Monday, May 30, 2011
I know
I know, this blog is not very lively. For those of you reading through the archive it is pretty obvious before your time that this is a lame blog. I have been so busy with dancing and school that I have neglected my blogging posts. I also have to work on that too, I don't think my posts are very good either :( Hopefully over the summer, and in the nex year, I will be back with a wealth of information! To share, of course, with you. Don't expect much in the next month, but once summer is rolling, I will be back!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Vintage Sewing Patterns: Inspired!
So....VividMakeup is back! After half a year of issues with her computer, she is back will more hair and makeup tutorials and an extra hobby she began with her spare time: sewing! And not just any sort of sewing, but vintage clothing patterns! She has officially earned the title of 'favourite youtube guru", even has bypassed the famous Michelle Phan.
This has inspired me to take a closer look at vintage dress patterns. About two months ago, web addresses to vintage sewing pattern online stores filled my webpage history, and I now have a resurge of interest in them. Next year, since dance competition season has started, I will quit the team and begin other stuff, like yoga, horseback riding, and sewing, plus studying more about witchcraft, of course.
A little 411 on choosing dress patterns, other than how the dress initially looks on the model on the pattern. The 20s were all about boyish silhouettes and have a long, straight line to them. I personally do not like this style because of the lack of curves, but it was all the rage when women were fighting for individuality. Not the easiest era for pattern hunting, this was 90 years ago, remember.
The 30s were shifting into more feminine, defined clothing, and a whole lot of fabric conservation. During the Great Depression, many resorted to using patterns as it was cheaper than buying from a store, so more patterns were made for this era. They aren't as common as 60s patterns but are still out there.
Get ready for less fabric and more business because the 1940s war era was on a strict guidline on supplies. There were rules on how many buttons could be on a dress! Let alone the amount of fabric used. This is a good style option for those who do not want to spend a fortune on fabric.
After the war, the 1950s sparked a renewed interest in femininity, and indulgence. After being cut down in size, the women were ready for a new, fuller, luxe style option. Dior saw the oppourtunity and brought out its new look, which bcame the basis of style for the next decade. This look is not cheap on the fabric-it costs to look good.
And finally the 60s, much matched with the 20s boyish silhouette, had Twiggy to bring on the modern look with sleeker lines and freedom for women. It has a 50s vintage influence with a more casual, less 'fluffy' appearance which is perfect to molding with the 2010's. And sewing patterns, like t.v. dinners, became easier and quicker for people with less experiance to accomplish. Try this era first, for simplicity.
I have no interest in the 70s and onward, it just got painful after that.
In the near future, I will post photos of soon-to-be dresses that hopefully will be somewhat decently done.
This has inspired me to take a closer look at vintage dress patterns. About two months ago, web addresses to vintage sewing pattern online stores filled my webpage history, and I now have a resurge of interest in them. Next year, since dance competition season has started, I will quit the team and begin other stuff, like yoga, horseback riding, and sewing, plus studying more about witchcraft, of course.
A little 411 on choosing dress patterns, other than how the dress initially looks on the model on the pattern. The 20s were all about boyish silhouettes and have a long, straight line to them. I personally do not like this style because of the lack of curves, but it was all the rage when women were fighting for individuality. Not the easiest era for pattern hunting, this was 90 years ago, remember.
The 30s were shifting into more feminine, defined clothing, and a whole lot of fabric conservation. During the Great Depression, many resorted to using patterns as it was cheaper than buying from a store, so more patterns were made for this era. They aren't as common as 60s patterns but are still out there.
Get ready for less fabric and more business because the 1940s war era was on a strict guidline on supplies. There were rules on how many buttons could be on a dress! Let alone the amount of fabric used. This is a good style option for those who do not want to spend a fortune on fabric.
After the war, the 1950s sparked a renewed interest in femininity, and indulgence. After being cut down in size, the women were ready for a new, fuller, luxe style option. Dior saw the oppourtunity and brought out its new look, which bcame the basis of style for the next decade. This look is not cheap on the fabric-it costs to look good.
And finally the 60s, much matched with the 20s boyish silhouette, had Twiggy to bring on the modern look with sleeker lines and freedom for women. It has a 50s vintage influence with a more casual, less 'fluffy' appearance which is perfect to molding with the 2010's. And sewing patterns, like t.v. dinners, became easier and quicker for people with less experiance to accomplish. Try this era first, for simplicity.
I have no interest in the 70s and onward, it just got painful after that.
In the near future, I will post photos of soon-to-be dresses that hopefully will be somewhat decently done.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Types of Witchcraft
What types of witchcraft is there? Witchcraft is a Pagan branch, hence not to say Pagan is just witchcraft, but an 'umbrella' term for many earth-based religions.
