Sunday at the Brooklyn Flea Market

I've been wanting to go to the Brooklyn Flea Market for quite some time. It is always mentioned in articles about the best flea markets in the country, and it has been featured a few times on Lara Spencer's shows about flea market flips. I love flea markets: the food, the people-watching, the idea of finding a treasure for pennies (or at least, a good deal). And I have read recently about a resurgence in Brooklyn and how it is becoming cool and trendy.

The train station at Ronkonkoma.

Recently I took a mini vacation to visit my family on Long Island, so I thought this would be the perfect time to visit the "flea," as it's affectionately called. I took the train from Ronkonkoma (love those Long Island Native American place names!) to the Staples Center stop in Brooklyn, and then from there, took a taxi to the flea market. There are two locations for the Brooklyn Flea: Williamsburg and Fort Greene. I chose the Williamsburg Flea because I'd read online that the location was on the water and really pretty. This turned out to not be true. At least, I saw no water while I was there, and the location seemed to be surrounded by derelict, graffiti-covered warehouses. (By the way, I recommend following the Brooklyn Flea on Instagram. Awesome and inspiring photos).

Glassware displayed on a glass table.

 When I first arrived at the flea market, I was surprised by how small it was. I somehow expected rows upon rows of vendors, stretching as far as the eye could see. But in reality, the market only occupied on square city block, and the last two rows of booths were for the food vendors. I was able to see all of the booths in just one hour. I walked through the whole market, making a mental note of the items I was most interested in, had a snack, then walked through the whole thing again to finalize my purchases.

The grounds of the flea on a Sunday morning in September.

 Speaking of snacks, I had the MOST AMAZING DONUTS IN THE WHOLE WORLD while at the flea. They were created by a bakery called Dough Brooklyn, and it breaks my heart to know that you can only get them in Brooklyn and Manhattan, and they don't ship! Believe me, I asked. These donuts are big - enough for two people to share (but you won't want to!). They are the fluffy and light, yeast-raised type (as opposed to the denser, cake-type). And they are covered in delicious, gourmet glaze flavors. I got two to share: Passion Fruit Cacao Nib, and Chocolate Salted Caramel. Even though the day got pretty hot, and the glaze got pretty melty and messy, I loved every bit of them. If you are in the area, you have got to try them!

Fab Mid-Century Modern sofa, an industrial-style lamp, vintage bowling pins.

 I only purchased four items at the market - (which I will show off in my next post) - even though I wanted many more things. One, I was worried about fitting more stuff in to my already overstuffed luggage, and two, a lot of the prices were kind of high. This was especially true with the vintage clothing sellers. While I was there, I saw so many funky and fashionably dressed people shopping there that I suspect it is a favorite haunt of fashion students and fashion junkies. Regardless, even though I fell in love with several pieces, and bargaining was obviously the norm, I couldn't justify the high prices, especially since I don't even need anymore clothes!

Shabby chic white-washed dressers ...

 There were a lot of mid-century modern furnishings and home accessories, which is really a hot style right now. And there were a lot of shabby chic and industrial style items, as well. Along with the vintage sellers, there were almost an equal amount of artisans and craftpersons. Lots of handmade jewelry, some handmade furniture, some ceramics, etc.

... plus matching chairs, end tables, and shelving.

 Trolling the booths was very inspiring. I wanted to get back home and create. I had my sketchbook with me, and every once in a while, jotted down a quick sketch of some detail or idea I didn't want to forget. One thing I wished is that there were more places to sit. It was a very hot, sunny day, and the seating was limited to a handful of picnic tables in the sun, which were all filled with snackers and lunchers.

Loved his display: muslin ribbons

 Sometimes the designs of the booths were inspiring too. For instance, the guy above is selling handmade jewelry, which I didn't find that interesting, but I loved the curtain behind him, made up of strips of muslin, hand-dyed in indigo blue. So bohemian and crafty!

A little bit pricey, but pretty cool.

Wooden drawers, luggage, mirrors

 It was a bit overwhelming at times. Even though the market was pretty small, most booths overflowed with a jumble of miscellany, and it was challenging to absorb it all.

Rusty letters

Burlap feed sack upholstered bench with hairpin legs.

Toy guns.

 The photos above (the toy guns) and below (creepy dolls) were part of a cool booth that had lots of vintage toys and collectables. There was a trio of petite, pastel, plastic toy phones just calling my name. I asked the price and the seller said $8 a piece. I hesitated, looked around a bit more, and then they were snatched away by another shopper!

Large jumble of creepy dolls.

Opening up my coconut. (MaryJane socks!)

