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Probably the most well known wedding dress designer on the market today Vera Wang never even studied design. She studied at Manhattan’s private all girls Chapin School achieving a degree in art history. Vera Wang began her fashion career as editor of the world renounced fashion magazine Vogue. She worked for Vogue for sixteen years ending her stay in 1985. Vera realized that she had little chance of a progression career wise at the magazine and that her time there was over. Moving on she was offered an opportunity to work as a design director at Ralph Lauren. She held this position for two years before ending her time at the design house to work on her first bridal gown collection.

Vera opened her first boutique in Manhattan in 1990. Her rise to fame came gradually and mostly through word of mouth until the 1994 winter Olympic games when ice skater Nancy Kerrigan enlisted Wang to design her costume. Even throughout the early years it was clear that Vera’s creative expression could not be confined to just the bridal industry. Her collections expanded rapidly from wedding dresses to jewelry, eye wear and shoes to house ware and of course perfume.

One of our favorite fragrances by Vera Wang is Princess. It’s an entwined mix of sweet top notes resembling a vanilla milkshake with fruit and a side of chocolate that quickly settles to reveal a soft floral and fruity melody that incompasses red berries and lillies. After the fragrance has fully settled the musky note present themselves. This complex layering is a delicious mix, and this fragrance is long lasting and deserves moderation when applying. This youthful and enduring perfume is great for any wistful and vibrant woman.  We offer this and many other top designer fragrances for a discounted price at our Timeless Fashion and Art. To read more about Vera Wang and her life please visit bio.com

Jean Patou Haute Couture archive sample dress of yellow taffeta from Christian Lacroix's farewell and un-produced collection "Hawaii"/Exit 36, Spring/Summer 1987.

From the Tony Ward Haute Couture Autumn/Winter 2009-2010 Collection.

Penelope Cruz and Heidi Klum in Haute Couture

Dior Haute Couture

And last but not least a wonderful fashion photograph of haute couture, merging art with fashion.

Born in 1964, Saab was only 18 when he opened his first studio. He did not become internationally recognized, however, until the late 1990s. Ever since that time, the Lebanese designer has been synonymous with elegance and glamour. In fact, many fashion critics credit Saab for transforming the world of fashion. His ready-to-wear lines are known for being innovative while maintaining the same high quality as his Haute Couture. Celebrities who have worn Saab’s designs range from Queen Rania of Jordan to Beyonce. It’s difficult to imagine any international event attended by celebrities and the fashion elite without at least a handful of women showing off Elie Saab’s romantic designs.

My favorite is the one worn by Halle Berry on the far left.

While browsing on the internet I came across this wonderful show merging art with Haute Couture. This show was held in December 2008: Acclaimed NYC artist, professional ballet dancer & mime Steven Colucci  unveiled Muse: An Exhibition of Paintings and Haute Couture at the National Arts Club on Friday December 5, 2008. The month-long exhibition featured 12 new paintings and 6 gowns bearing his original artwork and marking his debut as a designer of couture

Miss USA Crystle Stewart in one of his lively creations

To see more of his work, go to Art of Colucci

According to wikipedia the definition for haute couture is:

It originally referred to Englishman Charles Frederick Worth's work, produced in Paris in the mid-nineteenth century. In modern France, haute couture is a "protected name" that can be used only by firms that meet certain well-defined standards. However, the term is also used loosely to describe all high-fashion custom-fitted clothing, whether it is produced in Paris or in other fashion capitals such as Milan,London, New York, Tokyo and Madrid.

The term can refer to:

• the fashion houses or fashion designers that create exclusive and often trend-setting fashions
• the fashions created

In France, the term haute couture is protected by law and is defined by the Chambre de commerce et d'industrie de Paris based in Paris,France. Their rules state that only "those companies mentioned on the list drawn up each year by a commission domiciled at the Ministry for Industry are entitled to avail themselves" of the label haute couture. The criteria for haute couture were established in 1945 and updated in 1992.

To earn the right to call itself a couture house and to use the term haute couture in its advertising and any other way, members of theChambre syndicale de la haute couture must follow these rules:

• Design made-to-order for private clients, with one or more fittings.
• Have a workshop (atelier) in Paris that employs at least fifteen people full-time.
• Each season (i.e., twice a year), present a collection to the Paris press, comprising at least thirty-five runs/exits with outfits for both daytime wear and evening wear.

