Drama Dahling – VEUX Magazine DEC 2011

This fashion editorial has been months in the making and I’m so excited to share with you my second fashion story for VEUX Magazine’s December 2011 issue. In the fall, I was growing obsessed with the 1940s, and this is my homage to the dramatic decade. I styled and directed the shoot. Photography by Dasha Nagorodnyuk, makeup and hair by Alyssa Caron.

You can view the article on issuu or it can be purchased as a print or digital copy from MagCloud.

The theme of this issue was Splendor & Squalor.  While the looks appear to be expensive and glamourous, every single item was under $150. Here’s how to get the 1940s movie star look for less:

Left: Dress, H&M, $99; Mink Fur Stole, Vintage; Pearl Bracelet, Vintage; Pearl Necklace, Forever 21, $10.80; Shoes, Salvatore Ferragamo; Right: Dress, TopShop, $135; Shoes, Salvatore Ferragamo.

Step back in time this Holiday season with looks that echo 1940s Hollywood.  Miu Miu referenced the romantic decade in their Fall 2011 collection, with models garbed in elegant long-sleeved dresses and their hair done up in victory rolls.

Dress, Vintage; Fur Muff, Vintage; Shoes, Vintage; Tights, Forever 21, $6.80.

To achieve the look, it’s all in the details.  Ostrich feathers are an element that was popular in the past and is re-emerging on skirts, coats and cocktail dresses.  The look is youthful, but it can also be elegant and grown-up if it’s used sparingly as a trim on a slinky jersey dress.  To avoid looking like a ballroom dancer, keep the feather details on the upper half of your frame to draw interest to the face.  Fur continues to be a staple in the cold winter months, a mink fur stole or shawl will add sophistication and warmth to a simple black evening gown.  But a simple black evening gown doesn’t have to be basic; beading and pearl embellishments can add striking interest.

Suit, Vintage; Pearl Choker & Bracelet, Vintage, Shoes, Salvatore Ferragamo.

At Louis Vuitton’s Fall 2011 collection, the focus was on the coat, with rounded shoulders and collars, as well as oversized buttons.  Channel that luxury look with a vintage suit from the 1940s.  They can be found at vintage or consignment shops, as well as online re-sellers of fine vintage garments.  Remember that vintage clothing doesn’t mean old.

Fur is very expensive if it’s bought new, but can be found at nearly 90% off the original price at vintage and thrift stores.  When buying vintage fur, check to see if it isn’t shedding to ensure it will last another lifetime with its new owner.  For an ethical and less expensive option, faux fur is readily available at many mass retailers or from upscale brands.  Karl Lagerfeld once said, “You cannot fake chic, but you can be chic and fake fur.”

To complete the look, red nails and lips are essential.  Hair can be done up in victory rolls, or let down and wavy to echo the likes of Veronica Lake and Rita Hayworth.

The silver screen starlet lives on.  Here’s looking at you, kid.