 There were so many enticing food booths to choose from. Lots of ethnic foods: Indian, Thai, African, Hispanic, Greek, Soul food. Mid-morning, I got really thirsty and decided to get an "Ice Cold Fresh Coconut Water." The seller sliced off the top of the coconut with what looked like a machete, right after you bought it, then punctured it with a screwdriver, and stuck in a straw. It was not anywhere near "ice cold" unfortunately, but it was still delicious and fresh.

Business run from a vintage trailer!

 Another really cool booth was housed in this vintage trailer. One of the sellers sat inside at a little cash register, in the cool shade. There were more clothes for sale inside the trailer, but it was pretty tiny, and with the heat, I didn't think I could take the closeness. Still, I envied their life. This couple apparently travel around the country in this adorable trailer, selling vintage wares at flea markets. What a fantasy! (Sad note: I just visited their website and found out they were in Chicago today and today only! I missed them! They are on their way west for the winter...).

Cute vintage corduroy jumper.

 The photo of the corduroy jumper (above) does not quite do it justice. It was so cute (but alas, tiny). I want to recreate it for myself. Aside from the amber ale-colored main fabric, there are two small contrast cotton prints. The two prints are patchworked together on the hem, and the inset in the center of the empire waist. There are also the adorable tie closures at the center front. I am determined to make this to wear to school this fall.

Mid-century Modern Artwork. Only $60!

I almost bought this striking painting. It was well priced and the colors were amazing. The only things that stopped me were the thought of trying to get it back to Chicago, and the fact that I could recreate it for myself at home. And that's what I plan to do!

I highly recommend a visit to the Brooklyn Flea. They are open year-round, sometimes at indoor locations. Wear good walking shoes, bring a water bottle, lather on the sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring cash, because not all the merchandise booths, and none of the food vendors, take credit cards. Enjoy!

Part Two: Chicago Vintage Shops and What I Bought

After visiting the Edgewater Antique Mall in Chicago, my mom and I went to BAM (or the Broadway Antique Mall) which is on Broadway in Chicago. This is a two-story store, and again, it features booths from various sellers. My first impression of this store, compared to the Edgewater Antique Mall, was that it was not as chock-full of small stuff, but rather had a more restrained collection of larger items. This may or may not be actually true, but it felt less crowded and more formal. After a few minutes of browsing, we also noticed that the prices seemed to be quite a bit higher. I was hard pressed to find any furniture for under $900. This store definitely had some cool stuff in it, but it wasn't as much fun to explore. Here are some of the most interesting things we saw:

Gorgeous mirrored vanity table with lucite-type handles. Matching chair had potential to be awesome but the upholstery was ugly.

Funky upper arm bracelet formed to look like a snake. Unleash your inner Cleopatra!

I had a love/hate relationship with this combo wardrobe/dressing table. On the one hand, the fabrication and material used seemed really cheap ....

But on the other hand, the design was so cool! There was a space for hanging clothing, and a space for make-up, etc. with a fold out stool and a mirror. In my dreams, I would have it recreated in a quality natural wood, instead of the thin and ugly fake wood they used.

More rams for my Aries self. Mid-century pottery dish. Apparently signs of the zodiac were popular motifs back then?

Mid-century Modern Nail Art Wall Hanging

Tramp Art-style Spice Drawers

Large hooked rug wall hanging. Very Cool!!!

AND NOW ..... THE TREASURES I PURCHASED!!!

I am so in love with all of these things. First off, there is this sunshine-y yellow picnic set. There are no identifying marks on it, other than to say it was made in Mexico. It comes with cutlery, plates, and two sizes of bowls. The carrying case comes apart into two serving dishes. I wonder if the two holes on the top used to hold salt and pepper shakers, or if they are simply finger holes to help pull the case apart. In any case, I adore it and hope to use it soon for a picnic. This was $30.

My next purchase (for only $12.99!!!!!) is in a totally different style, but I think it's so cool! It's a black lacquer Japanese wooden music box and jewelry holder. It was so cheap, I think, because the music box part doesn't work, and it is missing one of the tiny brass nails that hold the hinges on (does anyone know where I can get a replacement tiny brass nail?). But regardless, it is still so charming. The insides of the drawers are lined in hot pink velvety fabric. The little doll is surrounded by mirrors. Her expression and demeanor are pure pathos. It's so sweet! The black wooden exterior is handpainted, and also decorated with iridescent chips of abalone shell. Knowing what I know about the way items from Japan are marked, I would guess it was from the late 1950s or 1960s.

Love the painted scenes, the gold thread tassel, and the sad little doll.

