Dame Vintage Boston

Dame in transition

2012-01-03T17:11:00.000-05:00

It's been pretty quiet around here....

For the past three years this blog has been dedicated to the support and communications of the shop, which we all know is sadly closed. In addition to the online shop under construction, this blog will be transitioning into something a bit more creative and won't be defined by shop communications.

While the path is still a work in progress, there definitely will be a sewing element, which I'm very excited about. This will be announced sooner rather than later too. So stay tuned for more vintage, more sewing, more refashion and all the really cool things Dame was always about. I hope you'll hang in there.

Isn't she pretty.

Studio in progress

2011-11-11T11:52:00.000-05:00

Things are coming along for the new sewing space. It now happens to be drowning in a new batch of Vintage that needs love and attention. The Vintage will all be stored elsewhere, so this room can actually function as a sewing space. Looking back at the photos, I'd already forgotten what bad shape the walls were in this room. They are the original plaster walls probably saved as much as they were by being covered in wallpaper for the last 60 years. It was an incredibly satisfying project to restore them and I think the end result is not so bad if I do say so myself.

Hope to start sewing soon!

Before

During

After

Working through a big new batch -cleaning and stitching- Updates Soon

2011-11-10T13:54:00.000-05:00

Dame Collaboration - 40 South!

2011-11-01T12:51:00.000-04:00

Dame is on!
Our first local collaboration is on with 40 South right in our old neighborhood, two blocks up on South Street!

We are putting together a swanky little batch of early 60s coats and dresses, all very Madmen all very wearable. So get to 40th South for your vintage rocker chic, a boot selection comparable to no one and an exclusive Dame collection just for South Street.

In the Shop

2011-10-31T12:47:00.000-04:00

On my to-do list for eons has been restoring these two lovelies. Both came in their original desks and are fantastic examples of Vintage Singer history. The first is a 1922 model, the first electric machine made by singer, it was essentially a treadle machine with a motor strapped to it. Restoring the motor would be so costly that I decided to have this fitted with a hand-crank. It would be a great teaching machine.

This beauty is from the early 40s and is model number 201-2 it is considered one of the most powerful home machines singer ever made. It came in a beautiful deco desk with all it's party and attachments. This is going to be my new go-to machine, I can't wait.

In Process Kitchen Before and After

2011-10-31T12:19:00.001-04:00

Old Kitchen facing front of room towards the front door. The half bath is now where that fridge was.

----------

Taking a break from Dame has allowed me to focus my energy and time on our new house renovations. Specifically the kitchen and all the cosmetic walls and surfaces of the house, including a sweet little studio space for dame and a small army of vintage sewing machines.

It was the kitchen though, that presented the largest challenge. Putting in a half bath took a significant portion of the length of the original layout. Doors and windows were relocated, walls were taken down and the back corner of the house ended up having to be rebuilt. So far we are loving the results. Take a look... .

Original Back door and wall before the it came down opening up the dining room

Original front door to kitchen, now an open hallway

Bad ceiling number two....

Original Dining Room and the wall that came down, we sacrificed the built-in

Standing in the new entryway

New backdoor placement

Open Dining Room

The kitchen is about 95% done. It's totally wild all the decisions you have to make when doing a rehab project like this. I was fascinated to find out that doors don't come with knobs, cabinets don't come with handles, sinks don't come with faucets or drains and toilets do not come with covers. Each of these are individual decisions you have to make. Considering that I have never done anything like this in my entire life, I'm pretty pleased with the design of the layout in the end. It could have been a disaster. So far it's been a dream to cook in. I also love how bright and open it feels. We still intend to add open shelving and an Island, so some of the openness will give way to function.

Given where we started I love where we have ended up. Next up: The sewing studio.

It's Official

2011-08-11T16:10:00.000-04:00

We are out of the space on South Street. I want to shout out a big ol' hearty Thank You to all of our customers and to everyone who came by in the last few weeks to express their condolences regarding the shop. It was a tremendous labor of love and we all had a blast and loved meeting and dressing all the great folks who came by once, twice and even every week. I'm sorry that we couldn't keep the shop going longer for those of you that were truly wonderful customers.

So now onto what's new: In addition to setting up our online boutique, we are currently working on collaborations with local shops so we can continue to bring you our fabulous vintage styles from the 1930s-1960s. Speaking of eras I just watched Mildred Pierce the costuming and set design was absolutely divine, but I digress.

Our first collaboration will be with our glamorous stylin neighbor 40 South St in Jamaica Plain, just in time for Fall.

I'm so excited to be working with local shops because I really believe in supporting local business. Why shop online when you can actually get the coolest and finest Vintage in your own hood. You will always be able to buy Vintage cheaper local than online. Not to mention, I've always maintained that Vintage Clothing needs to be tired on to ensure a proper fit, so really I think it's just a win-win for everyone.

You can sign up on our mailing list to be updated on new shop collaborations, photos of what's going where, trunk shows and online updates.

Lastly, very recently my partner and I have come to own a 100 year old house in Roslindale. You can call it a "fixer upper" but it has wonderful old lines and a sweet old soul. In the mist of all the wallpaper somewhere is Dame's new studio! So stay tuned for more Vintage and handmade clothing and home and please bear with renovation process.

Final Weekend in the Shop on South Street- there's lots to see

2011-07-21T10:51:00.000-04:00

OPEN Thurs-Sun 12-6, July 21st through July 24th

This is it our last week on South Street

30% off all Vintage clothing

50% off the second item

Special Accessory sales

for those who like to dig, a 5 buck bargain bin

Don't forget to sign up on our mailing list to stay in the loop for parties and events and our soon to be

Dame Vintage Boston online!

*Open **Sat/Sun July 16th & 17th 12-6

2011-07-15T14:25:00.000-04:00

Weekend Hours **Open **Sat/Sun July 16th & 17th 12-6.

Same deal- 30% off all clothing Bonus- 50% off a second

purchase of menswear

July 8th- 10th ****Open 12-6 Fri, Sat and Sun

2011-07-08T10:57:00.000-04:00

Only Three weekends left, here's the deal:

30% off all Vintage Clothing all weekend

Bonus- 50% off second piece of Menswear purchased

This weekend only!

Furniture For Sale

2011-06-06T11:57:00.004-04:00

Time to start downsizing!

Our fantastic Neo-Victorian brocade couch is for sale, it's super comfy, clean and in great shape.

$350

Modern Glass/Birch Veneer locking cabinet. 5 glass shelves, lights included.

Glass on three sides $150

Mid-Century wood, chrome and vinyl dressing valet

$50

Loads of mark downs on Vintage too, stop by during store hours!

Updated here

More to come:

Shop Announcement

2011-05-16T11:50:00.000-04:00

**NEWS** **new** ** of NOTE**

It is with a huge amount of mixed emotion that I am announcing the closing of the shop on South Street. This is a decision that was in no way easy to make. I want to personally thank everyone who has been involved, who has loved the shop, who has visited and shopped and supported the vision of a Main Street space in their own unique way.

We have so many incredible customers that we see every week. Not to mention artists and designers whose work it has been such a pleasure to display. There have been so many local supporters and friends of Dame at the shop on South Street, that it is simply impossible to name everyone.

The current economic climate just has not been friendly enough to us to maintain the shop year round. That said, Dame IS NOT going away, you will still see us at special events, online and at other collaborative projects around town.

We will be open on South Street through July 31, 2011, so we aren't disappearing overnight. We are putting everything new out so come on by and get your summer vintage digs while we are still here, local gets it first! We've got sun-dresses flirty everyday dresses and top shelf special occasion dresses, straw hats and tons of great short sleeve button ups.

After July, you can expect to see us online and back at some of the summer markets where we got our start. We've also got some plans for private parties and other collaborative projects so we can continue to share our specialty sourced, one of kind vintage finds with the neighborhood.

While this is a big change, it's just part of the process to figure out what kind of business Dame should be. Be sure to stay in touch and up to date with what's new for Dame here on the blog or on Facebook and Twitter. You will have to be on our mailing list to receive notice of special events, sales and private parties.

