Past Fashion Future

"Classic Style, Timeless Fashion" with Emma Grady

— @PastFashFuture on Twitter.

Tagged Accessories:

It’s easy for Fair Tuesday to get lost among its more publicized siblings, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Rather than shout deals, steals, and—ahem—overconsumption, the initiative founded by Global Goods aims to raise awareness about how everyday purchases can benefit communities.

To take part, you don’t even have to spend a cent. Just share social media love by tweeting the #FairTuesday hashtag come November 27th. Should twove turn to purchase, I’ve curated the most colorful and fashionable fair trade accessories and home goods from Indego Africa, which are all under $50 and oh-so-suitable for holiday gifts. (Plus, you don’t even have to wait for Tuesday to buy ‘em.)

First up: Indego Africa breaths colorful life into the boring commute and travel accessories with their Mixed Patchwork Weekender. Made with vibrant Dutch wax cloth, the spacious bag is functional and, thanks to its timeless aesthetic, it can be worn any season.

Continue reading my feature for TreeHugger.com, here: 5 Colorful Fair Trade Holiday Gifts to Score on Fair Tuesday
Nov 21
It’s easy for Fair Tuesday to get lost among its more publicized siblings, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Rather than shout deals, steals, and—ahem—overconsumption, the initiative founded by Global Goods aims to raise awareness about how everyday purchases can benefit communities. To take part, you don’t even have to spend a cent. Just share social media love by tweeting the #FairTuesday hashtag come November 27th. Should twove turn to purchase, I’ve curated the most colorful and fashionable fair trade accessories and home goods from Indego Africa, which are all under $50 and oh-so-suitable for holiday gifts. (Plus, you don’t even have to wait for Tuesday to buy ‘em.) First up: Indego Africa breaths colorful life into the boring commute and travel accessories with their Mixed Patchwork Weekender. Made with vibrant Dutch wax cloth, the spacious bag is functional and, thanks to its timeless aesthetic, it can be worn any season. Continue reading my feature for TreeHugger.com, here: 5 Colorful Fair Trade Holiday Gifts to Score on Fair Tuesday

Monique Pean’s collection of handmade fine jewelry for Fall/Winter 2012 offers exquisite pieces that you can add to your gift wish list now.

Pean uses 100% recycled metals and conflict-free diamonds, support fair trade and artisans, and gathers all materials following environmentally-responsible methods. The pieces are as sustainable as they are beautiful, so it’s also no wonder that Michelle Obama is a fan of the wooly mammoth bone jewelry.

Continue reading—and view more pics—in my feature article for Discovery’s TreeHugger.com, here: Monique Pean Turns Mammoth Bone Into Striking Sustainable Jewelry

Oct 28
Monique Pean’s collection of handmade fine jewelry for Fall/Winter 2012 offers exquisite pieces that you can add to your gift wish list now. Pean uses 100% recycled metals and conflict-free diamonds, support fair trade and artisans, and gathers all materials following environmentally-responsible methods. The pieces are as sustainable as they are beautiful, so it’s also no wonder that Michelle Obama is a fan of the wooly mammoth bone jewelry. Continue reading—and view more pics—in my feature article for Discovery’s TreeHugger.com, here: Monique Pean Turns Mammoth Bone Into Striking Sustainable Jewelry

Sustainable sunglasses are a haute topic—I’ve seen sunnies made from recycled stainless steel, repurposed plastic, and bamboo, but castor bean oil? This plant-based resin is new to the susty eyewear scene. But Zeal Optics is tapping this plant-based resin for all frames in their 2013 collection of men’s and women’s sunglasses.

Thanks to their light weight and snug fit, Zeal’s sunglasses are built to be worn out in the world and are ideal for an active lifestyle. From a run through the park to a strut down the street, the fashion-forward “Darby” or “Hadley” will suit your need for fashion, and function.

Check out a snap of me at Zeal’s launch event in NYC, here, and continue reading my feature article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com: Zeal Releases Stylish Sunglasses Made from Castor Oil

Jul 31
Sustainable sunglasses are a haute topic—I’ve seen sunnies made from recycled stainless steel, repurposed plastic, and bamboo, but castor bean oil? This plant-based resin is new to the susty eyewear scene. But Zeal Optics is tapping this plant-based resin for all frames in their 2013 collection of men’s and women’s sunglasses. Thanks to their light weight and snug fit, Zeal’s sunglasses are built to be worn out in the world and are ideal for an active lifestyle. From a run through the park to a strut down the street, the fashion-forward “Darby” or “Hadley” will suit your need for fashion, and function. Check out a snap of me at Zeal’s launch event in NYC, here, and continue reading my feature article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com: Zeal Releases Stylish Sunglasses Made from Castor Oil

@PastFashionFuture Instagram of the Week/My Favorite Vintage Thrift Store Find: A vintage Pierre Balmain bag. I found it for $15 but since I sold my clothes to Beacon’s Closet (a thrift store in Brooklyn, New York) and got a store credit it was basically $free.99! Jealous much? Don’t be! You can find great vintage, too. You just have to have patience, persistence, and an eye for quality. (Psst..stay close and you’ll  be a vintage shopping pro in no time.)

Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.
Jul 30
@PastFashionFuture Instagram of the Week/My Favorite Vintage Thrift Store Find: A vintage Pierre Balmain bag. I found it for $15 but since I sold my clothes to Beacon’s Closet (a thrift store in Brooklyn, New York) and got a store credit it was basically $free.99! Jealous much? Don’t be! You can find great vintage, too. You just have to have patience, persistence, and an eye for quality. (Psst..stay close and you’ll  be a vintage shopping pro in no time.) Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

Wednesday night, I braved the bizarre weather in NYC and trekked to Riverpark Farm at the Alexandria Center all in the name of sunglasses. New functional-yet-fashionable Zeal Optics hosted a to-die-for dinner, which was sourced from the farm next door, to launch their Spring 2013 line.

I’m wearing the “Darby” sunnies from the line and I can’t wait ‘till they come out—though, full disclosure, they’re gifting me with a pair when they do. Until then, keep tuned for my review.

I’m also donning Amour Vert’s Carmel Riviera peace silk dress, Naya’s Wind Sandals, and a Coach bag. 

View more: EMMA’S STYLE

“Emma’s Style” is made possible in part by CrOp by David Peck.

Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.
Jul 20
Wednesday night, I braved the bizarre weather in NYC and trekked to Riverpark Farm at the Alexandria Center all in the name of sunglasses. New functional-yet-fashionable Zeal Optics hosted a to-die-for dinner, which was sourced from the farm next door, to launch their Spring 2013 line. I’m wearing the “Darby” sunnies from the line and I can’t wait ‘till they come out—though, full disclosure, they’re gifting me with a pair when they do. Until then, keep tuned for my review. I’m also donning Amour Vert’s Carmel Riviera peace silk dress, Naya’s Wind Sandals, and a Coach bag.  View more: EMMA’S STYLE “Emma’s Style” is made possible in part by CrOp by David Peck. Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

For the second consecutive year, I am judging the 6th Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards. Along with the 2012 IHDA Judging Panel, I selected the top 30 styles from more than 1,000 entries across 7 categories.

This is where you come in: help choose the Audience Fan Favorite over at InStyle: Instyle.com/ihdapoll2012.

Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on June 13th, hosted by Handbag Designer 101, at the Time & Life Building in New York City. Keep tuned: Emma will be on the scene at the VIP cocktail party and ceremony sharing live updates on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Tickets can be purchased on Handbag Designer 101 or you can try to win a trip to the awards with JP Selects.
Jun 09
For the second consecutive year, I am judging the 6th Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards. Along with the 2012 IHDA Judging Panel, I selected the top 30 styles from more than 1,000 entries across 7 categories. This is where you come in: help choose the Audience Fan Favorite over at InStyle: Instyle.com/ihdapoll2012. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on June 13th, hosted by Handbag Designer 101, at the Time & Life Building in New York City. Keep tuned: Emma will be on the scene at the VIP cocktail party and ceremony sharing live updates on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Tickets can be purchased on Handbag Designer 101 or you can try to win a trip to the awards with JP Selects.

The Great GoogaMooga has come and gone and it was an experience for sure to see my dear Prospect Park transformed into a food, booze, and music fest for a weekend.

Most notable was spending time with my friends while we basked in the glorious sunshine and spent the rest of the time waiting in lines, long lines, in fact the entire event was a sea of lines. Notably missing was cell phone service, hence the delay in my uploading PastFashionFuture Instagram snaps.

My Great GoogaMooga Style: a white racer-back tank top, borrowed from a friend; a vintage Fendi purse, $25 via Elba at the Park Slope flea market; a drawstring Banana Republic skirt, $8 at Housing Works, a beige MaxMara cashmere sweater (not pictured), Chloé sunglasses, vintage gold costume jewelry earrings, $5 via a stoop sale, and Rupert Sanderson flats.

Photo: Emma Grady (P.S. I look a little miffed, but what can I say? I was blinded by the light.

View more: EMMA’S STYLE

“Emma’s Style” is made possible in part by CrOp by David Peck.

Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.
May 21
The Great GoogaMooga has come and gone and it was an experience for sure to see my dear Prospect Park transformed into a food, booze, and music fest for a weekend. Most notable was spending time with my friends while we basked in the glorious sunshine and spent the rest of the time waiting in lines, long lines, in fact the entire event was a sea of lines. Notably missing was cell phone service, hence the delay in my uploading PastFashionFuture Instagram snaps. My Great GoogaMooga Style: a white racer-back tank top, borrowed from a friend; a vintage Fendi purse, $25 via Elba at the Park Slope flea market; a drawstring Banana Republic skirt, $8 at Housing Works, a beige MaxMara cashmere sweater (not pictured), Chloé sunglasses, vintage gold costume jewelry earrings, $5 via a stoop sale, and Rupert Sanderson flats. Photo: Emma Grady (P.S. I look a little miffed, but what can I say? I was blinded by the light. View more: EMMA’S STYLE “Emma’s Style” is made possible in part by CrOp by David Peck. Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

I am excited to announce that I will be judging the 6th Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards (IHDA) again this year. I’ll be joining fellow judges this weekend to view all of the applicants’ designs—last year we saw 1200 bags in one day! Awarded across nine categories, the IHDA gives designers an opportunity to bring their designs—and brand—to the next level.

APPLY NOW: 2012 IHDA (All entries must be received by 11:59pm on April 28th, 2012.)

Last year, The Sway won the IHDA for Best Green Handbag and with it, a collaboration on handbags with Timberland, which will be available this summer. The Sway’s winning bag quickly sold out in Timberland stores and the award helped them triple their growth in under a year. The Sway is now selling to top boutiques around the country, including Fred Segal, Madison, and Kaight.

Photo: IHDA winner Belinda Pasqua from The Sway with Jackie Lalime from Timberland.
Apr 22
I am excited to announce that I will be judging the 6th Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards (IHDA) again this year. I’ll be joining fellow judges this weekend to view all of the applicants’ designs—last year we saw 1200 bags in one day! Awarded across nine categories, the IHDA gives designers an opportunity to bring their designs—and brand—to the next level. APPLY NOW: 2012 IHDA (All entries must be received by 11:59pm on April 28th, 2012.) Last year, The Sway won the IHDA for Best Green Handbag and with it, a collaboration on handbags with Timberland, which will be available this summer. The Sway’s winning bag quickly sold out in Timberland stores and the award helped them triple their growth in under a year. The Sway is now selling to top boutiques around the country, including Fred Segal, Madison, and Kaight. Photo: IHDA winner Belinda Pasqua from The Sway with Jackie Lalime from Timberland.

SUNO puts a vibrant spin on Warby Parker’s classic eyewear with the SUNO + Warby Parker collaboration which boasts three frame styles in three different colorful prints. 

SLIDESHOW: The SUNO + Warby Parker sunwear collection.

The limited-edition collection maintains Warby Parker’s philanthropic model: for every pair purchased, a pair of optical glasses will be donated to someone in need.

Photo credit: Warby Parker.
Jan 22
SUNO puts a vibrant spin on Warby Parker’s classic eyewear with the SUNO + Warby Parker collaboration which boasts three frame styles in three different colorful prints.  SLIDESHOW: The SUNO + Warby Parker sunwear collection. The limited-edition collection maintains Warby Parker’s philanthropic model: for every pair purchased, a pair of optical glasses will be donated to someone in need. Photo credit: Warby Parker.

SUNO + Warby Parker sunwear collection. Read article, here.

All photos: courtesy Warby Parker.

Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.
Jan 22

Adding to their creative ways of turning Vietnam War scrap metal into accessories, Article 22 releases a colorful Peacebomb Resolution Wrap Bracelet just in time for New Year’s. Made with a hand cast bomb metal tag and finished with vintage silk string from France, each bracelet—available for $16 on Peace-Bomb.com—helps clear a meter of bomb-littered land.

Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com, here.
Jan 01
Adding to their creative ways of turning Vietnam War scrap metal into accessories, Article 22 releases a colorful Peacebomb Resolution Wrap Bracelet just in time for New Year’s. Made with a hand cast bomb metal tag and finished with vintage silk string from France, each bracelet—available for $16 on Peace-Bomb.com—helps clear a meter of bomb-littered land. Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com, here.

Founded in 2008 by Sammy Abdella and Holly Hikido, Sammy Hand Made in Ethiopia is creating employment opportunities for artisans in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s largest city, and bringing local craftsmanship to an international level with their line of luxury scarves and leather goods. Read more of my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com.


Photo credit: Sammy Hand Made in Ethiopia
Dec 11
Founded in 2008 by Sammy Abdella and Holly Hikido, Sammy Hand Made in Ethiopia is creating employment opportunities for artisans in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s largest city, and bringing local craftsmanship to an international level with their line of luxury scarves and leather goods. Read more of my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com. Photo credit: Sammy Hand Made in Ethiopia

Peace bomb bracelets have a story to tell: each one has been made with repurposed Vietnam War scrap metal. And Article 22 founder and designer Elizabeth Suda has a story to tell about the people of Laos and the Secret War that effects their lives to this day.

Last October, I wrote about how Suda and her team were traveling to Laos to shoot a short documentary on the process of turning bombs into bracelets. Well, the video is here. Plus, two more bracelets, which are conveniently available online at Peace-Bomb.com.

Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com.

Photo: A Lao metal smith makes spoons from war scrap metal; credit: Article 22.

Sep 26
Peace bomb bracelets have a story to tell: each one has been made with repurposed Vietnam War scrap metal. And Article 22 founder and designer Elizabeth Suda has a story to tell about the people of Laos and the Secret War that effects their lives to this day. Last October, I wrote about how Suda and her team were traveling to Laos to shoot a short documentary on the process of turning bombs into bracelets. Well, the video is here. Plus, two more bracelets, which are conveniently available online at Peace-Bomb.com. Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com. Photo: A Lao metal smith makes spoons from war scrap metal; credit: Article 22.

Back to the Earth Bauble Rings by Todd Reed.

In Boulder, Colorado, Todd Reed is crafting handmade jewelry with recycled precious metals and his signature, raw and uncut diamonds. What is so striking about Reed’s designs is that they actually look like they came from the earth. While some seek the perfectly-cut diamond popular in contemporary jewelry, Reed designs with the natural form of the diamond in mind.

Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeeHugger.com
Aug 07
Back to the Earth Bauble Rings by Todd Reed. In Boulder, Colorado, Todd Reed is crafting handmade jewelry with recycled precious metals and his signature, raw and uncut diamonds. What is so striking about Reed’s designs is that they actually look like they came from the earth. While some seek the perfectly-cut diamond popular in contemporary jewelry, Reed designs with the natural form of the diamond in mind. Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeeHugger.com

“Something Old, Something New: How Modern Day Style Mavens Wear Vintage” featuring style blogger Ashley Baluyut of Milk Teeths.

Something Old, Something New: Ashley Baluyut

Style blogger Ashley Baluyut of Milk Teeths has a playful approach to style. Kristen, Past Fashion Future’s intern, introduced me to her blog and I instantly loved the way she put together her vintage ensembles with wearable separates and a pop of color that she often tops off with a stunning smile. 

Ashley is also a vintage clothing seller over at Three Feathers Vintage on Etsy, so you can scoop up some of her carefully-curated vintage picks over there. Here’s Ashley, on her personal style:

This photo is from a month and a half ago when my boyfriend, some friends, and I were traveling through Europe. On this day, the weather forecast for Rome, Italy was generally nice weather with a small chance of rain.

Foolishly, I trusted the weather forecast.

I wore a cream button down silk blouse that I bought at a thrift store for $5; gray trouser shorts that were originally pants —  my grandmother was nice enough to lop off the legs for me — and they probably belonged to someone’s grandpa in the 1970’s. If my memory serves me correctly, they were only $1 at another thrift store.

The scarf around my head is from a vintage store in Haight Ashbury.

It’s a little memento that I bought on my first trip to the city when I was 18, visiting my best friend at Berkeley. I don’t normally wear scarves babushka-style but when this photo was taken it was pouring rain and we had to seek shelter in a church courtyard in Trastevere.

Naturally, I didn’t bring an umbrella or jacket with me while we were out.

The $4 Keds that I’m wearing — thrifted and brand new — got beyond soaked on the trudge back to the metro, as did the blue striped socks that have somehow always been in my sock drawer ever since forever.

Luckily my leather cross body saddle bag, which I purchased at the Rosebowl flea market in Pasadena, California for $15, kept my camera (the most expensive thing I own) nice and dry.

Ten minutes after this photo was taken we made our way across the bridge over the Tiber river.

I was thoroughly drenched and bummed on life. It took a fifteen minute walk to get to the metro station and back to our hostel and it rained even harder. Suffice to say, I now refuse to go anywhere without a small travel umbrella in my purse!

“Something Old, Something New”: How Modern Day Style Mavens Wear Vintage and Heirlooms” looks at how people with amazing personal style incorporate vintage and heirloom pieces into their everyday wardrobes. Through a series of personal anecdotes and images, I show how when it comes to dressing, there’s more than meets the eye and, fortunately, I get to share the story — behind the outfit — with you here.

Follow us on Bloglovin

More Heirloom-Meets-Modern Style
Something Old, Something New: Sean Hotchkiss of Khaki Crusader
Something Old, Something New: Eliza Starbuck and Toshi Yano
Something Old, Something New: Liam Alexander
Something Old, Something New: Molly Grady