How cute are these?!!! A couple of people have suggested they are Christmas glasses, because of the bells. But I will use them all year long because the colors of baby pink, black and gold don't seem very Christmas-y to me. Set of 6 tall, slim milk glass drinking glasses: $36.

And my last purchase is the one I have been using non-stop since I bought it. I washed it in hot water a few times but it still smells slightly like some old lady's perfume. But I am getting used to it. I love it so much and use it as a tv-watching blanket while crashed on my sofa at night. It is the kind of over-the-top girly girl item I just adore! 

I think it's a cotton/poly blend, and it's definitely machine quilted. My guess is 1960s or early 1970s? This was only $25 and it's in perfect condition, except for a few loose strings.

And last, but not least .... I did not get this item at the vintage stores, but I think it's super fun and wanted to share it:

Found at Lowe's. Wish it came in more colors.

This giant twist tie can be added to the list of things I didn't know I desperately needed, but now can't imagine life without! The package came with TWO of these fabulous items. So far, I have not used it for anything particularly useful but have been playing with it non-stop. It's one of those things that are great to fidget with when bored. But according to the package, the GearTie can be used to secure your folded blankets, wrap up your patio umbrellas, or hang your lantern from your clothesline!! Yay! No more lanterns on the floor, ever again! Life it good!

My First Time: Making a Full Bust Adjustment (FBA) on a Camisole Pattern

I've been sewing my own clothes since I was in high school (a long time ago now), but sometimes I feel like my skills have not progressed very much, and I'm in a point of stasis, stuck at mediocre. However, I recently happened across a sewing blog that talked about the "Full Bust Adjustment" and although I now vaguely remember doing something similar way back in fashion design school, apparently it had been erased from my conscious memory. So this is why none of the tops I sew seem to fit me satisfactorily! I thought they were just poorly designed patterns or that my body shape was too unusual to fit any commercial patterns. That's the fatalist, nothing's-ever-perfect side of my personality peeking through.

For those sewists that haven't heard of it, the Full Bust Adjustment (FBA) is a pattern adjusting technique for any woman who is larger than a B cup. Commercial pattern makers assume that the average woman is a B cup, and patterns are created with this assumption in mind. But if, for instance, your bust measurement is 45" and you choose a pattern sized for that bust measurement, it may be too big for you in the armholes, neckline, shoulder width, etc., if you are a C cup or greater. So the trick for a better fitting top is to measure your high bust (the tape measure is pulled tight around your chest just under your armpits), and use the pattern size that corresponds to that measurement. I was about to make a summer sundress in a neat navy and white tropical print, but have had trouble in the past with this type of top fitting well. It's usually too short to fit over my bust, but then too loose at the side seams and gaping.

I won't detail the process because there are so many other websites that do a great job with that. For instance, check out these two:
Sewing Lingerie Myself

Sew Sew Sew Your Boat

But suffice to say, that I am pleased with the final outcome on this sundress. I could have added even a little more length in the bust area, as it's still a little short (and on an unrelated note, the straps are too long on my shoulders). But overall, it's a good fit. Here is the finished garment, and below that, a picture of the second full bust adjustment I did, with even better results.

Full disclosure: I am not this slim. I had to pin the dress on my size 12 mannequin to make it fit.

For this dress, I used a gorgeous galaxy print woven cotton. I was going to make a hem that dipped in the back, but chickened out and went more conservative. I haven't worn this yet, but the fit is amazing. Very fitted in the chest area, which makes it very flattering, just right in the waist, comfortable in the hips. Also like that this is not too low cut, so it could be worn for work or family get-togethers. Shout out and thank you to all the sewing bloggers who have put up their FBA techniques to share with everyone and help me advance to a slightly higher level of sewing competence.

Galaxy print cotton dress.

This is the pattern I used.

Chicago Thrift Store Gems

While I was looking after my mom, post-shoulder surgery (hers, not mine), we decided to go to some thrift stores. The day was pretty fun (except for a fight we had, mid-day) and I scored some finds that I am totally in love with.

We went to two stores on the north side of Chicago, that I found off of a list published about the best Chicago thrift stores:
Best Chicago Vintage Stores

I had never been to either one so it was an adventure. They are close to each other in the Edgewater neighborhood. The first one we visited was the Edgewater Antique Mall.

I love this one and can't wait to go back. It is one of those indoor antique "malls" that is not really a mall, but a collection of stalls from various dealers. On the day we went, they were having an automatic 10% off everything over $30 sale. On other days, you can try bargaining for a lower price. My mom and I were not looking for anything in particular, but she has just recently bought a new house and wants to furnish it "country style." I was hoping not to buy anything, but to be honest, I was open to falling in love with something. Additionally, I was on the look-out for cool Mid-Century Modern stuff that my brother might like. That is his current obsession, and he is particularly looking for garden sculptures in that style, (which we did not find). I don't even know if they exist, at least in the price range a typical homeowner can afford. But anyway, here are some of the pictures of cool MCM stuff I found:

Look at this amazing console we found!

