Bullet bras are impossible to find so it seems these days. This red one I picked up at the Sacramento Antique Faire. I have purchased many pieces from this dear woman’s wardrobe whose daughter tells me she never got rid of anything. I fit splendidly into little Asian women’s clothing. Pointed tips are a signature silhouette to mid-century high fashion. If you find a bra maker who reproduces these gems, do tell. Sincerely, vintage clothes enthusiasts the world over.

Speakeasy Photos

My childhood friend, Lindsey, competed in a beauty pageant as an infant and won first prize. Brittany was our red-haired friend in kindergarten who not only modeled but also competed in beauty pageants so seriously that she was our classmate for only half a year before her mother pulled Brittany from our school to keep up with her busy modeling schedule. Our teacher, and my mother, scoffed. Courtney, my friend in high school, told me the ins and outs of Miss Teen contests bating me to play along with her, Mama would not support so I did not. The following year I watched a boyfriend’s best friend compete in our town’s pageant. Insider info turned the show for me to a different level of entertainment. I knew who would win, as did she who would be crowned, as dozens of hopefuls who dropped hundreds if not thousands in wardrobe compete unwittingly play their part in a set production. Conversations with Courtney revealed that judges like to see in the Teen contest ultra princess silhouettes of a puffy slip, but contestant Jane we will call her had put in her six years to town competitions, this was the year for her come-up-ins. She wore a black sleek dress that looked nothing of the part. Jane put her time in and was a sure thing. So many girls caught up in playing their roles could not see this big picture.

An intelligent, hard working, beautiful neighbor of mine recently posted a cute bit to Facebook about girls competing with one another, and women empowering one another. What is it that causes females to compete? Do we? Not in formal manners, but in life generalized? My kids are ABC, my husband DEF, the food I feed my family is GHI, my home JKL, my career MNO, my transportation PQR, my wardrobe STU, my garden VWX, my choice of worship is Y and Z. Women compete with each other in subtle ways all the time, as do men, call it “my better than”. Psychology students may elaborate, but everyone communicates with the world all the while inside boasting to themselves, as self-preservation, their “better-than”. “I am better than you, because I don’t participate.” It can be anything that you tell yourself when leaving a social engagement. Is “empowering” one another not really just shoving values into anther’s space? Do as I do so you can rise to my occasion. What’s your better-than?

Long curious about pageants and such, Mama never indulged the curiosity and forbade my participation. “You already know you’re beautiful, as does the world, so concentrate your efforts elsewhere. How silly to waste time seeking approval. Be yourself, wear what makes you happy, and for God’s sake put on some lipstick and mascara!” I also choose to build up my children’s self-esteem based in efforts not talents, and seek to never compare them to anyone save their own self. So why do I choose to compete? It is my choice, I don’t need it. A psychology/Bible/Theology BA graduate, I am ever fascinated with the human condition and interaction. People fascinate me and I often approach social engagements from the angle of viewing-in. As an adult entering a formal pageant, I have the where-with-all to keep my head and heart in such situations and to understand that my defining moments are numerous and elsewhere. I would like to think that I am engaged in social experimentation, but also participating in what women do already even without the formalities. Perhaps instead of calling it competing, we may look at pageants as celebrations of people and beauty. I believe beauty to be a core concept belonging predominately the female gender. We seek to beautify and to improve all that surrounds from our gardens to our homes to our appearances and those of our family’s. Our sloppy culture heads farther toward droopy bed clothes being social attire, and I choose to grab hold and celebrate efforts toward mid-century or classic styling. Beauty is not dead, and it is in the eye of the beholder.

