To Dress Vintage for a Gal that loves Fashion

Color Block dress

2011-09-28T13:05:00.001-07:00

Here's a great fall/winter dress! I have listed it today on To Dress Vintage.

Measurements- Bust-44-Waist-32 not stretched- stretched to 40- Hips- Full-free hip-Length-45-Zipper-13-Shoulders-18

Condition- In great condition, only the belt is missing.

Just email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if interested in this garment. Shipping is only $6.00 in the US, outside the US the prices will be higher, but I will guarantee a low shipping cost. Just email me anytime if you have any questions.

Fun Affordable New Vintage Dresses for All!!

2011-09-23T14:58:00.000-07:00

Here are some great dresses from the 50s thru the 80s on To Dress Vintage this week. All the dresses are wearable, but may need some minor sewing repairs. The black dress would be great for a costume or study pattern not the best condition. The dress has a rip on the side of the lace, and slip is worn, and there are scattered holes on the front bodice. The pink dress has a small stain, could be hemmed for a shorter mod look. The olive green 50s dress only needs new tassels. The 80s color block dress is so retro 50s, I've matched it with a fun belt and full crinoline. This dress is in great wearable condition I found no flaws. All these dresses are affordable, and my shipping is only $6.00. Sizes vary from 4-16.

Please email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if interested in any of these garments, thanks!

Vintage Fashion Gal now on Etsy

2011-07-19T12:37:00.000-07:00

I decided to take a new step, and try out Etsy. I like it so far. My new shop is called Vintage Fashion Gal, that's me!!! I used my nick name, which was no surprised. I love it so much! My numbers are slow, but steady. I plan to blog all my collection here, and on Wordpress. My goal is to keep my collection affordable, and not to raise my prices. I will keep my range from $25.00 to $40.00, and as a plus in my book is to have FREE SHIPPING in the US and Canada, and no other charges. I've paid too much for shipping as both a buyer and seller, and it's a crime!! But I'll get off my soap box , sorry for that rant.

Here's my link to my new Etsy shop is....

www.etsy.com/shop/VintageFashionGal

Here are some samples of my collection so far , I'm just branching out, so it will take some time to get used to Etsy, but so far its a blast!!

50s SWIRL Dress

late 40s/ early 50s Point American Golfer Dress , very rare.

80's Power Suit by Starington

And lastly my 60s, very cool Carol Brent shirtwaister with tag.

Vintage Rare Jean Louis Two piece set 60's

2011-07-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

Here's a rare vintage find, it's a Jean Louis pants and maxi tunic. He was a famous Hollywood designer that was behind the glamours stars like Loretta Young( his wife), Marilyn Monroe, and his true muse Rita Hayworth. He created that beautiful, stunning gown for her in the movie " Gilda". This garment is a show stopper as well, it is a two piece of long flared pants, done in thick silk like tapestry, with gorgeous detail. The maxi tunic, or cover up matches perfectly. It is done in a crepe like silk, very delicate. I have not done a burn test, I'm only guessing. The colors are beautiful sun colors of orange, yellow gold, red and some tan. The tunic has two long slits on the side, can be belted or layered for a dress. I have tied it in front to have a fun look. The pants look great separately , perfect for the summer season, and seasons to come. Both of these garments are sold together as a set, the original Jean Louis label can be found on the inside of the tunic, the pants do not have a label. I am listing them on Only Couture in a few weeks, I have not set a price for them. Both the pants and the tunic are used and have flaws. They are from an estate, and they need to be cleaned and freshened up. If interested in these please email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com or message me here. Thank you for checking out this blog.

Vintage 60s/70s Hawaiian Sundress

2011-05-03T15:07:00.000-07:00

Here's a pretty pin-up sundress, perfect for the summer! The fabric is a barkcloth type weave. Woodblock style tapa print in earth-tones of bright burnt orange, creamy white and black. Done in a halter style, with straps that can be tucked in for a strapless look,note photo. The dress has a built in bra, probably an A-B cup, only guessing. It has a stretchy smock backing, and a nylon workable zipper. The tag that I found was a fabric tag, it reads 100% cotton, the original label is Lauhala Made in Hawaii. It is easy to care for, I washed it in cold with mild soap, came out beautifully. The bodice is fitted and the A-line skirt bottom is not lined , very thick fabric. The size tag reads size 10, but go by your own measurements, and be sure to leave extra breathing room, about an inch I would say, or wear with a body shaper.
In great condition, the inner bra is a bit worn, but does not affect the beauty of this sundress. I would say if you remove it all together, it would be perfect. Such a fun dress.

Measurements-Bust 34-36-(tight fit) Waist-28-30-some stretch-Hips-36-Length-34-full skirt-

Gloria Swanson Dress

2011-05-03T13:29:00.000-07:00

Here's a beautiful dress by Gloria Swanson Puritan Forever Young. It is done in a heavy green linen, beautiful fabric. It is very mod. It has pretty leaf accents on the neckline and border of the dress, nice. The dress is a shift style with a hidden metal on the back. It is not lined, but the fabric is very thick no need for a slip. It has its original label intact. This dress is a collector's item, such a treasure. The famous movie star label was manufactured during 1951 to 1981, Swanson wanted her clothesline to be for the mature woman, which she was at the time around 50. She created this line for women to feel younger, hence the name Forever Young, very catchy. I love this fun, classic dress. It is in great condition, but it is used. The former owner had a love for strong perfume, so I tried to air it out, but there's a hint of perfume smell.If you are sensitive to smell, I would pass on this dress. I would have the dress professionally dry cleaned before wearing. I found no other flaws. A very rare vintage dress!

Measurements- Bust- 36-38-Waist-32-34-Hips-36- Length-37

Please email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if you need information or additional photos.

All sales are final, sorry no returns.

Thank you for shopping at Only Couture

My 40's / 50's Lucy Inspired dress

2011-04-19T16:15:00.000-07:00

Vintage Late 1940's Blue/White Polka dot dress by Blakely Fashions S-M , sold as is.

Think I Love Lucy!!!
This cute dress is from the late 1940's to Early 50's , it is done is a thin nylon scarf like fabric, over a purple satin slip. The pattern is white polka dots over a Mediterranean blue background. It has a matching self fabric belt, a bit worn, but usable. Note photos. The dress has short capped gathered sleeves, with small shoulder pads. There is an accented large polka dot bow on the bodice. The v-neckline is accented with beaded rhinestone and small white seed beads. This dress has a side workable metal zipper, and has a wide sweep of the pleated skirt. There is an original label of Blakely Fashions, and a small union tag. The belt is also stamped with manufacture guarantee wash or clean as garment. Note all photos.

Measurements- Bust 38- Waist-30-Hips -Full -Length-40-43 with slip-Shoulders-17-Zipper-8

Condition- In good vintage condition, but with some flaws. Two arm pits stains , very old might come out with professional dry cleaning. The dress overlay nylon is very sheer, it has a built in slip, but it hangs out, much longer than the actual dress. I think someone washed it and the nylon shrunk. I clothes-pinned the slip,it can easily be hemmed to shorten. The dress is still very wearable.I have freshen up this dress, but again take to a professional dry cleaner. There's still some odor, not bad but if you are sensitive, I would pass on this dress. There is some wear on the belt, and a small hole forming on the shoulder, note photos. The beads near the shoulder are coming loose and can be repaired carefully. Still with all these flaws, a lovely dress that needs a good home.

A Lovely Tracy Reese Dress

2011-04-16T12:13:00.000-07:00

I have a Tracy Reese dress up for grabs this week. The designer is so stylish, her line has a vintage retro appeal. This dress is a 60's inspired mini dress, with such flare. I love it! The dress is 100% silk, dry clean only and has its original label. It was hardly worn, I found zero flaws, but not in mint condition, it is used not New Stock. The dress is versatile, you can wear with sandals in the spring/summer or layer it with leggings or tights with boots. Such a great classic dress. Our very own First Lady loves her designs, so its definitely a classic.This dress is sure to be your favorite. I will be listing it on Only Couture this week.

Measurements are the following: Bust 36- Waist-28-30-some stretch-Hips-36- Length-34

Here's Tracy after her fashion show from Spring 2009

My Diane Von Furstenberg Maylea wrap dress

2011-04-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

Soon to be listed on Only Couture this week. This dress is so elegant! It is called the Maylea dress, found a few years back at Neiman Marcus stores, Savy Nordstrom, and Saks 5th Avenue, very high end label.

