K R I N O L I N E

It's Been a While

2011-04-22T07:57:00.001-07:00

Hello. I hope everyone's well. I do apologize for not blogging in a long while. I've been having a lot of thoughts about my blog lately. I mainly feel like lately I blog because I have to and not because I want to, which might lead to uninteresting posts for you to read. That does'nt please me. So mainly I'm thinking about whether I should head in a new direction with the blog which means I need to give it a major facelift or I need to give blogging a rest until I feel the need to do it again. I think my problem is mainly focus within the blog. So, lots of thoughts.

What's been going on besides that? Well I've passed 100 sales in the shop which is all kinds of delight, I'm leaving my job at the end of next time (and I need to start looking for a new one), and in general I'm just trying to be happy and healthy. Which is a lot of work :)

Until I post again. Zohar

Cause We All Like it Sweet

2011-04-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

via Black Eiffel

I WANT These!

2011-04-05T03:06:00.000-07:00

Quite badly actually. And I'm not even sure why. I've never felt drawn to clogs or the 1970s but the shape and color of these are just so fantastic I can't help but crave for them. And they are my size!

Color Inspriation

2011-04-03T01:52:00.000-07:00

I'm always on the fence as to whether I like bold or soft colors more. I guess it all depends on what I'm going through at the moment. However, a lot of runway reports are screaming BOLD and designers are releasing some gorgeous items that use color to the maximum. Click all images to reach image source.

SAY 100 a.k.a SALE!

2011-04-01T13:11:00.000-07:00

I'm having a 15% off sale in honor of the shops upcoming 100 sale mark (I'm quite excited!) To enjoy this offer all you need to do is enter the cupon code SAY100 when you checkout. I would very much appreciate it if you could spread the word. Happy (soon) 100 to me!

Looking through the What Once Was

2011-04-01T03:50:00.001-07:00

A while ago, my dad gave me his old Cosina film camera, we even found some film laying around so I decided to see what the camera was still capable of doing, since it's light measurement tool is busted. The whole process was actualy really fun, taking pictures without knowing what you caught on film, not being able to adjust much and actually taking the film for development. I also love the way all the pictures look as if they've gone through some "retro" filter.

Proenza Schouler - I Like You

2011-03-26T06:50:00.001-07:00

Bold colors. Aztec-ish. Geometric. Mixed patterns and prints. Layers at times. Slouchyness at times. Nothing wrong here. From the Proenza Schouler fall 2011 Ready to Wear fashion show.

Spring You Say?

2011-03-25T04:38:00.000-07:00

I like spring, although it implies the nearness of Summer. Israel does'nt really have proper springs and autumns, and winter to be honest, it's mostly summer or something that's almost summer. I live in a sunny, hot and lots of the time humid country, and while most of my online and real acquaintances might think this is dreamy, I do not. Anyway, I took a short stroll with my dad and dog a couple of weeks ago through the fields behind my parents house and I suddenly noticed a lot of BLOOM, since then I've been noticing at sides of the road, at the thickness of the layers of my outfits, in the mood of the general Israeli population - spring is upon us. Israelis and especially Tel Avivians (Tel Aviv is the city I live in, and one of the best beach cities you'll ever visit) inhale heat and it makes their heart skip a beat. Now while I might not be happy with the weather change, I have been enjoying a change in my wardrobe. Because of the normal weather in my country I have more clothes suited for heat than for cold and bringing out all the flowy fabrics, sleeveless (with a cardigan on top of course!) and flats is kind of making me secretly happy. But don't tell. My heart will always belong to winter.

Yesterday, In My Mother's Shop

2011-03-19T08:13:00.000-07:00

I'm incharge of my mom's shop's facebook in a way. It's actually pretty popular so I try to take pictures of the items there often so people will have lots of eye candy. Anyway, I love doing these rounds in the shop because even though I visit there almost every week I can always find special hidden things that I missed before or that were just brought in.

Freshening Up

2011-03-16T05:10:00.000-07:00

It's been a pretty messy couple of weeks for me. Had a lot to do and just barely kept up with the pace I needed to be going at. Thankfully I have today off work, I've slept a good 9 hours and I'm listening to new music, I've also managed to clean my room and desk which makes things seem less chaotic. I love "fresh" feeling days, I hope you know what I mean. I apologize for being such a lacking blogger.

Since this day so far has been about things that make me feel nice these are also things that are cool and pretty and will probably make you feel nice as well. Click to reach source:

Roland Mouret - I Like You

2011-03-05T06:04:00.000-08:00

Simple but with a twist. Three things that attracted my attention to Roland Mouret's fall 2011 Ready to Wear collection were: 1) I like the (mostly) monocromatic choice of colors 2) Feminine, form fitting shilouets 3)usage of geometric folds, nips and tucks - it transforms the whole collection from 'pretty' to 'interesting'.

What's New?

2011-03-04T08:49:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've done a proper shop update so this is a partial recap of the newest listings: (click photo to reach item page)

Night Photography

2011-02-25T09:19:00.000-08:00

Last night I arrived at my parents house and decided to follow a slug that was climbing the wall. I followed by trying to photograph the little thing, both gross and cute (I love snails and slugs) but the photos didn't turn out to my liking and I was pretty sure I was blinding the little guy from all the flashes. I decided then to capture my parents lovely garden and plants.

Winter SALE!

2011-02-22T11:20:00.000-08:00

I'm having a winter sale running 22-27FEB which offers discounts on all knits, sweaters, jackets and coats. All you need to do is enter coupon code WINTERS11 at checkout and receive 10% off. Some beauties on sale:

February Winding

2011-02-22T09:18:00.000-08:00

I had a dress photo shoot last weekend and was delighted to wear these two lovelies that were so wind-worthy. Soon in the shop.

