Thursday, December 31, 2015

Favorite Outfits of 2015

Can you Believe 2015 is almost over?  Every year I like to put together a list of my favorite outfits...  Except this year there were way too many to choose from!  I love having my blog and this lovely archive of how my style has evolved.  Some of it is embarrassing, but I wouldn't change a thing!  So here's my 2015 in the form of my personal style:

Southern California Belle Outfits 2015
 
 
Southern California Belle Outfits 2015


Southern California Belle Outfits 2015
 
Mother and Child / All Aboard / Geronimo / Sing It Again / Chase the Clouds Away / Brandy Rose / Golightly / Amanda / Black and White

Southern California Belle Outfits 2015
 
Mermaid Lagoon / Juicy Orange / Oriental Nights / Changes / Atomic / Darling Dee Dee / Tiki Dreams / Summer Bouquet / First Bloom

Southern California Belle Outfits 2015
 
Singing Solitude / Teal Harlequin / Blogs, Besties + Brooches / Navy Lilac / Heart In A Cage / Mine This Time / When Decades Collide / Monster Madness / Lip Service

Southern California Belle Outfits 2015
 
Fleur De Lis / Roosevelt / Long Gone / Darling Dames / Idle Hands / Venus / Greeting Temptation / Revel In Nostalgia / Painted City

Southern California Belle Outfits 2015

Saving Grace / Lift Off! / Borrowed Time / Chrysanthemum / Poppy Fields / Misfit / Jailbird / Deck The Halls / Blue December

I hope you have a safe and happy new year!  I can't wait to see what's in store for 2016!

xoxo

Ashley

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Pop Champagne

Bernie Dexter Paris Dress in New Year's Eve Print

There really should be a dress for every occasion.  That's why I love Bernie Dexter and her New Year's Eve print.  I've raved about her Paris dresses for years, but this print is my very favorite.  I have such a love affair with border prints and I can't get over how stunning this one is, even from afar!  While this dress really is perfect for tomorrow, I can see myself putting this on more than once a year.  It's just too pretty!

Monday, December 28, 2015

Misfit

Pinup Girl Clothing Deadly Dames Misfit Dress in Black

Sometimes I feel like I can see my style evolving.  Thanks to this Misfits dress (and lots of other Deadly Dames styles) I've been able to embrace and appreciate my mom-bod and feel sexy when I want to.  I've never been one to show lots of cleavage, but this dress feels modest thanks to the high neckline but showcases your bust in the most flattering of ways.  As soon as I put it on I knew it was coming home with me.  Kevin and I haven't properly celebrated my birthday like we were supposed to, so I think this is going to be my outfit for the occasion!

Thursday, December 24, 2015

Deck The Halls

DSC_0021a

I can't even pretend like I'm not excited about tomorrow!  Not only is it Christmas, but it's also my birthday.  I usually choose not to celebrate my birthday on the actual date, only because it gets steamrolled by the other festivities going on.  Kevin decided to take me out to dinner this Saturday to celebrate and I'm really looking forward to that.  But of course, I'm most excited about seeing Bianca's face when she opens up her gifts.  She's at an age where she can understand and enjoy the holidays and I just feel so lucky that I get to experience that with her.

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

What's On My Radar: Current Loves

The Christmas clock is ticking!  Since my birthday and Christmas are together, I get a little more excited than most and kick up quite a huge wishlist.  Here's my favorite clothing, makeup, and accessory picks for the best holiday of the year!

Pinup Girl Clothing
1. Misfits Dress

PUG is killing it with these new dresses!  That Monica mermaid dress is just a dream come true and the new Downtown Dame faux leather dress is pink perfection.  I need to start getting out more to justify these fancy pretties!


Betsey Johnson
1. Wild Thing Satin Set

Not gonna lie, if I'm at home I'm living in pajamas.  I'm a huge fan of Betsey Johnson pajamas, my favorite pair is five years old and they're still in wonderful condition.  I love the print of the Winter Wonderland flannels, they look so comfy!


Kate Spade
1. Charm Heels
2. Sugarcoated Stone Ring

Who doesn't like Kate Spade?!  That champagne bottle clutch is the perfect piece for my New Year's Eve outfit, I can't get enough of it!


Sephora
1. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit

I'm quite the makeup addict and I can't leave a Sephora without something.  I can always add a new brush to my collection and the new Urban Decay Gwen Stefani palette looks so pretty!


Sanrio
Sanrio

My poor husband knows how much I love Sanrio.  I have a collection of Hello Kitty plushies (which now belong in Bianca's room), kitchen appliances, and I even have a tattoo!  I love the Sanrio/Loungefly handbag collection, I can definitely see myself working that satchel into my everyday life :).

