Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Must see: the Powder and the Glory on PBS

I love a good entrepenurial tale and I especially love learning about women who made their mark in business - this new documentary on Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein is fascinating ! These two women started beauty empires at the turn of the century and changed our world forever, they were innovators, risk takers and whip-smart businesswomen .
http://www.pbs.org/thepowderandtheglory/ . Plenty of eye candy in this too, deco compacts and purses, fabulous clothing, vintage footage and more.
If this interests you be sure and read up on Madam C.J. Walker (b 1867 d.1919) she became the first female self made millionare in American history by developing and selling hair care products .

Unbelieveable Jo Copeland Fuschia lace and Black Jersey



Seriously ? I ask you dress; are you seriously so amazing ? From every angle late 1940s couture quality , elegant , quirky, sexy without being too revealing, and that pop of color ! Pinch me!
There is so little information out there on Jo Copeland, but I did read that she designed directly on the body instead of a dress form. In person you can really see how the draping and fit are extremely body concious and flattering. I really love the use of jersey and the extreme asymetrical bodice.

My favorite repro of all time


It's rayon , has a darling heart print, cute cuffed sleeves with contrasting red lining, a peplum and is over the top 40s cute , but its totally 70s ! Joseph magnin , a lovely crepe and cute as pie.
And how lucky am I ? My new shop gal also makes a naturally good model, I think she shows off my clothes beautifully !
She also happens to be a fabulous artist and smart, sassy young woman who plays the washboard and is an aspiring bluegrass musician . I really do meet the best people in this business!