Mono

2011-02-19T09:27:00.000-08:00

Lately I've beed dying over the color gray. There just does'nt seem to be enough of it in my closet. I'm currently wearing my new favorite (thrifted) blouse, a sort of jersey mousy-gray buttons at neckline blouse and it's divine.

When I saw this picture at the Sartorialist my heart pretty much skipped a beat:

How perfect is that outfit?? And what's so beauitful is that it's almost all gray but it's not matchy-matchy, it has texture and different fabrics and such a great balance between the silhouettes. Seriously, I wish that were me in the picture wearing that perfection of an ansamble.

More gray-galore (press image to reach source):

p.s

2011-02-18T11:16:00.000-08:00

Regrading the picture of my last post - it is not me (although oddly enough, it does look a bit like me). I just want to make that clear because my mother asked me today if I was getting into porn. Even though the picture is not pornographic, you know what she meant in her motherly way. If you click the image you will reach it's photographers flickr stream.

me.

hmm

2011-02-17T02:43:00.000-08:00

So through-out the whole resolution of self-love I've spiraled into a slight "I've had better days" mood. I've been spending my days and especially nights thinking about my life and how it could be better. I wish I had a guidebook to myself. I hope to be cheery and co-operative in a few days.

Not About Love?

2011-02-12T08:19:00.000-08:00

Today I took a slew of photos for the head shot of the shop's monthly newsletter which appropriately mentions the upcoming Valentine's Day. I must confess, I've never been big on celebrating this day whether I was in a relationship or not. I don't discourage celebrating it, it's just not for me. I feel like love between people is hard and it takes a huge amount of work and patience. It's so big to me that I feel a day belittles it.

I've had a difficult year, last Valentine's Day was spent (but not celebrated) with someone I really loved and have by now lost and as difficult break-ups often do, they make you think about your life - where you are and where you want to go, something I have been thinking a lot about especially since I graduated from the University.

I guess what I'm trying to say, is that I decided to try and focus on something far more important than being inlove with someone else and that's being Ok with myself. Loving yourself - that, and some other things will be the focus of my monthly newsletter.

If you're interested in joining my mailing list - feel free to send an email to rakshniyavintage [at] gmail dot com.

Have a great week.

The Little Details

2011-02-09T04:34:00.000-08:00

I can't help but admire all the little details that create these purses. The beadwork, the intricate needlework and exact placing of the metal wires. These purses come from different backgrounds but were created around the same era (1950s give or take) which comes to show that time as a time that was characterised by excellence and superb craftmanship. Ah the good old days.

I WANT This!

2011-02-05T09:26:00.000-08:00

This dress combines everything I love - two tone difference between the bodice and the skirt, a fun print (horsies!), a somewhat loose skirt, a bow and it being from the 1950s. Everything is so right about this dress that the only thing problematic is that it's slightly larger than me, something I wouldn't find problematic at all since it's only a matter of taking it to a seamstress but I need to thoughtful about spending money, so at mean time, I'll just covet it!

Some Artistic Endeavors

2011-02-04T03:40:00.000-08:00

I'm not really into glass as art, but it was quite fascinating to try and understand how these pieces were created. At the Chihuly exhibition at the Litvak Contemporary Art Gallery in Tel-Aviv.

Isn't Winter Fashion Divine?

2011-01-31T07:23:00.001-08:00

And isn't winter just MAGICAL?
Click image to reach source.

p.s that bulldog painting in the 3rd pictures cracks me up.

The Wider Side of Me

2011-01-28T10:08:00.000-08:00

Weight put aside, I've always had a very small waist. And because of the way I'm shaped, I've tended to be a 1940s-1950s girl and as a result I love very fitted items and mostly dresses with small waists and puffy/flowy skirts that accentuated my waist. And still, there's has also always been a side of me that looks for the baggy clothes. I LOVE wide fitted, slouchy, bulky, shapeless clothes that I can swim in. I think it has a lot to do with my love for layering.

That's all I wanted to say. Happy weekend!

New Years Present

2011-01-25T10:35:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I received the loveliest package and found within the most beautiful little items:

The always lovely Duff of JeanJean Vintage fame decided to send me these as a New Years present which I think is pretty amazing, because they are 1930s mini-mosaic earrings and just looking at them shows how much work was put into them, AND because Duff is awesome. Seriously awesome. And sweet and kind. And she runs a kick-ass shop.
As hard as I tried I couldn't take a normal picture of them on, so excuse me for that, but you can still bask in their beauty just from looking at them laying there plainly. THANK YOU DUFF!

Quite Genius

2011-01-25T08:39:00.001-08:00

I adore cats. But this, is quite the perfect definition for them isn't it? Click on image to reach source.

p.s sorry for sucking as a blogger. I'm trying to get my act together.

I WANT This!

2011-01-21T11:02:00.000-08:00

I must have mentioned my quite large collection of slips. One day when I'm not lazy, I might even photograph them all and have a "my vintage obsession" about them. But until then, I'm totally obsessing over this amazing 1940s deep blue slip with a velvet trim and bow - to die for. Of course it's from the amazing Andi at Raleigh Vintage. I wants it!