Witchcraft is also Wicca, but Wicca can be just a religion without witchcraft, or vice versa, or both.
There are several types such as British Traditional, Dianic, Celtic, Shamanic, etc.
Eclectic is most common, since witchcraft is not an organized religion so people feel okay being able to mix their beliefs into their own.
I prefer to study Green witchcraft, as I like dealing with earth and celestial powers rather than the spiritual beyond and 'behind the veil' type things. Of course it interests me, I just feel it is too ceremonial and organized for me to properly understand and make it mesh with my beliefs and will.
So, the types of green witchcraft are as follows:
- Hedgewitch
- Kitchen Witch
- Cottage Witch
- Heriditary Witch
- Celtic Witch
- Green Witch
The first three are most easily described around green witchcraft with their own personalities added in. A hedgewitch is an old term for a healer or midwife who also practiced magick in her village, surrounded by a hedge. Now, the hedge is symbolic for the realms and the practice is somewhat shamanic.
A Kitchen witch is a descriptive title all its own. The witch has her garden, her home, and her hearth (kitchen). This is the center basis for all that she creates for her home and for magick. It is the most casual practice and is really about adding magick to the mundane homelife.
A hereditay witch is one I envy because you cannot just 'become' one. It is passed through generations and I can assure you none of my family practiced witch craft for the past few generations. Pretty Catholic and Christian, to say the least. Maybe I'll start my own line :)
So anyway, it is based on old traditions passed through the family. It is not 'by blood' that you become a witch, though, it is a concious decision to carry on the craft as part of your life.
The celtic witch is a tradition, and is very earth-based and also healers who work with many creatures. They base themselves upon the Ancient Ones and are Practicioners of the Elements.
Another notable tradition not nessesarily 'green' is Appalachian Granny Magick. I recommend you look it up and see how interesting this old tradition is. Information like this is what I exist for!
For the record, I am torn between a Kitchen witch, or a Cottage witch. I believe they are the same thing, but who knows when your dealing with such a personalized belief?
Witchcraft is also Wicca, but Wicca can be just a religion without witchcraft, or vice versa, or both.
There are several types such as British Traditional, Dianic, Celtic, Shamanic, etc.
Eclectic is most common, since witchcraft is not an organized religion so people feel okay being able to mix their beliefs into their own.
I prefer to study Green witchcraft, as I like dealing with earth and celestial powers rather than the spiritual beyond and 'behind the veil' type things. Of course it interests me, I just feel it is too ceremonial and organized for me to properly understand and make it mesh with my beliefs and will.
So, the types of green witchcraft are as follows:
- Hedgewitch
- Kitchen Witch
- Cottage Witch
- Heriditary Witch
- Celtic Witch
- Green Witch
The first three are most easily described around green witchcraft with their own personalities added in. A hedgewitch is an old term for a healer or midwife who also practiced magick in her village, surrounded by a hedge. Now, the hedge is symbolic for the realms and the practice is somewhat shamanic.
A Kitchen witch is a descriptive title all its own. The witch has her garden, her home, and her hearth (kitchen). This is the center basis for all that she creates for her home and for magick. It is the most casual practice and is really about adding magick to the mundane homelife.
A hereditay witch is one I envy because you cannot just 'become' one. It is passed through generations and I can assure you none of my family practiced witch craft for the past few generations. Pretty Catholic and Christian, to say the least. Maybe I'll start my own line :)
So anyway, it is based on old traditions passed through the family. It is not 'by blood' that you become a witch, though, it is a concious decision to carry on the craft as part of your life.
The celtic witch is a tradition, and is very earth-based and also healers who work with many creatures. They base themselves upon the Ancient Ones and are Practicioners of the Elements.
Another notable tradition not nessesarily 'green' is Appalachian Granny Magick. I recommend you look it up and see how interesting this old tradition is. Information like this is what I exist for!
For the record, I am torn between a Kitchen witch, or a Cottage witch. I believe they are the same thing, but who knows when your dealing with such a personalized belief?
Resurge of the Witch!
So when I started this blog, I mainly had plans to write about witchcraft and some side stuff on vintage clothing stores etc. But it has taken over! I lost interest in witchcraft after Christmas and I have decided to look back on it, starting two days ago. Shame on me...
As a start (I believe this is my first witchcraft blog) I want to say that I AM NOT EXPERIENCED. This is a biggie because if I say something incorrect, or false, then its because I have little to no practice and have been a book learner since summer. In fact, if you know any good sites for advice (or have some of your own) I'd be incredibly appreciative!
