R E V A S R A G S 2 R O S E S

A Trip....

2011-12-01T14:36:00.001-05:00

Hi all,
As I write this, I am off to my parents. My father has been hospitalized.
The first Cincy Blogger Bash was last night and I hear it was a big success!
I had to miss it as I was stationed by the phone awaiting news.
My Dad is stable, however my help is much needed.

It's funny how 'real life' can hit you at any moment and make you question your priorities. I have been a bit 'on the fence' with regards to continuing my blog for a while now. I'm sure you've noticed my fewer posts ;) There are times when I am becoming unsure of the impact that my blogging is having on me. Am I losing my connection with the real world? Is it easier to have friends whom you have never given a true hug to? Easier to express myself in a glib, 'always a smile' way?

I'm really just not sure...
I do know I enjoy fashion. I really enjoy showing other women that you don't have to spend a fortune to look and feel great about yourself. I LOVE telling you that being you is more important than feeling like another cog in the wheel of conformity. However, while figuring out what to wear at the Bash (that I didn't even get to attend!), I was an insecure mess. I was a 47 year old woman who instead of celebrating her unique self, I was wondering in the back of my mind what other's would think of me. Yep, still human... Still flawed... How silly...

So, during the next week or two, being a Care-giver, a Daughter, a Lover,

a real-life Woman -

I will be reassessing my role as a blogger. I think I will come back renewed and recharged. Ready to keep doing this thing with style - a new purpose and possibly a new blog entirely.... or letting it go for awhile. I suppose time will tell.

Til then...

Big Hugs to you all :)

xXx

Reva

You Knew I'd Have to Try It.....

2011-11-28T03:20:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday everybody!

Yep, I had to try this one out...

I really liked the concept and imagination behind the 'shirt-as-a-skirt' trend. Though it's not a Super Thought Involved Eureka kind of thing -

pop on some jeans, open it up and wa-la, you've got grunge.

However, with that said, I like how it really does fit exactly like a skirt and the poofy sides look like pockets! I bet if you pinned it just right, pockets could happen... I tried really hard to make a bow with the sleeves, but I believe I'll need a super-long sleeved shirt for that... Plus a floral pattern would be nice for Spring!

I haven't forgotten about my animal print quest, however.

More will be revealed!

OH! The dumbest thing I said last week was:

That I had been blogging for 3 years.

Well, ya don't count the year you started (as the hubs pointed out later),

so I have been blogging for 2 years instead...

DUH !!!

( Nope, with age does not come wisdom... )

Though, I suddenly feel much younger. Hmm...

Shirt/skirt: AE,Hubby's - Jacket: Old Navy-thrifted - Hat: Rue21 - Scarf: Rue21 - Bracelets/ring: Flea Mkt.

Earrings: Target, few years old - Boots: Banana Republic - Zipper brooch: JCPenny's - Vest: Sears

Here's to a kick-@ss week !

xXx

Reva

Gratitude

2011-11-24T18:30:00.000-05:00

"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it

is like wrapping a present and not giving it."

(William Arthur Ward)

I'm still here, and sending a huge shout-out to those who have inspired my blog, and continue pushing me to keep on going. Who keep me interested in owning my personal style and sharing it! Those in this collage are by no means everyone who have been my guiding superstars, but today I say thanks to them and all who inspire, who make me think outside the box - to those INDIVIDUALS who are never part of a herd! (There are many and you know who you are ;)

I am honored to be one of the many over 40 bloggers out there who are showing the world that style and the art of fashion aren't attached to any specific age group.

Three years ago this month, I started Rags2Roses.

A huge thanks to everyone

who has been on this journey with me.

You guys really do rock!

So, Happy Turkey Day weekend. Here's to more style, fun and friendships :)

xXx

Reva

DIY Weekenders / Fun and Funky Wreaths

2011-11-18T19:54:00.000-05:00

Tis the season to think outside the box!

Greet your guests with style...

I love these DIY wreaths.

Use them all year long!

Vintage Tie Wreath

Tons of Buttons !

( You could use colorful or vintage ones )

Christmas Cards or Cloth Wine Corks

Groovy Chandeliers over your table...

Ready to get creative this weekend?

Images: Good Housekeeping

xXx

Reva

Animal Prints Part 2 / As A Neutral

2011-11-16T18:38:00.000-05:00

I've never been
one to dictate
the long or short
of skirts
in reference to a woman's age.
If you rock it,
If you feel great,
do it to it!
Though,
Dark tights have become my pal
with mini's ;)

This look is part 2
of rethinking animal prints as a neutral...
Honestly red was easy. I am gonna venture out into more daring territory.
Send suggestions, please :)

Also when tights are paired with tall boots, mini's really rock!

back to the leopard...

I really dug mixing the plaid scarf and skirt.

How about florals and animal? - Brights?

As my brain is churning I ask myself, WWKD?

I wonder what I did with my zebra leggings? ;)

xXx

Reva

ATTIRE: SKIRT, SEARS (ABOUT 12 YEARS OLD)

CARDI/SCARF/COAT/RED BAG: THRIFTED

BOOTS: BANANA REPUBLIC (OLD)

Diving In Full Blast!

2011-11-14T22:07:00.000-05:00

A while ago, one of my answers to a " Tell Me About Yourself " award was
that I really don't care all that much for animal prints. In small doses, OK...
( You know, scarves, hats, trimmings )
I still can't wrap my head around them being a neutral.
So, this week I am gonna see how I can learn to appreciate them more.
So, as I was clearing out my closet, I ran across this thrifted whopper of a skirt.