Foureyes: A Daily Accessory

2011-01-18T03:48:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago I finally replaced my eyeglasses with new ones. The lenses were so scratched that I really don't know how I saw anything at all. I had them for about 8 years. That's insane to me - 8 years! In the past 8 years I: finished my army duties, got a degree (with honors!), had and lost two 'steady' boyfriends, moved 3 times, had about 5-7 jobs (I still have a couple of them), visited the US twice, opened my own business, lost a pet, saw Tori Amos-Zero 7-Joanna Newsom-Ben Folds-and many many great Israeli musicians, passed my teens and came into my 20s, lost some friends-gained some new ones and mostly found out who I can really trust.

A lot of life changing events and they all led me to here and now. What will this new pair witness?

2011-01-14T12:41:00.000-08:00

Since tooting my own horn is always fun, I just wanted to share the recent treasury I created that I personaly really love and am really pleased with. It might not fit Etsy's monthly "themes" but hey, it's purdy. Click away.

Women Power

2011-01-14T05:38:00.000-08:00

I came across this beautiful article in the online version of the Denver Post titled: 'Captured: America in Color from 1939-1943' featuring the most beautiful pictures. But what really caught my eye were pictures of working women, especially those who worked in factories or on the railroad and then it hit me that these pictures were taken throughout World War 2.

As a jew and and Israeli, I often learned and stumbled upon one issue or another that has something to do with the Holocaust but then again, I've seen countless movies or TV programs about what was going on in England or in the United States during the war that had nothing to do with the horrible concentration camps but about how "normal" life was like during those hard times. There's even a silly kind-of-old movie called "A League of Their Own" with Tom Hanks, Geena Davis and Madonna that talks about the all american girls baseball teams (because the men went to war) and I loved that movie because as feminine as I'd like to be, I also enoy thinking I could do and wear whatever I want whether it's manly or girly.

The women in these pictures are awesome in my eyes because they are supposdly doing manly jobs but they are wearing jewelry, nail-polish, colorful head-scarfs and pretty floral prints. It's that balance that I like, the one between who you are and what you do. I think that's something I should think about more in my daily life.

And the Social Media Madness Begins...

2011-01-11T12:50:00.000-08:00

Well, I (or rather RSV) officially have a twitter account. It's kind of scary and kind of exciting.
Yesterday I had an in-depth conversation with a friend of mine who is in my eyes, a social media mogul. He's been running a very successful blog for the past 6 years and he's quite the king of facebook and twitter - I mean, he just GET'S IT. So he advised me about what would be good for my business and my personality but won't drive me insane because let's face it, my shop isn't my only job (as much as I'd like it to be).

Since facebook just isn't my thing, I figured that bite-sized info-lines would do me a world of good and on top of that, some of my Etsy friends and clients have been softly-pushing me to get a twitter account so we couldn't bug each other easily. Good luck to me!

Please visit my twitter page and do follow it/me cause I'm nice and I wanna get to know you!

http://twitter.com/rakshniya

Monsieur de Pourceaugnac

2011-01-10T13:08:00.000-08:00

He's awesome!

My Vintage Obsession: Suits/Sets

2011-01-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

To be honest with you, I don't currently own one suit/set, vintage or not. I don't have a matching nothing - shirt+skirt, dress+bolero, jacket+pant or any other combo. I don't really know why, because I absolutly adore vintage suits/sets. I can't resist them. They seem so much more special to me than any other clothing item and I can't really explain it. It might have something to do with the fact I love to mix and match, or that I adore layering above all. There's an unexplained magic about things that match.

Short story: My mother often tells the tale (one of many that emberess me) of how when I was little, I matched every single item I wore. My mother would say something like: "She would drive me crazy! If she had a red shirt, the pants had to be red, and so did the socks and the shoes!". So I went to some of my old photo albums to find you proof and couldn't really find any for putting seperates together but HELLO - almost every picture I have as a child between, lets say, 2-6 years old, is of me wearing some kind of suit/set! That's kindda crazy.

Exhibit A:

Exhibit B:

And to top it all - Exhibit C:

I know, I'm adorable, can you handle it? By the way, that's my awesome sister Shira in the pictures with me. In the 3rd pictures, she is ALSO wearing a set. Not as hardcore as I was obviously.

ANYWAY, after prooving my deep connecting to suits/sets, let me exhibit the current suits/sets in my fantasy life. Viva La Suits/Sets! :

Quick Note

2011-01-04T21:23:00.000-08:00

I have to get ready for work, but I just wanted to write a quick note saying it has'nt stopped raining since last night and I couldn't be more delighted. Obviously I wish I could stay in bed, snuggled within my fleece sheets (the most wondrous invention ever made for winter) but it's ok because layering up and walking under an umbrella makes me happy. I wish it rained everyday! Have a good day everyone!

Things I Wish I Bought in 2010

2011-01-03T05:51:00.001-08:00

Wow, I've actually made this list here on Krinoline one year ago. That's kind of crazy and also kind of special to have a little tradition. No one actually knows how unbelievably extensive my wish-list is but when it comes to it, if I had to choose, these would be the top 10 items I wish I bought it 2010. Some have sold, some aren't my size or are too expensive for me but I love them all and wish I got them for myself or others in 2010. But hey... who knows what 2011 will bring. Happy new year!

In Awe

2010-12-28T11:27:00.000-08:00

I know I've posted another version of this song a while ago, but I'm in total awe that I actually was present to witness the show this video was made at. Not only is this one of my all time favorite songs, watching what a talented musician Joanna Newsom is just makes me happy and it's exciting that I actually got to bask in her sunlight.

