Here Comes Fall

There's a cool crispness in the air that signals it's time to pull out those fabulous fall wardrobe must-have pieces, circa 1940's.

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Capes have long been a favorite for style and warmth.  Ashton Drake's "Secret Sleuth" costume, designed by Tim Kennedy, was based on an authentic 1940's design from Valentino's in Hollywood.  The chrome yellow scarf brings a splash of color to this wonderfully delightful black and white ensemble.  I replaced the original yellow gloves with black ones.  Hatbox and shoes are from Tonner.  A restyled "Siren of the Night" Madra Lord is my model/muse.

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An impeccably cut, notched-collar jacket is a fall wardrobe staple in any era.  This versatile plaid jacket from Ashton Drake's Star Wardrobe Collection pant suit ensemble is paired with the blouse from "Hello Hollywood Hello", and a velveteen skirt borrowed from an early convention ensemble.  A change of buttons provide an update to this classic jacket.  OOAK hat from The Couture Touch, fur drape and purse from PD Root, shoes from Parfait Zita Charles, jewelry and gloves from Ashton Drake.  A restyled To Have and To Hold Gene Marshall is my model/muse.

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When the temperatures plunge, what better way to stay warm and cozy is in Robert Tonner's "Cashmere Noir" coat from the Tyler Wentworth Collection.  OOAK hat and pin from The Couture Touch, shoes from D.A.E. Originals, jewelry and gloves from Ashton Drake.  Integrity's "Cocoa Crisp" Gene Marshall is my model/muse.

After The Rehearsal

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What better way to relax after a hard day of rehearsals?  Why with a cup of tea and the latest fan magazine of course!  Ashton Drake's "Fascination" Violet Waters (with an Integrity articulated body) borrows Deep Rose Madra Lord's delightful 2-piece short set from Integrity's "Stepping High" Collection.  Shoes from Integrity, phone from Ashton Drake's "A Hot Day in Hollywood" Accessory Set.  One of my favorite props is the "glass" top from Gene's Patio Set table (Ashton Drake) placed on top of a candle holder.

1950's Balenciaga-Inspired Glamour

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Miss Gene Marshall (Ashton Drake's "USO" Gene) heads to the couture salon for the latest in 1950's cocktail and evening attire inspired by some of the fabulous designs of Balenciaga from Sandra Stillwell's Golden Gate Glamour Event.  Here she models a classic sheath with matching reversible wrap from The Couture Touch.  Accessories include a burgandy Ultrasuede cocktail hat and matching structured handbag (also from The Couture Touch), jewelry from D.A.E. Originals, and gloves from Ashton Drake's "Lotta Moola" convention ensemble. 

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The same burgandy Ultrasuede cocktail hat and handbag accents this dramatic coat from FAO's "Noble Invitation" Gene Marshall ensemble.  Underneath is the burgandy velvet gown from Franklin Mint's Liz Taylor Collection.  OOAK jewelry from The Couture Touch.  Ashton Drake's "Love Paris" Gene Marshall is my model/muse.

Striped Delight

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Mattel's Reproduction "Friday Night Date" Barbie enjoys a late summer stroll in my take on the vintage classic, "Let's Dance" (Mattel #978, 1960-62).  I love the unexpected color combination of aqua and pumpkin. OOAK dress and jewelry from The Couture Touch.  Straw handbag from Mattel's BFMC.

Blue Silk Cocktailer

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Muffy Roberts is ready for the cocktail hour in this sensational blue silk dress and matching floral hat from The Couture Touch.  Gloves, bracelet, and shoes are from Mattel.  Purse from Integrity.

Tailored Evening Wear, 1940

Supper at La Rue

Jewel tones for late night snacking.  Left:  Silk jersey from Milgrim.  Right:  Prune crepe by Henri Bendel.

Seeing Cole Porter's newest musical hit, "Panama Hattie"

Quiet elegance for the theatre by Henri Bendel.  Coat of Stroock'e camel's-hair lined with cerise and green taffeta, beige crepe dress.

Illustration Credits:  Rene Bouet-Willaumez for Vogue, 1940

From Cannes to Awards Night in Hollywood

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Postcards from Cannes Madra Lord looking glamorous in Robert Tonner's Awards Night evening ensemble from Sandra Stillwell's Hollywood Ahoy 2009 Convention.  Cigarette holder from Integrity.

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While in Cannes, Miss Lord had her hair restyled in a new French bob.  Viva la difference!