There’s something about the silhouette of a 50’s inspired dress that makes me think of the ultra classic femme starlets from Hollywood’s Golden Age. When I was about 10 years old I watched Carmen Jones (1954) for the first time and thus began my obsession of all things Dorothy Dandridge. She literally lights up the screen in her role Carmen Jones, as she charms and seduces the uber handsome Joe played by Harry Belafonte. The costume design in this film is so spot on and beautiful — it’s a great example of 50’s fashion. I encourage any fashion enthusiast to watch it for inspiration!
The hourglass shape was held in high esteem and the fashion of the times would help accentuate the female form with small shoulders, fitted waists and full skirts. I love how you would see ladies in tea length dresses, gloves, heels and structured handbags as common day wear so just imagine the Hollywood red carpets!? It was pure fashion magic. Starlets would ooze of classic femininity in structured full length gowns that seem to be making a reappearance on present day red carpets (think Kate Hudson and Amy Adams during the Oscars).
My favorite go to look is a fit a flare dress. I could wear it every day! For this look I was inspired by the beautiful Dorothy Dandridge. Thanks to my lovely friends at eShakti for providing the perfect lavender pastel dress. I made the skirt fuller by remixing my Tanesha Aswathi Tutu as a petticoat (a helpful and amazing tip from fellow blogger friend Kirstin Marie). eShakti is my go to retailer for 50’s inspired dresses and skirts. Today is the last day you can shop many of their looks at 40% off including the dress I’m wearing in today’s post!
 |
| Dorothy Dandridge circa 1950’s (photo from Google Search) |
| Jasmine Dress ::: c/o eShakti (on sale now!) Tutu (worn as petticoat) ::: Tanesha Aswathi Platforms ::: Just Fab (old but love these!) Purse ::: Vintage find at Jacksonville’s Fans’ & Stoves (similar look) Earrings ::: c/o Deb (smilar) Sunnies ::: Old (similar here & here) Dorothy Perkins ::: Old (love this) |
A huge thank you to my friend Carolina of Carolina Photography. I have the most generous friends that help me continue to make my blog visual exciting. Her photography is beautiful and she is just a gem. If you’re in the Jacksonville area and in need of a photographer for weddings, engagements, maternity and newborn shoots, senior portraits or just a fun fashion shoot check her out!
SHOP THE LOOK
You are looking fabulous !
Thank you darling, Ciaa!!
I love the idea of adding a petticoat! It just ups the WOW factor.
Thanks Miss Busy! I’m going to use it a lot more now!!
I simply stumbled upon your journal and needed to mention that I even have extremely enjoyed reading your journal posts. Any means i will be subscribing to your feed and that i hope you post once more shortly.A fantastic presentation. terribly open and informative.You have fantastically bestowed your thought during this journal post.Charming and Fabulous Handbags
Thank you for stopping by! I hope you continue to follow the blog : )
I agree with the above. It’s the colour of the year and you look lovely in it!
Thank you Rita!!
You look Lovely in Radiant Orchid. The folks at Pantone would love this photo and maybe you should send them a copy.
Thank you so much!