Category: Fashion

Rocker Reunion at The Viper Room

Posted on June 27, 2016August 7, 2016 by stilettocity

Los Angeles in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s was one rowdy place after dark. The Sunset Strip and multiple underground clubs such as Scream, Lingerie, and Cathouse were filled with rockers and bands with big hair, black, skinny jeans, studded belts and cowboy boots playing a collision of glam, punk, goth and rock ‘n’ roll. There to cover it all was one local paper by the name of LA Rock Review (1988-92). Born out of a love of music and the exploding local music scene, editor Kelly Q. put together a collection of writers and photographers who reveled in going out every night and chronicling what was happening on stages all over Hollywood as well as the many parties in between. I was lucky enough to have been one of those writers and have fond memories of being young and free and with people who felt the same way as me about music and dressing the part, it was a lifestyle – and still is!

Recently Kelly Q. re-emerged after being away in Texas for several years and decided to have a reunion. The timing seemed right. GNR reunited, and people are hungry for rock ‘n’ roll again. So she booked a gig at the Viper Room on the Strip and called on the bands and her staff to reunite for one very special night.

And they came, in droves, to pack the house to see Motorcycle Boy, Funhouse, Knucklehead, The Hangmen and Inger Lorre with the Nymphs.

I was so excited to see my old teammates, writers Denise, Jenell (who flew in from Seattle) and Erin and photographers AJ (who flew in from New Zealand) and Janet. Plus, lots of scenesters including members of Male Order Brides, Human Drama, Black Cherry, Street Walking Cheetahs, Dragbeat, Len Fagan of the Coconut Teaser club, and former A&R man Desi Benjamin.

Kastle Waserman with photographer AJ Hunter — With photographer AJ Hunter

It’s been many years, and we had lots of catching up to do! The place rocked like it did “back in the day.” And I got to get up on stage with Kelly and introduce one of my favorite local bands of all time, Motorcycle Boy.

The Viper Room was called the Central back then. It gained fame when actor Johnny Depp took over as co-owner in 1993 and changed the name of the venue. Actor River Phoenix died of a drug overdose there the same year. It’s always been known as a stage for the up and comers and a place to see big names in an intimate setting. It’s not unusual to spot celebrities in the crowd who enjoy the anonymity of hiding in the venue’s dark circular booths along the perimeter. And you might also see a familiar face working there. Behind the bar these days are veteran Hollywood musicians, Tommy Black of Scott Weiland’s band and Jamie Scrap of Blackboard Jungle. I’ll have another!

What I Wore

Such a special night called from some sparkle, so my silver wiggle dress hit just the right mark of rocker pinup. Back in the day, dressing rocker sleaze was pretty typical, but now it was time to chic it up and add the sophistication that comes with being older (and yes, wiser!) I rocked it up with some silver hoop earrings with spikes and spiky-toed black stilettos.

What To Wear: Rocker Pinup Look

For a night out to rock out, give yourself some sexy rocker pinup style. A polka dot, curve-hugging, wiggle dress in lime green is sure to get some attention. Add some rocked-up accessories such as a ring choker necklace and strappy, spike heels and you’ll be empowered to go right to the front of the stage for all your favorite bands! Click the links to shop* this look.

The Viper Room is located at 8852 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Queen rocker,
Kastle

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Tags: Kastle Waserman, LA Nightclubs

Category: Fashion

Vintage Shopping at Paper Moon Vintage

Posted on June 22, 2016July 13, 2016 by stilettocity

Vintage clothes have been a trend for so long they are clearly here to stay. There are those who wear them occasionally for an eclectic touch and those who consider vintage wear a lifestyle. No matter how you craft your look, good vintage shopping means going to a store that understands how to curate quality inventory and assist its customers in finding just the right piece. One store that’s a must for vintage lovers in Los Angeles is Paper Moon Vintage. Founded by vintage lifestylist Nicole Loretta, you can expect to find retro garb for women and men that’s been lovingly selected and in good shape from eras specifically within the 1900s-1950s

Just wander the many racks filled with gorgeous fabrics, amazing cuts and you’ll see how Loretta’s eye for unique and beautiful pieces has put together a store that’s a pleasure to shop in. Loretta has been a longtime fixture on LA vintage scene and can always be seen in a fabulous outfit herself. She’s also known as a photographer, capturing event photos of patrons on her handmade moon props everywhere from the Cicada Club to private weddings with her Paper Moon Vintage photo booth business.

