Tag: vintage fashions

Vintage Inspired SHIEN Plus Size Haul and the Pussy Bow Blouse of the 1950s / 1960s

Vintage Inspired SHIEN Plus Size Haul and the Pussy Bow Blouse of the 1950s / 1960s

“A lavaliere, also called a pussycat bow, is a style of neckwear often associated with women’s and girls’ blouses and bodices. It takes the form of a bow tied at the neck similar to those sometimes tied around the necks of kittens and cats” from Wikipedia. Well, it just makes sense that I am head over heels for the look of the vintage pussy bows at the moment. After all, I am all about kitty cats!

Cute Kitten sleeping. Dottie is our silly domestic short hair cat. She is a black and white kitty that my daughter thinks is wearing a tuxedo.
Have y’all met Dottie? She joined our family back in October!

Our beautiful feline is not the only reason I love this darling style of vintage blouse. I especially love the gorgeous feminine touch it brings to a tailored suit or how it looks so sweet under a cardigan.

Black and white striped pussy bow blouse plus size vintage inspired blouse
Blouse from Shein

Women have been wearing bows around the neck for centuries, however the term “pussy cat bow” did not take hold until the 1950s. Prior to that, the style was coined “lavallière” after  Duchess of La Vallière (mistress of Louis XIV). The earlier style was a bit more elaborate like a man’s cravat. The more elaborate style was also worn by the Gibson Girl of the 1890s. This earlier style is not what the theme of this post is about, I just wanted to give you a very brief timeline as a “jumping off” point if you are interested in learning more.

Photo from Tumblr

What we are talking about today is the 1950s style of blouse with a bow around the neck, the Pussy Bow Blouse. “The pussy-bow blouse was a perfect mix of masculine and feminine—an impeccable wardrobe choice for women laboring in a man’s world” from Paste Magazine. We saw this style being worn by  Peggy Olson and Joan Holloway in Mad Men.

Peggy from mad men wearing a 1960s pussy bow blouse mid century modern fashion
One of a few that Peggy wore on Mad Men.
Joan from mad men wearing a 1960s pussy bow blouse mid century modern fashion
We did not see Joan in this style often, but she rocked the look when she wore this beautiful blouse.

I was on the hunt for some cute pussy bow blouses to add to my 1950s/1960s inspired wardrobe and found that Shien had quiet a few to offer. Here is a recent haul I made to help inspire you.

Items Mentioned and featured in this haul include:

Plus Vertical Stripe Tie Neck Blouse

Plus Polka Dot Tie Neck Blouse

Plus Allover Heart Print Tie Neck Blouse

Plus Floral Shirred O-ring Half Zip Blouse

Plus Button Front Drop Shoulder Blouse

Plus Notch Neck Sleeveless Top

Faux Pearl Beaded Hair Hoop

Plus Bow Front Flared Midi Skirt: This is the black full / a line skirt I am wearing with the first two blouses. It is so versatile.

135CM Plus 3pcs Leopard Print Croc Embossed Belt: These are the true PLUS SIZE skinny belts that are mentioned in so many of my hauls. The black belt I use with the Heart Blouse is part of this trio.

I hope you enjoyed this blog and got some inspiration to help you with your vintage inspired fashion needs. Finding vintage clothing is a fun, yet challenging endeavor. This is especially true for plus size gals, like me. I will continue to share what I find so that we can all feel and look our best in the decade we all so love!!!

XOXO

Tiffany

@ramblingsfromahousewife

#PupPeroniShuffle #GetReadyWithOldSpice #vintagegirl #retrofashion #1950shousewife #vintagefashion #stockingsandheels #girdle #garterbelt #vintage

♬ brandy running and crying – brandy running and crying

The Weather Outside Was Frightful….

