nakedcowgirl vintage

a sophisticated dress

2012-02-02T10:21:00.000-08:00

Hiyee.
I'm selling this beautiful 60s A-Line dress in the shop, and I thought I'd share it with you over here on the blog. It's quite sophisticated and features an exaggerated Peter Pan collar, structured darts & seams, front side slit pockets, and is probably made from a wool blend. It has a stiff A-line fit that I just adore!

style icon: Sissy Hankshaw

2012-02-01T13:02:00.000-08:00

When I saw model, Marianna Rothen, wearing this brilliant fringy cowgirl get up on the inspiring Tales of Endearment, I immediately thought of my most favorite muse, Sissy Hankshaw, the hitchhiking protagonist in Tom Robbin’s “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues.”

It's true the movie "Even Cowgirls Get the Blues" by Gus Van Sant wasn't all that great, but the novel and its star, Sissy Hankshaw, are usually on my mind when I get to thinking that I want to be a cowgirl for the day. Below is one of my favorite jumpsuits. I'm sure Sissy would agree that a jumpsuit is essential to any urban cowgirl’s wardrobe.

I'm gonna have some sweet vintage cowgirl duds in the shop soon on account of my ever protruding bum, which keeps growing while the rest of my body stays the same. I am an alien, I swear.

Happy Trails to you, until we meet again.

Crystal Lee

Photo Credits: 1-3 (Tales of Endearment), Screen shots by me, Last two photos taken by me using my tripod in Palos Verdes.

Outfit: 70s denim jumpsuit (thrifted), ankle cowboy boots (thrifted), 50s cowboy hat (antique mall)

taste the rainbow: new in shop

2012-01-31T10:02:00.000-08:00

turquoise madras top with 80s structured distressed leather skirt

1960s buttercup yellow lace mini dress w/large collar

1950s Audrey Horne saddle shoes 8.5

1950s chartreuse green barracuda jacket S-M

vintage leopard swing coat

1950s mesh bad girl pumps

Vintage Fishes Orange Maxi Halter Dress

1960s yellow knit 3 piece suit (fancy disaster)

Vintage Vera mini tunic dress

Vintage Hot Pink Shift Dress with Buttons and Bow SM

1970s sparkling blue disco jumpsuit S-M

the end

Thank goodness for sunny weekends! I was able to get some photos for the Etsy shop with my good pal, Stacy. We found an isolated hideaway in Palos Verdes and were basically totally alone for most of the time except for when a big dog sauntered through the hole in the fence, unknowingly showing us the entry way to a vast field of yellow wild flowers overlooking the ocean. So thank you random big dog that I originally thought had come to eat off our faces. (Sometimes big dogs scare me, especially after being hog tied by a rambunctious Boxer not too long ago when he wrapped his leash around my legs and then ran the opposite direction, sending me high up into the air and then hard down on to my knees and on to the concrete. I have a hard time believing it was an accident.)

I’ve found some great stuff for the shop this time around, stuff I am really tempted to keep for myself, but I’m trying not to be so greedy with my amazing vintage finds. The blue sparkly vintage disco jumpsuit comes straight from my collection and admittedly, I am feeling a little guilty about selling it. I found it at a thrift store in upstate New York several years ago, and I wore it all over Manhattan, on the subways, at old bars in the East Village. I hate to use the word, but I felt “fierce.” It’s such a remarkable piece, but the truth is I just don’t wear it that often, and I am determined to tame the ever-growing beast that is my wardrobe. To whomever buys this jumpsuit, love it and love it hard.

Please stop by Stacy's shop, Fancy Disaster, for more beautiful vintage finds and also please check out the other goodies in my shop.

xoxo,

Crystal Lee

on a sunny winter day

2012-01-28T19:09:00.000-08:00

a dance of joy for sunny winter weather

photo by Stacy, taken with her Iphone.

this is my square dancing dress

2012-01-28T16:42:00.000-08:00

Hot Dog, it feels good to thrift a perfect square dancing dress in a pucci-esque print! And better still, I thrifted it in the day and dosey doed in it that very same evening.

my half assed attempt at big country hair.

Today is one glorious Saturday. This morning, I took a drive along the coast and in the afternoon I played on the beach with my best buds. The sun has been awful generous these last few days, and I am content.

restless soul syndrome

2012-01-25T08:59:00.000-08:00

Winter and long uninspired work hours are just dreadful for productivity and creativity too. I can’t wait until Spring when I don’t have to battle with all the negative thoughts that pop in my head during the cold months. I’m trying to snap out of it because being sad and bored is a waste of time. The super sunny weather we’re going to have this weekend ought to help.

Outfit: vintage peachy babydoll dress (Jet Rag Vintage in LA), Cole Haan loafers (thrifted)

burgundy love

2012-01-23T14:10:00.000-08:00

my beloved burgundy suede Vision Street Wear hi-tops (perhaps my favorite pair to date).

Vintage Burgundy Salvatore Ferragamo loafer pumps (for sale in the shop)

Etienne Aigner pumps (sold)

old building in Long Beach that once was a skating rink.

It seems I'm traipsing through the world with burgundy color lenses because I've been seeing this sophisticated color everywhere, especially in the form of good looking shoes.

As usual, this weekend went by too quickly though I did get some square dancing in, went to my niece’s ballet class, gave my bedroom a good cleaning, thrifted some beautiful dresses to sale in the shop (and some for myself too, dang it!), watched “Howl” staring James Franco (it was inspiring, and made me commit to myself to be more open and more honest as much as possible), and I tried escargot for the first time (the snail was ok, but it’s no piece of peach pie). If only every day was mine to do completely as I please. Gotta get it while I can.

xoxo,

Crystal Lee

new in shop!

2012-01-17T19:10:00.000-08:00

It sure is hard to add items to my Etsy when I work full-time but with the help of my dear friend Stacy at Fancy Disaster, I am happy to present you with some fine vintage gems which are available for purchase now.


1960s Orange Lace Swing Coat, 1950s pink sparkle pencil skirt

1960s powder blue jacquard swing coat (buy at fancy disaster), 50s pale pink lace slip dress

90s pale pink floral romper, Vintage Merlot Salvatore Ferragamo loafer heels 8.5

80s leaves print dress with quilted fan sleeves , vintage wine round toe Etienne Aigner heels 8.5 9

1960s hot pink chiffon mini with lace trim

1960s camel wool cape by John Meyer of Northwich

80s/90s white faux fur bomber jacket

Some particularly compelling finds from Stacy's store, Fancy Disaster, below:

30s/40s Gone with the Wind taffeta dress

1960s Hot Pink Paisley Maxi w/slit (not yet listed)

80s 90s floral pintuck babydoll dress

Vintage Ralph Lauren suit with Horse Crest and Horse Buttons

Stacy in action.

Friends, I'll be listing a whole lot more throughout the week. It feels good to get things done.

much love,

Crystal Lee

not my everyday clothes

2012-01-16T22:23:00.000-08:00

I don't wear jeans too often, mostly because I have a hard time finding a pair that I think look good on me. So when i find a pair that don't make me look like a short-legged satyr or give me mom butt,I'm stoked. As fortune would have it, I thrifted these vintage LEvis (yes, they're Big E Levis) the other day. They're soft and worn and hang just right, and I don't feel too awkward in them. Pete loves them too. He thinks I look sexiest in jeans and a tshirt, just like good old Jonathan Richman likes his gals. Hey look, I have 90s chola burgundy hair, which was unintentional.

Photos by Stacy - major thanks!
Outfit: vintage LEvis, vintage nylon red Nike's, vintage sweater, vintage button down, (everything thrifted).

Mulholland Drive

2012-01-11T10:47:00.000-08:00

Pete bought me this pumpkin colored wiggle dress for Christmas, and I’ve already worn in several times. There’s something so empowering about a wiggle dress.

Photo taken by Pete with his point & shoot camera. Outfit: Vintage wiggle dress (Etsy), Nine West snakeskin pumps (thrifted), vintage baby blue clutch (thrifted).

Franklin Canyon

2012-01-09T11:08:00.000-08:00

Pete and I have been watching the Twin Peaks series for the first time via Netflix Instant, and we are obsessed. When we found out that a lot of the series was filmed at Franklin Canyon in Beverly Hills, we knew we had to make a trip out there. I put on an outfit inspired by Audrey Horne and we made our way through the hills to our destination, which was more beautiful than I could have ever expected. The landscape was a masterpiece. Tall Pompous Grass swayed in the breeze. It was a tree lovers paradise filled with pine trees, oak trees, and even a small Redwood Grove, a rarity in Southern California. I forgot my SLR film camera, but Pete had his point and shoot and I’m impressed with the detail it was able to capture. I want to return again and again because it just may be one of my favorite spots in Southern California.

Outfit: vintage olive green knit skirt, 50s knit top, blue & white oxfords (everything thrifted).

an army

2012-01-08T16:22:00.000-08:00

Today I embarked on a task that only a fool would attempt -- sorting through, re-hanging, and purging my wardrobe. With equal pride and shame, I present you with some of my favorite pieces grouped together by color.

I'd like to take this time to thank ya'll for reading my blog & for leaving sweet comments. Howdeeee to my new readers too! I know a lot of you are just about as obsessed with thrift store shopping and vintage clothing as I am, and that makes me feel a whole lot better about my "little habit". so thanks again, friends.

skating rink philosophy and attire

2012-01-06T10:26:00.000-08:00

you'll be seeing a lot more of my Burgundy Vision Street Wear shoes. a very rare color!

Even though my Thrasher t-shirt features a Lichtenstein-esque gal bemoaning the fact that her boyfriend can't skate, I had no such shame as my boyfriend was a natural, and he hadn't been roller skating in nearly 10 years. My gal, Stacy, was a smooth skater as well. Jesse couldn't skate with us because he was still injured from his karaoke accident of a few weeks ago when he pulled his groin while humping a bar stool and singing "Me and Ms. Jones." I warned him many times to stretch more often, especially now that we’re over 30 years old.

The skating rink is one of the most fun places to get a good workout, and the people-watching is tops. At the Fountain Valley Skating Rink, one encounters folks that have been coming to the rink since the 1980s, including a bleach blond couple skating gracefully together while wearing matching acid-wash denim outfits. The skating rink has a culture all its own, and you can smell it in the air - it smells like an old skate of incredible size. There are new-timers who skate, or rather, walk, around the rink at excessively slow speeds with a look of terror on their faces, and then there are the more experienced skaters whose skates are just an extension of the body. I, on the other hand, have a hard time getting out of the roller derby mind set sometimes, even though I retired several years ago. I try to jump through holes, to the horror of beginner skaters. Of my friends, I was the only one to fall, though I got up instantly, and one nearby skater remarked that it was the most beautiful fall she had ever seen. And here is where my life philosophy and skating come together – “Falling is inevitable, what matters is how quickly you get up.” Readers, if you are ever in my neck of the woods, I can show you the true-love ways of the roller skating rink.

