Chains of Love Giveaway

Want to win? Now through Friday, April 30th at 11:59pm CST you can enter to win a bracelet from Stygian Chains. One winner will receive the handmade, unisex, chainmaille bracelet shown above.

To enter this contest, simply visit the Nostalgic Collections etsy boutique and pick out your favorite item. Then leave a comment here with your name, contact information, and favorite item. Receive bonus entries by (1) following the blog or (2) becoming a fan on facebook.

Contest is open worldwide. There are no residency restrictions for this contest. Must be 18 or older. Limit three entries per household/person/email address (only one entry per method). Void where prohibited by law. All entries are audited and confirmed prior to drawing. Entrants must be fans/followers at the time of the drawing for additional entries to be valid. Random drawing will be held the first week of May.

Odds of winning depend on the number of entries, and there are no size, color, or condition guarantees. The winner will be notified on the Nostalgic Collections Facebook Fan page, and shipping details will be shared through Facebook messaging and email. Please be sure to leave your contact information and become a fan on Facebook!!

Black Velvet, If You Please...

Inspired by the sensational Marilyn Monroe, I've collected some of my favorite Black Velvet items from Etsy.

1) 60s Velvet Purse, Red Fox Vintage. 2) Gothic Romance Necklace, Myth Understood. 3) 80s Blossom Hat, The Vintage Wearhouse. 4) 80s Party Dress, Upscale Vintage. 5. Black Mary Janes, Skinny and Bernie. 6) 50s Cocktail Dress, Calendar Girl Vintage. 7) Hair Rose, Mikiye. 8) Victoria's Rose Choker, Ghost Love Jewelry.

Find your inspiration and unleash your passion!

XoXo,

Vicki @Nostalgic Collections

http://www.nostalgiccollections.com/

About the Author: Vicki is the founder of Nostalgic Collections, a contributing writer to the Vintage Bulletin, and a member of the Independent Fashion Bloggers. Photo Credits: Marylin Monroe, Unknown.

For the Love of Vintage Jewelry

We all know that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. But what about emeralds, pearls, and sparkly gems? My motto: Anything goes!

Steps to Stylish Vintage Jewels:

1. Make sure all the stones are secure. Time can loosen the setting and the glue can come un-glued.
2. Check for clarity. Even vintage faux gems can get cloudy with age.
3. The finish on faux pearls tends to chip and crack over time. Be sure to roll each pearl over to check it from every angle!
4. Be prepared to re-string! Sometimes the pearls are in amazing condition, but the string is weak.

Vintage jewelry makes great, affordable accessories! Add a little bling without breaking the bank!!

XoXo,

Vicki @Nostalgic Collections
http://www.nostalgiccollections.com/

About the Author: Vicki is the founder of Nostalgic Collections, a contributing writer to the Vintage Bulletin, and a member of the Independent Fashion Bloggers.
Photo Credits: 1) Taylor Momsen, Unknown. 2) Audrey Hepburn, Unknown. 3) Natalie Portman, Unknown.

Ode to Ellen Von Unwerth

I adore the photography of Ellen von Unwerth. German born photographer brings an edge not typically seen on this side of the pond. I loved Ellen's work for Guess? Jeans in the early 90's and her Absolut Vodka ads have absolutely caught my attention.

Bold, bright, and artistic. Vibrant, stylish, and erotically feminine. Her black and whites are breath-taking. Her foray into the nudes are mesmerizing.

Renowned celebrity photographer, Ellen Von Unwerth can be seen virtually everywhere now. Pick up the latest issue of Vogue, chances are you'll find her work amongst the images that make an impression.

XoXo,

Vicki @Nostalgic Collections

http://www.nostalgiccollections.com/ 

About the Author: Vicki is the founder of Nostalgic Collections, a contributing writer to the Vintage Bulletin, and a member of the Independent Fashion Bloggers.
Photo Credits: Ellen Von Unwerth.

Summer Lovin'

I'm dreaming of summer. Summer blossoms, white cottages, sandy beaches, lilacs, lavender, and daisies. In anticipation of summer, I'm simplifying my life.

My Summer To-Do List Includes:

1. Take a nap on the swing

2. Pick lilacs for fresh flower vases

3. Fish off the dock

4. Watch the sun set on the lake

5. Make herbal sachets with fresh lavender

6. Teach my niece to create crowns out of daisies

7. Spend as much time gardening, fishing, and grilling as possible

8. Bonfire with good friends and good wine

9. Play like a kid at the park

10. Break out the sundresses and flip flops

Now that I have 10 things to look forward to, I can get back to spring cleaning, simplifying, and moving!

XoXo,

Vicki @ Nostalgic Collections

http://www.nostalgiccollections.com/

About the Author: Vicki is the founder of Nostalgic Collections, a contributing writer to the Vintage Bulletin, and a member of the Independent Fashion Bloggers.

Photo Credits: Marilyn Monroe, Unknown. Jessica Lange, Unknown.