As you all know, I’m a lover of all things vintage. I treasure finding a one-off piece that no one has and that was worn by someone before I was even born. And I love the feeling when your heart starts to race when you see a designer label in a great style, in your size, that is actually affordable. That’s the ultimate triumph in vintage shopping. The best I’ve ever done is a YSL Rive Gauche black velvet jacket–but it looks almost like a cape that an aunt gave me when I was only about 12. It sat rotting in my closet for about 10 years and when I was going through stuff after coming home from college, I discovered this masterpiece! Really heart stopping. Unfortunately, vintage shops, due to eBay and other outlets know brands—so it is rare to find a deal any more. But when you do discover a gem……..heaven. One lady who can appreciate this is Sharon Rose. Check out her website and drool over her fashion designer finds!
I decided to pay homage to the king of vintage, Maestro Halston. I mean, could Studio 54 have BEEN without his amazing dresses and slinky fabrics hugging the girls dancing and probably snorting coke in the bathrooms? I can just see the tall blondes sashaying into the disco’s in his designs, heavy make-up, red lips, and just looking like goddesses. To me, Halston WAS the 70’s and if you are lucky enough to find a vintage piece, be prepared to pay an arm and a leg.
He has a lovely collection out today but what’s great is it still pays homage to his time in his heyday. The column dresses with the layers, the one-shoulder Roman-goddess gowns, the well-cut shirt dress. Everything of his is a modern version of what he’s always done. I love when fashion houses stay true to their roots. You can still, today, see a Halston from a million miles away, even if it’s from a 201o collection.
I went with a really classic Halston evening gown in a lovely color–a canary yellow. I love the tiers. I just think this is so now, but yet so 70’s. How can it be? But it is elegant, classic and just so fantastically retro. It looks like it would elongate and be light as a feather. Perfection. To jazz things up a bit, I went with a really electric blue color to compliment the yellow. It just felt right. It felt punk 2009 meets LSD 1970’s.
I hope you like this Wish List as much as I do. I didn’t want to add a necklace for this dress. I see this with hair slicked back in a low bun or a very high ponytail and just showing off those collarbones. The only bit of bauble is a bad-ass rocker cuff that I thought was really rocker-chick fun. You know those 54 girls–they liked their dancing, booze and their Jagger.
FYI: Mr. Roy “Halston” Frowisck (who sadly died in 1990) was specifically known for his dresses being worn to discotheques. Born in Iowa, he began his career as a window dresser. He worked mainly with hats and his big break was when the Chicago Daily News ran a brief story on his fab hats. In 1957 he opened his own shop (seems very Coco Chanel, eh?) and then moved to NYC working for famous milliner Lilly Dache. He then was let loose to become head milliner of Bergdorf’s and his big claim to fame was designing the famous pillbox hat for Ms. Jackie Kennedy that she wore to her husband’s presidential inauguration. He became part of a hip crowd of jet setters and Bianca Jagger, Liza Minnelli, Anjelica Huston, Lauren Bacall, Babe Paley, and Elizabeth Taylor all wore his goodies. His perfume (bottle designed by Elsa Peretti) became the second biggest perfume of all time. A great man with an interesting life, he died of AIDS in 1990. But his name lives on and I am pleased to show you that his lovely clothes still, 3o years later, have remained in the limelight.
