Just like any classic garment from the past, the day’s vintage skirts were not formal enough to be worn as evening-wear; rather they were best worn as day-wear for spring. Pleated skirts are one style that has lasted the duration of yesteryear to today’s era. Early skirt styles incorporated accordion pleats on the side or box pleats around the entire skirt. This particular skirt is yet another authentic 1950s garment acquired from Lucy & Annie Sandoval’s cherished wardrobe.
For women that are seeking to add volume and shape to their silhouette, let your pleats bring a flattering attraction to your ensemble. I accompanied today’s outfit with a halter chiffon bow blouse adding a feminine touch while a hunter green bespoke pillbox millinery design completed this entire ensemble.
Bespoke Pillbox Millinery Design c/o Elizabeth Rohloff // Emerald Diamond Earrings // Chiffon Bow Blouse, Express (similar here) // Authentic 1950s Pleated Skirt, Annie Sandoval // Brian Atwood Patent Pumps
A milestone in one’s life can start with the completion of the simplest goal or moving on to the next, perhaps a new lifestyle or position. Despite the challenges involved, you will encounter many memorable experiences, not to mention lessons coming full circle in the story of your life. As a writer, fashion consultant, and vintage blogger, I never know where my life could lead me, what city I’ll adventure to next, or who will grace my company, leaving each day an open opportunity to stretch and test my self-growth.
Two weeks ago Rich suggested that we take an overnight road trip to the small beach town, Carmel-by-the-Sea, off the Monterey Peninsula. I did some research, and it piqued my interest; just the thought of the fairytale cottages and historic landmarks of a town founded in 1902, of course excited me. Rich had mentioned that he would like to conduct a blog photo-shoot on the grounds of the Cypress Inn, a quaint Mediterranean boutique hotel co-owned by legendary singer-actress, Doris Day, and business man, Dennis LeVett. Having viewed a number of Ms. Day’s films, The Man Who Knew Too Much, The Thrill of it All, and Pillow Talk, I couldn’t appreciate more the thought of conducting a photo shoot at such a location, which holds such meaning and inspiration.
Nestled in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Cypress Inn provides a luxury experience, offering a classic touch with an overall relaxing ambiance and personalized service with dog-friendly amenities. Visitors can enjoy a rich history dating back to 1906 when Sidney J Yard, a famous painter of English-style watercolors, built Carmel’s first art gallery at the location. The current building was originally built in 1929 and was known as the Hotel La Ribera, touted as “one of the show places of the Monterey Peninsula.” In the 1960s, named “Cypress West,” it was restored and upgraded to its former glory, alluring many of its nostalgic former guests to return to their favorite hotel.
From the brick stairs that led to one of the forty-four suites that faced Lincoln Avenue, I stood garnished in Rich’s mothers pearls and a dress by Bitter Root Vintage, topped with a wide-brimmed vintage millinery design with a polka-dot chiffon ruching. I found myself living within a bygone era of grace. Returning smiles to onlookers that passed, Rich and I continued to photograph in such history. Moments before we decided to conclude, an older distinguished gentleman approached; he had caught my eye in the distance, perhaps because of his camel suede blazer paired with a denim button up and blue pocket square. His first words, which he spoke in such excitement, were, “Hello, what is this for?” Of course with the same excitement, I explained who I am and my purpose. He then stated that his name was Dennis LeVett, and I immediately had to control the tears of joy from falling, as I shook his hand, then introducing Rich. With Dennis’s words of praise, he couldn’t have been more thrilled to have us on the property grounds, and I again shook his hand. Before separating, he momentarily entered the hotel and returned to present his business card.
When a moment like this arrives you must see it for everything its worth and more importantly, give gratitude for them. While Rich and I were heading out for the afternoon, I went to the front desk and requested to take a photo with Dennis. With such excitement, he couldn’t resist and jokingly suggested I mail him a photo of the two of us for the hotel lobby. Little do they know, an 8×10 photo (seen below) was overnighted shortly after my visit. From the stories I acquire to the people I meet, it all translates to a love for an era gone by, a love that will never fade.
Center of Gravity Dress c/o Bitter Root Vintage // Vintage Polka-Dot Wide-Brimmed Hat, Old Towne Antique Mall // Vintage Pearl Earrings & Necklace (Theresa Fisher) // White Satin Laced Gloves // Ivanka Trump Pumps // MAC Lipstick
With a renowned love of vintage fashion, it’s no surprise you’ll find me radiating elegance from the 1940s, preferably the year 1947, where I exude a modern day example, which in return showcases an era of timeless grace.
Having developed a strong style that is heavily influenced from a childhood of admiring the influential women in my life, their names and personas live on through my debut corset designs with Corsettery. The couture styles from screen sirens Rita Hayworth, Grace Kelly, and Lucille Ball slowly became a part of my creative process of producing a personal style, which in return would enhance my European heritage. I find it rather effortless to create these personas of Old Hollywood Couture that insatiably grasp the appetite from the simplest pieces, if you have the right approach.
Having shopped in thrift shops for countless years, particularly through my college years, I acquired a collection of well-curated dresses all dating from the late 1950s, with a few remaining today in my wardrobe. Vintage dresses from such an era are typically bespoke, which leads to some maintenance and care. However garments back then were much more glamorous. From an era that carried such an array of articular fabrics like grosgrain satin and silk, these materials in my opinion are higher in quality than today’s. With a current obsession for purchasing these forms of dresses, I always adore the fact that many of them are label-less, displaying such craftsmanship of structure and love.
Having created a signature look early on with bold red lips and nails and not to mention my natural ginger hair provided the stepping stones to building such an authentic vintage style. For those acquiring a style that drives a vintage under-tone, I don’t recommend you go head-to-toe at first; with a few subtle touches such as red lipstick, which is still seen as very relevant and chic, you’ll find a perfect place to start. Then of course, start playing with your existing wardrobe, adding vintage pieces such as your grandmother’s handbag or perhaps a pair of rhinestone earrings. This will do two things: it will build your confidence and be your gateway to adding additional pieces. This is exactly where I started many years ago with my transformation and now I’ve found a style that enriches my daily life.
Authentic 1950s Double-Breasted Wool Dress with Satin Trim (Annie Sandoval) // Vintage Accessories, Fuchsia Earrings & Brown Leather Gloves // Mink Stole Fur (Roberta Alexander) // Banana Republic Gold Box Clutch // Ivanka Trump Camara Pumps // MAC Lipstick
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