Speakeasy Photos
MUAH: Danyelle “The Hair Maverick” Johnson
Dress: Bernie Dexter
Shoes: Authentic vintage 1940s black patent leather platforms

Iron Steed Harley Davidson of Vacaville and ABATE Local #17 hosted the annual bike and car show, Hot Rods & Harleys complete with trophies or plaques for those who placed in the show. Tempting prizes were raffled off, most popular being a bike trailer, though I am sure the electronics including iPads felt like total prizes as well. I paid a heftier fee than the last two car shows to enter, but ABATE is totally worth supporting! They are the folks looking out for Totalitarian policies such as the one the state of California attempted passing last year, which would make it illegal for bikers to ride more than three in a group. Yeah, that tried to happen. Watch out for your rights, folks, and thank organizations such as ABATE who spread the word when such anti-Libertarian policies attempt to sneak up on folks. Droppin’ it.
My dad pulled his truck in after a forty hour Saturday which included a flight from the Philippines plus a few hours of sleep once home. Needless to say, his bikes were left at the house and we were lucky he was upright. We could not park next to each other this time, because as many car shows choose and as explained to my son when asked the preschooler’s quintessential question, “Why?” Segregation is alive and well in car shows. Snark. Gotta park with your class. Different awards for different classes of vehicles equals ease of judgment for those marking the scorecard. So Dad parked with the trucks, here is one of many in his competition class, I like the pin stripping.

I parked in the 1940s class. Check out my competition, three of us altogether.


I like the pipe on this guy’s dash, and the wood details of his interior.

I never saw who was driving these cars, and I do not know which took first place as the awards were given by class then owner’s name without vehicle details. I was hoping to see which bikes and cars took which awards. Kind of funny tangent for a moment, the awards ceremony was very similar to Rockin Rides in that most people do not pay much attention as if not to care, but if you really look at many of these guys’ faces, they do care. It matters, but it doesn’t. I am curious to further explore men and women and the different ways they compete with one another: crowns or trophies; dressing up yourself or dressing up your ride. The girls all line up for the crowd to see and judge for themselves on the spot. Vehicles are larger than that, but you get the picture. Folks pay attention to pageants I think because of the visual. I wonder if a huge screen showed the cars as announced if that would hold the crowd’s attention better with direct “here’s what won.” Luckily for me, these sort of shows are not favorable to classic originals but rather tend to favor custom jobs. After all, the host is the Harley dealer and inside they have the shiniest and newest, this show wants custom and “special in its own way”, character. So, this was my first time placing in a show! We took second! That’s fun. I am humbled and honored.

Of course, loads more bikes than cars rolled in for this show. The air rumbled and roared with the many modified and custom exhaust systems. Hot. Hot. Hot. So many shiny paint jobs, and so much chrome! I cannot include ALL my favorite images, so we created a gallery should you desire to see more.

The bike above, more photos in our Hot Rods & Harleys gallery, is to me what two antique gorgeous pistols would look like if they had wheels and were a motorcycle. Swoon.

Even the engine compartment matches for this hot ride.

The fellow who owns this beauty tells us she is one of six left in the world, and the only in such pristine condition. His dad bought the car new in 1953, Mom did not like hauling three kids with two doors, so it became the Sunday driver for family outings to cruise and get ice cream. This guy took his driver’s test in this car, and after serving our nation in the Air Force, planned to restore the car with his dad. Cancer kinked their plans, and the car got restored anyway true to original speciafications and ready for the museum in loving memory. Rare and beautiful love.

I am considering to get a sun shade for the Stylemaster. What say you?
Here is the inside of the trailer at pictured at the top of this page. Two long days in the sun create a satisfying opportunity to finally rest.

More images of Hot Rods & Harleys in case you missed it earlier.
Speakeasy Photos
MUAH: Self
Jumper by Cassandra Cadillac

My birthstone is an emerald, my zodiac a bull and I’ve the temper and stubborn disposition to back it. Last year of my twenties. First birthday I actually feel old, or at least like a bona fide adult. My friends tell me thirty hits and it’s all downhill: wrinkles, weight gain, worries…about retirement? I have to wonder, do we gain weight after thirty because 1) we have money and can afford to eat now 2) metabolism legitimately slows 3) settled in life enough to really enjoy all parts, and food indulgence can be an easy way to do that 4) many of us had kids by now and stress of caring for littles can lead to mindless eating, or at least eating for comfort instead of nutrition. Here’s to hoping all my lovely threads fit me this time next year and the year after that and the year after that. Perhaps one of these days would be a good time to pick back up weekly swing dancing a.k.a. the only exercise I’ve ever stuck with longer than a week ; )
Oh, and my goal by this time next year is to grow a tail.

