Found. a vintage shop.

STEALS AND DEALS!

2009-08-03T22:37:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves vintage, and the feeling of finding a great bargain. So we've decided to host a FOUND (A Vintage Shop) YARD SALE!! We've got lovely stock left over from the shop on Fairbanks Ave. that we are going to be selling at the yard. The fabulous event will be held this Saturday the 8th, from 8am to 12pm at 3025 Oberlin Ave. Orlando, Fl, 32804.

There will be treasures from the 50's through the 80's including clothing, shoes, accessories, art, and housewares. Folks can expect to see only the best in vintage fashions in fantastic condition, all greatly reduced for a quick sale! So come to the yard sale early, or you may miss out on some of the best items.

Again, the yard sale will be for four hours only on SATURDAY the 8th. Come early and stock up for back to school, find something to give your home more character, or get some of your Christmas shopping done early. You'll be able to find something for everyone!

Directions from Downtown:

Take 1-4 East to Par St. Exit Par, and turn left. Go down a few blocks in a residential area (College Park), and turn left on Oberlin Ave. The FOUND YARD SALE will be on the left at 3025. Park where you can on the street, and carpool if at all possible.

Pencil Me In...

2009-07-26T13:32:00.000-07:00

Whats the most flattering thing women can wear that enhances all the right curves? Ding! Ding! Thats right! A pencil skirt!

Pencil skirts are a fashion staple, and have been around for ages. Their silhouette hugging the hourglass shapes of women like Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, and Jackie O. These skirts can be identified by their narrow shape and the way they fit snugly from hip to lower thigh, flaring only slightly at the knee. Most skirts have a slit up the backside, allowng for only the most modest of movements. Paired with back-seamed sheer stockings and heels and you've got yourself a classic 50's look.

Pencil skirts have also made their way into current fashion trends. Who could deny a piece of clothing that makes any shape into an hourglass shape? They now come in denim or vibrant colors, embroidered with flowers, and in prints like leopard (though, that shouldn't mean you turn away the classic black pencil skirt). Below are pictures of two current fashion icons, Lucy Liu and Scarlett Jo, looking lovely in their pencils.

Classic black, cream, or grey skirts look luxe when paired with sleek tops of a similar shade tucked into them. A patent leather belt works as a great divider for that look. Or take a denim pencil skirt and tuck in your favorite vintage band tee. Layer some necklaces and add some heels and you're ready to party. Try to find pencil skirts made out of a light wool, or with a cotton blend, which allows for a bit of stretch.

When in doubt? Shop vintage! These skirts were built to last back then, and were often tailored by hand.

We at FOUND Vintage have lots of these beauties in stock, and will be playing host to a few yard sales coming up soon. Be on the look out for the dates of these sales so you too can get a pencil skirt to highlight the goodies!

Damn the Man, Save the Empire...

2009-06-24T12:44:00.000-07:00

There is no easy way to phrase something like this... FOUND (A Vintage Shop) will be closing the doors of our beautiful shop on June 29th. It may come as a shock to most of you, and we apologize for it being so abrupt. We've been trying to hold on for as long as we could, but times are tough. Everyone has felt the financial pinch of the economy, our little shop included.

There is a light at the end of the tunnel though. A big luminous, flashy, sunglasses required light! Its called Found-vintage.com! We will be selling our swanky vintage pieces online very soon. Please keep an eye out for our webstore by visiting the website often. It should be part of your daily routine! Wake up, walk dog, shower, eat hearty breakfast, check Found-vintage.com, read FOUND blog...you get the idea. Maybe get dressed at some point after you shower. Or don't. We won't judge. You can just wait around in the buff until you order your first magical piece of clothing from Found-vintage.com. We'll fix you right up!

Keep an ear to the ground for work on any open markets or festivals we will be participating in as well. Orlando has a bunch of great markets such as Audubon Park community market, and Grandma Party, where local food, art, vintage, and crafts can be found. Speaking of "found", don't forget to check Found-vintage.com often!

Thank you to all the friends we met at our shop. We appreciate your support, and hope you'll continue to rely on us to find unique adorable and affordable vintage for you.
Oh, and...
We want to see you at the Cherrybomb Ball, this Saturday the 27th, at 8pm.
Don't be a square, just be there.

Pinup of the Day...

2009-06-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

Today I will pay tribute to the number 1 pinup girl during World War II, the beautiful Betty Grable. Betty like many talented kids, was propelled into into acting by her mother. She used a false identification to get her first film, and was later fired when her true identity was discovered. After that, her actual first role was the leading dance number in the film Whoopee! After small parts in over 50 Hollywood movies throughout the 1930s, Grable finally gained national attention on stage for her role in the Cole Porter Broadway smash Du Barry Was a Lady in 1939.
1940 kicked off her movie career, landing her a contract with 20th Century Fox making her their top star throughout the decade. Some of her best movies during this era include Down Argentine Way, Moon Over Miami, The Dolly Sisters, and Mother Wore Tights. By the end of the 1940's Betty was the highest paid female star in Hollywood.

It was also during the 40's that Betty posed for her famous pinup photo in her swimsuit for the GI's of WWII, making her the #1 pinup for American soldiers (even with competition like Rita Hayworth and Veronica Lake). She was recognized as having the best legs in Hollywood, and was known as "the girl with the million dollar legs" because of them being insured for $1,000,000 with Lloyds of London. Many photoshoots have her posing in positions that would best display her slender legs.

Betty was cast in several post-war musicals during the 1950's. Her last big film hit was 1955's How To Marry a Millionaire, which she starred in along with Lauren Bacall and Marilyn Monroe. At the time Marilyn was being groomed as the next Hollywood sex symbol to replace Betty. Instead of this turning into a feud, Grable was quoted saying to Monroe "Go and get yours honey, I've had mine".
In an interview in 2007 with Hugh Hefner, Hef admitted that Grable was his inspiration for founding the Playboy empire. Her vast career as a box-office bombshell continues to introduce Betty Grable to a whole new set of audiences generation after generation. She is the original pin-up girl, a Hollywood legend, and an American icon.

The Cherrybomb Ball is coming up on June 27th at 8pm. Be sure to put on your "best Betty" and come join the festivities! And as always, come visit us at FOUND (A Vintage Shop) to get a piece of history to wear to the Ball. We have many outfits that work for the Pinup era, with many of them being 50% off because of our fabulous Summer Sale going on right now!
Come in and shop!

Summer Sale!

2009-06-17T09:19:00.000-07:00

Out with the old and in with the new! With Summer upon us in full force, and the economy putting the pinch on our wallets, it only makes sense for us to make our vintage affordable for everyone and have our first Summer Sale! All vintage clothing, shoes and boots are now 50% off our already low ticketed prices. The only exceptions to this fantastic discount are the Consignment pieces we have in stock, and our $10 Sale rack. Since only about 15% of our stock falls in the Consignment or Sale rack category, the other 85% of our clothing and shoes is fair game!

That means you can get...

