"Mocking" the Two-Piece Dress (not really ;)

Mock Two-Piece Dresses. They seem to be everywhere lately; gracing runways, celebrities, magazine pages, and the racks at your local mall. It seems that in our culture of "get it faster, make it simpler," the hard work of pairing a couple of separates is now being done for us. No longer do you need to decide if those two pieces "go" together or not. Just buy a dress that's been matched up for you already, slip it over your head and you're all set.

I will admit that when I first began to see this trend coming, I thought it was a bit pointless. What was the purpose of a dress that was essentially two separates paired together? Wasn't this what I did every Sunday when dressing for church?

Only recently (when I've been hard-pressed to make my wardrobe "work" and just longed for the ease of a no "fuss dress" that was easy to put on and equally flattering and fun to wear) have I begun to appreciate, and even admire, the mock two-piece. Maybe it's due in part to Michelle O.'s apparent love for them, and how well they suit her amazing style...

Now I want one. :)

I think that there's a mock two-piece dress for pretty much anybody out there. With a whole lot of variety, from length to hemline widths, to color and fabric combinations, the options are really endless and as unlimited as your imagination. Let me show you some lovelies I discovered at New Yorker's Apparel.  I think they will be appreciated the whole world over.

  

"Two in One" dresses provide a nice alternative to the traditional sheath dress. While a simple sheath is and always will be a lovely, classic option, a mock two-piece provides more interest and fun to your look, while remaining as professional and classy as ever.

The silk and satin bodices on the first two dresses shown here instantly make these "ensembles" appropriate for a nice evening out. The blue and white cotton dress is perfect for more relaxed, summery occasions. The ruffles on the bodice and bold printed skirt add personality and spunk to the style.

 

For a slightly more casual look, a knit "top" is comfortable and flattering. These two style are so very simple, but are kept from looking dowdy by classic black and a good fit. The exciting skirt prints liven things up - and a belt, whether it's skinny or wide, gives additional definition to the waistline.

  

Ahh...every one of these last few dresses just screams "Michelle O." to me (yes, I admit that I am thoroughly addicted to her fashion choices :). Sleeveless pieces are just perfect for summer, especially with a nice knit top. Of course, the colors, prints and belts are really make these three pieces special.

The blue and white one is just out-of-this world stunning (I want it!), the brown dress is simple and groovy (thanks to the unique belt), and the third is bold and cheerful (with a fun ribbon waistband!). Just superb.

If you're on a budget (who isn't nowadays?) and can't find a reasonable mock two-piece dress, you can always make your own. How about tacking together a couple of separates (a cute skirt with a plain tank, and a belt on top) with a few stitches? Sounds pretty simple to me! Of course, you could also start from scratch, and use a sewing pattern as your guide.

What are your thoughts on this "mockery" of a trend? I'm rather inclined to like it. ;)


Images: YESSTYLE / Michelle O. Style / New Yorker's Apparel / Simplicity Patterns

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Ingrid Style

Can I just say that I love Ingrid Bergman? And yes, it must seem like I gush a lot about classic movie stars on here (lol), but truly, I think she may be my favorite dramatic actress (just missing the very top spot due to my all time bestest Judy Garland and comedienne dancer extraordinaire Ginger Rogers). And I've only yet scratched the surface of her film career (although I've got a number of her Lux Radio Theater performances on my fan resume, as well ;).

Originally from Sweden, where she made her first dozen films, Ingrid Bergman brought to Hollywood a rich, soft voice with a charming accent, which always set her apart. When she spoke, she was absolute royalty. The rest of her charms; a sensitive, quivering mouth that always broke into a wide and winning smile at just the right moment, and sparkling blue eyes to match, made the captivation complete. 

The Golden Age of film turned out a lot of beautiful women, but it's to be mourned that so many of them were "glamour-ized" until nothing natural remained. Ingrid was fortunate enough to come to Hollywood under the protective arm of David O' Selznik, who kept her safe from the interference of the often overly passionate makeup and hair artists, and allowed her to keep her own "face."

One thing that I find so fascinating about Ingrid is how much of a realistic woman she appears to be one screen. Oh yes, she's polished, well-groomed and presented, but she seems real. Attainable. Not like the  "women" that are often held up as the standard of loveliness these days. She was stunning. So naturally, un-affectedly, truly beautiful. 

Of course, this post would be incomplete without touching on Ingrid's wonderful style. The first image in this post is a publicity still for Casablanca, her most famous film (and a classic I highly recommend). In this photo she is wearing a beautiful summer dress, with a sheer overlay, a spectacular large ring. In the second still Ingrid's looking superbly elegant in a sleek button-up dress/coat piece, with a cinched waistline and an ethereal sheer scarf as an accessory. It's a beautiful ensemble and one that suits her perfectly.

