Senorita Hollywood

Quick Update ...

2009-09-10T22:46:00.013-07:00

It's been a whirlwind summer , we moved the shop - which was so much harder than I could have imagined- to a bigger and better location , hosted a fashion show at a local city event and now we're getting geared up for the Rockabilly Rave. yep folks, we'll be there , hustling vintage , knocking back a few and loving the music - hope to see you there ! For now I'm off on a buying trip- my favorite part of this job... wish me luck !
Before I go please enjoy a few shots from our fashion show.....

Stop me before I buy these ! Seriously fab sunglasses....

2009-06-25T00:26:00.004-07:00

We are saving our pennies here at SH HQ and can't bear to see these not go to a good home . They would match perfectly with a sparkly lucite purse In my collection but I must stay strong !

Besides, i already own an incredible pair that bring me great joy, I'd feel like I was cheating on them if i purchased and equally fab pair. It would be like cheating on a lover .
I think they are a bargain at $46 ! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26899947

No more Viva Las Vegas for me !

2009-06-22T00:09:00.006-07:00

I had the misfortune to hit the local newstand and see this publication "rebel Rodz" (Rods are infiniltey cooler when spelled with a Z - wacky !) Having bowed out of the last 3 VLV 's I was slightly horrified to see what it all has come to. These pics don't show the worst of it, one of their "viva las vegas" girls not shown here- is wearing an outfit more appropriate for a Judds concert circa 1987. Patchwork Denim over-the -knee boots anyone ?

I for one often wear a Diner costume to Viva - when I am not wearing my pink poodle skirt and plastic rhinestone cat eye glasses or course !

Wait, is that Mariah Carey in the gold 70s swimsuit ?

Really now, has it gotten this bad? All costume and polyester shadow of real rockin style ? Say it isn't so.
I will say there were no less than 10 " retro, rat rod, rockabilly" type magazines at the newstand . This one is by the same publishers as Easyriders, the bitches on back biker magazine thats been around since the 70s at least. If they are jumping on this trend it must be pretty mainstream.

Viva used to be amazingly fun, the first few years, and maybe it still is if you stay away from the car show. Which is sad beacuse the car show used to be great too - back when the lot was half full !
Maybe I'm a snob ! I kinda feel okay about that. I realize they'll move on to the next bandwagon, and we'll still be here when they do.

Where are MY perfect shoes ?

2009-06-15T13:52:00.006-07:00

The quest for really great vintage shoes is never ending, I was looking for comfortable 40s wedgies , and i think im good there, but my real never ending quest is 50s flat leather sandals - I sold this pair a few years back and can't get them out of my mind ! They were a sz 6 and i actually tried to fool myself into believing my 8 1/2 foot looked perfectly fine in them . Needless to say delusions are impractical and I had to let them go.... I search vintage shops/ ebay etc and just can't seem to some up with a great pair in my size ...

The other empty place in my heart is in the shape of a great pair of 50s flats ! I am selling this pair on my website but sadly for me they are a sz 7 ! Suede with a rhinestone starburst on the vamp -they really are the shoes of my dreams !

So I'm putting it out there to the universe . I've just donated 8 or 9 pairs of shoes I don't love in order to leave room for my dream shoes. Thanks universe, i'll be here waiting .....

Pretty in Prom .....

2009-04-23T16:44:00.006-07:00

I smile every time i pass this in the shop !

It's prom season here and the gals seem to be on one side of the fence or the other - micro mini 80s or full on frothy cupcake 50s ! I dont have to tell you which I love more, but their youthful giddiness makes me vicariously happy , and thrilled to be doing what i do. I make people smile, I make them feel like princesses, vixens, and starlets - how cool is that.

My prom in the early 90s was a parade of gag inducing Jessica McClintocks and hella huge hair !

Me, I was in my black phase, I wore a lace off the shoulder dress , it was short, with a full skirt .

I wore flats !! I barely wore makeup and never wore heels until my early 20s - my friends now would never believe it !

My hair was an asymetrical chin length bob that I wore with the ends flipped up !

My date was my first love , our local rock star and record store nerd, and he had approximately the same haircut , minus the flipped ends !

Must see: the Powder and the Glory on PBS

2009-03-24T19:26:00.002-08:00

I love a good entrepenurial tale and I especially love learning about women who made their mark in business - this new documentary on Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein is fascinating ! These two women started beauty empires at the turn of the century and changed our world forever, they were innovators, risk takers and whip-smart businesswomen .
http://www.pbs.org/thepowderandtheglory/ . Plenty of eye candy in this too, deco compacts and purses, fabulous clothing, vintage footage and more.
If this interests you be sure and read up on Madam C.J. Walker (b 1867 d.1919) she became the first female self made millionare in American history by developing and selling hair care products .

Unbelieveable Jo Copeland Fuschia lace and Black Jersey

2009-03-24T19:04:00.004-08:00

Seriously ? I ask you dress; are you seriously so amazing ? From every angle late 1940s couture quality , elegant , quirky, sexy without being too revealing, and that pop of color ! Pinch me!

