bijoux de jais

Scenes from Vancouver

2010-06-11T07:56:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago Rob and I went to Vancouver for a family wedding. I love the Pacific Northwest as it is, but this sealed the deal. Now I'm plotting my transcontinental migration...

Chopin Theatre

2010-06-11T07:43:00.000-07:00

A gem of a theater located near Ashland, Division and Milwaukee.

my top hat

2010-06-11T07:39:00.001-07:00

my top hat, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

means something more to me than just an accessory. To me, it represents triumph over all the bullshit, poverty, prejudice and hardship my ancestors went though to pave the way for the good life I have today.

I can wear whatever, do whatever and be whomever I wish. What a gift!

may9

2010-05-09T19:51:00.001-07:00

may9, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

I spent some quality time with Mother Earth today and went for a refreshing bike ride along the lakefront. Incidentally, I got a lot of comments about the hat, 100% of them positive. I hope all the mothers enjoyed their day as much as I enjoyed mine!

leather-covered top hat, customized by me.
thrifted butterfly print scarf worn as headwrap.
thrifted vintage sunglasses, skirts and clarks flats.
swirly faux tapers purchased on etsy.
lace-trimmed motorcycle jacket from hot topic (ohmagah!) and customized by me with appliques, pins and whatnot.
skeleton gloves purchased on ebay.
floral socks from some dollar store someplace.

may9 back, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

An accidental (but fortunate) shot of the back detail of the jacket. They're iron-on wings; I love this jacket so much more with them.

bijoux vs buckingham

2010-05-09T19:47:00.001-07:00

bijoux vs buckingham, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

I'm taller, I'm taller!

may5

2010-05-05T20:10:00.001-07:00

may5, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

It was a gorgeous May day today, the kind I've been waiting for for months. The preschoolers made a pinata for Cinco de Mayo, and while hanging it up in the playground I stole a snap.

thrifted straw boater hat and black buckle shoes. i trimmed the hat with some random leaves i found in my craft basket.
antique hatpin purchased on ebay.
striped headwrap scarf i've had forever...
bone wing faux tapers purchased online.
ruched-sleeve tee from H & M.
retroscope skirt purchased online.
emily temple cute socks purchased on egl_comm_sales.

dracula vs frankenstein

2010-05-05T20:08:00.003-07:00

dracula vs frankenstein, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

it's a tie!

may4

2010-05-05T20:08:00.001-07:00

may4, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

May the Fourth be with you, hehe

Jerry Butler

2010-05-04T09:39:00.000-07:00

Ain't understanding mellow?

Now this is a man who has led a successful life. A soul singer for more than fifty years who didn't rest on his laurels-- he's also a county commissioner. I've had the pleasure to meet him in an informal setting and he is truly an inspiration. I hope to use my talents and skills as effectively as he.

same difference

2010-04-29T10:31:00.001-07:00

same difference, originally uploaded by George Morton Clark.

Aren't they all just so darling?

Summer Series 3 finger ring

2010-04-25T21:11:00.001-07:00

Summer Series 3 finger ring, originally uploaded by ColleenBaran.

Want!

apr10 day

2010-04-10T13:53:00.001-07:00

apr10 day, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Not only is today my birthday; it also happens to be an epically spectacular day in Chicago. Everything is blooming, the sun is shining, a warm breeze is blowing...what more can you ask?
This is my "day look" for brunch and a stroll around the neighborhood. I'm wearing a steampunk blouse with a lolita skirt. I like the way they combined. Tonight I'm going to a poetry reading. Should be fun....

gray vintage betmar fedora, trimmed with gray silk flower and antique hat pin.
black round frame sunglasses.
copper link earrings and mermaid pearl earrings, both pairs made by me.
lip service blouse, rococo print skirt, petticoats and jane marple tote bag purchased online.
thrifted vintage flower, swag and medallion brooches.
fishnet stockings dyed by me.
thrifted ankle strap shoes.

Muslim punk

2010-04-07T19:23:00.001-07:00

Muslim punk, originally uploaded by Hanjosan.

Some people might be horrified by this for any of a thousand reasons, but I love it. We all live within social restrictions and limitations, but it doesn't mean we're excused from pushing at them. Defying expectations causes others to question and wonder.

Fordite

2010-04-05T21:29:00.001-07:00

Fordite: Detail, originally uploaded by nebulagirl.

Fordite for some reason has really captured my interest lately. Maybe the idea that something so beautifully timeless, and yes even organic, could come from abandoned car manufacturing plants. It was created over time from layers upon layers of automotive paint in a process similar to that of sedimentary rock, except it only took a few decades for this to form, as opposed to millennia.

maia

2010-04-04T20:03:00.001-07:00

maia, originally uploaded by Deriana.

Deriana has some amazing dollmaking skills, on par with veik11 and his Lady Gaga Barbies. This is my favorite, based on a costume from Apocalypto.

mar30

2010-03-31T14:01:00.001-07:00

mar30-4, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

This morning I read an article on bbc.co.uk about a recent steampunk convention, so it inspired me to wear a steampunk look today. I am wearing four (!) skirts, which sounds warm but I was quite comfortable. The top skirt is bustled in the back and held together with one of my son's mitten clips :o)

mudcloth hat by lucille graham, a local artisan, pinned with antique black glass hatpin & terminus.
wood/brass earrings from baraka (this israeli guy who works festivals in the summertime)
evil eye amulet earrings from valarie.
pendants and necklaces (labradorite, ankh, magen david, catholic medallion, petrified wood, clockwork) some made by me.
thrifted leather and woven belts and belt pouch.
thrifted skirts and military jacket.
blue net gloves from maxwell street.
silver ring from an aunt.
fluevog boots from crossroads trading.