This dress is very couture, it is one of Diane's signature wrap dresses done with a twist, menswear with a tuxedo appeal, very cute. If interested in this dress just email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com or message me here. I am offering it "as is" condition, the only problem it has is that there's water marks on the back, but this can easily be concealed wearing the right undergarments, like a cami. The dry cleaner that I spoke to said that they could remove it but may risk damaging it. I can send you better photos of the water stain. The price will effect this damage as listed. Still a very classic iconic look, definitely a collector's item, one to treasure.

Measurements are the following for Diane Von Furstenberg dress sizes. I found this on the Nordstrom web page, where tells the readers this dress runs small, and to order one size up. So depending on your frame, this dress is a S-M not a true size 10. And bear in mind that it is used, so it might have been shrunk, when I measure it the size was a bit different from hers, Bust 36- Waist-28- Hips-34-

SIZE CHART
US SIZE 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14
UK EQUIVALENTS 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18
France 32-34 34 36 38 40 42 44 46

CHEST 32" 33" 34" 35" 36" 37" 38 ½" 40"
WAIST 24" 25" 26" 27" 28" 29" 30 ½" 32"
HIGH HIP 30 ½" 31 ½" 32 ½" 33 ½" 34 ½" 35 ½" 37" 38 ½"
LOW HIP 34 ½" 35 ½" 36 ½" 37 ½" 38 ½" 39 ½" 41" 42 ½"

Here's a website that may help, not guaranteed.

http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/stain-buster/stains-water-spots-may07

Diane Von Furstenberg Dress

2011-04-15T15:45:00.000-07:00

The infamous "Wrap Dress" Diane talks about it on the Nate Berkus show.

Soon to be listed on Only Couture this week. This dress is so elegant! It is called the Maylea dress, found a few years back at Neiman Marcus stores, Savy Nordstrom, and Saks 5th Avenue, very highend label.

This dress is very couture, it is one of Diane signature wrap dresses done with a twist, menswear with a tuxedo appeal, very cute. If interested in this dress just email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com or message me here. I am offering it at as is condition, the only probablem it has is that there's a water mark on the back, but this can easily be concealed wearing the right undergarments, like a cami. The dry cleaner that I spoke to said that they could remove it but may risk damage it. I went on a website and they recommend

Ryan Novelline's Golden Books Gown

2011-04-01T17:05:00.001-07:00

60's Fringed Cocktail Dress now on sale.

2011-01-17T15:34:00.001-08:00

Now at To Dress Vintage on Babylon Mall

This is a great cocktail dress! The dress is from the late 50's to early 60's. The fringe on this dress gives it a flapper 20's look. The only flaw is that the fringe needs to be trimmed and some strings are soiled, a good soak would help. I did notice a light stain on the back of the waistline, could be removed by a professional dry cleaner. All and all this dress is in great condition. It would fit a M- L frame about a modern size 8-10 would fit this dress perfectly. I can send you better photos if you like. Just email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com or message me here.

My little Gay Gibson Dresses.

2011-01-17T14:03:00.001-08:00

I listed these dresses awhile back, but to my surprise I found more vintage Gay Gibson ads than ever before. I even locate one with the beautiful Shelly Hack, a famous super model from the 60's, the one in the pink, so cute.

I love this 60's swinging look, and so will you. I have my white dress listed on To Dress Vintage on Babylon Mall, here's the link:

http://www.babylonmall.com/browseshop.php?user=1518&storenum=293&itemnum=30812&previewpage=item

And my brown Gay Gibson can be found at Ecrater, here's the link:

http://www.ecrater.com/p/3898820/vintage-60s-gay-gibson-mini

Here's my dress from the original Gay Gibson Ad, what a find!!

My other Nelly Don

2011-01-16T13:57:00.000-08:00

Sorry I forgot to add this Nelly Don Dress to my previous blog, so here it is.

I just listed at To Dress Vintage, enjoy.

Vintage late 50's Nelly Don Striped Dress S-M-

This dress is so cute!.They are highly collectible, when someone gets a classic Nelly Don they keep them forever.

I love this dress! Done in a thin cotton , only guessing. I didn't do a burn test. I am sure it's cotton, no pilling. The style is a shirtwaister dress with front red buttons, and no belt. I added a red belt , but any belt would do.The dress looks great with a full crinonline or without. A great dress that's cool enough for this coming spring, or layer it with tights and flats, add a light cartigan, and you have a very versitile dress. It has the original label, era is from the 1950's. I checked with the VFG. http://vintagefashionguild.org/label-resource/don-nelly/, a great resource for vintage.

Condition- This dress is not new, it has had a good life. The only flaws I found are the belt is missing, and some normal wear, but in great vintage condition for its age, very wearable.

Measurements- Bust 36-( some stretch to 38) Waist- tight fitted no stretch 28- Hips- full -Shoulders- 16- Arms- 18( cropped sleeves)

Email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if interested in this dress.

The Real Rosie The Riveter dies at 86

2010-12-30T14:31:00.000-08:00

RIP Gerarldine Hoff Doyle, the true Rosie the Riveter

Geraldine Hoff Doyle holds a copy of the famous poster in 1997. (Lansing State Journal file photo)

Read more: Geraldine Hoff Doyle, 'Rosie the Riveter,' dies at 86 freep.com

Here's the original poster..

The artist was J. Howard Miller

In memory of Parrot

2010-12-20T15:44:00.000-08:00

Sorry this blog today is a sad one, and might disturb my readers. A good friend emailed a dog link. Hoping it was good news that one of her dogs were adopted, it sadly was not. I had not heard about this horrible crime until now. I was shocked and disgusted, that this happened.

This incident occurred Sunday September 12,2010, it will not be forgotten if people blog about it, and most importantly write to the Washington DC police Chief, Cathy Lanier (Metropolitan Chief of Police) and Jacob Kishter (Metropolitan Police Department) and sign a petition against this crime.

By Matt Zapotosky
Washington Post Staff Writer
Monday, September 13, 2010
A D.C. police officer shot and killed a festival-goer's dog amid hundreds of onlookers in Adams Morgan on Sunday afternoon in an incident that was either completely justified or totally unnecessary, depending on whom you ask. This much, witnesses say, is clear: Sometime after noon on Sunday, two dogs started snapping at each other in the middle of a crowd enjoying cheese fries and funnel cake at the annual Adams Morgan Day festival on 18th Street NW. D.C. police officers soon got involved, and at some point, one of them shot and killed the larger dog, described as either a pit bull or Shar-Pei mix.
The disagreement is in the details.
Aaron Block, 25, of Dupont Circle said he was walking his 2-year-old Shar-Pei mix, Parrot, up 18th Street when the dog suddenly turned around and bit a poodle that was passing by. He said he separated the two dogs -- cutting his hand inside Parrot's mouth in the process -- and was subduing his dog when police arrived.
That's when a D.C. police officer took over, putting his knee in the middle of Parrot's back while he pulled the dog's forelegs behind him, Block said. He said that the officer then grabbed Parrot by his neck and threw him over a banister at the Brass Knob antique store and that just as the dog righted itself, the officer pulled out his gun and fired. Parrot was "a full 12 to 15 steps away," Block said, and was "making no aggressive overtures." The dog, he noted, "doesn't handle stairs well."
"The officer drew his gun in an unnecessary act of cowboy gunslinging law enforcement and shot my dog amidst a crowd of thousands," said Block, who was fostering Parrot while he was waiting to be adopted through the Lucky Dog Animal Rescue. "The problems here are almost too numerous to count."
Block's account is supported by at least one witness, Jennifer Naideth, 29, who was in town from Los Angeles selling cosmetics at the festival. She called the shooting "so unnecessary and so violent," adding that "there was no human life in danger."
Police and others had a different perspective.
Jacob Kishter, commander of the 3rd Police District, said that once the officer pushed the dog down the stairwell, "the dog immediately turns and runs at the officer aggressively." The officer, 25-year-veteran Scott Fike, fired one shot, fatally wounding the dog, which police described as a pit bull.

