I love a good trend as much as the next girl, but what I do not like is walking out the door and looking like the girl next to me.

 A good Zara dress can go a long way if you put some thought into making the look your own.  My solution is always to add a little vintage flare.  These are a few of my favorite pieces to finish off the summer in!   

About Rudi Gernreich

Austrian-born Gernreich immigrated in 1938 and lived in the United States until his death in 1985.  He was a designer best known for his provocative creations that liberated women from clothes that constrained the body. Gernreich impacted the fashion world with his visionary creations such as the "monokini" topless swimsuit, the transparent "no-bra bra," which was made of molded nylon cups attached to shoulder straps and a narrow elastic band encircling the rib cage, which we would all love to wear. He also produced androgynous separates and suits that blurred traditional boundaries between the feminine and masculine. We women can thank him for authorizing the first unisex looks for those days we just feel like looking oh so lady-like. While such styles are universally accepted today, Gernreich's fashions provoked storms of controversy and media coverage when introduced in the '60s and '70s.

Besides being an influential designer who was very ahead of his time, Gernreich pushed both fashion and social boundaries in the US. Gernreich was an influential co-founder of the Mattachine Society, the USA's first gay liberation movement.

Shop NOW!

Learning Leonard

Having found it's inspiration in the 1970's, Leonard emerged as one of the leading fashion houses with a fixation on color and print.  Known as a contemporary to Pucci, Leonard reminds us of days gone by where bold prints reigned supreme.

Sturbridge & Brimfield

There is nothing more fulfilling they a day of bargain hunting and vintage shopping.  Don’t miss out next time.  Stay in the know… Check festival dates here. 

Remember, one girl's trash is another girl's treasure!

One For The Archives: Burberry

Some outerwear just keeps you warm; Burberry keeps you happy.  Check out a few of their updated classics and our pics to see what to style them with!  Everyone needs a little Burberry in their archive!    

Fabiana is one of those people in life you meet and instantaneously are attracted to her passion for life. Fabiana studied design in Paris and has worked all over the world, including New York. She currently resides on the island of Anguilla where she has built a family and a well known brand of “Why Knot” sarongs and tunics. These pieces embody the spirit of the island itself – easy, fun, and perfect for any occasion.

The original “ Why Knot” store was started as a small stand under a big beautiful tree close to the beach.  The business quickly grew and tourists all over were bee- lining for Fabiana when arriving on this small island.  Today, Fabiana has a beautiful store Oceanside where she spends her days, designing, selling, and relaxing with her beautiful family.  I don’t think life really gets much better.

Summer is in full gear and we think everyone needs a “Why Knot”.  You can wear the classic sarong 7 different ways and we have confidence you can probably figure out a few more styles we don’t even know about!

Tales of Endearment, The XX, The Man Repeller, PC Style 

Images Alexandra McQueen, Stella McCartney, The Row

Every Monday and Wednesday I start my day with a LARGE cup of coffee and 10 minutes of quiet time as I look through the What’s New tab on Net-A-Porter.   Every now and then I come across a few pieces I consider “One for the Archives”. This is a piece worth investing in and growing with over the years.  The kind of piece you can wear from age 20 to 80 and get endless pleasure out of owning.  These are the pieces I plan on passing down to my daughter, when I have her… right Christene?

At the moment I am having a craving for lace and velvet. (Lucky Mag, I think we are on the same page here) and these beauties definitely took my breath away…

If only I could buy all the things I lust over… but then I guess they wouldn’t be as fun to dream about.

Run don’t walk to Bridgehampton’s vintage jewel Out of the Closet. This boutique has a fabulous selection of vintage clothing, jewelry and accessories.  With everything from classic 50s swimsuits, which can double as mini rompers, to gorgeous Bill Blass & Oscar de la Renta gowns, this spot has something for every vintage lover.  And GUESS WHAT?.... THEY ARE HAVING A MASSIVE MOVING SALE!

Soon to be residents of a new space in Watermill, these fabulous ladies are packing up and they NEED your help!

For more pictures of the store check out Natalie Joos Tales of Endearment story: “The Secret of Bridgehampton”.

2401 Montauk Hwy Bridgehampton NY 11932 (631) 537 2470

Stay tuned and we will let you know when this fabulous store has settled in its new location!

Foster The People - Pumped Up Kicks from Foster The People on Vimeo.

The Man Repeller’s “Jury Duty Look”! 

We would definitely keep her on our case!

Check out the PINKCLOUDS x Eleven Objects exclusive collaboration July 6^th!!!

Sign up now for instant email alerts. 

