bit of luck - and plenty of sunny skies - I can start doing so in earnest in the month ahead.

For now though, especially because I am trying very hard to savour and live in the moment as I grow older, I'm content to slip on a sundress and light weight cardi, set my sites on April, but devote my attention to today. Then buckle down to keep working on my secret plans, which with a bit of luck, I should be able to unveil sometime in May. Very exciting! :)

From the bottom of my heart, I wish you each a sweet, jubilant, completely lovely April and hope that the month delivers scores of reasons for you to smile as well.