This is definitely not a small dose!

I remember that I'd originally planned on wearing it

with a simple denim jacket and tee.

But the colder weather changed my mind.

I'm actually excited to see what the week will hold!

( OH and my headband : an over-the-knee sock ;)

Here's to a growling week!

And a special shout-out to all my supportive friends out there...

You know who you are ;)

(I'll be calling you out soon)

Love You!

xXx

Reva :)

Election Day

2011-11-10T17:57:00.000-05:00

Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket fired, signifies in the final sense a theft from those who hunger and are not fed, those who are cold and are not clothed.
Dwight D. Eisenhower

All wars are civil wars, because all men are brothers.
Francois Fenelon

Hi everyone,
While I was antiquing one day, I ran across a beautiful white wooden glass shadow box. Inside were perfectly pinned Military uniform patches, buttons and medals. I wondered who the mother was that lovingly placed those items there. Each one was aligned, shined and clearly displayed with care. I am really into authentic military pins to wear on my jackets right now. What caught my eye was the Grenade pin. How unique...

Now as I look at them, I think how sad...

Sometime they'll give a war and nobody will come.
Carl Sandburg

This week we voted

and this week we also honor our Veterans.

A double-edged blade is a war. Peace and love

go out to all who have seen war and also those who still suffer due to war.

In remembrance...

May our Vets have peace.

ATTIRE:

SHIRT: THRIFTED

TEE: THE W PLACE (A SLEEP SHIRT)

LEGGINGS: MILEY/MAX

BOOTS: THRIFTED

WATCH: GIFT

SCARF: THRIFTED

CHANDELIER EARRINGS/VARIOUS PINS:

JCPENNY and ANTIQUE MALL

Boop,Oop-A-Doop

2011-11-08T14:08:00.000-05:00

Clothes make a statement. Costumes tell a story.

~Mason Cooley

Hi everybody!

Aren't these a hoot!

I have been sooo busy this past weekend! I am just now showing off my flapper outfit from last Monday. Baaad Blogger! The most fun about wearing this was that most of the stuff I already had in my closet. And who wouldn't want to be a flapper? Of course it all started with my desire for a cigarette holder. Again, baaad blogger... Then Lunapics created some crazy shots,too ;) Kind-of a freaky conjoined flapper.

Halloween for me is an event. A time honored tradition. The Christmas of Fall...

To be celebrated for days upon days...

It looks like I have a regular bottom half and split at the waist.

I wonder if a horror movie guy could use me?

Lady Ga Green didn't win the DIY or DIE contest on Chictopia :(

I'm so dissapointed, (I mean she is), but here she is for you guys!

She's not bitter...

Congrats to the winners, I suppose ;)

xXx

Reva

Outfits to resume asap :)

Tribal

2011-11-03T13:20:00.000-04:00

Hi all!

If you've noticed I have been wearing some new duds from Forever 21 lately. My hubby gave me a surprise gift card for our anniversary. He always listens to the oohs and ahhs... This outfit reminds me of Tribal Native America. I have some native blood in me (Cherokee), but would never be able to reproduce their glory. So I added a vintage hat and a misplaced fuzzy scarf. The weird thing is I like cowboy hats, too? Odd...

As I was looking back through last year's outfits, I have changed from the girly look to a more eclectic mix of strangeness. I am feeling a vintage need coming on - I suppose that's the fun of style, changing things up now and then. Plus, since I am a larger size this year, F21 doesn't fit the way it used to. Why don't they just make and xl and get it over with? Oh well, the shoes still fit ;)

(Actually it all did except for the dresses)

Beware! A Large isn't a large in F21 land...

"The first peace, which is the most important, is that which comes within the souls of people when they realize their relationship, their oneness with the universe and all its powers, and when they realize that at the center of the universe dwells the Great Spirit, and that this center is really everywhere, it is within each of us."

Black Elk********

xXx

Reva

ATTIRE:

VEST/ LEGGINGS / TEE: FOREVER 21

GRAY SWEATER: SEARS

BOOTS: MOSSIMO / HAT: THRIFTED / SCARF: DRUG STORE

ACCESSORIES: BELT AS NECKLACE: EARRINGS: WIG SHOP: THRIFTED CROSS: BRACELET ?

SUNNIES: VINTAGE 80'S

Double, Double, Toil and Trouble

2011-11-01T15:47:00.000-04:00

Walk Into My Parlor

By Mary Howitt

"Will you walk into my parlor?"

said the spider to the fly;

"Tis the prettiest little parlor that you ever did spy.

The way into my parlor is up a winding stair,

And I have many curious things to show when you are there."

"Oh no, no!" said the little fly,

"to ask me is in vain;

For who goes up your winding stair

can never come down again."

It seemed so innocent.... at the time....

AHHHHH !!!!!!!!

I had ventured into Abbey Normal's graveyard !

Then I knew I was among friends. Everything became clear :)

I tried to save a many as I could. Unfortunately there wasn't room in my car.

(For both halves)
Plus it was beginning to sprinkle...

So, I decided to blend and make new friends.

He was so shy ;)

Poor Chuck... He wasn't so lucky.

I eventually had to say goodbye...