It's definitely going to be justified based on everything that we know," Kishter said, adding that police interviewed the officer, the owners of both dogs and other officers on scene.
The police account also has witness support.
Tony De Pass, 67, a former D.C. police officer who lives in Northwest, said that the dog was charging directly at him when Fike drew his gun and fired and that "if the officer hadn't shot the dog, the dog would have got one of us, either me or the officer."
"What he did, I would have done the same damn thing," De Pass said.
Block, though, said he sees the police's response as an attempt to cover up what he considers the "executing" of his pet. He said that he would walk with Parrot to and from work every day and that he was a "very people-friendly dog, with absolutely no bite history."
The incident unfolded before hundreds of revelers at the heart of the Adams Morgan celebration, disrupting an otherwise peaceful afternoon. Eric Jost, 26, of Cleveland Park said he watched a young girl with a butterfly painted on her face become "hysterical" as she "witnessed it all."
Soleiman Askarinam, the owner of Spaghetti Garden on 18th Street, said the day's revelry was suddenly punctuated with screams and angry dogs barking, then a gunshot.
"For a second," he said, "it was very scary."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/12/AR2010091203938.html

http://www.change.org/petitions/view/demand_justice_for_dog_shot_at_dc_festival

Here's a follow up article.
http://www.examiner.com/dog-in-washington-dc/dog-shot-by-dc-police-update

Officer Scott Fike should be discharged from the Washington DC Police Dept.

We need to stop animal violence anyway we can. By writing to the Chief of Police, and possibly the Mayor we can get some results.

Again thank you for reading this blog !!!! I might have made people upset, but that's fine.I am a proud owner of two Pit Bull/ Boxer mixes, they were both abused , now they are happy healthy and loving dogs. I love them dearly!!!!

God Bless Parrot , may he rest in peace.

And one more dress

2010-12-17T16:24:00.000-08:00

Brown Linen Day Dress late 40's to early 50's size M-L

Vintage dresses On the Way!

2010-12-07T17:22:00.000-08:00

Late 1940's Belted Wool Day Dress

1960's Plaid Mini Dress

1980's Coco Black Swing dress

1970's Gray Wool Pendleton Pinafore

1970's 1980's Gray Windowpane Dress

1950's -1960's Jr Plaid Dress XS-S ( Sold as is)

1960's mini dress XS

1980's Lilli Ann Dress Coat

1980's Black Dress

1960's Mini wool checkered dress S

1980's Ursula flapper style dress M

1960/ 1970's Scarlet Gown XS

1960's Russ pinafore shift dress M

RIP Bernard Schwartz or as we know him as Tony Curtis

2010-10-02T17:12:00.000-07:00

I just watched "So Like it Hot " that starred Marilyn Monroe, Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis. This is one of my favorite Tony Curtis movies. I was so sad to hear of his passing. He was a fabulous actor, and painter.

His daughter Jamie Lee Curtis said this to the Associated Press.

She,stated:

"My father leaves behind a legacy of great performances in movies and in his paintings and assemblages. He leaves behind children and their families who loved him and respected him and a wife and in-laws who were devoted to him. He also leaves behind fans all over the world. He will be greatly missed."

He made 140 films - some of them are listed here

Filmography

Criss Cross (1949)
City Across the River (1949)
The Lady Gambles (1949)
Take One False Step (1949) (scenes deleted)
Johnny Stool Pigeon (1949)
How to Smuggle a Hernia Across the Border (1949) (short subject)
Woman in Hiding (1950)
Francis (1950)
I Was a Shoplifter (1950)
Sierra (1950)
Winchester '73 (1950) (Credited as Anthony Curtis)
Kansas Raiders (1950)
The Prince Who Was a Thief (1951)
Meet Danny Wilson (1952) (cameo)
Flesh and Fury (1952)
No Room for the Groom (1952)
Son of Ali Baba (1952)
Houdini (1953)
The All-American (1953)
Forbidden (1953)
Beachhead (1954)
Johnny Dark (1954)
The Black Shield of Falworth (1954)
Six Bridges to Cross (1955)
So This Is Paris (1955)
The Purple Mask (1955)
The Rawhide Years (1955)
The Square Jungle (1955)
Trapeze (1956)
Mister Cory (1957)
Sweet Smell of Success (1957)
The Midnight Story (1957)
The Vikings (1958)
Kings Go Forth (1958)
The Defiant Ones (1958)
The Perfect Furlough (1958)
Some Like It Hot (1959)
Operation Petticoat (1959)
Who Was That Lady? (1960)
The Rat Race (1960)
Spartacus (1960)
Pepe (1960) (cameo)
The Great Impostor (1961)
The Outsider (1961), as Ira Hayes
Taras Bulba (1962)
40 Pounds of Trouble (1962)
The List of Adrian Messenger (1963) (cameo)
Captain Newman, M.D. (1963)
Paris, When It Sizzles (1964) (cameo)
Wild and Wonderful (1964)
Goodbye Charlie (1964)
Sex and the Single Girl (1964)
The Great Race (1965)
Boeing Boeing (1965)
The Flinstones (1965) (voice)
Chamber of Horrors (1966) (cameo)
Not with My Wife, You Don't! (1966)
Arrivederci, Baby! (1966)
Don't Make Waves (1967)

On My Way to the Crusades, I Met a Girl Who... (1968)
Rosemary's Baby (1968) (voice)
The Boston Strangler (1968)
Monte Carlo or Bust (1969)
You Can't Win 'Em All (1970)
Suppose They Gave a War and Nobody Came? (1970)
The Persuaders! (1971–1972)
Mission: Monte Carlo (1974)
Lepke (1975)
The Count of Monte Cristo (1975)
London Conspiracy (1976)
The Last Tycoon (1976)
Casanova & Co. (1977)
Sextette (1978)
The Manitou (1978)
The Bad News Bears Go to Japan (1978)
The Users (1978)
Electric Light Orchestra Out of the Blue: Live at Wembley (1978)
Double Take (1979)
Title Shot (1979)
Little Miss Marker (1980)
It Rained All Night the Day I Left (1980)
The Mirror Crack'd (1980)
The Scarlett O'Hara War (1980)
Othello, the Black Commando (1982)
Where Is Parsifal? (1983)
BrainWaves (1983)
The Fantasy Film Worlds of George Pal (1985) (documentary)
Club Life (1985)
Insignificance (1985)
The Last of Philip Banter (1986)
Balboa (1986)
The Passenger - Welcome to Germany (1988)
Lobster Man From Mars (1989)
Midnight (1989)
Tarzan in Manhattan (1989)
Walter & Carlo In America (1989)
Prime Target (1991)
Center of the Web (1992)
Hugh Hefner: Once Upon a Time (1992) (documentary)
Naked in New York (1993)
The Mummy Lives (1993)
A Century of Cinema (1994) (documentary)
The Immortals (1995)
The Celluloid Closet (1995) (documentary)
Roseanne - TV Series (1996) (role as Hal, ballroom dance studio instructor)
Hardball (1997)
Brittle Glory (1997)
Elvis Meets Nixon (1997)
Alien X Factor (1997)
Stargames (1998)
Louis & Frank (1998)
Play It to the Bone (1999) (cameo)
Reflections of Evil (2002) (narrator)
Where's Marty? (2006)
The Blacksmith and the Carpenter (2007) (voice)
David & Fatima (2008)
The Jill & Tony Curtis Story (2008) (documentary feature)

[

Here's his website that has his famous art,

" This is the only place on the web with guaranteed hand signed items autographed by Tony himself.

All products purchased from this website are personally signed and endorsed by Tony Curtis. " from his site

http://www.tonycurtis.com/

Alfred Shaheen late 60's maxi skirt

2010-09-27T14:13:00.000-07:00

I am offering this Shaheen Skirt on Babylon Mall on my site Only Couture. Come and see it! I have a Shaheen dress there as well, very collectible too. I accept Pay Pal and my shipping is very low in the US only $6, elsewhere it differs depending on where you are located.I have loved this designer for years. Alfred Shaheen vintage garments are highly collectible; some auctions on Ebay and other sites auction off his garments for hundreds or more. People really love this man, even Elvis. He wore Alfred Shaheen shirts especially for his movie Blue Hawaii and his album with the same name, and he looked gorgeous.

Emma Domb hostess dress coming soon...

2010-08-09T13:56:00.000-07:00

I love this fancy formal by Emma Domb. The color is a striking red raspberry, with fantastic pleated winged sleeves. A great dress for this coming holiday season. You can even shorten it , for a more contemporary dress. It does have an elegant appeal it has. I am offering it at To Dress Vintage this month. If interested in this garment just leave a comment or email me and I will be happy to assist you. My shipping is $6.00 and a depending on where you are located outside the US the price may vary.

Condition : In very good condition. The lower front skirt has a few runs but the dress is very wearable. Again this dress would look great shorten as a tunic/ mini dress. I did locate on the hemline that it needs to be spot cleaned, and on close inspection I notice that some of the beads are loose.This dress is not in mint condition.

