Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Like Dylan in the Movies

Vest: Rebecca Taylor via Swap
Flannel & Belt: American Apparel
Jeans: Marc Jacobs via Swap
Necklace: Dolly & Boy + Flea Market
Shoes: Buffalo Exchange
Bracelets: Swap & F21

Photos by Christen

Well, blogger hates me. I had a whole post written out and...poof, gone. So, suffice to say, this vest and these jeans are two of my most favorite swap finds to date. It doesn't hurt that they're a little fancy either. I'm not a big designer label person, but it's always nice to find something that I normally wouldn't seek out for myself. What about you, are you a major label fan or do you steer clear?

To make it extra fluffy, I flipped the vest inside out, and added a cozy flannel. I love the finished product, very 70's, which as you all know, I'm a big fan of.

Can you believe it's nearly December? The weather has finally decided to ACT like it's winter, at least a little bit, I hear it might snow today!

Monday, November 28, 2011

Dress Up in You




Dress: vintage via Avalon
Cardigan: J.Crew outlet
Tights: American Apparel
Shoes: ModCloth
Bracelets: F21 & ModCloth

Photos by Mindy at ModCloth

Well, Monday just flew right by. I really need to teach myself to get Monday's post scheduled on Sunday night, I always have good intentions of getting a post up- and sometimes it works out- but more often than not Monday morning is spent running around, getting ready for the week. Did you have a good weekend? I got some thrift shopping in with Mandy, and actually got some work done on this here blog. I love having an office now, but we really need to make it more welcoming. At the moment it's pretty dismal, which makes it hard to motivate myself to sit in there and work.

I found some great things on our thrift shopping trip! A leather skirt, jean vest (which has been on my want list forever), and a pair of Doc Martin mary-janes (remember those?). I made a stop at Avalon (which is like Buffalo Exchange- for those not from Pittsburgh) before picking Chris up from work that night and my good luck continued: I found this sweet vintage dress and a vintage skirt as well. I was wearing these tights when I tried this dress on, and I really loved how the little flowers popped against the color of the tights.

A tip: My trick for making cotton spring/summer dresses work for fall and winter is adding a slip underneath as an extra layer that also prevents your dress from catching on your tights. I have a couple of nice silk slips, but I will also buy them (in good condition of course) from thrift stores and just cut them to the desired length. Polyester slips won't fray or run if they're cut!

Friday, November 25, 2011

Happy Friday!



Happy Friday! How was your holiday? Our Thanksgiving was perfect, in fact, if the way yesterday went becomes our Thanksgiving tradition, I think it just may be my new favorite holiday. We started the day off with some baking and Alice's Restaurant (the Arlo Guthrie film), went on a long hike in the afternoon, returned to cook our holiday feast (while listening to the audio version of Alice's), and finished the day by going to see The Muppets! It was awesome. Alice's Restaurant is always a big part of our Thanksgiving, the classic rock station back home plays it on repeat on Thanksgiving day and we usually listen to it while driving from house to house. It was so nice to spend the day together and listen to it while we cooked.

Are you hitting the sales today? I'm headed into work today, but even if I wasn't, i don't think I would be shopping. Too much mayhem! I will, however, be checking out a few sales online:

Noble Town Vintage
is offering free shipping on ALL orders, including international! Have you entered the giveaway yet?

Lulu's has a great sale going on today, you can save up to 90% off!

Ruche is offering 15% off with the code BFSALE15, I would snag this comfy striped dress!

Blowfish is offering 15% off for Orchid Grey readers with the code BFORCHID15!

Bluesville, USA is offering 15% off as well with the code orchidgrey!


A few more things I love:

The Delightful Dozen is offering a great necklace giveaway this week!

I'm in love with everything in this shop.

Happy and happy (and thankful) weekend!

Thursday, November 24, 2011

A Lot to be Thankful For



Happy Thanksgiving! What are your plans today? Are you traveling to celebrate with family? Hosting your own Thanksgiving feast? Hanging out at home? Chris and I are doing something totally new to us this year: relaxing. Since we grew up within 20 minutes of each other, our holidays are typically hectic affairs that last from morning till night. Last year we ate five thanksgiving dinners. I'm not exaggerating...five. In one day. So, this year a new tradition was born: we're staying in Pittsburgh, going hiking, making our own Thanksgiving feast (while listening to Alice's Restaurant), and maybe (just maybe) seeing the Muppet movie tonight!

