"How About You?" - Judy and Mickey Style

Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney. For me, those names bring magic. Never have I seen two young Hollywood stars so perfectly matched on screen. They've gone down in history as one of the most endearing film couples of all time. When you settle down to watch a Judy and Mickey movie, you can be sure that you will get some warm fuzzies... and probably a great laugh.

Mickey and Judy had a very special relationship. In a television interview he said, "She was my sister from the beginning. The sister I never had. I am an only child... but she was the love I had searched for." And it's obvious from every one of the ten films they made together, as well as Mickey's appearance on the Judy Garland Show in 1960s, that they truly did love each other. There's always a special smile between the two of them... and the type of laughter only shared by best friends. 

Here's a publicity still and video clip from the 1941 film Babes on Broadway, another one of their "two young kids trying to get into show business" films. Mickey is wearing a casual suit and Judy is decked out in cute and comfortable everyday wear - a dark, full skirt and low heeled shoes (perfect for spontaneous dancing) and a truly adorable top, gathered  down the front and accented with a flower applique.

Here's their wonderful song and dance to "How About You?" If you don't smile while watching this clip... I give up. ;)

Mickey and Judy have made appearances on AmandaBeth Online three times before, showcasing their 2008 holiday style, celebrating Valentine's Day last year, and seeing who would get the larger half of the wishbone at Thanksgiving. They really are perfect for any occasion. :)

Have a lovely week! I'll be having a post from a new contributor up within a few days, and also keep an eye out for some Olympic Figureskating Fashion recaps!

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Happy Valentine's Day!!!

I hope it's a lovely one! I'm planning on a low key, relaxing day (lots of colds going around the family right now) and watching some Olympic figure skating tonight. :)

If you're feeling rather down or lonely on Valentine's, you can read some of my serious thoughts about today and all that it entails by visiting my serious, non-fashiony writing space. Please take a look. :)

Hugs to everyone,
Amanda xoxo

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Dressing For Valentine's Day... (without all the usual red and pink)

Still puzzling over what to wear on Valentine's Day? You are not alone! While I absolutely love the color red and usually take any excuse to wear it, I thought it would be interesting to dig through less "holiday-ish" styles and see if we could get some fashion-y ideas by browsing some real classic looks.

First of all, you can wear any color that you want on Valentine's Day (although I'd advise against all-black, unless you are in mourning ;). Soft, muted "wintry" shades are totally appropriate - and pale grey makes a great base for any color.

If you're lucky enough to have found one - slip on that perfect dress; add a soft, flowing cardigan and some killer shoes for a great look. If you don't have a dress, two complimentary separates work just as well (see the pencil skirt in the topmost image).

Pretty much anything with a vintage touch is perfect for this holiday  (the dress shown here is so early 1930s - I love it!) and ruffles, bows and other feminine details reign supreme. Now is the time pull out any unique and lovely shoes that have been hiding away in your closet. I think these black ones, with cutouts and a ribbon tie, are so chic.

Soft and flowing looks are fabulous on this romantic holiday - and the two blouses shown above are stunners. The vintage print of the first one is charming and the neckline tie adds some feminine flare. You can get a similar look by pairing a silk scarf in a yummy color with a printed top - or the reverse. If you can find an accessory that brings out one of the colors in a printed piece, it is almost guaranteed to look wonderful.

The second example shows how black can be feminine and pretty on this holiday... without looking dark or depressing. The light shade of the pencil skirt keeps things bright and the accent of the silk flowered belt gives it a romantic touch, while defining a waistline on a loose, full top.

Be sure to remember that structured looks can be every bit as pretty and romantic as softer ones. Go with what you know suits you best. A little, structured jacket is universally flattering and feminine. Choose one with nice details, whether they are cute pockets, a yoked neckline or an interesting sleeve style. And check out the fantastic faux "necklace" look on the black top above - detail ideas are endless!

You can also add interest by making your own ruffled flower, brooch or or bejewled accessory to pin onto your jacket or blouse (as seen on both above styles). I have watched this huge trend for fashion-y feminine "brooches" all winter long - now is the time to get creative and make your own!

Don't be afraid to experiment with your jewelry and accessory choices! Sometimes it's better to go a bit crazy and pile on a lot of items... and then weed it down to the few that work and just go with those. Often our best style pieces can get trapped inside that accessory box... because we simply don't take them out and try them.

