One Perfect Coat - 1952

I've been sitting here staring at this image for a couple of minutes wondering what to say.  But do I need to say anything except this is One Perfect Coat?  The black and white stylized zebra stripe.  The fit-and-flare cut.  The full sleeves that narrow towards the cuff.  The big pockets.  The turn of the collar.  Yep, One Perfect Coat!  Pierre Balmain, Fall 1952.

Vanity Fair Zebra Print - 1954

After it's very successful launch of leopard print lingerie in 1952, Vanity Fair introduced the black and white zebra print pieces in the spring of 1954.  This ad from June 1954, shows the model wearing just a pair of briefs with her back turned to the camera.  It is one of the most striking Vanity Fair ads I've ever seen.

The zebra print came in several pieces including a bra, pettiskirt slip, dressing gown, lounging pajamas and a peignoir set (now shown). I think they're all wonderful. How about you?

Style Statements - Animal Print and Vintage Muffs

1951

How do you take a simple gray wool suit into the stratosphere?  Add some animal print in your accessories!  Just the hint of print in the scarf she has tucked inside the jacket neckline makes the suit more interesting.  Add an animal print handbag and you've tied it all together.  I wonder what her shoes look like?  They could be animal print, but it's more likely they are gray or black.

Muffs like this one were popular from the 30s to the 50s.  They are a great way to keep your hands warm when the winter wind blows.  Most have hidden zipper pockets so you can carry your I.D., some money and your lipstick.  I'll bet you could even fit your cellphone in there.  And who needs more than that when you want to make a style statement?  We've got a couple of muffs available at Couture Allure right now.  Check them out!

Wearing Animal Prints

Cole swimsuits, 1954

As a fashion trend, animal prints come and go. Truly, though, animal prints are classics and will always be in style. A woman wearing an animal print projects confidence and allure. But you want to do it right. Here are a few Dos and Don'ts for wearing animal prints.

Pierre Balmain sequin evening gown, 1953

- Do keep it simple. A garment with simple, sleek lines works best in a busy animal print.
- Don't overdo it. Choose one piece in an animal print over an entire outfit.

Sybilla pants, 1992

- Do pair animal prints with neutrals like black, brown, tan, or gray.
- Don't choose animal prints in bright colors. Keep to the natural tones of the animal.

Givenchy silk evening gown, 1981

- Do keep your accessories simple. Let the print speak on it's own.
- Don't wear an animal print in an area you don't want to call attention to. Animal prints grab the eye, so wear them with discretion.