What does a leader look like? For me it’s an induvial that is admired and respect from many as well as loathed from others. Despite the reaction that is deciphered this great leader still carries on the orders that are needed to fulfill the objective on hand.

Inspired by the classic phrase “If you love what you do, you’ll never have to work another day in your life,” I’ve had an Entrepreneur mind-set for as long as I can remember. As a young child I began with my grandfather, Robert Alexander a shipwright of 60 years at Crowley & Company of Oakland. He was a driven man and had the spirit of entrepreneurship at the age of 16, this was something never taught (in my opinion) it was all he knew. Today on location at the 9th Ave. Terminal I honor him by wearing his Greek Fishman Hat that he worn on his visits to the San Francisco Estuary.

“Every ship needs a captain. The crew is important but the captain steers everything. You need to have a clear vision to lead.”

What we all need to realize we are all maturing entrepreneurs in one way or another, whether we own a small business, have grand plans for starting one or just enjoy daydreaming about the day when we will – creativity it’s a manifestation that will unfold for each and every one of us. While I’ve spent nearly a decade focusing on the choices to make outside of my work hours, my grandfather would say, “If you love what you do, don’t ever hesitate to seize the moment.” A true quote from a Captain, a Mentor. _____________________________
Dress c/o All Things Vintage. Greek Fisherman Hat.
Sam Edelman, Danna Pumps. Accessories, Etsy.
Beauty, Face Cover FX, Lipstick Maybelline, Nails, Red Carpet.

Where does one, that is a lover of vintage glamour go to shop, the answer: All Things Vintage. From a beloved interest for both vintage apparel and design, Lucy & Claudia owners and friends of 40 years started collecting (over a decade ago) an assortment of vintage dresses, furs, costume jewelry and accessories before starting their current storefront in Oakland.

I fell upon their store as a referral while I had attended last year’s Oakland Ballet Gala, ever since my first visit I have been a devoted client investing in pieces that aren’t easily accessible elsewhere. Vintage is my orbit, it makes me feel a bit more glamourous and even though its decades away from current styles I find there are always opportunities to blend both vintage and modern collectively.

Today’s visit I am wearing one of the owners pieces, a Lilli Ann San Francisco wool 2-piece suit. The clothing brand was started by Adolph Schuman in 1933 naming it after his wife. The company became known for their beautiful, elaborately designed suits and coats. With a slight modern touch I added a bow blouse from Banana Republic with a vintage rhinestone encrusted brooch paired with Kate Spade pumps, retro leather clutch and ruby red lipstick.

When I come to All Things Vintage, I typically have seen a new arrival posted on their Instagram page, I will send a direct message to ask if its available and find myself shopping their next upcoming sale. Every visit is never the same as they always have new styles from their private collections as well as consigners.

 “While watching old movies with my grandmother I knew I wanted to dress like Rita Hayworth and Grace Kelly they had such elegance.” 

Shopping for vintage is a lifestyle, its not something you do one day. It’s a level of commitment that is seen through your accessories, garments and hairstyle. However, for one that is looking to dabber into adding vintage into their wardrobe, the first thing you need to understand is the difference between vintage and thrift. When you are shopping for vintage clothing you will find many items are made with metal zippers, side-snap closures, and union labels printed in blue.

A good first piece of vintage for those newly exploring the era is something basic and classic, try a 1950s beaded cardigan or a 1960s little black dress. This will make for a piece that you can wear over and over again that won’t lost its luster, its already a classic. Lastly, a quality vintage garment can cost as much as current couture (ex, vintage Chanel) so the question remains why should you choose a pre-owned item over something new? Because it’s made better, a general rule of thumb is that the older the piece the higher the quality.

There is something about vintage accessories and clothing after you start styling yourself in a few pieces you will find it will make its way to your heart and soul.

If you are looking for a tailored experience, I highly recommend you visiting Lucy and Claudia at All Things Vintage, they are seasoned in their realm of fashion history and will have you glam up in no time.

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Photography c/o Jason Lee of J Lee Photo Imaging

From the final days of warm temperatures to cold evenings, Fall is approaching rather quickly. I appreciate the translate from every season through the lens of my personal vintage-inspired aesthetic, where I always draw from an era gone by. Today a modern French Connection sleeveless jumpsuit meets a collection of vintage accessories.

Rules like ‘don’t wear white after Labor Day’ or ‘shoes matching the handbag’ are antiquated

Despite the fashion faux pas of not wearing white after Labor Day I am thankful that many of us no longer abide that rule. With that said, today is a perfect example of how a white cotton blazer can be worn despite the time of year.Marie Sleeveless Jumpsuit, French Connection. Delia Connection White Blazer. Cat Eyed Sunglasses, Retro Sunnies (similar here & here). Tan Suede Pumps, Coach. Maybelline, Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick. Cover FX Power Play Foundation. Photography c/o rf_fisher_photography.