VIDEO: 1960s and 1970s Boots and Shoes

Hi all.

Here's a neat little video on 1960s and 1970s boots and shoes. If you want to go retro, here's a few hints.

http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=f3iM38y74dg

Enjoy!

VIDEO: Peggy Moffitt - Wild 1960s Fashion Ideas

Hi all,

I found this great video of Peggy Moffitt - the 1960s fashion icon! Enjoy.

http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=2ojaofcXmS8

Cheers,

Robert.

Jackie Kennedy Style

Jackie Kennedy Style by Tatiana Sidorova

Although most of us would remember her for her exquisite style, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis always preferred to be remembered for her work in historic preservation. Through her efforts, as well as efforts of many people who joined her, she restored the White House to its current glory. Jackie Kennedy saved Grand Central Station in New York City, and persuaded many cities to value their monuments as worth saving. She taught us that one woman can make a difference.

According to Italian designer Valentino, Jackie Kennedy style was a mix of naturalness and sophistication, "an outdoorsy kind of beauty."

Jackie's style came from her life - east Hampton, the sea, horses; French tailoring of Hubert de Givenchy, her love for books and her family. But even when wearing the most expensive European designs, she managed to look simple, athletic and truly American.

Jackie knew always what worked best for her. She was not intimidated into wearing what others were wearing. Jackie insisted on sleeveless dresses when they were unheard of. She became one of the trend setters wearing trousers at a time when pantsuits were considered unacceptable.

Her mind, the main contributor to her style, remained always searching, active. She knew the right moment to put away her perfect suits and little white gloves.

The Jackie Kennedy style was not about her outfits or decorating her homes. It was more about the way she conducted her life. Jackie considered herself an aristocrat. She did not want to be known as the first lady, but as Mrs. Kennedy. Her understanding of aristocracy was specifically put by her as "courage, and after that, taste and responsibility - and endurance." Jackie certainly had these qualities more than anyone else.

With her perfect sense of style Jacqueline Kennedy did something no other first lady had ever done. She elevated the American style in the eyes of the whole world, and most importantly, in our own eyes. Knowing the power of symbols, she did it through style.

You can read more about Jackie Kennedy, her favourite jewelry and see her photos at
http://www.famous-women-and-beauty.com/jacqueline-kennedy-onassis.html

Tatiana Sidorova is the owner of the website http://www.famous-women-and-beauty.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tatiana_Sidorova
http://EzineArticles.com/?Jackie-Kennedy-Style&id=1687162

Rock Star Clothing!

Sartorial Style Or Rock Star Vintage by David Tymon

The clothes we wear say a lot about our personality and are influenced by many factors. These can include certain films, music or maybe even fashion trends. For some, it's all about the name, for others, achieving the right look is of utmost importance. Whatever your personal choice, vintage clothing may provide the answer.

If we consider the major trends and sub cultures that surround fashion, certain key 'looks' come to mind. For instance, one of the main trends at the moment is definitely the '80's inspired look with many major retailers bringing out their own versions. Another trend that has stood the test of time yet continues to be popular is the 'rock' look.

When we think of the eighties, one of the most powerful images conjured up is that of the 'power suit'. Popular with both men and women, these suits were wide shouldered affairs typically double breasted for men or 'Chanel' style for women. These suits defined the era and were seen in popular movies such as Wall Street and Baby Boom.

For those of you that have not seen these movies, it was a very specific look which took time and effort to get right. The wearer of such a suit wanted to create a potent image of power and status, after all the eighties became a time where a lot of money could be made if you had the know how.

A fitting starting place to help get this look for yourself of course must be with a vintage suit. Opt for a double breasted two or three piece suit and team it with a pinstriped shirt and if you feel like you want to look like a true eighties high flyer, don't forget your braces! However, it is possible to tone down the look by just taking certain pieces and integrating them into your own style.

Creating that 'rock star' look is a totally different affair where styles were not about power and elegance so much as it was emulating a favourite band. Leather jackets, jeans and boots or baseball shoes can all be used to get the look. For instance, a vintage leather bikers jacket gives a Marlon Brando in The Wild One feel or for the adventurous, how about a killer 1970's lizard skin jacket.

Of course, nothing complements a vintage leather jacket more than a pair of jeans. To ensure authenticity opt for a pair of vintage Levi jeans. Finish the look with a slim fitting vintage T-shirt and a pair of aviator shades and voila!

Again, do not be afraid to mix and match since the important thing to remember is that it doesn't really matter whether you prefer sartorial style or the rock star look, both can be found within the realms of vintage clothing. Any or indeed all of the key pieces can be integrated into your existing wardrobe to complement and add to your individual style.

Retro Clothes Shop

Vintage Clothing - Devoted 2 Vintage.co.uk

230a St Johns Road
Boxmoor
Hemel Hempstead
Herts, HP1 1QQ
United Kingdom

Tel. 01442 234400

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Tymon

http://EzineArticles.com/?Sartorial-Style-Or-Rock-Star-Vintage&id=1710334

Carlos Santana Shoes?

Carlos by Carlos Santana Shoes by Matt Hellstrom

Whenever a discussion of the best guitar players of all times comes up, Carlos Santana's name is definitely mentioned. His album Abraxas was by far one of the best albums I have ever listened to. I remember when it came out back in 1970. It didn't hurt that I was young and rock n' roll was everything. Black Magic Woman and Oye Como Va still are on my fave list. And the psychedelic album cover was outrageous, sexy and every 14 year old boys dream. It was just too cool and innovative for words. Carlos was definitely ahead of his time.

