What are they wearing now

Where have I seen this dress before?

2012-02-08T21:12:00.000-08:00

SOURCE: SOCIALITE

Just love the grey tweed coat dress the Duchess of Cambridge wore to the opening of the Lucien Freud Exhibition at The National Portrail Gallery recently. It was by Joyce Stewart from Jesire (sadly now in liquidation) who sold to high street stores.
As soon as I saw it I was reminded of a genuine vintage 50s dress I sold at vintageclothing.com.au
Have a look at the last 2 photos to see the similarity. It's quite amazing really.

For more great photos and details about Duchess Kate and what she is up to go to hrduchesskate.blogspot.com.au

Favourite 50s photo

2012-01-23T01:34:00.000-08:00

Just love everything about this photo. I don't know anything about it but just had to share it.

In honour of my late mother

2011-12-22T01:35:00.000-08:00

It's been three years this December since my darling mother died. Being so close to Christmas and knowing how much she loved it and also loved decorating her tree and house I have found it very difficult to join in the festive spirit since. But this year I decided to honor her and put up my tree with some of her decorations that I have carefully kept. When I turn the lights on at night it gives a magical feeling to the room that I know mum would have loved.

Miss you mum, and my sweet dad too who died many years ago. Wish you were both here to celebrate and thank you for the many happy Christmases we shared together.

Best wishes to everyone for a joyous, peaceful and loving Christmas. May you always be blessed.

50s style and elegance

2011-12-19T14:12:00.000-08:00

I just love everything about this image taken in 1956. The clothes by various designers including one of my favourites, Mr Mort, are divine and the composition and styling are incredible. What and eye this photographer had.

Liz Taylor's jewellery goes for record prices

2011-12-14T02:12:00.000-08:00

No bargains to be had at this auction.

Frenzied bidding on jewellery owned by Elizabeth Taylor drove prices much higher than estimated by Christies.

Her necklace La Peregrina (2nd from top) which is a stunning early 16th century pearl, ruby and diamond creation by Cartier and given to her by Richard Burton was estimated to sell for around $3million and finally sold for a whopping $11million.

The huge square-shaped diamond ring (bottom photo), also a gift from Burton, sold for $8 million.

There is still so much more to go under the hammer including clothes and artwork. One can only dream.

Kathy's story

2011-12-06T20:54:00.000-08:00

Recently I sold the vintage 50s black lace dress by Abe Schrader (above) to a lovely woman called Kathy from the US.
She then wrote to me telling me her story and added the photos of her taken in the first dress.
Here is what she wrote:

Dear Linda,

Thank you for such great service.

You've been fantastic.

I look forward to receiving the dress.

Believe it or not, I have this exact same dress that I bought twenty seven years ago at a vintage store when I was just eighteen years old.

I've included a couple of pictures of it, just for fun.

Boy, do I look young there (I guess because I was). (1984)

You know how it is, twenty seven years ago, but it seems like yesterday.

It's been my absolute favorite dress ever since the moment I first saw it and I've worried about what I'd do if anything ever happened to it.

Now , thanks to you, it's no worries.

Who would have thought I'd find it on the other side of the planet?

The internet is a wonderful thing.

Thank you so much. I greatly appreciate it.

Kathy

I just loved the story and beautiful photos so much I wanted to share it with you once Kathy agreed. The top photo is simply stunning ... so well composed and Kathy has such great composure and elegance. What is interesting also is it is timeless. It could have even been taken in the 50s. Isn't it amazing how a dress can have such an affect.

Just love this photo of Jean Patchett

2011-11-02T16:22:00.000-07:00

Thank you Louise over at digsfrocksandbooks.blogspot.com for the great post on the 50s American model Jean Patchett. I just loved this photo so much I had to share it. The way the the photo has been cropped, the divine dress and the mood created when the model is not looking at the camera. Jean Patchett has such an intelligent expression on her face ... very pensive. Would love a blow-up of this one for the wall.

New arrival

2011-10-25T22:52:00.000-07:00

I just love this cornflower blue linen vintage late 40s to early 50s dress I have just listed for sale on vintageclothing.com.au

I can see this one at the Spring Racing Carnival with just the right hat, probably in the same lovely shade of blue. Short white gloves would just finish it off. Hope someone thinks the same as I love the idea of these unique dresses from the past being resurrected for a new life.

Almost Melbourne Cup time

2011-10-23T01:29:00.000-07:00

With the Melbourne Cup so near I thought I would share this beguiling photo I stumbled across by Frank Horvat taken at Longchamp racetrack in 1958. The model is wearing a stunning hat by Givenchy. Don't the men look elegant too.

When Liz first wed Richard

2011-10-11T16:17:00.000-07:00

I was saddened to see in the upcoming auction of The Elizabeth Taylor Collection, Liz Taylor's and Richard Burton's wedding bands are to be sold. (If you scroll down a couple of posts on this blog you can read more about it and see the rings.)
Mind you not that I wouldn't love to be the winning bidder but still can't believe the family will let them go.
Then only yesterday a dear friend sent me the lovely pic, above, from their first wedding in 1964 and when I searched out more there was one of the rings on Liz's finger (top 2 photos).
Doesn't she look amazing.
Many thanks to Getty Images and hellomagazine.com for the photos

Stella McCartney channels Wallis Simpson

2011-10-09T22:02:00.000-07:00

When I saw the recent wedding photos of Sir Paul McCartney and Nancy Shevell I thought her dress, designed by Stella McCartney, looked very familiar. Was it something I had seen in the seventies? Then it struck me, it looks very much like the dress Wallis Simpson wore when she wed Edward VIII in 1937... only shorter. Hers was created by Mainbocher.
That started me thinking about those lovely little crepe dresses we used to wear in the 70s that had a distinctly 30s feel. Think Biba and Mary Quant. Interesting how fashion evolves and revolves. But that is another story.
For more fabulous photos of the wedding go to http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2047090/Paul-McCartney-wedding-Nancy-Shevell-Beatle-US-heiress-marry-London.html?ito=feeds-newsxml