Nicole Loretta and Nathan Marsak Paper Moon Vintage Los Angeles — Nicole Loretta and Nathan Marsak Paper Moon Vintage LA

In keeping with the moon theme, Paper Moon Vintage also hosts full moon parties every month on the full moon (obviously!) They offer 25% off everything in the store and stay open until 9 p.m. with cocktails and snacks starting at 6 p.m. You can also have your photo taken on the custom-made moon backdrops by Nicole. Don’t miss out on the fun – and deals! Follow their Facebook page for event announcements.

What I Wore

For a recent full moon party, I went noir-themed in a black vintage dress with pops of gold in my purse and shell shaped necklace with drop-bead, paired with leopard-print Mary Jane heels. And as always, you’ll find me in the shoe section!

What to Wear for A Shopping Day

When vintage shopping, you’ll want to express your vintage loving style. It makes it easy for the store owners to get a read on what you might like and can make recommendations. Also, keep in mind items that are easy to take on and off so you can try things on.

BONUS TIP: I personally hate side zips on vintage tops and dresses because I have to pull them over my head risking getting makeup on them and wrecking my hair. One solution, however, if you find a side zip vintage item you want to try on – bring a clean t-shirt with you. Put it on over your head, so it covers your face (you can peek out through the neck or armhole to see and breathe.) This will help prevent you from getting makeup on the item you’re trying on and will usually keep your retro hairdo somewhat in place.

This cute pink, 1950s-style, peasant top has an elastic neckline (no buttons or zips to mess with!) Match it with a breezy flared skirt (you could even try on pencil skirts and pants underneath without having to take it off!) Wear some shoes that are easy to kick off to try clothes on – no buckles or ties – such as these sling-back sandals with pretty gold trim that plays off the pattern in the skirt. Just slip the back strap down and they’re off! Don’t forget to bring your shopping money in a cute bag, such at this retro telephone purse. Click the links to shop* this look!

Paper Moon Vintage is located at 4516 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Happy shopping!
Kastle

*Disclosure

Tags: Kastle Waserman, Vintage, vintage shopping in Los Angeles

Category: Fashion

Appetite for Rocker Looks and Books

Posted on June 9, 2016August 7, 2016 by stilettocity

There are times in rock music in which the bands, the city and the people collided to create a movement that will go down as the greatest in history. The glam metal movement and rocker look in Los Angeles in the late ‘80s was one of those times. Guns N’ Roses was clearly the defining band of that era, rising bigger than them all, and one woman was there from the beginning. Vicky Hamilton let the band crash in her apartment, got them showcases and helped launch a career that made them one of the most famous and infamous bands of all time. And thank goodness she’s now written a book to give us all a backstage pass as to how it all went down.

High in the Hollywood Hills at a limited seat reading at the Alchemy Castle, Vicky read to promote the aptly named “Appetite For Dysfunction,” and joked that the release of her book just happened to coincide with the band’s much buzzed about reunion for a recent string of shows. What luck! It seems everyone wants to hear about GNR again, and rightfully so. I can recall seeing the band in its very early days at shows on the Sunset Strip, and clubs Scream and Cathouse, and the fierce energy they displayed was unquestionable – with a style that mixed the rock sense of Aerosmith and the Stones with the punk ferocity of the Sex Pistols.

Vicky Hamilton Appetite for Dysfunction — Vicky Hamilton

But it wasn’t all roses, as was clear in the passage Vicky read of the early days of them crashed out in her apartment after yet another raging party. Steven Adler was trying to help Vicky clear out beer bottles and Axl was sacked out on the couch. When Axl got fed up from the clinking bottles being thrown in trash bags, he began punching Steven, giving him a lovely bruised face for a showcase that night. We’d heard the rumors that hanging with GNR was no cake walk, but now Vicky verifies it along with an insider’s perspective of what I was like to be a women working her way up in the male-dominated music industry of the late ‘80s, as if wrangling Axl wasn’t hard enough!