Oh yes, I nearly forgot to mention, you can read an interview with me over at Tara-Lynn’s fascinating blog, good night, day. I am so touched that Tara-Lynn included me in her blog feature “Style Her Own.”

Outfit: Thrasher t-shirt (hand me down from a friend which I altered to fit me, but you can still buy one here. They have been in production since 1989. )., tuxedo shorts (Ye-Ye on Etsy), and Vintage Burgundy Vision Street Wear hi-tops (Ebay).

i'm addicted to cigarette pants

2012-01-04T11:26:00.000-08:00

You know what really sends me? Cigarette Pants! I love em. I want them in every color in every fabric, but they're hard to find and often times expensive (especially the coveted gold lamé ones). I recently won these velvet purple embroidered ones off of ebay for a fair price. Aren't they fancy?!

Outfit: vintage purple velvet cigarette pants (Ebay), vintage pink western tie (Etsy), 50s polka dot shirt (thrifted)

dancing into the New Year

2012-01-03T11:34:00.000-08:00

New Year’s Eve was spent at four different homes throughout Long Beach, each house and host spectacular in its own way. I snacked on many tasty treats and danced to a wide variety of music including Dixieland jazz and boogaloo. I met a bird friend at one of the houses, a heartbroken lovebird whose lover had recently passed away. I know the feeling. I once had a best friend named Suki, a lovebird who sang with me in the shower, hung out in my hair, on my shoulder, and inside my shirt, who kissed me incessantly, and pitter-pattered down the hallway when I called her name. I still miss her, and she passed away nearly 12 years ago.

It was a foggy New Year’s eve, and we walked from house to house with sparklers in our hands. I wore a mauve velvet 1930s dress and was please to find that my best friend, Jesse, was wearing velvet too. We both ended up looking pretty old timey. I walked right through my dress somehow and tore a hole above the hem of my skirt, but it’s hardly noticeable. phew. Despite staying out much later than I’m used too, the evening was a hoot!

Outfit: 1930s velvet dress (Long Beach Flea Market for a reasonable $50), vintage peach shoes (thrifted), AA tights.

the sun is going to shine on our backdoor someday

2012-01-02T10:36:00.000-08:00

For Christmas, I always want an end to suffering everywhere, healthy and happy friends and family, and maybe a little sunshine to warm my skin and brighten my outlook. I received at least one wish this Christmas for which I am thankful, and I got to wear a red cotton 50s set for the occasion.

As usual, I hosted my family's Christmas dinner, not because I'm a good cook or anything, but because I'm the eldest sibling to this orphan bunch. Good thing my siblings and Pete are easily impressed! Nothing concerning my family is ever ideal, but I do my best to appreciate the time we spend together. We ate, exchanged gifts,threw the football around, and hung out outside around the fire. It was enjoyable.

I need to do more this year to help those less fortunate. Long Beach has more homeless people than ever it seems, many of them women. For me, all the suffering in the world is amplified around Christmas time. I feel heartbroken and grateful as the year comes to an end.

Happy New Year. May it be filled with good times, love, and empathy.

Outfit: vintage 50s set, red Keds (thrifted).

groping at the drive-in show

2011-12-29T17:46:00.000-08:00

Is there anything as fun as making out at the drive-in show? too bad most of them are torn down, gone the way that good old things go. In related news, I've recently become aware that my local RiteAid will stop processing and printing film within the next year. What a profound bummer! Hold tight to the old world, folks, for it is rapidly fading. I'm gonna do my part to keep the good old days alive by skating tonight at the local skate rink, and I compiled some oldies just for you. Hope you enjoy the music.

Image from tumblr

clowning around in a jester dress

2011-12-27T20:36:00.000-08:00

Hi! Smiles! I am giddy inside because my photos turned out nice. This film was perfect for capturing the super sunny Christmas Eve we spent in the Antelope Valley (though this first photo was taken in North Hollywood, and several of the last photos were taken in San Pedro). I think I'll admit right here that I don't know much about photography, so a good film can make all the difference. I do however know a thing or two about silly vintage dresses, and this vintage mini "jester" dress is no joke.

In this act, I will scratch up my face with Joshua Tree needles.

my favorite photographer (ok, he's my only photographer but still the sentiment stands).

These next photos of the Jester Queen and the Lemon Princess were taken using Fuji Superia 400 speed film, a few days before Christmas. I hung out with my niece for much of the holiday since I was off work for a few days. I'd hardly call it babysitting though. She is my little bud who accompanies me on hikes ill suited for little legs and lets me hound her incessantly with the camera. She'll even trespass for me. She is welcome addition to the gang - Anna, my tripod, and me. I call her my vanity alibi because when she's in the frame, it doesn't look like I'm obsessively taking photos of myself. Why, I'm just taking photos of the cutest lil gal ever.

The last photos in my bag of goodies were taken using the "impossible project" film. It was my first time using this instant film, and I can't say I'm too happy with the results. The images were very faint so I tweaked them a little in Iphoto.

Well, I'm currently warming my buns in front of the wall heater as I type, listening to the Grateful Dead on record, and intermittently nibbling on random bits of food. I'm satisfied.

Outfit: vintage jester mini dress (Wasteland Vintage in Los Angeles, while shopping with this charming little devil.), Calvin Klein pumps (thrifted).

Christmas hard

2011-12-23T09:14:00.000-08:00

I am feeling much more festive than I usually do around Christmas time, and I think my outfit choices have a lot to do with it. This vintage dress is Christmas extreme, and the cut reminds me of the dress Veruca Salt wears in Willy Wonka in the Chocolate Factory. Despite the festive feelings brewing in my heart, I think I'm projecting hardness in these photos (probably so dudes don't approach me while I take photos of myself in front of the old Water Factory). Happy Holidays to the hard of heart!

Outfit: vintage xmas extreme babydoll dress (Imonni, my favorite vintage store in Long Beach. Not to brag, but my town of Long Beach has the best, most affordable vintage in Southern California, perhaps even California), Nine West shoes, AA bamboo jersey tights.

Hanukkah Dance

2011-12-21T19:03:00.000-08:00

Happy Hanukhah!

festively falling off a mechanical bull

2011-12-20T22:11:00.000-08:00

Happy holidays, everybody.

my Peteheart and sweet fruit embroidered Nudie suit in the window of the Hard Rock Cafe store on Hollywood Blvd.

with my former teammates, Vulvarine (left) & Kubo (right)

Suzy Snakeyes in her sensational sparking vintage dress!

like old times, the backwards version of this photo

Last Friday was the Derby Dolls Christmas Soiree. Pete and I made a date night out of it. We went to Musso & Frank's, Hollywood's oldest restaurant, for a most delicious dinner and old fashioned libations. Then we walked around Hollywood Boulevard and stopped to have our photo taken in L.Ron Hubbard's Winter Wonderland,which was open to the public, before heading over the festivities.

I was excited to see my old skater buddies, but mostly I was excited to ride a mechanical bull for the first time. There are certain activities that I assume I will be naturally good at, mechanical bull riding being one such activity, but alas, El Toro bucked me off instantly without a care in the world for my reputation. Broadzilla told me I was way too stiff, and I guess I was a little self conscious about gyrating atop a mechanical bull. well now I have another new year's resolution. the bull is going down in 2012.

Outfit: 80s angora blue dress, 80s pumps (thrifted), angora cheetah beret (small boutique in Little Tokyo, LA), 1940s plaid coat (recently purchased for $15 at the Rose Bowl Flea Market. It was so cheap on account of a few moth holes. pssh. who cares about moth holes when a coat looks this good? not me!)

fall colors

2011-12-15T21:51:00.000-08:00

the cutest truck I've ever seen. for sale too, but unfortunately not enough room in it for all the babies in my life.

How beautiful is my best friend's mid century neighborhood?! We walked around it on a crisp day, admiring all the amazing architecture, oversized cactus, palm fronds, and trees. I was most struck by all the sweet vintage rides. I am definitely going to do a better photo shoot around her neighborhood soon.

Thanks to Desi for taking my photo with my point & shoot Olympus.

Outfit: teal overalls, 80s cheetah body suit, 60s mohair sweater, Bass oxfords (everything thrifted).

i'll see you at the thrift store

2011-12-14T22:04:00.000-08:00

Honest to goodness, this is some of the best/wackiest styling I've seen in a long time - fresh, unexpected, eccentric, and vintage inspired. I'm sure it wasn't the stylist's intention, but the first and third outfit have the hastily put together feel of a thrifted creation. And a lot of the pieces in this editorial remind me of the thrift store too, with its endless supply of tennis skirts, vests (especially of the quilted variety), pointelle sweaters and turtlenecks. I love that I can be inspired by editorials yet turn to the thrift store to fulfill all my sartorial desires.

Images from Fashion Gone Rogue

Hot Dog!

2011-12-14T21:16:00.000-08:00

I love this Hot Dog tote, a collaboration with pop artist Kenny Scharf and Jack Rogers.

if wishes were horses

2011-12-09T10:05:00.000-08:00

I would ride, ride, ride.

In 2011, I learned how to cook beans (without burning them), how to take, process, and print photographs, I quit smoking, and I decided to live a healthier lifestyle, but 2012 is going to be so much better. In 2012, I’m going to work hard to sell more vintage, get ready to open a store front, and create my own line of urban cowgirl outlaw clothing for gals with untamed hearts. These are my dreams, and I’m sick of letting them sit by the wayside while I work at job that I’m not passionate about. I am scared to take this leap, but I don’t want to be stagnate anymore. I want to live fully. Seeing so many talented gals online jump in the saddle and ride their dreams has really inspired me. If anyone would like to offer any advice or encouragement, feel free to email me or leave a comment.

Much love,

Crystal Lee

Images from Life, tumblr, and flickr (last image. Click for source). The stylish gal in the St. Germain jumpsuit was shopping at the Rose Bowl, and I was so taken with her outfit, I just had to take her picture.

what to wear when looking for the heart of saturday night

2011-12-03T17:56:00.000-08:00

hey folks. hey Saturday. I've just been procrastinating the day away with excessive wardrobe changes, avoiding my messy home and trying to find an outfit worthy of a Saturday night. what to wear? hmmm? some shade of purple? probably.
Outfit #1:

influenced by cowpunks and House of Holland Spring 2012

Outfit # 2:

Outfit #3

And I still don't know what to wear, but at least I'm having fun. Happy weekend!