Speakeasy Photos
MUAH: Model’s own
Top constructed by Jackie Rodriguez of Southern CA acquired through OLL Swap on Facebook, high waist shorts by Rocksteady Clothing, real cowboy boots owned so long I’ve no clue where I picked them up, local or Nashville?
Hat: courtesy Cattleman’s and while they serve scrumptious deep fried apple pie, nothing beats FREE Best-Cheesecake-in-the-world at Tahoe Joe’s
Cheers!

The internet is a lovely tool. For a time, I was purchasing authentic vintage pieces with fervor from a Facebook group (!?) with members the world over. Said site also allows seamstresses to post newly made clothing articles, drafted from vintage patterns. One such amazing creator is Cassandra Cadillac, purvayor of vintage fashion at WearthatDress on Etsy. She made some jumpsuits for other girls and I decided to take a chance and have one made as well, intent on matching some beautiful but difficult-to-pair shoes. My garment, made in Italy by a German gal educated in England (!) arrived some weeks later and I was floored with the top quality construction. I measured a few parts of my body too generously, so if we order another jumpsuit I would take in some measurements here and there. Overall, this jumpsuit is not only chic and vintage, but comfortable as well! I love how when something is made to my own measurements, points of interest such as length which are normally an odd fit to my petite frame, are perfection. Quality seamstress, quality garment, and I am oh-so happy with my purchase. Experiences like this make me say. “Ready-to-wear, never again! Tailor made for me from now on!”
Here I have attached a hair bow on my chest to match the bows on these shoes.

These jumpers feature a back zip and offer much maneuverability.

Here are the difficult-to-match shoes and I am holding my authentic vintage sunshades as well as a lovely vintage purse procured in Midtown Sacramento

Speakeasy Photos
MUAH: Danyelle “The Hair Maverick” Johnson

Two men went to The Great War, never to return home, each leaving behind a woman and her son. Those hard working women would make ends meet by joining together under one household, raising their sons as brothers. My husband’s grandfather and great uncle formed boyhood bonds together that would carry and influence life’s choices till their last days, each spending their final years just miles apart in Monterey County. I cannot imagine growing up without a daddy. However, I suppose where one bond is broken, another can be forged. Had those two fallen soldiers not made babies before leaving to war, my husband and my babies would not be here. Remembering our fallen soldiers, their families, and all who pick up the broken pieces to forge ahead.

Speakeasy Photos
MUAH: Danyelle “The Hair Maverick” Johnson

Bernie Dexter Chelsea dress in yellow rose print

Vintage trailers are rather popular right now. The owners of this one were kind enough to allow our entry. Cute ’50s style design.

Present as well were some interesting characters, like this guy.

I like his facial hair, hat, and smoke.

I found this lacy paint detail lovely.

Gotta eat, Tasty Dog Ice Cream

How cute is this little business? These folks have style, as well as attention to detail, and serve yummy treats! Apologies for the over-exposed image. Pinup girl lesson: hats cover a bad hair day and keep the sun rays off delicate skin, but also create shadows over the face. Supposing that could be a benefit should you experience a “bad face” day.
Check out this hood ornament.

White walls and check out that pin-stripping on the hood of this Plymouth. Notice everyone staying shaded from the sun? The name of the game at an all-day long car show!


I dig on white wall tires. I do not think they go with my rims, so I did not bother looking when we replaced our tires a while back. If rims were not so pricey to replace, I may have considered it with the goal to restore the car back to more authentic condition. It is what it is.

Shane and I met another Pinup photographer. Thanks to Jason Zufelt of Outlaw Photography, we finally got an interior shot in the front seat of my car. I wanted to wait for a different steering wheel, but here we are!

Jason had some great tips for us. He also told us about a group which we were previously unaware. They are Outlaw Pinups. We are curious to learn more and will fill you in once we get all these Pinup groups figured. Then again, made up of notoriously mysterious women, can these groups be figured?

Defenders members had their cars lined up front and center to enjoy the myriad of guest bands. This is a fun grill, Cash Bobby Dickson’s ride, and I like the blue hue in the paint color.

This our second car show, and first attempt to get real images at a car show. On-location shooting is still a different animal for us. Behind the Scenes

As you can see, a private shoot with a car turns out a better shot as it can eliminate background distractions. We had fun learning anyway.