2010-03-31T13:47:00.000-07:00

mar28

2010-03-28T20:50:00.001-07:00

mar28, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

My oh my, but it has been a while since my last outfit post. I just haven't felt motivated to document my outfits lately, though I've liked them on the whole. However, I really liked today's outfit & it was a good day, so I thought I'd steal a snap while I had a free moment.

sky blue beret from thrift store on 79th street.
infinity carved shell earrings from last summer's african festival.
thrifted white scarf tied into bow.
thrifted purple velvet jacket, tapestry bag, sequined skirt and underskirt.
purple bitten heart socks from claire's.
suede loafers from church sale.

Gah.

2010-03-03T19:04:00.000-08:00

pirate boots, starry night and spade studs by midoritsuru featuring Vivienne Westwood shoes

I'd walk the plank for those boots.

The skirt is the closest I would ever come to wearing sweet lolita.

And spade stud earrings are just so damn hard to find! Why is this? I'm hoping the Alice in Wonderland trend will make them materialize so I can claim them.

More Polyvore

2010-03-02T18:42:00.000-08:00

sunny punk by midoritsuru featuring Morn Creations wallets

It's that time of winter just before spring, when your winter clothing feels itchier than usual and you realize it's almost time to break out the warm-weather clothes. Oh, how I do miss my lovely parasols...until spring I have Polyvore to hone my style.

I try not to focus on what's popular at the moment and wear what stirs me, but experience has shown me that it's impossible not to be affected by trends if one is to consider themselves generally knowledgeable about what's happening in the larger world. This is not saying that trendiness equals being informed, hell no! Only that if one is looking at the world, seeing other people, thinking about what's going on in the world and asking themselves questions, all of that is inevitably reflected in the creative process, be it fashion, music or other art forms.

These days, I'm inspired by rebels of all stripes and time periods (19th century gang members, Confederate soldiers, juke joint singers and crackheaded bohemians). In terms of music, I'm lately influenced by classic rock and the early metal period of the early 70s...again with the whole blues people thing, I know. What can I say, I'm admittedly obsessed. I'm also inspired by tight color palettes and the simplicity of black; I spent half the 00s in colorful experiments, so these days I want to paint it all black and white and bring a little more control to my mad science.

Here, have some Polyvore sets.

2010-02-23T22:34:00.001-08:00

black magic woman by midoritsuru featuring Forever21 dresses

2009 prepfunk ladygirl by midoritsuru featuring Converse shoes

light retro aristocrat punk by midoritsuru featuring Birkenstock shoes

touchable gloves

2010-02-16T17:40:00.001-08:00

sometimes you need your fingertips. not all of them, just a couple.

Back to School

2010-02-15T21:48:00.000-08:00

These would have to be the coolest socks I've seen in quite some time.

http://shop.ashidashi.com/product/back-to-school-3-pack

jan31

2010-02-06T07:08:00.001-08:00

jan31, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

It was as good a Sunday as a Sunday can be: good food, beautiful weather, fun with family, and a spot of thrifting!
I'm feeling very content with my life these days; though I have so many goals yet to reach, I truly am enjoying where I am right now in my life.

houndstooth beret from ebay, pinned with two vintage hatpins.
thrifted foldup wayfarers.
doorknocker earrings from the dollar store, painted gray by me.
secondhand black/white long scarf.
red overcoat from a church rummage sale this summer.
plaid skirt purchased on ebay.
thrifted union jack doc martens.

jan30

2010-02-06T07:07:00.005-08:00

jan30, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

There was an anime convention at the university today; I was asked to speak on a panel about elegant gothic aristocrat style. It was nice to meet some new people and check out anime films and art!

I really loved the way this came together, though you can't see all the details here.

black sequin/mesh trimmed church hat from a church sale this summer.
vintage net veil.
thrifted vintage rabbit fur stole and white gloves.
silver/onyx earrings from ebay, mermaid earrings made myself.
thrifted velveteen jacket.
cynthia rowley purse swapped years ago on the wardrobe swap shop.
diagonal ruffle skirt from the empty bottle swap. (underneath that are two petticoats.)
thrifted buckled wedge boots (because i have to be at least a little bit practical).

jan29

2010-02-06T07:07:00.003-08:00

jan29, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

It's bitterly cold here in Chicago, do not be fooled by the sunshine. But for some reason this winter, the cold is not really getting to me.

faux fur hat and matching collar from swaporama last summer.
thrifted white wayfarers.
black trench coat thrifted in portland.
thrifted brown vintage gloves and black suede skirt.
same old hunter wellies.

jan26

2010-02-06T07:07:00.001-08:00

jan26, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

I like the fact that what I'm wearing here acutally matches the surroundings.

print scarf from annette worn as a headwrap.
a merino wool skirt turned into a muffler.
some old, old tweed jacket from years ago, originally from old navy.
thrifted vintage brown leather gloves and monet print umbrella.
thrifted black skirt, camouflage skirt and leopard print boots.

hyde park records

2010-02-06T07:06:00.001-08:00

hyde park records, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

is great for vinyl lovers.

