Just because some people like to be scared out of their senses on October 31st...

There. Have you ever seen anything creepier than that???

In an effort to look at this in a positive way, I suppose that "rat slippers" could come in handy if your house became overrun with the varmints and you wanted to make a subtle exit. Yeah, really.

Thanks to Matthew for pointing this photo out to me quite some time ago. Since then, I've stumbled upon a few other equally disturbing fashion-wear, but I think this will do for today. Does anyone actually like them? *shudder*

Well... I wish you a fun, safe evening - whether you celebrate Halloween, Reformation Day or just hang out with family or friends. God bless. :)

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Maid Marian Event Finalists - VOTE NOW!

So, between myself and two other judges, we were able to dig through all the entries and come up with five finalists in each category. It was super hard to do this - there were so many fabulous entries! - and sometimes it came down to small things like descriptive details or photo quality. Hopefully, the small number of finalists will make the voting more intense. :)

So, here they are! Please view all the posts in each category before placing your vote in the left-hand sidebar.

1 - Maid Marian or Robin Hood Blog Post - FINALISTS:
Maid Marian Etsy Style at Chipmunk's Corner
Maid Marian Poem at The Mux Stops Here
Maid Marian's of History at A Modest Heart
Marian, from Maid to Married at Melissa's Corner
Robin Hood and... Politics? at The Locket


2 - Medieval Maid Marian Fashion Photos - FINALISTS:
"And dressed in pretty forest plight--" at The Locket
Exploring Sherwood... at Evergreena's Journal
Maid Marian The Lady at Vertically Challenged
Maid Marian's Wardrobe at A young lady's blog
Ready for Adventure... at His Handmaiden


3 - Modern Marian Fashion Photos - FINALISTS:
Maid Marian - A Modern Twist at Chipmunk's Corner
Maid Marian Week at The Three Spinsters
Modern Day Maid Marian at His Handmaiden
Modern Marian at The Reluctant Dragon
Traditional Maid Marian at A Modest Heart


4 - "Crafty" Maid Marian - FINALISTS:
BBC Marian Costume at all that is gold
Lady Gisborne Leather Necklace at Pemberley Couture
Legend of a Lady at Chipmunk's Corner
Maid Marian Paper Doll at The Three Spinsters
Marian's "wedding dress" at all that is gold


Please review all the entries and place your votes in the left-hand sidebar. Please, only one vote per person. Voting will close after one week.

The entry in each category that receives the most votes will be posted on AmandaBeth Online in "the best of" the Maid Marian event, be linked in the blog sidebar, and each winning participant will receive a "winner" blog badge to share on their web site.

Good luck to everyone - have fun! :)

P.S. You can view the rest of the entries by clicking the proper image for each category HERE. Enjoy!

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And the "Maid Marian" Bracelet winner is...

Ashley of Bramblewood Fashion!

Congratulations and thanks to everyone who entered the giveaway and shared their enthusiasm. You're the best! :)

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Maid Marian's Wardrobe - A Medieval Fashion Event is Now Closed!

This was supposed to automatically publish at midnight. My apologies. :P

Thanks so much to everyone who took pictures, wrote posts and participated! The event has been a wonderful success and I think that everyone had a lovely time! I sure had lots of fun looking over all of the fashion and blog entries! :)

The giveaway is now closed and a winner be randomly drawn and announced within the next 24 hours. Also, entries in the different blogging and photo categories are no longer accepted. A small panel of judges will be choosing the top entries in each category over the next few days. If all goes well, we should have the finalists up for you to vote for by Saturday.

Thank you once again for your enthusiasm and participation - it's been a wonderful "weekend!" God bless you all... :)

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Maid Marian's Wardrobe - Season 3 - Finale

This post contains major season finale spoilers. Click HERE for Seasons One and Two.
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"Angel" Gown
With the end in sight for Robin Hood, Marian comes to lead him on his next adventure...

This gown, as well as being extremely intricate, is also a bit hard to decipher since it only appears onscreen for about a minute. It consists of a high-waisted dress and an "overdress" or cape. 

The gown has a raised empire waistline with a bodice made from a beautifully embroidered fabric. There is a slight "sweetheart" shape to the neckline and the bodice has four bust pleats, which are angled from the center front. At this point there is a beaded flower, from which hangs approximately six long strands of pearl beading. These hang down to just below the knee.

The skirt of the gown is made from a silky, shimmery fabric (almost appears like crushed velvet from a distance) and appears to be straight, a-line in shaped and floor length. The gown has both an over and under sleeve (both sewn into the armhole together). 

