Nora Finds

Lady Vintage Wears

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:09:28 +1000

This month’s Meet My Dealers post is a special one. First, because Lady Vintage Wears is a local business based here in Australia (Gold Coast to be exact). Second, because there are two owners and they are sisters! They are so lovely, and I’m really excited to introduce you to them! They have recently contribute a beautiful Erstwilder brooch for my mental health awareness giveaway, and I was tempted to keep it for myself!

I chatted to the beautiful Lizzy and Emily about their love of vintage and the shop.

What vintage stereotype you loathe most?

Lizzy: That all vintage dresses are small (like tinny weeny). Yes, many of them are small (women were physically smaller back then) but, there are some 30” plus waist dresses out there you just need to know where to find them.

What vintage decade is your favorite to wear?
Lizzy: 40’s and 50’s - I especially enjoy it because I sing with a swing/jazz band and love dressing the part when we gig.
Emily: I really like wearing looks from the 60’s because of the great patterns and colours - plus my hair has been short and pixie like recently so suits the era perfectly.

What vintage decade is your favorite to sell?
Lizzy: There is something special about the moment someone walks out of your dressing room in a fabulous 40’s or 50’s dress - you just know the have to have it when it looks that good on someone.
Emily: We recently had a stunning 30’s inspired gown with velvet flocking which a young lady bought to wear as her wedding reception dress. That was a very special moment.

When did you decide to start a vintage business?

Lizzy: I have been collecting vintage clothing and home wears since the 90’s - as my first home was totally decked out with original furniture and nick-knacks from the 1950’s. Plus I was into the rock and roll dancing scene for a number of years while living in Melbourne and the Gold Coast. As long as I can remember, I have been a stall holder a various markets and fairs around the place, even dabbling with items on consignment in a local vintage store in the early 2000’s. I have a ‘normal’ job in the day as a sales assistant in a women’s fashion store. Emily: The first time the idea came up to start a vintage clothing stall was while my sisters and I were walking through the streets of Paddington browsing the local antique stores. Lizzy said how one day she would love to just have a small hobby business selling vintage clothing, I remember saying to her what a great idea that was and put it down to something that would happen ‘one day’. Later that year Lizzy was talking about the upcoming Brisbane Vintage Fashion Fair where she mentioned again that how great it would be to look at selling some stuff as vendors at the fair. I had also been selling items on ebay for the last 6 months with stock waiting to still be listed. So from there we decided to gather up our combined stock, price, steam, sort and hang everything we had and so ‘Lady Vintage Wears’ was born. I have a regular job in the week working on the Gold Coast in the community sector with The Smith Family - a national children’s charity helping young Australian’s in need reach their full potential through education.

Name two of your ultimate vintage muses (one vintage, one modern but wearing vintage) and tell us why.
Lizzy: Doris Day had that real ‘girl next door’ look but could still look stunning in an evening dress. Reece Witherspoon always looks very polished when she wears vintage couture on the red carpet.
Emily: My vintage muse would have to be Elizabeth Taylor, classic beauty, always immaculate, worked what she had despite the decade or her age. Plus wasn’t her jewellery collection just fabulous? I also really love Drew Barrymore’s style, I love that when she commits to a vintage look (she really rocks 1920’s and 1960’s in my opinion) she totally commits: hair, makeup, accessories, the lot. Love it.

Some people are still scared about wearing vintage. Is there any tips you’d give them to start wearing vintage?
Lizzy: Go to a local fair and see what the stall holders have to offer, tell them what you like and they are sure to have heaps of suggestions. Also check out the other patrons at the event, because they were just like you at one point, you have to start somewhere.
Emily: Wear what makes you feel good, if it is a cardigan from the 80’s or a ballgown from the 1930’s, fashion is about expressing who you are. An easy way to get into vintage is to get some ideas from the web either through blogs (like Nora’s ) or even google searches can be a great way to generate some inspiration. Start small, raid Mum or Nan’s jewellery box - you can never have to many brooches or earrings!

What do you think is the biggest advantage in wearing vintage? What about in wearing reproductions?
Lizzy: As so many of the original vintage pieces have SUCH a small waist, that is really where the reproduction items allow women of all sizes the chance to wear something from an era gone by. Plus as a women with curves myself, I find it hard to find original items to wear, so enjoy the reproduction items as much as our customers
Emily: There are so many great things about wearing vintage, in many cases you will not see anyone else wearing your garment (especially if you have a piece from 1950’s or earlier). If you are a savvy shopper you can pick up items for less than you would pay for a brand new item in the stores today. It’s a great way to experiment with different makeup looks - have you always dared to wear a bold red lipstick or rock an Edie Sedgwick eye look? Well when you are wearing vintage, you can! Finally the craftsmanship of many of these pieces have already stood the test of time, with vintage lovers the world over still wearing these wonderful garments even today.