If you are a local business and are interesting in collaborating with Dame, drop us a line at jpdame@gmail.com

Before

Pricing the night before opening day: The original three: Dany, Lisette and Sally

After
Spring 2011 Check out Taylor's Fantastic Merchandising skills.

Stay tuned for what's next and please SHOP LOCAL!

First Thursdays are back! Join us May 5th for Art, Song and Punch 5-8 PM

2011-05-04T10:19:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year again First Thursday season kicks off this Thursday May 5th on Centre and South Street in Jamaica Plain.

Our gorgeous South Street windows will be showcasing a Felted Fiber installation by Anna Kristina Goransson.

Her work evokes the organized chaos of nature and the simplicity of form often found in the natural world. Working in multiples, she creates environments for the viewer to meditate on the sense of scale, color, and repetition. Her work is influenced by modern Swedish design as much as it is by nature. The combination creates work that may seem simple but offers the mind a chance to oscillate between reality and the make believe.

And that's not all:
Live music by JP's very own:: The Homestead Family Band performing old-time tunes for your vintage pleasure.

Happy Spring!

Refashion and Store Update

2011-04-21T16:20:00.000-04:00

For those of you who happen to have kids or are expecting, we have expanded our selection of clothing for babies and kids and we even have some adorable 1950's maternity outfits, perfect for spring and summer.

Newly expanded rack of babies, kids, and maternity clothing

Tiny shoes and (gasp) cowboy boots!

Nautical rompers for little dames and dandies

In other news, Refashion news to be exact, we have another fun addition to our collection of refashioned spring dresses.

For this refashion, I took a late 80's/early 90's Talbots shirtwaist dress with an adorable print, removed the sleeves and gave it a rather drastic neckline alteration for a sort of 1950's dirndl effect.

I don't have a before picture of the dress, but it was definitely a member of this family:

Spring is on the horizon...

2011-04-07T18:05:00.001-04:00

I thought the store looked particularly pretty this afternoon with the sun coming in...

Spring things

2011-04-01T17:24:00.000-04:00

Although it may be snowing in Jamaica Plain, inside of DAME some decidedly springy things are taking place...

White wicker hat, silver glitter dot 60's pumps, ivory crinkle raffia and mesh

Various straw and lace cloche type hats, crochet clutch & hankies, 1940's white satin pumps, and a few vintage patterns.

I am particularly fond of the navy blue straw hat with the daisy appliqué...

With my new haircut (care of Ms. Laura's down the block) and the hat and turtleneck combo (Also from DAME, of course) I feel very 1960's does 1920's a la Thoroughly Modern Millie ...

I love period movies where contemporary style clearly shines through, despite attempts to reproduce the look of another era. The 60's are great for this, especially 1960's does future!

What's your favorite era-does-era?

The linebacker silhouette that the 80's inherited from the 1940's?

Or perhaps, for the old fashioned, a late 1700's post revolution France's take on ancient Grecian styles...

What are we trying to hearken back to in contemporary fashion? An era-does-era-does-era? Have we started only going back a few years to get our ideas? 80's and even 90's styles seem to be popular again...

Just like spring, styles will always return. Though just like spring (especially in New England) it's not always pretty...

Fashion in news done good

2011-03-15T14:50:00.000-04:00

Uniqlo Donates $17 Million to Tsunami Relief Efforts

Amazing Avant Garde 40s Jacket Needs Some Love

2011-03-14T15:47:00.009-04:00

This 1940s jacket is simply stunning. Not only is the jacket itself in fantastic condition, but it also has these fluttery sleeve pieces that are so cool and unique.

Unfortunately, the 70-year-old lining is far from fantastic; in fact, it is in a sad sad state.

Fortunately, we at Dame love a challenge. I chose a pretty silky fabric for the lining, and am now in the process of taking apart the lining entirely and using the existing pieces as the pattern. Check back soon to see how this beaut is coming along!

New Handmade & Refashion!

2011-03-10T13:31:00.000-05:00

Check out some more new additions to the DAME Independant Design family, starting with our very first in store collaboration:

Elephunk's Trunk for DAME

Wide brim sun hat, made from 1970's girl's maxi dress

Lace cloche, made from a frilly 1960's mod dress

Elephunk's Trunk is a purveyor of handmade hats that hearken back to bygone eras. The hats we have in the store were created by Celeste of Elephunk's Trunk using pieces from DAME's collection of vintage clothing designated for refashion.

We also have new spring pieces from Post Trading, a collection of unique pieces made from recycled vintage fabrics and notions brought to you by one of DAME's own employees.

Butterfly wing top made from a textured vintage cotton jersey

This Aline skirt made from vintage fabrics can also function as a poncho!

Come by and check out our new items, including some brand new in store Refashion and our rack of 50% off Winter Items!

More Fashion Foibles

2011-03-10T13:15:00.000-05:00

Urban Outfitters' shares collapse on weak profit - NYPOST.com

New Handmade Jewelry

2011-03-04T17:28:00.002-05:00

We are pleased to present our two newest jewelry designers:

Requiem Fine Art and Wicked Peacock

Requiem Fine Art by Anya Bredbeck

Featured are unique pieces created using antique hardware, silver spoons, and other elegantly utilitarian items. A few pieces are from The Janie Prescott Collection, whose story is narrated by the artist below:

"I found Janie Prescott's suitcase of secret love letters late one night. Janie and Martha were two women who fell in love in the 1940's at a time when their love just couldn't be. Martha would not forsake her family to be with Janie, but they wrote to each other back and forth for over sixty years. Their life together existed only on paper. I believe that these letters are physical pieces of love, objects imbued with energy. I have continued Martha and Janie's bittersweet love story by incorporating small bits of their letters into my jewelry (my modern talismans) giving each necklace an air of sacred irreverence. By wearing one of these unique pieces you are carrying with you a fragment of love past but not forgotten; a bit of the connected, tangled thread that holds us all together as human beings."

Wicked Peacock by Silvana Costa

Wicked Peacock features pieces that are fun and whimsical but also decidedly sophisticated. Necklaces are crafted using vintage jewelry and other small charms to create thematic assemblages.

Stop by the store to check out our lovely new jewelry and stay tuned for another update on some new handmade clothing and refashion including an exciting collaboration with a local designer!

Paris Fashion Week: Dries Van Noten Fall 2011

2011-03-03T16:13:00.001-05:00

These are pretty much the clothes I want to wear for the rest of my life.

Dame Spring Preview

2011-03-03T11:08:00.000-05:00

Enjoy a Spring preview & while it's still pretty darn cold come on in and shop our Winter Sale rack for goods 50% off!

Jennifer's Refashion: Dowdy Turned Adorable

2011-02-28T16:48:00.008-05:00

I love the print on this 60s floral skirt, but the matronly length was not doing it any favors. So I chopped off about a foot and a half (!!), created a pretty sash-type belt and added a vintage wooden buckle.

I paired it with a vintage cotton shirt with French cuffs and a great necklace from Vintage Fuss.

I really dig the results!

Stay tuned for more refashions from DAME's Refashion Team...

More Fashion in Business News

2011-02-23T17:56:00.000-05:00

J.Crew Shareholders Advised to Vote Against the $3 Billion Buyout

Elephunk's Trunk: Making vintage Re-Fashionable-Collaborative hat pr...

2011-02-20T18:40:00.000-05:00

Sneak Peak: New Refashion

Elephunk's Trunk: Making vintage Re-Fashionable-Collaborative hat pr...: "I believe that some of my most creative moments happen when I have the opportunity to try and mesh my mind with another person's. So when Da..."

Refashion News

2011-02-17T18:54:00.000-05:00

This week in Refashion

Before

After

This week, I took a turtleneck cashmere sweater top that had seen better days. I used metallic brocade material leftover from hemming a dress to embellish it with a pseudo-sailor neckline and two pockets to create a more dramatic 1950's style sweater shirt.

Refashion News

2011-02-04T14:51:00.000-05:00

This is the first installment in what I hope will become a feature on the blog.

