VINTAGE VANDALIZM

Vinny the riveter’s vintage finds!

vintagevandalizm — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:03:53 +0000

Yesterday was one of those “never waste a minute” kind of days where I made the most and the best of my day. My day started with me running to the Salvation Army in Hells Kitchen to shoot for a project that is in the works. I cannot announce what it is until it comes to full fruition. Hopefully it will, I have my fingers crossed. We shot for most of the day the best part about it was that I was able to THRIFT and meet other thrifters like darling Patrice Williams who is not only a fellow thrifter but a blogger as well! Patrice runs the blog “Looking fly for a dime” and I suggest you all check her out! Patrice knows her vintage, why? because as soon as I walked in the door she had a vintage 50′s robe at hand that I was drooling over for hours until we made a trade. She happened to like a purse I had in my cart and I must say..I wasn’t going to miss that bag..but that robe…I would’ve missed it had she not been so generous in giving it up. I absolutely adored her and can’t wait to thrift with her again. I ended up with a garbage bag full of goodies that I can’t wait to wear and I have photos inside to prove it! I also invited my friend Tim who is my old coworker from Billy’s Antiques so we could catch up after thrifting and grab some grub. He ended up leaving with a bag full of stuff too. We snuck in a little fun photo shoot of my outfit before leaving the building as Tim usually takes my pictures (he is such a good friend ). I definitely dressed for my thrifting occassion in a “Rosie the riveter” outfit I can’t wait to show you! After an exhausttting dayy of shopppinngg we headed on over to BBQ’s where we had some good-ol-fashioned southern food and what a perfect way to end the day than a big plate of food and a strawberry daiquiri. More details and photos inside!First and foremost…..THE ROBE. So glamorous and exactly what I needed in my life. Thank you Patrice<3!I love these regal cool prints so it was a no brainer that I had to have this Ralph Lauren top. I am going to wear the hell out of it.I also found this tagless cropped candy striped cropped sweater. I love stripes and I cant wait to wear this top with my Christian Louboutin candy striped shoes.This bolero stood out to me not only because it was cropped but because of the Chanel-like tweed material and the Versace-like lion button. This is going to look great with a pencil skirt or high waisted pants.I died when I found this vintage sweater. I love the abstract tribal design and the contrast of the black and white together. I am going to have a field day with this sweater, and it is long so I can make it into a dress!I found this vintage top while looking through the sweaters and I am absolutely in love with it. I mean look at the color and the neckline. This is sooo 1950s and would look great with a poodle skirt, pencil skirt, or high waisted pants. Adorbs!This was one of my favorite finds at the Salvation Army. This is a cashmere skull sweater by Lux. This isn’t vintage but it reminded me so much of Betsey Johnsons skull sweaters that I had to have it. Plus, I love skulls anyway..I mean…Who doesn’t?Before checking out I found a really cool silver necklet. How amazing is this!I snagged some other things but I will wait to show you them later . P.S this lady in this picture above is the same lady I used to see at the Salvation Army in Queens when I was just a tween! I have a good memory.Off to BBQ’s because we certainly weren’t going to wait on that Shake Shack line. Look how sad my face was lol.I was still ecstatic about all of my finds, this picture says it all lolol BBQ’s!This is my amazing friend Timothy. Not really sure how my blog would have survived without him taking all of my pictures last summer or how I would have survived my stress without his friendship. I love you Tim!Yum Strawberrryyyyy.lol no pictures pleaseStill sippin.Here are photos from the little shoot we did of my outfit.“Yo Vinny!”

Remember that Grey Antics top I scored at Buffalo Exchange the other day? Well, I happened to have pants that were the exact same color and fabric by American Apparel. I was soooo happy when I realized it! They go perfect together!My bandana is from the Freshthetic shop in Brooklyn. Its my favorite! My earrings are from Tarina Tarantino, I wear them in different colors all the time.My belt is vintage. I always find cool thin vintage belts like these for $2 at thrift shops.My glasses are also vintage, see my previous post for details.My hair is up in a pompadour wrapped with my bandana, my 1-2-3 ready hairstyle.I used a blue contrast of accessories to match my belt like my vintage suitcase and Pan American bag. They make quite a pair. Felt like I was about to go work on a plane with my vintage brown bomber jacket.<3My construction wedge boots are from Zara, I actually purchased them off of another blogger.Definitely one of my favorite outfits! Hope this one makes the big screen!