Both ends open outward!

This piece was pretty amazing. It seems very unusual to me, with the panels of relief carving and the ends opening out for more storage. I'm not exactly sure what this chest was used for - maybe dining room storage? The seller did not even have a price on it. Apparently, he is doing research on it to find out it's value. I fell in love!

Fun metal Don Quixote sculpture!

I just finished reading an amazing translation of Don Quixote so I am currently in love with all things Quixotic. This knick knack was reasonably priced, and I am thinking of going back for it. I might start a little statue collection: maybe three to five pieces. That would make an awesome display. Of course, according to my "one-thing-in-two-things-out" rule, that would mean getting rid of more stuff. What should go next?

Adorable china!

 Check out this sweet set of china. I so wish I could justify this purchase as it is just too cute for words! Love the colors, the patterns and the interesting shapes of all the pieces. It was pretty pricey, though.

Two blue candlesticks

 These would fit in the shabby chic, or kitchy cottage mode of decor. They are the sweetest shade of sky blue ceramic, with a romantic raised pattern. I think I need these!

Someone painted this bright red.

 Another sweet little bit of shabby cottage cuteness. If I bought it, I might even stencil on some woodland flowers and toadstools. It reminds me of something you might see in Red Riding Hood's grandmother's cottage.

50s style retro dinette set.

 I am jonesing over this one, for sure. It is so well designed! Yellow Formica-type top, chrome legs, and vinyl upholstered stools that hang fitted into slots under the table. Plus casters on the legs! I wish I had room to add this to my kitchen! My little white kitchen table from Ikea is looking sadder and sadder, compared to this!

Super duper gaudiness!

 Fun chandelier that my mom was thinking of buying. The price was really good, but she couldn't pull the trigger. I wish she had snapped it up, because her house so far is looking pretty vanilla, and it definitely could do with some gold-tone filigree and plastic iridescent crystal goodness!

Scandinavian Ram

 I'm an Aries, so I should have this. But the price - nope. Can't do it. (Sad face).

Funky, new-made, vinyl wallet and dotted shades. 

 Mmm, yes, please! I didn't bite on this one, but I might go back for them if they go on sale.

Yesss!

A ginormous collection of vintage ViewMaster reels. I loved these as a kid, and still do. I couldn't believe the selection. I spotted these just before my mom and I got in a fight at the store, so I didn't have the energy to go fishing through them, but I want to go back. I wonder if these old ones fit the modern ViewMaster I have in my basement?

Those are all my photos from the Edgewater Antique Mall. Check out the next blog post for Part 2 at the Broadway Antique Mall, when I will reveal my fabulous purchases!

A Tale of Two Body Scrubs, and the Konjac Sponges.

I have Chicken Skin. There, I said it, even though it makes me sad. The medical name is Keratosis Pilaris and here's a link to Dr. Oz's website, if you want to know more about it.
http://www.doctoroz.com/blog/audrey-kunin-md/treating-chicken-skin-bumps-keratosis-pilaris
For me, it started at puberty (when all Bad Things started), and my soft child's skin turned rough and bumpy on my thighs, butt and the backs of my upper arms. It's harmless but unattractive, and it never goes away. It's just unappealing. But ever since my skin became like sandpaper, I've been trying out various beauty routines to remedy it. The most successful for me has been using a scrubbing cloth - http://www.amazon.com/Salux-Nylon-Japanese-Beauty-Cloth/dp/B000CSDDDG/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1402326763&sr=1-1&keywords=japanese+scrubbing+towel - with a salt scrub every time I shower, and then immediately coating with lotion or body oil when I get out of the shower. This makes my skin very soft and much smoother. However, it doesn't take away the dotty look. Apparently, according to doctors I've talked to, nothing works permanently to get rid of the excess skin cells that build up around individual hair follicles, and create that dotted look. My skin is also very pale and thin, so being almost translucent, what's below, like hair follicles, show somewhat on the surface. 

Anyway, here is a review for two salt scrubs that I bought recently from Ulta. One is c. Booth All-Over-Body Sea Salt Scrub, and the other one is Mor Honey Nectar Salt and Sugar Body Scrub. 

