Vintage Swimsuits for a Hot September

As usual, September has rolled into Southern California to greet temperatures in the 90's and 100's!

Same thing happens every year...just when I'm in the mood for fuzzy sweaters, tall boots, and a Pumpkin Spice latte', the "real" summer temps hit So Cal and the only cool place to escape is to the beach!

To soothe my over-heated soul, I've been looking at amazing, adorable mid-century swimwear.

My favorite suits are by Rose Marie Reid:

 

 

and Catalina:

 

My favorite ads are from Cole...they have such a sense of humor!

 

 

 

Here are some more great designs & ads:

 

 

Now off to the beach!!!

 

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Book Review: Hollywood Sketchbook

Here's something for you all to put on your Christmas gift lists...and maybe if you're very good (or very naughty, wink wink) Santa will get it for you!!

Hollywood Sketchbook: A Century of Costume Illustration, by Deborah Nadoolman Landis

This is a huge (600 pages) heavy, glossy coffee table book.

It's got page after page of costume illustrations by designers like: Bonnie Cashin, Travilla, Orry-Kelly, Adrian, Cecil Beaton, and Travis Banton. Only costume designers who were also accomplished illustrators are included.

Here's some eye candy for you!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aren't these gorgeous???

The author has written many other books on costume design and is herself an Academy-Award nominated costume designer. She has a PhD in the history of design.

This book is really all about the pictures, though...and what pictures!!

 

OK, Santa, you know what to bring me!!!

 

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