I hope you’ve enjoyed the interview, and please check our their lovely shop on Facebook. Though they are quite new, they have really great stocks. If you live around Gold Coast, please check them out as well! And with that, I’m off to Japan! There will be some new outfit posts as I’m away so don’t forget to come back and check :)

Love,

NoraFinds

The Chill, The Leap, and The Sweater

Mon, 13 May 2013 10:23:00 +1000

Sweater - Vintage 1960s - Story of Things

Skirt - Vintage 1950s - The Vintage Mistress

Earrings - Vintage 1950s - Olivia Marcheline

Brooch - Vintage 1950s - Huskisson Trading Post

Shoes - Modern - Rubi Shoes

These pictures are taken at Govett’s Leap, Blue Mountains, where we spent a chilly weekend to enjoy the scenery. We also visited Victory Theatre Antique Centre in Blackheath, where I had to exercise my will power and only walked out with a beautiful fabric and two 1940s sewing patterns. The centre didn’t have a lot of clothing, though there was a few stalls that stocked really fabulous new old stocks (including Mary Quant leggings and some sewing notions). Do check it out if you’re ever in the area! I was actually surprised how busy it was, considering that it’s a small city - and the Sydney Antique Centre, one of my most fave hangouts, is sooo quiet in comparison (Saadddddd!!!!).

Wearing vintage is really more fun when the weather gets colder. Layers are recommended, hats are acceptable, and furs might even get a cameo appearance! As weather permitted, I wore my warm wool cardigan. The geometric pattern is a reminder of how modern the 1960s fashion is, while the buttons have this antique coins appearance - with the year 1964 embossed in Roman numerals. The perfect mix of old and new.

So after one weekend at Jervis Bay and another at Blue Mountains, I was reminded of how good Sydney is. I can easily get away to both the beaches and the mountains, away from the busy crazy city. But what about you? What do you prefer - the beaches or the mountains?

Love,

NoraFinds

Giveaway winners, sneak peek, and features

Fri, 10 May 2013 11:29:47 +1000

A quick post to announce the winners to my Love Vintage Melbourne giveaway: Bess G, Lauren C, and Nissa J (through the blog) and Elycestefani and Robotdove (through instagram)

Sneak-peek of upcoming outfit post

And the various features I discovered in the past week:

< Vogue Ukraine >

< NineMSN >

< Cocktail Revolution - vote for me if you have time :) >

It’s Friday!!! I’ve had a really busy week at work and getting really excited about my trip to Japan. I leave on Friday to stop over at Singapore (I need to stock up on my Sephora and eat some yummy lunch), and then off to Tokyo for the first week. I am really looking forward to checking out the fashion in Tokyo, and especially hoping to see some Dolly Kei girls! They are the perfect combination of Harajuku-style and vintage, so I’m also hoping to stalk them to find out where they go shopping :)

Image source

My First Date with Marci Vintage

Tue, 07 May 2013 17:32:00 +1000

Dress - Vintage 1980s - c/o Marci Vintage

Hat - Vintage 1940s - JLVintage

Earrings - Vintage 1950s - The Great Pretender

Ring - Modern - Lovisa

My first date with Marci Vintage took us to Blue Mountains, where we stayed in a beautiful house with this lovely garden. I wined and dined this baby and it really was a perfect first date. A perfect first date with a perfect dress.

This dress epitomises the simple femininity. Yes, it’s pink. And yes, it has flowers. But was it too feminine? No way. The perfect scalloped edge bib detail, the buttons along one shoulder and the folded high neck shows subtle details in the simple dress. 1980s pieces tend to be over-the-top, neon, and loud. But this dress must’ve taken inspiration from the older decades - the decades where less is more!

I used to avoid pink when I was younger, not wanting to look too girly and opted to wear a baggy t-shirt instead. But at the not-quite-mature age of 26, I embrace my femininity. I wear pink, I wear high-waisted pieces, I wear makeup. But I highly doubt that we need to show skin to look feminine, to prove that we are women. Being comfortably dressed and feeling confident trumps showing cleavage any time. I know you all know this, but sometimes we all need a little reminder!

