Hello, my magnificently fabulous fashionistas! Summer vacations, last minute weekend getaways, and hunky lifeguards on the beach are vastly approaching…Hey, boys! *said in flirty voice* haha…but what will you be wearing on these lovely weekends? That is the question…what to wear…what to wear….hmmmm…..

Whether your trip is planned or spur of the moment, this Michael Stars top from Gus Mayer is a MUST HAVE for summer! This slouchy yet sleek T-shirt is easily dressed up or down by changing out the bottoms (shorts, skirts, knickerbockers, trousers…) and wearing different accessories! Now, strap on your fashionista seatbelts as I show you three ways to wear this glorious top!  Visit me next week to see THREE MORE WAYS! Ahh!  This blouse is the perfect summer go-to-item!

Grab your vintage suitcase, and go with the flow!

Blouse: Michael Stars, Gus Mayer (Birmingham, AL)

Shorts: Target (Trussville, AL)

Shoes: OTBT, Gus Mayer (Birmingham, AL)

Necklaces: BluKat Design

Hello, leopard and turquoise!

Blouse: Michael Stars, Gus Mayer (Birmingham, AL)

Skirt: Thrifted

Earrings: Hearts of Stone

Necklace: BluKat Design

Green high-waisted military shorts? Yes, please!

  Blouse: Michael Stars, Gus Mayer (Birmingham, AL)

Shorts: Urban Outfitters (Birmingham, AL)

Belt: American Eagle (Trussville, AL)

Shoes: Jessica Simpson

Necklace and Bracelets: Beadsoul

Don’t forget to come back next week to see three more ways to wear this spectacular top!

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Follow me on Pinterest to see exclusive photos, my favorite Etsy finds, and more! http://pinterest.com/VIPblog/

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Real Media: The Adventures of the VIP “Snazzy Shorts that Stop Traffic”: http://thisisrealmedia.com/2013/05/15/the-adventures-of-the-vip-history-lesson-snazzy-shorts-that-stop-traffic/

Town and Gown Magazine May Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/may

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

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From walking the hallways of her middle school to showing off her talent center stage, Niece Elliott is a fourteen year old music sensation with a sparkling character and breathtaking voice.

While chatting with Niece at Audiostate 55 recording studio, I realized we have two things in common–a love for what we do and amazing family support. “For me having the gift to sing and my family’s support, I knew I could do it,” says Elliot. The more our conversation progressed, the more I realized we have more things in common–shopping, balancing school and work, and an understanding of true girl power.

To see the VIP interview with outstanding music star Niece Elliott on the VIP Youtube channel click here.

Want to hear some of Niece’s awesome songs on Reverbnation?  Click here.

To find out more about Audiostate 55 entertainment and recording studio in Birmingham, Alabama, visit their website here.

Like Audiostate 55 on Facebook here!

Twitter: @Audiostate55

4E Entertainment website–click here.

Like 4E Entertainment on Facebook here!

Twitter: @4EMusic1

Jacqui Malone is a tremendous woman with a love for song writing and perfecting the vocals of recording music artists!

Follow her on Twitter here.

Follow her on Instagram here.

What a fun afternoon and interview! Thanks so much, Audiostate 55 for your hospitality! www.audiostate55.com

To see why Niece Elliott and I are showing off our hot shoes, check out the video on my YouTube channel! Click here for a direct link.

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Real Media: The Adventures of the VIP “Snazzy Shorts that Stop Traffic”: http://thisisrealmedia.com/2013/05/15/the-adventures-of-the-vip-history-lesson-snazzy-shorts-that-stop-traffic/

Town and Gown Magazine May Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/may

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Hello, my amazing fashionistas! I am totally in love with my Elie Tahari crochet dress! I can wear it SO many ways–hmm….another blog idea! So far, I have already worn it to the Alpha Xi Delta UAB Scholarship Tea with a blue slip dress and classic pearls. The outfit was absolutely classic glam! This week at the Invite Only Nordstrom Rack pre-opening party, I wore the original, vibrantly colored floral slip dress underneath it. I accessorized this terrific ensemble with a spiked statement necklace! This magnificent ensemble was totally spunky glam!

I was excited to be invited by Nordstrom Rack to attend the exclusive pre-opening party of the Birmingham store. The delicious food and refreshing beverages gave all of us party shoppers the hydration and nourshiment that we needed for the style hunt.  We were able to put all of our treasures in the complimentary tote bag.  I discovered some awesome designer pieces for a great price–I am definitely going to have to go back to shop rather than always working….Hi, my name is Abby Hathorn, and I am a workaholic…

Anyway…my Elie Tahari dress is so totally fab that I have labeled it as this week’s Weekly Whistle! Oh, I just adore Weekly Whistle time!

