places: Design Archives

Design archives was the first vintage shop I visited in Greensboro, and I ABSOLUTELY fell in love. The funny thing is that I am more content with being in the store than purchasing clothing. The atmosphere is a nostalgia that I can only assume, because, obviously I am an 80's baby. I believe that is why i am so fascinated with vintage...everything. I enjoy history and pop culture, culminated together they create ME! Back to the story at handy. Design Archive's is a haven for designer vintage or any vintage ready to wear design. They carry it all from hats to shoes to purses to curtains. The prices are moderate and they also have a layaway system! They also have a cute little poodle, "Boggie" to keep you entertained while shopping. Check them out!

Hours of operation:
Mon thru Fri - 11-7.
Sat 11-6
Sun - 1-5.
338 TATE STREETGREENSBORO, NC 27403
Phone: (336) 272-1800

http://www.shopdesignarchives.com/

catch me out.

miss lipstank.

things: girlgang

"girlgang provides colourful, casual threads for streetwise ladies. They like to say to the world ‘I’m a girl, get over it!” through the power of their clothes – street inspired but unapologetically feminine. girlgang’s designer, pinklady, has no formal fashion training but cut her fashion teeth on the battleground that is Portobello market, way back in the last millennium (98-99). She did study illustration however, and you’ll find that each collection is based around the prints she creates from her drawings and scribblings. She’s also quite a nostalgic type, so other influences include favourite bygone era’s, from the 18th century to art deco to the 80’s. Pinklady is a born and bred Londoner and girlgang is very much a London label – all the garments are hand printed and MADE IN LONDON town."

www.myspace.com/girlgang

i really just thought the picture was refreshing.

catch me out.

miss lipstank.

things: tartan a.k.a. Plaid

circa: not exactly known

Tartan has been used for hundreds of centuries by Scottish and Celtic cultures. Tartan comes from the Irish tarsna - crosswise & Scottish Gaelic tarsuinn - across. However, another derivation may be from Old French tartaine - cloth, implying the introduction of checked woollen cloth in the early middle ages which simply became popular in the Highlands. Interesting, huh?

I chose to to write about this topic because I am weakened by a man in plaid. It is my kryptonite if worn appropriately, such as being clad in a Ralph Lauren Oxford as opposed to an entire short set. Here are a few presentable plaid ensembles, enjoy!

miss lipstank.

catch me out!

people: me

I have neglected this blog for too long. It has almost been two months since I have posted and I apologize to the little fanbase that I have. All I can say is LIFE. I'll bring it back by taking it back!

me at a friend's 80's party.

miss lipstank.

<-- caught out.

things: Harriet the Spy

circa: 1996

I watched this movie for the first time in like 7 years yesterday. It is HANDS DOWN in my top 10. I wanted to be Harriet, I wanted her life. I think it's weird that I watched it yesterday and still want her life. The whole movie epitomizes the childhood of the 90's. Granted their roller blading was equivolent to my hide-and-go seek, the happiness they had is so nostalgic right now. The wardrobe of the flick is what had me going off. Marian Hawthorne was like the ULTIMATE villian (bitch), but that sixth grader WENT OFF in that houndstooth blazer. I was like oh my god, she is my little girl. I can't wait for my daughter, I want her to be eclectic and intellectual just like her mother. Everything about this story was great, the relationships, the morals, the context (I'm not sure what city, but it was BEAUTIFUL). Harriet was my hero, it's like we had the same brain.

"I want to see everything, I want to know everything."- Harriet M. Welsch

miss lipstank.

people: My Boy Andy

I'm sorry I haven't blogged in a while. LIFE is demanding. Here's a qoute from my boy Andy.

"I've decided something: Commercial things really do stink. As soon as it becomes commercial for a mass market it really stinks. "

I believe after something becomes mainstream it loses its luster. Keep it preserved, stay vintage.

FUCK! I love him.

miss lipstank.

things: the soundtrack of my life. volume two.

I get so damn excited when i'm wtiring up these lists! I hope you all are finding the tracks you've never heard!

