Happy New Year!

"Blue Parasol" Gene Marshall wearing Mme. Alexander.
Fur from Ashton Drake. Italian jewels from Camilli De Bellis of Coverdolls.

It's Christmas Time

Have a marvelous Holiday everyone!

Spotted in a NY Art Gallery

Our favorite miniature Hollywood diva immortalized on canvas by a famous artist.

Gene Marshall abstract, circa 1940's.

Well in this case, the not so famous "artist" took a photo of Gene and used the tone curve adjustment in a basic photo editing program to "paint" Miss Marshall. The variations are endless. And you might just come up with something suitable for framing on your own "gallery" wall.

The Versatile Perfect Gift

The dark green silk shantung suit from Gene Marshall's "The Perfect Gift" is surprisingly versatile. It can be belted, paired with a different skirt, and accessorized for a variety of looks. Here are three examples, two from the archives and one new....just in time for a Holiday lunch with the girls or last minute shopping to find; you guessed it....the perfect gift.

A suede topper and fabulous oxfords gives this suit panache.

A killer femme fatale look for Miss Marshall.

Black and white accessories add a touch of chic distinction.

Credits:

Ashton Drake's "The Perfect Gift" was designed by Regina Ganem, Young Designer of America winner.

Filigree Gene Marshall (enhanced with an Integrity articulated body), and Love At First Sight Gene Marshall (restyled) are from Ashton Drake. White Orchid Gene Marshall is from JamieShow.

OOAK hats are from The Couture Touch.

Chic 1940's Accessories: Hat, Gloves, and a Gas Mask?

In 1939, Britain issued gas masks to civilians fearing the Germans would drop bombs containing toxic gas. Men, women, and children were encouraged to keep the masks with them at all times. Of course the resourceful 1940's woman needed a fashionable carrier for her mask.

For the knitter, a pattern for matching scarf, gloves, turban, and a gas-mask container.

From Women's Fair, two smart pattern styles to match your ensemble. Circa 1939.

Love this style from Ideal Home, 1941. Do I see a new handbag in Gene's future?

Thankfully, gas was never used against civilians in World War ll. For more on this fascinating subject, visit the following websites: Find My Past and Primary Homework Help.

The second and third photos are courtesy Vintage Chic.