Charm School Vintage

Charmschoolvintage.com

2011-12-23T13:05:00.000-08:00

Hello there! If you're wondering why I haven't posted in a couple weeks, it's not that I've forgotten about you, I've just been working on a new, spiffier website/blog for the holidays.

Come visit us at charmschoolvintage.com and let me know how you like the new site.
xoxoxo

FEV sneak peek: Dana Falconberry

2011-12-02T12:39:00.000-08:00

For our most recent Femme et velo shoot this past Sunday, I was thrilled to shoot one of my best friends and one of the most beautiful women I know, the super talented musician Dana Falconberry. I love making Dana model for me (check out this previous Dana's Picks post on the blog) and I love making her play dress up, so this was just another Sunday afternoon for us. Dana's music is all about the beauty and wonder of nature, so it seemed appropriate for the boys and I to packed her and my old red cruiser into the van and take off for the woods.

Zach and Mike are always going on long bike rides through the country, so we headed for a little spot they'd found towards Manor...

Off we go!

I have the most stylish photographers.

I mean, come on, right?

Ah! Love this girl!

Just hangin' out under the bridge, is all...

Us and the buzzards.

We found this beautiful property...

It was still green.

I like this shot a lot.

Sometimes we shoot and we could be anywhere, but I felt very Texas today.

This look was my favorite.

Dana's new album cover, perhaps?

Oh, to be alive!

Don't be mad, Zach, we'll shoot again next week.

Such a wonderful model!

Looks good, guys. Can't wait to see Mike and Zach's photos come Monday!

xoxoxo

Forbidden Vices

2011-11-29T14:25:00.000-08:00

`I had the best Sunday ever... Waffle brunch at my house? Check. Femme et velo photo shoot with my beautiful friend Dana Falconberry? Check. Turn the Swan Dive into an opium den with seven hot hussies in tow? Double check!

Allyson and I, with the help of Summer Lawson from Black Swan Theory Vintage, styled up some of my favorite trashy ladies with teased wigs, smokey eyes, and barely there vintage underpinnings to evoke the atmosphere of an Oriental drug den for this month's Vintage Vivant. Whether you were too baked to make it out, or too high to remember the evening, here are some photos of everyone enjoying their vices. This amazing party is always the last Sunday of the month, so come out and play with us!

xoxoxo

Here are the harlots:

Erin, Fiona, and Shelley...

Sarah, and her absinthe cocktail

Drea

Blakesley

Jordan

That hair!

Tracy and her opium pipe

Allyson, the wig wizard herself

Love these wonderful ladies

xoxox

Damn, girls.

Decadence.

Debauchery.

Off duty harlot

Me looking tired, Drea looking darling

Drea and Diamond, who just happened to have

this gold cigarette holder lying around.

Our cocaine coquettes were the only fabulously attired bunch.

There were so many amazing costumes that night, including..

Drew, with his intravenous absinthe drip

Colin and Angel, in full Imperial Court attire

Love all this red

Absinthe fairy, in a custom wig from Coco Coquette

Lovely Miss Summer and her man

What a babe, Jackie!

Elizabeth, looking stunning

Becky and Margot

(love these girls)

Another gorgeous green fairy

Lovely Marley

Nora, setting the bar high for all who enter

Shayne and Joshua,

what a stylish pair

Steampunk absinthe camelback.

Wish I'd thought of that.

Angel in Devaki's amazing fur-lined photo den

Weston darling, you have something in your mustache.

Raven came in the most amazing Chinese dragon outfit

Gina, otherwise known as Gin Seng, who showed up with Kitty...

... and this amazing get up on under her coat.

And pot leaf panties.

I don't know what this is, but I love it.

Scott, getting slapped around

Photo time

Sick and Professor Reese Gray,

singing the night away

Amelia, you're a vision, nose bleed and all.

Hostesses

Frannie as Snow White, about to perform

Oh my!

And forbidden apples for the whole audience!

Ladies and gentlemen, Billy Beasty

Happy Birthday, Sara!

You, sir, have out glittered me. Time to call it a night.

Hope you all had fun, and see you next month!

Empire waists and elastic: Things to be thankful for on Thursday

2011-11-23T10:25:00.000-08:00

Real quick before I go grocery shopping for tomorrow, here are six stunning fall dresses to wear to Thanksgiving dinner. Thanks to some strategically placed elastic and a high waist, they'll feel just as lovely as they look, even after your third helping of turkey, 'cause a girl has to think ahead about these things.

Have a wonderful holiday, everybody. We'll be closed on Thursday but open again on Friday in case you want to take the relatives shopping. I am so thankful for all of my sweet and lovely customers. Thank you for making me love what I do!

xoxoxo

Whole Grain dress (m/l) $42

Harvest dress (m) $38

Soap Bubble dress (s) $46

Daytripper dress (s/m) $54

Rosebud dress (s/m) $42

Avon dress (m) $38

xoxoxoxo

Party on

2011-11-21T13:48:00.000-08:00

Who needs a large dehydrated bird and a box of Stovetop to remind you what you're thankful for when there are weekends like this? My world was stuffed with good friends old and new, good music, good food, and good times starting with our East Austin Studio Tour happening on Saturday night. We stayed open late and splashed red wine and pink Moscow Mules while the fabulous Kate and Andy spun vinyl and Devaki Knowles cranked out one killer photobooth (stocked with amazing props crafted by our artist Aaron Flynn, of course). The turnout was stellar, and we're always so happy to share our space with so many wonderful souls whenever we can. I was too busy taking care of business to snap photos of all my favorite people out that night, but here are a few gems.

xoxoxo

Amelia!