What excites you about vintage fashion?

When did you confirm you were a vintage lover? 

"Well, I've always had an appreciation for unusual and/or quirky fashion and can remember digging around often in my mom's and grandmother's closet. My mom's mom was a seamstress, so her sewing room was like a virtual treasure trove...lots of gorgeous buttons and trimmings. I'm very nostalgic, so I get a very powerful emotional response from vintage pieces I love....so much more than anything new."

What are the top three things you look for when vintage shopping? 

"Generally, it's either pattern or the hand of the fabric. For some reason, I can spot good fabric from a few feet away. I'm also a sucker for anything metallic."

Favorite vintage store or market?

Where do you find your goodies Onland vs. Online! 

"Definitely eBay online and the Salvation Army onland, which is like my church. A vintage store has to be very special for me to really love it. The only one I go to repeatedly is Mafalda in Brooklyn."

I often end up hesitating over a purchase (usually because I have already done enough damage) and walking away to "think about it" and 9/10 times I go back for it! What's you tactic for avoiding impulse purchases or over shopping?

"I really never go too nuts. I'm a very thoughtful shopper and tend to have pangs of desire for the same things: Great blazers and coats, maxi-dresses, gigantic necklaces, and printed "mom" trousers...my look will very likely be the same when I'm 70, 80, and hopefully, 90."

Any memories of an item you passed up and either regretted not buying or went back for and was crushed to find out someone else already bought it.

"Oh boy, there are many, but I feel very resolute in the fact that if I don't wake up thinking about it, it's not meant to be mine. I will say that I was very disappointed at myself for hesitating on a fantastic pair of Marni platforms. They ended up going for only $65 on eBay. Another one was a long vintage sweater coat by Missoni from the '70s. I still think about it."

How do you style your vintage pieces with the rest of your 

wardrobe for a more modern look. 

"Vintage is so much a part of my vibe, it's just me at this point. Generally, my shoes and bags are new and 3/4s of the rest of my outfit is vintage, which seems to be the ratio that works for me."

Who are your favorite designers of the past? 

"Jean Muir, Betty Jackson, Sonia Rykiel, Norma Kamali, Yves Saint Laurent, Geoffrey Beene, Hermès, Anne Klein, and all the Italians, Gucci, Missoni, Valentino...it's really endless."

Which designers or brands do you lust after today? 

"The same along with Derek Lam, Chris Benz, Band of Outsiders, Rachel Comey, Opening Ceremony, Suno, and anything designed by Phoebe Philo."

All-time favorite find? 

"A vintage black DKNY tuxedo jacket from the early '90s that fits me like it was made for me in some centuries-old atelier. It's THAT good."

Any trends or looks you are fixed on at the moment. 

"Graphic-printed pants, gold and copper lamé, pant-suits, old denim work-shirts, and anything in red silk." 

Favorite piece from PinkClouds? How would you style it? 

"This silk printed Bill Blass trench, for sure. I'd wear it with simple white cropped jeans and and bright red platform sandals. I'm also WAY into this Claude Montana suit...there are so many ways I would wear this, I can't even count. But a little piece of me thinks it could be amazing to wear it at City Hall to get married!"

Any other special vintage moments you want to share? 

"It's funny, I would never imagine that hunting for great vintage would become my favorite hobby, but it has. Whether I'm at a huge flea-market or a tiny yard sale, the whole process of looking and touching and digging is just incredibly meditative to me. I just hope I have a daughter one day whom I can pass all my finds down to!"

                    Check out Christene’s FIX SALE NOW! For more of Christene follow REFINERY29!!!

on't miss our "Why Knot" Beach Cover up Giveaway with Beautiful Stranger Sign up now!!!!

PINKCLOUDS Fix Sale Launches June 8th 

Who doesn’t love a detachable collar? WE DO and we can’t wait to show you how to style it with a vintage twist for a truly ONE OF A KIND look that will knock your socks off!!!

Check it out... ELEVEN OBJECTS 

Coming to PINKCLOUDS July 6th!

“ Nostalgia is like dreaming awake.  I am definitively a dreamer”

– YVES SAINT LAURENT

There are some things in life you want, but wear for only a moment, and there are others you will use for a lifetime.  These Jil Sander bags are the perfect accessories for Summer, Spring & Fall.  I guarantee you, one grey day 20 years from now you are going to discover it in the back of your closet and it will brighten up your day and your wardrobe.

The Find

What I have always loved about fashion is the element of playing dress up and using clothing to express a mood or bring to life an experience.  Music festivals, particularly Coachella, is the perfect environment to have fun with your style.

