Showing posts with label 60s. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 60s. Show all posts

October 18, 2012

Becoming Marilyn - Four Eyes


Whoever came up with the old phrase, “Men don’t make passes at girls who wear glasses,” obviously didn’t see Marilyn in her spectacles. In How to Marry A Millionaire, Marilyn played beautiful bombshell on the hunt for a man with money who felt her bad vision and need for glasses took away her sex appeal. So wrong... Look how gorgeous she is in her cat-eyes! As a glasses-wearing-gal, I’m always on the look-out for retro style frames, so here are a couple of places to visit to fine-tune your four-eyed Marilyn.

I usually just write about modern day reproductions here on Retro Girl, but I couldn’t pass up sharing this amazing vintage shop called Collectable Spectacle on Etsy. They carry an incredible assortment of cat-eyes, rhinestone trimmed colored frames and vintage sunglasses from the 50s and 60s. If you are looking for something truly authentic, this is the place to visit.

Collectable Spectacle on Etsy

And here is a modern company with a line of vintage-inspired frames called Warby Parker. I have not ordered from them yet, however I really like their affordable policy - $95 for frame and lens and they also “give a pair” to organizations such as VisionSpring.org to help those in need who are not able to pay the high price tag for good vision. While they may not be as dramatic as authentic vintage frames, these 60s-era inspired glasses are a clean, updated look with a retro flavor.
Warby Parker: "Wiloughby Tennessee Whiskey"

April 20, 2012

Travel Retro


If you want to take your retro experience one step further, why not plan a vacation around the kitsch, the cool and the swank of yesteryear? Travel Retro is a unique vacation destination website featuring the best of vintage Americana that has been revamped for today's modern traveler while preserving nostalgia from the 1940s, 50s and 60s

Travel Retro hunts for lost gems such as revived motor courts, vintage cabins and motels that were once vacation spots all throughout the American roadways. You can book and plan your travels right through their website for the ultimate retro experience. Their site and service is very unique and has a tremendous amount of interesting potential. I look forward to seeing their listings grow and their services expand. Their growing website will soon offer lodging, dining, attractions and a social blog for the retro enthusiast. Can you say pin-up girl road trip?


February 15, 2012

Pin-up Beauty Jessica Lynn Gahring


Makeup: Genn Shaughnessy
Photographer: Lorraine Murphy
www.pinupmakeover.com

I’m excited to have one of my favorite retro girls here today - the beautiful Jessica Lynn Gahring of the hit reality show, NY Ink on TLC. She’s a smart, funny, completely down-to-earth gal who loves vintage pin-up and old world glamour. She lights up NY Ink with her gorgeous style and sweet-meets-spunky personality. Here are some of Jessica’s best kept pin-up secrets for the modern retro girl!



RGG:  Hi Jessica! You have such a great style. Who are your glamour inspirations?
  • JLG: I wouldn’t really say that my glamour inspirations were a specific “who” but more of a ‘what’. I am completely inspired by anything retro, vintage and glamour. I enjoy taking little pieces of a million different images and tying them together to create something that resembles a “Modern Pinup”. To be specific, I love soft curls in the hair, make up that says “I’m sexy enough to refuse you dinner if you don’t kiss me once you walk in the door from work”, clothes that cover enough of the female form but leave enough open to the imagination where a male can linger in thought at what may lay behind her concealed walls. I find glamour inspiration in classic films, pinup magazines and models, fashion blogs catered to the beautiful pinup and friends that I meet along the way... such as you, my beautiful vintage friend, Rosina! <3  

RGG: If you could go back in time and meet one famous bombshell, who would it be and what would you ask her?
  • JLG: I feel like it goes without saying that I’d want to meet Marilyn and have endless deep conversations with her. I wouldn’t be content asking her just one question and my ability to converse with people would get her to open up comfortably with all of her deepest secrets (which of course I’d keep hush hush!). Specifically, I’d want to know how she dealt with that moment in time when she went from your everyday unknown pretty face to one that was recognized nationally. I would love to know what went through her mind in those moments and who she relied on for trust and inspiration.

