Gilda’s Tips for Dressing Like a Successful Commercial Artist

Charlotte

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Have you always wanted to dress like a successful 1930s commercial artist? Yes? You’re in luck! No? Fortunately, these ensembles transcend time and career. Gilda Farrell, successful American commercial artist and delightfully grown-up woman, knew how to keep it chic at all times. Let’s see if we can follow her lead down the road to professional acclaim and (if it suits us) radical romance.

#1-Takin’ the Train to Glamourville

Opening sequence: This is how you meet chic cute

Gilda proves that, no matter what your destination, dressing well is all in the details. Beret? Matching bow? Check, double-check. A simple skirt and artful blouse complete her comfortable and stylish traveling outfit. It’s best to be prepared, because you never know who you’ll meet when you least expect it…

#2-Go Big or Go Home

Decision Time Dress

Those shoulders! That bow! Those…criss-cross ribbon things! When an important decision looms ahead, what better way to arm yourself with confidence than by dressing with sartorial bravado? Napoleon would agree.

#3-Mothers Can Be Avant-garde, too

Avant-garde Mother of the Arts

When you are a Mother of the Arts, it’s okay to stand out from the crowd.  Having a strong style makes it easier to focus on the artists you are helping with your keen wisdom and cutting insights. Or something. A dress with an enormous Pilgrim collar and cuffs isn’t for everyone, but Gilda pulls it off. We can all learn from her nonchalance.

#4-Dressing for the Morning After

Morning After Confection

No matter what went down the night before, always dress with exceptional elegance for breakfast. Sometimes the most unexpected people show up at your door whilst you are canoodling over coffee. A decadent frock hides your surprise better than a tattered robe.

#5-Going to the Chapel…of Security

Wedding Dress

No matter how your marriage turns out, you’ll always have your wedding dress. Wear what makes you happy, and make sure that it fits like a dream. That way, you’ll have at least one good memory from you big day!

#6-Shimmery Shimmery Shake

Shimmery Dress with Tuxedo Bookends

Own one dress that makes you feel like a movie star. Bonus points if it sparkles! Everyone looks good with a little shine, and even better when they radiate happiness. Having a wardrobe designed by the great Travis Banton doesn’t hurt, either.

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♦Charlotte is our Fashion correspondent. Her dream closet consists of the collective wardrobes of 796 films.

 Up next: In Part Three of our review, Frances ponders the pros and cons of going bohemian.

The Miriam Hopkins Blogathon

The Miriam Hopkins Blogathon