Copyright © 2011 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.
Jul 18
“Something Old, Something New: How Modern Day Style Mavens Wear Vintage” featuring style blogger Ashley Baluyut of Milk Teeths. Something Old, Something New: Ashley Baluyut Style blogger Ashley Baluyut of Milk Teeths has a playful approach to style. Kristen, Past Fashion Future’s intern, introduced me to her blog and I instantly loved the way she put together her vintage ensembles with wearable separates and a pop of color that she often tops off with a stunning smile.  Ashley is also a vintage clothing seller over at Three Feathers Vintage on Etsy, so you can scoop up some of her carefully-curated vintage picks over there. Here’s Ashley, on her personal style: This photo is from a month and a half ago when my boyfriend, some friends, and I were traveling through Europe. On this day, the weather forecast for Rome, Italy was generally nice weather with a small chance of rain. Foolishly, I trusted the weather forecast. I wore a cream button down silk blouse that I bought at a thrift store for $5; gray trouser shorts that were originally pants —  my grandmother was nice enough to lop off the legs for me — and they probably belonged to someone’s grandpa in the 1970’s. If my memory serves me correctly, they were only $1 at another thrift store. The scarf around my head is from a vintage store in Haight Ashbury. It’s a little memento that I bought on my first trip to the city when I was 18, visiting my best friend at Berkeley. I don’t normally wear scarves babushka-style but when this photo was taken it was pouring rain and we had to seek shelter in a church courtyard in Trastevere. Naturally, I didn’t bring an umbrella or jacket with me while we were out. The $4 Keds that I’m wearing — thrifted and brand new — got beyond soaked on the trudge back to the metro, as did the blue striped socks that have somehow always been in my sock drawer ever since forever. Luckily my leather cross body saddle bag, which I purchased at the Rosebowl flea market in Pasadena, California for $15, kept my camera (the most expensive thing I own) nice and dry.Ten minutes after this photo was taken we made our way across the bridge over the Tiber river. I was thoroughly drenched and bummed on life. It took a fifteen minute walk to get to the metro station and back to our hostel and it rained even harder. Suffice to say, I now refuse to go anywhere without a small travel umbrella in my purse! “Something Old, Something New”: How Modern Day Style Mavens Wear Vintage and Heirlooms” looks at how people with amazing personal style incorporate vintage and heirloom pieces into their everyday wardrobes. Through a series of personal anecdotes and images, I show how when it comes to dressing, there’s more than meets the eye and, fortunately, I get to share the story — behind the outfit — with you here. Follow us on Bloglovin More Heirloom-Meets-Modern StyleSomething Old, Something New: Sean Hotchkiss of Khaki CrusaderSomething Old, Something New: Eliza Starbuck and Toshi YanoSomething Old, Something New: Liam AlexanderSomething Old, Something New: Molly Grady Copyright © 2011 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Wednesday November 21st 2012 at 12:14am. Its tags are listed below.

It’s easy for Fair Tuesday to get lost among its more publicized siblings, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Rather than shout deals, steals, and—ahem—overconsumption, the initiative founded by Global Goods aims to raise awareness about how everyday purchases can benefit communities. To take part, you don’t even have to spend a cent. Just share social media love by tweeting the #FairTuesday hashtag come November 27th. Should twove turn to purchase, I’ve curated the most colorful and fashionable fair trade accessories and home goods from Indego Africa, which are all under $50 and oh-so-suitable for holiday gifts. (Plus, you don’t even have to wait for Tuesday to buy ‘em.) First up: Indego Africa breaths colorful life into the boring commute and travel accessories with their Mixed Patchwork Weekender. Made with vibrant Dutch wax cloth, the spacious bag is functional and, thanks to its timeless aesthetic, it can be worn any season. Continue reading my feature for TreeHugger.com, here: 5 Colorful Fair Trade Holiday Gifts to Score on Fair Tuesday
It’s easy for Fair Tuesday to get lost among its more publicized siblings, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Rather than shout deals, steals, and—ahem—overconsumption, the initiative founded by Global Goods aims to raise awareness about how everyday purchases can benefit communities. To take part, you don’t even have to spend a cent. Just share social media love by tweeting the #FairTuesday hashtag come November 27th. Should twove turn to purchase, I’ve curated the most colorful and fashionable fair trade accessories and home goods from Indego Africa, which are all under $50 and oh-so-suitable for holiday gifts. (Plus, you don’t even have to wait for Tuesday to buy ‘em.) First up: Indego Africa breaths colorful life into the boring commute and travel accessories with their Mixed Patchwork Weekender. Made with vibrant Dutch wax cloth, the spacious bag is functional and, thanks to its timeless aesthetic, it can be worn any season. Continue reading my feature for TreeHugger.com, here: 5 Colorful Fair Trade Holiday Gifts to Score on Fair Tuesday

It’s easy for Fair Tuesday to get lost among its more publicized siblings, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Rather than shout deals, steals, and—ahem—overconsumption, the initiative founded by Global Goods aims to raise awareness about how everyday purchases can benefit communities.

To take part, you don’t even have to spend a cent. Just share social media love by tweeting the #FairTuesday hashtag come November 27th. Should twove turn to purchase, I’ve curated the most colorful and fashionable fair trade accessories and home goods from Indego Africa, which are all under $50 and oh-so-suitable for holiday gifts. (Plus, you don’t even have to wait for Tuesday to buy ‘em.)

First up: Indego Africa breaths colorful life into the boring commute and travel accessories with their Mixed Patchwork Weekender. Made with vibrant Dutch wax cloth, the spacious bag is functional and, thanks to its timeless aesthetic, it can be worn any season.

Continue reading my feature for TreeHugger.com, here: 5 Colorful Fair Trade Holiday Gifts to Score on Fair Tuesday

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Sunday October 28th 2012 at 10:28pm. Its tags are listed below.

Monique Pean’s collection of handmade fine jewelry for Fall/Winter 2012 offers exquisite pieces that you can add to your gift wish list now. Pean uses 100% recycled metals and conflict-free diamonds, support fair trade and artisans, and gathers all materials following environmentally-responsible methods. The pieces are as sustainable as they are beautiful, so it’s also no wonder that Michelle Obama is a fan of the wooly mammoth bone jewelry. Continue reading—and view more pics—in my feature article for Discovery’s TreeHugger.com, here: Monique Pean Turns Mammoth Bone Into Striking Sustainable Jewelry
Monique Pean’s collection of handmade fine jewelry for Fall/Winter 2012 offers exquisite pieces that you can add to your gift wish list now. Pean uses 100% recycled metals and conflict-free diamonds, support fair trade and artisans, and gathers all materials following environmentally-responsible methods. The pieces are as sustainable as they are beautiful, so it’s also no wonder that Michelle Obama is a fan of the wooly mammoth bone jewelry. Continue reading—and view more pics—in my feature article for Discovery’s TreeHugger.com, here: Monique Pean Turns Mammoth Bone Into Striking Sustainable Jewelry

Monique Pean’s collection of handmade fine jewelry for Fall/Winter 2012 offers exquisite pieces that you can add to your gift wish list now.

Pean uses 100% recycled metals and conflict-free diamonds, support fair trade and artisans, and gathers all materials following environmentally-responsible methods. The pieces are as sustainable as they are beautiful, so it’s also no wonder that Michelle Obama is a fan of the wooly mammoth bone jewelry.

Continue reading—and view more pics—in my feature article for Discovery’s TreeHugger.com, here: Monique Pean Turns Mammoth Bone Into Striking Sustainable Jewelry

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Tuesday July 31st 2012 at 07:43am. Its tags are listed below.

