Slow Southern News

• Saints fever is translating into big t-shirt sales atNew Orleans retailers.
• The Krewe of Muses is hosting a holiday market on Thursday, December 3rd from 5:30pm-8:30pm at Kingsley House. There will be a bevy of vendors offering up hats, jewelry, t-shirts, scarves, ties and more. Admission is $20 which includes parking, light food and wine. 
• The Freret Market is this Saturday, December 5th from noon-5:00pm. The market offers homegrown food, fashion, and music every month.
• If you are looking for something more low key  head toFlanagan's Pub for Miss Malaprop's handcrafted shopping party Thursday, December 3rd from 6:00pm-9:00pm. Mallory will be showcasing several crafter's work with a focus on environmentally friendly products.

Clean out your closet, not your wallet

I am a veteran at selling and buying clothing at resale stores. I first discovered secondhand stores in college and I've been an avid shopper ever since. The difference between second hand and thrift store is selection, pricing, and atmosphere. Instead of having to spend hours sifting through racks of ratty, old items someone has done the work for you. It is also nice to walk into a store that is clean with sorted and sized racks.

 Get the look for less

 Just like the mall there is a wide variety of secondhand stores that cater to a wide variety of customers. There are shops out there that specialize in every type of clothing, from designer to vintage, career wear to casual.  The beauty of this system is that you can get rid of clothes you don't wear and turn them into cash or new items that will actually see the light of day. Read on for my tips on how to successfully get those clothes out of your closet and into a store.

1. Know the store

 Not all second hand stores are the same and one shop's top seller is someone else's sale rack. It is a good idea to drop by the store and take a gander at the racks or call and ask  what they are looking for. If you have a stack of office appropriate suits one store might say no thanks but another might take them all. Don't be discouraged, especially if you have several secondhand shops in your area.

 Rain boots display

2.  Clean and presentable
You are presenting your items for someone to buy. Make sure you have recently laundered them ( last year doesn't count) and an iron never hurt anything. If you have handbags make sure to clean up the insides especially if your makeup exploded. Items with stains, holes, extremely faded or pilly will never make the cut so don't bother bringing in that blouse with the ketchup stain down the front.

3. Cash, clothes, and cars
Sure it sounds like a rap video but that isn't my point. Clothes and cars are similar in that they lose value once you drive them off the lot. When people buy used clothing they are looking for a bargain. Just because you paid $200 for that pair of Rock & Republic jeans doesn't mean the next buyer wants to! Even if you've only worn  (or never wore) that cocktail dress from last year's holiday party for a few hours it makes it now used.

Patent leather driving moccasins, $8 at Plato's Closet

4. Don't expect miracles
 If you aren't wearing it chances are no one else is either.  Those gaucho pants from 5 years ago? Yea everyone hates them and admit it you do too. That said buyers really do want your closet in their inventory! Don't hesitate to ask a lot of questions so you can figure out what is selling for them. Someone's old shirt could be your amazing vintage rock tee find.

5. Where does that percentage go?
Don't be surprised when the shop takes a chunk of the profits. That money goes towards paying employees, the light bill, taxes, advertising, rent etc.... If you want more money either A. try to return the item or B. take a chance on Ebay or Craigslist.


6. Know the difference
 You have two choices when it comes to selling your clothes. Consignment shops typically give you 40-50% cash since you don't get your money until the piece sells. It really isn't any sweat off their back- you just take the piece back if it doesn't sell but your piece could sit in the store for months. A buy/sell/trade offers 30-40% in cash but you get your money that day. Therefore if your clothing doesn't sell at full price (or not at all) then they lose money on that item. Don't be surprised when these types of stores charge less for the same item that a consignment shop would charge more for. Some people prefer to wait it out while others just want to get the cash up front.  However almost  all stores offer 50% store credit so it is usually smart to take the store credit.

7. The more current the better
So you bought into that new acid wash denim trend and you are now questioning your sanity? Bring it in. The younger the trend the more covetable it is. Hate those big exposed zippers? Someone else will love it. Can't walk in those thigh high boots? Let someone else try.  Trust me.

8. Expensive doesn't mean better 
 We all love designer pieces but they still have to be cute. Just because it says "Prada" across the chest doesn't mean it is desirable! Most people would prefer something moderately priced with a modern cut vs. something outdated just because it was expensive.