This checkered scarf, baby blue polka dot top, cherry red skirt and wingtip heels for only $52.50! Normally this would cost $95, but with our Summer Sale, you can get more bang for you buck. Where else can you get a one-of-a-kind outfit for under $60?

For a limited time only...You can get our dresses for $20, with our longer dresses at $22.50. Now buying a beautiful dress for a gals night out, or a first date is easy on the eyes and the wallet! Check out our Foxy Brown dress for $20 instead of $40.

Mens apparel and shoes are included in the sale too! So fellas can get tops for $12.50 instead of $25, pants for $15 instead of $30, and jackets for $17.50! Really, quite a steal.

So come on into FOUND before the sale of a lifetime goes away, and don't forget to mark June 27th as the night to come see us at The Cherrybomb Ball!

The Art of the Pin Up...

2009-06-09T11:46:00.000-07:00

The much anticipated Cherrybomb Ball is just around the corner, on June 27th. Part of the festivities for the ball include two Burlesque shows, and a Pin Up Contest with all the fixin's. The contest will have many beauties competing for the crown as well as an opportunity to interview with The Diamond Agency, and a photo session with Flirtini Photographer Vanessa Sotomayor to appear in the next issue of Renegade Magazine! Each contestant will have to strut her stuff with her representation of a 50's pin up model, and will be critiqued carefully by the three judges as well as the crowd.

So, what exactly does it take to put your best Pin Up foot forward...

Personality
Pin ups have a bubbling personality, are full of charm and grace. They are unconditionally expressive, with a smile that can make a man go broke, and engaging eyes that love the attention of the camera.

Hair/Make-Up
Make-up is used the enhance the natural beauty. Ruby red lips, rose stained cheeks, full lashes and liner to frame the shape of the eyes. Hair is full, set with curls or a soft wave. Victory rolls, pin curls, and pompadours are especially choice. Accessorize the hair with small hats, veils, bows or the favorite hair flower. Choose a flower that compliments the outfit like a rose for an hourglass black dress, or a hibiscus for a tiki print dress.

Outfit
The outfit is just as important as the model. It should emphasize the beautiful curves of the body, and allow for an expressive pose. It also needs to fit the decade. Many pin ups would dress in character. Sailor, Cowgirl, Bathing Beauties were some great alternative outfits to the svelte lingerie, gowns and dresses that were more commonly used in pin up art.

Picture Perfect Pose
A pin up pose is animated an yet smooth in form. The best parts of the body were amplified in a sexy appealing way. Long legs were stretched out above the body, backs arched to puff out the chest, or bent over body to show off the toosh. Show off what your mama gave you!

The history of the pin up dates back to the 1890's, but was more prominent in the late 30's through the 50's. They were used to give hope to the GI's during war, and were commonly plastered all over the lockers of the men. Betty Grable posed for her famous pin up photo in 1943 for all the men fighting in World War II. Other famous pin up models include Rita Hayworth, Brigitte Bardot, Sophia Loren, Lili St. Cyr, Marilyn Monroe (Norma Jeane), Jayne Mansfield, Bettie Page, Lauren Bacall, Kim Novak...I could go on.
In addition to the famous models, there were a bevy of artists made famous for their pin up art. Watercolor, pastels, and airbrush were used to elegantly parade the models on the covers of campy magazines or calendars. Brown & Bigelow was an art company that published artists like Gil Elvgren, Rolf Armstrong and Norman Rockwell, and were one of the biggest calendar printers in the world during the late 40's. And artists like Alberto Vargas and George Petty grew famous for their centerfold art in Esquire magazine. Other personal favorites of mine include Billy Devorss, Edward Runci Pearl Frush, and Earl Moran. Look up their art if you get a chance!

We here at FOUND vintage are very knowledgeable about pin up history and can outfit you and your friends in our vintage to ensure you wow the room (and the camera). Come shop!

A window to the world......

2009-06-07T10:26:00.000-07:00

How many times have you been driving or walking down a street and thought "That store looks cute, I want to stop in there...." If you're like me, this happens all too often. Whether we realize it or not, what we are reacting to, and connecting with, is a small story created by the store's external appearance. That story can be created in many ways; by the product being shown in the window, by the colors and lettering of the sign or even by overall atmosphere or vibe that exudes from the space. But most often, it is the window display that grabs us and provokes us to enter and shop- even if that wasn't our original intention.
Major retailers like Barneys, Neiman Marcus and Macy's are known for their over the top window displays- especially around the holidays. The budget and staff required for these displays would blow your mind and they are kept so under wraps that most city store retailers include blinds in their windows so that they may be set up under a shroud of mystery. When the window is complete, the blinds are dramatically raised and, if the job is well-done, the result can stop even the most hurried city dwellers in their tracks.

Here at 544 West Fairbanks, we are lucky enough to have a store window so large it could probably be used as a small studio apartment, if need be. But really, our huge window is our favorite part the store we take great pride in coming up with inventive scenes for each monthly change. Our goal is always to grab the attention of the traffic outside our store by providing them with a glimpse of the feeling we hope they have upon entering our doors. In doing so, we often set up the window to give the feeling of being transported to another place in time; just as Found itself takes you back in time. Filling such a large window and making it impactful can be tough on our shoestring budget, but we make the most of if it and have fun with it every time we change it. Here are just a few images of some of our past windows- for those of you that haven't been lucky enough to see them in person. ;) Anyone have a favorite? Or an idea or next month? We'd love some feedback and/or ideas of what you'd like to see... Just as they say that the eyes are the windows to the soul of a person, so our window is like a sneek-peek into the soul of our store. We just hope you like what you see!

Cherrybomb Ball

2009-06-04T08:29:00.000-07:00

Aside from being the tourist capital of the entire galaxy, Orlando is a city that has something for everyone. Whether your interests lie in sipping sake while sketching your next work of art (Tatame Sake Lounge), boozing it up with St. Bernardus beer to discuss the latest documentary on French bike messengers (Stardust Video and Coffee), or watching your favorite band in an small intimate venue (The Social)...Orlando has it. We've got incredible local and independant coffee houses, restaurants, vintage shops (ahem, FOUND!), museums, dive bars, and farmers markets. Orlando's main flaw? All of these cultural treasures are spread out over the city.

If you have any interest in the fabulous 50's, or Rockabilly then finding something to fill your need is hard. There are a couple schools and dance halls that have swing dances a few times a month, some retro lounges, or you may get lucky and catch a Rockabilly band to watch. We need more options! Which leads me the next event FOUND vintage will be participating in...Its called THE CHERRYBOMB BALL! Flirtini Photography will be hosting this event that will encompass vendors for all the hepcats and betty's of Central Florida. FOUND vintage will be there selling our vintage beauties, and joining us will be multiple vendors who have retro handmade goods such as jewelry, tiny tophats, and hair flowers. Our pals from Mixed Media Baked Goods will also be there serving up the best Vegan cupcakes in town!