Photos by: Timothy Dark

XOXO

Vintage cat-eye glasses!

vintagevandalizm — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 04:48:48 +0000

I am addicted to vintage cat-eye glasses and have become an avid collector of them. These are my new finds as of recent. However, finding the right pair is tough because you have to try it before you buy it. Many people shop for vintage specs through ebay and I have done that and learned that what you see is not always what you get. Vintage specs from the 50s and 60s were made in a variety of sizes but most run fairly small. Shopping on ebay, I ended up with a bunch of cat-eye specs that were way too small for my face and had to sell them. My suggestion to anyone looking for really great frames is to attend flea markets or thrift stores where you can actually try them on. The best part about buying specs at flea markets and thrift shops are the prices as well (depending on where you go). I like to find mine at flea markets in deserted towns, places that have boxes full of them. If you aren’t afraid to wipe the dust off, you may find the perfect pair of vintage specs at the perfect price. Some of my vintage glasses cost as little as $3! The most I have ever spent on a pair of glasses was $50 just because the lenses and condition was perfect and didn’t need work. I got most of these specs restored and re-lensed at Luxeye Optical in Williamsburg Brooklyn. I have good vision so I got regular lenses for just $30 and they sometimes finish the job the same day I bring them in. All of my vintage glasses end up costing me less than $50 which is less than most expensive thrift stores and online shops may sell you- with warped lenses and screws that may be loose. Save your money vintage mavens and go on a treasure hunt at your local vintage flea markets and get some vintage specs restored at a great affordable optical shop like Luxeye Optical. I am sure you will hit the jackpot like I did!

Here are some photos of me in some of my new specs <3When I bought these 25% of the handle was broken at the tip, didn’t care..At $3 you wouldn’t care either. They are still broken but not really noticeable. These are really cool despite the leucite turning a little yellow from the age, I bought them anyway. The blue brows of these specs are simple but classic. $5 specs + $30 lenses = $35!I bought these in pristine condition for just $5, they have a tiger strip design within the leucite that was irresistible. I mean look at them, they are amazing! They came with lenses that had a not so crazy prescription but I bought new lenses anyway. $35!These were a little more expensive at $20 and had no lenses at all. However, I fell in LOVE with them and they are actually my favorite out of my collection because of the intergalactic marble design. These ended up costing me $50 after I got them re-lensed.

There you go, you don’t have to go spending tons on a pair of glasses that fit your pinup personality. It is worth being patient and searching for a deal!

Happy thrifting!

XOXO

Yumna Al-Arashi’s “Internet Bitch” Styled by V.V!

vintagevandalizm — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 17:07:17 +0000

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of collaborating with Yumna Al-Arashi, a very talented photographer and a good friend of mine. Her passion for photography couldnt’ be a better marriage because her fun and quirky personality shines through her work. Yumna is a whimsical gypsy who enjoys traveling all over the world capturing beauty, art, and those precious moments when one connects with nature. This woman is brilliant beyond measure and I cannot wait to see her continue to flourish. Many of my favorite photos of myself were shot my Yumna and I feel fortunate that I could now lend my expertise in styling her model for this new project she was working on called “Internet Bitch”. The whole concept of this shoot is self-explanatory. Many of us allow technology to run and ruin our lives like a bad addiction, But if you learn how to make technology work for you and not against you, the possibilities are endless. With that said….

“Don’t be technology’s bitch. Make technology your bitch.”

Inside is the finished project of Yumna’s “Internet Bitch” along with behind the scenes footage and more details about the shoot. Must be 18+ to view photos.

Behind the scenes!