Rhinestone snake bracelet, $58 price tag still attached got it for $20

9. It is good for the environment
Selling and buying used goods has a myriad of benefits aside from padding your wallet. Selling your clothing keeps things out of  landfills and buying has an even bigger impact because you are not contributing to the manufacturing of new items. For example many vegetarians feel okay buying used leather goods since they aren't directly supporting the leather industry.



10. Great! Where can I unload my goodies?
Check out my post on buying secondhand in the New orleans area or feel free to do some name dropping in the comments w/ your favorite places to shop. I'm including my top 4 places in the 504.

Shops to try:

Buffalo Exchange*
Funky Monkey
Plato's Closet*
Swap Boutique

*indicates multiple locations

Black Friday

I'm the first to admit that I avoid malls at all costs during peak shopping times. This means I will be nowhere near a food court or a parking garage come Friday and neither should you! There are a slew of deals to be found and with a little creativity you can find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

• Tomato is offering 30-50% off sale items during Thanksgiving weekend. 
• Francesca's has 75% off sale items and you can shop online too.
• Jonesing for a big box store? Macy's is offering free shipping on orders over $99.
• Miss Malaprop wrote a great piece on handmade shops that are offering sales as well.
  

Roughing it in style

I'm going to take a break from the Gulf Coast today to talk about the southwest. After Katrina I relocated to Phoenix, AZ for 3.5 years. While I wasn't satisfied with my adopted city I did get in a lot of hiking, particularly in  the Grand Canyon. I took more trips to the canyon than I can count and I hiked to the bottom 3-4 times a year. In less than a month I will be making a trek to Phantom Ranch for the 10th time.

 Feeling stylish on the trail but not looking like a fashion victim is a tough mountain, err canyon to climb. When you are covered in sweat, snow, dirt, mule poop, or whatever else you want to feel somewhat cute but can't run the risk of looking like a fashion freak by sacrificing comfort and mobility. Having the proper gear and clothing is crucial not only to your comfort but for your safety as well.

These silk cargo pants from Da-Nang are easy on the eyes. Silk is also very insulating but I'd throw a pair of thermal leggings underneath for an added layer. The side pockets are perfect for throwing a camera or a mid trail snack in.

This Salomon brand trail runner tee is a nylon spandex blend that will keep you warm and dry. Available at REI. Just throw on a shell and a wind resistant jacket and you are ready to tackle cold climes.

I'm okay with a silly winter hat so long as it remains functional. This acrylic and wool blend from Monica Burnett satisfies both needs. I usually warm up quickly and start stripping away layers so this open weave hat would be great for me.

Of course you can't leave your digits exposed to the elements. These Sugoi gloves from REI Outlet will keep your hands warm and they also have a gel grip. This is important if you use trekking poles such as myself and need to keep your "sissy sticks" in hand vs. tossed down the trail.

Since the whole point of hiking is the scenery I'll share with y'all pictures from my last cold weather excursion to the Grand Canyon. These were taken Mardi Gras 2008. Even when I didn't live in New Orleans I always took time off work for Mardi Gras.

 

Slow Southern News

• Stop in Feet First now through Sunday, November 29th at receive discounts if you bring in canned or non-perishable food items. Bring in 2 or more items and receive 20% off your total purchase. Bring in 3 or more items and receive 30% off your purchase. All food will be donated to Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana.

• Stop by Buffalo Exchange for 75% off sale merchandise now until the end of the month.

• Local clothing line LiaMolly will be having trunk shows  on Wednesday, November 25th  from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Loa in the International House Hoteland on December 16th same time, same place.

Slow Southern News

• Ruby is giving away a free gift with any purchase now through November 30 for all of their Facebook fans. Also stop by tonight for Hammond's Starry November night from 5pm-10pm. There will be food, cocktails, music and of course shopping! Pick up a game day tee or a great pair of jeans from their latest shipment of James, Ringspun, Blaque Label and Rock Revival.

• Tomato is opening their second store in Baton Rouge this weekend. Visit them 2353 Perkins Road in the Southdowns Village. Store hours are Monday-Saturday 11:00am-6:00pm.
  
  
• Buffalo Exchange is having its annual Coats for Cubs drive. From now until April 22 drop off your unwanted fur coats to your local Buffalo Exchange and they will be shipped to the Humane Society of the United States for use in rehabilitating wildlife. The fur is used as bedding to comfort injured or orphaned wildlife and since 2006 Buffalo has collected 3,885 furs for Coats for Cubs.
  

