Monday, August 24, 2020

INSPIRATIONS FROM THE GOLDEN AGE OF HOLLYWOOD

 

How about a bit of 1930s glam? Every designer in love with the Golden Age of Hollywood has to have a version of the Letty Lynton dress in at least one collection. Designed by the great Adrian for Joan Crawford in the 1932 production of Letty Lynton, it was the dress that changed fashion. The long, lean silhouette in satin and crepe had been the established 30s chic till Adrian's cream puff in white organdy came along. In the workroom, Adrian mused it was a bit over the top, never realizing how this dress with huge sleeves would or could rock the fashion world. In the era of depression, Macy's knocked off thousands and every designer had a big, ruffled version of their own. 90 years later, my Letty Dress follows the same lines. Kind of. The bodice is ruffled organza, twirled into giant roses at the shoulders instead of rows of ruffles attached to bias strips. Dappled down the front bodice I added beaded handmade flowers (no cute little Peter Pan collar or jewel neckline). My skirt is tulle and tied at the bodice with a Chantilly lace sash. No peplum because how many of us sport Joan Crawford's barely there hips?  Available via Amy Jo Tatum Bridal Couture.