In an effort to promote the Wonderful World (for Wallet AND Wardrobe) of Refashion, we will post in-store Refashion projects as they are completed. We will share before and after shots and provide a little insight into this fabulous process.

This week in Refashion

You may remember this absolutely darling 1960's mod knit dress, with its sweet horizontal pin stripes and crocheted collar. This little number was in the store for a bit, but no matter how many tried her there was never a match.

Perhaps she was too autumnal for summer or spring, with her 3/4 sleeves and with being knit and all. But her bright orange hue was a bit too brilliant for the fall or winter...

Eventually she became desperate and moved to the sale rack. But still, she remained. One night, she decided something must be done, and gave herself a makeover (or rather, I gave her what I assumed would be the makeover she desired as an anthropomorphicized garment).

After all was said and done, she emerged from her cocoon as a fun, springy drawstring waist jacket with buttons and two tulip-shaped patch pockets.

Keep an eye out for her as we roll out new garments in the upcoming you-wish-it-was-spring-but-unfortunately-Boston-spring-starts-in-April days.

That's all for this week...

...hopefully the next Refashion update will be a little less saccharine and story-book-like. I blame this one on the fact that the buttons I used on this jacket look a bit like cartoon eyeballs. But I promise I will retain the large amount of respect and sympathy I have for neglected garments in the next installment!

Winter Necessities- Get your Plaid out

2011-02-02T11:30:00.000-05:00

1950s Jantzen Sportswear

Early 1960s working girl

Jacket refashioned from 1970s pants

1950s Pendleton

Pendleton

Anniversary changes/Schedule

2011-02-01T11:34:00.000-05:00

So we've got more changes in the works for the coming year. In addition to our new lights and our new sign, expect to see a big expansion to our refashion and handmade section, new Jewelers in the shop and some new hours.

Starting Feb 1st we'll be going to our winter hours which means we'll be closed on Wed for February and for March. But we are trading that for a Monday shift! Dame is super excited to be bringing on another designer. Jennifer Griffith of Sarka's Collection, we'll be in the shop on Mondays from 11-5 sewing new refashions and providing some day time weekday hours for your shopping pleasure.

Drop by and give her a big welcome.

Thur- 1-7

Fri-1-7

Sat- 11-7

Sun- 11-6

Mon- 11-5

Tues/Wed-CLOSED

Hi Seamsters

2011-02-01T08:54:00.001-05:00

This week, on Thursday, Feb. 3rd, the Seamsters will tackle some common conundrums of the fashion world in:

A Fix and Fit Workshop!
At this meeting of Seamsters, we will work together to give an old piece of clothing a new lease on life, when it seems to have been banished to the world of rips, missing buttons, and ill fitting-ness.

Bring in a piece of clothing that needs either a repair (hole in a sweater, rip in jeans, split seam, fallen button etc) or a small alteration (something a bit too big/small, long/short, not fitted enough in the right places).

We will discuss the best ways to figure out if and how a repair and alteration can be done. We will teach tricks for quick fixes (iron on patches, fusible hem tape, elastic for fit) and more professional fixes/alterations as desired (darning, darts, blind hems, etc).

This workshop open to all, so feel free to swing by!

Psst

2011-01-28T16:41:00.001-05:00

The first of three weekends worth of specials (in celebration of entering our 3rd year) has been posted on Facebook here. The second next weekend announced on Facebook only, and the big ta-do on the 12th, get on the mailing list here.Invitations will only be sent to our mailing list and our FB fans.

Nylon Daily - Boston

2011-01-28T12:38:00.000-05:00

Check out one of our featured designers, Nicole Deponte of lilian asterfield and of Freyed (both available at Dame) in Nylon Daily-Boston edition. Nice work Nicole! Pretty pleased that Dame got a mention too!

Publish Post

PS....

I spy a familiar face... Miss Jessica Sutton

Shoe Break

2011-01-27T17:36:00.000-05:00

Think I found my first Spring Splurge!

Inspiration Dior does Dior

2011-01-27T13:21:00.000-05:00

So it may be fashion blasphemy to admit this, but I've never been the biggest fan of Dior, and by Dior I mean Christian Dior and what we was famous for; "The New Look".

Barely 20 years after the abandonment of the corset, followed by the athletic look of the 20s and the curve loving bias cuts of the 30s and 40s. The wasp waist was once again introduced into fashion and reigned supreme for the next 10 years or more. Say what you will about the aesthetic, to achieve the most fashionable look a woman would either have to be very small or very uncomfortable. And living in the modern era, I just don't have a lot of appreciation for a design ideal that doesn't take comfort into consideration. The idea of volume and extravagance as a response to the austerity of the 1940s and WWII is interesting though and certainly was pretty and feminine.

Enter John Galliano's Christian Dior haute couture collection. And WOW! There is no doubt that John Galliano is an artist and a visionary in his own right. In this collection, he has taken on the task of re-interpreting the history of the house of Dior in a modern landscape and it's just to-die for.

These are so New Look and totally modern. I LOVE LOVE the icy blue cowl neck and nude lining.

Click here to see the whole show. It's divine.

These two remind me a little bit more of Cristóbal Balenciaga who Dior himself called "The Master of us all" but they are all grand and lovely and illustrate the timeless of fashion.

Anniversary Shindig February 12th sign up for details

2011-01-25T10:23:00.001-05:00

We've got something super special brewing in honor in honor of our 2 year anniversary and we want to celebrate with our all of our favorite customers. In honor of entering our third year, we are going to have three weekends of specials, starting Saturday January 29th and ending with the big shebang on Saturday February 12th. Live Entertainment, Specials and as always the Dame punch.

There is a hitch, you have to be on our mailing list. Promotions/parties and specials will no longer be advertised on our blog first, if at all, The best way to stay in the know is to sign up on our mailing list, which you can do here:

If you want to sin up for our Seamsters sewing group you will also have that option:

For Email Marketing you can trust

We don't want to fill up your inbox and you can expect no more than one email a month keeping you up to date on what's going on in the shop with new merchandise, sales and events.

The blog is going to take on a more conversational direction regarding sewing, vintage, photos and vintage style and I'm sure the occasional meanderings of shop life.

Anniversary Upgrades

2011-01-22T14:19:00.001-05:00

Sad Lights

So if you're a regular in the shop, then you've seen our "DIY" temporary lighting situation. I have to say I appreciate every time I heard 'oh I thought it was mood lighting" more than you know. Now that we are two days away from officially being two years old on South Street, I finally placed the order for new lighting.

Reproduction turn of the century industrial lighting, these babies can handle 150w per socket of incandescent or CFL(Good) and are not Halogen(Bad). Picking out lighting is not easy and I have to say I got quite an education. For as long as I dragged my feet on this I'm pretty psyched about the end result.

New Lights

Yay! There will be two of these over the counter

Seamsters with Special Guest Jennifer Griffith

2011-01-17T11:17:00.002-05:00

That's right friends, we have a Seamsters meeting coming up on January 20th.

This meeting will feature a Skirt Workshop lead by DAME featured designer Jennifer Griffith of Šarka's Collection. It will take place from 5pm-8pm.

Supplies Needed:
-A light-weight fabric of your choice
-Coordinating thread
-A 7" zipper
-Lining fabric (optional)

This can be your go-to skirt for the rest of winter, or something to wear when welcoming springtime in the coming months!

Hope to see you there!

Happy New Year! New Refashion and Handmade in the shop

2011-01-13T11:43:00.000-05:00

Snow Day- The shop will be closed for the day

2011-01-12T09:46:00.000-05:00

Go play in the snow!

Holiday Hours

2010-12-21T15:01:00.001-05:00

We want to wish everyone a Happy Holiday Season! The shop will be open on Christmas Eve 11-4 for any last minute gifting needs.... Hey it happens to the best of us!

We've got some great jewels, loads of Vintage holiday ornaments, fancy vintage ties, hats and fun stuff for the season. We've even got some really great and special gifts for the baby dames and dandies of the world.

If you prefer to give the gift of choice we have Gift Certificates.