The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor goes on sale

2011-10-03T15:35:00.001-07:00

I am always a little sad to see a fabulous collection of items saved over a lifetime go to auction and most likely be broken up and bought by individual buyers. I guess it is the nature of possessions . . . they are only on loan to us.
I must admit to being a little suprised though to see the wedding bands given to Elizabeth Taylor by Richard Burton for their weddings in 1964 and 1975 in the sale. Such personal items. Interestingly Christie's are estimating a selling price between $6,000 and $8,000. I am predicting they will go for a lot more with such provenance.
This fabulous collection goes to auction at Christie's New York in December and London in February.
Before it goes to auction it will be taken on tour worldwide. Unfortunately Australia wasn't mentioned in the tour locations.
To see more and get details of this wonderful collection for sale go Christies's website.

Vintage lace beauty

2011-10-03T00:23:00.000-07:00

Sorry, due to illness I haven't been blogging but hopefully am back on track now.

I wanted to share this divine vintage 50s salmon lace dress by Ferman O-Grady with you which I have just listed on my site vintageclothing.com.au
So, so elegant. Perfect for a Spring wedding or the upcoming racing carnival. These wonderful vintage dresses inspire me so much.

Lovely Louise over at digsfrocksandbooks.blogspot.com has a great giveaway of a wonderful book on Horrockses fashion. Better be quick as it goes off tomorrow.

Pretty in pink

2011-08-25T17:02:00.000-07:00

I have just listed this gorgeous 2pce outfit on vintageclothing.com.au and had to share it with you. I get so excited when I see an original 1950s garment in such pristine condition. This little number looks just as it would back when it was first made. So pretty and versatile being a top and skirt. The skirt would look fabulous with a little white teeshirt also and I can just see the top worn over your favourite jeans. Love it. Made from a lovely cotton and the label is Kerrybrooke for the department store Sears Roebuck.

Latest arrival .... and just sold.

2011-08-18T04:20:00.001-07:00

Gorgeous 1950s vintage, mocha-coloured, lace dress labelled Neiman Marcus. Just love the new-look styling made famous by Dior in the late 40s. This would make a stunning wedding dress. Please have a look at vintageclothing.com.au

UPDATE: I'm so delighted to have this held in reserve for a lovely young woman who is planning to wear it to her wedding soon.

Ankle cuffs

2011-08-10T00:30:00.001-07:00

Uber-stylish Stephanie LaCava shown on the fabulous street-style blog, alltheprettybirds with her custom-made ankle cuffs. Brings to mind the beautiful women of Africa and their amazing ankle jewellery. I love her dress and that she has kept accessories to a bare minimum. Very chic and original.

Back to the 70s

2011-08-04T19:02:00.000-07:00

Louis Vuitton (top) channels Jodie Foster from Taxi Driver (bottom 2 pics) in his Spring/Summer 2011 collection. Jodi's outfit wouldn't look at all out of place on the streets today. Especially love those red suede platforms.

Gorgeous, grey ... and 46-years-old

2011-08-02T19:00:00.000-07:00

Just loving the fact 46-year-old supermodel Kristen McMenamy recently appeared with her wonderful flowing grey tresses on the cover of youth culture bible Dazed & Confused and style icon Vogue Italia. I must admit some people go grey much better than others and it would certainly be benficial to have her beautiful facial features. I think when your hair is straight it retains a shine even when grey. I'm still not brave enough to give up my dye.

Lady in red

2011-07-28T22:19:00.000-07:00

Just thought Dannii Minogue looked fabulous in the beautiful red lace J'Aton dress she wore for the finals of Australia's Got Talent this week. She often wears gowns by this designer but this would have to be my favourite with it's vintage 50s feel. Utterly feminine and flattering. Her nude-coloured platform heels are Sergio Rossi and her drop-earrings are Bvlgari.

Dressing up for summer in Europe

2011-07-21T23:28:00.000-07:00

Images taken by Tamu McPherson on her fabulous street style blog alltheprettybirds

How marvelous to see all these lovely dresses of varying lengths taken in Milan and Paris on Tamu McPherson's blog all the pretty birds. So many shown are knee-length which makes a great change. So feminine. I'm looking forward to seeing them all come out (I hope) once Spring and Summer arrive here in Australia.
You'll find a vintage white Prue Acton dress on my website vintageclothing that reminds me of the dress second from top.

Adrian's designs showcased in The Women, 1939

2011-07-03T22:53:00.001-07:00

If you love the clothing from the late 30s to early 40s you'll love the original version of The Women by George Cukor made in 1939. It stars Norma Shearer, Joan Crawford, Rosalind Russell and Joan Fontaine to mention a few. All are exquisitely dressed in Adrian creations. With an all-women cast the costumes are a feast to behold. The sets are are a treat too.

Marilyn's Subway dress sold for a whopping $4.6m

2011-06-19T02:10:00.000-07:00

Marilyn Monroe and Tom Ewell in "The Seven Year Itch" (1955).(Credit: 20th Century Fox)

It really is incredible to think someone was prepared to pay $4.6 million dollars for a dress. I think it shows the huge influence clothes have. I just wonder also how long this silk dress will last. Being silk it's shelf life is limited unless it is stored and handled very carefully. I'm astounded. I bet Debbie Reynolds is also and very happy.

Kate's best yet

2011-06-13T00:16:00.000-07:00

Just love the edginess and youthfulness of this divine one-off Alexander McQueen coat dress Kate (Duchess Catherine) chose to wear for the official celebration of the Queen's 85th birthday. Not sure who designed the hat yet.