Coachella Do's & Don't

1. Do keep cool during the day, but don't forget something to keep warm at night. It's the desert!

2. Don't rely on cell phone reception. Going with a big group? Try sporting walkie talkis!

3. Do pick a home base or a meeting point. Someone always gets lost!

4. Don't wear new shoes unless you are trying to scuff them up for that perfect worn in look.

5. Don't forget to check out some vintage shops including Natalie Joos favorite spot in Palm Spring - Tales of Endearment!

Shop our Coachella picks - functional fashion that will get you through the weekend looking chic while having fun!

My problem has always been a lack of self control. This is especially true when it comes to clothing. Once I have tried something on I instantly think of 3 outfits I could wear with it and 3 events it would be perfect for! I often even end up planning an evening or vacation around these looks. By the time I leave the dressing room I am convinced I need to own it...

Whenever I stop by FROCK these urges become heightened. The idea of walking away from a piece I may never see again always gets me. On this recent visit I was on a mission for some Mugler... and look how well I did! At least now I have someone to share my finds with and in the interest of sharing I have learned to say no.

Megan and I took the afternoon to browse through Frock and pull all our favorites pieces and trends for summer into fall. Go bright! Have fun! And BRING BACK MUGLER in a bold way :)

SHOP OUR PICKS NOW

Thanks to my friends David & Lindsey for helping me find these perfect colors!

I met Leo Mavroviti at the Bridgehampton Antique Show this past August. I was walking by a number of booths, but when I saw his, I had to stop.  I immediately spotted two incredibly beautiful Cartier Rings from the 70s & 80s.  There was no looking away.
 
I was reminded of a love once lost, a vintage Cartier Ring I tried on at Maxfields in LA.  It had a thick gold band with a swinging barbell and one of the end balls was covered in pave diamonds.  It still hurts my heart to think about it.  Trust me, don’t let the one you love slip away!
After heading back to the city and geared up for the launch of PINKCLOUDS and the start to SW11 NY Fashion Week, I made a visit to see my favorite collection of rings in NYC. Leo Mavroviti has a charming store in the heart of Lincoln Center. The Emporium Antique Shop houses a world full of antiques and vintage jewelry, including some of the most amazing vintage Cartier rings I have ever seen.  When in the neighborhood you should grab a coffee and pay him a visit for some fun browsing!
 
I knew these rings would one day be a Fix item on PINKCLOUDS and I have waited for this day to come!  I will be eternally jealous of the lucky lady who one day owns the Ziggurat Art Deco Ring. Please do not be surprised if I eventually track you down to buy it back in the near future! Before I die?

Retoyman is an accomplished fashion photographer and fine artist.  He spends his time shooting and drawing while traveling back and forth between LA and NY. He created nine beautiful ink wash drawings of the NY FW 11 Fashion Week backstage scene exclusively for PINKCLOUDS. Inspired by the energy and the excitement of the week, his drawings focus on the models, their looks, and their personalities on and off the runway.  Traveling to NY for fashion week is always very inspirational and for this F/W 11season Retoyman made it his mission to capture all the girls and the moments he loved in ink wash drawings 

"This fall the style trend for casting outfits were skinny leather pants, sheer tops, skinny denim, short skirts and tights or hose, animal skin jackets, fuzzy faux skin jackets, and high-waisted trousers.  Short hair is a big trend and since I fell in love with Louise Brooks as youngster I love all models with 'bobbed' hair." – Retoyman

Check out his sketches available for purchase!

PINKCLOUDS FEATURED IN FUTURECLAW

Cindy Crawford from FutureClaw Magazine on Vimeo.

 What inspired you to start Tales of Endearment?

After fashion week/March 2010, I had a bit of down time so I started thinking of ways to occupy my time. You can only read so many books or browse the internet for so long. I thought I should start a blog. I came up with the name first. Then it was just a matter of finding an angle, a subject I would be passionate enough to write about on a regular basis. I was researching vintage on Ebay a lot at the time and saw all these amazing clothes and accessories and thought: there must be a way to show these to the world. I can’t buy everything – some of it not the right size or too expensive or, hello, no more room in my wardrobe! – but maybe I can inspire other people (especially designers) with my finds. And then one day it hit me: I should write a blog about vintage! The rest is history.

Of all the cities you have traveled to what is your favorite city for vintage shopping?  Do you have a favorite store in that city?

This is a hard question. I can find a great place in every city I travel to.