Fantasy is Reality

2010-01-27T16:47:00.000-08:00

It's a teardripping shame that Parliament and Funkadelic have been reduced to clips of a crackheaded Muppet coughing up "Atomic Dog". George Clinton (aforesaid Muppet) was (is?) a genius of the mad scientist variety, concocting his psychoneurobiomusicological experiments with instruments of musicality. Personally, I've found his experiments rather intriguing.

Why?

2010-01-25T19:12:00.001-08:00

Why?, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Why? Just why? Why do some people hate themselves, their community and their world so much that they feel the need to actively destroy it? Where did this illness come from? How can it be cured?

54th and Ashland, Chicago

Kids with Snowman

2010-01-25T19:00:00.001-08:00

Kids with Snowman, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Here is a photo of some of the kids that lived in my apartment complex when I lived in Korea. I was really impressed with their snowman, it's perfect!

jan17

2010-01-17T21:48:00.001-08:00

jan17, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

In Chicago during the winter, above freezing means warm. Hence short skirt and tights. I spent the afternoon watching "The Heiress" with my grandmother, and was reminded that hell hath no fury like that of a woman scorned.

thrifted blue bonnet with chiffon scarf tied in a bow.
silver/onyx earrings from ebay, blue rose studs from claire's on state street.
thrifted faux fur collar and velveteen jacket.
can't remember where the rhinestone brooch is from.
flower cameo ring from ebay.
black tiered skirt from crossroads trading, with three underskirts beneath.
two-toned tights from claire's.
thrifted ankle boots.

jan15

2010-01-15T22:12:00.001-08:00

jan15, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Went downtown today to meet a friend for an interview. I really wanted to wear my vintage nurse's cape today, and built everything else around that.
Hans totally melted down in the Chicago Cultural Center, so if you were there and heard a toddler screaming bloody murder it was most likely mine! :oP

vintage cap pinned with two hatpins.
cypriot boat earrings, new from the Peabody Essex Museum shop. these replaced a well-loved pair i lost back in college...
japanese print kerchief from a church sale.
vintage nurse's cape scored from last year's clothing swap at the empty bottle.
brown military style jacket.
various beaded bracelets, some gifted, some thrifted.
thrifted black/brown leather gloves.
thrifted pendleton wool skirt.
black leggings from H & M last year.
brown back lace-up boots from a neighborhood church sale a few years ago.

Sing A Message To You: A Meme

2010-01-14T11:11:00.001-08:00

Using only song names from ONE ARTIST, cleverly answer these questions. Try not to repeat a song title. It's harder than you think.

Your Artist: Earth, Wind and Fire

Are you male or female: Sun Goddess

Describe yourself: Mighty Mighty

How do you feel about yourself: Yearnin', Learnin'

Describe where you currently live: Zanzibar

The first thing you think of when you wake up: Getaway

If you could go anywhere, where would you go: Boogie Wonderland

Your favorite form of transportation: Runnin'

Your best friend is: Lady Sun

Your favorite color is: Evolution Orange

What's the weather like: Sunshine

If your life were a TV show, what would it be called: Reasons

What is life to you: Celebrate

What is the best advice you have to give: That's the Way of the World

If you could change your name, what would it be: Jupiter

Your favorite food is: Serpentine Fire

How I would like to die: See The Light

My soul's present condition: Shining Star

The faults I can bear: Can't Hide Love

How would you describe your love life: Devotion

What are you going to post this as: Sing a Message to You

Wow, this is tough! But so fun. Try it!

neuro necklace

2010-01-14T09:19:00.001-08:00

neuro necklace, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

My most recent etsy purchase from www.beatblack.etsy.com; I adore it. It's beautiful, thought-provoking and a little bit creepy.

The Old Plantation

2010-01-13T18:10:00.000-08:00

If you can manage to look past the idiom of the time and the flaming hot stereotypes, you will see a very powerful metaphor for the Black experience in America. Unfairly handicapped and unfairly burdened with the legwork, Black people have basically had to invent rocket boots out of coat hangers in order to catch up with the rest of the world, only to have someone else pop up to take credit for it all.

Race Fail

2010-01-13T17:09:00.000-08:00

see more Epic Fails

Imitation of Life

2010-01-12T17:41:00.000-08:00

Every now and then I revisit this old film I watch with my grandmother. It's been like a tradition between us; whenever it was on television we'd stop whatever we were doing and watch it all the way through. Perhaps inspired by a myriad of things, I've been thinking lately about measures of "blackness", whatever that may mean, in relation to the question "how much should a person's race or ethnicity determine how fully she can live her life?"

In Sarah Jane's time it mattered a lot.

And yet, in the end she found her ill-gotten freedom wasn't worth the cost. Thank G-d I live in a time in which I can be myself and be Black, without having to choose.

jan11

2010-01-12T17:39:00.001-08:00

jan11, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

I needed to go downtown today and run some errands, so this is what I wore. I made the bonnet I'm wearing just this morning, I like the way it turned out!

bonnet made this morning from a cloche hat and some jersey ribbon cut from an old t-shirt.
garnet earrings from valarie, and gold drop earrings from a coworker.
maroon/silver and maroon/gold scarves, one thrifted and one from H & M, wound together and tied in a bow.
flower print double breasted coat thrifted last year.
patchwork leather bag thrifted last month.
merino wool gloves thrifted a few years ago at hadassah.
tripp grommeted skirt purchased on ebay (not wearing the clangy straps today; not very practical for running around).
maroon ankle boots thrifted years ago.