Corey and Morgan

New friends

Davi and Jackie!

xoxox

Love Drea in this wolf head that Aaron made

Darling Jennifer rocking another of Aaron's props

Marques Harper of the Statesman

Talented jewelry designer Margot Wolf and model/photographer Shelley Neuman

Erin, contemplating a radical change

Babes in new CSV sequins on the couch

Our artist Aaron Flynn in his tutu cape

DJ Andy, fine and dandy

(love those leather suspenders with corsage)

Mr. Billy Beasty, making party face

Then the next night my partner Allyson hosted a beautiful celebration of thanks in her backyard. My tiny little camera phone couldn't begin to capture how lovely the evening was, with big paper lanterns, succulents filled with rhinestones and sequins on every table, hand painted feathers at each setting, and some of the most amazing folk in Austin. The meal was catered by Royal Fig, complete with a donut bar for dessert with chocolate and lemon glaze and little shot glasses of almond milk.

So magical...

Bonus drawing in the book of thanks

Kate and Charlotte

Topza and I stealing everyone's feathers to make headdresses

Mood lighting

Wonderful Michael and his wonderful mama

Allyson and Angel

Francesca!

Michelle and Tiana

xoxo

FEV sneak peek: Night Rider

2011-11-18T11:38:00.000-08:00

Just had another fabulous Femme et velo shoot last night with Zach, Mike, and my incredible friend and co-worker Drea DiPrete. If you've read more than two posts on my blog, chances are you've already seen Drea, 'cause I can't get enough of this girl. Between holding down the shop for Allyson and I every Sunday, supplying us with gorgeous flower headpieces and fascinators, choreographing show-stopping dances for all of our shows, and being our go-to model, she's a pretty indispensable member of our collective.

Stop by Charm School after brunch one of these Sundays and visit her, and in the meantime,

check out these sneak peek pics and stay tuned for Zach and Mike's lovely photos starting Monday.

xoxoxo

Tuxedo jacket (m) $54

Easy Tiger silk blouse (m) $36

Grey Days body con dress (s/m) $42

Black faux fur shrug $58

Black leather fingerless gloves $28

Black leather belt $36

Black felt hat $38

Navajo poncho $54

Black English riding boots (sz 9) $88

Fall uniform

2011-11-14T09:42:00.000-08:00

All year I look forward to the layering possibility that cold weather brings, but this fall I'm really appreciating the simplicity of a solid, day-to-day uniform. All you really need to look super stylish with no sweat is to take a cue from the boys: slim button down, just right jeans, and a great jacket. Personally, I never get tired of the Americana and ease of men's wear-inspired plaid paired with high waisted 70's bells and a fringed suede coat.

Lucky you, Charm School is stocked with these staples in tons of sizes and colors, so stop by and check them out!

xoxox

Canoe shirt (s) $32

Cabin shirt (m) $32

Campfire shirt (l) $32

On the Fringes dark blue suede jacket (m) $68

Daniel Boone suede jacket (s) $48 (as is)

Calico jeans (28" waist) $38

Brady bells (27" waist) $46

Washed out bells (29" waist) $44

Adorable bells (26" waist) $46

A wind from the EAST

2011-11-11T10:45:00.000-08:00

East Austin Studio Tours start this weekend, just in time for some seriously heavenly, sunshine-y weather. Our little shop is stop number 20, and we are thrilled to display new works from two of our favorite gentlemen about town, Aaron Flynn and Billy Beasty.

We're going to have a really killer party on Saturday the 19th featuring DJ Fine & Dandy (xo Kate Messer ox), photo booth by the lovely and talented Miss Devaki Knowles of Fun Loving Photos with that amazing Polaroid camera of hers, and a special video screening by Annie Simpson. It's probably going to be the best thing you do all week, but in the meantime, here's a little sneak peek of the crazy awesome (or awesomely crazy?) shit that's on our walls right now. Come see it in person!

Prints of tides

2011-11-10T14:11:00.000-08:00

I've been terrible about lately about posting photos of new items, but don't think that means that there's not tons of sick shit in the store right now, 'cause there is. Don't take my word for it, though. Check out these photos and if something splashy catches your eye, just let me know, sugar.

(Also, East Austin Studio Tours start this weekend so stop by and say hi

while you're out taking in the sunshine and all the killer art.

We've got a great show lined up, but more on that later...)

Easy Tiger silk blouse (m) $36

Cute Overload sweatshirt (m/l) $38

Polker Face jacket (m) $38

Marcia high waisted shorts (s) $32

Escher dress (s) $42

Seeing Spots jacket (m) $34

Wild Thing mini skirt (s) $36

Uh-mazing Egyptian Cache jacket (m) $64

Earn Your Stripes dress (m) $38

Thanks for looking!

xoxox

Girl just wanna have fun, fun, fun...

2011-11-07T08:50:00.000-08:00

So the big news of this weekend is that my mom came into town for a visit! Oh, and I went to Fun Fun Fun Fest on Friday. My mission was to photograph super stylish babes, but two things happened. One is that I got too busy having fun fun fun, and the other is that I realized I was already hanging out with the most stylish girls in sight, and I photograph those bitches all the time.

Here's my recap, y'all.

My girl Mary got her gentleman friend to drop us off out front

like freshmen at the Homecoming dance.

Thank you, Sean!

...crazy about this girl...

I thought we'd arrived too late and missed the Heartless Bastards,

but hark!

That's a handsome beard, Dustin Wyatt.

Babe at the skate ramp.

No one warned us about the consumptive dust cloud.

Alanna generously came to our aid and performed mitosis on her bandana.

This gentleman won my vote for most stylish festival goer.

His prize? My iPhone in his face.

Girl, I know what you're thinking, and there are no turkey legs here.

Wrong festival!

