Thread Conscious

January 19, 2012

Thread Thursday: Dolly Python Vintage in Dallas

Dolly Python…just by the name, you know you’re in for something unusual and amazing.  In the same vein of vintage wackiness as Austin’s Uncommon Objects, Dolly Python is a mecca of rare clothing, accessories, furniture and other fun tchotchkes.  Located at 1916 N. Haskell Avenue in Dallas, Dolly does have one thing that Uncommon Objects doesn’t: Melinda the psychic.  Every Saturday she does palm readings- $15 for 15 minutes.  So while at Dolly Python, you can shop for things from the past and  get a glimpse of your future.

Fashionably Yours,

Nik

December 13, 2011

Eco-Friendly Beauty and Fashion with Model-Activist Summer Rayne Oakes

Dear Fashionistas,

I was recently at one of my favorite “cheap chic boutiques,” better known as TJ Maxx, and found this really cool and informative book while in the check out line.  For folks interested in eco-friendly beauty and fashion, Style Naturally looks like a great resource.  Authored by eco-fashionista and activist Summer Rayne Oakes, the shopping guide provides a comprehensive list of resources online and world-wide, including many retailers in Texas, naturally.

Fashionably Yours,

Nik

December 10, 2011

Christmas 2010 Shopping Guide for Women and Men

December 10, 2011: Fashionistas, I wanted to repost last year’s Christmas guide, as it has some wonderful gift ideas that are still relevant and stylish.  Be sure to check out this year’s Shopping Guide as well, just a couple of posts down the page.  Happy Shopping!  ~Nik

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Alright, so I’m sure some of you are in the full swing of Christmas shopping; however, for others who are fashionably late, so to speak (procrastinators, you know who you are), I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite places to shop, both physical and online.  These are just suggestions in case you’re stumped on your own list.  Admittedly, I asked my honey for assistance with the men’s gift list, so the format of the lists is a little different.  You’ll find a range of wonderful gifts for your loved ones, and I’m sure a few things for yourself!

For the Gentleman 

Photo Credit: F. Martin Ramin/Studio D

Ermenegildo Zegna Centennial Suit ($3,295)

I can appreciate the history behind this suit.  Apparently an homage to the original heritage suit first created by Zegna 100 years ago, this masterpiece proves that classic style stands the test of time.

Photo Credit: Glamour Boys, Inc.

Lanvin for H&M Shoes

Finishes in metallic blue, fuschia and copper put a fun and memorable twist on the classic tuxedo shoe, and Mr. Elbaz doesn’t disappoint.

Mont Blanc Timewalker Chronograph Automatic Watch

(Black Ceramic, 18K Red Gold) (Price Upon Request)

Dark, sophisticated and sexy, this watch tells more than time- it speaks to the impeccable taste of the owner.  You can find Mont Blanc retailers in Dallas, Houston and San Antonio.

The Art of Shaving Kit ($150)

A perfect gift for the well-groomed gentleman.

Mad Men Season 3 DVD Collection ($29.99 on Amazon)

For any fan of the show, you know exactly why it’s on this list.

For the Lady

Let me warn you now: This list consists mostly of accessories, and by accessories I mean jewelry.  However a few clothing boutiques made it on here.

This luxury website is an obvious go-to when looking for something extra special.  On top of that, the End of the Season Sale is going on right now!

Alissa Gearing

Re-Finery Fashion

When I first met Alissa Gearing, I was so impressed with the variety and quality of the resale items.  She takes pride in selecting the most fashion-forward and beautiful pieces.  Just in time for the holidays, she has an awesome sale coming up.

All kinds of new inventory including Hermes, Gucci, Catherine Malandrino, Tory Burch, Louis Vuitton, Milly and more!

Friday, December 17th from 10 am to 3 pm

Saturday, December 18th from 10 am to 3 pm

5431 W University Blvd Dallas 75209

Special promotion – earn a $20 credit when you bring a friend to next week’s Show!

(only one credit allowed per customer)

 

Bess & Evie’s Vintage

I’ve been casing this place since at least September.  I love, love, love the cardigans here.  All vintage and sparkly, they never fail to make me smile.  These lovely cardigans are suitable for the office- and off-hours!

Photo Credit: Donna Alberico

Solange Azagury-Partridge

Funky, mystical and soulful, I am mesmerized by the jewelry Solange creates.  Her jewelry even made a cameo in Sex and the City 2.  The Hot Lips silver and lacquer ring is my favorite.

Ivanka Trump Collection

No stranger to luxury herself, Trump has designed some lavish pieces (with equally lavish prices).  Some items are under $1,000 though, and I particularly like her cocktail rings (and so does Natalie Portman).

Amrita Singh Jewelry

I was first introduced to this Indian designer through Gilt Groupe and have been a fan ever since.  Regal, expressive and vibrant, the earrings alone are cause for celebration.  And, yes, even royalty wears them.

