Happy Monday!
I decided to take a couple days off from blogging over the weekend in order to catch up on sleep and restore my sanity after launching last week, and take some time for myself. That being said, I did add some more items to the shop, so make sure to wander on over. Regular programming will now resume.
Those who have been following the blog for awhile know of my obsession with trailers and my dream of setting up a Bicyclette pop-up shop in one and touring the country. I blogged about it first here (“Gypsy Queens and Trailer Dreams”), and then again when I shared and image of the Lune Vintage trailer. Any time I come across photo shoots set against trailer backdrops, like the one below, it tugs at my heart strings and makes me that much more determined. Oh, the possibilities …
photos via late afternoon
I can’t believe it’s August. Where has the summer gone? But a new month means a new advertising opportunity, and this month I am pleased to be sponsoring Sterling Style. One of the reasons why I chose this blog in particular is because I feel that Taylor’s aesthetic and style are closely aligned with that of Bicyclette, and her and her blog have always been a source of inspiration for me. I love her tendency towards romantic and feminine pieces while still incorporating edgier accents and unexpected details into an outfit. Needless to say, I’m excited to be working with Taylor and Sterling Style, and I can assure you that you will be seeing more of this collaboration in the near future!
Can you spot the new Bicyclette ad design?
Also, be sure to check out two other blogs that Bicyclette is supporting again this month: Bleubird Vintage and Final Fashion.
I have a slightly odd obsession with vintage nightgowns, and thus have managed to build a fairly impressive collection. There’s something about the pastel tones, layers of sheer fabric and an abundance of lace and other intricate detailing that I fall victim too so easily.
So when I found the below photo on Fashion Toast, I decided that it was a sign that I should share my obsession with the world and hang my pieces along the Bicyclette studio window. How perfect! Love the way they catch the light and the whimsical, nostalgic quality of the display. I believe this is from the Free People headquarters, which makes perfect sense. Have I mentioned how much I love Free People? Always in my inspiration folder.
I’ll post photos when I have a chance to actually execute this. For now, it was just a little side tracked thought as I continue posting product to the site. Don’t worry, I’m hard at work, I promise!
photo cred: fashion toast
Yesterday I promised that I would be posting some exciting news. Then the day got away from me and I had to deal with some issues beyond my control, resulting in a necessary delay of this announcement. Here’s the thing: The new Bicyclette website and online store are incredibly close to being ready to launch. I’ve been busy uploading to and testing the site, and I think you’re going to like it. Unfortunately, there are certain factors that I can’t control, like payment processing. Ugh. So though I thought I was ready to announce a specific date, I’m now a little hesitant, since I don’t know for sure when this will go through.
But I promised some news, and so I wanted to deliver. Plus, I already had the graphics done, and I wanted to share those at least!
There it is: launching August 2010. I know that’s extremely vague, and I was initially thinking that I would try and work with the element of surprise for the grand announcement, but seeing as the whole point of this blog is to track my journey and provide a behind-the-scenes view of starting Bicyclette, from now on I’m going to share all the details with you, as I learn more and make decisions. So I can tell you that I’m hoping to launch within the week, which provides a little more clarity. And I’ll be blogging throughout the week and sharing each and every detail as I near that point.
Maybe I’ll even throw in some product shot sneak peeks. Sound good? Are we excited??
I’ll be back this afternoon with some exciting store/site news (!), but for now, I wanted to leave you with a simple illustration by Garance Dore to start your day. Looking at pretty, inspiring images always seems to get me going in the right direction, no matter what the day holds. And today? I have a LOT to do.
I love the simplicity of Garance’s work, and the feminine and almost quirky attitude that her characters always seem to exude.
As part of my monthly sponsorship of Final Fashion, I have the opportunity to share in the monthly “a word from …” news post that Danielle puts together. In case you were curious, I thought I’d share, below.
Also, do take a moment to explore Final Fashion. Her illustrations are exquisite, her words are insightful, and I always enjoy the refreshing outlook on the Canadian fashion industry. My favourite part? Hands down, the paper dolls. I mean honestly, what girl doesn’t hold a special place in her heart for paper dolls? Danielle takes her favourite collections and looks from the high fashion runways, and gives us the opportunity to dress our own characters in couture. Highly recommended.