I love the details on these pieces. The ruffled bracelet is so unique and trendy (I may try and make one of these myself) and a seemingly simple belt holds an unexpected rose design. In fact, pieces like these can easily be made on your own. I suggest that you check out fabulous blog Ruffles and Stuff for some inspiration. :)

What are you planning to wear on Valentine's Day?  Do you already have your outfit picked out or did this post give you any ideas?

Most importantly, do you even like the holiday? I've seen a lot of lashing out against this event on the web recently, mostly from singles who feel it is a sad time. I have never felt this way (I get excited about pretty much any holiday ;) but I would love to hear your thoughts. Maybe I can get my act together and post something on the subject on Sunday. We'll see...

Have a fab weekend! :)

Images: Newport-News.com - Flirt With Fashion

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Simply Crazy for Simply-Bags

There are few fashion-y things more satisfying than a great bag. It travels with you everywhere and carries all your most important things. If it makes its own fashion statement along the way, that a bonus. :)

This uber awesome Plaid Lunch Duffle Bag was sent to me by the owner of simply-bags, a fabulous company that specializes in personalized tote bags in a myriad of lovely and practical designs.

One of the neat things about my new personalized plaid duffle is that it's insulated to keep food either warm or cool, depending on its temperature. And it's cute! The "Burberry" plaid and my monogrammed initials sure make this more stylish than nearly any other food "cooler" out there. :) Not to mention that it can be used in so many different ways. The duffel is the perfect size in which to put a bunch of my important items, allowing me to carry just one bag, and free up my hands a bit. Last night, when going to vocal rehearsal, I put my whole purse inside, a water bottle, my iPod, some important papers... and there was still room for more! How much more practical and efficient can you get? :)

After browsing simply-bags.com I became even more excited about their products - which are very reasonably priced. I'm going to share a couple of favorites, but I suggest you check them all out!

 

For starters, this is one gorgeous carpet bag! I don't know about you, but bags like these aways make me think of Anne of Green Gables or Mary Poppins. ;) They are still a favorite with travelers today and make a great carry-on for a flight. Both of the these bags evoke the romance of days gone by and make me want to take a trip to some ethereal destination...

 

This lunch tote is very cool. Not only is it  lovely design and a great size, but it has a neat, zippered compartment for storing beverages, fruit, or whatever comes to mind. Pretty clever! The messenger laptop tote is also stylish and practical (and a style I personally recommend - my dad got me a laptop messenger bag last year and I've used countless times).

 

There's nothing like some great travel fashion bags! This first one is extra long but folds to half the size - with two nice carrying handles. I love the black and white print - so classic and chic. The little cosmetic bag makes a great bridesmaid gift... in fact, simply-bags has lots of customizable bridal party items. Definitely a lot of fun!

 

Dance forms have a very special place in my heart and the artist Degas' depictions of ballet are just perfect. This gorgeous tote is the perfect gift for a dancer or a fan - so lovely! And I just adore collectible items -  anything to do with "Lucy" just takes the cake! This second bag features some of the most memorable scenes (and expressions!) from the classic television show I Love Lucy. Laughter is good medicine... and this bag makes me smile. :)

Do you have a favorite bag, a special style or design that fits your needs and personality the best? Tell me about it! For myself, I am looking forward to some adventures with my new "Burberry-ish" bag... so European. ;)

Have a blessed, fashiony day!

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Just a few things...

You may remember Rebecca from when she was voted one of the best of Maid Marian's Wardrobe Event. She runs a wonderful fashiony and sewing blog and has recently announced that she will be having a new event...

Be sure to click the button and get all the details! Rebecca has asked me to be a judge for the event and I am really looking forward to it...

I also added a widget in right-hand the sidebar (just below the subscription info) with my fave fashiony picks from Amazon.com. It's another way you can shop some great fashion while supporting the blog - take a look! :)

Lastly, there is a new Haiti banner up top. You can click it and make a donation through Compassion International, a Christian charity I support. Just because the shock of the tragic event may have worn off for some of us, it has not done so for the people of Haiti. They will need our long-term giving and support, as well as our prayers. Prayer is truly the most powerful thing we can do.

Thanks for reading the updates! Have a blessed weekend... :)

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Romantic Gowns from Elizabeth Dye

Pretty much any girl on the planet just loves a gorgeous dress. Whether it's retro style with a full, flouncy hemline or long, wispy and ethereal, an amazing gown captures the imagination and makes turns you into a princess. It makes us feel beautiful, feminine and on top of the world. And that's a very nice feeling. :)

On no other day is that amazing dress and the wonderful feeling it gives you more important than at your wedding. Today I'm going to be showing a few of the gowns from the wonderfully talented Elizabeth Dye's gorgeous Spring 2010 wedding collection, and using them for fashion inspiration (I'll be sharing more on this fabulous designer later).

