I haven't worn this vintage coat for years - as you can see, it's pretty special: a 1930s style (wool) with these gorg embroidered sleeves. I bought it when I was 19 (over 20 years ago!) for just under $200. I remember I had to borrow the cash from my sis, who always saved her bucks (no big surprise I was always shopping, eh?).
I had the opportunity to wear it this past weekend, to a party given in honour of a lovely lady who recently passed away, who I was lucky enough to meet and write about the month before she died. She was 104 years old and had lots of pluck and a great story - and I think she would have appreciated this vintage coat.
I've accessorized the coat with a vintage bag I found at Value Village for $5.99, and some thrifted Nine West slingbacks in excellent shape found for around $8.99 at my local thrift shop, Stretch Thrift. The scarf is vintage silk Liberty of London, a couple bucks at a junk shop.
The day wasn't about me, but I wanted my outfit to do justice to a wonderful lady who led a great life. It felt good to be pulling out all of my really special items that I never wear, for one day - some vintage pieces are for just that, and in this case, the occasion certainly warranted it.
Here's to Minnie. Rest in peace.
You look so elegant and glam. A real tribute to Minnie. xxx
ReplyDeleteGorgeous!! I would love to hear about that lovely lady too any pics?
ReplyDeleteholy crap that's one beautiful coat! (and I'm not all that partial to coats!)
ReplyDeleteKelly girl -- you resemble Audrey Hepburn !
ReplyDeleteStunning coat and the entire ensemble...
I want to read about Minnie, will you please write about her ?
Cathy P.
Thank you ladies, the coat is gorg and one of my prized, though infrequently worn, vintage pieces.
ReplyDeleteFor those of you who would like to see a photo of Minnie and read the story I wrote about her in March, please cut and paste this link:
http://www.mytowncrier.ca/to-the-good-times-all-104-years.html
I can attest to the fact the Grunge Queen looked anything but! Yes, Minnie would certainly have approved of her perfect style on such a special occasion. Minnie was also always very fashion conscious. She gave up wearing heels (not by choice) after bilateral hip surgery at the age of 96 and a half.
ReplyDeleteI remember the day Kelly arrived to interview Minnie her her suite. Kelly wore beautiful high heeled shoes (another thrift find) that I pointed out to Minnie. Although her eyesight was very poor, she had to get a closer look. Kelly obliged by raising her leg. Not only did Minnie envy the shoes but she absolutely loved the stockings! Kelly, you were a hit with Minnie not only by recounting her story with exact detail, but with your wonderful sense of style. I would also like to add that I greatly admired your lovely dress. I shall cherish the photo that you sent of you standing next to the banner of Minnie; two incredible women, separated by generations yet both incredibly beautiful and stylish.
Steven H. J. Bickerstaffe
Steven, thank you for the lovely comment. It's truly amazing how a sense and appreciation of style, among other things, can forge kindred spirits among people. I met Minnie only once, but it was such a joy to meet her, and you, that I wish I could have known her better, and seem other manifestations of her style.
ReplyDeleteIf you meant the dress I wore to Minnie's party last week, thank you - it was designed and made by a local designer under the now defunct label of SUNDE, which had been around since the 1980s ... I actually worked in the shop (and was given the dress) on the Danforth when I moved to Toronto six years ago.
Anyway, thank you again for including Dan and I in your lovely tribute to a lovely lady, Minnie McCurdy.