Introducing Charming Charlie.  A friend turned me on to this boutique over Thanksgiving while in Houston (I’ll post about that later).  Color-coded and well-stocked, this store has every bauble imaginable and in every color.  Set at the same price point as Forever 21’s jewelry, it’s super reasonable and something everyone can afford.  And believe me, I saw every age group shopping there too, so they have something for everyone!  Plus it has really unique and quirky pieces too- from watch rings, to graphic rain boots.

They have locations throughout Texas, including in the Arlington Highlands and Highland Village and more DFW locations.

I hope this list gave you a lot a great gift ideas.  Happy shopping and Happy Holidays!

Fashionably Yours,

Nik

November 12, 2011

Some Rules of Eternal Style by Amy Tara Koch

Victoria Beckham Dresses; Photo Credit: Manycolor.com

Dear Fashionistas,

I just read a wonderful article by Amy Tara Koch on Huffingtonpost.com outlining the rules of eternal style.  Titled “How to Look Rich on the Cheap,” (keeping in mind that cheap is relative), what the article really teaches is how to choose pieces that are classic, chic and tasteful.  I don’t agree with everything Koch suggests (such as “Rich people don’t wear [nail] color. EVER. “- that’s just not true and certain nail colors are tasteful) but for the most part, she is spot on.

I also appreciate Koch taking time to include shopping suggestions.  Need to find that must have item on her list?  No problem, an array of sensible shops are provided such as Bluefly, Zara, Overstock.com and Ebay.

Finally, I agree with Koch that proper grooming is essential to classic style.  Facials and mani/pedis can, and should, be a regular part of one’s style routine.  What good is wearing a beautiful cocktail ring if your nails look awful?

For comprehensive style tips, check out the entire article on Huff Post Style here.

Fashionably Yours,

Nik

October 27, 2011

Statement Jewelry: October Owls

Large Pendants

I absolutely love owl jewelry.  A symbol of mystery and wisdom, I’ve been fascinated with owls since childhood.  They’re also the mascot for all things super nerdy.  And if you’ve been reading this blog you know that things can get quite nerdy!  Best of all, this collection is a steal, ranging from only $5-$28 per piece.

I love statement jewelry, and the pendants above make a bold statement.  I believe that all but one came from Eastside Antiques in Fort Worth.  My aunt gave me the white owl pendant- how cute is he with his wing hiding his face! 

Bling Bling

 Sometimes, you just need some bling in your life.  These are medium-sized pendants, rather modest in my opinion.  However, what they lack in size they more than make up for with sparkle.  These necklaces are perfect for dressing up any casual look. 

Abstract Pendants and Ring

 Like art, jewelry can be a literal representation of a real-world object, or more abstract.  I love when jewelry takes a more artistic approach and suggests an idea or object, rather than simply replicating it.  These owl pendants and two-finger ring (top right) are fun and visually interesting.  I just got the green one from Dolly Python Vintage in Dallas, and it’s my new favorite of the collection. 

Little Cuties

 This is a grouping of my smaller pieces, which includes brooches, a ring and a necklace.  I love the little guy with the argyle sweater.  I just remembered that I forgot to include another brooch- it’s a gold owl with eyeglasses that actually move up and down!  It’s so adorable.  I got it at the Montgomery Street Antique Mall in Fort Worth.  The ”shadow box” necklace came from Charming Charlie in Virginia a couple of months ago. 

Rock Stars

This group incorporates natural stone into the design that gives each piece a vintage feel.  The necklace at the top also came from Dolly Python in Dallas.  The bottom brooch has a lovely red stone with silver and gold detail.  It reminds of the bird in that really old- I mean really really old- movie “The Clash of the Titans.”  It’s an oldie but a goodie.

Speaking of an oldie but goodie, it’s almost time for Thread Conscious’s TWO-YEAR ANNIVERSARY!  My, how time flies when you’re having fun.  : )

Fashionably Yours,

Nik

 

October 9, 2011

Anniversary Gifts: The Bold and the Beautiful

Filed under: Trends,Vintage — Tags: , , , — Nik @ 4:31 pm

I just have to give my sweetie props for the thoughtful gifts given this year…perfection.

Vintage-inspired Diamond Earrings

I absolutely love these earrings.  They’re classic, timeless and distinctively vintage.  I think they’ll look great at the office and also nicely dress up any casual ensemble.

Rare Louis Vuitton Satin Monogram Ange Noir Evening Bag

What an adorably elegant bag!  I love the subtle monogram pattern paired with the bold metallic accents in the side panels, clasp and mesh handle.  This limited-edition purse was sold in the late 1990′s and is rather difficult to find these days.  This is definitely not an everyday bag, but is perfect for an anniversary celebration.

