Transitional Trench

Marlene Dietrich

We are at a seasonal crossroads as "Back to School" looms before us. The transition from Summer to Fall is here. Traditionally a trench coat is a staple for Spring but I get mine out during this season as the nights become cooler. 

Jackie Kennedy

The history of the trench is long, with origins from menswear. The first world wore saw British and French officers wearing this garment in the trenches, hence the name and it has evolved into the closets of fashionable women across the globe.  It's traditional color was Khaki but thankfully has also evolved into dozens of shades and colors. According to Wiki;  Invention of the trench coat is claimed by both Burberry and Aquascutum, with Aquascutum's claim dating back to the 1850s. Thomas Burberry, the inventor of gabardine fabric, submitted a design for an Army officer's raincoat to the United Kingdom War Office in 1901.

Jane Birkin - Burberry Trench

My personal go-to trench is a Black Michael Kors with a detachable hood and a liner that is also removable but I am intrigued with the trench trimmed in Grosgrain. Since the SJP Shoe Collection I have taken a second look at this fabrication, for those of you that don't know every shoe has a grosgrain detail or trim. The fabric 'gros grain' is characterized by its ribbed appearance and it is a firm, close-woven, fine-corded fabric with strength. You've seen it a lot as ribbon and headbands but trims for coats and shoes? I adore it.

The Greatest of the Grosgrain in the Trenches:

SJP Manhattan Trench Coat Trimmed in Grosgrain - Avail in: Khaki & Navy *SALE: Reg: $495 - ON SALE 60% off $198.90

Vince Camuto. Grosgrain Trimmed 'walking jacket' in Aqua  - SALE: Reg: $136 - $79.99

Ivanka Trump Grosgrain Trimmed Single Breasted Trench in RED  Was $190.00 / Sale: $104

Burberry  - Grosgrain Detailed Trench, $1695

Dotted Dames

I love the vastness of textiles. I come across the most interesting on my quest to re-style fashion's past current for my clients at EVOLUTION VINTAGE. In addition to textiles there are thousands of interesting patterns and color combinations; none more classic than

THE POLKA DOT!

I recently added this brown dress with white polka dots to the Evolution Vintage collection and immediately was transported back to the Polo game scene in Pretty Woman.

The origins of the Polka Dot as a textile is not known and widely disputed. Some say that its origins lie with the "polka" dance whose origins were in Europe in the 1830's. Walt Disney has also been given credit for the print for Minnie Mouse's dress and bow. I read a story recently about an ink spot falling on the drawing of Minnie as he was contemplating her look - plaid was too hard to animate (then done by hand ) and he wanted something bold for her.

Whatever it's origins there have been MANY stylish Dotted Dames throughout history! Some of the most iconic to me:
Lucy Bette Grable
Marilyn
Brigitte Bardot
Jackie Kennedy Onasis


Spot's have been seen on a wide range of garments; Day & evening dresses, pants, blazers, blouses, jackets/coats, scarves, ties, hand bags, leggings and hosiery.

It still Rocks Runways and Red Carpets! In COLORS



DOTTED SHEER




FASHION CLASSIC: Black & White





ARE YOU A DOTTED DAME?

SHOP THE SPOTS AT EVOLUTION VINTAGE