I believe the over sleeve is made from the same fabric as the skirt. The sleeves are bell shaped, and hang down to the ground in length (perhaps even dragging a bit). Each sleeve is gathered/ruched at the elbow, probably using hidden drawstring casings. The hem of the over sleeve is edged with a wide, silver scalloped trim (this looks like a design commonly found in craft stores.

The under sleeve is made from the same beaded fabric as the bodice. In the close-up images, you cans see the small, beaded designs and a little "zig zag" beading at the hem of each sleeve, which comes down slightly over the back of the hand. A small, distressed piece of sheer fabric is the finishing touch on each sleeve. 

The sleeves also lace up on the under side of the arm, with cording and silver eyelets. It's hard to tell how high this lacing goes, but I think I can see at least five pairs eyelets, and my guess is that they continue to the elbow.

The over dress is made from a lightweight, silky fabric, that almost appears sheer. (Sorry that I can't be more specific with my fabric identification. I go by sight better than the actual name or type.) It is sleeveless, extremely full, and very long in the back. I think the side seams may also be open from the waist down - giving a "split" when she is walking.

There is a wide panel of beading from shoulder to hem along the front opening edges of the cape, in similar patterns and design to the beading on the sleeves and bodice. The hood of the cape, which is long and full, has the same "zig zag" beading as on the sleeve hem.  This beading also appears to run around the sleeveless armholes of the cape.

Altogether, an exquisitely beautiful gown, and one that is very fitting for Robin and Marian's last scene together...

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Three cheers for Lucy Griffiths, Maid Marian, and one amazing wardrobe! :)

P.S. Be sure to enter the "Maid Marian" bracelet giveaway if you haven't done so already! And add your blog post and photo links by clicking HERE.
Images: RobinHood2006.com

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Maid Marian's Wardrobe - Costume Study Resource Page

For those of you who want to continue all the beautiful fashion of "Maid Marian's Wardrobe", there are some great fan sites and costume resources out there... just ready to inspire your everyday fashion or aid your sewing recreations. Here's some of my favorites:

• Maid Marian's Wardrobe - Whole and complete at AmandaBeth Online. Of course. ;)
• Robin Hood 2006 - This is a fabulous fan site for the Robin Hood BBC series. Includes all the latest news, information on the characters, cast and crew... and much more. Also features thousands of screen-captures from all 3 seasons.
• Robin Hood Gallery at Lucy-Griffiths.com - Amazing collection of promotional stills, screencaps and other images.
• Robin Hood Exhibition at Anna's Costumes - Photos of costumes on display from Season Two.
• Robin Hood Series News Blogs / Series 1 / Series 2 / Series 3 - Excellent news source including summaries and reviews of all three seasons episodes. Some low-resolution pictures.
• The Wardrobe of Sherwood - My friend Anna Kristine's great costume studies (image heavy!), featuring the whole gang of Robin's "Merry Men" as well as guest characters.
• Season 2 Marian Costume Study - A nice quick review of each costume, with photos.
• Official BBC (UK) website
• Official BBC America website

If you know of any other great resource sites for this TV series, please leave a comment so I can add it to the page. (I reserve the right to refuse any links that I feel do not meet the qualifications or standards of this site.)


Image: TV Loop Robin Hood Page

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Modern Marian

What sort of clothes would Marian wear if she was living in the 21st century? What would she put on if she woke up on a crisp, autumn day and decided to go for a stroll in Sherwood forest?

It must be functional - in case she runs into danger.

It must be warm - the forest is chilly this time of year.

It must be contemporary - Marian is an up-to-date woman.

It must be classic - she has lots of people following her example.

It must be flattering - she never knows if she might bump into her long-time friend (or more than a friend?) Robin Hood.

So she grabs a favorite shirt - comfortable and cute - with a high waistline and medieval detailed belt.

A simple black skirt - easy to run in, if necessary.

Some tall brown boots to keep her feet snug.

A padded vest with a lovely fleur de lis zipper pull and a faux fur-edged hood - perfect for staying cozy.

Long, fingerless gloves retain mobility while providing warmth.

And some special earrings top it off.

My guess is, she's ready for almost anything. (Did you hear that, Robin Hood?)