Without further ado:

Week of Wednesday December 22nd

Wed - 2-8

Thurs - 2-8

Fri - 11-4

Sat - CLOSED Christmas

Sun - CLOSED Day after Christmas

Week of Wednesday December 28th

Wed - 2-8

Thurs - 2-8

Fri - 11-4

Sat - CLOSED New Year's Day

Sun - back to normal 11-6

Winter Solstice

2010-12-21T14:36:00.000-05:00

Andrew Wyeth said, “I prefer winter and fall, when you feel the bone structure of the landscape. Something waits beneath it; the whole story doesn’t show.”

For some reason Wyeth's work inspires me to sew. I want to make garments inspired by these paintings.

There is something haunting about Wyeth's work, stark and beautiful, for me it represents a perfect balance of romance and realism, the single coin of joy and sadness. This last painting, for example, 'Snow Hill" is one part winter celebration and one part reflection on a life lived and an impending death.

I went running early this AM, a half hour after the eclipse ended on the morning of the winter solstice during the first snow of the year. It was a hard run and that always make me reflective as does the solitude of Winter and the comfort of a blanket of snow. Today it inspired me to think about Wyeth to look up these paintings and to think about the life we create while we are here, while really I'm supposed to be updating the blog with the shop's holiday hours. I got distracted.

JP Pond at about 6 AM

Deck the halls at Dame

2010-12-21T14:04:00.000-05:00

I was scanning through my saved vintage images and came across this Vogue Holiday advertisement. I thought the likeness was uncanny and fun to see. We've got a great selection of 40s and 60s party dresses in the shop right now, lots of velvets, taffeta and wool, including mods, maxis and LBDs.

Local is the new black - JP Shopping Guides

2010-12-09T13:16:00.001-05:00

Shopping local, eating local, supporting neighborhoods and creating community seem to be THE marketing buzzwords of 2010. In this stressful economy, I can personally think of no better consumer demand, than making a difference in our own neighborhoods by becoming a part of our own main street.

We were thrilled to participate in Small Business Saturday, which offered consumers a one time $25 back on purchases made at any small business, this offer has now been extended to 12/31, so come on in and get a deep discount on Vintage ornaments, gift quality cashmere or a New Year's Eve dress.

The program was started by civic organizations and was sponsored by American Express. Say what you will about corporate sponsorship, but through a Facebook campaign, AMEX pledged and delivered 1 Million dollars to the non-profit group Girls Inc., now that is some corporate giving that I can get on board with.

Another source for really great information regarding shopping locally is the 30/50 project. They do a great job of explaining how a little can go a long way in your community.

Dame is honored to have been featured recently in several shopping guides. We especially love Stuff Magazine's take on us as a "better curated version of Nana's attic" in their guide: Shop Local, Eat Local: An off-the-beaten-path guide to holiday shopping (and après-spree noshing)

We were also super excited to be profiled by Nylon Magazine in their article: "on the road, taking the pulse of the most exciting cities in the nation" putting JP on the fashion map in the most widely circulated street style magazine in the trade.

Here are a few of my favorite places to support my community, this is by no means an exhaustive list, just my current favs in the JP/Rosi/Hyde Park neighborhoods.

Allandale Farm: Fond of calling themselves Boston's last working farm, it's happy-making just walking around the Farm Stand. Recent Purchases: A 7ft Scotch Pine Christmas tree, that was remarkably reasonably priced and local eggs so fresh, you could taste the difference.

Townsends: My go to pub for comfort fare with a great beer selection. The bartender is personable beyond compare and nothing beats their extra large and warm roaring fireplace during a cold spell.

Yesteryear on South Street in Jamaica Plain just up the street from the shop. There is always at least one thing that I want and there are several which have made their way into my home, like a gorgeous mid-century buffet and dining table, some terribly cute black kitchen tuxedo chairs and a matching stool. Most recently a three tiered danish modern floor lamp, just in time for our Holiday Party.

Enjoy the season!

Dame of the Day

2010-12-07T16:50:00.000-05:00

Host your private dress up party at Dame

Dame is available for private parties, birthdays, dress up days, bridal party shopping, showers or just for the glamor of it all. Bring 10 or more of your closest friends and you get free run of the shop, personalized fittings and assistance with our fine selection of Vintage and handmade wears, garments sorted and preselected just for you, not to mention unlimited access to the couch and our Signature Dame Champagne punch.

Email: JPDame@gmail.com for more information

Seamsters 12/16/10 Handmade Holiday Gifts and Guest Designer

2010-12-07T13:54:00.003-05:00

December 16th 5-8 Seamsters welcome Libby Meehan of Whistling Sparrow Designs for an evening of DIY gift making in the shop.

We are super excited to have Libby here to host our first instructional meeting, and what a better project than handmade holiday gifts. This project is suitable for all levels. Space is limited so please email jpdame@gmail.com to hold your spot. If space becomes full we will post, if not then feel free to drop in as usual.

See below for description and Materials list

Description: Not sure what to give this holiday season? Then come join us for a night of DIY at Dame. We will be making tea towel aprons and machine-stitched recipe cards! A charming handmade combination for that person in your life who loves baking or cooking or just loves adorable aprons!

Materials:

1 tea towel
corresponding thread
extra-wide double fold bias tape for waist band OR 1/4 -1/2 yard of fabric for wasit band
1/4 yard of extra fabric for making pockets
embellishments (pre-made ruffle, lace, rick-rack, ribbon, etc.) for pocket or bottom edge of apron
corresponding decorative papers for making recipe cards
recipes you may want to use ( I will provide some as well). If you choose to bring your own, just write or type it on paper that would fit into a pocket of the apron.

Check out our Fall/Winter Seamsters Schedule here for upcoming meetings and more local designer guest spots. Hope to see you there.

Scenes from a Winter Wonderland

2010-12-04T12:46:00.003-05:00

We entered Main Streets Holiday Window contest this year with our take on a vintage Winter Wonderland. There is a little bit of all of us in this window, everyone added their own unique sense of style and I think results are super wintry vintage gorgeousness.

Big thanks to our Neighbor Joe Fallon at McCormack and Scanlan, Taylor McVay and Mindy Rinkenberger who all added their personality to the window. Public judging starts next week. Wish us luck.

Mood Lighting

2010-11-27T17:37:00.001-05:00

So we're still here rocking the sale, and I just want to say thank you to everyone who was such a good sport and shopped in mood lighting. I have to admit it's quite pretty, while admittedly not ideal...

**New** adds to the 50% off sale rack tomorrow 11-6

Sorry for the lighting Fail, we'll do our best to make it up to you!

2010-11-27T09:52:00.000-05:00

To anyone who came out yesterday, big apologies for the light situation, we had a little blow out right before the holiday. The store is still open tho, a little dim, but we are open and the sale is still on. As a way to make it up to you all, any new 50%off items put on the rack will stay there all weekend. New bunch today and tomorrow with light! 11-7 Sat and 11-6 Sun.

Black Friday and Small Business Saturday

2010-11-21T19:08:00.000-05:00

First of all I want to say a big Thank You to all of our customers and to all the local folks who contribute so much to Jamaica Plain's vibrant and historic main street. Dame is almost two years old and we could not have made it this far without the support of a fabulous community and the people who regularly spend their time in our favorite Boston neighborhood.

As our way of saying thank you, we are kicking off the Holiday Shopping season with 20% off all our new fabulous fall and winter merchandise (Clothing: Vintage and handmade) Fri-Sun November 26-28. In addition, we have added a new and updated 50% off sale rack. Our 50% off rack includes top shelf selections and will have new and unique items added each day Fri, Sat and Sun, for one day only, so stop by. Maybe that fancy dress you've had your eye on will show up on the rack.

Holiday Hours:

M-TH -CLOSED

FRI- 11-5

SAT-11-7

SUN -11-6

If you haven't heard already, check out the initiative for Small Business Saturday a national campaign to promote local main streets communities all over the country. Boston recently joined NYC and San Francisco, LA, D.C, Chicago and many more in an effort to promote small businesses in our communities. In addition to offering $25 cash back rewards for shopping at your favorite local business, American Express is donating $1 for every Facebook 'like' up to $500,000 to Girls Inc, an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering the young woman entrepreneurs of tomorrow.

