Couture Call Girl

A Valentine for the Girl Who Has Everything

2012-01-08T19:57:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday, Ziggy Stardust

2012-01-08T00:18:00.003-05:00

Hard to believe that the man who sold the world is 65 today! David Bowie, the
consummate rocker, wearing Kansai Yamamoto.

Happy Holidays

2011-12-23T23:29:00.001-05:00

Wishing everyone a holiday season that sparkles like

a Hanna Bernhard piece!

Assad Mounser

2011-12-21T21:54:00.002-05:00

Loving my 'Moonage Daydream' choker and 'Paint it Black' earrings by Assad Mounser!

Check out more of her incredible work here: http://assadmounser.com

The After Shots

2011-12-19T08:05:00.002-05:00

Not bad for a 60+ year old bag!!! The leather is still so soft and

supple - amazing! Truly a testament to Hermes quality and craftsmanship!

Coming Home From Paris

2011-12-13T21:25:00.005-05:00

This amazing Hermes Kelly bag dates to the early 1950s, and though she was in incredible condition for her age, I noticed that the leather tabs attaching the handle were beginning to crack. So back in early August, I brought her to Hermes in Atlanta and off she went to Paris for a repair and spa treatment! Four months later, and I finally heard back from Hermes - she's ready for pickup! Hope to get her back tomorrow or Thursday and cannot wait! Above are my "before" photos - I'll be sure to post the "afters" once she's home!

Stay hungry, stay foolish

2011-10-06T00:58:00.002-04:00

RIP Steve Jobs

Happy Birthday, Bonnie Cashin

2011-09-28T01:35:00.003-04:00

"Mom, what's a record album?"

2011-09-19T21:04:00.004-04:00

Just found this baby online and got it the other day. So cool...am thinking of having it placed in a shadowbox frame and hanging it on my wall.

Cashin Break Pas Deux

2011-09-03T22:48:00.002-04:00

Cashin Cashmere & Mohair Wool Dog Leash Skirt with Leather Trim

Cashin Suede Leather Caplet Long Cape

Cashin Pink Leather Dress!

I'm cleaning out my closets to make room for my new Cashin goodies, so am downsizing some of my "doubles" and have the cape and skirt listed now on eBay!

Look what wrapped itself around my neck!

2011-08-22T21:49:00.003-04:00

Hanna Bernhard Snake Necklace

Worn with 70s Emilio Pucci Goddess Cape

But you can see it a little better against black!

The cross necklace is also Hanna Bernhard

Thank you to the ever-so-talented Nathalie from Hanna Bernhard for

making such incredibly beautiful works of art! I'm hooked!!!

Happy Birthday

2011-08-18T21:25:00.004-04:00

Mademoiselle Chanel, born August 19th 1883

Eye Candy

2011-08-17T19:26:00.002-04:00

Coco Bling +

2011-08-17T00:56:00.005-04:00

Gorgeous CHANEL Gripoix Pearl &

Swarovski Crystal Sautoir Necklace

YSL Runway Earrings

5" LONG!

Love the Gripoix & Crystals...gorgeous! All found at a recent Estate sale

of a former 70s fashion model!!

Oh Kate...

2011-08-14T18:23:00.003-04:00

Kate Moss rockin' Alexander McQueen....can't wait for my issue to arrive!

Chanel

2011-08-13T00:09:00.003-04:00

Just started listing some great Chanel finds from a local estate sale! The former owner was a fashion model in the 70s and had impeccable taste! More to come tomorrow!!

Cashin Break

2011-07-27T19:17:00.006-04:00

Just a brief and beautiful break from Hotlanta's unwavering heat...

I'm so looking forward to the fall and winter months!

Bonnie Cashin design raccoon fur hooded cape.

Bedazzled Eye Candy

2011-07-23T05:56:00.007-04:00

Sigh....some incredibly lovely designs by

three incredibly talented ladies...

Assad Mounser:

Guardian Cross Collar by Assad Mounser

Rambler Cuff by Assad Mounser

Atonement Cross Collar by Assad Mounser

Stephanie Lake Design:

60s Faceted Beads, antique rhinestones and vintage glass heart necklace

by Stephanie Lake Design

Baroque Pearl Earrings by Stephanie Lake Design

Antique Gilded Wood Sunburst and Arabesques, Antique Engraved French Chain

Stephanie Lake Design

Hanna Bernhard Paris:

Hanna Bernhard Heart Necklace

Hanna Bernhard Snake Cuff

Hanna Bernhard Flower Pin

The Colors of Pucci

2011-07-13T00:18:00.005-04:00

Age of Aquarius

2011-07-12T23:59:00.003-04:00

60s Emilio Pucci 'Arrow & Feather' Dress

DeNicola Zodiac Brooch - Aquarius

70s Draped India Peasant Sleeve Festival Dress

All listed on Etsy and eBay (click on links)

It's my party...

2011-06-21T20:17:00.005-04:00

It's my party, but there's no crying allowed with this dress!

I found this on a treasure hunt over the weekend, and was blown

away by the amount of organza and tulle! It's labeled Mitzi Morgan

for Neusteters, so you can imagine my surprise when I learned

that Neusteters was THE place for high end couture

goods back in the 50s and 60s! It's now listed on eBay (or BIN on etsy)

so if you're looking for a show stopper dress, check it out!

Treasure hunt

2011-06-06T22:49:00.007-04:00

There's nothing like an estate sale filled to the brim with vintage goodies! And it's even more exciting when several decades of fashion are represented!

Some Pauline Trigere (thinking this is late 70s or early 80s)

A great hat by Amy New York for Rich's Atlanta...50s, I think...

And then I found some Chanel pearls (baroque style, no less!) from the 70s...

Some 60s Chester Weinberg...

This is a waffle-textured cotton....so gorgeous!

An ensemble from Guy Laroche Maria Carine (handstitched couture)

And there was some 60s BH Wragge...

Some 60s Geoffrey Beene and...

.... 50s Adele Simpson!

And it's all listed now on eBay...check it out here.

Who is Sherena? And other great vintage finds!

2011-04-22T08:27:00.007-04:00

I found the most adorable sweater at an estate sale recently, and was befuddled by the label!