To see a list of members click here:  Members of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture

Valentino Haute Couture Paris S/S '07

The show was named A Whiter Shade of Pale, and it didn't take long to understand why. In a parade of pale pink, yellow and purple, Valentino reminded us that the '60s trend isn't going anywhere and neither is he. Celebrating his 45th anniversary in fashion this year, this latest couture offering from the legendary designer was a tribute to all that is beautiful and feminine.

The 1960's were a vast range of styles. The early 60s had the classic look of the 1950's with the beginnings of a new more mod look. Still showing the conservative look of the 50s, very feminine with cinched waists and full skirts but with delicate shoulder treatments. Women dressed to please their husbands, always wearing a girdle, heels, and of course the proper jewelry.

Dresses Worn By Audrey Hepburn

Dresses Worn By Audrey Hepburn

Marc by Marc Jacobs Persian Ink Multi Gilded Sunflower Dress

$495.00 by Marc by Marc Jacobs at StyleBop

Some fashion trends will always pop up every now and then because of the elegance they bring. This fall, designers are looking back at vintage fashion for inspiration. Here are some incredible vintage styles that are expected to hit the streets this Fall 2010.

Source: International Style

Wide leg pants – This cut can benefit various body types. It suits thin legs as well as curvy women because it draws attention towards the hips and the waist instead of the legs. Pair them with tight shirts that can be tucked in to accentuate the waist the hips. Also go for oversized bags, thin belts, long necklaces, oversized bracelets, and platform shoes to complete the look.

Knits – Not only knits offer style, but also warmth in this cool weather. Choose knitted sweaters and vests that can be combined with simple pieces to avoid making your look complicated.

A-line dresses – This dress highlights a woman’s form as it is cut to accentuate the waist line and widens down up to the knees. You can choose from a myriad of colors and designs. Make sure not to include too many accessories to the look so pair it with a simple handbag, minimal jewelry, and pumps.

Pencil skirts or dresses – These skirts or dresses create an elegant yet sexy look for women who wish to draw attention towards the body and legs. They typically fall around knee level to create a perfectly balanced look. This looks does not require bold accesories, therefore coming up with a simple yet standout styling.

My personal favorite vintage fashion look for Fall 2010 are the big bulky sweaters. I love the hand knit appearance and the coziness for the brisk fall air.

The Cabaret Collection, http://www.cabaretvintage.com/, is a high fashion vintage boutique. Their tagline is, "Walk through our doors and prepare to be dazzled and delighted. Because this is where the magic happens. Where you create a style that is as unique as you are."

Here is one of their items for a bride who wants to dress vintage:

The Grace Kelly

Do you recall all those vintage fashion items that everyone said would never go out of style and then they did go out of style? Fashion goes in and out of style all the time. The key is to find something that has a timeless elegance. For those pieces that are not timeless there are other ways to include them into your wardrobe. You can wear vintage in a whole new way to update it. You can recycle the item by adding fun accessories or details.  Not all vintage fashion survives, so a unique or unusual piece can be added to many outfits to create lots of different looks.

Vintage fashions and accessories can be found at specialty boutiques, second hand shops, thrift stores, flea markets and local rummage sales. Always check the condition of the piece before purchasing, fasteners, seams, and buckles should be inspected for functionality and wear. Half the fun of having vintage fashion can be the hunt for the right piece, and the accessories to go with it.  A little black dress can be accessorized to create several looks from casual to business wear, so finding the right pieces is important for the entire look to come together.

Big, bold jewelry with bright colors can look great with simple lines and colors of the clothing. Necklaces and bracelets can be combined and layered for a funky or dramatic effect. The same goes for shoes and for handbags. It’s all a matter of what look you are trying to achieve. Keep in mind your personal style and the look you are going for when choosing accessories.

FRISCO IN THE FIFTIES by Cindy Garber Iverson

I came across this wonderful image at Fine Art America and just had to post it. The first in the 'Frisco in the Fifties series, this mixed media piece is an homage to the city of San Francisco in the 1950s and the women who shopped at the department store I. Magnin. You can check out this image at: Frisco in the Fifties.  Also you can learn more about the artist, Cindy Garber Iverson at  www.rosehavencottage.com.