So what would any self respectable classic guitar player do next? Release a hot and sexy line of shoes, of course!

I don't know if Carlos actually designed the shoes, but I do know one thing - they're hot! My wife loves them, especially some of the sandals and pumps. She says they are really classy, sophisticated, and sexy. All I know is they look great on her!

Carlos Santana and Brown Shoe Company have teamed up to create Carlos by Carlos Santana footwear. The shoes reflect the same passion and energy that is generated by Carlos Santana's music. They've come up with a line of shoes that contains boots, pumps, clogs, wedges, platforms and more that follow the latest trends and are made of the finest materials.

The Pounce is one style that hits all my wife's buttons. Definitely hot, but with a touch of class.

Here's a description of the Pounce.

Jump right on the wild style of the glorious Pounce dress pumps from Carlos by Carlos Santana. Boldly printed fabric upper in a slip on dress pump style with a rounded open toe and leather piping trim. Smooth lining, cushioned insole.

Carlos Santana Shoes - sexy, vibrant, and passionate!

Looking for some hot shoes for that special occasion? Or do you just like to wear them all the time? Get over to http://hotshoeshopping.com for a great selection of the hottest shoes available. There are so many brands nowadays that it's hard to know where to start. So let us do the leg work for you! You'll not only find Carlos Santana Shoes, but other distinctive brands like Jessica Simpson Women's Shoes, Delicious Boots, and of course Ugg Boots and Ugg Slippers. You're guaranteed to find something to make heads turn!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Hellstrom
http://EzineArticles.com/?Carlos-by-Carlos-Santana-Shoes&id=1707899

Nike in the 1960s and 1970s!

The History of Nike Sneakers by Roland Seay

Nike is a brand name synonymous to shoes. It's a household name that has accumulated billions in revenue since its humble beginnings. It's everybody favorite shoe company. Nike was founded in 1962, by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight in the trunk of Knight's car and was originally started as Blue Ribbon Sports. Nike emanated from two sources: Bill Bowerman's quest for lighter, more durable racing shoes for his University of Oregon runners, and Knight's search for a way to make a living without having to give up his love of athletics. The name 'Nike' was established in 1972 after the winged Greek goddess of victory.

Instead of a wing, Nike incorporated the "Swoosh". The "Swoosh" is well known all around the world, designed by Carolyn Davidson in 1971, for ONLY $35.00. Caroline Davidson was at that time, a student at Portland State University majoring in advertising. Meeting Phil Knight while he was teaching accounting classes, she started freelancing for his company. She designed the Swoosh and got paid $35. Together with the Swoosh, Nike is also known for its signature tagline- Just Do It that makes Nike stand out like no other company.

Bowerman was the coach for the track team of the University of Oregon where Phil Knight ran in 1959. Bowerman's desire for better quality running shoes clearly influenced Knight in his search for a marketing strategy. Spurred with this burning desire, the birth of one of the world's most influential and strongest brand began to take shape. It took a while for the name 'Nike' to sink in minds and hearts of shoe fans and sports enthusiasts as well as to establish the great name they have today.

Nike took formation while Knight took his MBA at Stanford in the early '60s with Frank Shallenberger. The semester-long project was to create a small business of your own and device a marketing plan with it. Converging Bowerman's attention to quality running shoes and the knowledge and awareness that high-quality/low cost products could be produced in Japan and shipped to the U.S. to be distributed, Knight finally found his market niche. However, Shallenberger thought the idea interesting, but felt it was nothing more than Knight's marketing ideas for the project, something that would not take off as a business jackpot.

By the late '70s, Blue Ribbon Sports officially became Nike and went from $10 million to $270 million in sales, and all from the back of a car. Many people complained about how Nikes were not made in the United States in the beginning of the 80s. The term 'Sweatshop' came about this time when people were mad of the way Nike shoes were made in Vietnam, China, and Indonesia where the people were paid in low wages and were subjected to very poor working conditions. This was a major public relations issue that led to the boycotting of Nike products worldwide, particularly in the US. Though that, this didn't stop people from purchasing Nike products and Nike continued to grow.

The turning point for the Nike Company came about in 1985 with the world's greatest basketball player-Michael Jordan came into play among Nike bigwigs. With Michael Jordan, Nike climbed new heights with the ever popular "Air Jordan" shoe along with the apparels. This made Nike known as a 'Fitness and Sport Revolution' Brand and was named by "Advertising Age" 1996 Marketer of the Year, citing the "ubiquitous swoosh...was more recognized and coveted by consumers than any other sports brand--arguably any brand" Nike is at the top of the charts thanks to Michael Jordan but may never admit to this. Thanks to the new found success through collaborations with Jordan, this lead to ne collaborations with famous athletes such as Bo Jackson, Andre Agassi, Charles Barkley, Deion Sanders, Ken Griffey, Scottie Pippen, Penny Hardaway, Jason Kidd, Barry Sanders, and many more.

Simply Sneakers is a blog detailing the latest sneaker trends among teens and adults. If your looking for sneaker news then checkout this site!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roland_Seay
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-History-of-Nike-Sneakers&id=1760467

1960s Fashion as Icon!

Why 60's Retro Clothing Became Iconic by David Tymon

Today, the influence of 60's retro clothing can be seen everywhere. Designer fashion houses, high street outlets, and fashion conscious trendsetters all take inspiration from this decade. The 1960's was responsible for revolutions in music, film, and fashion, which may be why it is so well loved by vintage clothing aficionados.