Dedicatedly yours,
—One of 365
This stunning, canary yellow, strapless silk-gown epitomizes the Halston of today and yesterday. People might ask you where you got that AMAZING vintage piece, but they also might ask where that couture dress came from. It is timeless. I love the color. I think on light skin it will look ethereal and on dark skin, it will bring out your color beautifully. The dress is simple. It is meant to act as a column--like Greek goddess gown. You are meant to make an entrance, be handed a glass of champagne, put it down and then dance. I think this is jaw-dropping and elegant. The back has a slight cut out, which is very sexy, but is layered with tiers so nothing too revealing. I think this dress would be bland and boring in black or white. Yellow is the perfect match. Strapless Silk Gown, $3,814, halston.com
I love colors and how designers are embracing pops of palettes in their designs. No more matchy-matchy anymore. I think the yellow and the blue make a stunning combination. I like the texture of the snake-skin. It modernizes the outfit and brings the whimsy from the light silk and layering to a more rock-star badass 54 girl making her entrance. With a 4.5" heel, the column dress is going to make you look sky-high which will look amazing and you'll feel like one of Warhol's muses entering The Factory! I think these are all rock n' roll and are a really fun surprise because they aren't expected with the outfit. Penn Snakeskin Sandals, $995, halston.com
I love this bag because it's slouchy, and suede. It looks the part of being 70's and is a total clutch with a removal strap so you can make it casual or dressy. Again, ties in with the shoes and the bright colors of the yellow and the bright blue. Totally unexpected which is what you want with a statement outfit. And hey, the 70's was all about experimenting, right? It's also roomy, so you can stash anything you need in here. Not just a lipstick and a cell phone. The strap will be useful if you start dancing. Just wrap it around your wrist and you are set to boogie! Henry Small Suede Clutch, $1,395, halston.com
All rock and roll babes have cuffs with metal right? Well, yours just happens to be a HALSTON dahhhling! I like this because it's your first introduction to the pop of color blue and it also shows those who see you that your not just some lovely yellow flower walking into the room, but a chic killer in your 70's homage to the king of disco. I think it will lengthen the arm and go nicely with the bag. And if your shoes peep out, it will all tie nicely together. Hey, and if a guy you don't like tries to hit on you, it works handily as a gauntlet!! Stud Embellished Cuff, $995, halston.com
Halston have always been famous for their fragrances. The packaging for 2009 has been revamped by the famous Elsa Peretti (known for her beautiful Tiffany's jewels). To quote the designer of the fragrance, Carlos Benaïm, he says the fragrance is a "floriental woody, and has top notes of Sicilian bergamot, marigold and black currant; a heart of precious roses, orris, jasmine petals, rose absolute and rose essence, and a drydown of patchouli, sandalwood and deep amber." So, grab yourself a bottle, even just to have sitting on your bureau. Stunning!
PS: If you dig my Wish List’s then just click over to your right and hit the side-bar under “Wish Lists.” You’ll find everything from Net-a-Porter to Sonia Rykiel (great timing too because she just announced her collaboration with H&M). It’s always such fun! And if you really LOVE fashion, check out Fashion Fridays on the sidebar too. It’s a bit bonkers, but a really fun weekly staple from my wardrobe that I make a story up about the look and show the clothes and allow you to visualize the whole sha-bang from the picture I’ve painted. Again, lot’s of fun for you fashion lovers.
I am a soldier when I shop. I do it for the country that is One of 365. I have to make sure this "governing-body" looks damned good and I can't have ANYONE get in my way.
Dear Ether,
When I shop, I become a fierce, focused creature who does not like to be disturbed by ANYONE. When a friend asks me if I’d like to go shopping, I always try to weasel out of it. I don’t want to be interrupted with questions about HER dress or what I think about how HER shoes look on HER feet. I need to focus on the sale racks, sizes—my eyes rapidly scanning for deals without any deterrent.
I love shopping. There are many women who detest it and only go when they have to find an outfit for an occasion. I adore just heading out and perusing the boutiques seeing what I can drool over and store in my mind for when the sales come. I love the air-conditioned rooms, the music the they play, the pang in my heart when I see a tag with a red slash through it. I am a hunter and clothes are my prey.
I wouldn't make a badge or a bumper-sticker out of this, but it sure is my mantra
I have an excessive amount of clothing. It’s beyond ridiculous. I’m actually pretty proud that through the mounds of cloth I don’t have anything I truly regret. I mean, of course there are the pieces of crap you buy from Primark that you wish you maybe should have saved the 5 quid on for a coffee, or you realize you just bought ANOTHER black top. But for the most part, I’ve done decently well. Nothing too horrible. I’ve had regrets. I bought a Mulberry bag on sale in London that was 250 quid reduced from 500 and it sits smushed in a corner never used. It’s a little small and just a bit traditional for me. Would I like the money back, of course! But, no one would look at it and say, “What the hell were you thinking?” I’m always good about making sure to buy clothes that are made of lovely fabrics (I could ADORE a piece, but if it’s made of polyester or some shit I can’t pronounce—I’m done). I hate when from a distance you see a garment that’s lovely, and then you get close for further inspection and see it’s possibly flammable—oh, the horror!