No worse for the scare!
ATTIRE:

CARDIGAN: GAP XL,THRIFTED

DRESS: FOREVER 21 (THOUGH, LET'S FACE IT, ON ME A TUNIC)
BOOTS: FOREVER 21, GIFT FROM HUBBY

DOUBLE SCARVES: 1) the LOUDMOUTH 2) KROGER / SUNGLASSES:KROGER
HAT: THRIFTED BETMAR

From Pit Bulls to Posies

2011-10-28T20:26:00.000-04:00

Hi everybody!!!
Wow, a few days turned into over a week! I so needed to reconnect with mama nature, so what did we do first? A flea market, of course! (Why am I yelling?)
I really don't know, other than I missed you all. I had a great time (which I'll try to keep the photos as minimal as I can). I scored a suede leather fringe jacket here and my muse, my precious Mom-in-Law (Hi Mom!) found a denim and fur jacket.
My sunglasses collection grew and I fell hard for a couple puppies. I swear they sell everything! I totally refused to go into the faux bag area however.

I was actually up bright and early...

Thanks to my muse!

Here a some shots of the infamous Flea Land in the heart of the Kentucky mountains. I'll show you true beauty tomorrow and be back to fashion posts next week. Promise!

Told Ya!

He is so beautiful

I kissed and kissed the tiny one on the right. I wanted him...

What a kick-ass truck!

He wasn't for sale.

Possibly the most fashionable bird house ever!

Someone had collected all these vintage pop tops. Too cool...

These caught me as especially funny at the time. Ya never know what you'll find.

I suppose someone kept trying to buy the boat?

There were so many caged animals for sale, but they seemed so sad.

Inside: The giant wall-o-quilts

Kentuckians are crazy for their college basketball. I mean fighting crazy!

As many coal miner's are in KY, including my Dad and brother's, this meant a lot to me. Coal mining is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. It is a family tradition here especially in the East and Western communities.

I spied a fashionista!

Tired yet?

Me Too!

For now...

xXx

Reva

M.I.A.

2011-10-19T13:44:00.001-04:00

Hi all!
I've been a bit MIA this week. Sorry! Between a head cold and making travel plans, the sofa has been my bestest friend. Right now it is a pour-a-thon here in the Queen City. Luckily I took these shots a couple days ago. It was a day for favorites.

1) The very first jacket I ever thrifted from Saks - light wool, structured and cool button hook thingys.
2) My favorite dress ever (you've seen it many times here!), An Old Navy cream linen that I wear all year round.
3) Some pink suede loafers I've had for literally over 10 years from JCPenny.
4) My skinny green jeans.
5) My double happiness pendant from World Mkt and
6) Self-made light green porcelain earrings and a favorite scarf.
(Wow, what an interesting list!)...

Give me a break, I'm not at my best ;)

I haven't worn eye liner all week...

We are planning a hiking trip to the Cumberland Lake area in good ole' KY tomorrow and the rain is moving outta here. So if you see me sliding down a mountain - just look the other way. But please, by all means, giggle, snort or
just LOL. I don't mind. I'd laugh at you, too :)

Back to the couch, now - must rest before packing...

See ya in a few days!

xXx

Reva

Blowing Through the Cobwebs of my Mind

2011-10-14T09:56:00.001-04:00

Hi everybody!!!
Never trust the weather guy this time of the year. It was supposed to hit 70, but barely made it above 60. I'm not complaining, as layering is my favorite form of dress! Slipping a Mossimo thermal tee and DIY infinity scarf made the day perfect. I just cut the arm/neck section off an old sweater to make the scarf. So simple. I just let the top end go... I'm ~~crazy~~ lazy like that.

The pendant is also a DIY, using a safety pin to hold the rather large shell on.

God, I love this time of year!

I can't really describe it. My mind seems clearer and my senses are on overload!

I even like the smell of the dead, wet leaves...

Even the poison oak is turning

Off to the post-office, so

Have a beautiful weekend !!!

xXx

Reva

ATTIRE: TUNIC, TARGET (THRIFTED)

LEGGINGS: FOREVER 21

SCARF/HAT/BOOTS/ BAG: (THRIFTED)

EARRINGS: SELF-MADE

SUNGLASSES: VINTAGE LIZ CLAIBORNE

What I wore this day last year!
(A huge drought)

Choices

2011-10-12T15:12:00.000-04:00

Tough Choice?

Shoes: Nasty Gal

( No, I didn't get a cent - just like them)

Sweater Weather?

2011-10-10T16:26:00.001-04:00

Hi all!
Happy Monday! Though it's not quite here yet, sweater weather is just around the corner. It was getting late here in these photos, and I actually needed it! I am lovin the short little dresses mixed with the grandpa sweaters (though this is my Mom's).

Have a terrific week!

ATTIRE: DRESS,VINTAGE

SWEATER: MY MOM'S

HARLEY BOOTS: THRIFTED

HAT: THRIFTED / SCARF: TARGET
BAG: KROGER

Nothing As It Seems

2011-10-08T23:56:00.001-04:00

I have been wanting to share my work for a while now. Fear has kept me from it. After reading the inspiring speech from the legendary Steve Jobs via Serene's blog, I am having my first 'exhibition'...
* * * * * * * * * * *
I try to find the beauty in everyday objects.

All my work is done by me, without the assistance of Photoshop, or any other site or tool, rather than my own hand and the editing tool that came with my camera.
Today, it is so easy to make a good photo.
I kind of think of my images as vinyl vs. re-mastered i-pod tunes.
They may crackle a bit, but they were recorded in the studio...

