figure8studio.com

Killing Us Softly

2012-01-28T15:50:00.000-08:00

Disney's Pinochio

2012-01-24T15:40:00.001-08:00

Taking a brief break from fashion because, well, I'm a little bothered. Ok, more than a little.

Last Sunday ABC 20/20 aired a show called "Cruise Ship Confidential"

If you did not watch it, I recommend taking the time to go to the link above. It takes you straight to ABC.

The "report", if you want to call it that, I call it Tabloid or Sensationalism attempting to pass as Journalism, begins by showing brawls on cruise lines taken from youtubes recorded in ships like the Royal Caribbean. Someone standing in the middle of a brawl, claiming to be on a Carnival ship recording. I don't know about you but if I were on a cruise ship and a brawl ensued, the last place you would catch me would be in the middle of it recording.

The host, Chris Cuomo, repeats the man's comment standing in the middle of the brawl claiming 'security running away'. You can clearly see later in the video that in fact security was getting re enforcement. Chris Cuomo fails to correct his statement. Normally clubs on cruise ships have 2-3 security guards. This situation clearly required more security personnel.

The 'report' then goes on to missing passengers; The honeymooner, George Smith on the Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Sea. The cruise line's name never mentioned, leaving the viewer to assume this took place on yet another Carnival ship.

Crew members - Disney's own, never mentioned, for instance; Rebecca Coriam, 24 Crew member from United Kingdom missing since she disappeared on Disney Wonder March 22, 2011

http://www.cruiseshipmissing.com/

20/20 mentions 'binge drinking' people falling down, they interview an individual, Tim Sears a 31 year old who had to climb over a rail of a Carnival ship in order to fall into the water. Binge drinking etc...takes place on land, air, sea... Adults need to take responsibility. I fail to feel sympathy for anyone who acts as a victim of their own actions.

20/20 goes on to sensationlize the program by doing an entire segment on what the crew does on their time off.

A Shari Cecil, who says she was raped and told to lie to passengers about outbreaks, breakdowns...but her cruise line is never mentioned the ‘Pride of Aloha’, operated by Norwegian Cruise Lines.

20/20 then goes on to the incident where the Carnival Splendor lost power, where the crew went above and beyond to care for its passengers yet 20/20 turns into 'passengers were served SPAM'.

Sorry 20/20 this folklore was clarified by Carnival back in 2010 yet you failed to do your homework?

Anyone can find the information by doing a simple search for the terms 'Carnival cruise Spam' You results will come up with John Heald, Carnival's senior cruise director's personal blog where he wrote that the ship had received 20 pallets of supplies and food, including bologna, corned beef, pastrami, ham—and Spam. But the Spam, he wrote, wasn't served to guests or crew, and "those who said it was are misinformed."

Day By Day account of what took place on The Splendor.

That information has been readily available since November 12, 2010. How could anyone miss it? is completely baffling to me. Unless...they have ulterior motives.

If that wasnt enough, once again, yesterday on Disney owned ABC program The View they used Whoopie Goldberg - at 10:59

Falsely stating that 'Carnival was offering survivors of the Costa Tragedy 30% off their 'future cruises' as compensation.'

Audience GASPS!

Disney's media obviously took that from Costa's regular policy which can be found on Costa's website. The 30% discount is for people who have cruises booked and want to cancel and fail to re-book right away. It is their regular policy and nothing whatsoever to do with the survivors of the horrific tragedy.

Concordia official policy.

This is the actual official Costa Cruises statement:

"Passengers on board the Costa Concordia on the night of the accident have not been offered a discount on future cruises. "Costa is refunding the full cost of the cruise, the expenses incurred on board the ship, any transportation costs incurred to reach their port of embarkation and return home if transfers organized by the company were not used. Costa Concordia guests also will be reimbursed any medical expenses they may have incurred as a result of the accident. As regards items left in the safe in the cabin, these will be returned to guests as soon as we recover the safes. Regarding the loss of personal belongings and other forms of compensation, we will be contacting guests in the very near future."

Is Disney desperately resorting to sensationalism against their biggest competitor?
You tell me.

Anytime I watch ABC "news", I assure you will be purely by accident from now on, I will question the integrity of its reporting.

I strongly suggest a course on Ethics in Journalism.

Back to your regular scheduled programming.

THE HEROES OF THE CONCORDIA

White Sparkle Makeup Tutorial

2012-01-10T23:59:00.000-08:00

Project Runway All Stars 2012 Premiere

2012-01-07T15:49:00.000-08:00

And we're off!

Project Runway overhauls its host and judges.

At the end of season 8, when Nina & Michael Kors argued with Heidi and guest judge Jessica Simpson about who the winner of the season should be and Gretchen was named winner, despite the fact that today no one - outside of Portland that is - still knows who she is yet the mere mention of Mondo brings a smile to the face from NYC to Seattle. I decided I would no longer take PR seriously.

I mean, Lifetime's own Project Runway website is featuring Mondo's design as cover for their mobile app. Oh, Gretchen's is in there too, if you squint your eyes, behind the big black Project Runway banner.

No wonder, having read Tim Gunn's quotes after it was all said and done.

“Why did the villain win? Why? I could not believe it. Gretchen’s talented, and she’s not a horrible person. But was she the winner of the season? I don’t think so. The ‘Project Runway’ designers are like my kids. I love them all. I will say I love some more than others. And there’s some I wish I’d left in a basket.”

“Oh, boy. I’m going to get in trouble for this. Michael [Kors] was campaigning for Gretchen. He said, ‘We need a sportswear designer to win one of these seasons.’ “I thought, ‘Well, Mr. Kors, you just want to validate yourself. But do you want to validate yourself with Gretchen?’ I wouldn’t. Nina [Garcia] was very much in favor of Mondo, and then Michael nudges her and he says, ‘You know, Gretchen listened to every word of advice that you gave her. Mondo didn’t listen to you at all.’ So suddenly, Nina is, like ‘That’s right! He didn’t! I’m going with Gretchen.’ So that’s how it all happened.”

Going back through the statistics of season 8

Mondo 'WON' 4 challenges, Gretchen 2.

Mondo was rated 'HIGH' 5 times, Gretchen 4.

Gretchen was rated 'LOW' 3 times, Mondo only once.

Gretchen, who's color palette has been called musty and dusty. Who's 2011 Fashion Week collection was described as 'polygamist at Walmart' and 'Children of the Corn'

I love bohemian, hippie apparel, I have plenty of pieces like this in my closet. I don't really care to see more of it on runways.

OK, I'll stop now. You get the point.

I tuned in to watch seasons 9 and 10 but judging from my blog's archives, I did not register an impression. Sad to say, not surprised. What happened to one of my favorite shows?

Project Runway returned January 2012 as "All Stars" completely overhauled. New host, judges and no Tim Gunn (insert sad face)

Host; Angela Lindvall and Joanna Coles of Marie Claire instead of *sniff* Tim Gunn. Fans of the show are already clamoring for Tim. I will also miss Heidi.

Judges; Issac Mizrahi and Georgina Chapman of Marchesa - I do love them. Guest judge this episode was the Senior VP and Fashion Director of Neiman Marcus.

The All Stars are:

Anthony Williams, Mondo Guerra, Austin Scarlett, Elisa Jimenez, Mila Hermanovski, Michael Costello, Gordana Genhlhausen, Rami Kashou, Sweet P, Kara Janx, Kenley Colins and April Johnston.

I dont get why some of these are here, specially Kenley after her off the show drama (this is not Project Jersey Shore) In reality, how many times can you bring back Santino, Siriano...?

If you need one word in order to refresh your memory as to who they are...

Anthony - pageant (with 'sassy' as close 2nd)

Mondo - robbed

Elisa - spit

Mila - mod

Michael - gala ('crying' a close 2nd)

Gordana - knits

Rami - draper

Sweet P - whimsy

Kara - kimono

Kenley - rockabilly

April - goth

Jerell - glitter

Austin Scarlett - glam ('star' next best)

I cant help but wonder if Mondo was brought back to redeem himself, shut us/his fans up. Perhaps to boost viewers. Specially after season 8's debacle. But I'm not complaining.

Each designer was asked to bring a look that represented them to The Limelight. The 70s Disco club.

The first challenge was to spend 100.00 at the .99 cent store to create something that coincided with the first look.

The product marketting/slinging is still there but thankfully toned down some. Instead of hearing about the brands every other 5 minutes I only noticed it a couple of times.

And just as I expected, these two

Rocked it out of the gate.

Vindication? Can I get a "Heck Yeah!?"

Rami won this challenge.

His inspiration:

Not crazy about the black hole with fringes at the front on the original design, takes me back to a comment made about Kelly Rowland's dress at the MTV's VMA's

"I am not a prude but am I the only who thinks a patch of fur, fringes...etc...does not belong at crotch level on any garment."

Jerell - Rami - Mondo

1).Anthony - crepe paper, safety pins

2).April - mop heads

3).Austin- plastic table cloths, freezer bags

4).Elisa - shower curtains, paint

5).Gordana - streamers, brillow pads

6).Jerrell - scarves, placemats

7).Kara - curtains, mops, tin trays

8).Kenley - shower mat, loofah

9).Michael - mop heads

10).Mila - gift bags, shower liners

11).Mondo - binder, trash bags, tape

12).Rami - shopping bags, umbrella

13).Sweet P - dish towels, belt

One wish, that they give us more workroom time. Im guessing this was missing for the most part due to the intros and Limelight show.

Happy 2012! May we all live long & lucky!

2011-12-31T17:48:00.000-08:00

Making my Panetela Caribe for tomorrow's New Year's party. Recipe that has been in our family for decades. Originated in Puerto Rico.

1 Pound Cake or Angel Cake. I prefer Pound Cake but Angel Cake works in a pinch.

2 cans evaporated milk

8 Egg Yolks

2 cups sugar

1/2 teas cream of tartar

Dark Rum - I like to use Bacardi but any dark rum will do.

Nonpareils

Slice the Pound Cake into 1/2 - 1/4 inch slices and line the bottom of your cake pan. Yields 2 square cake pans.

In a container whisk well egg yolks, sugar &; evaporated milk.

Pour into a pan on burner at low fire or heat. Stir constantly until it is thick.

Remove from heat &; allow to cool for a few minutes.

Add rum (2-4 cap fulls) or lemon juice.

Pour on top of the pound cake slices.

------------------------------------

Heat oven 350 degrees.

With a hand held mixer, beat egg whites, add cream of tartar, continue beating on high speed until it starts turning into meringue.

Add 1 cup sugar slowly. Keep beating until mixed well &; peaks.

Pour on top of the cream.

Spread carefully and evenly.

Sprinkle nonpareils.

Place in heated oven for about 10 minutes or until golden.

Enjoy!

My little mixer, the vintage Dormeyer 9500.

The first mixer in 1954 with 9 speeds!

It has a crazy strong motor that stood the test of time.
Made in the U.S.A.

No plastic cheap parts here.

And to all who will be on the road

Tipsy Tow offered by AAA to folks across the country: You don't have to be a AAA member, from 6pm-6am on New Year's Eve/Day, they will take your drunk self and your car home for FREE. Save this number... 1-800-222-4357 . Feel free to pass this on to your loved ones.

Merry Christmas Eve!

2011-12-24T16:22:00.001-08:00

The Wonderful World of Glitter

2011-12-21T17:56:00.000-08:00

All That Glitters: The History of Shiny Things.

Come get yours - Free shipping.

Glitter Is Good Sticker

His Royal Highness PRINCE

2011-12-18T12:54:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow evening I will be in the presence of our own American royalty.

Thanks to my beautiful son who surprised me with an early Christmas present.

I keep looking at the ticket, pinching myself. Floor 2nd row!

It has always been a dream of mine to see Prince live. Bucket list is getting smaller. Sometimes it takes years for our dreams to be realized. I am a patient person. 2011 was a good year.

Happy Holidays to all! May all your dreams come true in the company of those who are near and dear to your hearts.xo

My review can be found here.

Top Fashion News of 2011

2011-12-16T03:45:00.000-08:00

It was not Louboutin losing out to YSL in court for the use of the red soles associated with his brand. The court ruled the color red on the soles could not be granted trademark protection. According to an Associated Press report, Yves Saint Laurent has manufactured red-soled shoes since the 1970s.

I suppose I should remember that since I worked in NYC's YSL offices for a time during my college years. Still have a few pieces of their creamy stationary.

No, the best fashion news of 2011 was not the Missoni for Target frenzy.

Missoni's colorful zig-zags are known world wide, along with it's steep price tags. When shoppers learned the 400 piece collection would be selling at Target's bargain prices they camped at the stores Black Friday fashion, they crashed the Target website & emptied out store racks like locusts. Stories I heard from friends who tried to get one piece, any piece! Was that it was impossible. The craziest thing they had ever seen.

My friends and I were hard core NYC shoppers, in the trenches in our combat boots spotting, snatching 18.00 Halston raincoats - mine had a matching envelope bag..., Betsey Johnsons from the middle of 5 foot high piles, elbows out, watching out for the little old ladies frothing at the mouth nearby ripping at each other for a pair of Charles Jourdans at Lord & Taylor.

When It comes to fashion and women and you insert the word 'sale' in the middle of the two, specially when it concerns a desired label, blood will be spilled. Retailers should know this.

I no longer have the patience for the pushing and shoving. Considered going but glad I didnt.

Despite the fact Target tried to make it up to their customers who were furious I dont believe they were able to. Demand exceeded supply. To make things worse- not for the buyer but for those that missed out, I saw pieces going for thousands on ebay.

Later this fall Versace corraborated with H&M and seemed to show Missoni how it should be done.