Outfit # 1: lavender silk dress, cow print vest, motorcycle boots (everything thrifted), brown turquoise (that is actually white) necklace(boutique in Joshua tree).
Outfit # 2: 50s lavender wool sweater, 60s wiggle skirt, 80s lavender pumps (everything thrifted).
Outfit #2: 90s purple mini jumper dress, tan turtleneck, Nine West vintage shoes, fishnet yellow socks (everything thrifted)

suit up

2011-12-01T10:24:00.000-08:00

I could definitely see myself wearing this outfit in my older years, except perhaps without the faux Chanel crop top. (somewhat related side note: I really want this dress, and I have a feeling it’s gonna pop up for me in a thrift store soon. Just putting it out there. Can you feel me thrift store gods?) God, I love a vintage suit. I thrifted this particular one a few weekends ago at Gypsyland in Desert Hot Springs, which sells vintage clothing at thrift store prices. The mother and daughter owners are really cool too. In the same weekend, I bought these sweet sunglasses at the Marni outlet store in Cabazon. It was there that I learned that the full time employees receive three full outfits per season, and part time employees receive two outfits per season. Eeeek! I need a part time job there.

Outfit: vintage 60s houndstooth suit (Gypsyland), Marni sunglasses, Mui Mui slingbacks (super cheap on Ebay, like $30), 60s striped button down, CC Logo crop top, 60s scarf (thrifted).

photos by Jesse & Stacy.

the trees are opening up their hearts in Northern Arizona

2011-11-29T08:48:00.000-08:00

wearing some old boy scout shorts that I thrifted when I was 15.

Well, I would have taken more photos of the golden trees in Northern Arizona, but they were most abundant when we were headed out of Prescott and our truck was dangerously low on gas, and I didn't want to pester Pete to stop the car so I could take photos every second, but I am majorly suffering from photographer's remorse now. The trees were the prettiest golden hue and it was like they were all opening up their hearts for us to see. I was quite taken with the stately, iconic, Saguaro cacti too.

Thanksgiving in Northern Arizona

2011-11-28T11:25:00.000-08:00

Jake & Daisy

I spent this year’s Thanksgiving with Pete’s folks in Prescott, Northern Arizona. It was the first time I’d been away from my family for the holiday, but I made it up to them by taking everyone out eat at our favorite Chinese restaurant yesterday. Boy, Prescott was beautiful in the Fall. All the trees were golden amber and the sky was a jovial blue. I fell off the vegetarian wagon for the Thanksgiving holiday; there are some incriminating photos of me gnawing on a fried turkey wing, which aren’t really appropriate for this here sophisticated fashion blog. On Thanksgiving, we hung out around the homestead, frying up two turkeys (my first time), and cooking (or me watching Pete’s ma cook. She is a wiz at whipping up yummy meals in no time), and then eating so much I had to nap immediately after dinner, and waking up to eat some more and cuddle next to the fire with two silly love-struck English bull dogs, Jake & Daisy.

This 1955 Bel Air is for sale if you're interested. I love the stock peach paint and matching interior.

frying up Turkey # 1

The next day, Pete’s folks showed us a real good time. They took us the Granite Dells at Watson Lake, which was beautiful. The rock formations kind of reminded me of Joshua Tree. We’re gonna come back in the summertime and rent some kayaks. After, they took us off-roading down primitive back roads leading to Jerome, an old mining/ghost town, that we love to visit when we are in town. Unfortunately, it was too touristy on account of the holiday weekend, so we continued on down to the even tinier historic town of Cottonwood to eat at a tavern and do some antique shopping. Later that day, we drove up into the Prescott Mountains to CW’s (Pete’s stepdad) folks’ home to celebrate CW’s bday with a home cooked meal. We were stuffed from our late lunch, but not wanting to let the old folks down, we made sure to eat at least one plate of food that consisted of fried chicken (my favorite), zucchini casserole, vegetables, and homemade tapioca with berries for dessert. Then we went down to Matt’s Saloon, a cowboy bar on Whisky Row, to watch CW’s friend’s country band perform. The music was pretty good too (for new Country) and everybody was dancing. Man, I wish I could be transported back in time to when Buck Owens, Lee Hazelwood, and Waylon Jennings entertained at Matt’s Saloon in the mid 1960s. I sipped about 1.5 glasses of whisky and we watched the band for about 1.5 sets before the Thanksgiving slumber set in, and we all headed home to toast CW with some Honey Jack Daniels whisky, and then off to bed.

Watson Lake, Prescott, AZ

on the primitive road to Jerome

our badass host and hostess , CW & ma

I hope ya’ll had a nice Thanksgiving too! Stay tuned for Part 2 of our North Arizona holiday trip tomorrow.

Outfit: vintage cheetah coat, vintage turquoise cardigan, vintage wiggle skirt, vintage peach shoes. (everything thrifted).

rainy days are gay

2011-11-27T19:34:00.000-08:00

Just stopped in for a quick "Howdeeeeee", and will be back tomorrow with tales of my Northern Arizona Thanksgiving.

much love,

Crystal Lee

a message of love: Salvation Mountain

2011-11-16T11:07:00.000-08:00

If only my mother were still alive to sigh and coo and swell with love upon beholding Salvation Mountain - a floral dappled, Seussian looking, striped creation, inspired by Love, and brought to life by the diligent hands, creative mind, and pure heart of Leonard Knight. I am not a bible thumper, though I have many holy rollers on my southern side and both my folks were missionaries, but I do have a deep appreciation for those rare kind hearted and idealistic creatures who follow a calling that is right and noble. It seems to me that Leonard Knight is a righteous man. He lives in a small trailer on the side of Salvation Mountain and put all of his time into spreading a message of love. We were lucky enough to meet him. He was a sweet old man, hard of hearing, with a sparkle in his eye.

I thought it fitting to wear a long, flowing, white dress. Pete & I were later teased for our outfit choices by the entertainment at our humble lodging “Hey, look they’re going to get married.” We stayed at the Desert Hot Springs Spa, a mid-century desert hideaway, with several natural hot springs surrounded by palm trees. This kitschy oasis received a lot of bad reviews on Yelp, but most of the disparaging comments seemed favorable to me – “It hasn’t been updated since the fifties, the lady at the front desk had an actual beehive...” I am so happy that I found out about this place. It’s only a few hours from my home, and I want to return all the time. It was completely unpretentious, and there were all types of folks there. The outside entertainment was provided by an older couple who sang duets and scatted while playing the keyboard and tambourine. One guest gyrated to the music with a glow in the dark hula hoop. At night, the sky turned a velvet blue with smudges of white chalk. The moon was full and positioned itself between two over-sized palm trees. Sometimes, it bounced on top of the roof top as I jumped up and down from a different pool trying to get another look. An elf owl greeted us on our porch, and a reclining tan and muscular lady, most likely a desert local, in the voice of a lifetime smoker, told us that was a good omen. I couldn’t get over how dang cute the elf owl was! For dinner, we ate at the hotel diner where they had several vegetarian options. Later, we watched karaoke at the bar. I didn’t feel like singing that night. I was content to listen and watch everyone else.

The next day, we hit about 10 thrift stores, with several in Palm Springs. Poor Pete, he only came away with one pair of pants. He is always bemoaning how hard it is for guys to find stuff at the thrift store, though he’s been known to score pretty big on many occasions. I did better than I thought I would with the Palm Springs thrift stores - they are usually so picked over. I suppose my best find was a 50s denim playsuit, but I also found several pieces that I turn around and sold at the Rose Bowl Flea Market the next day. Life is sweet.

Outfit: 70s dress (American Thrift, Los Angeles), motorcycle boots (thrifted).

an "outdoorsy" look

2011-11-14T15:24:00.000-08:00

Alongside the Donald Trump Golf Course in Palos Verdes, there is a trail that leads to a rugged, rocky, desolate beach. I took the steep dirt trail down to the beach and found myself completely alone, but for the makeshift teepee, created from twigs,rocks,and scrub. It felt good to have the ocean and rocks all to myself, and to be able to take photos of my outfit free from stares. When I returned up the hill, I realized why the beach was so empty - the uphill climb was quite a scramble! Solitary outdoor exploits were enhanced by my quintessential outdoor piece – an LL Bean strawberry print turtleneck. Sorry I wasn’t able to capture the print too well.

This weekend’s mini-trip to the desert was incredible. More on that later in the week. I hope you had yourselves a fine weekend.

Outfit: vintage Jordache shorts, LL Bean strawberry print turtleneck, motorcycle boots (thrifted), headband was once the neck of a turtleneck.

il y a des cactus

2011-11-09T10:03:00.000-08:00

There's no doubt about it, cacti are cool. They make great backdrops for photo shoots. They’re old, gnarly, impressive, awe inspiring, and not to be fucked with. A cactus print bandage dress paired with a plastic gun holster is about the best body armor I can think of for combating tame and uninspired style, which is why I am so taken with Jeremy Scott’s Spring 2012 line. I have often thought of myself as an urban cowgirl outlaw for no other reason than that I wear ridiculous cowgirl outfits in the city. I’ve been know to wear a gun holster just for kicks, and though my style has mellowed out a lot, in my heart there’s always a gaudy cowgirl just clamoring to get out and yell “Yee Haw.”

Last month when I was selling vintage at the Veteran’s Stadium Flea Market in Long Beach, I saw Jeremy Scott strolling around (I see him all the time), stopping at nearly every booth, carelessly flipping through books, talking to vendors. He seems really chill. He was wearing cut off red sweat shorts, an oversized sweat shirt with a purposefully gaping hole in the back, white socks, and high top Flinestone Adidas of his own design. He has really buff legs. He kind of looks like Popeye. He came into our booth. My voice trailed behind him like an eager pup.

“I love your work, especially the telephone cord print you did for Spring 2007 and those bandage cactus print dresses for Spring. Where can I buy your stuff? Like the phone cord leggings & matching top? I can’t spend more than $200 though. I’m really cheap. I mean even $200 is too much. Even though I appreciate and love what you do, I just don’t feel right about spending all kinds of money on clothes, but ya, where can I buy my favorite pieces from your collections?”

