Friday Fashion and a Vlog

After a few days of crazy heat and humidity, the weather has taken a bit of a cooler turn. But it's still time for short sleeves and flip flops! (If you remember, I never wore the latter until last summer. I still am not crazy about them - they are so awful for your feet! - but they sure work when you just need to slip something on for a little bit. :)

How's the weather where you are? What have you been wearing lately?

What I'm Wearing:

• Polka dot top by L8ter - hand-me-down
• White gauchos by Studio 1940 - from Fashion Bug
• Jewelry by East 5th - Christmas gift
• Flip Flops - unmarked

I'm sorry it took me so long to get the post up today. I ran into technical difficulties (and still ended up with a pretty low quality video) but I hope you check out the Vlog anyway! :)

Have a lovely weekend!

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Jean Style

I love Jean Arthur because she is real. There was (and still is) such a slew of big-eyed, perfectly-complexioned and other-worldly looking actresses in Hollywood, that I always find it refreshing when somebody with a simple beauty and big personality makes an appearance. Jean Arthur comes across onscreen as a "normal" person, and I just love that. She was blessed with an amusing, bird-like voice, blonde hair that looked most comfortable when it was all flyaway, and a pixie grin that came naturally and often.

Despite the false eyelashes and other staples of 1930s glamour, Jean is the girl-next-door, dressed in  clothing that any woman could wear and completely in her element in any setting. The flowing, feminine blouses (see above), polished wool skirts, high heels and strong shouldered jackets of the era look as natural on her as a sweater and a favorite pair of trousers (see below).

An interesting little bit of trivia: despite being paired as a couple in two films,  James Stewart and Jean Arthur didn't get along so well together off-screen. Jean even turned down the role of Mary Hatch in It's A Wonderful Life because she didn't want to work with Jimmy again. This role went to Donna Reed, and (obviously) the film became an iconic Christmas classic.

What do you think about Jean versus Donna as James Stewart's co-star? I personally don't see how any one could dislike hanging out with Jimmy Stewart, but there it is. For his part, he had the grace to call Jean "the finest actress I ever worked with." 

Regardless, I think they made wonderful couples in both Mr. Smith Goes to Washington and You Can't Take It With You. If they didn't have brilliant chemistry, they knew how to time their scenes just right. Check out this amusing dialogue between them in "Mr. Smith."

Am I ever glad that I'm not in Washington! ;) I hope you all have a fabulous week...

P.S. For all of you who suggested I do a Jean Simmons post, I offer my sincere apologies! I did discover a whole lot of lovely images of her online, but couldn't find any films of hers that I was interested in seeing. And, if I haven't seen her in a movie, I didn't know how I would be able to write about her accurately! If anyone has a JS movie they highly recommend, let me know. Suggestions for other classic stars are also welcome, although I think I've got a few of my own favorites lined up. ;)

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Fashion Your Space (Part 2)

Yay! Today we get to talk about some more home decorating ideas! I hope Tuesday's post got your creative juices flowing! I know that researching a subject I'm writing on always gets me excited and inspired. I've been gathering so many thoughts about how I'm going to decorate my own space over the past week. :)

Let's dive back into some of the awesome pieces I've been browsing online...

 

Tables, regardless of size or style, are a great piece in any room. Whether for eating, stacking books beside your bed, or just somewhere to put your feet up, there are endless options. For me, a table is sort of a picture frame for other things; knick-knacks, big full-color lookbooks, or a beautiful table cloth. But when you're on the search for a table, look for something with interesting details or beautiful wood. And remember, if it needs some spicing up, paint comes in awfully handy!