Sustainable sunglasses are a haute topic—I’ve seen sunnies made from recycled stainless steel, repurposed plastic, and bamboo, but castor bean oil? This plant-based resin is new to the susty eyewear scene. But Zeal Optics is tapping this plant-based resin for all frames in their 2013 collection of men’s and women’s sunglasses. Thanks to their light weight and snug fit, Zeal’s sunglasses are built to be worn out in the world and are ideal for an active lifestyle. From a run through the park to a strut down the street, the fashion-forward “Darby” or “Hadley” will suit your need for fashion, and function. Check out a snap of me at Zeal’s launch event in NYC, here, and continue reading my feature article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com: Zeal Releases Stylish Sunglasses Made from Castor Oil

Sustainable sunglasses are a haute topic—I’ve seen sunnies made from recycled stainless steel, repurposed plastic, and bamboo, but castor bean oil? This plant-based resin is new to the susty eyewear scene. But Zeal Optics is tapping this plant-based resin for all frames in their 2013 collection of men’s and women’s sunglasses.

Thanks to their light weight and snug fit, Zeal’s sunglasses are built to be worn out in the world and are ideal for an active lifestyle. From a run through the park to a strut down the street, the fashion-forward “Darby” or “Hadley” will suit your need for fashion, and function.

Check out a snap of me at Zeal’s launch event in NYC, here, and continue reading my feature article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com: Zeal Releases Stylish Sunglasses Made from Castor Oil

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Monday July 30th 2012 at 11:21pm. Its tags are listed below.

@PastFashionFuture Instagram of the Week/My Favorite Vintage Thrift Store Find: A vintage Pierre Balmain bag. I found it for $15 but since I sold my clothes to Beacon’s Closet (a thrift store in Brooklyn, New York) and got a store credit it was basically $free.99! Jealous much? Don’t be! You can find great vintage, too. You just have to have patience, persistence, and an eye for quality. (Psst..stay close and you’ll  be a vintage shopping pro in no time.) Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.
@PastFashionFuture Instagram of the Week/My Favorite Vintage Thrift Store Find: A vintage Pierre Balmain bag. I found it for $15 but since I sold my clothes to Beacon’s Closet (a thrift store in Brooklyn, New York) and got a store credit it was basically $free.99! Jealous much? Don’t be! You can find great vintage, too. You just have to have patience, persistence, and an eye for quality. (Psst..stay close and you’ll  be a vintage shopping pro in no time.) Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

@PastFashionFuture Instagram of the Week/My Favorite Vintage Thrift Store Find: A vintage Pierre Balmain bag. I found it for $15 but since I sold my clothes to Beacon’s Closet (a thrift store in Brooklyn, New York) and got a store credit it was basically $free.99! Jealous much? Don’t be! You can find great vintage, too. You just have to have patience, persistence, and an eye for quality. (Psst..stay close and you’ll  be a vintage shopping pro in no time.)

Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Friday July 20th 2012 at 06:13am. Its tags are listed below.

Wednesday night, I braved the bizarre weather in NYC and trekked to Riverpark Farm at the Alexandria Center all in the name of sunglasses. New functional-yet-fashionable Zeal Optics hosted a to-die-for dinner, which was sourced from the farm next door, to launch their Spring 2013 line. I’m wearing the “Darby” sunnies from the line and I can’t wait ‘till they come out—though, full disclosure, they’re gifting me with a pair when they do. Until then, keep tuned for my review. I’m also donning Amour Vert’s Carmel Riviera peace silk dress, Naya’s Wind Sandals, and a Coach bag.  View more: EMMA’S STYLE “Emma’s Style” is made possible in part by CrOp by David Peck. Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.
Wednesday night, I braved the bizarre weather in NYC and trekked to Riverpark Farm at the Alexandria Center all in the name of sunglasses. New functional-yet-fashionable Zeal Optics hosted a to-die-for dinner, which was sourced from the farm next door, to launch their Spring 2013 line. I’m wearing the “Darby” sunnies from the line and I can’t wait ‘till they come out—though, full disclosure, they’re gifting me with a pair when they do. Until then, keep tuned for my review. I’m also donning Amour Vert’s Carmel Riviera peace silk dress, Naya’s Wind Sandals, and a Coach bag.  View more: EMMA’S STYLE “Emma’s Style” is made possible in part by CrOp by David Peck. Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

Wednesday night, I braved the bizarre weather in NYC and trekked to Riverpark Farm at the Alexandria Center all in the name of sunglasses. New functional-yet-fashionable Zeal Optics hosted a to-die-for dinner, which was sourced from the farm next door, to launch their Spring 2013 line.

I’m wearing the “Darby” sunnies from the line and I can’t wait ‘till they come out—though, full disclosure, they’re gifting me with a pair when they do. Until then, keep tuned for my review.

I’m also donning Amour Vert’s Carmel Riviera peace silk dress, Naya’s Wind Sandals, and a Coach bag. 

View more: EMMA’S STYLE

“Emma’s Style” is made possible in part by CrOp by David Peck.

Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Saturday June 9th 2012 at 01:30pm. Its tags are listed below.

For the second consecutive year, I am judging the 6th Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards. Along with the 2012 IHDA Judging Panel, I selected the top 30 styles from more than 1,000 entries across 7 categories. This is where you come in: help choose the Audience Fan Favorite over at InStyle: Instyle.com/ihdapoll2012. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on June 13th, hosted by Handbag Designer 101, at the Time & Life Building in New York City. Keep tuned: Emma will be on the scene at the VIP cocktail party and ceremony sharing live updates on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Tickets can be purchased on Handbag Designer 101 or you can try to win a trip to the awards with JP Selects.
For the second consecutive year, I am judging the 6th Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards. Along with the 2012 IHDA Judging Panel, I selected the top 30 styles from more than 1,000 entries across 7 categories. This is where you come in: help choose the Audience Fan Favorite over at InStyle: Instyle.com/ihdapoll2012. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on June 13th, hosted by Handbag Designer 101, at the Time & Life Building in New York City. Keep tuned: Emma will be on the scene at the VIP cocktail party and ceremony sharing live updates on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Tickets can be purchased on Handbag Designer 101 or you can try to win a trip to the awards with JP Selects.

For the second consecutive year, I am judging the 6th Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards. Along with the 2012 IHDA Judging Panel, I selected the top 30 styles from more than 1,000 entries across 7 categories.

This is where you come in: help choose the Audience Fan Favorite over at InStyle: Instyle.com/ihdapoll2012.

Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on June 13th, hosted by Handbag Designer 101, at the Time & Life Building in New York City. Keep tuned: Emma will be on the scene at the VIP cocktail party and ceremony sharing live updates on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Tickets can be purchased on Handbag Designer 101 or you can try to win a trip to the awards with JP Selects.