I originally saw the c. Booth scrub in a magazine and sought it out because of the beautiful ice blue color. And IRL (in real life) the color is a gorgeous swimming pool blue, but when I opened the jar (8 oz.), I was taken aback by the strong, medicinal odor. This scrub features enticing ingredients, like algae and real sea salt, but the eucalyptus oil, to my nose at least, is so overpowering that it negates the positives of this product. While I like eucalyptus scent in general, this scrub smells too strong. It reminds me of Vicks Vapo Rub, and because of that, I do not enjoy using it. It contains glycerin, which I've read is very good for dry skin, and is free of parabens, sulphates, mineral oil and petrolatum. That is all good, but I just can't take the strong smell. It even scents my whole bathroom after I use it. Also, this scrub does not have an oil base, so while it did scrub my chicken skin, it didn't leave it particularly soft or moisturized afterward. As mentioned, it is for sale at Ulta, for $8.99.  http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod2960007

The second scrub is by Mor and I also purchased it at Ulta, but according to their website, it is no longer available there. However, you can find it directly from the company's website: 
http://www.morcosmetics.com/view/274/honey-nectar-salt-sugar-body-scrub/
This scrub at first appears to be more expensive, at $22, than the one from c. Booth, but it is actually cheaper, because the c. Booth scrub is only 8oz. and the Mor scrub jar contains 21.5 oz. It is a little misconceiving because the jars look almost the same size from the outside. Anywho, the Mor scrub has a delicious honey vanilla scent which I just ADORE. Seriously, it smells so good! I especially use this scrub before a date or party because it makes ME feel delicious. Just like the c. Booth scrub, the Honey Nectar is free of all the bad stuff (parabens, sulphates, mineral oil and petrolatum), but this scrub has both sea salt and sugar, plus a moisturizing and soothing base of jojoba oil and avocado oil. Also, it is not tested on animals. And it works wonderfully to smooth my skin and leave it feeling soft and moisturized. I highly recommend this scrub if you want soft, sweetly scented skin. Of course, as with any salt scrub, do not use if you have a cut, or have just shaved, because .... well, Ouch!  Anyway, buy it, it's awesome!

 

Clockwise from top: Dew Puff Original Konjac Sponge, MyKonjac Bamboo Charcoal Sponge, and Dew Puff Asian Clay Konjac Sponge.

A hot, new trend in skin care is the Konjac sponge. These beauty wonders come from Korea and are the dried fibers of a root vegetable native to Asia. Some of the beauty claims associated with this sponge are that it can break down dirt and promote circulation, and that it is good for delicate skin. I purchased three varieties. I bought two from the brand Dew Puff, for $7.00 each, from Walgreens. One is white and is called the "Original Konjac Sponge." The other one is peachy colored and is the "Asian Clay" version. The third sponge I bought is a smaller, grey version from MyKonjacSponge. 
http://www.amazon.com/My-Konjac-Sponge-Bamboo-Charcoal/dp/B00B1M0XCG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1402325883&sr=8-2&keywords=charcoal+konjac+sponge
The bamboo charcoal version and the clay version are said to be particularly good for acne. I don't suffer from acne (I usually get one pimple every month with my cycle), so I can't speak to whether this claim is true. And actually, I've been using all three sponges interchangeably and don't really notice a difference between them, other than the fact that the smaller, charcoal one takes longer to fluff up after you wet it than the other two, larger sponges. Here is a picture of the root vegetable in its natural state. Interesting:

The way you use these sponges is to moisten them with water to fluff them up. When they are not in use, you can hang them by a little string that is attached. The grey sponge (which was $10) came with a tiny white suction cup which I stuck to my shower wall, and I hang all three of the sponges on it to dry between use. When they dry, they shrink and get hard. After moistening the sponge, you can either use it plain or with your favorite cleanser. I tried using it without a cleanser and I didn't feel like my skin really got clean. So now I've been using it with my RestoreSea cleanser (which I will review in a later post), and it works very well to spread the cleanser around my face. You clean your entire face with a gentle massaging motion, and after using, rinse puff, squeeze out water, and hang to dry until next time.  Apparently, you are supposed to replace the puff every 3 months.

I have to say, I really like these sponges and in 3 months time, I will buy a new one and keep using it. As I mentioned, I don't really notice a difference between the three types I purchased. What I like about them is that they are very soft and are gentle on my delicate skin. The size and teardrop shape is ergonomic, fits well in my hand, and is good at getting into the smaller spaces on the face, like between nose and eyes. It is more gentle than a Clarisonic type brush, yet better than finger tips at getting your cleanser on your whole face. So in sum, I don't know that the miracle claims are true, but since this sponge is cheap, easy to find, and pleasant and efficient to use, I would definitely recommend you try it out.