Clifton Chenier

2010-01-11T17:51:00.000-08:00

I could blame it on The Princess and the Frog, but lately I have really been craving some good zydeco music. It makes no pretense to be other than dance music, and it is born from such a melange of musical influences (African, Native American, Caribbean, French and Spanish, at the very least) that everyone can enjoy it. As you know I'm a sucker for the blues cadence so this track hit me like a ton of bricks.

union jack doc martens

2010-01-11T10:05:00.001-08:00

union jack doc martens, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Thrifted!!

I got a big ol' lump in my throat when I saw these...then calmly bought them, brought them home, tried them on and proceeded to squee my cheeks out! They're like Cadillacs for my feet.

on the street

2010-01-11T10:04:00.001-08:00

on the street, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

My husband wearing his superfly vintage beaver coat. It was passed on to him by a family friend; he previous owner was Wilbur Campbell, a jazz drummer (naturally). Dappadocious!

Genius.

2010-01-07T18:44:00.000-08:00

Who wants to deal with the permanency of facial hair, not to mention the upkeep? This gives you all of the good and none of the bad! So perfect for this generation, right?

2010-01-07T18:30:00.000-08:00

I have been searching for these exact earrings for almost seven years. I bought them as a birthday gift to myself from the Fogg Museum at Harvard, and they were my favorite earrings at the time. They disappeared around graduation/move-out; I actually cried because I'd lost them. I'd look through craft fairs, online shops, department stores, anything even similar to them, and I found nothing!
It struck me this morning to try finding an online version of the Fogg Museum gift shop, and I found this shop, still affiliated with Harvard's museum system. Who'd have thunk to look in the same place twice?

jan7

2010-01-07T10:42:00.001-08:00

jan7, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

I usually share pictures in which I'm all gussied up for the day, but that is not my state of being 100% of the time. I thought I'd share a shot of some "room wear" and give you a sense of what I wear around the house.

thrifted red/multicolor print fabric, worn as headwrap.
one white pearl earring & one black pearl earring, married by me.
lots of charms and medallions: st. joseph, opal heart, mermaid, unicorn, cameo...a bunch. mostly thrifted.
thrifted distressed contrast knit top over japanese print t-shirt.
drawstring half-pants over leggings, both thrifted years ago.
tabi socks purchased online.
zori thrifted years and years ago; these are my basic footwear around the house, i probably wear them everyday. they're starting to go, and i do have a backup pair once they finally give out, but i will wear them until they're unwearable. :o)

Molecular models never looked so delectable.

2009-12-23T23:32:00.000-08:00

This stuff is so durn cool!

dec17

2009-12-19T10:32:00.001-08:00

dec17, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

This is what I wore to see The Addams Family at the Oriental Theatre on Thursday. I was surprised to note that I was the only member of the family who showed up that night! ;o)

mini hat from H & M, trimmed with feather, african mask brooch, and five pearl hatpins.
lace katyusha purchased online.
diamond shell earrings from the african festival this past summer.
thrifted hot pink silk scarf and hot pink vintage gloves.
atelier boz bow tie and retroscope pinstriped ruffled blouse purchased online.
thrifted embroidered velveteen jacket.
diagonal ruffled skirt from the empty bottle swap last winter.
moon & stars socks from cosmo beauty on state street.
vintage victorian-style boots thrifted years ago.

Christmas Does Cleveland

2009-12-18T21:08:00.000-08:00

I'm tripped out by how much I enjoy this show; it's so fascinating to see Black characters interpreted by white actors (and vice versa, for that matter), without stumbling into Minstreltown. Having a Christmas episode ensures you'll be seen again someday, so hopefully this means there will be another season of this show. Happy Holidays...

addams family

2009-12-18T21:07:00.001-08:00

addams family, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Last night we went to see the show. It was hilarious, and definitely a spectacle worth seeing. My favorite characters were Uncle Fester (whose lover is very large, round and pale, like himself) and Grandmama (who partakes in certain herbal remedies rather regularly!) I was surprised for a moment at how casually everyone was dressed, and then I remembered that I live in Chicago ;oP

Bottle Dance

2009-12-15T14:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Chanukah to all my Hebrews out there. Here, have one of the best scenes in the one of best films about Jews ever made:

Penny Lane - The Literal Version

2009-12-15T14:48:00.001-08:00

I've been watching this over and over, and laughing more with each subsequent viewing...there's a plethora of these literal version sendups on YouTube but this is one of the better ones, I think.

Comedy of Terrors

2009-12-14T16:45:00.000-08:00

I'm loving Hulu for posting all these old classic horror films. When I'm bored I listen to films/cartoons like some people listen to albums; this one has some especially good bad acting. Boris Karloff was very sadly under-cast in this...

debauchery ball, december 11

2009-12-14T16:43:00.001-08:00

debauchery , originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

debauchery ball, december 11, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Yesterday was my pal Khari's birthday bash. The dress code was "all black and scandalous," so I knew I had it down pat. I didn't take any pictures of myself that evening, I was too busy dancing! Thankfully some other people at the party shared their snaps with me.

dec8

2009-12-09T20:52:00.001-08:00

dec8, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Wasted no time getting those tickets for the Addams Family. I'm really excited for it, and I will be sure to do it up right for the occasion. My new job is going well so why shouldn't I treat myself?

red and black fleece beret from ebay, pinned with vintage hatpin.
fox fur fling was a gift from a neighbor (she wanted me to have it, how could i refuse her?)
red empire waist coat from a church sale this summer.
tweed bag from a flickr swap a few years ago.
suede and leather gloves thrifted in portland last month.
cashmere jersey overskirt, thrifted.
thrifted cotton petticoat.
thrifted navy blue patent snow boots.