I always love Thanksgiving though, no matter how crazy it can be, I think it's a great time to reflect back on the previous year, and count your blessings. 2011 was incredibly good to us, and while there were moments where everything seemed like it would fall apart, we still managed to scrape by. So-in no particular order- this year I am thankful for:

Having the most amazing friends ever. After typing that sentence, I sat for a few minutes trying to think of a way to compose my gratitude for our loved ones, and found no words. They worked their tails off at our wedding, they helped us pack up our lives when we were moving, they deal with our incredible disorganization. We love them.

New opportunities. While I was sad to leave the home we knew, I am so thankful to have a job that I love, and a new city to explore. As hard as it was to leave, I know it was the right thing for us. But it's not just a new job I'm thankful for, this year I was able to realize my dream of seeing a design go to production.

A roof over our heads. We moved to Pittsburgh sight unseen, to an apartment we had never stepped foot in. Things could have gone very, very badly. But they didn't, and every time I think about this, I breathe a sigh of relief.

Having a husband that's up for a little adventure. Oh what's that? We're moving 13 hours away from friends and family to a city we've never seen? No sweat. And for that I am thankful.

Our family. This includes cats.


What are you thankful for this year?

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Sensing a Pattern





Dress: Thrifted
Tights: AA
Shoes: ModCloth
Bracelets swapped & f21
Earrings c/o Noble Town Vintage

Photos by Mandy of The Curvy Model


In the few weeks since we moved to Pittsburgh, I really haven't done much thrifting... or shopping in general. When unpacking my closet, I came to the grim realization that my clothes and shoes are pretty much at capacity, with very little (if any) room to spare. So my new goal is to only purchase things I really, truly love. I know that probably sounds a bit silly, like wouldn't I do that anyway? But I think, especially with thrift shopping, it's a little too easy to justify a purchase because it's cheap, or unique, or just plain bizarre, and if you continue on that path, you just end up with a closet full of things you really- only sorta- love. So my new goal is this: I will still thrift, but I will do it mindfully, and I will still shop, but I will only purchase items that I love, and that are good quality.

So that is my new goal, a goal I kept in mind when I went on a little thrifting field trip this past Sunday. The place I went reminded me a lot of thrifting in Maine, the crowd was weird and the pickings we're slim, but what I found was good: This good-as-new vintage dress for a short $1.50! I have not found decent vintage at a decent price at a thrift store in a long
time, and this beauty is pristine: not a stain, or tear, or snag to be found. And while it is polyester, a fabric that I try to avoid as much as possible, I could not resist it's beauty. And I'm glad I didn't, with a silk slip underneath, the polyester effect was negligible.

With such a strong pattern, I didn't feel the need to over-accessorize (do I ever?), I kept things simple with a pair of earrings from Noble Town Vintage, who makes the only earrings I ever want to wear.
Hint: there might be a giveaway tomorrow...hint...hint...very big, obvious hint.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Over the Weekend






Top to bottom:
Early morning Bob Dylan/ Rediscovered our record collection this weekend highlights: Bob Dylan, Patty Smith, Lou Reed/ The Z's spent their weekend following sunbeams as usual/ A thrifted Brownie to add to our collection

Good morning! How was your weekend? All too short? Yeah, mine too. Although very relaxing. Turns out, being afraid to drive your car is a great excuse to hole up at home and clean the heck out of your apartment. Which is what I did. Since our move, I haven't had much time to decorate or move stuff around, so taking advantage of some alone time which Chris was at work, I listened to records and cleaned. That's not all I did though, no. I also took a short field trip out of town to do a little thrifting. I found that mint condition Brownie Hawkeye for a mere $9.99 and an amazing dress for a short $1.50, it was like being back home in Maine where the thrift is cheap! The dress you'll see tomorrow, as I'm wearing it to work today, all I can say is I'm in love. The cats spent their weekend following me around and demanding entry to the basement, where they are not allowed.

Thank you to everyone who cast their vote and gave their opinion on Disqus. It's definitely something I'm considering trying out for Orchid Grey, I would love to be able to engage a bit more and Disqus seems like the best option. A little more work, but hopefully worth the effort for the benefit of discussion.