Despite my gauche tendency to talk about how cheap I am and how unwilling I am to spend lots of money on clothes, he responded very modestly and generously to my questions and thanked me for my compliments. I already knew that his stuff sells at Opening Ceremony, but they don’t stock everything & it’s never what I want & like I said, it’s usually too expensive. He told me he’d also be opening a store in Miami that would be stocking some of the best of his older collections. I told him that I’d be saving my pennies.

I’m going to take a quick trip to the desert this weekend, and I’m just so excited to get out of town. We’re gonna visit the Salvation Mountain in Niland. I first learned about this religious pastel creation when I saw the Daydream Nation photo shoot on Rookie. A desert roadside attraction within my own home state! Well you know, I just have to go. Back in the saddle again. Happy Trails, folks!

Images from flicker (click on photo for link) & runway images from style.com.

random snaps

2011-11-07T10:16:00.000-08:00

I finally got this coat tailored. After finding Pete about a dozen of these handsome 50s jackets, I'm stoked to have one for myself.

this is not symbolic of my home life. hee-hee.

another "to be mended" dress found in my closet: 50s pastel polka dot wiggle

recently thrifted dress for my niece Anna.

I'm liking this color combo: mustard and pink.

Outfit # 1: 50s jacket (hand me down from my pal, Elliott), 90s houndstooth shorts, Helmut Lang top, Cole Haan loafers (thrifted)

Outfit #2: 60s jacquard pink mini skirt (hand me down, thrifted), 60s mustard sweater with tons of little holes, vintage scarf (thrifted).

all the babies in my life

2011-11-06T09:27:00.000-08:00

Good morning, everybody. The rain is pouring outside my bedroom window, and I am having a hard time getting out of bed. I'm lost in reverie again. When I was a teen, I spent countless hours daydreaming out my window, as the rained poured down, of finding a prince who would twirl me around in the rain while I wore a poufy fancy ballgown. I was always dating schmucks at the time. I feel so lucky to have found a prince who would work hard to bring any of my daydreams to life, though I haven't really pushed Pete to twirl me in the rain; maybe that daydream isn't quite as relevant now.
I'm also feeling fortunate for all the babies in my life. You've all met my niece Anna through photos on many occasion, but you haven't really met Nicholas, my new baby nephew. He is just the sweetest, most well behaved baby. I hold him until my arms get all tingly and numb. I love to cut up in front of him so I can see his big baby grin.

may all your daydreams come true,

Crystal Lee

never too old for a babydoll dress

2011-11-02T09:20:00.000-07:00

This dress was in my "to be mended" pile in the closet for nearly two years, and all I had to do was add some buttons. I already shortened it previously. I happily found it while sorting through clothes to sell at my garage sale. I swear, my closet is a thrift store unto itself.

I still am drawn to the cut of a babydoll dress, and I can never resist the ice cream man's jingle. This Fall has been pretty ideal thus far.

Outfit: vintage babydoll dress (thrifted), AA tights, knit beanie (hand made gift), Cole Haan lavender loafers.

paisley mini

2011-10-29T10:36:00.000-07:00

I've always loved a paisley print, even if the fashion world accepts it and rejects it with the same fickleness as a young pretty girl towards her many suitors, which is why it's best to just ignore what they have to say when it comes to what's in and what's out (though of course paisley is in again (see Jill Sander Spring 2012)). I can't wait to show you my neon 60s paisley suit I purchased a few months back. Anyway, this has been my standard Fall outfit really - a mini skirt, sweater, and tights. It's easy. I don't have to much to say on the matter of clothes this morning, got to return to the task or sorting through my massive wardrobe and then perhaps go for a skate. Happy Day to you, folks.

Outfit: vintage paisley skirt, vintage sweater, Cole Haan penny loafer (thrifted), AA tights.

purple disco platforms!

2011-10-25T09:13:00.000-07:00

This is what I wore to sell at the Veteran's Stadium Flea Market in Long Beach a few weekends ago. I believe my outfit was slightly influenced by Tsumori Chisato's pastel infused and playful Fall 2011 line, which I went bonkers for, along with many other internet folks.

some pretty dresses we were selling

Stacy's new vintage Coach bag

I always manage to spend a good chunk of the money I make on more vintage. In this case, I found a pair of 70s purple disco platforms at my neighbor's booth for $20! I can't resist a deal even if I am on a budget. I'm afraid I make a very boring conversationalist after scoring a new vintage piece. I just want to talk about the new item incessantly and there's really not much worthwhile to say: "And they're made in Brazil, and check out this leather, and only $20, and very much the kind of shoes Iris would wear in Taxi Driver, just look at em, etc, etc...." Poor Stacy and poor folks who walk into our tent and make the mistake of complimenting my shoes. Here they are:

When shots are taken from this angle and I look so diminutive, I can't help but think I look like a hood ornament.

Byeee,

Crystal Lee

Outfit: vintage denim jumper, vintage pastel sweater (thrifted), boots (Nine West), purple platforms (Vet Stadium Flea Market).

start wearing purple

2011-10-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

Goodness gang, it’s been a while. As you know, it’s much harder to be a prolific blogger when shooting with film, but for me it makes all the difference in presenting an image that is nostalgic and lo fi, and affords me the chance to rebel in little ways against modern technology. My little bigger sister took these photos with my point & shoot and I think she did a pretty good job. Of course, I judge a photographer on how good my hair looks in the pictures. Haha.

Now normally I don’t wear polyester because it’s a real sweat box as I’m sure you know, but in this instance, I love how the material maintains the stiff shift dress shape. And it’s a fun dress that compliments my recently thrifted watermelon purse!

I’m in good form these days, buckaroos. I’ve stuck to my word, and I’ve been purging my closet like crazy with flea markets and garage sales. It feels so good to get rid of the excess. I’ve also been working out pretty regularly, so I’ve got a lot more energy. And you know what else: I’ve started a budget for the first time in my life. Last week, I went three days without hardly spending a penny! I took the train to work instead of driving (and finally finished reading“A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius”, probably the most contemporary book I’ve ever read). I brought my breakfast and lunch to work. I feel good. How are you doing this lovely, miraculous, Fall?

Outfit: 70s purple polka dot dress, watermelon purse (thrifted), Nine West shoes.

San Francisco: We're Walking

2011-10-12T13:00:00.000-07:00

North Beach

Nob Hill

in Alamo Square

Pacific Heights

this antique crochet top is my favorite. there's that orange purse again.

loved this font and the dusty/dirty pink color.

North Beach

Musee Mechanique

I'm beat

Pete and I must have walked about 15 miles the weekend that we were in San Francisco. While there, I was even considering buying some trainers to wear for all the uphill walking, but alas I still couldn’t bring myself to choose comfort over fashion. But walking was probably the best way to see San Francisco. The buildings are so intricately detailed (see all the ladies’ faces adorning the buildings) and beautifully color coordinated. The skies are the most uplifting blue and the clouds hover big and white over hillsides.

It is truly an inspiring town, and all our extensive walking was rewarded with the most yummy eats. We ate at Herbivore, where I had the best vegan dish ever; Chili Pies and Ice Cream, where Pete ate a Chili Pie with frito chips - a New Mexican classic, and I had a vegetarian chili stew , followed by a delicious peach pie, which we shared; and then Dumplings and Buns which serves up some tasty dim sum. The problem with Dim Sum is I can’t stop eating it; I eat some and dim sum more. We ate a whole lot more, but these were the highlights or our feasting frenzy in San Francisco.

We visited parts of San Francisco that we hadn’t been to before including the posh Pacific Heights neighborhood, where we went into Ralph Lauren (with our Goodwill bags), and were treated very well (they complimented my suit too) even though we had no intention of buying anything and it was pretty obvious we were just browsing. I always get that “Pretty Woman” feeling when I walk into an upscale store. Pete was shocked at the prices. “Why would anyone buy jeans for $700?, he asked me, bewildered. Interestingly, in his Goodwill bag, he had a cashmere Ralph Lauren sweater that he bought for $2.99.

We also explored North Beach, where the Beats used to roam! I can’t believe that I had never before visited Lawrence Ferlinghetti’s “City Light’s Book Store.” We spent a good hour in there. I sat in a corner reading from Walt Whitman’s “Leaves of Grass,” which I have at home, but I felt compelled to read from it there. We ate at a French café, drank whisky at a local bar, and sipped wine from a bottle while walking to Coit Tower. Later that evening, we walked to Fisherman’s Wharf to eat clam chowder and then go to the Musée Mechanique, which was just the most fun. The place is filled with antique hand cranked games, mechanically operated old timey music, and peep show picture viewers.

We learned that you have to be fit to live in San Francisco. We didn’t even really have the option to take public transportation. On account of the festival, the buses were obese with people, and the taxis were all filled up too. We figured we’d just do as the San Franciscans do and walk, but next time I want to bring my bike.

light leaks are a blessing

2011-10-10T17:35:00.000-07:00

beautiful light leaks in Pete's photograph taken with his Sear's SLR.

San Francisco: Golden Gate Park

2011-10-09T18:46:00.000-07:00

I don't generally drink beer (think it tastea an awful lot like ear wax), but I do sing into the bottle when Merle Haggard and Kris Kristofferson and performing live in Golden Gate Park! That's what I'm doing here:

There were even more people at this year's Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival than last year. To find serenity, Pete and I would retreat to the Lindley Meadow to listen to the music and escape the crowds. We could hear everything perfectly. Listening to the rugged crooning of Merle Haggard and then the sensuous crooning of Chris Issak from a sun-filled meadow was ideal, romantic, and extremely relaxing. We also listened to M.Ward from behind the fence, standing atop a redwood tree that had fallen a very long time ago. We never actually got to see any of our favorite bands, but we always found a somewhat secluded spot from which to listen, and listening is more than enough for me. We did venture into the crowd a few times, and our eyes were always pleasantly greeted with an assortment of interesting folks, and our skin was sprinkled with good vibe particles.

San Francisco is one of my favorite towns, up there with Nashville. I especially enjoy the freedom of San Francisco. If you wanna walk around naked, San Francisco is the place to go. If you wanna have a high time baked on super goo rice crispy treats, SF says "Do as you please." I only indulged in one of these activities.

Hope everyone is well!

Outfit 1: 60s brown mini dress w/cut outs (vintage), tights (AA), Bass oxfords (thrifted)
Outfit 2: pretty hard to capture a "nude outfit", but 50s nude dress & 50s jeweled cardigan (thrifted).

mohair cape and the itch of Fall

2011-10-07T09:03:00.000-07:00

Well, ya'll know I'm Summer's gal, but Fall is here so I might as well dress accordingly. Mohair is one of my favorite fabrics. I picked up this mohair cape last time I was selling at the Long Beach Vet Stadium. Ain't she a beaut? She’s a bit itchy for lack of lining, but since this is turtleneck season, my skin is saved the aggravation.

