Mod Monday- Betties and Dons

I met this cutie couple at the Deep Ellum Outdoor Market 2 weekends ago. I LOVED the collection of dresses. and Although i tried on the most fun yellow Lilly dress, I didn't take it home because it was a wee bit too small. They had a pretty great selection of men's shirts too! You can keep up with them on their Facebook page, to see where they pop up next!!

Mod Monday- Vidal Sassoon on the watch list

I spotted the trailer for this movie over HERE. They did a pretty awesome synopsis and made me want to get a super mod haircut via Vidal Sasson.
Have you seen the movie? Did you like it?

Mod Monday- Moonrise Kingdom

B and I went on a dinner and movie date Friday and saw Moonrise Kingdom. I loved it. Wes Anderson is one of my favorites (my freshman college roomie and I used to fall asleep to The Royal Tennenbaums 60% of the time). The whole movie was muted in that fantastical 60's era coloration. Anderson's Mise-en-scène is pretty brilliant, you could pause the movie at any given point and you would have a hang-able work of art. We noticed many of the scenes were very symmetrical, but I think that is just Anderson's style.

Alternative Movie poster snagged from HERE

I like to think that Suzy and Sam were what Ben and I were when we were little. Suzy with her books and records, and Sam with his mad outdoor skillz. I could just see little Ben on his canoe navigating through the woods. I am seeing a very potential Halloween costume in the works and Lox Papers has put together the perfect board so I can shop for Suzy. Anyone know where to get a Khaki Scout uniform for Ben?


Its a perfect movie to get you in the summer mood. I highly recommend this film. I will definitely see it again.

Mod Monday- Marilyn on the movie Que

Have you been watching SMASH on NBC? Well I have! And I am really looking forward to tonight's episode where it all comes to a culmination. Karen or Ivy? In the meantime, to educate myself on the Bombshell,  my Netflix Que has started to collect many a Marilyn movies. Which one is your favorite?

Mod Monday- Twiggy!

Last week, Ben and I were talking, I mentioned how fabulous this girl's "Twiggy" lashes were (we were people watching). Ben's response: "Twiggy?"
I was shocked and appalled. Then we asked 2 more of our friends if they knew who she was. Both no. Mortified and saved by my girlfriend who joined the conversation, she did know Twiggy, we took the experiment to Facebook. Only to be disappointed again. So tonight I find myself browsing Twiggy image search on Google, then to http://www.twiggylawson.co.uk/ for a big dose of Twiggy.

So tell me friends, you know who Twiggy is... Right?! If not, please educate yourself. :)

Mod Monday- retro swimsuits

Swimsuit HEAVEN when I found Fables by Barrie on Etsy. Literally 4 pages of amazing handmade retro swimsuits. I got the one above (it is a combo I put together cause pieces are sold separately). Having used it over the weekend, I can attest to the exquisite fit and how well it is made. I can't wait to wear it all hot Texas summer. Plus the high waist makes me feel less self conscious. Brilliant!
What are your favorite styles this summer?

Mod Monday-ModFire

My friend Gregg gave me some literature on the Modfire that he and his partner Eric picked up at Modernism week in Palm Springs. He knew it would be right up my alley and he was right! That thing is pretty awesome. There are a few different sizes but I would LOVE to have the bonfire version (the largest). I think it would fit in Perfect with our Cliff May backyard. Don't you agree?!
Is there a way I can put this on our wedding registry? Otherwise I am savin' up for this baby. So cool.

Mod Monday- Tips for buying vintage clothing

I am pretty comfortable buying a antique/vintage piece of furniture. I got the mad skills/tips/insight handed down to me from generations of women in my family. My aunt is an antique dealer after all. But one thing I have never felt terribly comfortable buying is clothing. Don't get me wrong, I can pick out a gem, but sometimes I am a little rushed and can't try something on so I hold it up, and go "yea, I'm that size" then I get it home and WRONG, it is not the right size.
That is where my friend Angelica comes in (that's her up there in the vintage Pucci, jealous?). She is a master at buying vintage clothing and the last couple outings I have gone on with her, she has taught me some tremendous tips. So I asked Angelica to pass this knowledge on to you.

Without further ado... Angelica's tips:

Vintage shopping can be quite an ordeal for some of us. How many times have we vintage fashionistas uttered the phrase, "That would never fit me...women were just much smaller back then!" Well, women back then used cinchers, corsets, cone bras, and other undergarments meant to tuck and nip every little flaw. Now, let's be reasonable. Most of us simply don't find practicality in these things anymore. With fashion being more comfort-oriented these days, the vintage clothing can be constricting, matronly, gaudy, and really hard to shop for. So, I am offering a few tips to help make it easier!