Measurements : Bust 36- Waist-30-32- Hips- 36-40-Length-57

Please email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if you need information or additional photos.

Here's some background on this label from the VFG:Hfa bit of background on this label courtesy of the VFG, go look them up. An honest plug, if you don't mine me saying. Info from a great seller on the VFG fuzzielizzie, look her up as well.FRoFrff

EMMA DOMB Emma Domb was a California dressmaking company that was active from 1939 through the 1970s. Domb Manufacturing Company was owned by Emma Domb and Lorraine Domb Steinberg. They specialized in wedding, party and prom dresses, and were also known for fancy date ensembles. They were headquartered in San Francisco.

Thanks for checking out my blog!

More vintage dresses coming soon.

Hollywood And New York Patterns

2010-07-07T16:08:00.000-07:00

Here's a terrific find, two very rare patterns . The first is from the pattern maker from Hollywood, that featured RKO Hollywood stars. This pattern is from the Maureen O'Hara collection. She's the mother of Mia Farrow, and stared in such films as the holiday classic Miracle on 34th Street from 1947, and many others. Just check out her filmography from Wikipedia.com. She is 89 this year , wow!

Here's some information about the Hollywood pattern collection, courtesy of the VFG.

Hollywood Patterns

Many of the patterns from this now defunct company, featuring stars and starlets on their envelopes, are highly collectable. Those featuring Lucille Ball are particularly desirable. This company did beautiful dresses and suits throughout the 1940s into the 1950s.

Hollywood Pattern Company was started by Condé Nast in 1932. They were known for printing photos of Hollywood stars on some of their patterns, quickly making them very popular. They continued production through the end of World War II.

Kicking the Moon Around	Secretary
My Irish Molly	Eileen O'Shea
1939	Jamaica Inn	Mary Yellen
	The Hunchback of Notre Dame	Esmeralda
	Dance, Girl, Dance	Judy O'Brien
1941	They Met in Argentina	Lolita O'Shea
1941	How Green Was My Valley	Angharad
1942	To the Shores of Tripoli	Mary Carter
	Ten Gentlemen from West Point	Carolyn Bainbridge
	The Black Swan	Lady Margaret Denby
1943	Immortal Sergeant	Valentine Lee
	This Land Is Mine	Louise Martin
	The Fallen Sparrow	Toni Donne
1944	Buffalo Bill	Louisa Frederici Cody
1945	The Spanish Main	Contessa Francesca
1946	Sentimental Journey	Julie Beck / Weatherly
1946	Do You Love Me	Katherine "Kitten" Hilliard
1947	Sinbad the Sailor	Shireen
	The Homestretch	Leslie Hale
	Miracle on 34th Street	Doris Walker
	The Foxes of Harrow	Odalie "Lilli" D'Arceneaux
1948	Sitting Pretty	Tacey King
1949	A Woman's Secret	Marian Washburn
	The Affairs of Adelaide	Adelaide "Addie" Culver	Alternative title: Britannia Mews
	Father was a Fullback	Elizabeth Cooper
	Bagdad	Princess Marjan
1950	Comanche Territory	Katie Howard
	Tripoli	Countess D'Arneau
	Rio Grande	Mrs. Kathleen Yorke
1951	Flame of Araby	Princess Tanya
1952	At Sword's Point	Claire
	Kangaroo	Dell McGuire
	The Quiet Man	Mary Kate Danaher
	Against All Flags	Prudence "Spitfire" Stevens
1953	The Redhead from Wyoming	Kate Maxwell
1953	War Arrow	Elaine Corwin
1954	Malaga	Joanna Dana
1955	The Long Gray Line	Mary O'Donnell
	The Magnificent Matador	Karen Harrison
	Lady Godiva of Coventry	Lady Godiva
1956	Lisbon	Sylvia Merrill
1956	Everything But the Truth	Joan Madison
1957	The Wings of Eagles	Min Wead
1959	Our Man in Havana	Beatrice Severn
1961	The Deadly Companions	Kit Tilden
1961	The Parent Trap	Margaret "Maggie" McKendrick
1962	Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation	Peggy Hobbs
1963	Spencer's Mountain	Olivia Spencer
1963	McLintock!	Katherine Gilhooley McLintock
1965	The Battle of the Villa Fiorita	Moira
1966	The Rare Breed	Martha Price
1970	How Do I Love Thee?	Elsie Waltz
1971	Big Jake	Martha McCandles
1991	Only the Lonely	Rose Muldoon
1994	A Century of Cinema	Herself

The New York Pattern Company:

The company started in 1932 and continued until the early 1950s. They were unique in that the pattern sleeves had drawn characters rather than photos and the paper used was non-glossy. These patterns are very rare , hard to find in good condition.

The price range that I located are between $75- $85. Mine is cut, so it's not in mint condition, all the pattern pieces are present, and comes with full instruction sheet, the original envelope is worn for its age.

Oscar de la Renta Space Age Shell Top

2010-07-05T13:50:00.000-07:00

Here are some examples from the 60's designer Paco Rabanne, he established that Space Age/ Futuristic style that made fashion into art. His look is very reminiscent of this Oscar de la Renta shell top that I'm featuring on my blog today. Enjoy the photos!

This is such a cool top. It's a pink silk abstract sequin shell top, wow that was a mouthful. Anyhow, a pretty top with lots of appeal for this summer and coming seasons. It's a classic, that comes back every year. This is such a fun shell top, that is sure to be a show stopper at any party or a night out on the town.
My Oscar de la Renta is from a few years ago, but very much in vogue today, and always will. He never has to re-invent himself, he's has such a classic look to all his lines. I would match this top with cargo shorts, or even jeans. I have an example with my favorite denim jacket that looks so modern and vintage at the same time. It is made from 100% woven stitched silk, with small clear plastic disks that catches the light, it forms hues of pink, red , orange depending on the light,very iridescent. The tag reads size 8, but I would go by your own measurements. Bust- 36- Waist-30-Hips-36- Length-22 (some stretch)

Only flaw that I discovered it that one disk has embedded itself through the inside, other than that its perfect. Ready to wear!

If interested in this top, or any other garment on my blog , just email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com. I use Pay Pal, accept money orders, and also international shipping which I charge according to the US Mail website.

The Sequin Hollywood Style

2010-07-02T13:26:00.000-07:00

This designer dress is by AJ Bari very reminiscent of glamourous Hollywood. It is done as a mermaid cut, very sultry on. It is covered with beautiful sequins and beadwork. There's a lot of seamstress work that went into this gown, and not a run of the mill evening gown, very fancy. The white beadwork on the bottom skirt reminds me of white waves. The dress is an asymmetrical cut, with two slit sleeves. The front and back have an illusion bodice, made from pure netted silk, the collar is fully beaded, and the zipper works great.

There are two small shoulder pads to give the dress a classic shape from the 40's. The fabric tag reads 100% silk and 100% rayon, it is in very good condition, ready to wear. I did notice on close inspection that some of the beadwork has some missing beads, not to worry the dress still looks wonderful.

Here's some background about this designer label.

A.J. Bari was one of several lines designed by American designer Kay Unger as part of the Gillian Group. The A.J. Bari line was in existence from about 1972 but was closed in 1995 when Unger formed her own label. From the VFG.

If interested in this dress I will be adding it this week to my Only Couture online shop on Babylon Mall. Just email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if interested in this or any other garment on my website. I do accept Pay Pal, money orders and international shipping.

Thanks for checking out my blog.

How Could You? By Jim Willis

2010-06-30T21:11:00.000-07:00

A man in Grand Rapids, Michigan incredibly took out a $7000 full page ad in the paper to present the following essay to the people of his community.

HOW COULD YOU?

By Jim Willis

When I was a puppy, I entertained you with my antics and made you laugh. You called me your child, and despite a number of chewed shoes and a couple of murdered throw pillows, I became your best friend. Whenever I was “bad,” you’d shake your finger at me and ask “How could you?” — but then you’d relent and roll me over for a belly rub. My housebreaking took a little longer than expected, because you were terribly busy, but we worked on that together. I remember those nights of nuzzling you in bed and listening to your confidences and secret dreams, and I believed that life could not be any more perfect. We went for long walks and runs in the park, car rides, stops for ice cream (I only got the cone because “ice cream is bad for dogs” you said), and I t ook long naps in the sun waiting for you to come home at the end of the day.