Fashionably Yours,

Nik

 

October 5, 2011

Thread Thursday: Vintage Glamporium in Austin Oct. 8-9

Laced with Romance- Matt McCoy

Dear Fashionistas,

Are you ready for Vintage Glamporium, “an exhilarating shopping experience that brings together the best vintage clothing and accessory vendors of Texas and beyond?”

This Saturday, October 8th and Sunday, October 9th, at ZACH Theatre, be sure to check out a host of top notch vintage vendors, who have carefully curated the best ensembles and accessories for men and women. 

Vintage all-stars include local favorites such as Laced with Romance, Big Bertha’s Bargain Basement, Fabulous Mess Vintage, and Feathers Boutique AND  stylish neighbors such as Vintage Martini (Dallas, TX), Style Station (Waco, TX), Cheap Thrills (Tulsa, OK) and The Vintagemobile (Dallas, TX).

This is a weekend you won’t want to miss!  And PLEASE, for those attending please snap a few photos to share with the rest of us.  I would be there myself, but I have other fabulous events to attend, as two of my dear friends are getting married this weekend- to each other!  Also, I’ll be celebrating my own one-year anniversary!  Ah, l’amor!  :  )

WHO: Founded by Angie Ferrer Domecq Owner of Angelica DeBiase online boutique & Masha Harmeier Co-owner of Feathers Boutique

WHEN: Saturday, October 8, 2011 from 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm Sunday, October 9, 2011 from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

WHERE: ZACH Theatre 1426 Toomey Rd. Austin, TX 78704 ADMISSION: Daily Early Shopper Tickets (12:00 pm – 1:00pm): $10 Daily General Admission: $5 Tickets are CASH ONLY and are available at the door PARKING: Free parking in the Zachary Scott Theatre lot or on the street

WEBSITE: http://www.vintageglamporium.com/vintage/Welcome.html

 http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=209440835745466

*Note some vendors will accept cash or credit, others will accept cash only

Fashionably Yours,

Nik

August 18, 2011

Blog Spotlight: Fashionista Lab

Adelle McElveen of Fashionista Lab

Dear Fashionistas,

I just wanted to show some blog love for my fellow fashionista, San Francisco’s Adelle McElveen of Fashionista Lab.  You’ll remember I spent some time in the Bay Area on business, and I had the pleasure of meeting Adelle during that visit.

Adelle’s take on fashion is orignal, witty and refreshing, with a touch of global glamour.  And, boy, does she have a great eye for vintage!  She’s been traveling lately, so she’s included a running collection of original and guests posts on Fashionista Lab, including one by yours truly about gorgeous cocktail rings.  Safe, fashionable travels Adelle!

Fashionably Yours,

Nik

August 1, 2011

Charm School Vintage in Austin

 

 Nestled in a quaint neighborhood just east of downtown Austin sits Charm School Vintage.  Located in a converted house, owner Shari Gerstenberger shares this space with other Austin-preneurs, resulting in a unique tenancy that is part boutique, part hair salon and part accessories/wig shop (Coco Coquette).   

Due to this cozy arrangement with its retail neighbors, I’d venture that Charm School is poised to become the one-stop shopping destination for vintage-loving glamourazzi (Hair cut? Check.  Make up? Check.  Vintage sequined blouse? Double check).  When you’re done you can go straight to the party! 

Also, Gerstenberger has done a great job of securing an exceptionally well-edited (and very reasonably priced!) collection of vintage dresses, skirts, blouses and accessories.  By the way, the necklaces and sequined tops are to-die-for.  Whether you live in or near Austin, or you’re just visiting, Charm School Vintage is a must-see.

Charm School Vintage/2109 E. Cesar Chavez/ 719-640-6484

Charm School Blog/Charm School Facebook

Fashionably Yours,

Nik

(Photo Credit: All photos by J. Moreno.)

 

COCO COQUETTE

 

COCO COQUETTE

 

CHARM SCHOOL VINTAGE

 

CHARM SCHOOL VINTAGE

CHARM SCHOOL VINTAGE

 

CHARM SCHOOL VINTAGE- MY FAVORITE!

July 11, 2011

Austin Eats & Antiques: Restaurant Round-Up & the City-Wide Garage Sale

Dear Fashionistas & Foodies,

Mid-July is fast approaching and there are two special events worth mentioning.

1. The City-Wide Garage Sale:  July 16-17, Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road

$5 gets you in the door and exhibits include estate jewelry, vintage clothing and of course, antiques.  CWGS, you had me at estate jewelry.  The website also boasts that it’s “Austin’s largest antique, collectible & vintage marketplace.”  We shall see, come July 16th.

 

 2. The GO TEXAN Restaurant Round-Up: July 25-31.

This dining experience is a great way to support local restauranteurs, farmers and food banks!  Many restaurants will donate a portion of their proceeds to a local food bank when you dine with them during July 25-31.  You can also sign up for Texas-sized prizes here.

(Photo Credits: theinside.travel.aol.com and agr.state.tx.us, respectively.)

Fashionably Yours,

Nik

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