Yes and Now

2009-12-09T20:48:00.001-08:00

Yes and Now, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Yes and Now

It's a must that I see this show; I'm looking at dates now...will keep you posted.

first snow

2009-12-09T20:44:00.001-08:00

first snow, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

nov20

2009-11-21T22:35:00.001-08:00

nov20, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

A birthday party tonight, then another birthday party tomorrow, then another birthday party on Sunday! Aw sookysooky now!

top hat modified by me, wrapped with a blue leopard print scarf.and various hat pins.
slightly mismatched earrings made by me.
thrifted tahari jacket, vintage leather pants, vintage gloves and snakeskin print boots.
frog skin purse found abandoned at the flea market.
scarf was a neighbor giveaway.

Something Funny

2009-11-18T16:57:00.000-08:00

I derive endless joy from our newly emerging mash-up culture...

nov12

2009-11-17T16:39:00.001-08:00

nov12, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Another one of those instances in which I only had one shot of the day's outfit. I liked this one because of the cropped jacket, which I was happy to find in my size.
All week I've been getting prepared for my new job which will start next week. It will take some time to get settled into it, naturally, but I'm looking forward to this new chapter.

thrifted chinese silk scarf, chinese print pashmina, cropped jacket, leather double buckle belt, green leather belt, vintage blue gloves, art institute tote bag and kenzo mixed print skirt.
paisley petticoat from knee deep.
vintage white victorian style boots from a church sale last year.

The Old Man of the Mountain

2009-11-11T21:00:00.001-08:00

Cab Calloway's fantastic band and vocal performance drive this Betty Boop short; for a moment you almost forget she's there.

nov7

2009-11-08T13:43:00.001-08:00

nov7, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

While I waited for my bike to be fixed at the place on the left, I browsed the beads and findings in the shop on the right. In all we rode about 26 miles throughout the city today! (And I came home with some pretty beads.)

thrifted red poncho, red studded belt, kodona style pants and red clarks flats.
merino wool bolero reconstructed by me from an old cardigan.
bottle cap belt from the flea market years and years ago.
gray OTK stocks from urban outfitters.

hans' jacket and overalls are passed down from a family member :o)

nov6

2009-11-06T19:23:00.001-08:00

nov6, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Every year around this time I blather about how much I love fall. But it's sincere; I love the crunch of dry leaves and the unique mix of warm and cool each fall brings.

thrifted green mini beret, foldup wayfarers, studded ruffled bag, ruched skirt and suede ankle boots.
copper/brass earrings made by valarie.
alice temperley for target jacket from ebay.
socks from H & M.

nov5

2009-11-05T17:54:00.001-08:00

nov5, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

I'm starting a new job this month, it's my first out of grad school and lady, it is sweet...on-site childcare, flexible hours, and I can wear whatever the hell I want! This is what I wore to a preliminary meeting.

thrifted mini beret, foldup wayfarers, red zip blouse, vintage white gloves and puff sleeve jacket. the jacket came with the poppy pin (for veterans)
doorknockers and various chain necklaces from maxwell street.
waistcoat modified by yours truly.
retroscope skirt from egl_comm_sales.
floral knee high socks from urban outfitters.
suede/velvet loafers from a neighborhood rummage sale.

Bentley in the Hood

2009-11-05T17:10:00.001-08:00

prewar bentley on king drive, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

It was the best shot I could get from the car, but whoosah, what a beaut!

nov1

2009-11-02T08:09:00.001-08:00

nov1, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

I can hardly believe that the end of the decade is only a number of weeks away. So much has happened for me since the turn of the century: attending and graduating Harvard, two trips overseas, dozens and dozens of new friends, met courted and married, became a mother, had several jobs and internships, started and completed social work school...on top of all that my personality and style have changed so much since then. So far, change has been overwhelmingly good for me.

burgundy snood crocheted by me.
fertility figure earrings reconstructed by me.
hunter green merino wool jabot made by me from an old cardigan, and pinned with a vintage "M" stick pin.
thrifted velvety flower print coat.
dinosaur bone ring from ebay.
brown twill skirt from a recycling bin.
thrifted vintage minnetonka moccasins.

oct25

2009-11-02T08:08:00.001-08:00

oct25, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Sunday reminded me of why I love fall so much. We took a lovely ride through Jackson Park and throughout the South East side, then along the lakefront. Couldn't have asked for better. I liked the day's outfit because it was perfect for the weather and very comfortable.

thrifted vintage hat, trimmed with a floral silk scarf and two hatpins.
vintage sunglasses.
labradorite and pearl earrings of my own design.
knit cape from forever 21.
fingerless gloves from H & M.
waist pack from forever 21.
moonstone ring from ebay.
thrifted simply vera wang purple cardigan.
thrifted striped t-shirt dress, restyled by me.
gray hammer pants from urban outfitters, years ago.
half socks from H & M.
nanette lepore keds from crossroads trading.