Debbie Reynold's amazing vintage clothing collection goes to auction

2011-06-09T00:21:00.000-07:00

The iconic ivory pleated dress by Travilla Marilyn Monroe wore in Seven Year Itch, 1955, is among the collection and has been estimated to go for between $1m to $2m can you believe. Would love to be at the auction.

"My lifetime dream has been to assemble and preserve the history of the Hollywood film industry. Hollywood has been an enormous part of my life as I know it has been for countless fans all over the world. This collection represents a lifetime of collecting Hollywood artifacts and this is a rare opportunity to own a piece of Hollywood History for those who love the movies as much as I do. For the first time in nearly five decades, these iconic pieces will be made available to the public through a series of auctions presented by Profiles in History beginning in June 2011." - Debbie Reynolds

To see more of this extensive collection go to http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/galleries/
To read more about the auction go to Caroline Ashley's blog

Vintage dress from vintageclothing.com.au pips at the post

2011-06-04T18:17:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to see lovely Tanya Lazarou (right) looking stunning in the vintage 50s dress she bought from me when she won Fashions on the Field at Queensland Oaks Day (centre photo). She was also first runner up at Myers Ladies Day, Sydney Carnival Rosehill Gardens (top and bottom photo). Congratulations Tanya and thank you for shopping with me.

The Obamas ... the eyes have it

2011-05-25T21:56:00.000-07:00

Getty Image

I love this photo of President and Mrs Obama and it's not because of the gorgeous Ralph Lauren dress and fabulous jewellery she is wearing. It's the way they are looking at each other.
It just conveys how much they love, respect and admire each other.

Kate wows them in her Reiss dress

2011-05-25T21:40:00.000-07:00

Getty Images

The dress Kate chose to wear when she met the Obamas at Buckingham Palace cost $267 and is by British fashion warehouse Reiss who are now madly hurrying to meet orders. I would have preferred another colour but maybe the idea is not to overshadow Michelle. Just goes to show though you don't need to spend a fortune to look good, although with such a slim figure she could wear anything.

Behind the scenes at Jean-Paul Gaultier

2011-05-23T00:15:00.000-07:00

Caught a fabulous documentary on SBS last week called Le jour d’avant or The Day Before by French director Loïc Prigent. It was about the 24 hours lead-up to Jean-Paul Gaultier's autumn/winter 2009 haute couture show.

I was riveted to the tv from start to finish watching what is involved behind the scenes in bringing these stunning creations to fruition. The vibe in his studio is electric in the lead-up. The incredibly talented staff are nearly all women and Jean Paul came across as a really nice human being. Kind of wished I could work there.

One part showed the dress above, inspired by the movie Day of the Iguana, being constructed in his studio by a specialist crochet artisan. It is hand-made from pieces of crocodile skin which have been joined by intricate crochet work. The attention to detail and the love and care poured into this dress was incredible. When the woman who made it watched it coming down the runway during the show she cried. I can imagine why.

Am now looking forward to another episode this week about Karl Lagerfeld.

Just arrived ... Gorgeous vintage 50s Peck & Peck red dress

2011-05-19T22:08:00.000-07:00

Such a vintage classic. I always am so delighted when a vintage dress comes to me in such lovely unworn condition. For more details go to vintageclothing.com.au

Still obsessing about wedding dresses

2011-05-03T00:56:00.000-07:00

After all the comparisons I just wanted to have another look at the amazing gown, designed by Helen Rose, Grace Kelly wore when she wed Prince Ranier in 1956 to see which one I prefer.
I can't help but being continually drawn to this dress. I just feel it has that something extra although if I could see more closely all the beautifully intricate embroidery done on Kate's dress by the Royal College of Needlework in London I might change my mind.

Kate goes classic for her wedding to William

2011-04-29T05:07:00.000-07:00

Kate looking beautiful in her wedding gown designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen. It has a very feminine 50s feel, reminiscent of the gown Grace Kelly wore which was designed by Helen Rose when she married Prince Rainier of Monaco.
I was hoping she would wear this style. It could ring the death knell for strapless gowns for a while which will be a welcome relief.

The Beckhams look uber-chic as they arrive at Westminster Abbey for the wedding of William and Kate

2011-04-29T01:23:00.000-07:00

Gail Sorronda's simply stunning Polar Desert AW11 collection

2011-04-05T01:23:00.001-07:00

London-based Brisbane lass, Gail Reid, whose label Gail Sorronda is such a talented young woman and the daughter of a dear (very proud) friend of mine. To see more of her beautiful clothes and accessories go to gailsorronda.portableshops.com

Elizabeth Taylor 1932-2011

2011-03-23T16:37:00.001-07:00

Thank you for the beautiful memories. My thoughts are with your family, friends and millions of fans. May you rest in the arms of our Lord.

Simply fabulous dresses by Helen Rose

2011-03-20T02:57:00.000-07:00

Oh I wish I had a photo of every dress worn in Designing Woman starring the beautiful Lauren Bacall and the very handsome Gregory Peck. The costume designer was Helen Rose and her designs are superb. Lauren Bacall must have been a joy to work with as she had such an amazing model's figure. I recommend seeing the movie if only for the clothes and actors. Also some great interiors.

Wittner campaign uses dresses from vintageclothing.com.au

2011-03-12T16:16:00.000-08:00

Thrilled to see the new Wittner campaign shots as the 2 gorgeous black vintage 50s dresses are from my website vintageclothing.com.au
It's such a treat to see women looking so fabulous in these timeless vintage dresses with modern accessories.

Biba delicious

2011-03-10T23:06:00.000-08:00

What a fabulous look at original fashions from Biba in 1969. There is a wonderful tapestry-look full length coat featured about halfway through. The same one in a shorter version is for sale at shrimptoncouture.blogspot.com
I am lusting after the brown velvet high-waisted pants with lots of buttons worn with the coat.

Kate Middleton entrenched in Burberry

2011-03-08T15:29:00.000-08:00

Kate Middleton looking super-stylish in her Burberry trench. Great choice as not only a British brand but suits her perfectly. Can see this one rushing out the door.