This jacket also really did it for me.

Mary: Ryan Gosling is on that stage.

Me: Which one is Ryan Gosling?

Babes with big hair and expensive beer.

Big Freedia, you're the best.

xoxoxo

Ran into Gina and Johnny...

...and this super cute girl in the poncho she bought from Charm School last Wednesday.

Looking good, lady!

I really enjoyed how everyone looked like they were about to rob a bank...

...almost as much as I enjoyed running into uberbabes Emily and Tiffany

(Femme et velo models past and future) at the Prototype booth!

I'm still coughing black from all the dust and second hand smoke, but what a great time.

See y'all next year!

xoxox

Femme et velo sneak peak: Jenny

2011-11-04T10:15:00.000-07:00

Monday starts a new round of Femme et velo photos, this time taken with my dear friend Jenny Woys. The story of my friendship with Jenny is pretty much a Ryan Gosling movie... I spotted her from across a crowded room, took one look at her shoes, and it was love at first sight. Since then we've have a great time collaborating on a fashion show for her blog Champagne Derelicts, the Dreaming in Color show earlier this month, and other fab projects, so it was only a matter of time before I persuaded her to model for Femme et velo. This girl has style and substance in spades and I'm so happy to have her involved!

All the clothing is available from Charm School,

so let me know if you want a little part of the shoot for your own closet.

xoxoxo

If there's anyone to make riding a bike look glamorous, it's Jenny.

Especially a sparkly gold cruiser, on loan from my co-worker Charlotte!

What this shoot really needed was peacocks, so we went to Laguna Gloria.

Birds of a feather

A photo of Mike, taking a photo of me

We got so lucky with the light through the trees

Doesn't she look like an angel?

Next stop, Mount Bonnell.

Jenny was such a trooper.

Not only was she riding in sky high Jeffrey Campbells the whole time...

...we put on a winding mountain road with oncoming traffic and said,

"Have at it!"

What a pro...

...making it all look so effortless.

Every time I looked back at Zach he was in a new surprising, and amazingly photogenic, position.

This portion of the shoot was probably my favorite,

thanks to the vista and the perfect dusky light.

Jenny made this skirt as part of her costume for our Dreaming in Color show.

It's enormous, and even more beautiful up close.

What a babe.

My new favorite modeling command is, "Pretend like you see a bird!"

We tried to squeeze in a few more shots before we lost the light.

The view up here was gorgeous.

Love her face here.

And that's a wrap!

After the shoot, I took Jenny and Zach to the Austin Chronicle "Best of" awards party,

where we ran into...

Amelia! Celebrating her win for Vintage Vivant!

xoxo

We had some refreshments...

(what a handsome guy)

...put on our dancing shoes...

...had some laughs...

...all in all, a wonderful time with wonderful people!

Thanks so much to Jenny for being so lovely and such a good sport,

and Zach and Mike for doing that thing they do so well.

Be sure to check out the new photo on FEV on Monday!

xoxox

Boo! Best of Halloween

2011-11-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

I managed to go the whole month of October without overindulging in candy, but I did go on a bit of a costuming binge. Can you blame a girl if she sees a pot of silver glitter and loses all control? I may have sacrificed half my eyelashes and given myself permanent wig hair, but looking back at these photos, I'd say it was all worth it. And with such a sassy, classy group of lady friends to make everything so magical, how could I not run amuck?

Allyson and I got tickets to the Ghoulwill Ball at the W for helping to style their divinely wicked PSA...

...Allyson as one killer Cruella de Ville...

...Alanna, blue lipped and beautiful...

...and me, wearing Allyson's divine Vampire Queen wig from the show

and a gorgeous silver beaded vintage burlesque costume.

(love love love)

We picked up amazing Miss Angel and arrived in style...

Behold this creature!

Trail of tears

I'm not going to lie, the best part of the whole party was the mashed potato bar,

where you could fill a martini glass with 'taters and toppings

(or if you're Alanna, just a glass of straight up pulled pork)

So elegant, Miss DeVille!

In line for fourth and fifth helpings at the mashed potato bar, we ran into Erin and Scott.

I can't get over the incredible job she did on their Dias de los Muertos make up!

I've seen lots of sugar skulls running around this Halloween,

but with those delicate lines and muted fall colors,

this was hands down my favorite interpretation.

Then on the way to the coffee bar,

we ran into two of my favorite designers from Tuesday's show,

Tina Sparkles and Chia!

These girls always look so so lovely.

Turning into a pumpkin at midnight...

good thing I didn't lose a shoe.

The next night, Allyson and I braved the Zombie Ball.

Her intended costume was some sort of glam wizard warrior,

but downtown this turns into "Aren't you Amy Winehouse?"

I think I'm going to start doing my make up like this

for going to yoga and the grocery store.

Borrowing some pieces from the Weird Sisters costumes from the show

My intended costume? Weird Sister wins blueberry Jell-O wrestling cock fight.

Which downtown gets me a lot of "Black Swan, right?"

Once we were at the Moody Theatre we ran into Fiona...

Holy shit, girl!

How are you so cute, and also so terrifying?

Then we met up with Lisa and Kate,

who scalped a lot of plastic cowboys and Indians to make that necklace...

Allyson did Kate's dastardly make up, too.

So talented!

Pit stop at Cheer Up Charlie's, and look who we found!

My new favorite friend, Miles,

handsomest space invader ever.

And Roxie and Erin, looking glam glam glam.

I first met these two at Hunter's fab Clue themed costume party

as Miss Peach and Mrs. Peacock.

Good to see you again, pretty ladies!

There are plenty of photos up from Vintage Vivant the following night,

but this is me before we left.