As much as I like this outfit and as much as I obsess over vintage clothing, when Fall comes, I find my material possessions an absolute burden. I always get a nagging urge to purge, to start anew, to shed my skin by slimming down my wardrobe. This weekend, I’ve just got to get my wardrobe under control, so I can focus on my life and what direction I want it to take. Help me scratch this seasonal itch by coming out to the Vet’s Stadium in Long Beach next Sunday, October 16. Nakedcowgirl Vintage and Fancy Disaster will be selling some fine vintage clothing in Space D-558.

Much love to you,

Crystal Lee

p.s: I'll post my San Francisco photos this weekend.

Outfit: vintage mohair cape (Vet’s Stadium Flea Market), vintage wool shorts, orange plastic purse with leather trim, 70s platforms (thrifted), pink thigh highs (AA).

she was a turquoise and black heart attack

2011-10-05T20:20:00.000-07:00

just made up those lyrics. hee-hee. just got back from San Francisco, and boy are my legs tired. that is not a joke. San Francisco forces you to walk, but I'm not complaining - I had so much fun. But I'll share all my observations about San Francisco with you in a day or two. In the meantime, I present you with a turquoise and black outfit, slightly Teddy Boy/Gal influenced. Also, keep your eyes peeled for the first holy images of my orange (more like cantaloupe) plastic purse that I recently thrifted in Compton. You'll be seeing it a whole lot more. It goes with everything, and old ladies love it!

unintentional film version of a Rothko

These photos (except for the last two) were taken by my old pal, Elliott, the soul brother I never had. We both extol the virtues of the old world, when technological times were simpler, when folks listened to tapes and records, but, admittedly, he is much more curmudgeonly in his approach, and his old man demeanor is always the finest entertainment.

Hey, did you get a load of the Dries Van Noten Spring line? My God. I was transfixed. so bold and yet serene. And the silhouettes, 50s-esque but still so modern.

runway Images from Style.com.

Outfit: 50s sheer turquoise top, Vertigo slacks, 80s pumps, vintage cowhide belt, cantalope Besso plastic purse with leather trim(thrifted), western bow tie (Etsy).

photos taken by Elliott & me with my Olympic Point & Shoot camera.

jewel tones and cartwheels

2011-09-29T09:20:00.000-07:00

well, I'm wearing another calico dress, but this time in teal (or is it turquoise?). Normally, a dress this style would be too boho for my taste, but I was drawn to it because of it's jewel tone colors that just happen to compliment these new Nine West shoes I recently purchased. It is getting harder and harder for me to wear high heels, but these shoes are pretty comfortable, especially considering their 5 inch heel.

These photos were taken at my best friend Desiree's new house. She hosted a family housewarming & birthday party for her sister. Her family is from New York so they are naturally gregarious & boisterous & her house echoes so it was pretty loud inside. It actually kind of sounded like New York in the abode. Outside the house, Desi's niece was doing back flips & one handed cartwheels all over the yard, and Desi's sister's puppy, Max, was just as nimble. Did you see the height he can get? I am so inspired by Desi's gymnast niece. She once led me in one of her workouts and I tell you, it was one of the hardest work outs I've ever endured. I am pretty flexible, but I really wish I could contort my body more. There was a gal in yoga class yesterday that was so flexible, I nearly tore some ligaments competing with her. Of course, competition is frowned upon in yoga, but she didn’t know that I was competing with her, and I can’t help myself. I hope one day I can do a handstand on a whim, and when I do, I’ll be sure to show you.

orange calico tent

2011-09-27T08:36:00.000-07:00

I think I might always be fond of tent dress minis. This particular dress was once a moo-moo, but it looks much better shortened. These photos were taken around my hood. There would have a been a cute orange plastic with leather trim handbag in these photos (recently thrifted) but I left it at Starbucks and only noticed it was missing once we got home. Pete was so sweet - he ran all the way back & luckily my new purse was still there. I was hobbling pretty close behind him. Turns out these vintage Cherokee platforms were not as comfortable as I recalled, so I was walking barefoot, which I don't really mind in a natural setting, but urban barefoot walking can be pretty gross. But in the end, everything worked out, as it usually does.

a renegade canyon photoshoot

2011-09-26T09:53:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, Pete and I did a renegade photo shoot out in the canyon. We trespassed on an old abandoned ranch, and nobody really noticed us even though there were hikers out and I was wearing some pretty fancy vintage clothing and laying all over the ground and inside hollow trees. Unfortunately, the photos inside the hollow tree was underexposed (my light meter died), but I’ll be back to capture this image. The inside (womb) of the tree was smooth and milky & insect free & I was snug as a bug, and I thought while lying there, “I should have a coffin like this when I die.” There were the most perfect holes in the tree exposing my outfit and face in a very artistic way, but I guessed what aperture to shoot at based on my very limited experience & I was wrong, but that’s how learning goes, right?

We also tried out some new photographic techniques, namely using a piece of colored acetate over the lens to add splashes of color. I have to give credit to the talented Jaja of July Stars for this marvelous lo fi idea. I also got a new soft focus lens filter. I’m going to be experimenting with photography a whole lot more, and I’m so glad I found such a fun hobby. As always, thank you to Pete for joining me in this hobby & always taking my photo.

My first outfit in this photo is somewhat “ranch-wear” influenced. I’m wearing a turn of the century underskirt and vintage slip tank, a brown-turquoise (even though it’s white, it’s still called that) necklace which is annoyingly turned the wrong way in the first photo, awesome vintage piano key suspenders (a gift from the darling Marissa of Stylebook vintage who sent them to me even though I am so undeserving of such kindness given how much money I spend on vintage clothing & accessories, but thank you, thank you!), and Pete’s vintage coat, which was actually the first piece I ever thrifted for him, probably about 8 years ago. My favorite accessories are definitely suspenders, and western bow ties, bolo ties, garter belts. Speaking of garter belts, in my last outfit, I’m wearing a yellow floral 1930s dress with garter belts which are holding up 50s thigh highs. You may not be able to tell but I’m wearing two different color thigh-highs in the same tonal range - bruised nectar & keylime pie (my names). The dress needs some work, but in the mean time I just safety pinned it wherever I see fit. Thank goodness for safety pins! I am an awful seamstress.

You can expect to see a lot more posts from me this week.

Byeee,

Crystal Lee

my home is in the blue ridge mountains

2011-09-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

I'm keeping the old world alive, folks. This Sunday I took a class on cyanotype printing, which was invented in 1842. It's a really fun & easy process & anybody can do it. I took this photo along Hwy 395. If you look hard enough you can see the watermark from the watercolor paper I used in the corner of my image.

In a similar vein, I found this photo of a big eyed baby & a young mama in an antique shop in Bishop and was immediately drawn to it. maybe, because my sister is a young mama who keeps popping out big eyed babies.

my four year old niece, Anna, took this photo of me and my nephew Nicholas, so it's a bit blurry. She made me hold the doll. She is a bossy photographer. Wonder where she got that from. ahem.

Also on my recent road trip, I purchased a 1940's book, "Mr. Red Squirrel" for Anna & I just love the illustration. Here's my favorite image.

To conclude this rather desultory post, I leave you with a song that I've been playing and singing over and over again: Townes Van Zandt's "Blue Ridge Mountains."

Ciao for now,

Crystal Lee

our ramblin ways

2011-09-19T09:46:00.000-07:00

Howdjadoo, folks (that’s Woody Guthrie speak for Hey, How are you?). Here's some black and white photos from our recent trip to the Eastern Sierra and also some from yesterday's escapades in Silverado canyon. And that’s really the extent of our recent ramblins. These days, Pete and I have been spending a lot of time indoors - watching Trailer Park Boys marathon style and drinking wine in the evenings. I have been more tired than usual, and I blame the changing of the seasons, which always takea me a little while to get used to. But I will be going to San Francisco in a few weeks for the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival and thinking about that really perks me up. I hope everyone is happy & healthy.

wearing a turn of the century crochet crop top

Red Rock Canyon, CA

anniversary boots

mid century suburbia in Southern California

2011-09-14T19:39:00.000-07:00

My best friend and her husband just bought their first home and it's a mid century dream - an Eichler. Located in an Eichler enclave, on a cul-de-sac street frozen in time, upon beholding it, I couldn't help but think of all the outfits I would wear and photograph in and around her house, taking over her neighborhood for my amusement and yours. This editorial from Paris Vogue showcases a fancy gal living out my daydreams.

the highway is for lovers

2011-09-08T11:12:00.000-07:00

Here in Los Angeles, it’s sweltering, the sky is visibly polluted, and the traffic is a living hell; my mind drifts towards last weekend’s trip along Hwy 395. Here is a peaceful image of the windy road as seen from the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest.

long time friends

After exploring the Bristlecone Pine Forest, we made our way to one of our favorite little towns, Bridgeport, where we ate some top notch fried chicken and peach pie that made me moan aloud. Later that night, we entertained ourselves with a game of horseshoes (I'm afraid the photos were too grainy to post). With Pete's advice to play with more finesse and grace, I actually did pretty well for my first try.

Believe it or not, there was no film at this store.

Outside of our room at the Virginia Creek Settlement in Bridgeport

The next morning, we drove to Virginia City, Nevada, a dusty, bawdy, old western mining town, where outlaws, gamblers, miners, soiled doves, and Mark Twain once roamed. Mark Twain's first novel,"Roughing It", was based on his time spent living and working in Virginia City, NV. I have yet to read this book, but I can't wait to now. And here I am roaming around.

Mark Twain sat here in his role as editor of the local newspaper, the Territorial Enterprise

He also sat here.

The sun shines through big undies here in Virginia City.

in the bookstore. My dress features an insect print.

the main drag in Virginia City

We decided to lodge at Lake Tahoe but in retrospect, we would have enjoyed Virginia City's nightlife much more. Anyway, on our way to Tahoe, my car overheated, and so we parked it in the shade, right in front of the sign for the Moonlight Bunny Ranch, which we couldn't actually find for a photo op.

We made it to Tahoe just in time to hit the lake and catch some rays.

The nightlife in South Tahoe is basically an outdoor shopping mall offering a lot of crap retail, but we found an arcade in Harrah's Casino that had old school video games like Ms. PacMan!