Traina International? I knew of Anthony Traina and Teal Traina, but had never heard of Sherena? Luckily, a knowledgeable member of the Vintage Fashion Guild provided some insight (thank you Lynne!) and lo and behold, this beauty came from the knitwear line that Sherrie Bloom headed for Traina, before she started the Chetta B line with Peter Noviello!

The quality is amazing (when I first picked it up, I was certain it was from Hermes!) and it's lightweight - perfect for a cool spring or summer night! It's listed on eBay now, so check it out!

I've also got some gorgeous (and colorful) vintage dresses

Malia Sun Dress

Capezio Sun Dress

And for those of you that like the big cats, check out this

amazing (and rare) Vicky Tiel Couture suit

And last, but not least - I found some lovely vintage 70s YSL peasant pieces

Rare dress (and for those who mention my blog post, I'll throw in the

Alexis Kirk elephant belt shown in this photo)!

YSL see through lace blouse! Look at the sleeves!!! Comes with the black

shell top shown in the photo (non YSL)

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Fantasy Fashion Picks...

2011-04-05T00:27:00.009-04:00

Amazing Vintage Pucci

Stunning Hanna Bernhard Hummingbird Brooch Pin

70s Ossie Clark Satin & Moss Crepe Dress...sigh

Yummy 70s YSL Safari Dress

Classic Vintage Hermes Croc Kelly

In the pink

2011-03-07T20:33:00.006-05:00

A sampling of

pink

now listed on Ebay

vintage Averardo Bessi silk jersey suit

vintage Diane Freis silk dress

vintage Ungaro Parallele floral print tulip skirt

vintage Ungaro Ter silk tie-wrap blouse

vintage Flora Kung silk dress with pleats

vintage St John for Neiman Marcus mod color block dress

Sparkle

2011-02-20T23:45:00.005-05:00

8" Big Cat Rhinestone Shoulder Pin

Sparkling Pachyderm! Elephant Clamper bracelet

Hello Kitty! Dangling Leopard Pin with Rhinestones

Cool Lucien Piccard Medallion Necklace Runway Statement Piece NOS NWT

HUGE Butterfly Pendant Necklace by Mr. We

These great vintage pieces have are now listed on eBay

Ossie & Kansai

2011-02-08T23:32:00.003-05:00

70s Ossie Clark Moss Crepe Pantsuit

The legs are fitted to the knee, and then are slit open in shimmering brown satin-trimmed wavy bells that swish and fishtail as you walk!!! Amazing....

Kanai Yamamoto Rocker Jacket with Ball Chains and black "priest" collar!

These are just a few of the items I listed tonight for sale on eBay

Holly's Harp

2010-12-19T19:56:00.006-05:00

Known for her use of drapery and fine silk fabrics, Holly Harp made a name for herself transforming the Beverly Hills crowd into chic and fashionable "rich hippies" back in the 70s. From Streisand to the lead singer of Hole (according to FMD), it wasn't long before women everywhere sought her amazing designs. She died in '95, but her amazing creations live on.

Here's a few of her incredible pieces that I've found online (click on photo to

go to each store) - and the last photo is one from the 80s

that I just listed on eBay.

That 70s Fashion

2010-12-13T19:17:00.011-05:00

70s Elinor Simmons for Malcolm Starr Cocktail Dress

70s Anne Fogarty Maxi Dress

70s Lillie Rubin

Jerry Silverman by Frank Trignino

Ultrasuede Trench

Check out more from the 50s, 60s and 80s too...on eBay now

Great Dane

2010-12-02T18:35:00.006-05:00

I just LOVE this incredible wire skirt by Ivan Grundahl!

I was so excited to pick this up on eBay for a truly great price! It's made from a polyamide fabric and features a sewn-in wire "frame"that can be scrunched and stretched! I wore it to a company holiday party this afternoon - just too much fun! Worn with a custom rhinestone and stud belt by Maud Designs (she used to design with Michael Morrison MX Inc), Gucci leather boots and a black wool turtleneck.

In the background, my mannequin models a classic Bonnie Cashin for Sills "dog leash" mohair skirt (thanks to Swank Vintage!), worn with a Bonnie Cashin design cashmere funnel neck sweater dress, and cashmere/leather beret by Hermes. The mohair on the skirt is sooooo soft - the quality still carries through despite the fact that this skirt is 30+ years old! My photo doesn't do any justice, but trust me, the indigo and carmel on the skirt look so amazing together - can't wait to wear this baby out and about!!

Stephanie Lake Designs

2010-11-14T23:41:00.005-05:00

If you enjoy one of a kind jewelry, then check out Stephanie Lake's online store here.

Her pieces reflect an incredible eye for design combined with an extensive background in design history (she's got her PhD in Decorative Arts, Design History and Material Culture). She also does interior design, so be sure to check her site to get a sense of her work! If her name sounds familiar to you, she's also the founder of The Bonnie Cashin Foundation.

Stephanie incorporates incredible vintage and antique pieces into her designs and her work is bold, glamourous and nothing short of amazing!

I just purchased this incredible necklace, made from Embossed Peruvian Brass Links from the 60s, Brass Dagger Pendants, and Baroque Pearls! I can't wait to wear it!!!

Holiday Wish List

2010-11-12T22:51:00.008-05:00

My holiday wishlist includes.....

Vintage Hanae Mori Gown by Shrimpton Couture

Vintage Balenciaga crystal bracelet by princeandsullivan

Vintage Bonnie Cashin Dog Leash Skirt at Swank Vintage

Vintage Bonnie Cashin Coat with removable toggle hood at Inplus

Vintage Claire McCardell Wool Dress at Denise Brain

Be sure to check out the new items at Monalisa Creations...I just listed some incredible estate sale finds with designers such as Balmain, Balenciaga, Moschino Cheap & Chic, Celine and Christian Lacroix!!

The Art of Being A Bag Lady

2010-11-03T20:00:00.004-04:00

Some of my favorite bags - that are now decorating my house!

One of my favorite bags - Bonnie Cashin "Cashin Carry"

Bonnie Cashin Kiss Lock Guitar Strap Bag

Bonnie Cashin "Cashin Carry"

Roberta Di Camerino velvet bag

Tiny Bonnie Cashin Kiss Lock Purse in White!

