Retro Looks In The Modern World: Feminine Instinct

As much as the modern fashion world looks forward it also continually looks back in time. Here we explore Retro Looks in the Modern World.

A dark and moody retro glamour is the theme in this spread from Vs. Magazine's Spring/Summer issue. Femme fatale locks and longing looks. 

Model: Helena Christensen 

Photographer: Karen Collins

via fashiongonerogue.com

My Vintage Vanity: Newly Listed Cocktail Hats

Quick! Snatch these up before I change my mind on selling them! I'm not sure what I'm thinking as I love to wear hats to parties and it's cocktail party season! Which one would you wear?  All are available in my Etsy store The Sparkling Cocktail. 

1940's Camel wool tilt hat with black satin curlies and veil. This hat is amazing! It's from the Merrimac Hat Corp and is Made in the USA. A must have for any 1940's wardrobe! 

Film noir fan, like me? You've gotta love this 1940's black velvet topper with AB Noir beaded cluster! 

Marabou feather crown? Yes please! This is perfect for Holiday parties. Light, fun and classy! 

1950's Marabou feather cocktail hat. Union Made and new with tags!

I have to pinch myself here, because I really can't believe I'm selling this one! I've never seen anything like it. Calling all femme fatales! 1940's veiled hat with black velvet flower! 

As always, dear readers, use coupon code SPARKLE at check out to get 15% off! Look fab, this Holiday season! 

Retro Looks In The Modern World: Glamorous Life!!

As much as the modern fashion world looks forward it also continually looks back in time. Here we explore Retro Looks in the Modern World.

This is one of the most exciting fashion editorials I've seen in a while! It has all of the elements I love about retro glamour; vampy, femme fatale, film noir, high glamour, wavy hair with bangs...oh my! Glamorous Life indeed! This was featured in the June issue of Harper's Bazaar Hong Kong.

Model: Patrycja Gardygajlo

Photographer: Dirk Messner

via: fashiongonerogue.com

Style Icon: Ava Gardner

Ava Gardner, most known for her role in The Killers (1946) was one of MGM's most beautiful stars. Not only was she gorgeous, she was stylish as well. She could range from swim suit pin-up to femme fatale to girl next door. It was not easy to narrow down photos for this post. 

Stunning pin-up looks. 

I want those sunglasses! 

Classic! 

So stylish! 

Ava Gardner (1922-1990) lived a tremendous life from a childhood in the rural South to becoming on of the Hollywood greats. She starred in such films as The Killers, Mogambo, The Barefoot Contessa, and The Snows of Kilimanjaro to name a few. She was married and divorced three times, Mickey Rooney, Artie Shaw, and the love of her life Frank Sinatra. She also had relationships with Ernest Hemingway and Spanish bullfighter, Luis Manuel Dominguin. She died in her London home from pneumonia at the age of 67. 

Retro Looks In The Modern World: Gaultier Couture 2010

As much as the modern fashion world looks forward it also continually looks back in time. Here we explore Retro Looks in the Modern World.

Gaultier's Couture runway shown in Paris a few weeks ago was heavily influenced by the 1940's. Strong shoulders, femme fatales, and sculptured hats ruled.

Dita!

Dita again in the finale showstopper!

Shop News...This Just In!

This past week I listed a couple of special vintage items in my shop, Femme Fatale Vintage, that are sure to please your inner femme fatale!

Stunning Sequin Floral Vintage 1930s 40s Black Rayon Crepe Dress with Belt S/M-$165

Film Noir Vintage 1940s 50s Black Velvet Cocktail Hat-$42

For instant shop updates be sure to follow me on Twitter

Retro Looks In The Modern World: Dior S/S 2010

I nearly died when I saw the Christian Dior Spring 2010 RTW collection shown in Paris earlier this month. Inspired by my favorite loves... film noir, lingerie, and femme fatales... you can see why! Galliano was specifically inspired by Lauren Bacall (image above) and it showed on the runway where the models wore Bacall hair and a serious face. Here are some of my favorite looks from the collection.

Mid-Week Inspiration: Lanvin Fall 2009

Alber Elbaz is always a genious but his Fall 2009 Ready to Wear collection for Lanvin has me weak in the knees. This collection is for a modern day femme fatale straight out of a film noir. Even the runway looked like a wet sidewalk. I love the draping and folds on a simple sheath silhouette paired with gloves and pumps. I am also inspired to make more feather headbands!