Cyndle did an amazing job with makeup. Her work was flawless and Stephanie looked beautiful for both looks.Peter did a great job with Stephanie‘s hair. How could anyone not love a pink finger waved hairdo?I did the styling. Stephanie was really pleasant to work with. She had me laughing the entire time. Gotta love a model with humor and a great personality. She did an AMAZING job modeling for this shoot.For the first look which was more of a sweet sexy look, I put Stephanie in a leopard Lucy B Lingerie bra and brief set, a vintage robe, fur stole, and white pumps. I had her drenched in vintage jewels with the exception of her kitty Betsey Johnson earrings.For the second look which was more of a dark look, I put Stephanie in leather Agent Provocateur shorts, a Jessica Simpson pleather sleeved blazer, biker gloves, a vintage military cap, vintage panther earrings, a Versace for H&M choker, Leg avenue thigh high stockings, and Topshop boots. Fabbbulous.

It was the perfect shoot with the perfect team. Special thanks to Eric White for taking behind the scenes, I wish I would have gotten a picture of him. He is also a very skilled photographer and a dapper one at that!

Model: Stephanie Wagenman (yes, Betsey Johnson’s muse!)
Makeup: Cyndle Strawhecker
Hair: Peter Mattelinano
Styling: Jasmin Rodriguez (Vintage Vandalizm)
Assistance: Eric White

Visit Yumna Al-Arashi’s website now!

XOXO

Winter Wonder Woman.

vintagevandalizm — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:45:04 +0000

I have to say, winter has been pretty good to us out here in NY and even though we have had cold and brittle days, it hasn’t been so bad. However, on this day…NY was brick city and I had a very important casting to attend so I had to bust out my vintage fur coat, thick sweater, jeans, and Michael Kors boots. I had to look my best for this casting and I can’t let winter stop me from dressing up so I like to wear really cool coat and hat ensembles. This happens to be my favorite. I actually bought my hat separately at a vintage flea market upstate. I was ecstatic when I realized it matched my vintage coat. Though they are similar, my hat is from the 60′s and my coat is from the 50′s (I only buy vintage fur). Two of my favorite eras . I found my coat at Beacons Closet in Brooklyn about a year ago and nearly died when I found it because it reminded me of a coat one of my Barbie’s sported in my childhood days. I was even more excited about the condition of the coat considering it was so old. It gets better because I couldn’t believe the price! I mean $50? Are you for real? I had to have it and it is one of my most treasured vintage finds to date. hear more about my winter wonderland outfit along with more details inside!

This is actually a simple outfit for me but still classic vintage. My sweater is from the Gap, my coat is no label vintage, my hat is vintage, who knows where my jeans are from, my boots are Michael Kors, and my purse is a handmade Bishette Bag made of all vintage materials.
I swear this is my warmest ensemble and I plan to wear the hell out of it allll winter.
My Bishette purse has become one of my favorite purses. I wear it all the time!These Michael Kors boots actually have a faux-sheepskin button-on trim but I liked them better without the trim for this look.I am obsessed with bold stripes, I like that this Gap sweater has subtle ones.

Special thanks to my bestie/pinup artist Santiago for taking these pics!

Xoxo!

Coppelia & the Boom Boom Room.

vintagevandalizm — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 04:05:32 +0000