Chanel Caviar bag & Patricia Smith Moon Bag

Bonnie Cashin Blueberry Bucket Bag (for Meyers, on top)

80s, 70s, 60s....

2010-10-13T01:19:00.004-04:00

I've got lots of cool stuff listed on eBay....here's a preview

Vintage 80s Flora Kung Silk Blouse

70s Op Art Shirt Dress by Lanvin Paris

60s Wool Cape by Gibi Roma

The cut and wool knit on this cape are amazing!

80s Adele Simpson Velvet Skirt Suit with Purple Corset detail

Why Bonnie Cashin still ROCKS

2010-09-20T18:48:00.004-04:00

I just won this incredible Bonnie Cashin Noh coat on eBay and can I tell you?

It's like the most wonderful thing that I've seen in such a very long time!

Fluffy tufts of golden brown, dark brown and black mohair, her signature flat half-moon pockets, black leather trim...just absolutely amazing! Yeah, it's definitely got a fashionable Chewbacca thing going on - and yeah, it's certainly not for everyone - but I'll tell you that I'm envisioning this with my Haider Ackermann black leather leggings, my black Gucci knee-high boots and a big ol' wide brim hat....yowsa!

Bring it on fall and winter!!!

I am SO looking forward to wearing this :)

Welcome Fall

2010-09-13T01:46:00.010-04:00

Fall is in the air - yeahy!

I've picked up quite a few new vintage goodies that I absolutely cannot WAIT to wear...

An exquisite wool Claire McCardell dress *

and an amazing 50's wool coat by Townley**

* McCardell dress from Hemlock Vintage, ** Townley coat from Esty "Edgertor"

I've listed quite a few cool finds on eBay....here's a small sampling of the goodies:

Vintage 80s Pierre Balmain Signature dress (deal alert! $9.99 opening bid)

Young Edwardian Boho Hippie Fringe and Feather Halter Dress

Vintage Yves Saint Laurent Wool Jacket - I love the pinstripes!

Great Makali Cropped Sculptural Wool Jacket

Lots more are listed - including a wild Makali Suit with Croc-Stamped Leather detail!

Gems, baubles, Uncle Karl and Jeanne Lanvin

2010-08-15T01:21:00.006-04:00

Cute Butterfly Brooch Stamped IC? No idea who made it!

Trifari Bumblebee Pin - his wings are articulated!

Tribal Sun & Moon Pendant Brooch - lots of cool charms on this one - stamped India

Dangling Leopard Brooch Pin - no stamp

Mimi Di N Zodiac Aquarius Buckle - this dates from 1972

Trifari Crown Amethyst-Colored Chandelier Pendant Necklace - this is one of my favs

Lanvin Paris Op Art Print Shirt Dress circa 60s/70s

Vintage Karl Lagerfeld - This looks like suit but is actually a button front dress!

Love the sculptural details of the hip panels and pleats!

All of these goodies are on eBay now...

The Saints Come Marching In...

2010-08-12T01:07:00.004-04:00

^St John Basics Jacket & St John Collection for Marie Gray Santana Knit Skirt^

^ Vintage 70s St John Collection for Marie Gray Santana Knit Bolero Jacket ^

^St. John Evening Egyptian Revival Santana Knit Dress^

^Vintage Saint Laurent Silk Tunic Top & Matching Harem Pants^

All of the "saints" are up for sale on eBay now. I've also got some very cool jewelry, including a Crown Trifari chandelier necklace, a HUGE Mimi Di N Zodiac buckle and belt, and other assorted odds and ends.

Current Crush List

2010-08-05T23:45:00.006-04:00

Rendl Croc Pillbox Bag^

Why yes, I DID drool all over the keyboard with this one...the always incredible Bonnie Cashin

Ah more huge sighs.....Claire McCardell dress

Just no words...Cherry Red Chain Link Coat by the amazing Roberta Di Camerino

Walk Like An Egyptian...

2010-08-03T22:06:00.008-04:00

Feeling inspired by Egyptian Revival?

How about this NWT NOS (new old stock)

St. John Evening Santana Knit Dress from Saks?

The gold metal paillettes on this absolutely stunning black Santana knit dress just SCREAM Elizabeth, don't you think? And it still has it's original hang tags showing that it retailed for $625 back in the day (what a deal, considering the price of St John Evening at Saks today!)

And speaking of St. John, I'll soon be listing a black blazer jacket as well - in NWOT condition - along with some Oscar De La Renta and Diane Freis. Other finds include a great Dottie Smith horse head belt buckle (NWT!), a great Trifari bee pin and a one gorgeous butterfly brooch!

Glitter Critters

2010-07-29T22:53:00.006-04:00

Some recent pins from around the web that I thought were just too damn cool....

Hattie Carnegie Dragonfly

Gilded Elephant Pin

Lion Head Brooch

Figural Fashionistas!

Kramer Lions

Nothing says "80s" like...

2010-07-26T01:22:00.002-04:00

The Virtue of Thinking Cool(er) Happy Thoughts!

2010-07-25T08:16:00.003-04:00

It's almost August and it's truly been Hotlanta here on the east coast for the past week or so. In the same way that I like to think "happy thoughts" when stressed out, I find myself daydreaming about the upcoming fall & winter months! Believe it or not, I actually get excited about the prospect of breaking out my fav vintage coats, jackets, hats and of course, boots!

Just listed some pretty cool fall & winter stuff on eBay, so check it out. I've got pieces from Originala, Emanuel Ungaro, Lilli Ann, Molly Parnis and more. On the contemporary side, there's a few pieces by Escada, and an absolutely INCREDIBLE handbeaded and sequined dress by Adrianna Papell Evening! Lots of jewelry, too, including a stunning 50s jet and black rhinestone pin by Juliana Delizza & Elster (D&E).

Hope everyone is thinking "cool thoughts" to beat the heat!

Christmas in July

2010-07-13T23:47:00.005-04:00

Bling and Winter Things on eBay now...

Bob Mackie Little Black Dress with beaded panel

Vintage Missoni Wool Knit Dress with Unusual Floral Pattern

Emanuel Ungaro Parallele' Paris Cranberry Velvet Jacket with Gilded Chain

New Stuff!