oct21

2009-10-21T18:45:00.001-07:00

oct21, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

It was a picture perfect fall day today, and I do mean spectacular. I wanted to wear my short pants and newly modded stockings while I could, and the rest came together from there. I almost went without the hat, but I felt unfinished without it.

my vintage betmar hat was thrifted, and it's pinned with several vintage hatpins.
cat-eye glasses thrifted.
silver/crystal hoops from now-defunct steve & barry's.
bunches and bunches of chains from maxwell street.
cropped jacket from H & M.
cameo pin with manet print was thrifted.
Rob found this tapestry tote bag last week at the thrift store, it perfectly matches the pattern of one of his hats :o)
hip pack from forever 21.
vintage turquoise ring from flea market, onyx druzy ring from ebay.
i found the pinstripe knickers during the summer, on top of a recycling bin. serendipity!
the stockings are a pair of little girl's disney princess print stockings, modded into knee highs with garters. i love the way they turned out!
vintage suede loafers thrifted a few years ago.

hat pins

2009-10-15T14:00:00.001-07:00

hat pins, originally uploaded by lush bella.

Why do I want them lately?

Ah. I know why. My collection of tiny vintage hats has been screaming for them. How else are those little beauties to stay on one's head? Now I see there is a reason for all those little old-fashioned accoutrements; like tie tacks, watch chains, sock garters and boot spats, hat pins are beautiful and fiercely functional. On top of keeping one's coif in place, they've been known to put more than a few eyes out of state, which is a bonus when you live on my side of town.

oct9

2009-10-13T20:57:00.001-07:00

oct9, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Went to a friend's theater production last weekend, so I thought I'd bring some drama of my own.

My friend Sarah gave me this coat; what a pal, what a pal. It's pleather and it has lacing in the back.
My top hat was purchased online, but I was underwhelmed with it and modified it myself with handstitched leather and a violet sash.
My pashmina was thrifted a few years ago, I love it.
My studded bag and gray lace-up boots were also thrifted.

O The Silliness

2009-10-12T09:05:00.000-07:00

Labradorite

2009-10-06T20:54:00.001-07:00

Labradorite var. Spectrolite, originally uploaded by Orbital Joe.

I can't stop looking at it lately.

Labradorite Storm, originally uploaded by Aethereal Minx.

Simple Labradorite Ring, originally uploaded by small::bird

Orange Flash Labradorite Fire, originally uploaded by cozysister.

labradorite and blue sapphire necklace, originally uploaded by jadecicadajewelry.

I'm obsessed.

sep30

2009-10-02T06:08:00.003-07:00

sep30, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Today, rather than wait until the end of the day to take a snap, I did it before I went out. I've decided that that is a better strategy; smiles come easier :o)

vintage red beret thrifted
vintage jet glass hatpins ebay
vintage oversize sunglasses thrifted
rhinestone dangles thrifted
ruffled hoodie forever 21
vintage white shorties thrifted
black twill skirt neighbor giveaway
red/black striped socks egl_comm_sales
white/black striped flats crossroads trading

sep24

2009-10-02T06:08:00.001-07:00

sep24, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Finally! I've opened my etsy shop. I have a few items there now, and I'll be adding more tomorrow and over the weekend. Please check it out and share any feedback if you have it.
Today's outfit was more or less thrown together, but I like the way it came together.

the black wool mini beret was thrifted.
my mostly matched hoop earrings were found on two different occasions and "married" by me. they may as well go together!
same necklace as before, which i made.
my trompe l'oeil zip dress was purchased last year from forever 21.
my black hobble skirt was given to me by my godmother.
the black slide loafers were thrifted a few years ago.

My Etsy Shop Is Officially Open

2009-10-02T06:07:00.001-07:00

etsy banner, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

sep27

2009-10-02T06:06:00.001-07:00

sep27, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

sep27

Chicago slammed the door on summer just like that. Now I actually need sleeves and socks.

pink leopard print headband thrifted
blind man sunglasses from knee deep
vintage mickey mouse pin from harry
pearl tie thrifted
black zip blouse thrifted
gray undershirt forever 21
studded hip pack forever 21
camo print skirt thrifted
over the knee half socks from flea market
toe socks from filene's basement
melissa plastic dreams flats from crossroads trading.

Young, Gifted and Black

2009-09-24T08:24:00.000-07:00

To me, to be young, gifted and Black means not just surviving, but thriving in harsh conditions, like some sort of weed that refuses to be stamped into dust.

School Days

2009-09-24T07:16:00.000-07:00

Maybe those teens two entries down would like this track. You think?

sep23

2009-09-23T18:09:00.001-07:00

sep23, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Today's goal was a lolita look that was bike-friendly. The last few times I wore this skirt I didn't take any photos, so although this is just a shot on the fire escape, at least it's there. I wanted to wear it at least once more before storing it away for winter.

black and white beret from ebay.
vintage flower bandana, cardigan, brooch and striped top and Doc Marten maryjanes all thrifted.
same necklaces as yesterday.
the music note print skirt was made by chiaki_ayumi and purchased on egl_comm_sales. so were the over-the-knee bodyline pirate socks.
i made the zebra print underskirt.