The 1960's was an era of innovation and new thinking. Fashion was heavily influenced by the younger generations who were spending their wages on clothes and music. A school leaving age of fifteen meant that most teenagers over this age had full time jobs and an income to facilitate this spending.

Fashion followed three main phases but there were several popular sub genres too. In the early part of the 60's fashion followed similar trends to the late 50's such as the full skirt and Chanel suits. This was followed by the up rise of mini skirts, the Mary Quant and Vidal Sassoon looks. It was these that formed the 'definitive' 60's look and by the end of the decade, the hippy look was more prevalent with long hair, and kaftans.

The most iconic looks of the 1960's can be split depending on your sex. For women, it was the almost Carnaby chic look with mini skirts, short angular haircuts, and knee length boots. For men, the 60's brought the mod look with Italian slim fitting suits and skinny ties. These were the looks that defined the era, for many are still popular today, and still influence British fashion and style.

Even if you take a look at the popular movies from the 1960's, these styles can be seen. Music too influenced the fashion and vice versa. Many of the major bands during this decade helped set the trends, which again were largely bought by the younger generations.

The late 60's gave way to the hippy style, which was heavily influenced by the music culture. Long hair, beads, and kaftans were the order of the day and flared trousers and jeans were being worn by anyone who had a real eye for fashion. Not everyone however favoured this style. For some it was too scruffy therefore, a blend of this and mod style emerged where double-breasted suits with wider leg trousers bridged the gap.

60'S style keeps on coming back. You only have to look at the late 70's and early 80's, to see this when Two-Tone music and fashion became popular with 60's inspired monochrome fashion and a new take on the mod look.

Even if you look around your typical town or city, you are likely to see someone whose style has been influenced in some way by the fashion trends this decade had to offer. It could be 60's dresses; maybe it is someone sporting a 60's inspired skinny tie or pointed shoes. Whatever it is, 60's style, and 60's vintage clothes will continue to re-emerge time after time after time.

Vintage Clothing - Devoted 2 Vintage.co.uk

230a St Johns Road

Boxmoor

Hemel Hempstead

Herts, HP1 1QQ

United Kingdom

Tel. 01442 234400

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Tymon
http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-60s-Retro-Clothing-Became-Iconic&id=1654406

Elizabeth Taylor - Icon of the Ages

To me, Elizabeth Taylor personified elegance and poise. So let's see what she was wearing and doing to enhance her style, and influence others, in the 1960s and 1970s.

Elizabeth Taylor - "The 1960s" - by Richard Bassett:
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=oy73hjjSDCM

Elizabeth Taylor - "The 1970's" - by Richard Bassett:
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=HGvN1nUh5oE

VIDEOS: Do your own Tie-Dying

Here's some videos on how to do your own tie-dying and getting your clothes looking very 60s!

A Tie Dyer's Guide To Folding and Dying: "The Spider" Style:
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=Gp1Fjk4UFbs

How to TIE DYE a SHOULDER BURST style. (Plus 4 other spins):
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=-WxYSbfOmto

How To TIE-DYE an OVAL Style Shape:
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=xVHQrcj7HrQ

How to TIE-DYE a CIRCLE design... (from folding to dying):
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=qxfcb2ARekw

How To TIE-DYE a CORNER BURST Pattern:
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=Beq5prDQBog

How To TIE-DYE a SPIDER style design. (start to finish):
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=pDiumU7Sebw

I hope you learn something! Cheers!

VIDEO: Jean Shrimpton - 1960s Style!

Check out this great video about Jean Shrimpton:

http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=ewLqC9Hi1fM

Enjoy!

Vintage Sunglasses are All the Rage

Why Do Vintage Sunglasses 'Add Vintage'? by Matthew Watson

Recent fashion conscious eye gear lovers are going reverse the stream with increasing fondness for vintage sunglasses. It seems like retro fashion fever has caught today's discerning and fashionable eye gear consumers too. Vintage eye wear fashion is the current buzzword and sunglass collections are reversing back to the 50's, 60's, 70's etc., to don eyes of twenty first century.

Designs of those phase of eye gear were most outrageous and out of the box - and people are now dying to put on those timeless designs created by leading fashion designers of those eras. Hence, more you step back to the past in choosing a pair of glasses for you, more daring and dashing you will look today. So set your eyes for the vintage sunglasses to be at the vantage class amongst your peers. Any glasses that resemble with the retro are being seen from the vantage point these days. Therefore, little wonder why large, bold and attention grabbing lenses of vintage sunglasses are in vogue now instead of designs coming from latest canvas of designers.

Classic designs from 70's, 80's were marked by big glasses to cover up larger areas of eyes. Models and role models of fashion are bringing back those 'larger' fashion and creating rage amongst their aficionados. In stead of funky shades, round and traditional or square molds have become alive once again creating excessive flair and fever in the marketplace, across the globe.

Classic designs of vintage sunglasses rose from the past and have already setting blaze in the market, brushing up today's fashion conscious eyes with bright colors, larger shapes, versatile ranges and styles that were once a rage in yesteryear's celebrities. Today's designers too are equally conscious about this reverse trend against time and reverting those designs by mixing with their own to quench the quest for their patrons' demands for vintage sunglasses.