2010-07-01T00:55:00.002-04:00

Lots of new goodies up on eBay...

Mary McFadden Fortuny Pleated Cocktail Dress (80s)

Pauline Trigere Black Linen Little Black Dress (80s)

Dior Silk Floral Print Dress (80s)

Braccialini Black Leather Bag with Floral Design

The Room St Regis

2010-06-14T20:56:00.007-04:00

The Room St Regis

Toronto 1950s

I found a nifty little bag a while back. It's made from the most super-supple leather, and when I first picked it up, it reminded me of the *feel* of my Hermes box leather bags - that certain quality that's hard to describe, but that you just *know* when youhold it in your hands.

The inside tag read The Room in large letters, and then in smaller text St. Regis and on a separate tag, Made in Italy.

I was intrigued. And so I did a little research.

Come to find out, this wonderful bag came from Canada - Toronto, to be exact.

The Room was owned by Simpsons, a retail department store chain that started in the mid 1800s and, after a few changes throughout the years, continued as a business until the early 70s.

Here's what Wikipedia has to say: "The dry goods store which would later become the Robert Simpson Company opened in 1858 in Newmarket, Ontario. The store was destroyed by a fire in 1870 and reopened two years later, in 1872, in Toronto. The company was renamed the Robert Simpson Company Limited in May 1896 shortly before Robert Simpson's death in 1897. The Simpsons store in downtown Toronto included one of Toronto's most famous and exclusive restaurants, the Arcadian Court, which opened in 1929. The store was acquired by Hudson's Bay Company in 1978, and the Arcadian Court is still in operation today. Throughout its history Simpsons was the traditional carriage trade department store in Toronto—competing with the rival T. Eaton Co. The motto "You'll enjoy shopping at Simpson's" was conceived by Robert Simpson himself and remained company's slogan until its acquisition by the Hudson's Bay Company...The two most "exclusive" clothing departments in the former Simpsons downtown Toronto location, the St. Regis Room (now known as the Room and extensively renovated in late 2009 by Yabu Pushelberg) for women and the West End Shop for men, are still in operation at the Bay's downtown Toronto Queen Street store. Designers in the St. Regis Room include Givenchy, Christian Lacroix, Valentino, Armani Collezioni, Louis Feraud, Karl Lagerfeld, Balmain, Andrew Gn, Lida Baday, Belville Sasoon, David Hayes, and others. The West End shop designers include Hugo Boss, Strellson, and others. While operated by Simpsons, the St. Regis Room, offered some of the most exclusive fashion collections in Canada. Dior, Oscar de la Renta, Yves Saint Laurent, Claude Montana, Courreges, and many others were featured in this luxury department."

Given the quality of my little black bag, I started to wonder...did Simpsons, like many other US high end stores in the 60s (Saks, Lord & Taylor) adopt the Paris and Italian designs of the day into their own line??

It's a theory, but judging from the quality of this bag, I'm thinking it may very well be the case.

So here it is, in it's glory. I have it listed on eBay for a ridiculously cheap price, so I'm hoping that this great little bag will find it's way to a person who will appreciate not only the quality and workmanship - but that it could very well be an important part of fashion history!

My new Bonnie Cashin and more!

2010-06-06T00:24:00.005-04:00

Just in...boucle wool jacket and skirt by my girl Bonnie Cashin (sigh!) the color on this one is AMAZING!!!!

And speaking of red...found this gorgeous red silk dress from Neimans!

Vintage seashell earrings by Carre' - they're chunky and HUGE!

These Napier earrings have ginormous (heh!) white cabs! Perfect for summer!

Vintage Carolee dual-strand pearl & chain choker!

Everything but the Bonnie Cashin is listed on eBay, along with a few other goodies (like a black wool vintage Lilli Ann bolero jacket and a great little summer dress by Carmen Marc Valvo!).

New Stuff

2010-05-27T23:39:00.003-04:00

Vintage Heart Chain Belt

Vintage Dior Suit

Vintage Austin Reed Made in England Little Black Dress

Victor Costa for Lord & Taylor Black Evening or Cocktail Suit

Like big, chunky jewelry???

2010-05-15T20:19:00.008-04:00

Great Egyptian Pectoral by DIORIOS

This is a pretty rare piece and is in fair vintage condition, but with a little

TLC could be worn in all it's glory!

Juliana D&E HUGE butterfly necklace in gold tone measures 5.5" x 5.5"

I have it in silver tone as well!

Juliana

Butterfly Necklaces

go to my Etsy store to see all of these great pieces!

Like

2010-04-27T00:28:00.008-04:00

Leonard Paris Silk Dress

Paganne Dress

Vintage American Girl *High Color* Barbie

Averardo Bessi Silk Dress

Chan Luu Natural Horn Purse

Vintage Mod Mollie Parnis Dress

Vintage Emilio Pucci Travel Case

Latest finds

2010-04-12T21:57:00.007-04:00

^ Thanks to eBayer OgoTheMagnificent for the incredible 70s PUCCI jumpsuit!

This was my birthday present to me :)

^ Ok, I'm a sucker for bags and couldn't resist this little lamp!

And new on eBay...

80s "Details by Patricia Green" cinch belt and buckle

Circa 80s Nan Lewis cinch belt and buckle

^ 80s Medallion buckle with white cinch belt by Pearl

Egyptian Collar Necklace with flat and circular mesh, Whiting Davis

80s Victor Costa bag

Cool gold metal necklace with dangles

Bliiiiingggggg!

2010-03-31T23:35:00.004-04:00

I love, Love, LOVE costume jewelry! The more bling and downright in-your-face gaudiness, the better! Here's a few recent finds that I'm way excited about...

Vintage Hattie Carnegie belt buckle - the rhinestones on this are just DAZZLING! It measures about 3" long and 2" high and came with a leather belt!

Hattie Carnegie tiger buckle (measures about 5" x 2")

Hattie Carnegie Elephant buckle (measures 4" x 3")

Hattie Carnegie choker necklace

Ciner giraffe clamper bracelet (this piece is similar to the one featured in Julia Carroll's book)

Ciner horse clamper bracelet...this is a gift for a horse lover that I know (and miss!) my daughter!