1. A good seamstress is everything! Take the time to find yourself a trustworthy seamstress. Most vintage clothes can be altered to fit well, but it is essential that you find someone who has experience with vintage fabric and clothing, and can help you get the most out of your purchases. Often, a simple hem, shortening of sleeves, or widening of a neckline is all you need to modernize and freshen up a vintage frock. Which brings me to my next tip...

2. Use your imagination! Sometimes, vintage shopping requires you to think outside the box. Long, bulky dresses can be shortened, necklines can be altered, stains can be removed, buttons can be replaced, and rips in seams can be repaired. Re-styling is also an option for the more matronly, outdated vintage pieces. Again, a good seamstress can help in this department. If you love the fabric or pattern on a piece that is unwearable, it can be re-used to make something new, like a headband, a belt, jewelry...there are lots of possibilities!

3. Know your measurements! Vintage clothing sizes don't run the way modern sizes do. In fact, just ignore the sizes on the tags. Often, they don't reflect current sizing standards. It's essential to know your measurements (bust, waist, and hip), and to carry a tape measure with you when going shopping (this works great at estate sales, where there is no dressing room). This way, you can measure the garment, and know whether or not it will likely fit, saving you time in the dressing room. You can allow a little leeway for the more stretchy fabrics.

4. Bring a Good Friend! This is one of my favorite tips. Shopping with an extra set of eyes can be both useful and fun. You can give each other honest opinions on the fit and look of a garment, and advise each other on those super-hard decisions. Having a gal (or guy) pal with you that knows your style and dress habits can increase your chances of walking away with some great pieces, as well as walking away from a potentially unwise purchase!

So, what are your tips? Please share!

photo above taken by Rachael Laine 

Mod Monday- Zou Bisou Bisou

Let's be honest... you have been singing this song ALLLLL day. And if you are like Ben, you found the original Zou Bisou Bisou, the Sophia Loren version and the Huffington Post announcing custom vinyls of Jessica Pare's version.

And since the storyline didn't seem to move very much, I focused on the fashion. I felt like they were just reintroducing all the character's back to us. It has been a long time, I'm sure we needed a refresher, I'll give them that. My favorite dress of the night was the short black number that Megan was wearing... very Trina Turk-ish, no?

I Loved Janie Bryant's recap of the fashions from the episode. And despite my love of that black dress above, I normally am drawn to the 60's colors... and this episode has it FOR SURE.

photos from AMC and Huffington Post

Mod Thursday? Duh, it's Mad Men Mania around here

Yes, I realize I should be throwing back a martini as I catch myself up and get excited for the Mad Men premiere this Sunday. But come on, it's Thursday and I didn't have a bad day. So, as i sip my wine I have a few things digital and wait for it.... analog , for ya to get excited about the premiere on Sunday too. Newsweek had a pretty bad ass throwback edition this week. Ben picked one up at lunch today... you should too.

 This gallery of clothing from Mad Men Costume designer Janie Bryant. Amazing insight and a few sneak peeks for the season.

If you are in Dallas you can join us and a few mod friends at the Dallas Smoke 60's Mod Night tomorrow (Friday the 23rd). And dress as your fave character... just get ready to dance. That is what it's all about. but definitely friend their Facebook page even if you can't go.


And if you are really bored... you can play this interactive Mad Men game on YouTube... not gonna lie, it is fun.
We'll meet back here for a Mod Monday rehash of the premiere. ok?

Mod Monday- Countess Mara

"Tell a man you like his necktie and you will see his personality unfold like a flower"- Countess Mara. I was a total newbie to Countess Mara neckties before this weekend. I attended the VintageJewelry and Clothing showin Grapevine over the weekend and saw some pretty amazing local vendors. I was pretty excited about a lot of them, but today for Mod Monday I am featuring Bess & Evie's Vintage Kalen old me all about the Countess Mara ties and although she started designing men's neckwear in the mid 30's the 50's designs are obviously pretty mod. I picked up that navy blue one with the carriage design and skyscrapers for Ben. Bess & Evie's also has those awesome cuffs made out of vintage teacups... So cool

Mod Monday- 60's vintage dress from Texas Style Council

It was an AMAZING weekend at the Texas Style Council. I came home energized, inspired, full of life, ideas and NEW FRIENDS. I just wanted to pop in real quick and show you the vintage 60's dress I picked up at New Bohemia in Austin during our Saturday shopping day. The perfect Mod dress, right?!
I'll give you more details about the conference after I catch up on the rest of my life. 

Please excuse the Instagram photo, but is does give it a little more vintage flair... yea, we'll go with that.
Have a great Monday.