Dress: Elie Tahari, Belk

Shoes: Jessica Simpson, Belk

Belt: Target

Necklace: Avon

Welcome to Birmingham, Nordstrom Rack!

Opening Date: May 16 at 9am–Come at 8am to enjoy pre-opening festivities!

Location: 4612 Hwy 280, Building B, Birmingham, AL 35242 (River Ridge Shopping Center)

Phone: (205)587-3100

Opening Day Festivities:

Rally at the Rack: Come early to celebrate! At 8am, we will kick things off with music, breakfast treats and more. Customers can enter for a chance to win one of (30) $100 gift cards–plus, one lucky winner will receive a $1,000 shopping spree and early access through our Rule the Rack sweepstakes.

Rule the Rack: Rule the Rack is a sweepstakes we hold before most Nordstrom Rack store openings, including our new River Ridge store. Costumers can enter a drawing to win a $1,000 shopping spree, plus exclusive entry 30 minutes before the store opens at 9am. The winner’s name is drawn and announced at 8:25 a.m. (Must be present to win.)

*The first 1,000 customers to make a purchase at the new Nordstrom Rack River Ridge will receive a complimentary Nordstrom tote as a gift*

What is Nordstrom Rack?

“The first Nordstrom Rack opened as a clearance center in the lower-level of the Downtown Seattle Nordstrom store in the early 1970′s. As Nordstrom expanded across the country, Rack stores followed. The new Nordstrom Rack River Ridge will be the retailer’s 127th Rack Location….Nordstrom Rack is the off-price division of Nordstrom, INC. offering on-trend, of-the-moment clearance merchandise from Nordstrom stores as well as items purchased specially for Nordstrom Rack. The Store offers significant savings on great brands like Hugo Boss, Kate Spade, and Trina Turk  with most at 30-70% off.”

What you will find inside:

• Discounted brand-name apparel, shoes, and accessories
• Premium denim for men and women
• Cosmetics
• Thousands of pairs of shoes
• Over 2,000 men’s ties
• Over 1,000 handbags
• On-site alterations
• Mobile check-out devices

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Real Media: The Adventures of the VIP “Snazzy Shorts that Stop Traffic”: http://thisisrealmedia.com/2013/05/15/the-adventures-of-the-vip-history-lesson-snazzy-shorts-that-stop-traffic/

Town and Gown Magazine May Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/may

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

My grandmother, Barbara Plymon Fulcher, my mom, Chasidy Fulcher Hathorn, and me, Abigail Hathorn (yes…I felt the need to include my full name even though everyone calls me Abby! haha)

Hello, my wonderful readers! I am so excited to share with y’all three generations wearing BluKat Design Earrings! It was not easy talking my mom into taking photos…she says that she cannot have her picture taken because she is in a witness protection program–this is totally not true haha.

After each photo, my mom and grandmother insisted on previewing each one on the camera.  My mom, frustrated with her look and round face, would change her expression–smiling in some, pouty face in others, and even going ”Blue Steel” in a photo or two…we love Ben Stiller movies…well, we love all kinds of movies…especially 80s….

After I saw this picture, I told my dad that it looked like a family portrait from the 70s!

Also, notice that we are all wearing shades of red! Truth is, we did not plan this AT ALL! I had spent the night at my Maw Maw and Paw Riley’s house the night before…just like when I was a wee tike….When momma and deddy arrived the next day to pick me up, I was still in my pajamas. I had totally forgotten about taking the three generation wearing BluKat Design pictures! In a panic, I ran to my vintage green suitcase and grabbed some denim shorts and the first blouse that was top–a red tank. As I was rushing to get dressed, I was also trying to once again convince my mom that she was going to have her picture taken no matter what–it is a constant battle with her over having her photo taken…I have no idea what I am going to do with her…she makes me want to pull my hair out…whining about why she doesn’t like it…oh, mothers these days…what are we gonna’ do with ‘em? ;)

1…2…3…BLUE STEEL FACE!

This man right here is my best friend in the entire world! I grew up following my Paw Riley everywhere he went…so he nicknamed me “his shadow”…I will have to tell all of y’all some Paw Riley adventures another day…for now, just know that he is amazing:) We threatened to put BluKat earrings on him so he could be in the picture too…he said “no” and laughed…but I probably could have convinced him ;)

As you can see, when I am around my family–I am anything but serious! Now that I think about it…my silliness is probably genetic! haha

My mom and I holding the poem “This, That, and a Princess Hat” I wrote for her for Mothers’ Day…best Mother’s Day gift ever!

What can I say? We love us some Paw Riley!

Love these two ladies…I do not know what I would do without their amazing support and knowledge!

Get your own BluKat Design earrings by clicking here! The VIP and her family simply adore them! BluKat Design earrings are so versatile, and women of all ages can sport them fabulously!