 

Lighting is an extremely important addition to any room. I greatly prefer natural lighting and don't like to flip a switch on unless absolutely necessary. But, since my new space is in a basement, I've been looking around for unique lighting ideas. Of course, something in art nouveau stained glass is right up my alley (my fave style of decorating ever!). It's too bad that the low ceiling won't leave room for a chandelier. There's some amazing ones out there... ;)

 

How about fun details like a clock? This glass one of Audrey Hepburn is simply stunning, and the eiffel tower piece adds a sense of nostalgia and adventure. Want to make a unique timepiece on a budget? How about purchasing a cheap clock and choosing your own image for the clock's face? This can be done easily with a printer. (Watch out! I've got a great idea for my own clock up my sleeve. Can't wait to carry it out! :)

 

I have always loved the room dividers that are used as dressing screens in old movies. (The clothes shopping scene in Pollyanna always comes to mind. :) Not only can they be practical in sectioning off room space or providing privacy, but they are a beautiful detail and add a special touch. I'm hoping to make one for my new space downstairs. A quick google search provides lots of ideas.

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Now obviously, we can't all afford to go out and buy a million new pieces to make our homes looks amazing. However, with some creativity (paint/fabric) and keeping an eye open for bargains, we can go a long way to making the space we have a unique reflection of our personal style. As a tiny example, basic (boring) light switches could be painted, papered or otherwise revamped to add interesting touches to any space. Something so simple can go a long, long way...

Where are your favorite places to find fashionable living inspiration? A store, magazine, or web site? And what ways do you plan to "fashion your space" over the coming months? Please share! :)

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Fashion Your Space (Part 1)

To me, fashion and style seem to be something that exceeds the most commonly recognized realm of what we wear. They're concepts that can be applied to all areas of life and make the world around us more beautiful. Whether through color, texture or design, principals of fashion and style can be found everywhere, and especially in home decorating. You've seen them. The fads. The classics. Trendy personality and enduring old-fashioned romance.

When my basement got flooded out in March, it came as a blessing in disguise. I now have the opportunity to redo the area and add some touches and detail that I wouldn't otherwise have been able to do as easily. Lately, I've been cleaning up the walls for painting (while listening to some fab Ella Fitzgerald ;) and deciding what to put in for a floor. I've been trying to make these decisions with care, doing the research to select what best fits my personal style and will create a space that I'll love.

While on a recent trip to our local Lowe's, where I browsed nearly everything in the store and gathered ideas, I was struck with just how much variety of items is out there these days. I've always wondered why so many people choose simple and ordinary pieces and fixtures for their houses these days when, with a little bit of creativity, you can get so much more. Of course, those extra special touches can sometimes be more expensive, and that's where the creativity, thinking outside of the box and looking at things with different perspectives comes in.

I have seen the most gorgeous and unique pieces of furniture and fixtures at countless yard sales. So many of them, with some new fabric, paint or cleaning up, could be out-of-this-world amazing. Actually, I have purposed never to buy a new complete set of furniture (or even a used set). Picking up random, unique pieces and making them working in harmony is just so much more interesting. :)

After things like flooring and wall color, there's lots of smaller items that can go a long way to making your living space (whether you've got your own home, apartment or just a half a bedroom) perfect for you. Here's some amazingly gorgeous pieces that I hope will offer you some inspiration.

 

For the past couple of years, I've had a bit of an obsession with couches and chairs. They've just got so much fun variety!  To me, there's nothing like snuggling into a unique and lovely chair with a great book. It's just the best.

Chairs are something easy and inexpensive to make over for your space. They're available at yard sales everywhere, and even a design as simple as the one above (left) can be made special with some lovely new fabric, or a slipcover. (And there are loads of simple sewing patterns out there to help you!)

I also really, truly love tall stools and other bar furniture. This one is just insanely gorgeous (a set of these would be a real dream). I do have at least three clunky brown stools I picked up free on the side of the road, and I plan to refinish them someday. Maybe a fun color, or some whimsicial stenciling.

 

If you are fortunate enough to have found a lovely and affordable bed frame - that's fabulous! If not, you can easily make your bed beautiful just by the use of fabric. Even if you aren't a quilter or don't embroider pillows cases (I haven't either), keep an eye out for blankets and comforters that fit your style and are lovely to look at. I think that sheets in yummy, bright colors are also a great idea. (Who needs plain beige? So boring! ;)

I hope this has got you turning over some ideas in your head already. Since I surprised myself and wrote a whole mouthful of design ideas, I've decided to split it into two separate posts. Be sure to check back on Thursday for the rest of my thoughts... and share your own!