The next morning, we made our way to June Lake, a charming and friendly little resort town, that we really want to return to in the Fall or Winter.

June Lake

Pete in front of our room

We spent the evenings with the locals at the Tiger Bar, where we sat at the bar and conversed with everyone about important matters like who makes the best pie. Pete and I shared a piece of peach pie, and though it was yummy, Bridgeport's was explosively more delicious.

The Tiger Bar

We stopped at several antique shops during our trip. I found a turn of the century crochet crop top with pink ribbon trim for $15. I wore it for most of the trip, but those photos are on the black & white film that is still in my camera. I also bought Pete a pair of handsome cowboy boots as an anniversary gift (It's been three years this final time around). I found the cutest 1930s round glasses, but the celluloid arm snapped in half as I was trying them on after purchase. The owner of the shop let me pick out another pair & also let me keep the damaged ones; I'm hoping Pete can fix em' for me, and I'm pretty sure he'll be able to. He's been successfully fixing my run down shit forever now.

California's Eastern Sierra

2011-09-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

I’ve got some stories to tell you folks, but I’m afraid I don’t have the time just yet. Just returned from a mini trip along Hwy 395, in California’s Eastern Sierra. You may remember this place from last year’s Labor day holiday (here, here, here, here) There’s just so much to see in the Eastern Sierra that we just had to go back, and honestly we’ll probably return every year. There’s desert, forest, lakes, old western towns, and ancient stuff, like the bristle cone pines - trees that are over 3000 years old, older than the old growth Sequoia trees. In fact, they’re the oldest trees in the world! And then there’s more goodies like old watering hole bars, friendly folks, yummy homemade pies and fried chicken, neon lit hotels, and some of the best antique shops I’ve ever encountered! For now, here is a lil’ preview of my trip. I hope you had a lovely holiday weekend. More anecdotes and photos to come soon.

ancient bristlecone pine tree

Virginia City, NV

Lake Tahoe

I love lakes! Lake Tahoe.

happy feet, happy heart

2011-08-29T18:58:00.000-07:00

A weekend spent dancing is a weekend well spent. On Saturday, Jesse, Stace and I had a frolicking good time square dancing at the Heritage Square Museum in Los Angeles to the music of Triple Chicken Foot. We really worked up a sweat in the hot, hot, heat. Impressed with my mad square dancin skills, the old ladies, seasoned square dancers, asked where I clogged. "In my heart," I replied. Pete was out of town so he wasn't my dancing partner, but I found an experienced gal to swing me around. We also walked around the grounds, looking at all the old Victorian buildings, which unfortunately, weren't open to the public. Then more wholesome good times ensued - we saw a mama chicken and her babies. and we judged a pie competition (anybody could judge for the reasonable price of $1). I voted for the cherry pie, even though I'm not usually a fan of cherry pie, but this pie was satisfaction. I thought that I had color film in my camera, but turns out it was black and white, and I guess that's alright.

Jesse & Stacy

"Let's get outta here; this chick is too close for comfort."

Triple Chicken Foot

Later that Saturday evening I went to Jesse & Justin's monthly world-music dance club, Anywhere but Here, a small but delightful affair at the Crosby in Santa Ana. I danced all night to Salsa, Cumbia, Ethiopian Jazz, Bugaloo, Brazilian something or other, Nigerian funk, French Pop, etc., It's a very rare occasion for me to stay out so late, but I needed to get into the groove. I was dancing around like James Brown on speed. good god.

Outfit: these 50s blue polka dot shorts (thrifted), turn of the century cotton top (Etsy), Bass oxfords (thrifted).

random snaps

2011-08-28T11:14:00.000-07:00

in action

kudzu. I like to say kudzooooooo.

coy

circus school. I'm actually higher up than I look.

Nevada desert

California desert

downtown LA, where traffic is so bad you can take a photo from the fwy, (not that I did that or anything)

miro and I

Central Library, LA

so sad, this place is closing down. Papoo's Hot Dog Show, Burbank.

tropical mini

2011-08-24T20:19:00.000-07:00

Though nearing 100 degrees outside, I felt quite cool in this tropical mini. This dress is nuts; I love it! And I also love the sweet mid-century City Center motel in the background. Long Beach is filled with mid century coastal motels, and lots of art deco buildings too. After 11 years living here, I still very much appreciate the architecture in Long Beach. I will always find comfort in the old world. One of Pete's old man buddies (he has about a billion old man buddies) wisely said "I'll take old and reliable over new and improved any day." me too, old man buddy, me too.

photos by Stacy. (thanks!)

Outfit: vintage tropical mini dress (LB Flea Market $10), Vintage Orange Pill Hat (for sale at Fancy Disaster); Vintage Green Purse (for sale at Fancy Disaster); 70s platforms (thrifted, owned for nearly 10 years).

pink flowers and covered wagons

2011-08-23T08:50:00.000-07:00

Hiya friends!

Even though I am really trying hard not to spend any money on more vintage clothing (at least for a month), I couldn’t help buying this scenic 50s skirt from Stacy’s store, Fancy Disaster. Plus, she gave me a super sweet deal cause I’m her homey. I bought this floral headpiece at the Malibu garage sale I mentioned in a previous post. And the white camisole hails from the early 1900s; I’m surprised it has held up so well! I wear this mustard sweater all the time. It’s awkward and fits all weird, but that’s kind of why I like it. I like to have a derelict piece to complete my outfit, so as not to be too perfectly put together.

Outfit: 50s scenic skirt (Fancy Disaster), turn of the century overgarment (Etsy), vintage ankle cowgal boots w/western graphics (thrifted), vintage mustard sweater (thrifted), 50s floral headpiece (garage sale).

we need more parties in the USA

2011-08-22T19:46:00.000-07:00

My town of Long Beach is so cool. This weekend, we had two super awesome music festivals. On Saturday, we had the annual Funk Fest, which sadly I missed, but I heard that everybody was getting down in the streets, and that makes me way happy. Fred Wesley of the JBs performed and everyone was invited to join him and his band for breakfast the morning of the Fest at Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles, an iconic restaurant in Long Beach, serving the best fried chicken in Southern California. I really wish I was there, but it was my brother's bday.

Sunday, we had ourselves a little bluegrass festival, which I caught the tail end of for Frank Fairfield's performance. I've already seen him play like four times this Summer; this is definitely the Summer of Frank Fairfield. I just can't get enough of his winding fiddle, his fast fingers frailing the banjo, his foot stomping, his whooping, his cracklin voice, reminiscent of bygone singers on old 45s. Long Beach just went crazy for him. Later in the evening, I saw him perform again at the bar down the street from my house, where the bluegrass jamboree continued into the night. Pete has really taken a liking to buck-dancing or country tap dancing (Keep in mind this is our version of buck dancing). He practically yanked me onto the dance floor, which is a first. Frank Fairfield even did a little jig. I don't care what the calendar says, Summer isn't over until the music stops.

I love these photos by Malick Sidibé of young folks in Mali dancing in the courtyard or at parties, celebrating their new life, independent from French Colonial rule.

We could sure use more free spirited dancing in the streets, or in the words of Jonathan Richman, "we need more parties in the USA."

photos from "Malick Sidibé "La Vie en Rose" , 1st and last two photos from google.

Swing your partner round and round: the New Los Angeles Folk Festival

2011-08-17T12:08:00.000-07:00

Jesse & Pete

my gal, Candy Striker

photo taken with Jesse's Iphone. a lil whisky in the pocket.

The New Los Angeles Folk Festival was the most fun I’ve had all Summer, maybe even ever. Pete, Jesse, and I drove up to Alta Dena in the 57 Chevy. The old car, already exhausted from the heat, sputtered its way up the steep hill to the Zorthian Ranch where the festival was held. With old cars, you’ve got to have faith and embrace the adventure. We made it there just fine.

The Zorthian Ranch looks akin to the Crybaby set - old cars abandoned everywhere, art work created from old tires, metal, wood. In the 1950s, the Zorthian Ranch was a summer camp for children. The old school bus from these halcyon days is the perfect shade of tarnished green. Lots of folks smoked pot inside of it.

Highlights of the festival included the swimming pool (!), where a young lady lost her wedding ring, and everyone was competing to find it. It was found by a very humble bearded dude, who nonchalantly handed the ring to its owner, resulting in an anticlimactic ending for all the other deep pool divers. There were adults and children in the pool, but we were all kids on this day.

There were some pretty incredible bands at the festival too. My favorites were Very Be Careful, Frank Fairfield, and RT n the 44s. The bands played on several stages throughout, but my favorite acts played on the main stage, which was raised, while everyone danced below, giving the venue a real honky tonk feel.

But the most fun was had while square dancing to the music of Triple Chicken Foot. Who would have guessed that square dancing would have been so darn fun?! There were at least 100 folks square dancing on a moonlit hill, dirt kicking up all around us. I’ve never been so intimate with so many Angelinos. We were all having a time - laughing, whooping, and sweatin’ like crazy. The last dance was a cowboy waltz. Pete led the waltz and I followed for the first time in my life. I felt like a little lady, floating in my man’s arms, but it was short lived, I eventually started leading again. I’m gonna work on it though. I could feel the dirt in my lungs for a few days after & for a while all I could think about was square dancing, especially when trying to fall asleep. I just can’t wait to dosey doe again.

Here is a short introductory film on Frank Fairfield if you're interested.
Watch Frank Fairfield

Outfit: vintage green overalls, vintage silk peasant top, vintage bass oxfords (thrifted), 50s cowboy hat (antique mall).

Endless Summer

2011-08-16T09:35:00.000-07:00

Howdeeeeeeeeeee, folks. I've been dressing up like a cowgirl for most of the weekend. Here is what I wore on Saturday to watch Lucinda Williams perform at the Great Park in Irvine.

The rest of my weekend was just as eventful. I became an Auntie again. My sister gave birth to a baby boy, Nicholas. I love being an Auntie, but I must admit I’ve been pretty upset with my sister for getting pregnant once again. She is still very young (19 years old) and already has a child, my niece, Anna, whom she does not raise (don't worry, my niece lives in a loving home with my sister's aunt & uncle). I worry about how she is going to provide for this new child.

