Perfect read for a bookworm/fashionista
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I was stalking/browsing the stacks at my old branch and came upon, totally by chance, a non-fiction book called Alligators, Old Mink & New Money, all about a model turned vintage store owner. It turned out that the vintage store in question, called Hooti Couture, was right under my nose in Brooklyn (Flatbush and 7th Avenue to be precise). I love to visit. Alison is as pleasant as punch. She’s got great stories, a fabulous accent, and usually has Swedish fish out in little dishes in case your sugar drops while you’re shopping. She’s got clothes in accessible sizes (meaning you don’t have to be a size 2 to shop there) and her accessories are to die for. Hooti is never overpriced (or I wouldn’t be a regular) and she has tons of sales. Here are my recent finds:
Did I mention the owner, Alison, is a former model? I bet she’s never seen poses quite this um, inspired, before.
I love the two red, white, and blue enamel flower pins I found. I have a small collection of these pins and they’re so cheerful.
I got the three tiered faux pearl necklace because it reminds me of something my Great Aunt Ruth or Grandma Roz would wear.
The cat necklace didn’t really go with the rest of the outfit, so Lila modeled it for me.
It’s a cat wearing a cat necklace. Let’s get crazy meta up in here.
So, go visit Miss Alison. She’s a doll. Pick up a copy of Alligators, Old Mink & New Money and wish you were her for just a little while.
~Love and Libraries, Ingrid
You look awesome in this floral dress and triple strand, Ingrid. I am Jealous that you can actually meet THE Alison in this book. Read this book and was almost emboldened to wear a slip dress outside my home. I think I need to start planning a trip to NY. Hooti Couture would be on my list. Plus, I’d want you to escort me around to all your favorite haunts. Love the red white and blue pin. We got one like this for my Mom one mother’s day when we were kids. She is cleaning out her jewelry box this summer. As the only girl in the family, I expect that I’ll inherit it and other vintage treasures!
Come to NY! I’ll show you all my favorite places and you and Alison will love each other. I LOVE those enamel flower pins. They’re magic.