26. Just Me And You- Tony Toni Tone
27. Love Song- Jean Grae
28. Woman To Woman- Barbara Mandrell
29. Love Hangover- Diana Ross
30. Lets Stay Together- Al Green
31. Never Can Say Goodbye- J5
32. Rubberband Man- The Spinners
33. My Girl- The Temptations
34.Just My Imagination- The Temptations
35. Yes I’m Ready- Barbara Mason
36. Silly- Deniece Williams
37.Pastime Paradise- Stevie Wonder
38. Teenage Love- Slick Rick
39. Walk Like An Egyptian- The Bangles
40. Manic Monday- The Bangles
41. Who You Wit- HOVA
42. 10 Crack Commandments- Biggie
43. Scar Tissue- Red Hot Chili Peppers
44. How’s It Going Down- DMX
45. Kissing You 1&2- Total
46. Eyes Better Not Wander- Nicole Wray
47. All I Want- 702
48. It Never Rains In Southern California- Tony Toni Tone
49. 5 O’Clock- Nonchlant
50. Only You- Kwame the Polka Dot Kid
51. Can’t Be Wasting My Time- Mona Lisa <----- I know yall don’t remember that!!!!!

miss lipstank.

things: sex

I was listening to the song "Cutty Buddy" by Mike Jones ft. T-Pain and Lil Wayne today and as I was listening I wondered what casual sex was like a few decades ago. This song is my shit, but these n****s really just reduced us to booty [just a side note], but yes, the 1960s`s was an era that formulated many revolutions, sex being one of them. I mean, what is else is to come from drugs and rock and roll? This decaed even originated the term "Going all the way." I juse always wondered how sex was for people my aunts and grandparents age, like the process of getting it. Sex was more taboo, they didn`t have "Bust It Baby" or "Bed" for the set-up, so was like "Hey, I`m trynna get in that skirt," or was there a courting process <--- Something I wouldn't know about since romance is dead. Somethimes I wish I had a time machine, I`ll settle for a Delorean! I just want you guys to think...

catch me out

miss lipstank.

things: Teen Vogue August 2008

"Smarty Pants: Give menswear a shot of English eccentric-cool with bold plaids, striped scarves, and dandy caps."

I am in love with this month's Vogue spread. I almost pulled my hair out when I saw this emsemble. I know I am short, but I will be pulling it together and take notes from this shoot. The lace is giving me everything I need right now, those trousers, need I say more. I love everything about this photo from her expression to the background. I mean, who wouldn't be smiling their ass off tipping in thise. Look at that high pony!

With Honors

Vintage shirt and bow tie. Peter Som trousers. D&G leather belt, about $285. Fallon bracelet, about $290. Antoni & Alison tote, about $200. Jessica Grindstaff prize ribbons (on tote), about $77-$150 each. Ports 1961 by Tia Cibani shoes, about $255.

Here is my second favorite, my focal point is the socks. The argyle-esque style with that fabulous broach is necessary this Fall. I hope you people have out your Mead`s and Bic`s. She is casually sitting, literally.

Head of the class
Kate wears an Armani Exchange blazer, about $130. Paul by Paul Smith vest, about $275. Vintage blouse, glasses, and bow tie. H&M pants, about $50. Chris Benz boutonniere, about $235. Paul Smith socks, about $50.

Ports 1961 by Tia Cibani shoes, about $255.

CATCH ME OUT.

miss lipstank

people: Corey and Topanga [boy meets world]

circa: 1993

TGIF was the best thing to hit the IDIOT BOX (except for SNICK) ever. If I recall correctly it was Family Matters, Step by Step, Boy Meets World, and Hangin` With Mr. Cooper and other variations along the way. This post isn`t really about the thingling sensation I get when thinking of how happy I was to see the shows, or how I cried on that one hour trip to my dad`s house on Friday`s because I was missing the shows. This post is paying homage to one of the best television couples of our time: Corey and Topanga. For some reason these two just popped in my head about 5 minutes ago so I decided to write. They made me happy, they made made be anxious, eager to love. Their romance was not storybook, it captured the essence of teenage love. They had so many ups and downs from their friendship ending at 7 because Corey told her girls had cooties, Topanga having to leave because of her mothers job, her moving back, the break up over Corey kissing another girl, right down to TOPANGA PROPOSING!!! You better work bitch, lol. I suppose that I like them so much because I long for a love like this, but my teenage years are over so I do not see that happening. Anywho, just the thought of these two makes me smile. Hope I brightened your day.

catch me out

miss lipstank

things: She's GOTTA Have It

circa: 1986

Spike Lee is my favorite director. I do not care what type of movie buff you are, all his movies are great. I tend to look at the creative expression in everything which is a major factor on why I adore him, plus you know, he is an avid fan of the "23 genius" (Mike Jordan) himself. Anywho, this is Mr. Lee's debut film, "She's Gotta Have It." I would like to name it my favorite by Spike, but it is closely running in line with Mo' Betta Blues. This is the story of Nola Darling, a 20-something New Yorker, who is confident in her sexuality. She juggles three men throughout the movie, getting whatever she likes, whenever she likes it. It comes to kick her in the face as the movie progresses, but the story in between is one that I believe women my age can relate to. I mean I GOT TO HAVE IT, and I'm sure you all do too..well some of you. I do not want to give spoilers for those who have not seen it, and I believe men may enjoy it too (ok BIG maybe). All I can say is want my very own Mars Blackmon, with those Cazals (eyeglasses)..I LIVED. =)

catch me out

miss lipstank.

things: the soundtrack of my life. volume one.