Melbourne-based Marci Vintage stocks so many beautiful dresses - all vintage or reworked, and very feminine. Because really, at the end of they day, we all want to be princesses. Anyway, just check it out - I have another date with my Marci Vintage dress.

Love,

NoraFinds

I Think I'm Turning Japanese

Sun, 05 May 2013 21:35:00 +1000

Blouse - Modern - Topshop

Skirt - Vintage 1960s velvet pencil skirt - Sally Jane Vintage

Bag - Vintage 1980s Bally - ILoveVintage

Brooch - Vintage - worn on collar - Vintage sale

Ring - Modern - Enrapture Designs

Sunglasses - Reproduction - Route66

Boots - Modern - ASOS

A few weeks ago, boyfriend and I went for a drive to Gosford to revisit the Edogawa Japanese Gardens. It’s not really big, but still really lovely. The first time we visited there was a wedding going on so we couldn’t explore it thoroughly, so a second visit was inevitable.

Again and again I have mentioned that I wear vintage every day, though sometimes the outfit still looks somewhat modern. This grunge-y outfit is really a modern blouse and a 60s velvet skirt. If you are new to wearing vintage, buying pieces such as this skirt is a good decision. You need to think about how you can wear this piece and style it in both vintage and modern way. If you buy a piece like a mink fur stole, you’re bound to have to save it for special occasions. You can’t wear that stole with jeans. Well, not traditionally at least.

Anyway, we’re off to Japan in less than two weeks time! We will be going with friends to visit another friend who’s been working in Tokyo. I’m really excited as this is my first trip, and I’ve always been fascinated by the culture. Some have said that it’s a mecca for mod vintage clothing, so I’ll definitely look into it, but if you have any suggestion on where to go and what to see - please leave a comment below!

Love,

NoraFinds

Insta-updates and Announcement

Thu, 02 May 2013 17:51:00 +1000

Autumn is here, and just before summer ended I did a 50s photoshoot with an amazing team and here is the end result with the model wearing The Vintage Drawer floral dress.

One of the most beautiful dress I’ve seen. As you might know, autumn in Sydney is really temperamental. This is one of the most beautiful days captured by my mobile.

The boyfriend’s family is visiting from the UK, bringing us a whole suitcase of food.

A visit to Nina’s Vintage Closet where I contemplated this beautiful umbrella as it was pouring down outside (again with the temperamental weather!)

Nina gifted me this beautiful circle skirt that she deemed is too small to sell. I don’t blame her, I had to reposition the waist band because it literally pinched my skin as I pulled the zipper up. Ouch!

Some beauties I picked up at Jervis Bay as I holidayed with the boyfriend and family. I don’t know if these earrings are vintage, but they are screw-back. Any suggestion?

My happy face on the beautiful weekend in Jervis Bay.

And an announcement:

NoraFinds is now offering personal styling service! Sydney girls, I’m available to give you one-to-one consultation on how to start wearing vintage, take you on a vintage shopping experience, find your vintage style and teach you how to wear vintage day-in-day-out in the styles you’re comfortable with! This service is $100 for 2.5 hours and will be available starting from June, so please leave a comment below or email me at mail@norafinds.com for more information :) I want to spread the vintage love and prove to you that you can wear vintage every day! :)

More services are available including photo shoot styling and sponsorship if you have a vintage-related business. For more information read here

Love,

NoraFinds

Scenic

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 17:51:00 +1000

Blouse - Modern - Topshop

Skirt - Vintage 1950s novelty skirt - Coco Repose

Bag - Vintage 1950s straw + lucite bag - New Old Fashion Vintage

Jewelry - Vintage 1950s demi parure set - Olivia Marcheline

Sunglasses - Reproduction - The Vintage Drawer

Shoes - Modern - NineWest

As promised, this is another outfit post featuring my latest favorite skirt. This horse buggy skirt is one of many beautiful novelty skirts Coco Repose managed to get their hands on. They all came from the same lady who obviously loves amazing prints and colors! When I saw this skirt at the Love Vintage Show it was love at first sight - I know we are going to be together for a very long time.

