It's been a long while since I wrote a blog - almost 2 years, in fact.
A lot of drama has happened to me in 2023 and early 2024 so I took some time off to vacation and enjoy my life! I headed to California and other magical laces in Europe including Budapest, Prague and Cologne.
I realized one thing in my travels, more than ever. It seems it's a worldwide epidemic to purchase new clothes, new shoes, new jewelry, etc. We need to look more wealthy, for some reason.
We are inundated to shop, shop, shop and rarely re-use. Yes, things have changed over the years with more thrift and consignment stores. But it still not enough!
And one major trend that I realized more than ever is that so much of the new stuff is SUCH poor quality sewn together loosely or with thin fabrics. Cheap quality for high prices!
There is one major issue we forget about also. Most of this stuff will just end up in a landfill site merely within one to 10 years.
FAST FASHION
I don't want to lecture anyone because we have been lectured by people our entire life but consider this brief statistical set of facts. According to TheRoundUp.org
- The world produces 92 million tons of textile waste every year.
- China (20M Tons) and the US (17M Tons) produce the most.
- Clothing and textiles currently make up at least 7% of the total amount of waste in global landfill space.
- Between 80 and 100 billion new clothing garments are produced globally every year.
- 87% of the materials and fibers used to make clothing will end up in either incinerators or landfills.
- Only 20% of discarded textiles are collected.
- Only 1% of clothes will get recycled into new garments.
These are startling facts. Plus if we look at jewelry, which I absolutely love, I can imagine that this number is even more startling. So much cheap jewelry is bought and sold. Then thrown out with the slightest tarnish, rhinestone lost of broken chain. Not to mention the toxic chemicals that we use.
BUY VINTAGE - SAVE THE PLANET, AND YOUR MONEY
So here is my manta - buy VINTAGE and GENTLY USED items whenever you can. They are nicer looking, last longer in the long run..and I just feel good that I bought something used that didn't hit a landfill site, while I saved a bit of money. Online stores like Peppermint Twist Vintage, other shops on Etsy and thrift, consignment and charity shops abound!
And lastly, create your own style. I myself love items from the 1940s-1960s. But a lot of this clothing doesn't fit me well. So I accessorize with vintage jewelry to make me feel like a fabulous 'wannabe movie starlet.'
I just love the hairstyles, the clothing, the purses and the overall glamour from past generations. I see people wearing ripped T-shirts, baggy pants, tight black tights and the fashion trends for most people just lack in appeal. Here's a peak at some of the items I have available online for purchase.
CLOTHING FOR SALE
Since we are talking about my favourite things, here's a few items I currently have in my shop. All items are 20% off currently on sale and reduced shipping.
Summer is just around the corner and what a better way to get excited about it by purchasing some great tiki-themed jewelry.
I am also falling crazy for vintage scarfs lately. I saw a photo of Jackie O' a few weeks ago and I can't stop thinking about wearing scarfs, especially in California!
I love this look so much...great for wind, to cover your hair and add flair to your style.This 1960s woman just looks so stunning!
We have several scarfs and styles to choose from - from various decades and styles/colours.
This 1960s nightgown is just so gorgeous. The wonderful shades of orange/salmon keep that retro vibe with comfort.
UNIQUE VINGTAGE JEWELRY FOR SALE:
This 1960s wooded beaded multicoloured necklace was given to a friend of mine by a 90 year old lady. It's the real deal. So better than cheap resin. Here's a glimpse of some of the brooches, jewelry sets and necklaces that are available with 20% off!
Also, Father's Day is coming up and it's a great time to get your special guy a set of cufflinks to wear for a wedding, business meeting or just to dress up for an occasion.
OTHER WAYS TO REDUCE WASTE
There are so many wonderful places to get used items including your local thrift shops, consignment shops, online stores like Etsy, Poshmark and also another great time tip to go to yard sales, church bazaars and other great sales that come up from time to time in your neighbourhood.
IN OTHER NEWS....
Lastly, one of my most exciting events this year... I met Lucie Arnaz, Lucille Ball's daughter in late February(2024.) After admiring Lucille Ball for decades, it was a true honour to meet her lovely daughter and I watched her perform in Palm Desert, California. I gifted her some simple jewelry from my shop. Although I'm sure it's not the most valuable items, I felt it special to leave her with some small gifts of jewelry.
Until next time,
Note: All of these photos are from various sources that I saved on my computer/phone, from Pinterest. No copyright infringement intended - solely used for your enjoyment to celebrate Summertime!
Note: Photos are of Barbara Streisand, Fred MacMurray, Elizabeth Taylor, Jane Russell, Lucille Ball