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Hello Friends,
Although it’s been awhile since I’ve written, I have a good reason. My husband and I are embarking on a new adventure and moving to Vermont. I won’t bore you with the details but, suffice it to say, we’ve been very busy and are living temporarily in a friend’s home in Massachusetts. In addition, we sold our beloved business, Nostalgia Antiques & Collectibles to a friend, so this has been another huge change for us.
But… back to my passion: sharing stories and thoughts about historic dress, vintage styling, and fashion in general!
I have continued to present my Fashion Era Presentations to libraries, senior centers, historical societies, and women’s groups, and I still adore conducting these events. I have been working on new topics, such as “The Swingin’ Sixties” and “The History of Beauty & Cosmetics” (2 topics very close to my heart). My desire is to share this passion with as many fashion lovers as possible through presentations, my blog, and social media. Though historic fashion is my true love, I’m always intrigued by current magazines, especially since I can always spot vintage/historic inspiration in most of the newest fashions (nothing is truly new, of course!)
For example, the November issue of Harper’s Bazaar has a wonderful spread, entitled “Witchcraft is the New Black.” Not only do they discuss the popularity of modern witchcraft (close to my heart, as well), but they emphasize a witch’s fashion expression as being able to “articulate joy and express a healthy relationship with mortality” (Harper’s Bazaar, November 2018, p. 194). Gucci has a magnificent resort collection for 2019, where capes, velvet, and lace play a large part in the gorgeous designs.
Having been drawn not only to Goth, but to quirky, unusual fashions for quite some time, I often seek these fashions in catalogs such as The Pyramid Collection. They have a fabulous selection of clothing and accessories that one certainly would be unlikely to find in traditional retail stores. Several years ago, I bought a beautiful velvet hooded cape that is purple on one side, but reverses to a rich emerald green on the other. Although not inexpensive, the quality makes the price worthwhile. This item is still sold via their website/catalog and is pictured here.
The cape is heavy and soft and can be worn for almost any occasion. I’ve ordered several other items of clothing and jewelry from this collection and rarely have been disappointed. If you’re looking for a unique style or simply a statement piece, research some of the many options offered online and in catalogs like The Pyramid Collection. You’ll be happy you did!
In closing, let’s all remember that we may be drawn to certain eras and styles that express who we are, and that is something to be celebrated. It’s only in our inability to be open minded that we get stuck in a style rut. I say BREAK OUT and be proud of the unique style that is yours alone.
From my spirit to yours,
Ren