Like BluKat on Facebook here! You do not want to miss out on all of the new item listings!

Also, check BluKat Design’s blog ” BluKat Kraft”! Click here.

Join me May 21 for a fabulous fashion event–Sunset In Miami!

“Joelle Salon presents Sunset in Miami, headlined by 2012 Miss Alabama, Anna Laura Bryan. The poolside affair will bring the community together for the benefit of local non-profit, “P.A.W.S. for Autism,” a charity designed to bring service dogs to children faced with autism.

Where? The Hill in Homewood, Alabama

When: May 21, 7-9pm

Featured Fashions: Gus Mayer & The Clothes Tree

Stylist: Southern Femme

Hair: Joelle Salon

Makeup: Gus Mayer Cosmetic Professionals

*Tickets may be purchased in advance through Joelle Salon or by walk-up @ the event for $30.00*

I cannot wait to see all of my fabulous fans there for a spectacular fashion show! It is going to be quite the treat!

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Real Media: The Adventures of the VIP “Where the Mind Goes While Sitting Under the Dryer”: http://thisisrealmedia.com/2013/05/08/the-adventures-of-the-vip-where-the-mind-goes-while-sitting-under-the-dryer/

Town and Gown Magazine May Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/may

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

The question that I am asked the most by my readers, fans, neighbors, and strangers is “Why did you start your blog?”  That question is usually followed by “How old were you when you started it?” Well, in a nutshell, I started the Vintage Inspired Passionista blog at age sixteen as a way to make the voice of good kids heard. I was tired of the way teenagers were being (and still are being) portrayed on cable television—wild, crazy, uneducated (poorly spoken), YOLO, ridiculous, do anything to get attention (gain a little immediate fame and satisfaction), disrespectful, and future members of the prison system.

Improving the way teens are viewed because of “reality” TV shows, news events, and social media activities became my mission—my goal.  At first the task seemed daunting; however, the more I blog, the more incredibly nice and supportive people I meet, the more community events that I attend where I see good people of all ages doing good things—the more I realize that goal is attainable…not because of me…not because I have a magic formula, but because there are so many good teens out there…waiting to be heard, waiting for someone to notice, waiting for the right media to step away from the 24/7 negative doom and gloom and to start reporting 24/7 on happy, positive, good news.  Is that my thinking like a child?  Is that my living in a fairy tale?  No, I do not think so.

It is easy to lump all teenagers into a presumptuous public persona. Like my Paw Riley always told me, “A few bad apples ruin the whole bunch.” Overcoming said persona has been quite the challenge. I have people that tell my parents and me that I need to sit back, relax, and be a normal teenager. First of all…what exactly is a “normal teenager”? Is it the unwillingness to learn, the hatred of school, the disrespect of authority figures, wild parties, drugs, and underage drinking? No, or at least, it should not be.

What I am doing with my life is normal—I have no desire to be a part of the “normal teen” stereotypical generation that is being shown all over the internet and TV–where cheap beer, mud riding, and sex is the summation of wild weekend parties.

No,  this is not how all teenagers live their lives, but due to overwhelming bad press—many good teenagers have conformed because they want to fit in…they want to feel normal…they want to have lots of friends and social activities…they do not want to be made fun of by peers or adults…they do not want to be bullied by peers or adults…they do not want to be left out…they do not want to be the last one picked….

Changing the way the world looks at the younger generation will only be obtained one small step at a time…one positive Facebook status at a time…one inspirational tweet at a time…one good reality TV show about good kids at a time…one positive newscast at a time…

Together we will untangle this mess that we as a society created.  Yes, I had a part in the teen reputation because I sat idle and did nothing…until I started my blog…until now with this post.

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Hello, hello, hello my lovely fashionistas! Phew! What a week it has been! Studying for exams, traveling, deciding what card to get mom for Mother’s Day–Could someone please make decent cards for mom’s who only have one child? Wait…What was I talking about again…anyway…it is that wonderful time of the week that we all know and love…WEEKLY WHISTLE TIME! Come on, VIP fans, let’s see what the VIP’s two outfits of the week are! Yep, I said two…It was too hard to decide!

Dress: Poor Pitiful Pearl, Vintage Hip (Springville, AL)

Shoes: Jessica Simpson, TJ Maxx

Belt: Target

Hair & Makeup: Rachel Edmonds at Mia Salon

Rebecca Tabb, owner of R. Tabb & Co. in Starkville, Mississippi!

Oh, the Town and Gown Soiree Sociale was so much fun! Special thanks to Rebecca Tabb of R. Tabb. & Co. for letting Town and Gown host the unveiling of the May issue at her amazing store! If you are ever in the Starkville/Columbus area, stop by R. Tabb & Co. for a FABULOUS shopping experience that you will love! R. Tabb & Co. has so many cute clothes and accessories to offer all fashionistas!