Vicky also relayed some classic rock ‘n’ roll stories of tales along the Sunset Strip working with Motley Crue and a makeout session with AC/DC’s Bon Scott. She also thanked her publisher, iconic LA scenester, author and Punk Hostage Press founder Iris Berry, who also read a passage from one of her books.

Iris Berry - Punk Hostage Press — Iris Berry – Punk Hostage Press

Before and after the readings, a collection of Vicky’s current fave bands entertained the crowd including, Diana Meyer, 222, The Place, and Frankie And The Honeybees. Vicky always could spot a talent. What a great and rockin’ night all around!

What I Wore

While my rocker look isn’t quite as extreme and my hair isn’t quite as big as it was during the days GNR ruled the Sunset Strip, I still like a rocker chic look for stepping out on the town. I paired a cherry red, fitted t-shirt with a vegan leather mini skirt with silver side zips. A studded suede purse carried my essentials and my leather, knee high boots were made for a night of club hopping!

What to Wear

Headed to check out some new star bands on the Strip? Slip into a rocker look that won’t let you down with a cosmic-print mini skirt paired with a sexy off-the-shoulder top. Draw some inspiration from the late ‘80s with a vegan, leather-studded, concho belt and big boots. A fringe, shoulder strap purse holds just enough to get you through the night!

The Sunset Strip in Los Angeles is located between Doheny Road and N. Crescent Heights Blvd.

Vicky Hamilton’s “Appetite for Dysfuntion” is available on Amazon.com

Rock on!
Kastle

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Category: Fashion

Wedding Season: How to Create a Vintage-Inspired Wedding Dress Look

Posted on June 1, 2016October 13, 2020 by stilettocity

That moment when the love of your life pulls out a ring and you say “yes” can mark the beginning of the monumental journey known as “Wedding Dress Shopping.”

Putting together your wedding dress look can be one of the most joyful and daunting experiences in life. So many pretty dresses, so much money! I love vintage style but I didn’t really know how to create a vintage-inspired wedding dress look. It took trying a few different styles to finally find what works. Here’s how I did it.

Trying on Wedding Dresses

Like most brides, when I first started wedding dress shopping, I went straight for the big, frothy traditional dresses. I tried on a few, but soon found there was a lot of cookie-cutter styling going on – all the lace, beading, the sash belt with little rhinestone appliqué. Those were all fine and good, but they weren’t really me.

Plus, I just couldn’t wrap my head around spending thousands of dollars for a dress I would only wear for a few hours. I knew I wanted to create a vintage-inspired wedding dress look and I loved the simple elegance of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s wedding look. One day, while looking at one of my favorite vintage reproduction sites, Unique Vintage, I saw a dress that encompassed both, and at a price that was completely reasonable.

Finding a Vintage-Inspired Wedding Dress

I ordered the 1930s-inspired Ellington Deco Bias Cut Gown and to my amazement, the luxurious, curve hugging, gently lined, satin cut fit perfect. It had a modest train and the only alteration needed was to shorten the hem a tad in the front. It was so Jean Harlow! This was THE dress. It reminded me of something a jazzy chanteuse would wear during the between-the-wars era. Plus, it was comfortable and felt like me.

To add a bit of drama, I bought a chapel-length veil with blusher veil for extra oomph from Bells Veils on Etsy. The separate elbow-length blusher was perfect for the reception meal after the ceremony and photos so I wouldn’t get tangled in the long veil all day.

Finding Wedding Shoes

Now the shoes were a bit of a hunt. I knew I wanted a vintage meets Cinderella look. Since the dress was simple, the shoes could have a lot of detail. I opted for lace shoes since there wasn’t any lace on my dress or veil. I searched Pinterest for hours and finally found the shoes I wanted but not a link to where to buy them. One day I took a chance and punched “ivory lace shoes” in Amazon, and behold, my dreams shoes appeared, the exact ones I saw on Pinterest!

Finding Vintage-Inspired Wedding Jewelry

Next up, I searched Ebay for some vintage-style jewelry and found earrings with aged pearl and bronze detail and then found a bracelet with vintage-look pearls and bronze accents that matched, which went perfect with my ivory dress and veil.