I just started a new page on my website: Timeless Fashion and Art, that showcases some of my favorite vintage fashion sites. Check the page out here:

http://timelessfashionandart.com/favorites.html

My all time favorite is the Vintage Fashion Guild. www.vintagefashionguild.org

Feel free to share your favorite vintage fashion sites.

Jessica McClintock arrived in California in 1969 a widowed mother with teaching credentials. She learned of a dress making company by the name of Gunne Sax that was for sale. She bought the company and started the design house of Jessica McClintock with a focus on romance and bridal design.

Lastest Fashions by Jessica McClintock

Jessica McClintock

By 1988 Jessica McClintock had expanded her line to include a successful perfume, Jessica McClintock, which is sold exclusively in boutiques. Now you can find her wonderful perfume at Timeless Fashion and Art's authentic designer perfumes. Additional Jessica McClintock's products available at the above link are: Body Creme, Body Lotion, EDP Spray Tester, Shaker Talc Body Powder (which is on auction starting at 3.99, MSRP $23), Jess EDP, and Always and Forever EDP.

Jessica McClintock perfume is utterly romantic and feminine. It is a delicate white floral blend of bergamot, ylang-ylang, rose, white jasmine and lily of the valley. Jess was created in 1995, and is classified as a luxurious, flowery fragrance. This feminine scent posesses a blend of citrus notes including mandarin and grapefruit and is accompanied by the scent of violet, basil, peach and vanilla. Sounds yummy! ALWAYS & FOREVER by Jessica McClintock for Women posesses a blend of: Gardenia, fresh oceanic notes, lily of the valley, freesia, water flowers, and musk.

To read more about Jessica McClintock go to Timeless Fashion and Art, Designers.

The Mad Men screening in Times Square last Sunday night featured a vintage fashion show judged by "Project Runway" alum Chris March.  Many of the attendees channeled the '60s style. The leading ladies arrived at around 8.45 P.M., in time when the 7,000 plus people have packed the place.

Leading ladies, January Jones and Elizabeth Moss

Joann Wardy, well-known member of an old established El Paso clothing family and chair of the “50 Years of Fashion” show, let it be known she was on the lookout for a reasonable number of well-preserved vintage outfits from 1950s to 1990. She was stunned to receive phone calls from 200 local ladies eager to loan their fancy frocks and furbelows.

Out of that wealth of well-cared for designer duds, 60 outfits were selected and altered to fit 22 skinny models without damage to the original (garments, not the girls!).  The gown that closed the show, a tradition with runway shows I was informed, had a gorgeous layered balloon skirt with train and coronet holding a veil. The bride who married in that exquisite gown must have looked like a fairy queen.

Wouldn't you just love to see some photos from the show? I asked them to post some. I'll let you know if they do.

To reach arts columnist Betty Ligon, e-mail bettyligon@sbcglobal.net, call (915) 833-8750, or send mail to 300 Shadow Mountain, Apt. 1109, El Paso TX 79912-4016. The link to the full article: http://elpasoinc.com/readarticle.aspx?xrec=5499

Celebrities who love Shalimar by Guerlain:

 On auction at: Timeless Fashion and Art for $29.44 MSRP is $100

Shirley MacLaine

Britt Eckland

Brooke Shields

Diane Sawyer

Dionne Warwick

Garcelle Beauvais-Nilon

Gina Lollobrigida

Jeanne Hollenbeck

Joan Collins

Josette Banzet ( she loves to combine Shalimar and Must De Cartier)

Laeticia Casta

Lisa Hartman

Meryl Streep

Mylene Farmer

Rita Hayworth (she also used to collect perfumes)

Rossella Jardini

Source: Celebrity Fragrance Guide

There has been a lot of recent research at Chicago’s Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation looking for what scents intrigue men. After conducting an experiment involving men ages 18-64 and over 30 different test scents given to each man their results showed what the leading scents most men fancy. The top smells included peppermint, chocolate, pink grapefruit, and florals, however orange, vanilla, musk, and lavender were the top notes that stood out beyond the rest.

If you are in the market for a scent that attracts men and based off this research then we have a few options you might want to check out.

Sean John- Unforgivable Woman

This scent is a blend of bitter orange, grapefruit, and vanilla and is sure to entice.

Missoni Acqua Eau de Toilette Spray

This fragrance embodies an unforgettable flowery fusion of blue freesia, peony, and iris, with a splash of bergamot creating a floral fusion and irresistible aroma.