There is so little information out there on Jo Copeland, but I did read that she designed directly on the body instead of a dress form. In person you can really see how the draping and fit are extremely body concious and flattering. I really love the use of jersey and the extreme asymetrical bodice.

My favorite repro of all time

2009-03-24T18:34:00.002-08:00

It's rayon , has a darling heart print, cute cuffed sleeves with contrasting red lining, a peplum and is over the top 40s cute , but its totally 70s ! Joseph magnin , a lovely crepe and cute as pie.

And how lucky am I ? My new shop gal also makes a naturally good model, I think she shows off my clothes beautifully !

She also happens to be a fabulous artist and smart, sassy young woman who plays the washboard and is an aspiring bluegrass musician . I really do meet the best people in this business!

His & Hers 40s Catalina Deer Sweaters

2009-02-26T19:03:00.004-08:00

Normally matching couples make me a little queasy, but when it comes to Vintage Catalina Knit sweaters - I can make an exception ! I am already fantasizing about sitting by the fire with my boyfriend at a snowy lodge drinking hot toddies and listening to The Bing Crosby Christmas album . Perhaps if we both shrink enough by Christmas it will come true ! Don't hold your breath ! Oh and besides I'd have to heavily drug him to wear a sweater with a cute deer on it - Anyone wanna trade for a set with Marlin prints ?

A quick tease, todays Hawaiian find ...

2009-02-26T18:12:00.002-08:00

This deadstock (seriously!) Red Malihini Hawaiian dress followed me home today - isn't she pretty !!

Anne Fogarty Bazaar 1952 and Ebay delights !

2009-02-26T12:39:00.003-08:00

Another ad from 1952 , and a good segue to introducing a favorite Vintage Ebay seller - FABGABS who also happens to be a swell gal .

If you havent seen her goods heres a peek, a green Velvet Anne Fogarty of the same era.... The auction ends in a few days, but if you miss it don't despair she regularly presents a wonderful array of the good stuff ! Find this and other goodies here:http://stores.ebay.com/Fab-Gabs-Fine-Vintage

Bargain shoppers will love this auction from the UK another Anne Fogarty starting at 7 pound !

Not the best pics but hey its a bargain ! I think their mannequin looks like a certain tabloid star - so theres a bonus giggle there.... heres the auction link http://cgi.ebay.com/VINTAGE-50s-BOMBSHELL-WOOL-WINTER-DAY-DRESS_W0QQitemZ400033402912QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_Women_s_Vintage_Clothing?hash=item400033402912&_trksid=p3286.m63.l1177

Bazaar April 1952

2009-02-24T16:48:00.009-08:00

I have two favourite vintage fashion Magazines , Bazaar for the sublime high end designer and couture wear in the editorials , and Seventeen for the live out loud fun color , the casual play clothes and the divine swimwear .

This issue of Bazaar from 1952 features some wonderful editorial shots but the ads are gorgeous too and feature some of the Vintage worlds favorite labels and designers. In 1952 these labels would have been out of reach for most Americans , but through the magic of Vintage shopping you can purchase these works of art for what amounts to a song when you consider the quality of the fabrics and construction and the timeless designs. A quick search on the web will find you many of these names for under $100 !

Lilli Ann - this suit was $100 (approx $800 today) in 1952 made of imported French fabric of the highest quality . The bell sleeve is breathtaking !

Jerry Parnis - A label I've been lucky enough to posess now and then, always uber-flattering , with simple but lovely prints. 100% New Look early 50s beauty ! ( In fact check out this Jerry Parnis sz 18 pattern on ebay - for 6.99 ! 200309693014)

Talk about an atomic bombshell , this suit was built like a rocket ship !This was $23 - equivalent to $175 today ! If you are lucky enough to have owned a Cole you'll know its worth every penny, if not go get yourself one !

This breathtaking Nelly De Grab Number in lush yards of lace is another you'd be so lucky to own today. Notice the tie-in to a silver pattern ! Seventeen and Junior Bazaar magazines had pages of ads encouraging teen women to add that special piece of silver to their trousseau . Its only slightly disturbing how much Marriage at such an early age was encouraged and glamourized. Its interesting to notice the same Seventeen magazines from 1968 have nary a fork or serving spoon in sight , rather full page spreads on Pontiac GTOs for the gal on the go !!

Lastly , I'll sneak in a Lilli Ann Jacket that will be available soon on my website ....

Can't resist a Fella In a Gab Hollywood Jacket

2009-02-24T14:17:00.010-08:00

The label says it all " the Playboy by Suedecraft of California! "

Though not flash like the two tone turquoise or pink and black - these Hollywood jackets evoke that casual cool California feel that just looks so good on a well dressed man. They'll be available on http://www.senoritahollywood.com/ soon ! Heres a sneak peek...

Loving THIS today

2009-02-18T16:12:00.002-08:00

My Favorite thing today ... The print on this Tori Richard swimsuit simply makes me smile ! The bust has that wonderful shaped pleating that makes for a perky pair .

Vintage swimsuits are just so much more flattering and sexy. Every other body on the beach is showing enough crack and cleavage to keep the creeps leering for days , but a classy chick can look great ,have fun , relax and simply BE cooler than any other babe on land or at sea.