Are you excited for Christmas?  How are you spending your holidays?

xoxo

Ashley


Monday, December 21, 2015

Jailbird

Pinup Girl Clothing Deadly Dames Deadly Curves Skirt in Black Faux Leather Jailbird Top in Black and White Stripe Deer Arrow Snowflake Brooch

I've returned from an unexpected blogging break.  If you follow me on Instagram, I mentioned that I had been a bit overwhelmed with a fun but busy week.  Bianca and I enjoyed a day at Disneyland, Kevin and I went to see Muse, we attended a fancy holiday party, and I worked a few shifts.  As much as I love to keep up with my posts here, sometimes it's necessary to step away and enjoy the life I have offline.  After almost five years of blogging, I felt like a week away was much deserved!

Monday, December 14, 2015

Wine Red

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Jenny Skirt in Red Sharksin Taffeta Laura Byrnes Sabrina Top in Black Deer Arrow Brooch

What a fun few days!  I had an unexpected weekend off from work, thanks to my lovely boss.  Kevin and I hosted the family Christmas party this year and it was a huge hit.  We even had Santa stop by!  Bianca got her very first present from Santa and she loved it.  If that joy is anything like what Christmas will be like, I literally cannot wait to watch her open the rest.  Without a doubt, Christmas with Bianca is better than any other Christmas I've ever had as a kid (and those were pretty awesome).

Friday, December 11, 2015

Holiday Gift Guide: The Vintage Enthusiast

Since the holidays are right around the corner, I wanted to put together a gift guide for people like me (and the many I know and love).  Here's lots of fun gift ideas, both vintage and vintage inspired, that's perfect for any budget!

The Vintage Studio
1. 50's Novelty Circle Skirt
2. 60's Floral Dress
3. 60's Leopard Print Coat
4. 80's Victor Costa Dress
5. 50's Fruit Print Skirt

The Vintage Studio has no shortage of vintage goodies from many different eras.  There's nothing like getting a one of a kind piece!  I'm quite enamored with the 50's section, I just wish I had about 50 more proms to attend so I could buy them all!


Geronimo Vintage
1. 60's Lanz Dress
5. Blue 50's Dress

Geronimo has no shortage of novelty prints, which means I'm in vintage heaven!  That tartan dress is calling my name, isn't it the perfect holiday dress?


Target
1. Two Door Accent Table
5. Mid Century Modern Coffee Table

Not going to lie, this is basically my living room wish list.  Can you believe this is all from Target?!  I love the simplistic nature to vintage/vintage inspired furniture.  Less is always more (unless we're looking in my closet)!


Erstwilder
1. Deck The Halls Wreath Brooch
5. Shake, Rattle and Roll Brooch

Erstwilder has their Christmas brooch game on point!  I love the gingerbread man (I wear him all the time) and I'm hoping to collect all their holiday inspired brooches so I can add them to my ever growing brooch board.


Pinup Girl Clothing
1. Jailbird Top In Black
5. Chevron Purse

The Veronica dress is now back in stock, which means it would be perfect for those upcoming holiday parties!  I'm also loving the solid color Jailbird tops, I'm trying my hardest not to purchase them all...


I have yet to finish Christmas shopping, but I know exactly what I need to get.  Have you finished?  What's still on your list?

xoxo

Ashley

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Virtual Christmas Party

Unique Vintage Iconic by UV Dovima Gown in Emerald

It's the most wonderful time of the year which means we have another Girl Squad Style post for you!  We wanted to do things a little fancier this time, so Sammi, Amanda, Katie, and I put on some of our favorite dresses and pinned on our cutest holiday brooches from Deer Arrow.  Since we can't be together during the holidays, we're getting dolled up like we would for a virtual Christmas party!

Monday, December 7, 2015

Black and Tan

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Lolita Top in Black Velvet

I'm gearing up for quite a busy month (aren't we all?) which includes hosting a Christmas party this weekend, taking a mini vacation, figuring out what to do for my birthday, and getting all of Bianca's birthday plans worked out.  I thrive off of high stress situations like these, probably because I know the outcome will be memorable in the end.  I'm most excited about Bianca's Disneyland birthday trip.  I've already made special reservations and locked down some matching custom skirts for the occasion.  We all know the outfit is a very important part of this day!

Friday, December 4, 2015

Rocket

Lil' Lou Lou Rocket Ads Skirt Mommy and Me

I'm so proud of Bianca, this little lady was fighting a cold and still managed to give me a few smiles in our matching outfits!  Much like her mommy, she loves getting dressed up, especially if it involves a "pretty dress".  These matching Jivin' skirts from Lil' Lou Lou are quickly becoming a favorite, because there's nothing better than wearing a kitschy novelty print!