Love Allyson's girlie Viking get up

Drea nailing her Carmen Miranda face

We were pretty tired by the time actual Halloween rolled around the next night,

but I'm glad we stopped by Justine's.

What a lovely pair Greg and Allyson make!

My girl Jenny (making that nose job bandage look real good)

and Allyson

Colin and Angel, always such incredible costumes on these two.

xoxoxo

Then Jenny and I were sitting up at the bar,

and next the next thing you know, we're having an impromptu photo shoot

with a studious researcher. Dolphins, I think...

Oh. Hello there...

...and hello...

...don't mind if I do...

...a half windsor, yes?...

...I could care less...

...your hair...

...thanks, I bought it...

...pardon me?,,,

...you know what they say...

...hold still, darling...

...I knew it...

...Wait! I can't take this...

...but I have a plan...

...and it always works...

What the hell is going on here?

Sorry, darling, but I always win...

LE FIN

Until next Halloween, kittens!

xoxoxo

Witches Ball

2011-10-31T14:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween, everyone! This year Halloween has been more of a month-long state of mind than a single holiday. I haven't worn normal clothes after dark since our show last Tuesday, and though the glitter is getting a little sloppier and the circles under the eyes a little darker, I don't want it to end!

Of all the parties Allyson and I have been to this week, by far the most beautiful was last night's Vintage Vivant Witches' Ball. We judged the costume contest- no easy feat with so many incredibly attired individuals in attendance. Huge thank you's to Amelia and Angel for throwing this amazing event, and for asking us to participate. If you've never been, there's always next month.

xoxoxo

Uh-melia looking uh-mazing.

This is part of the bird in a gilded cage costume she made for our Dreaming in Color show.

Norah, holding down the door with style

Zombie Raven, angelic Angel, and Allyson as a peachy Viking!

I know how you feel, mama.

Maria, I think I'm in love.

Lovely Ashley Newton and myself...

These boys were so sweet. Lovely to meet you!

Weston, as if he needed a costume

Looking gorgeous, lady...

Us white-haired damsels stick together, me and Miss Hailey Tuck

Amelia and Reese

Sienna and her sister, new CSV + CC customers for life!

Oh. I thought I dreamt this man.

Hey pretty lady!

Teen Wolf Frannie... adorable!

Love this handsome couple... Shayne and Joshua

xoxox

Kitty as a mermaid being eaten by a shark.

Just saying.

Gina as... ????

Sea witch!

Loving my little Fiona as a Mandarin panda!

Werewolf Sassy!

Kate, my hero.

Beautiful Miss Natalie Ribbons

Adam as Ziggy Stardust (Drea loaned him this leotard, and if that's not customer service,

I don't know what is) with Colin who apparently was the Invisible Man, but I don't see him anywhere.

Marley, even as a witch, sweet as can be

Cute little Cathy in vintage Charm School Vintage

I really like this shot for some reason.

Drea, you ARE Carmen Miranda.

Allyson whipped up this Sweeney Todd wig in a snap

This woman is much happier than I would be if I had a huge bat on my head.

Kate, be still my heart.

Billy Beasty, the original Viking

YOU ARE SO CUTE!

Cheer up, buddy, it's not so bad!

Sorry Tina Sparkles, even those eyes and teeth can't take you from cute to scary.

Love this one, too.

He was covered in a million Post Its.

Handsome magician Drew

Jeremiah's photo booth

Time for the costume contest!

After much deliberation, the first place winner and recipient of a custom devil wig is...

Shark eating mermaid and sea witch!

No contest, right?

Second place went to this amazing creature...

And third place to this incredible black and white couple!

Don't be mad you didn't win, honey, there's always next year...

Have a great night tonight, everyone, and be safe!

Beautiful Monsters

2011-10-27T15:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning I woke up with a bad case of the post-performance blues. Tuesday night's Beautiful Monsters show was so much fun, and everyone looked so incredible... can't we do it again next week, ladies?

From the dancers to the designers, the make up artists and tech crew, Allyson and her amazing wigs... everyone worked so hard to put together a flawless show, and couldn't be more proud of the result. We can't do it every week, but at least I have some great behind the scenes photos of all the mischief and mayhem

Check out Jeremiah Newton's impeccable portraits of all the performers here,

and Kate Hellenbeck's beautiful behind the scenes shots here.

And thank you so so so much to everyone who came out for the show.

I can only hope you had half as much fun as I did!

xoxoxo

Zombie attack in the dressing room!

Sassy miss make-up artist Fiona helping Johanna with her eyelashes.

Our other make-up masterminds, Christina and Ashley

I know I've lived in the Facial Hair Capital of the World too long when I find this attractive.

Our MC Chris Lane in Wolfman costume

Our first performer Mari (Bride of Frankenstein! Eeeek!) is one of the most riveting dancers I've ever seen.

She could be doing the Macarena, and I'd want watch her all night.

Her designer makes amazing fetish pieces under the name Sacred Heart Rubber.

Check it out!

Hi. This is me as the Devil in Disguise.

And this is my beautiful designer Curry Beth!

Curry is my best friend because we can debate philosophical matters like

"four, or five rows of fringe on the hot pants?" and

"does the pentagram on the back of the jacket need another row of sequins?"

Amazing job, darling! I couldn't have loved my costume more!

Next was Stephanie as The Mummy, in an amazingly well researched and historically accurate costume by Kitty. Stephanie is part of a gorgeous Art Nouveau-inspired belly dancing troupe

called Apophenia that's very much worth checking out.

Kitty, bringing it as always

xoxo

Here's Ruby Lamb as The Creature from the Black Leather Lagoon.

I was worried she was going to chip a tooth biting that jeweled whip, but this chick is a professional!