A Vintage-Inspired Wedding Reception Dress

My reception dress look was the perfect opportunity to go for a retro, swing, tea dress style, which I debated wearing for my wedding dress before deciding I wanted a long dress rather than short for the actual moment. But the reception party was perfect for a short dress. The brocade material was gorgeous and had the perfect vintage feel. I added fullness to the retro hourglass shape with a fluffy petticoat and the big circle skirt provided a great wow factor on the spins of our first dance!

Don’t forget your nails on your big day as everyone will want to look at the beautiful new ring on your hand! I highly recommend a gel manicure that will take you through all the preparations to the parties without a chip! As for my ring, my man did me right, surprising me with a vintage 1920’s era engagement ring and we had the band custom-made in a vintage style with similar cut diamonds.

The Whole Vintage-Inspired Wedding Dress Look

Here is my full vintage-inspired wedding dress look and reception tea dress in all their glory. Wedding dress is from Unique Vintage, shoes from Amazon, jewelry from Ebay, and veil from Etsy. Reception dress is from Heart of Haute, petticoat and dance shoes from Amazon. Special thanks to my photographers Gina and Giorgio for capturing these images because I was so excited and nervous at our wedding events that I didn’t take any photos of my own (which rarely happens!)

How to Get a Vintage Inspired Wedding Dress Look

If you want to go for a vintage-inspired wedding dress look, you’re pretty much guaranteed to have built-in elegance and a unique style for your special day.

Plus, vintage reproduction shops are usually much more affordable than getting something from a bridal salon. Try Googling “vintage reproduction clothing” online and just put “white dress” in their search box and see what comes up. Many also feature special wedding dress sections on their homepage during peak wedding season from spring to mid summer.

Make sure your dress suits the style of your ceremony, the bigger the ceremony, probably the more dramatic dress you’ll want. We had an intimate ceremony so my dress felt just right for the size of the room. And keep your personality in mind, such as classic, clean lines, billowing princess style or blinged out. For me, it was all about having a very simple and sleek silhouette. Don’t be afraid to try variations of the “white dress,” and look at everything from ivory to champagne or even your favorite color that isn’t white at all!

Here’s a gorgeous example from Unique Vintage of a 1930s reproduction dress with illusion neckline and golden, hand-worked, filigree detail. The circle drape hemline with train is breathtaking and you’ll want a short birdcage or elbow length veil as not to hide it. With so much detail on the dress you’ll want to keep the shoes simple but you can add some complementary sparkle such as these gilded gold heels. Don’t forget the accessories with some deco inspired hairpins and bracelet. Click the links to shop* this look!

Just remember to make your dress and your ceremony your own. You don’t have to follow the rules and expectations – or spend a fortune to make your dream day a beautiful one. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go live my happily ever after!

Wedding Dress, Accessories and Ceremony photos by Gina Schild Photography
Reception Dress photo by Giorgio Litt Photography
Ring photo by me
Flowers by Haute Flowers

I do!
Kastle

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Tags: Kastle Waserman, Vintage Wedding, Vintage-Inspired Wedding Dress, Wedding Dress, Wedding Fashion, Wedding Season

Category: Fashion

Museum Day: Robert Mapplethorpe at LACMA

Posted on May 26, 2016August 7, 2016 by stilettocity

My fellow rockers probably know Robert Mapplethorpe through his relationship with musician/poet Patti Smith, and while that may be the musical gateway entry to this masterful photographer, it’s a worthy one. If you read Smith’s book “Just Kids” you’ll get a wonderful and moving insight into the person he was and what inspired him. During his all-too-brief career, Mapplethorpe churned out striking images, experimenting with contrasting and controversial subject matters – from a female body builder on display under beautiful lighting to the boyish Patti Smith herself showing her own toughness and vulnerability. He also photographed the rock and art movers and shakers of the New York’s late ‘60s and ’70s, including such faces as Andy Warhol, Debbie Harry, Iggy Pop, Constance and Candy Darling.

Patti Smith Robert Mapplethorpe — Patti Smith

But Mapplethorpe may best be known for his risqué images of the underground S&M scene, entrusting the community by participating in it and photographing it as he saw it, in highly stylized black and white.