Oh! The weather outside was frightful…. and it was not much better inside for so many Texans, last week. We had devastating snow falls and record breaking low temperatures. As many people have said, “Texas was not built for this…Texas is not used to this!” And that is the truth!!! We are not built for…

by ramblingsfromahousewife

Happy Mardi Gras 2021

We all know that New Orleans is without their famous Mardi Gras parades and celebrations this year due to COVID-19 and the need to be safe with social distancing. “The celebration was largely cancelled late in 2020 when it was announced that there would be no live parades and no Carnival balls. Mardi Gras 2020…

by ramblingsfromahousewife

1950’s Housewife Style – The Shirt Dress – Plus Size Vintage Inspired

I have read, countless times, in Facebook groups and other places that it is hard to find plus size vintage clothing. A few years ago, I would have agreed. This is not the case, now a days, because I have found that an open mind creates many opportunities for a plus size vintage look.

It is true, that true vintage clothing is next to impossible to find in plus sizes but when you open your mind to vintage inspired clothing, the world is your oyster. In the above video, I showcase a coolection of shirt dresses I have found at Woman Within.

Sandy Shirtwaist Dress By Ellos®

There are a few other places I consider my “go to” for vintage inspired clothing. I plan to showcase a few in future blog posts, so be sure to check back.

If you would like to read a previous blog post I did, about the Shirt Waist / Shirt Dress, please take a look at New Dresses!!!! And a Brief History of the Shirt Waist Dress. (please excuse the formatting, some of my old posts did not transfer well when I started this new blog.)

Photo found on Pinterest

XOXO

Tiffany

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Woman Within Haul and Try On – Plus Size Fashion – Vintage Inspired 1950s Dresses

Hopefully, this will help out with an honest review on the products I have purchased from Woman Within.

We do not hear much about Woman Within on social media. They are frequently overlooked because some think their styles can be a bit outdated and the prices are high while quality is questionable. I want to help out with an honest review on the products I have purchased from the site. There are going to be two videos (so far) in this series discussing what I believe to be good, quality products that I will recommend.

When looking for vintage, 1950s/1960s styles, as a plus size woman, you have to keep an open mind. These styles are so hard to find in larger sizes. We often have to find the look in vintage inspired clothing. Be sure to look at shops that may have been over looked in the past. I found these darling shirtwaist dresses after MANY years of overlooking Woman Within. I am so glad I gave them another shot because these are, by far, some of my favorite finds.

There will be another video, soon, where I will share my entire collection of these dresses as well as a few of the cardigans I have from Woman Within. Be sure to keep a look out for that.

Clothing in this Haul and Try On Video

Sandy Shirtwaist Dress By Ellos® in Black and White Gingham

Sandy Shirtwaist Dress By Ellos® in Navy and White Polka Dot

I am wearing a size 2X (26/28) in both dresses to accommodate my arms. Ellos is notorious for having VERY tight arms. The dress is rather big everywhere else, but nothing I can not work with (as explained in the video). The dress comes in size Small (10/12) to 5X (38/40). Take a look at the measurements and order accordingly, however keep in mind the arms are made tight so I sized up.

Button Down Shirt By Ellos®

I do not recommend this blouse if you have bigger arms. I sized up to a 24 and it was still way too tight. If I would have moved, I am afraid it would have ripped. The quality was nothing too spectacular and I think, for the price, you are better off getting a basic while button down elsewhere. The reviews, on the site, seem pretty good….I just do not agree.

Photo from Woman Within

EveryWear Essentials™ V-Neck Tee

I purchased this in black, white, and raspberry sorbet. I bought the black in Large (18/20) because I needed a tighter black basic tee to tuck in. The white and raspberry sorbet I purchased in 1X (22/24). I love these tops, as you will see in the video. They have just enough stretch to hug your curves and retain their shape (so far, I’ve worn each of these once).

8/2022 note: These Tees are no longer available or have rebranded. The following link will direct you to a very similar, or maybe even the same tee that was rebranded.