Speechless and sad.....

2009-02-04T21:10:00.001-08:00

What I love NOW.... A flock of Owls

2009-02-04T16:42:00.002-08:00

My quick pick of the day...When it comes to jewelry i've always been partial to poodles , burros and fish but the hot sellers at the shop are owls ! Here is a collection showcased in its original owners frame..

Sneak a peek at whats coming soon....

2009-02-02T15:54:00.003-08:00

Emerald Green 50s swimsuit Large (vintage sz 16 modern 12 ish)

Tina Leser Sun dress Late 40s

40s Rayon sarong 2 piece S/M

Red Hot Valentines dress Circa 50s

Website, ebay or my boutique, you'll be seeing these numbers in the coming weeks.....

My favorite Item in the shop right NOW....

2009-02-01T15:44:00.006-08:00

This pretty number reminds me of home in many ways, it recalls my fathers proud family who worked in the citrus crops and packing houses of the central valley . I remember the drive to grandmas house in Woodlake California was always surrounded on either side by the endless citrus orchards. Grandpa had a few trees in the back yard , I still think of him when I see them .
I still look forward every year to the winter crop of juicy oranges .
This watercolor print modernistic purse is as sweet as any orange i've ever had! Circa 50s to early 60s its roomy - another thing I love/need in my vintage bags .

Got the Midcentury bug ? Dig this site ...

2009-01-29T13:49:00.000-08:00

Lushpad.com is a buy sell etc. site for Midcentury home decor and furniture. The site just looks so inviting, clean, and easy to explore. Looks like they are kinda new so there isn't a ton of stuff on there- but if i were you i'd get in on the groundfloor ! http://www.lushpad.com/

2009-01-17T19:58:00.000-08:00

The El Rancho Tropicana hotel resort was a sprawling complex here in Santa Rosa - sadly bulldozed int he mid 90s to be replaced by a Target, best buy , costco old navy, Trader Joes etc... What used to be a place of architectural interest , with multiple cocktail lounges, pools and restaurants is now a carbon copy of every other town you've ever been to. Sigh...

One of those now forgotten bars was the Bamboo Room , a polynesian themed bar, that I dearly wish was still here. I need somewhere to wear all my Hawaiian Dresses !Even though its winter, Hawaiian dresses never go off season at Skirt Chaser Vintage or Senorita Hollywood.com in fact here is our newest offering , hopefully your hometown still has a polynesian pop bar, or you have a home Tiki bar ( a real vintage one not the kind bought at the Longs or Home depot - cringe !!)

Yours truly was lucky enough to pick up a 50s hawaiian Sarong for myself this week . Its a sarong style with pineapples and little fishies and I found it at Decades on Haight street . I was happy to see that their prices are much more resonable than I remember , but they still have an amazing selection of mostly pre 70s vintage, so you dont have to dig through a bunch of 80s like many vintage shops these days !

2009-01-17T19:41:00.000-08:00

Update: this pretty blouse is now sold...
We HEART this pretty rayon 40s blouse .we think this is perfect for your Valentines day outfit , and what better way to celebrate love - or looking for love? (In my opinion , the fun part !) .
its a silky rayon - maybe silk , but I am so over doing burn tests on everything . Its a roomy XL so curvy sweethearts take note !
Available at our shop Skirt Chaser Vintage Santa Rosa Ca...
OR online at www.senoritahollywood.com

Keep your Hoo-Ha Cozy this winter

2008-11-24T22:14:00.000-08:00

I share a wall with a Bikini Waxer , took me a while to understand the shrieks, the squeals and the spontaneous singing .Now I know it's all in the pursuit pre-pubescent splendor. So in honor of you Brazilian babes , who endure a moment of pain for a couple of weeks of smoothness , I present the thrilling hoo-ha cozy dress .

Curve hugging wool , accented by a swirl of fluffy fur that orbits the hips and bottom . Sure to keep your fur free zone toasty this winter.

In all seriousness , it is a HOT little dress - and not to be missed this season.

Holy Mai Tai Its a mothertruckin Tiki Thrift !

2007-06-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

Salvation Army inside a tiki bar . Heaven i tell you - but only if they serve drinks and considering SA is heavily involved in recovery programs it's unlikely - but a gal can dream no? Its in Louisville Kentucky - holy moly , thats one more really really good reason for me to get my cute ass to the South . When I saw these picks , I think i peed a little .
photos stolen from : http://www.agilitynut.com/tiki.html

Thinkin' about Drinkin'

2007-06-20T19:51:00.000-07:00

Found this yesterday - instantly started scheming to get my hands on some absinthe . Really though, for the experience to be just right, it needs to be in Paris . And I have to be in one of those cave like European bars , wearing this dress-glowing in the dark like a radioactive princess .
Maybe I'll just pop it on my website and hope the right radioactive princess comes along. Just so long as she promises to drink absinthe in Paris in it. Or at least a Chartreuse Martini with the lights turned low and gypsy accordian music playing on the hi-fi..........