As I run around and try to tick things off my ever-growing to-do list, I wanted to take a moment to share a few things I’m currently lusting over.
1. Lune Vintage‘s vintage pop-up shop! How perfect is this ’76 Boler trailer. This is something I want to do someday, take Bicyclette on the road. One of my first posts was about gypsy queens and trailer dreams, sigh …
2. These Marais kitten heels, in cobalt, of course! Loving the simplicity and functionality of these beauties, and that colour is so perfect. I can completely see them with tights come fall as well, adding a little pop to an otherwise neutral outfit. Yes, please!
3. Buttons! And little round button-like magnets. I decided today that I’m going to invest in a button making machine and make hundreds of Bicyclette buttons to include with orders as gifts, promotions, and who knows what else. I’m thinking photo shoot buttons, rough sketch buttons, bicycle icon buttons, vintage print buttons and so much more.
I’d love to hear your ideas … any other clever designs or uses? Anyone want to have a button making party?
So there’s a little sampling of what’s been occupying my mind when I’m not focused on business related tasks. Care to share any of this week’s links or lusts with me?
It’s been a busy week, with another one to come, and a lot of exciting stuff going on.
The website is extremely close to being done. The design is done, the content is ready, and I’m currently working with a dummy site, uploading product and testing various details, etc. The whole process has taken much longer than originally planned, but that’s the way it usually is with these things, and it’s always a learning process. I’ll be continuing with more specific updates as progress is made, and am hoping that it will go live …. in about a week! I’ve been hesitant to give specific dates, as there are certain factors beyond my control, but there you have it!
This past Wednesday we shot the remaining product for the website, and also headed out to the street to experiment with some look book shots. We didn’t have very much time, but were able to play around a little and get some gorgeous shots of our model Erika posing on the porch and on the bike. How perfectly do those shoes match the bike!?! Below are a few selects, all still rough drafts and in various states of editing and treatments.
I’m curious, what shots are you drawn to, and in terms of the editing, what do you like and not like?
photo cred: shelby fenlon
I’m at the point of near exhaustion, once again. Prepping for the final stages of the online store launch (yes, it’s coming, I’ll have more info on that after tonight), doing another photo shoot all day yesterday (I’ll be posting photos from it later on), and then the usual craziness. And it won’t be ending any time soon. Yes, I thrive on the constant buzz, but it’s also tiring, to say the least.
I have a full day today, but I wanted to share one quick thing with you. I’ll be participating in a small sale that’s happening tomorrow, mid-day, through a summer program I’m involved with. Due to the relatively small size of it, I won’t have all of my stock with me, but I’ll be bringing a variety of accessories I’m selling (jewellery, feather head pieces, headbands with vintage trinkets, gorgeous printed scarves), all by local designers, as well as a sampling of clothing pieces. It’s really more about providing a brief snapshot of what Bicyclette has to offer, and focusing more on a lower price point.
The information is all below in the flyers, and it would be great to see as many people out as possible. There will be a great variety of vendors and it’s a great chance to show your support for young, local entrepreneurs. Plus, I would love to meet you! Feel free to let me know if you have any questions.
First off, just wanted to point out two lovely blogs that I’m oh-so-happy to be sponsoring this month: Bleubird Vintage and Final Fashion, two of my favourites and high on the daily must read list. So go ahead, give them a little look, and make sure to take a peek at the Bicyclette badges!
I don’t usually document my daily adventures other than those that are specifically related to the store or focused on an outfit or personal style, but I thought I would give you a little peek at a day in my life. Let me know if you enjoy this type of post!
Yesterday I took the afternoon off (in celebration of Canada Day), hopped on my bike, and took a little trip down along the lakeshore with a few friends. The sun was out, there was a slight breeze and it was the perfect mini day trip. We finished the day off by indulging in a seafood dinner, eating way too much, and watching the fireworks from our rooftop.
One thing I’ve learned about myself throughout this crazy year is that balance in life is essential to maintaining my sanity. So yes, I’m allowed to take an afternoon off here and there!
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