Check out the VIP Facebook page for more pictures from the Town and Gown Magazine Soiree Sociale party! www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Like R. Tabb & Co. on Facebook so you do not miss out on all the new apparel! It is all so so SO cute! https://www.facebook.com/rtabbandco?fref=ts

Dress: Elie Tahari

Shoes: Jessica Simpson

Necklaces: Personal Vintage Collection

It was such an amazing experience to attend the Alpha Xi Delta UAB Scholarship Tea! Deciding on what college to attend is quite the challenge, but the amazing ladies of the Alpha Xi Delta chapter answered many of my questions about UAB campus life. Wow…hard to believe I turn eighteen in November, and go to college in a year….where has the time gone? Wait, that’s what my mom is supposed to say! :)

Check out the VIP Facebook page for more pictures from the Alpha Xi Delta Scholarship Tea! www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Okie dokie, fashionistas! That seems to be all the time I have for today! Off to my closet, to style my outfit for an interview by The Cobalt Club tomorrow! Instead of my interviewing, I am being interviewed….Oh, looks like the tables have been turned! It is going to be so much fun–I absolutely cannot wait!

Check out The Cobalt Club blog here!

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Real Media: The Adventures of the VIP “Where the Mind Goes While Sitting Under the Dryer”: http://thisisrealmedia.com/2013/05/08/the-adventures-of-the-vip-where-the-mind-goes-while-sitting-under-the-dryer/

Town and Gown Magazine May Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/may

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

One of the things, I treasure most with what I do is meeting extraordinary fashion designers and hearing the stories behind their collections.

Walking into Gus Mayer–just over a week ago–I never would have imagined meeting, much less interviewing Polish fashion designer Karolina Zmarlak, whose designs are worn by Karolina Kurkova, Jamie Anne Allman, Christina Milian–just to name a few.

As we sat and chatted about her latest collection, I began to love the clothes even more. Hearing the inspiration behind a collection directly from the designer makes the pieces more desirable…more unique…more glamorous! Oh, it was such a delight to meet and interview Karolina Zmarlak. I would not trade it for the world!

Karolina creates fashion pieces that exemplify history in ways that makes her collections intriguing and sophisticated. When slipping into a Karolina Zmarlak design, a woman instantly feels a powerful confidence that immediately shows on her face. “When women wear my designs, I want them to feel empowered. I want my pieces to bring confidence,” says Zmarlak.

When describing the captivating collections by Karolina Zmarlak, I cannot think of two better words than pure couture.

“Karolina Zmarlak is a Polish Ready-to-Wear designer who creates her clothing in  honor of the individual with pieces that are variable and expressive. Cutting new, exciting forms of clothing and taking the ideals of the made-to-measure process, her designs permit personalization through  the wearer’s ability to interact with the garment.  Karolina’s strong, enduring style results from subtraction cutting, playing with dimensions and shape, origami-based forms, and the clean lines of forward silhouettes.  A Gen Art Styles winner and FIT graduate, Zmarlak honed her skills during time spent at Carolina Herrera and Theory. Her first Ready-to-Wear collection was launched in the Fall of 2009.” (Karolina Zmarlak website)

• Who or what inspired you to become a designer?

“I would say it stems from when I was young. Being born in Poland during Communist times, there was so little of everything. I first watched my mother find fabrics to have clothes made for her. These pieces were very different and unusual. I would say I carry that unique approach with my line today. When I was ten, I came to America and a world of possibilities was opened. I took my first sewing class in Chicago during high school–it was such a wow factor! I knew at that moment, that was what I wanted to do with my life.”

• What inspired your Fall/Winter 2013 collection?

“The overall design was inspired by modernism and modern interiors. The color story is inspired by the deep tones and neutrals of the Dutch Golden Era paintings. The colors are not overpowering, and that’s why I like it.”

• Do you have a favorite piece in your latest collection?

“As a designer, I pride myself in tailoring. I love all of my sculpted jackets. They remind me of the 1950s car coats because they were sculpted and feminine with a very modern appearance.”

• Do you have a particular mantra that drives your designs?

“Less is more! I like for my designs to truly reflect specialty and sophistication. When I create a new collection, I do not like to follow a trend. I want women to wear my clothing and create their own trend or look.”

• What does fashion mean to you?

“Fashion to me is when a woman feels empowered.  When she feels empowered, she feels like no one can stop her! The clothes a woman wears need to appeal to her and make her confident, and I believe that a great piece of clothing can do that.”

• What is in your sketchbook?

“My sketchbook is a gathering of things from everyday life and my travels. The more things I collect, the more inspiration I feel. The world we live in is an ever evolving world of ideas that I want to express through my clothing.”