There will also be two different burlesque shows at the Cherrybomb Ball! One act Go Cat Go, features two amazing performers Lexi Katt and Minnie Vicious. The other burlesque act is out of Lakeland and they are called Moxie Le Femme! It won't be a ball if there is no dancing, so Lindy Hop and Swing lessons will be given as well.
The main gem of the ball will be the Pinup contest! Women will be showing off their best Pinup look, personality, and charm. The winner of the contest receives a 3 Look shoot with Vanessa Sotomayor of Flirtini Photography that will be featured in the next issue of Renegade magazine, as well as a sit down interview with The Diamond Agency. Pretty fancy, huh?
The Cherrybomb Ball is on June 27th at 8pm, and will be held at the Discount Music Center (3301 Gardenia Ave, Orlando, 32805). There is no cover charge, so bring all your friends for some good clean fifties fun!

And don't forget, if you don't have a stitch to wear to the ball, come visit us FOUND gals and we will take care of you! We have a great selection of 50's wear that is sure to turn some heads.
See you pinups and greaser guys soon!

Bathing Beauties vs. Modern Beasts

2009-05-30T10:30:00.001-07:00

When did hanging by the pool become a time to forgo all fashion sense and throw on a terry cloth mumu and flip-flops?? EEEEWWW. Yesterday I was watching TV and was appalled by a mini-infomercial for the "Towelini"- a revolting product that literally tries to sell women on the idea of wearing a towel as bathing suit cover-up, as loungewear or even as an actual dress! You've all probably seen these before but I've included a photo so you can understand my aversion.....

Back in the day, "bathing beauties" lounged poolside in oversized sunglasses, glamorously floppy hats, heels and bathing suit cover-ups NOT made of terry cloth. And although I might not trudge through the sand in a pair of heels, I like the idea that summer doesn't have to mean giving up on fashion- even here in Florida when it's 9,000 degrees everyday. Here at the store we have not only great vintage bathing suits but also the right accessories to throw on for a day poolside. Why not opt for a great vintage scarf to hide your windblown beach hair as opposed to a baseball cap? And you can never go wrong with large oversized vintage sunglasses..... Add in a straw bag and wood bangles and you have a totally pulled together look that's both easy and affordable. You can get the scarf, sunglasses, bag and 2 bracelets all for just $70 here at Found.

And if you really want to make a splash, why not opt for one of these great lace cover-ups and keep your towel for post-shower time? The yellow one (my favorite!) is just $30 and would also be great as a summer "jacket" over a dress or a tank top and jeans. The floor-length white lace cover-up is just $35 and is o-so fabulous! Pair it with some wedges and a summer cocktail and you're set for a perfect day.....

Found hopes you enjoy the sweltering summer heat in style! (And again, NOT in terry cloth :)

Voting is for Lovers

2009-05-26T09:51:00.000-07:00

Its that time again...the air is warmer, the birds sing louder, and Orlando Weekly has their "Best Of" poll where you can vote on all the things you love about the charming city of Orlando. Being awarded the "Best Of" is a great honor, and helps many businesses/people reach out to the community even more.

Here are three great reasons you should vote FOUND (A Vintage Shop) in the Best Vintage Shop category.

#1-Product: We constantly research current fashion trends and familiarize ourselves with vintage designers to ensure you are getting an authentic vintage item that you can actually work into your wardrobe without making you look overly dated. Buying vintage says a lot about a person. It shows you are interested in a unique piece no one else with have, and you are conscious of the positive impact buying vintage has on the environment. We also take those facts into consideration when choosing items to sell.

#2-Events: We host and participate in events to build better relationships with the community. We have hosted Fashion Shows, Pin-Up and holiday parties, and have partnered with other local green vendors for an Earth Day event. We have worked closely with other brilliant small businesses like Tatame Sake Lounge, Twist Hair Salon, Know They're Looking Pin-Up Photography, Mixed Media Baked Goods, and Mama's Sauce Print Shop. A partnership between other local businesses helps to identify these treasures to the public, and encourages the community to shop locally.

#3-Price: Like I mentioned above, we put a lot of thought into our items to ensure they work with today's fickle fashion fads. Most current designers use silhouettes, patterns and fabrics from past decades then reconstruct them to make them appear updated. Why spend $795 on a mass produced designer shirtdress when you can get the original inspiration of that dress for $40?
We encourage you to log into http://www.orlandoweekly.com/boo2009/poll.asp and vote for all the things that you love in Orlando. Thank you for all the support! -Love, FOUND

A Very Vintage Memorial Day......

2009-05-24T08:04:00.000-07:00

These days, Memorial Day means a three day weekend, beaches, bbqs and of course, the All-American classic, beer. Sadly, many of us have forgotten the true meaning of the day and the simple fact that Memorial Day is day to pause and give tribute to those that came before..... Some Memorial Day traditions include placing flags and flowers on soldiers graves, attending Memorial day parades or just taking the time to remember family and friends that have passed (whether they were in the service or not.) Personally, I think one of the coolest little-known traditions of this day is that since the 1950s, soldiers from the 3rd US Infantry have placed over 250,000 small American flags on the gravesites of soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. This occurs every year on the Thursday before Memorial day and continues 24 hours a day all weekend long as these soldiers then patrol the cemetary to ensure the flags remain upright. While it may seem like a somewhat morbid holiday, I like to think of Memorial Day as a just a day of looking back with appreciation; whatever that means to each person.

And of course, "looking back" is one of our favorite activities at FOUND. We encourage you to take just one moment out of your day tomorrow and think about the past with gratitude. And, if you want to go just one step further, you can simultaneously show your patriotism and love for vintage with any of these 3 dresses all new in the store this week!
Wear the soft, tantilizing teal dress as a beach cover-up during the day and then as a summer dress later that night. Two in one? Now that's something to give tribute to! The red one is perfect for a parade or a bbq and with it's cute 50's shape, you can give tribute to the idea of the perfect 50s housewife....(a tradition we're rather happy is now outdated!) And finally, the khaki dress is a playful way to give a nod to the uniforms of the 40s and 50....

Enjoy your weekend, friends and remember to remember. Love, FOUND.

Layla...

2009-05-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

When you think of sixties fashion icons, you may immediately think of Twiggy, Brigitte Bardot, Jackie O, and Sharon Tate (just to name a few). Another name with an influential print in fashion history is famed muse Pattie Boyd.
English model and photographer Pattie Boyd was the first wife of Beatles George Harrison. They met during the filming of "Hard Days Night" where she was cast as a schoolgirl fan for the film. George was so taken by her that one of the first things he said to Pattie was "Will you marry me?". They did end up marrying, in January of 1966. Many believe that Harrison's love song "Something" from Abbey Road, was inspired by his wife Pattie.
In the late 60's Eric Clapton and George Harrison became close friends. Clapton contributed guitar work on Harrison's song :"While My Guitar Gently Weeps" on The Beatles White Album but remained uncredited, and Harrison played guitar (under the pen name L'Angelo Misterioso) on Cream's "Badge" from the album Goodbye. It was reported during that time that Clapton fell in love with Pattie, and Pattie's 17 year old sister Paula. Paula moved in with Clapton, but soon left him after she heard his song "Layla" as it confirmed that he had been using her as a substitute for her older sister. The title "Layla" was inspired by a Persian story called "Layla and the Majnun". The story is about a moon princess who was married off by her father to someone other than the man who was desperately in love with her, resulting in the mans madness.
Pattie divorced George in 1977 and married Eric Clapton in 1979. Clapton also wrote the song "Wonderful Tonight" for Patti as she was getting herself ready to attend Paul and Linda McCartney's annual Buddy Holly Party. They divorced in 1988.
Even John Lennon and Mick Jagger were said to having crushes on Pattie Boyd, with Jagger admitting he had failed to seduce her for years.