If I Had a Christmas Eve

2010-12-27T01:56:00.001-08:00

There's a very cool Israeli band called The Ramirez Brothers, I highly recommend listening to their music, they are fun, and they make you want to dance. They've decided to release a funny little EP called "A Ramirez Christmas" covering 6 well known Christmas songs. I had such a fun time listening to it that I decided to share one of them with you - to further your Christmas spirit!

download: the Ramirez Brothers: I want a Hippopotamus for Christmas (MP3)

Now, all my favorite bloggers have slowly started posting photos from their Christmas eve adventures and I must say I'm quite jealous of the whole fancying up and celebrations so I've decided that for the very least, I would pick some red & green clothes to wear, if I had a Christmas eve, I mean, you know how much I LOVE to make wish-lists!

And you know what? I know it's not in traditional Christmas colors - but I would rock this dress (if it were my size I mean). HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Christmas Presents for ME!

2010-12-24T06:45:00.000-08:00

Even though I don't actually celebrate Christmas, I have a lot of friends who do, so I can't help feeling festive. Here in Israel, it's just a normal, chilly afternoon but I know that in a lot of other places around the world people are getting ready to celebrate Christmas eve and that makes me happy because I know it's a special time for a lot of you. Happy holidays to you from me!

I wanted to share 2 (well actually 3) presents I got in time for Christmas. The first, and second are two amazing prints from Clare at Tastes Orangey.

I have been stalking her shop for a long while and finally was able to get myself two beautiful items. I highly recommend her shop, she and her items are wonderful.

About the 3rd present, remember how awesome my dad is? Well he just finished his latest project, renovating a bench for me.

Now this is a special bench, part of a 1950s set of 3 benches my grandparents used to have in their tiny dining room. I remember myself sitting on these benches when having lunch over at their house. I always thought the benches were special, and well, I pretty much adored all of my grandparents furniture - I already have my grandmothers make-up table, and my grandfathers matching set of armchair and stool.

This was a special treat, my dad really did a great job and the bonus part is that this bench can be used for storage (imagine my surprise when I found out the hidden storage as a kid).

So thank you dad and thank you Clare and to everyone celebrating Christmas, have a good one :)

If Only..

2010-12-19T00:14:00.000-08:00

Glam-O-Rama

2010-12-16T02:23:00.000-08:00

So I must wear black to work everyday. Even though black is slimming and respectable I often feel like the "I" in black is getting whiped out. It's slightly depressing and I try to cheer myself up by playing with layers or textures and sometimes I sneek in a little color (take that work place!). So today, I'm telling myself that if I need to wear black then I should take black to the next level and wear fancy black clothes only - wouldn't it be fun to wear over-the-top, full skirted, rich fabric dresses everyday? These items are on my glamorama-black-to-work fantasy wishlist and I want them all:

Winter Charm

2010-12-13T08:51:00.000-08:00

Just trying this new widget from craftcult of featuring treasuries. Feel free to click it and comment on this lovely one made by Petek, a fellow Israeli seller.

Some Christmasy Items from the Shop

2010-12-11T08:47:00.000-08:00

Tis the season no?

2010-12-11T02:42:00.000-08:00

My dog Kaktoos says:

"Why is there only stupid wind and no rain?! Some winter this is :( ..."

Oh Winter Winter, Wherefore Art Thou Winter? HERE?!

2010-12-10T12:41:00.000-08:00

So winter in Israel is officialy about to start tonight. *Now* I guess. It has definatly been colder and darker out today but still nothing major. There are talks about storms coming in and even SNOW (not where I live. Poop.) Let me give you a mental reminder of how I feel about snow:

Wow it's crazy to think that was almost a year ago. Taken in Pennsylvania by the way, not in Israel. So what do I do now when winter is finally approaching?? Make a vintage winter outfit wish-list of course!!

Ghosts of the Past

2010-12-08T08:02:00.000-08:00

1890s Kodak photos - all taken from here

My Dad is Awesome

2010-12-06T10:27:00.000-08:00

I've written about my dad's awesomeness before and I thought it was time to do it again. My dad has always been very good with his hands - he can knit and braid your hair but primarily he's very good in fixing and building things.

My mother (as you must know if you've read more than 2 or 3 posts) has a very successful second-hand shop. As a part of this, my parents often get invited to empty-out apartments or homes and take vintage housewares and small furniture for my mothers shop. Even though it's nothing new, lately my dad has been taking on more and more renovating projects. He takes battered and broken pieces of furniture (small tables, chairs, stools, cabinets and the such..) and gives them life (again).

It's hard for me to explain my dad's nature, and I don't know if I should really write about it in length, but he's very meticulous and he LOVES doing this. He takes his time and gives each item the proper care it needs. I can't tell you how much I appreciate this.
His recent project were twin stools that he got to reupholster in lovely vintage fabric because the previous fabric was nearly crumbling. I managed to catch him in the act and you will be able to see the final result as well.

Lovely aren't they?

Anything but Black!

2010-12-03T13:50:00.000-08:00

I find that the more I work at my current job, the less I enjoy clothes. And that's a pretty big issue for me. Being forced to wear black everyday, having long days in which I get back from work and rush to rehersal (and if I change it's usually to some sweatpants and t-shirts) - it's just not right! When I get to look at shops - I search for black. When I choose clothes for my few nights out, I immediately go for the black. It's depressing me to be honest, because I have quite a large and colorful set of clothes that isn't being used. It's just that this black black black issue has made me.... bland. Clothes have always been a way to express myself and for me, this "all black" policy is a serious reason to quit my job. But I won't. Not yet anyway. So I decided today to wear RED.

Jersey Shirt, Satin Dress, Suede Boots, Wide Vintage Belt, Sunglasses, Brass Earrings - RakShniya // Doe Pin - Thrifted.