Color My World

2010-03-27T21:52:00.005-04:00

70s Pink Bonnie Cashin (new old stock!) bag

70s Bonnie Cashin for Sills rust/pink trapeze dress

70s Bonnie Cashin for Myers blueberry blue bucket bag; 80s Chanel red caviar bag

70s Paganne Grecian theme dress with Bonnie Cashin bag (still has original price tag of $28!)

70s Emilio Pucci Cotton Velvet Skirt

The colors on this skirt are AMAZING!

Rainy Sunday Fashion Finds

2010-03-21T19:14:00.005-04:00

Not much to do on a rainy and gloomy Sunday...aside from shop! Found some cool goodies in my travels today...I found this incredible butterfly pendant that is supposedly designed by (and verified as) Juliana Delizza & Elster. Now an interesting piece of history - apparently this piece did, in fact, come from a D&E mold, but the mold was stolen, and someone else ended up manufacturing the piece! Strange, huh?! You can read more about it's sordid past here. I can't wait to wear it!!!

I also found a really cool belt today. It's stamped Guido Angeloni and "made in Italy" and has what appear to be feathers that have been pressed into the leather and then covered in a shiny see-through plastic! It's got a chunky buckle that features a little cherub and is sooooo different and cool! I googled Angeloni and the line is part of ISG - very cool! My pictures are going to be horrible as it's dark and dreary in my condo, but you'll get an idea of how this amazing this belt is (I hope!). This belt has never been worn - no wrinkles or creases! Just incredible!

Next find is of the vintage persuasion! A wool hat made by Utah Tailoring Mills, and it features what looks like a mink tail in the back! Well, it's not exactly a tail, but a little piece - but it reminds me of a tail...weird but cool! And hey, who can resist a hat that has groovy paisley lining, right?

Think Spring

2010-03-20T16:50:00.005-04:00

^ Vintage 70s Paganne Dress - a recent acquisition!

Vintage Anne Klein Collection silk top (for sale on eBay)

^ Ann Taylor Floral Silk Dress (on eBay)

^ Vintage 70s Lilly Pulitzer *The Lilly* dress (for sale on eBay)

Gorgeous day here in Atlanta...so I started some spring cleaning, somewhat begrudgingly with the vintage Lilly Pulitzer! I love, Love, LOVE this dress to bits, but sadly it's now too big on me. I think I purposely priced it pretty steep as I really don't want to sell it - it's a pretty rare style of The Lilly - and one of the nicest in my most humblest of opinions :)

Most of Lilly's vintage dresses are shift dresses - either a bit too Palm Beach butch or over-the-top conservative for my taste. This style is feminine and somewhat sexy, with it's lace-filled bodice, fitted waist and lower neckline. I actually had this dress many years ago in a robin's egg blue color - but gained so much weight after my DH passed away that I sold it! For YEARS I searched and searched for another to replace it - and then about a year ago, I found this one when I first started losing weight. But alas, I've lost a few more pounds so off to market it goes...maybe :)

The Anne Klein piece has an interesting bit of history to it. Anne Klein passed away in 1974, and was succeeded by a litany of designers (including Donna Karan) to carry on the label. Their high end line was called Anne Klein Collection, and after being panned over the course of several years, it was announced in 1996 that the line would be terminated (with the label focusing their efforts instead on their more accessible RTW lines, AK and Anne Klein Studio). Interesting stuff, really - and this piece is probably one of the last from the high end Collection line (it even carries the lion head logo!). It's really well-made, pure silk - with simple, yet high quality construction.

The Paganne dress is a recent acquisition and it's absolutely INCREDIBLE. If you enjoy the bold colors and patterns of vintage Emilio Pucci but aren't quite into coughing up $500+ dollars on one of his decent vintage silk jersey pieces (if you're lucky enough to find one that's in decent shape, that is!), then Paganne is a wonderful vintage alternative. This piece has the most incredible Grecian-style print in absolutely gorgeous shades of brick, black, peach, beige, grey blue and red. Really an amazing piece - and the best part? It still has it's Nordstrom's ticket (complete with hole-punched data entry) still attached to it's sleeve.

So do I leave it on the mannequin and preserve the ticket - or wear it and enjoy it?

I think you know the answer to that one!

I've also got some Averardo Bessi in my closet - along with some interesting Pucci finds that I made in the past (and which still fit, luckily!) so I'll have those out and about soon.

Here's to the arrival of spring *raises glass*

Deanna Farneti Cera Jewels on Yoox

2010-02-28T22:59:00.008-05:00

All I can say is wow....

Go here to see the collection.

Age of Aquarius

2010-02-23T20:38:00.008-05:00

I just love these vintage pieces from DeNicola. Colorful and whimsical, I'd imagine they'd add just the right amount of pizzaz to a blouse, scarf or hat! I found most of these on Rubylane, and one on eBay, but I'm guessing there's more out there lurking about!

Well-Suited

2010-02-16T22:18:00.008-05:00

Absolutely stunning suits, by the late, great, Irene Lentz (Gibbons). Read more about her here.

R.I.P. Alexander McQueen

2010-02-11T14:55:00.006-05:00

Remembering Alexander McQueen....rest in peace.

Bits of Influence

2010-02-09T11:48:00.002-05:00

Op Ed Part 1

From The Devil Wears Prada

Miranda Priestly: [Miranda and some assistants are deciding between two similar belts for an outfit. Andy sniggers because she thinks they look exactly the same] Something funny?

Andy Sachs: No, no, nothing. Y'know, it's just that both those belts look exactly the same to me. Y'know, I'm still learning about all this stuff.

Miranda Priestly: This... 'stuff'? Oh... ok. I see, you think this has nothing to do with you. You go to your closet and you select out, oh I don't know, that lumpy blue sweater, for instance, because you're trying to tell the world that you take yourself too seriously to care about what you put on your back. But what you don't know is that that sweater is not just blue, it's not turquoise, it's not lapis, it's actually cerulean. You're also blithely unaware of the fact that in 2002, Oscar De La Renta did a collection of cerulean gowns. And then I think it was Yves St Laurent, wasn't it, who showed cerulean military jackets? I think we need a jacket here. And then cerulean quickly showed up in the collections of 8 different designers. Then it filtered down through the department stores and then trickled on down into some tragic casual corner where you, no doubt, fished it out of some clearance bin. However, that blue represents millions of dollars and countless jobs and so it's sort of comical how you think that you've made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry when, in fact, you're wearing the sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room. From a pile of stuff.

