According to favorite fashion blog Refinery29, Rockabilly Beauty is going to be huge for 2012. Cut to hug curves and accentuate all those special things that make a woman feel like a woman, rockabilly, vintage and retro inspired dresses are flattering on any and all figures. Don’t hide your body behind baggy sacks and loads of layers. Give this style of classic fashion a chance in your wardrobe.

One of the places I highly recommend you explore for these types of dresses is Stop Staring. From little black dresses to swing dresses to show-stopping cocktail dresses, you’ll find all kinds of colors and prints available in sizes extra small to 3X. After all, women come in all shapes and sizes, and Stop Staring is ready to accommodate. To shop cute rockabilly and retro dresses go to www.stopstaringclothing.com.

Complimentary product received for this blog post.

1970s Rock Star: Think Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart

Wide Leg Pants by Theyskens’ Theory
Wedges by Giuseppe Zanotti

1970s Career Girl: This one is easy. Think Mary Tyler Moore, with a slight Wonder Woman edge.

Longsleeve Tops by Milly
Platforms by Pour La Victoire

1970s Glam Heroine: Shows like “Charlie’s Angels” and “Bionic Woman” epitomized the best of both worlds – a dynamic mix of the independent career girl with the rebellious rocker chick. It’s what all Gen X women grew up to be.

Flare Denim by 7 For All Mankind
Platforms by Tory Burch

For many women who lead a rockabilly lifestyle, this type of pinup-looking, retro fashion isn’t new. But thanks to the popularity of the television show “Mad Men” and celebrities wearing such styles on the red carpet, vintage-inspired clothing is becoming more mainstream. Those of us with hourglass figures embrace this style of design, as we find that most modern-day fashion brands do not accommodate for curves, but the vintage styles of yesteryear do.

Stop Staring! Designer Alicia Estrada

For those of you larger than a size 12, you’ll love this about Stop Staring! apparel – all dresses are available in up to size 18. Soon, the brand will be adding up to size 24. “I’m a plus size myself,” says Estrada, “I get it. I design all Stop Staring! dresses to flatter curves and enhance a fuller shape.” According to Estrada, plus sizes sell out fast.

One of the fears that women have of wearing vintage-inspired fashion is looking like they just stepped out of a time machine, but Estrada, who has been sewing since age 16, has a few tips to avoid that. “When you wear vintage inspired dresses, use modern jewelry and modern shoes and bags,” she advises. “Mix it up. Add your own personal flair, to bring out your own personality when wearing these looks.”

Film noir movies and silver screen legends Joan Crawford and Rita Hayworth have been Estrada’s inspirations, but she is elated to see the current surge of 21st century fashionistas wearing retro, pinup fashion. She says, “I think that all women can clearly see how classy these dresses are, yet they have a touch of sex appeal that drives men crazy.” Estrada is a pioneer, starting Stop Staring! 13 years ago, before the look became so trendy. “I think Stop Staring! fueled the current vintage-inspired popularity,” she proclaims, adding, “It is awesome to see so many celebrities wearing our stuff on the red carpet!”

Of course, no red carpet is necessary for you to look hot. If you’re ready to give Betty Draper a run for her money, visit the Stop Staring! website at www.stopstaringclothing.com, or if you’re in Los Angeles, visit the showroom at 14023 Paramount Boulevard in Paramount, California. You can also telephone the brand at 213-627-1480.

 

Complimentary dress was received for this blog post.

Are you understanding the fashion math presented here? Here’s how it works:

Pencil Skirt + Animal Print Platforms + Anything from bebe = Sexy Retro

So the next time you’re wanting to do a sexy retro look, remember that formula.

The Details:

The modern-day gold tone pinhead studs and grommets balance out the retro pleats and ruffles of this silk blouse.

A single ruffle adds depth to a simple black pencil skirt.

Basic accessories keep the outfit from looking like a costume. The belt and clutch are re-styled pieces. The belt originally had a silver buckle, which I painted black, and the clutch originally had a shoulder strap, which I cut off and then used a Sharpie marker to paint the area where I’d removed the strap.

The Outfit:

Blouse:
bebe

Belt:
H&M

Skirt:
Nicole Miller (purchased at ShopGoodwill.com for under $20)

Shoes:
Aldo

Love the birds. Love the retro pattern. Love the shape of the top flap. And, it’s a great price. Only $80.

ICHI-V, Kakkoii White clutch, $80 at Moxsie