It's both festive and as far from black as possible. The layering turned out to be a little chunky because of my belt but hey, I'm wearing something colorful so I'm happy.

My Efforts to Invoke Winter

2010-11-27T03:35:00.001-08:00

As i've mentioned, it's not really winter-like here. While I've been seeing snow pictures posted on American and European blogs, it has'nt even rained here for a whole week. And it's almost the end of November. How depressing is this?! Anyway, it is noticably colder here and I've even worn tights this past week, something that has made me quite happy. Funnily enough one of the cooler shops on Etsy that sells tights, is Israeli, Gal Stern has created pretty awesome and glittery patterns and for someone who is always looking for a way to texture her outfits, these are very appealing to me:

Black Friday SALE

2010-11-26T10:40:00.000-08:00

The writing is slightly small so: Black Friday / Cyber Monday SALE starting today, 26-29.11! All prices have been reduced. Happy Holidays for those of you celebrating.

Presents in the Mail

2010-11-20T09:34:00.001-08:00

About two weeks ago, I recieved a package from Regina at everyeskimo - one of the loveliest vintage shops on Etsy (in my opnion at least) that has a great little handmade corner dedicated to small felt animels. Since I'm a self-proclaimed etsy stalker and check my favorites almost daily, and I often covetted Regina's little handmade friends and waited patiently for the right one. One day, a cat names Beryl showed up. My sister Shira, loves everything cats and I knew I had to buy Beryl for her and even decided to treat myself to a two-headed bear called Tina and Sven.

Since the holidays are approaching, Etsy has been sending out a lot of emails regarding how to treat your costumers towards the holiday season where a lot of the items bought are gifts. They talk about wrapping and presentation and it always seems a little funny to me. Purely because I think this should be on a sellers mind throughout the whole year. Every item I sell is hand-wrapped, and I try to put a lot of heart into presentation because I want my costumers to feel special. Regina, obviously has the same thing in mind.

I can't tell you how delighted my sister and I were, while opening this very small package. Regina put such an effort into what she sent us. Shira and I are very (!) happy with our cat and bear(s) but it was the whole package that made us esctatic - you can see why looking at the pictures. Thank you Regina!

To List or Not to List?

2010-11-19T10:30:00.000-08:00

This amazing 1950s nautical peter pan collar dress is from my own private collection. It is truely amazing in my eyes, but I find that it's becoming slightly snug on me (the body isn't what it used to be..) and even when it did fit very well, I didn't wear it often, maybe because i'm not so much of a wiggle dress girl. I like my dresses slightly puffed at the skirt. However I do have quite a few dresses I keep just because. Maybe this should stay eye candy. hmmm.

Shop Update

2010-11-18T13:51:00.001-08:00

Imaginary Autumn

2010-11-18T00:56:00.000-08:00

Well I can't deny that it's slightly cooler and less humid than often. I sleep covered with a woolen blanket and that's definitely an improvement but come on! I want rain! I want it to be so cold I need to put 3 layers on!
So I've been trying to intice winter for the past week by wearing warmer clothes in hopes the powers that be will get the message. Yes sometimes I was unnecessarily hot but it's all for a good cause. So in my efforts to invoke some kind of cooler weather - I give to you my perfect autumn-ish outfit (well maybe not PERFECT) but I like it:

And, I'd like some faded mustard leggings with that please.

Newsletter!

2010-11-13T11:56:00.001-08:00

In order to run a more professional business and give my followers some special treats, I've started a newsletter for RakShniya Vintage. See that little 'subscribe' box under the shop's item-images? That's where you sign-up! Please go ahead and do so - It'll make me super happy.

The RakShniya Vintage newsletter is meant to come out every month with some insider updates on the shop and what's to come and will offer it's subscribers special offers (let me assure that I will not be spamming). It'll help you keep up to date with what's going on in the shop now and in the future.

I already have something planned that will be sent out soon so be sure to sign-up in order to see it!

Loving These

2010-11-13T03:37:00.000-08:00

Winday Lane Studio

Thoughts?

2010-11-10T08:09:00.000-08:00

There's something so off about this outfit (glove hat anyone?) that it just turns out pretty AWESOME. And I pretty much like everything about it.

via the Sartorialist

Welcome to the Family, Little One

2010-11-08T11:35:00.000-08:00

I have'nt mentioned this here I think, but I have a small collection of vintage brooches I adore. Generally speaking I love brooches period. Really, this should be a post titled "My Vintage Obsession: Brooches", but I just wanted to share the newest addition to my little brooch family:

Isn't it lovely? As far as I know, it should be from the 60's(ish), might be even older than that. It's pretty simple and not made from any special material but it's just so pretty and I love it's rusty look and faded aqua color. Welcome little one, we shall treat you well as we are a loving family.

What You Might Call: WINDING

2010-11-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

Unfortunatly, this lovely skirt has a few small holes so until I get them repaired, it's a no no. Probebly late 1960s jungle navy circle skirt. Made out of organic cotton.

My Vintage Obsession: Buttons

2010-11-05T13:01:00.000-07:00

Ever since I've been officialy selling vintage and have been knee-deep in it, I've had a fondness for vintage buttons. I have to say though that I'm not really picky about which buttons I collect at this point. I like them all.