RGG:  You have done pin-up modeling and you are on film all the time. Do you have any tips for getting comfortable in front of the camera?
Photo by Steve Prue
  • JLG: There is no possible way to prepare yourself to become comfortable in front of the camera other than just becoming comfortable in front of the camera. You can practice those pinup faces in the mirror all evening long but when you start working with those photographers who have their own ideas of pinup beauty then you realize that it has to be a dual effort. I watch every episode of our show and make mental notes consisting of things like, “Ohhh, those pants are exceptionally flattering” or “Damn, I look great in that dress!” or “Do not EVER wear my hair like that again!” and then I just laugh at myself! You learn by trial and error and then improve upon that process. There is no true 360 degree mirror that gives you a complete sense of yourself like that of being on film and in front of the camera!
RGG:  Your outfits on NY Ink are gorgeous! Where do you find most of your ensembles?
  • JLG: I compile my outfits from a number of locations, including my closest friends vintage businesses. However, my favorite pinup retailer is Pin Up Girl Clothing (www.pinupgirlclothing.com). They have a high-end pin up line that can be made professional or ‘dressed down’ for a naughtier look. The clothes are cut in all the right locations and are meant to flatter a curvy woman’s figure. Dear Pin Up Girl Clothing, I truly love you! <3
RGG: If you were stranded on an island, what is the one beauty item you could not live without?
  • JLG: If I was stranded on an island I would never wear makeup! I’d give my face the chance to breathe and revel in the beauty of my island which I would of course rename “Dixie Island” (laughs). However, if I had to chose one item that I could not live without then it would most definitely be a bandanna. How else could I grab coconuts from the tree tops and keep my hair out of my face?! Bandannas are by far my favorite retro accessory (wig wearing or not!).
RGG: What is/are your favorite shade(s) of Red lipstick? (Every retro girl wants to know!)
  • JLG: I am VERY picky about my favorite red lipsticks! I need my reds to have a hint of frost while also matching my skin tone. If the red is a matte then I apply a little bit of frost gloss just on my bottom lip to perk up the color. Currently, I have two (2) favorite reds and I choose which one I wear based on my clothing & wig choices. Enough of the tease, here are the color names: MAC VIVA GLAM III & MAC VIVA GLAM IV. Sadly, these are limited edition colors so I may have to eventually find others that grab my attention.  
RGG: I love listening to Marilyn Monroe and Anne Margaret when I’m getting ready for a night out on the town. What music do you listen to when you are channeling your inner bombshell?
  • JLG: I absolutely love listening to strong female voices with a hint of rasp and blues living somewhere deep within there. To be honest, I could listen to Etta James, Imelda May and the blues side of Eric Clapton all day long. The sound is so deep and sultry that it makes me apply my lipsticks with even a hint of sexy (winks).
RGG: What is/are your favorite vintage/classic movie(s)?
  • JLB: My top two (2) favorite classic films are Some Like It Hot (for it’s humorous story line) & It’s a Wonderful Life (for it’s strong focus on the devoted family)!
RGG: My personal style tends to resonate the early 60s. Do you have one particular decade that you draw your style from?
  • JLG: I definitely draw a lot of my style tastes from the late 50s into the early 60s so I’m right there with you hot mama! <3
RGG: I won’t leave the house without my red lips and groomed eye-brows. What is your out-the-door must have?
  • JLG: I can absolutely go without a bright red lip but I cannot go anywhere without my eyebrows groomed! My hair is so light blonde naturally that if I don’t pencil in my brows then they look as if they aren’t even there. All retro ladies know that a beautiful brow arch is cornerstone to that beautiful vintage look! I will leave the house with no other makeup on then just my brow pencil, eyeliner and mascara... but those are absolute must-haves!
RGG: Jessica, thank you so much for visiting with Retro Girl’s Guide today! You truly have a special spirit and beauty that shines both inside and out! XOXO
Jessica's beautiful artwork
  • JLG: You are very welcome, Rosina! Thank you for having me! You know that I always jump at the opportunity to feel the beauty of your spirit, as well. Thank you again for my beautiful Ginger’s Jewelry Box ring and for naming that ring after me. I can’t tell you how many compliments I receive on that ring! Kisses to you, beautiful, and to all of those beautiful retro divas out there! XO
You can watch Jessica on NY Ink Thursday nights at 8:00 p.m. on TLC. Be sure to visit her website www.jessicalynngahring.com, Facebook page and follow @MsRetroDixie on Twitter.