The other night, my girl Maria and I wanted to have a night out on the town. So we first stopped by Coppelia, a cuban restaurant I am newly in love with that exudes old Cuba to it’s finest. I was in LOVE. The walls were adorned with paintings and photos of Cuba, classic cars, flags. There were also old-fashioned mid-century dining tables and GOD..the food was so delicious. I ordered a Cuban sandwich and I have been craving it ever since. I am very picky about my cuban sandwiches and I have to say this is hands down one of the best I have had in this city. The service was lovely as well. I actually plan to return on Wednesday with my friend Danielle and I can’t wait. After we got some grub we were off to the Boom Boom Room at the Standard hotel to meet up with my friends Andrea, Nina, and Nazir. It was nice to zone out at a beautiful venue and enjoy drinks and a good conversation. I haven’t been out in a while so I definitely dolled myself up in a vintage dress that had been collecting dust in my closet. I was so happy to finally put it to use. It was a really good night..Check out more details and photos inside.Coppelia was full of Cuban culture. I was loving every little detail about this place.Maria got this shot with her phone. I was ready to eat!My plate after 2 seconds.Maria and I in the elevator of the Standard hotel, being silly.The beautiful Boom Boom Room.This dress is about 6 or 7 years old and this is the first time I have worn it. Felt so good to put it to use in such a beautiful place. I wanted to mix the film noir feel of the 1920s with this goddess-like look. I like to mix and match different images, cultures, and eras together. I was drenched in vintage from head to toe.We kept warm and toasty from the cold rain by sitting next to this fire-place.This makes me realize I have such pretty friends lol <3
Love this picture of my friend Maria!
My city.ahhh what a good dress..Why have I neglected you sooo long.Maria, Nina, and I! Love them!As if! ;DKissy!My girl Andrea and I! Love this girl! She is so full of life.Nazir and Nina, two very talented performers. Nazir is a Musician and Nina is a performance artist.Puerto Rican dolls <3

Good times!

XOXO

V.V models Mode Merr 2012 Collection!

vintagevandalizm — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:44:21 +0000

A few months ago I had the pleasure of modeling for Mode Merr again. This time I was modeling their new 2012 collection and couldn’t be more thrilled. This is such a wonderful company to collaborate with because it supports and dresses women of all sizes. The rockabilly culture needed a brand that catered to all types of women; a quality brand that is affordable and makes women feel beautiful and powerful whether you are a size 0 or a 14. Mode Merr was definitely a relief for fashionistas all over the world who were sizes XXS and XXL. Angela, the designer and mastermind behind Mode Merr definitely knows how to design and create clothes perfect for the female figure. It was lovely to link up with her again. It was also nice to shoot with Mitzi Valenzuela of Mitzi & Co again, she is a very talented photographer and very cool to work with. Don’t even get me started about my girl Josephine Love who did hair and makeup…I was sooo impressed with her ability to work with my hair, something that is so hard for many stylists to manage. I am usually sketchy about hair and makeup people because I feel like most of the time they end up making me look like someone else that isn’t “me” and it makes it uncomfortable to model. So most of the time I take on those roles myself. But Josephine was amazing, she made me look and feel beautiful. From my hair to my eye lashes, I still felt like myself and was able to model comfortably in Mode Merr’s fabulous new 2012 collection. Everything was perfect and I was drooling over the entire collection so much I wanted to run off with the clothes while I was still wearing them lol. Check out the pieces I modeled inside!

The Fitted Peasant Blouse (Black Lace & Black)

The Fitted Peasant Blouse makes looking gorgeous a snap. This pull-on blouse has a snug fitting midriff and gathered bust line. The elasticized neckline and sleeves allow you to wear it on or off the shoulders.

Sophia Lauren was the inspiration for our Black Lace Fitted Peasant Blouse. Can’t you just picture her turning heads in this blouse worn with the Tangerine Perfect Skirt!

The Perfect Skirt (Tangerine)

Mode Merr’s Perfect Skirts are simply that. They are just the thing for every occasion. These skirts are made to hug your curves and measure 26 inches long from natural waist to hemline.

We offer both raised and natural waist styles. The raised waist falls about 2 inches above your natural waist for a dramatic 40’s style look. All skirts have a sexy center back slit. Once you buy a Perfect Skirt, you’ll want one in every color. Add a little zest to your wardrobe with a tasty Tangerine Perfect Skirt. Delicious!

The Fitted Peasant Blouse (Black Velvet)

The sleek black stretch velvet is just the thing to bring elegance and sophistication to any outfit.

The Perfect Skirt Brown & Gold Leopard

When we saw this animal print fabric, we simply could not resist! It is a medium weight cotton lycra poplin with a touch of stretch. The color combination of gold, brown & black in this small scale epitomizes a great leopard print. Every gal needs an iconic leopard skirt to liven up her wardrobe.