So, grab a glass of champagne (the server is around someplace),
Pretend you're at a museum (or someplace really cool),
Hit the play button for background ambiance,
and I hope you enjoy!
Thanks...

The end....
(All images belong to me, Retro Reva. Do not copy.)

Gift Horses

2011-10-06T20:47:00.000-04:00

Needless to say, yep, I love 'em!

BOTH...

I have the best hubby in the world. He watches me scroll through my favorite stores online, and listens to the sighs I breathe when I see something that really catches my eye, but can't be thrifted or DIYed. Then a package miraculously shows up at my door sometimes. He is always listening...

These horse print leggings from Forever 21 arrived yesterday and though we are having a warm snap, I had to wear them asap! I can see so many possibilities with these quirky little numbers. The neutral taupe (is that the color?) will be so fun to play with. Even though my tans don't 'match' here, I try to blend the different hues. I caught some of the deeper tan in my scarf and matched it with

my shoes. I am trying to see myself as a whole picture.

A black dose of polish on the toes would have added the right pop.

But, I was having a lazy day ;)

They almost look like little spiders from afar...

I have no answer for the sunnies!

Wouldn't ya know it, The mail-dude handed me ANOTHER package today!

Wonder who it's from???

xXx

Reva

Pink is the Word

2011-10-05T21:15:00.000-04:00

(source:HTTP THEDESIGNINSPIRATION.COM ARTICLES COOL-PHOTOS-AN....ION-8)

Hi Everyone!

Pink is the word of the month as October is breast awareness month. I myself have been putting off the dreaded yearly smush-a-thon for 2 years running...

Especially since I am over 40, I've made a promise to do it this month.

Maybe they'll let me take photos!

( image: DIY Net)

Here's a fun DIY to make and support women who need to do the deed. Make them with your gal-pals and go together. Support comes from more places than below the breast!

I think I'll make mine out of a pink bra...

So remember...

After 40, let someone else feel them,too!
( a professional )

xXx
Reva :)

Gray Skies

2011-10-03T16:46:00.000-04:00

Hi everybody!!!

This outfit turned out completely different than what I had in mind.

Let's just say, it started with a light blue forever scarf...

The black dress is the only piece that survived the transformation.

(DRESS: TARGET, ONE LAST TIME HAT: TARGET, EVERYTHING ELSE, THRIFTED)

For you guys who have been around awhile, know my goal. For my new friends, (HI !!!), I'll give a quick explanation of what I do here. I've made a goal - a promise to myself - that I will be a photographer by age 50. So, though fashion is a way to express my passion, I do tend to focus on creating a good photo. Thus the various poses (someday I'll have a real model!) are just a part of my 'style'...

It actually kills me to crop photos, since so much of the image is lost, but who wants to wait forever for a page to load! So, I always put an outfit shot first, then the rest is just my fun. I hope you enjoy my lofty goals as much as I do!

Someday soon, I hope to pop off a quick outfit shot on my way to a photo shoot.

Won't that be awesome!!!

On this particular day, I was so wrapped up in snapping, when I heard a whirring sound, looked around and caught a pretty scary storm heading in from the west.

In a matter of seconds, the wind began to throw stuff at me!

I should have noticed...

Wind, darkening skies, getting smacked in the face...

I caught this shot of a possible tornado forming.

It was whirring through so fast, I don't know what happened.

Maybe, it's because my brooch was upside down!

Never anger the Vintage Gods...

Have a Sunny Week!

xXx

Reva ;)

Suburban Cat Lady Style

2011-10-02T12:09:00.000-04:00

Let's see....
I have worn the knotted tans, black and only have a deep blue and burgundy left.
Oh Yeah, and brown. Needless to say when these cotton knit pallazo's were all the rage, I loved em! A great alternative to sweats (which I don't wear). If I weren't such a hoader, they'd have been gone years ago, but somehow I knew... Maxis and Wide-legs and elastic bands will never go away. At least for me ;) The knot just seemed right somehow. The elastic band, well, that's another story!

Yep, the crazy cat lady is poking around her yard...

And, with lipstick. So classic!

xXx

Reva

The Seven.........

2011-09-30T12:18:00.000-04:00

The fabulous Bella of the Citizen Rosebud gave me this Tell Me About Yourself Award yesterday (well really today ;) so in case you forget the answers, (there might be a test), tape them to your mirror...

7 RANDOM FACTS ABOUT ME:

1. I absolutely love Grunge, from the music to the ideology.

2. I am a sugar junkie and am currently hooked on Twinkies.

"Twinkies Hinge"
maybeastarbucks ( Fan Pop)

3. I have AADD, but hate it when other's need to be perfect.

( I messed with these images forever! )

4. I am super-dooper clumsy on a daily basis.

(Band-aid snoot)

5. I LOVE Buffy the Vampire Slayer series, own them all,
and think they redefined fashion in the 90's.

( I often quote lines from the show and plan

to name our new kitties Spike and Drusilla.)

6. I'm not that big of a 'fan' of animal prints....
On Me...
(Ouch! that hurt!)

7. I love mornings, but rarely ever get up before noon(ish).

When I do, it's usually because of a doctor's appointment.
I usually fall asleep there, too...

Do you feel hungry, too?
thanks, Bella!
( Outfit photo to come later :)
xXx
Reva

Never......