MY Best Fashion moment of 2011 Was Kate Middleton's wedding at Westminster Abbey. The dress was designed for the Duchess of Cambridge by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen the British designer who sadly passed away last year.

I recall gossip flying for weeks about who Kate's designer would be. Every movement to and from the palace was followed, scrutinized very closely by the media and reported.

Speculation and rumors flew. Bets were placed. People were shuttled in vans, cars in cloak and dagger fashion. When questioned, the McQueen people denied any involvement. Most probably sworn to secrecy.

Then finally, amidst so much sadness, hardship, earthquakes, tornadoes...We exhaled and watched with wonder as two young lovers took their vows.

Thousands stood on the streets, sidewalks, windows, rooftops...cheering. Millions more tuned in via satellite, cable, televisions, ipods, computers around the world. The British Monarchy was on the ball, streaming the event and reporting every detail on twitter and facebook without as much as a glitch. Made my Brit blood proud.

After the couple kissed on the balcony and left for the reception...we discussed it in blogs, facebook, message boards. Special shows on CNN, Style, E had panels reviewing every single moment of the wedding for days!

Every magazine stand had issues with Kate's photo on the cover.

In the summer Kate's dress was displayed at Buckingham Palace, record breaking crowds of over 600,000 people showed up.

In NYC 650,000 people stood in long lines to see the McQueen retrospective at the Met from May 4–August 7, 2011.

For all of these reasons nothing else can top the wedding of Kate Middleton and Prince William in 2011.

Still today, months later, my blog from that occasion has visitors almost every day.

Tangerine Love!

2011-12-15T04:26:00.000-08:00

We've been featured in an etsy treasury!

Thanks to etsy's ReverieMerchants.

Tangerine is the new black for 2012.

A warm color for a cold gloomy fall day.

As my friend Kathleen describes our beautiful Seattle today:

"Soft misty rain that shows the holiday lights and garlands sheeny in the reflections...On the ferry, there is a darker line separating the slightly brighter horizon from the pewter sea, with one buoy visible where the sand bar is."

Goldfinger

2011-12-13T16:21:00.000-08:00

My vintage Holy Grail is not lingerie but if I were to ever find something this special I think I would faint.

ebay listing for Vanity Fair gold set

How lucky we were in those days that someone could slip into such luxuries. Wear 24 carat gold against the skin without stepping foot in a jewelry store.

So sexy!

From the seller's description it feels as soft as it looks. Im hoping the seller does really well with the listing, it is a true treasure. At the time of my posting, there are still two days left to bid.

update 12.16.11 - An excellent ending.

The holiday season inspired me to lift the tissue from my lovely vintage fashion pieces.

Gold Brocade Wiggle Bombshell Halter Dress & Jacket

Vintage 60s Metallic Gold Evening Swing Trapeze Coat

I imagine a very special someone wearing them with the "Cloth of Gold" Vanity Fair under garments.

Now Im in the mood for Shirley Bassey singing Goldfinger...

There are many Goldfinger youtubes in existense some from back in the 60s ...till now. All fabulous. I chose this one because I can hear the needle on the vinyl.

Bravo's Fashion Hunters Great for Vintage Research

2011-12-04T04:04:00.000-08:00

Ambria Miscia, Tara Muscarella, Karina Lepiner and Wilson Payamps are consigners at Second Time Around in NYC.

Fashion Hunters is the show that follows their purchase and sales adventures. Helpful if you are a buyer, collector, in the business of selling designer vintage fashion.

If you'd like to learn how to spot copies, not if you wish to learn how to price. Some items may be overpriced, like the Louboutin black flats in the last episode.

Some under priced.

The green pair were in excellent condition but the black were too worn to price at 350.

Bravo even went as far as to guesstimate a retail price of $600. ^^ huh?

I noticed that pricing on some of these shows sometimes get a little crazy. The auction buyers attempting to over-compensate for what they spend on storage units is one such example.

Who, in their right mind, shells out over a grand at a thrift store for a worn dusty sofa - when most, specially those outdoor units, are mice...vermin infested...*shudder*.

I dont have a clue who they think they are trying to fool.

Of course, Im not suggesting the pieces in FH come from these types of places..although one could never predict where treasures may be hidden...recalling the lady who dropped by STA with the Chanel bags found at a yard sale in a previous episode. I think I was hyperventilating during that one. Can you imagine?

Sometimes I may answer a call at a posh neighborhood with great anticipation only to leave disappointed versus having found granny's closet brimming with breath taking beauties.

If there are several things Ive learned from years in the vintage biz; the hunt is highly unpredictable - that's what makes it fun and interesting. Good quality vintage is usually one of a kind. You might hit the jackpot and find a similar one in a different size years later, but the reason desirable vintage is coveted and priced accordingly is that quality, well cared for, restored, curated vintage is rare.

The value of Fashion Hunters is how they teach to examine a garment for authenticity. How to turn it inside out to look for finished seams, straight edges, stitching, label, how the logos are positioned, the quality of the fabric/leather.

If an investment piece is your interest Fashion Hunters is for you.

I would like to end this blog entry with a final note.

Please don't forget that most purchases are often negotiable. Price tags are not always written in stone, specially when the item has glaring flaws.

Happy vintage shopping!

Vintage Weight Gain Ads Discourage Twiggy Look

2011-11-30T12:15:00.000-08:00

With the making of the latest Marilyn Monroe movie starring Michele Williams gracing the cover of my Vogue magazine.

Marilyn's voluptuous sexy look no doubt celebrates curves!

Michelle attempted to gain weight but as she tells in the article instead it all went to her face. She padded her figure.

"But I do remember one moment of being all suited up as Marilyn and walking from my dressing room onto the soundstage practicing my wiggle," Williams tells the magazine. "There were three or four men gathered around a truck, and I remember seeing that they were watching me come and feeling that they were watching me go--and for the very first time I glimpsed some idea of the pleasure I could take in that kind of attention; not their pleasure but my pleasure. And I thought, Oh, maybe Marilyn felt that when she walked down the beach."

Huffpo's article about Vintage Weight Gain Ads

Love anything Marilyn Monroe. A huge MM poster decorates my vintage room.

I was given James Spada's book as a birthday present by dearest friends in the 80s. It is one of the many books on her that sit on my shelves.

It will be interesting to see if vintage fashions will continue to inspire the runways and maybe even encourage more designers to use normal sized models.

Its all about the healthy look.

Bergdorf Goodman opens a Vintage Restored Line

2011-11-05T14:48:00.000-07:00

I wonder what the consensus is in the Vintage Fashion Community.

I see pros and cons.

The obvious ones; keeps Vintage Fashion in the forefront, in the eyes & minds of the consumer. That it restores badly damaged quality vintage instead of shipping to China as rags or dumping in a landfill.

Cons; that perfectly good vintage, slightly soiled, in need of delicate care will be chopped up with the excuse of 'restoring' simply only for the sake of adding the BG label.

I wrote an article recently about such a sad situation where perfectly good vintage pieces may have been cut up for the sake of a one night red carpet gala.

2011 Oscars Red Carpet

Not being one who believes everything I see on the internet I took extra steps to find out if good vintage pieces had been indeed compromised for such an affair.

What are your thoughts?

Bergdorf Goodman’s Linda Fargo Talks Vintage, Tom Ford Beauty, and Leopard Pajamas

From Vintage to Modern

I was relieved to read the word 'restored' mentioned by Linda Fargo in the article.

These are some of the comments from my vintage clothing group when I posted a link to the article:

'Off the top of my head, they probably saw Anthropologie selling dye vintage party dresses and thought they could do better. Maybe so too; Bergdorf is a wonderful store!'

'My fear, with the upcycled vintage, is that there may be a stain that could be removed with some effort, but just ends up being a good excuse to cut the bottom off and tie dye. I worry.'

'Bergdorf is so terribly designer friendly I would think they'd be like the MOMA of vintage stores. They really have been known for giving some wonderful young designers a venue even if a couple dresses on a rack... seems they love clothes too. I'd think nothing less of them.'

Bitten by the vintage bug

2011-10-18T14:35:00.000-07:00

Is the vintage bug something that is inherited or is it a gene that exists in our dna?

We moved from the East coast some years ago and I still have some items in boxes. Oh, OK, I'll admit, lots of items in boxes. Some items I have decided no longer fit my decor and thinking of selling.

When he was a little boy, my son and I loved shopping yard sales almost every weekend. I can comfortably say we replaced almost every piece of poorly constructed furniture with sturdy well made antiques. Many pieces we still own.

Yard sales upstate NY were much different than ones in NYC and on our way home we'd make a quick stop at the farmer's market and fill our baskets with fresh fragant fruits, vegetables and warm blueberry pie fresh out of the oven. On one of those trips we made friends with a farmer's son, his name was Kenny. Turns out Kenny was a mechanic and worked on our car for years.

Some of those farmers got hit very hard recently due to Tropical Storm Irene.

The Gill Farms were one of those places we shopped.

Farmer's Markets in NYC were non existent back then. My son, who works in NYC shops them now, he gave me a cloth shopping bag from The Amish Market in NYC not too long ago. NYC Farmer's Markets will feel the effect of the storm. Sometimes we forget, or take for granted, how something that happens to someone so far is able to still affect us directly.

Going through one of the boxes recently I felt a familiar long cilindrical shape with a cobalt blue sphere at the top wrapped in paper & bubble wrap. I remembered the Art Deco shaker we found at one of our many yard sale jaunts. We couldnt have paid more than a couple of dollars for it. It would match an Art Deco sideboard we found only a couple of weeks prior for $20.00. The sideboard lives in my dining room today.

Where ever we lived we always displayed the shaker in a cabinet with the rest of the nicer glasses we only used when company came. Some of those glasses were from the Depression era.

I often wondered if the lone shaker belonged to a set.

It took me about 30 years to find out.

When I unwrapped the shaker I placed it on my coffee table thinking maybe to sell or donate. My son spotted it and asked if he could have it for his 'man cave.' He informed me he has been in search of a small Mid Century Buffet bar as well. The shaker would be the first item in his collection and of course I was so happy to let him have it and keep it in the family.

Here is a stunning image from the auction.

A close up of the mark at the bottom of the shaker.

The type of bar my son is in search of.

I saw one listed locally for a song some time ago! I contacted the seller for measurements but because I had no idea my son wanted one I passed on it, I just didnt have the room in my place. Talk about non buyer's regret!

I hope to find another.

At least trying to shop for him for Christmas or Birthdays will be more fun than shopping for sweaters, slippers or socks.

I still dont have the answer to the original question but I hope it is something we can pass down to our children and those who touch our lives.

Vintage Fashion Expo

2011-10-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

Oct. 15th & 16th, 2011
at The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium in Santa Monica, CA

My pulse just skipped a beat.

Disappointment Playboy Club Cancelled

2011-10-05T07:59:00.000-07:00

Announcement.

"Despite having relatively tame content, the show wasn’t helped by conservative group the Parents Television Council vehemently protesting the show. The PTC released a statement saying they were pleased with the cancellation:
“Bringing The Playboy Club to broadcast television was a poor programming decision from the start. We’re pleased that NBC will no longer be airing a program so inherently linked to a pornographic brand that denigrates and sexualizes women … we hope other broadcasters heed the important lessons of this programming debacle.”

Seriously? No one dragged, forced... women to work at the Playboy Club, or pose nude for that matter. Many women who worked at the club were married helping bring in a second income for their families and working on their careers. The Playboy Club was the spring board of many successful carreers for women when 'the establishment' was not giving them the chance to break through the glass ceiling.

The show was aired at 10PM. Chidren are supposed to be in bed by then. I'm so tired of a handful of prudes trying to control what everyone watches, listens to. This is the reason so many networks are dying & quality programming runs to cable.

Playboy Club's writing was much better than Pan Am's, so far has not been able to 'hook me'. The only interesting thing about Pan Am is the Christina Ricci character. I was looking forward to writing my little review of the last episode where they had a pretty cool night club scene and the one where the girls were in the house singing in their vintage lingerie...then a news bulletin announcing the show's demise popped my balloon.

Buck up Pan Am or you will be next.

Fairy Tales Do Come True

2011-10-04T11:04:00.000-07:00

Dress made from recycled children's books

Seen at one of my favorite Green websites ecouterre.

Designed by Ryan Jude Novelline

Shows us how it was done!

Amazing!

The Playboy Club, a pleasant surprise

2011-09-28T09:49:00.000-07:00

Dad collected Playboy Magazines and was a member of the NYC Playboy Club. When I was a little girl my parents punished me because I thought it would be cute to go out on the porch and pose for my young neighbor after looking at dad's magazine. Wonder if I was imagining hearing him chuckle as mom frowned at him.

Dad didn't leave his mags laying around the house or anything like that but kids will get into EVERYTHING. My son confessed how he opened and re - taped Christmas presents I thought I had hidden so well.

I wonder if dad attempted to make up for it, as he rarely if ever, punished me, much later in life when as young aspiring artist I was commissioned to paint one of his favorite centerfold models. Done very tastefully, she was standing sideways wearing a short sheer baby doll nightie. She resembled Marilyn Monroe, about the age MM first posed for the magazine. It is one of the things I wish I had been given after dad passed away but I can almost bet it went to the trash bin thanks to his 2nd wife.

I was actually anticipating Pan Am more than the Playboy Club. I found the suspense plot from The Playboy Club more interesting.