If you click the image below you can view one of the memorable moments in Casablanca and see some of the subtlety and depth of Ingrid's acting. Not to mention the classy, white suit she's sporting. ;) Take a look...

Now it's your turn! Which Ingrid Bergman films have you seen or recommend? I must say that Notorius is probably my personal fave (and also on my unofficial "top ten best old movies of all time" list). Cary Grant actually doesn't get on my nerves in that one... ;)

Thanks again for reading AmandaBeth, I so appreciate you all! Please be sure to have a fabulous rest of the week! *hugs*

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Keeping Your Cool for a Stylish Summer

Summertime. Isn't that just a magical word? To me it conjures up visions of golden afternoons, enjoying in the cool of the pool, beaches and late night bonfires. Unfortunately, it also brings to mind intense heat and often unbearable humidity.

I was asked a few questions on Formspring about how to stay cool and fashionable throughout the summer, and it got me thinking. After digging through my favorite summertime pieces and browsing the web (especially Talbots.com :), I was able to come up with some ideas and suggestions that will hopefully help you to stay breezy during the heat.

Summer is the perfect time to take a few inches off your hair to lighten up your "do" and keep things cool. If you like to get a slightly shorter cut every once in a while, now's the time to do it! At the very least, get your hair trimmed up nice and healthy. Between the beating of the sun, chlorine in the pool, or the ocean, the summer is going to give it some abuse. Be prepared! It's always a world easier when you've got less hair to deal with during this busy season. (And make sure you wear your hair up! Even a ponytail makes a world of difference in hot and humid weather - just keep your hair off of the back of your neck!)

Wearing a brimmed hat is also a great way to keep the sun off of your head and out of your eyes, which will make your feel much cooler (and provide skin protection). Even though I think that sunglasses for all occasions is unhealthy, when spending a lot of time in the sun they offer good protection for the delicate skin near your eyes.

As far as summer dresses go, keep them lightweight and breezy. Natural, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are ever so much cooler than knits. Sundresses are a wonderful summer choice, as is anything with minimal sleeves and a fuller, shorter hemline. And don't forget that summer is the time to pull out those lighter shades of color, which deflect the sunlight. If you're going to be outside all day, black is probably not your best choice. ;)

 

Consider going sleeveless. It's amazing what a difference a sleeveless top makes on a humid day - it keeps you much cooler! If you don't feel comfortable wearing sleeveless styles, consider tiny cap or flutter sleeves. The smaller and airier they are, the breezier you'll be. And once again, choose cotton or linen over knit tops for breathability and comfort.

 

When it comes to skirts, follow the same fabric guidelines for the coolest piece of clothing in your summer wardrobe. (Nothing is as perfect for the heat and humidity than a great skirt!) I prefer skirts that end at about my knee to keep things cool (forget the miniskirt, please! :P). Longer length skirts are also comfortable in warm weather, as long as they are full and flowing. A fabulous summer skirt is the perfect "strolling on the beach" wear. :)

 

I know that America lives in jeans, but please dump them for the summer and choose a cooler option! Long shorts that end at the knee or cropped pants/capris are great choices for the season, and always cute, comfortable and classy. (Those short shorts are so not classic. :P) Once again, keep fabric and color in mind. White capris say perfect summertime style in my book. :)

Lastly, and just as importantly, are shoes. This may go without saying, but wear open sandals to keep cool. The more open, the nicer they will keep your feet. :) And don't forget to choose a pair that is comfortable as well as stylish, and suited to your summer occasions.

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I hope this post has given you some thoughts on staying fashionably cool during the summer. I believe you'll find that a lot of these pieces are already in your wardrobe. Pull them out and put them to good use!

What are your favorite summer pieces? :)


Images: Talbots.com

P.S. There's now a link to the Civil War ball I'm putting on in the right-hand sidebar. If you're in the area, I'd love to see you there! :)

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The Dees Triplets - 1960s Fashion

A few months back I first stumbled onto a photo of this stunning trio on Tumblr. The image was from the fabulous LIFE archives now hosted on Google, but background information was sparse. The picture  was labeled 1964 and the photographer was credited as Nina Leen. And there were dozens more photographs featuring these same identical triplets, modeling what would have been super-stylish 60s garb. I was immediately drawn to the threesome, with their dark, swingy bobs and almost 1920s inspired outfits. But I couldn't figure out just who they were.

Finally I was able to mark them as the Dees triplets. I dove onto Wikipedia. Nothing. Google also  provided zero results. How could it be that three triplets who were famous enough to be featured in  extensive LIFE photo fashion shoots be nameless? There was no history. No anything.

It was only a few weeks ago that was able to find one of the fashion prints online, labeled with their names: Christina, Katha and Megan. While this was a milestone discovery in itself, I'd still like to dig up some more information. If anybody has any leads, let me know!