Perfect Short Sleeve V-Neck Tee

Here are some TikToks of these dresses in action
@ramblingsfromahousewife

Inspired by the original creator @rockysroad #vintageclothes #housewifelife #sahm #housewife #fyp #imanaccounant

♬ original sound – ramblingsfromahousewife
@ramblingsfromahousewife

♬ original sound – 9GAG – 9GAG

XOXO

Tiffany

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Vintage Inspired Plus Size Clothing Haul

Finding vintage clothing in plus sizes is extremely difficult. I have been dressing in this style for years and have tried finding things in sizes from 12 all the way up to 24+. I have never found it easy. The best thing, I have found, is to dress in a vintage INSPIRED style.

My favorite fashion era is the late 1950s / early 1960s. I love the style of the shirtwaist and wiggle dress.

Pattern packaging of a 1950’s shirtwaist dress.

Each of these styles can be achieved, in my opinion, very easy. For the shirtwaist, just look for simple, easy shirt dresses. For the wiggle dress “look”, search for dresses with a body-con fit or an outfit of pencil skirt and form fitting blouse.

Pattern Packaging of a 1950s/1960s wiggle dress

There are many places these styles can be found in plus sizes but I am here, today, to show you what I found at Shein. Shein is a VERY inexpensive online shop serving both plus size/curvy and …. regular (?) sizes. They usually have coupons available to even further their discounted prices. Word of warning, while the prices are very low please expect a “fast fashion” quality. I would compare it to a place like Dots, back in the day (I am not sure it Dots is still around). These will not be investment pieces and I, most likely, would not even wear them to “work” (If I worked outside of our home). These are fun items. Not to be taken too serious. When you are paying 15 – 20 dollars for a dress, you should not judge too harshly.

You can see what I purchased, and my commentary, on my YouTube channel, Ramblings from a Housewife

Items bought in this haul include:

Black Pencil/tube skirt size 4X

Cherry Faux Wrap Blouse size 4X

Leopard Peplum Blouse (not shown in the try on portion, sorry about that)

Black and White Vintage Inspired Shirtwaist Dress size 4X

Pink and Ivory Ditsy Floral Vintage Inspired Dress size 4X

Leopard Co-Ord size 4X

Black Night Gown (not shown in try on portion)

Check out my Instagram

Ramblings from a Housewife

I will be styling and sharing how I am wearing these outfits in the next few weeks. I also have vintage inspired outfits from other retailers, as well, as lots of other vintage lifestyle tidbits. I would love for you to join me over there!

Speaking of Social Media….

You can find me on the following, as well…

TikTok

(I can not seem to embed this….but click on the word “TikTok” and it will take you to my TikTok)

Before you go….

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XOXO

Tiffany

Multiply your Eggs: As inspired by World War 2 Rationing

No matter what the occasion, in the grand scheme of things, eggs can be a very frugal headliner in a meal. Knowing how to properly store and prepare your eggs, as well as adding in some delicious egg centered meals, can help you stretch your supply of eggs and keep your food budget on point.

Photo from Your Share: How to Prepare Appetizing, Healthful Meals with Foods Available Today

Eggs are a very thrifty household staple. They are as versatile as they are delicious. You just can’t beat the punch they provide in nutrition. There is a reason they were touted as the “incredible edible egg.”

Although they are a frugal housewife’s staple, they are coming under pressure during these uncertain times. It is an indirect result of Covid 19, people are eating more eggs because they are home and have time for a sit down breakfast. Also….people are baking more. “Americans — now cooped up and stress-baking for their families — continue to markedly change their cooking behaviors, American egg producers will have to grow their flocks. But that takes time: It takes 22 weeks for a chick to become a laying hen.” (Washington Post)

Photo from Your Share: How to Prepare Appetizing, Healthful Meals with Foods Available Today

Housewives of World War 2, also had to deal with egg supply issues which lead to egg rationing. “Since there was a shortage of grain to feed chickens, millions of commercially-farmed hens had to be killed and sold as food.  This ultimately led to an egg shortage, and rationing was implemented allowing a person one fresh egg per week.” (The War Time Kitchen) ONE fresh egg per week!!! My darling husband has 3 eggs to start his day everyday!!!

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So, what is the solution to an egg shortage? You can certainly, if you live in a rural area or your city allows, raise your own chickens. Nothing cuter than having fine feathered ladies run around your yard while earning their keep by supplying you in fresh eggs. Our city, however does not allow chickens!!! Which is probably for the best because our backyard is not that big!!!