Must note the authentic Playboy Bunny uniforms were cut sexier than those worn on the tv series. Maybe the costume dept had to bend to tv censors?

credit - Glenn Francis

As you can see, by the photo above, the thighs were cut to the waist.

vs the thigh cut in photo below:

credit - NBC

Arent the kiddies supposed to be in bed by 10PM? After all, not to give the plot line away, an extremely violent and bloody scene was allowed. I guess I shouldnt be surprised that we are so desensitized to violence yet prudes to the human body. And while I mention a human body, I would like to say VA VA VOOM! For women with REAL curves just like the actresses of the show and not the stick figures the media and most designers pass as "normal"

credit - NBC

Tails were soft, fluffy, tidy...more like powder puffs.

credit - Bunny PJ

The famous tail was one if not the most important accent of the uniform.

Early Bunnies wore black mesh for years until more comfortable black hose were introduced later in the 60s.

You can also tell, by the 80s uniform above how high those thighs were cut.

credit - History Wired

On another note, I also remember Playboy mag having great music articles, this was before the days of Rolling Stone and other music magazines.

A vintie loving friend of ours, Kat Monroe, made further observations [of the show] stating the "dialogue was inauthentic. VIP customer to bunny: 'You are a thing of Beauty'...Bunny's remarks back end with a caustic...'I'm not a thing' "It would simply NEVER happen".

"Also the terms 'street PERSON' and 'Homeless person'...were called 'bums' or 'hobos' in those days. She also noted there was barely any smoking.

She is correct. In those years there was no such thing as PC. We were clue-less about the dangers of nicotine, cigarette ads and commercial were OK. Job security for women did not yet exist. Its great having another pair of eyes.

Fun trivia; Did you know? There is a bunny on every cover of the Playboy Magazine.

Dad & I made a game of Who Could Find It Faster.

Some were obvious;

Others, not so much;

Smithsonian Institute - "In the late 1960s, Playboy introduced Pucci-influenced, psychedelic-print costumes.

70's Bunnies Great Gorge NJ. Left one most probably Pucci uniform.

credit - Christian Montone

Also from Smithsonian - "In the early 1980s, the Bunny Cabaret costume was developed, inspired by Hugh Heffner, complete with Espree mesh stockings, garters and dyed pumps."

Wikipidea - 'The most famous maneuver of all, the "Bunny Dip," was invented by Kelly Collins, once renowned for being the "Perfect Bunny"; to do the "Bunny Dip" the Bunny gracefully leaned backwards while bending at the knees with the left knee lifted and tucked behind the right leg. This maneuver allowed the Bunny to serve drinks while keeping her low-cut costume in place.'

LINK: Marchesa designs for the new Playboy in London opening after a 30 year hiatus.

LINK: THE BUNNY IS BACK - THE WALL STREET JOURNAL.

Pan Am 'glossy but not yet polished'

2011-09-26T09:02:00.000-07:00

If you read my previous post about Pan Am, I was looking forward to the premier on ABC. Marked on calendar & anticipated watching real time.

After my first time seeing Mad Men, the show who's HUGE success I'm sure isnpired Pan Am, my initial reaction...would I miss it if it had been pulled? Yes.

Premieres are supposed to hook you.

I thought the plot line of the rivaling sisters was OK but still not quite buying the espionage plot, because of the fumbling, spilling. Its been done.

My parents lived the Cuba Bay of Pigs. From the stories they told us I believe it should have been worthy of suspence building for, at the very least, an entire episode not just a few seconds.

Will Bridget be the new "Lost"? A mistery that is exploited with every episode? A pining jilted pilot who flies the skies in search of his missing love? Should I care?

According to some of the reviews the morning after jury is still out.

"glossy but not yet polished" ,

"more interested in surfaces than emotional interiors",

"Whereas "Mad Men" stews in morose melodrama, "Pan Am" serves up a cheery slice of retro pop culture pie. "Mad Men" mocks the antiquated mores of the past, while "Pan Am" romanticizes them. - ibtimes"

Adam Barken, tweeted: via ibtimes "Every scene in PAN AM is like the last scene of a big movie - but without the buildup or character development."

I was hoping to identify with the little girl's dreams watching glamorous stewardess passing by, as I wrote in my previous blog --- a scene shown last night, several times. Perhaps I held unrealistic expectations.

I am looking forward to be dazzled by Pan Am's script and substance not only by its surface veneer.

Valley of The Dolls

2011-09-16T06:02:00.000-07:00

Its the 45th anniversay of the novel that sold over 30 million copies and 44 years since the cult campy movie Valley of the Dolls starring Susan Hayward, Patty Duke, Sharon Tate, Barbara Parkins & a brief speaking role with a young Richard Dreyfuss who played the part of an Assistant Stage Manager. The movie opened in 1967 in USA theaters.

Jacqueline Susann was the chic lit writer of the Groovy era, long before Jackie Colins came along. Susann was known to wear Emilio Pucci.

I was under age when the book and movie came out, all my girlfriends were talking about it but my parents would not let me see it. One afternoon I sneaked into a Manhattan movie theater. I think this is the movie that inspired me to raid vintage stores in the Village for Pucci & gave me the inspiration to sew.

Last night I found it again playing in one of the retro or classic movie channels.

Id forgotten some of the ridiculously campy scenes, like the one where Susan Hayward as Helen Lawson, performs 'I’ll Plant My Own Tree' in front of a huge psychedelic rotating mobile that could only have been conjured up from a bad 60s lsd trip.

Hayward was one of mom's favorite actresses, one of the great beauties of her time, she replaced Judy Garland in the role. According to wikipedia 'On July 20, 2009, Patty Duke appeared at the Castro Theater in San Francisco with a benefit screening of the film, and said that director Mark Robson made Garland wait from 8am to 4pm before filming her scenes for the day, knowing that Garland would be upset and drunk by that time.'

My favorite character of the movie was Barbara Parkins's Anne.

Here she is wearing Pucci.

There was something about Sharon Tate, she was not only a stunning woman but there was something so innocent and sweet, much like Marilyn Monroe who also died tragically and too young.

This is my favorite outfit that she wore in the movie, it consisted of a jacket with big buttons and slacks, when she walked into the pool area she removed the jacket to reveal a bikini. Bikinis were just becoming popular in the 60s.

My favorite mod mini dress of the movie is this one worn by Patty Duke's character Neely.

You could tell the 70's were quickly approaching by the avocado and orange sofa in the background of this scene.

This is a link to a youtube video that begins with the famous Neely and Helen cat fight.

I think the movie is still charming and campy after all these years, definitely worth checking out.

London Vintage

2011-09-08T15:16:00.000-07:00

Want!

When I was in college my brothers would drop by my apt and 'borrow' my cons.

Can someone drop by and pick me up a handful of bullet bras? *~*swoon!*~*

BLITZ LONDON

‎Heads up Wisconsin! Vintage Fashions Exhibit

2011-09-04T16:12:00.000-07:00

Although I doubt I would have chosen "BLING!" as a name for an antique & vintage clothing exhibit I believe it would be well worth the visit.

An exhibiton of dresses & more from 1869-1969

The exhibition includes items from the estate of Jessie Jack Hooper who ran for Senate in 1922.

Link to information about Jessie Jack Hooper's platform.

Women's suffrage in the United States

More about the exhibition's content in the following PDF document

Fashion_Exhibit_Adds_Bling

Madonna in vintage style Vionnet

2011-09-02T12:03:00.000-07:00

Madonna, rocking her vintage style gown & shoes by Vionnet at the Venice Film Festival on Thursday, September 1st!

PAN AM

2011-08-31T21:54:00.000-07:00

Being a huge fan of just about everything 60's fashions, music, architecture, automobiles, furniture...I was intantly hooked when I began watching Mad Men. Memories of my chic mom & dapper dad, growing up in NYC. Unfortunately, as the characters of the series, my parents separated around the same age Sally Draper was when Don and Betty did. I even had a little baby brother. I could somewhat identify with the character.

I was so disspointed to read, as were thousands of other fans, that there were problems with production and news that the show may not return to AMC until 2012.

Now there is a new show coming Sept 25th starring Christina Ricci on ABC set around the same decade named PAN AM, the elite airline that set the standard for the industry in the early 60s.

I was lucky to have been one of those people who flew PAN AM as a little girl. I was in awe of the stewardesses, they seemed so glamorous just like movie stars! That's what I wanted to be!

Through the years I have always researched Pan Am collectibles on the internet. I wonder if after the show begins and it grows in popularity it will be even harder to find original vintage PAN AM memorabilia.

Magazine ads, ashtrays, wings...even cocktail napkins are sprouting on auction websites these days more so now than ever.

PAN AM ON EBAY

Vintage Pan American Airlines

credit to cheelah for above two photos

Pan Am has been listed as #6 Most anticipated tv show of 2011

I hope it is as juicy and entertaining as Mad Men.

Fashions at MTV's 2011 VMA's

2011-08-28T23:31:00.000-07:00

Kudos to Beiber for wearing vintage YSL.

Loved Adele's Barbara Tfank dress.

I think Katie Holmes looked pretty cute although I think the OP of the Chicology article was dead on when she asked "What is she doing at the VMA's?"

Adele

Justin Beiber

I am not a prude but am I the only who thinks a patch of fur, fringes...etc...does not belong at crotch level on any garment?

Kelly Rowland

CHICology

So thankful to all who supported us!

2011-06-08T14:52:00.000-07:00

We made it again this year!!

Glitter Is Good!

2011-05-18T14:37:00.001-07:00

Show the world & Newt that Glitter Is Good!

This is my own personal sticker I had made in the early 90s.

LIMITED Quantity left. Once gone its forever gone!

$4.00 a piece or $3. a piece 2 or more.

FREE shipping.

Link to Video of

Gingrich Glittered in Minn.

Vote For figure8studio For Top 10 Vintage Sites!

2011-05-07T03:13:00.000-07:00

Please vote figure8studio for Top 10 Vintage Site of 2011!

To vote please follow the link to Lulu's Vintage Blog and post your support for figure8studio!

Only one post per IP address please.

Thank you for your support & helping us make it to the top 10 last year!♥

The Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T03:09:00.001-07:00

Once upon a time...

Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.

You can click on any image to enlarge.

Queen Elizabeth II.

Princess Margaret.

She was not British but what is a blog post about Princess Brides without the amazing Grace Kelly?

Princess Diana.

And today...

Gorgeous in Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen! Tim Gunn called it 'ravishing!'. A style that will never look outdated.

Catherine had a lot of input in the design of the dress. 'Hand-cut English lace and French Chantilly lace has been used throughout the bodice and skirt, and has been used for the underskirt trim. With laces coming from different sources, much care was taken to ensure that each flower was the same colour.' You can tell the vintage style of the bodice, 'drawing on the Victorian tradition of corsetry. The skirt has fluid movement and as The Monarchy described 'it echoes an opening flower.'

Pippa Middleton was lovely by the same designer.

I have been a big fan of McQueen for many years and wrote an extensive blog when he passed on the 11th of February 2010.

In memory of Alexander (Lee) McQueen

Our dad was British. Where ever in the world we lived dad always managed to find a special spot for Her Majesty's portrait. That's me holding my new doll Noelle. The weird tree is because we lived in the tropics & I'm sure Christmas trees had to be imported.

It would have been hard to resist the pageantry but whether British or not, most people wish them a long and happy life together.

I couldnt help wondering which Philip Treacy hat Diana would have worn to her son's wedding.

I'm afraid it seemed Princess Beatrice of York failed at the attempt to channel the fabulous Isabella Blow who was very close friends and muse of both Philip Treacy and Alexander McQueen.

Edit: A brilliant observer left me this note:

"Princess Beatrice's hat is another take on the Lover's Knot...at first I just looked at it, as others did, but then I recognized the design which is classic (don't know that it's been used on a hat before) and thought: "She's honoring the couple".
Sometimes there's much more to a story than just what it seems..."

Indeed!

Edit: May 18th, 2011

The hat is now on ebay, all proceeds to go to charity. I think she has a wonderful sense of humor. I am taking a screen shot of the auction as a keep sake and will include in this blog.

Here is a link to the auction. Note, link is dead as ebay removed the listing after it ended.

Princess Beatrice Royal Wedding Hat by Philip Treacy

Edit 12.16.2011 - The auction screen shots are at the very bottom of this post.

A few of my personal favorites:

Worn by Miriam Gonzalez Durantez, the wife of Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, a very Forties black turban embellished with coral flowers and matching lipstick.

Earl Spencer's daughters, Lady Amelia, Lady Eliza and Lady Kitty wore elaborate fascinators, with Kitty, far right, wearing a Victoria Beckham dress with her Philip Treacy hat.

The Lilly of The Valley worn by the Wedding Party. The flower of my birth month.

The Blush Crew.

Princess Ameerah Al Tawil, wife of Saudi Prince Al Walid bin Talal, wearing one of the most beautiful dresses of the event, a custom made Zuhair Muard Couture dress especially made for the occasion. The light rosewood satin with silk lace overcoat was decorated with hand embroidered organza flowers. Her dress and overcoat were accessorized with matching shoes, a clutch, gloves and a hat all by Zuhair Murad.

Sophie, Countess of Wessex wearing Bruce Oldfield and a hat by Jane Taylor and Princess Maxima.

And here is another look at Princess Ameerah Al Tawil.

The primary color crew. Not exactly a favorite as I thought there was a bit too much electric blue going on, Tara Palmer Tomkinson.

Loved The Queen's crepe wool primrose dress with hand-sewn beading at the neck in the shape of sunrays with matching tailored coat designed by Angela Kelly. She also wore a matching crepe hat with hand-made silk roses and apricot coloured leaves, and wore Queen Mary's True Lover's Knot diamond brooch pinned to her coat. Someone wrote that it is obvious who is the center of this family.

Large diamond bow with scalloped edges and diamond tassels.
The Queen inherited the brooch from Queen Mary in 1953.

Zara Phillipps, Princess Anne's only daughter and Mike Tindall.