50 years of The Australian Women's Weekly

2011-03-07T17:32:00.000-08:00

I was thrilled to receive a photo of a dress that I recently sold worn to a vintage inspired afternoon tea to celebrate the digital presentation of the first 50 years of the iconic Women's Weekly magazine at the National Library of Australia in Canberra. In the top photo, Dale Forrest, centre, is the lovely woman who bought this rare, never-worn vintage 50s dress from vintageclothing.com.au. It suits her beautifully.
The library are making all these copies available for viewing online. They only have 484 to find. What a great effort when you consider it was published weekly until 1982 when it went monthy so keep your eyes open please.

My Oscar favourite

2011-03-01T01:39:00.001-08:00

Sandra Bullock wearing Vera Wang. Just perfect.

On Cue

2011-02-27T16:30:00.001-08:00

Just love the fabulous new Cue Winter 2011 range. I've always been a fan of their edgy tailoring and feel they fill a void in the high-street retail clothing market. The photos above are taken from their website www.cue.cc

Stockings with strappy shoes?

2011-02-23T02:17:00.000-08:00

My dear friend emailed this photo to me to see if I think she could get away with stockings with these strappy shoes she has bought to attend her daughter's wedding. No she isn't planning on wearing a short stocking. It was just to give me an idea of how the toes look with a stocking on. Even though stockings make our legs look much better I really think no stockings is the way to go. Just wondering what you think and would love to hear your opinion.

Best trench

2011-02-21T15:17:00.001-08:00

Blogger Tamu McPherson of alltheprettybirds.blogspot.com looking gorgeous in her classic PENNYBLACK trench coat when she attended their spring/summer 2011 show in Paris. Just love her accessories also. One for the wish list.
Just found all the details on
http://www.pennyblack.com/en/look-book/COATS

The ultimate accessory

2011-02-09T21:41:00.000-08:00

Sunglasses of course. They wore them so well in the 50s and 60s.

Reliving the fabulous fifties by Benjamin Kanarek for Harpers Bazaar

2011-01-22T01:21:00.000-08:00

I found these simply luscious photos from a recent shoot for Spanish Harpers Bazaar. The photography and behind-the-scenes video (with some truly wonderful music) is by Benjamin Kanarek. The model is Michelle Westgeest and to read more about the designers and team go to http://www.benjaminkanarekblog.com/79l.

Australian farmer saves kangaroos from drowning in flood

2011-01-12T23:05:00.000-08:00

This has been a tragic time for Queenslanders but also a time of so many selfless acts of kindness. These poor, wet, wild kangaroos look so exhausted but content just to be on something dry. What an amazing man.

Betty Draper is wearing my dress only hers is blue.

2011-01-11T22:14:00.000-08:00

Apart from the catastrophe unfolding in Brisbane at the moment I couldn't believe my eyes when I opened The Courier-Mail this morning and saw a photo from Mad Men with Ms Draper wearing a stunning 1950s dress as I have the very same vintage dress for sale on vintageclothing.com.au Only difference, mine is in pink. It also has the original belt and has never been worn.
I had to inform the lovely Courier Mail fashion editor, Laura Stead, who kindly did a piece on her blog http://blogs.news.com.au/couriermail/behindtheseams/

Just love Zuburbia's Ebay vintage clothing roundup

2011-01-10T14:31:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to zuburbia.com for their regular roundup of fabulous vintage clothing and accessory finds on Ebay. Just click on the photo at the site and you will be taken to the auction. I was delighted to see they had included a vintage dress I had listed on Ebay recently.

For those who loved and wore The House of Merivale

2011-01-03T18:02:00.000-08:00

Fabulous vintage 70s Merivale leather jacket
shown on omdiddyom.blogspot.com

I have found a wonderful post and thread about The House of Merivale fashions over at circavintage.com.au It has inspired a generation of fans, including me, to reminisce about our times spent shopping at either their Sydney or Melbourne store during the seventies. Here's an excerpt from the The Powerhouse's site on the post.

Established by John and Merivale Hemmes, the landmark House of Merivale and clothing designed by Merivale revolutionised the Australian fashion scene. John and Merivale Hemmes were mavericks in Australian fashion. Modelled on London’s famous concept boutiques and catering to 18-25 year olds, the House of Merivale was the first specialty fashion boutique in Australia.

The House of Merivale was not just a shop; it was a phenomenon that significantly influenced a generation of young Australian’s attitude to shopping and the fashion experience. The House of Merivale was the place to go to for the latest trends in music, fashion and make-up and was the first store in Australia to sell the mini. The popularity of the boutique was such that teenagers would be lined up outside the door.

Yes, I was there nearly every Saturday morning while working in Sydney spending my hard-earned cash on some amazing item of clothing. Even now I can describe every piece I bought in detail. Recently I spotted on Ebay the same fabulous brown leather Merivale jacket I bought from the store. Even though it was far to small to wear I just had to buy it to have another look. Incredible what an effect clothes have on us.

Ebay's Top Shopped report for 2010

2010-12-29T15:18:00.000-08:00

Military jacket

Plaid

50s fashion vintageclothing.com.au

FAUX fur

Lady Gaga, McQueen

America’s 2010 Top Fashion Obsessions as reported by Ebay's Top Shopped report:

A Salute to Fashion: One of the biggest fashion trends this year, military jackets topped the list as the fashion obsession for 2010 with fashion fanatics buying more than 1 million related items on eBay (1,038,026 related items sold).

Pretty in Plaid: As the favorite fabric for fall, plaid was a hot commodity on eBay, coming in second as a fashion obsession with 718,365 related items sold.

Return of the Decades: Retro fashion was haute this year with decades like the 30s, 50s, 80s and 90s trending high on eBay. The feminine 1950s took the cake with 626,264 related items sold, followed by the 1980s (378,222 related items sold), 1930s (321,103 related items sold) and 1990s (299,785 related items sold). Neon was also a big fashion trend this year and was a bright spot with 469,356 related items sold.