English gent is an excellent shopping partner. He is the ONE person who I can tolerate to take with me. In fact, he is quite an asset being a fashionista himself (though when we see a mirror we tend to fight over it in a shop). He gives honest advice on how things look on me. He also knows the trends and gives ace investment premonitions. He never tires, he’ll wait patiently while I scour the racks and he appreciates clothing as much as I do (he is so in love with fashion that he has been known to buy something, change out of what he is wearing, and walk out of the store donning his new outfit!).
My style icons are a mix of Ms. Paltrow, the perfect Ms. Sienna and legendary Kate Moss, of course. When I go out, I try to conjure these women. I’m lucky with my figure that I can pull some of the looks off these ladies can (I’m not as tall as Gwyneth nor as flat-chested, I’m not as leggy or skinny as Sienna or Kate) but I can make their looks happen if I try and do get compliments which make my day (because if ONLY they new how much I paid for them—STEALS!).
(This is for you gentleman who read my blog…I thought I’d throw you some eye-candy)
Yep, this is how we ladies feel when we are donning something sexy. Or at least, I do. What an entrance!
My dream is to walk into Burberry and buy some of their Prorsum goodies, hit Chanel and buy a pochette bag, saunter into Temperley and buy a whimsical dress made of silk and air, and have no credit card limit. Oh, yes, there are millions of other designers who I’d kill to wear. But honey, put me on a stranded island with these 3, and I’d make the natives catwalk cuties in no time.
I have kept every item of clothing I have ever bought. They are stored in boxes throughout my folks house. I refuse to give anything away. I believe one day something might come back or if I have a daughter she’d kill me for giving it away (yes, I think there is hope for the overall and the multi-colored high-top). Clothes, to me, have always been my hobby. Some people love thimbles, spoons, Rembrandts. I love Miu Miu or a great pair of jeans. And when I go out looking spiffy, there’s no better feeling in the world.
But………just don’t fuck with me while I’m getting my outfit together.
I love Monday’s because they mean I can go virtual shopping on some amazing websites and style dream outfits that I would love to wear had I had the bank account of a movie-star. BUT, maybe 1 of you Ethers DO have an enviable credit card limit and can splurge, or might be inspired by the choices from the “The Wish List” and look to your favorite shops for inspiration. What matters most is that I LOVE doing it and I think you guys LOVE seeing it so it shall continue being a weekly staple to help get the dreaded 5-day toil over and done with. It’s a dream that as a magazine writer I wish I could have the liberty to do, but never would be given the space or creativity to do it.
And speaking of work, it’s the recession so many of us are looking for new jobs. This means interviews! I think what separates the men from the boys is often the little details. The cuff-link or the finely-cut suit. But we’re talking womenswear right now, so I’m focusing on being fashion forward but classic. Beautifully made clothes that are cut to perfection, but are simple in design with a pop of personality. I think these days you need to stand out slightly by wearing something a little different than a boring black suit and white button down shirt with black heels. Truthfully, I’ve never gone for a job on Wall Street or to work for a top law firm. So, the choices that I’ve made today might be totally inappropriate (though I don’t know if nowadays places are hipper and want a chicer looking employee).
I went with fashion label Marni, a favorite of mine for years (even though all I’ve been able to do is stand awe-struck through their windows and look at their amazing stores with their minimalist curved hangers and beautifully patterned clothing). I think they embody European, and especially Italian fashion design. With their architectural cuts, Impressionist colors, Marni provides must-have wardrobe staples but gives you the extra edge so you’re always tweaked, looking slightly ahead of the game and never fully part of the crowd. In a nutshell I would call them avant-garde in a way that is very wearable so you’ll always look interesting and different without looking too risky.
Marni began in 1994 as a family business (the Castiglioni’s) who were fur producers to the best fashion houses, but they also wanted to have their own stake in the fashion game. It all began with a women’s collection designed by Consuelo that was eclectic, tailored, researched and unique. A huge success, Marni continues to create “holistic collections for markets that have become more receptive to innovative Italian design.” (Marni.com) Marni also decided not to have a strict advertising campaign which has allowed editor’s to create amazing creations with their clothing each season which has actually given them a lot more coverage had they had stricter look-book structures.