2011-09-29T11:02:00.002-04:00

There are many things I have learned during my journeys.

1. Never hang out with the first person you meet in a new town.

2. Never give your phone number to the first friend you make on a psych 'holiday'.

4. Never, ever go shopping when you're mad.

5. Never pretend to like something you really don't.

6.. And most importantly, never say 'thank you' with a followed explanation

of why you don't deserve the compliment.

Just a few Words of Wisdom ;)

after the rain...

(while practicing depth of field, i think...)

DSLR can be a love/hate relationship!

( I've only got 2.75 years to make my dreams come true )

xXx

Reva

ATTIRE: SKIRT, NEWPORT NEWS (75% 0FF)

SWEATSHIRT: RUE 21 (CLX-$3.99) / MOSSIMO TANK 75% OFF

BOOTS: INDIGO (THRIFTED- I KNOW!)

PINK BAUBLES: GABRIEL BROS. $3.99 / SCARF: K-MART (I THINK)

EARRINGS: GIFT FROM HUBBY / EYEGLASS FRAMES (HATE THEM)

HAIR: PIN CURLED MOSH-PIT

Black or White with a Splash of Reds

2011-09-27T20:48:00.001-04:00

"To live a creative life, we must lose our fear of being wrong."

Joseph Pearce

Just havin' fun :)

I cannot resist black and white photos!

And a big thanks to all you guys who allow me to just be...

xXx

Reva

ATTIRE: DRESS/ TARGET, 1/2 OFF

VINTAGE RED SLIP

PINK SILK RALPH LAUREN SHIRT: THRIFTED

SHOES: SEARS, 1/2 OFF / TEE SCARF: TARGET (CLX.)

PENDANT: RUE 21/ SOCKS, WALGREEN'S / EARRINGS: GABRIEL BROS. ($3.99)

Transition Outfit and DIY Brooch

2011-09-26T03:08:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday!

When I thrifted this baby-poop colored Cardigan,

(by Mossimo), I knew it would come in handy with pale pinks.

And sure enough, I had the perfect scarf to match. We are in fashion transition here in the mid-west. As I type, the thunder is rolling through bringing us a bunch of rain.

Right now, I am in a neutral, earth-toned mood. I've also been doing some DIY's with old military items and did this little pin today, too. It started with a super large gold safety pin and bunches of trinkets that were laying around. There's even a

fancy button on there :) It's an easy way to show off your little treasures...

Gold plus Silver is so much more interesting.

And a Gabriel Brother's store just went into our neighborhood! I had never heard of it, but had to check it out last night and WOW! Name brands, (some seconds), and faboo prices. Designer brands that didn't 'sell' for the Dept. store prices, now at low, low prices for us... Since I am still pledging to be thrifty and buy pre-loved merchandise (when possible), I only bought some basics like tall leggings, an H&M tee ($3.99), designer earrings and other accessories for $3.99 each and SHhhh....

A new hat and Forever 21 nude shoes ( hat:$5.99 - shoes:$12.99 )

I wasn't really that bad .....

Though I may need to find a new route to the grocery...

Have a great week, everyone!

xXx

Reva

ATTIRE:

HAT/SHOES/TEE: GABRIEL BROS.

MOSSIMO CARDI / ROUTE 66 SHORTS: THRIFTED

SCARF: STURGIS ANTIQUE MALL / SOCKS: WALGREEN'S

EARRINGS: FLEA MKT. / DIY PIN / GLASSES: RUE 21

Bad Ass Florals and Wool

2011-09-23T19:11:00.001-04:00

Hi everybody!
How are you? I am fine, thanks. Sometimes do you blank out out a lead-in?
Do people really want a list of my weekly to-do's, a description of the outfit,
which is what the photos are for? Maybe a witty quote or some prose, perhaps...
( That is sometimes how my mind works )
Anyhoo- I got nuthin', except....
I really flippin love this outfit. I have had it on a hanger for weeks awaiting a true Autumn moment to wear this light and possibly vintage wool vest. I thrifted the dress and vest on the same day, but the vintage scarf seemed to be the one little thing it was looking for. This is one of those "So Me" outfits that make me take frowny pictures. That's when you know I feel bad-ass. Kind of a come mess with me look. Me and my super-outfit will kick your ass... Even my flowers are bad.

Swish! Take that! And that!

And does anyone else really believe Rachel Zoe is preggers?

( I think she's a big faker, and is really buying a baby...)

Anyhoo...

Have a Bad-Ass Weekend !!!

xXx

Reva

ATTIRE: ALL THRIFTED

EXCEPT HAT: DOT'S / EARRINGS: GIFT

A Home Town Hero Says No to Mass Production

2011-09-22T01:13:00.000-04:00

When I was a younger girl, the town I grew up in was a 1970's dream. No worries, everyone knew each other and we lived in the sunshine all summer, swimming or running through corn fields playing hide and seek.
When fall came around, I spent hours dog-earring the Sears and Roebuck catalog. There were 2 small shops in town where Mom bought me sneakers and school shoes. Period. The choices were very limited - Aigner, Bass, Famolare and Converse. There was always a selection of saddle shoes (we called them Bee-Bops), but they had to be ordered and the wait was eternal...
If we needed a formal dress we would drive 60 miles to Evansville, IN and buy from another nice, small family-owned shop. Soon things would change forever. I didn't realize the profound nature of the up-and-coming word, "Mart"...
It all started on a Saturday night after me, Mom, and Dad finished eating at the Golden Corral (another very new place). We crossed the parking lot into K-Mart.
It was a young country girl's dream. Lot's of trendy things and really cheap! I can still remember running to the 'Blue Light Specials' to see what treasures I could gain... The rest is pretty much history as I slowly watched the small family shops go under when Wal-Mart moved to our county. I was beginning to feel duped...