On Sunday, I went to Malibu, my favorite beach, to soak up the last of the Summer sun with some very good friends - Judy Gloom, Miro, and Ji. Unfortunately, it was overcast and a bit windy when we finally got to the beach. But the drive was lovely and the company perfect; we cruised through the lush Santa Monica mountains in my bmv, with the top down of course, stopping on the busy Pacific Coast Hwy for a garage sale (I saw vintage clothing out of my peripheral). I ended up coming away with a Missoni sweater ($5), a Wrangler denim jacket ($5) and a 50s floral crown ($5) - not too bad for some really great finds in one of the most expensive towns in Southern California. I took some photos of my trip to Malibu but they didn’t turn out very good (I think on account of the film type).

The weekend closed with a large full moon, and when I came over the hill on the freeway ride home, it seemed that I could drive right through it. Once home, I watched Endless Summer and shortly after fell asleep with beaches and babies on the brain.

photo by my friend, Keenan Crook.
Outfit: 70s suede skirt, 70s sheer top, 80s tank top, vintage ankle cowgirl boots (everything thrifted).

Newport Beach

2011-08-09T10:59:00.000-07:00

I can’t believe how quickly Summer is racing by. Will the novelty of posing in stranger’s vintage cars wear off with the start of Fall?

Outfit: 50s bustier(hand me down from my friend,Andrea), 50s gingham shorts (hand me down from my friend, Miro)

shake what your mama gave you

2011-08-06T10:51:00.000-07:00

Turtlenecks are very editorial, but not really a realistic indication of what fashionable folks are wearing these days. I rarely see any of my gal pals wearing a turtleneck, however, I happen to have a very large collection. Maybe, one day I'll show em" to you. I'd be hard pressed to find a more harmonious pair than a turtleneck & a pair of tight cigarette pants.

I wonder if these Asian models have a big old butt like I do. My Chinese mama had a big butt, such that my childhood friends named my booty after hers "Judy booty." My mom's mother died when she was just a child, but I often wonder if my blood grandma had a big ole' booty too. Isn't it interesting the things we inherit from our folks?

I'll be shaking what my mama gave me at the New Los Angeles Folk Festival today, and I hope ya'll have a fun filled day too.

Outfit: 90s patterned tight pants, vintage turtleneck (thrifted), Nine West heels.

growing more beautiful with age

2011-08-02T21:09:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when Pete brought home a 1957 Chevy station wagon. He got it on a trade & has plans to sell it, but I'm hoping that we can keep it because it's just the perfect family car for our future life with puppies. Plus, it matches a good many of my outfits. Plus, I love old cars for their soul, their stories, their leg room.

this next car is not ours but I'm fond of its color, patina, and rust (and it matches my outfit, of course). I thought for sure that the house and the car were owned by the same people, but when I asked the lady of the house if I could take a photo next to her truck, she answered "go ahead, that's not my piece of shit truck; I wish it wouldn't park in front of my house all the time." I guess not everyone can see the enduring beauty of an old soul.

We drove the 57' to a hoe-down wedding this weekend, and Pete played the wedding march on his banjo & also a little bit of dueling banjo to entertain the guests. I was so proud of him; he's only been practicing for a few weeks.

I sure do hope that Pete sells some of his other old cars so that we can keep this one. He is currently selling a 1928 Model A and a 1958 Apache truck (just like the one in the photos above but Pete's is done up real nice - show quality). Email me if you're interested.

Yes, I get attached to my cars, but none so much as with an old car. When my first car, a 1960 Ford Falcon, died, I cried & cried and wrote a ballad for her:

Oh my Falcon, my sweet babe,
they have sent you to your grave;
this modern world don't have no room for you.

Harley Riders raised their thumbs
to the rambling hunk of love, and
everyone wanted to buy you
for a thousand dollars.

We rode by the mirrored tower,
two imperfect souls rode on together,
how I'm gonna miss you
baby blue and primer

nearly twice I almost died and
I'm really glad to be a live
but I'm sorry I
could guarantee your survival.

Outfit # 1: 50s shorts (Etsy), 80s cropped polka dot top; vintage Keds (thrifted)
Outfit # 2: 50s beaded dress (Flea Market for $10); bass oxfords (thrifted)

lavender gingham for you, Dolly

2011-08-01T20:58:00.000-07:00

I feel so lucky that I got the chance to see Dolly Parton perform. She looks remarkable, sounds remarkable, and is just the sweetest, funniest, most down-to-Earth legend alive. She told stories about her humble upbringing, made jokes about her "trashy" appearance, played about 8 instruments, and even rapped (which was god-awful, but she knew it and was just wanting to make everybody laugh). I wore a lavender gingham dress (tucked in so as to look like a skirt) and a 50s sheer pink top. Pete was sweet enough to match me by wearing a lavender cowboy shirt. If I had my way, we'd match every day & we'd ride around town on a tandem bike. I am half-kidding. You can see my lavender dress in its entirety here.

I hope that life is treating you well. much love. - crystal lee

Outfit: vintage gingham dress (thrifted a long time ago), 50s sheer top (Etsy), bass oxfords (thrifted)

look at that flat footing gal go

2011-07-30T11:28:00.000-07:00

Just spending my morning with flat footing on the brain. I wish I could really get down in this style of dance. I suppose I could take some lessons, but I swear I'm the worst at following directions when it comes to dancing. Sometimes when I dance to Neil Young's "Old King", I think I come awful close to flat footing, but that's probably just my perspective(imagination).

What's your favorite song to dance to? Do you ever get freaked with how fast life moves in the face of how darn much there is to learn, experience, and love?

I stayed up later than usual last night playing 80s-90s Trivia Pursuit (Young People's Edition) with a group of friends, and this morning I'm gonna create some more memories kayaking in Newport Harbor with my best friend.

As soon as I finish this roll of film, I'll have lots of outfits to show you.
Enjoy the sunshine!

I'm going to see Dolly Parton perform tonight!

2011-07-22T15:41:00.000-07:00

YIPPeeeeee! Outfit photos coming soon.

Photo Source: flickr

when work is play

2011-07-21T08:39:00.000-07:00

some lo-fi photos taken with my point & shoot camera from two weekends selling at the Flea Markets. First up, Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena. I wore my knit 2-piece alphabet Courier print skirt and sweater thinking it'd be cool out, but turns out it was the hottest day of the year. Ok, I know I say this about a lot of my wardrobe pieces, but seriously, this 80s set is one of my favorites and it's such a shame the print is so hard to capture in a photograph. I found the skirt first and then like a year later I found the matching sweater; both items hailed from different times and different thrift stores. Talk about luck. God is on my side when it comes to thrift store shopping.

Underneath my sweater, I wore a shirt by teenage millionaire featuring a vato and a hina chillin' in front of a motorcycle.

Stace passes the time by playing dress-up.

We entertain (and horrify) the patrons with a serious art piece: piranha boobs (which is for sale by the way in Stacy's store, Fancy Disaster, if you're interested). Piranha Boobs, it's also the name of our band. Hee-Hee. j/k

At the Veteran's Stadium Flea Market in Long Beach, I bought two vintage dresses from the vendor across the way (before even selling one item). Both of the dresses I bought are green, a color I seem to be drawn to these days. One of the green dresses is a 1950s Girl Scout's leader's dress. I never was in Girl Scout's and I don't think I would have made a very good leader, so it was a thrill to find this dress in my size, where at least I can pretend.

Don't worry, I'll dedicate another post to these dresses.

At the Veteran's Flea Market,I was smart & wore a bikini top and my Jimmy Z skirt(with attached bloomers).

Selling at flea markets can be hard work, but the time passes quickly when working and hanging with my good friend, Stacy. Later that day, I went bicycling with Pete and then to Fingerprints, our local record store.

I highly suggest ya'll come visit me when I'm selling at the Flea Markets cause I am a ridiculous push-over. At one point, I had to delegate pricing to Stacy because I was ripping myself off. I just can't resist cute doe-eyed Japanese girls chanting in unison "ten, ten, ten, ten, ten'. and I just love people and I like to make them happy when I can. I'm not much of a business woman, but I think my humanistic approach will pay off in the end.

wishing you happiness in all your endeavors,

Crystal Lee

summer time fun

2011-07-16T15:43:00.000-07:00

Capri Sun = summer time

Jeremy Scott

80s comic strip dress - a favorite piece

I hope ya'll are enjoying Summer just as much as I am!

down by the river bed in vintage Versace

2011-07-15T16:50:00.000-07:00

In the Summer time, nothing beats early evening bicycle rides around town. The other day, Pete and I bicycled to the Lighthouse and then to the river bed, an iconic landmark in my mind’s topography. I recall teenage summers spent endlessly walking, talking, and coming of age. All along the river bed, I experienced my first fickle crush. and my first hit of pot - I pretended to see the letters of the alphabet swirling about my head; I’d catch the letters in my cupped hands and then release them dramatically. I’ve always been prone to putting on a show. my beautiful friend Danielle always walked the river bed with me - she was a reckless poet - who later moved to Indiana to straighten out her life, and instead ended up stripping, getting hooked on drugs, and something about a prostitution ring. I haven’t spoken to her since I was 21 or so, and I really really wish to see or talk to her again. Under bridges, through sewer tunnels, kicking rocks, cracking jokes, fearless, and free. Today's river bed is filled with last season’s rain, and I sit on big sparkling white rocks, wearing my recently thrifted Versace denim jumper - an outfit I know I would have worn back then (though I would have been ignorant of the Versace label).

Memory is a way of holding onto the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose. from ~ The Wonder Years

Memory... is the diary that we all carry about with us. ~Oscar Wilde, "The Importance of Being Earnest"

The past is never dead, it is not even past. ~William Faulkner

today I turned 15

2011-07-11T19:05:00.000-07:00

If you want to feel(and look) like a kid again, throw on a pair of overalls. These overalls are extra special because they're tan corduroy. After all these years, I just realized that that the straps need to be crossed in the back for a proper fit. This jumper is almost too tight, so I better wear it while I still can.

Forgot to mention that I dyed my hair red about a month ago. I like it because it looks natural (I had red hair a good portion of my teenage years; it somehow turned red following a bad perm, and then red again after the bleaching incident, and throughout my life there were always many red hairs along with the brown)but it's starting to really match my skin color, and I'm not sure how I feel about that. I can not stop getting tan. I'm using sunblock but the sun is hot on my tail. ok, enough about me. do you have any hair horror stories to tell? do you have any outfits that slow down the aging process?

Many thanks to Peteheart for taking the photos.