• What is your favorite fashion era and why?

“5os and 60s, of course! It was the era where Christian Dior and other designers started ready-to-wear luxury.”

• VIP Question: What is one item in your closet you could never toss out and why?

“When I first moved to New York City, I made my very first designer purchase–menswear inspiring pants with a crop jacket. I could never toss the outfit out because it is very special and sentimental. It was my moment of transition from a girl into a woman. I began understanding the value of good quality clothing.”

Karolina Zmarlak designs capture a side of fashion I absolutely adore! You just put it on, and go out to conquer the day in completely marvelous style! Once again, all I can say is pure couture…pure couture…

Check out Karolina Zmarlak’s Facebook page to see some of the latest celebs sporting her designs and more! Click here.

Twitter: @Karolinazmarlak

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Town and Gown Magazine May Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/may

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Hello, hello, hello, fashionistas! Today on the Vintage Inspired Passionista blog, I am going to share a fabulous interview with the owner of The Crystal Heart Factory, Rhonda Spruce! “I take great pride in designing and creating new items and providing a quality piece of jewelry for new and existing customers,” says spectacular jewelry designer, Rhonda Spruce. So, without further ado, I present to y’all the VIP’s interview with extraordinary jewelry artisan, Rhonda Spruce of The Crystal Heart Factory!

• Tell us a little bit about yourself. 

My name is Rhonda Spruce, and I have been making jewelry for approximately eight years now. I fell into the hobby of it quite innocently. While Christmas shopping one year, I passed a bead store with a heart pendant in the window…KNOWING it would be a perfect gift for someone, I inquired within about purchasing it. The heart was not for sale–it was a class they offered. I took the class (classes…it took me more than one!) and gave the gift. They became popular gifts. I was also lucky enough that I had already been an established nail technician for several years with a clientele who liked them and started purchasing them. I have since retired from being a nail technician, but I am lucky enough to still have my clientele rocking and supporting my jewelry.

• When you are not making jewelry, what do you enjoy doing?

I am a stay at home mother and a military wife, and I enjoy living life! With my husband on duty every 4th day and deploying approximately 2 weeks every other month, we stay busy when we can. We love to give our children amazing life experiences. They are big fans of carnivals (eeek-youth, what can you say?) and my husband and I, being HUMONGOUS country music fans, try not to miss any country concerts within a 60 mile radius of our home. Being stationed away from my family is hard, so we try to stay busy to pass the time, and we are generally successful at that. (You would be pleasantly amazed at how many discounts and perks we get for being a military family that make this attainable!)

• Describe your ideal vacation

My ideal vacation is a Ski in/Ski out anywhere that has a hot tub on the balcony of my accommodations. (note: My husband and I have taken this vacation together and our oldest daughter is our favorite “souvenir” from that trip haha)

• VIP QUESTION: What is one item in your closet you could never get rid of and why?

My skinny jeans. I don’t own a scale…how else would I know if I am gaining or losing weight?!

My most popular items are my awareness ribbon hearts.  I will never raise the prices on them. They are the same price they have always been and always will be. Here at the Crystal Heart Factory, we believe that “Awareness=Funding=Research=Finding the Cure.” We have never turned down the opportunity to donate to a organization that has appropriate documentation for the event being held. We are here to HELP!

Also, I am very lucky to have my Mother-in-Law, Stephanie Grantham, owner of StephieGknits, as my full time assistant. Click here to see the VIP’s interview with Stephanie Grantham.

Don’t you just love The Crystal Heart Factory! Rhonda is such a spectacular woman with an extraordinary talent for creating breathtaking jewelry! So, what do you say, fashionistas? Are y’all feeling like going online shopping now?!

Want a custom piece by Rhonda Spruce of The Crystal Heart Factory? Click here!

Shop The Crystal Heart Factory on Etsy here to find even MORE awesome jewelry pieces!

Like The Crystal Heart Factory on Facebook to keep up with the latest jewelry creations and giveaways! Click here.

Twitter: @heartsofcrystal

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Town and Gown Magazine May Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/may

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Fashion designer Gene Kagan having fun with his precious furbaby Sophie!
Custom “Gus Mayer” dog treats by Generation Dog!

Hello, VIP fans! Welcome back to the Vintage Inspired Passionista blog! I have a special treat for y’all today! What is said treat, you ask? Well, I am here to talk about my superb interview with dashing fashion designer Gene Kagan of Lola & Sophie! Oh, my goodness, VIP readers! Gene Kagan is such a super talented designer with a comfortable, yet sexy eye for design.  Lola & Sophie blouses leave women feeling wonderfully confident.

Don’t you just adore these Lola & Sophie blouses!