Mayor Menino Brings National "Small Business Saturday" Campaign to Boston | City of Boston

2010-11-21T18:40:00.003-05:00

Mayor Menino Brings National "Small Business Saturday" Campaign to Boston | City of Boston

Seamsters Fall/Winter Schedule

2010-11-21T18:00:00.002-05:00

AS always we love your suggestions for upcoming workshops, and you are always free to bring ongoing projects and ideas for discussion and advice

Upcoming Sewing Group Dates:

Thurs NOV 18th - Refashion Workshop
Thurs DEC 16th - Holiday DIY Gifts Libbey Meehan Whistling Sparrow Designs
Thurs JAN 6th - Refashion Workshop -Continued
Thurs JAN 20th - Skirt Workshop Jennifer Griffith Sarka's Collection
Thurs FEB 3rd - Fix and Fit and advanced Refashion Workshop
Thurs FEB 17th - Finishing Techniques

MAR/APRIL- TBA

Guest Designer spots TBA!

Holiday Gifts:
Small projects like an easy bag/purse, Apron, potholder, Embroidered linens, Fabric Flower/Bow brooch, etc

Refashion Workshop:
Bring an article of clothing that doesn’t quite suit you as is, but you love the fabric or the details. We will talk about some easy ways to transform a garment: Making a flattering shirt, skirt, or both from a frumpy dress, sleeve changes, neckline changes, embellishment, etc. We can also talk about how to look for inspiration for refashions and work with, rather than against, a garment to change it.

Beginners Sewing Workshop:
We will teach some beginning sewing skills, such as how to thread, use, and maintain a sewing machine and how to do basic hand stitches. How to work with a pattern.

Beginners Skirt Workshop:
Circle Skirt: Bring a 48” sq piece of fabric, or 1 1/3 yards of 48” wide fabric, or a too large dress/skirt in a material you like. 1yd of elastic.
Straight Skirt: Bring a piece of fabric the length of your widest hip measurement +3” (so 40” hips would mean 43” of fabric, so a little more than 1 1/4 yard.) and 1 yd of elastic
optional: scissors. needle and thread. We have some to share but bringing your own is best.
Learn to make a skirt with a single piece of fabric: Tutorials include: straight/aline/gored patterns and hemming techniques.

DIY Finishing touches:
I will demonstrate how to make your own bias tape using your own fabric and how to make covered buttons without a kit. Other touches include patch pockets, appliques and professional finishing techniques.

Fix and Fit Workshop:
Everyone will bring in a piece of clothing that needs either a repair (hole in a sweater, rip in jeans, split seam, fallen button etc) or a small alteration (something a bit too big/small, long/short, not fitted enough in the right places) and we will discuss the best ways to go about if and how a repair and alteration can be done. We will teach tricks for quick fixes (iron on patches, fusible hem tape, elastic for fit) and more professional fixes/alterations as desired (darning, darts, blind hems, etc).

Next Seamsters Refashion Workshop!

2010-11-12T15:52:00.004-05:00

Get ready for the next Seamsters meeting on Thursday, November 18th 5-8pm!

This time around, we will focus on a subject near and dear to our hearts:

Refashion!

If you are interested in learning how to take a tired old garment and turn it into something amazing or how to update a tried and true favorite, swing by DAME next Thursday.

We will discuss where and how to get inspiration to transform your tired threads and simple sewing and cutting tips to get the job done fast.

*Bring an article of clothing that doesn’t quite suit you as is, but you love the fabric or the details, perhaps something neat picked up from a thrift store. We will talk about some easy ways to breathe new life into old clothing!*

Halloween Picks @ Dame

2010-10-21T17:58:00.013-04:00

At last, the time for dressing up as your fave ubiquitous ghoul or pin-up gal is finally here. However, this orange chiffon jumpsuit is sure to win you an award for best costume next weekend. Imagine prancing around in this gem as a pumpkin...clown...genie...or carrot, maybe? You would definitely have a grand time with this piece.

We have a number of pieces at the shop that could be used to flare up any Halloween costume. This particular navy jacket with anchor embellishments would be a sure hit for a sailor outfit!

...and these pants are self-explanatory. Make sure to swing by the shop during the next week to check out our over-flowing Halloween rack for more costume options!

SALE: All outerwear 30% off now through Sunday

2010-10-21T17:53:00.003-04:00

We want to keep you all warm this Winter!

Outwear Sale 10/21/2010-10/24/2010 all 30% off.

Put your coat on and get a great deal!

Seamsters meet Thursday October 28th 5-8pm

2010-10-11T16:32:00.001-04:00

Mark your calendar now for the next Seamsters meeting Thursday October 28th drop by 5-8pm

Bring your ideas, projects, patterns and refashions!

Biggest Bestest add for the boys yet all out this weekend

2010-09-21T16:39:00.000-04:00

you'll be swimming in all the 1940s/1950s men's shirts you could possibly ask for in one place, OK maybe I'm exaggerating since one can never have too many 40s and 50s shirts in one place, but you get the idea.

Still a bunch of great Vintage leather jackets at good prices too!

Happy Fall

Vintage Ads Courtesy of Found in Mom's Basement

Fall Accessories Sale

2010-09-15T15:59:00.001-04:00

We are marking down a bunch of shoes in the shop to make room for a big new vintage accessories update. Come on by for a deal or to see what's new.

Vintage Shoe Ads from Vintage Ad Browser such a fun site

Next Seamsters Meeting Thursday September 16th

2010-09-08T12:12:00.000-04:00

Mark your calendar now for the next Seamsters meeting Thursday September 16th drop by 5-8pm

Fall Hours Update

2010-09-08T12:00:00.000-04:00

We loved the new evening hours so much we're keeping them all season!

Fall Hours:

M- Closed

T- Closed

Wed-Fri- 2-8

Sat- 11-7

Sun- 11-6

Click here for directions

You heard it here first

2010-09-01T15:26:00.001-04:00

So excited about this event: Dame has been invited to participate in a Boldfacers Vintage Pop Up Store. Thurs 9/9/2010 6-10 pm at the W hotel complete with DJ and cocktails. Super great list of Vintage folks involved jewelry/art/objects. Sponsored by PBD Events and the W Hotel.

What a fun night on the town. Can't wait to meet everyone and probably do a little shopping myself.

PS. Bringing out some extra special inventory just for the occasion.

Feels like Fall

2010-08-24T12:27:00.000-04:00

Ok so it really feels like fall and if you're anything like me, you can't wait! Those sweaters, boots and tights are just calling my name from the storage closet.

The shop is changing over for Fall. New jackets; tweeds and leathers are coming out and a big new add of dresses from the 1930s-1950s, in fact serendipitously enough, we put out about 10 new LBDs, which according to all the Fall fashion reports is a must have for Fall 2010, but really when is a LBD not in style. The 40s are know for gorgeous detailing in construction and tailoring on even the simplest of dresses. There's also a couple of super mod wool knits that are perfect for wear to work ala Mad Men style.

If you are familiar with New England than you know summer is not over. The warm weather is coming back and we can have beautiful days straight through to the end of September. Check out these photos for some of the new warmer weather gems updated in our new stash.

Summer Sale rack is still out, but clearing out

AND

Don't forget first Thursday 9/2/2010

Old Hollywood Glamor 1930s fishtail bustle gown this would make a stunning wedding dress

Great Gatsby Sumer Frock

1940s/1950s Navy Sundress with the prettiest pleated detail along the bustline

Doesn't Taylor make a great model!

1940s sweet cut work blouse and 1950s canary yellow striped circle skirt.

That's it for summer folks from here on it's all about Fall!

New local Blog - Boston Urban Safari

2010-08-24T11:49:00.000-04:00

Cristy came into the shop one day when my Mom was minding the store, she shares our love of the city, New England, Oysters and of course Vintage. Cristy shares her tips and secrets for getting out around town. Check her out her blog here for ideas and adventures to be had in the Hub.