Matthew Watson is a professional writer and presently writing on online shopping portal industry covering Kids wear, designer handbags, children toys, iphones accessories and sports equipment etc.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Watson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Do-Vintage-Sunglasses-Add-Vintage?&id=1545013

VIDEO: 1970s Fashion

Another short video on later 1970s fashions, of course heavily influenced by the fashions of the 1960s! I hope you can understand the fantastic Glaswegian accent!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSeGOmoWZPg

Interesting! Enjoy!

VIDEO: 1960s Men's Mod Fashion

Here's a short video on 1960s men's fashions which are often ignored.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTJEmdSya-M

Hope you learn something.

VIDEOS: Jackie Kennedy

Here's a couple of video tributes to Jackie Kennedy. Enjoy:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiKH5oa0oSw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUBjLPsyNSo

Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy - 1960s Fashion Icon

The Wedding of the Divine Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy by Bridget Mora

Few Americans inspire more admiration than Jacqueline Kennedy. She was one of the most stylish women this country has ever known, and her influence on fashion has never waned. Her 1953 wedding to dashing Senator John F. Kennedy was the event of the season, and Jackie Kennedy's name tops every list of legendary brides.

Miss Jacqueline Bouvier met then-Congressman John Kennedy in 1952 through a mutual friend. A relationship began, and by the following summer, Jackie was wearing a stunning diamond and emerald engagement ring from Van Cleef & Arpel. The wedding was planned for September 12, 1953 at St. Mary's Church in Newport, RI, to be followed by a reception at Hammersmith Farm, where Miss Bouvier had summered with her family.

Most brides have to endure some input from their family during the wedding planning process; when Jackie was making her arrangements, she had to deal with both her mother and her very demanding father-in-law. It was extremely important to Joseph Kennedy that his son's wedding be used for political advantage, which would explain why over 1000 guests were invited to the affair. You can be sure that all of those people were not close personal friends of the bride's from her days at Miss Porter's or Vassar.

Interestingly enough, although Jacqueline Kennedy is revered as a fashion icon, she did not get to have the wedding gown of her choosing. Miss Bouvier was a Francophile, and preferred simple elegant dresses. For her wedding, she wanted a bridal gown that was similar to the sophisticated styles for which she became known. However, Joe Kennedy did not trust her taste (imagine!), and insisted on a very traditional wedding dress. Jackie's mother selected the dressmaker, Ann Lowe of New York, who created custom garments for families like the Rockefellers and the DuPonts.

There is no questioning the skill of the couturier, however, the finished bridal gown was certainly not reflective of Jacqueline Bouvier's taste. It was a beautiful gown, though, and very much in keeping with the look of 1950s wedding dresses. Jackie's ivory gown featured 50 yards of silk taffeta, which was fashioned into a portrait neckline with a very full bouffant skirt. The gown was heavily decorated with rows of tucking, circles of ruffles, and wax flowers. It was a very lovely, but very busy bridal gown.

The accessories were more to Jackie's liking. She wore her grandmother's exquisite rosepoint lace veil draped from a small lace cap decorated with orange blossoms. Miss Bouvier's pearl bridal jewelry included a classic strand of family pearls, and a one-of-a-kind bracelet. The stunning bangle style bracelet was a wedding gift from J.F.K., and featured alternating diamonds and pearls. The impressive bangle was truly pearl bridal jewelry at its finest. In addition, Jackie wore a diamond leaf pin, which was presented to her by her future in-laws.

Jackie Kennedy's wedding day ensemble was completed by a pair of wrist length gloves (de rigueur for a 1950s bride) and a pink and white bouquet with spray orchids and gardenias. Another things about the Kennedys' wedding that was very typical of the '50s was the menu. Weddings in those days did not feature serving stations offering exotic fare from around the globe. After the bride and groom cut their five tier wedding cake, the guests were served a luncheon of fruit cup, creamed chicken, and ice cream shaped like roses. That is one part of the Kennedy wedding that even the most ardent Jackie fans will probably not reproduce at their own reception!

After the wedding, the newlyweds spent one night in the Waldorf-Astoria before heading off for a two week honeymoon in Acapulco. That concluded the nuptials of Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy and began the glamorous Camelot era that was to enchant millions during the Presidency of J.F.K. The enduring legend of the charismatic young couple remains a symbol of style and grace around the world.

Ask Bridget for advice in areas of jewelry or weddings. She writes numerous articles providing information for the customers of Silverland Jewelry.com Come to SilverlandJewelry to find elegant pearl bridal jewelry for the bride and beautiful jewelry gifts for the bridesmaids.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bridget_Mora
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Wedding-of-the-Divine-Jacqueline-Bouvier-Kennedy&id=1299534

Lorris Azzaro: Great Fashion Designer of the 1960s

Lorris Azzaro - The Master Designer by James Philips

Loris Azzaro set up his initial line in Paris in 1962 and by 1968 his business was a huge success. Born in Tunisia on February 9 1933, Azzaro was well known for the making of fascinating party dresses for the select few in the French society. His creations featured flamboyant beadwork and bold cutouts. Loris Azzaro’s collections are always named alphabetically named by season, he admitted to skipping the letters q, x and z as it was too hard to find names in favor of those letters.

The open sea became Loris Azzaro’s much-loved mode of expression and he forever and a day said that, “the blue color is the color that suits me”. Loris Azzaro found encouragement in the natural wonders of the world that is the Mediterranean, the love, the sun and the seduction. “I let myself carry by the atmosphere of the country of my childhood with his spiced odors, his colors, his flowers, his perfumes. It is the country where I become again really myself, the country where my preferred color is everywhere, azure of the sea and the sky”. His sources of inspiration were his love for the sea. He released male and female clothing lines and accessories as well as fragrances. In 1975 he created his first fragrance for woman, called ‘Couture’ this became his signature scent.

