SPOTLIGHT: Carlos Falchi

If you haven't heard of Carlos Falchi, today is your lucky day!

Carlos Falchi is a Brazilian-born handbag and accessories designer well renowned for his high quality pieces and his use of exotic skins and leathers.

At the age of twenty, he moved to New York where he worked as a busboy.
It was here that he came in contact with rock and rollers and started designing stage costumes for
Mick Jagger, Tina Turner, and even the king himself, Elvis Presley!

Falchi got his big break in the 1970's when he showed his designs to
Geraldine Stutz, former president of Henri Bendel.


For over 30 years, Falchi has been designing bags with classic style.
His bags are soft and unstructured and often combine colors and patterns for a whimsical look.

His bags are showcased in movies such as Sex and the City and
 enjoyed by celebrities from Madonna and Cher to Rihanna and Blake Lively.



Carlos Falchi has also made an impact in the environment!
He has tried to create farm-bred, exotic skins which would protect the species, boost employment in developing regions, and provide environmental controls.

In 2004,  he received the Lifetime Award from the Accessories Council.
Many of his bags are also showcased in the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Musuem of Art.

Recently, Falchi made a line of more cost efficient bags for Target and HSN with the same craftsmanship that is evident in all of his work.

Here's to you Carlos Falchi for creating bags with an exotic flair that has never ceased!!

xoxo
Flirty Fanny

American High Style-Brooklyn Museum

American High Style is an exhibit going on at the Brooklyn Museum in conjunction with Polyvore, highlighting innovative designers from the past who made an impact on American fashion.
Last weekend I went on a solo Fanny mission to check it out!

Notebook...check! Pen...check! Camera...check! Stuffed my backpack and off I went.
It was Vintage paradise filled with garments, accessories, shoes, and even original sketches dating back to the 1800s. Oooh lala! Check out my favorites:




This elegant evening outfit is an early 70's creation by American designer Norman Norell. Capturing the essence of that period..It's billowy and glamorous!Aren't the beaded pants amazing?and the bow and poets sleeve!

DELISH!










Christian Dior (whom really needs no introduction) designed some of the beautiful footwear on display. I see oxfords and caged shoes were considered chic back then as well. How cool is that?




Dress to the left by Cristobal Balenciaga in 1945 and to the right also Christian Dior in 1952.




A 1960's blue bandeau dress by Hubert de Givenchy and a 1950's Yves Saint Laurent cocktail dress.. Both with bows that add girly charm galore!




A frilly Black number by none other than Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel in 1965. It felt very surreal standing in front of a piece designed by the legendary Chanel herself.





New York born designer Charles James made these lavish silk gowns during the 1950's. Known as America's first couturier, his work was largely recognized for it's elaborate construction and luxurious materials.




Puppies have to be fly too!

London based designer John Cavanagh is the master behind these three items made in the 1960's. He had a very successful run as a couturier for 10 years with his eponymous house 'John Cavanagh'.





Red bottoms on shoulder of the jumpsuit remind me of Christian Louboutins!

This exhibit is a must see, so run to the Brooklyn Museum before August first. If you love vintage you'll enjoy. For more information on the exhibit click here.
Fanny mission complete!

xoxo Ferocious Fanny

FF Field Trip!THE ROOTS!TALIB KWELI!This Sun!

 As if Summer 2010 could get ANY better!!

This Sunday, July 11th..

THE ROOTS!! TALIB KWELI!!

$3!!!!

Say Word!!

Join Team Funky Fanny's for a Field Trip that's sure to be AHMAAZIN!

The Roots will headline the Celebrate Brooklyn! /OkayAfrica World Cup 2010 Finals party.

Prospect Park Bandshell..9th Street & Prospect Park West..BK,NY

Gates open at 4pm..Show starts at 5pm..Early arrival is suggested as lines can be lonnnnng! :)

Look for the Orange & Pink balloons and we'll be there posted up with lawn space,snacks,and Funtimes guaranteed!!!

Picnicking is encouraged :)..so feel free to bring a snack, but please keep in mind that bottles,cans,and pets are not allowed.

All are welcome! We'll save lawn seating for all that RSVP to: ffrsvp@gmail.com

Come hang with Team FF for some Summer Funtimes!!

No Vintage just Dope Music & Stellar Company!! :)

We love Vintage and we LO-O-O-VE Summer Concerts too!

 Suggested Donation $3

Don't forget to RSVP to the above mentioned address so we know you're comin and we'll see ya there!!

xoxo

Team Funky Fanny's

FF Field Trip: Sidewalk Catwalk Part 1!

Team Funky Fanny's took a Field Trip to strut down the Sidewalk Catwalk,

a public fashion event celebrating the NYC Fashion District.