"music is my lifelife, every aspect of it keeps me alive."- facebook quotes

I was encouraged to feature music here so i figured i would do something that could benefit others as well. I decided to create a soundtrack of my life which consists of songs that make me break me and do everything else in between. i have labeled this selection volume one because this post would be infinite had i compiled a list of EVERY song. These are songs that jumped in my head at first thought. It will be in no particular order because they equally affect me in their own way. I encourage you to listen to some of the songs that are featured if you have not heard them before. This mix consists of mainly alternative music, i will continue on this part with rock, indie, pop, etc. and, when I sit down and actually think about hip-hop, the world will not be ready. Number one is my all-time favorite. Here goes:

1. In A Sentimental Mood- Duke Ellington
2. Comfortably Numb- Pink Floyd
3. Benny and the Jets- Elton John
4. Dead Presidents II- HOVA
5. La La La Means I Love You- The Delfonics
6. Close To You- The Carpenters
7. The Payback- James Brown
8. Hotel California- The Eagles
9. I Am The Walrus- The Beatles
10. Human Nature- Michael Jackson
11. Don't Worry Be Happy- Bobby McFerrin
12. Ain't No Sunshine- Bill Withers
13. THE MESSAGE- GRAND MASTER FLASH
14. Take Me Home- Phil Collins
15. Waiting On A Friend- Rolling Stones (one of the best videos EVER)
16. Billie Jean- Micheal Jackson
17. Girlfriend- Michael Jackson
18. One Headlight- The Wallflowers
19. ONE MORE CHANCE REMIX- Notorious BIG (2nd all time favorite)
20. Reasons- Earth Wind and Fire
21. Crash Into Me- Dave Matthews Band
22. Daydreaming- Aretha Franklin
23. I am Singing- Stevie Wonder
24. Control- Janet Jackson
25. Purple Haze- THE GREAT JIMI HENDRIX

I believe I will do 25 at a time.

catch me out

miss lipstank.

people: twiggy

circa: 1949

glitz: 1960's

We've all seen her judge on America's Next Top Model, but do we all really know Twiggy? She was raised in London, weighed 90lbs at age 16, and was known for those beautiful long lashes (which I am so INTO right now)- pictures coming. She became known as "The Face of 66," and she also ventured over into the music industry releasing songs titled "When I think of You," and "Over and Over." I chose this photograph because her expression reminds me of myself. It is like a smile mixed with a hint of a melancholic mindset. This picture is beautiful. Retrospect makes me so happy. Nostalgia runs through my veins when I make posts. I hope you enjoy this as much as I. Catch me out.

miss lipstank

people and things: my boy andy- interview mag.

circa: 1968

In 1968 Andy Warhol founded Interview magazine. First focusing primarily on independent film, the magazine grew over time to cover topics including Hollywood movies, fashion, celebrities, politics and beyond. By 1979 the magazine even turned a profit, becoming a highly desired advertising vehicle for luxury goods such as champagne and couture.
According to then editor Bob Colacello, Interview readers "went everywhere and bought everything.". Their income was double the American average, they were 50% male, 50% female, were well educated, had an average of 0.03 children, and visited movies, museums, nightclubs, rock concerts, operas, ballets, Broadway shows and art auctions regularly. The success of Interview is another example of Andy's idea of Business Art. Specifically that "Business Art is a much better thing to be making than Art Art, because Art Art doesn't support the space it takes up, whereas Business Art does." The reason for this is product placement. In the magazine, photo captions of celebrities included information about what they were wearing - their dress, shoes, perfume... In Andy's mind, if they also had a drink and a cigarette, these additional props would mean additional caption credits, which would mean two more companies to whom Interview magazine could sell advertising space.

