Sunday Brunch with Jenny

After Christmas, my favorite New Orleans boutique, Trashy Diva, extended their 50% off the clearance rack sale. Since Santa had not brought me enough vintage reproduction clothing, I couldn't resist. I had my eye on the Lillian Dragon dress, but had to pick up a few more things on the sale rack. One that took me by suprise was the Jenny in military green. 

Dress: Trashy Diva "Jenny" in long sleeve

Hat: Ducks in a Row, sold on UniqueVintage.com 

I usually pick out clothing with bright colors and whimsical patterns, so this one went unoticed during my last visit to TD. However, when I tried it on, I instantly loved its understated, simple elegance. The fit is very flattering and the knit fabric is extremely comfortable. I think it goes perfectly with my new hat from UniqueVintage.com. It's from a brand called Ducks in a Row, who have many more adorable hats on their website.   

I originally was planning on wearing the hat with a black dress, but I think the deep military green compliments it much better.

A special guest appearance by my neighbor's cat, Rosie, who has decided she is our cat now (I guess our cat food tastes better). She is checking out my vintage purse that once belonged to my grandmother.

 Two seconds before Rosie bolted. She hates being picked up. 

A Golden Valentine's Day

This year, Mike and I celebrated our eighth Valentine's Day together. I have to say he is the best Valentine ever. He's never failed to bring me a beautiful gift, roses, candy, and take me out to dinner. He says he's not romantic, but what else can you call a man who has dinner reservations booked at your favorite restaurant before you even ask?

This year we had a candlelit dinner at a small,quaint place in Biloxi called Jazeppi's. Though I usually will wear red or pink on Valentine's Day (cliche, I know), this year I was dying to wear my new "Monica" dress from Pinup Couture. I ordered it last summer during a sale in July and haven't had an occasion to wear it until now.

Dress: Pinup Couture 

Shoes: Nine West

Pearls: Mikimoto

It is patterned after a dress worn by Marilyn Monroe and is available in a variety of colors. I was tempted to buy it in red, but already have a few red dresses so I opted for gold. I slipped on the dress and instantly felt like a Hollywood starlet. Though fitted, it is not tight and surprisingly comfortable. One of the best parts is that shape wear is built into the dress. This is definitely becoming one of my all-time favorite dresses and I'm considering wearing it when Mike and I chaperon the prom coming up soon!  
   

Remember Madonna's Marilyn phase? They both rocked the Ava style, too! 

Mike looked so cute, I had to take his picture too. 

This is how he feels about photo shoots!

New York, New York

Michael and I attended "Toast to the Coast," a fundraiser for the school where I graduated from high school. This year's theme was "New York, New York" and featured all the iconic elements from one of my favorite U.S. cities.   

It was the perfect time to wear a dress I picked up in the historic town of Bay St. Louis, MS. While there for a Second Saturday Art Walk, I came across a shop called "Identity Vintage." The owner and I instantly bonded, as we were both wearing cat-eye glasses. I picked up a beautiful champagne-colored dress and a pair of maroon gloves. (The shop has all kinds of accessories, too, from purses to pins and scarves). I am once again wearing a fur that belonged to my great-grandmother (her monogrammed initials are on the interior lining!)   Identity Vintage has great prices and a great selection of all things vintage, from clothing and accessories to knick knacks. 

Dress and gloves: Identity Vintage

Pearls and other jewelry: Gift from Michael

Shoes: Nine West