She's one of three members of the Jigglewatts Burlesque Troupe that performed that night,

and an honest to god member of Satan's Cheerleaders, so we bonded over that.

And the genius behind that costume, my girl Alanna.

She made a pair of green fringe leather gloves and knee high black fringe boots

that I'm still dying over.

Next was Amae (also of Apophenia) as an amazing booty shaking Basilisk, complete with Snake Charmer.

In a show full of stellar make up, this look was one of my favorites.

Not like I was watching her face very much.

There was also a musical performance from Mistress Stephanie, a.k.a. The Sea Witch.

Not only were her wig, make up (by Fiona of Sassy Miss Waxy), and seashell-encrusted costume (by Chia) haunting and beautiful, she had a siren on theramin and a drowned sailor backing her up on guitar to really make the picture complete.

Maia and Danielle of Two Left Feet always blow me away,

and their murderous Siamese Twins dance was no exception!

Their designer Kramp Kouture made them a beautiful circus tent-esque skirt

that was sweet and theatrical and spooky and just pure magic.

Hallie Martin, a.k.a. Ruby Joule of the Jigglewatts, made a gorgeous Grim Reaper

with her teal satin and black velvet cape and glittering silver scythe.

I thought I was blown away by the exquisite sugar skull make up,

but then she got down to her hand made crossbone pasties...

The show stopper of the night was definitely Raven and her crew of sneak attacking, stripteasing zombies.

They didn't stop at dismembering audience members and taking off their clothes like regular zombies,

they peeled off their skin and even (*gulp*) a breast.

Coco Lectric (our third member of the Jigglewatts) made an amazing Hone-onna, the Japanese bone woman.

I don't know how she danced like that with the yards of fabric in Katinka Pinka's gorgeous white on white kimono and a four foot wing span of hair, but her performance was one of my favorites.

Sarah Stark. As the Spider Queen. Dancing to Bell Biv Devoe's "That Girl is Poison."

Yeah. It was even more awesome than it sounds.

You killed it, girl!

And here's the designer Summer Lawson of Black Swan Theory with cute little Ashley Newton.

These girls make Halloween look hot every day.

I also love love loved our take on the Weird Sisters, performed by Ellen Stader and Debra Schlutz

of The Sugarfoot Hustlers and Jennifer Sherburn. Allyson designed their costumes

(on top of creating all the wigs and producing the whole affair)

and they were even more incredible in motion and by the light of their glowing foggy cauldron.

And the for the grand finale, Drea as the Vampire Queen!

She, Allyson, and her designer Tina Sparkles went all out on this costume,

from the enormous bejeweled Marie Antoinette wig to the white contacts, fangs, the yards and yards of ruffled silk in the skirt to Drea's kung fu-inspired choreography. Wow. Wow wow wow.

Some of my favorite Charm School customers came out in their wigs, too!

Leah and Sarah

Katie and Jen

(such babes!)

Chri, as a plastic surgery-addicted mummy

Me, Curry, and darling Miss Margot Wolf

xoxo

Ahhh! That's what happens when you mess with Satan, Curry!

Yup. Yeah. Alright. Time to go home, boys!

It was a great night, hope to see you at the next one!

FEV behind the scenes: Meet Virginia

2011-10-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, every project I finish is my new favorite, but I'm really feeling our most recent Femme et velo shoot with my dear friend Virginia. I first met Virginia when I styled the Champagne Derelicts fashion show in August, and promptly fell in love with her wit, outrageous storytelling, and strong jawline.

Plus, she loves questionable music and is studying to be a park ranger. It doesn't get any cuter, right?

She was totally game to pile into the car with Zach, Mike, and me and just start driving. Somewhere outside of Seguin we found this spot- part farm, part Wild West ghost town, and home to...

The World's Largest Pecan.

Here's how the rest of the story goes...

That's a jaywalking wrap!

I hope you liked the photos. Our next model is the amazing Jenny Woys, and those will be up in a couple of weeks, so stay tuned.

xoxoxo

Gemini Gypsies Look Book

2011-10-21T10:11:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday I shot the first ever Charm School look book with an amazing creative team. It was my first collaboration with photographer Lindsey Lee, but from the moment she walked into the store we were bouncing ideas off of each other like we'd worked together for years.

This woman is incredible. She's 20, a writing student at St. Edward's, runs a business, and still cranking out new beautiful photos and videos at a rate that makes my head spin. She's also sweet and fun and energetic and so so so professional, I can't think of enough good things to say about her. Love this girl!

This shoot also reunited me with my favorite hair and make up team again, Ashley Hancock and Christina Svec. Ashley is a MAC master mind (not to mention a total babe) and Christina works her hair magic at Ricky Hodge's super stylish salon on east 6th. Go visit these girls, they both do such amazing work! Christina was also gracious enough to fill in as a model at the last minute, alongside gorgeous Ashley Abell. I first met Ashlyn at the Champagne Derelicts fashion show and am so happy to have finally gotten to work with this lovely girl.

Lindsey also made an awesome video of the shoot, so stay posted for that, and my behind the scenes pics of our team hard at work.

Thanks for looking!

xoxoxo

Whatcho wanna know?

2011-10-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

Kristen in her just-right new party dress

I love doing tutorials for my friends Rebekah and Amanda's blog Girls on the Style, but recently they asked if I'd mind giving an overview of how to shopping for vintage. I had a lot of fun answering their questions, but I was surprised to see how many were things I’m asked everyday by ladies shopping in the store. I forget sometimes that there are certain things you have to know when you're shopping for vintage, and it can be really hard to know when something is a good deal, good quality, a good fit or even if it is vintage at all, even if you’ve been doing it for years. Here's a little recap of my answers, and you can check out the original post and the rest of their wonderful blog here. I hope this helps clear up some of the mystery and if you want to know more, just come visit the store for a one-on-one tutorial!

xoxoxo

Paige in her beautiful new maxi dress

Girls on the Style: What’s the first thing you start looking for when you enter a vintage shop?

