I’m a major fan of oddities, which Secondhand Passion has plenty of. Here is a sampling of some quirky items available on Etsy:
This barrette features baby doll heads among lace and flowers. Wear this barrette in your hair or attach it to other accessories. Product listing.
All eyes will be on you if you don this stylish hat! Product listing.
The perfect place to store your treasures! Product listing.
This is a thrifted wooden box that has been decorated with a skull bead, red vintage cabochon, black resin rose, antique doll arm, and a vintage black metal keyhole. It’s a wonderful place to hide your secrets and trinkets. The box and vintage keyhole show minor signs of age, which enhances the box’s nostalgic quality.
The inside of the box is lined with blue velvet.
Measures 7 inches across, 4 1/2 inches wide, and approx. 3 1/2 inches high (with the lid on).
Etsy listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/83484888/upcycled-oddity-trinket-box
Just added yesterday:
Black Corset Style Camisole with Antique Watch Dial (Size Small) & Free Gift
Black lace, velvet ribbon, and an antique watch dial pin adorn this alluringly stylish black velour camisole with corset style lacing in the front and adjustable. The watch dial pin is removable and was made from an antique watch dial. The cami has no boning and is very comfortable.
Great as either a costume piece or as lingerie.
Size Small (The fabric is stretchy, but this would probably best fit someone with a chest measurement of 32-34).
From the middle of the top of the chest portion to the longest part, the garment measures approx. 10 1/2 inches.
The corset cami comes with a free black braided choker with metal filigree heart. An artificial pearl hangs from the heart. The choker measures 12 1/2 inches without the chain and clasp and approx. 17 inches including the chain and clasp. It can be closed starting at approx. 12 3/4 inches up to almost 17 inches.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82973819/black-corset-style-camisole-with-antique
Antique Watch Dial and Black Rose Barrette
This darling French style barrette has two black roses made of resin and a watch dial with a red vintage cabochon in the center. The white porcelain watch dial is from the late 1800s – early 1900s. It has signs of age (a couple of minor cracks), which enhance its character.
Measures approximately 3 inches across. The watch dial and the flowers each measure about 1 inch high.
Made with non-toxic silicone glue.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82997978/antique-watch-dial-and-black-rose
“Annabel” Pearl, Rose, and Watch Dial Barrette
With parts beautified by age, this French style barrette evokes nostalgic longing. The blue stones in the center of the watch dials came from a bracelet, the gold-toned center piece with coral rose came also came from a bracelet, and the pearls came from a necklace. Only the clip was purchased new.
Measures approximately 3 1/2 inches across. The watch dials are approximately 1 inch high and the center piece with coral rose is approximately 1 1/2 inches tall.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81678153/pearl-rose-and-watch-dial-annabel
The latest additions to Secondhand Passion:
Upcycled Vintage “Clytemnestra” Bustle Dress Size Small
Just in time for Halloween!
This is a gorgeous 1980s vintage blue stretchy velour dress with a ruffled hem and a fun criss cross back. The bustle features a black ribbon bow and lace with silver and blue spider and cobweb print. The straps tie in the back and can be adjusted. The tag is labeled size Small.
Upcycled with two pins, one made with a skull bead and the other with a vintage iridescent purple/blue cabochon and metal escutcheon with floral design.
Measurements (unstretched and lying flat):
Bust – Approx. 30 inches total
Waist – Approx. 26 inches
Hips – Approx. 33 inches
Length (from bust to hem) – Approx. 37 inches
Brand: Pilot 10
Made in England
Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81765806/upcycled-vintage-clytemnestra-bustle
Upcycled Velour and Iridescent Blue “Marina Fleur” Skirt Size M
Black velour skirt has an iridescent blue ruffled hem. A purple satin rose with black organza petals (2 ½ inch diameter), a 3 inch black flower applique with multicolored sequins, and two black 1 ½ inch fabric roses add sparkle and flair. All of the flowers are removable and are attached to pins. The blue and the sequins glimmer in the light beautifully. Skirt zips in the back and is fully lined.
This would be a great component of a mermaid or fairy costume. It would also work well for a Goth night.
Brand:
Sylvie & Mado (Mill Valley, California)
Measurements (taken flat):
Length – Approx. 32 inches
Waist – Approx. 32 inches
The tag is labeled size M.
Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82288171/upcycled-velour-and-iridescent-blue
Upcycled Handcuff Necklace
This necklace is edgy and elegant. The silver-toned handcuffs came from a Tripp NYC garment. Two red vintage cabochons have been added for a touch of glam. The necklace is attached to a 16 inch chain resembling gunmetal. Each handcuff is approximately 1 inch. Both cuffs and links measure approximately 3 3/4 inches all the way across. With the cuffs and the chain, the entire necklace is approximately 19 3/4 inches. The cuffs have levers that open and close, which make the necklace easy to put on and take off.
Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82477773/upcycled-handcuff-necklace
Radiant Red Rockabilly/Punk Vintage 1980s Dress
Perfect for the rock n’ roll vintage lover! This 1980s collared V-neck red vintage dress with military tabs on the shoulders gives off a retro 1950s vibe. There are two pockets that close with silver-toned snaps on the chest. The dress also has metal silver-toned snaps that start at the bust and go down the front of the rest almost to the hem.