Lola & Sophie is an outstanding label created by high-minded designers Gito and Gene in the good ole’ USA! This relaxed and flowy line is inspired by two furry friends–Lola, who is a golden long haired Chihuahua, and Sophie, who is a grey and beige Havanese. As soon as a woman slips into a Lola & Sophie blouse, she begins to feel an overwhelming sense of confidence that she has never felt before.

See the VIP’s Interview with spectacular fashion designer Gene Kagan here!

Whether it is spring, summer, winter or fall, Lola & Sophie has the absolute perfect fashion piece for women of all ages and sizes. When you feel the urge for a shopping spree, stop by Gus Mayer in Birmingham, Alabama or shop Lola & Sophie online!

www.gusmayer.com

www.lolaandsophie.com

Awey! Look how sweet Sophie is! How could a doggy this cute not inspire a fabulous clothing label!

Personal testimony:  When I was picking out a Lola & Sophie blouse, I played it safe with a periwinkle hue chiffon-style top because one–I look fabulous in any shade of blue, and two–I just could not decide which top I wanted in which color! Decisions, decisions, decisions…After the interview with Gene, he had me convinced to try on his favorite blouse. It was sunshine yellow…I normally do not look good in yellow…I thought to myself…BUT trusting Gene’s magnificent fashion talents, I tried it on. To my absolute surprise–It looked PHENOMENAL! I could not believe how bright and fun I felt in the blouse–so soft, versatile, and figure flattering!  Now, this sunshine jewel is hanging in my closet.  I have learned a valuable lesson–well, two–try a new style or color of clothing, and always trust the designer!

Like Lola & Sophie on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/LolaandSophie?ref=ts&fref=ts

Shop Lola & Sophie to find flawless fashions you will love! www.lolaandsophie.com

Whoops! Blooper…pictures with doggies are not as easy as it may sound, but we all still look fabulous!

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Town and Gown Magazine May Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/may

Gene Kagan, Sophie, Mattie, and the VIP had a delightful time at the Lola & Sophie Trunk Show at Gus Mayer in Birmingham, Alabama! I just love it when fashion designers come to the South!

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Hello, hello, hello VIP readers! Today, I am going to tell y’all about one of my new favorite bands–Wayward Priest, a talented, fun, spirited group with a magnificent passion for music.  Wayward Priest’s Southern twist on musical artists like Jason Mraz and Stevie Nicks creates a style that is fun and appealing to everyone!  When listening to their music, I cannot deicide if I want to get up and dance or relax by the pool…perhaps, I should dance by the pool.  Problem solved.

Before I watched Wayward Priest recording at Studio 115A, I did not realize how much hard work went into making an album. It is truly incredible how Wayward Priest recorded the amount of songs they did in just one day! My parents and I spent the entire day filming and photographing behind the scenes videos and photos, admiring the groups phenomenal musical talents, and laughing with the band! What a fabulous day!

Not only did I get to be in the recording studio with the band, but I also had lunch with all the members at Pizza Hut in Columbus, Mississippi. Everyone laughed, ate pizza, drank sweet tea, and enjoyed the simple things in life like family and friends. I absolutely loved the experience of watching Wayward Priest record, and I would not trade it for the world! To see a little bit of the fun and meet the band on my latest YouTube videos! Click here for Meet the Band. Click here for Behind the Scenes.

If you are in the Columbus, Mississippi area and interested in acoustic and electric guitar lessons OR bass and mandolin lessons, contact Denis McKay of Studio 115A which is a professional recording and production studio! (662)889-2829 OR tele5560@yahoo.com

When I got back home to Birmingham, I went through over two hours of video from that day and about 200 pictures. Trying to narrow it all down has been one of the hardest projects the VIP has done to date! I hope y’all enjoy the videos as much as I enjoyed making them:)

Visit Columbus, Mississippi May 18 to see Wayward Priest in action! More details coming soon–stay tuned to the VIP Facebook page! I would love to dance and have lots of fun with my dear fans:)

To see more photos, check out the VIP Facebook page! www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Town and Gown Magazine April Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/april2013

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

The VIP and designer Gene Kargan of Lola and Sophie with our precious furbabies Mattie and Sophie!

Guess who else I met?  Come on…take a guess!  No, I did not meet Ellen DeGeneres…although that would be a dream come true…Don’t you just love her show! Okay…no more guesses because I cannot contain my excitement any longer! I met and chatted with renowned Polish fashion designer Karolina Zmarlak! Oh, fashionistas! Karolina has a fabulous and strategic eye for creating sophisticated clothing that make women feel confident and empowered.