Mod Monday- Mod Men Party

Happy Halloween!! I thought that it was only appropriate to post a themed party today, in case you are struggling for last minute ideas.
A few months ago, with the help from a few friends (thank you Gregg Lovell and Eric Bivins for your house and styling help and The Dallas Smoke group for your spot-on character cast) we put together a really fun Mod Men themed party for soon to debut online magazine DeerDallas. The lovely and very talented Rachael Laine (founder of DeerDallas) photographed the entire thing.

 

There was decade appropriate food, drinks, and music:: Cuba Libre, French 75 and Classic Martini for drinks. Meatballs, Cheese plate and crudites for food. Music, set your Pandora station to your favorite 60's or 50's group and let it play!

You can Check out more photos over on the DeerDallas Facebook page. Be sure to "like" them while you are at it!!

This party is totally usable not during Halloween... Perhaps an upcoming Mad Men premiere?!

Mod Monday-Wed edition

It's been a while since I have done a Mod Monday... but I find it only appropriate that I do one with wedding inspiration since that has started to consume my web musings as of late. I am totally digging the short dresses of the 60's. Especially these two worn by Audrey and Barbara... found on Veiled Haven. The unexpected hat and hood are pretty neat too.

Together... and a cool DIY lamp

 

Ben and my Mom did a pretty fun craft together yesterday.  A wooden veneer light fixture spotted originally over on Poppytalk. I just sat back and watched the cooperation between these two. It was a great moment, given the first time my Mom met Ben 4 years ago, she said: "so Ben, what skills do you have to bring to the table?" It has been a running joke ever since. Needless to say, she cut him some slack and I love the lamp that they made!!

Together!!

Mod Monday- a day late and in Vegas!!!

Last night (which was still Monday, I would like to point out), we took a mini adventure to Frankie's Tiki Room in Las Vegas for Happy Hour. If you are looking for a fun time, Off the Strip this place is pretty hooty and fun.
As you can see from the drink menu, it is pretty legit. I had the Lava Letch, but although it's a funny name the Bearded Clam was pretty rockin' (hold inappropriate comments please) ;)






I will do a post later this week on some other places in Vegas, because in 2 and a half weeks here I am starting to feel like a local.

Mod Monday- France Gall

While doing musical research for an article I am working on for DeerDallas I remembered how perfect France Gall epitomizes a mod 60's scene. And how fab is her hair?! If your feeling like you need a mod musical break, type in France Gall to your Pandora

Hello Denver

After a great weekend in Denver, I am ready to move to Colorado. Except for that pesky house we just bought. :)
Aside from the fun, beautiful wedding of our friends Eben and Rachel, Ben and I had so much fun taking downtown on foot (and bike, it was an awesome public bike system!!).

Hi*Rise where we had yummy bagels

We arrived at 7 am on Friday morning by 8:30 am we were already checked in and trying to find something to do. So we found a local bagel shop got dome grub and headed out.
Some Highlights included:

Great Divide Brewery Tasting and Tour

Tattered Cover Book Store

General awesomeness walking down 16th street mall

My favorite... Savory Spice Shop You must go there if in Denver. It is the most genius store. And they are all so nice and shipped our goods AND our books from the Tattered book store home.

lots of Beer... good beer.

The Highlands Farmer's Market

Little Man Ice Cream... this place was soo cute. We went there with friends Julie and Alex and there kiddos.

you know with our radar we were able to find the Mid Century store that just opened up this outpost 3 weeks ago. So cool that I have a whole other post on this later. :)

Mod Monday- a Derby inspired cocktail

Maybe because it's Monday you need this vintage 60's inspired cocktail to get through your week... OR you can file it away for this weekend, as your perfect accompaniment to your over-sized Derby hat.
Either way, here is a super delicious (I am biased cause I'm southern), Mint Julep recipe. Cheers!

• 1 scant ounce minted simple syrup
• 2 cups crushed ice
• 2 ounces bourbon (such as Woodford Reserve)
• Fresh mint sprig, for garnish

To highball glass or silver Julep cup, add minted simple syrup, then 1 cup crushed ice, bourbon, and splash of water. Add enough of remaining ice to almost fill glass. Stir well and garnish with mint sprig.

 

My vote is on Pants on Fire

recipe from Epicurious.

photo from StyleCaster

Mod Monday- Landscaping

Since our fence is done, our next project is landscaping. We want to come up with an official plan, but right now we are in pull inspiration photos mode. Naturally, I started flipping through the photo gallery on RanchoStyle because..... they are ALL Cliff May houses. Here are some photos, I like:

Like the bright green little ferny plant by pool

like how the plants have individual plots surrounded by low maintenance "zero"scape

like the exotic grasses and plant selection here

love the clean "zero"scape on this one.

love the bench and light colored gravel

Like the green pots down the side of the house.