Lauren from Dear Golden recently posted a blog post about a vintage button shop she and the lovely Duff of Jean Jean Vintage visited and she wrote about how the lady who sold there had this amazing collection of unique buttons from a lot of eras back. I don't really work like that and I can't even tell you why -

I'm not picky about the era from which my buttons are from, I don't really look for any special materials the buttons are made from and I don't mind button wear. Sometimes I get really cool and special to-die-for buttons and sometimes they are really plain and everyday like. I'm like an orphanage for buttons!! They are all welcome. I just keep collecting them - they are all special to me :)

2010-11-05T02:30:00.000-07:00

So as promised, from last weeks post, it WAS a rainy weekend, wonderful rain poured on and off - my kind of weather and our silly cat Asylem, who actually like taking rain-baths was so surprised she too ran for cover:

But mostly I just wanted to say these are busy times for me, and I get a little tired at times from doing about 4 things at the same time so blogging gets a little neglected. However I do have a few things to post so that should spice things up. I hope my busyness leads to good thing and that it rains again soon, cause it's been pretty dry here ever since last weekend.

Around My Mothers Shop

2010-10-29T07:25:00.001-07:00

And in the meanwhile - it is SUPPOSE to be really cool and nice outside tomorrow so I prepped a good amount of gorgeous items to shoot, I hope I can get a lot done. It's hard being your own model! Have a great weekend.

Shop Update

2010-10-27T23:32:00.001-07:00

The Movie I'm Waiting For

2010-10-24T04:23:00.000-07:00

I've been hearing about Darren Aronofsky's Black Swan for a while and the buzz has been quite good and at the very least it should be unique because Aronofsky's been known to be a very intersting director (The Wrestler, The Fountain, Requiem for a Dream). Black Swan itself has Natalie Portman as it's lead actress (besides both of us being Israelis so, you know, Israeli pride and so, I think she's quite a wonderful actress) and the trailer is kind of crazy (in a good way). The poster for the movie has been stunning to being with but now more posters have been surfacing and they too are gorgeous. I think it says so much about a movie's aesthetics if the time is taken to create a poster that does'nt just feature the big-shots featured but also expresses something about what vibe the movie's going for. I hope the movie lives up to it's hype!

Older poster

Newer posters

Customer Delight

2010-10-21T02:34:00.000-07:00

This is probably my favorite kind of posts - displaying my fabulous customers wearing the items they've bought in my shop. This specific customer is Izabelle who just happens to be the owner of Boojiboo - where she makes fun and pretty retro aprons, one of the first shops I came accross when joining Etsy and to this day one of my best friends proudly wears the apron I got for her from Boojiboo. Anyway, Izabelle bought one of the most beauitful dresses I had in my shop and I'm so happy to see she's pleased:

She even posted about it in her blog. Getting a sneak peek at your costumers life is priceless and I'm so happy every time it happens. Thank you!

Also, reminding everyone that my 1st anniversary sale is still going on the shop until Oct. 23rd - take a look.

AllenCompany Inc is Taunting Me!

2010-10-19T04:55:00.001-07:00

It's so hard to find BLACK vintage (especially if it's from before the 1960s). I need to wear black everyday to work. Obviously I don't NEED to wear vintage but why wipe yourself out completely just because you need to wear a certain color? Allen Company inc is absolutely one of my favorite vintage shops (on Etsy and in general) and (the lovely) Kristina, it's owner, just made a huge black update to her shop. And I want them all but alas, the money fairy is not kind to me. Look at the goodies:

Leftovers from Summer

2010-10-18T01:58:00.000-07:00

Even though everyone claims autumn is here, I don't really feel it. As the seasons change (everywhere else but here.. although yes, I would admit it's not AS humid as usual) so do the shop displays, everywhere fills up with rich warmer color and fabrics, just as I like it.

Anyone who reads this blog must know I'm not a summer girl, but I too must dress to fit the seasons and as summer supposdly leaves us, I'd like to reflect over some fabulous items in my summer wishlist: (click images to reach their sources)

p.s - don't forget about the anniversary sale going on in my shop until Oct. 23rd!

Holy Moley - Anniversary!

2010-10-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

Could you believe it?! RakShniya Vintage is 1 year old! In honor of this festive event - the whole shop is on sale! Prices have already been reduced so take advantage of the sale while you can.

S A L E - Oct. 16 to Oct. 23rd!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

p.s - the lovely Bettie Bombshell is also having an anniversary sale - 5 years! That's amazing, go check out her shop.

Shop Update

2010-10-16T02:47:00.000-07:00

Where I Was Last Weekened

2010-10-15T12:08:00.000-07:00

I (Kindda) WANT This!

2010-10-05T03:37:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is about these gorgeous boots that I love. They aren't really my style but the rich color and the laces are so appealing to me. Perfect boots for fall/winter don't you think?

Tonight!

2010-09-30T09:42:00.000-07:00

I'm going to see the magnificant and strange fairy that is Joanna Newsom - this is so exciting!

Shop Update

2010-09-30T07:57:00.000-07:00

A small portion of what I should have posted long ago.

Sonia Rykiel - I Like You

2010-09-30T05:09:00.000-07:00

If only because her fashion show was very fun to look at. I've heard Sonia Rykiel's name here and there and there's been a good buzz involving her lines especially in the vintage blogs. I can sort of see why, although in my opinion she's anything but a retro designer. This fall ready-to-wear show of hers is a bit too frumpy for my taste but I like a lot of elements and again, she gets extra points for having the models smile (sometimes it looks actually kind of scary) and having a fun show with fun clothes.

My Weekend (in 3 pictures)

2010-09-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

I took more but these are the only ones I really approve of. My weekend away was good, I'm glad I got to spend a few days alone with my big sister - we had fun going out and we had fun doing nothing but napping on the coach or watching TV, cause we were together, and we like each other. Weird ha? :)

This Weeks Black Selection

2010-09-27T06:24:00.000-07:00

Cause I gotta make a living...
Click photo to reach item page. Again, I maaaay have picked items that aren't really black but hey, who cares.