Sneak Peek of the “vine” incident…

This is just a sneak peek of the VIP’s week…I do not want to spoil all of the fabulousness! Phew, it has been a busy week. After I post this blog, there is much more work to be done! Three videos to make, interview blogs to write, photos to edit…oh, speaking of editing photos…there was actually a minor…well, major issue with the “vines” photo shoot as it has been labeled at the Hathorn house…At the end of the day, it was totally worth it! Whoa…I just remembered I have exams next week! Note to self: Study and make flashcards.

Makeup by Jonathan Shalon Ballard

Mattie striking a pose at The Summit! She sported my vintage pearl necklace and crochet flower from StephieGknits!

Sophie (doggy of Lola and Sophie) adored all of the attention at Gus Mayer!

I am so in love with Karolina Zmarlak’s Fall/Winter 2013 collection! It is so sleek and chic!

Thank you, Shalon, for making my makeup beyond fabulous! Stop by Gus Mayer in Birmingham, AL for a glamorous experience! Clothes and makeup…does it get any better?!

Even Mattie loves shopping trips to Gus Mayer!

Lovely puppy treats at the Lola and Sophie trunk show! All of the shoppers enjoyed bringing their furbabies along for a shopping spree!
Treats by Generation Dog: Where Dogs Are Family!

Phew! What a week it has been! Now, time to go work on interview blogs, videos, photos, and of course, studying for exams! Stay tuned for more sneak peeks on the Facebook page!

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista Twitter: @Abbysauce_ Instagram: @VintagePassionista YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Town and Gown Magazine April Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/april2013

Shoes: Gus Mayer at The Summit in Birmingham, Alabama

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Oh. My. Goodness. VIP readers…all of this preparing for school exams is going to be the death of me! So many books and so little time…enough about that!

Welcome back to the VIP blog for yet another wonderful Weekly Whistle! Mhmm…this week’s weekly whistle is a humdinger! Let’s see what it is….

Blouse: Gus Mayer (Birmingham, AL), Michael Stars

Pants: New York & Co.

Heels: Jessica Simpson

Hat: World Market

Necklace: Personal Vintage Collection

Bracelet: StephieGknits

Yay for turquoise, polka dots, and of course, vintage rides! Ahh! I just love my Michael Stars shirt from Gus Mayer! It is so versatile and cute! In the near future…I am going to show three different ways to wear my fabulous Michael Stars from Gus Mayer! It is going to be so much fun and spectacular!

Want your own lovely StephieGknits bracelet? Visit her Etsy shop and fall in love with all the amazing jewelry and precious knits! http://www.etsy.com/shop/StephieGknits?ref=search_shop_redirect

Okay…now, it is time to get back to the books! Tah tah for now VIP fashionistas! Tune in to my Facebook page for some super awesome sneak peek photos from today’s photo shoot! Who says rain cannot be fun and fashionable?!

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Latest Real Media (Real Story Publishing) Article: http://thisisrealmedia.com/2013/04/17/the-adventures-of-the-vip-dive-into-the-history-of-makeup/

Town and Gown Magazine April Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/april2013

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Biscuit from The Biscuit Foundation with Munchie! What a precious little dog! Oh, the VIP is a sucker for adorable doggies!

• Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I guess you could say I am a natural born artist/crafter.  My grandmom Georgia taught me how to knit when I was nine years old and anything that was crafty caught my attention: cross stitch, needlepoint, unsuccessfully attempting to make quilts, photography, drawing/sketching.  My grandmom had very eccentric taste, and I would say she is the reason I have such an eye for color in both yarns and beads.  I have a lot of her old costume jewelry, and I consider those pieces art! I just love thinking about where that jewelry has been! I am now in my late 40’s, a grandmother, pet lover (mom to 3 dogs/2 cats).

In my spare time, I volunteer with a local nonprofit animal rescue group (The Biscuit Foundation) in Burlington NC. I donate a portion of proceeds from my shop to The Biscuit Foundation.

• When you are not making jewelry/knitting, what do you enjoy doing?

When I am not making jewelry and knitting, I enjoy playing with the cats and dogs, gardening, photography, catching up with my favorite shows on the DVR, have the occasional whim to rearrange furniture (which my boyfriend cringes at), and reading books (yes, old-fashioned paper books). My favorites are memoirs and true crime. I love visiting my son’s family in Florida! I travel there every three to four months to visit with them. Spending time with my granddaughters is very important to me.

• Describe your ideal vacation.

My ideal vacation is anywhere that involves the beach or water! Give me a porch swing and a screened in porch with a view of the water! That brings me back to my youth and all the beach vacations we had!

• VIP QUESTION: What is one item in your closet you could never get rid of and why?

The one item in my closet I would never get rid of is an old gray and white Fair Isle sweater (vintage ~1950’s) that was worn by my mom when she was younger, and I wore when I was in high school and could still wear today if I chose to (I think).  If you’re talking about something I wear regularly and would hate to part with, it’s my black ballet flats. Who doesn’t love their black ballet flats?