So the best thing for my family is if I learn to use eggs wisely. Fortunately, in suburban N Texas, we do not yet have a short supply, but these will be good habits to incorporate if the time comes.

Photo from Your Share: How to Prepare Appetizing, Healthful Meals with Foods Available Today

First and foremost, it is advised in the Your Share booklet, know how to “treat” your eggs. “They like the coldest part of the refrigerator.” Eggs should not be stored in the refrigerator door, the temperature in not at its coldest there and not regulated as well as the main compartment. Store with the large end up to keep the yolk centered. This is how they are placed in the carton by the distributor.

Photo from Your Share: How to Prepare Appetizing, Healthful Meals with Foods Available Today

Know how to properly cook your egg to prevent waste. When your food is not tasty, you are more likely to leave some on your plate. “They get tough if you make it too hot for them…Simmer, don’t bubble…fry gently, don’t frizzle…bake slowly, don’t broil…” (Your Share)

Find a few easy and thrifty recipes, that help you multiply your eggs, to include in your weekly meal plans. Here are some that are both delicious and frugal.

Egg Drop Soup

  • 4 c low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
  • 1 green onion thinly sliced
  • 2 eggs

Heat chicken broth and soy sauce in medium saucepan over high heat. Bring to boil. Stir in green onion. Whisk eggs in small bowl. Slowly pour eggs in thin stream into broth, stirring gently. Serve immediately

Easy Egg Muffins

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 c milk
  • 3/4 c of mozzarella cheese (you can use any cheese, whatever you have)
  • handful of baby spinach wilted (optional)
  • small red bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 2 ounces ham, diced (whatever meat you have on hand, or omit completely)
  • dash salt to taste
  • dash black pepper to taste
  • any other seasoning you may like. I add garlic and a Cajun seasoning.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In large bowl, beat eggs, milk, salt and black pepper. Stir in cheese, spinach and roasted red pepper.

Divide batter among muffin-pan cups (about 1/4 cup each), top with ham and bake 20 to 25 minutes or until just set in the center.

Cool on rack 5 minutes, then remove from cups. Serve warm. Can be refrigerated up to 4 days; microwave on High 30 seconds to reheat.

Note: This recipe is totally a “use what you have on hand” type of concoction. You really only need the eggs and milk. It is, however, more filling and goes further if you add some fillers like the meat and veggies. Potatoes are a great filler, too.

egg fried rice

  • 1 c water
  • 1 cup minute rice
  • 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 c vegetables (the old standby of carrots, peas, and corn are yummy)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste

In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring water and soy sauce to a boil. Pour in uncooked rice and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes (per package directions).

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, vegetables, and salt and pepper to taste. Saute until garlic begins to turn golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Crack egg directly into skillet and scramble with vegetables and garlic. When egg is cooked, pour the finished rice in the frying pan.

Stir rice with egg, vegetables, and garlic until any excess water from the rice evaporates, about 2-3 minutes.

Serve immediately.

Other Egg Dishes that will not break the bank

Hot Ham and Scambled Egg Sandwhiches

Egg Salad with Tomatoes (Over a bed of lettuce or in a sandwhich)

Egg Tacos (with meat or beans)

Bird in a Nest

Crustless Egg and Cheese Quiche

Sausage and Egg Casserole

No matter what the occasion, in the grand scheme of things, eggs can be a very frugal headliner in a meal. Knowing how to properly store and prepare your eggs, as well as adding in some delicious egg centered meals, can help you stretch your supply of eggs and keep your food budget on point.

Be sure to check out the other posts on Betty Crocker’s Your Share: How to Prepare Appetizing, Healthful Meals with Foods Available Today. We can utilize tips and tricks from our homemaking sister of World War 2 in today’s meals and keep our family’s tummies satisfied.

How to Stretch Meat for Delicious and Economical Meals as inspired by World War 2 Rationing

Before you go….

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