Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Back to Back

From 1930 -1968, the Motion Picture Production Code was implemented and enforced in Hollywood to govern the movie industry. This code was  a set of rules that spelled out what was acceptable and what was unacceptable content in movies produced for a public audience in the United States.

Before 1930, there was a great degree of sexual content in movies. Hard to believe actually, but Hollywood was quite risqué. When the production code was put into place, costume designers had a difficult time trying to outfit their female stars. They were used to Jean Harlow with her plunging necklines but were now forbidden to expose this much of a woman's front. The answer? Low back lines! A sexy, yet elegant alternative that is still in demand today.
A backless dress can be a source of inspiration or a 'pain in the back'. Depending on how comfortable you are with showing the back, the correct underpinnings must still be worn. If you are investing in a backless dress, please invest in the proper bra - no bra straps showing please!

A 1980s blue cotton backless showing just enough back for a daytime modest look. Available at Rokit, $60

A halter dress by Fred Perlberg that by definition of being a halter, is backless. Now available at our store, Some Like it Vintage for $215.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

I really like the first dress. Thanks for the comment about the bra. Bra faux pas drive me crazy!