My next blog will be all on witchcraft, mainy identifying the types of witchcraft which exist.
As a start (I believe this is my first witchcraft blog) I want to say that I AM NOT EXPERIENCED. This is a biggie because if I say something incorrect, or false, then its because I have little to no practice and have been a book learner since summer. In fact, if you know any good sites for advice (or have some of your own) I'd be incredibly appreciative!
My next blog will be all on witchcraft, mainy identifying the types of witchcraft which exist.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Tacky Tourists in Europe
Alright, so what is with Americans (i'll use a general term for Canadians and Americans) and sticking out like a sore thumb in Italy? If I ever visit Italy I will do my best not to appear like a tourist, since I recently admitted to myself that I DO care what people think of me, and that is nothing to be ashamed of. I find it incredibly uncomfortable having an Italian watching me with a smirk as I gasp about the glorious Renaissance architecture of Venice.
This is how the scenario would go:
I notice an italian guy staring at me, I smile to him. He laughs. I don't know why.
I look down at my outfit: white sneakers, denim shortshorts, graphic tee and hoodie. Typical wear for day, not sure what is so odd about it. No food on my clothes, or teeth.
Then, to my horror, I see my naive friend attempting to get a photo with some nude statue, and calling my name. Oh, god. As one of those "touristphobia's" of mine I am immediatly embarassed and try to shush her up. Needless to say, the guy is laughing at how 'stupid american tourists' are really funny and dumb.
And I explained the outfit because-it is normal summer wear for americans-it is like a neon sign saying, 'TOURIST'. Italians, generally Europeans, have a sophisticated, almost old world traditions for how the look (not really in the younger crowd). If you go on google maps in some random town, the adult people are wearing pants and long skirts. Modest. Refined. Dignified. I want to be this way. I CARE about being judged by the people of a foreign country; I don't want to be fooled around with by the citizens who are total asses and give the wrong directions or a foul recommendation on where to eat. I need to fit in.
So how do we go about doing this? (Also, the reason for Italy is they generally have a reputation for good style)
http://www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/how-to-look-like-a-local-in-italy-this-summer.html
has some great tips on how to 'blend' fairly well. If you don't care what other people think, just know that you are less of a target for pickpockets or being mugged.
Basic Points:
- Skip the running shoes, or any white walking shoes. They're blinding.
- Go for black or brown shoes, inconspicuous walking shoes.
- Vintage will always work; it's modest and timeless.
- Generally do research on what 'looks' fashionable. If you'd feel almost too dressy for the mall, then its nicely casual for strolling around Nice.
- Please, please, stow the camera until you need it, wearing it around your neck will just ruin any effort you made at all.
I'll add on maybe.
This is how the scenario would go:
I notice an italian guy staring at me, I smile to him. He laughs. I don't know why.
I look down at my outfit: white sneakers, denim shortshorts, graphic tee and hoodie. Typical wear for day, not sure what is so odd about it. No food on my clothes, or teeth.
Then, to my horror, I see my naive friend attempting to get a photo with some nude statue, and calling my name. Oh, god. As one of those "touristphobia's" of mine I am immediatly embarassed and try to shush her up. Needless to say, the guy is laughing at how 'stupid american tourists' are really funny and dumb.
And I explained the outfit because-it is normal summer wear for americans-it is like a neon sign saying, 'TOURIST'. Italians, generally Europeans, have a sophisticated, almost old world traditions for how the look (not really in the younger crowd). If you go on google maps in some random town, the adult people are wearing pants and long skirts. Modest. Refined. Dignified. I want to be this way. I CARE about being judged by the people of a foreign country; I don't want to be fooled around with by the citizens who are total asses and give the wrong directions or a foul recommendation on where to eat. I need to fit in.
So how do we go about doing this? (Also, the reason for Italy is they generally have a reputation for good style)
http://www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/how-to-look-like-a-local-in-italy-this-summer.html
has some great tips on how to 'blend' fairly well. If you don't care what other people think, just know that you are less of a target for pickpockets or being mugged.
Basic Points:
- Skip the running shoes, or any white walking shoes. They're blinding.
- Go for black or brown shoes, inconspicuous walking shoes.
- Vintage will always work; it's modest and timeless.
- Generally do research on what 'looks' fashionable. If you'd feel almost too dressy for the mall, then its nicely casual for strolling around Nice.
- Please, please, stow the camera until you need it, wearing it around your neck will just ruin any effort you made at all.
I'll add on maybe.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Pole Dancing!
So, this type of dancing is usually considered vulgar and skanky, since so many associate it with hookers at bars on their poles. Yeah, it gives the pole a pretty bad rap. Luckily, the pole is much more recognized as an art, and not from the American 1980's striptease we so often associate it with.
