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Tips and Tricks on How to Restore Vintage Bags

One of my favorite things by far to thrift are vintage Coach bags, especially the all leather ones. Furthermore, one of my favorite things to watch is Coach bag restoration videos on TikTok.

A few months ago, I decided to try to restore a bag myself. The bag was a Coach Patricia Legacy messenger bag. I found the bag on Poshmark for $40. However, the bag was in rough shape. It was scratched and dry. It makes sense, though. The bag was from the 90s after all.

I took my knowledge obtained from those videos, and decided to restore it for myself by using Chamberlain’s Leather Balm, Leather CPR, a horse hair brush, and of course, made sure that I used old plastic to restore the bag back to its original shape. I did this twice, and although the bag was not perfect, she looked like she was nearly brand new.

Since then, I also restored a few other Coach bags that I had thrifted, and the results had left me speechless. They did not look perfect, but they looked like they were ready to live a second life, something that I think is absolutely incredible.

Therefore, I wanted to share my process of restoring these bags as well as tips and tricks in the event you come across a gem like a vintage Coach, or even another kind of vintage bag. With the right amount of TLC, these bags are classic staples that will reside in your closet for the next few decades if treated right. I note that I am very much a beginner in doing so, and I do plan to eventually add saddle soap to my leather cleaning routine as well.

Use Chamberlain Leather Balm: Chamberlain Leather Balm is my trusted BFF for these types of situations. What I like to do is use this to get to the dry corners, as well as the other stress and dry points of the bag. One thing I would like to note is that you need to make sure that all of the product is removed before proceeding to the next step. This helps heal some of the issues with the leather, such as dryness. I do use this for the entirety for the bag, which I think gives it extra moisture.
Leather CPR: Leather CPR is my golden savior. I love it because it both cleanses and moisturizes the leather. What I like to do is put the product on and rub it into the leather, giving it a nice massage. I also use the applicator sponge that was provided by the leather balm, which does wonders. Using Leather CPR is when I see the most noticeable difference in the bag, and is a true savior. It can be purchased on both Amazon, and various hardware stores.
Brush, Rinse and Repeat: I use a horsehair brush that I purchased on Amazon to brush out any additional product off of the bag, and then I like to let the bag sit for a few days in the effort to let everything I did soak into the bag and allow it to rest. This is the time I will stuff the bag to help it regain its natural shape. I then will repeat this process one more time, usually, just to make sure that I can fully restore the bag to its full potential.

Would you restore a vintage bag? Or, do you have any tips on bag restoration? Let me know in the comments below.

Friday Faves: June 14, 2024

TGIF everyone! Summer is in full swing, and I am so excited for the summer season to arrive. Summer is by far one of my favorite seasons. I love my beach days. I love pool days. I love reading while doing those things.

However, before we begin a summer weekend, let’s reflect back on my favorites for the day:

1. Baggu Fanny Pack: I bought this for my honeymoon, and it’s been an obsession of mine lately. I love this because it fits so much more than the Lululemon one. It also is so adjustable, which is something that I really love about it. I also can fit my Kindle in it, which is definitely a plus.

2. Wildfire by Hannah Grace: I have been obsessed with this one, guys. I loved Icebreaker, and this one is tugging at my heart strings. It is about Aurora and Russ, who both work at the same summer camp. This camp has a strict no dating rule. However, the two seem to bond through their traumas, which is something that I’m eating up.

3. HooHoops: I have been wearing these on repeat. I have loved HooHoops since last year, but I have been reaching for these every day for the past few weeks. These earrings are so comfortable. I have the mini ones, and they add such an adorable pop of color to any outfit that I am wearing.

4. Coach Ergo Hobo: This is by far one of my favorite thrift finds. I highly recommend checking out your local consignment store for this bag versus checking online. I have a brown one and I am obsessed. It’s small, but large enough to fit all of my essentials.

Is the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Bag Worth It?

During my honeymoon, I picked up two canvas tote bags in the small size from L.L. Bean — one with short, green handles and another with long, black handles. As a born and raised New Englander, I had heard of the L.L. Bean tote bag, and have seen it many times in addition to its backpack, but was influenced by TikTok to actually get it.

This bag is a simple, canvas bag that comes in four different sizes: small, medium, large, and extra large. There is an option of whether or not you can have a zip-top or an open one. It also comes in several different colors — classic and seasonal. And, to add to the decisions to make, there’s an option to embroider whatever you wish — initials, name, phrase or order. I currently have the small in both short handles and a long handle with a zipper, medium open top with long handles, and a large one with open handles. And I love them all.

Each of these bags have a different purpose, for the obvious reason. For me personally, I constantly reach for the small and medium one. However, I can see myself using the large one for travel and trips, because it’s just so large.