Pattie has modeled throughout the 60's and 70's, wearing designers such as Mary Quant, Ossie Clark, and Karl Lagerfeld's Chloe collection (to name a few). Mary Quant is credited for popularizing mini skirts/mini dress trend during the mid sixties "Swinging London". She is also credited for the invention of hot pants during this decade too. Ossie Clark became a cult figure on Londons fashion scene during the 60's and 70's, incorporating floral and exotic prints to pantsuits, coats, and tulip shaped skirts. Even the queen of mod, Twiggy, has commented that she based her own look on Boyd when starting her modeling career.

This photo (bottom) is inspired by the photo of Patti wearing Ossie Clark (right). Our version is a vibrant red and paisley printed long dress with a double V neckline($45). Pair our dress with gladiator sandals and wooden beaded necklace for a late 60's comeback!

Don't forget FOUND has all your "Swinging Sixties" options from shift dresses, to printed maxi dresses and everything in between. Come shop!

Florida Fashions...

2009-05-17T10:07:00.000-07:00

"Hot enough for ya?" I'm still not exactly sure how to answer that question when I get asked, but what I do know is how to dress in our sun fun weather without sacrificing individual style. Don't avoid buying a vintage treasure just because you think it is too hot to wear them! We've got some great pieces at FOUND that will keep you cool in all definitions of the word.
If you have visited us before, then you know everything in our store is separated by era (between the 1950's and 1980's) for your convenience. Listed below are some weather appropriate outfits that are broken down by the same eras.

1950's- This adorable hourglass dress is short sleeved and made from a thin poly/rayon blend. It has a gorgeous plum and white houndstooth pattern, with the same plum color outlining the collar, sleeves, and front pockets. Large fabric buttons run along the front of the dress($35). We've paired this dress with a comfortable pair of grey peep-toe sling back heels($30). Very cute!1960's- Take a look at this sleeveless mini! The fabric looks like the flowers have been painted on in vibrant purple, green, and blue hues($40). We added a brown leather belt($20) and brown woven purse($30) to contrast the bright colors of this fantastic outfit.
1970's- The cropped picture is of a stunning sleeveless maxi dress by designer Don Luis De Espana($45). The colors of this beauty remind me of cantaloupe and honeydew, very soft oranges and greens. Two rows of matching fabric lie under the bust of the dress, giving it that feeling of legs for days that every gal loves about maxi dresses. Wear this with a wooden beaded necklace and strappy sandals.
1980's- This is a super fun outfit. The sleeveless top has a Aztec print in pink, grey and blue with an adorable tie at the neckline($25). The acid wash skirt with it is high waisted with a tulip shaped top($30). We added white pumps that have a triangle cutout design($30) to complete our outfit.
I hope this encourages you to show weather who's boss. Come visit us soon for more great ideas to beat the heat!

Rockabilly 101

2009-05-13T09:45:00.000-07:00

What is Rockabilly? Am I Rockabilly? ...These are just some of the questions that may keep you up late at night. Not to worry, I will shed some light on the subject and hopefully guide you to your answers.

In the early 1950's Rock 'n' Roll and Hillbilly music had a baby, and they named it...Rockabilly. It's influences included Western Swing, Boogie Woogie, and Rhythm and Blues. Some major contributors to Rockabilly are Bill Haley/Comets, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Wanda Jackson, Elvis Presley, Johnny Powers, Buddy Holly, Brenda Lee and Roy Orbison...just to name a few. Sun Records (a record label in Memphis Tennessee) gave a lot of those world renowned musicians their first recording contract that helped to launch their massive careers.
Rockabilly music started to wane in popularity in the 1960's, when Beatles-mania began to take over the radio. In the early 1980's Rockabilly returned with a renewed spirit. Bands like The Stray Cats, The Cramps, The Diversions, and The Meteors helped to revive the music scene with their punk rock chords and early rock 'n' roll ethics. Rockabilly (and its many sub-genres) continue to pump out new bands every year.
As with most music scenes Rockabilly has a culture with fierce influences. Hot rods, pin-ups, swing dancing, and tattoos all contribute to its culture. We here at FOUND really dig Rockabilly, and we've put together a few examples of the vintage we have in shop that can be yours!
The first picture is a light blue printed top, tucked into a cherry red pencil skirt. The outfit is tied together with a red checkered scarf, and a pair of oxford heels. This whole outfit can be purchased for less that $100. Wear this while attending a vintage car show, or drag race.
The second picture is a black sharkskin dress with a sweetheart neckline and textured waist. It has a wide circle skirt, perfect for twirling. We added white pearl beaded gloves, a cream clutch and oxford heels to complete this look. This outfit is made for swing dancing, or a night on the town!
The third photo is for the fellas. We have two great shirt options. A red/white checkered short sleeve top, or a brown/beige/pink short sleeve top. Either shirt looks great worn with a pair of cuffed denim jeans, or brown slacks. We've matched these tops with a fantastic Fedora to pull it all together. Leather jacket is optional. Both shirts run at $25 each. A steal!
Come in to FOUND vintage to see what else we can fit you in to suit your inner Rockabilly!

A few of my favorite things.....

2009-05-10T10:37:00.000-07:00

The word "caftan" can tend to conjure some scary images....Mu-mus, bad embroidery, loud and overdone patterns..... not necessarily the best vintage has to offer. But not all caftans have to be body-hiding tent dresses reserved for pregnant hippies..... In fact, my absolute favorite item in the store right now is the most elegant caftan- a dress so perfect it makes me wish for another word to describe it! Pictured above, this new arrival to the shop is a show-stopping orange with the most beautiful white and gray sequin flowers both at the neck and on the sleeves. I'm not normally a fan of sequins on anything, but on this dress, it is so tastefully done, I can't help but love it.

Besides everything, my favorite aspect of this dress is the simple orange sheath that hugs the body just enough to give the hint of a silhouette beneath the dramatic tented chiffon. When worn, you can still see the body (a rarity in most caftans) just enough to make it both sexy and mysterious.....I like to imagine it worn by a tan Miami woman in the late 60s- her black hair in a dramatic beehive, large gold earrings and sharp black clutch, it is her favorite evening dress and she wears it knowing how beautiful she looks. This confidence serves to simultaneously annoy her girlfriends and intrigue the men around her.... It's a show-shopping dress and it remains that way to this day... I just hope the next wearer of this piece exudes the same confidence this dress deserves. Enjoy!

Mum's the word...

2009-05-06T10:58:00.000-07:00

How do you thank someone who loves you unconditionally (even with all those bad habits of yours)? A phone call is a good start. With Mothers Day around the corner (Sunday the 10th), we here at FOUND want to give you a few last minute gift ideas. Don't say we've never done anything for you.