A Weekend Away

2010-09-22T03:05:00.001-07:00

Later today I'm travelling there, where that picture was taken - the kibbutz where my sister lives, all the way up in north Israel, next to the border with Lebannon. I have'nt been there in a good few months so it's nice it's holiday season here in Israel and I get a long weekend with sis and her mister. The picture hardly represents how beauitful that place really is, I'll try to take some proper pictures this time around.

Sorry again to have been absent. I know it's kind of silly to apologize yet again, but somehow things seem to be bussier even though I don't officially have anything to do. Maybe I'm still finding myself in this post-BA lifestyle.

I WANT This!

2010-09-18T14:07:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness this is gorgeous! In a beautiful mustard color (although I have to say it bothers me to use the word mustard cause I don't eat it so there's a blah association attached to the word, but nevermind that). And the fact that it's made of corduroy makes it all the more wonderful. If I were only a little smaller... A girl can daydream about pretty clothes as much as she wants though..

Shop News

2010-09-18T10:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I finally finished a few weeks-worth project which was totally redoing my shipping fees and also adding specific fees for Australian and Europian Union buyers (in addition to Israel, USA and everywhere else shipping fees that are already listed). It was quite a task but I'm very pleased with myself for doing it and I think my buyers will also be pleased with the prices. Now that I think about it, I should add Canada as well... sigh.

An Official Business Woman

2010-09-17T01:32:00.000-07:00

Today, just one month shy of my 1st year anniversary with RakShniya Vintage, I finally got my business cards. I had a little money to spear and I have been feeling that my little shop is becoming something very serious and strong, so I decided to splurge on what is probably one of the most important and easy ways to spread the word about what you do and got myself some really awesome cards. My lovely sister Shira was gracious enough to allow me to use the gorgeous pictures I took of her in one of the fedoras I had in my shop and with the assistance of my mothers graphic designer this is what came out:

I think they turned out great and I'm most pleased about the textured paper because it's recycled! A bit more expensive but I think it's very much worth the money. I adore texture - and I really think it's gives my cards a little something extra.

It feels a little funny, because having business cards puts you in a different place, makes things more real maybe. I'm sure those of you who have businesses can understand.

Also, sorry I've been MIA for the past couple of days. I just sent in my last paper EVER on Moday and I have been feeling a huge anti-climax. And very tired above all. I need to get a hold of myself and I'll be back in full speed soon enough! Have a great weekend.

My Two Favorite Dresses Went Bah-Bye

2010-09-12T04:10:00.000-07:00

At this stage my shop is a small operation so every item I put in it is carefully picked and LOVED LOVED LOVED. These are all items I would wear in one way or another. This weekend has been very good to me sales-wise (knock on wood) so this morning I had to say goodbye to two favorite 1950s dresses:

Let me just say that it isn't very easy to find 1950s dresses in such wonderful condition in Israel. Israel is only 60+ years old and a lot of the older people who live here had to leave most (if not all) of their possessions in Europe because of WW2.

It's hard to part ways with such wonderful dresses but I'm glad they will have new loving homes (or so I hope anyway..).

Vintage Loungewear

2010-09-10T15:30:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I had a little conversation about wearing vintage on a daily basis, which I do. However it always brings up the sort of questions of how much vintage you want to look yourself. I mean, some vintage clothing, however gorgeous they may be, are kind of constumey. I have some dresses like that, and I do wear them but I need to be in right state of mind to do so.
I do however try to bring in a little vintage into my daily-wear, or just loungey-kind-of-wear. I think Lauren has perfected this and I think as far as easy going clothes go, I too have found the clothes that are both vintage and comfy for me.

Top, Pants, Belt (all 3 vintage), Sunglasses - RakShniya

Earrings - present from my sister

Sandles - AntiTeza

I WANT This!

2010-09-09T00:12:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the short posts lately - I have a huge paper due next week and I have'nt written enough yet. It's quite frustrating. On the other hand I leave plenty of time for wondering around Etsy.. Even though I have something in store for "my vintage obsession" - backpacks should probably be one of the next topics as well. I love vintage backpags and this one is especially cool. (press images to reach item page)

To Keep or Not to Keep?...

2010-09-06T08:56:00.000-07:00

This is a pretty cool sweater don't you think? I bet Bombshell Bettie would love this - she likes nautical items. Hmmm. On one hand - it's gorgeous, in amazing condition and my size - on the other, I'm not sure I have anything to go with it. And I'm not really into just wearing jeans.. this is a tough one, I'll list everything else before I get to this little pretty.

Disturbing

2010-09-04T14:18:00.000-07:00

I have been "using" Etsy for about a year now. I frequently go to the forums and read alot, because the Etsy community is in my opinion, a great one thus you meet nice people and read smart and helpful things that helps you along especially if you are a seller like I am. Throughout my forum searches, I've come across many posts claiming people are buying items only to sell them in their own shop later or doing all kinds of nasty things but today was the first time I actually "caught" someone in the act.

I happen to be a stalker. A shop stalker. I visit the shops I like almost on a daily basis and I check my favorites list for sold items (only to check the shops they've come from) often. About 10 minutes ago, a very beauitful treasury showed up on Etsy's front page and one of the images popped for me because I recognized one of my favorite shops photo aesthetics - however, the shop name under the image didn't match the shop I was sure it belonged too. I went into that shop, saw very few listings, no profile, no avatar and discovered that there were 2 items in that shop with images from the shop I love. I double checked to be sure, contacted the seller of the shop I love and flagged the idiot who either just stole the images and is missleading their buyers or bought those two items only to resell them.

