Swing in the New Year

Thanks to the recession and many years of lackluster New Years Eve's, I decided to throw my own little shin dig to ring in the new year with a few friends and keep things low key. However, when one throws a party in a time of financial crisis, it is hardly worth the effort if one is willing to sacrifice the class and fun in a holiday party. Being that I am inspired by all things pretty, whether its in books, the media or fashion, I decided to give my cocktail party a vintage twist with a speakeasy theme. Attire worn was drawn upon the flappers and newsboys of the 20's, along with the early century gangsters, speak easy's of prohibition and the glamour of the pin up girl's of the late 40's and early 50's.

The love of all things vintage and glamourous is also reflected on the runway and in major motion pictures. One of 2009's most unique and lucrative films, Nine, is a musical romance depicting the life and love traingle (or hexagon, more appropriately) of a famed movie director in the late 1950's into the 1960's. Costumes, make up and music reflect on a time of the past and give an air of fantasy to the viewer.

In runway news, Louis Vuitton had one of its most successful runway shows in years at the 2010 Spring preview this fall. In addition to modern preppy and bright color palette inspirations, the unparalleled glamour shown in his middle segment definitely drew upon our elders in the earlier part of the 20th century. Sweeping black gowns adorned with rich emerald green coats, large ruby red bows and the distinct air of wealth and aristocracy was reminiscent of the upper class of the 40's and 50's and represented both a tendency for androgynous pieces and a love for offsetting with super feminine pieces.

Even starletts and icons are sporting fashions of the past. Diane Kruger, Kate Hudson, and Dita von Teese have incorporated the once revered pin curls of the 1920's in their red carpet looks. Johnny Depp is fond of the larger cut zoot suit-esque three piece, which he dons on the red carpet as well as out on fancy social outings.

Check out pics from our New Years shin dig and be inspired by decades past in the new year!