Shari: Whether I’m thrifting or in a vintage store, I always start with accessories. When an entire tightly packed rack of clothing seems too daunting, a straightforward shelf of shoes or display case of jewelry seems like a good way to ease into my search. Then on to belts and bags. Once I have a few treasures in my hands I’m fortified to go through the clothing. Lots of vintage stores are organized by color, so start at the colors that you typically wear and you’re more likely to find pieces that will go with the things you already own.

Cute new customer in her cut-out Cache vest

GOTS: Are there any “clues” or ways to tell if something is an actual vintage piece?
Shari: The tag is your first clue, followed by the construction. Spend enough time in a vintage store and you start to classify fonts by era pretty quickly. Also, underneath the woven tag you may find an ILGWU (International Ladies Garment Workers Union) tag. Garments made pre-1974 have tags in a number of colors, but from 1974 to 1995 tags were printed in red, white, and blue to emphasize that they were American-made. And even if you don’t see a ILGWU tag, chances are if it’s made in the US that it was made before outsourcing became the norm.
Vintage clothing also tends to be more thoughtfully constructed, with butterflied instead of surged seams and bias taped hems, or at least it was fifty years ago. Even if the construction doesn’t tell you the age, it screams the quality of the garment. If you don’t know what quality construction looks like, go to a high end department store and start turning clothes inside out. You’re not just paying for the name recognition, you’re paying for silk lining and boning and beautifully finished seams, and once you realize that you can get those details in a gorgeous vintage garment for a fraction of the price, Marc Jacobs won’t seem the same.

You can tell this dress is from the 1950's by the way it's cut...

...and by its construction.

GOTS: What should be passed over and what should we always keep an eye out for?

Shari: Pass over anything that doesn’t fit you well! Only you know if you really will get that dress taken in or if it will lurk in the back of your closet, so if it’s not right, or you can’t make it right in 20 minutes or less, let it go! Hemming is an exception. It’s a quick and easy alteration and worth it every time if it makes the difference between the garment being worn or ignored.I also say to keep an eye out for high-quality natural fabrics. They always look and feel better, and they’ll last if you care for them. Look for things you see yourself wearing everyday. The thought is always to splurge on a special occasion piece, but you should really spend on the pieces you’ll wear day in and day out and that tie everything else together: perfectly broken in boots, the just-right belt, the not-too-big purse that holds everything, great jeans.

Jen in her amazing new gold thread bell bottoms

GOTS: What are some things you would consider a steal?

Shari: Anything that makes you feel beautiful, integrates into your current wardrobe, fits you well, and is less than you were expecting it to be. Done and done. If it meets all four of those criteria and you pass it up, that circle skirt or flapper dress will haunt you like the Ghost of Christmas Past.

Sarah in her incredible new butterfly sequin top

GOTS: What about vintage sizes, are they different from current sizes?

Shari: I once read that if you take the vintage size and subtract 6, you have your current size, and I’ve found that to be more or less true. The problem is that modern clothing sizes vary so much from brand to brand, it’s hard for a girl to even know her current size. And with your size 7 microfloral sundress from 1991 and structured wiggle dress from 1961 both technically considered vintage, there’s no way to guaranteed that the same size will fit the same way from one era to the other. A much better way to shop is to know your measurements, carry a tape in your purse, and measure the garment beforehand. It’s not foolproof, but it’s infinitely more accurate. Plus, you can pay special attention to the areas where you know fit to be a problem, like your extra broad shoulders or extremely short waist. These are things that the number on the tag won’t tell you anyways, that they’re the deal breakers.Also ladies, know what clothes that fit you well look like when they’re not on your body and you’ll have more realistic expectations for what you take into the dressing room. Often clothes look appealing to us on the rack because they’re so small and cute, like a puppy, not because they’re going to be flattering. You’ll look smaller in clothes that fit you well.

Devaki rocking her new Blue Hawaii bathing suit

GOTS: Any other tips for scoring a great vintage find?

Shari: What makes something a find is it being great for you, so know your body and know what you like. The key is not to try to make every passing trend fit your body, but to find what really works for your lifestyle and build, and slowly acquire pieces that will work together. The strong shouldered 80’s blazer that makes one girl feel overwhelmed is another girl’s daily staple. There’s no quick and easy answer, you have to invest time and effort into honing your personal style, and once you find it you’ll have a closet full of pieces (old and new) that work together and flatter you.

Justin in his new kitty shorts. Meow!

Night Moves

2011-10-17T13:02:00.000-07:00

I love working with new people, and a couple weeks ago I collaborated on a shoot with a whole new creative team. I met the photographer, Waytao Shing, through his girlfriend Kristen, one of my cutest Charm School regulars. Waytao is an amazing music photographer, but we started scheming about creating some really urban, high fashion images and it seemed like the perfect chance to collaborate with the lovely Ana Castro before she moved to Vienna. Ana is an incredibly talented hair stylist, but what really blows me away is her work with wigs.

My girl Christina Svec assisted Ana for this shoot. Here she is wearing one of the wigs while Ana gives it just the right razor-y cut.

Next she blended colors and airbrushed this platinum wig with delicious cotton candy colors.

Our beautiful model Harmony before...

...and after.

Gorgeous Elena getting all sprayed down.

I'd seen the exquisite make up Ashley Hancock does at Vintage Vivant, but this was our first time working together. She was so sweet and knowledgeable and professional, I've roped her into three projects since then! She's a treasure, and her make up for this shoot was flawless.