January 3, 2012

Faux Collars


Faux Leopard from Plasticland
I recently discovered a magical accessory - the faux fur, faux collar. It’s a furry little number that wraps around your neck turning any plain ol’ sweater into a fabulous, glamorous ensemble. Ahh-mazing! No wonder they were popular accessories in the 1960s.

I stumbled upon a variety of these interesting collars one day strolling by an Ann Taylor of all places. I spotted them from the window and instantly fell in love. It was difficult to decide on one since they were all so stunning. The transformation from ordinary to gorgeous was incredible... and incredibly easy. I ended up leaving with two - a medium grey, that ties into a bow and a dramatic, black collar that makes any top evening-wear ready. I’m addicted to them. (I would put links to the Ann Taylor collars I purchased, but I can’t seem to find them online. This one is similar).

I just received this beautiful, faux leopard collar in the mail today from Plasticland.com. I can’t wait to wear it! It lays so beautifully and feels so luxurious. And for only $15 it gives the perfect touch of retro glamour to any outfit. I’m also really impressed with Plasticland’s customer service. I had made an error over the holidays and they quickly fixed it for me with a pleasant email. They have speedy shipping and their product is high quality. Needless to say, I’m thrilled with this fabulous find!

December 28, 2011

New Year's Fashion Picks

2012 is just around the corner, but the gorgeous fashions inspired from the 1940s, 50s and 60s are always a glamorous choice to celebrate any new year. Here are my top picks for this New Year's Eve. Enjoy!


I'm in love with the new Juliet cocktail dress by Heartbreaker Fashion. It's feminine, sexy, yet very elegant in a classic black satin draped with lace. The cut is ultra-flattering and the lace adds the prefect touch of drama. 


www.HeartbreakerFashion.com


Here's another black satin dress, but this one wiggles and hugs every curve and strategically covers one shoulder leaving the other one with just a peek of black velvet. It's a sexy siren dress by the glamorous Stop Staring Clothing line. 


www.StopStaringClothing.com




Another gorgeous, wiggly number is this purple Masuimi Max Dress by Pinup Couture. The deep plum color is rich and the black lace bust-line frame gives added style and glamour. You'll definitely turn heads in this figure hugging dress!


www.PinUpGirlClothing.com

Let's not forget about shoes! Here is a fabulous pointed red stiletto found at Unique-Vintage with a large bow accessory hugging the heel. Who wouldn't want to dance the night away in this?








December 5, 2011

Why I Love Pan Am


Believe it or not, I don’t love everything just because it’s retro or vintage inspired. I look for quality, authenticity, glamour and anything that makes me swoon with delight. Some try nicely but fail to take flight, however ABC’s new television series, Pan Am, soars in my book. Here are some of the reasons I love Pan Am - and it’s much more than its gorgeous, vintage flavor.

1. Gal-Pal Friendships: Pan Am focuses on four main stewardesses from various backgrounds - and they are all fabulous in different ways. But the best part are their friendships. They are comrades. They help each other out. They like each other.  It’s so refreshing to see a group of women who care about one another rather than being jealous, catty, back-stabbing competitors. These are gals you want to spend time with and go shopping with and confide in. These are girls that will have your back.

2. The 3-Ss = Strong, Sexy, Smart:  The Pan Am girls are not just airline waitresses. They are educated, strong, confident women who have charm and class - and some sass when they need it. They know how to use their sex appeal to their advantage. They embrace their femininity and work with it instead of flaunting it, belittling it, hiding it or turning it into a negative. They are the whole package and they take pride in themselves and their work. The show is set in 1963 - a time when the world was rapidly changing but the term “sexual harassment” didn’t yet exist as we know it. These characters are authentic to the period, yet easy to admire.

3. It’s Just Cool: Who wouldn’t want to jet-set all over the world meeting handsome diplomats and famous celebrities? Or sip cocktails after shopping all day in exotic locations? And who wouldn’t want to do all of these fabulous things set in the backdrop and style of the early 60s? It’s just plain cool the way cool was meant to be.