I love New York because the demand/supply is very high and vintage is as accessible as ever. Vintage stores keeps popping up (actually the past 2 years a few have disappeared due to the economic down turn…) and we have the best fairs, markets and shows in the country. My favorite designer stores are Marlene Wetherell’s and New World Order. My favorite low-key store is Fluke.

Palm Springs is the best for thrifting! It is so cheap and fun. My favorite store there is Resale Therapy.

What is life like as a model caster?

Casting is a fun job. I work with young, beautiful people every day and can pretty much handle a casting from anywhere in the world on my laptop. Give me a phone and a computer and I get you your models! Even pool side. I love working with different clients who have different wishes or work in different formats. The model agents have all become my friends over the years, so phone conversations are not necessarily rigid and hardball. I love my job, and that’s what matters most.

Who are your favorite models? (past or present)

Some of my favorite girls are Marieke Leroux, Anais Pouillot, Sophie Srej, Amanda Norgaard, Julija Step, Daphne Groeneveld, Marina Perez, Maria Carla Bosconi, Anja Rubic, Abbey Lee Kershaw…

When you think of all the shoots and shows you have worked on, what are you most proud of or which one stands out the most in your memory?

My favorite shoots were the Rocawear campaigns. There was so much going on on set! Celebrities, helicopters, snowmobiles, little kids, extras, sports stars… So much fun!

Any embarrassing or funny Fashion Week stories?

There’s always the little hiccup here and there but embarrassing, not really… Castings during show season are pretty stressful. There’s not really much time for fun and games. We try to stay as cool and professional as possible because every little detail counts.

What was your most extravagant vintage purchase?

I think my Alaia dress. That was around $800 I think.

What is the most precious thing in your closet? (vintage or new item).

I have a black Balenciaga party dress that is priceless. I paid a lot for it but so far it’s incredibly useful and appropriate for any fashionable occasion. Never outdated, never conspicuous. And it’s so soft it feels good to wear it as well.

Who are your favorite brands right now?

Balenciaga, Mark Fast, Peter Pilotto, Chanel, Adam, J.Crew, Miu Miu…

What is your fix of the moment? (Trend, designer, or item you reallllly want)

I really want a classic, black, padded Chanel bag with silver chain. And I need that Isabel Marant multi-colored fur. That would really make me happy. 

What is your Pinkclouds Pick?!

All the really cool furs!

Check out Natalie's vintage blog Tales Of Endearment Feb

Photos courtesy of Tommy Ton Style.com

A few years back I discovered Emma Hope, while visiting my good friend Amanda in London.  Well, actually, she discovered the store months before when she first moved to Notting Hill, but I can pretend to take some credit.  At the time, none of my friends in NY knew the brand.  Emma Hope has a charming store on Westbourne Grove St.  One of my favorite streets in London, it is the perfect place for a boozy brunch and some afternoon shopping, with a mix of Portobello Road vendors and stores like All Saints, Joseph, Emma Hope, and Aubin & Wills.  

When I was in London a few months ago I stopped by to the Emma Hope store and fell in love with their leopard sneakers and ballerina flats.  I bought pair for my mom as a gift and she loved them!  They are a great FIND and the perfect shoe to add some flair to any tee shirt and jean day.  For more Leopard Love check out the Fix! 

Check them out! Emma Hope

It does not get better than a day of sorting through Marlene Wetherell's store.  She has the most amazing collection of vintage pieces and some of the best Geoffrey Beene I have ever seen! Visiting her NYC store in the Antique Market, 40 W. 25th St, is one of my favorite Sunday activities.  I never leave without buying something.  Actually, I believe I blew my entire first pay check at Marlene's booth at the Chelsea Pier Show my first September living and working in NY!  Some things never change...

We always love hanging, shopping and working with Marlene :) Here is a little more about our favorite lady!

Q&A questions:

Who is your all time favorite designer?

Favorite designer without a doubt...YSL!

How did you get started as a vintage dealer?

I started as a collector of textiles and clothing.

I did photography and styling before and used my pieces in shoots...

I turned my passion into a business...

What do you love about vintage?

I love vintage because of its quality + craftsmanship. There are pieces that never go out of style...

It always looks unique... It mixes beautifully with new pieces.. It makes for an individual style.

I also love pieces that reflect an era or decade... It says so much!

Who are your style icons?

I love some of the french actresses from the 60's like Romy Schneider, (she was German actually but acted in french films), Jeanne Moreau, and Delphine Serig.

What is your favorite item from our site?!

Love the YSl leopard print chenille coat.. Because it's YSL , it's super chic, timeless, and can be worn with anything!

xoxo Marlene