As Modern As it Gets

I intend on taking pictures this week of the blue 1950s housedress I made a few weeks ago, but I noticed that so many of my last posts have been blue-themed so before I do another one, I'm going to prove that I don't exclusively wear blue by posting pictures of a non-blue outfit. (Ok, so there are fine blue-gray threads in the skirt. Does that count?)

 

Incidentally, it's an example of the rare times I wear something only vintage inspired instead of true vintage or more-or-less reproduction.

 

(I'm also experimenting with new backgrounds, you'll notice. There are lots of spots at our new house I want to try for photography!)

 

I have a feeling this picket fence will be a prominent feature of future photos.

 

For this fall church outfit, everything is modern, for once, except the coat and gloves worn as outerwear. The fabrics and cuts of the skirt and blouse (both thrift store finds) are distinctly 21st century, yet I can see elements of a 1950's wing-collar shirtwaist in the blouse. 

Pearls add a classic element, but with antique bronze findings and a modern design.

 

 

I've also seen 1950s patterns with what they called a "trumpet" skirt, which was flared in a similar manner to this skirt, so even with the modern components it still looks kind of 1950s-secretary-ish, in my opinion.

 

Or maybe it's just the way it's styled overall. Most modern outfits end up looking somewhat vintage on me; probably it's my hair. A vintage hairstyle will make almost anything look at least vintage-inspired. Following along with the "Only Vintage Inspired" theme, this time my hair is a quasi-1940s style. Not living in a particular era gives me more freedom to mix and match elements from several eras, though I have become over the past year or two a stickler for authenticity when it comes to dressing up in real costumes. 

 

The clutch is one I do not use for my more vintage outfits. The shiny faux patent leather and big metallic trim and buckle doesn't fit in any other era. The gloves are vintage, but look a bit edgier since they are leather. I took them off when I took of my coat at church, but outdoor photos were cold enough that I left them on!

 

These heels are also in the category of Cute But Modern, a rare buy for me since I so much prefer vintage styling or true vintage when it comes to shoes. The color is so pretty and matched my blouse exactly.

 

Idaho November mornings are perfect candidates for trotting out my one and only Lilli Ann!

 

It's a fun break once in a blue moon from wearing my own handmade vintage clothes. But for dress up occasions, this is as modern as it gets!

Comments

[Sarah A.]

I know I am late in commenting on this, but what a beautiful ensemble, Kristen. :) Your blouse is one of my favorite colors, and that skirt is SO pretty! I have many similar outfits in my closet, so it was fun to see another lady dressing in the same styles. I really like your necklace here too. It is difficult to find ones that work with button-down blouses.