Over time Azzaro became well identified for his fragrances as much as his clothing line. In spite of his fame, Loris never designed haute fashion designer wear and was not an affiliate of the elite Chambre Syndicale - this groups the top designer’s presentation in France. In addition to Raquel Welch and Sophia Loren, Nicole Kidman, Azzaro’s creations were as well displayed via Marisa Berenson, Claudia Cardinale as well as Isabelle Adjani.

After his passing away at the age of 70 - November 20, 2003 in Paris, France - Vanessa Seward took over as head designer of the Azzaro label. The brand name continues to release clothing but is now better acknowledged for their fragrances line up. Original Loris Azzaro vintage pieces are still very much in demand.

Find Lorris Azzaro perfume and colognes on sale at Perfume Center. Read more about Lorris Azzaro perfumes

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Philips
http://EzineArticles.com/?Lorris-Azzaro---The-Master-Designer&id=671713

1960s Mod Style

Mod lifestyle emerged in England in early 1960s, and it is sometimes referred to as modism. Elements of the mod lifestyle include music, clothes, dancing and motorscooters. Working-class kids, inspired by the new British rock, came together to create a new culture. As if by spontaneous combustion, that culture quickly spread beyond England to the entire world; eventually it defined a generation. Since the mid 60s, the mainstream media often used the term mod in a wider sense to describe anything that was popular, fashionable or modern.

Here's a few videos showing the 1960s Mod Style!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cHB8ZK4njo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxsiqyAqgcc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJOHFYx51KY

Enjoy!

The Barbie Doll - Fashion Icon?

Barbie and Skipper - Two Famous Sisters by Christine Noe

I have to admit, I have great memories of playing Barbie while growing up. My sister and I must have easily had a couple dozen; toss in a couple Kens and you have hours of fun. We had a basket full of Barbie clothes and accessories and used to have to put our initials on the bottom of the furniture sets so we could tell who's was who's. The biggest rule was, never let our Labs near them! Some of the Barbies had made it out to the dog yard and wound up with half eaten legs.

These dolls got a whole lot of love, and hours upon hours of playtime. I used to dream 'if only' I could have one come to life like a fairy and carry it in my pocket. This was probably the influence of that book 'The Littles'. We would fool ourselves silly, putting 30 different pieces of paper into a basket with various games we could play; pet shop, restaurant, Barbies, Monopoly, etc.. We usually ended up picking games from the basket until Barbies came up.

To us the most fun was the event of choosing the Barbies. We would lay them out in a line and take turns; one by one, until all were all gone. Yes, this even included the hospitalized ones with the half eaten legs and the Miss America one who's hair got too unruly and had to have her head shaved. Then we would spend at least another hour or so, picking one by one through the clothes and accessories basket until we were satisfied. I am sure some outfits never made it out of the basket.

I remember going to Emporium and rushing to the Barbie aisle to find new outfits. It just seemed amazing how many new ones were constantly released. So many shoes! and somehow we had it all indexed what shoes we already had.

I don't really remember playing with the dolls so much as the enjoyment of selecting them, dressing them and setting them up on their furniture like structures. We never owned a Barbie Dream Home.. why? Because we were encouraged to use our imaginations. I never fully understood that, because we had all the furniture for it.. but so be it, a dish pan would be the pool, stacked crates would be the various rooms and horses would be the means of transportation.

Whether Barbie represented perfection or the impossible figure for a female to obtain, never really seemed to be a big deal. To us, it was just great fun and planted years upon years of memories.

On a recent visit, my mom rediscovered her old Barbies I had had out in my garage. She was like a kid in the candy shop, ooh'ng and ahh'ng over the home made clothes, the memories she and her sisters shared while growing up. It made me smile, seeing the memory was something we shared. How those silly Barbies ended up in my garage still remains a mystery!

Barbie has been full of longstanding controversy; saying everything from she is too sexy to her body type would look mutant in real life. Throughout the years several friends and relatives have been introduced to ride the wonderful wave of Barbie and her marketing. Barbie's most popular sister is Skipper (originally introduced in 1964). The Original Barbie was introduced in 1959.

The relationship between Barbie and her sister remains in the hearts of all the young girls around the world who played with them.

For more sister related articles please visit All About Sisters.

http://www.allaboutsisters.com - Copyright © 2008

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christine_Noe
http://EzineArticles.com/?Barbie-and-Skipper---Two-Famous-Sisters&id=1436154

VIDEOS: Twiggy

Hi all,

Here's some great videos of Twiggy, demonstrating her great 60's fashion sense. Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vu0JT-LFIcY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_vnPl5sSxo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Z5qsI0Tyhc

1960s London Fashion

Hi all,

Here's a fascinating video about fashion in the 1960s with a particular focus on what was happening in London at the time:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBq7icqGxB4

Enjoy!

Environmentally Friendly Clothing

Environment Friendly Clothing - A Step to Save The World by Gaurav Doshi

Nature serves humans and is the source of our bare necessities. Nowadays, the global trend is towards saving nature. In the light of this awakening, the trend is changing in textiles from manmade materials to eco-friendly ones. The demand of the consumers is also changing from polyester and conventional cotton to eco-friendly garments.