So with your history lesson, a bit of love for the brand from me, and keeping in mind what this outfit is going to be worn for here goes:
It all begins with the wrapping paper when you open the gift, right? Well, this is quite some paper! This coat will set the standard for the rest of the outfit. It looks hand dyed, the colors are that of Italy with its sepia tones and the material is perfect for summer and fall. Made of silk and linen organza, this is a mix n' match version of the trench but with asymmetrical lines, cuffs that are like a dress shirt and a unique belted trapeze shaping. Sun and Violet Runway Duster, Originally $2, 250 now $1,125 Marni.com
Bringing out the ruddy reddish brown in the duster and complimenting the asymmetrical lines as well, this top is ideal. Though it is a plain color, its architectural design is unique so even when you remove your striking outer layer, you still are wearing an interesting piece. You also don't want to compete with too many different patterns so the plain color with the extraordinary detail is the perfect combination (though Marni is famous for making patterns come together that blow your mind!). Cotton and Silk Top w/ Pocket Detail. Originally $630 now $315 Marni.com
Sleek, slick and a perfect cut are always what you want to look for in a trouser. Italy is famous for its tailoring and Marni prides itself on this tradition. The color, once again, compliments the duster, but also will work with the rest of your ensemble once it is removed. Great for any occasion, these are just a wonderful wardrobe staple. Cotton Cady Trousers Originally $630 now $315 Marni.com
I have to say, when the shoe selection came up on the screen, I almost fainted and had to be resuscitated. They have a massive selection and it was tough to choose, but I went with this killer heel. I really liked that it tied all the colors together, I thought the leather cutting detail was extraordinary, the heel looked thick enough to walk in and the platform looked hefty enough so you wouldn't die from ball-of-foot pain. I also think these would make your legs look authoratative in those trousers (hey, the less you have to shorten, the taller you are, right?) and if you wore them for going out they'd make your legs look seriously sexy. Hematite Leather Sandals Originally $850 now $425 Marni.com
Okay, I thought, how could I scrape together the cash for this bag? I could sell my computer, but then how would I write? Or, sell English gent for escorting, but he regretfully declined (damn those English manners!). If anyone from Marni is out there, here is my pathetic plea--if you have a bag that you don't want and were gonna toss in the bin because maybe a stitch was off, e-mail me. I will be your indentured servant for all time. Okay. Pathetic begging over. I LOVE THIS BAG. It is big, beautiful and brings out the color of the duster and the top--it just defines everything in this outfit. The tiers in the leather are once again playing on the architectural thought process of the Marni brain. The bag is functional and perfect for your interview with its space for paperwork, but it also is the perfect city bag that just will age beautifully. This is an investment piece because it will last you a lifetime. Bella! Bandoliers Tourmaline Leather Bag Originally $1,975 now $988 Marni.com
Marni had really fun and organic accessories. I went with these bracelet/bangles. They are within the color scheme and when you take of the duster and have the sleeveless top on, they'll look great on your bare arms. Lovely. Horn Bracelet Embellished With Applique Ruffle Originally $325 now $163 Marni.com
Marni had really fun and organic accessories. I went with these bracelet/bangles. They are within the color scheme and when you take of the duster and have the sleeveless top on, they'll look great on your bare arms. Lovely. Horn Wavy Bangle Originally $290 now $145 Marni.com
I couldn't resist! It's so rare that a label has such lovely lingerie too. And why not be decked out from top to bottom. This 90% cotton 10% silk bra is extremely luxurious, cute and is just a wonderful little treat. Green and Pink Bra Originally $325 now $163 Marni.com
You knew these knickers were coming too! Yes they might be slightly large, but I hate those teensy pants that veer a little too close to, well, I don't want to get graphic. I like a roomy pair of trunks. These are just adorable and so European. Can't you just see a cutie in the 50's sitting in her flat in Italy in this bra and underwear smoking a cigarette, sipping an espresso and peeking out her balcony for her beau to arrive? Ahhhh....those were the days. Green and Pink Briefs, originally $235 now $118 Marni.com
Well, I have given you quite the outfit to choose from. I think this is the biggest selection yet, thanks to Marni’s amazing Website. And remember, I have ZERO affiliation with the brands that I pick so I’m not trying to sell you anything. Think of this as an editorial spread. I hope you enjoyed this and good luck on your interview you hot ticket! You deserve the job if you are looking THIS stylish. Since I put a lot of work into putting this fab frock together I expect you to VOTE! No one ever seems to and I really am curious to know what you think. So, take the 10 seconds and click on the button….please…otherwise, you can buy me the above bag! Which is cheaper and easier? Yeah, I thought so………
I’ve looked over my past Fridays and noticed a bit of a vintage vibe thing going on. I realized, “Hey, many of you fashionista-Ethers may not be so into old skool dressing and may want something very right now!” And let me tell you, this set of digits can wear it modern too. So, I chose something that I thought was a bit sexy but also classy–we do not do “slapper” here at “Fashion Fridays!” Yes, the top is very low cut, but the material and the style is very French linen making up for the expanse of cleavage. The jeans are tight and black, but they are a classic cut and do not show off any cracks that shouldn’t be in the plaster if you know what I mean And the shoes! Oh man, DO NOT get me started! They are my latest acquisition. I think they are modern, architectural and just do everything a heel should do. And the best part? They are comfortable so you can boogie all night long in style.