Later I enjoy the front seat of Defender AJ Smith’s 1957 Lincoln Premiere. Rare gem indeed, boasting power windows including the wing windows as well as six way power seats, factory rear A/C and air purifying system.

I am enamored with his interior: the seat and headliner upholstery, dashboard pin stripping, the steering wheel. AJ has done all the work himself, except for Pinstripes by Kellie Kandystriper and upholstery by Sierra Custom Upholstery. See my shoes through the window? I was careful!

Couldn’t spend enough time in that front seat. I did not start up the original 368 Y-block. Cannot express how sweet is this ride! I am interested to view how Outlaw photographer Jason’s shots compare with what we got from the experience.

Hate to see you leave, don’t mind watching you go.

Another interestingly styled vintage trailer…
I’ve heard rumors about this trailer from Reno, but I wouldn’t know anything about it. Not my thing.

Speakeasy Photos
MUAH: Self
Bernie Dexter dress
What DOES the Fox say?

Remembering all who died on battle fields or otherwise in service of our nation. Thanks for protecting our freedoms and those of the world.
More details about my jacket or reenactments can be found in previous posts. Curious about women in uniform during World War II? This gem of site offers a detailed and easily navigable history. I never knew women served in so many branches!

Speakeasy Photos
MUAH: Self
Authentic WWII jacket, helmet, and suitcase acquired at the Sacramento Antique Faire
Authentic 48 star flag acquired at the Folsom Antique Faire

I loathe ironing. Our marriage agreement is that as a housewife, I do the bulk of housework, except pressing clothes. My husband presses our clothes when needed. Most of my life, I just assume throw something in the give away pile than iron it. To wear vintage styles well, you have to learn how to press them. The difference is made between looking like you’ve just stepped out of the donation bag, and looking like a million bucks. Before and after pictures would illustrate improvements. Admittedly, the only time I’ve made use of an iron until recently is for sewing garments. Now, if I want to wear my vintage threads, the iron and board come out. Shane says to perfect the art, ironing must be a daily habit. Weekly works for me. Upon my grandmother’s passing, we were asked if there was anything from her estate we desired. I requested the ironing board as a vintage photo prop, but now find myself using it on a weekly basis. I must in order to best strive for the classic tailored look.

Speakeasy Photos
MUAH: Self
Outfit and iron authentic vintage acquired Sacramento Antique Faire
KW Creations hair bow
Ironing Board inherited from Nonnie

Pinup Girl Secret number five: hands. Mindfulness of where and how you position your phalanges can make or break your photo. First I tried enhancing my willingness to pose my hands for close-ups by having my nails done in red shellack. Ten years of wearing zero polish, a five year job at In-N-Out breaking early the adolescent habit, I decide to opt for a shellack manicure. For those unaware, shellack is a thick gel and must be set under a dryer. It’s thick and lasts two weeks! Bargain as opposed to the regular stuff, right? Not so much. I remove mine shy of two weeks in order to participate in that fashion show a few weeks back. My nails for weeks after are brittle, bending backwards, ugly, and not the same healthy pretty natural thing I previously had going. Not sure how long until they’re back to raw beauty, but in the meantime I have a marvelous solution! Said fashion show also revealed how ugly and elephant-like the skin on my hands can be. Ready? Gloves! Yes, I own several for winter, but I’m talking dainty mid century ladylike driving gloves, evening gloves, day gloves like mom bought us for Easter gloves. Reproductions are available, but true vintage pieces are also readily available thrift shopping or online from another’s thrift acquisitions. They can get pricey, but much of the time they’re less expensive than a manicure, even one that lasts two weeks! Wash and wear for decades. Secret confession: I LOVE driving my ’48 whilst wearing my gloves. I feel fabulous and like a vintage starlet when I do it. Old soul here, checking in.

Special thanks to Rockin Rigatoni of Bad Bones Photography who during my shoot, won at the Miss Sweetheart Jamboree contest co-hosted by The Atomic Angels and The Luscious Ladies, encouraged me to be aware of hands.

Images: Speakeasy Photos
MUAH: Self
Authentic Vintage hat inherited from GiGi