These kind of eco-friendly garments are made from different products like Lycocell, Ingeo, Organic cotton, Hemp, Bamboo and Soy. The fibre which is made of wool-pulp cellulose is known as Lycocell. This is a good alternative of rayon.

Hemp fibre does not need pesticides. Just a small quantity of water is enough for the production of this fibre.

Ingeo is a fibre made of bio-degradable material. This is a fibre made by man by converting corn into polymer. Organic cotton is the material which is made by using organic materials. No pesticides are used in its production. The amount of water being used is also 25% less than what is used in conventional cotton production.

The fabric being produced from bamboo is soft and has anti-bacterial qualities. The fabric made by using different soy products like soybean oil, soy-milk and others are similar to silk in look and even in feel.

All these eco-friendly materials are produced using less water than others. They are manufactured without using any pesticides and bio-degradable materials. So, even the working environment is good for the health of workers.

It is a common belief that natural cotton is the most environment-friendly. In reality only those cottons are environment-friendly in the production of which no pesticides and chemical fertilizers are used. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides pollute the soil and thus they harm the environment. When cotton is dyed using chemical dyes, it contains heavy metals. These heavy metals contaminate the soil and crops. Thus the cotton being produced by these kinds of materials is not eco-friendly. Only those fabrics and materials are known as eco-friendly ones which do not harm the environment in any way and do not pollute the air, water or soil.

Soy fibers are fibers obtained from soy plants. In the year 1999, soybeans were used in a different way. He made underwear from the fibers made from soy plants. It was a good and economical alternative to conventional cloth. This cloth was smooth to touch and was very popular in the U.S. and Europe. China is a leading exporter and manufacturer of soy fabrics in the world, which is growing day by day.

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VIDEO - 1960s and 1970s Fashion. Real style!

Here's a fantastic little documentary on 1960s and 1970s fashion to give you a taste of what was being worn at that time:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYR6i1lFey0

Cheers and enjoy!

Biba - Icon of the 1960s and 1970s

The Return of Biba by Ceri Heathcote

Sixties Brit brand Biba was originally founded by Barbara Hulanicki in 1964. It became hugely popular with its Kensington department store selling everything from fashion to home furnishings and more. Biba played a key role in classifying London as the most fashionable city in the world during the seventies. The store attracted many celebrity customers including Mick and Bianca Jagger, Twiggy, Yoko Ono, Bridgitte Bardot and Raquel Welch. The store were an amazing retail environment that combined Art Decco, Noveau, Victoriana and the golden age of Hollywood. Unfortunately in 1975, the store closed down.

In 2006, much to our delight, Biba relaunched at London Fashion Week. The new label has a modern look but still holds onto the bold and innovative design that was it signature back in the days. Biba is distinctly British and manages to combine the legendary rock and roll spirit of its heyday with present day style. I love Biba, probably because the clothes remind me of the sorts of clothes that my mother wore when I was younger.

For Spring Summer 08 Biba have surpassed themselves with a collection featuring rich prints and luxurious fabrics. The attention to detail on the garments make them really special with smocking, pintucking and pleating creating subtle but interesting texture and shape. The new fresh faced Biba has really topped off the Spring Summer collection with gorgeous accessories like the patent, canvas and kid leather pumps, brightly coloured shoes with striped stack heels and ethically inspired big gold buckles. The collection is nostalgic, charming and quite irresistible.

This article was written for Designerhighstreet.com The webzine with all the latest fashion and style including floral dresses, bikinis, jumpsuits, prom and party dresses

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http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Return-of-Biba&id=1241075

The Mini Skirt and Retro Fashion

Do You Remember: Retro Fashion and 70s Nostalgia by Zane Clements

Take for example the Mini Skirt.

Mary Quant, chanteuse of the swinging 60’s Carnaby Street, is credited as the first to reveal the ultra-short miniskirt. The mini was shocking, and not since the 20’s flapper had exposing your knee caused such a stir. Respectable ladies wore skirts at knee length, and young girls were supposed to follow the respectable path, but something happened when the daring Quant shortened skirts, and the world went mod.

Designer Andre Courreges is also credited with the mini’s creation, but Quant successfully commercialized the new freedom of teenage fashion, exposing the sexually explosive 60’s to the mini. The all-too-revealing miniskirt coincided with the birth of the sexual revolution, and exposed more than legs. The birth control pill hit the market in 1960, and in 1962, feminist and future Cosmopolitan editor Helen Gurley Brown published Sex and the Single Girl, a support manual for young women who refused marriage but didn’t want to sacrifice the most primal urge. Sex was everywhere, and even more shocking than girls enjoying sex was that they were talking about it. And the miniskirt was the best advertisement for the sexual revolution.

Girls could strut their stuff, free to expose their sensuality, and men were just going to have to deal with it! No more covering up, keeping flesh under wraps because of the consequences of temptation. The miniskirt boldly stated the new confidence of a woman’s body, and her place in the feminine world. Protection and ‘providing for’ was no longer what the 60’s gal wanted. She called the shots, and in her sexy new miniskirt, she got what she wanted.

The miniskirt has remained a major staple throughout the years, as a sign of both sexuality and confidence (though we should warn you that showing thigh won’t instantly turn you into an Amazon princess. The mini might make you look sexy, but the confidence part is up to you). The 80’s returned the miniskirt back to pure unadulterated sensuality when Madonna slithered across the floor in thigh-high, black lycra miniskirts. Paired with lace tights and mesh shirts that exposed the navel, the 80’s miniskirt was unashamed and in your face. The 60’s mini was mild in comparison to the body-hugging shamelessness of 80's cotton lycra.