The 2 x 3 inch skull and 3 x 3 1/2 inch cherry/skull patches are attached to pin backings. Place them wherever you want and customize to your liking. For a different look, you can also remove them, or place them on a purse or other item.
Measurements (taken lying flat):
Length – Approx. 44 inches total / 26 inches (waist to hem)
Waist – Approx. 28 inches
Bust – Approx. 32 inches
Sleeves – Approx. 9 inches
There is no size listed on the tag, but it would best fit someone who wears a size XS/S.
It looks great with a black belt (not included).
Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81678570/radiant-red-rockabillypunk-vintage-1980s
The latest addition to my Etsy shop:
Here’s to old-fashioned charm! This necklace is made up of a 1 1/4 inch tall actual antique glass vial filled with tiny watch parts attached to an approx. 15 1/2 inch 925 sterling silver braided chain. The vial’s label reads “2132 Swartchild.” The watch parts range in color from silver to gold. There is a tiny approx. 3/4 inch tall vintage-inspired skeleton key charm with antiqued finish right beside the vial that has been attached with a silver jump ring.
Available here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82080059/necklace-with-watch-parts-skeleton-key
The latest additions to Secondhand Passion, my Etsy shop:
Upcycled Steampunk Top Hat
This vivacious upcycled black top hat has been decorated with a tiny antiqued skeleton key, cream-colored vintage lace, an antique watch dial with peacock feathers, and black flowers (millinery flowers and a black rose applique).
The watch dial with peacock feathers features a repurposed bracelet piece with blue stones. The dial, which came from a Cervine watch, is an antique, and was made somewhere between the late 1800s and the early 1900s.
The hat measures approx. 5 inches tall and has a circumference of approx. 24 inches. The hat itself is 100 percent and was made in the U.S.A.
This would be great for a Steampunk event or even Burning Man.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81764818/upcycled-steampunk-top-hat
Doll, Lace, and Rose “Victoriana” Barrette
The barrette consists of a vintage purple and blue fabric rose, lace, and two antique frozen Charlotte heads. It’s spooky, cute, classy, and charming all at once!
In addition to being worn in your hair, the barrette can also be clipped onto scarves, headbands, fans, and other accessories.
Measures 3 1/2 inches across.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81677761/doll-lace-and-rose-victoriana-barrette
1950s Vintage Black Rose Floral Dress Size Small
Not your typical 50s housewife dress! This dress shines with elegance, but is also demure. It could work splendidly as part of a Halloween costume, as a cocktail party dress, or even as part of a rockabilly outfit. Be both classy and eco-friendly in this dress.
The dress features four covered buttons and two front pockets with two additional covered buttons. There is also a zipper on one side. The satin-like fabric with a lovely black rose pattern is durable. You don’t see quality like this that often these days. You’ll be able to enjoy it for years to come.
Measurements (taken flat):
From hips – Approx. 27 inches
Length of entire dress (neck to hem) – Approx. 43 1/2 inches
Sleeves – Approx. 12 1/2 inches each
Waist – Approx. 14 1/2 inches (front side) and 29 inches all the way around
The dress does not have a tag, but it would best fit someone who wears a modern ladies’ size small.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81845533/1950s-vintage-black-rose-floral-dress
Vintage Westclox Bull’s Eye Pocket Watch with Chain
Here is a vintage Westclox Bull’s Eye wind-up silver-toned pocket watch. The clock is no longer working, but it makes a great accessory nonetheless. The watch is estimated to have been made sometime between the 1930s and 1950s.
The plastic crystal has a couple of cracks, but otherwise, the clock is in excellent condition. The diameter is approximately 2 inches and it measures approximately 2 1/2 inches tall.
It comes attached to an 18 inch embossed silver-tone chain with a 23 mm matte black-plated brass lobster clasp (looks like gunmetal).
This would make a fine addition to a Steampunk outfit.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81602077/vintage-westclox-bulls-eye-pocket-watch
Skull and Black Glass Bead “Loviatar” Necklace
This black bead necklace, named after the Finnish goddess, is both elegant and edgy. The vintage 1970s skull pendant is connected to the black glass bead necklace by a silver jump ring. The skull measures approx. 1 inch tall and approx. 3/4 inch across.
The necklace measures 18 inches long. It can be closed starting at around 15 1/2 inches. Clasp is gold-toned and the beads rotate from small to larger.
Perfect for Halloween or all year long.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81601033/skull-and-black-glass-bead-loviatar
Upcycled “Eleanora” Sequined Purse
This beaded and sequined purse has been upcycled with a vintage chandelier crystal and a black millinery flower. The strap is a black braided rope. From the shoulder, it hangs down to about 32 inches including the beaded trim. Not including the rope and beads, the purse is approximately 6 inches tall, and with the bead trim, it measures approximately 9 inches not including the strap. Across, it measures approximately 5 3/4 inches.