The small town began to succumb to the mass-produced lifestyle. They couldn't compete. It was as if a ghost had erased my hometown...

Enter: Teresa Holeman

A former resident who was born in Sturgis, but had left for the Carolina's. She has returned and taken the Ole Sturgis Antique Mall, put her heart and soul into reworking this mall to be the best Antique Mall in the country. The building is formerly a sewing factory, where my Mom worked nearly all of her life! It is 28,000 sq. feet full of treasures, houses over 100 dealers and 50 showcases. Her booths are my favorite as she has more vintage wearables than anyone I have ever seen!

With the help and support of other Sturgis businesses and residents, the town is revived and thriving. It hosts the Little Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and we even have a new bakery!

When asked why she loves Vintage pieces so much, Teresa said that she didn't like cookie-cutter styles. Vintage has history and is usually one-of-a-kind. (When I visit the mall, she is always so busy and sporting some type of vintage piece)...

I agree with her pre-loved ethics, and always try to find a goodie or two when I'm there. To be able to support small business makes me feel like part of something right and better.

Here are some of her pieces:

The famous body of brooches that greets you when you enter the mall.

Everything is pristine and original, pressed and perfect. No yuckies allowed!

I usually take at least 3/4 trips in :)

I have Never seen such a terrific vintage hat collection from fur to silk and all in between...

She also keeps up with the 'trends' of Vintage as well.

Right now, glasses and hats are the most requested.

(I am on her 'to find' list for a cigarette tip holder)

I know! She does that for ya!

Ooohh, and her bags!

And jewelry. (There was so much to shoot!)

I've never seen these that old before....

There are many more vintage clothing and accessory booths as well, but are you getting tired,yet?

Be sure to bring a little:

A big thanks to Teresa, Mike, Stacey, Anna and all the wonderful Small Town Hero's who are making a difference in how we see our world, how we treat our treasures and how we can manage the earth by recycling pre-loved merchandise.

No Cookie Cutters for them!

She also takes phone orders and ships!

(She has put blood, sweat and probably lots of cash into revamping this mall.)

It is incredibly awesome!

Looking for something special?

The Mall is located on US Highway 60 in Western KY, very close to Indiana and Illinois...

Right by the only 4-way stop!

As my dad said, you have an obligation to leave the world better than how you found it. And he also reminded us to be givers in this life, and not takers.

Phil Crane

xXx

Reva

Copy Catting in Lace

2011-09-19T16:41:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday!
I'm still getting back into the swing of my real life, which will consist of possibly painting my ceiling and other interesting stuff, but had to wear this outfit before it's too late.
I keep a folder called 'Cool Outfit Ideas' and pop the ones that catch my eye in there with hopes of thrifting a similar look. This is one I thought I'd never really find, but then there it was, at a thrift-shop, the pink lace skirt. In perfect condition. By Candie's. For a couple bucks. The original outfit was by Courtnee of My Moments of Whimsy, post:"Book Club"... Her blouse was short sleeved and skirt was straight. Though I liked her skirt much better, I was pretty satisfied with the results.

The skirt must have felt my 'I wish you were not so foo-foo' vibe, because as I was driving around running errands, the cherry fell off my cigarette and landed in my lap. Let's just say, there are more holes in the perfect lace skirt, now...

Outfit: All thrifted except for tee and Wilma beads.

Here's to a great week!

xXx

Reva

To There and Back Again

2011-09-16T17:51:00.000-04:00

Hi everybody!
I'm finally back from West Kentucky, home of the antique malls and my folks...
Since the bridge in Louisville was closed due to crackage (after I drove across it on the way down), I drove back through the heart of Kentucky. I even drove by the infamous Mammoth Cave, but couldn't get the words, "You have a purty mouth" out of my mind for some reason. Though KY is beautiful, I still felt a little vulnerable, new route and all... Though, Eddie Vedder kept me grounded...

I didn't take a single outfit photo, but really worked on taking some different stuff and I even think I've created a series! I have lots to share and am still editing photos, with outfits soon to come. I'm also catching up on all the Fashion Week shenanigans. When I left, the temp. was in the 90's- back: in the 50's!
Yipee! My beloved Autumn is back! More to come next week, though here's some bathroom stall intellect I though you'd find funny. (Or at least I did!)

the link for more:

http://www.happyplace.com/4125/the-most-brilliantly-obnoxious-responses-to-moronic-graffiti

Happy Weekend !

xXx

Reva

Out With A Bang

2011-09-04T23:04:00.005-04:00

Tee,Hee!

