Who Shot J.R.?

So as am still not a big fan of Dallas, I must say that Dallas is home to one of the most luxurious and unique thrift stores that I have EVER EVER EVER been in.  ARCHIVE is like a museum to all great designers.  These clothes are from the era when the Gucci family actually owned and operated Gucci and the Coco Chanel actually designed for Chanel.   

The LA Times says "Wading through this site is like perusing a museum exhibition on 20th century fashion... It's a thrill to navigate - each well-designed page looks as if it was ripped from a magazine."

So I asked the owner, how in the world do you obtain such pieces of history.  She then paints a picture which sounds like a scene straight out of the show Dallas.  Texas was once home to wealthy families who obtained their riches from "Texas Tea." She drew a picture of these wealthy socialites driving their Rolls Royce draped in diamonds, furs, and nothing less than the most luxurious  designers.  (I love to hear a glamorous story.)  These women have gotten older and many of the pieces that they once wore have been sitting in their closets for years maybe even decades.  This is where Archive comes in.  I believe Archive has be the only vintage boutique in the U.S. with these types of pieces.  I swear it's insanity.  

I am not going to lie, owning a piece of history is gonna cost you a pretty penny...LOL.  But would I love to own a piece...most definitely.  The high end designer pieces can range from $250 to $1500, but Archive does carry some lower end vintage.  I actually purchased a few pieces myself.  The jewelry alone is worth the trip.  

The UK's Guardian actually named Dallas one of the best places to shop for 1980s vintage.  

The website does the boutique no justice at all.  There are racks and racks of clothes to pick from...I promise.  If you are a true lover of the art of fashion you have to visit this boutique when you come to town.  It is a definite must see.  

ARCHIVE

2912 Maple Avenue

Dallas, TX 75201

214-999-8921

Come into my Bedroom

Alright get your mind out the gutter nasties...LOL.  I did a little redecorating in my room this past week, all by myself.  On Black Friday, my hunni & I bought a new mattress from Macy's.  It's a Tempur Pedic memory foam mattress and I must say it is wonderful.  Please note that it has to be broken in.   It was very stiff when it was delivered.  I have literally spent the whole weekend in bed luxuriating.  Now my spot, at least, is nice and cushy.  Anyways, I figured I'd share my handy work.  The decor included a new headboard, lamps, an accent color, & bedding.  

Room Decor Logistics

Accent Wall Paint - Vintage Gray

Wall Decal "Always Kiss Me Goodnight" - Etsy Seller EpicsDesignsDecor $9 

Duvet Cover- DwellStudio for Target  $80

Decorative Pillows - In Store at Ross at $6/each

Lamps - In Store at Home Goods $40/each

Covered Headboard - Thomas Paul Furniture Sample Sale on Hautelook $350

The decal is there just in case Brian needs a reminder...LOL.

I am not claiming to be any HGTV decorator, but I did take a couple of ideas from their website.  I personally like giving myself little projects so I can see the end result.  And I would like to point out that I did the painting & the decal adhesion myself. :))  

Shoes Clues

Once upon a time there was a girl loved her heels.  Four inch or five inch it didn't matter because in her mind it was always the taller the better.  She loved running through the Atlanta night life and being able to look over the crowd.  It was hard not to notice this 6'1 (in heels) girl at any party.  Then one day the evil "good knee thieves" came and took her good knee away.  Now she is left with flats and kitten heels and her impeccable & marvelous look is forever tarnished by the dastardly knee cap handicappers. So what does one do when you can't bear the pain of the highest of the heels.  

My rules for searching for a shoe I can actually spend more than 15 minutes in:


1.  Keep it under 3 - If there is no platform the heels I look for heels under 3 inches.
2.  Look for Platforms - Platforms decrease the incline of the shoe.  This can allow you wear a taller shoe.
3.  Walking Flat Footed - Flats are always comfortable, I just try to find the most stylish flat I can.
4.  Driving a Wedge - Wedges are a life saver, they aid in balance & comfort
5.  Opt for a Daring & Sexy Color - Can get the heel height you want, opt for a bold color.

My Top 10 Most Stylish & Comfortable Shoes

1.  Halston for Bakers - $65

At on $65 these shoes make are great for casual runs to the market, but they scream chic, expensive, & sophisticated.  

2.  Valentino Couture Lace Pump - $855 (Available at Neimans)

Probably the most seductive mid level heel I have ever seen.  At a heel height of 2.5 inches this is probably as sexy and comfy you can get.  Need a justification for such a hefty purchase.  You know I have always got a shoppers excuse card handy.  Us heel hindered girls, because of option restraints, don't buy as many shoes because of comfort.  So calculate all the shoes you probably would buy and you will have your Valentino pumps.  

3.  Enzo Angiolini 'Killy' Sandal - $134 available at Nordstrom

Get a head start on Spring with this glittery little number.   These scream chic but comfy party shoes that are guaranteed to highlight any Spring frock you plan on wearing.  Added bonus - the girls will be envious of your obvious style and comfort as you dance the night away.  

4.  Be So Bold Heel - ModCloth $34.99

The hot pink color is positively flirtatious with a heel height of 2.5 inches.  Add on as the unpredictable color in your ensemble.  

5.  Chinese Laundry Gisenna 3 - $50 available at Zappos

Fancy and feminine these flats are so romantic and whimsical.  

6.  Smoking by Stuart Weizman - $345

These patent leather cuties can easily be added on to any outfit.

7.  Navy Corsage T-Bar Pumps - Dorothy Perkins $55

8.  Cesena - Ninewest $150

Let's do some math.  The height is 5 inches with a 2 inch platform, so this shoe is the equivalent to a 3 inch heel.  This equals all the height and comfort you want. 

 9.  Ciao Bella Tabby Wide Calf Riding Boot - DSW $100

Opt out for this stylish, but comfortable riding boot.  

10.  Trouserl - Steve Madden $80

Oxfords are a classic shoe that can be added to most looks.