This week it started to feel like spring is just around the corner. It’s still chilly, but buds are appearing on the trees and the sun is setting a little later every day. During such a difficult time we have to hold on to every glimmer of hope and optimism. January was a tough month for everybody, but putting on “proper” clothes and going to work every day helped to keep my spirits up enormously.
As I’m sure you know, I love wearing bright colours all year round! But wearing bold hues and prints has kept those winter blues away (mostly). I’m particularly partial to certain colour combinations for their mood-boosting properties. This vintage orange top and green trousers tick all the boxes when it comes to happy dressing.
The top had been on my watch list for a few weeks before I decided to buy it. When buying vintage you have to pay extra attention to sizing because a 1970s size 10 is considerably smaller than a modern day size 10. Sellers will usually provide measurements, but if I’m unsure I’ll message them for more information.
The other thing to consider is the condition of the fabric and stitching. The elastic shirring in the cuffs of this top has lost its stretch, which was included in the description. It also said that it had been repaired under the arm which needed restitching but I don’t think it does…nobody is going to see it anyway! It buttons up at the back, which was another reason I hesitated to buy it, but I can do it up without any bother…having long arms is useful sometimes!
My Fabienne Chapot hat and these green trousers seem made for each other; they’re a near-perfect colour match and both have gold hardware. I haven’t had my hair cut since October and it’s getting a bit bushy – I think I look better in hats when my hair is thinned out on the sides. Goodness knows what it will look like by the time I finally get it cut!
SHOP THE LOOK
These earrings are the result of my first foray into making jewellery with polymer clay. I’ve seen some amazing creations on Instagram and Etsy so I thought I’d give it a go. I don’t have all the tools I need yet to achieve a professional finish, but when I get around to ordering them I’m planning on making several batches.
Flounce trousers (from Asos) | vintage top (from eBay) | Fabienne Chapot hat | bag from TKMaxx (old) | River Island boots (old, similar)
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Nalil of Thirty Minus One Suzy of The Grey Brunette and Meinhilde of Kiku Corner!
I couldn’t agree more that these colors are happy dressing! That print of the top is so pretty and loving this hat on you. Thanks for the link up!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
I love you in these happy colors. Congrats on securing a true ’70 vintage. We did wear it bright back then! I watch a lot of maker vidios. I say if you want to make one, go for it! I know that polymer clay is fun and even have a book about it. I just haven’t gotten around to do much in. Your earrings are great!
Love this vintage top with the green pants and hat!
-Katie
http://www.hellokatiegirlblog.com/
Spectular! You look like a delicous tropical fruit sorbet (which of course I mean in a good way). Wearing such happy colors in the dreariest month of winter is a fabulous idea for looking smart and stylish.
Rena
http://www.finewhateverblog.com
I love that vintage top! Such a fun find! I actually like the sleeves more open like that! You look fabulous!
When I saw the first picture my first thought was “what a happy outfit!” & then I read what you wrote & we’re in agreement…lol! Beautiful & happy, the perfect combination.
Debbie
http://www.fashionfairydust.com
Your bright color mixing is fabulous here! I love these wide leg pants, they are so on trend this spring!
I hope you are having a great week!
Amber
Visit AvecAmber.com
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This outfit is amazing, Emma. Love the colours, they are made for each other and the trousers fit you like a glove
https://lookingfabulousat50.blogspot.com/
I have a few pair of clay earrings and they are fantastic as they are so light! Yes I’m interested! Those trousers are fabulous, I immediately went to the shop, have to take a look for another colour. About the hair, it can get worse Emma, the last time I had a hair cut was in September and I now have to wait for 5 more weeks. I’m so grey!!! Hate it, lol.
I love this outfit! Absolutely adorable, and so bright and cheery. Awesome! Or maybe I should say, Groovy!
Michelle
https://mybijoulifeonline.com
Emma your blog is so aptly named, every week your wonderfully bright outfits do raise a smile! Nothing is needed more than a smile particularly at the moment, keep it up!
Pamela x
I love the button detail on the trousers. I wouldn’t have thought of this color combo but it works well. Your new earrings look great: I definitely would love to see how you made them.
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
Love that bright zingy combo Emma. That hat I so cute on you!
Emma, what a fabulous combination of colors! I love the print on your top, too. I have such a hard time finding vintage pieces in my size being a US size 14/16. I don’t think they made clothing in my size 40 years ago! So when I want a vintage look, I have to go for vintage-inspired instead. You always find some really fabulous vintage pieces though and I rally enjoy seeing how you style them! Always fabulous, my friend.
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Love those pants so much!
Jennifer
Curated By Jennifer
I absolutely love how bright these colors are and the color combination! Cute outfits always boost my mood, too, although I wish my closet was a little more colorful. I had no idea that sizing was so different back in the day, so I’ll definitely have to keep that tip in mind!
Miles of smiles,
Grace
gracefulrags.com
Love the joyful, cheerful color combination in this look-definitely a mood booster in mid winter! I am a fan of vintage and your orange floral blouse was a great find. Thanks for sharing and the linkup!
I just did a post on Pantone colors for 2021 and am glad a bright yellow is one of them! This top is so vibrant and pretty! I keep forgetting to check EBAY when I do secondhand shopping! The pants and hat are a great style with the blouse , and I do love the elastic at the wrist. The earrings are perfect with it too! Brighter colors do give you a boost in mood, which is certainly needed!
Enjoy your week!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
Oh my beautiful friend, let’s go back to the 60’s together- loving this outfit!!! And YES I want to learn how to make those earrings!!
Your earrings are so cool–I think it would be fun to watch your video of the process! I love your retro look and the color combo is so fun! I finally bought a vintage 70s dress that said the sizing would fit 6-8 but it’s too big! I don’t know if it’s worth it to have it tailored. Ugh. Well, maybe next time I’ll do better! Have a great day, Emma.
xx Darlene
Wow, very 70’S Emma, how lovely! Thanks for hosting the #LINKUP Jacqui
I can’t believe you made those earrings—how cool! Love your bright green hat too 🙂
Cheryl Shops | http://www.cherylshops.net
What a fun color combination!! Love it.
This outfit makes me happy! Such a delightful look!
xoxo
Lovely
http://www.mynameislovely.com
You always look so good in bright colours, and the vintage style really suits you too, Emma!
Hugs
Suzy xx
Incredible outfit! I wish I could find more fabrics like this either in a finished piece, or fabric to make my own. They don’t make groovy prints like they used to.
You are SO good at pairing colors together. The pop of color from your earrings even go so well! I love the green hat!
Carrie
curlycraftymom.com