Hi everybody!
Well, it's the weekend of all weekends here in Cincinnati, as Riverfest is going on downtown. It's our official goodbye to Summer. The climax are the Fireworks, which have been a tradition for 35 years. As you read this, I will be safe and secure in Western KY for a week with my parents. The photos above I took this summer, but didn't post them. I made the hair wreath completely out of weeds, honeysuckle, clover and poison oak. ( Nope, not allergic-though bug bites are another story ;)
Yay for some Fall relief... ( Sorry Summer lovers )

People and boats pick their spots early in the weekend to see the infamous Rozzi Brother's WEBN/Cincy Bell grand fireworks spectacular, set to music ranging from Metallica to Tchaikovsky. Imagine 2 bridges, both crossing the mighty Ohio River, 2 barges parked below, loaded with one of the largest Fireworks displays in the world! Eek! So exciting! I hope the rain holds off...

(My hubs is recording it for me, the sweetheart.)

The crowd pleasing 'Waterfall' from the bridge above

( photos courtesy of Google Image Search)

My hopefully last sleeveless outfit of the year, at least without a jacket.

Only time will tell :)

TOP/SKIRT/HAT/SHOES: THRIFTED

PENDANT: 1928, RETIRED

I'm off to a computer-free zone so....

I hope you all have a superb week

and I'll see you all in about 10 days!

xXx

Reva

Victorian Gap

2011-09-01T02:21:00.000-04:00

Hi all !

I have a weakness for Gap rose prints and though this sundress was my new size, the top was iffy... But since I couldn't resist, I knew it would either end up as a skirt or vested. I'm not sure what the straight top is called other than umpire, but it seems like an early Victorian style. I call it "early bar wench", Or perhaps just a bit too tight up top. Luckily, I had my scarf ...

Though Gwyneth does it much better ;)

I've had it for a couple months and maybe this fall a sweater will do it better justice, though I just saw a style I really like....

A super high waisted, but rounded upwards skirt with a skinny belt. Hmmm....

What'ya think? Skirt it?

( This was way before my list pledge, or it would have stayed in Goodwill! )

Though, Gap, Roses, Dress with Pockets?

(I'm not sure I'm that strong, yet :)

Sorry, I've been MIA for a couple days, but it was well spent in the woods :)

Nothing like a good trudge through the weeds and rocks!

xXx

Reva

DRESS / VEST / BELT / BOOTS: THRIFTED

SCARF: Walgreen's .50cents

SUNNIES: Dollar General Store / Earrings: JCPenny 1/2/off

WATCH: Swap gift

I Got the Blues (but in a good way!)

2011-08-29T02:36:00.005-04:00

Hi everybody!
Another week is upon us and today is supposed to be the purr-fect day!
So, we will be hitting the trails asap (After Some Awakened Preparation)...

Yesterday, I felt very girly and realized this little peter pan collared dress has been hanging on my rack all summer. The last time I wore it, I paired it with a military jacket and browns. Lately, I've had a thing for heavy cloth belts and believe this one is an actual army one or an urban outfitter (who ever really knows anyway!)
My other obsession are cross-body leather bags. I luckily found a couple for a
dollar each the other day. Thank you, oh thrifty gods...

Pre-loved and Cheap are my kind of 'trends'....
Which, by the by, I have developed my new way to thrift, thanks to the conversations I was involved in last week. I now carry a LIST, and search for the items I really want/need, and not start grabbing stuff just because it's cheap!

Eureka! What a better and less hoardy concept!

Dress: Dot's

Leggings: Target

Belt:thrifted / Scarf: thrifted / Hat:thrifted

Bag: St. Vincent De Paul thrift shop

Shoes: Vintage Bass (mine from the way back machine)

Bangles: Dot's / Beads:JCPenny (old)

We're off to the woods soon,

So have a great week!

xXx

Reva

It's that time of the year ...

2011-08-25T20:23:00.000-04:00

For

Thrifty Fall Style Ideas

It's the time of the year when I scour the sites for cool ideas to thrift, DIY, or shop via your closet. Here's my choices for right now and into late fall. I have also added a few inspiring bloggers this year and a few crayon drawings by me.

Enjoy!

add jacket, stir...

keep rockin those shorts,but with a bulky sweater

classic black says fall, especially leather ;)

I bet you have all these pieces in your closet !

F21

CHECK OUT THOSE COOL BOOTS

STILL

CHOP,CHOPPIN!

ROCKIN' SEPARATES IN A CLEVER WAY!

GREAT IDEA! THE TUCKED VEST

TAMIA, THE STYLE SAMPLE

OH THE POSSIBILITIES

hemp skirt: Daughter's Of The Revolution ($51.20)

WOOL SKIRT, BROWN CLUNKY BOOTS

Great individual styles

Both from Clothes, Cameras and Coffee

( I love her scissor necklace )

(THESE ARE MY FAVORITE CASUALS)

MY FAVORITE FALL LOOK FROM MY STYLE PILL

blogger of the moment by Mod Cloth

FLOWY, PATTERNED MAXI SKIRTS

ORANGE AND NEUTRALS BY

STELLA ROSE

A GREAT DIY IDEA FROM A BLOG MASTER

http://theclothes.blogspot.com/

(this is older, but i really like these combos)

CALIVINTAGE

HOT FALL NAILS BY CHANEL (MIX WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE)

MAKE A STATEMENT

Free People

TOBI $546.00 NEIMAN MARCUS

Vix is Ready !!!

VINTAGE VIXEN

a new twist

SHOES AND SOCKS

Filthy Magic

OH MY GOSH!

Filthy Magic ($124 bucks, a DIY maybe?)

both from LuLu's

Fun Hair Style by Kitten Paws Vintage

FASHION OVER FIFTY

Well, that's what I've found this time around. It seems more neutrals, earthy tones and either structure or comfy and loose.