First gift idea: Clothing. Don't forget your mom is a LADY! Ladies love new outfits!! Don't just grab the first thing you can find either. It's important that the item you select is something your mom already likes to wear, or something you love so much that you want to share with her. Your mom is one-of-a-kind, so why not get her a beautiful vintage piece?

Here are two great choices for mom.
The first is a gorgeous mint green brocade dress. Perfect for cocktail time with her!
The second dress is a casual pocketed peach dress with a printed blouse under it. This works great as two gifts. She can wear them together, or as separate pieces!
Second gift idea: Accessories. Second to clothing, and definitely easier to shop for if you don't know what size you mom wears. Jewelry, hats, bags, scarves, sunglasses, shoes...etc. Below is a picture of spring time accessories we have at our shop that would make a brilliant gift. There is an ivory woven purse with a paisley scarf, a 1950's hat with decorated with dried flowers, a coral and peach beaded necklace, and a couple of earrings. Its a fun surprise when you stock up a purse with smaller gifts like a scarf and sunglasses. Like a functional gift basket of fun!
Our third gift idea: Home decor. Dishware, Candle holders, frames and paintings are all great presents. We have a little bit of everything to fill that order. Check out some of the pieces below.
Just like vintage, and a fine wine, your mom just gets better with age. She is original, and built to last. So get her something that represents her uniqueness and apologize for breaking her favorite lamp when you were 7. Happy Mothers Day!

Multi-Functional Fashion @ FOUND

2009-05-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

Getting the most bang for your buck, smart shopping, cutting back, blah blah blah. These days all you seem to hear about is the economy and how it is affecting EVERY aspect of EVERYONE'S daily life. And while we hate to focus our energies covering such a depressing trend, we at Found understand that shopping and fashion have changed quite a bit in the past year.... People are thinking differently about money, saving and job security which in turn changes how they think about purchases, fashion, etc. Soooo, boring economy-talk aside, here is one way to update your wardrobe by buying just one piece and utilizing your own accessories to wear it 3 totally different ways....

Option 1: First up, I paired it with my own vintage boots and vintage belt and wore it high-waisted with a simple black top tucked in..... The look is casual but still has an edge and a uniqueness that will make you stand out-just enough. I also love the contrast of the soft, muted palette of the skirt with the stark black top and dark boots.

Option 2: For a totally different look, I pulled the skirt way up and wore it as a tube dress with my own vintage men's vest. I love this look; it is casual and comfortable and the perfect daytime summer outfit. (I also added my own long pendant necklace and sandal boots which I think are both fun and perfect for summer) This is THE perfect outfit for a Saturday of lunch and shopping...

Option 3: And for a more evening look, I pulled the skirt down and exentuated its drop-waist style. When the skirt is pulled down like this it becomes a bit longer and looks best paired with chunky wedges that will still show a bit of leg. Pairing it with a black one-shouldered top makes the skirt appear much more "night-time" than in the previous two looks.

If you're interested in this skirt/dress, it is available here at Found Vintage for a mere $30.00!!! And honestly, I used all my own accesories, tops and shoes and it was SUPER easy to put outfits together that look totally different and would work at totally different events. Not only is this a way to save money, it's a way to re-look at the things you already own and get creative with your closet. These days, buying multiple new outfits seems frivilous and silly, but it's also the fashion "easy way out." Wearing vintage correctly means encorporating your own pieces and style to make it less literal. And there is no better way than buying one piece and challenging yourself to make the most of it and wear it multiple ways! So have fun with fashion and don't let the stupid economy make you think you can't look cute and unique for cheap!! One last thing, this skirt/dress would also make the perfect vacation piece when packing for a trip. ..That is if you can still afford to take a trip. :)

Polly Pocket

2009-04-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

Maybe one of my favorite trends so far...pocket dresses! Pockets add a sweetness to the already adorable day dress. And talk about functional! Look at those big smiles from the women pictured above. No doubt those bright smiles are due to the fact that they can pack light and leave the purse at home. Such freedom!

Designers such as Michael Kors, CHLOE (pictured below on Michelle Williams), and Marc Jacobs have all jumped on the pocket band wagon and created wonderful Spring dresses with this adorable detail. Michael Kors version (above) steps it up with the elegant polka dot print, making it a great day or evening dress.

As with any trend, this one has been in fashion for decades. You can find one of a kind vintage pocketed dresses with as much character as the ones being sold today. Here are some versions of this new favorite trend you can find at FOUND!

The first is a salmon and white checked dress from the
60's. It zips down the front, leading to the two front pockets.
Pair with a belt to cinch that narrow waist of yours. Our dress and belt combo comes to a bargain price of $60.

The next dress is a denim blue color, with a yellow and white chevron stripe detailed on the two front pockets. It also has the same chevron detail on the sailor style necktie! This dress couldn't be any cuter even if it came with puppies and kittens! This dress is priced at $40.

There are lots of dresses here at FOUND that fit right in with the pocket dress trend. We have house dresses, printed dresses, shirt dresses...all with pockets! Once you go pocket dress, you never go back.

Items of the Week!

2009-04-28T10:19:00.000-07:00

My Goodness, My Guinness! Boy, did we score on some great treasures this week! We were lucky enough to be in contact with a local woman who had previously owned her own vintage boutique and graciously sold us her beauties! Here is a little taste of what we have in stock, my personal favs.

First off, is a stunning 1950's prom dress. It is eggshell white, strapless with a heartshaped bust. It has two layers of tulle over the dress, followed by a third layer of beautiful lace. It is absolutely darling!

We have plenty of evening and party dresses that range from the 1940's to the 1960's. Such as a great sharkskin dress that screams "Madmen", a black hourglass shaped dress that mermaids out with lots of black tulle that was just made for a Mambo Mama, a sleeveless black wiggle dress showered in sequins...and much much more! There is everything from jaw dropping show stopper gowns to girls night out party dresses!
Unless you have a dress made for you by a professional seamstress it is nearly impossible to find the quality and construction of these vintage dresses in anything being marketed in malls today.

In addition to red carpet worthy dresses, we have a couple new swimsuits that will certainly be perfect to welcome summer in! The picture on the left is of a seablue knit swimsuit that is trimmed in white. It has adorable cap sleeves, and a very low cut back that ends in a white bow.
Behind it is a long white lace coat, made to be swimsuit cover-up. I bet if you shortened it, it would make a sassy little dress too!

We've also got an array of beautiful long dresses now in stock. Some long sleeved, some sleeveless, all stunning. There is a fantastic 70's AJ Bari dress in a brown print with a multi-colored rope belt to nip it at the waist and a perfect Young Edwardian 70's sleeveless dress in black with pink flowers. It has a victorian lace collar and a lace ruffle at the knee. Two really lovely pieces.

My favorite item from the 1960's we have is a 2-piece dress and jacket set. The label on the dress reads Sears "Great Looking Dresses"...and it certainly is a great looking dress! It is a mod cut (which means short and sleeveless), black dress with orange and black detail at the waist and neckline. The same detail surrounds the black jacket, trimming it at the sleeve and jacket front.