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Blue December

Bernie Dexter Paris Dress in Blue Toile Print

I enjoy "winterizing" my vintage/vintage inspired wardrobe, probably because it doesn't take more than an added layer to be fully prepared here in California.  I have quite the collection of cardigans, which get lots of use this time of year.  This blue toile Bernie Dexter dress has always been a favorite and I was more than excited to style it for this time of year.  Some people think light blue/pastels are only for spring, but when put this outfit together my mind immediately thought, "ice queen".  I consider that a compliment!

Monday, November 30, 2015

Little Jun

Laura Byrnes Little Jun Jacket and Skirt in Pale Rose Pink

I was actually quite excited to put this post together, mostly because I'm doing something a little different today.  My boss, the Overlord herself, gave her employees the chance to talk about their favorite Pinup Girl Clothing outfits and why we love them so much (you can check out this series on our Facebook right now).  I'm personally quite a fan of the Little Jun skirt and cropped jacket set; because it's classy, cute, and incredibly versatile.  Still not sold?  I went ahead and created a few outfits built around these two staple pieces.  Because if it doesn't work for multiple occasions/seasons, it's probably not a smart investment!

LittleJunCollage

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Poppy Fields

Bernie Dexter Saturday Night Dress in Poppy Print

Well, the craziest time of the year is here: Black Friday.  I'm not a big physical shopper (I love to do everything online in my pajamas) and the thought of braving the crowds sounds torturous.  Thankfully, most retailers offer the same deals online as they do in store so I get the best of both worlds in the comfort of my home.  For example, Unique Vintage is offering this gorgeous Bernie Dexter dress (as well as everything else on their site) for 25% off.  Like I've mentioned before, Bernie Dexter is one of my favorite brands and being able to shop these sales is a godsend!  This Saturday Night dress is the perfect poppy print that can be dressed up for the holidays or worn all year around.

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Peacock

Voodoo Vixen Blair Dress

Let the holiday outfits begin!  I love dressing up for any occasion really, so this time of year is always a fun way to play with my wardrobe.  Voodoo Vixen just released their holiday collection and I've been fortunate enough to snag this gorgeous Blair dress for review!

Monday, November 23, 2015

Chrysanthemum

Bernie Dexter Paris Dress in Chrysanthemum Print

I don't know why it took me so long to add this dress to my wardrobe.  I have been lusting after it for years.  I first discovered Bernie Dexter on Modcloth, but at the time the price point was much too high and I was a "more bang for your buck" kind of shopper.  I've since realized the error in my ways and I feel much more satisfied saving for a well constructed dress.  As you might already know, I'm a sucker for her Paris style dresses (I have five), mostly because they're perfect for summer and really easy to transition into colder weather.

Friday, November 20, 2015

What's On My Radar: Current Loves

Happy Friday!  With the craziness of the holidays already upon us, sometimes shopping for yourself and others can be overwhelming.  This month's installment is short, sweet, and can get both you and your loved ones ready to enjoy the chaos together :).  Here's my picks:

When Decades Collide
1. Geometric Dress

When Decades Collide is one of my favorite vintage shops.  She handpicks every perfect piece and always has me contemplating throwing down an entire paycheck on her goodies.  She also updates frequently, which means there are more chances to find the perfect vintage ensemble!


Unique Vintage
1. Heather Dress in Baby Blue Manor Print

Unique Vintage has been killing it with their new arrivals lately!  From classic to quirky, there is no shortage of novelty prints on their site.  I feel like I could live in those plaid dresses...


Pinup Girl Clothing
1. Bamboo Purse in Circus Print
5. Strawberry Bucket Bag

As usual, my Pinup Girl Clothing wishlist is miles long.  Their coming soon section has me gasping with glee, especially when it comes to this silver Ava swing dress.  It just screams New Year's Eve!


Modcloth
1. Tree For All Wall Decor

I feel like Modcloth has the largest selection of fun gifts, so I've included some of my favorites.  I had to add a ridiculously cute coat and winter inspired dress just for good measure.  These might be (mostly) gift ideas, but I could stash all these in my home without a blink of an eye.