This is an outfit I wore for a lunch date with the boyfriend at a cute French bistro at Palm Beach. I still enjoy these dates. Even though we’ve been together for years and live together, it’s still nice to take some time and do something special. It’s too easy for us to stay at home and sit on the couch concentrating on our own laptops. After all, we both enjoy a good drive in the sun and good food :)

Don’t forget I’m giving away double passes for you to win to the Love Vintage Melbourne Show May 17-19. This is a great opportunity for you to find some beautiful treasure, one like this skirt hopefully! :)

Love,

NoraFinds

Giveaway: Love Vintage Melbourne May 17-19 double passes

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 19:37:23 +1000

Your chance, Melbourne! Too easy. Simply leave a comment with your email address on this post! :) I have THREE double passes to give away, meaning five winners get to take a friend or relative to the amazing show. If you want to see how fun it was in Sydney, check out my posts here and here. Even though I won’t be there, I know the Melbourne show will be amazing - I can imagine the atmosphere being amazing, just like the Melbourne vintage community!

I am also giving away TWO double passes through Instagram, where you can repost this picture for your entry.

If you do both, you will double your chance to win! :)

Competition opens to Australian residents only. Ends May 8. Winners will be picked randomly and will be contacted to supply their mailing address.

MBFWA outfit 3: Vintage at Fashion Week

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 18:12:00 +1000

Picture by Keishikibi

I’m not sure how it took so long for me to post the third and last outfit that I wore to the fashion week, but here it is. I was snapped by Keishikibi (StreetstyleAustralia) and also by Getty Images/Zimbio - my picture actually showed up at Newcastle Herald as part of their streetstyle poll. My friend Nusardel actually pointed it out and I made every one voted for me hahaha. And it doesn’t really matter that they spelled my surname wrong ahahha :) I’m happy enough that I have a shot or two to share with you. I actually have another outfit post coming up with this skirt, so I’ll show you more details soon enough!

Blouse - Vintage 1970s - The Vintage Mistress

Skirt - Vintage 1950s novelty skirt - Coco Repose

Bag - Vintage 1950s - c/o The Vintage Mistress

Hat - Vintage 1950s - PoppycockVintage

Shoes - Modern - Nine West

Love,

NoraFinds

Anna Kim from Revolving Styles

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 20:08:12 +1000

Welcome to another post in the series of Meet My Dealers. This time, I want to introduce you to the sweet Anna Kim from Revolving Styles. As you all know, I’m an avid fan of Etsy. Not only Etsy has the best vintage shops, you can easily communicate with sellers and ask questions about their vintage. It really is the best way for you to learn to wear vintage.

While the number of vintage on Etsy might be overwhelming for some, you quickly learn to find the best shops. The best shops photograph their items well, properly showing the colors and shape of the pieces. They also list their piece with extensive descriptions: measurements, era, flaws. To have these informations in hand before you decide to buy is really priceless. Revolving Styles is one of these shops.

Get a cup of tea, sit down, relax, and get to know Anna and her love of vintage. Oh and have your credit card nearby, there’s a lot of beautiful dresses waiting for you.

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What is your favorite decade to wear?

I always go back to the 1950s. I feel their silhouette is the most feminine and flattering on my figure, as well as most other women.

Who is your favorite vintage muse?

I know this is cliche, but I really adore Audrey Hepburn- everything about her!

What vintage style do you love most?

I am definitely a classic girl. I buy for the shop and myself classic pieces that flatter a women’s body and outlasts time.

1950s Green Dress | 1950s Purple Chiffon Dress | 1950s Orange Silk Taffeta Dress

What do you think is the most underrated decade?

I believe the most underrated decade has to be the 1970s. I think many may think of the 70s as loud with bold graphics, which they are. But 70s really delves into the soft bohemian look, which I love!

What vintage trends do you think will keep being popular in the next few years?

I am not trendy, but I do hope the high waist stays on for a while. When I was growing up, the low waist was definitely popular. Looking back on that, I think it is one of the more unflattering cuts. But, I feel like all of the trends are recycled from the past, but tweaked. So, I’m sure we’ll be seeing many vintage trends repeat themselves.

What was your first vintage piece?

I can’t exactly remember my first vintage piece because like many girls, I raided my mother’s closet and used to wear HER vintage pieces. I do think that this 70s top was one that I wore a lot of in junior high/high school though. I actually show my awkward adolescent self here on Bess Georgette

Which modern designers do you actually like for their vintage-style designs?

Honestly, I don’t follow modern designers very much. Not because I think they are a waste of time, but because I don’t have much time. But, when I do have time to ogle over designers and runways, I find I always go back to Louis Vutton because the execution of the 50s vibe is done so well. Also, I really like 3.1 Phillip Lim because of his use of classic lines, but with an edge.

1960s Gold Brocade Suit | 1960s Green Floral Dress | 1950s Tiki Shirtwaist Dress

Do you have a vintage collection?