The Fall Fashion Issue

2010-08-20T15:50:00.000-04:00

New York Magazine's Picks for Fall 2010 Trends. Love a lot going on here. Carmel Hues, LBDs, Chunky knits and dressed down formals. Fall in New England is my first love and I can't wait.

The Fall Fashion Issue

Update for the Dandies

2010-08-12T13:31:00.000-04:00

I'd say our collection of Men's Jackets albeit small, is pretty swanky and unique right now. Also added a batch of sweet summer Men's shirts to the sale rack. Just sayin...

One of my favorite Men's style blogs Kempt posted and linked to this Gallery of 25 never seen Rat Pack photos. This was definitely one heavy era for Men's glamor!

August Hours update! New EVENING hours

2010-08-04T13:27:00.001-04:00

It's going to get up into the 90s for the next three days! It's August in New England, the students are away and everyone is on vacation or wishes they were. We think nighttime is the best time to be out and about in weather like this.

There are so many great reasons to be out in JP for an evening stroll, from The Hallway Gallery, to JP Licks, to one of the many cool restaurants or happy hour hangouts. In fact, check out the Boston Globe write up here, 9 ways to spend the evening in JP.

In the spirit of livening up South Street at night and providing a wider range of shopping hours (I work 9-6 so know how hard it is sometimes to get to your favorite shop after work) too, we are changing our weekday hours to be open 4pm-8pm Wed -Fri. We are in-between James Gate and JP Licks, so start at the Gate and stop by on your way for ice cream. Or start at JP Licks and stop by on your way to the Gate for a drink on the patio.

We're walking distance from Forest Hills and right on the 39 bus line, get off after the Monument or when you see Harvest Co-Op.

M-Closed

T-Closed

W- 4-8

R- 4-8

F- 4-8

S- 11-7

S- 11-6

A little Rearranging, all things New, Summer sales and First Thursday

2010-08-03T18:34:00.001-04:00

No better time than August to give the shop a good makeover. Come on in for First Thursday 8/5/10 to check our new goods, summer sales and August'sArtist Premier, Elizabeth Sheehan, check out her portfolio here

Elizabeth Sheehan is a visual artist and poet based in Dorchester, Massachusetts. She has exhibited in many exhibitions, open studios, and benefits. Elizabeth draws inspiration from Fauve painters and German expressionists, as well as her favorites Paul Klee and Marc Chagal

PS. Don't you LOVE the lilian asterfield upcycled beaded neck piece. Also, if you haven't seen it yet, her new website is gorgeous, check it out here.

More of the New

2010-08-03T18:33:00.003-04:00

Happy August everyone! I'm so excited about changes in the store. We've been arranging and rearranging and I'm please to say that our Independent Design is beginning to take up a bigger place in the shop. In addition to this all these swanky goods handmade with love and craft by local friends. Lots of new top shelf vintage in the shop in all sizes, vintage designer dresses and to-die for hats. The swimsuits are selling out like mad but there's a couple left.

If you like a bargain, we're making room for Fall, just look for the blue tags, lots of cute things on clearance and ready to roll for the remainder of the summer.

What else?:

Cool and original Bronze castings by Ashley Vick

Handmade and Refashion knits by Whistling Sparrow Designs

Handmade from Vintage patterns 1940s styled high waisted shorts by Sarkas Collection

Silk screened Organic knits by Alena Hennessy

lilian asterfield upcycled neck pieces, ascots, necklaces and fringe

Vintage Summer it never gets old

New Handmade Items at DAME

2010-07-22T14:14:00.006-04:00

Here at DAME, we are always trying to expand our collection of Handmade and Refashioned items, with an emphasis on including the work of local designers using recycled materials and vintage styling.

Our newest additions to the rack are two pairs of 1940's inspired high-waisted shorts from Šarka's Collection.

We have also acquired some great pieces made with 'upcycled' t-shirts by Whistling Sparrow.

A tank with t-shirt ruffles and a cleverly collaged hip-hugging skirt

A sweet 'Sound Of Music' sun dress in shades of blue

These items and others by Whistling Sparrow are available now at DAME. For more from these designers, be sure to visit them at SOWA (The South End Open Market).

Rediscovering Jamaica Plain - Boston Magazine

2010-07-21T11:43:00.001-04:00

Everyone knows we love Jamaica Plain but we are pleased as punch to see that Boston Magazine does too. Check out the nice mention we got along with a bunch of other local businesses. Summer is great time to spy on our Boston hood, so easily accessible by public transportation.

Rediscovering Jamaica Plain - Boston Magazine

Next Seamsters Meeting Wednesday July 21st

2010-07-12T10:51:00.000-04:00

The next Seamsters drop in group will be 7/21/10 from 5-8.

If you haven't been yet, it will be a great time to stop by. So far we've all kinds of textile work going on in the shop, sewing, refashioning, embroidery... So far the group is shaping to be a kind of 'stich and bitch' with a focus on sharing work and inspiration, which we love. It's great to see everyones creative point of view.

Like Makeda here, dressed head toe in her own handmade clothing. I love the fabric choice of the dress and the contrast of the tailored vest.

We've also been sharing some cool resources and blogs for sewing tips and techniques. Some of the things we all seem to like are:

Gerties New Blog for Better Sewing

Gertie's got a cute retro style and shares lots of instruciton as she works her way through 'Vogue's new book for better sewing'

Male Pattern Boldness

A, gasp, male sewing blogger who has taken it upon himself to learn how to sew and blog about his progress. He's really great and is a perfect illustration of how easy it is to learn to sew if you just give it some heart and soul.

An awesome fabric resource is Spoonflower

Not only can you order custom made fabric in thousands of design choices but you can make your own. There are weekly thematic contests that you can particpate in or just vote. All fabrics are 100% cotton and come in any weight you could possiblly need.

If you've been coming to the group, send in pictures of your projects and we can put them on the blog. There are several works in progress that I personally would love to see the end result.

Happy Sewing

Monday Night at the Midway A night of Fashion & Music to raise funds for Girls Rock camp Boston!

2010-07-08T11:32:00.000-04:00

We are totally excited to be participating in such a cool event for an even cooler cause. Girls Rock Camp Boston needs you! There is so many reasons that this is awesome, if you don't know then I don't know what to tell you. Read about the founders here and check out the organization for yourself here.

And come to the Midway on Monday Night, July 12th doors- 9pm.

Considering Summer

2010-07-06T11:22:00.002-04:00

Thinking about changing July and August summer hours on weeknights to something like 4-8.

Seems like a good way to add to the fun of strolling in town on summer evenings.

What do you think?

Let us know, we'd love your input!

Independence Day Sale 7/1/10-7/3/10

2010-06-30T16:14:00.000-04:00

Thurs-Sat celebrate the 4th in style

Three day Sale

30% off dresses 50% off the rest

(CLOSED SUNDAY)

have a great holiday and enjoy the fireworks

Dame Seamsters On for Wednesday June 30th 5-8pm

2010-06-29T22:36:00.002-04:00

Our first sewing group met the week before last and it was so fun to see everyone projects and inspiration.

Jennifer Griffith of Šarka's Collection joined in with her own refashion projects. There were vintage patterns open on the floor and hand sewing on the couch. In fact I was inspired enough to start two new projects this week.

If your're new to sewing or to the group, check out the introduction post here to get an idea of what to expect and what to bring.

Next Meeting Wednesday 6/30/10 5-8 Just drop in

July 1st is First Thursday

2010-06-29T11:52:00.001-04:00

New works by Lauren Kenneally. Lauren was a featured artist last year during the First Thursday season and her paintings were so popular, we asked her back & gave her more space. It's summer at Dame, the shop is loaded, looks great and we love First Thursdays on South Street.

Stop by 5-8(or so) look at some great art, sip some punch and preview our 4th of July Sale!

Mid Summer Sale,Three days 7/1/10-7/3/10 Happy 4th!

2010-06-28T14:38:00.002-04:00

Summer's here and in full swing. We want to help you celebrate the 4th of July in style with our Mid-Summer Sale.