What's on your list this month?  Have you started Christmas shopping yet?  Let me know in the comments below!

xoxo

Ashley

Monday, November 16, 2015

Borrowed Time

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Jenny Skirt in Italian Landscape print Laura Byrnes Sabrina Top in Teal

I can't believe it's taken me this long to feature one of my favorite skirts!  I waited for what felt like months for a restock and purchased it the minute it popped back up on the site.  I usually wear it with a solid black or striped top, but my new favorite pairing is the teal Sabrina top.  It's the perfect color for fall and compliments this skirt beautifully.  I'm looking forward to incorporating teal (and other jewel tones) into my wardrobe this season.

Friday, November 13, 2015

Lift Off!

Lil' Lou Lou Rocket Science Skirt Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Peasant Top in Black

I don't think I will ever get tired of matching my outfit with Bianca's.  I can't say she will feel the same way forever, but she gets so giddy and screams "dress" when we match right now and it absolutely melts my heart.  Lily, the wonderful woman behind Lil' Lou Lou, surprised us with a few matching outfits from her Rocket Science collection.  I let Bianca open the package and she went crazy, I'm not even kidding!  Lil' Lou Lou has tons of beautiful high quality pieces and I couldn't wait to feature her shop!

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Hollywood Boulevard

Emmy Design Hollywood Boulevard Blouse Pinup Couture Cigarette Pants in Denim

Some days are just harder than others.  This day just happened to nip me in the rump at every opportunity!  The weather was perfect, the lighting was great, and Bianca was being cooperative.  But let me tell you, the minute I set up my camera the most powerful of windstorms approached.  Instead of hanging my head in defeat, I managed to snap as many decent pictures as I could.  This "dressed down" side of my wardrobe had to be documented!

Monday, November 9, 2015

Saving Grace

Pinup Girl Clothing Deadly Dames Kinky Box Skirt in Leopard Print Laura Byrnes Sabrina Top in Black

Happy Monday!  It was one eventful weekend for me, which is actually quite rare outside of work.  Kevin and I had the chance to have a date night at a very fancy restaurant and we also managed to squeeze in our holiday card photos and a friend's birthday party.  I'll admit that my family is happy being little homebodies, but it was nice to get out together and live life outside our ridiculously comfortable couch.

Friday, November 6, 2015

Tips and Tricks: Achieving and Maintaining Bright Colored Hair

The long awaited hair color post is here!  As someone who has been coloring their hair at home for years, I've always wanted to give my tips and tricks for anyone who's considering taking the vibrant color plunge.  This post has been on my mind for months, I just wanted to make sure I had all the information gathered before I went ahead and posted it.  Just so you know, while I am well versed with color, I am not a licensed cosmetologist.  Now that we have that out of the way, let's get started!

Pinup Girl Clothing Ella dress in Mary Blair Lips and Roses print in Lavender

Before you consider a vibrant color:

- Make sure you're willing to maintain the upkeep.  Unlike normal hair color, the vibrant hues fade much faster.  I touch up my color about every two weeks, sometimes even more!

- Unless you have light blonde hair, bleach is needed before you color.  My natural is a dark ash blonde (level 6) and I bleach it to a level 9 or 10 to get the best results.  If your hair already has color on it, expect to have your hair bleached several times before you reach a high enough level.  That being said, you may experience breakage during your bleaching journey.

- Depending on what color you use, you may have color transfer on your clothes, pillow cases, shower, etc.  I used to have this problem when I used Special Effects colors, but I've since switched to Sparks color and I have no issues.  But let me tell you, there was a time I wouldn't dare wearing a white top because of my hair!

Bernie Dexter Paris dress in Cherry print

What you'll need:

Sparks color

- Plastic hair color bowl

- Color brush

- Gloves

- Conditioner

- Shower cap

Start with freshly bleached hair.  I usually bleach my hair the night before and color it the day after.  It's not a must, but sometimes the entire process can be long so I split it up.  Make sure your hair is completely dry before you deposit the color.  My color concoctions frequently change, but I'm currently using Sparks Purple Passion, Pink Kiss, and their brand new silver color.  Since the Purple Passion is very concentrated, I only use a very small amount, about the size of dime.  The Pink Kiss and Silver are then added, about 2-3 tablespoons each.  I then add the conditioner to lighten the colors.  The type of conditioner you use isn't important, as long as it's a white color.  Mix it all up and if you're happy with the outcome, start applying it to your hair.  Sometimes it can be too dark (which I'll then add more conditioner) or too light (which I'll then add more color) so it can take a few tries to get the desired hue I'm looking for.

Once it's applied, I don a shower cap to keep the color from drying.  While most colors say to leave it on for 20-30 minutes, I leave it on for 2 hours minimum (remember how I said this process is long?).  It lasts much longer when the color sits longer.  Once you're ready to wash, make sure you use cold water to rinse it out.  Since I start this process with freshly washed hair, I don't shampoo it out.  Again, that's up to you, but the color lasts longer when you shampoo less!