The mother of the bride, Carol Middleton, beautiful wearing Catherine Walker, a designer famously loved by Princess Diana.

I noticed, while using the social forums some women complaining that Victoria Bechham was wearing a tent and not 'showing her bump' in the popular snug outfits expectant mothers wear today but I feel she made a good choice and looked very classy in her Midnight Blue dress and Philip Treacy hat. David was very dapper in Ralph Lauren and Philip Treacy top hat.

Frances Osborne, the wife of the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

I think the ceremony was short and sweet. I don't know why Charles and Diana's wedding seemed so much longer to me.

Impressed with the crowd control.

and how the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment escorted the wedding party back to Buckingham Palace The crowd would wait patiently to see the couple once again and hopefully witness a romantic kiss.

The crowd got two kisses!

Catherine lovely in her reception dress by the same designer. I see an almost identical replica of the wedding dress without the lace bodice and train.

May Love Be Good To Them.

You can watch the wedding here.

After so many disasters in recent days, weeks...I feel the world needed something grand, fun and hopeful for a change!

Thanks for stopping by.

Katy Perry's Royal Wedding Nails, fun!

The official information about the Wedding Party:

The Wedding Dress, Bridesmaids' Dresses and Page' Uniforms

29th April 2011

The Wedding Dress

Miss Catherine Middleton’s Wedding Dress has been designed by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen.

Miss Middleton chose British brand Alexander McQueen for the beauty of its craftsmanship and its respect for traditional workmanship and the technical construction of clothing. Miss Middleton wished for her dress to combine tradition and modernity with the artistic vision that characterises Alexander McQueen’s work. Miss Middleton worked closely with Sarah Burton in formulating the design of her dress.

The dress epitomises timeless British craftsmanship by drawing together talented and skilled workmanship from across the United Kingdom. The dress design pays tribute to the Arts and Crafts tradition, which advocated truth to materials and traditional craftsmanship using simple forms and often Romantic styles of decoration. Ms Burton’s design draws on this heritage, additionally giving the cut and the intricate embellishment a distinctive, contemporary and feminine character.

The design

The lace appliqué for the bodice and skirt was hand-made by the Royal School of Needlework, based at Hampton Court Palace. The lace design was hand-engineered (appliquéd) using the Carrickmacross lace-making technique, which originated in Ireland in the 1820s. Individual flowers have been hand-cut from lace and hand-engineered onto ivory silk tulle to create a unique and organic design, which incorporates the rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock.

Hand-cut English lace and French Chantilly lace has been used throughout the bodice and skirt, and has been used for the underskirt trim. With laces coming from different sources, much care was taken to ensure that each flower was the same colour. The whole process was overseen and put together by hand by Ms Burton and her team.

The dress is made with ivory and white satin gazar. The skirt echoes an opening flower, with white satin gazar arches and pleats. The train measures two metres 70 centimetres. The ivory satin bodice, which is narrowed at the waist and padded at the hips, draws on the Victorian tradition of corsetry and is a hallmark of Alexander McQueen’s designs. The back is finished with 58 gazar and organza covered buttons fastened by Rouleau loops. The underskirt is made of silk tulle trimmed with Cluny lace.

The Fabrics

French Chantilly lace was combined with English Cluny lace to be hand-worked in the Irish Carrickmacross needlework tradition.

All other fabrics used in the creation of the dress were sourced from and supplied by British companies. The choice of fabrics followed extensive research by Sarah Burton and her team.

The Royal School of Needlework

The Royal School of Needlework (RSN), based at Hampton Court Palace, assisted the Alexander McQueen team in accurately cutting out the delicate motifs from the lace fabrics and positioning the lace motifs with precision into the new design. The lace motifs were pinned, ‘framed up’ and applied with stab stitching every two to three millimetres around each lace motif. The workers washed their hands every thirty minutes to keep the lace and threads pristine, and the needles were renewed every three hours, to keep them sharp and clean.

The RSN workers included existing staff, former staff, tutors, graduates and students, with the youngest aged 19.

The RSN’s work was used primarily for the train and skirt of the Bride’s dress, the bodice and sleeves, the Bride’s shoes and the Bride’s veil.

Veil and Jewellery

The veil is made of layers of soft, ivory silk tulle with a trim of hand-embroidered flowers, which was embroidered by the Royal School of Needlework. The veil is held in place by a Cartier ‘halo’ tiara, lent to Miss Middleton by The Queen. The ‘halo’ tiara was made by Cartier in 1936 and was purchased by The Duke of York (later King George VI) for his Duchess (later Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother) three weeks before he succeeded his brother as King. The tiara was presented to Princess Elizabeth (now The Queen) by her mother on the occasion of her 18th birthday.

The Bride’s earrings, by Robinson Pelham, are diamond-set stylised oak leaves with a pear shaped diamond set drop and a pavé set diamond acorn suspended in the centre. Inspiration for the design comes from the Middleton family's new coat of arms, which includes acorns and oak leaves. The earrings were made to echo the tiara. The earrings were a personal gift to the Bride from her parents for her Wedding Day.

Robinson Pelham have also designed and made a pair of diamond earrings for Miss Philippa Middleton. These earrings are more floral in nature to compliment the headpiece worn by Miss Philippa Middleton during the Service.

A tourmaline and diamond pendant and matching earrings have been designed and made for Mrs. Carole Middleton. Two gold stick pins, one with a single gold acorn at the head and the other with an oak leaf, are also worn respectively by the Father of the Bride, Mr. Michael Middleton, and the Bride's brother, Mr. James Middleton.

Wedding Shoes

The wedding shoes have made hand-made by the team at Alexander McQueen and are made of ivory duchesse satin with lace hand-embroidered by the Royal School of Needlework.

The Bride’s Bouquet

The bouquet is a shield-shaped wired bouquet of myrtle, lily-of-the-valley, sweet William and hyacinth. The bouquet was designed by Shane Connolly and draws on the traditions of flowers of significance for the Royal Family, the Middleton family and on the Language of Flowers.

The flowers’ meanings in the bouquet are:

Lily-of-the-valley – Return of happiness

Sweet William – Gallantry

Hyacinth – Constancy of love

Ivy: Fidelity; marriage; wedded love; friendship; affection

Myrtle: the emblem of marriage; love.

The bouquet contains stems from a myrtle planted at Osborne House, Isle of Wight, by Queen Victoria in 1845, and a sprig from a plant grown from the myrtle used in The Queen’s wedding bouquet of 1947.

The tradition of carrying myrtle begun after Queen Victoria was given a nosegay containing myrtle by Prince Albert’s grandmother during a visit to Gotha in Germany. In the same year, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert bought Osborne House as a family retreat, and a sprig from the posy was planted against the terrace walls, where it continues to thrive today.

The myrtle was first carried by Queen Victoria eldest daughter, Princess Victoria, when she married in 1858, and was used to signify the traditional innocence of a bride.

Miss Philippa Middleton’s Dress

Miss Philippa Middleton’s dress was designed and created by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen. It is of a heavy, ivory satin-based crepe, with a cowl front and with the same button detail and lace trims as the Bride’s dress.

The Young Bridesmaids’ Dresses

The young Bridesmaids’ dresses were designed by childrenswear designer Nicki Macfarlane to echo the Bride’s dress. The four dresses were hand-made by Ms Macfarlane and her daughter Charlotte Macfarlane at their homes in Wiltshire and Kent.

The Bridesmaids’ dresses have been created using the same fabrics as the Bride’s dress. The ballerina-length, full, box pleated skirt gives the dresses a sculptural quality, with the layering of ivory over white satin gazar adding depth of colour. They have all been hand-finished with delicate English Cluny lace, which is visible under the skirts, and four layers of net underskirt. The puff sleeves and neckline are trimmed with the same English lace as the Bride’s underskirt. The backs have been finished with the same button detail.

The sashes are made of pale gold, wild silk, which is tucked at the front and tied at the back in a sumptuous bow.

As a special memento, the Bridesmaid’s name and the date of the wedding have been hand-embroidered onto the lining of each dress.

Capes (These may or may not be worn dependent on the weather)

The waist-length capes, also created by Nicki Macfarlane, are made from ivory Yorkshire wool, edged in fine English lace and tied at the front in the same satin gazar as the dresses.

Shoes

The Bridesmaids’ shoes were designed and made by Devon-based Rainbow Club. The classic Mary Jane style shoes are made from satin and finished with a Swarovski crystal buckle. Devon-based Rainbow Club have been designing, making and colouring handmade wedding shoes since the mid-1980s.

Bridesmaids’ Flowers

The Bridesmaids’ flowers were designed and made by Shane Connolly. The ivy and lily-of-the-valley hair wreaths worn by the younger Bridesmaids were influenced by the Bride’s mother’s own headdress at her wedding in 1981. The bouquets held by the Bridesmaids replicate the flowers used in the Bride’s bouquet, and they incorporate lily-of-the-valley, sweet William and hyacinth.

Pages’ Uniforms

The Pages are wearing a uniform in the style of that worn by a Foot Guards officer at the time of the Regency (the 1820s). The uniform draws its insignia from the Irish Guards, whose Colonel is Prince William.

The tunic is Guards’ Red with gold piping, Irish shamrocks are on the collars and its buttons are arranged in fours, denoting the Irish – or Fourth – Regiment of Foot Guards. The buttons feature the Harp of Ireland surmounted by the Crown Imperial. The breeches are ivory and are worn with white stockings and black buckle shoes

The Pages will wear a gold and crimson sash (with tassel) around their waists. The sash is worn by officers in the Irish Guards when in the presence of a Member of the Royal Family.

The uniforms were designed in the Royal Household and were created by Kashket and Partners, who have also fitted Prince William’s uniform for his Wedding Day. The collars and cuffs were created by the Royal School of Needlework.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Screen shots of the ebay auction for the hat worn by Princess Beatrice of York:

Apologies for not adding these images sooner. Ebay deleted the auction from their servers & I had to remove my personal info from my computer images. Enjoy!

You will need to click on the image to view the full sized version.

Dark Shadows

2011-04-23T04:25:00.000-07:00

Found it on Netflix. I wonder if it will be as addicting as it was in the 60's

Watch Dark Shadows: Episode 1. in Entertainment | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

An Eye for Fashion Anna Wintour

2011-04-10T00:30:00.000-07:00

2011 Oscars Red Carpet

2011-03-03T01:39:00.000-08:00

I set the DVR before heading out to celebrate the birthday of a friend last Sunday. Ive enjoyed leisurely watching, taking notes and fast forwarding past all the commercials. You can click on each image to zoom in for a larger view.

After seeing all the stars walk the carpet, Hailee Steinfeld wore one of my favorite dresses, a Marchesa pink dream I read she took part in designing, Can you believe that? As young as she is. Kudos to her for excellent taste. Her hair was also flawless.

Another Marchesa stand out, Halle Berry.

Amy Adams ~ Old Hollywood in L'Wren Scott, simply gorgeous, those emeralds! My birthstone. Color me green with envy.

Cate Blanchett, always her own woman, never a copy, tastefully different.

Michelle Williams in a sweet and understated Chanel.

Melissa Tomei is my second favorite, a vintage Charles James gown. The story goes that it sat in her closet for years waiting for the right occasion.

Loved Gwyneth's liquid silver Calvin Klein dress and her voice, girlfriend can sing. She was my third fave. However you may feel about her singing you can tell she is having a blast behind the microphone.

Liked Annette Bening's dress, I think she wore it well.

Scanning the media, presenters...crowd...I noticed far too many one shoulders. I understand why its a popular style - you have an almost strapless feel without the constant 'pulling up' but isn't it time for a change ladies?

Scarlett Johansson's dress, not crazy about the style itself, maybe a bit 'too much going on' with the fabric...but her body was slamming and she wore the color beautifully. Her makeup was also flawless.

I guess my least favorite was Nicole's dress, not because it was different, I love different. Im not so sure its movements were designed for a human body, or more specifically, Nicole. She seemed a bit stiff. If it had been worn by someone who could carry that dress I think this could have been a success. I can totally see this dress in an art gallery.

Anne Hathaway's Valentino Archival dress, also her lipstick loved loved loved!

Jennifer Hudson, stunning! I didnt know she was so tall, during her Tim Gunn interview her eyes were level with his forehead and he is not a short man.

I disagree with Cojo that Jennifer Lawrence looked like she was wearing a bathing suit, sometimes less IS better dear, although I think Tiffany and Co. could have helped add a little something something around that pretty neck.

Sandra Bullock looked smashing. Penelope in L'Wren Scott.

Red hot mamas of the gala.

Being the music freak that I am...

'Red hot mama was gettin' down
Scoping the places where fun to be found
She was smokin'...'

'Right On Red Hot Mama girl..., sure look good to me!'

Other favorites Reese Witherspoon's 60's style Giorgio Armani Prive.

Justin Timberlake, the older he gets...

Russell Brand and Christian Bale's Black on Black. OK. I specially liked Russell's skinny slacks. I just love the classic white shirt with black bow tie. I know, I want the women to ditch the over played one shoulder and men to stay the same. What can I say?

The jury is still out regarding Melissa Leo's dress. Not sure if its the neckline or that as much as I want to like it, I really really do, it just keeps reminding me of mom's vintage lace tablecloths!

A friend mentioned why she was also not crazy about that neckline, it reminded her of 'Elvis's white jumpsuit with the stand up collar.' And I thought Oh my word! That's it!

The talk, well more like outrage in the vintage world, is the one regarding Colin Firth's wife dress made of 11 hacked vintage dresses of the era of The King's Speech.

I read quite a bit about it, the information I've been able to gather so far is that unlike previous Firth's projects where dresses were constructed from damaged vintage pieces this one was, supposedly, constructed from *the best* of the store's collection. Ouch.