I am very passionate about my craft! I love being creative with the colors and coming up with designs that are reflective of me.  I rarely, if ever, follow a pattern as I find them difficult to follow, and I just play it by ear and trust my instincts.  I like to learn new techniques as I go, and in my knitting I have actually learned new stitches by mistake (my favorite being the seed stitch that I tend to always use on my hats for the brim).  There is another person behind the jewelry designs in the shop, and that is my boyfriend, Jim.  He loves working with natural minerals, and we both love Czech Glass and crystal.  I would say that Jim’s designs are more for the earthy girl, and mine are more for the sparkly glamour girl.  We take great pride in the quality of the hand-knits and handcrafted jewelry we design, and we love getting custom requests!

Love this necklace and bracelet set! Oh, it makes me ready for a trip to the beach!

Stephanie Grantham is such a fun person with great taste in knitting and jewelry making! All fashionistas need at least one StephieGknits item in their wardrobe! It is all so cute and colorful that you could wear it with anything and everything!

Like StephieGknits on Facebook to keep up with new jewelry and knits! Click here.

Shop Stephanie Grantham’s spectacular items on Etsy! Click here.

Also, like The Biscuit Foundation on Facebook to keep up with all of the puppy fun! https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Biscuit-Foundation/201426785134?fref=ts

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Latest Real Media (Real Story Publishing) Article: http://thisisrealmedia.com/2013/04/17/the-adventures-of-the-vip-dive-into-the-history-of-makeup/

Town and Gown Magazine April Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/april2013

BRACELET: STEPHIEGKNITS
Blouse: Gus Mayer
Pants: New York & Co.
Heels: Jessica Simpson
Hat: World Market
Necklace: Personal Vintage Collection

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Hello, hello, hello, VIP readers! Today, I am going to tell y’all about a beyond magnificent interview I had with the amazingly talented musician/signer Taylor Hoch! While we sat outside of the Crestwood Tavern, she told me many stories of her life and her children. I could have listened to her storytelling all day! Sitting around a campfire with sweet tea and smores would be the best atmosphere…. “I love to tell stories! I like for my songs to tell stories too,” says Taylor Hoch.

When I asked Taylor how she was able to overcome the heartbreaking struggles in her life,  she simply stated, “Don’t give up. Whatever you do, don’t give up.” Taylor Hoch is such an amazing woman with a tremendously inspiring story that I am so thankful she shared with me. Once you hear her story, you will have the headstrong attitude to NOT give up! So, without further ado, here is the VIP Interview Part One Video with Taylor Hoch! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2yG-UZ1XE4&feature=youtu.be Part Two is coming soon!

Listen to Taylor Hoch’s terrific tunes here! The VIP LOVES her music SO MUCH!

Check out my spectacular Part One Interview Video with Taylor Hoch! Click here.

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Latest Real Media (Real Story Publishing) Article: http://thisisrealmedia.com/2013/04/17/the-adventures-of-the-vip-dive-into-the-history-of-makeup/

Town and Gown Magazine April Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/april2013

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Hello, fashionistas! I am very excited to announce that I interviewed the FABULOUS Mississippi native fashion designer, Hilton Hollis! We chatted about his design career, what inspires his fashion pieces, and of course, Southern food! When you get two Mississippi natives together, talking about good ole’ Southern cooking is absolutely going to happen! What is Hilton’s favorite Southern food? See the VIP Interview video on the YouTube channel here!

The VIP telling designer Hilton Hollis about my Birmingham Fashion Week spread in Town and Gown Magazine.

BLOG EXCLUSIVE QUESTION:

• You recently received a honor from the state of Mississippi for your achievements in fashion and philanthropic work. Tell us a little bit about this.

“First of all, I am really honored and amazed that the governor of Mississippi gave me this wonderful award,” says Hilton Hollis. “Growing up in the South and coming from a small town in Mississippi, as a kid I would never in a million years imagine that I would be standing there getting an award from the state that I call home…I give a lot of my time to my philanthropic interests. I also try to give back as much as I can to my home state,” states Hollis. “I am very proud to be a Southerner and a Mississippian! So, for them to recognize my achievements and to give me this award is really humble.”

Check out my amazing interview with Hilton Hollis on the Vintage Passionista YouTube channel! Click here.

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for a peek inside my life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintageinspiredpassionista

Twitter: @Abbysauce_

Instagram: @VintagePassionista

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/vintagepassionista

Check out more of my writings and photo shoot styling here:

Latest Real Media (Real Story Publishing) Article: http://thisisrealmedia.com/2013/04/17/the-adventures-of-the-vip-dive-into-the-history-of-makeup/

Town and Gown Magazine April Issue: http://issuu.com/townandgownmagazine/docs/april2013

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn