Not Your Average Pin-Up - BlakXena

My fantastic friend, and aspiring photographer, Karl Wes, knew I loved the look of the 40's and 50's, but didn't realize just how far my love went.  So when he he asked to be his model, I took him by surprise with the extent of my collection. He is a fantastic photographer and I was honored to be part of his transformation! Thank you Karl for the beautiful pictures!  I cannot wait to do this again! Enjoy Everyone!

Photographer: K. Wes
Model: Blakxena


http://www.flickr.com//photos/70181514@N08/show/

Everyday Pin-up Outfits

Like me, I'm sure many of you that love the look of pin-up/rockabilly love visiting clothing websites (www.pinupgirlclothing.com or www.bettiepageclothing.com, just to name a few) checking out the beautiful outfits, but come across a slight problem: They are a little out of our price range!  I know that I may be able to purchase one or two pieces, but creating a wardrobe on a limited income can be a daunting task!


Having a limited budget can be a challenge for us retro girls, but NOT impossible to have great pieces that are affordable. You just need to keep your eyes and ears open for deals. I'm here to show you some places to go and key pieces that will help you create your affordable look. 




Location, Location, Location
Some great places I've found some awesome pieces are the Flea market, Thrift stores and Estates & Yard Sales. You an always find a diamond if you dig hard enough.  However, there are rules to follow:


Rule #1 - Dress comfortably, wear items that you can easily remove and put and outfit over.
Rule #2 - Don't be in rush. Take your time!! That is important!
Rule #3 - Have FUN!!


Lets Begin, shall we?


Flea Markets/Yard Sales
People are getting rid of things that have been sitting in their attic for several years and they want to get rid of it. You can find the most amazing pieces such as brooches, earrings, necklaces and even clothing pieces.  I have gotten hats/bags/jewelry and records all for under $30.00.  Know how to respectfully negotiate. Also going to these sales early as well as returning at the end of the day can get you some amazing deals! If the yard sale is more than 1 day, return the following day, the owners may want to get rid of things, you may be able to get items for next to nothing or sometimes free!


Thrift Stores/Consignment Shops
You can find some good deals at thrift stores and consignment shops, but you need to have patience, time, and diligence.  Be pleasant to the owners, you will be amazed how quickly they will assist you.  Many thrift/consignment shop owners also do Estate sales, once you become a regular customer, they may start giving you a break because they know you are a returning customer.  


*Coming soon...Review of Consignment shops in my area!*


Estate Sales
Another goldmine!  As I stated, many thrift/consignment shop owners get their items from Estate sales.  They work with owners of properties that want to sell items out of their homes.  I have gotten items that would have cost hundreds of dollars for pennies.  Because I look for unusual pieces, I usually make out well as people are not really looking for the same things I want.  


Now some folks may feel uncomfortable with wearing used clothing, so here is a list of stores that I've found to have some pieces, I've included pictures to give you an idea.


Modern stores that have "retro looks"
Marshalls
Banana Republic  - they now have a limited edition 'made man' line with beautiful pieces
H & M
TJ Max
Gap
JC Penney 


In short, most retail/department stores will have some great wardrobe staples that will allow you to have that modern look with a retro twist.  Many times I mix my vintage pieces with modern pieces that make them my unique style.

A wardrobe can't be fantastic with out some accessories.  Listed below are some Basic Accessories to highlight an accentuate your look:

Brooches

Chiffon Neck scarf

Wide Belts

Flower hair clips

Animal Prints belts, scarfs, unusual bags

Listed below are Essential pieces for a great retro/vintage wardrobe.  All of these items are under $100.00.

Wrap Dress (I call it the Made Men Look)

Halter neck dresses


































Peep toe shoes (I happen to LOVE animal print, which part of the staple!)


































High waisted Pants (I have these in camel and black, fit great!)


































Ballet Flats
































Wedged shoes

One Piece Swimwear with Halter top and full pant coverage (I have this in leopard print!)




















































Capri Pant



Pencil Skirts















These are just a few key pieces that are affordable, stylish and easy to mix and match.

Happy Shopping!

My Love Affair....when it all began.....

Since I was little, I've always had a love for Pin-up & Old Hollywood Glamour.  I would watch the typical black and white movies, these women with their flowing gowns, impeccable hair and makeup who ALWAYS looked beautiful even no matter what they were doing.  As a little Black Girl, it was apparent these women looked nothing like me, but my eye was on their clothes, makeup and hairstyles, that was what piqued my interest.

The older I become, the more noticed that there seemed to be no Black Women or Men in these movies. If they were, they were maids or butlers. Where were they was the million dollar question. Well, my grandmother, who had great taste (I was forever in her jewelry box and clothing) introduced me the legendary Lena Horne singing 'Stormy Weather'. I was blown away! I finally found women who I admired actually look like me! Lena Horne, Dorothy Dandridge, Billie Holiday, Eartha Kitt were the more popular faces,  I just knew there had to be more than just 4 or 5. Slowly but surely different names because to appear and I realized there was a whole other world which was the Old Black Hollywood Glamour that seemed to remain hidden.

Many of these blogs will be based on my research, dedicating my post to the unsung women who where just as beautiful,  talented, intelligent, Glamorous Women!  Also included will be hair, makeup and clothing secrets & tips, reviews, along with some of my personal vintage collections.  Let the celebration begin!