Fraternal Handshake

I was feelin' a casual look today.  A patriotic red, white, and blue color scheme is one of my favorites, for any day at all.  It's so classically vintage and easily mix-and-matchable.

I also didn't have a lot of time to get ready (as usual), so a look like this is quick and more put together than a normal college student's look.  It is more professional and classic, I think.

I also hadn't considered wearing heels with 40s jeans until I saw Janey wear them in this post.  Although I didn't wear these to walk to class in (let's be real.  5 inch heels for rushing to class?  Nope.  Ain't nobody got time for that), I did wear them for these photos, and I think the look is growing on me!

Also, I found this pin in a flea market last summer.  I thought it was quite interesting and looked antique.  I did some research, and though I couldn't track down a pin just like it, I think I have a better idea of what it is.  It has the image of a "fraternal handshake" on it framed with draped U.S. flags and topped with an eagle.  It seems to be made of very light materials and a thin metal that is magnetic.  

According to what I have found, pins like this were used oftentimes in charitable clubs and organizations.  Members would wear these and attach ribbons or medals they had been awarded for achievements or charity work.  I have found similar designs ranging from the 1890s to the 1910s, so I'm not exactly sure how old this one is.  I guess "antique" would cover it.  I just love the patriotic symbolism and unique shape, and it's amazing to think of the things this pin may have been through in the past 100 years.  I wish it could talk and share with me its origins!

Outfit Details:

shirt: Banana Republic

scarf: thrifted

jeans: handmade (details here)

pin: flea market

belt: resized