Lastly, we have got in some really amazing accessories. Gloves, hats, heels, clutches and handbags. We also have some handsome mens fedoras in stock too!

Need we say more? Come in and see these prizes for yourself!

She's Crafty!

2009-04-21T10:23:00.000-07:00

Have you ever bought an item from a Vintage store because you just LOVED the color? Or fabric? You could see all this potential in it, so you bought it. We've all been there. Then you take the item home, give it a good wash, and put it away in your closet (or the drawer with all the other things that have the potential to be something great), where slowly you begin to forget you even had it. Well, its time to dig out those long forgotten treasures and get crafty!

There are simple things you can do to revive your vintage and all it takes is a pair of scissors, a steady hand, and a sewing machine (or at least the ability to hand sew). The easiest way to customize a dress? Cut it shorter!! As short as you want. That peasant dress looks great cut as short as a tunic top when paired with cut off denim shorts. Or cut that striped dress mid-thigh for a mod night out. Put the dress on, and using a friend, have them add straight pins where you should cut. Use a yardstick from the floor up to ensure the pins are where they should be to guide you to cut a straight hem. Then cut, and sew up a new hem about an 1 - 2 inches wide.

Second to cutting it shorter is making it sleeveless. It's nearly summer, so this option is really ideal. You can use a seam ripper, and pull the sleeve completely off...or grab those handy scissors and cut away to the length you prefer. Finish off by sewing up the sleeve hem, usually about inch wide.

You can also add applique (decorative patch) to your vintage to spruce it up a bit! A solid knit dress looks cute with felt hearts sewn on it, or add applique around the neckline of a vintage shirt, or over your heart on your favorite cardigan sweater. Most appliques can be ironed on, but you can also hand stitch them on for a cute homemade look.

There is so much you can do to pump new life back into vintage! Come into FOUND and we will help you find a one-of-a-kind piece that you can personalize with your own clever touches.

Marrakech Express

2009-04-15T10:18:00.000-07:00

Marrakech isn't just where Alfred Hitchcock filmed the opening scenes of his movie "The Man Who Knew Too Much", it is also the inspiration for a fantastic new trend this season! The famous city is known for having the largest traditional market in Morroco which has been a great influence for designers. Vibrant colors, rich silks, bright patterns and gold detail are used to rejuvinate silhouettes like jumpsuits, maxi dresses, harem pants and sheer blouses.

FOUND vintage continually reads and researches trend reports to ensure we are up to date with the fashion world. Styles and patterns are constantly being recycled by designers. Vintage enthusiasts understand this more than anyone, and know how to wear their vintage masterpieces without looking dated. Its all about how you wear it!!

The first photo is of a model wearing designer Phillip Lim's version of the trend. The second photo is our version you can buy at FOUND without your wallet dying. Our lavendar maxi dress is $45 and was lovingly made in India. It has an incredible beaded rope neckline that is shaped like a halter. The sandy jacket is $45 and has two rows of gold buttons down the front.

The third photo is a GORGEOUS golden jumpsuit by Diane von Furstenberg. If you don't have $345 for her jumpsuit then check out the jumpsuit we have at FOUND. Our magenta jumpsuit is $35 and looks great paired with a leather belt and platform sandals.
Being a savvy shopper has never looked so good!

How to Wear It: The Boyfriend Blazer

2009-04-11T13:14:00.001-07:00

Even with the sweltering Florida weather, we all need a layering piece to throw over a tank top or dress to really pull together an outfit.... This season, the "Boyfriend Blazer" is THE piece to add to your wardrobe (especially if you're in need of a cheap, versatile option that you'll get a ton of use out of) The blazer has long been a wardrobe staple (especially for celebs) but the key this season is getting the right fit and pairing it with the right things.... Here at FOUND, we have blazers galore and plenty of budget-friendly pairings to help you avoid looking like you actually did borrow your boyfriend's blazer... Here are a few ideas to get you thinking about incorporating the blazer into your life and giving your go-to cardigans a much needed rest.

Option 1: A cropped, navy 80s blazer (for $30) works best with an oversized, patterned tee (for $25) that hangs perfectly long and shows beneath the blazer.. With the stark lines and exaggerated shoulders of this blazer, the best bottom would be denim shorts and wedge sandals.. This look is preppy-chic; nautical inspired and perfectly easy to wear!

Option 2: In another nod to the 80s, this yellow houndstooth blazer (for $35) actually looks great when paired with even more pattern- in this case, a sparkly sweater top (for $25).... Check out this season's runways and you are sure to see this punk 80s revival look all over the place.... The blazer is purposely slouchy and large and would look perfect with leggings and ankle boots.

Option 3: Stepping a bit further back into the 70s, this red poly blazer (for $35) offers yet another silhouette option for those with blazer-curiosity. This blazer has a more simple shape than the previous two and looks great with a printed blouse, belted and with a black pencil skirt. What's also great about this blazer is that, because it is more fitted, it looks great over a dress without being over-powering.

So that's how to wear it. And FOUND is where to buy it! Get yours here and soon you'll find you're throwing it over everything you own. (Added points if you roll up the sleeve for a effortlessly chic look.)

Do the Bunny Hop...

2009-04-09T12:01:00.000-07:00

Sunday, April 12th is Easter! Its a time to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus by finding colorful eggs and eating chocolate bunnies. Wait...that doesn't sound right. No matter, what is really important is that its a chance to get together with loved ones and feast on tasty treats while thanking your lucky stars for what you have.

FOUND wants you to celebrate in style (well, we want you to do everything in style). Forget the enormous Easter hats, shirts with rabbits on it, or dresses that make you itch. We've got great outfits that are family friendly or date friendly.
The first dress is a light blue cotton with a fun sailor collar. There is yellow and white trim that edges the collar and the two pockets. Ahoy! Its a steal for $40!

The second is a white sundress with a peach checkered print. It looks super adorable with the Lacoste cardigan over it. $85 for this outfit. You can't even get a Lacoste sweater for that price anymore!

The third is a pink plaid romper with a ruffle. The added yellow belt makes the yellow in the plaid romper pop with cuteness. Romper is $30, and yellow belt is $20.

So go enjoy a picnic in the park, a brunch with your best friend, or a dinner with dad. Don't forget the vintage.

Grits & Gravy

2009-04-07T12:53:00.000-07:00

Need another excuse to wear fabulous vintage clothing? Independent Bar here in Orlando has a dance night that’ll make you go ape! Tuesday nights at I-bar hosts Grits & Gravy, a night of Old Soul and Rock & Roll. True blue Rock & Roll, like Bill Haley and his Comets, Chuck Berry, Fats Domino and Jerry Lee Lewis. Old Soul such as Aretha Franklin, Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles. You’ll have to bring a second pair of socks (since you will have rocked off the first pair within the first hour). You can get in free before midnight if you are over 21, and they also have $1.00 PBR’s and Well drinks! Need I say more??
There is no dress code, but since the music playing is from the 50’s and 60’s it’s more fun to dress the part. High waist skirts and tucked in blouses, or bold printed mod dresses look perfect for you bitchin’ babes. Striped shirts and slim black pants are great for the Beat in all of us. Guys should concentrate on accessories like a great fedora hat, skinny tie, or smokin’ hot lady. Need more ideas? We have TONS of options at FOUND Vintage. We’ll set you up with something that fits with Grits & Gravy, and that you can also add into your current wardrobe. Fashionable and Functional pieces at FOUND.