Outfit:70s top & overalls (thrifted); 70s shoes (vintage store in Lancaster, PA)

Seeing is Believing: A Fave Editorial

2011-07-09T10:58:00.000-07:00

I shall never tire of this delightful editorial from Elle Magazine March 2010, with styling by the talented Camille Bidault-Waddington. It's bloody brilliant, lingering in my mind like a first kiss, informing my wardrobe choices quite often. I'm going to workout right now, but what I really want to do is dress up in vintage mix-match prints and pose in front of mid century coastal hotels and pastel backdrops. the day is still young.

summertime after hours

2011-07-07T22:19:00.000-07:00

some uncharacteristically placid photos of me. After 8 hours in an office everyday, it's so nice to be able to spend some time outdoors after work.

I have yet to set sail in Elliott's sailboat, but I'm hoping to get around to it sometime this Summer. These photos were taken after work in San Pedro, my favorite town, which I've mentioned frequently on this blog. I guess I love it because it's an old port town, nearly desolate, and Bukowski used to frequent all the dive bars there.

I recently thrifted both of these dresses. The first dress is from the 70s & features red poppies. The second dress is a 50s wiggle dress. I don't generally wear all black because 1) I'm not trying to look any skinnier and 2) it's too somber for my personality, but this time, it went quite well with the overcast sky.

I have been having incredible luck at the thrift stores. A couple of days ago, I scored a Versace Denim jumper dress. It's unbelievable & fits just right. I'll show it to you soon.

Oh ya, I'll be selling at the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena this Sunday with Fancy Disaster Vintage. I have really amazing stuff in stock, so come on out if you get a chance. Plus, I'd love to meet you.

until next time ....

summer in black and white

2011-07-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

Happy, Happy, Summer.

last 3 photos taken by my friend Adriana w/my camera.

Happy 4th of July America & Happy Anniversary to my blog

2011-07-04T10:58:00.000-07:00

Good morning friends! Another glorious day in Southern California. I just finished a Pilates workout video, Pete just went for a run, and then he came home and cooked us up a mean vegetarian breakfast sandwich. I reckon will go bike ride to the beach later today. I usually go camping for the 4th of July, but this year I stayed in town and I'm happy to see so many many folks having a fun time outdoors. I've had a grand weekend eating my fair share of bbq, drinking some whiskey & wine, hanging with friends, watching backyard movies, playing with puppies and babies (my favorite buddies).

So not only is today a celebration of America's independence from Britain, it's also a celebration of my blog's one year anniversary. I hope that I've entertained you and that we all become really great friends. sometimes I will regale you with personal anecdotes, sometimes I will awe you with my thrift store finds, sometimes I will motivate you with my mini rants on personal freedom and expression, and for good measure sometimes I will show you some side boobage. haha. Thanks for visiting my blog!

These photos were taken last year by Jill at Barefoot Studios.

my oldest t-shirt

2011-07-02T11:16:00.000-07:00

This vintage Seattle shirt will always have a very special place in my heart because it's my oldest thrifted find that is still in my possession. I bought it when I was 15 years old and when I wear it I can't help but think back on those years. It was actually absent from my wardrobe for many years until a friend found it in storage about 5 years ago. I was so happy to have it back in my life. It fits just right, has the most perfect rips and tears, and is made of a soft cotton.

I sure do look like a goof ball in the morn.

Happy 4th of July!

Crystal Lee

I'm going bananas over a thrifted knit dress

2011-07-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

I found this knit Flinstones-esque dress at a thrift store in Gaston County, NC, and shrieked with giddiness. It's so bloody good. How fortuitous that it was waiting for me at the thrift store during my Southern family reunion.

Happy Friday, friends,

Crystal Lee

we're having a high time

2011-06-30T10:17:00.000-07:00

If I weren’t a “professional” for 40 hours a week, 160 hours a month, I’d be half-naked all dang Summer; the sun is my lover, my muse, my fountain of youth. Oh Beatific Summer, I am howling happy for your arrival! As with every Summer, I will be an idealistic imp, madly pursuing adventures under the sun until it all comes to an end. Last Saturday, I hosted a Celebrate Summer Skate & BBQ with some of my former teammates. Man, these gals are good for my soul. They’re reckless and witty and just so fun to be around.

I love Mexican Coke in a bottle. I allow myself one a week during the Summer.

From left to right: Judy Gloom, Furious Georgette, Paris Kilton, Vulvarine, Tawdry Tempest, Janis Choplin, Jihad

I majorly scored when I found these deadstock 50s madras shorts (first picture) in the junior section of the thrift store recently. and I was super happy to rediscover this vintage crochet halter top in my wardrobe, though it fell apart before we started skating, but it's an easy fix.

Lots more summer outfits to come. Much Love,

Crystal Lee

the blessed unrest that keeps me marching forward

2011-06-21T19:52:00.000-07:00

In an effort to step up the “risk-factor” in my life, yesterday, I went to the track to skate with the Wreck League (recreational league) and got my ass handed to me. I hadn't been on the banked track in over two years, and I was bout as rusty as a pair of old metal skates left to rot in an abandoned tool shed. I'm bruised and battered and my ego is shattered, but I will probably go back for more another time. Now, I'm thinking about less-painful physical activities. I'm really interested in taking some classes at the Circus School in Los Angeles, and I'm especially keen on the aerial classes. Has anyone tried this before?

Another thrill seeker is my little niece Anna who just keeps getting more ballsy with age. I really admire children and their no-fear attitudes. When we were hanging out in San Pedro the other day, she would run up steep hills, lead us through wire fences, pick up sticks and pose like some kind of miniature warrior, and we could hardly keep up, though we were certainly trying.

Outfit: 60s babydoll lingerie top, vintage leather shorts (thrifted), ballet flats (Nordstrom's Rack). Anna is wearing an 80s dress (thrifted).

I'm feeling better. I come bearing flowers.

2011-06-17T23:27:00.000-07:00

new thrifted finds from Florida: 90s Banana Republic dress & peach maryjanes worn in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

behold the mistress of the flower field.

I am not a juvenile delinquent (but sometimes I wanna be)

2011-06-13T19:06:00.000-07:00

Fuck, I'm bored. Do you ever feel discontent for seemingly no reason? I'm sure on the surface my life seems like a lot of fun and I suppose it is a good chunk of the time, but I'm still feeling unfulfilled. I know I'm 32 years old but I still have the need to rebel, to be reckless sometimes, and I don't think any of my current hobbies -- yoga, photography, dancing around my living room -- are gonna fill this void. Maybe I should sneak into Disneyland or Knott's Berry Farm, but security has really tightened up. Do you remember how easy it used to be to sneak in to either adventure park? and then you'd drop acid and smoke lots of cigarettes and pretend you were straight edge for the cute "hardcore" boys that hung around in Tomorrow Land. or flash some teenage boobies on the last drop of the Log Ride and receive free photos of your exploits from the young boys who work the ride, which you happily place in your photo album to look back on with pride for the rest of your life. Shoplifting for kicks is kind of out of the picture; I'd just die if I got caught. I think the last time I shoplifted I was 14 years old. I got caught stealing burgandy lip liner (a color I loved to wear cause it made me look hard like a chola) from CVS and I was so mortified when my mother had to pick me up from the store and then attend a class on how not to be a juvenile deliquent with me. I could probably go do some recreation league roller derby (Sniders, get my ass to the track). roller derby always provided me body with lots of much needed adrenaline, and you know, I got to hit people.

Even on my own blog, I have to maintain some kind of decorum and I certainly have to behave professionally at the old 9-5. However, you may be interested to know that confessing my juvenile delinquent urges to you has made me feel just a tad bit less square. My outfit, which nods to youthful, rebellious, who gives a fuck, 90s skateboarding days probably has something to do with my current mood.

Outfit: 90s cut out mini dress (I have two of these dresses in the "shop", which has become more of an abstraction than a reality as of late. I think I'll be selling at the Long Beach Flea Market this Sunday, however, if you wanna stop by), 90s orange silk top, baseball sweater (everything thrifted), Vision Street Wear (now defunct warehouse in Costa Mesa), AA tights.

the cacti are in bloom: a photoshoot with Avie

2011-06-12T10:06:00.000-07:00

I did a photo shoot yesterday with my fourteen year old friend, who I've known since birth, Avalon a.k.a. Avie, an articulate, loquacious, rebellious, and insightful young lady. She is the daughter of a childhood friend that I have wreaked havoc with for nearly 20 years. It was so fun dressing Avie up in pieces from the shop and my own wardrobe. She was a most excellent model. I had a blast photographing her around my old stomping grounds -- the Orange Circle in Orange County and Silverado Canyon just up the hill. In the canyon, we drove around with the top down until the road became rocky. We stopped and took photos in front of the blooming cactus and chapparal and wildflowers, and the whole place seemed even more beautiful than I remembered it. We rested along side a stream and ate cherries & chips, running from insects, and admiring huge butterflies as they flew overhead. Avie dj'd a bit while we were driving around the canyon and we sang along to the Smiths. I sang soprano & she sang alto and Morrissey was somewhere in the middle. Then she played Bauhaus & Cypress Hill. She was shocked that I didn't like trance music (I find it nauseating). Then we went thrift store shopping & ate at In N Out. I ate a grilled cheese animal style (I'm trying my hardest not to eat any meat) and we also shared some animal style fries, which I didn't even know about. I think I prefer regular old fries though. I'm so happy with how these photos turned out that I have to show you all of em, so there's a good many to eww & ahh over.

can you believe this dress? It has a print of avocados, limes & lemons.

and then this is the outfit I wore. photo taken by Avie.

I have no eyes

Chloe Sevigny for O.C. and Vision Streetwear

2011-06-08T12:22:00.000-07:00

If you’ve been reading this blog from its inception, you know that I am a die-hard fan of vintage Vision Streetwear & have a pretty decent collection from this 80s/90s skate wear brand. I was just at Style.com checking out the collections for Resort (which I’m pretty nonplused about) until I stumbled upon Chloe Sevigny for O.C. line in which she collaborates with Vision Street Wear. Vision’s iconic logo is spewed all over the runway. One gal is even sporting the Vision Street Wear bicycle shorts that I have been searching for and dreaming of for many, many years. (See this post) Indeed, vintage Vision Street Wear is hard to get a hold of, but I think I’d feel like a supreme schmuck if I laid down the $200 those shorts will probably cost. What should I do, dear readers? I am torn. Oh I must insert a prayer here: Dear God, please do not let Vision Street Wear become a trend because I cannot bear to see every hipster in Los Angeles wearing my most cherished label.

This next outfit best represents the aesthetics of 90s skatewear - the jumpsuit with its simple lackadaisical shape, and the beret style cap.

The cheetah print was a familiar pattern in Vision Street Wear shoes & clothes.

Byeee,

Crystal Lee