The Perfect Skirt Lime

Mode Merr’s Perfect Skirts are simply that. They are just the thing for every occasion. These skirts are made to hug your curves and measure 26 inches long from natural waist to hemline.

We offer both raised and natural waist styles. The raised waist falls about 2 inches above your natural waist for a dramatic 40’s style look. All skirts have a sexy center back slit. Once you buy a Perfect Skirt, you’ll want one in every color. Lucky for you, we are continually adding new color and fabric options.

The Fitted Peasant Blouse Pink Velvet

This hot pink stretch velvet is simply mouth watering and feels delightful. This blouse is sure to sweeten any glamorous gal’s wardrobe in a snap.

Perky Peplum Asian Print

The Perky Peplum Blouse is so fun to wear because you simply cannot resist swishing while you walk. The silky poly Asian print fabric is machine washable and feels like silk satin. There is an upside down zipper at the center back to allow for a tapered fit. There are front and back darts to create the fitted bodice while the flared peplum creates movement and can hide a multitude of sins.

The Perfect Skirt Red

The Dragon Perfect Skirt Black & Jade

This fierce traditional dragon designprinted in jade green was created by the very talented painter, tattooer and owner of Totem Tattoo Shops in Central Pa, Buffalo Bill Tarr. We carefully heat press each design for perfect placement. The Jade Dragon skirt has our classic natural waist style with a sexy center back slit.

The Eye Candy Blouse All Over Leopard

This Eye Candy Blouse is made of soft stretch cotton lycra with a fantastic all over leopard print. The Peter Pan collar and keyhole neckline are trimmed with black ric-rac and fastens with a traditional chinese frog closure in black. This blouse has raglan short sleeves.

The Perfect Skirt Black

The Frilly Peasant Blouse Black

This is a take off of our classic Fitted Peasant Blouse in all black with gathered bust and puff sleeves. The versatile neckline can be worn on or off the shoulders. The Frilly Peasant Blouse has a shortened midriff, accented by a three inch black sheer ruffle peplum for that added dose of delight!

Sugar Skull Tulip Skirt Sacred Brocade Black & White

Two intricately detailed Sugar Skulls come to life on our Sacred Brocade Sugar Skull Tulip Skirt thanks to the wonderful talents of Aaron Bellve a noted tattooer and painter at Totem Tattoo, in Williamsport, PA. We carefully heat press each image for perfect placement.

Our six paneled fit and flared Tulip skirt has a side zipper and is made of sturdy cotton stretch twill with a front center panel made of a rayon/poly blend silvery white and black ecclesiastical brocade. The Tulip skirt is flattering on every size and figure. This skirt measures 24 inches from the natural waistline with a bias bound hemline.

The Everybody Loves Cleavage Blouse Black with Red Trim

The form fitting Everybody Loves Cleavage Blouse with flattering raglan sleeves is made of soft cotton lycra. The Mandarin collar and keyhole neckline are trimmed with 3/8 inch red cotton chenille fringe and a traditional frog closure in black.

This blouse feels like you are wearing your favorite comfy t-shirt. This versatile blouse can be worn tucked in or left out. Looking fabulous has never been so effortless.

The Perfect Skirt Red

The Fitted Peasant Blouse (Leopard & Black Velvet)

The stretch velvet small leopard print paired with black pane stretch velvet is a sassy and sexy blouse that is sure to turn up the heat.

The Perfect Skirt Lime

Check out the Mode Merr shop to see more of the new 2012 collection!

XOXO

V.V x Metro Pcs New Ad Campaign

vintagevandalizm — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 22:20:55 +0000

Many of you have messaged me all over the net asking if you saw me in the new Metro Pcs commercial and yes it was me! Sadly I cannot post the 60 second video because Metro Pcs said something about licensing rights. However, here is a screen shot one of my friends (thanks Chris!) managed to catch of me. I am the designer of the commercial pushing a clothing rack of clothes in my 1950′s outfit with my little lucky bowtie. I am really shocked at how many of you even noticed me since I am only maybe 2 seconds of the commercial lol. Overall, I am stoked that you guys recognized me and will let you in on a little secret…This may not be the last time you see me on TV this year. I have a feeling something huge is brewing but can’t dish details till it comes into fruition!

