New Beginnings & All That Jazz

In some ways, today marked the beginning of a fresh start for me. I recently moved from Manhattan to Brooklyn and decided to explore my new playing grounds in Flatbush. Something about Fall approaching brings on the feeling of a new beginning. (But also, it's my favorite time of the year!) Finally, today marks the beginning of this blog, Gal Friday Vintage!

My mood is often reflected by the weather and this was a nice day to explore my neighborhood! New York heat can be a lot to deal with sometimes, so I always like to wear a hat and shades to keep the sun out of my face. And you can never forget red lipstick! This is one of my favorites--Fire and Ice by Revlon--a classic color that has been around since the 1950s!

This top handle black leather hand bag is from the 1950s. It can hold a small book, my makeup essentials, and wallet--so it is definitely a go to for me.

Bold vintage brooches always pair well with wool and cashmere tops and cardigans from the 1950s/1960s. The bigger, the better! This 1950s pale yellow cashmere top sets the perfect backdrop for it.

This tan vintage basket hat was made by Sunnycrest Original circa 1940s. I snagged this fabulous hat back in my hometown, Cleveland, Ohio from a lovely vintage shop called Flower Child. If you're ever in Cleveland, definitely check them out! My most darling pieces comes from their shop.

The gorgeous white cat eye sunnies were actually given to me by one of my favorite drag queens, Naomi Smalls (finalist on Rupaul's Drag Race, Season 8), during one of her performances! I've been wearing them religiously all throughout the summer!

Vintage hats can be so fussy sometimes!

This is the full outfit. Flats really are a girl's best friend, but I am trying to get more in the habit of wearing low heels. For a day when I know I have a ton of walking to do, these DSW simple black flats work in a pinch!

The floral skirt is a later vintage find from the 90s, but has that 1950s look to it. It pairs best with slender fitting tops or shirts that can be tucked in to give that 1950s "nipped in waist" look with a full skirt.

My neighborhood is very residential and peaceful, which is a nice change from living in the heart of Manhattan. I can see myself coming to this park to catch up on homework or read a good book.

Speaking of books, I found a pile of them on my way to my neighborhood park and decided to pick up Vladimir Nabokov's Ada. It's a heavy book, so we shall see if I actually get through it. But how could I possibly pass up a free book?!

I had to soak in the final days of being able to wear short sleeves and no stockings, but I must say, I am ready to share with you my fabulous fall outfits!

All photographs were taken by: Henrietta Audu.