Gradually, you began spending more time at work and on your career, and more time searching for a human mate. I waited for you patiently, comforted you through heartbreaks and disappointments, never chided you about bad decisions, and romped with glee at your homecomings, and when you fell in love. She, now your wife, is not a “dog person” – - still I welcomed her into our home, tried to show her affection, and obeyed her. I was happy because you were happy.

Then the human babies came along and I shared your excitement. I was fascinated by their pinkness, how they smelled, and I wanted to mother them, too. Only she and you worried that I might hurt them, and I spent most of my time banished to another room, or to a dog crate. Oh, how I wanted to love them, but I became a “prisoner of love.” As they began to grow, I became their friend. They clung to my fur and pulled themselves up on wobbly legs, poked fingers in my eyes, investigated my ears, and gave me kisses on my nose. I loved everything about them and their touch — because your touch was now so infrequent — and I would’ve defended them with my life if need be. I would sneak into their beds and listen to their worries and secret dreams, and together we waited for the sound of your car in the driveway.

There had been a time, when others asked you if you had a dog, that you produced a photo of me from your wallet and told them stories about me. These past few years, you just answered “yes” and changed the subject. I had gone from being “your dog” to “just a dog,” and you resented every expenditure on my behalf.

Now, you have a new career opportunity in another city, and you and they will be moving to an apartment that does not allow pets. You’ve made the right decision for your “family,” but there was a time when I was your only family.

I was excited about the car ride until we arrived at the animal shelter. It smelled of dogs and cats, of fear, of hopelessness. You filled out the paperwork and said “I know you will find a good home for her.” They shrugged and gave you a pained look. They understand the realities facing a middle-aged dog, even one with “papers.” You had to pry your son’s fingers loose from my collar as he screamed “No, Daddy! Please don’t let them take my dog!” And I worried for him, and what lessons you had just taught him about friendship and loyalty, about love and responsibility, and about respect for all life. You gave me a good-bye pat on the head, avoided my eyes, and politely refused to take my collar and leash with you. You had a deadline to meet and now I have one, too. After you left, the two nice ladies said you probably knew about your upcoming move months ago and made no attempt to find me another good home. They shook their heads and asked, “How could you?”

They are as attentive to us here in the shelter as their busy schedules allow. They feed us, of course, but I lost my appetite days ago. At first, whenever anyone passed my pen, I rushed to the front, hoping it was you that you had changed your mind — that this was all a bad dream… Or I hoped it would at least be someone who cared, anyone who might save me.

When I realized I could not compete with the frolicking for attention of happy puppies, oblivious to their own fate, I retreated to a far corner and waited. I heard her footsteps as she came for me at the end of the day, and I padded along the aisle after her to a separate room. A blissfully quiet room. She placed me on the table and rubbed my ears, and told me not to worry. My heart pounded in anticipation of what was to come, but there was also a sense of relief. The prisoner of love had run out of days.

As is my nature, I was more concerned about her. The burden which she bears weighs heavily on her, and I know that, the same way I knew your every mood. She gently placed a tourniquet around my foreleg as a tear ran down her cheek. I licked her hand in the same way I used to comfort you so many years ago. She expertly slid the hypodermic needle into my vein. As I felt the sting and the cool liquid coursing through my body, I lay down sleepily, looked into her kind eyes and murmured, “How could you?”

Perhaps because she understood my dog speak, she said, “I’m so sorry.” She hugged me, and hurriedly explained it was her job to make sure I went to a better place, where I wouldn’t be ignored or abused or abandoned, or have to fend for myself — a place of love and light so very different from this earthly place. And with my last bit of energy, I tried to convey to her with a thump of my tail that my “How could you?” was not directed at her. It was directed at you, My Beloved Master, I was thinking of you. I will think of you and wait for you forever. May everyone in your life continue to show you so much loyalty.

A Note from the Author: If “How Could You?” brought tears to your eyes as you read it, as it did to mine as I wrote it, it is because it is the composite story of the millions of formerly “owned” pets who die each year in American & Canadian animal shelters. Please use this to help educate, on your websites, in newsletters, on animal shelter and vet office bulletin boards. Tell the public that the decision to add a pet to the family is an important one for life, that animals deserve our love and sensible care, that finding another appropriate home for your animal is your responsibility and any local humane society or animal welfare league can offer you good advice, and that all life is precious. Please do your part to stop the killing, and encourage all spay & neuter campaigns in order to prevent unwanted animals.

Angie Dress

2010-06-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

This dress is so sweet and very versatile, as I discovered. The first day of summer was cloudy, but this dress sure brighten up my day when I locate it at an estate sale. It was hidden, someone wanted it that badly. I grabbed it right away. It is not new, it's used, but very loved. It would say it was from last season or so, hard to tell. It fit my 6ft mannequin , size 4. I tried on the dress and love it, but I know this is my inventory , so I can't get too attached. I am offering this dress at my shop To Dress Vintage, although it's not vintage, but I believe it is very 70's boho inspired, it will be priced very low. I have located a small snag on the front, hard to see. Please note all photos on my website, before ordering. You can email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if you have any questions on this garment or any other one on this site.

Thanks for reading my blog. More next time...

Da Nang Safari Dress/ Tunic

2010-06-22T15:12:00.000-07:00

Wow! This is such a cool dress/ tunic. It is from the label Da Nang, Hollywood stars like Lauren Conrad, Paris Hilton and Halle Berry love this label. It has a distressed look, very vintage. This style has been in fashion for a long time. In the 1960's Yves Saint Laurent posed Veruschka in this famous pose. She looked beautiful in this style, that slightly resembles my Da Nang tunic.

The classic safari look on supermodel Veruschka from the 60's.

Here's Saint Laurent in his own creation, note the cut is very similar.

Actually Yves Saint Laurent would have been proud to see his creations copied with such detail, that he would have approved of it I feel. This dress is an XS, it has a large label that displays the size, nicely done. It is 70% silk and 30% cotton, so its has easy care, just wash in cold and tumble dry on low. The dress has only one flaw, I did locate a small tear, an easy repair. I can stitch it , or leave it up to you.

Here's some samples that are out on the web, just google Da Nang, prices for these run from $150 to $171, and on ebay if you're lucky, but you have to bid on most of them. The dress that I am offer to you, you don't have to wait, buy it now. My shipping is low, and I do ship internationally. Just ask. Email at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if you have any questions or need additional photos.

Here are some famous customers of Da Nang, and they pay full price just to get the latest. Whereas my dress is from a few seasons ago, but it still looks fresh. Like I said this style is a classic, just add your own touches, plus your friends will be envious that you have a classic Da Nang.

Here's some runway looks that even back in 2009, oh that was so long ago, yeah right. Anyhow, this look is here to stay.

And here's mine, they are very similar. Yves Saint Laurent , back then added more detail, with the way it ties, and the numerous pockets, but mine still looks a bit like his, but much cheaper. I wonder what the original price was back in the late 60's? What I like about this dress is that it's called a classic, when the other trends are dust, this one will keep being seen on the runway.

More Vintage...details later I promise.

2010-06-17T17:46:00.000-07:00

Sorry, this 80's dance dress has been sold.

Vintage from all eras... 40's, 60's and yes the 80's!!!

Fun Vintage !!!

2010-06-17T16:27:00.000-07:00

Here's some new vintage at my store this week! I want to share before I list them. I am in the processes of hosting a website very soon. I won't be leaving Babylon Mall, but I will be expanding my store, so stay tune Cats and Kittens.

From top to bottom the following...

1)Rare tunic and matching pants by Jean Louis French Designer , who was married to Loretta Young.

2)late 80's lace / velvet cocktail dress

3)50's- 60's Rene Original Cropped Coat

4)40's Satin Full Dress Slip

5)Raw Silk 70's blazer

Shelli Segal Animal Print dress

2010-06-11T12:31:00.000-07:00

I love finding out who is behind clothes labels. When it came to the name "Laundry by Shelli Segal, I thought she was somehow related to Fred Segal, which to my surpise is not true, gotta love the internet.

Her real name is Shelli Benson( maiden name), Segal( married name). She's the sister to the famous actor Robbie Benson. Have to google more about him. I sort of remember him from " Ice Castles" from the 80's. Anyhow I have loved her line, but had no clue who she was. I found out that she worked with Melissa Manchester's mom, on her clothing line Ruth Manchester in 1974 . Then came a long career with such companies as St. Michel and Andre Bini, designed clothing for Leon Max, La Blanca sportswear, TKO, Leo, and Jolie Madame. Lastly was hired as chief designer for the Laundry label in the early nineties. In the 90's celebrities, wore her garments on shows like Friends, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and yes, even the X-flies.