In fact, just a little bit of history, it may have started in America in the 1910s to 1920s because of the popularity of travelling performers, like the cirucs. Acrobats and dancers most likely practised on tent poles by using it as a prop, and it became more accepted into the burlesque culture in the 1950s.
Sadly, it soon became known as a 'dirty' form of dancing as it was related to striptease in bars, and still has a somewhat bad name.
If you don't believe me, would you ever consider asking your mother to take a pole dancing class? Or mothers, would you let your daughter buy a pole to practice on? Yeah, I do think it is a somewhat sexy form of dancing, but it is empowering, kindof like the corset, to a woman.
So, as an art form, i find it mesmirising to watch the no-gravity stunts pulled off by these people.
If ever you feel like trying it out, it looks like alot of fun. Just make sure to buy a pole that is sturdy and will not fall over on you! Too many videos on youtube of pole dancing failures have warned me from bad manufacturing...
Not so much on this subject, it just looks like a fun workout to me, really.
Check out an up-coming blog about corsets, I really want to get one!
In fact, just a little bit of history, it may have started in America in the 1910s to 1920s because of the popularity of travelling performers, like the cirucs. Acrobats and dancers most likely practised on tent poles by using it as a prop, and it became more accepted into the burlesque culture in the 1950s.
Sadly, it soon became known as a 'dirty' form of dancing as it was related to striptease in bars, and still has a somewhat bad name.
If you don't believe me, would you ever consider asking your mother to take a pole dancing class? Or mothers, would you let your daughter buy a pole to practice on? Yeah, I do think it is a somewhat sexy form of dancing, but it is empowering, kindof like the corset, to a woman.
So, as an art form, i find it mesmirising to watch the no-gravity stunts pulled off by these people.
If ever you feel like trying it out, it looks like alot of fun. Just make sure to buy a pole that is sturdy and will not fall over on you! Too many videos on youtube of pole dancing failures have warned me from bad manufacturing...
Not so much on this subject, it just looks like a fun workout to me, really.
Check out an up-coming blog about corsets, I really want to get one!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Vintage Makeup- Diagrams
So, today I have decided a good way to portray how the makeup was applied 60 years ago is by using a MAC face chart. These handy little charts let you do whatever makeup you want on a blank slate, so to speak, within the limits of your imagination.
Here is a blank chart:
Feel free to copy it, or get your own off google or something. The point is, you can print it and then colour it according to the look you are going for,and choose to post it or use it on yourself.
But, since I cannot seem to scan on my printer, I have done up several models from instyle.com's virtual makeover in vintage style instead. So here are some that I have done, sporting several different combinations of eyeshadow and lipstick that could inspire you're own vintage look.
Here is the classic vintage look: red lips and brown eyeshadow. Very timeless, but also add some darkness to those eyebrows, I couldn't do it on the virtual makeover.
For all the gingers out there (sorry if your offended by being called a ginge) try a sea green eyeshadow and pink rose lipstick, very flower garden-like.
A great example of apricot lips, this blondie also has matching blue eyeshadow to her eyes. Many girls in the 1950s matched their eye shadows; green for green, brown for brown, etc. Nice combination
Very much a late 50s, early 60s look, the eyes are dark under the lashes. This reminds me of Twiggy's signature look. Again, the apricot lips were popular and it is complimented with a purple eyeshadow.
And finally, a dark lip with lilac eyes, a pretty common combination. Also, note the pale, flawless complexion on all the models, even the darker ones. This pancake-like face makeup was used to cover all sorts of blemishes and uneven skin tones; an attempt to be just like the actresses of the day.
So have fun with your own virtual makeover, or even better print out and colour the makeup chart to see how you will do your vintage makeup!
Here is a blank chart:
But, since I cannot seem to scan on my printer, I have done up several models from instyle.com's virtual makeover in vintage style instead. So here are some that I have done, sporting several different combinations of eyeshadow and lipstick that could inspire you're own vintage look.
This is a bit more clown-ish because the lips are so bright and shiny, but this may work better if the lips were a more faded peach perhaps. But, the lilac shadow stands out and the winged liner is very evident.
Using a darker rose lip, this works best with a coppery brown shadow with golden skin. Again, these are extremely fun to do and there are about two more examples...
The first use of a grey shadow, this can work with almost any lipstick colour, except maybe a hot pink where it may come off a bit trashy and not so vintage-y. An even darker lip for a darker skin tone, this shade has plum under-tones which look very good with darker skin.
So have fun with your own virtual makeover, or even better print out and colour the makeup chart to see how you will do your vintage makeup!
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