In my opinion this is horrible and disrespectful - this stands against everything I believe in Etsywise. I have so much respect and admiration towards my fellow sellers, especially if they are selling vintage and this is so wrong.

I'm not mentioning names here. I'm leaving this to Etsy (who will hopefully address this issue soon after I flagged that shop) and to the seller of the shop I love who has contacted me already and is of course unhappy about this. BLA. People are stupid!

Around My Mothers Shop

2010-09-03T07:01:00.000-07:00

Aint That the Truth!

2010-09-01T03:00:00.000-07:00

HA!

I WANT This!

2010-08-30T12:26:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe it's from the 80s but it's 100% me - I love the color, the fabric, the closed neckline and plunging back (coming soon in a "my vintage obsession" post) and the elastic waistline which makes it nice and tight on my smaller waist and perfect for a nice belt. Kristina - can I have this for my birthday please? Pretty please? Who cares in not until June?! AHHH.

Jeremy Laing - I LIKE You!

2010-08-29T09:42:00.000-07:00

Yeah that green dress looks like it came out of no-where but it's indeed in this collection and I rather like it. But green dress aside - this my friends, is layering perfection. I pretty much want every single item presented here (and the weather to match).

source

Color Inspiration

2010-08-27T02:11:00.000-07:00

Following Maria's post I realized I have been leaning towards the yellows, goldenrods, ochers, golds and mustards and I kind of like it. I think it's a wonderful color palette for autumn. I even have an awesome blouse in goldenrod of my very own (shown bellow). What's your favorite color for this upcoming season? (jeez if it ever gets here....)

1970s?

2010-08-26T13:50:00.000-07:00

I briefly read an article today in the fashion section of "Time Out Tel Aviv", claiming that this winters fashion is all about the 70s. I can't say I was very happy about this. I think the 70s are my least favorites when it comes to vintage clothing. I don't find myself very attracted to the fabrics, design or silhouettes and the whole disco vibe is defintaly not me. I went through my favorites list on Etsy and could only find two clothing items:

I can't really say they have the typical 70s look. Now, I do stock some 70s items in my shop, however these are all items I would wear, also they come from Israel and I don't think Israel went through a hardcore disco phase so "our" 70s are in a more day dress direction.

Well this is turning into a ramble - all I really wanted to say is I hope I find pretty things for winter even though it's 70s styled.

Something to Work On

2010-08-25T00:33:00.000-07:00

Shop Update

2010-08-23T11:55:00.000-07:00

My Vintage Obsession: Fitted Lace Dresses

2010-08-22T12:21:00.001-07:00

Continuing this post, I've realized throughout the years that even though lace is a kind of stuffy/posh fabric, I am really really attracted to a certain type of fitted lace-covered dresses.

These dresses usually (as far as I'm familiar with them, or the one's I like anyway) come from the late 40's, the 50's and the early 60's, very 'Mad Men' in their look I guess (but I've liked them even before that show with it's horribly delicious wardrobe showed up). They are usually wiggle dresses but mostly they are just really fitted at the bodice - something that suits my body type perfectly.

I guess there's something very sexy in these dresses that makes my feline come out. It was actually much harder to find good examples of them on Etsy than I thought would be. I gave up after 40 pages.

I currently own and actively wear 2 dresses of this coveted category - I personaly think I hit the jackpot with one of them. Let me know what you think. I chose to wear it a little unconventionally for a photo-shoot a couple of years ago. My hair looks lovely. Just thought I'd throw that in..

Windin'

2010-08-21T10:01:00.000-07:00

This is Where I Work

2010-08-20T08:35:00.000-07:00

(oh my goodness) I WANT This!

2010-08-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

This dress set nearly made my eyes pop out! It combines a lot of things I love in one piece - two tone dresses (which are difficult to find), lace covered dresses (weird fetish but I love them and own a couple), bows and autumn colors! It's a win-win here HOWEVER it's not my size because the world is CRUEL!

2010-08-17T04:21:00.000-07:00

If only repairing your heart or buying a new one cost that much.
click to see details.

A Détacher - (generally speaking) I Like You

2010-08-16T00:58:00.000-07:00

I feel liked a caged animal. It is SO hot here and it's going to get even hotter and it's driving me INSANE. I've written about my horrible hatred towards summer here before but this is just too much, there only so much I can take. Even people who like summer are crancky over this weather.

Yesterday I met a friend of mine at the mall (something I seldomly do, go to the mall I mean, there's just nothing interesting there anymore) and while I was waiting for him, I went into ZARA. From all shops I would say this one I still have high hopes for and I was just bedazzled by all the fall colors and warm fabrics they recently brought in (who knows why - it's freaking HOT) - granted, I didn't buy a thing but it felt so nice to look at what I long for - clothes for cold weather.

I came across A Détacher at style.com (where the pictures are taken from) and was quite pleased with her use of warm colors and fabrics like velvet and wool - I wish she wouldn't have taken it a step forward, but this is nice for now - may it give you cold thoughts.

This Weeks Black Selection

2010-08-13T09:53:00.000-07:00

As I've mentioned before - I need an all black outfit for work, which means black everyday. Since I tend to change outfits about twice a day and can't stand the thought of wearing the same thing often I need a wide selection of black. This is this weeks black wishlist - photos take you to item page:

**please note - some items might not be black by definition - but they look black and that the only thing I care about :) **

I Should Hope So

2010-08-12T12:52:00.000-07:00