And, the quality of these are just unmatched. One thing that L.L. Bean is known for, without a doubt, is the quality of their bags, and you can see that with every bag. I really like that there is a little card that is in each of the bags that gives the name of the person that created the bag.

Now, what fits?

Well, in the medium, large, and I’m assuming the extra large, pretty much everything that you could think of could fit. I personally use the medium one for work, because it’s the perfect medium, for lack of better word. It’s large enough for me to fit everything I need to for work — iPad Pro, a lunch bag, book, change of clothes and shoes for the gym, and a bottle of water. However, it is not so large that it is overpowering. I find that with the large size.

That being said, I do see myself reaching for the large one during trips and the beach, since it could fit everything I need and then some.

However, if you’re looking for a little tote to take with you to markets or errands that can fit your wallet, a bottle of water, and more, then the small will be your BFF. I could even fit a hardcover book in there, with room to spare.

Overall, this bag will be useful for many years to come, and I’ve been loving using each and everyone of them. I could also see myself giving them as gifts, because they are so handy and easy. This is an essential, not only in the summertime when the living is easy, but for year round.

Milford’s Longest Running Craft Show Is This Weekend

The 2024 Fair on the Green commenced this morning, and will be running through this weekend. The fair, hosted by the Mary Taylor United Methodist Church, is Milford’s longest running craft show. It has been a fixture in the Downtown Milford community for 51 years and counting.

The vendor list of this show is absolutely incredible. When looking onto the website, there are four full pages of vendors. You can view the list here. The variety of vendors is amazing, and practically cover the entire green. There is everything available from permanent jewelry, dog treats, handmade jewelry, and so much more.

Another gem that this event has is Laura’s Treasure Trove, which is something that is worth to see. Vintage shopping and thrifting has gone viral these last few years, and Laura’s Treasure Trove is heaven for those who love finding a vintage treasure.

Finding the Treasure Trove was tricky, however, once I found it, I was impressed by the variety of items that were available — many of which were under $10. The jewelry was so gorgeous, and they had so many vintage china sets and more. What I loved about the Treasure Trove was that everything was displayed with such care and purpose, and it was easy to go through.

And while you’re supporting these local artisans, this event has a jam packed schedule for entertainment. Both days have local entertainment — from music to dancing.

In addition to the incredible vendors, Fair on the Green also offers visitors a chance to grab a bite to eat. Menu items include hamburgers, hot dogs, and breakfast sandwiches. However, we need to take a moment to talk about their signature treats — the strawberry shortcake and funnel cake. I saw many people walking around with containers of it, and boy, did my mouth water. Please note, if planning to come to the event, make a stop at the ATM first — these tents are cash only.

The fair goes today, June 7, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and tomorrow, June 8, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A visit to this fair is worth it, because it reminds me what the City of Milford is all about — supporting local artisans and organizations, and coming together.

May Product Empties

One of my favorite things that I love to watch on TikTok and YouTube is empty videos on makeup, skincare, and other products. I have been trying to go through and actually use the items in my stash. However, many of my products that I use are actually items that I use almost daily, and have used them for many years.

That said, I did want to share the products that I finished up during the month of May, and probably will continue in the upcoming months.

1. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer: I have used this product for years. I love the formula, and for me, this is something that is truly unmatched. You can find this product at drugstores, Ulta, and Amazon.

Would I repurchase this? Yes. I actually already started to use the newer bottle.

2. Nuskin Lumi Spa Cleanser: I switched over to the Nuskin Lumi and this cleanser permanently in the last few months, and I really, really love it. My skin has truly never been better. This cleanser and the Lumi itself seems to pull up all of the gunk that lives in my skin and leaves it feeling really clean.

Would I repurchase this? Yes. I actually already started to use the newer bottle.

3. Batiste Dry Shampoo: This is my ride or die product. I tried using a more upscale version of dry shampoo, but I didn’t like it as much as this one. This was also a fraction of the price of that one, so I’m sticking to this one.

Would I repurchase it? Yes.

May 2024 Favorites

I am so happy that May has brought some warmer weather. I am a summer baby, so needless to say, I will be thriving. I can’t wait to spend my summer days soaking in the pool and my Kindle in hand.

Before we get there, though, let’s take a pause and discuss my favorites for the month of May.

1. Coach Teri Hobo: I love this bag. I have a feeling that this will be a bag that I constantly reach for throughout the summer. It’s a bag that could be worn multiple different ways, which is something that I truly love about it. I had worn mine with the cherry charm, and I love how it looks. I wrote a review of this bag, and my thoughts on the bag are still the same.