4. The Clothes: I’ve saved the best for last... My husband says I have a “girl-gasm” every time the Pan Am gals step off of the plane in their street attire. I ooh and ahh and covet their handbags, shoes and of course their amazing outfits. I’ve determined that 1963 is my era of choice - from the hair styles to the dresses to the quintessential red lips. I love the progression from the 50s. There was class and style, yet it was slightly less conservative than the decade prior. When I talk about swooning, this is when it happens for me. I’m also glad this show is on Sunday nights. Pan Am’s fabulous clothing inspires me for the week ahead and gets me excited about glamour even on a dismal Monday morning. I would love to be an extra on this show just to wear the gorgeous costumes.

Summary: If you are looking for a well written, interesting show with intriguing characters and gal-pal friendships authentically set to a retro time period, Pan Am is the show to watch. Bon voyage!

To get the Pan Am look visit these websites:

November 28, 2011

Ginger’s Jewelry Box - Cocktail Rings


I am so excited and pleased to announce that Retro Girl’s Guide has teamed up with jewelry designer, Laura Cornelius, to bring you a fabulous line of vintage inspired cocktail rings called Ginger’s Jewelry Box. GingersJewelryBox.com has dazzling hand-beaded jewels that you might have found in your grandmother’s jewelry box. They are glamorous, sparkling works of art that will turn heads and make a statement when you sip your luscious cocktails.

Remember going through your grandmother’s jewelry box and playing dress-up in her fabulous costume jewels? Did you ever wonder where they were worn on her big nights out on the town? Was she sipping a martini or taking in a show or hosting a soiree? Sparkly, dazzling statement rings had a life and story of their own.

www.GingersJewelryBox.com
With names like “Margie Takes Manhattan” and “Gertrude’s Gimlet,” GingersJewelryBox.com’s modern reproductions have new stories to tell, new martinis to sip and new memories to create. And best of all they make me happy. Just looking at them sparkle on my finger makes me feel like I have stepped back in time to attend an elegant affair. They are fun, kitschy beautiful pieces of nostalgic jewelry that recapture a bit of grandma’s glamour. I hope you enjoy them as much as we do!

As a Grand Opening special, we are offering a 20% off coupon code this week. Enter FABULOUS20 at check out for your discount.  XOXO

November 22, 2011

Becoming Marilyn - Leopard



Lorelei Lee
My favorite Marilyn movie (and possibly one of my favorite all time movies) is Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. I love the gal-pal loyalty, the perfectly timed lines and last but not certainly not least, the incredible clothing. My favorite outfit from the movie is the one Lorelei struts onto the cruise ship in - a tight, black wiggle dress. A leopard scarf strategically drapes backwards over her neck and the fabulous matching leopard muff takes this basic black dress to over-the-top amazing.  Why not recreate this glamorous look today?


SpAZooie, found on the handmade shopping site Etsy, features beautiful, modern day muffs. How luxurious, sophisticated and oh-so-snuggly on a cold night out! They have leopard like our girl, Lorelei, but they also have so many other gorgeous colors - Marilyn would be proud!

SpAZooiE on Etsy
Heartbreaker Shrug

Here’s another easy, instant-glamour piece by Heartbreaker Fashion aptly named - the Glamour Shrug. I own this cute little number and it’s the perfect way to transform an ordinary outfit into a Marilyn-worthy ensemble. I ordered it just because it reminded me of that memorable moment in the movie!

And here's one more Etsy shop recreating iconic, vintage looks by hand. This leopard capelet by 2SwansNest is a beautiful recreation of a 1960s pattern. Stunning!

2SwansNest on Etsy
The best thing about about shrugs, scarves, muffs and capelets is how they work for everyone. It doesn’t matter what size or shape you are, these accessories add instant glamour to anyone. And they are very Marilyn!




November 8, 2011

Step Back in Time at the Cicada Club


Photo by the talented Katie Reihman
If you love to pull out your finest vintagey frocks, display your biggest baubles and take your fancy footwear for a twirl, you must visit Maxwell DeMille’s Cicada Club in downtown Los Angeles.  

The Cicada Club is a retro girl’s dream. From the moment you walk through the grand entryway of the 1928 art deco Oviatt Building, it feels as if you have been transported back in time. An opulent chandelier dangles over the dance floor setting the perfect ambiance of dazzle and mystery. The sweeping staircase frames the sides of the orchestra stage whisking you up to another level of drama from a time long ago. The upstairs walls are draped in a golden fabric leading you back to swank, cozy bar, smaller dance area, lush seating and a beautiful grand piano that you can imagine Louis Armstrong sitting down at to play a tune.

