Of Polka Dots and Playsuits

One of my favorite outfits is this adorable 40s midriff top and shorts set, made by Hollywood Premiere in a soft aqua and cream polka dot print. It’s a candy sweet confection with piping trim, gathered sleeves and a shirred bust—I have to say it’s one of my all-time favorite finds! I bought it from the fantastic Vee Vin Tage—these lovely gals sell vintage in addition to designing and sewing the most wonderful reproductions. They found this set at a popular vintage store in California—apparently Hillary Duff had just tried it on. I’m sure glad she passed on it, and even more glad that V Vintage decided to part with it as well! These photos were taken by the talented Matt Carson, one of my favorite portrait photographers to work with, at an afternoon shoot a few days ago.

xoxo,
Amanda Lee

The Naughty Lady

As promised, more photos of the latest Able Grable! I was quite honored to be able to model this exquisite creation, which is part of an already amazing collection of vintage style frocks that the lovely Miss M has been designing.

The Naughty Lady is a must have for all you femme fatales out there! Imagine the heads you'll turn when you walk into a room in this hot number--you'll surely have the same impact as Ms. Rita herself. I found the dress caused quite stir during the shoot with Doug Monce of Atomic Age Pictures--we shot in the Ghost Lounge at the historic San Carlos Hotel, and I received offers of martinis once I finished shooting, tee hee.

My accessories were graciously loaned to me by Matilda's Closet, a shop you must visit if you are ever in Glendale, AZ.

xoxo,
Amanda

Every night she got all dressed up...

"...and waited. But a girl like Gilda couldn't stand not knowing the why of things, so she decided to swallow her pride and came to see me. It was wonderful."

The first glimpse of Able Grable's Naughty Lady, inspired by the iconic Gilda. Rhinestones and gloves from Matilda's Closet, photography by house photographer Doug Monce of Atomic Age Pictures. More to follow very soon!

xoxo,
Amanda Lee

OOTD--Grapes of Summer

Thought I'd post a quick snap from last week--I'm wearing a 1950s yellow cotton dress embroidered with orange and green grapes, with an orange "rope" belt, green and yellow 50s earrings, and a pair of yellow orchids in my hair.

The pic was snapped by my sewing instructor (a post about the exciting lessons I've been taking soon) who worked as a model in the 90s and also dabbled in photography. She's a real neat lady and I've learned a great deal about sewing from her already!

xoxo,

Amanda Lee

Mail Call

I was thrilled to pieces when I came home from work today and found a package from NudeeDudee waiting for me! Isn't this the sweetest outfit? The green was even richer in person, and the fabric Kim used is so wonderfully drapey. And of course, you gotta love the cactus print pockets! I tried it on as soon as I opened the package (please excuse the wrinkles ;-)), and had my Sweetie take a snap in front of one of the desert plants in our front yard. I can't wait to wear this for an "offical" photo shoot, and I just know it will be a favorite outfit of mine this summer!

xoxo,
Amanda Lee

Bird of Paradise

A preview photo from my most recent shoot with Doug Monce of Atomic Age Pictures. For this Hawaiian look I'm wearing a Whirling Turban petal bust sarong with bamboo bracelets, mah jong earrings, my favorite cream linen 40s heels, and Ruby Woo lipstick. Sadly, my shoes broke when I got home, but they should be easy to repair (thank goodness!)

More photos to follow!

xoxo,
Amanda

How to Measure for Your Able Grable Frock

Miss Matilda had Doug Monce and I put together this little how-to for Able Grable--hope you like it!

xoxo,
Amanda Lee