2. L.L. Bean Boat and Tote: I love this bag. I have been carrying this to work almost every day, and I absolutely love it. It fits in everything that I need — my iPad, lunch bag, a change of clothes for the gym, and a book if need be. I have three sizes, and I can’t stop using them to death. I have a feeling that this bag will be something that I reach for time and time again throughout the summer.

3. Furls Hooks: I am absolutely obsessed with these hooks. They grip the yarn so well, and they are so comfortable to work with. I highly recommend getting them on the mystery sale, as they are really discounted.

4. Jennifer Weiner Books: I have been binge reading Jennifer Weiner’s books lately. I read Good In Bed, In Her Shoes, and The Summer Place, all of which have been on my TBR for a while. I enjoy her writing, and how it feels like it’s an early 2000s rom-com. Furthermore, I hope to get to a few more of her books in June, including Mrs. Everything.

5. Coach Zip Card Case: I am obsessed with this little wallet. This wallet is tiny but mighty. I’ve watched several TikToks of this holding things like AirPods and Keyfobs, which is something that I truly love about this wallet. I got the cherry print one, and I am so happy that I did, as it just adds an extra little something to my wallet. I did go back and buy the black one on days when I just need a basic black wallet, but I highly recommend this little guy if you’re considering it.

6. Supergoop! Resetting Powder: I have been using less makeup in the recent months, thanks to my skincare routine, and I’ve honestly been using this powder, which is actually a setting powder nonstop. It’s light and it has SPF. I love how light it is, because I sweat a lot in the summer. I already restocked it, as I’m sure that I will go through a lot of this product.

Fire Engine Pizza Company Is So Good It’s Fire

One bite into a pizza slice from Fire Engine Pizza Company, I was instantly reminded of a quote from the movie Eat Pray Love when Liz was indulging in a slice from Italy when she says, “I’m having a love affair with my pizza.”

Yup, that pizza was that good.

Fire Engine Pizza Company currently has two locations — Shelton and Bridgeport, with a third location in Milford coming soon. What makes these locations so unique is the fact that they are made from old fire houses. That theme is expanded to the decor of both locations, which I find really unique.

In addition to the upcycled firehouse theme, Fire Engine Pizza Company has a pizza truck (an older fire truck) that is available to rent for special occasions. I personally think that is so amazing.

Fire Engine Pizza Company is both a bar and an Italian restaurant. However, the show stopper here is their pizza. They have the classics, such as cheese, pepperoni, and meatball. Those choices though are just scratching the surface. They have a lot of fun and unique flavors, such as mashed potato pizza, salad pizza, and bread and butter pickle pizza. And if these don’t sound like something that you’d enjoy, you can also make your own.

For me, their pizza is honestly like taking into a bite of fresh, delicious, heaven. Their crust is wood-fired, and their sauce has the right mixture of both sweet and savory. When it comes out of the oven, it is piping hot, so hot that you have to give it a minute to cool down or use a fork and knife for that first piece (am I the only one whose grandparents taught them that when they were little?)

Their menu has much, much more than pizza. Additionally, they have a huge sandwich menu, such as chicken and eggplant parm, chicken burrata (which was so delicious), and a steak burger. Their entree menu has delicious choices, such as Sunday at Carmela’s (pasta, meatballs, and red sauce), Carmine’s Eggplant, and salmon — just to name a few. And if you’re not that hungry and just coming out for drinks and apps, they got you covered — they have garlic bread, wings, and many other delicious bar fare.

And if you’re looking for somewhere for a brunch, they definitely would make a delicious brunch spot, and have the menu to prove it. It’s only available on Sundays though.

I’ve been to both locations, and I’m honestly so impressed with the pizza, the quality of the service, and the decor. Every time my husband and I went, our waitress was speedy, friendly, and efficient. We felt welcomed, and they were approachable when it came to questions as well.

Overall, this is a spot that definitely will be coming into my permanent rotation of places to eat.

Friday Faves: May 24, 2024

TGIF! It’s Friday, and better yet, it’s the Friday before a long weekend. Ahh, I am so excited to have a long weekend. I don’t have much planned, however, I have been wanting to do some crochet projects. But before we get to the weekend, let’s take a moment to reflect on my favorites of the week:

1. Coach Teri Hobo Bag: I recently wrote a post about whether or not I think this bag is worth it. I have been using it nonstop for the last few weeks. It makes a great shoulder bag. It makes an amazing crossbody bag. It fits a lot (including a book). It is one of those bags that just is a great staple to have in your purse collection. I love Coach — that is no secret, so I am so happy to have this one in my collection. She I currently on sale on the Coach Outlet, so I highly recommend looking into this one.