Nifty, thrifty and best of all handmade

Meet Alison and her nifty little vintage and handmade shop. 

How did you get into thrifting?
I've always adored old things. I had an "antique box" as a child. But I actually didn't get into thrifting until the end of high school. 


 What makes an item really stand out to you?
My eye has gotten better. I skim a rack of clothes and what pulls me in is texture. Vintage clothing has a very different texture than most clothing today. Some modern clothes imitates the vintage texture and gets pretty close, though. 
 Vintage 60s/70s Victorian Gothic Cocktail Ring 

Is there a certain style that you are drawn to, or do you try to stock a wide range of things in your shop?

Personally, I love mod style from the 60s. But I also enjoy many styles from 70s & 80s. For myself I am more picky. But for others I can appreciate how others express themselves and will often buy things that I think someone else will love. 


 Ruffle lace bolero jacket


What are your top sellers?
My top sellers are hard to determine because everything I've ever had was of a very limited quantity. It can pretty unpredictable on what will sell fast. I think that when my shop has been more stocked with vintage clothing, it helps my handmade items sell better. 


 Vintage bingo card hand bound notepad

Define southern style.

I'm not really sure how to define Southern style only because It seems like there are people from all over here in the South. But I can say that I think Southern style probably has a warmth and charm that is as sincere and down to earth as Southern hospitality!


 One of a kind brass and copper charm bracelet


You can purchase these items as well as many others via Alison's Etsy shop.

Mannequin Mondays

I've often said that when I hit the lottery (too bad I've never bought a ticket) I'd wear ball gowns to do the most menial chores like washing the dishes and vacuuming. Well when that time comes this would be my first pick.

Harold Clarke located in Rubenstein's

102 St. Charles Ave., 504.581.6666

Thanks to Leslie of Nola Eats for snapping this pic for me.

Show & Tell

I've never considered myself a shoe person even though my husband would beg to differ. A deep sense of lust doesn't overwhelm me when looking at a pair of platform sky high heels. I instantly wince at the pain factor and stick to shoes that I can primarily wear to work. I do however like to wear fun colors and patterns so I couldn't  pass up these J. Crew suede chartreuse driving mocs when I saw them. I love wearing these with navy or  contrasting them with another bright color. Since I walk to work everyday I don't exactly baby my shoes and these won't last but a few more months.  Let's all sit back and cherish them before I wreck them beyond wearability.

 

Beautiful metal

Tell us a little about yourself and how you got into metal smithing.


My father was a silversmith as a hobby and had a workshop in the basement. I began experimenting with his tools and supplies as a teenager. I then spent many years exploring other mediums and art techniques, coming back to metalsmithing after inheriting his tools. I have made my living as a jeweler for the last 6 years.

To me jewelry should be a personal representation of oneself vs. a fashion item. How are your interests and personality showcased in your work?

 I embrace hand-made, especially when it comes to jewelry. My very favorite designs come about when I try to make what I want to wear -not just make something because I think that it will sell. Many of my designs reflect collections that I have, my most cherished being a wall of heart milagros that I have collected over the years. I want my pieces to feel like they've been around for awhile, have soul, or a story to tell.

 I couldn't help but notice the circle themes in your work. Is that a conscience design decision?

The circles in my work are not a conscience theme, but  come from designing what I  like to wear.

How does living in New Orleans inspire your work?

 New Orleanians have an attachment to their town and all things New Orleans that I don't think exists in many other places. It is very inspiring. It is a town so steeped in history and ritual that it can be a little intimidating to try to reflect that.
New Orleans is very lucky to have several great art markets. I love our creative and very supportive community. Being a regular vendor at a few of these helps me strive to always improve my creations.

Define southern style.

 For me, Southern style is easy and not too fussy; can it be in our humidity? It is also slightly worn around the edges with a touch of funk, a little flirtation and a measure of mystique thrown in. 