Pinup Girl Clothing Amanda Dress in Red White and Royal Blue

Post color care:

- Try to stay out of direct sunlight for long periods of time.  The sun will fade your hair quicker than it already does!  Hats are definitely your friend.

- Always wash your hair in cold water.  Unless you're using a color care system like Overtone, warm water will fade your hair even quicker than the sun.  Since I don't like taking ice cold showers, I wash my hair in cold water first and then shower with a cap on.

- Speaking of washing your hair, try to do it as little as possible!  I've gone down to twice a week, which is the least I can wash without looking dirty.  I use lots of dry shampoo in between washes, which is a lifesaver!

- Use sulfate free shampoo/conditioner.  This will help prevent your color from being stripped at a faster rate.  Sparks has a color care line that I absolutely love!

- Add some dye to your conditioner to help with the fading process.  I added a drop of my purple color to my conditioner and make sure to leave it on for 5-10 minutes for a mini touch up!

Pinup Girl Clothing Chartreuse Peasant top Laura Byrnes High Waist shorts

I always say having a fun color is a labor of love and the above post is proof!  Have any questions for me?  Let me know in the comments below!

xoxo

Ashley

Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Painted City

Emily and Fin Painted City Florence Skirt

My skirt collection has grown faster than I even realized!  I've always been a fan of a good novelty print, so it's no surprise that this gorgeous Emily and Fin number now has a place in my closet.  As someone who's incredibly particular about my fabrics, I really appreciate a breathable cotton skirt.  It doesn't hurt that it has massive pockets as well.  When I can go to the grocery store without a purse, I'm quite certain that I'll want to wear that outfit every time.

Monday, November 2, 2015

Revel In Nostalgia

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Peasant Top in Chartreuse Lime and Little Jun Skirt in Pale Turquoise Blue

As much as I've hated wearing anything but dresses, I feel like it's taken the right separates to change my mind.  This new Little Jun skirt is as comfortable as it is pretty.  The back waistband has elastic shirring so it gives a tailor made fit, the hidden back zip allows a seamless look, and the cummerbund waist detail is extremely flattering.  I never realized how much I loved box pleats until I put on this skirt!  It also comes in a pretty pink and a basic black, which I'm hoping to add to my closet very soon.  I'm also crossing my fingers it will eventually come in some fun prints.  Wouldn't that be amazing?!

Friday, October 30, 2015

Paint It Black

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Jenny Skirt in Black Sateen

I have just one more day left for my spooky outfit series!  Depending on how crazy today is, I might be able to knock out one more tomorrow.  I decided to go very "basic" with this Halloween inspired outfit, which might be boring but it's perfect for everyday wear.  When in doubt, black and white stripes are always the perfect go-to.  Which might explain why I have about ten different tops in the same print...

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Greeting Temptation

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Jenny Skirt in Warm Cabana Stripes Lolita Top in Black Velvet

Let the spooky outfits continue!  I've kept my word so far and I plan to keep them coming until Saturday.  Like I've said before; dressing up in costumes isn't my thing, but wearing spooky inspired outfits appropriate for everyday life certainly is!  This warm cabana striped skirt always felt more like Halloween to me, so it seems fitting to wear it this time of year.  I can assure you it gets wear all year around though.  I went for a more "witchy" vibe with black pieces and my favorite new boots.  I finished this look with my trusty Sandworm brooch.  You've probably seen him a lot because I wear him almost everyday.  It's so hard not to play favorites!

Sunday, October 25, 2015

Venus

Pinup Girl Clothing Deadly Dames Darling Dames Skirt in Venus Fly Trap Print

I think I may have been one of the only ladies who wasn't eager to get my hands on this venus fly trap skirt... Initially.  As big of a fan of Micheline Pitt's prints as I am (I'm pretty sure I own them all), there was something about it that made me feel hesitant to get one.  When I received my monster print Darling Dames skirt a few weeks ago (seen here), I realized how much I love the new shorter length and the pockets.  So naturally, I wanted to get a few prints to add to my wardrobe.  This print is much more beautiful in person and I'm happy pushed away my hesitation and went for it!

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Idle Hands

Karina Dresses Gala Wrap Dress in Black

Until Halloween, my posts will be dedicated to spooky themed everyday outfits.  I don't usually get excited about costumes, but I love to dress the part in my daily life.  I'm quite proud of myself for accumulating enough black dresses to have a visible black "section" now!  This LBD from Karina Dresses is the perfect piece to dress up, down, or spooky!
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