I definitely have a collection of vintage day dresses. I have also began collecting more and more vintage hangings for my bare walls. If they are not photos of the kids, they are botanical prints or some sort of vintage print.

Is Revolving Style your full-time job?

Revolving Styles is the only thing I do to earn income. My first job of course is to be a mother to my son and daughter and a wife to my hardworking husband. I was a middle school teacher before I had my first child. While I was on maternity leave, the state of California began to have really tough financial situations and schools were forced to let go many teachers. I was handed a pink slip, and although my husband and I decided it was best for one parent to stay at home with the child during their early years, it was a confirmation that we were doing what was right for our growing family.

However, we do need a supplemental income to my husband’s to pay all of our bills, so I decided 3 1/2 years ago to start selling something I really enjoyed. Now, I would say i dedicate between 3-5 hours a day on the shop and the blog, which isn’t much relatively, but it’s really quite difficult to find that time while taking care of the kids, house, husband and such.

What decades does Revolving Style focus on?

Revolving Styles sells items from the 1920s-80s, but mostly focuses on pieces from the 1940s-70s.

What is your favorite decade to buy for the shop?

I would love to stock my shop with more 1930s dresses, but they are definitely hard to come by. I do aim to put in items from the 1950s and 60s the most. These are still the most sought after in the shop as well as profitable, which is important for the business.

What is the most difficult vintage pieces to sell?

Two different ways it could be “difficult” - it doesn’t sell well, or difficult as in it’s hard to let go. Items that don’t sell as well seem to be vintage separates. Items that are hard to let go for me are the 1950s day dresses that happen to be my size, which are many!

1950s Wooden Earrings | 1950s Aligator Heels | 1950s Boater Hat | 1960s Little Girl Sailor Dress

Love,

NoraFinds

Mental Health Awareness Giveaway - And the winners are...

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 19:17:02 +1000

Care Package 1: Fran

Care Package 2: Liv

Care Package 3: Kristi

Thank you for everyone who has entered the giveaway. It was far too difficult to pick just three winners. I hope we will continue to raise awareness about mental health and depression. We’ve made a small nick, but it’s only the start. We gotta break through and battle the disease hands-to-hands. Thank you.

Mental Health Awareness: Clarisse

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:18:46 +1000

The giveaway ends tonight, but before it does let’s read Clarisse’s story. Clarisse is the main reason for me to come up with the mental health awareness giveaway. She has been a reader of my blog and we often communicated via email. One day she opened up to me about her personal problem and since I have witnessed her courageous journey battling this debilitating disease.

The reason I am here, my boyfriend Clint.

My name is Clarisse Salazar and I suffer from a variety of mental illnesses every day. It took a year to diagnose me but I suffer from Schizo-Affective Bipolar Disorder. This means I feel schizophrenic symptoms such as paranoia and hallucinations but I also have the psychotic highs and crippling depressions associated with Bipolar Disorder. I also suffer from a Dissociative Disorder which makes me act like I’m five years old again that happens randomly. I forget everyone that I met after I was five. I also have OCD; the stereotypical cleaning obsessed one but also another type. I have obsessional thoughts which are like intrusive thoughts that are scary in nature but persist in your mind.

I have been in and out of mental hospitals for the past year, having been diagnosed when I was eighteen. I want everyone to know that they’re not alone and there is help out there. Yes, I am very sick but I live a full and happy life regardless. Support is very important. I lost many friends when I got sick, some told me to just get over it. Mental illness is like any other illness; you wouldn’t tell someone to get over a broken leg. Others told me I should just stop being sad and be happy when I’m suffering from depression. I can’t help the way that I feel and it’s not my choice to be sick. Many were scared of my illness and stopped talking to me completely. And that’s what makes it so hard; mental illness is just taboo and not understood at all. I tried to commit suicide multiple times due to my experience with people, culminating in being rushed to the hospital in an ambulance. I’m so happy I have people like my family, my boyfriend and my boyfriend’s family as well as friends like Nora who genuinely care and try to understand.

My psychiatrist is a great help and if you do suspect you have a mental illness don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor and he will refer you to a psychiatrist. This was how I got help and I continue to see doctors regularly. There is so much help out there including Beyond Blue, Headroom for younger people, the Black Dog Institute website and much more. I believe no one should be alone in their fight, if there are any questions or you need someone with experience to talk to, just ask Nora for my details. Everyone should have someone they can talk to safely and without judgement.