Its cool to be green but destroying perfectly good vintage dresses to make one is not green.

What do you think?

Update - Now Im reading a conflicting story from the mirror dated 3/06/2011 - today (?)

how-colin-firth-s-wife-livia-stole-the-show-with-her-charity-shop-oscars-dress

'It’s known as “upcycling”, the fashionable cousin of recycling. To add authenticity, each dress was from the 1920s and ’30s – when The King’s Speech was set.

Part of the dress was made from tatty tea dresses bought from London shop 360 Degrees Vintage. Gary paid £600 for a selection from the Greenwich boutique, which is run by Lynn Burgess and her mum Kit.'

Lynn said: “Some were slightly damaged, some had their netting torn, and one had a stain round the hem. But incredibly Gary managed to eliminate all their little flaws and produce this stunning dress.” Livia’s instructions were clear: “Remember, I’m not a young actress. I’m a 41-year-old mother of two. Nothing too short or too daring.”

Except on 3/1/11 The shop owner had posted on their FB page when asked:

'As a vintage clothing lover I have to ask, what was the condition of the 1930s gowns used to make Gary Harvey's dress? Were they already damaged beyond wearability or did he actually destroy 11 perfectly good vintage gowns.'

Answer

'He bought the very best gowns'

Is the Mirror attempting a bit of damage control?

Here Comes Sunshine!

2011-02-22T20:59:00.000-08:00

EXOTIC VINTAGE HAWAIIAN WRAP DRESS.

Organza Alfred Shaheen 70s Purple Butterfly Dress.

60s 70s Hand Painted Alfred Shaheen Hawaiian Dress .

KAMEHAMEHA Bird of Paradise Hawaiian Dress.

LAST SALE OF THE YEAR!

2010-12-22T02:03:00.000-08:00

A First Lady First!

2010-12-21T14:42:00.001-08:00

Mrs. Obama wears vintage!

Michelle Obama wears a gorgeous American Designer Norman Norell 50s black lace and tulle tea length cocktail dress from my old stomping grounds New York Vintage. She wore the dress to the event “Christmas in Washington” in Washington DC. The event was hosted by Ellen DeGeneres and aired 12/21/2010 on TNT.

It is being reported this is a 1st for the White House and that she plans to wear another vintage couture dress for New Year's.

It is so uplifting to all of us vintage lovers to witness this historic event.

An additional comment. Some blogs are reporting this is a 'thrift store' find. So far there is no proof of this. The owner of New York Vintage could have obtained this dress through many sources. In NYC socialites often take their designer frocks to vintage consignment stores where folks like myself, then a poor college student and single mom, was able to afford them. Vintage clothing sellers, such as myself, obtain vintage from estate sales & private sources. Rarely do I find a dress of this caliber in a thrift store. It is not impossible but it is rare.

As you were~

Recycle your Christmas & Holiday Lights

2010-12-21T13:28:00.000-08:00

Dear friends, its that time of the year when I post my yearly reminder to please not toss those lights in the trash. Please recycle them.

Almost every household has a string or two or three, like mine, of broken lights. Those strings you don't know what to do with.

You change the bulbs, the fuse...nothing happens, you get frustrated and add it to the pile. Instead of throwing them in the trash a few organizations including charities, recycle light strings. These places take the light strings apart and recycle most of the parts like the copper, glass and plastic.

Why have that stuff leeching pollutants into the earth when the materials could be used again?

Light strands are so dangerous to wild animals also.

Think about how long it takes us to untangle those strings, imagine what an animal without the intelligence and dexterity we have will go through. Like those hideous plastic rings that hold soda cans.

Google 'recycle Christmas lights and your zip code' for drop off locations in your area.

In Seattle I can take my lights to Whole Foods & Woodland Park Zoo. Some Walmarts have recently joined the recycling effort.

If you are unable to recycle your lights in your area you can mail them.

This program recycles your lights and benefits children plus give a 10% discount on purchases.

Visit:

Recycle Christmas Lights for the Kids Campaign

Another program:

HolidayLEDs.com

They send you a coupon for 15% off on purchases.

HolidayLEDs.com
Attn: Recycling Program
2500 W. Argyle St.
Jackson, MI 49202

Also web sites like craigslist, freecycle are good places to recycle your light strings. Many craft people, artists re use and re purpose them.

Please post this information on your blogs, tell everyone there is a better way to dispose of those light strings.

May you all have a happy and green holiday season!

The Little Vintage Store That Could

2010-11-27T11:30:00.000-08:00

Politics aside, this is the story of my friend Amanda Zych owner of rogueretro vintage store on etsy. She now has an important lesson to teach her daughter Ella and she in turn will cherish and pass down to her children, grandchildren...

She is a struggling single mom who went through a lot the past couple of years, barely surviving working hard to make ends meet. Amanda came very close to losing her home.

Recently while shopping for vintage to sell in her store she came across this coat.

After doing some research on the label 'For The Wardrobe of Bill Beck Varsity Shop, Mt Vernon Washington' she discovered the coat belonged to Glenn Beck's dad.

Amanda did what she thought was the right thing, she sent the coat to Glenn Beck free of charge because she firmly believes the coat belongs to him. When he called her to thank her she never mentioned her business or asked for a dime. What is also really special about this story is that on the week of her birthday, Amanda gave unconditionally.

Amanda is my hero.

The studio setting up in her living room.

You can watch the segment here:

or here:

Amanda Zych of etsy rogueretro on Glenn Beck.

I thought I'd share this inspirational story with all of you during this time when we all gather with loved ones to give thanks for all that we have.

That giving & kindness is the true spirit of the season and we hold much more in common than not.

Happy Holidays everyone!

This is the reason I love vintage, the story behind each piece.

11.29.2010 @ about the 10:00 mark GB mentions Amanda again.

The Pulse Died Project Runway Season 8 Finale

2010-10-29T14:21:00.000-07:00

The winner of PR season 8 'had her finger on the pulse of fashion' according to Nina and Michael Kors but I'm beginning to wonder if there is a pulse at all.

I'm glad I recorded the final episode and instead chose to watch Animal Planet's Fatal Attractions, it was more exciting than Gretchen's collection.

I remember the judges repeatedly criticizing designers for off the rack/wearable looks. 'WOW US!' is what I kept hearing and that's exactly what Mondo did, yet, they chose to go against everything they preached all season long and gave the win to Gretchen's bohemian over Mondo's fresh, fun, memorable, innovative and Andy's well made cohesive collection.

Mondo's designs are completely his own, if you see one of his pieces you know its a Mondo piece whereas Gretchen's....well....Ive seen folks blogs that say they have seen similar clothes at Target and Walmart. Someone else posted that Gretchen's collection was lifted from Butterick's #B5491, worthy only for QVC at 3 AM.

A couple of Gretchen supporters wrote on PR's blog that older women would not wear Mondo's designs. I am an older woman and would wear them in a heart beat. This is not 'Design For Grandma' but maybe that is something PR should consider and judging from Gretchen's collection they are on the right path.

On my last blog I questioned the choice for Jessica Simpson for judge, now, well, at least she had the taste to pick Mondo but a lot of good it did when both she and Heidi caved in to Michael and Nina. Perhaps Tim Gunn should have been called to break the tie.

Perhaps its time for PR to acquire a new set of judges with fresh eyes. I think Nina and Michael have become jaded and stale and frankly seem to sort of get off on wielding the hand of power. You know what they say, In fashion, one minute you are In, the next you are Out.

As I type this Mondo's collection is almost sold out at SEENON.COM Gretchen only sold one.

Update 10/30/2010 Mondo's collection is SOLD OUT. Gretchen sold 1 piece.

Some of Gretchen's pieces

Mondo's

Heidi putting her money where her mouth is.

Personally, I like his dress with or without the sleeves.

Mondo's Website.

Mondo before Project Runway.

Only thing I liked about Gretchen's show was the music. It happens to be "Icarus" by White Hinterland.

Project Runway Part 1 of Season Finale

2010-10-22T21:02:00.000-07:00

I would love to know what in the world were the judges thinking when they

1. Picked Gretchen over Michael C.

and

2. Chose Jessica Simpson as judge.

Congratulations are in order for Mondo, Gretchen & Andy. I was shocked the judges picked Gretchen even though I liked her last design. The other two, not so much. The hat was nice but the jacket didn't do much for me and the granola jumper? No. Although Gretchen has been eating a little humble pie recently, redeeming perhaps? Must be the effects of hard times because when you are down there's only one way to go and that's up girlfriend. Im still baffled as to why her work beat MC's.

I have to say the bathing suit screamed April, sorry Andy but it did and Im surprised none of the judges noticed.

Love loved loved Mondo's bag! I love skulls anyway, it was right up my alley, specially with the dingle balls/pom poms O-M-G MUST HAVE.

I also liked Mondo's headpieces; Michael, Heidi & Nina: back off, they were adorable, so much better than Andy's. I did love Andy's lime dress, the workmanship alone was outstanding.

I have never seen hurt, disappointment, sadness...wash all over anyone like it did over Michael C. I do know he is doing well because Mondo has been sharing photos on the internet in MC's company at recent events grinning ear to ear. I am confident he will be fine. Michael C.'s fringed top, was super cool and Im looking forward to seeing more from him. I hope his family rallied around him for support as they should.

Michael Costello's fans, this is where his ready to wear line resides: Glitter Girl OC

Finally, one thing Mondo said that stayed with me after the credits rolled:

"You ARE cool, it just may take a little while"

Amen.

Newly added vintage

2010-10-12T01:25:00.000-07:00

Bitter Party of how many? Project Runway ep 11

2010-10-08T14:01:00.000-07:00

At first, I wasn't exactly thrilled with Heidi's Activewear Line Challenge but when designers go out into the world sometimes their clients request things outside of the comfort zone. Pun intended.

Busy busy! Fall is here and store is jamming.Managed to squeeze some time at breakfast for PR Episode 11.

Disclaimer: Spoilerland ahead.

What little respect I had for Ivy just went out the window. Disappointed April is still a card carrying member of the Mean Girls Club. Let me clue you in, when you accuse someone make sure your ducks are in a row and your butt is covered, in other words; Proof.

Once again Tim Gunn handled the fiasco with class and style. Highly recommend Gunn's Golden Rules: Life's Little Lessons for Making It Work or lessons in manners.

Thrilled with Norma Kamali as judge, she is a favorites. I have worn her pieces since the 80s. Kamali is comfortable, stylish, versatile and affordable, perfect for a young college mom, like I was.

Congratulations Andy! You redeemed yourself. I would wear these in a heart beat.

Loved Mondo's headbands and KUDOS for the New Energy.

Did Heidi JUST figure Gretchen cannot take criticism?

Sometimes Michael C's eye rolling, snarky runway smiles rub me the wrong way but if I have to continue watching Gretchen going on and on about her 'fabulousity' I will stick pins in my eyes.

I did like MC's pieces.

Hasta luego Christopher, I had a strange feeling it would be you this week. I'm sad you left but sure we will see you again.

PS Where have I been? Not paying attention, obviously!

One month ago New York Times places Mondo on the catwalk @ Mercedez Benz Fashion Week

Its Mondo's World

2010-10-01T05:20:00.000-07:00

Season 8 Episode 10 Project Runway

WARNING Spoilers - if you have not watched episode 10 stop here and go no further.

This, by far, was the most emotional episode ever on Project Runway.

In the beginning of the season I remember reading a few blogs poking fun at Mondo because he is 'different'

They did the same with another young man by the name of Christian, made fun of his last name, his hair, the way he dressed and he in turn proceeded to sweep the entire competition.

I loved Mondo Guerra before this one, now I adore him even more. I will always be a fan.

Watching PR is sometimes so hard, same as The Apprentice. So many beautiful images of my hometown. I would live on both coasts in a heartbeat but the reality is that I had to choose, for my health's sake, and I chose West.

The moments Mondo spent with his mom at The Highline, a park built on recycled train tracks, my heart ached not only for his anguish but the park which opened last year, a space I have been reading about but have been unable to enjoy, yet. I hope to someday.

The Highline

This week the designers were inspired to design their own fabrics from images of childhood memories. After designing their fabrics Tim announced they had the rest of the day off to spend time with their loved ones.

Andy, for some reason, found the entire experience daunting, his final garment left much to be desired. It is no secret this show is about pressure. Pressure to produce in a short time, with a limited budget, with cameras in your face, with all sorts of hurdles thrown at you. I just did not accept his excuse specially since he didn't know his mother was coming till after they designed the fabrics. Andy just didnt have it in him this episode. I was expecting so much more from him and he disappointed.

I disagreed with the judges regarding Valerie's dress. I thought the workmanship and fabric manipulation was very creative. I don't feel she should have been the one to go specially when , several times, they said Andy's design was the worst and unwearable.

The judges RAVED about Gretchen's design, it was nice but not as fabulous as they made it out to be. I liked the fabric design but the overall product was ho hum, similar to Christopher's except she put more effort and work into hers and it showed.

They raved about April as well, who is also one of my favorites but who's final design really didn't do much for me. I liked the fabric design and the construction of the top. That's it.

Michael Costello designed a fabric made from 'evil eyes' He said his family wore bracelets with evil eyes. Coming from a different culture I am aware of these symbols, Santos....nevertheless I thought the dress was interesting with the hard edges. I liked MC's better than Gretchen's but I would have put red pumps on that model not the matchy matchy yellow ones she wore.

Christopher's design of the 'watery' fabric and sailor pants was OK. I thought it was sweet and I would wear it but he should have pulled all the stops, specially when he was given so much freedom of expression, his own fabric and two days. If this was a personality contest between Michael & Christopher my pick would be Christopher hands down but this is not what PR is about.