Three days

7/1/10-7/3/10

Thurs-Sat to take advantage of our Summer discounts. (closed on Sunday)

Special bonus First Thursday, stop by to check out our First Thursday artist and sip some dame punch.

Vintage, Art & Punch it doesn't get more Dame than that. Here's to a steamy 4th full of fireworks!

June 16th Drop by for our Sewing Group 5-8 PM

2010-06-14T11:29:00.000-04:00

Seamsters,

We're excited to get this group started Wednesday night, drop by with your projects, questions and suggestions. We'll customize the group as we go. All levels are welcome, sewing is a great skill to share with others and can make the learning process that much quicker.

Some topics we may cover:

Pattern advice, sizing, choosing fabrics, cutting patterns
Machine basics and hand stitching
Beginners Projects on hand
Advanced topics as needed
Repairs and refashion

Some suggestions of things to bring:

A piece of clothing you are interested in refashioning
A pattern that you have questions about, sizing, skill level. You can learn how to cut patterns in the shop (bring paper scissors)
Fabric that inspires you
A a work in progress that you would like to discuss & work on
Advanced questions in progress, setting sleeves, zippers, finishing seams

Please bring materials you will need to use, if you will be working in the shop, thread, needles, scissors, fabric facing etc.

If you don't have a sewing machine at home, I strongly recommend picking one up. There will only be limited access to machines in the shop. If you have a featherweight, by all means, bring it along. A great resource for refurbished machines and repairs is the Davis Square Singer shop here

Happy Sewing

Happy Memorial Day Everyone

2010-05-30T13:01:00.000-04:00

Dame will not be open on Monday, we've got some grilling to do. Enjoy!

Sewing Group Drop in starting June 9th 5-8pm

2010-05-28T15:27:00.003-04:00

To be on the list for more information please sign up here seamsters@jpdame.com

What is Refashion?

2010-05-17T11:34:00.004-04:00

There are a lot of words used for this kind of thing, up-cycling, reworking, restyling, up-styling, repurposing.... My choice reiteration of the concept is "Refashion". I'd like to think I thought it up on my own but one look at etsy will tell you otherwise. These words all float around in our creative and eco conscious minds. What makes it so creative and fun is that it’s subject to so much interpretation and really only limited by a designers own imagination.

Nicole Deponte of Lilian Asterfeild, is a great example of a truly unique and creative vision executed through “up-cycling”. You can check her out here. And you can find her goods in the shop.

Original Dame Refashion clothing is also available in the shop. Taylor and I do most of the work ourselves. We are always interested in new designers who do similar work, (email us if that's you). And if you'd like to learn to do it yourself, get info on our sewing group here.

Since we throw around the phrase so much, I just thought I'd tell you what it means to us in our shop. I'm sure you'll find 100 other intrepretations, but this is what you can expect from our Refashioned Goods--Our Dame originals.

First Thursday Photos

2010-05-17T10:44:00.001-04:00

Here are some photos of the textile work on display for First Thursday’s opening night in May. A fun range of wears and a gorgeous night made for a great start to the new season.

Wearable Sculpture/Crocheted by Maria Molteni

The Norwegian Drooping Spruce!

Hand Knits and Vintage Refashion

by Taylor McVay

Handmade and Refashioned Leather by Lisette Murphy

Vintage Refashion by Dany Pearson

The Dame Seamsters - a drop-in sewing group to be held on Wednesday evenings

2010-05-12T16:28:00.001-04:00

Your friendly neighborhood sewing group, a place to drop by with your projects, to get and give advice or just to share inspiration and creative ideas, all levels welcome, if you're a beginner we can coach you on how to start. Some limited access to machines

Over the first couple of meetings bring your projects and your ideas, depending on interest and general skill level we'll decide what kind of tutorials to have on hand.

to be on the list

Send an email to seamsters@jpdame.com

The group will start up in the next couple of weeks so get on the list now

Happy Spring First Thursdays are back! 5/6/2010

2010-05-04T11:44:00.001-04:00

I really was starting to think it would never come but here it is and Jamaica Plain's First Thursday Season is here again!

I'm really excited about the shows we've got lined up this year. We are taking a slightly different approach than last year and showcasing works that are textile, fashion or costume based. From textile sculpture to costume design and illustration, we’ll be presenting some highly creative and talented people who relish in the tactile and 3D nature of fiber arts.

As a celebration of our first year and our second First Thursday season, Dame will be hosting a group show of the work of several of the lovely ladies who contribute enormously to the shop. We'll be showcasing everything from large scale abstract woven sculpture to Independently designed locally handmade wearables.

Stop by to check it out and meet the creative inspiration bringing fabulousness to the shop everyday.

Happy Tax Day

2010-04-15T11:58:00.000-04:00

We had some fun with this last year and decided to throw it out there again.

Come in and tell us that you did your taxes

and get 20% off

today only!

Neighborhood Pride-We love 02130

2010-04-15T11:20:00.000-04:00

Check us out in the recent Boston.com article 9 ways to spend the night in J.P. Boston is a city built on neighborhood pride, check out some of the reasons we love ours so much.

New New New

2010-03-24T17:54:00.000-04:00

One thing that is so fascinating about Vintage is that there is only so much control you have over your stock. You really have to work with what is available on the market when you are ready to buy. One of the creative challenges in this business is to show off your inventory in new and exciting ways and to be constantly reinventing your display to showcase such a wide variety of goods in the best possible way. But really it's the element of surprise and the flow of the goods through the shop that can make it so new and interesting at any moment and always worth a drop by.

I'll probably be talking about our new merchandise for a while it's barely Spring and it will flow out on to the floor over the next few weeks and it's going to take some time to get to know it. Everyone knows that I have a special place in my heart for top shelf vintage from the 1940s-1960s, we went into this buying trip with something else in mind: an entirely new and updated Men's section, great women's everyday separates from the 1950-1960s, spring coats with a modern flair a few adds to the top shelf rack, and a big add to the casual dresses from the 1960s/1970s. And I tell you this is exactly what we got.

There are of course always surprises when you get the goods home and look at it all together. One of which turns out to be a very good selection of dresses in the M/L to L/XL range. So if you're one of those folks who think Vintage is too small, come on in and let us dress you up!

Lisette Murphy of Rogue Femme Art and Non Plus Mag was in charge of dress selection and did an amazing job curating a dynamic collection Spring and Summer strolling dresses especially suited for our JP girls.

Another surprise was a leather racing jacket. I'm still doing some research on it and I can't wait to go home and see if it still has it's "internal removable armor". It's a size small and I tried it on and was wondering what the Velcro tabs inside the sleeves were all about. Probably one of the most fun finds. If you're an enthusiast, and know anything about these let me know. Anyway maybe you'll see someone wearing it riding around JP on a scooter. That's our dream anyway.

Congratulations

2010-03-24T17:31:00.000-04:00

Big Congratulations to Jennifer Griffith of Šarka’s Collection for her first retail sale. The ribbon print circle skirt handmade from Vintage Fabric was simply adorable, and we wish her all the luck at her new venture at the SoWa market this summer.

Mama need a new pair of shoes?

2010-03-19T11:08:00.000-04:00

Well I started off on a blogging roll in early March and the month quickly got ahead of me. I'm so excited about the weather this weekend! We've got a big Spring preview out in the shop already and come April the store will be totally transformed for spring and early summer.

This is your last chance to take advantage of our winter clearance sale, including handmade refashioned items at 30% off, come April it will all be gone.

We've got a ton of great shoes in the shop that I'll be listing on Etsy later today. Pretty 1950s Stilettos and 1980s Italian Ferragamo's, you can't beat the price. So if your not local here's your chance to take home a bit of Dame style.

If you’re local, check out Secret Boston's FB page for our funky shoe competition and the chance to win a $25 gift certificate for the shop. If you see any shoes you like here they are in the shop!

Rainy Day Fun

2010-03-15T14:52:00.002-04:00

This is what Wordle thinks of the Dame Blog:

March Schedule Update

2010-03-09T18:20:00.000-05:00

For the month of March we'll be closed on Wednesdays. Everyone is traveling and we're putting extra time into planning great things for Spring. like the sewing group we've been talking about, (keep your eye out for an April start date) new handmade goods and designers in the shop.