I’m lucky. I never felt the need to hide who I am from my friends or anyone. But you should know there are thousands of people who are forced to hide away because people don’t understand or care. Mental illness is just like any other disease; we should talk about it willingly and openly. Thank you Nora for championing this notion. Like so many other mentally ill people I have experienced ignorance and alienation and it pains me that there are other people feeling this too. With your help, we can slowly change the way our world views mental illness.

I own a shop that sells handmade peter pan collars with vintage buttons. One dollar from each sale goes to the Black Dog Institute. They are a wonderful organisation with a lot of information and help.

Thank you for letting me share my story. Remember that you are never alone.

Clarisse Salazar

Sasha-Rose "Grounded" Collection - Grass Playsuit

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 17:29:00 +1000

Just before the fashion week, I dropped by to Sasha-Rose’s new collection launch. The “Grounded” collection was a playful collection, bringing back the reliable minimalistic silhouette that is her signature, but taking it to another level with creative prints. The prints you will see in this collection is based on photographs of textures seen in the streets of Bali. It’s no secret that Sasha-Rose is in love with the beautiful island, but this time she’s declaring her love publicly with this collection.

This collection will be available in the shop in August.

The Grounded scarves are for sale to raise money to help educate homeless kids in Bali.

Yours truly, the beautiful Sasha-Rose, and blogger Nusardel posing for a cheeky snap.

Sasha-Rose showed off her talent by bringing out an accessories collection for the new season. She has also expanded her clothing to leather jackets, playsuits, pants, and fabulous blazer. It really is difficult to pick a favorite, but the grass playsuit just beats the bricks blazer in a photo finish (get it, get it?). I sported this playsuit (and the matching clutch) to the fashion week, and I gotta admit I really am in love.

As snapped by Froth and Cloth

Love,

NoraFinds

Mental health and depression awareness: my own story

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 19:45:03 +1000

As you all know, I’ve been trying to raise awareness about mental health and depression by holding this giveaway. The main reason is because I know a lot of people around me who are struggling with depression or anxiety. I have my own personal demons that keep me awake at nights, but it is mostly other people’s suffering that makes me realise how important this issue is. And how important it is for sufferers of these illnesses to realise that they are not alone, and they need help. Because when they give up, they affect other people. People like me.

My first encounter with suicide was when I was at the tender age of six. My primary school best friend at the moment didn’t show up at school one day, and I was told that her mom passed away. Over the next few days, I learned that she committed suicide. There is no need for details, but all I could think of is how she used to gave me snacks on school excursions, and how sweet she was. My friend moved away soon after, but I never forgot her and her mom.

I went through some bullying back in high school, and that was tough. But unlike kids nowadays, I could simply go home and escape the bullying. I had some really nice adults in my life and they always told me that it will get better. Kids are mean, and they will always find a way to taunt you, but focus on the future and things will work out.

One of these amazing adults was an after-school tutor I had. He would come to my house to tutor us kids Mandarin, as my mom wanted us to be able to learn about our culture. He was a soft-spoken and polite man. One day he simply disappeared, after five years of being in my life. We then found out that he took his own life. He was depressed, he was desperate, and I didn’t see it. I didn’t know. At his funeral, every one was devastated. He never told anyone. He kept whatever his problem was to himself that he couldn’t find a way out.

My best friend in high school (one of the few friends I had) harmed herself at the lowest point of her life. She had a bad relationship with her parents, and thought life was cruel. I told her that I need her and I love her. I told her that she needed to get help. Lucky for me, she did. Ten years on, she almost fully recovered. Her relationship with her parents has improved, and she’s happier than ever. And we are still great friends.

I have learned that a lot of people suffer mental illnesses. I have friends who are on medications, friends who would call me in the middle of the night because they have negative feelings, friends who just need someone to listen, friends who need a shoulder to cry on. I have my own problems. I have panic attacks, anxiety, I go through mood swings, but just like most people, these negative feelings go away. For a few of us, though, these feelings show up randomly and don’t disappear for days, weeks, or even months!

What I’ve learned is that mental illnesses can be treated. They can be controlled. I want everyone to know that there is help available, and there is no shame in admitting that you have a problem. You should never have to be alone in your battle against mental health illnesses.

Help is available for you in Australia via Mindhealthconnect, Lifeline, and Beyondblue. There are many more platforms out there to tell your story, to get help, and to get medications.

Here are two amazing entries to the giveaway (via Instagram), and I’m sharing these to remind you that you are not alone. The world loves you.

How to dress for the Great Gatsby

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:28:00 +1000

Many people have come up to me recently regarding dressing up for the Great Gatsby. The enthusiasm of the fashion community is apparent since the announcement of the movie, and even though the release has been delayed, the excitements hasn’t disappeared - I would think it makes us even more excited!