This dress has such Hollywood glamour appeal to it, so beautiful on. I've seen this label at stores like Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstroms,and Lord and Taylor. The dress prices range from $200- $300 or more depending on the high end department store you are at. This dress that I'm offering at Only Couture this week has a very good price, only $125.00. It has hardly been worn, and is in very good condition. No rips, tears or odors. The dress does need to be spot cleaned by a professional, dry cleaning is recommended.

The dress is a poly/ spandex fabric, with a front self fabric twist tie, to make the dress loose or tighter. It has a wrap front look, very chic safari style to it. The pattern is an abstract animal print of brown giraffe with large to small spots, very eye catching. The dress is knee length, but it could be shortened for a more contemporary look: this dress is very elegant and classy. As an investment piece for the coming seasons, summer is short, so I would even winterize it with a silk tee or cami underneath, and dress it up with textured tights and fun boots, go wild with this look and have fun with prints.

Bob Mackie!!!

2010-06-09T13:05:00.000-07:00

Now at Only Couture is a dress by the fabulous Bob Mackie. He has dressed such icons as Cher, his muse, Diana Ross, Mitzi Gaynor, and yes even for Katy Perry. He is currently designing her wardrobe for her new tour, it should be fabulous. Can't wait to see!

Here's a background on him that I located from the Vintage Fashion Guild website, " Mackie began his career as a Hollywood costuming sketch artists, working for both Edith Head and Jean Louis. Working with designer Ray Aghayan, Mackie soon began creating on and off screen evening clothing for the divas who would make him a household name — most notably Carol Burnett, Diana Ross, and of course, Cher.
He started his own ready-to-wear line in 1982. His contributions to fashion were recognized in 1999 with the Bob Mackie Retrospective at The Museum at The Fashion Institute of Technology. In 2001, he was honored by the American Council of Fashion Designers of America. Mackie presented his last runway show in 1992, when his business folded. He currently designs and sells clothes under the Bob Mackie name for the home shopping network, QVC." By Cosmicowgirl

This dress is so beautiful designed. It has such Hollywood glamour, with the beadwork, and the gorgeous curvy cut, would flatter the figure, so nicely. If interested in this dress its on Only Couture, or you can email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com. I accept Pay Pal and money orders. Thanks for checking out my fashion blog!

New Vintage Dresses and a nightgown at To Dress Vintage and Only Couture!!!

2010-05-26T13:24:00.001-07:00

Three great garments now at To Dress Vintage and Only Couture

Please email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if interested in these garments.

Thanks for checking out my blog.

Cheers,

Jane To Dress Vintage & Only Couture

Rat Scabies Cigar Box Guitar and more.

2010-05-20T16:33:00.000-07:00

Image courtesty of the Library Of Congress ©Public Domain or
Shane Speal, Bill Jehle, or John McNair

I am so honored to have this on my fashion blog,although cigar boxes and guitars have not a thing to with vintage fashion: they are both recycled materials. I love this idea of taking two items and creating something incredible, like the cigar box guitar.

Now an honest plug of mine..these guitars were made by the great, and I must say the BEST DAMN,drummer in the world. He has crafted these beauties for your enjoyment. You can contact him via his myspace or Facebook. He has let me blog his personal handmade cigar box guitars, which I'm so delighted. After reading about this instrument, I found information on Wikipedia, You Tube and yes, there's even a whole web community devoted to this instrument at www.cigarboxguitars.com

I even found some how to videos, and also people playing these guitars. As I delve further, I located numerous photos like the one on the top of this blog, you can view some at the website Cigar Box Guitars at
http://reddogguitars.com/BluesHistory/HistoryPage.html,

There is indeed some history about them, according to Wikipedia this instrument has been around since 1840 thur 1860s. This website should help you in your quest for this cigar box guitar, found at the online museum http://home.hiwaay.net/~jehle/cbgmuseum.htm: a personal collection of Bill Jehle. Also you can find him on Facebook if you need to contact him.

Here are the cigar box guitars that Rat(Chris ) Scabies let me blog. Again, I thank him from the bottom of my heart, such a sweet person. Thanks Rat!!!!

Christian Dior Couture by Marc Bohan and more...

2010-05-19T15:15:00.001-07:00

Here's a beautiful couture dress by the fabulous Christian Dior. The dress is from 70's and early 80s. I checked with the VFG label source, and this label is between these years, pretty accurate.

The dress will be at my couture store Only Couture on Babylon Mall , or if interested in a price just email me. The dress is worn, there are some flaws, like all vintage, its well used.

This dress is a Christian Dior label, but not designed by him. The year it was manufactured was between the late 70s early 80s, so the designer was Marc Bohan at this time.

Here's some of his background I found from Wikipedia.

Marc Bohan (born 22 August 1926) is a French fashion designer.
In 1945, he worked as a design assistant for Robert Piguet. In 1949, he left the Piguet couture house and worked as a design assistant for Edward Molyneux. From 1954 until 1958, Bohan worked as a designer for Jean Patou.
In 1958, he joined the [Christian Dior S.A.|Christian Dior]]'s London branch as a designer. He became the creative director as Christian Dior in 1960 when Yves Saint-Laurent left. In 1961, he presented his first collection Slim Look under the Dior label. While working in this role, in 1966 Bohan created the Peter Pan look. Bohan remained the creative director at Christian Dior until 1989, when Gianfranco Ferré took over the role.
In 1990, Bohan became the design director for the Hartnell couture house, where he remained until 1992.

My Vintage Dresses!!!

2010-05-13T18:34:00.000-07:00

RIP Lena!!!

2010-05-10T16:54:00.001-07:00

Vintage Life Network Home Page

2010-05-10T14:23:00.000-07:00

Vintage Life Network Home Page

Brooklyn Museum American High Style: Fashioning a National Collection:

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

Now on exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum American High Style: Fashioning a National Collection
May 7, 2010–August 1, 2010

Morris A. and Meyer Schapiro Wing, 4th Floor

This exhibit willl highlight masterworks from the Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection.

"To mark the new relationship between the Brooklyn Museum and the Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Brooklyn Museum presents an exhibition of some of the most renowned objects from its costume collection. American High Style consists of approximately eighty-five dressed mannequins and a selection of hats, shoes, sketches, and other fashion-related material that will reintroduce the collection, long in storage, to the public. The exhibition is organized in groups representing the most important strengths of the collection. Works by the first generation of American women designers such as Bonnie Cashin, Elizabeth Hawes, and Claire McCardell are featured, as well as material created by Charles James, Norman Norell, Gilbert Adrian, and other important American designers. Also included are works by French designers who had an important influence on American women and fashion, such as Charles Frederick Worth, Elsa Schiaparelli, Jeanne Lanvin, Jeanne Paquin, Madeleine Vionnet, and Christian Dior. The Metropolitan Museum of Art will celebrate the arrival of the Brooklyn Museum costume collection at the Met with a related exhibition, American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity, on view May 5–August 15, 2010."

( from their website brooklynmuseum.org)

http://www.brooklynmuseum.org/exhibitions/american_high_style/ for more information go to this website.

Location: 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, New York 11238-6052
Telephone: (718) 638-5000; TTY: (718) 399-8440
Admission: Suggested Contribution: $10; Students with Valid ID: $6; Adults 62 and over: $6; Members: Free; Children under 12: Free
Hours: Wednesday–Friday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Subway: Eastern Parkway/Brooklyn Museum

And follow them on Twitter at http://twitter.com/BklynMuseumNews

ENJOY!!! I have chosen my favorite dresses.