There is also Mapplethorpe’s softer side, those of flowers and their beautiful colorful lines. With everything he did, he strove for perfection, and in art, that is something hard to achieve. While we may never know if he felt he got there, in the stunning self portraits, he looks pretty perfect to us. Mapplethorpe died of AIDS in 1989 but his work is clearly not forgotten and is currently on display in a double exhibit at The Los Angeles County Museum of Art and at the Getty.

I went to LACMA on a Saturday afternoon to check it out. The museum came to Wilshire Boulevard in 1965. Now some 50 years later, the grounds have expanded across over 20 acres in the heart of Los Angeles with several buildings featuring art exhibits as well as films and special events in the 600-seat Bing Theater. The open walkways and green space between the buildings are dotted with sculptural displays to wander through, including “Levitated Mass,” a large scale sculpture by Michael Heizer consisting of a 340 ton boulder affixed above a concrete trench pathway. The piece was a real “rock star” when it was transported through the streets of Los Angeles to the museum in 2012. Also on the grounds is the iconic Urban Light exhibit by Chris Burdan, consisting of 202 restored cast iron antique street lamps that create the ultimate photo op.

What I Wore

On this perfect California spring day, I brought out some vintage florals that went nicely with Mapplethorpe’s quest for the perfect petal moment. I paired the 1960s top with a pair of pink, lobe climbing, pink leaf vintage earrings, a pair of capri pants, Mary Jane heels and bright pink vintage-reproduction handbag. I just couldn’t resist the opportunity to pose with the Urban Lights.

What To Wear

A day at the museum is a perfect opportunity to show some casual style. Take a cue from Mapplethorpe’s love of juxtaposition by pairing a floral blazer with some tough, zip accented skinny jeans, a fitted white t-shirt and naughty but sweet bow-tie leatherette choker necklace. Click the links to shop* this look.

LACMA is located at 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

The Robert Mapplethorpe exhibit runs through July 31.

Picture perfect,
Kastle

Photos of Patti Smith, Brian Ridley and Lyle Heeter, Poppy and Robert Mapplethorpe courtesy of LACMA.

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Tags: Kastle Waserman, Museums in Los Angeles, Robert Mapplethorpe

Category: Fashion

Advanced Style: Ageless Fashion

Posted on May 15, 2016August 7, 2016 by stilettocity

It all started with an inspiring grandmother. After losing her, photographer Ari Seth Cohen moved to New York, a city she always told he’d do well in, and began shooting older stylish women in an attempt to feel he’s grandmother’s spirit in his life again. Starting a blog Advanced Style, the photos became an internet sensation. These women, in their 60’s, 70s, 80s, even 90s weren’t invisible, grey-haired, frumpy-clothed, withering flowers. They were vibrant, full of color and a fantastical sense of ageless fashion. Their stylish looks as alive as they were, telling the world they were living life to the fullest and looking their best, no matter what anyone thinks.

*Valerie, Jean, Debra Rapoport, Diana Gabriel, Carol Markel: Advanced Style*

Then came a book, and a film showcasing these wonderful, stylish women. Ari started a movement – to see older women for their delightful, fashion-loving selves, all that they’ve accomplished and all they represent as bold, beautiful personalities full of world experiences that serve and an uncontainable force and inspiration to others.

Now he has a second book, “Advanced Style: Older and Wiser,” and I had the pleasure of seeing many of Ari’s women in person at the recent panel discussion at Book Soup – an iconic indie bookstore on the Sunset Strip that serves as a cultural epicenter for authors and those who celebrate a culture of enlightenment through books.

I stood in the audience as the ladies in the book entered the store and took a seat in the front. The tiny space allotted for readings forced them to step carefully through chairs squeezed between bookshelves, but also gave us a chance to check out their awe-inspiring beauty and amazing outfits. (Book Soup, you really need to a bigger space for these events!)

We learned a little about each lady and their lives. There’s Colleen, age 75, a stunning beauty who stays active by jogging 5 miles a day. Joy, age 77, a cancer survivor who has dedicated her life to the helping the developmentally disabled through her fashion-focused charity Helpers. Pearl, age 61, who was once married to the bass player in the Clash, performs in her own alternative band, has a handbag line, and uses music to feed her spirit.