I always like to give a story to my outfit, so tonight I’ll call this the “City Girl Night Time In The Summer” look. I can see our lady in London or NYC walking in the Village or in Soho. It’s a hot, August evening where you want to be wearing the bare minimum–especially if you’re going to be stuffed in a club or bar. You can go from work in this outfit to drinks with your girls, or dinner with your guy (just put on a cardigan or funky tailored jacket, sleeves slightly pushed up, and a single button done up over the cami. I’d say this was for a more casual, trendy work-place though). Great for dancing the night away because the camisole is light, the shoes comfy and the jeans have a bit of stretch so you can get down and move. Amazing for an evening at an exhibition (the artists will all LOVE the lines and colors of your shoes) where canapes, Warhol and champagne will be inhaled and you’ll be slightly tipsy off the genius of the NYU grads and the bubbly as you’re whisked away in your yellow taxi. And when your night is ending with Big Ben ringing and sunlight coming up over Parliament, you don’t have to look like you’re wearing a walk of shame outfit. Remember, this lovely frock transitions night to day no problem–just make sure you powder your face and add a new slick of gloss to those happy lips.
Summer. City. Night. This is a great outfit to wear to look comfortable IN, feel sexy IN and have fun IN. Modern, stylish and classy=perfection.
I don't normally do a back-shot but I wanted you to see the cross-back detail of this lovely top. I adore the thick straps and the look of it being like corsetry. I just think you would have missed out from just a front view. Pose is tres J Lo, no? LOL!
When I saw this top I had to have it. It was sitting in a little sale bin in a fancy boutique on Robertson Blvd. in Los Angeles and everything was on crazy clearance. The place was a madhouse and all the good stuff was going and I couldn't get my hands on anything. And then....I saw this! I loved the almost Victorian linen quality of the piece, but with the modern, deep cut. You really cannot have terribly large, wall-eyed or sagging breasts with this baby. I'm not saying my boobs are perfect, but this top really challenges "the girls" and you need to be able to fill it out with no spillage and have enough cleavage so you don't look flat chested. I might have to wear tape with it because if you aren't always watching, and you lean forward, BAM, a boob falls out! This is a thinking girls top, for sure! Borbonese Cross Back Camisole, originally $300 reduced to $60 Vionette Boutique Los Angeles
This is just one of those weird and wonderful things you throw together and make a necklace out of. The big gold "hunk" is part of a broken necklace from my Grandmother's costume jewellery from the 50's or 60's that I like to wear as a pendant, and the brooch I attached to the pendant is of a Chinese man who is holding a large pearl. I thought the two looked fun together and I needed something to break up the large chest space that the top was creating in my cleavage area. I thought this was a fun and funky way to do it. Faux Gold Pendant and Silver Brooch, One of 365's Own, Priceless!