The New Glam: Decadent materials like faux fur (105,988 related items sold) and feathers (121,983 related items sold) as well as dramatic, bold prints – specifically leopard print (80,120 related items sold) – were all the rage with the fashion-savvy set of 2010.

Fashion Icon Lives On: This year marked the passing of iconic fashion designer Alexander McQueen. His legacy has lived on with fans buying 20,070 related items. In addition, McQueen’s unofficial muse and fashion icon for the new millennium, Lady Gaga, had shoppers vying for her look with related sales that totaled 96,470.

Best wishes for a joyous, peaceful and loving Christmas

2010-12-25T00:27:00.000-08:00

The inspirational Lauren Hutton on style

2010-12-21T17:33:00.000-08:00

You never want to look like you have spent to much time getting dressed
It's better to look as if you've just thrown something on rather than prissed up everything
I like mixing expensive with inexpensive
I want to wear whatever looks good on me no matter where it comes from.
Youth is for trying everything. Usually by 50 you have some idea what works. That doesn't mean you should stop trying new things
Get to know your proportions
It's massively important for me to feel comfortable in what I am wearing
I shop every department ... women's, men's and kid's

Great advice from a woman who is still modeling at 64. The above quotes are taken from the J. Crew ad campaign she is modeling for at jcrew.com

Wear the same brooch that Rita Hayworth wore

2010-12-18T21:14:00.001-08:00

I was fascinated to see that a vintage crab brooch and earring set by Eugene Joseff is for sale on cooljools.com The top picture shows a young Rita Hayworth wearing the same brooch in second top photo. Eugene Joseff is reported to have designed up to ninety percent of the jewellery worn by Hollywood who's who from 1930 to 1948. His jewellery was worn in many famous movies including Gone with the Wind (1939), High Society (1956) and Cleopatra (1963). The other photos are of more stunning jewellery for sale on the same site.

More on Marchesa

2010-12-17T21:15:00.000-08:00

Thought I might do a little bit of research on Marchesa after the post on Nicole Richie's wedding gown and came up with these exquisite gowns from their Spring Summer 2010 range. Truly beautiful.

Nicole Richie chooses Marchesa for her wedding

2010-12-15T20:40:00.001-08:00

Nicole Richie looking beautiful in her Grace Kelly inspired wedding gown by Marchesa when she tied the knot with long-time partner, rocker Joel Madden. It is reported to be one of three dresses Nicole chose for the day. I believe the skirt of the dress above was made from more than 100 yards of hand-draped silk organza and tulle petals. The top with sleeves looks to be a gorgeous lace. I'm thinking this will spell the death knell for the strapless wedding dress for a while which will be a nice change.
Picture: twirlit

Oprah endorses aussie designer Camilla Franks

2010-12-13T16:23:00.001-08:00

Grace Kelly wears it well

2010-12-04T20:20:00.000-08:00

I once read designer Edith Head loved working with Grace Kelly and can't I understand why after watching Rear Window last night. I've shown the 3 standout garments she wore during the film. I've also included a close-up of the fabulous gold bracelet she wore when she had the divine green and white suit on. If you would like to read more about these stunning creations go to clothesonfilm.com

The ultimate in style

2010-12-02T20:53:00.000-08:00

This photo just ticks all the boxes. The clothes by Dior, circa 1950s, are to die for and the composition of the models is sublime. What I also love is the position of the models on the background. True art.

Our Nicole does Goldilocks

2010-11-30T21:32:00.000-08:00

Not sure what Nicole and Keith were thinking when they got dressed for the Oprah show recently. Nicole looks like she is channeling Goldilocks and Keith ... well Keith looks like he just threw any old thing on he could find lying around. Congratulations to Oprah. She held up her side in classic black pants and white shirt.
Must say though I love Keith Urban's gently manner and soft accent.

One for Betty Draper

2010-11-25T22:40:00.001-08:00

While I was recently uploading this gorgeous 50s dress to my site vintageclothing.com.au I thought how fabulous it would look on Betty Draper in Mad Men. The pink colour of the silk would just flatter her amazing blond looks. I can't get enough of that show. The clothes, the sets ... has anyone noticed how many unique vintage 60s lampshades they have used?

Loving Kate Middleton's engagement announcement dress

2010-11-16T20:05:00.001-08:00

I thought Kate Middleton looked gorgeous in her blue jersey dress by one of her favorite designers, Issa of London, for the official engagement announcement. It showed off her slim figure and fabulous legs beautifully. Not to mention complimenting the stunning sapphire and diamond engagement ring that belonged to William's mother Diana, Princess of Wales. Thanks to theclotheswhisperer.co.uk I have discovered it cost 385 pounds.

Time and place

2010-11-09T01:00:00.001-08:00

If I see one more pair of cut off denim jeans/shorts in the Brisbane CBD I am going to go crazy. They have become a world-wide uniform, taking over from the ubiquitous leggings. Showing my age ... you bet. Girls please show some originality and flair and find your own style.

Vintage reigns supreme

2010-11-06T03:34:00.001-07:00

I just thought this winning dress stood out right from the start. Melbourne Spring Carnival Fashions on the Field winner Jaydee Paino from Cairns was very creative restructuring an $18 dress with a horse print she bought online from the US. She won a huge stash of cash and a fabulous car.

Fabulous Christian Dior Cruise 2011

2010-10-20T02:02:00.001-07:00

Divine Dior in lilac

Stunning pink Dior creation

Original vintage 1950s gown

I had to do a double take when I saw the top two stunning gowns from Dior's cruise 2011 collection. Such a vintage 50s look. I even have a very similar dress shown in photo above for sale at vintageclothing.com.au
I can see where the inspiration came from.