2. Supergoop Mineral Powder: I have been wearing less makeup than I used to these days. However, I really have been finding myself reaching for this. It has SPF, which is crucial to protecting your skin in the summer months. Furthermore, it adds a little bit of coverage on your skin, but is really light and semi-sweat proof. I definitely can see myself using this more and more in the summer months.

3. Jennifer Weiner books: I have been binge reading so many of Jennifer Weiner’s books. I finished In Her Shoes and The Summer Place and I hope to read Good In Bed. Her books are really well written, and I often am unable to put them down.

4. Coach Zip Card Case wallet: I absolutely love this wallet. I got it in the cherry print (which is now sold out), and it’s been on repeat. It’s so adorable. I love how compact it is, and I love that it fits everything I need, and can attach my keys. This is also on sale on the Coach Outlet website, so I recommend this if you’re interested.

What are your favorites of the week? Let me know in the comments below.

My Kindle Essentials

My Kindle Paperwhite has become my best friend. I take it everywhere. I use it almost everyday — well, almost. There are some times that I use a physical book, and crave the touch of one.

Thanks to the pandemic and TikTok, the Kindle has definitely grown in popularity, along with accessories. However, there are somethings that are worth it, and there are others that are not. Figuring that out honestly could be so overwhelming. That being said, I decided to sit down and share my personal essential Kindle Accessories. This will work on all models of Kindles, from Basic to Scribe.

Case: If you don’t take anything else off of this list, the one thing that you need to get for your Kinde the second you press place order is a case. Cases are essential. They protect your device and make sure that it doesn’t get damaged. I think that’s really important. There are so many different type of cases, from the Kindle Clear case to the fabric official Amazon one. Personally, I like the clear one, because it allows me to be able to fit it into multiple different bags, and be able to use my Kindle on the treadmill.

Popsocket: Popsockets are essential for me, because it really helps me hold my Kindle so much better, whether I’m reading in bed, the beach, or waiting for the train. 10/10 recommend.

Page Turner: I registered for this for my wedding, and this is by far one of my favorite things that I got from my shower. I use this daily. I love it because it allows me to get comfortable while reading, and not have to move. The battery lasts forever, and it’s something that works for both of the Kindles that I currently own.

Stand: There are so many different types of stands out there, from gooseneck to plush to plain. I personally love this one. Having a stand makes reading much more convenient, because like the page turner, it allows you to get comfortable and read hands free. I also use it to hold my iPad, so it’s definitely useful.

What are your Kindle essentials? Let me know in the comments below.

This Coach Bag Is Perfect For Readers

It is no secret that Coach has been making a huge comeback in the last few years. I have quite a huge collection of Coach that I’ve developed over the last few years, and this bag is definitely one that is no exception. That bag is the Teri Hobo bag.

The Teri Hobo went viral as it was rumored to be able to hold a physical book. Priced at $219, the bag comes in black, white, signature, as well as a few seasonal colors that rotate from time to time. For example, I have a nude one from last year, which is no longer on the website. The hobo is the larger, bigger sister to the Teri Shoulder bag on the Coach website, which is also another really great everyday bag.

There are two different ways to wear this bag: on the shoulder and crossbody. I love this feature, because it adds a ton of versatility to how I can wear the bag. What I love about this bag is how comfortable it is to wear either way. The crossbody melts into your body, and doesn’t protrude. Furthermore, I can also just throw it over my shoulder and it fits comfortable when worn as a shoulder bag. Personally, I leave both straps on the bag, and switch between the two options.

Before we talk about capacity, I want to bring up one thing about the Teri Hobo bag. It is such a slim and sleek bag that can be worn for years to come — especially if you get one of the leather options. For that reason alone, I think that this bag is definitely worth the money, because it’s something that is not trendy.

Furthermore, I also think that this bag is one that is just practical. It is not so small that you can barely fit anything, but not so large that it is overpowering. You can fit quite a bit without having to play Tetris. You can use this bag everyday.

Now, what does this bag fit?

I’m going to break this up into two different sections — what I put in here, and then of course, the bookish element.

First off, we have what I carry in my bag on a daily basis. These items include my Coach Zip Card case in the Cherry Print, my Kindle Paperwhite, a Baggu Small Pouch, various lip products, pouch with crystals, work ID, keys, hand sanitizer and a notepad.

Now, let’s talk about what fits in terms of books. I was able to fit two paperback books in the bag, and still have room for my wallet, lip balm, and hand sanitizer. With that, I can still zip my bag.

Overall, this bag is amazing and I can see myself using this for various situations other than everyday. For example, this is the perfect bag I can use for a day trip. I also can use this in situations where I’m going somewhere where I need to carry a book and a few other things. It’s a more sophisticated version of a tote bag, and I definitely can see this being in my bag rotation.