Flapper Fashion for Autumn/Winter 2013 - Part II

The Art Deco influence was a consistent presence in many of the Autumn/Winter 2013 fashion shows. From simple shifts to short and kicky pleats, there was a neo flapper around virtually every corner. If you're in doubt that The Great Gatsby was an aesthetic influence for US and European designers, just check out the movie logo and the geometrically patterned looks below. Coincidence? I think not.

The Gates of Gatsby: J Mendel, Herve Leger, Temperley London, Manish Arora

Glitz and Glamour: Monique Lhuillier, Prada, Julien MacDonald, Gucci

Shimmering Flapper: Just Cavalli, Naeem Khan, Monique Lhuillier

But Deco wasn't the only vintage aesthetic choice on the runways; There was an element of Edwardian to Deco transition in some presentations that was decidedly Downton Abbey-inspired. Lace, embroidery and feminine cuts are the perfect homage to a lovely show. Can't you just see a modern Lady Mary rocking all of these dresses?

Downton Devotee: Alberta Ferretti, Blugirl, Alberta Ferretti, Paola Frani, Blugirl

Flapper Fashion for Autumn/Winter 2013 - Part I

The Great Gatsby is coming out in May and it's sure to be on Netflix by the time fall fashion collections crop up in stores, but that it doesn't mean that Deco will be dead come September. The runways of New York, Paris, Milan and London prove a lingering crush on all things Art Deco, from silhouettes to design elements and patterns. The 1920's-inspired looks run the gamut from simple, boyish cuts to glitzy sheaths that will have the most dedicated vintage aficionado saving their pennies.

Sleek and Simple: J Mendel, Narcisco Rodriguez, Yeohlee, Temperley London

Flapper LBD: Alberta Ferretti, Marco de Vincenzo, Roberto Cavalli

Structured Deco: Alexander Wang, Georgio Armani, Emanno Scervino, Jasper Conran

Time Machine: Blugirl, Zac Posen, Temperley London, Nina Ricci

Honey Cooler Handmade at Dark Garden on Saturday February 9th

When I first moved to the Bay Area, I was just beginning to explore sewing and fashion/costume design as a career path. My love for Victorian clothing inspired an obsession with corsets, so the second I discovered that Dark Garden existed, I hightailed it there. Like everyone who steps foot in Dark Garden, I was instantly blown away by the creativity, craftsmanship and inspiration behind the atelier. Proprietress Autumn Adamme is so intensely talented and passionate about her craft, and it shows.

My humble beginnings as a really bad sewer and corsetière have given way to something I never dreamed, and now I am beyond blessed to be selling my insertion lace lingerie at one of the most well-known lingerie boutiques on the West Coast. If I'm ever having a bad day, I remind myself of just how far I've come and landing a trunk show at Dark Garden is quite a milestone.

So, I hope you'll share this big day with me! Tomorrow night, Saturday February 9th from 4 - 8, I'll be at Dark Garden at 321 Linden Lane with a lovely stash of lingerie, including lots of pastel pieces that haven't yet been seen in the shop. I, along with the Dark Garden staff, would love to help you pick out something perfect for Valentine's Day for yourself or your sweetie. See you there!

Where Are All the Skulls?

Flying off the shelves, so to speak!

In probably the most delightful surprise of the past month or two, my Skull Deco Camis have become quite popular... so popular in fact, that I sold out of all but one at last week's private trunk show! They are my favorite pieces to sew, and my most time-consuming, so it's been a challenge to keep up with demand. But never fear, there are two new Camis on their way to the Etsy shop, and they'll be making their in-person debuts at Dollhouse Bettie this Friday.

Bellinda Deco Cami

The first is above, a new take on an old classic, bias-cut and sewn from a gorgeous navy animal "print" silk jacquard. Bellinda sports a dragon crown too - one of my favorite laces.

Keep your eyes peeled on the Etsy shop for more newness, and don't forget to swing by Dollhouse Bettie on Friday and Dark Garden on Saturday for two delicious trunk shows featuring my pieces!