Sarah Jessica Parker- Covet

This scent is a wonderful mix of lavender, chocolate, and musk, followed by a chaser of fresh Sicilian lemon and honeysuckle, and great for all occasions.

Guerlain - Shalimar

Eau de Shalimar is a sense tingling compoition of fresh citrus, accompanied with folar accords of iris, jasime, and rose all wrapped in a velvety powdery vanilla and is known for it's sexy scent. This fragrance starts off fresh and light, and settlings into a soft and sensual scent no man can resist.

In fact Eau de Shalimar was originally inspired by the love of an Indian Emperor for his wife for whom the Taj Mahal was built for as well.

All these scents and more are on sale at discounted prices on our Timesless Fashion & Art ebay store. We also offer daily auctions that are always changing!

Here is a tip we've recently picked up here at Timeless Fashion and Art that we thought we would share with you!

This is a recipe for making your own solid perfume. It is an awesome trick, great for traveling or even just to keep as back up in your purse or car, and is a must know for any multi-tasker or social butterfly.

Do It Yourself solid perfume recipe:

Make your own travel-ready scent with just a few ingredients from your kitchen. A clean eye-cream jar, pretty pill box works well as a container, or even an old empty solid perfume ring.

Things you need:

1 small container with tight-fitting lid

1 tablespoon grated unscented beeswax

1 tablespoon jojoba oil or vitamin E oil (available at health stores)

10-15 drops of your favorite perfume or essential oils

In a small glass bowl, microwave ingredients in 10-second increments until melted, stirring with a craft stick. Let cool for 30 minutes and pour into container.

On an unfortunate note we lost a brillant perfumer Béatrice Piquet this month. 

 


 
Her works included:
Bulgari Petits et Mamans; Aroma Tonic for Lancome, with Alain Astori; Armani Emporio Night Him, with Yves Cassar; Sun for Men, for Jil Sander; as well as successes with Salvatore Ferragamo, Benetton, Oscar de la Renta, Christian Dior, Guerlain, Hugo Boss, among many others. To read more about Béatrice Piquet, her life visit, and her craft visit mimifroufrou.com

Have you ever wondered how the body picks up on scents and smells? Everywhere we go and everything we do we are engulfed by a sea of smells from the rain, grass, gasoline, other people, even the bathroom. Have you ever heard of the olfactory? It steams from the Latin word olfactorius and refers to the act of smelling. The olfactory nerve is the first set of cranial nerves that ignite neurosensory cells in the nasals and blast straight up to the cerebrum. Smell sensations are then sent to the cortex of the brain where "cognitive recognition" happens. In less than a second a smell fully has its way with your brain causing a reaction by your brain setting off triggers releasing different chemicals causing one to feel emotion. Once the brain processes a smell the offset emotion that is triggers generally relates to a preconceived feeling or thought that has been associated through experience. So ladies, if your husband likes the smell of vanilla because it reminds him of his mother, you probably don’t want to wear a vanilla musk…. There might be a Freudian undertone we don’t want to get into. If you’re in the market for a new scent, or just want to try out a new fragrance, check out our discounted designer fragrances at www.timelessfashionandart.com. 

Here is a wonderful article about him: http://www.instyle.com/instyle/package/general/photos/0,,20343719_20343720_20739518,00.html

Did you see his most recent designs? InStyle had one of his  amazing dresses from his 2010 spring collection in this months issue with Anne Hathaway on the cover. The prints are so beautiful and he seemed to design around the prints to really show them off. Below is one of the dresses.

I also wasn't aware that he had a fragrance line called My Queen. The fragrance was launched by the design house of Alexander McQueen in 2005, MY QUEEN by Alexander McQueen for WOMEN posesses a blend of: Parma Violet, Vanilla, Sweet Almond, Vetiver, Absolute, Orange Blossom, White Musk, Heliotrope, Cedar, Iris, Patchouli, White Flowers. Sounds yummy. Anyone out there use this fragrance? I found it on ebay, here is a link if you want to try it or begin to collect it: http://cgi.ebay.com/MY-QUEEN-by-Alexander-McQueen-LIGHT-PERFUME-MIST-1-7-OZ_W0QQitemZ360224023276QQcmdZViewItemQQptZfragrance?hash=item53df0662ec 

Wanda Pepin is a featured vintage fashion artist on US Trendy: http://ustrendy.com/ustrendy  See Nov. 2nd post.