Dress like a Femme FataleWords by Ms Carly Robinson:
Did anyone else have ‘Become a femme fatale’ on the top of their New Year’s Resolution list? This almost unattainable concept, mainly depicted in films from the golden era is highly sought after and idealised by many.
There are numerous qualities that distinguish a femme fatale from other women. She tends to be extremely intelligent in addition to being quite beautiful. She often speaks, behaves or dresses in an unusual and striking manner which is designed to get attention without being too flashy. This last part is of great importance as not only is it vital to have the right attitude, but aesthetics play a significant role as well.
One of the reasons why I have such a huge love for fashion, is that it allows you to transform into various characters – perhaps from your favourite film, fashion spread or cabaret performance – and being able to select a look that you wish to channel through your clothing and accessories, hair and makeup.
There have been many transformations of the femme fatale through time – both physical appearance and society’s perceptions of them. My favoured femme fatales are the ones associated with the 1940s. Whilst fashions of the forties largely reflected the turmoil of the decade, the lasting image of forties fashion is that of the Hollywood sirens and seductive glamour of Film Noir. Those femme fatales of the silver screen are some of the most loved throughout Hollywood history – Lauren Bacall, Veronica Lake, Rita Hayworth, Bette Davis, Ava Gardner to name a few are the red lipped vixens who continue to inspire fashion collections worldwide.
The fundamentals of a femme fatale wardrobe (which also draws influence from the fashions of the 1940s):
Wrap and shirt dresses
Tailored skirt suits
Full Dior ‘New Look’ skirts
Pencil and slim fitting skirts
Floor length, highly embellished or detailed satin gowns.
Black lace
Fur coats, stoles and trimming
Trench coats
Jewel encrusted brooches and hair pins
Scarves – luxurious silk is definitely a winner
Gloves – of various lengths i.e. wrist, mid-length, elbow length
Cinched waist accentuated by a waist belt or achieved by wearing a corset or waist cincher! It is also most important to have decent undergarments i.e. slips, garter belts, bras, girdles etc.
Seamed stockings
Hats – small ones with veils, topper hats, ones with elaborate decorations, tilt hats.
Satin – blouses, skirts and dresses
Don’t forget your sky high heels – a standard issue in femme fatale boot camp. In fact, at femme fatale boot camp it is mandatory to sleep in four-inch heels! The Most Important part of completing this look is of course, Red Lipstick, for ‘Thou Shall Always Endeavour To Wear Red Lipstick’ – Remember?
Where to find such pieces?
Our friends at Bonnie Rose Vintage (www.bonnierosevintage.com.au) or visit one of the many Love Vintage Fairs around Australia wshere you will see 000’s of amazing garments on sale (www.lovevintage.com.au) Also, for a more commercial edge we have Australian owned labels such as Kitten D’Armour & Wheels & Dollbaby – modern take on film noir/femme fatale fashion
eBay
Second hand stores
Vintage stores
Op shops
Markets or fairs
Your mothers or grandmothers!
Of course, the forties style is defined by its iconic hair and make up, more so than the clothing. So if you haven’t already reserve a spot for one of our wonderful workshops! The Mistresses from The Lindy Charm School for Girls will ensure that you will leave looking like the femme fatale we know you want to be!
Til next time,
Miss Carly (Charm School Debutant 2009)