Word of the Day: Recessionista.

2009-04-04T11:31:00.000-07:00

By now many of you have probably heard this word being kicked around in various fashion mags, fashion news reporting and even in the New York Times... But what exactly is a recessionista? Basically, a recessionista is a woman choosing to make smarter and more economical decisions due to these tough times. Recessionistas are women who value and appreciate fashion and staying current on trends, but no longer have the means, or the desire, to fork over hundreds and thousands of dollars to shop for each season. Instead, recessionistas are seeking new and alternative ways to update their looks. For a LOT less. Some popular tactics include updating only accessories (as opposed to full outfits) and seeking out discounted designer lines in stores like Target, Kohls and Payless. (Currently, you can find Alexander McQueen for Target, Vera Wang for Kohls and Patricia Field for Target.)

But one of the most effective ways to update on a shoestring budget is to find steals at local vintage stores. Fashion is cyclical and what is in style now, most likely came from-or was inspired by- a past trend. Some of the key throw-back looks this season include jumpsuits and one-piece rompers, 80s-inspired silhouettes, high-waisted trousers, wedges. ALL of these looks can cost you a small fortune at Macys and Nordstrom or you can come see our versions of these looks here at Found.....

Our rompers and jumpsuits are $35 and $40, respectively; pants are $35 and shoes are $30.... Tell me where else you can find prices like that!!

In honor of recessionistas everywhere, we have put together a special window this month that highlights the latest trends from the runways, alongside outfits from Found. We used what we have in the store to show that you can find trends in places you might not have thought of before say, the recession. We hope you enjoy the window (and the corresponding section within the store!) and think of us before you head to the mall for some serious buyers remorse. Don't do it! Shop smart. Shop economical. Shop FOUND.

Swing the Night Away...

2009-04-01T10:16:00.000-07:00

Tired of all the bumping and grinding on the crowded dance floor of every bar in town? Yep, me too. The solution? Find out locally where you can go to Swing Dance!! Here in Orlando, there are several choices like...Whirl and Twirl Dance Club off of Forsythe Rd, UCF has a Swing Knights Club, Rollins College has a swing club, and there are plenty of dance studios to choose from. You can learn classic swing dances like the Lindy Hop, Jitterbug, or Charleston. Most places have beginners courses too! Plus its an added bonus to be able to wear your vintage best, while dancing to the roots of Rock&Roll, Big Band, or Jazz.
So what exactly do you wear to swing dance? Anything comfortable, roomy, and that you don't mind sweating in. Your shoes should allow you to skid, slide and spin at high speeds! Moderate heels are good, but stilettos mean certain doom. It is definitely possible to find those qualities in a vintage outfit that will make you fit right into the 1940's-1950's era.
Back then for men, the Zoot suit was a practical choice. The pants were baggy at the thigh, narrow at the ankle, and high at the waist (which made for easy leg movements). The zoot suit jacket comes down somewhere around the knee. These suits were completed with a broad-rimmed hat, shirt and tie, long wallet chain and spectator or wing tip shoes. It can get pretty steamy under all those layers of a zoot suit though. Many men instead choose to wear a shirt and tie, with a pair of pinstriped pants.
Women have lots of choices! All you really need to keep in mind again is you want something that allows movement, isn't too warm, and won't kill your feet. Skirts with an A-line shape or dresses with the same shape are best.
After World War II, Christian Dior stunned the fashion industry with his "New Look" collection. It included voluptuous silhouettes with tiny waists in rich fabrics. These gorgeous dresses would be accessorized with a pillbox hat, gloves, and pearl necklace. Another favored look came from Bobby Socksers, who would wear blouses tucked into flared knee length skirts (or circle skirts), white socks and saddle shoes. Poodle skirts fit in with this look. Nautical was a popular style too. They wore blouses tucked into sailor trousers. The trousers were tight at the waist, and fell loose at the ankle. There are 4 large buttons (2 on each side) that help define these pants. All of these looks could be topped off with a flower hair clip or snood, seamed stockings, and a glass of spiked punch.
Here are some choices we have at FOUND to help compliment any swing dance!

Fun in the Sun

2009-03-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

Here's a few pictures of my favorite 50's starlets having some good old fashioned (literally, now) fun. These photos represent the warmer seasons flawlessly, and show you that some of the most celebrated women can look just as perfect without having to hide behind all the sequins and make-up.

The first photo, is of graceful Audrey Hepburn. I love how carefree she looks in her simple gingham capri pants, sleeveless egg-shell white tunic top, and white flats. This is a flattering look for many women, and can still be worn today. Puppy optional.

The second photo, of bombshell Marilyn Monroe in Long Island. Who says one-piece swimsuits aren't sexy?! The silhouette is classic and hugs all the natural curves. It leaves something to the imagination while still showing off her amazing body. Not to mention that white swimsuits on glowing skin looks so clean and fresh. The photo below is of stunning Elizabeth Taylor, who is also pictured wearing a scandalously adorable one-piece. The added halter to the swimsuit helps to shape her body, another flattering feature.

Stop thinking you need to avoid the beach this summer because of the fear of the bikini. Embrace your figure, and go get yourself a sassy pinup one-piece! Ooh la la!

Right now at FOUND, you can find similar pieces to the ones our lovely ladies above are wearing! Come in and check them out for yourself!

Golly, Gee!

2009-03-23T14:01:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite trend reports to come out this Spring 2009 for MEN has been inspired by...AMERICA!!!! Yes, we can still inspire some things. These new trends exemplify cookouts, boating, baseball and apple pie. Things we are lucky enough to experience in March in Florida, while the rest of the country waits for June to arrive.
Whether its tailored khaki suits worn with boat shoes, floral shirts with trousers and saddle shoes, or baseball jackets and above the knee shorts-one thing is certain...these all-American classic fashions have been inspired by vintage looks of the 1950's! Think Rock Hudson, Robert Wagner, Cary Grant...even Ward Cleaver.
So break out your grandfathers gray wool trousers, a button down plaid shirt, black loafers (socks optional), and a pair of Ray Ban clubmaster sunglasses! Ray Ban just re-issued these, and they are the bees knees! If your grandaddy was too hip to be square, then stop by and visit your local Vintage shop! We here at FOUND pride ourselves on staying up to date in the fashion world, and always look for one-of-a-kind vintage pieces that are being worn today.