This is not the first time they have done this exercise on PR so it should not have been a surprise. I think Andy and Christopher were at the bottom of this challenge. I like Christopher but I dont feel he is the best. I don't like writing this but I feel he should have been Auffed.

Mondo's final design, the OP Art Top with matching short jacket and plus sign pants, representing his HIV status, blew my mind. Not only because of what they represented but because they were fabulous.

He explained it was a secret he had been keeping for 10 years because his parents being so religious he felt would never understand and accept him. His explanation that he kept this secret out of respect for his parent's beliefs took my breath away. His selflessness and bravery are honorable. This is what my heroes are made of.

He did not want to go into what the design of the fabric represented in the workroom but when Nina Garcia questioned him on the runway Mondo finally revealed it to the judges.

He is truly an inspiration.

Mondo has won three challenges.

Some collection! I cant wait to see what else he comes up with. This young man deserves to be on Fashion Week.

Yes Mondo you are FREE!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I hate to put a damper on a review of this incredible episode but Im sorry, Im fed up with the blatant slinging of products on this show.

Bluefly, Piperline, HP...on and on and on....please! HP's 'wonderfulness' was already touted earlier in the season. Mention the product, IF YOU MUST! (siiiigh) and continue with the story line. No need to bring in 'who ever that was' and waste how long (?) talking about it.

That's why I record my shows & fast forward through all commercials, enough already.

BTW, my laptop is an HP, the monitor burned out. HP wont replace it. Oh wait, they will, to the tune of 300. - 400.

CLASS ACTION SUIT AGAINST HP due to the faulty laptops that HP won't recall and fix.

Known system board & video chip issues recorded here.

Im typing this on a MAC.

Lulu's Vintage Top 10

2010-06-02T01:42:00.000-07:00

It is a thrill to have earned Lulu's Vintage 2010 People's Choice Award.

New Arrivals!

2010-05-20T16:26:00.000-07:00

How You Can Help The Gulf Coast

2010-05-10T04:08:00.000-07:00

Gulf Oil Spill WKRG.com News

Please contact your local hair salons, Petsmart, Petco groomers and suggest that instead of putting that hair, fur in the trash it can go to help clean up the Gulf.

One pound of hair is able to absorb over a quart of oil.

This organization, MATTER OF TRUST, will provide them with one of 15 warehouse locations spread along Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Florida.

They are receiving a huge International Natural Fiber Recycling response!

Please help protect our coastline.

Hair Boom vs Conventional Boom Demo

Some of the heart wrenching images coming in:

The oil slick in the Gulf of Mexico is seen from a helicopter.
(Rick Loomis / Los Angeles Times / May 6, 2010)

Oil floats on the surface about 12 miles from the Louisiana marshes. Shrimp boat operators nearby tried to mop up as much as they could.
(Rick Loomis / Los Angeles Times / May 5, 2010)

The entire series is here.

Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary is struggling financially as oil catastrophe looms!

Due to a million dollar deficit they were forced to cut staff last year and last week struggled to meet payroll. They are in the middle of an emergency crisis.

I myself saw how dedicated these folks are in 93 when three oil vessels collided at the entrance to Tampa Bay leaving more than 300,000 gallons of heavy oil and another 33,000 gallons of jet fuel in their wake.

The brown pelican was already endangered at that time. The Seabird Sanctuary helped thousands of oil affected creatures. Day and night they worked tirelessly.

They have recruited 300 volunteers but they are in need of donations and supplies:

Linens, kennels, towels, sheets, Dawn detergent, paper towels, bottled water and Gatorade.

Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary
18328 Gulf Blvd, Indian shores, Fl 33785-2097

Telephone 727-391-6211

---------------------

Bird Cleaned Of Oil In Theodore, Alabama - Published: Sat, May 29, 2010

WKRG.com News

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T17:27:00.000-07:00

To all the MAGNIFICENT Moms!

Vote For figure8studio For Top 10 Vintage Sites!

2010-04-29T14:38:00.000-07:00

Please vote my vintage store figure8studio for Top 10 Vintage Site of 2010!

To vote please follow the link to Lulu's Vintage Blog and post your vote/support for figure8studio!

Only one post per person.

Votes will be tallied and the top 10 will be announced on Monday, May 31st.

Thank you for your continued support and friendship!♥

Trashy Fashion: Haute Trash

2010-04-21T12:53:00.000-07:00

I try to make it to this show every year. There are a few so so's (props for effort) but some exceptional ones as well.

'Garbage can be gorgeous, as evidenced by Saturday's night's "Haute Trash" fashion show at the New York Fashion Academy in Ballard. Sponsored by Seattle's recycling gurus at the ReStore,local designers fashioned incredible outfits out of stuff the rest of us just throw away. You won't believe some of the things they came up with.'

Less than one week left!

2010-03-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

Sale ends March 31st!

In memory of Alexander (Lee) McQueen

2010-02-12T05:01:00.001-08:00

16 March 1969 – 11 February 2010

Visionary, artist, showman, staging genius, trend setter of the modern fashion world.

His critics called his work 'dark' I call it Organic, Romantic, Haunting, at times Goth.

Birds - he loved them. Skulls, crossbones, insects, feathers...a celebration of the earth.

Recurring Eagle Theme.

Pure Drama.

Discovered by Isabella Blow he paid homage to her eccentric style after her death in 2007 by sharing the runway with avant-garde head pieces by Philip Treacy in his spring/summer 2008 collection.

Totally Organic - Basket, Feathers...

Heart be still! - Steam Punk

Recycling?

Aimee Mullins modeled for McQueen wearing hand carved wooden legs made from solid ash, everyone thought they were boots.

Alexander McQueen infused the excitement of old school Yves Saint Laurent and Valentino Couture shows.

The following are my favorite articles.

Joyce McQueen interviews her son Tuesday 20 April 2004
'Meeting the Queen was like falling in love'

In this link - Cathy Horyn reflects on Alexander McQueen's talent, his career and his contributions to fashion.
Remembering Alexander McQueen

In the following link editors of T Magazine recall their favorite memories of Alexander McQueen.
Remembering Alexander McQueen - A celebration of his life.

And finally

A Chat With Alexander McQueen

It was Daniel Milford-Cottam, a member of a vintage clothing group I belonged to some years ago, who first peaked my interest in Alexander McQueen.

Rest in peace Lee, we will miss you.

ღஐƸ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒஐღ

SALE!

2010-02-04T04:42:00.001-08:00

52nd Grammy Awards Show

2010-02-01T20:50:00.000-08:00

Newspapers, blogs..., even those that are not fashion oriented, are a-buzz buzz about Lady Gaga's costumes last night at the red carpet and Grammy Awards show. She dressed exclusively in Giorgio Armani Privé encrusted with Swarovski crystals, Alexander McQueen shoes.

I always said that if you are in show business as long as they are talking about you the next day you win.

I think I would have been a little bit peeved if I would have sat behind this number.

Other notables

Beyoncé in sculptural Stephane Rolland

Katy Perry wearing Zac Posen

Rihanna in Elie Saab

Taylor Swift beautiful in Kaufman Franco

Here is another angle because that frontal shot makes her look like she is expecting.

Nicole Kidman & hubby Keith Urban both in Prada.

Heidi Klum in Pucci with handsome hubby Seal

Keri Hilson in a pink champagne Dolce & Gabbana mermaid gown

Ciara in Givenchy

Britney Spears attempted a similar effect in this Dolce & Gabbana but Im afraid she failed. It was just unflattering.

Fergie in Pucci

Jersey Shore Reality TV celeb Nicole "Snooki"

Sorry Snooks, I'm all for celebrating the body of a real woman but when you have the shape of an eggplant you should avoid tight clothing.

And because you are still young and I dont believe in criticizing without offering constructive advice; first of all I would not wear shiny fabrics but if you must - a few from Diane Von Furstenberg line just to give you an idea.

Now, I know the following comment may not hit the right tune with Taylor Swift fans but neither did she when she performed with Stevie Nicks. Some of my friends made comments that it was painful to watch at times and they were right.

Judge for yourself:

Hint @ 37, 51, 1:11, 1:14, 2:00, 2:09, 2:23, 2:30...

Once maybe but (?!?!?!)

My absolute favorite part of last night's Grammy show was Jeff Beck & Imelda May's Beautiful tribute to Les Paul

Congratulation to all the winners!

Lead In Lipsticks Warning is a HOAX

2010-01-16T02:42:00.000-08:00

The email circulated goes as follows:

"LIPSTICK INFORMATION:
Something to consider next time you go shopping for Lipstick……

This comes from someone who works in the breast cancer unit at Mt. Sinai Hospital in Toronto. Recently a lipstick brand called ‘ Red Earth’ decreased their prices from $67 to $9.90. It contained lead.

Lead is a chemical which causes cancer.
The lipstick brands that contain lead are:

CHRISTIAN DIOR
LANCÔME
CLINIQUE
Y.S.L
ESTEE LAUDER
SHISEIDO
RED EARTH (Lip Gloss)
CHANEL (Lip Conditioner)
MARKET AMERICA-MOTNES LIPSTICK.

The higher the lead content, The greater the chance of causing cancer. After doing a test on lipsticks, it was found that the Y.S.L. Lipstick Contained the most amount of lead.

Watch out for those lipsticks which are supposed to stay longer. If your lipstick stays longer, it is because of the higher content of lead.

Here is the test you can do yourself:
1. Put some lipstick on your hand.
2. Use a Gold ring to scratch on the lipstick.
3. If the lipstick color changes to black, Then you know the lipstick contains lead.

This information is being circulated at Walter Reed Army Medical Center Dioxin Carcinogens cause cancer, especially breast cancer!"

The current version of the email claims that the information originates from the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. However, this claim is highly suspect. There is no mention of such a warning published on the Walter Reed Army Medical Center website.

HOAX SLAYER

Shame H&M & Walmart!

2010-01-07T18:06:00.000-08:00

Unreal. We were completely speechless and heartbroken at not just the complete lack of environmental awareness but in these difficult times a disregard for our fellow human beings in need.

Cut off fingers from gloves? How heartless can retailers be?

Thanks to one of my fabulous clients for giving us the heads up about this atrocity.

Shame Shame!

'Cynthia Magnus with mutilated clothing she found on West 35th Street last month. She said she was appalled by the waste.'

A Clothing Clearance Where More Than Just the Prices Have Been Slashed

As Masibvo wrote us "I don't know what is more upsetting about this story. What they are (and are not) doing or the customers response to the issue. Most seem to be of the thought that they are glad the clothes are not donated since they would not want to see a homeless individual in the same article of clothing as they have. I hope that this is the younger customers that hold this attitude, and they will be taught that it is a horrible way to think about your fellow citizens in need.

This is just another reason to buy vintage!"

Here Here!♥

We will never ever discard a clothing item, always give away and donate, never in the landfill.

Recycle your Holiday Lights and cards!

2010-01-05T19:56:00.000-08:00

Worthy of a re post.

Once again, Im seeing post after post on CL "Come get my lights or they go in the garbage"

I try to reply to those messages by informing the OP that if no one picks up their lights there are other alternatives!

Almost every household has a string or two or three, like mine, of broken lights. Those strings you don't know what to do with.

You change one bulb, two, three, change the fuse and nothing happens, you get frustrated and add it to the pile. Instead of throwing them in the trash a few organizations including charities, recycle incandescent light strings. These places take the light strings apart and recycle most of the parts like the copper, glass and plastic.

Why have that stuff leeching pollutants into the earth when the materials could be used again?

Google 'recycle Christmas lights and your zip code' for drop off locations in your area.

In my city of Seattle I can take my lights to Whole Foods & Woodland Park Zoo.

treehuggervintage informed us that Walmart in St. Louis, started taking old holiday lights this year.

If you are unable to recycle your lights in your area you can mail them.

This program recycles your lights and benefits children plus give a 10% discount on purchases.

Visit:

Recycle Christmas Lights for the Kids Campaign

Another program:

HolidayLEDs.com

They send you a coupon for 15% off on purchases.

HolidayLEDs.com
Attn: Recycling Program
2500 W. Argyle St.
Jackson, MI 49202

Please post this information on your blogs, let everyone you know there is a better way to dispose of those light strings.

Want your Christmas & Holiday cards to go to a good cause?

Instead of throwing out or recycling your holiday cards-- donate them to St. Jude's Ranch for Children-- the kids use them to create new cards and sell.

May you all have a happy and green holiday season!

New Year Eye Candy

2009-12-31T05:28:00.000-08:00

Coming Soon

2009-12-29T22:36:00.000-08:00

Fast Eddie's

Pin Up Skater

Bravo Penelope for wearing vintage!

2009-12-28T20:08:00.000-08:00

'Penélope Cruz is among the stellar leading ladies in Rob Marshall’s Nine, which also stars Judi Dench, Marion Cotillard, Nicole Kidman, and Kate Hudson.

At its New York premiere, Cruz made a bold statement in a vintage Chanel goddess gown accessorized with pear-shaped diamond chandelier earrings from Chopard.'

I think her stylist should have chosen a deeper color red for her lipstick and have to agree with Debutante Clothing that it would have made a big difference if only the lipstick had been the correct shade, it was after all, very important in that era.

For instance, Chanel has a Red N°5, Armani Cosmetics carries a Matte Silk Lipstick No. 9, Nars's Fire Down Below...

Some of my vintage loving friends swear by MAC Matte Lipstick in Russian Red.

I wore Revlon's Cherries In The Snow for many years.

Then there are the shades by an old brand called Poppy, by Poppy King originating in Australia and now in the US and online. The brand in now called Lipstick Queen, they are typical 1940's colours.