I occasionally get the “Andy Sachs” type of comment when wearing some new fashion acquisition. And I always have to laugh when someone says to me, “oh that’s nice but you’d never catch me spending that kind of money for a jacket…”

Uh huh. Right.

I want to tell the Andy’s of the world, whether you’re “fishing at the bottom of the clearance bin", or placing your order online with that coupon code you so cleverly swiped from retailmenot.com, you’re purchasing an item that has been selected for you.

But you don’t read Vogue, so how can that be, you ask.

Trust me, you no longer have to read Vogue for social influence. Do you spend time reading blogs? Shop on eBay? Hang out on Facebook or Twitter?

Trust me, you're influenced. Read on...

As a business person, I’m intrigued by the shift of influence - or rather, shifting business model - when it comes to fashion. Readership of print material is dwindling in our world today, and publishers around the globe are in a panic over decreasing subscriptions and non-existent subscriber-based business models.

And they should be. They’re heading down the same path as their record company compatriots where “the times they are a changing” (thank you Mr. Dylan).

What am I talking about? Well, consider the proliferation of fashion blogs and how they are shaping fashion market trends.

Indeed, he internet is changing the model of yore, so much so that this weekend, chictopia.com is hosting a Social Influence Summit, a convergence of premium fashion brand execs with those who are most effectively (IMHO) influencing today's purchasing - the bloggers.

Exhibit A - Sea of Shoes

Jane from Texas started her blog when she was in her early teens, gathering readership with words and pictures featuring her passion for well-conceived shoes. Outfits that went with the shoes followed shortly afterwards…and then slowly but surely, readers learned more about her life, her influence (Mom was a model and designer back in the day), etc. Her readership evolved from peers to adults and eventually to celebrities - as well as a myriad of up-and-coming and established fashion designers, who would send her goodies that she would model and credit in her pictures and posts.

The kid inherited more than Mom’s fashion sense however – yes, she’s drop dead gorgeous and can basically wear a paper sack and still make it look like the next big thing - but she's already got an incredible head for business.

Soon after, readers meet "Mom" (the lovely Judy) through her own nifty blog – and then borrowing from her daughter’s own model of using photos and words to educate and entertain, begins a following of her own group of readers. An online store follows shortly after - and I can tell you that it’s rare for her inventory to last more than several days before selling out. Amazing.

Now I don’t have statistics, so I’ll rely on personal observation mixed with a dose of common sense, and guess that both Jane and Judy (who I admire greatly, by the way) have more influence on what women are wearing – and more importantly, what they are buying – than Anna Wintour or any of the other big time fashion editors at the trade mags like Vogue, Marie Claire, or Elle.

And it all started from a teenager's blog.

Who woulda’ thunk it?! BTW, Judy is one of the speakers at the Summit :)

Exhibit B And - Coco Perez

And you thought Perez, the modern day Lolly Parsons, was only about the gossip?

Guess again - Perez moonlights as Coco on his fashion blog and expands his "Queen of All Media" brand beyond with an ad-supported site that keeps readers apprised of fashion - who's wearing what, who's designing what, etc.

I'm guessing that Perez aka Coco is making money where the magazines cannot - ad sales dollars for starters. Not to mention the easy cross-promotion for his other brand extensions such as his book, his events - all that is brand Perez! GRPs are worth some coin in breaking out his brand and no one knows that better than Mr. Hilton :)

Social media: it's everywhere and, guess what? It's changing everything :)

Vintage Halston

2010-02-08T20:39:00.004-05:00

Gorgeous vintage 70's

Halston Ultrasuede dress/coat!

I'll quote Rachel Zoe here..."I die"!!!!

Superbowl Sunday

2010-02-07T19:01:00.007-05:00

I like looking for hot fashion deals online during the game and stopping only to watch the commercials or the half time show.

Is that bad? Ah so, shoot me.

Anyhoooo here's a few really wild deals:

^1991 Louis Vuitton Epi wallet starting at $9.95! (And it's authentic...wow!)

^ Vintage Roberta Di Camerino Leather Trench....bidding still under $100

^Really cool vintage YSL Persian Lamb boots...sigh (and still at under $100)

Ah half time and THE WHO!!!! Still rockin'!!! Gotta run and watch!

Tribute to Bonnie Cashin

2010-02-01T21:25:00.010-05:00

It's been 10 years since Bonnie Cashin passed away, so what better way to honor her memory than to highlight several of her timeless pieces.

"Chic is where you find it" she once said.

Indeed, Bonnie. Indeed.

Me in one of my favorite pieces...boucle and leather "Noh" coat, toggle leather belt and knit dress.

Kimono coat, boucle wool and leather (was for sale on eBay)

Suede color block dress, recently sold at Couture Allure

Incredible set that was sold at Antique Dress

Cherry red suede and leather kimono, from my collection

Stunning "Noh"coat recently sold by Xtabay Vintage

Chinese silk dress; recently sold at auction

Incredible dress with toggle straps. Story goes that Bonnie designed these skirts so that while entertaining at home,
she could walk up the stairs with her hands free to carry a drink!

Weds Wear

2010-01-27T13:21:00.008-05:00

^ Bonnie Cashin black wool dress with leather trim; vintage Barerra for Avon necklace.

^ Bonnie Cashin Suede/Leather Kimono in cherry red (wowsa!); vintage Michael Morrison belt; Gucci boots;
vintage Barerra for Avon necklace.

Animal Kingdom (pas deux)

2010-01-25T21:59:00.006-05:00

Ladies and gents...an incredible example of Bonnie Cashin's "Animal Kingdom".

Sigh. Lipstick red? Just shoot me...

I wish I'd win the lottery so I could nab this fabulous coat!