Attached to the latest edition of Vogue Australia is a special booklet showcasing the collaboration between Tiffany & Co. and the impending movie. When I posted this image below on Instagram, the response was very positive! This can only strengthen my suspicion that this movie will be the biggest one of the year!

If you follow me on Facebook or Instagram, you would have heard that my recent styling made it onto Vogue Italia. Inspired by 1910s-1930s fashion, the photoshoot might be an inspiration for you to wear something other than a typical beaded flapper dress, so check it out. I alsoreceived an email from a reader a few weeks ago, asking what she should wear to a 1920s-themed wedding while being 7 months pregnant. Not wanting to wear a flapper dress because it’ll “look silly”, she asked me whether there are other alternatives. This has prompted me to go through my Etsy favorite list and write some tips and tricks on looking your Great Gatsby best!

1. Apparel

Beads, flapper, velvet, kimonos. These four will be your friends. Drop waists are the most popular style back then, so try to avoid anything that give the illusion of small/cinched waist or full skirted dresses! The more shapeless it is the better.

Below are a selection of dresses from 1920s to modern that will suit the Great Gatsby feel.

You can go for an intricate 1920s velvet and satin day dress that Dot would wear to accompany Miss Fisher or the more typical spekeasy flapper look - the beautiful overdress with beadings that represents the glamour of era (very Louise Brooks).

Another popular look is the Anna May Wong oriental marisol kimono that symbolises the influence of Asian culture in the era. The fourh look is the white lace day dress that carries the Edwardian way of dressing as you see in Parade’s End.

If you can’t see yourself in a drop waist dress (or pregnant like that reader is), then the piano shawl is for you. Drapery is very popular with the Ziegfeld Follies girls, and you can mix-and-match with a dress you already own. So what if you are after a younger Great Gatsby look? This 1960s lace dress with drop waist is perfect, as I can imagine Doris Eaton would wear in her younger years. This will also work well for a young girl.

If you have a 1980s beaded dress, that will work too! These dresses borrow the glamour of the beading and asymmetrical hems of the 1920s Charleston dress, and I can imagine Sylvia wearing this - she’s rather forward-thinking! If your 80s dress has shoulder pads, remove them. The slumped shoulder look will definitely look more 20s. My last pick is a modern Alannah Hill dress, with beautiful burgundy color that brings out the beautiful beadings to bring out the Greta Garbo in you.

2. Accessories

The most obvious rule: no stilettos. Any mid-heels will do. But what about the other accessories? That’s not so obvious.

Jewelry: easy. Pearls and rhinestones are always appropriate.

Bags: a little bit more difficult. Pick the most impractical beaded bag.

1. Art deco Asian inspired pouch, 2. Beaded purse, 3. Art deco beaded pouch, 4. beaded headband, 5. black velvet loche, 6. pearl headband, and 7. green lace silk cloche

3. Hair and make up

Finger waves and flapper bobs were the signature look of 1920s, representing the freedom of the younger generation who decided to chop off their tresses. But what to do if you have longer hair? Don’t cut it just yet, consider a lot of soft waves or hiding it under a cloche. Wearing it in a low bun with the headband will also serve as an alternative.

When it comes to the makeup, thin brows are the most significant. Rosy cheeks and red lips are also the way to go. Pick a darker color for a vampy look or a orangey/brick red for a more glamorous look.

This concludes my post on how to achieve the Great Gatsby look. I hope I’ve given you some ideas on how you can dress up for the movie, or even hold you own Great Gatsby dinner party. Please leave a comment if you have enjoyed this post, or if you have any other questions. I look forward to seeing your Great Gatsby looks.

Love,

NoraFinds

Mental Health Awareness Giveaway: the entries

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 23:20:12 +1000

So here are some gorgeous entries to my latest giveaway, where you are invited to share an image of one thing that always cheers you up when you’re down. The giveaway aims to raise awareness about mental health and depression amongst women. We are often told that we need to “toughen up” and to “get over it” and in some cases that’s exactly what we need to do, but for some people they simply can’t “get over it” because it’s an underlying condition that is consuming their life. Please take some time off your day to take a picture and share it with us on Facebook or Instagram (tagging @norafinds).

Most people submitted pictures of their pets, but I doubt that only pet owners get to be happy hahahah :) What makes you happy?

To see what you can win, head to the original page. They’re rather amazing.

