Benjamin Bixby

Benjamin Bixby, aka Outkast André Benjamin is a singer. No a clothing designer...ahh, my age is showing. Youth music of today confuses me :-)

I love the music of Outkast and Mr. André launched a clothing line this past year, Benjamin Bixby. Inspired by vintage English fashion and sports of the 1930s this is an immaculate line of clothing for gents reflecting a collegiate theme with athletic details.

All modern singers and rappers seem to feel they have 'style'. Some do...some don't. André is in the first category. He has the talent and intelligence to research, sketch the clothes, and fund the line himself. He did not just put his name to a line of clothing someone else is responsible for designing. It's not a cash grab and this is obvious. He has not launched into clothing and perfume and home accents and handbags and shoes...over stimulating the market with all things André. His collection is a mere 70 pieces. I hope more is to come for 2009.

Post Christmas Reading

Now that Christmas is over, it's time to relax (a little bit at least...). This is the time I like to catch up on my reading and there are several books I recommend to read about vintage fashion. In particular is the Madeleine Vionnet book I have always wanted to get my hands on.

Happy reading!

Need a New Do?

Lauren Rennells over at Bobby Pin Blog is a very creative lady! She researches beauty trends & hairstyles of the past.

She saw this snowman hair-do on a holiday card:

and it inspired her to do this!

The snowman beehive look (in the first photo) is very retro (à la Amy Winehouse), add this red rockabilly dress and have some fun for Christmas!

Red Velvet Rockabilly Dress, $85.00CAD

Pucci & Bessi

"The Averardo Bessi Company was founded in 1950. Bessi’s prints are reminiscent of Emilio Pucci, and he even signed his prints as well. Bessi and other Pucci impressionists are finding their own designs are finally reaching the price range and receiving the respect of their predecessor." VINTAGE FASHON GUILD

We came across this gorgeous silk jersey dress and was completely wowed by it's pattern and excellent conidition. Now available.

Designer Inspirations

It's a well known fact that today's designers take alot of their inspiration from vintage designs. Not just the cut of an outfit but the patterns of the fabric.

Much to my delight, when I opened my November copy of "FASHION" magazine, there was a Michael Kors dress that looked very familiar. The color hues are slightly different but I think I found his inspiration!

This 1950s swing dress is now available in our store for a reasonable $56. Or you can buy the Michael Kors for $1995.