My picks for the Spring Racing Carnival

2010-10-18T17:44:00.000-07:00

It's that time of the year again and I see vintage is a big trend for the Spring Racing Carnival. I can just imagine the black and white spotted dress above, teamed with a fabulous black hat of course, at Derby Day. These dresses are all at www.vintageclothing.com.au

Fun florals from Dolce & Gabbana 2011 Spring Collection

2010-10-09T22:30:00.000-07:00

Found these wonderful images on www.alltheprettybirds.blogspot.com
There is certainly a vintage vibe in the D&G Spring 2011 collection. Nothing says Spring like a floral pattern. Just love the long flowing dresses in first pic.

Thank you Louis Vuitton

2010-09-28T18:02:00.000-07:00

I love just everything about this Louis Vuitton fall/winter 2010 ad campaign. Firstly, the simply stunning 50s inspired dresses. Secondly, the feminine, classic length of those dresses. Thirdly, I love and want all the accessories. Then, the models (Christy Turlington, Natalia Vodianova and Karen Elson) photography and composition (Steven Meisel), and styling (Karl Templer). Could this be a return to real clothes for real women?

David Dowton captures the essence of style

2010-09-27T17:33:00.001-07:00

While strolling through Queen's Paza in Brisbane yesterday I came across a small exhibition of some of the supremely talented David Dowton's fashion illustrations. In a previous life I also worked as a fashion illustrator for the iconic store David Jones ... which is now in this complex. It was very fitting to see this form of artwork, so beautifully done, being displayed there. I am so thrilled it is being done again as the style it conveys is only possible through this media. Unfortunately fashion illustration lost favour in the late seventies when photography took over. What I'd give for one of Downton's prints. The exhibition is on until early October.

David Downton is also Editor in Chief of Pourquoi Pas? the only journal dedicated to fashion illustration. To see more go to http://www.pqpmagazine.com/

Fabulous film frocks

2010-09-25T17:33:00.000-07:00

Dinner at Eight, 1933. Costume designer: Adrian

Gilda, 1946. Costume designer: Jean Louis

A Place in the Sun, 1951. Costume designer: Edith Head

Niagara, 1953. Costume designer: Dorothy Jeakins

Sabrina, 1954. Costume designer: Edith Head

Cat on A Hot Tin Roof, 1958. Costume designer: Helen Rose

Breakfast at Tiffany's, 1961. Costume designer: Givenchy

While researching the divine white dress Elizabeth Taylor wore in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof I came across 'Send in the Gowns, Freddie Leiba, 22 seminal film frocks that bewitched the world', by Robin Sayers on latimesmagazine.com. Sure enough Elizabeth is there in that amazing white silk dress by Helen Rose. I've uploaded my favourites but for more go to http://www.latimesmagazine.com/2010/02/send-in-the-gowns.html
There are also some fascinating details about each dress.

Would love to hear what your favourite film dress is.

New arrival. Vintage 1950s flocked nylon dress never worn.

2010-07-28T18:13:00.000-07:00

Oh how utterly feminine and online now for sale at vintageclothing.com.au

Zuhair Murad ... the epitomy of glamour

2010-07-23T18:16:00.000-07:00

Just discovered the Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad and cannot believe the fabrics and bead work in his stunning gowns. Personally I am a much more tailored sort of a gal but you just cannot but admire these incredible creations. His full collection which must be seen to be believed is on zuhairmurad.com

The Last Time I Saw Paris .. simply fabulous

2010-07-10T03:31:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth Taylor in a scene from The Last Time I saw Paris
wearing the fabulous red dress I mentioned below .
The man is a very young Roger Moore.

Just spent a most enjoyable 2 hours on the sofa watching "The Last Time I saw Paris."

Released in 1954. This classic movie is a romantic drama made by MGM, and set in post-World War II Paris. The film stars Elizabeth Taylor and Van Johnson, with Walter Pidgeon, Donna Reed, Eva Gabor, Kurt Kasznar, George Dolenz, Sandy Descher and Roger Moore. After the end of World War II in Europe, Charles (Van Johnson) plays a journalist walking the streets of Paris covering the city-wide celebration when a total stranger, Helen (Elizabeth Taylor), stops and gives him a celebratory kiss. And thus begins the tale of love, jealousy, challenging marriages, and disillusionment.

Best of all are the amazing clothes worn mainly by the gorgeous Elizabeth Taylor. Donna Reed and Eva Gabor have some sensational outfits also.

I couldn't find many stills from the movies to upload but did find an interesting site www.dressingvintage.com/featured-designer-helen-rose.html with details about the clothing designer for the film, Helen Rose.

Rose's designs, worn by Elizabeth Taylor with her wasp waist, are breathtaking on the screen! Among my favorites are a two piece purple coat/dress ensemble, a black one shoulder evening gown, and a sensational red dress in one of the last of Elizabeth's scenes in the film. The censor of the film rejected the dress because of it's dramatic cleavage, but it was so stunningly beautiful that he was convinced to allow it in the film. Helen Rose was interviewed in the 1970s and mentioned that she had recently seen Elizabeth Taylor's mother and she told her that she still had that red dress. I would have held on to it too! Ms. Rose worked with Elizabeth Taylor on several films and created Liz's now iconic look from Butterfield 8 and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.

Gorgeous 50s spring florals for sale and listed

2010-07-06T01:57:00.000-07:00

As promised I have finally listed these 3 delightful vintage 50s dresses. They are so rare in that they have never been worn and are in pristine condition. Please check them out on vintageclothing.com.au

A Vintage Affair by Isabel Wolff ... great read especially for the vintage clothing lover

2010-06-30T16:58:00.000-07:00

From the jacket:
Phoebe Swift always dreamt of opening her own vintage dress shop.
At the launch of Village Vintage, Phoebe feels the tingle of excitement as customers snap up the fairytale dresses. Her dream has come true but a secret from her past is casting a shadow over her new venture.
Then one day she meets Therese, and elderly Frenchwoman with a collection to sell, apart from the one garment she won't part with.
As Therese tells the story of the little blue coat, Phoebe becomes aware of a profound connection with her own life, one that will help her heal the pain of her past and allow her to love again.

