Channeling Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp's Mad Hatter Replica 

Here's one of my favourites from our Retrospective Millinery Fashion Shows. What a thrill it was to receive this as a birthday gift two years ago. Cudos to my daughter, Ardra, for tracking it down.

I will let this replica of the hat Johnny Depp wore for his Mad Hatter role in Alice in Wonderland speak for itself.

Connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.  Plus, sign up for free e-mail updates from this blog in the box at the right-hand side of this page.

A Solidly Seventies Passion for Fashion Dolls

Those 70's Shoes 

Among costume collectors, fashion-loving fans of the 1970’s are turning to dolls in order to satisfy their passion for the iconic clothing styles of that era. They are passing on Mattel’s reproduction 1960s Barbies®, in favor of the later, bohemian-looking plastic dolls and their clothes, created by Ideal™, Mego™, Reliable™, and the like.
Carmen Varricchio, former fashion illustrator for Calvin Klein and author of Collectible Doll Fashions of the 1970’s, believes that a new generation of doll addicts “have elevated 70’s dolls and fashion outfits to a new status.” 
I agree. As curator of a millinery and costume museum, I have access to a number of sensational 1970’s ensembles, but they are not often displayed. With a doll, I can enjoy the complete look in miniature.
For those of us who have lived through the 70s, the dolls are immediately identifiable by their size and Cher-like stance. Most sport long hair and colorful, well-made outfits that costume collectors are elbowing each other to get their hands on. Accessories like a floppy hat are a bonus, but shoes—so iconic of the era—are a must.
I write doll care articles for magazines, so I’m always on the lookout for some new vintage treasure. I came across a sweetheart of a 70’s fashion doll at the Freelton Flea Market recently: Ideal’s 1972 poseable Harmony. Her pink-and-white gingham maxi dress with button-trimmed empire bodice, lace-edged bridal collar, and ruffled sleeves complete with contrast velvet ribbon, is a stand-alone piece, truly representative of the hippie era, but her chunky sling-back sandals are what prompted me to take her home. 

Connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.  Plus, sign up for free e-mail updates from this blog in the box at the right-hand side of this page.

In The Pink

This this fabulous flapper wedding gown of lace-trimmed pink chiffon will have to wait for the second edition of my bridal book, as it was donated only two days ago. Florence Hollingshead was the beautiful bride who chose this for her special day.

The dress falls to just below the knee and snap-fastens under the left arm. A matching modesty slip is attached inside, but no label. The bow detail is très chic, n'est pas? The cloche hat, shower bouquet, and Charleston shoes, complete the iconic look.

Leave a comment and let us know what's in your attic.

Connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.  Plus, sign up for free e-mail updates from this blog in the box at the right-hand side of this page.

Unsinkable Fashion: Costume From the Titanic Era

Satin & Lace Edwardian Dinner Gown 

Following on the success of last year’s Royal Wedding teas, the Mobile Millinery Museum is rolling out a rack of authentic period costume for a traveling exhibit this year entitled, Unsinkable Fashion; Costume from the Titanic Era to commemorate the 100^th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic. It is hard to imagine the full beauty of these gowns by looking at vintage photographs, but it is a good place to start.
  

Throughout the early 20^th century, many Ontario socialites relied upon European couturiers for their gowns and special occasion ensembles. One such bride, expecting to return on the Titanic with her newly commissioned wedding gown, was disappointed to learn that the piece could not be finished in time for the voyage. 

The embroidered net dress, which is as ethereal as the mist that enveloped the doomed ocean-liner itself, forms the cornerstone of the exhibit which will be making stops at Titanic-inspired commemorative events and fundraisers throughout Ontario. The collection is rarely exhibited due to its fragile nature, some of the dresses being comprised of weighted silks or hand-stenciled velvet, which risk deterioration though handling and exposure to light. The one-hour presentation of authentic Titanic-era fashions is ideally suited to fundraisers, teas, and seniors events. For more information, contact Norma Shephard.

Connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.  Plus, sign up for free e-mail updates from this blog in the box at the right-hand side of this page.