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Monday May 21st 2012 at 10:18pm. Its tags are listed below.

The Great GoogaMooga has come and gone and it was an experience for sure to see my dear Prospect Park transformed into a food, booze, and music fest for a weekend. Most notable was spending time with my friends while we basked in the glorious sunshine and spent the rest of the time waiting in lines, long lines, in fact the entire event was a sea of lines. Notably missing was cell phone service, hence the delay in my uploading PastFashionFuture Instagram snaps. My Great GoogaMooga Style: a white racer-back tank top, borrowed from a friend; a vintage Fendi purse, $25 via Elba at the Park Slope flea market; a drawstring Banana Republic skirt, $8 at Housing Works, a beige MaxMara cashmere sweater (not pictured), Chloé sunglasses, vintage gold costume jewelry earrings, $5 via a stoop sale, and Rupert Sanderson flats. Photo: Emma Grady (P.S. I look a little miffed, but what can I say? I was blinded by the light. View more: EMMA’S STYLE “Emma’s Style” is made possible in part by CrOp by David Peck. Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.
The Great GoogaMooga has come and gone and it was an experience for sure to see my dear Prospect Park transformed into a food, booze, and music fest for a weekend. Most notable was spending time with my friends while we basked in the glorious sunshine and spent the rest of the time waiting in lines, long lines, in fact the entire event was a sea of lines. Notably missing was cell phone service, hence the delay in my uploading PastFashionFuture Instagram snaps. My Great GoogaMooga Style: a white racer-back tank top, borrowed from a friend; a vintage Fendi purse, $25 via Elba at the Park Slope flea market; a drawstring Banana Republic skirt, $8 at Housing Works, a beige MaxMara cashmere sweater (not pictured), Chloé sunglasses, vintage gold costume jewelry earrings, $5 via a stoop sale, and Rupert Sanderson flats. Photo: Emma Grady (P.S. I look a little miffed, but what can I say? I was blinded by the light. View more: EMMA’S STYLE “Emma’s Style” is made possible in part by CrOp by David Peck. Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

The Great GoogaMooga has come and gone and it was an experience for sure to see my dear Prospect Park transformed into a food, booze, and music fest for a weekend.

Most notable was spending time with my friends while we basked in the glorious sunshine and spent the rest of the time waiting in lines, long lines, in fact the entire event was a sea of lines. Notably missing was cell phone service, hence the delay in my uploading PastFashionFuture Instagram snaps.

My Great GoogaMooga Style: a white racer-back tank top, borrowed from a friend; a vintage Fendi purse, $25 via Elba at the Park Slope flea market; a drawstring Banana Republic skirt, $8 at Housing Works, a beige MaxMara cashmere sweater (not pictured), Chloé sunglasses, vintage gold costume jewelry earrings, $5 via a stoop sale, and Rupert Sanderson flats.

Photo: Emma Grady (P.S. I look a little miffed, but what can I say? I was blinded by the light.

View more: EMMA’S STYLE

“Emma’s Style” is made possible in part by CrOp by David Peck.

Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Sunday April 22nd 2012 at 02:42pm. Its tags are listed below.

I am excited to announce that I will be judging the 6th Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards (IHDA) again this year. I’ll be joining fellow judges this weekend to view all of the applicants’ designs—last year we saw 1200 bags in one day! Awarded across nine categories, the IHDA gives designers an opportunity to bring their designs—and brand—to the next level. APPLY NOW: 2012 IHDA (All entries must be received by 11:59pm on April 28th, 2012.) Last year, The Sway won the IHDA for Best Green Handbag and with it, a collaboration on handbags with Timberland, which will be available this summer. The Sway’s winning bag quickly sold out in Timberland stores and the award helped them triple their growth in under a year. The Sway is now selling to top boutiques around the country, including Fred Segal, Madison, and Kaight. Photo: IHDA winner Belinda Pasqua from The Sway with Jackie Lalime from Timberland.
I am excited to announce that I will be judging the 6th Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards (IHDA) again this year. I’ll be joining fellow judges this weekend to view all of the applicants’ designs—last year we saw 1200 bags in one day! Awarded across nine categories, the IHDA gives designers an opportunity to bring their designs—and brand—to the next level. APPLY NOW: 2012 IHDA (All entries must be received by 11:59pm on April 28th, 2012.) Last year, The Sway won the IHDA for Best Green Handbag and with it, a collaboration on handbags with Timberland, which will be available this summer. The Sway’s winning bag quickly sold out in Timberland stores and the award helped them triple their growth in under a year. The Sway is now selling to top boutiques around the country, including Fred Segal, Madison, and Kaight. Photo: IHDA winner Belinda Pasqua from The Sway with Jackie Lalime from Timberland.

I am excited to announce that I will be judging the 6th Annual Independent Handbag Designer Awards (IHDA) again this year. I’ll be joining fellow judges this weekend to view all of the applicants’ designs—last year we saw 1200 bags in one day! Awarded across nine categories, the IHDA gives designers an opportunity to bring their designs—and brand—to the next level.

APPLY NOW: 2012 IHDA (All entries must be received by 11:59pm on April 28th, 2012.)

Last year, The Sway won the IHDA for Best Green Handbag and with it, a collaboration on handbags with Timberland, which will be available this summer. The Sway’s winning bag quickly sold out in Timberland stores and the award helped them triple their growth in under a year. The Sway is now selling to top boutiques around the country, including Fred Segal, Madison, and Kaight.

Photo: IHDA winner Belinda Pasqua from The Sway with Jackie Lalime from Timberland.

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Sunday January 22nd 2012 at 12:15pm. Its tags are listed below.

SUNO puts a vibrant spin on Warby Parker’s classic eyewear with the SUNO + Warby Parker collaboration which boasts three frame styles in three different colorful prints.  SLIDESHOW: The SUNO + Warby Parker sunwear collection. The limited-edition collection maintains Warby Parker’s philanthropic model: for every pair purchased, a pair of optical glasses will be donated to someone in need. Photo credit: Warby Parker.
SUNO puts a vibrant spin on Warby Parker’s classic eyewear with the SUNO + Warby Parker collaboration which boasts three frame styles in three different colorful prints.  SLIDESHOW: The SUNO + Warby Parker sunwear collection. The limited-edition collection maintains Warby Parker’s philanthropic model: for every pair purchased, a pair of optical glasses will be donated to someone in need. Photo credit: Warby Parker.

SUNO puts a vibrant spin on Warby Parker’s classic eyewear with the SUNO + Warby Parker collaboration which boasts three frame styles in three different colorful prints. 