What is your favorite shade of red lipstick?

How to continue when I feel I really shouldnt..

2009-12-26T01:28:00.000-08:00

Its the day after Christmas and I hope everyone had a fantastic holiday with their loved ones.

This is not a cheery post. It is about an Indie artist by the name of Vic Chestnutt, someone who had a big influence in my life. I am in the vintage clothing business but music is a big part of my life and many of my clients are in the music business. Vic's music is not for everyone, it has been described as Southern Gothic at its best. Whatever they call it in the music business Vic's words are certainly worth listening to, he had a lot to say.

His record company reported that Vic fell into a comma on Thursday, Christmas Eve, sadly Vic died yesterday Christmas Day at about 3PM in his hometown of Athens GA.

One of the things I loved about living in Athens was running into Vic here and there from time to time, at the 40 Watt Club where he performed, at Big Lots...

For those that dont know about Vic he was involved in a serious car crash when he was 18 that left him paralyzed and with serious health issues.

The Obit in The New York Times printed yesterday "Mr. Chesnutt had a cracked, small voice but sang with disarming candor about a struggle for peace in a life filled with pain."

Through the years he incurred so much debt due to his health that I'm certain it contributed to depression, which he often spoke of, wrote and sang about.

He had health insurance, paid 500. a month for 60 to 80% coverage but still was not enough because of 'pre existing conditions' Vic recently told an interviewer that he feared becoming homeless.

When I attended the Health Insurance Reform rally in Seattle I did it for people like Vic.

He gave a couple of interviews about the Health Reform, maybe some folks may not agree with what he had to say but this is a man who lived through it.

Singer-songwriter VIC CHESNUTT won't stay quiet Winnipeg Free Press 19/11/2009

I was introduced to Vic's music by Widespread Panic, the song I first heard was Aunt Avis.

another song, Blight, one Dave Schools, bass player for Widespread Panic sings and knows is a favorite of mine became my Halloween costume at a WP show in New Orleans 2000.

I wore a vintage black Gothic dress with black wings. While Dave sang Blight I presented him the In & Out earrings I was wearing, the little table inside the Cauldron of 'vapors that vile humans brew', the jar of 'prismatic eyes'...the 'downward spiral' - a pendant of a tornado...

BLIGHT

We sat on the couch a playin'
Touch the tongue and bump the table
But I was scorned after little ado
Tossed right out into the blue

I set into a downward spiral
Caught an illness that was literally viral
I heard some words of wisdom the other day
And they went in one ear and out the other one

I awoke from this beatific binge
With prismatic eyes, now lite is tinged
With all the vapors that the vile humans brew
Shining through the.. blight of you
Shining through the.. blight of you
Shining through the.. blight of you

After my accident in 99 Walkin' and Blight became the songs that I drew strength from 'Shining through the blight of you'

Recently my friends and I got a kick out of Fringe's glyphs or easter eggs, spelling out BLIGHT on one August show

This page is a tribute to Vic Chesnutt and is accepting donations on behalf of his family to defray the expenses associated with his recent hospitalizations and death.

100% of all funds raised will go to Vic's family.

In addition, figure8studio will donate 25% of the sales from our store this and the month of January to help Vic's family.

STARRY NIGHTS BEGIN WITH GLITZ

2009-12-24T00:37:00.000-08:00

at figure8studio

CHEVRON SEQUINED SILVER COPPER GUN METAL TROPHY JACKET

VINTAGE PEACOCK CHIC SEQUINS & SILK I MAGNIN NOS

SOLD!

figure8studio Featured at DresStory!

2009-12-11T11:52:00.000-08:00

DresStory is a blog for those who love vintage and feel inspired by it, vintage with a story.

We at figure8studio, are honored to be the featured DresStory's Launch contributor.

Audrey, DresStory's owner, asked what is my current favorite item? We recently added a Gold Brocade Bombshell Halter vintage Dress with matching Jewelled Jacket we've had in our collection for a few years, each time I handle the garment I am amazed at the beauty, quality and construction of the pieces.

The label has an interesting story of its own, the owner was such a prolific artist that her work resides at the Castellani Art Museum.

My first contribution was a very short story. Not being sure how lengthy our pieces should be...in the long run we believe it worked great.

The Vintage Bulletin and DresStory are both current favorite vintage blogs. We are thrilled to be a part of such a talented community.

Please allow us to share with you our love for a stunning little bridal dress, the story was inspired by the pink diamond engagement ring my dad presented to my mom in 1951.

Please visit DresStory and support our community.

Warmest holiday wishes.

Love,
Liz

All things bright and beautiful

2009-12-02T04:05:00.000-08:00

60s Exotic Metallic Malcolm Starr I Magnin 3 Pc Vintage Dress Jacket & Belt.

Gold Brocade Wiggle Bombshell Halter vintage Dress Jewelled Jacket.

Top Of The Heap!

2009-11-04T23:25:00.000-08:00

New York New York.

The Universe is back in order.

Hideki Matsui finally gets his much deserved ring and MVP!

I hope he stays in pinstripes.

Time to celebrate!

Baseball's all that's real!

2009-11-04T02:01:00.000-08:00

My beloved Bronx Bombers return home for Game 6 of the World Series.

Daddy's new house needs the aroma of champagne & Matsui could sure use World Series *BLING* on his finger.

~Vintage 1952 World Series Ring.

They say the Yankees are the team most people love to hate, that's because there is no denying they are simply the BEST.

I grew up in the Bronx, home of egg creams, handball, stickball and Yankee Stadium, you could practically smell the hot dogs and popcorn through the entire borough when there was a game going on.

Sometimes its difficult to explain to someone who is not from there how baseball was ingrained in my culture. I watched baseball with dad, religiously. Those were some of the best times of my childhood. Dad was a hardcore Cincinnati Reds fan but he had respect for the Yankees.

I only had eyes for the pinstripes, even when they were going through their most difficult years in the 70s.

Later, in my early 30s I worked for a time with an organization of which Steinbrenner is a member. I spoke with the man, several times, he was always gracious, accommodating and generous. I will not lie when I say that I was pleasantly surprised.

I now live in the NW but no matter, I will always be a die hard Yankee fan. You can take the girl out of the Bronx but you cant take the Bronx out of the girl.

My mother was what you could call a super Yankee fan, her favorite player was Derek Jeter

Mom was in her 70s when she stood up on the hood of her car during the parade the City of NY held in honor of the Yankees victory of the 1999 World Series. She taped every single Yankee game! Im not that bad, I only record the World Series, if the Yankees are playing, the Parade and the Key To The City ceremony.

I have been doing a bit of vintage Yankee sleuthing

World Series watch 1923

World Series 1937 Official Program 25 cents!

A vintage magazine AD

1939 Spring Training St Pete FL.

'When Mantle learned that he and DiMaggio would have plaques side by side, he insisted that DiMaggio's "hang a little higher than mine"

Gehrig & Shawkey go fishing at the golf course LOL!

'As part of Gehrig's surprising desire to take Hollywood by storm he had earlier set his sights on playing Tarzan.'

"These were the most revealing portraits of Gehrig's body ever taken . . . his lower body appeared to belong to another species, neither man nor ape. Each thigh was bigger than many a man's waist, each calf the size of a Christmas ham. Here was the hidden source of his tremendous power and durability." ~ Jonathan Eig. Luckiest Man: The Life and Death of Lou Gehrig. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2005, 432 pp

The best line of his Farewell Speech

'...for the past two weeks you have been reading about a bad break I got. Yet today, I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.'

Some years later a wonderful man and fantastic musician by the name of Michael Houser would use those words in an announcement to his fans and the world regarding his illness.

Michael Houser ~ January 6, 1962 - August 10, 2002

Whatever happens tonight I can always count on my Yankees conducting themselves with class and style and performing best under pressure.

This post dedicated to all Yankees team members past and present.

'At night all the faces light up as the players take the field' - Rebirtha ~ Widespread Panic

Let's play ball!

Thursday Eye Candy at figure8studio

2009-10-08T03:26:00.001-07:00

and a Red Damask 60s Evening Swing Coat

Its all about color this month at figure8studio
Shop here for vintage dreams and more...

Shared via AddThis

Green for Mad Men

2009-10-03T04:59:00.001-07:00

Babylon Mall - figure8studio Quality Vintage, Modern & Antique Collectibles.

Shared via AddThis

Added today! Psychedelic Pucci Top Sz 8

2009-09-28T20:47:00.001-07:00

direct link to the Pucci Top

Shared via AddThis

If no one's in the kitchen, who's to see?

2009-08-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

Seattle friends finally able to tear ourselves away from a myriad of responsibilities to see the much anticipated Julie & Julia, the movie about two foodies from different times Julia Child and the Texan living in Queens, NY, woman who with the help of her supportive and famished husband blogs through "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" over the course of a year.

We take time, sometimes once a month, sometimes more often-but never enough, to get together, smell the roses...or in this case, the beef bourguignon. I guarantee that by the time you leave the theater you will swear that you can.

I did not wear the string of pearls mom had given me years ago, its been too hot, it also turned into a balmy night. Barbara wore her cool cotton pedal pushers and was the envy of us.

Being a collector of Julia's books for a few years....

I wonder what became of our 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking'. What is even more mysterious is three of us are missing copies from our shelves.

Maybe they are keeping each other company.

My favorite car in the world is the 1955 Citroën DS, designed by Flaminio Bertoni it was named 'Most beautiful car of all time' by Classic & Sports Car magazine.

But I was smitten with the 1947 turquoise Buick Roadmaster station wagon used in the movie, I read Paul Child named it "Flash".

Upon further research on the web about the Buick I found a couple of discussions questioning the accuracy of the date and model.

Take for instance these convos on separate Auto Clubs.

"Mr. Mark Ricker, the film's production manager in an article written by Mr. Darrell Hartman. When Ricker was asked about the car, he had the following description to give: "A 1947 (sic-clearly it was a 1950) wooded blue Buick station wagon. They called it "The Blue Flash". We found it in France. It could have been Paul and Julia's original car, as far as we know."

"In the movie Julie and Julia, the Buick Estate Wagon is clearly a 1950 "four-holer" Roadmaster, but with a '49 style two-piece windshield. My Buick reference book doesn't mention such a configuration, and even my memory says the windshield was one piece. One web page I came across states, "Special still has the split windshield", which logically means that the Super and Roadmaster didn't."

There also seems to be some speculation the car was modified.

Back to the movie.

Streep was given Julia's height by the angles of the camera, tabletops lowered, shorter actors...like the market scenes. Also lifts were used. Not terribly attractive platform shoes or high heeled sneakers. eek.

I don't remember Julia ever wearing anything like them.

The shoes just did not seem quite right, but I'm probably just being nitpicky because, well, that's my job.

I remember Julia's enthusiastic personality watching her shows over my mother's shoulder, Julia sipping her wine as she cooked, as friend Sara pointed out, a pinch of this and that...not too worried about exact measures, sipping and cooking, chatting and laughing and disturbingly 'playing' with those plucked chickens. Julia had a way of holding them on the table in a way that it looked like they were dancing.

Ponder this story told by an esteemed acquaintance.

One evening you and your partner are cooking a special dinner for guests out of the pages of one of Julia's books, one of the sauces is not turning quite the way you expected. One of you look in the phone book and you cant believe that Julia is actually listed! After a couple of glasses of fine wine and a little courage you ring her for advice, probably doubting she will even pick up the phone, you expect an assistant or an answering machine, at best, urging you to leave a message for an appointment.

You are surprised and delighted, once again, when Julia herself answers and she does not even seem bothered or annoyed, she gladly volunteers to walk you through the process on the phone. After several tries when there seems to be no progress she asks about your impressive wine collection and suggests, if you mind, if she drops by!?

Mind??

That evening she is your 'private chef', to the shock and surprise of your guests who are probably still pinching themselves after all these years, she joins the guests and you are able to enjoy her company till the wee hours of the morning.

I'm guessing Julie Powell would not be terribly pleased with this story as, according to what has been told, her goal was to get Julia's attention. Sort of like when there is a fan at a rock show who is constantly screaming the musician's name, except Julie's method was subtle.

Isn't that life though?

Sometimes, when you least expect it, the stars align perfectly and magic happens. Unplanned.

Totally by chance.

And sometimes we simply live with our dreams.

Streep is one of our favorite actresses, we felt she played Julia to a T.

a Streep cooking tip from one of her interviews about the movie: 'You can remove the odor of garlic and onions from your hands by rubbing them with salt and cool water, It actually works better than hot water and soap.' she said.

The scene of Julie in Dean & De Luca made my heart skip, those tiny tins, treasures in any serious foodie's kitchen shelves, they found their way, to my delight (and wallet relief) in (gasp) discount gourmet places. Stores where a poor college student could afford a bit of luxury, or as Julia would have said 'Those without a cook'

The post war Paris scenes and fashions were a delight, another reason I was looking forward to seeing the movie, being in the vintage business and all.

I confess I cringed and even closed my eyes during most of the lobster scene.

'LOBSTER KILLA!'

But simply couldn't help cracking a smile during the one where they are sitting at the table and Julie is wearing a lobster pin. I am a lobster pin collector, my favorite found in a Woodstock NY gallery, red enamel with black marcasites.

My NYC kitchen happened to be painted turquoise, as I now realize so was Julia's, with many red lobsters on the walls, that's where the similarity ends. After a few years my collection morphed into all sorts of lobster items as friends gave me anything lobster. Ashtrays, key chains, magnets, pot holders, dishes, candle holders, bottle opener...even Lobster Man!

Here he is, happily riding on Godzilla's tail

A gift from a special friend

A "star aligning perfectly" moment in my life.