Total icing on the cake... The collection is called Heroines and each design's name references a favorite literary lady. How amazing it that? ;)

 

This collection appears to be all about simplicity and subtlety, two things that are so important in fashion. So often clothing (especially from high end designers) is overdone, chaotic and distracting. I believe that the dress should be a palette for the woman wearing it, not the other way around. We are not mannequins!

These two designs (Eventide and Storyville) showcase true subtlety and real beauty. Each design is so simple, made from ivory silk shantung and enhanced with chiffon to create a fabric blossom. This allows the superb craftsmanship to stand out. When a gown is so very simple, the work must be perfect. These ones are.

 

A shorter dress can be just as lovely and romantic as a full length one, and more suited to less formal events. I love how old-fashioned and yet up-to-date these two designs are (Oysters and Pearls and Ghost). The former has a beautifully decorated bodice, made up of tiny chiffon ruffles, high quality lace and pearls. The wide ribbon cinches pulls the full skirt and bodice pieces together beautifully and adds a "party" touch.

The later gown has cascading layers of English tulle, which creates a wonderful uneven hemline. The bodice is pleated and tucked and accented just below the bust by a piece of flowery trim. The shoulder straps on both dresses are so pretty - just pleated pieces of fabric. This is a great way to add straps to a sleeveless design.

 

This first gown (Honeychurch) has to be my favorite in the collection - it's so sleek and flattering. The ruching over the bust enhances the sweetheart neckline and the skirt is made up of lovely, sheer layers. The lace attached to the shoulder straps and the gorgeous buckle at the ribbon-sash waistline add the perfect touches.

Although I am usually not a fan of lace dresses, this sweet little number (Beatrix) really gets it right. The tulle has lovely little flowers sprinkled all over it. At the bodice, they are embroidered with gold thread and accented with pearls. The teeny-tiny straps finish the dress off and the chiffon flower is a fabulous accessory. Amazing how simple and yet stunning a dress can be.

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Elizabeth Dye runs a lovely blog (featuring photos of many of her brides) as well as a boutique in Portland, Oregon called the The English Dept. You can purchase some of her gorgeous designs in her Etsy shop. Be sure to check it out!

I don't know about you, but I would wear any of these dresses (with a few modifications ;) for any occasion. There are events throughout each year that warrant a pretty dress - these fashions deserve to be worn more than just once for a wedding! How about Valentine's day? It's coming up! (Is anyone planning on buying or making something special for that holiday? I would love to hear your plans!)


P.S. Just as the usual disclaimer... I know that the gowns featured in this post do not meet most people's standards of modesty. However, I believe they serve as some lovely inspiration and can provide us lots of ideas we can apply to purchasing or creating our own modest wardrobes. :)

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Cold Weather Accessories: Part 4 - Legwear

{By Amy Elizabeth}

Winter is half over! I hope you’ve enjoyed reading the Cold Weather Accessories series as much as I’ve enjoyed writing for it! For this last legwear article, I wanted to include information that will take you into Spring.

First of all, let’s discuss leggings. Mid-calf length leggings are out – they stop right at the widest part of your leg, so longer ankle length is better. In warmer weather, pick cropped leggings that fall right below the knee for a more flattering look.

 

Leggings with interesting details, like shirring or studs, are fun and practical. The solid colors work well with your wardrobe, and the fabric manipulation adds interest.

 

Bright opaque tights are always a great choice. Some newer trends for the Spring season include bright, abstract painterly prints and florals. Look for colors that compliment your wardrobe, and pair with a solid skirt or dress.

  

Another popular trend are the weightless and romantic laces. Black lace is still classic, while soft whites are a fun, modern twist. Look for lace tights that are delicate and fine – open, fishnet styles can easily look trashy. Pair with a print dress or a full, gathered skirt.

  

Most importantly, have fun with your legwear! Don’t be afraid to experiment! As the Winter season comes to an end, a lot of stores will be clearing out their tights, so keep an eye out for deals!
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Amy Elizabeth is currently studying fashion design in Illinois, with a special interest in Bridal and historical costuming.  Her style changes depending on her mood, but vintage-bohemian-romance kind of gives you an idea of her favourite look!  Accessories are her specialty!



Image Credits: Foottraffic.com / KateSpade.com / Accessorize.co.uk / Piperlime.com / Gap.com

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