Fine Feathered Fashion

OK, I know there is only one feather in this picture and not a lot of clothes, but I couldn't help myself!

In honor of Thanksgiving and it's conspicuous turkey mascot, I thought it might be fun to explore feathers in fashion. Feathers as a fashion accessory go back probably till the beginning of time. They are beautiful and intricate on their own. Once added to an ensemble, they transform the overall look instantaneously. I believe that they either make a serious outfit more dramatic, or they can make a fun outfit more playful. They enhance, soften and elevate. 

An early (1600's?) example of feathers.

I am in love with the feathers in this Edwardian ensemble!

Two Flappers floating in feathers. Sublime!

An amazing use of feathers from the 40's.

I have always loved this dress on Leslie Caron from Gigi!

I think, because of passing fads or trends, sometimes feathers get a bad rap. But I feel it's important not to overlook them or brush them aside. They can be a powerful fashion ally!

This colorful feather collar kills me!

Another great use of feathers in this super-mini black dress on Emma Watson.

Just breathtaking!

Carey Mulligan in a heavenly feathered dress.

I need this outfit!!!

I love the variety here! I think the green is my favorite!

I have never been one for fake eyelashes, but I am kind of desperate to try these one's out!

Suit Yourself

Some good examples of the earlier women's suits.

In honor of my sweet Father, I am doing a post dedicated to suits. He was a man of many suits and was completely dedicated to wearing a proper suit as often and as beautifully as possible. He was a monumental influence on me and my sense and love of fashion.

Marlene Dietrich, yes please!

For me, the quintessential period for the women's suit was the 1940's. Jean Arthur is the perfect model!

Gorgeous!

No one could wear a suit as well as Lauren Bacall.

Um, words cannot express my desire to own this entire ensemble! 

Even the 70's suit is better than the 80's one below!

Yikes!!!

As I started thinking about and looking for good pictures of women in suits, I sadly realized that suits used to be a major staple in a women's wardrobe, an unfortunately, they no longer are. I think the frightening suits of the 80's were sort of the last of them. (Perhaps because they were so horrendous they killed off the entire trend altogether! ) I distinctly remember, when I was young, that women needed a proper "suit" to complete their trousseau. 

This is a great gritty photo of Mila Jovovich! The suit is perfect!

Another plaid suit. Drool!

Cate Blanchett is simply divine! 

I love this suit on Emily Blunt. It's pretty perfect!

I feel it is very sad that this wardrobe expectation has gone away! Hopefully you will feel the same when you have perused these photos. 

My Dad being a twinner with Cary Grant. I love you Daddy!

It's a Mod, Mod World

I'm not crazy about these clothes, but I thought it was funny that they used the Guy Fawkes mask.

In honor of Guy Fawkes Day (November 5th), I am doing a post focused solely on British, Mod fashion. Of course the most memorable occurrence of British fashion came in the 60's with the advent of the British Invasion in music. 

Awesome boots and hair and clothes!

Lulu was the quintessential female British invader.

Unconventional amazingness!

Another great Lulu picture!

Another huge image maker from the British Invasion. This is possibly my favorite picture of Twiggy!

Knee socks. Yes please!

Capes, plaids and tweeds!

I was probably only 8 or 9 when I discovered this movement, and it had a huge affect on me for years to come. Well, it has actually never really lost it's awesomeness in my book. Something about it's graphicness, it's boldness and even sassiness makes me happy. If I could get away with it, I would wear mini skirts and go-go boots every day. 

Black and white, one of my favorite fashion statements! Especially when there are checks involved!

I was completely immersed into the Ska scene when I was a teenager. The British, Mod perspective was central to the Ska outlook. This is Dance Hall Crashers, a wonderful band from that time!

More Ska bliss!

I also love how this idea of a British Invasion continually re-appears and re-invents itself in fashion! It's kind of my favorite! Thank you Fashion Gods! And Happy Guy Fawkes Day!!!

I love it all, but I am drooling over that jacket!

Bowler hat and brown plaid!

Burberry!

I love the hat!

Twiggy eyelashes to the extreme!

I love these colors and, again, checks!!!