Marissa Elman | Fashion & Photography

Marissa Elman is a lifelong lover of fashion and photography.

Buying a 35MM Camera

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The 35MM camera is the definition of vintage and class. When you think of a classic late 20th-century camera, the odds are it is the classic 35MM. 

 

If you’re looking for an affordable camera, check out secondhand sites like eBay or Craigslist for your camera needs. Some of the top brands are Canon, Minolta, Nikon, Olympus, or Pentax. They are all basic, top quality, and hardworking. Websites like Amazon have 35 mm film cases that can be bought affordably. Try to also look for a camera without the program mode in the hardware. The program mode can often make things too complicated for a beginner.

 

If you would like to get your hands on the camera before buying it, check out vintage stores. Many vintage stores have a 35MM camera in either working order, or simply for decoration and artistry. If you end up liking the camera, you can either buy it at the store or order the same make, model, and brand online or at another store. If you plan to buy the camera at a vintage store, make sure you run through all the shutter settings to make sure they aren’t sticking or damaged. 

 

It is also worth researching if replacement batteries are still available for the model you buy. Some batteries that are made with mercury are discontinued, or too expensive to buy. It doesn’t hurt to buy a camera from a store with a return policy or a warranty, just in case a cheaper 35mm comes with any challenges or damage. If you have money to spare, we recommend the Leica M series.

 

The 35MM camera is a beautiful and historical piece to use when taking pictures. Keep an eye out for our following blogs on the history and usage of the 35MM camera.

 

5 Trends to Avoid This Winter

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The world of fashion is increasingly fast-paced. Trends seem to change at lightning speed. Last season’s must-haves quickly become this season’s faux pas. Avoid embarrassment this winter season. Don’t be caught dead in any of these out-of-style pieces.

 

  1. Cropped Coats

Cropped coats have been popular in the past, but it’s time for a new queen bee. This season is all about dramatic, full-length coats. They are warmer as well as more mature. A camel colored coat is a classic and timeless piece that fits this trend. A fur or faux-fur choice is a more glamorous and attention-grabbing option that also aids in providing sufficient warmth.

 

  1. Over-the-knee boots

Over-the-knee and thigh-high boots seemed to be everywhere over the last few years, knocking knee-high boots out of their once-popular ranking. Fashion is always cyclical, and knee-high boots have made a comeback. Equestrian boots are among the most popular styles. However, motorcycle boots and heeled animal print boots, such as snakeskin, are bolder choices that can add extra flair to your outfit. Avoid boots that rise above the knee if you want to appear fashion-forward this season.

 

  1. Mini Dresses

Mini dresses were a unique trend for winter in the past. Perhaps they were downright inappropriate since winter is not a time for warm-weather clothing. Mini dresses are being replaced with warmer, more appropriate options such as ankle-length or midi-length dresses.

 

  1. Vinyl

The age of vinyl is gone. Say good riddance to all the clear vinyl skirts and shoes especially. Many could argue that the vinyl trend was a faux pas to begin with, but in any case, it is gone for good. Leather has risen in its place instead. Leather lasts longer and looks better than vinyl. Vegan and vegetarians may choose a faux-leather option to keep in style with this trend.

 

  1. Boxy Silhouettes

Winter doesn’t have to mean being drowned in fabric. Loose, boxy silhouettes are a thing of the past. Far too often, boxy silhouettes translate as sloppy and lazy instead of effortless. The current style is more refined, feminine, and clean-cut. Choose figure-flattering silhouettes in luxurious, quality fabrics to look put together instead of careless in shapeless clothing.

How to Define Your Style

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Many people experiment with style as they grow up. However, some of us prefer a defined sense of style into adulthood.  The first step to defining your own style might be to find a style icon. Browse magazines to find celebrities whose styles you like. Look for pieces that remind you of that person’s style and envision yourself wearing those articles.

 

Your current wardrobe can provide insight into your style. Look at the styles that you have multiple of, such as polka dots, that already define your style. On the other hand, if your wardrobe contains some outliers, you might not be as comfortable wearing that style, especially if you only wear those items infrequently. However, you may need to branch out from your comfort zone if you want to find your style, especially if your closet is currently full of sweatpants and t-shirts. Although it takes time to become comfortable with new fashion, it may be well worth it to define your style.

 

Once you’ve identified styles that you like, do a little research to find a name for it. Perhaps you prefer bohemian or modern fashion. Determining the right label can help you find more items that you’ll like that match your style when searching for ideas in magazines or online.

 

Whether it might be a certain style of handbags or sunglasses, matching jewelry, or some other aspect of your outfit, pick a signature item. Of course, you don’t need to wear the same signature piece. It’s okay if you have multiple black booties. They all create the same effect. The people who know you and your style will think of you whenever they see a similar piece!

 

Don’t get too caught up in fads. Something that looks great one season might seem incredibly dated the next year, not to mention a decade later. Furthermore, sometimes trends may not be flattering on you or make you feel comfortable when you wear them. Instead, look for pieces that won’t go out of style and that suit your tastes.

 

Once you’ve nailed down the overall look that will become your style, you can look at accessories, jewelry, and shoes that complete the look. Purses, belts, scarves, hats, or hairpieces can also be the finishing touch on the perfect outfit!