Every lady shared a bit of their extraordinary life, not as a star, but as a message that everyone has their own story that is worth sharing. It was funny to hear how many had worn uniforms in school and relished the freedom they now have to express themselves and most were inspired by their mother’s fashion sense.

They all displayed their unique sense of style and urged their audience, hungry for their wisdom, to be yourself, go forth and never let age be hindrance.

I couldn’t help but approach some of these ladies to sign a copy of the book I bought for my mother, who has been my own fashion inspiration. And I have to give a heartfelt thank you especially to Joy, who upon learning my mother was in the hospital, wrote a loving note to her that brought tears to my eyes. Her kindness will never be forgotten.

With Joy Venturini Bianchi, Advanced Style

What a wonderful bunch of ladies! There are few times in life that we want to feel older instead of younger, but these ladies make it look so good I wish I too was “Advanced” so I could join their pack and hang with them all day!

What I Wore

I couldn’t go see a bunch of stylish ladies without a bringing some color to the party myself. So I put on my bright, vintage, ‘60s shift dress and go-go-style leather boots, paired with a swirly multi-colored bakelite bracelet and ‘60s-style clutch by V’s Bellos Tesoros, that I won by vying for it in an Instagram contest.

What to Wear

If books are an inspiration to you like they are to me, show how much you love them by letting some bookworm style and ageless fashion sense shine through with this adorable bookshelf skirt topped with a ruffle-collar, vintage-inspired top. A snappy pair of wedge-heeled shoes will keep you comfy while browsing through bookstores and you can pay for your new reading finds by reaching into a book-shaped handbag. Click the links to shop* this look!

Book Soup is located at 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Be sure to check out:

Advanced Style

Advanced Style: Older and Wiser

Advanced Style: The Film

Photos from the book courtesy of Advanced Style

Go forth and conquer – in style,
Kastle

Photos edited with PicMonkey*. Get it!

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Tags: Advanced Style, Book Soup, books, Kastle Waserman, where to go in Los Angeles

Category: Fashion

Horsing Around at Santa Anita Park

Posted on May 8, 2016May 12, 2016 by stilettocity

Every year the Kentucky Derby brings a party of horse lovers, hats and mint juleps for the most exciting two minutes in sports and to see some of the fastest horses run for the roses. While not everyone can get to the Churchill Downs to see the famous horse race in person, we in Southern California have our own horseracing venue, the gorgeous, historic Santa Anita Park.

Me and my gang of vintage-loving friends converged on the Park on Derby Day to enjoy a day at the races in what’s been called the “World’s Most Beautiful Race Track.” Opened in the 1930’s with the majestic palm tree dotted San Gabriel Mountains in the backdrop of the racetrack, the Streamline Modern architecture of the venue and a luxurious interior, it embraces everyone in old school elegance and California charm.

A day at the races is nothing short of exciting. From checking out the horses coming down the paddock, to placing bets, to seeing the horses storm out of the gate and the thunderous sounds of their run past the stands, it’s the thrill of it all that makes the day special. And we got to watch the Kentucky Derby itself on the big screen. It was almost like being there!

What I Wore

Hats are a must on Derby Day, and not just any hat, the bigger the better. And while there was a hat contest at the Park that gave the prize to the most garishly-decorated hat, my group went more for vintage class. I pulled out my favorite ‘50s-era dress hat, paired with a green sharkskin vintage shift dress, a faux fur-collared short jacket and sparkly vintage rhinestone starburst brooch.

What to Wear to the Races

Horse-themed clothing is always a fun choice when going to the tracks. This horse print dress does the trick. Add some sparkle with a lucky horse brooch and ground the look with some authentic riding boots. Don’t forget a big, statement-making hat! Click the links to shop* this look!

Congratulations to Kentucky Derby winner Nyquist and runner-up Exaggerator (winner of our own Santa Anita Derby in April!) We’ll see you at the Preakness!

Santa Anita Park is located at 285 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA 91007

And they’re off!
Kastle

Photos edited with PicMonkey*. Get it!