Usually both mixed together...

Especially vintage crisp with layers of Boho together.

But, of course, as bloggers, we know trends don't equal style!

xXx
Reva
RANDOM SHOTS: STYLE SETTER, STREET STYLE OR GOOGLE AD LOOK UPS
( IF ANYONE HAS OBJECTIONS REGARDING THE USE OF THEIR IMAGES, I WILL REMOVE THEM ASAP )

Neutrals and Perceived Flaws

2011-08-23T19:52:00.002-04:00

Hi, everyone,

One of the things I am finally beginning to learn since blogging is the harder you try to hide a self perceived 'flaw' the more apparent it is.

Why I thrifted this 'dress/skirt'?

1). Because it was 1/2 price day and was in the skirt section,

thus it was only two bucks. (Yipee!)

2). I always snag up neutrals to pair with other stuff.

3). It was really full and I like that.

I was a bit apprehensive about the large top gathers, and the attention they might bring to my self-imposed flaws at the 'waist/top'?,

but I thought I could hide it anyway. My 'flaws' include my rather jumbly boobs and waist size... But, turns out, the wide gathered band

seemed to actually distract from the said area(s)...

In this case, my boobs! I look like I have itty-bitty tittys!

(self love and body acceptance still in progress)

What'ya think? A cup,maybe?

Another realization I've made is:

I like square-toed shoes! There, I said it....

green suede: Nine West

And high buns, which if you've been here for awhile already know,

(For my new-found friends - HI!)

No, you don't see the fake DG on the side of the sunnies...

It's an illusion........

Ohhh! And LunaPics ! SO obsessed...

I feel like I'm always introducing myself,lately, LOL, what's that all about?

See how small the appear ?

(And I am wearing a bra)

Yes, crazy is part of the package...

We went hiking for the first time in forever yesterday !!! It was so great to be back in the woods, with only minor scrapes and injuries!

Geocaching rocks, plus I found a great new walking stick. If you're ever in Cincy and see a couple stumbling around Mt.Airy Forest, both holding trackers, sweating a lot and possibly arguing, it's just us.

A big thanks to everyone for all your support lately.

It's so cool to have people relate...

xXx

Reva

outfit: all thrifted (Goodwill)

except jacket (Sears,old),

long pendant(World MKT) and fake,cheap sunnies ;)

Photos or Content ?

2011-08-21T23:49:00.000-04:00

I haven't done a "Fashion and Philosophy" post in a long while,

Buttt......

I saw this as a perfect opportunity ;)

*(Remember these are my thoughts only)*

I just paroozed the IFB weekly roundup of Links a La Mode, and of course the first one I clicked on was yet another "What's wrong with Blogs" ... Or better yet the writers/creators of them.

The"Question my approach, Should I feel bad about myself" links

that seems to dominate most groups these days...

I honestly don't even know who or what site it came from (I swear!),

but just for a moment can't we just see it for what it is, and stop dissecting fashion blogs? They aren't about brain surgery,

but fashion, personal style (and pretty,inspiring pictures).

Style and Fashion blogging!

It's really just a simple forum to talk and display what it is that attracts us all to fashion...

Sure, great, original content is a bonus, but also the cool outfits and ideas are probably what keeps most people coming back to our little old blogs in the first place... Yes, most folks of this generation,(as in me), have the attention span of a gnat on crack, but that's OK.

It still is what it is.

*Inspiration* -

Pretty pictures, learning something new, fun DIY's, new friends,and showing off how clever we can be on occasion.

I don't think I need a dissertation on the mechanics of brain surgery or a course in existential thought (at least not on a style blog). I'm sure there are lots of blogs for that. Don't get me wrong, there are great style bloggers with terrific content, I admire that!

I suppose I just hope that we continue to remember that Fashion Blogging isn't brain surgery, but a forum to just be ourselves (which does sometimes include a bit of philosophy), inspire, and appreciate each other whether through text or cool images ...

I believe there's room for both...

outfit post to resume tomorrow ;)

cable movie of the week recommendation:

ZOMBIE STRIPPERS !

xXx

Reva

Pastels, Knots and Pearls

2011-08-19T18:20:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday :)

Well, what can I say about this week?

It was mostly spent in the same outfit, though not PJ's ;) - I wore and slept in the same grey sweater and tan skirt for about 3 days. When I finally peeled it off yesterday, it stood up all by itself - well almost ;)

Losing a beloved kitty is hard. Real hard. But a bath helped (nudged on by my hubby), lots of hugs and tears. I still haven't been able to throw out her bed (yet) and her ashes arrived at the vet today. (They're still there ;)

I'm still in the "watch the door, she might sneak out" stage,

but can already feel a kitten fix coming on strong. We will definitely adopt a shelter kitty or three... Shhhh.... Rod doesn't know yet ;)

And....

My outfit is another "Hide the Bra Strap"

Pensive face? Grumpy face? Mom about to blow face?

PS, DO NOT use the 'Portrait" setting for outfit shots!

(After reading the instructions, Duh), it washes out 'subject' color.

AKA, Me...

Tra, La, La...

Hug your fur babies today :)

xXx

Reva

Dress: Forever 21

Cardigan: Dot's (old)

Scarf: F 21

Shoes: Old Navy (thrifted)

Pearls: Vintage

Crystal earrings: Kroger (i know!)

Sunnies; Foster Grant