Jeans photographed really gray, but they are a deep black. These are the most flattering denim I own. I wish I knew the style but I got them from a store that buys from stylists and designers, and these were a sample that were in the process of being chopped and changed for J Brand. I think they were just a design sample---they may never have actually ever produced these jeans. Ahhh, are they comfy! They have great stretch, hug you in the right places making your legs look like a tall drink of water and they give your tush a nice lift too. And guess what, these lovelies were are a bargain. J Brand usually go for like, what, $150-200 bucks, right? Well....J Brand Black Denim Jeans, $36 (WOWZA!) Brand New, Buffalo Exchange Los Angeles
Okay. I saw these in the sales and made a bee-line for them. A lovely bloke in the shop in L.A. named Alex (hi Alex!) is amazing and pointed out that all shoes were 75% off. Reiss have a bit of a funky shoe sizing issue. I would have bought more but they either make you buy a US 6.5 or a 7.5. I'm a 7! So, that these fit me, and they were my 1st choice of any pair...well, it was my lucky day. And, Miss Fergie (of Black Eyed Peas not of Weight Watchers fame) bought them too, my lovely source told me, so I am truly Fergalicious! I love the colors, the textures (they are champagne satin, black patent, and an aqua faux reptile) with the cutest little grosgrain ties in the back. The heel height is perfect and they are like wearing slippers! I was wearing them with jeans, but with a skirt or dress they make your gams look like uber model. I love Reiss. So pricey here in the States and the sales tend to not go as low as they do in the UK, but these were a bloody bargain! Rocco Sandal Originally $295 reduced to $88.50 Reiss Los Angeles
Gosh, we’ve hit yet another “Fashion Friday!”which means that I’ve been blogging with you for quite awhile now. Fab!
Well, I’ve been feeling very 1960’s lately. I don’t know why. I think it might be that I’ve been very successful at vintage stores that carry 1950’s garb and up and have been working my 60’s gear because it is so punchy and bright–perfect for summer. So for this week I’ve decided to go for a vintage mix of 1960’s, citrus, resort glam (look, I don’t know how I come up with these trends either, okay?). I always get loads of compliments on my vintage finds which always makes me proud because nowadays you REALLY have to scour the shops to find anything good anymore. So when you score, you feel like you’ve gotten a real prize.
So picture me on a cruise en route somewhere fabulous like Monaco (Grace Kelly style) leaning over the railing of the deck basking in the sun getting ready for an evening of craps, roulette and funky cocktails (a Mai Tai with lots of fruit, maraschino cherries and umbrellas sticking out of it maybe?). God, the 60’s were SO swinging weren’t they? Enjoy and DO VOTE!
Dedicatedly yours,
—One of 365
Ahoy Matey! I won't die of scurvy with this squeeze of citrus flavor on board my glamour cruise! Check out the nail polish. It's Essie "Shorty Pants." A really bold, matte yellow that looks amazing on hands and feet and gives you that extra punch to your groovin' look. Yeah Baby!
This might appear more orange on your screen but it is the loveliest shade of coral. The buttons are little brass anchors (perfect for that cruise-wear touch) and it is completely handmade! It's amazing to me that someone 40+ years ago had my same measurements. It looks BRAND NEW and I swear to god, if you didn't know it was vintage you'd think it was a pricey designer piece. Coral 1960's Vintage Dress, $18, (Can you believe it!?!) Jet Rag Los Angeles
These made me "green with envy" when I saw them. They look just like Choo's or Blahnik's, but honey, the price is right! The trend now is to add a pop of color to your outfit--something out of the blue--forgive the pun. So I thought a bright green with the coral would add to the citrus/summer flavor but also add to that trend of the "wow" factor color accessory. Brass Plum Satin Sling-back, Peep-Toe Heels, $60, Nordstrom's Los Angeles
If you're gonna be a high-roller on board, you gotta have the bling to prove it, right? Well, as you MIGHT have guessed, this baby isn't real (shame, I could retire). But what fun is a huge cocktail ring and so 60's! And this picture gives you an even better look at the nail polish I mentioned above. Great shade, eh? Faux Diamond Cocktail Ring, press gift from Liberty (price unknown) London
I tried taking my own picture of this fab vintage fragrance, but it came out blurry so had to use this kinda tacky stock photo (sorry!). I LOVE this scent. Dior was plugging this back again in 2006 and I fell in love with it when it landed on my desk. The label and box are so old school, and the scent itself is so ladylike and proper for the time with hints of lily of the valley and jasmine. Maybe a bit more 50's than 60's (launched in 1956) but I thought it went with the mood of the page. Christian Dior "Diorissimo" 50ml $65, at any fine department store.
Step out of the Ether and send me an E-mail. I would be glad to have your thoughts, feelings and ideas.