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Category: Fashion

Going Vintage Style at Fair Oaks Pharmacy

Posted on May 1, 2016August 7, 2016 by stilettocity

Located right along famous Route 66, Fair Oaks Pharmacy is a throwback to decades past when the local soda fountain drugstore was where the community would go for an ice cream, pick up some personal care, maybe little gift, and chat with friends and neighbors. Heck, Hollywood has a history of beautiful starlets being discovered in the local soda shop. So it felt like stepping back in time when I went to meet some gals at this 100-year-old, vintage style, Pasadena institution for a vintage day out.

The place is full of charm from its Tiki-style trim around shelves of retro memorabilia and toys. There’s a full room just for shopping for kitschy knick-knacks. If the giant ice cream sundaes aren’t enough to satisfy your sweet tooth, you can also pick up some can from the wall of candy jars featuring vintage flavors. Need a last minute gift? There’s full selection of bath and body products and greeting cards. You can even pick up a prescription from the health center, which is a full fledge compounding facility.

Why don’t they make ‘em like this anymore? The Fair Oaks Pharmacy is an idyllic cornerstone to a quaint street of little shops that’s perfect for a stroll on a nice day.

What I Wore

It’s only fitting to wear vintage style for such a historic spot. And on this perfect springtime California day, I wore one of my favorite, colorful, sheath dresses. I love that this one has a little belt to give it more shape definition. I paired it with my baby blue vintage reproduction shoes and matching vintage straw purse.

What to Wear

With spring in the air, it’s time for vintage style florals. A fitted shift dress can take you from day to night. You can step out to your local ice cream shop, then dance the night away in these retro reproduction microsuede heels. Find a matching vintage purse, like this sweet straw handbag by searching “blue straw purse” on eBay. You’ll be ready for any occasion. Click the links to shop* this look!

Fair Oaks Pharmacy is located at 1526 Mission St, South Pasadena, CA 91030

See you at the soda shop!
Kastle

Photos edited with PicMonkey*. Get it!

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Tags: Fair Oaks Pharmacy, Kastle Waserman, vintage style

Category: Fashion

Circus Style at the California Institute of AbnormalArts

Posted on April 25, 2016May 2, 2016 by stilettocity

Step right up folks, you’ll see things beyond your imagination! On a quiet little strip of Burbank Boulevard in North Hollywood is a nightclub where the atmosphere is just as entertaining as the acts on its stage. California Institute of AbnormalArts (C.I.A.) is where the circus comes to town every night.

Run by ever-eccentric, purveyor of the unusual, Carl Crew, the venue features a wide array of oddities such as severed heads and mummified clowns to Chinatown-themed lanterns and signage. Part museum and part live music venue, the place also feature sideshow-type events, freak shows, burlesque performances and puppetry acts. The walls are adorned with vintage-style circus murals. Even the box office, where you’ll likely find Crew greeting his guests, is a huge half face, half skeleton head.

I first discovered this venue a few years ago and did on article on it for the LA Times, which you can read here. On a recent night, I was able to catch an unusual billing of the ‘80s goth/glam band Gene Loves Jezebel featuring Michael Aston, along with a sword swallower act.

Not a place for the faint of heart, it is a place where you’ll find something unique and literally off the beaten track.

What I Wore

Pulling out the biggest hat in my wardrobe, my bright pink pillbox felt fit for a retro ringleader. I paired it with a matching pink purse and black wiggle dress with keyhole detail. Some pink vintage, lobe-climbing, clip-on earrings and silver brooch completed my nightclub look.

Let Your Freak Flag Fly Circus Style

If you’re feeling ready to witness the wild or bizarre on your nightclub outting, incorporate a little retro circus style in your wardrobe with this fun Under the Big Top print skirt featuring clowns, circus tents and animal acts. Pair it with a cut-out top and scallop-trimmed heels. A shiny, retro handbag puts a big bow on the complete look! Click the links to shop* this look!

CIA is located at 11334 Burbank Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601

It’s the greatest show on earth,
Kastle

Photos edited with PicMonkey*. Get it!

