It’s NOT about the 50’s poodle skirt

Remember the days of big swinging skirts and tiny cardi tops? Do you wonder how to rock that outfit to work or play...or is it all too Gaga? I styled a 50’s inspired lingerie themed spread believing beautifully made lingerie can be showcased tastefully. In keeping with the 50’s theme, I want to show you how you can invest in pieces for work and for that socially important Sunday coffee without looking like a walking-talking rockabilly promotion. And yes, I dare you to wear your inners out with panache, but let’s pick our setting and sizzle!

In the fashion world the resurgence of the 50’s started in the fall of 2009 with the likes of Gucci and Prada leading the way for updated, sophisticated designs. Carrying the torch this autumn winter season for refined and graceful designs; which are the hallmark for the era, are megawatt designers Jayson Brundson, Collette Dinnigan and couture designer Sylvia Chan. A silhouette that looks magnificent on most body types is anything cinched at the waist with a bit of movement around the hips and legs and the 50’s style does exactly that to flatter the natural female form. Think Audrey Hepburn meets 2010 and Carl Kapp’s structured leather shift dress finished off with a vintage print scarf around the neck, cropped tweed blazer, black opaque stockings and heels is the modern image of having breakfast at Tiffany’s...on your way to work.

Enter one of my favourite designers – Melanie Cutfield; the saviour to women blessed with curves as well as those with petite slender lines, offering timeless pieces. The ‘Wrap It Up’ dress in Pistachio visually slims any figure, adding a burst of colour this season and the ‘Second Glance’ dress (Melanie Cutfield 1) renders the wearer effortless grace. Pair this dress with a fitted houndstooth blazer for work, finished off with a slim belt or a cropped light pink cardi and a thin scarf worn as belt and you will be turning heads.

"It’s NOT about the 50’s poodle skirt" was brought to you by stylist Black Dahlia.

Written by renowned stylist Black Dahlia http://www.blackdahlia.com.au

The key is to retain in your outfit, a hint of the 50’s era but keeping the style fresh and modern. I love animals but am not keen wearing an image of a cute poodle on my skirt. Subtle candy hues tone down bold block colours for that classic look with small details highlighted in the garments.

It is not just about garments. Accessories, jewellery and shoes can instantly turn a simple outfit into a stylized 50’s look. Former high end jewellery antique dealer turned designer, Sarah Jane (sarahjane18/sarahjane23) creates an array of dazzling jewellery for SJ Jewels and her upmarket label Saramai. Driven by her passion to offer women dramatic pieces, the current 50’s trend inspired Sarah Jane to design her spectacular ‘Odalesque’ collection for the women of any age seeking to buy a timeless piece. Teaming this pendant/brooch (sj1) with cropped pants, hip length satin Pussy Bow blouse and t-bar heels would leave your admirers astounded. My favourite, the turquoise and pearl ring adds a pop of colour (sj2)

The 50's had a classic feminine style and ladies were always heeled to make the outfits complete. Pumps hold an amazing power to create awe around a wearer. The shoe label Tulula Valu hits the mark using the 50's influence to create practical high heel shoes. The Miss Marnie (Purplehearts) deliver the classic look and is a must have for the stunning price of $100! Alanna Casey, the designer for North Shore based Tulula Valu label, has her customers coming back for more and she even designs custom made shoes for the discerning. The brand appeals to the woman who wants to feel good and comfortable wearing high heels while turning heads wearing chic coloured pumps. I am spoilt for choice here and for $100 per pair, I’m like a kid in a candy store! For that 50’s hint, ensure your shoes contrast with your outfit – let them tell a story of their own.