Fashion SL's: Vintage and Decades

If there is one thing to get my mind off of FBC, it’s fashion.  I haven’t talked much about it because I’ve felt so yucky.  However, everyday, I try to wear something that makes me feel good because if I feel like if I look good, or at least presentable, (even if I don’t leave the house), then I feel a little bit better.

As I have previously mentioned, I definitely should have been born in a different era.  I know this because I gravitate toward and adore all things vintage.

When I was a little girl, I always loved playing in my grandmother’s closet. Her clothes were so beautiful and glamourous.  I thought it was so magical (before I knew the word “chic”) that twice a year she bought a new seasonal wardrobe (spring and fall).  This is waaaaaaay back when the fashion industry only produced two collections a year.

As a matter of fact, I now wear my grandmother’s wedding ring as my wedding ring which means that I think about her every day SL (silver lining). I also wear her long white mink coat (It’s vintage! Don’t worry, I don’t buy new fur!).

In shopping for vintage, I especially love vintage Chanel, YSL, Valentino, Hermes and Oscar de la Renta. Fortunately, each of these labels is still in existence today and, though different, still extraordinary.

One of my all-time favorite places to shop for Vintage is Decades in Los Angeles, owned by Cameron Silver.  Decades is located at 8214 1/2 Melrose Avenue.

The Decades blog (http://decadesinc.blogspot.com/) describes the boutique perfectly: “Decades is the international destination for glamorous vintage couture. Since 1997, fashion-savvy clients have clamored for Decades’ extensive collection of sexy, modern-looking couture and accoutrements. From exquisite Parisian haute couture to outrageous fashion jewelry and accessories, Decades features one-of-a-kind creations. Relationships with stylists, celebrities, designers, and fashionistas of all stripes put Decades at the epicenter of every trend. The store’s coveted collection of Hermès handbags and jewelry is unrivaled in the United States, sure to entice avid collectors and admirers alike.”

I’m honored to call Cameron a dear friend.  In fact he has been a real SL addition to my life, for which I am incredibly grateful.

Our relationship started over a conversation about a vintage Gucci Ostrich bag and hair straightening products (at the time we both had much longer hair!).  I have happily made many purchases at Decades.  Along with each purchase comes a great story.

I am crazy about Cameron for so many reasons.  He is chic (I mean REALLY chic!), smart and witty. Cameron is the consummate pro who would never let you buy anything that isn’t perfect for you.  …and he always makes you feel like a million dollars.

What I love most about Cameron is his kindness, thoughtfulness and sensitivity.  I have never heard him say a negative thing about anyone.  (Yes, he lives in Los Angeles!) He is also a connector.  I have made so many friends as a result of his saying, “You need to meet so-and-so.  You will love each other.”  He is always 110% right.

Cameron advises his clients:

Nothing Boring, nothing basic and not a lot of black.

Some divine examples of Decades merchandise:

I mean really, how fabulous are these items?  Whenever I am in the boutique, I am transported back to the joyful days in which I played in my grandmother’s closet or watched her get ready to go out for the evening.  When I can’t go in person, the Decades blog is so fun to read and just peruse.  It definitely adds a SL to my day and takes my mind off of FBC.

I’ll end with one of my favorite quotes from Coco Chanel:

Some people think luxury is the opposite of poverty. It is not. It is the opposite of vulgarity.

As always, I wish you a day filled with SL’s!