It features a black floral pattern comprised of beads and sequins on black lace over grayish fabric. The bottom of the purse has a black beaded trim that hangs down, and it also has a beaded trim near the top.
It closes and opens with gunmetal-colored clasp. The rest of the metal on the purse is also gunmetal-colored. The crystal catches the light beautifully.
It’s absolutely gorgeous and is perfect for a Steampunk event, cocktail party, or flapper outfit.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/81809322/upcycled-eleanora-sequined-purse
Monterey Media Circus Digital Photography Group held a fantastic photo shoot on August 21 at Xpressions Studio in Monterey. It was a day of lights, cameras, playfulness, elegance, and whimsy. Christine Holding, hostess of the event, was joined by fellow photographers Michelle Robertson, George Haas, and Todd Davalos. Not only was there one talented photographer present, but four. My clothing business, Secondhand Passion, provided the upcycled and vintage clothing and accessories. Make-up artistry was provided by Gaia, and Jessica, Laura, and I modeled. Thanks, everyone!
The shoot wouldn’t be complete without some radiant red and cobwebs. That’s what I look like in a black punky wig and all done up.
Peacock feathers, lace, and glamour.
For a look reminiscent of the Dresden Dolls’ style plus Steampunk and Victorian flair, wear striped accessories, top hats, feathers, and antique key necklaces with Victorian-inspired dresses. Don’t be afraid to mix it up!
Black lace never goes out of style.
Check out http://www.meetup.com/Monterey-Media-Circus-Digital-Photography-Group/events/23139621 to view more of the pics from the shoot.
If you’d like to learn more about alternative materials used in sustainable fashion, read this article by Stephanie Evans: http://greenlivingideas.com/2008/09/07/sustainable-fashions-many-alternative-materials .
Evans explains different options that range from kenaf to material made from recycled plastic. Did you know that it’s possible to create textiles from beets? Whether you are a designer or shopper, this is a valuable resource and an interesting read.
The article also mentions working conditions in other countries and the global market.
Don’t have the money to spend on new clothes right now? That’s okay. The article gives tips on improving what you already own.
Some recent additions for men:
Be the envy of Dorian Gray in this black velvet upcycled blazer with antique white porcelain Bridgeport watch dial pin. The pin features a red vintage cabochon and with a gold-toned watch gear. The watch gear and dial are from the late 1800s or early 1900s. The watch dial shows some signs of age, which gives the pin and jacket an edgy look.
More details:
Brand – Yves Saint Laurent
Size – Approx. Men’s M
Length – Approx. 32 inches
Chest – Approx. 38 inches
Sleeves – Approx. 25 inches
2 black marbled plastic buttons in the front
2 roomy pockets in the front plus one smaller one in the front
3 black plastic buttons on either sleeve
2 slits in the back
Jacket condition: excellent
Lined
Professionally dry clean only
Made in France
Just put the jacket on and you’ll become the embodiment of decadence and elegance.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/80120927/the-envy-of-dorian-gray-upcycled-yves
This is a short-sleeved button-up collared shirt with unusual details that add subtle eccentricity and undeniable stylishness. It features a diamond-shaped embroidered pattern. There are buttons on the shoulders. It’s estimated to be either from the 1970s or 1980s.
More details:
Tag is labeled Size L / 40
Length – Approx. 30 inches (front) and approx. 31 inches (back)
Material – 80% polyester, 20% cotton
Brand – Guayaberas Yucatecas
Made in Mexico
The pin is comprised of an antique glass doll eye from Thuringia, Germany and an ornate solid brass escutcheon that measures approximately 1 3/8 inches wide and 1 inch tall. The pin was assembled using non-toxic silicone glue.
Pair with the “All Eyes on You” fedora (http://www.etsy.com/listing/49754761/all-eyes-on-you-fedora) for double the intrigue.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/80116054/mens-vintage-button-up-shirt-with-eye
Upcycled and ready to rock! This black and white pinstriped Tripp NYC jacket, which is a conglomeration of steampunk, goth, and punk, has been adorned with a black and silver toned cross with grommets and a vintage laundry pin with Tripp NYC handcuffs that came from another Tripp jacket attached to it. The pleather (vinyl) cross pin measures 5 inches x 4.5 inches, and the vintage numbered laundry pin is 2 inches long. The brass laundry pin is embossed with “A 5”, and it has a silver toned watch gear from the late 1800s or early 1900s that was added using non-toxic silicone glue. Both pins are removable and can be placed on other parts of the jacket as well so that you can customize as you please. The removable pins also make for easier cleaning.
Other features of the jacket include 3 black plastic buttons and two roomy pockets in the front. There is also a third smaller pocket in the front.
The jacket is a men’s size XS (fits chest measurement 33-36 inches). Although it’s a men’s size, it would also work for ladies (approximately size S/M for women). The sleeves measure approx. 26 inches. The length of the jacket from top to bottom is 27 inches. It’s 97% cotton and 3% spandex. It’s in excellent condition.
Listing: http://www.etsy.com/listing/79784145/tripp-nyc-upcycled-pinstriped-jacket
Secondhand Passion 