The mini-skirt received even more controversy when it found its way into the professional realm of the 90’s. Heather Locklear’s ‘Amanda’ on Melrose Place stirred up attention in her skirts that barely hung below the hemline of her suit jackets. Professional women were conflicted: yes, the mini-skirt made your legs look fabulous, but was this going too far? When Calista Flockhart’s title character on Ally McBeal received more attention for her skirts than for her law practice, girls had to wonder if the line had been crossed.

Hemlines rise and fall faster than the stock market—where liberated women are down on the exchange floor beside their fellow man, thank you very much. The true fashion icon of the 60’s, the mini skirt is fearless: it allows women to celebrate their sexuality, and yet defies the old fashion convention of yesteryear.

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Mary Quaint and the Mini Dress and Mini Skirt

Thank You Mary Quaint - For The Mini Dress! by Sarah H

It was the year 1960 and the world was to experience a lot of changes among them the introduction of the Mini Dress, which was said to be launched at the same time as the birth control pill was introduced. The introduction of the birth control pill is said to have brought on the sexual liberation of women and free love became a reality. Because of the sexual liberation of women and the free love that followed, the mini skirt became popular, not only for young teenage girls, but also for young mothers and even grandmothers who were adventurous enough to wear them.

Mary Quaint who by 1966, was producing short mini dresses and skirts for her boutique bazaar, from an idea she adapted from the 1964 designs of designer “Courreges”, is credited in part for the popularity of the mini dress and skirt, which did not become popular when it was first introduced earlier on. It became popular because it was quite different and was basically designed with young teenage girls in mind, but because of its popularity soon became the height of fashion with old and young alike.

With the shortening of hemlines, emphasis was placed on the legs and stockings became important and soon there were different colors and fashions, like fish net stocking, and so Ernestine Carter declared 1963 the year of the legs. In that same year the British Society for the Preservation of the Mini Skirt was formed, and boasted of some 450 mini skirts enthusiasts, who claimed that their society was for the good of mankind. In 1996 when Christian Dior was about to launch their new fashion of long coats and dresses the society protested, carrying banners that said” Mini Skirts Forever” and “Support the Mini”.

In 1967 the mini dress and skirt started turning into a micro mini with hemlines reaching as far as their bottom. These micro dresses and skirts were basically just a strip of material and because it was so short it was necessary to replace the stockings and suspenders that were usually used with the introduction of the pantyhose. Finally the 1960s which is affectionately remembered as the “Swinging Sixties” has brought a lot of changes with regards to the way women were looked upon and has made its mark in history with these changes in women dress hemlines and with the introduction of the birth control pill and the free love spirit that came about due to these changes.

Find more great tips and ideas on dressing at http://www.allaboutdresses.net/ a website offering tips, advice and resources on topics such as the mini dress, dresses by Jennifer Lopez, modern prom dresses and even jingle dresses.

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Looking for Classic, Retro and/or Vintage Clothing?

Vintage Fashion - Why It's Not Just Old Clothes by Karen Richards

Some may think that vintage fashion is just a fancy way of saying second-hand or pre-loved. In the past dressing in cast-offs or hand-me-downs was usually done out of economic necessity and not by choice.

People who wear vintage fashion nowadays know that it is more than outdated clothes found in thrift shops. Vintage is serious fashion. Garments from the 1940s & 1950s are categorized as ‘classic’, while clothing from the 1960s & 1970s are considered ‘retro’.

So why has vintage become so popular?

• Wearing vintage is stylish. It’s in vogue!

• At the same time it is so trendy, it is mainstream.

• Adding vintage pieces gives your wardrobe pizzazz.

• With vintage you buy what you love, what appeals to you, creating your own distinctive style.

• The level of quality for cost is impossible to get in new clothing.

• It’s a source for one-of-a-kind clothes. One less thing to worry about in the world, as it’s not likely anyone else will have the exact same outfit.

• Can’t afford designer clothes. There’s always vintage – which is where most designers get their inspiration anyway.

• It has exceptional quality and tailoring. You can find pieces with gorgeous details including amazing hand-stitchery, buttons, trims and other lovely embellishments.

• Shopping for vintage is thrilling. You never know what you will find.

• Vintage can be beautiful and elegant or fun and quirky.

• Made from quality fabrics with first-rate workmanship, vintage pieces have stood the test of time.

• It’s very collectible. Vintage clothing is an investment. Keep it in good condition and it will always go up in value.

Karen Richards grew up surrounded by collections of all kinds. She inherited her love of anything with a history from her parents who have collected and dealt in antiques for over half a century. Her passion is vintage fashions and catalogues. She owns The Cats Meow- Classics in Vintage Clothing and Accessories a great place to find that one of a kind quality garment – gently used, vintage, vintage inspired and designer clothing. Visit her online at http://www.catsmeowclassics.com.

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Retro Hippie Fashion

The 60's Are Back in Clothing Styles by Thomas Cohen

It seemed that as the 60s faded out and the 70s came along to replace an ere there was a few characters that failed to notice that the decade had changed. They were referred to as "old hippies" and they hung on tight to what they felt looked good and many of them are still dressed that way today.

It was definitely not an "off the shelf" look, because just about every customised feature that was worn during the Hippie or "flower child" era had to be created by hand. So much of what they did during that time was done on a pair of old faded "Levi" jeans. This is because, what many people don't realize is that during that time "Levi Strous" was, for the most part, the only show in town.