How was your weekend?

Friday, November 18, 2011

Have a Beautiful Weekend!



You can really see where my priorities were this week: Zephyr. His little face kind of kills me, and I find myself focusing on him when I get stressed out. I think that may make me sort of insane. But, I'm not gonna lie, this week was a little stressful, and I'm so happy it's almost over. Nothing horrible happened, but ending a long week with car problems is not my idea of a good time. But the good thing is, it's sunny today and I have an appointment to get my brakes (yeah, scary) fixed on Monday! It was wonderful waking up to sunlight streaming in our bedroom windows, such a nice way to wake up. I'm not sure what this weekend has in store for us, Chris will be working, so I may take the opportunity to do some thrifting. And then there's talk of Light Up Night, which sounds awesome.

Here are a few highlights of this week:

I have a poll going on my Facebook page about the Disqus commenting system, if you have a minute, I would love to know your thoughts!

Are any of my Pittsburgh readers members of Venture Outdoors? I'm thinking about joining this winter.

Noble Town Vintage is offering free shipping on all orders (including International!) through December!

This sculpture is amazing. That's all I have to say.

Elizabeth was the prettiest bride ever! And congratulations to Miss James who ties the knot this weekend (can't wait to see her BHLDN dresses)

Love these vintage Levi's, perfect pants for the impending holidays!

I would love to spend the weekend wrapped in this cozy sweater, reading a book. I need to get to the library!

Have you seen this fun wishlist from Lulus? You can take a peek at what I'm wishing for this year!

Speaking of wishlists, what kind of wishlists would you be interested in seeing on Orchid Grey? Anything in particular?

Have you seen Blowfish's new accessories category? I love the boot-tights, genius!!


What are your weekend plans? Anything special?

Thursday, November 17, 2011

In My Element

Sweater c/o Lulus
Dress c/o Lulus
Tights: AA
Necklace: gift from Chris
Bracelets: Forever 21

Photos by Christen of From the Woods

This rain is officially driving me bananas. Yesterday was day three and I was determined to actually get some outfit shots. It's definitely been an adjustment getting back to a normal 40 hour week, especially since Chris is now on a similar schedule as well. I've been shopping around for a new camera lens in hopes of being able to take self-portraits again soon. I love having other bloggers to collaborate with at work, but I've also been taking self-portraits forever (before this blog was even an idea) and I miss those projects.

Well, the weather has finally cleared a bit today and it's actually feeling like chilly November. Rumor has it that we might even see some snow this weekend! I have my fingers crossed, I would love to have a little (a little) snow on the ground for Thanksgiving.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

A la Gloria





Photos by Mandy of The Curvy Model

Top c/o Pineapple Mint Vintage
Jeans: H&M
Shoes: Matiko (2009)
Bag: VIntage Thrift
Sunglasses: Vintage
Belt: AA
Bracelets: F21
Orchid Grey Bracelet: ModCloth

I may have mentioned my love of Gloria Steinem before, but if I haven't: I love Gloria Steinem. I have a general appreciation of strong, smart women who aren't afraid to admit to enjoying fashion
and/or personal style. When I put together an outfit inspired by the seventies (which is often), I typically have one of two women in mind as inspiration: my mother or Gloria Steinem. Last week, it was Gloria. I picked up these jeans over the summer, finally finding a pair of high-waisted jeans that went up to my actual waist. I paired them with a vintage tie-neck blouse, and a vintage D&B satchel.

In other news: Chris starts his new job today! I'm so excited for him, he found a great position at a small boutique here in Pittsburgh. I'm very proud!

Happy Tuesday!

Friday, November 11, 2011

Have a Happy Weekend!


Yay, it's Friday! Do you have any fun weekend plans? I have to work on Saturday, but aside form that we don't have much in the books, maybe another hike? Maybe I'll finally get all that film dropped off an developed! One of my goals this weekend is to finally get the upstairs of our house in order, get our little office set up, and maybe take care of the tangle of clothes on our bedroom floor.

The weather has definitely cooled down over the past few days, and as much as I love it, it also puts me in the mood for winter shopping, which I'm trying to resist. I've been very good about not spending frivolously, so let's just do some window shopping on the internet:

Have you entered the Ruche Giveaway yet? It's not too late to get your name in! I absolutely love these sequin shorts from them!