We had the pleasure of attending their special Swingin’ 60s Halloween Party and it was unlike anything I had experienced before. The guests were authentic to the period - from dressing in 60s attire to mimicking favorite characters from that classic era. And there was no real median age. Twenty, thirty and forty-somethings were swinging away to Dean Mora’s Orchestra on the dance floor right next to couples in their 70s and 80s - everyone dressed for the event and all appreciating the moment. It was magical.

The Cicada Club is open most Sunday evenings. Dinner reservations secure you a table around the main dance floor and near the band - usually a 40s style swing band. If you are just in the mood to sip cocktails, it’s generally a $10 cover charge with seating available on the second level.

www.cicadaclub.com

October 29, 2011

Unique Vintage Halloween Event

I'll be here today! Come by and say hello... I'll be in a bright yellow and blue Heartbreaker dress 



October 19, 2011

Noteworthy Retro Happenings

Haunts and happenings and sales, oh my! There are several fabulous things happening over the next few weeks that are worth marking down on your calendars. 
♥ 
And since there are so many amazing modern-retro designers, events, sales, websites and much, much more happening out there, I created a Newsletter to showcase a regular listing of these special items and occasions. If you subscribe to the new Retro Girl’s Guide Newsletter, you’ll get future listings delivered right to your inbox. And if you have a special event or a retro news nugget worth sharing, please submit it and chances are it will be included. How cool is that? Now on to a sampling of the fun... 


Bob’s Big Boy 2nd Annual Car & Bike Show 
Vintage cars, pin-up girls and Bob’s burgers! Enjoy an afternoon hosted by The Pin-Up Magazine and all of the lovelies in their pin-up pageant. 
Where: Bob’s Big Boy Broiler - Downey, CA 
When: Saturday, October 22nd 
Time: 11 am - 4 pm 
Cost: $5 entry 
Contact: The Pin-Up Magazine on Facebook 


Audrey K’s Halloween Costume Contest & Girl’s Night Out 
Show off your cute costumes for a chance to win a $25 gift card to this fabulous boutique! 
Where: Audrey K Boutique - 3414 W. Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA 
When: Friday, October 28th 
Time: 6 - 9 pm 
Contact: www.AudreyK.com 


Lolita Girl Clothing Extravaganza Sale 
Gorgeous clothes on sale, swingin’ tunes, munchie foods and drinks to sip... sounds like a perfect Saturday! 
Where: Lolita Girl’s Showroom - 8 Whatney, Irvine CA 
When: Saturday, October 29th 
Time: 10 am - 4 pm 
Contact: www.LolitaGirlClothing.com 


Unique Vintage Halloween Haunt
Get your vintage-inspired Halloween look with costumes from the roaring 20s through the swingin’ 60s at this event hosted by The Ellen DeGeneres Show and Good Day L.A. 
Where: Unique Vintage Boutique - 2013 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank CA 
When: Saturday October 29th 
Time: 1pm - 5pm 
Contact: www.Unique-Vintage.com 


Cicada Club's Swingin’ 60s Halloween Costume Party 
Come dance the night away as your favorite 60s character at the art deco Cicada Club in downtown Los Angeles. 
Where: Cicada Club - 617 South Olive Street, Los Angeles CA 
When: Sunday, October 30th 
Time: Doors open at 6:00 pm. Showtime at 8pm 
Cost: $50 a ticket presale by Sunday, October 23rd. $60 after or at the door. 
Contact: www.CicadaClub.com


PinUpGirlClothing.com’s Autumn Garage Sale 
PinUpGirlClothing.com’s gorgeous goods are deeply discounted at this one day event. Enjoy the sounds of rockin’ performers such as La Cholita and say hello to your favorite PUG beauties while shopping your glamorous little heart away! 
Where: Courtyard Marriott - 700 West Huntington Drive, Monrovia CA 
When: Saturday, November 5th 
Time: 10 - 4 pm 
Contact: PinUpGirlClothing

October 12, 2011

The British Retro Invasion


Dolly Dagger
England is a beautiful place known for its rich history, poetic authors and royal family. But did you know there is a retro scene happening in full swing there? The UK is home to incredible vintage inspired clothing designers, gorgeous retro websites and fantastic events that make me want to grab my passport. I thought I’d take some time and share a sample of the fabulous from overseas:

Vivien of Holloway: Check out this UK designer's flare for the 50s with her signature halter dresses, bombshell bridal wear, and swing dresses with a cinched waist.
Dolly Dagger: This online boutique carries some of the US favorites such as Bettie Page Clothing, but they also have a wide variety of adorable swing dresses unique to any other sites. Accessories, shoes and plenty more retro goodness can be found here.
Tara Starlet
Tara Starlet: I’m in love with this mother/daughter design team who truly knows how to bring the glamour and sophistication of the 40s and 50s to life with their unique, starlet creations.
    Glamour Bunny: A little wiggle goes a long way and that’s just what you’ll find when you visit this designer’s website! Their selection is still small, but the girls are gorgeous - just like the wiggle dresses they model.
    Vintage Life Magazine: A vintage Vogue style magazine for lovers of style, fashion, hair and makeup from the 1920s up through the 70s all in one beautiful layout.

    Milkcow Magazine: Rockabilly, pin-up, music, cars, burlesque... Milkcow is a glossy mag that covers the grassroots lifestyle of the retro scene in the UK. Their website is rich and detailed with a directory of events, hip happenings, tattoo artists, bands, music and much, much more. If you are heading to the UK and retro fun is on the itinerary, this is definitely the magazine and website to visit.
      The Vintage Mafia: With the tagline,  “Always well dressed, but not always well-behaved,” the Vintage Mafia is a group of six lovely ladies out to liven up London’s vintage nightlife. Beginning on November 5th, they’ll have their own night club evening at The Ric Rac Club with over two floors of dancing to music from the 30s through 60s!
        Are you ready to board the plane yet? If only we could take Pan Am...

        September 29, 2011

        Unique-Vintage Boutique


        Vintage fashion trends come and go with mainstream designers like the tides on a summer beach. And if you’re a retro girl, that often means that brick-and-mortar shopping (aka - the mall) isn’t always your first choice - or even an option - when it comes to finding a fabulous bit of modern nostalgia.  Don’t get me wrong, I love online shopping and I love the amazing independent designers who are providing us with glamorous, reinvented ensembles.  But sometimes I want to browse in person. Sometimes I want to feel the fabric and see the color. Sometimes I want to try it on.  I recently stumbled upon the most amazing place - a shop dedicated to all things modern retro. A big shop. With beautiful clothes. And handbags. And shoes. By our favorite indie designers. All there to touch and feel (and drool over). I felt like I had died and gone to retro heaven.

        Unique-Vintage is beautiful boutique on the quaint and trendy Magnolia Boulevard in Burbank, California. Divided into three sections, this unique shop offers glamorous designs for retro girls of all ages. If you’re looking for the perfect prom dress in the style of Audrey Hepburn, this is your shop. If you are oogling over the latest dresses from modern designers such as Lolita Girl or Heartbreaker Fashion, this is your opportunity to try them on and feel just how luxurious they are in person. The third section of Unique-Vintage is dedicated to the retro bride. They offer the most beautiful wedding dresses that even Grace Kelly would be proud to wear.  I want to renew my vows just to shop in this section and wear a gorgeous 50s inspired gown.  

        Unique-Vintage also has their own line of clothes designed and inspired by nostalgic fashion. Halter swing dresses, wiggle dresses, swimsuits and separates are offered  in a wide variety of colors and designs. The owner and creator even uses metal zippers for an extra authentic touch. I recently purchased a tiki-sarong dress from their custom line and I fell in love with the fit to my curves, the fabric, the colors and the feel. And then... the best part... I walked out with my purchase that same day. I love online shopping, but that impatient part of me often wants it now.  

        • On Saturday, October 29th they are hosting a Halloween Costume Haunt with The Ellen DeGeneres Show and Good Day LA.  It’s from 1-5 pm and includes Halloween costume ideas from the 20s-60s.
        If you aren’t a Southern California girl, you can still experience Unique-Vintage online. And if you ever get a chance to vacation out west, skip the theme parks and put U-V on your must see list!  

        www.Unique-Vintage.com
        2013 W. Magnolia Blvd.
        Burbank, CA 91506
        818-742-6210