Sure, there were a few other brands of jeans such as Wranglers that a true hippie would not be caught dead in, due to the fact that Wranglers were the favorite garb of "red necks", who happened to be the arch enemy of the hippie. Then there were other "off brands" of jeans that were sold in places like K-Mart and J.C. Penny stores that just wouldn't "cut it" in the eyes of the true discriminating hippie.

So, it was Levis and not just any Levis, because they had to be faded somewhat. When the straight legged look went to bell bottoms in the middle of the hippie era, rather then throw out perfectly good faded Levis, many hippies adapted. What they would do is cut out a big "V" in the bottom of the leg and then stitch in some fabric of a contrasting color and design. This effectively turned what was once straight legged Levis into bell bottoms, only with a personalized unique look.

Written by Thomas Cohen. Find the latest information on Gucci Bracelets as well as Juicy Couture Flip Flops.

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Hippie Fashion

The Hippie Fashion Statement by Robert Fuller

The Hippie counterculture that started out in the 1960’s was more than just a movement advocating peace and freedom. What started out as a peaceful protest against the established societal norms and political arena that was in place, became an entire lifestyle that the hippies lived out from waking to sleeping, and from head to toe.

A lot of people followed the hippie movement. Some were motivated to become hippies themselves, while some found their views and how they expressed them quite interesting. Even if some were not exactly that passionate about what the hippies lived for, the hippie trend still managed to catch on. From long-haired men, to vegetarians, and to odd clothes, a lot of people soon had a bit of a hippie in them.

Although the hippie statement about breaking free from society and pursuing liberation and peace was the movement’s main theme, it became easy for people to know hippies more popularly because of their odd way of dressing and conducting themselves. Because of their rather eccentric clothes, they stood out quite starkly from the crowd. This is why the term “hippie” would often bring to mind a long-haired person, clad in sandals or sometimes even barefoot, wearing colorful tie-dyed shirts, a vest, bell-bottom pants, and several other accessories. For the ladies, the picture may also consist of colorful peasant blouses and long, full skirts.

These fashion threads have now been modernized and are accepted by the fashion world. Bell-bottom pants are now a worldwide hit. What used to be trendy back in the past, and went out of the trend for a long time, is now the “it” pair of jeans nowadays. The long, full skirts of the hippie women are now an option for any woman who wants to go feminine. The skirts are now designed in new and creative ways, using different fabrics, and come in various designs and colors. The peasant blouses are also a worldwide success. The blouses are even extended to become peasant dresses by maintaining its basic design. The blouses now come in many different varieties, colors, designs, just as long as it does not lose the basic peasant look. The tie dye trend is also now used in a variety of garments. T-shirts, tank tops, skirts, dresses, sundresses, hats, and even underwear are now tie-dyed. The mix of bright colors has made tie-dyed garments popular especially during the summer season.

Due to the wide fashion arena that accepts almost everything as a fashion statement, no matter how weird a piece of clothing may look at first, fashion can make it seem trendy and beautiful in the long run. As the hippie fashion threads caught on, people begun to look at them as strong fashion statements – eccentric and unique clothes that stood out from the crowd and was closely associated with freedom of expression. A lot of people, especially those who wanted to be unique, embraced the trend fully.

Up to the present, some modern-day hippies still wear the same odd clothes. But they’re not so odd anymore, because they’ve become part of the fashion mainstream. Some who wear the getup are possibly not true-blue hippies at all. We also see a lot of movie roles who sport the hippie getup. It has also somehow become a stereotype, because of the popularity it obtained.

However, no matter how commercialized the hippie fashion statement may get, in truth, it is still closely linked with hippie values. After all, when a hippie getup is seen, it is still known as “the hippie getup”. And it still epitomizes what the hippies stood for. Freedom from restrictions and of self-expression, in that they sported long, unkempt-looking hair without caring what other people may think. Liberation and opposition of the corporate pillars in place, in that they often made their own clothes and went barefoot. Peace and love, in that they use cheerful, bright colors that show off a peaceful, positive outlook in a beautifully free life.

Custom tie dye clothing and hemp products for the modern hippie. Eco-friendly tie dye clothing and hemp products for the modern hippie.

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1970s Fashion

Fashion In The 1970s by Priyanka Arora

The 1970s continued the hippie look reminiscent of the past decade. Worn out jeans remained popular as well as the tie-dye. The fashion for unisex was on the upswing. Afro hairstyle and platform soles became in with the rise of the radical chic.

It is said that male appearance got changed more in this decade than any other time in the century. In the US, fashion was focused on simple and longer skirts. Jeans became more popular, becoming an accepted item in the fashion scene. Some of the designers who rose to popularity were Calvin Klein and another US designer, Ralph Lauren. Meanwhile, Pierre Cardin popularized a staple style of clothing featuring narrow shoulders with tight fitting lines, having no tie and interfacing, and coupled with jackets and tunics. Men also opted to dress down, regarded as hippie', and this gained recognition as more of a deliberate look.

One of the more innovative designers of the decade was Kenzo Takada, who mixed Western and Oriental influences to create a new fashion trend. Another name worthy to mention is Sonia Rykiel, who created figure hugging knits. An Italian designer who made waves in this decade was Giorgio Armani, who made a distinctively successful collection of clothes for women in 1975.

It was also during the '70s when fashion trends began to cross borders quickly. Western fashion trends were looked upon by the rest of the world. Synthetic materials were also introduced. The decade also got inspiration from fashion trends in the previous decades.

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