Designer
Mrs. Eta Hentz (American, born Hungary)
Manufacturer
Ren-Eta Gowns, Inc.
Object Name
Dress
Date
1944
Culture
American
Medium
synthetic
Dimensions
Length at CB (a): 47 in. (119.4 cm) (b): 32 in. (81.3 cm)
Credit Line
Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Madame Eta Hentz, 1946

Designer
Arnold Scaasi (American, born Canada, 1931)
Object Name
Ensemble, Evening
Date
ca. 1958
Culture
American
Medium
silk
Dimensions
Length at CF (a): 38 in. (96.5 cm) Length at CB (b): 41 in. (104.1 cm)
Credit Line
Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Kay Kerr, 1965

Designer
Christian Dior (French, 1905–1957)
Object Name
Ensemble, Evening
Date
1952
Culture
French
Medium
silk
Dimensions
Length at CB (a): 51 1/2 in. (130.8 cm) Length at CB (b): 9 in. (22.9 cm)
Credit Line
Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Eleanor Lambert, 1953

Designer
Charles James (American, born Great Britain, 1906–1978)
Title
"Four Leaf Clover"
Object Name
Dress (Ball Gown)
Date
1953
Culture
American
Medium
silk
Dimensions
Length at CB: 52 in. (132.1 cm)
Credit Line
Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Josephine Abercrombie, 1953

Designer
Charles James (American, born Great Britain, 1906–1978)
Object Name
Dress, Evening
Date
1946
Culture
American
Medium
silk, wool
Dimensions
Length at CB: 58 in. (147.3 cm)
Credit Line
Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Arturo and Paul Peralta-Ramos, 1954

Designer
Charles James (American, born Great Britain, 1906–1978)
Title
"Butterfly"
Object Name
Dress (Ball Gown)
Date
1955
Culture
American
Medium
silk
Dimensions
Length at CB: 59 in. (149.9 cm)
Credit Line
Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. John de Menil, 1957

Designer
Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel (French, 1883–1971)
Object Name
Cocktail Dress
Date
ca. 1965
Culture
French
Medium
silk
Dimensions
Length at CB (a): 34 in. (86.4 cm)
Credit Line
Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Jane Holzer, 1977

Designer

Madame Grès (Alix Barton) (French, 1903–1993)
Object Name
Dress, Evening
Date
1969
Culture
French
Medium
silk
Dimensions
Length at CB: 60 in. (152.4 cm)
Credit Line
Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. William Randolph Hearst, Jr., 1988

Designer
Mme. Micol Fontana (Italian, b. 1913)
Couture Line
Fontana (Italian, founded 1944)
Object Name
Ensemble, Evening
Date
1954
Culture
Italian
Medium
silk
Dimensions
Storage: 18 x 60 in. (18 in., 152.4 cm)
Credit Line
Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Micol Fontana, 1954

The Galaxy Dress and Katy Perry at the Met

2010-05-04T13:04:00.000-07:00

Now on display as one of their permanent exhibits at the Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry

From The Huffinton Post
Francesca Rosella and Ryan Genz, the London-based design duo behind interactive clothing company CuteCircuit , have created a dress that will quite literally light up any party. The 'Galaxy Dress,' made with 24,000 LEDs, will soon be the center piece of an exhibit at Chicago's the Museum of Science and Industry.

The dress is very wearable, the designers explain. "We used the smallest full-color LEDs, flat like paper, and measuring only 2 by 2 mm," they said in an email to Wired.com. "The circuits are extra-thin, flexible, and hand embroidered on a layer of silk in a way that gives it stretch so the LED fabric can move like normal fabric with lightness and fluidity." The dress is powered by tiny iPod batteries and the sparkle is enhanced by 4,000 hand-applied Swarovski crystals.

Katy Perry at the Met , wearing a CuteCircuit dress.

CuteCircuit created a couture gown for Katy with meters and meters of flowing silk chiffon and over 3000 LEDs creating a rainbow of colours shimmering around Katy as she entered the ball.

Fun Vintage for any occasion

2010-04-27T14:15:00.000-07:00

A great little sun dress by Malia, from the late 70s/ 80s very retro. This label made resort-wear.

A fabulous Tracy Mills designer dress from the late 80s, now at Only Couture.

And lastly a sheath dress from the 50s/ 60s from the label Original Franklin, a great day dress. Marked as " As Is" it does have some flaws. At To Dress Vintage!

Dior Spring / Summer 1952

2010-04-20T14:30:00.000-07:00

The beauty of Grace

2010-04-19T16:47:00.000-07:00

Grace Kelly : Style Icon now at Victoria Albert Museum in London.

Please Help this dog!!!

2010-03-22T20:54:00.000-07:00

Baxter has been at this shelter for 100 plus days. He needs our help. He is currently at Animal Haven in Merriam Kansas. Please look him up.

9800 W 67th St

Merriam, KS 66203
913 432-7548

Adoption Hours:
M, W-F: 11am-6pm
Closed Tuesday
Sat: 10am-6pm
Sun: 12pm-4pm

Baxter is a lovable big ol' dog who was rescued by some very nice people. He is very friendly, loves people, and gets along well with other dogs. He appears to be house trained, but he could use some help with his leash manners (he is so enthusiastic that he pulls kind of hard). Eager to make new friends, Baxter is ready to go to his new lifelong caring home - so, come meet him today! I have been at the shelter for over 100 days and qualify for a reduced adoption fee. Maybe you can give me the life long caring home that I have long deserved. If you could help please contact Animal Haven at 913-432-7548 or adopt_ahavenkc@yahoo.com

Dorothy O 'Hara 50's Vintage Cocktail Dress

2010-03-13T14:38:00.001-08:00

Here's this gorgeous dress that I have in my collection. I will be posting it on Only Couture,since I consider this dress vintage couture. I know you will agree. It is so beautiful and such a collector's delight. The dress is a black rayon crepe fabric, not poly. The draping and gathering of fabric is what this designer is known for. All the Dorothy O' Hara dresses that I've seen on ebay and elsewhere, usually are bought up quick,people flock to these dresses , and keep them forever. They are such a classic staple to have in your vintage collection.

Features: Sweetheart neckline, gathered faux sarong style skirt, wonderful draping which she is famous for, did I mention that already? Anyhow, it has a back metal zipper,( needs some carbon on it to loosen the teeth) , a gathered bodice that sculpts and flatters the figure perfectly.
Bust- 34-36( depending if you wear a body shaper or not) a bit snug if you don't.
Waist- 26-28 ( no stretch) again, I would wear a tight body shaper,or a vintage corset.

Flaws- Note to buyer, this dress has had a life, it is not new old stock, it is used. There is a light marking on the inside gathering, cannot be seen when worn. Also I did locate on the inner seam that is open, not a hole, but from the inside you can see it. I can send you larger photos , if you like.

If interested in this dress, just email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com .

Remember this dress is S-M depending on your height and weight.

Here's some of the movie's that this costume designer did for Hollywood,courtesy of the IMDB website

Filmography

Costume Designer:
Variety Girl (1947)
The Imperfect Lady (1947)
... aka Mrs. Loring's Secret (UK)
Calcutta (1947)
The Searching Wind (1946)
Two Years Before the Mast (1946)
The Unseen (1945)
Salty O'Rourke (1945)

Here's a photo I found from Wikipedia-Title: Evening gowns by Dorothy O'Hara, Orry Kelly, Al Teitelbaum and Howard Greer Published caption:FORMAL ELEGANCE -- Evening mode originals by Dorothy O'Hara, Orry Kelly, Al Teitelbaum and Howard Greer were hits at Fashion Group show.
1947

Best of Luck with finding that Dorothy O' Hara dress of your dreams!!!

Vintage 60s/ 70s Shift with Cover-up M-L

2010-03-02T17:15:00.001-08:00

Vintage 60s/ 70s Blue shift with matching cover up A bright ocean blue summery dress, perfect for this coming season. The dress is an A line cut, with cut out sleeves, metal zipper on the back,and it comes above the knee. A very swinging dress. I did notice an union tag, so it;s probably from the late 60s to early 70s. The fabric is a woven cotton blend, the bodice has a nylon satin lining, and there's a hook and eye closure. The dress comes with a matching cover up, very boho. The cover up is accented with lace embroidered sleeves and collar, meant to be worn open, no buttons. Not too sure if this came with the dress, but is matches perfectly, sold as is. Condition- In great vintage condition. I did notice that the dress needs a bit of spot cleaning on the front. Could use a trip to the dry cleaners. The zipper works fine, but there are some loose threads, the cover up is not in the best condition, I did notice a few snags, a small hole, and a very small dark mark. Like I said before the dress is in great condition, but the cover up is not. Measurements- For Dress Bust- 36 Waist- 32 Hips- 36 Length- 40 Shoulder to Shoulder- 14 Shoulder to cuff- 11 Cover up- Bust 40- Waist- 41- Hips- 44- Shoulder to Shoulder 15- Shoulder to cuff- 29 - arm hole- 8

Please email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if you need information or additional photos. All sales are final, no returns. Thank you for shopping at To Dress Vintage !