I can see this becoming a movie soon.

A time of elegance

2010-06-24T17:08:00.001-07:00

My neighbour called me in yesterday to meet her dear friend who had just arrived from northern NSW by bus to enter her beautifully knitted garments in the Brisbane Royal Show this year.
Her garments inspired me to look for patterns on the net and I found these amazing designs from the 50s. It was such an era of elegance ... the styles, the accessories, the photography, the models. And people actually had time to knit.

Just listed ... vintage 50s Oleg Cassini couture

2010-06-20T19:16:00.000-07:00

Just love the fan style back detail on this gorgeous Oleg Cassini dress.
It is now for sale at www.vintageclothing.com.au

Just listed this amazing vintage dress from the 1950s

2010-06-13T23:52:00.001-07:00

I am so excited about this gorgeous vintage 1950s dress that I have just listed on my website vintageclothing.com.au
I can just see it at the Spring Racing Carnival this year. Imagine the hat you could wear with it.
The sleeves are so now too.
What is amazing is it has never been worn, just carefully stored all those years.

Jackie Kennedy's fabulous wedding dress

2010-06-11T21:55:00.000-07:00

When Jacqueline Bouvier married then Congressman John Kennedy in 1953 she was wearing the most divine gown by Anne Lowe an African American designer from New York.
It took 50 yards of silk tafetta and 2 months to make.

Back to the seventies ... I'm told

2010-06-09T22:48:00.000-07:00

Can it be? Have just read on one of my favourite blogs www.alltheprettybirds.blogspot.com that the seventies is making a comeback this European summer.

Tamu McPherson, the blogs author who roves the streets of Milan and Paris with her camera goes on the say 'Yes, I'm obsessed with fashion's return to the seventies: camel tones, flare pants, structured handbags, platforms and wedges! '

The look has always been around but I look forward to a major resurgence.

Just love this quote from Mutton's Guide to Fashion

2010-06-01T18:23:00.000-07:00

Above: The fabulous Italian fashion writer and style icon Anna Piaggi

Mutton's philosophy

Ignored by fashion designers, invisible in the fashion press, generally mute on her actual age for fear of rejection, the woman over 40 needs to develop a split-personality in her fashion life. She is presented with clothes cut for prepubescent girls, shown on the catwalk by skeletal amazons and on magazines pages by teenagers. Through extraordinary mental gymnastics, she needs to imagine how those clothes and styles would hang and feel on her, a woman over 40 who looks nothing like the women for whom the clothes were designed nor the women who model them. Caught between two equally unattractive fates - fading into greyness or the ridicule of "mutton dressed as lamb", she needs to skillfully navigate the treacherous fashion waters.

Help is at hand! This guide intends to sift through designers' collections, retailers and magazines, and highlight what works and doesn't work for women over 40 and make fashion fun again!

For more go to http://muttonsguidetofashion.blogspot.com/

Brisbane Arts Theatre are having a clothing sale

2010-06-01T16:43:00.000-07:00

Vintage lovers - mark Saturday 26 June in your diaries now!
The Brisbane Arts Theatre is holding its annual sale of gorgeous vintage clothing and costumes.
I'm told prices start from just $1 and it begins at 8 am.

Nicole voted our most stylish

2010-05-13T02:42:00.000-07:00

Nicole Kidman has just won 2 categories in the InStyle Women of Style Awards. Her comments included:
"Style means having a voice, it means not compromising who you are because of what people say; it means standing proud, and knowing that that sometimes you are going to go in and out of fashion, but still, staying true to yourself,"
She also paid tribute to her "wonderfully opinionated" mother for encouraging her to find her voice.
Her style is impeccable and being blessed with her height and figure makes her able to wear anything and look amazing. I do think I prefer her as a blond though. Not sure about this new look.

More 'street style' from all the pretty birds

2010-05-11T17:05:00.000-07:00

Just love this blog alltheprettybirds.blogspot.com by Tamu McPherson (pictured in top 2 pics). Very inspiring seeing what is being worn in Milan and New York. Animal print is huge. Just think the older lady in pic 7 looks fabulous. You never lose it. My favourite though, is the last picture in this post. She looks perfect, not overdone, in an Alexander McQueen knit dress.

Great street style blog

2010-05-10T18:47:00.000-07:00

I came across this blog accidentally and couldn't resist it. So thought I might share it and some of the photos of street style in Milan, Paris and New York with you.
The look is very eclectic with the one ubiquitous constant which is must-have ankle boots. As long as you have them on I really think anything goes. Just pile it on now that winter is on the horizon.

alltheprettybirds.blogspot.com

New arrivals ... divine vintage 50s print dresses

2010-04-29T18:37:00.000-07:00

Prada has just done a Vintage Print collection so I thought I would make a composite of some of my recent arrivals at vintageclothing.com.au.
The amazing thing about these wonderful dresses is they have never been worn and some still have the tags attached. Also a lot better priced than Prada.

No one like Twiggy

2010-04-27T04:59:00.000-07:00

She was unique. The hair, the eyes, the makeup, and last but not least those amazing 60s clothes.

A lifetime of memories

2010-04-17T21:19:00.001-07:00

Have just been given this wonderful book by a dear friend.

Description taken from the Harper Collins website

Charlotte Smith has had more than her fair share of fabulous dresses and adventures. Born in Hong Kong and raised in the United States, she lived life to the full in London, Paris and New York before falling in love with Australia and discovering she had inherited a priceless vintage clothing collection from her American Quaker godmother, Doris Darnell.

Then the boxes started arriving, with more than three thousand treasures dating from 1790 to 1995, from originals by Dior, Chanel and Balenciaga to a pioneer woman′s daintily mended best dress.