Did you like my new shoes from Lulu's in yesterday's post? You can find them here!

I love this beaded dress from Bluesville, USA- perfect for a holiday party!

The new styles from Noble Town Vintage are so pretty! I'm obsessed with these earrings.

These cute little flats are so sweet, Blowfish makes the most comfortable shoes.

I loved Kaelah's tour of her bedroom, so pretty!

Have you seen all the wedding outfits on Delightfully Tacky? So pretty!

I love this simple bracelet.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

End of Autumn

Top: AA
Cardigan: J.Crew
Belt: AA
Skirt Thrifted Vintage
Tights: AA
Aren't these shoes amazing? I received them over the weekend from Lulu's and decided to plan my Monday morning outfit around them, I love the different colors of them! The weather over the past couple of days has been gorgeous, which I love but always throws a wrench in my mindset of fall dressing. I opted for a dusty rose hued pair of fishnets over my usual opaques, and donned a short sleeve shirt beneath a light cardigan.

I'm so excited to be posting outfits more regularly, something that has definitely helped is having a photo partner at the office! Mandy of the blog, The Curvy Model, has been helping me with outfit photos, we've been having little photo sessions as a way to get outside during the workday. You can check out her amazing blog to see the photos I took of her!

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Into The Woods

Photos: Chris
Jacket: Urban Outfitters sale
Sweater: Thrifted (last year)
Button-up: VIntage Thrifted (2009)
Scarf: Thrifted (2010)
Riding pants: AA
Boots: Matiko via LF sale
Camera: Vintage AE-1 (mothers)

I think these are some of my favorite photos that Chris has ever taken for me. Sunday was such a beautiful day. My favorite late-fall sight is the sun streaming into the woods, through almost bare trees, to the leaf covered ground below; it's the perfect time to go for a walk in the forest. Though, that day we didn't get very far, Frick Park was much more than we expected it to be and we realized that we (and by we I mean me) simply weren't dressed right for a hike. From what I've seen, this park is amazing, I can't wait to get my hand on some snowshoes for the winter. We were so unfamiliar with the Pittsburgh area when we found out we would be moving here, we were both concerned about keeping up with the outdoor activities we enjoy, like hiking and snowboarding. While we still aren't sure what to expect for winter- we've heard mixed reviews- we were really happy to have at least found a place where we can get some light hiking in.

Sunday was one of those fall days where you can't decide if it's cold or not, so I wore lots of layers. I like to stick to pants on the weekends, but am a little sick of jeans, so I wore these stretchy riding pants per Chris's suggestion. After that, I just piled stuff on, no real formula. I found a spare roll of film (who knows how old) while unpacking, and decided to take my mom's old AE-1 out for a spin. I have five or so rolls to get developed dating back to summer 2010 (I'm a procrastinator), if any come out, I'd really like to share them on here.

Monday, November 7, 2011

Over the Weekend: Fall Back

Top to bottom:
Our canvas print from Spring Smith Studios came! Thank you again to everyone who left a comment on our wedding post / Cinnamon buns for breakfast, my favorite / Zeb spends the weekend trying out sunbeams / One last lawn mow before the snow / A sweet face / In the stairway mirror before heading out the door / Color / Autumn details at Calvary Cemetery.

What a beautiful weekend this was. We had grand plans of getting the rest of our stuff unpacked, organizing closets, and hanging artwork, but all that is hard to do when you wake to a beautiful sunny day with no clouds and a new city to explore. On Saturday we strolled around Calvary Cemetery, which may seem morbid to some, but the fall foliage is gorgeous and I love how tranquil cemeteries are. We did some walking around downtown as well: had the world's worst latte and went to the worlds most expensive "thrift" store. Sunday was a bit more successful, maybe due to the time change, we visited the Shadyside neighborhood and took some photos on my old AE-1, and "hiked" around Frick Park. When I say hiked, I mean we took outfit photos (coming tomorrow), walked around a bit, and realized we weren't dressed right for the magnitude of this amazing park. I can't wait to go back next weekend and actually do some exploring. My two major resolutions for this move are: take more film photos, and get outdoors more. So far, both resolutions are playing out perfectly. We were introduced to Venture Outdoors by our neighbors, an outdoors organization that hosts hikes, walks and activities all around our area, I can't wait to join!

How was your weekend?