I'll be seeing you... xo

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Business Card Giveaway Winner and a Neat Blog Event!

And the custom business cards go to... Miss Raquel!

Random.org selected 12 as the lucky number! Congratulations Raquel! I'll be contacting you soon about redeeming your prize - I hope you enjoy it! :)

And thank you so much to everyone who entered. I hope to have more great chances for you to win in the future!

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And now, I just wanted to share about an upcoming blog event that is after my own heart...

I don't know about you, but Peter Pan was one of those books that completely unleashed my imagination as a child, and continues to do so today. There's was many a time that I looked forlornly out my bedroom window and wished he'd take me off to Neverland, and I get a terrible sinking feeling every once in a while when I now remember that I am "too grown up."

Be sure to head over to Wickfield and check out all the event details. This is one event that I really, really hope I have time to participate in. I've got some fashion shoot ideas already. :) 

There's also a group read of the book taking place, so if you've never given it a chance before, I suggest you dive in. This is one classic that will be special to anyone, regardless of their age, so long as they are young at heart.

I hope everyone has a great weekend! God bless.

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Ka'iulani

It was many years ago when I first heard the story of the princess Kai'ulani, born in 1875 and second in line to the Hawaiian throne. It was definitely a tale that captured the imagination; this lovely young Scottish-Hawaiian princess soaking in the beauty of her country and making friends with Robert Louis Stevenson. She became the subject of one of his poems, fittingly referred to as "the island rose."

At thirteen years old, she was taken from her native land and sent to school in England, where she remained for four years until the overthrow of the Hawaiian government. This new regime was determined to become a part of the United States.

At the still-tender age of seventeen, Ka'iulani, shy but determined, set out for a tour of America, where she delivered impassioned speeches and spoke for her people and country.

"Seventy years ago Christian America sent over Christian men and women to give religion and civilization to Hawaiʻi. Today, three of the sons of those missionaries are at your capitol asking you to undo their father’s work. Who sent them? Who gave them the authority to break the Constitution which they swore they would uphold? Today, I, a poor weak girl with not one of my people with me and all these ‘Hawaiian’ statesmen against me, have strength to stand up for the rights of my people. Even now I can hear their wail in my heart and it gives me strength and courage and I am strong - strong in the faith of God, strong in the knowledge that I am right, strong in the strength of seventy million people who in this free land will hear my cry and will refuse to let their flag cover dishonor to mine!"

It's really too bad that such a beautiful speech did not have a happy ending. Ka'iulani's country was never returned to her. She died at the age of only 23, some say "of a broken heart."

If you are wondering why I have just splattered you with a bunch of history, there are three reasons.

1. Princess Ka'iulani's story remains beautiful and inspiring for young women today.
2. This sweet, accomplished girl was impeccably well dressed, as befits a princess. As one of the goals of AmandaBeth is to celebrate the fashions of the past, I believe she should get some exposure.
3. Just yesterday, I heard about a new film that is going to be released in the US on the 15th...

I watched the trailer and was blown away by the lovely young actress who plays Ka'iulani and, of course, the costumes. I can't say if they are entirely authentic or not - it's been a while since I studied 19th century fashion - but they are absolutely gorgeous.

Of course, the film adds a romance that didn't really take place and there may be other historical liberties taken as well (I hear the film has had mixed reviews). It remains to be seen whether it is well crafted or poorly executed (the whole love vs. duty cliche has me a a bit skeptical ;). Regardless, I would like to see the film. I probably won't dish out money for a ticket (I also believe the number of theaters is rather limited) but I'll be looking forward to a DVD release anyway. These costumes are just too yummy!

Each of these publicity stills are just breathtakingly beautiful. I think the gold gown is my favorite. :) Which one is yours? And what are your thoughts on the upcoming film?