SLIDESHOW: The SUNO + Warby Parker sunwear collection.

The limited-edition collection maintains Warby Parker’s philanthropic model: for every pair purchased, a pair of optical glasses will be donated to someone in need.

Photo credit: Warby Parker.

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Sunday January 22nd 2012 at 12:12pm. Its tags are listed below.

SUNO + Warby Parker sunwear collection. Read article, here.

All photos: courtesy Warby Parker.

Copyright © 2012 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Sunday January 1st 2012 at 10:00am. Its tags are listed below.

Adding to their creative ways of turning Vietnam War scrap metal into accessories, Article 22 releases a colorful Peacebomb Resolution Wrap Bracelet just in time for New Year’s. Made with a hand cast bomb metal tag and finished with vintage silk string from France, each bracelet—available for $16 on Peace-Bomb.com—helps clear a meter of bomb-littered land. Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com, here.
Adding to their creative ways of turning Vietnam War scrap metal into accessories, Article 22 releases a colorful Peacebomb Resolution Wrap Bracelet just in time for New Year’s. Made with a hand cast bomb metal tag and finished with vintage silk string from France, each bracelet—available for $16 on Peace-Bomb.com—helps clear a meter of bomb-littered land. Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com, here.

Adding to their creative ways of turning Vietnam War scrap metal into accessories, Article 22 releases a colorful Peacebomb Resolution Wrap Bracelet just in time for New Year’s. Made with a hand cast bomb metal tag and finished with vintage silk string from France, each bracelet—available for $16 on Peace-Bomb.com—helps clear a meter of bomb-littered land.

Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com, here.

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Sunday December 11th 2011 at 10:00am. Its tags are listed below.

Founded in 2008 by Sammy Abdella and Holly Hikido, Sammy Hand Made in Ethiopia is creating employment opportunities for artisans in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s largest city, and bringing local craftsmanship to an international level with their line of luxury scarves and leather goods. Read more of my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com. Photo credit: Sammy Hand Made in Ethiopia
Founded in 2008 by Sammy Abdella and Holly Hikido, Sammy Hand Made in Ethiopia is creating employment opportunities for artisans in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s largest city, and bringing local craftsmanship to an international level with their line of luxury scarves and leather goods. Read more of my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com. Photo credit: Sammy Hand Made in Ethiopia

Founded in 2008 by Sammy Abdella and Holly Hikido, Sammy Hand Made in Ethiopia is creating employment opportunities for artisans in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s largest city, and bringing local craftsmanship to an international level with their line of luxury scarves and leather goods. Read more of my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com.


Photo credit: Sammy Hand Made in Ethiopia

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Monday September 26th 2011 at 09:01am. Its tags are listed below.

Peace bomb bracelets have a story to tell: each one has been made with repurposed Vietnam War scrap metal. And Article 22 founder and designer Elizabeth Suda has a story to tell about the people of Laos and the Secret War that effects their lives to this day. Last October, I wrote about how Suda and her team were traveling to Laos to shoot a short documentary on the process of turning bombs into bracelets. Well, the video is here. Plus, two more bracelets, which are conveniently available online at Peace-Bomb.com. Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com. Photo: A Lao metal smith makes spoons from war scrap metal; credit: Article 22.

Peace bomb bracelets have a story to tell: each one has been made with repurposed Vietnam War scrap metal. And Article 22 founder and designer Elizabeth Suda has a story to tell about the people of Laos and the Secret War that effects their lives to this day.

Last October, I wrote about how Suda and her team were traveling to Laos to shoot a short documentary on the process of turning bombs into bracelets. Well, the video is here. Plus, two more bracelets, which are conveniently available online at Peace-Bomb.com.

Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeHugger.com.

Photo: A Lao metal smith makes spoons from war scrap metal; credit: Article 22.

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Sunday August 7th 2011 at 11:43am. Its tags are listed below.

Back to the Earth Bauble Rings by Todd Reed. In Boulder, Colorado, Todd Reed is crafting handmade jewelry with recycled precious metals and his signature, raw and uncut diamonds. What is so striking about Reed’s designs is that they actually look like they came from the earth. While some seek the perfectly-cut diamond popular in contemporary jewelry, Reed designs with the natural form of the diamond in mind. Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeeHugger.com

Back to the Earth Bauble Rings by Todd Reed.

In Boulder, Colorado, Todd Reed is crafting handmade jewelry with recycled precious metals and his signature, raw and uncut diamonds. What is so striking about Reed’s designs is that they actually look like they came from the earth. While some seek the perfectly-cut diamond popular in contemporary jewelry, Reed designs with the natural form of the diamond in mind.

Continue reading my article on Discovery’s TreeeHugger.com

Past Fashion Future

Posted on Monday July 18th 2011 at 09:01am. Its tags are listed below.