See what I mean?

Loved this orange lip with the pink hair.

Here's Waytao and his assistant Sean hard at work.

I was so impressed by both our models and how well everyone worked together.

(love this touch up shot)

That's a wrap!

I can't wait to see the edited photos later this week. Thanks for all your hard work, team, you're the best!

xoxox

Refined and Recycled

2011-10-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

We're extra giddy over at Charm School today. Not only were we named a Critic's Pick for Best Recycled and Refined, but Coco Coquette was also named Best Wig-Out and Salon d'Etoile was named the Most Stylish, Unpretentious Salon! A clean sweep for Maison d'Etoile! I can't even express how grateful we are to have such incredible customers, and so much love and support. Everyday I am overwhelmed by the amazing people that I interact with and by how much I love what I do.

On a sillier note, the PSA that Erin and I filmed for Goodwill's Halloween Ball is up now. Check it out here. Just a little something to get you thinking about your costume...

xoxox

Fancy pants

2011-10-13T11:54:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I question my sanity, living in a place where 90 degree days in mid-October are celebrated as "cooler weather." I know I'll still be comfortably wearing shorts for weeks to come, I'm doing my part to summon fall with this latest styling guest post for my friends Amanda and Rebekah's blog Girls on the Style on how to wear fancy pants. Check out the original post (and the rest of their cute blog) here, or keep reading for a re-cap.

I didn’t own my first pair of blue jeans until I was in high school, and I blame “Aladdin”. From the moment my seven year-old self saw Princess Jasmine skip out in a crop top and harem pants, the seed was planted for a serious sartorial crush that’s going nearly two decades strong. And why not? Vintage loving ladies can find so many pants these days that are fun, feminine, and- dare I say it?- really comfortable, but styling them can seem tricky if you’re just used to your trusty jeans and t-shirt. Here are some of my favorite fancy pants in Charm School right now to inspire you to ditch the denim and try out some breezier britches.

Rosebud pants $36

This wide leg, rayon number is about as comfortable as it gets. Pair them with something small and lacy on top to balance out their bulk and play up the sweet, pink rosebud pattern, or go the opposite direction and layer an oversized 90’s rock tee for some super glam lounge wear. I’m too tall for these pants, but ideally you’d wear them long with some serious platforms to give the illusion of a couple extra inches to your legs.

Sheer black tank (m) $26

Dharma wrap pants (o/s) $38

Extra long necklace $36

Just right black wedges (sz 9) $42

Another fun and flattering style to try are these hippie wraparound pants. They just tie in the front and back so they fit a wide variety of body shapes, and have a really sultry slit up the leg when you walk. In a beautiful cotton batik, they’re great for throwing on over a bathing suit and going to Barton Springs, or pairing with wedges and a sheer tank and going out. Either way, them pants is fancy.

Betty Bowler $34

Lacey Chambert blouse $26

Gold leaf necklace SOLD

Hot harem pants (m) $44

Brown suede boots $38

But wide flowing pants aren’t just for summer. The same style that looks great with sandals can be equally stunning tucked into a pair of knee high boots. I love these soft, slouchy wine colored harem pants paired with structured suede 60’s boots for an almost equestrian feeling. You’ll still look tailored, even though you’re essentially wearing yoga pants.

Lovecats jumper (m) SOLD

Black Liz Clairborn belt $26

Gold chain necklace $32

And finally, the easiest secret of them all to perfectly-paired fancy pants is to cheat and find a great jumpsuit. It doesn’t matter your body shape, there’s a cut of pantsuit to flatter your curves or stick straight frame, and once you find one you’ll be so thankful to have such an easy, go-to outfit to fall back on. This particular jumpsuit is cute and comfortable with it’s wide legs, but I also like it bunched and tied up below the knee for instant harem pants. This is an especially great trick for making good pants in a bad length work for you.

Thanks for reading! xoxox

Dreaming in color

2011-10-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

Sorry the blog has been so quiet these last few days. Truth be told, I've been floating on a cloud since last Saturday's Dreaming in Color show and I've only just got around to putting together my behind the scenes photos from the event. This was my amazing partner Allyson's third fashion show combining dance, custom wigs, and local costume designers, and unanimously the best yet as it was also a benefit for AIDS Services of Austin and a competition sponsored by VitaminWater where the winning design/dance team won $1000. My darling friends Angel and Sarah waltzed away with that cash for their pink, pole dancing unicorn- amazing job, ladies!

I've participated as a designer in the last two shows, but this time around I strutted my stuff on stage in a pink and teal bandita-inspired costume by Amanda Martinez. It was such an honor, and so much fun, to work with so many incredible designers, dancers, and artists, and I can't wait for Allyson's Halloween show. It's called "Beautiful Monsters" and it's going to be at the ND on Tuesday, October 25th. Hope to see you there!

xoxox

Sarah Marsh dances with the pole dancing troupe Brass Ovaries.

She made an incredible glittery pink unicorn!

Brady. Dancing to "Purple Haze". In a leather harness and platform boots.

Let your imagination fill in the rest.

Sarah booty bouncing to "Gold Digger" is a memory that I'll be telling my grandchildren about.

This woman is incredible. And she made her own costume, too.

As did Miss Sassy Delure. She's a mesmerizing performer and completely killed it

with her dance to "Crimson and Clover."

Drea's number for "Paint it Black" nearly brought tears to my eyes. We helped each other with choreography and I never got tired of seeing her move.

Good thing I held those tears in so I wouldn't ruin Christina Svec's hard work.

Between her beautiful make up and Amanda's beautiful costume, I felt completely transformed.

Fabulous Jenny Woys made her and Drea's tops out of recycled bicycle tubes.