Vintage 50s Floral Sun Dress XS-S

2010-03-02T16:13:00.000-08:00

Vintage 50s Floral Sun Dress This homemade dress is so cute. Done in light cotton with a pretty striped floral pattern, very pleated skirt. The colors are yellow, white, brown, and green. The bodice is very tight with a full skirt. The size is petite to a junior size. It looks great with a crinoline or without. This dress is small, so it would fit a tiny framed women or teenager. Condition- In great vintage condition. I did notice small stain on the upper skirt..The stain gets lost in the folded pleats, I did not try to remove, left it up to the new owner. Measurements- Bust 30 Waist- 26-Hips- full- Length- 43

Please email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if you need information or additional photos. All sales final, no returns. Thank you shopping at To Dress Vintage!

Vintage Paisley Shirt Dress L

2010-03-02T16:04:00.000-08:00

Vintage 60s/70s Paisley Shirt Dress- This shirt dress is done in dacron, cotton, poly blend. A very light fabric, perfect for spring to summer. The dress has a matching belt, in very good conditon. The colors are light blue and black, done in a paisely pattern, very boho. The dress is washable, and the size tag reads 15- 16 for a larger frame. The label is by Lady Bayard, from the late 60s to early 70s.Made in the USA. Condition- In great vintage condition. Hardly worn, the belt is in great condtion as well. I found no flaws. Measurements- Bust- 44 - Waist- 42- Hips-42- Length-41 -Shoulder to Shoulder- 16- Shoulder to cuff- 17 Belt is 35 inches and has no belt notches or holes.

Please email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if you need information or additional photos. All sales are final, no returns. Thank you for shopping at To Dress Vintage.

Jerry Gilden Dress

2010-03-01T13:38:00.000-08:00

Vintage 60s White striped Jerry Gilden Day Dress Petite Jr Size

What a pretty day dress by Jerry Gilden, famous for his spectator dresses. This dress is from his junior line. It is about a medium, so it would fit a small framed woman. The dress is so cute, with embedded stripes over diamond shapes very small. The dress is white, but with the accent of red stripes it looks pink. Reminds me of peppermint candy, very fun pattern. The dress has a button front with an accent of white ruffles, very 60s. It has two side pockets, and a very full skirt. The dress has no fabric tag, I am only guessing, but it feels like heavy cotton. The dress came with a belt, but long gone. I have matched it with my 80s hot pink belt, but really any belt would work nicely.
Condition- In great vintage condition, no tears or holes. The under arms do have some discoloration, but hard to see only up close. I want to remind you the vintage is used and not perfect. This dress has been loved by someone. A very wearable dress.

Measurements-Bust- 38 Waist- 28- Hips-full- Length-41

Please email me at cabbiekat@hotmail.com if you need information or additional photos.

All sales are final, no returns

Thank you for shopping at To Dress Vintage

RIP Alexander McQueen

2010-02-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

I was sad to hear of the passing of Alexander McQueen. He was only 40 years old, who made such an impact on the world of couture with his rebellious nature of design. I love his flamboyant style of clothes, years ahead of the fashion world in my book. He had even a fashion line for Target which I never got to see. I could never afford his couture line, but someday I hope to have one of his skull Union Jack clutch that the celebrities carry. Oh, one day!!!

Bless you Lee Alexander McQueen , may you rest in peace.

Please take me home!!

2010-02-09T11:31:00.000-08:00

I have decided to blog dogs at the animal sanctuary where my husband and I volunteer. The sanctuary is a wonderful farm, tucked away on Bainbridge Island. Terri is the owner of Ferry Dog Mothers. She and her staff do a great job taking care of these special dogs. I am very happy to be apart of this organization. I've walked many dogs , and seen them placed in terrific homes. For today's blog it is not about fashion, but something more dear to my heart and that is dog rescue.

The dog that I want to focus my attention is Terri's newest love Hoover, a four year old Pit Bull that was left as a stray in the town of Bremerton, Wa.

Well, here's his story :

Hello, my new name is Hoover and I am set for a forever home! I am a male Pitbull Terrier mix, approximately 4 yrs old. I was found at the Dunes Motel in Bremerton on 10/08/09, but my family did not come to find me, so I can go home with you. I am a sweet boy who knows how to walk on a leash already! I love hanging out with people and really enjoy back and shoulder rubs. The volunteers here tell me I am a good boy and have been working with me on my K-9 skills.

I am in Kennel 15 at the Kitsap Humane Society; open every day from 10am to 4pm for adoptions. You can call 360-692-6977 to check on my status or go online to www.kitsap-humane.org.
Or contact: teririta@aol.com (Ferry Dog Mothers)
Note from Hoover:
"I don't want to be at the shelter anymore. My stress has caused me to loose a lot of weight, and I have injured myself by chewing on my tail. Please take me home today..I want a family to love"

I am so happy to announce that Hoover is listed as adopted on the Ferry Dog Mother's Happy Tails!!!! I will be listing another dog very shortly. I must get the word out that these dogs need homes!!!

New Photos of Marilyn Monroe!!!

2010-02-07T16:03:00.000-08:00

Just learned that there are some new photos of Marilyn Monroe that are for sale. Here's a video that explains it all . Enjoy!!!

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Here's what's available on the web, I found these under www.mirror.co.uk..or google new photos. I'm sure there are all over the web,or you can purchase them
from $1,999 to $3,999 !!! All of these photos have never been published. I love Marilyn's sunglasses, so cute. I wonder what color her dress was? These are such beautiful photos of her.
You can find them at www.thevisitseries.com and by phone , go to the website for the direct phone number. Go get them before they are history!!!

Jane Wiedlin's from the Go-Go's Ebay Auction!!!

2010-02-03T16:06:00.000-08:00

Currently on Ebay Jane Wiedlin from the Go Go's is auctioning off some of her garments. She's a lover of animals, so a good portion of the proceeds will go to her two favorite shelters: Muttville.org for senior dogs,and Houndsaver.org for Grayhounds. Her garments have a few dresses from Stop Staring, and many corsets, I especially adore her sailor sweater and matching skirt. The bids are jumping up ,so hop to it and bid before they are history.

Have a nice week,
Jane" To Dress Vintage"

PS. Here's some of the dogs at the shelters that need help.

Figaro Doberman/ Ridgeback mix age 4

Ribbon Grayhound ( might have already been adopted)

Verdi Grayhound age 5

Neiman Marcus cake recipe

2010-01-30T14:16:00.001-08:00

"Sock It To Me" Cake

Simplicity: + +
Serves 8

Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup chopped pecans
2 tablespoons confectioner's sugar, for dusting

Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 350˚ F. Generously butter a bundt pan.

In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt, and set aside. Place the butter and both types of sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment and beat together on low speed for 2 minutes until fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix on medium speed for 3 minutes. Add the sour cream, vanilla, and cinnamon, and then mix in the flour mixture in one-third increments, waiting for each addition to be incorporated before adding the next. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula and fold in the nuts by hand.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared bundt pan and bake in the oven for 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 15 minutes and then turn it out onto a serving platter. Sprinkle with the confectioner's sugar and serve warm or at room temperature.

Nordstrom's Philip Lim Trunk Show Spring 2010

2010-01-30T12:56:00.000-08:00

Had a few minutes to spare before leaving the city, so I went to my favorite shop in Seattle, Nordstrom. Philip Lim's trunk show was in progress, so I stopped and took a gander. What a fabulous collection! I loved everything, but had not a dime to my name. Just browsing I told the young sales gal. Boy, does she have the best job in the world,to sit there and look pretty and sell beautiful expensive high end clothing. I found this polka dot blouse, and nearly fainted what a beautiful blouse. I definitely want to wait for this to go on sale; I love polka dots.

Bow Tee $125.00

Hairpin Lace skirt $450.00

Sequin bow skirt $ 344.00

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Berlin 2010

2010-01-23T14:23:00.000-08:00

Yeah! Fashion Week is here again! Gosh do I love it! Last year I had a friend that attended it, and she told me all about it; what fun it would be to go. Maybe next year! I loved all the designers,but there was one that I kept going back to.
In keeping with my vintage clothing passion, I choose the Lena Hoschek collection. All the other fashion designers and their work are on display , there you can see their collections and a short video of each designers:what a great website source.

My favorite is the vintage inspired designer Lena Hoschek,from Austria. Her designs are so 1940's but with a twist. I hope her collection is picked up at Nordstoms, or Barney's....cross your fingers. The only shops that carry her line are in Europe. Please come to the US, dear Lena!!!!

Here are some of her designs that I love, enjoy!

Spring 2010

Fall 2010/2011