But when she unearthed her godmothers book of stories about the dresses and the women who wore them, the true value of what she had been bequeathed hit home. This wasn′t a mere collection of beautiful things, it was a collection of life. Women′s lives. Tiny snapshots of our joys and disappointments, our entrances and exits, triumphant and tragic.

This is a book for any woman who knows a dress can hold a lifetime of memories.

My own mother died recently and nothing evokes her memories like her clothes that I have hanging in my wardrobe. She was 82 and very stylish. She had the most beautiful hair and never missed her weekly hairdressing appointment. We loved talking clothes and watching old movies together while drooling over the amazing fashions. She still had her fantasy clothes and one particular dress I listed on Ebay in a moment of madness. Mum never wore it but loved the thought of wearing it. I didn't think it would sell as it wasn't getting many lookers and I thought 'great it's not going to go' but right at the end it sold. It was pretty hard folding that dress up and sending it off but I hope the buyer gets as much enjoyment out of it as my mother did.

More on tulle ... tulle glorious tulle

2010-04-13T04:48:00.000-07:00

The name of this gorgeous fabric originates from the French town of Tulle, pronounced tool, at some time in the 1700s. Knitting a fabric with hexagonal meshes, the French made this lightweight and delicate looking fabric.
Tulle is made from cotton, silk, rayon, nylon, wool, polyamide, polyester and lurex. Cotton and silk are my favourites.

There's just something about tulle ... especially in pink

2010-04-08T19:02:00.000-07:00

Divine New Look pale pink 1950s dress I'm selling

2010-03-23T01:34:00.000-07:00

Have decided to sell this delightful, utterly feminine original 50s dress on Ebay
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150426436262&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

Remembering Alexander McQueen

2010-03-17T16:51:00.000-07:00

Such beautiful, elegant clothes. So sorry you are not with us anymore.

Dreaming of pouffy prom dresses

2010-03-15T01:17:00.000-07:00

Maddie's favourite spot is right in the middle of my most pouffy nylon vintage 50s petticoat. She is her mother's daughter.

Milliner supremo Stephen Jones exhibition coming to Brisbane

2010-03-12T18:33:00.000-08:00

How lucky. A collection of showcase pieces by the creative genius, English milliner, Stephen Jones is coming to Brisbane. The show will not only show the hats which are more like works of art, but give an insight into the inspiration, creation and wearing of these amazing wearable artforms.
Hats: An Anthology by Stephen Jones will be on show at the Queensland Art Gallery from March 27 until June 27, 2010. Can't wait.

My absolute favourite 50s dress now selling

2010-03-02T00:26:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about this new arrival. Just listed on www.vintageclothing.com.au
Simply divine 50s dress in black tulle embroidered with delicate soft pink flowers.

Gorgeous LBD just arrived and for sale

2010-03-01T19:23:00.001-08:00

I believe you just can't top the little black dress for elegance and style. Just love the fabric in this demure vintage LBD from the 1950s. Have just listed it on my website www.vintageclothing.com.au

Adorable vintage 80s pure silk Pascale Madonna of Paris bustier and panties set

2010-03-01T02:35:00.000-08:00

A dear friend of mine with impeccable style has decided to part with this divine vintage 80s bustier and panties set so I have decided to list it on Ebay. I just love it and even I will find it hard to part with. Made in France of pure silk by Pascale Madonna of Paris it is so reminiscent of the 40s. Sexy in a playful way. Anyway if anyone is interested the address is http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150418837031&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

More wonderful creations by the designer Mainbocher

2010-01-04T02:46:00.000-08:00

Some simply beautiful gowns by Mainbocher, who designed a lot of the Duchess of Windsor's clothes, including her amazing column-like wedding dress wedding dress and trousseau for her marriage to the former Edward VIII (the Duke of Windsor). If you'd like to know more about this designer go to http://community.livejournal.com/bygonefashion/228353.html

What happened to that gorgeous wedding ensemble by Mainbocher the Duchess of Windsor wore?

2010-01-04T02:41:00.000-08:00

It was kindly given by The Duchess of Windsor (Wallis Simpson) to the Metropolitan Musium of Art, New York in 1950.

Famous quotes from the Duchess of Windsor

2010-01-04T01:41:00.000-08:00

"You must always look like you stepped out of a bandbox."

"I'm trying to collect money for a third clinic, but I hope you don't mind if I buy one or two dresses."

"You have no idea how hard it is to live out a great romance!"

"A fool would know that with tweeds or other daytime clothes one wears gold, and that with evening clothes one wears platinum."

"My endowments were definitely on the scanty side. Nobody ever called me beautiful or even pretty."

"The most important thing is to take care of your face. The other end you sit on."

"You have to wear black, aging or not, because when the little black dress is right, there is nothing else to wear in its place."

"I am not a beautiful woman. I'm nothing to look at, so the only thing I can do is dress better than anyone else. If everyone looks at me when I enter a room, my husband can feel proud of me. That's my chief responsibility."

"In my opinion, there is only one important rule about clothes: it is that they should be so simple and unobtrusive as to seem unimportant."

"I have always had the courage for the new things that life sometimes offers."

"A woman's life can really be a succession of lives, each revolving around some emotionally compelling situation or challenge, and each marked off by some intense experience."

"For a gallant spirit there can never be defeat."

"Never explain, never complain."

www.divasthesite.com

Fabulous original vintage patterns

2010-01-02T22:03:00.000-08:00

Have just discovered a great website selling a large range of original vintage dressmaking patterns http://www.sovintagepatterns.com/. These patterns always take me back to a slower time when we made our clothes after carefully selecting the pattern and fabrics. Most were successful but I can remember a few disasters. I just wish I had kept more of these clothes after so much time and effort went into making them. Seeing these wonderful patterns makes me feel like taking up the scissors and sewing machine again.