Just sayin'.

Gorgeous Angel putting some stage-worthy make up on herself.

My wonderful designer Amanda, what an amazingly sweet and talented woman!

Thank you for all your hard work, mama!

Eat Your Heart Out, Brady's awesome designer,

consistently turning out beautiful things

Billy Beasty, fashion genius behind this get-up

and the indescribable costume Mari wore for "Little Red Corvette"

My lovely partners Allyson and Charlotte Belle

I have stars in my eyes for these ladies!

Amanda, me, and her mom!

Loved this neon Indian

And this one, too

Chris from Republic of Austin and Miguel from ulovei

both have incredible photos from the event up on their blogs.

Gorgeous girls Erin Freeman and Shelley Neuman.

Shelley took some fabulous photos of the dancing

for her blog ATX Street Style.

Photo of the photo, the talented Mr. John Leach

(see his photos of the event here)

By far my favorite audience costume of the night,

courtesy of the stunning Kitty Buick of Kittenille Vintage

That's All Folks!

Gina got this skeleton onesie from one of my yard sales!

I don't know this kid.

Adorable Tolly Mosley! Love this girl and her cute blog Austin Eavsedropper

Loving this little unicorn!

Ashley and Monica, hot babes the two

These women melt me

Brady and Tolly...doesn't get any more fabulous.

Thanks for such an amazing show, everybody! Let's do it again in two weeks!

Dana Falconberry's picks

2011-10-05T11:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got a visit from my gorgeous and amazingly talented friend Dana Falconberry, who dropped by to find a dress to wear for her trip to Saint Louis. Dana is one of my favorite people of all time. I've known her almost as long as I've lived in Austin and I've proudly watched her musical career take off and send her touring all over the world, and even gotten to lend a hand as her occasional roadie and stylist! And if you think I'm a big fan, you should see my mother.

Dana's country-folk charm shines through best in fitted 50's frocks, so I put her in some of my favorites in the store right now. She's constantly flitting in and out of town, but whatever you have to do to catch one of her shows, do it! I promise you won't regret it.

Have a great trip, darling, and thanks for modeling!

xoxoxo

I'm calling this sweet little cream lace number the Clementine dress, after one of my favorite of Dana's songs.

Clementine dress (s) $64

My Sweetheart, My Dear maxi dress (m) $42

Etienne belt $26

Sadie dress (m) $62

Etienne belt $26

Blue Umbrella dress (m) $56

This Oh, Skies of Blue dress ended up in Dana's suitcase. Isn't it darling?

Tan waist belt $24

I lent Dana a stack of Victorian dresses and blouses for this shoot back when we were still working together at the restaurant. That feels like ages ago now.

Dana did an entire tour playing at different vintage stores around the country. When she came back, we did this shoot for the Statesman at the vintage store I was buying for at the time.

This dress looked so cute on Dana I couldn't imagine it on anyone else and had to give it to her after.

Dana is one of the primary musicians featured in a beautifully shot documentary on the Austin music scene called Echotone, and you can read a review of it from the New York Times here. Check out this clip of her performing another one of my favorites, "Possom Song".

Femme et velo sneak peek: Amelia

2011-10-03T12:38:00.000-07:00

My favorite Femme et velo shoot is always the one that I most recently finished, but I have to say that our session with Amelia was extra special. I've always admired her amazing Jazz Age style and otherworldly, old-fashioned beauty, but Amelia was also an unexpected pro in front of the camera. The combination of good friends, mild weather, horses, rain clouds, portable phonographs, risotto and red wine made for some photographic magic and we all had an incredible time that day.

Here are some of my pics from the shoot, but be sure to follow Femme et velo to see what Mike and Zach cooked up.

xoxoxoxo

Thank you Natalie Ribbons for loaning us this incredible bike from the 1930's.

Loved the limestone brick of this old gas station...

...and Amelia's amazing tattoos!

I'd been wanting to do a shoot with a "Days of Heaven" feel from the beginning...

... and this dry, open field and big sky felt just right.

I'm a sucker for a girl lying in the grass...

Mike and I rode in the back of Zach's truck to get these shots as Amelia rode.

The locals were really amused.

Right about now the storm started appraching

I said, "Look back like you just heard a huge thunderclap!"

Rain is coming!

After the rain Mike spotted this field of flowers so white they were glowing.

We had to hop the fence. No wardrobe malfunctions, though!

Amelia had an incredible ability to get into character.

I love how impish Zach looks here.

Amelia brought one of her portable phonographs (this one is from 1925!) and we danced outside while waiting to be seated for dinner

Gorgeous!

Thank you so much, darling Amelia, it was a blast!

All clothing is available from Charm School. Let me know if you see something you like!

Divinely Wicked

2011-09-30T12:52:00.000-07:00

Don't ask me how it happened, but last week I was asked to brush up my costuming skills for a public service announcement for Goodwill of Texas' big annual fundraiser, The Ghoulwill Ball. My darling friend Erin and I got up early to do my make up, and after some last minute mishaps, ended up throwing together a pretty divine angel outfit for her from our Charm School + Coco Coquette arsenal and having her join the shoot. The whole experience was a blast, but I think my favorite part was the look on the valet's face when we rolled up to the W in my old VW van... angel and devil, mountain of old clothes in the back, and all!

xoxox

I drive like a devil, too.

Hey, angel...

Gorgeous, right?

I found it surprisingly easy to be the wicked one.

Love this girl.

Can't wait to see how it all turns out!

Thanks so much to Erin for her beautiful make up and helping out in a pinch, Tara from Goodwill for inviting me to help, to Carolyn of Noun Masks for lending me these amazing leather horns, and Alanna for her spiritual guidance in finding my inner devil. You're the best!