What fun it must have been to shop for this movie! The thrill of the hunt one hundred times over.

Some say more should have been made of the Julia vs Julie's blog snub but I 'got it' and I thought the movie did just fine without adding to the already rather awkward situation.

The movie had an excellent cast. The love depicted between Julia and Paul was heart warming.

After we exited the theater we chatted about it for some time, comparing our childhood and early adulthood Julia memories. Barb, being the excellent cook that she is, told us she was actually able to conquer the Aspic recipe without making soup and that her prize dish, prepared in Chicago from 'Mastering the Art' was the Veal Prince Orloff.

The movie has lit my fire to dig through my collection for fashions of the era.

A quickie

Vogue Trend Reports the recession was still Topic A in the front rows of fall shows, maybe that's why they also announced the 40's is 'in'

Vintage will always be a smart investment.

Follow this link to an article found in Country Living mag with interesting tidbits about Julia's kitchen and the movie.

I highly recommend this movie, even those unable to boil water will find it charming.

I've got cling cling fsssss steam heat

2009-04-14T03:42:00.000-07:00

Steampunk:

Victorian Sci Fi. Anything that involves ingenuity and creativity without further waste. That which redefines time should be celebrated and deserves thoughtful consideration.

Jules Verne, H. G. Wells's The Time Machine, whimsical fantasy, Victorian England, romanced technology coming alive with a heartbeat and misapplied technology.

There are no hard and fast rules for Steampunk style, its why it is possible for British adventurers, sky pirates, neo Victorianas, mad scientists to exist under the same moniker.

Militaria, top hats, industrial Gothic leathers, corduroys or 'cords' as we call them in the States, velvets, browns, antique black or lightly touched with antique white laces, any color can be steampunked with perhaps the exception of neons. Gogles, monocles, skeleton keys, even Tiffany jumped in

...marching band jackets paired off with Victorian skirts, riding boots, docs (as in Martens)...

Oscillating antique fans lull me to dreamland...

I like how the steampunk movement combines technology with sustainability and DIY aesthetics

A Steam Powered Ipod Charger

from:

steampunkworkshop

In my Cañones cigar/jewelry box you'll find 80s earrings from recycled watch parts, skeleton heads necklace from a special friend Colin Pringle The Wild Bohemian

In my store:

30s BLACK LACE DRESS

Victorian Style Dress

Victorian Inspired Dress

Other fine offerings:

Suzy Creamcheese Velvet Edwardian Style Suit - magsrags

Armani Vintage Jacket on etsy

Victorian Gloves on etsy

rogueretro hat on etsy

This blog entry would be incomplete without talented friend Michael owner of foxfirejewelers creations:

I covet:

Do not miss the Steam Driven Ring!

hmm...all this talk about steampunk reminds me Im overdue for a visit to Gas Works Park

fssss...

Confessions of a Mad Idol Addict

2009-03-30T19:51:00.000-07:00

If someone had told me 5 or 6 years ago that I would become an avid viewer of the show or that I would be programming to record this show when I am not home, I would have probably laughed. Back then I thought the show was strictly for the younger crowd. 8 seasons later I can barely wait to see what new songs will be performed. This season I dared to pick my top Idols from the beginning, so far they are still there and going strong.

Last week as a double treat Idol showcased the sounds of Motown a few of the contestants wore vintage style, I say vintage style because unless I see the item or confirmation that they were indeed vintage I cannot say for sure but was that a shark skin suit worn by Adam Lambert?

I was VERY impressed with the singing as well, Adam is showing more maturity as the show progresses, he is one of my top faves.

Another stunner and talented performer is Lil Rounds, she wore an Ombre fringed dress, also loved the 60s hairstyle.

Here is a green fringed dress coming soon to figure8studio.com

White Fringed Dress in our store - SOLD!

a few 60's beauties from our store

Turquoise Silver 60s Dress

Audrey Lil Black Dress

Periwinkle Paisley Dress

Thanks for reading and see you around the bend! :)

Shades Of Green

2009-03-17T12:00:00.000-07:00

Beannacht / Blessing by Joe O'Donohue

On the day when
the weight deadens
on your shoulders
and you stumble,
may the clay dance
to balance you.
And when your eyes
freeze behind
the grey window
and the ghost of loss
gets in to you,
may a flock of colours,
indigo, red, green,
and azure blue
come to awaken in you
a meadow of delight.

When the canvas frays
in the currach of thought
and a stain of ocean
blackens beneath you,
may there come across the waters
a path of yellow moonlight
to bring you safely home.

May the nourishment of the earth be yours,
may the clarity of light be yours,
may the fluency of the ocean be yours,
may the protection of the ancestors be yours.
And so may a slow
wind work these words
of love around you,
an invisible cloak
to mind your life.

Lover and Beloved
Moon
Water

Thanks Barb!

Recycle your Holiday Lights!

2008-12-24T01:46:00.000-08:00

Almost every household has a string or two or three, like mine, of broken lights. Those strings you don't know what to do with.

You change one bulb, two, three, change the fuse and nothing happens, you get frustrated and add it to the pile. Instead of throwing them in the trash a few organizations including charities, recycle incandescent light strings. These places take the light strings apart and recycle most of the parts like the copper, glass and plastic.

Why have that stuff leeching pollutants into the earth when the materials could be used again?

Google 'recycle Christmas lights and your zip code' for drop off locations in your area.

In my city of Seattle I can take my lights to Whole Foods & Woodland Park Zoo.

treehuggervintage informed us that Walmart in St. Louis, started taking old holiday lights this year.

If you are unable to recycle your lights in your area you can mail them.

This program recycles your lights and benefits children plus give a 10% discount on purchases.

Visit:

Recycle Christmas Lights for the Kids Campaign

Another program:

HolidayLEDs.com

They send you a coupon for 15% off on purchases.

HolidayLEDs.com
Attn: Recycling Program
2500 W. Argyle St.
Jackson, MI 49202

Please post this information on your blogs, let everyone you know there is a better way to dispose of those light strings.

Want your Christmas & Holiday cards to go to a good cause?

Instead of throwing out or recycling your holiday cards-- donate them to St. Jude's Ranch for Children-- the kids use them to create new cards and sell.

May you all have a happy and green holiday season!

Take The Pledge!

2008-12-05T02:25:00.000-08:00

Buy Handmade!

Support Independent Artists.

Some years ago, after an accident, I searched high and low east to west, web stores, catalogs...for a cool cane to make lemonade from a lemon. I wanted something unique and distinctive. Everywhere I went I saw the same dreary medical cold metal canes or boring plain wood. I had a total of 2 color choices; black and brown!

I wanted to ditch the cane that was given to me by my insurance company but of course I could not do that.

Finally I thought, Why not just make it? I love to paint, so what is the problem?

I found all sorts of cool paints with glitters, gold, silver....I began making stencils of Celtic Knots and Chains that I loved. I had so much fun making my cane that I began doing it for friends and relatives.

Pretty soon people were asking me to make them and sell them at local Art stores.

Just in time for the Holidays! I have a silver one in my store.

My canes are hand painted wood acrylic silver paint on black.

They last many years, protective clear coating has been applied.

Why wear a cold boring metal cane that everyone else has? By purchasing this cane, you are not only supporting an artist (me) but your cane will age gracefully and give you many many years of pleasure.

I always receive so many compliments on my canes all over the world, too many to count!

An impressive piece of wearable art.

Complete with rubber bottom.

Approximate 37 1/2 inches long.

Wear it in good health and with attitude!

So take the pledge to buy handmade and request that others do the same for you!

Thank you, Happy Holidays and most of all have fun!

Giving Thanks

2008-11-27T06:04:00.000-08:00

Purging inventory, computer images....all sorts of stuff, my own little fall cleaning...

Here is one of the dresses I sold a few months ago that reminds me of fall

As I prepare to sit around a cozy table filled with gastronomic delights and very good friends who love to cook, thank goodness! I cant help but think of some of the loved ones who will not be here with us.

Last night I was going through some vintage I will be adding to the store and found a travel bag tucked away at the back of the closet where it was placed the day we moved into the house. In it many letters from my mom who passed in 2004. My son and I moved from NYC in the early 80s, no matter what we did mom would never leave NYC but we always kept in close contact with her, this was before the days of cell or internet phones and the phone companies knew just how to get you on long distance charges so mom and I wrote each other quite often.

After she passed I read her letters occasionally, specially during the holidays. The letter I read last night was the one she sent us Thanksgiving of 1996 the one where she finally moves in to her own home and is able to have a big dinner for the family, a large dining room with a big table for everyone to sit around, nothing made her happier.

Today we will be moving a big table into the living room of my friend's house so everyone can sit around it.

Mom was very thankful for so many things, she worked very hard for many years as a NYC teacher in order to be able to realize her dream, this after raising four children practically on her own.

When I visited her she always had the guest bedroom ready for me, complete with feather pillows. I never told mom I am allergic to feather pillows.

I am thankful for having found her cards and letters.

I wish a happy Thanksgiving to everyone, ending this post with a few of my favorite Thanksgiving quotes, feel free to add your own.

Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don't unravel. ~Author Unknown

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." ~ John Fitzgerald Kennedy

"Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others." ~ Cicero

"Thanksgiving Day is a jewel, to set in the hearts of honest men, but be careful that you do not take the day and leave out the gratitude." ~ E.P. Powell

Nothing is more honorable than a grateful heart. ~Seneca

If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, "thank you," that would suffice. ~Meister Eckhart

Brighten up a Gray Day with vintage

2008-11-26T02:08:00.000-08:00

I love fall, the rain, the overcast skies, the crispness in the air, I dont know what it is but the same way sun energizes some people that is how fall energizes me.

"Listen! the wind is rising,
and the air is wild with leaves,
We have had our summer evenings,
now for October eves!"

—Humbert Wolfe

I understand not everyone feels as I do, these are a few of our beauties guaranteed to add some warmth the coming season.

At figure8studio

60s Suede Harlequin Patchwork shoulder purse

In our store:

Vintage Adele Simpson Wrap Long Dress from I Magnin is sure to cheer up any cocktail, opera evening, formal affair...

A Shimmery Lurex Mod 60s Dress

Are you planning on a get away this winter? This Hawaiian style 70s dress with bolero jacket is a must for warm sunny skies. - SOLD!

I LOVE this Anne Klein Lion Label Wool Dress so soft, cozy and cheery!

Many more beauties coming to figure8studio including a fantastic 60s 2 piece Malcolm Starr dress!

Do not miss out! Be sure to visit us if you are in search for extra special holiday glam!

No Wire Hangers!!

2008-11-22T19:14:00.000-08:00

One of my passions is mid century furniture so when I first spotted the image of this table in my issue of Ready Made magazine I had to see how it was created.

If you decide to make this table you may have to tell your visitors that the legs are actually hangers, at first glance they are cleverly disguised, dont you think?

It cost a grand total of $15.00 to build out of 4 matching wooden hangers, the trick is to be sure they match as even a slight differences make for uneven legs.

You can find the plans here the digital version of Ready Made magazine

and what's doubly cool is that I have the same style rug, except mine is a cheetah :)

To be fair to wire hangers and in the spirit of recycling and re using here is another entry, a wall sconce made of wire hangers:

Brita® and Preserve® Announce Filter Recycling Program

2008-11-21T22:26:00.000-08:00

11/18/2008: TheTake Back The Filtercampaign is thrilled to announce that Brita and Preserve have teamed up to create a take-back recycling program for Brita pitcher filter cartridges! Read the full press release here:

PDF document

In a nutshell, beginning in January, folks will be able to drop off filters at Whole Foods Markets or mail them in. PRESERVE, a U.S. company manufacturing household products from recycled plastic, will recycle 100% of the plastic casing. And the filter material will be regenerated or converted to energy.

At this point, there is no information available about Brita faucet or other types of filters.

Please write a letter to Clorox executives and thank them for helping us keep our pitcher filters out of landfills and ask if they have plans to recycle faucet filters.

Here are the names of key individuals at Clorox to write to:

- Mr. Don Knauss, Chairman & CEO

- Tom Britanik, Vice President – General Manager, U.S. Auto Care & Brita

- George Roeth, Vice President – General Manager, Food, Charcoal, U.S. Auto & Brita

- Tarang Amin, Vice President – Global Health & Wellness

Mailing Addresses:

The Clorox Company
1221 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612

The Brita Products Company
PO Box 24305
Oakland, CA 94623-9981
Telephone: 1-800-24-BRITA

Brita Canada Corporation
150 Biscayne Crescent
Brampton, ON L6W 4V3
Telephone: 1-800-387-6940

Web links for communicating via Brita's customer feedback form:

Engish

French

An additonal note about Preserve, they not only recycle their own products but if your area does not provide recycling for #5 plastics, like yogurt containers, they will recycle them for you.

Recycle Preserve Products

Recycle #5 plastic containers

Please add Takebackthefilter to your myspace page and help pass the word to your friends!

You can tell them figure8studio.com sent you.

Save the Earth

2008-11-20T01:30:00.001-08:00

it's the only planet with Chocolate

Theo Chocolate prides itself in being the only Organic, Fair Trade Bean-To-Bar Chocolate Factory in the United States. They are also partners with Dr. Jane Goodall.

Theo Chocolate resides right here in Seattle in the neighborhood of Phinney Ridge.

Theo Chocolate has made it to several media publications including radio, the Seattle Times, all over the world including Japan, it was even among the offerings at Arrianna Huffington's Huffington Post Oasis at the Democratic National Convention in Denver.

CLICK HERE & Treat yourself and your friends to something sweet this coming Holiday Season!

You can tell them that I sent you.

A New Day

2008-11-11T00:52:00.001-08:00