You can check out the official site for the film HERE, and view more images on the Facebook Page. If you'd like to know more about the real story of Princess Ka'iulani, I suggest you check out these two great reads. The Diane Stanley picture book is a classic, and the other is a more in-depth biography, complete with lots of photos.

       

I hope everyone has a lovely week! God bless you all.

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Be Bold in Carolina Herrera

Lots of high-end designers are really out-there these days, creating looks that are unwearable and often downright immodest and ugly. Therefore I was immediately struck by the unique loveliness of these looks from Caroline Herrera. It's not so much the style of these dresses that is interesting (they pretty much stick to classic lines and cuts) but the brilliant use of color, patterns and fabric.

Take this first photo for instance. The dress is just a simple, conservative sheath. If you wore it in the traditional solid black it would no doubt be classy, but forgettable. Instead, a striking basket-weave print makes it a show stopper, and completely unique. And actually, it really is more than just a simple sheath. View the back for a subtle surprise.

 

Here's a couple more stunning sheath dresses. This first one really has no intricate detail or elaborate design to it, but the fabric alone shows what it is - a true designer piece. The print has lovely ropes, ribbons, or strands of something else lovely, running all over it in luscious purple, brown and gold.

The second sheath has the advantage of a gorgeous woven "belt" at the waist, which is a fun detail, but the fabric also stands on its own. The wide, horizontal stripes, in varying shades of gold and textures, are simply elegant.

 

This two piece ensemble is absolutely darling and relies on great designs rather than bold patterns. The cute knit sweater has a tie at the neckline and a woven look across the torso. The skirt's three layers (edged with a great design) are whimsical and summery.

The orange dress absolutely floored me the first time I saw it and still remains a favorite look. The use of contrasting fabrics is out-of-this-world and the "waistband" and pleats add subtle and important touches. I would definitely love a dress in a design like this someday.

 

Of course, now Carolina Herrera is coming out with her fall collection. I kind of dislike how all the fall designer pieces come out just as I'm getting into spring, but who can fight the fashion dynasty? ;P And these two outfits are absolutely gems (love the elephant skirt!).

So, are you inspired to work some fabulous patterns into your wardrobe? Consider getting your pieces in yummy colors and bold prints instead of the usual black or brown. Of course, it's important to have some neutrals, but think about choosing some fun stuff for the fast approaching summer.

Which of these looks are your favorites?

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The Jumpsuit: Good, bad or ugly?

When I first saw an image of a jumpsuit last year and read the proclamation that they were back "IN," my reaction was "Oh. My. Goodness. NO!" Half a year later, I am still inclined to react the same way. ;)

Granted, over the past six months I have seen a few that I have liked. Some of them bring to mind the working women of World War II and the old-Hollywood glamour of Katherine Hepburn. Too bad the majority of these "onesies" look like a bad fashion moment from the 1970s.

And there's the small fact that regardless of how good (or bad) jumpsuits may look on the models, the fact is that the majority of them are super unflattering and will not look fabulous on the average woman (as beautiful of face and figure she may be).

Most of the examples shown in this post are really rather nice. You've got to give credit to Newport News for taking a difficult style and presenting it well. Some of the designs in which the waist is properly defined and those that look like a two-piece ensemble are really kind of cute. But why not just make them as a two-piece design in the first place?

I can't help the sinking feeling that tells me that a lot of the jumpsuits that look fine from the front would look super unflattering from the back. :P

Here's a few less tasteful versions of this look for your fashion-y observation. Without the wide-leg look the jumpsuit is not so nice, and excessively drapey fabric is very unattractive, in my opinion. Really, these seem almost as bad as the harem pants that were all the rage last year!

I hope you'll excuse the rant post. Every once in a while it's fun to write up on "Trends I Hate." ;) But really, what's your opinion on this trend? Do you agree that it is rather ugly? Do you think it can work on occasion? When and how would you wear a jumpsuit, if you had one?

If anything, jumpsuits aren't as offensive as "rompers." Those give me the creeps.... lol

I hope you have a lovely jumpsuit-less week! ;)

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