To see my previous post on what I wore for this commercial click here!

XOXO!

Sergeant Vinny!

vintagevandalizm — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 07:04:58 +0000

The other day I made plans to meet up with my girl Maria for din din. I swear, I would much rather go out to eat with my girl friends than party any day. Don’t get me wrong, I love to dance my little butt off, but whats better than food and a good conversation? My girls and I EAT. It’s what I love about them the most. They aren’t the “oh, all I had was a cigarette and a fruit cup for dinner” type of girls..and thank god for that. My girls aren’t afraid to throw-down 2 slices of pizza with a side of fried oreos lol. This time we ditched pizza for The Meatball shop in Williamsburg Brooklyn where I enjoyed a nice classic pasta with a side of spinach and Maria had a sandwich. This place has great service and the food was DELISH. We also shared a desert, a vanilla ice cream half snickerdoodle half-brownie sandwich and we were loving it. I definitely see us going there more often, it’s a really cool spot to eat over a good convo. But before I met up with Maria, I was at the nail salon getting my nails done, then killed time around the area visiting some shops I haven’t been to in a while. One being Buffalo Exchange where I found a few cute pieces. Check out more photos and details inside.

I was feeling very militant this day and decided to take my new sergeant hat out for a spin. I recently purchased it at a flea market and have been dying to wear it and finally did. My sweater is Diesel and what I love about it is how it is knitted. It has really cool abstract hem lines.You can see the crazy hem lines of the sweater.My pants are vintage Austria Ski pants that I wear as trousers and these are my new Mallard Steve Madden boots I adoreeeee. <3I also wore my vintage atlas purse case. It is one of my favorite vintage finds of all time and I wear it to death.lol This is my neighbor’s dog Benji. He is such a cutie!This is a vintage bomber jacket I recently purchased at the Buffalo Exchange in Manhattan. I died when I found it and just had to have it. I finally put this jacket to use with my vintage fur stole and shades and it worked well with the hole military theme.Off to the nail salon!My nail salon is a mom and pop shop. Super tacky, wacky, and I love it.After getting my nails done, I went to Buffalo Exchange where I found some cute cool pieces like this H&M crop top.I fell in love with the colors and print of this top. I wasn’t mad at the price either.I gravitated towards this top too because it had vintage looking kitties all over it.So cute!I had to have this top and trust me this pic does this top no justice. It is a cute crop-top with a drapped neckline and a drawstring waist.
I have the perfect high-waisted pants for this top. Can’t wait to wear it!I found this cute black dress and fell in love with it but from the side It flattened me out. I know I probably should have bought it anyway but I’ve got many……many…black dresses.
This American Apparel skirt is cool too, I love that it has a 50s flair to it but is a bold shade of royal blue. You can find lots of American Apparel at Buffalo Exchange, for dirt cheap too.I don’t really like jeans so I buy pants most of the time. I like the stretch of pants over the constricting feel of jeans. I bought these because they are simple, black, and has pleather pieces on the knees. Just a simple staple for my closet.Last but not least, I found these Mojo Moxy shoes that I love love love!

I kept my shopping light and ran off to meet my girl Maria for noms. The Meatball shop was phenomenal.This is my camera-shy-sassy friend Maria. She has a really dope blog. Check it out!

Good times!

XOXO

Come to the IFB Conference!

vintagevandalizm — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:11:43 +0000

I will be attending the Independent Fashion Bloggers Conference and would love to meet all of you fellow fashion bloggers come February. I attended last year and had a wonderful time, check out my post.

Get your earlybird tickets now!

See you then!

XOXO

Vinny will be in Vegas!

vintagevandalizm — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:08:22 +0000

Just booked my flight to Vegas for the Viva Las Vegas rockabilly weekend. I will be in town from 04/03-04/08 dolls and greasers. For bookings please email vvmgmt@gmail.com.

See you all there!

XOXO