What I'm Wearing:

Brown Shirt with Belt unmarked - hand-me-down /  Black Camisole by SO wear it declare it - from Kohl's / Black Skirt by apt. 9 - from Kohl's / Black Tights by Vera Wang - from Kohl's / Brown Boots   by what's what - from Burlington Footwear / Round Pendant Earrings from Greenwich Market, London

Be sure to enter the "Maid Marian" bracelet giveaway if you haven't done so already! And add your blog post and photo links by clicking HERE. I am so enjoying your entries! :)

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Marian Style

It may be over 70 years since The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood hit the big screens, but it still remains as "merry" today as it did back then. Forget the gross historical inaccuracies (that includes the costumes, ladies!) and admit it. This film is fun. High adventure and true love reign supreme for nearly two hours and we enjoy every minute of it.

The movie would not be what it was (and still is) without the swashbuckling charisma of Errol Flynn.  Maybe I am partial because we share the same last name (and there is always a chance that he could be my 12th cousin twice removed ;) but - despite the stiff acting, terrible wigs and tights - I still think he manages to exude a charm that is pretty hard to resist. He always appears to know this fact and comes across as very cocky, but the ladies fall for him anyway. lol.

As for his co-star, the lovely Olivia de Havilland, I could go on forever about her. (In fact, her sweet style has already been featured twice on the blog - see here and here.) The casting for this film was absolutely flawless, without a single sore spot, and Olivia was the perfect Marian for the century. She is sweet and good-tempered, but not one to be pushed about. In fact, she and Robin get off to a bad start when they first meet - she thinks he is nothing but a dishonest and disloyal troublemaker. It takes a little while for her to realize just what Robin is doing to aid the poor and persecuted, but she is quick to apologize for her error and do her best for the cause.

And while she doesn't rush around brandishing weapons like Lucy Griffiths in the BBC television adaptation, she's no coward. She helps organize Robin Hood's grand escape, spies at the risk of her life, and is eventually condemned to death for her loyalty to King Richard. Of course, Robin Hood always does have something up his sleeve... ;)

The film was shot in brilliant Technicolor and the images are bright and gay - everything beautifully saturated. I wish I could have included more color photos in this post, but the highest resolution shots were all black and white stills. If you haven't watched the film before, I suggest you check it out so that you can see all the full-color the loveliness for yourself. :)

The costuming in this film is absolutely gorgeous. As much as I love to see an authentic portrayal of a time in history, a bit of fantasy doesn't bother me as long as it captures the spirit and feel of the film. In 1938, with the second World War looming on the horizon, I think it was important for Hollywood to create luscious, over the top fantasies in which people could forget about their cares and live out a little bit of their dreams.

Marian's has a basic "look" that she holds to throughout the entire film (with the exception of one scene). Her dresses are long and flowing in rich, draping fabrics - crushed velvet, crinkled organzas and all sorts of shiny "who knows what they really were" materials. Most of her gowns have long, full sleeves or a fitted under-sleeve and are accented with a variety of capes, brooches, belts, lace, trims and other draped pieces of fabric.

In all but one scene she wears a "wimple", which consists of a type of "hood" that covers her neck (sort of like something you would wear for winter sports :). Over this is placed a sheer veil of fabric which is held on with a wide, crown-like band. Most actresses wouldn't look their best covered from head to toe in fabric - without any of their pretty hair showing! - but Olivia looks just beautiful. I guess it proves that sparkling eyes and a lovely smile are truly the best accessories.

My favorite costume in the film is a nightgown and robe that Marian is wearing when Robin pops in her window for a surprise call. It's a sweet and romantic little scene and her outfit is absolutely lovely. This has always been on my "dream list" of movie gowns that I would love to create.

Well... if you aren't itching to see this film yet (or watch it for a second time - or third - or fourth) I really do feel sorry for you. You don't know what you're missing out on. It's a classic and it's just gorgeous.

Errol Flynn doesn't look so bad either. ;)

Oh yes, and just a little bit of movie trivia to finish up with... Olivia de Havilland rides a horse in the film. A certain palamino. It wasn't long before this horse was commandeered for a series of westerns and became know as... *drumroll* ...Trigger. :)

Be sure to enter the "Maid Marian" bracelet giveaway if you haven't done so already! And add your blog post and photo links by clicking HERE!

Image Credits: DoctorMacro.com / OliviadeHavilland.net / Flickr.com

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Maid Marian's Wardrobe - A Medieval Fashion Event is Offically Open!

I am so excited to declare this event officially open. I even dragged myself awake at 6 in the morning just to do it! ;)

If you haven't yet reviewed the event rules and details, please do so now by clicking any of the displayed  event banners. Click here to find instructions on submitting your blog links and photos.