The warm weather wear has already started coming out and the store will be remade for a new season by the end of the month.

Regular hours Thursdays-Sundays. All wool and tweed is still on sale for the month of March, including the Refashion line 'Freyed' by Nicole Deponte. Surprise additional discounts on winter wear; you'll have to stop by to see tho.

DIOR fall 2010

2010-03-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

I just love this, it's totally over the top but I love it. My love of fashion is deeply rooted in history, costume design and art for art's sake. But if I could dress like this everyday!

Spring is Perhaps

2010-03-05T16:54:00.000-05:00

A shout out to almost Spring, and this beautiful day. For a more personal look, take a walk through Forest Hills Cemetery on a fine day like today and check out some of Boston's own literary history. Have a great weekend.

If freckles were lovely, and day was night,

And measles were nice and a lie warn't a lie,

Life would be delight,--
But things couldn't go right

For in such a sad plight

I wouldn't be I.
If earth was heaven and now was hence,
And past was present, and false was true,
         There might be some sense
          But I'd be in suspense
          For on such a pretense
You wouldn't be you.

If fear was plucky, and globes were square,
And dirt was cleanly and tears were glee
         Things would seem fair,--
          Yet they'd all despair,
          For if here was there
We wouldn't be we.
e.e. cummings

Words to love

2010-03-05T15:46:00.000-05:00

I've had a long standing love of peotry, but sometimes I just become smitten with a word the sound & feel of it, the connotations of impressions that go beyond the literal . Are there any dictionary nerds out there? Do you look words up just for the fun of it?

Of course slang is especially interesting:
Did you know that 'cake eater' is a jazz age slang term for 'ladies man' and 'tomato' for 'ripe woman'. A 'choice bit of calico' for an attractive female student is my personal favorite. Check out a whole list here.
Now isn't that the bee's knee's.

Here are some words I love that ultimatly led me to the Shop's name.

Main Entry: zaf·tig
Pronunciation: \ˈzäf-tig, ˈzȯf-\
Variant(s): also zof·tig \ˈzȯf-\
Function: adjective
Etymology: Yiddish zaftik juicy, succulent, from zaft juice, sap, from Middle High German saf, saft, from Old High German saf — more at sap
Date: circa 1936
of a woman : having a full rounded figure : pleasingly plump

Main Entry: fil·ly
Pronunciation: \ˈfi-lē\
Function: noun
Inflected Form(s): plural fillies
Etymology: Middle English fyly, from Old Norse fylja; akin to Old English fola foal
Date: 15th century
1 : a young female horse usually of less than four years
2 : a young woman : girl

Main Entry: 1gam
Pronunciation: \ˈgam\
Function: noun
Etymology: probably ultimately from Lingua Franca gamba leg, from Italian, from Late Latin
Date: circa 1785
slang : leg

The Blogosphere

2010-03-04T15:50:00.005-05:00

"quase fantasmagórica, a decoração é de se apaixonar..."

DAME was recently written up by the lovely Thais on a Brazilian blog called oiMODA. While I can't read the article (I don't speak Portuguese) the layout and photos look great and Thais was a pleasure to talk with when she visited the store. There may be an English translation in the future, which I'll be sure to post. For now, if you're curious or you speak Portuguese, check out the blog HERE. It looks like there's tons of other excellent stuff on there as well.

Spring Cleaning

2010-02-27T20:44:00.000-05:00

We need more room for all the Spring goodness on the way. It's still Winter in Boston so come and get your wool and tweed for 20% off.

JP Hoedown Event Photos

2010-02-23T12:05:00.000-05:00

Big thanks to the Tom Foolers and Humble Tripe and to everyone who came to see our window show. I've always loved the windows in the shop and it's so fun to see them put to such good use. The music sounded fantastic bouncing off the old ceiling & we can't wait to do it again when the air is warm and the doors are open.

In case it is at all unclear the event is tomrrow night folks... 7-9 Wear your best country flair!

2010-02-19T10:12:00.000-05:00

Saturday Night 7-9 Live Music, It's a JP hoedown

2010-02-17T18:03:00.001-05:00

Yeeee hawwwww!!!

An evening of love and heartbreak songs: Humble Tripe and the Tom Foolers will both be playing in Dame's window stage for all of South Street to view. You are invited to come listen, hang out and shop during our speakeasy style hoedown, share a cocktail bring a beer, buy some plaid at half off.

Here's the deal you've got to be in by 7 after that the doors close and it's considered a private party. Additional Specials on Vintage TBA!

A Jonny Herbert Original

2010-02-14T16:37:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite dresses in the shop is this 1950s Jonny Herbert Silk Taffeta Navy party dress. With a 27" inch waist it's an average size. Need an event dress, be the talk of the room in this beauty. Excellent condition. Jonny Herbert Dresses sell regularly for upwards of $175, ours is less. Shop local for less.

Dame Vintage Boston

Dame in transition

Studio in progress

Working through a big new batch -cleaning and stitching- Updates Soon

Dame Collaboration - 40 South!

In the Shop

In Process Kitchen Before and After

It's Official

Final Weekend in the Shop on South Street- there's lots to see

*Open **Sat/Sun July 16th & 17th 12-6

July 8th- 10th ****Open 12-6 Fri, Sat and Sun

Furniture For Sale

Shop Announcement

First Thursdays are back! Join us May 5th for Art, Song and Punch 5-8 PM

Refashion and Store Update

Spring is on the horizon...

Spring things

Fashion in news done good

Amazing Avant Garde 40s Jacket Needs Some Love

New Handmade & Refashion!

More Fashion Foibles

New Handmade Jewelry

Paris Fashion Week: Dries Van Noten Fall 2011

Dame Spring Preview

Jennifer's Refashion: Dowdy Turned Adorable

More Fashion in Business News

Elephunk's Trunk: Making vintage Re-Fashionable-Collaborative hat pr...

Refashion News

Refashion News

Winter Necessities- Get your Plaid out

Anniversary changes/Schedule

Hi Seamsters

Psst

Nylon Daily - Boston

Shoe Break

Inspiration Dior does Dior

Anniversary Shindig February 12th sign up for details

Anniversary Upgrades

Seamsters with Special Guest Jennifer Griffith

Happy New Year! New Refashion and Handmade in the shop

Snow Day- The shop will be closed for the day

Holiday Hours

Winter Solstice

Deck the halls at Dame

Local is the new black - JP Shopping Guides

Dame of the Day

Seamsters 12/16/10 Handmade Holiday Gifts and Guest Designer

Scenes from a Winter Wonderland

Mood Lighting

Sorry for the lighting Fail, we'll do our best to make it up to you!

Black Friday and Small Business Saturday

Mayor Menino Brings National "Small Business Saturday" Campaign to Boston | City of Boston

Seamsters Fall/Winter Schedule

Next Seamsters Refashion Workshop!

Halloween Picks @ Dame

SALE: All outerwear 30% off now through Sunday

Seamsters meet Thursday October 28th 5-8pm

Bring your ideas, projects, patterns and refashions!

Biggest Bestest add for the boys yet all out this weekend

Fall Accessories Sale

Next Seamsters Meeting Thursday September 16th

Fall Hours Update

You heard it here first

Feels like Fall

New local Blog - Boston Urban Safari

The Fall Fashion Issue

Update for the Dandies

August Hours update! New **EVENING** hours

A little Rearranging, all things New, Summer sales and First Thursday

More of the New

New Handmade Items at DAME

Rediscovering Jamaica Plain - Boston Magazine

Next Seamsters Meeting Wednesday July 21st

Monday Night at the Midway A night of Fashion & Music to raise funds for Girls Rock camp Boston!

Considering Summer

Independence Day Sale 7/1/10-7/3/10

Dame Seamsters On for Wednesday June 30th 5-8pm

July 1st is First Thursday

Mid Summer Sale,Three days 7/1/10-7/3/10 Happy 4th!

June 16th Drop by for our Sewing Group 5-8 PM

August Hours update! New EVENING hours