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Tags: bars in Los Angeles, California Institute of AbnormalArts, Kastle Waserman, LA Nightclubs, nightclub

Category: Fashion

Trip Report: Layered Look for Springtime in Denver

Posted on April 6, 2016July 20, 2016 by stilettocity

Sometimes you just have to get out of town to escape the craziness of life. For me, a quick, budget-friendly, road trip up to Denver did the trick. I’ve had this city on my travel wish list and I was eager to experience some real winter weather (which we never get in LA!)

Denver seems to be on everyone’s radar lately, with the legalization of marijuana and lots of neighborhood rejuvenation, particularly in the downtown area, but it’s the beautiful mountain scenery and entrepreneurial spirit that drew me there. Craft beer is big, the art and media scene is booming with lots of creative energy, and big ol’ Google is moving into nearby Boulder.

There’s even a vintage scene for little ol’ me. I found some great vintage shopping along South Broadway, picked up a vintage purse at Night and Day Vintage and a lacy slip at Boss Unlimited. I checked out the punky alt styles at Fashion Nation where I met retro-lovin’ scenester and hairstylist Polly Rockett (be sure to check out her handmade hair flowers!).

A hipster Goodwill store, which was super clean and organized, came to the rescue when we were surprised by an incoming snowstorm. I scored a snow-protecting winter coat and brand new waterproof snow boots on the cheap because this LA girl didn’t have warm enough clothes! After running my new-to-me coat through a dry cleaner, it kept me toasty warm while hurling snowballs at my man!

SoBro, as they call it, is bustling at night with youthful energy and plenty of bars and restaurants. But it was the rockabilly hangs that I was interested in. We had dinner at Gary Lee’s Motor Club and Grub, crazy ice cream flavors at Sweet Action, popped our heads in for some live music at the Skylark Lounge and had cocktails and donut holes at Adrift Tiki Bar.

We explored other areas around town including strolling Larimer Square and 16^th Street Mall, which is magical at night with sparkle lights and horse drawn carriages, One of my favorite stops was Union Station, a beautiful, historical train station, lovingly preserved, which felt ultra elegant, safe and clean, with lots of shops and cafes. That’s how travel should be everywhere!

I had pure food joy when we stopped for dinner at Ted’s Montana Grill, a restaurant owned by Ted Turner, where I tried bison meat for the first time. What a pleasant surprise! It’s a very light meat, a little sweet, low fat and ultra healthy. Not only that, it was cooked perfect medium rare. I’m a fan.

I also discovered the wonder of Voodoo Donuts, I spotted a girl carrying a box of them and immediately hit Google until I tracked it down and had me a giant sugar rush with a “McMinnville Donut” (raised yeast shell filled with Bavarian cream, topped with maple frosting and a set of eyes and mustache.) I had heard about this crazy donut shop when it opened in Portland and was excited to find one on our trip – it’s worth waiting the ever present long lines to get that fix!

What I Wore

For someone who lives in a warm climate, I’m always a little puzzled on how to look cute and sleek while bundling up. While the clothes I brought on my trip didn’t quite make the cut when Colorado’s temperatures dropped suddenly, they served me as best they could. I paired a mod striped black sweater, over a t-shirt and some skinny black jeans over thin base layer leggings, and pointy ankle boots. My e-tip gloves let me use my phone while keeping my hands warm, and a cute, cherry-print scarf kept my hair in check and added a festive pop of springtime color to counter all the black.

Wearing a Layered Look

In Denver, the snowiest month of the year is March. So while everyone else is celebrating the arrival of springtime, Denverites can find themselves digging out of a blizzard, followed by very mild days. So what’s a girl to wear? A layered look! And just because it’s still cold at the turn of spring doesn’t mean you can’t bust out some colorful florals, like this botanical print full skirt. Pair the bold floral with another bold print of a striped sweater with sweet bow tie to create a strong yet playful look. You can always take the sweater off to reveal a statement-making t-shirt such as this book lover’s tee (Denver is home to many bookstores!) And don’t leave home without a jacket to stay warm when the temperature suddenly drops. This storm-ready trench coat in bright red does the trick and adds to the overall look rather than just being practical for warmth. Click the links to shop* this look!

So even if spring throws you a surprise cold front, you’ll be ready.

Layer on,
Kastle

Photos edited with PicMonkey*. Get it!

*Disclosure

Tags: Denver, Kastle Waserman, layered look, South Broadway, Travel