You can purchase Kiki's designs on Etsy as well as Bywater Art Market (3rd Saturday of every month) and the Arts Market of New Orleanss at Palmer Park ( last Saturday of every month)

Slow Southern News

• Stop by Voluptuous Vixen, a fashionable plus sized store, to help celebrate their 3rd anniversary.  On Thursday, November 19th luxe cocktail dresses will be 50% off and you can enter to win a $100 gift certificate.
• Feet First is having another trunk show highlighting comfort shoe brands Born and Sofft. Enjoy complimentary wine & hors d'oeuvres on Saturday, November 14th from 10am-6pm as a brand representative helps you select the perfect pair for you.
• Shoefty just got in some great kicks for guys and girls. Go snap 'em up! 

Creative Recreation via Shoefty

Bayou Treasures

Born and raised in Cajun country Thrifted Finds creates jewelry from vintage accouterments and photos. 


  


1. The name of your shop is “Thrifted Finds”. How do you blend thrifted items with your handmade jewelry?
I love using vintage items in my work! Often times I'll use a vintage pin as a centerpiece or pendant. Vintage watches, beads and chains also find their way into my pieces. Even chandler prisms are incorporated into my things! I just love the unique spin vintage items give to jewelry designs.


 Autumn bangles

2. You are from south Louisiana. How does this influence your work?
Actually I'm not sure. I don't think that I have noticed a particular influence but I can tell you that the culture here is very inspiring. 


 Sittin' in a tree necklace
3. I noticed photo pendants and tree motifs are common themes. Tell us a little about those. 
The photo pendants came when I was looking for a way to incorporate a beautiful old picture of my grandmother into my jewelry. Then I was commissioned to do one for someone else and the theme has just continued and I do lots of custom work now with photos.

As for the trees, I just love them. For some reason I've been very attracted to nature related items that are in a refined item like a shiny silver or antiqued stamped brass charm. The combo of nature and jewelry just intrigues me. 


 Photo Ring

4. What are your future plans for your line?
I certainly plan on keeping with the vintage theme and I hope to do some more whimsical items based on Alice in Wonderland and other fun themes.


 Bite Me bat necklace
5. Define southern style.
Hmmmm...Romantic. Cultured. Full of charm and a touch of whimsy.


You can view more of Thrifted Finds jewelry at her Flickr account and purchase her creations at Etsy.

Mannequin Mondays

Now that Halloween is finally over I have more time to dedicate to updating the blog. This week's Mannequin Monday features displays from the New Orleans  Buffalo Exchange. As always sorry about the less than professional pictures. I'm a terrible photographer.

Nerd chic

 Neutrals are your friends

 Antique gown at least 100 years old

 Trendy ladies

Buffalo Exchange

3312 Magazine St.

New Orleans, LA 70115

(504)891-7443

Today is also my sister's birthday (gettin' old sis) so I hope she has a good one!

Slow Southern News

• Style Lab, a popular men's boutique is offering an additional 15% off all sale items. You can also browse new arrivals from G-Star, Ben Sherman, Modern Amusements, Levi's and Woolrich.
  
• Yvonne LaFleur is having a holiday wardrobe trunk show Nov. 12-14. Enjoy informal modeling and refreshments during the event.
  

Sunday Best

I'd like to give a warm welcome to an honorary southern belle that resides far, far above the Mason-Dixon line. Joanne James creates magnificent antebellum worthy hats that are truly wearable works of art. Read on to find out how she crafts her chapeaus.

 Black wool bucket hat

1.  Tell us a little about yourself and how you got started in millinery.

    I am a person who has always loved people, learning and sharing what I've learned with others.  As a young girl, I used to stand at my grandmother's side and watch her sew on her treadle machine.  She would explain what she was doing and I hung on her every word.  She taught me patience and perseverance as well as needlecraft skills.  She once gave me a little brown paper bag with some embroidery floss and a hoop when I was about 12 years old.  I had no idea what to do with it, but I treasured it.  I learned how to embroider when I was 17 and it took off.  I embroidered everything.  Gradually I learned how to do silk embroidery which then led to ribbon work.  I now use ribbon work on hats, purses, and wedding memory albums.  I've got some plans in the works right now to branch out into needlework craft kits.  They should be ready for sale in the spring of 2010. 