Here's a selection of my favorite images from the fashion shoots. I love all the style inspiration, the obvious affection the sisters seem to share and the fun glimpse into the past that these photo provide.

These first outfits look very 1920s. The dropped waistlines and flowing ruffles go perfectly with the girls' haircuts and pearl necklaces. And the shoes are decidedly vintage inspired. The straps, cutouts and little details are fabulous.

Who couldn't love these fake "walking the dog" photos? I find them almost laugh-out-loud funny and can just imagine a fluffy white poodle (gag!) at the end of every leash.

The 1920s inspiration continues here with short, pleated skirts and a top that doesn't provide a whole lot of waistline definition. The girls are wearing some fun slingback heels and are finished off with pearl earrings and gloves. And check out the three different ways you can wear that hat! Which style is your favorite? I'd definitely go with the one on the left.

Yay for adorable sportswear! The fun plaid top and cover -ups are really cute. The former looks great with the fitted white capris so popular in the 60s, and the sleeveless sheath + hoodie is adorable (so comfy!). Of course, I love any picture where some one is playing Solitaire (*mildly obsessed* ;).

The funky, asian-inspired sheaths in the second image are not so much my style. But check out the lovely paper umbrellas! Perfect.

This is such a gorgeous, classic evening wear look. Very Princess Grace or Jackie O. I wish I could see whether the fitted, black skirt cuts right below the knee or if it's long (the latter would be amazing). The wide-collared "trapeze" style of the jacket is just stunning, with a bow and rhinestone pin for added sophistication. Looks like these never really go out of style and would fit quite well in today's often 60s-inspired clothing choices.

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There. I hope I've done credit to the Dees sisters. Let me know what you think of them and their fashion sense. And if you find anything else out about their lives, pass it along! :)

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I just want to let you all know that I'm going to be scaling back posting on AmandaBeth to an average of  once a week. This will make it easier for me to balance out blogging with life and hopefully keep things fresh and inspired. Thank you all for your understanding and for continuing to read the blog. 

God bless!

Images: LIFE

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Dear wonderful readers...

I have a busy day today. And tomorrow. And Sunday.

So a new post will have to wait for next week. :)

Feel free to check out the archives for inspiration, browse through "Ooo...I Like It!" and stalk me on Twitter. ;) I'll see you soon!

God bless your weekend.

xoxo
Amanda

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Miss Alice

Guess what I'm going to see today! :)

Well, Alice in Wonderland finally hit our local "dollar theater" and so I finally get to satisfy my curiosity and see how I like this movie. I will admit that when I saw the original previews I was kind of weirded out. Everything certainly looked a bit over the top and I wasn't sure if I could handle it. But, the more I saw of the film (maybe it was all of those TV spots during the Olympics ;), the more it began to grow on me. Once you get over the fact that it's completely different from the book (actually an "artistic" blending of both Alice books) and that everyone's just a wee bit "mad" (except for Alice herself) it might just be enjoyable. (I'll tweet later and let you know which side of the "mixed reviews zone" I'm on after viewing it.)

Regardless of whether or not the movie is worth paying $1 to see, the costumes in the film sure look stunning. Designed by Colleen Atwood, I think they capture the feeling and flavor of Miss Alice and are just delightful. This blue one is a dream; with sheer sleeves, buttons, lace, and yummy embroidery at the hemline. The red dress takes Alice a little bit out of her traditional look, but is equally stunning. A red strapless dress with a full skirt and layers of tulle contrasts sharply with the black and white striped overlay. It's a very different style, but one that Alice is equally at home in.

As someone who read both Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass at a young age and has always been passionate about determined young heroines like Miss Alice, I have always found her fashion be very interesting. Although the original book illustrations were done in black and white, it seems that she has always been identified as wearing blue (at least since Disney's 1951 film). I think it suits her perfectly.

Have you got any "Wonderland" ensembles just waiting to be pulled out of your wardrobe? Below is a set of lots of pieces to hopefully provide you with some inspiration...

Starting with something either white or blue as your main piece is perfect. Whether you've got a cute little sundress, a ruffled skirt, sweet baby-doll top or lacey blouse, go for something innocent and Victorian-inspired. Once you've got a base for the rest of your ensemble, mary jane shoes or button up boots and a feminine and romantic headband make it complete. And of course, you can go just wild with accessories! May I recommend fingerless gloves and "white rabbit" necklace? :)

Be sure to click on the collection of pieces above to see all the individual items and get ideas. There's lots of ways to create a "modern Alice"look for everyday  wear. 

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Have you seen the new film or do you intend to? What were your thoughts? And how has Alice in Wonderland been special to you (or not) in the past? Any fond childhood memories? :)

Be sure to check my Twitter later in the afternoon for a post-movie update!
(UPDATE: I loved the movie! Full details in the comments! :)

Images: Fan Pop

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