Diane von Furstenberg

2009-03-18T11:01:00.000-07:00

Many of you know her from her appearances on Project Runway, but may have wondered why the competing designers stood around gawking when in her presence.
DVF carved her name in fashion history in New York 1972, when she introduced the world to her cotton jersey wrap dress. Due to its important influence on women's fashion, her wrap dress can be found in the collection of the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In 1997, she re-launched a line of wrap dresses, and continues to include a reissue of a dress or two from her 70’s collections.
In 2005 Diane was awarded the Lifetime Achievement award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) for her impact on fashion history, and only 1 year later, was elected the CFDA’s new president-a position she continues to hold today. She is also on the board of Vital Voices, a non-governmental organization that identifies, trains, and empowers emerging women leaders and social entrepreneurs around the globe, enabling them to create a better world for us all.
Diane has her own stores all over the states, across Europe, China and Japan. You can also find her collections in various high-end retailers like Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, etc. If you’ve got the eye of a tiger, you can still find DVF treasures floating around Vintage Shops and the occasional Thrift Store. We here at FOUND have been lucky enough to score some great finds. In one photo our friend Ashley is modeling a DVF bat-wing top paired with an acid-wash denim skirt and the second picture has Ashley wearing a pretty in pink DVF dress. Timeless pieces from a woman who continues to mold today's fashions.

black and white and f-ing rad all over.

2009-03-16T14:30:00.000-07:00

As you may or may not know, Amy and I are kind-of fans of black/white patterns, outfits, decor etc. (Amy's wedding was even decked out in black and white and I went so far as to adopt a black and white dog to further feed my obsession...) But all joking aside, bold black and white patterns were seen all over the runways of fashion week Spring '09. Everyone from Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel to Michael Kors to Prada showed some variation on the black and white theme. And if you can't quite get behind all those jumpsuits and harem pants-also seen on those same runways- opting for a graphic black and white outfit is a perfect way to easily update your spring wardrobe. FOR CHEAP. Pictured here is our good friend and model, Ashley, wearing a dress from the 1980s with a subtle yet strong all over pattern. Available here at FOUND for just $40.00 this dress is light and easy to wear and looks like it could've fit right into one of this season's fashion shows..... the v-back cut and revived black and white pattern are both current and accessible. Like I said, I may be a bit biased, but I happen to think this is an easy and fun look that is guaranteed to make you feel current- yet in your own unique way.
And yes, the Chanel dress- the second one- IS to die for but magazines and websites won't even give you prices on these puppies. "Price upon request"=more than a month's rent. So that $40.00 number looks even better now.... yay recessionist fashion at FOUND.

A little dose of green in honor of Saint Patty's Day...

2009-03-14T07:40:00.000-07:00

Reduce, Re-Use, Recycle.

As easy to say as it is to do nowadays. Switch off the lights in the empty room, weather strip your doors, change air filters often, use vinegar and baking soda as cleaning agents, and of course, my favorite, BUY VINTAGE!!!!

Everyone has heard that buying Vintage helps reduce your Carbon Footprint. But WTF is your Carbon Footprint?!? Settle down a bit, and I will explain.
A carbon footprint is the total set of green house gas (GHG- water vapors, carbon dioxide, CFC’s etc) emissions caused directly and indirectly by an individual, organization, event or product. So basically, if you are a Wasteful Winston (thanks Garbage pail kids) who thinks its perfectly acceptable to drive across the street while leaving the faucet and every electronic device on, just to buy the most chemically enhanced cleaning product…then you will have a larger Carbon Footprint than Mindful Mindy who’s idea of a great day is riding her bicycle to a nearby restaurant that serves seasonal food provided by local farmers.

When you buy vintage, you are recycling. (Just check out that picture above, imagine the treasures that might being thrown out everyday instead of being re-used.) It also cuts out the use of sweatshop labor, or any negative practices being used to pump out as much as you can, as fast as you can, for the very hungry consumers. There is no gain for the major corporation that mass produces their clothing, or that uses harmful dyes. The average conventional cotton t-shirt takes 150 grams of pesticides to produce. Nutty, huh?

So the moral of this story, is continue to buy vintage, and you will continue to stick it to the man!! Along with the other perks like, being original, it was made with love and also made to last the test of time.

vintage eye candy

2009-03-03T14:22:00.000-08:00

Ok so I'll be honest. 90% of the reason I wanted to start this blog was so I could profess my love for this dress. This dress.... where do I even begin???? Worn by Penelope Cruz to this years Oscars, this dress is basically the only thing memorable that happened all evening. Personally, I kept watching because I was A. sick as hell B. wanting to see amazing red carpet fashion and C. somewhat believed that the entire show would, at some point, become funnier/more entertaining. Well, it didn't. It was lame but this dress made my night- made my entire week even. So first of all, the dress is vintage Pierre Balmain, it is 60 years old and the actress admitted to having bought the dress 8 years ago for a "special occasion" but never wore it until that night. (On a side note, if you ever needed a justification for buying some amazing, extravagant vintage piece and felt like you "didn't know where you would wear it", Ms. Cruz just gave you a lifetime of justification. Of course we don't all have her wardrobe budget, but we all can relate to seeing that one piece that we know we can't live without. I think we have to embrace those sartorial moments in our lives and know that if the dress, hat, shoe is THIS amazing, it simply must be ours. Ladies please feel free to reference this post to your boyfriends/husbands who might be wondering why you need that certain vintage gem..... Because you just do. the end) Back to the dress, it is detailed with tulle and lace and actually has been criticized for looking too bridal. It is true, the strapless, princess dress does have a somewhat matrimonial flair, but what people are forgetting is that this dress is vintage!! That nipped-in waist, that amazing attention to detail and even the use of tulle and lace is representative of 1950s couture!! What we now associate with wedding day grandeur, was once just the style of the day....(see image below- they are almost identical!) Despite varying opinions, I think Penelope choose the most perfect dress to win an Oscar in. It is everything that vintage should be- it is unique, beautiful, personal- she kept it in her closet for 8 years!- and CLASSIC. And I'd sit through another boring Oscars just to see it again. Well, maybe with vodka.
By Rachel.

who we are

2009-03-03T09:05:00.000-08:00

So it official kids, FOUND has joined the rest of the world and started blogging! And just three short months after our store's grand opening- (not bad considering that Amy and I pride ourselves on being completely technologically illiterate and usually avoid all things of this nature like the plague.) But here we are and, shock of all shocks, we're super excited to have this space to rant and rave and gush about all things vintage! For those of you that don't know, we are a small locally-owned vintage clothing and housewares store run by two best friends in Orlando, FL. We started our store-and this blog for that matter- to bring together all lovers of vintage styles, vintage craftmenship and the green lifestyle that is part of choosing to wear vintage in today's world. We are proud of the amazing sustainability of our products and even prouder to offer our customers truly unique and one of a kind pieces at a (gasp!) affordable price. We know that vintage doesn't have to break the bank and during these times, we can all appreciate that. So we hope that you follow along and let us introduce you to some of our favorite pieces in the store, analyze vintage choices by celebs , look at the cyclical nature of fashion trends and much much more. And if you are ever in the Orlando area and need a break from Mickey and Shamu, come see and we promise, you won't be disapointed.
more to come soon,
Rachel @ FOUND