All The Cats Join In

2009-09-23T16:45:00.000-07:00

An old Disney fave. I remember seeing this as a child before I understood racism, so although I thought it strange that there weren't any black people in it, it gave me the idea that white kids were pretty cool and liked to party.

Sean Connery

2009-09-22T19:31:00.001-07:00

Sean Connery, originally uploaded by twm1340.

I've been watching The Great Train Robbery on hulu over the last couple of days, and it has put Sean Connery to the forefront of my mind. Not the more mature Sean Connery of today, but the hottie from the 60s; damn that man was so fine. The kind of fine that makes you slap a close relative!

Granted, he has aged as well as a man can, but he was pretty worshipful in his youth. I've been trying to figure out that je ne sais quoi, and I've decided that it's his lips.

Why is he always cast as a scallywag though? It's the only reason I don't envy any of his leading ladies...no one ever actually catches him, and it's hard for a heroine to keep caring about a fellow like that, no matter how fine.

Just as an aside, I thought Donald Sutherland was pretty good in this, though I can't look at him without thinking of Kiefer Sutherland, whom I knew about first (maybe to Sutherland Sr.'s chagrin?) I know it's unfair to overlap his son's personality on him but I can't help it.

monarch season

2009-09-22T19:13:00.001-07:00

monarch season, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

sep21

2009-09-21T15:27:00.001-07:00

sep21, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

First day of autumn, my next favorite season after spring. I couldn't not take my aforementioned Fluevogs out for a spin, and yes I am quite pleased with them.

I've been so busy since graduation working on making things destined for sale in my etsy shop. I hope to have it all set up before the end of the month. I know, everyone and their mom has an etsy shop, but I'm okay with that! The world needs more entrepreneurship.

Outfit details:
beige wool beret, cartouche pendant and evil eye amulet earrings from miz valarie.
ruffled hoodie came from forever 21.
i got the sterling silver cowrie shell ring from the african festival a few weekends ago, as the vendor was packing up.
suede skirt originally thrifted, then handpainted by my pal shelly.
black fishnets from a vendor at the flea market.
oxblood fluevog wedge boots from crossroads trading.

My, was that fast!

2009-09-21T15:15:00.001-07:00

fluevog boot, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Thank you thrift gods for sending me a beautiful pair of Fluevogs!

The South-East Side of Chicago

2009-09-17T20:54:00.001-07:00

There is one. I live on it.

The Wiz

2009-09-11T09:13:00.000-07:00

The Wiz influenced my early life in some pretty interesting ways. When I was three or four I was cast as Dorothy in my preschool's production of The Wiz. I'm betting that it was because I was an extraordinarily verbal and highly dramatic child, even at that tender age. I remember having a ball doing it: watching the movie over and over was fun, rehearsing was fun, the costumes were fun, and performing it was fun. I got to throw a bucket of glitter on the witch instead of water....how often does anyone get to throw buckets of glitter? Even though it was a little school production I was empowered by the experience, and began to believe that I could actually be or do whatever I wanted in life.

Looking back on it though as an adult, I see how creepy this film actually is. Abandoned theme park? Sinister subway? Fire-breathing robot head? Evil sweatshop taskmistresses? Torture devices? Yeah. But at the same time the film is richer for me now. I can appreciate the entirely Black (and very talented) cast, the fantastic music by Quincy Jones and the sexy, uplifting dance scene at the end with the hot sweatshop workers.

A Case of the Fluevogs

2009-09-10T11:17:00.001-07:00

It happens every so often: I'm inexplicably drawn to the Fluevog store window or the website, and dream of strutting down the street somehow wearing several pairs at once. Fall tends to bring it on, as I look forward to showing my boots some love after a summer of skimmers and strappy things. I blame my old friend Christina from prep school for first infecting me; she'd pull me with her into the store in Boston whenever we were in town.

My top drool-inducing favorite of late is the Xie Xie (which means "thank you" in Mandarin Chinese; Fluevog likes to use variations of the word for some of his designs). Sleek and just enough under the radar to wear anyplace, but unmistakably Fluevog in design and quality. They're beautiful and even practical, but not so delicate as to shun wear and tear.

Xie xie in advance to the kind benefactor who would like to gift me these boots...*bow*

Addams Family

2009-09-09T12:08:00.001-07:00

Addams Family sketch by Charles Addams, originally uploaded by WithoutLightIAm.

The Addams Family has been one of my favorite classic sitcoms since I was a pipsqueak. I like that the Addams Family is a lovable, loving and functional family, despite the fact that they cannot relate at all to the world around them, and vice versa. Only people that fantastically wealthy can avoid the mainstream as completely as they do, but it's something to shoot for, right?

There's a channel on YouTube that shows a few full episodes from the first season; this one in particular is hilarious (can't embed so I just linked it).The laugh tracks can get annoying (whose idea was this anyway?) and at times feel like social dictation, but the lighthearted silliness takes the edge off.