Up for sale...a little of this, a little of that

2010-01-24T12:15:00.008-05:00

These are just a few items that I have up for sale on eBay. The Ivan Grundahl pieces are soooo incredible! My photos can't come close to doing them justice!

the color and the shape

2010-01-22T22:38:00.005-05:00

So I have an idea for the shadowbox frame that I'm going to make for my new Bonnie goodies.

I'm going to find an old weathered door and paint it in blocks of color and hand write some of my favorite quotes on it.

And in the center, I'm going to make a shadowbox for Knittery outfit that I have, along with the manuscript, hang tag and other goodies that I have. The photoshopped image that I made above is a rough idea of what's floating around in my mind :-)

Meet Buty

2010-01-21T21:24:00.006-05:00

My new mannequin is here! She's model BUTY20 direct from China (lol) so I decided that Buty (pronounced booty, lol) was a fitting name! She's modeling my vintage '70's Yves Saint Laurent velvet peasant beret, BCBG Max Azria silk top and velvet blazer, and vintage 70's Yves Saint Laurent leather skirt! Oh, and the necklace I made from recycled vintage faux pearls, broken chains and charms!!!

What a hottie, huh?! It's like having this huge dolly to dress whenever the spirit moves me!! I may end up getting a few more...just a lot of fun and decorative too!

In other news, some new acquisitions to share:
I just picked up this vintage '70's Dior tuxedo jacket on eBay. It's reminiscent of the military jackets that made such a splash for Balmain and others last year - yet not so in-your-face! It was also priced a hell of a lot cheaper than the $11k original price of Balmain's crystal jacket!

Moonbags and Mannequins

2010-01-17T23:48:00.012-05:00

I've been admiring Moon Bags by Patricia Smith quite a bit lately. No longer in business, these 80's bags featured hand painted artwork by Patricia Smith, and my understanding is that each was a one of a kind design. Here's a few designs that I found online...just gorgeous! And in other news, I ordered my first bonafide mannequin today....wooo-hoooo! No longer have to rely on my old dress form for home decor (I like to feature some of my vintage finds in my living room....crazy, I know!).

Apocalypse Now

2010-01-13T00:07:00.004-05:00

^Photo from Style.com

I'm a huge fan of fashion bloggers Jane and Judy Aldridge, and was so So SO very excited to see the results of their recent collaboration with Amo Cho of Gryphon!

Inspired by what they are calling a "post apocalyptic" vibe, along with a bit of influence after a trip they made to Japan last summer, I couldn't help but think of Bonnie Cashin - and how her incredible designs were always influenced by the functional practicality of the cultures she experienced during her own trips around the globe.

A double-breasted trench complete with bell sleeves and accented with a nomadic little side pouch - what can I say? I'll be one of many wheeling and dealing to get my hands on one of these at the end of the month!

Baby it's cold outside...

2010-01-11T20:30:00.008-05:00

...these ought to warm your heart, soul and spirit:

^ Bonnie Cashin Black and Brown Mohair coat (sigh!)

^ Yves Saint Laurent wool Iverness coat

^ Bonnie Cashin Woven Linen Coat with Fringed Belt

^ Pauline Trigere Wool Crepe Coat

^ Bonnie Cashin red leather and raccoon swing coat (reversible!)

Ah so many coats, so little time!

Hope everyone is keeping warm - here's a shot
of how things looked in Atlanta this past weekend:
^ Piedmont Park (as shot by Tom Terezakis)

Bonnie Cashin on Facebook!

2009-12-31T22:13:00.005-05:00

I'm spending New Year's eve in Walt Disney World with my honey! We wined and dined, and are now relaxing with good ol' Dick Clark on the tube! Fireworks viewed from the balcony suits us much better than fighting the theme park crowds :-)

And as I'm relaxing at the Animal Kingdom Villas Jamba House, I found it oddly fitting that Bonnie Cashin's Facebook tonight features her 1962 exclusive for Lord & Taylor, called none other than...

Animal Kingdom!

Bonnie's Facebook features her drawings from the collection, as well as several incredible photos of coats, hats, and just overall incredible design!

My favorite part of the collection? Most likely the leather leggings she designed! I wonder how many fashionistas out there realize that Bonnie was incorporating leather and suede leggings into her collections while designers such as Rick Owens and Ann Demeulemeester were still in diapers (and long before Haider Ackermann was born!).

So if you're home tonight and looking for some incredible fashion inspiration, go check out Bonnie's page and *friend* her! Amazing stuff...

Feliz Años...wishing everyone a safe & happy 2010!

Joyeux Noel!

2009-12-25T16:50:00.003-05:00

Not the most appetizing-looking gingerbread, but half the fun is making them!

Wishing everyone peace, health & happiness!

My big holiday surprise?? An incredible gift that included a bit of Bonnie Cashin nostalgia (an original and unused "The Knittery" hang tag, a copy of a partial manuscript from Ms. Cashin herself, and other assorted goodies that will be included in a shadowbox that I intend to create for my apartment! A huge thank you to my honey, who did the digging necessary to acquire such wonderful items, and to the head of the Cashin foundation, who generously supplied said goodies!

Dear Santa

2009-12-17T00:17:00.000-05:00

Can you please, please, pretty-please bring me these goodies for Christmas?
I swear I've been very good!!

Vintage YSL Leather Gloves

Vintage Thierry Mugler Wool suit

Vintage Hermes croc bag

Vintage beaded flower pin

Vintage Chanel butterfly belt

^ And last but not least, haute couture Chanel

These are featured from various sellers on 1stdibs.com

Holidays

2009-12-15T08:59:00.008-05:00

^70's Pucci Velvet Skirt, silk cami, vintage Egyptian revival necklace and bracelet

^Late 70's early 80's silk Valentino blouse with caplet sleeves! I love
that it looks like something you'd see on a Pirot doll!

^Late 70's early 80's lace YSL blouse & cami, with mutton sleeves

^Close up of YSL lace blouse

Tops purchased from Claire Inc. Skirt purchased from Vintage by Revolve.

For The Girl Who Has Everything...

2009-12-12T20:18:00.012-05:00

Some of my favorites from Maison Martin Margiela's
Artisanal collection, exclusively at Yoox.

Vintage Stocking Stuffers on eBay!

2009-12-04T23:53:00.011-05:00

Vintage beaded bracelet!

Vintage Modernist Pendant & Chain

Vintage Dimensional Modernist Pendant & Chain

And in the recent acquisitions department:Vintage Lion Head pendant & Chain

Vintage YSL Lace Top & Cami

Vintage Valentino Silk Cape Sleeved Blouse

Chained

2009-11-22T10:48:00.006-05:00

There's something to be said about vintage costume chains, pendants and bibs...here's a few from Ruby Lane, Etsy and eBay that have really caught my eye lately!

^ Vintage Lucien Piccard choker with colored rhinestones

^ Vintage Lucien Piccard pendant necklace

^Vintage Vendome pendant necklace and bracelet

^Unmarked vintage goldtone pendant

^ Vintage Barrera for Avon bib necklace

Belted

2009-11-15T01:22:00.008-05:00

^Michael Morrison MX Inc

^Vintage Gianni Versace

^Vintage LaCroix

The last two are up on auction on Leslie Hindeman's site...sigh! And in other news, I've lost so much weight (a good thing!) that I no longer can wear my beloved Ivan Grundahl dress! I'm sooooo upset! It's now swimming on me and I never even got to wear it....bummer. So I begrudgingly listed it on eBay. My pics and HTML aren't the best, but trust me, it's the most amazing dress....double sigh....

Moonage Daydream

2009-10-31T01:08:00.009-04:00

I'm an alligator, I'm a mama-papa coming for you

I'm the space invader, I'll be a rock 'n' rollin' bitch for you

Keep your mouth shut,

you're squawking like a pink monkey bird

And I'm busting up my brains for the words...

David Bowie, "Moonage Daydream"

Ziggy Stardust & the Spiders from Mars had to be one of my all time favorite albums when I was in HS! I remember thinking that I had totally discovered glitter rock and androgyny, the ultimate rebellion! My pioneering spirit was squelched shortly after, when one of my beloved older siblings informed me that, um, the album had been released about 12 years prior - and it was that 70's generation that had already been there and done that!

Ah, but what an album and what an artist - certainly a huge influence in so many aspects of my life - music, art and style - and it managed to stay with me, to an extent, even as I grew older.

So you can imagine my appreciation (mixed with just a wee bit of nostalgia) when I found these absolutely incredible necklaces online

Assad Mounser...genius! You can buy them here.

Gucci - the movie?

2009-10-22T09:04:00.004-04:00

Looks like we'll get to see Hollywood's take on the infamous Gucci family dynasty in the not-too-distant future!

Variety reports that plans are in the works for a movie that covers the story of Maurizio Gucci and his wife, Patrizia Reggiano...

Interesting...I may watch if for no other reason than to see some of their incredible vintage fashion!

Scott, Jolie join for 'Gucci' drama

Fox 2000 plans 2010 start date

By MICHAEL FLEMING

Ridley Scott is in discussions with Angelina Jolie for a femme fatale role in "Gucci," a drama about murder and decadence in the Gucci fashion dynasty.

Fox 2000 is fashioning a 2010 start date for the film, and Scott is talking with Jolie to play Patrizia Reggiano, who was sentenced to 29 years in jail for plotting the murder of her ex-husband, Maurizio Gucci.

Pic is a priority for Fox 2000's Elizabeth Gabler and Carla Hacken, with Scott Free and Giannina Facio producing.

The studio is about to hire a scribe to rewrite the drama that recaptures the glamorous days of the Gucci family dynasty in the 1970s and '80s, when the family was selling $500 million in product annually. Squabbles hobbled the clan until Maurizio, the grandson of founder Guccio Gucci, came out on top of a power struggle to run the family business. Just when he was about to reestablish the brand name by debuting a line designed by newcomer -- and now film director -- Tom Ford, Maurizio was gunned down in front of his Milan apartment in 1995.

There are moving pieces in the film, as the script is still being developed and Scott needs to lock down an actor to play Maurizio. The director has approached his "Body of Lies" star Leonardo DiCaprio, but he is not attached at this point.

"Gucci" becomes the second big project at Fox 2000 for Jolie. The studio is developing the Patricia Cornwell novel series about medical examiner Dr. Kay Scarpetta for Jolie to play the lead role in a film produced by Mark Gordon and Geyer Kosinski.

As for Jolie, she is likely to next star with Sam Worthington in "The Tourist," the Spyglass thriller that has Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck in line to direct. Pending a deal with the director, the hope is to begin production early next year.

Scott is in post-production with the Russell Crowe-Cate Blanchett starrer "Robin Hood" for Universal Pictures and Imagine.

end

Read the full article at:
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118010190.html

Tortolani Seahorse on eBay

2009-10-19T21:00:00.003-04:00

I just listed this little guy on eBay. I love how his tail wiggles (it's segmented!). If you're into figural jewelry and appreciate the detail of Tortolani, check him out!

On November 4th....

2009-10-15T19:29:00.009-04:00

...Augusta Auctions will feature items from the Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection, that will include designer items by Bonnie Cashin, Claire McCardell, MMe Gres and Galanos (and more!).

Here's a sampling of what will be auctioned....sigh!

Cashin Chinese influence design, 50's

Cashin raw silk '50's

'58 Traina Sequined dress

Cashin Madras dress & hat, 50's

Traina silk floral dresses

Cashin lame' cocktail dress 40's

Bonnie - Bonnie - Bonnie!

2009-10-05T01:23:00.008-04:00

Ok, I admit that I'm borderline obsessed with Bonnie lately! But as the weather gets cooler, I just can't help but to look at her designs and think, WOW...

Bonnie Cashin mohair cape with hood. Imagine wearing this with
a pair of black flat riding boots and black leggings?!

^Bonnie Cashin dress & matching suede coat....OMG!!!!

Ok, just one more Bonnie....look at this coat:

And this one, I just picked up from Xtabay Vintage:

^ Cherry red suede kimono jacket with cherry leather trim!

BTW, Bonnie would've turned 100 last week...wonder if she knew
just how relevant her designs would be long after she was gone...

Christopher Ross Buckles

2009-09-23T21:51:00.002-04:00

For all you Christopher Ross lovers out there, a large collection has been listed on eBay this evening. Go here to bid!

Good luck!