MBFWA 2013: Phoenix Keating

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 20:10:00 +1000

The Phoenix Keating presentation at MBFWA marks the end of my fashion week. I have to admit I felt out of place, as a vintage blogger, applying to cover some shows at the MBFWA. But a presentation like this one reminds me that a vintage gal like me still have a place in the industry. With an amazing designer taking inspiration from the 40s fashion, I felt like I’ve finally found where I belong.

The presentation of the models and the clothing makes me think of a morbid display of aliens if they were ever found on planet earth. With the guests free to roam and analyse (no touching though!) every piece inside the room, the dark atmosphere was strangely addictive.

I know the collection is based on a story of an alien stranded on earth, but in what decade did she find herself? I would have to say some time between the 40s or the 60s. The beautiful wool suits greatly resemble the 40s signature look, cleverly substituting peplum for ruffle accents. The wide collars of the wrap dress (above on the right side) is a great 60s Hollywood siren signature, one that Elizabeth Taylor could easily wear in the movie Giant. Wouldn’t it be so appropriate? The western-style, the collar tips, the fringes, and the whole dessert color palette? Perfection.

So where does the foil look come from? I can only propose a theory - the human thought that instead of wrapping the foil around their heads to prevent the aliens reading their minds, they should just wrap the aliens in foil. Voila! I’m so smart…. Hopefully Phoenix Keating won’t think I just butchered his whole inspiration.

Love,

NoraFinds

What I wore at MBFWA

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 18:54:00 +1000

I thought you might be getting bored with the runway pictures, so here is a quick post on my first outfit at the MBFWA, officially on their second day as I missed Day 1.

My first outfit managed to get me snapped by Harper’s Bazaar. Crazy indeed! I was walking down the stairs to enter the complex when Peta Rudd stopped me for a photograph. I am so psyched that a vintage gal like me got noticed. Not bad for my first outfit and my first photo taken hey? :) Oh fashion gods, you have been really really kind to me! And for the vintage kids, I hope I’ve made you all proud.

Photo taken by Peta Rudd for Harper’s Bazaar.

I was then snapped by Couturing.com. Crazy town. I’ve never felt so much love from the fashion community!

MBFWA 2013: Raffles

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 21:59:00 +1000

Fashion week might be prominent for featuring big names - designers that have made it in the industry and constantly dress the celebrities. Today, however, I was treated to some beautiful showcase of student designers. Raffles show at the MBFWA reminds me that I need to stop being a vintage snob. Sometimes I think that I wear vintage because modern designs are not capable of delivering the kind of elegance I craved. But really, I wear vintage for a very different reason. I like stories, I like the history behind vintage, and I like knowing that it was not mass-produced. In this post, I show you my favorite pieces from the group show in the hop that you will get inspired to check out some new designers. I must admit that this fashion week has definitely taken a lot of inspiration from vintage designs.

Gabriel Lee is a designer I’ve personally worked with in my styling, and when he invited me to his show I knew it would be amazing! His collection today convinces me that he needs to have his own resort collection. The sleek lines and modern silhouette transports me to a holiday resort in Bora-Bora, where I play tennis and sip cocktails by the pool. It also helps that the show had so many beautiful faces like Samantha Harris, Eliza Baker, and a Canadian model I’ve worked with before the beautiful Alana Whittaker. The use of flower cap and the floral garland is really just brilliant, and I salute Gabriel for successfully opened the group show.

Gabriel Lee

Aurelia Santoso

Nara

Another highlight for me is Xu’s by Virginia Killory. The whole collection reminds me of Ulyana Sergeenko and her Russian-inspired designs. The use of colors and textures is really admirable, I was in love with the knits and the detailing of the hems of the dresses. If anyone knows Virginia, let me know. I really really really need the blue dress with the red/green flowers.

Xu’s by Virginia Liu Killory

Diyana Kosso

Aquintic

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Love,

NoraFinds

MBFWA 2013: Lisa Ho

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:23:00 +1000

Lisa Ho showed her latest collection at the Sydney Fashion Week this morning at the Art Gallery of NSW. Surrounded by aboriginal artworks, the show showcased a beautiful selection of black, white, red, and blue. The collection comprised day suits, party gowns, and even swimwear. The simplicity of the collection still amazes me - utlising prints such as wedgwood, geometric lines and China prints. With hair sleek back and the end dip-dyed blue, the models are looking rather like porcelains.

Drawing inspiration from the minimalist movement, Lisa Ho brings back the old saying “less is, indeed, more”.

Love,

NoraFinds