When I really think about it, this particular franchise has gone much farther than it seems to have, from the original cartoons by Charles Addams to sitcoms, cartoon shows, feature films, video games and other assorted crap which I search for on ebay...and now the musica l which will be opening in Chicago this November (and which I delightedly await).

aug29

2009-08-29T21:26:00.003-07:00

aug29, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Today was a gorgeous late summer day, with a deliciously cool hint of fall. I wanted to wear a bike-friendly steampunk ensemble today, so that's what I've assembled here. In other news, I've finally received my master's degree in clinical social work. After I finish uploading these pics you know I'm going to celebrate!

my vintage cap, which is wrapped with a leather belt and pinned with a kilt pin, was thrifted.
the round glasses were thrifted also.
my cowrie shell choker was bought years and years ago at the african festival.
my jacket and bag were thrifted and my brooch was thrifted and modified by yours truly.
my amulet ring was purchased at the israel museum in jerusalem, and my udjat ring was purchased at the field museum here in chicago.
my skirt has a great story: i owned this back in 2006, but sold it maybe a year or so later, only to regret selling it later on (hate when that happens!) Back in June I saw it in Buffalo Exchange and simply had to buy it back again.
you can barely see it but i have a coin chain going across the bustle; that was thrifted.
my knee-high half-socks are from H & M. I caught them on deep discount and bought every pair they had; that's my style!
my vintage tasseled wingtips were purchased at maxwell street market last year, I think.

achievement

2009-08-29T21:26:00.001-07:00

achievement, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

I've done it. I've finally received my MA in Clinical Social Work. It was hard work but I rose to the challenge. No matter what happens in my life, nothing can take this experience away from me. I'm grateful to see this day, and I'm looking forward to my career in the helping profession.

Little Mama

2009-08-29T12:02:00.000-07:00

Don't be Little Mama if you want to keep a man as good as Billy Eckstine!

aug25

2009-08-26T20:33:00.001-07:00

aug25, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Where did all of my money go?

usual black shades from knee deep.
vintage Chinese jacket and mary jane slippers from the thrift.
white tee from H & M.
black leggings from Gap.

restored mural at 56th

2009-08-19T07:40:00.001-07:00

restored mural at 56th
Originally uploaded by bijouxdejais

"You are undone if you once forget that the fruits of the earth belong to us all and the earth itself to nobody." --Rousseau

aug14

2009-08-17T22:31:00.001-07:00

aug14
Originally uploaded by bijouxdejais

On this particular day I had to kick some ass and take some names, so I figured I may as well wear a pretty dress while doing so.

giant parasol hat from buffalo exchange, pierced with my hatpin from a random store.
vintage sunglasses by thrift.
aluminum machete earrings purchased at the ghana fest a few weeks ago.
vintage poppy print dress and striped bag by thrift.

Eyes of Eagles

2009-08-17T16:34:00.001-07:00

Eyes of Eagles
Originally uploaded by Christopher Porché West - A Studio On Desire

Oh. my. Gah. Unbelievable beadwork.

This is a Mardi Gras Indian costume. the Mardi Gras Indians (not necessarily native American) are known for blending native American, African and European influences in their fabulous costumes for Mardi Gras. This is the kind of stuff I love about being a multiracial American :o)

2009-08-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

The quality of this clip isn't that great, but this basically sums up my feelings about anime. I'm an old-school person (if you haven't gathered that by now) and I would much rather watch Popeye beat the crap out of the same guy again and again (but in slightly different situations), than get involved in meandering anime plotlines.

atari video music

2009-08-11T15:12:00.001-07:00

atari video music
Originally uploaded by bijouxdejais

Listening to Off the Wall while testing out the Atari Video Music. Pretty trippy, eh?

Oldies with Soul

2009-08-11T14:52:00.001-07:00

I'm an oldies person, and have pretty much always been one. Funk, soul, stank, blues, whatever you want to call it...I love the blues cadence, it just gets in my bones when I hear it. So much of the music from the 40s and 50s has that kind of soul in spades. I can see why blues and early rock and roll threatened some people in those days..not everyone can take it!

aug5

2009-08-11T14:51:00.002-07:00

Bleh. It's hot. (But I liked my outfit!)

same old thrifted hat, with clip-on flower from H & M.
standard shades from knee deep.
silver curlicue earrings from valarie's collection.
ruffled pinstripe blouse and corset skirt by retroscope, but purchased from different sources. i have a white rose clipped there.
various jewelry, some gifted, some thrifted.
thrifted striped bag, lacy leggings and canvas x-strap slippers.

aug4

2009-08-11T14:51:00.001-07:00

aug4, originally uploaded by bijouxdejais.

Light steam for a sunny summer day, the warmest so far.

I always browse the shops on State Street when I'm downtown. Today I picked up the cutest ruffled hoodie dress.... I almost never pay retail price but I knew this was my only chance to buy it. And I do not regret it! (At least not yet :oP)

my vintage straw hat was thrifted a while ago, it's a bit scrunched but i like it like that.
my striped headscarf is an neighbor giveaway from years ago.
my vintage sunglasses were thrifted, but i swapped between these and some foldup wayfarers throughout the day (i keep two pair in my purse because i can never find them when i need them!)
my wood and brass ring earrings are from last year's african festival.
my cuff watch was a gift, and my silver studded cuff and golden wooden bangle were both thrifted.
my lacy cutsew, striped bag, cotton skirt and mephisto walking sandals are all thrifted.
the vest was a neighbor giveaway, and i replaced the buttons with a random assortment of vintage buttons (sadly the bottom one popped off :oP)
my vintage porcelain cameo was purchased at the flea market this past weekend.

The World of Tomorrow

2009-08-11T14:50:00.002-07:00

I love retrofuturism; it's a unique interaction with the past. This is an old fave featuring mid-century predictions of a 21st century farm. Love the hybrid farm creatures...

Here's another good one...so many of these little gags are still essentially true!