“Something Old, Something New: How Modern Day Style Mavens Wear Vintage” featuring style blogger Ashley Baluyut of Milk Teeths. Something Old, Something New: Ashley Baluyut Style blogger Ashley Baluyut of Milk Teeths has a playful approach to style. Kristen, Past Fashion Future’s intern, introduced me to her blog and I instantly loved the way she put together her vintage ensembles with wearable separates and a pop of color that she often tops off with a stunning smile.  Ashley is also a vintage clothing seller over at Three Feathers Vintage on Etsy, so you can scoop up some of her carefully-curated vintage picks over there. Here’s Ashley, on her personal style: This photo is from a month and a half ago when my boyfriend, some friends, and I were traveling through Europe. On this day, the weather forecast for Rome, Italy was generally nice weather with a small chance of rain. Foolishly, I trusted the weather forecast. I wore a cream button down silk blouse that I bought at a thrift store for $5; gray trouser shorts that were originally pants —  my grandmother was nice enough to lop off the legs for me — and they probably belonged to someone’s grandpa in the 1970’s. If my memory serves me correctly, they were only $1 at another thrift store. The scarf around my head is from a vintage store in Haight Ashbury. It’s a little memento that I bought on my first trip to the city when I was 18, visiting my best friend at Berkeley. I don’t normally wear scarves babushka-style but when this photo was taken it was pouring rain and we had to seek shelter in a church courtyard in Trastevere. Naturally, I didn’t bring an umbrella or jacket with me while we were out. The $4 Keds that I’m wearing — thrifted and brand new — got beyond soaked on the trudge back to the metro, as did the blue striped socks that have somehow always been in my sock drawer ever since forever. Luckily my leather cross body saddle bag, which I purchased at the Rosebowl flea market in Pasadena, California for $15, kept my camera (the most expensive thing I own) nice and dry.Ten minutes after this photo was taken we made our way across the bridge over the Tiber river. I was thoroughly drenched and bummed on life. It took a fifteen minute walk to get to the metro station and back to our hostel and it rained even harder. Suffice to say, I now refuse to go anywhere without a small travel umbrella in my purse! “Something Old, Something New”: How Modern Day Style Mavens Wear Vintage and Heirlooms” looks at how people with amazing personal style incorporate vintage and heirloom pieces into their everyday wardrobes. Through a series of personal anecdotes and images, I show how when it comes to dressing, there’s more than meets the eye and, fortunately, I get to share the story — behind the outfit — with you here. Follow us on Bloglovin More Heirloom-Meets-Modern StyleSomething Old, Something New: Sean Hotchkiss of Khaki CrusaderSomething Old, Something New: Eliza Starbuck and Toshi YanoSomething Old, Something New: Liam AlexanderSomething Old, Something New: Molly Grady Copyright © 2011 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.
“Something Old, Something New: How Modern Day Style Mavens Wear Vintage” featuring style blogger Ashley Baluyut of Milk Teeths. Something Old, Something New: Ashley Baluyut Style blogger Ashley Baluyut of Milk Teeths has a playful approach to style. Kristen, Past Fashion Future’s intern, introduced me to her blog and I instantly loved the way she put together her vintage ensembles with wearable separates and a pop of color that she often tops off with a stunning smile.  Ashley is also a vintage clothing seller over at Three Feathers Vintage on Etsy, so you can scoop up some of her carefully-curated vintage picks over there. Here’s Ashley, on her personal style: This photo is from a month and a half ago when my boyfriend, some friends, and I were traveling through Europe. On this day, the weather forecast for Rome, Italy was generally nice weather with a small chance of rain. Foolishly, I trusted the weather forecast. I wore a cream button down silk blouse that I bought at a thrift store for $5; gray trouser shorts that were originally pants —  my grandmother was nice enough to lop off the legs for me — and they probably belonged to someone’s grandpa in the 1970’s. If my memory serves me correctly, they were only $1 at another thrift store. The scarf around my head is from a vintage store in Haight Ashbury. It’s a little memento that I bought on my first trip to the city when I was 18, visiting my best friend at Berkeley. I don’t normally wear scarves babushka-style but when this photo was taken it was pouring rain and we had to seek shelter in a church courtyard in Trastevere. Naturally, I didn’t bring an umbrella or jacket with me while we were out. The $4 Keds that I’m wearing — thrifted and brand new — got beyond soaked on the trudge back to the metro, as did the blue striped socks that have somehow always been in my sock drawer ever since forever. Luckily my leather cross body saddle bag, which I purchased at the Rosebowl flea market in Pasadena, California for $15, kept my camera (the most expensive thing I own) nice and dry.Ten minutes after this photo was taken we made our way across the bridge over the Tiber river. I was thoroughly drenched and bummed on life. It took a fifteen minute walk to get to the metro station and back to our hostel and it rained even harder. Suffice to say, I now refuse to go anywhere without a small travel umbrella in my purse! “Something Old, Something New”: How Modern Day Style Mavens Wear Vintage and Heirlooms” looks at how people with amazing personal style incorporate vintage and heirloom pieces into their everyday wardrobes. Through a series of personal anecdotes and images, I show how when it comes to dressing, there’s more than meets the eye and, fortunately, I get to share the story — behind the outfit — with you here. Follow us on Bloglovin More Heirloom-Meets-Modern StyleSomething Old, Something New: Sean Hotchkiss of Khaki CrusaderSomething Old, Something New: Eliza Starbuck and Toshi YanoSomething Old, Something New: Liam AlexanderSomething Old, Something New: Molly Grady Copyright © 2011 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

“Something Old, Something New: How Modern Day Style Mavens Wear Vintage” featuring style blogger Ashley Baluyut of Milk Teeths.

Something Old, Something New: Ashley Baluyut

Style blogger Ashley Baluyut of Milk Teeths has a playful approach to style. Kristen, Past Fashion Future’s intern, introduced me to her blog and I instantly loved the way she put together her vintage ensembles with wearable separates and a pop of color that she often tops off with a stunning smile. 

Ashley is also a vintage clothing seller over at Three Feathers Vintage on Etsy, so you can scoop up some of her carefully-curated vintage picks over there. Here’s Ashley, on her personal style:

This photo is from a month and a half ago when my boyfriend, some friends, and I were traveling through Europe. On this day, the weather forecast for Rome, Italy was generally nice weather with a small chance of rain.

Foolishly, I trusted the weather forecast.

I wore a cream button down silk blouse that I bought at a thrift store for $5; gray trouser shorts that were originally pants —  my grandmother was nice enough to lop off the legs for me — and they probably belonged to someone’s grandpa in the 1970’s. If my memory serves me correctly, they were only $1 at another thrift store.

The scarf around my head is from a vintage store in Haight Ashbury.

It’s a little memento that I bought on my first trip to the city when I was 18, visiting my best friend at Berkeley. I don’t normally wear scarves babushka-style but when this photo was taken it was pouring rain and we had to seek shelter in a church courtyard in Trastevere.

Naturally, I didn’t bring an umbrella or jacket with me while we were out.

The $4 Keds that I’m wearing — thrifted and brand new — got beyond soaked on the trudge back to the metro, as did the blue striped socks that have somehow always been in my sock drawer ever since forever.

Luckily my leather cross body saddle bag, which I purchased at the Rosebowl flea market in Pasadena, California for $15, kept my camera (the most expensive thing I own) nice and dry.

Ten minutes after this photo was taken we made our way across the bridge over the Tiber river.

I was thoroughly drenched and bummed on life. It took a fifteen minute walk to get to the metro station and back to our hostel and it rained even harder. Suffice to say, I now refuse to go anywhere without a small travel umbrella in my purse!

“Something Old, Something New”: How Modern Day Style Mavens Wear Vintage and Heirlooms” looks at how people with amazing personal style incorporate vintage and heirloom pieces into their everyday wardrobes. Through a series of personal anecdotes and images, I show how when it comes to dressing, there’s more than meets the eye and, fortunately, I get to share the story — behind the outfit — with you here.

Follow us on Bloglovin

More Heirloom-Meets-Modern Style
Something Old, Something New: Sean Hotchkiss of Khaki Crusader
Something Old, Something New: Eliza Starbuck and Toshi Yano
Something Old, Something New: Liam Alexander
Something Old, Something New: Molly Grady

Copyright © 2011 Past Fashion Future. All rights reserved.

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