 Golden winter hat

2.  Your hats are painstakingly detailed.  Take us on a little journey from concept to creation.

    I make up ribbon roses, mums, hatpin roses, leaves and other flowers in advance.  I store them in containers until ready for use.  When I want to design a hat arrangement, I first pick out the hat that I want to embellish and then look through my stash of flowers and leaves.  I then set the hat on a stand to make it easier to work on and set the main flower and two leaves on either side of it.  At that point, I usually put the hat on and check in the mirror to see whether the arrangement should be in the front, back, or off to either side of the hat.  Then I fasten down the main components.  I add pieces of jewelry such as a brooch or a brass ornament that I put an antiqued finish on and add a sparkly glass stone, and perhaps some smaller flowers or feathers.  I am finished when the hat looks like a wearable piece of art.

3.  You are located in Canada.  What influences do you take from your surroundings?

    I live in Brockville, Ontario, a small community of 24,000 people.  The beautiful St. Lawrence river is only a few blocks from our home.  Because of the location, Brockville is considered a tourist town and a variety of artists live here.  We have studio arts tours several times a year.  I have been influenced by many of the artists who have appreciated my work and encouraged me to move forward in it. 

4.  Do you have a particular customer that is drawn to your products?

    A variety of women have purchased my hats.  There are those who are confident, strong and sure of what they want and know how to put on a hat and wear it.  There are also those who are timid and unsure of what hat would suit them and then are surprised at how attractive they look when they get the right style for their face.  Always though, they leave standing a little taller, feeling a little more beautiful and special inside.

 Brown and pewter ruched purse

5.  Define southern style.

    To me, southern style encompasses a way of life.  God first, family second, then work, and play, but all intertwined.  Southern ladies seem to embrace life with a passion.  They appreciate the importance of special gatherings and enjoy dressing for the occasion.  Often a matching hat is the crowning accessory to their outfit.  That is where I can help them shine.  I love trying on different styles on them until we find just the right one.  Then when her eyes light up, we both know...this is the one...it is her.


You can purchase a Le Chapeau creation on her website or on Etsy.

Show & Tell: More Turf than Surf

If your style is more West Coast than Gulf Coast a trip to N.O. Surf Shop is in order. I  am deathly afraid of drowning so you'll never see me hanging ten* but the owner nicely told me "It's about the lifestyle".

This shop is so much more than surf and skate boards. There is a nice variety of men's, women's, and children's clothing and a big selection of flip flops.  The owner is passionate about buying home grown threads, so much so that he plans on discontinuing anything "Made in China".  I found his prices refreshingly reasonable without a big "boutique" markup. There are a slew of surf/skate brands as well as locally made jewelry.

For whatever reason the older I get the cuter surf brands get and I can't help but love this Reef dress I just bought. I think the quality is great for the price and even though most are technically juniors they tend to flatter those of us *ahem* this side of 25.

As usual excuse the poor quality photos. That's what happens when you photograph in poor lighting. Oh yes that is an ice chest in the background on my balcony. Keepin' it classy.

So what seems like a simple, straightforward, above the knee dress...

....is actually a strappy little number from behind. Yes I have shoulders like a linebacker. A friend once told me I should be a body builder.

That bottom strap is a series of grommets and elasticized cord.

The dress lining is grey, which I love.

The heart detail is a little brass Reef logo. I'm not sure if I'm going to snip it off or keep it yet. I kind of think it is cute.

Who knows, maybe one day I'll actually learn how to swim without holding my nose. My ex swim coach mother would be proud.

7722 Maple St. N.O. LA 70118 

11 to 5:30 Mon. - Sat. phone (504) 866-6030

*However I am a force to be reckoned with on water skis. Just don't make me take the life preserver off. 

Show your local pride

New Orleans is a city that people are fiercely proud to be a part of. Be it a local, a recent transplant, or a frequent visitor there is something about this city that makes people want to claim it as their own. This also includes homegrown businesses, even if they are now defunct. For example K&B, a beloved locally owned drugstore, was bought out by Rite Aid over 10 years ago yet signs of the business are still running amok, from a local wearing a K&B purple tee to a bar with a logo clock.

Heather Elizabeth provides fun ways to show your NOLA love and not look like you outfitted yourself at a tourist shop. From necklaces and night lights, cuff links to Christmas ornaments there is something available for everyone.

The "Aint Dere No More" bracelet pays homage to a slew of gone but not forgotten local institutions.

You can also represent a singular business, sports team, or street name with a sterling silver ring.

Celebrate New Orleans neighborhoods with this bracelet.

Heather Elizabeth's jewelry and housewares are available at several art markets and stores city wide. You may also purchase items online.