Gene Marshall: Star Extraordinaire

"But Don't Give Madra the Cold Shoulder"

"Monaco" Gene Marshall

"Close your eyes. A dream is about to come true." And with those words, a beautifully sculpted, miniature mannequin with stunning features and meticulous period hairstyles captivated my heart. And of course there was her enviable wardrobe, firmly rooted in Hollywood's Golden Age of the 1940's and 50's, that appealed to my love of vintage fashion. "In a place called Hollywood, a magical star was born." Gene Marshall made her first appearance in 1995. Twenty years later, she is still a Star Extraordinaire!

Gene Marshall

Miss Marshall, newly coiffed in a chic curly style, wears a stunning cocktail dress circa 1950's. "Blue Heaven" was designed by Lynne Day exclusively for Ashton Drake's 2001 Gene Marshall Collection. Fur is from Integrity.

Madra Lord

Inspired by the Hollywood stars of the 1930's, 40's, and 50's, Miss Lord burst upon the scene in 2000 as Gene's rival. Fabulous 1940's Victory rolls updates "Cold Shoulder" Madra Lord's bombshell evening look. Her lavender sheath was borrowed from Integrity's "Fringe Festival" Ivy Jordan, fur from Hunter-Goldblatt, and jewelry from StrayCat.

Credits:

"Monaco" Gene Marshall (1995) and "Cold Shoulder" Madra Lord (2001) are from Mel Odom and Ashton Drake.

Quotes are excerpts from Ashton Drake's first direct mail campaign in 1995.

"Montage", 1948

Suspense and intrigue in the world of art.

In this 1948 film noir classic, Gene Marshall stars as the glamorous owner of a renowned New York City art gallery who purchases a mysterious portrait painted by her father. Who are the shadowy figures now following her?  And who kidnapped her father?  Could all this intrigue be linked to the painting?

Gene Marshall

For her film role, Miss Marshall wears an updated version of Ashton Drake's "Secret Sleuth" costume. The cape was shortened and the shoulder seams were given a subtle reshaping. The dress was narrowed for a slimmer silhouette. A new hat and fur muff add drama to this chic ensemble. 

Gene Marshall

Credits: The marvelous, high crown black wool felt hat with contrast is from The Couture Touch. Fur is from Mattel. Shoes from D.A.E. Originals. The original "Secret Sleuth" was designed by Tim Kennedy, based on an authentic period design from Valentino's in Hollywood, CA. Cocoa Crisp Gene Marshall is from Integrity.

A New DIY Hat Project for Gene Marshall

It's that time of the year when all eyes are on the new hats for Fall. Here's a delightful 1940's Style Sculptural Wool Felt Hat to make for your favorite Monolithic Studios' star.

The tutorial also includes this whimsical, yet chic cocktail hat variation. Click HERE for the instructions.