My closet has a bad case of stealing my clothes ... and never giving them back. If it weren't for photographic opportunities, I would never even remember that I owned some of these pieces. For instance, I stumbled across a photo of me wearing this great linen 3/4 sleeve, drapy linen sheer top with denim cut offs. I had no idea I "lost" this top. But I want it back. It was a really good find that doesn't exist anymore. Give it back, vicious closet.
In amidst of creating clothing, I found myself playing with much different pieces than I usually play with. Playing stylist is my favorite past time, there is no doubt about that. In fact, I'd rather find new ways to wear the clothes in my closet, than go out with my friends on a friday night. Pathetic? No. I call it motivation. Drinking at a bar will get you a big sloppy hangover in the morning, but playing stylist will give you an outfit that turns heads/inspire someone else to experiment in their own closet the next morning. I choose the latter. Much more rewarding. I've been insanely into the vintage style of the 40's and 50's. Incidentally, that's what my clothing line is based off of. I can not get enough. Is it possibly to be born in the wrong era? Or maybe I'm just the one responsible for bringing this era back. I'll totally take on that responsibility ... hell, I think I'm the best woman for the job anyways!
How can you not love the 40's and 50's fashion? High waisted everythings, headpieces, bolero jackets, cinched waists, outrageous hats and ladies starting to wear menswear prints. And for men, incredible vests, fedora hats, patterned suits, long, double breasted suit jackets, and the the best part, the Zoot Suit. I think fashion actually started in the 1940's. Think about it. That's when The Depression was at it's end, and substance mattered much more than style did. Clothing had to be practical and sturdy. All of the good fabrics, which was all of the natural fibers, were being used for the soldiers in the war. Can you imagine a solder running through the battle field, and then his pants rip in half because of the not-so-awesome 50% cotton, 50% rayon blended fabric that they were made from? Not cool. But, Italy and Europe were the "fashion leaders" (in my opinion, they will always be the fashion leaders), so to wear something "too flashy", meaning bright colors, bold print, or just too ... fashiony, would result in you being a traitor to your own country. Ouch.
It was actually at the end of the first world war when American started showing it's individuality, strutting bright colors and bolder outfits. Hello Swing Era. Double breasted suits and bright colors. Awesome. Kind of reminds me of the emo/punk kids I see today...just....a little backwards.
I wish I could go back to school, just to take fashion history classes. I'd enjoy that way too much. Oh, and maybe a sketching class too, so I can sketch like Karl Lagerfeld (the designer ... eh hem ... genius behind Chanel). I can't imagine calling sketching and art history a "class", that makes it sound so .... terrible.
Random, off topic, fun fact: I heard "Hot Child In The City" by Nick Gilder, and was instantly sucked in and obsessed. Now I'm convinced that Nick Gilder wrote that song specifically for me. Love it.
Well, it's back to work for me, babies!
Toodles!