I'm starting off the event by sharing my own "medieval" photos and posting the weekend's giveaway (yep, only one this time ;). Tomorrow, you'll be able to see a great photo-filled post on Olivia de Havilland's costumes in the 1938 film version of Robin Hood. On Sunday, I will be showcasing my own "modern Marian" look and then we'll finish things up on Monday with the grand finale of Robin Hood Season 3 and a complete list of resources for anyone who loved the television show's costumes.

Sound good? Then jump in and join the fun! :)

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Medieval Maid Marian

I know that I've said this about two million times already (lol), but I just love fall in New England. There's something about it that always feels very medieval. Maybe it's the woodsy, brown and golden colors or the smell of burning leaves that always conjures up fantasies of fires burning long ago. And it's definitely a beautiful time to be on the lookout for fairies and other wee folk while you're strolling through the forest...

I lucked out when it came to an outfit to shoot for this category. I was a bridesmaid in my darling friend Melissa's medieval/renaissance wedding (see photos here) and this was my gown. We really were blessed to be able to make dresses that we liked so very much and actually could wear again. It's really a fabulous gown and perfect for any sort of medieval extravaganza. It makes me feel, if not completely Marian, very close. :)

There! Now that I've shown my Medieval Marian fashion, it's your turn! Click HERE to submit your blog posts or photos! And be sure to enter the giveaway! :)

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"Maid Marian" Bracelet Giveaway!!!

The giveaway is now closed. Thanks for entering! :)

This bracelet will add the perfect touch to your day or evening ensemble. Very feminine and romantic. I believe Maid Marian would approve. :)

Tiny pink and white glass pearls are woven in a simple and elegant pattern. Bracelet measures 7" long and closes with a heart-shaped toggle clasp.

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Leave a comment on this blog post, including your name and some way to contact you.
2. Post about Maid Marian's Wardrobe - A Medieval Fashion Event (and/or this Giveaway) on your blog (including a link to http://amandabethonline.blogspot.com). Leave a comment with a link to your post.
3. Tweet the Event and/or the Giveaway on Twitter (including a link to http://amandabethonline.blogspot.com). Be sure to include @AmandaBFly in your tweet so that I can find you and count the entry!
4. Join the Maid Marian's Wardrobe - A Medieval Fashion Event Flickr Group and post your photos.
5. Enter your "Marian" blog post or photo link into the Mr. Linky box for the appropriate category. Each category you enter will count as one entry.

The giveaway will close at 11:59 p.m. on Monday the 26th of October, 2009 and I will randomly pick the winner out of a "hat" the following day. Free shipping is only provided for residents of the United States of America. I reserve the right to make changes to the rules if needed.

Good luck! :)

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Submit your Maid Marian Blog Links and Photos Here!

Choose a category and click the specified image to add your blog or photo link. Feel free to enter as many categories as you wish!

Maid Marian or Robin Hood Related Blog Post - Pick your topic and run with it! You can get creative and write on whatever subject you choose, just keep it clean and interesting! ;)

• SUBMIT YOUR BLOG ENTRY AT

Medieval Maid Marian - Dress up in your favorite medieval dress, pretend to be Maid Marian for the day and do a photo shoot. I am a huge fan of historical inspired photo shoots and I'd love to see some "magazine spread" quality pics. Go all out! :)

• SUBMIT YOUR MEDIEVAL PHOTOS AT 

Modern Marian Fashion - One of the coolest things about the costumes in the BBC Robin Hood show were the modern fashion pieces. Here's where you pull pieces from your OWN wardrobe to create a totally contemporary Marian-inspired outfit (or two! or three! :). It's amazing what you can come up with!

• SUBMIT YOUR MODERN FASHION PHOTOS AT

"Crafty" Maid Marian - Marian-inspired homemade craft/sewing items. This includes costumes, jewelry, or accessories. They must have been made with either "Maid Marian" directly in mind, or created recently in anticipation of this event. So, a medieval dress you made for the opening of The Lord of the Rings does not count - although you are welcome to wear it in your photographs for the Medieval Maid Marian category.

• SUBMIT YOUR CRAFT OR SEWING ENTRY AT

If you do not have a blog - enter your photos in the Maid Marian's Wardrobe Photo Pool! You will need to join Flickr.com and upload your pictures to your account. Please be sure to specify which category your photos are entered in (Medieval Maid Marian / Modern Marian Fashion / "Crafty" Maid Marian) and upload no more than four photos per category.

A small panel of judges will be selecting the best posts and photos in each category and those will go up for voting at the conclusion of the event (similar to what we did during Fashion Week). Your links and images MUST be submitted by Monday evening (the 26th) at 11:59 p.m in order to be included in the poll. We look forward to seeing what you came up with!

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