this was too long to paraphrase. brought to you by http://www.warhol.org/

miss lipstank

things: Troop Beverly Hills

circa: 1989

This was one of my favorite movies(this list is infinitesimal) as a little girl. When I was growing up I had this crazy infatuation of living in Beverly Hills (Clueless didn't help much!). Anywho, this movie embraced the life of a few girls growing up in BH with malfuntioned parents. Shelley gave us everything in her revamped Wilderness Girl uniform. I guess going through a divorce has it's perks, but do not qoute me! This movie defines "cute", I think I'm on my way to ebayyyy. =)

catch me out.

miss lipstank

people: me aka miss lipstank.

circa: 1987

i decided to post this photo because it captures the purpose of the blog. here i am pictured clad in a classic oxford buttoned down shirt with one of favorite articles of clothing- we'll call her "THE BEST VEST." this get-up personified comfortable chicness. i had the time of my life and looked great at the same time. i would also like to inform you that minus the shoes this outfit cost me no more than $20, because that's just how i roll. i was showered with many compliments and i greatfully thanked everyone for them. but, i would like to thank the academy- aka old navy and goodwill for bestowing this outfit on me.

note: that is not the same vest pictured above. =0

oh you BETTER catch me out, i've been doing it nice.

miss lipstank.

things: Marc Jacobs Oxford Pump

circa: 18th century.

retail:

$696.00

FIRST OFF, i want these. I adore these numbers. Marc is my best friend. The oxford pump has comfortably made it's way back into the beautiful rays of sunlight (like they ever went out of style, but anywho.) I have seen many a chic chik traipsing around various hotspots clad in flowing sundresses, skinnies, or heck, whatever their heart desired that morning. Forever21 has done a great job at resurrecting the pump and I encourage all who TIP to indulge in this treat. Just to drop a few names get into Betsy Johnson's "Lavonne," the Gwen Stefani L.A.M.B Oxford baby, and Stuart Weitzman's "Signore." I'm living over here, and I want you to get piece of life too. Time to save up for ebay. catch me out.

miss lipstank.

people, places, and things: jacob, me, and the PLAYGROUND.

the playground
circa: early 20th century

The playground was introduced in order to reform urban/inner city children. This dynamic idea which continues came into fruition in leau of the women's suffrage movement. Today I had the opportunity to go to the park and be a kid again. While listening to my Zune, I played ABC on repeat.."Ieshaaaaaaa" lol. Going to the park is the best feeling ever, it let's you be a kid again in the mist of the chaos of growing up. I was overly excited as you can see from the pics.

The cute little guy up top is my guy Jacob, he works with me. He is featured because he is always thriftly clad. Pictured he is wearing Dickies, button-up disco shirt straight out the 70's man, with some cool kicko's I've never heard of. Well, point is he's cool. He's in two bands, and he only shops at thrift stores, my kind of guy. Jacob's two decades in the game and he is soooooo headed in the right direction, because well..VINTAGE TOTALLY ROCKS!
catch us out.

miss lipstank.

people: immature

circa: 1995

This by far one of my favorite love songs. Now I cannot forget The Carpenters, Al Green, Marvin, you know, the giants, but hey this song is beautiful. It's nostalgia in a box. Raise your hand if you read Word UP!, or had at least 20 posters of all the "bomb" hip hop artists. This was a time when matching outfits were cool (glad that's OVER), and you could rock jheri curled platts. This video gives you a taste of just how great the 90's was in terms of the teenage years. Too bad I was 10. Check out those tucked in shirts, get into the shades and zip up jackets. catch me out.

miss lipstank.
Please Don't Go
Uploaded by ice1906

people: King Warhol

circa: 1928

end: 1987

I present to you the pioneer of pop-culture himself. If you do not know this face, well, all I can say is woe is me. In a nutshell this guy is EVERYTHING. Who knew Chicken Noodle Soup could be so chic. Andy will be a frequent face. So get in and live out =).

google him baby.

miss lipstank.

things: Meet Sam & Libby

circa: 1987

Here she is, possibly the primma donna of flats. Move over pumps, ballets are here for the taking. As a product of the 80's, I was able to enjoy these numbers, clad with oversized sweatshirts and stirrup leggings. Classic cannot be outdone by imitation and while Payless and the almighty Wal-Mart have tried to duplicate this essential item good 'ol S&L should be flattered, I mean imitation is the best form, right? I'm seeing skinnies, a flannel, and an oversized hobo..catch me out.

miss lipstank.

people: Meet the Press

circa: 1987

when you combine an affinity for fashion, pop culture, and life together you get 21 year old megan d. aka miss lipstank. the world is a canvas for expression and she is ready to give you the tools to start painting. whether it is architecture, clothing, or little treasures that deserve a broadcast, she is at your service. be l i p s t a n k.

miss lipstank.