We also enjoyed a nice lunch at Schnippers, famous for their comfort food!!

I'm talking jumbo burgers, golden french fries, and frothy milkshakes!!

Yum, Yum and Yummy!

We strolled down Broadway to the exhibit which featured over

30 different designers, adorning custom made Ralph Pucci mannequins (not related to designer Emilio Pucci), and each with their own unique twist and custom design.

Take a peek at some of the awesomeness Team FF encountered...

FYI: DO NOT touch the mannequins! Guards are on 24/hr patrol

FeistyFanny was just being...well you know FEISTY!!

Don't worry she kept her hands to herself...the entire time! haha

FIT students Christopher C. and Ariel P. made a contribution of their own...

paying homage to the Garment District that keeps our fashion world spinning!!

"Welcome to Fashion Ave"

Diane Von Furstenburg hand painted her mannequin with

her own rendition of the "cheetah print" by using a purple and black color-way.

and left an everlasting impression on me with the saying

"Love is Life...-Diane"

Whew!All that delicious fashion had us hungry for delicious LUNCH!
Pitstop at The Vintage Wondergirl's fav spot for DELISH Cookies n Cream Milkshakes!!

Bellies full and ready for more fashion pleaseeee!

Catherine Malandrino

went patriotic along with a few other designers who showed their love for

America by designing pieces inspired by the American Flag.

The Vintage Wondergirl and Foxy Fanny salute you too!

Carlos Falchi is known for using exotic skins on his famous handbags.

He covered his mannequin in snakeskin from HEAD to TOE

and little sayings like "Rock n Roll", "LOVE", and

"But I like it" inscribed on her skin!

This one has to be my favorite mannequin of them all because

it's fun, edgy, and artistically creative.

It wouldn't be classic Betsey Johnson if her mannequin didn't scream

Bright funky fun, flowers, and yumminess all around!!

Betsey's hot pink mannequin adorned with a platinum blonde wig, custom belt made for real flowers, and sharpie painted Gladiator sandals!

um WOW! Gotta Love her!!

"You get what you give"

Pictures of Betsey with her grandchildren!! XoXo

Our Team FF Field Trip was quite exciting! So much to see and take in....
Part 2 coming soon! Stay tuned!
Until then..

Go with some of your favorite ladies and see

"Sidewalk Catwalk" for yourselves!

There's plenty of tables and chairs for a nice afternoon lunch with the mannequins...haha

Peace/Love/Free Hugs

~FoxyFanny~

FunkyFanny's new gal on the scene...Flirty Fanny!

Well hello gals and dolls,

Introducing (drum roll please).... Flirty Fanny!

Flirty Fanny at your service!
Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY.
I go to school in Los Angeles (but we all know nothing beats Brooklyn!)

I love sparkles, bright colors, funky shoes, and anything high-waisted.
Which I prefer to get from Vintage.
I like to mix and sprinkle fashion from the 40's, 60's, and 80's.

The classiness of the 40's plus the experimentation of the 60's
topped off with the bold brightness of the 80's are what I adore.

Something y'all should know right now:
I am a huge nerd and proud of it!

Reading, traveling, art. and elephants. These are what tickle my fancy.

My favorite timewaster, however, is music. You can barely see me
without my Ipod dancing in my own world. My music is a crazy mixture of
anything and everything you can think of, from bluegrass to hip hop!

Good people are what truly make me happy.

Forever yours,
With hugs and kisses,
Flirty Fanny

Funky Fanny's Tip of the Day..Virtual Vintage 101

If you're anything like this Fanny
the thought of window shopping VIRTUALLY for Vintage clothing
makes you cringe in your Contempo Casuals leopard bustier!
*clutches pearls*

If you can't tell
I'm personally of the "reach out and touch somebody"
(or rather someTHING in this case)
school of thought.
By no means am I denouncing the thrills that can be found in the virtual shopping world...
Feisty Fanny isn't THAT antiquated after all..

Besides, too few of us have the luxury, time or patience
to actually scour through aisles and racks upon racks of clothes,
on the hunt for that perfect
unbelievably MAGICAL vintage find!
(Leave that business to us here at Funky Fanny's...
it's a dirty, dirty job but SOMEBODY'S gotta do it!)
I digress...

Onward to the task at hand...
Shopping for vintage online!
Here are a few helpful tips I've found make my online perusing less terrifying:

• DO YOU MEASURE UP?

• When dealing with a garment you can't physically feel or try on, your best ally is a keen attention to detail...mainly measurements.

• Sites that provide the most detailed descriptions on a garment are your best bet

• Measurements to pay special attention to:

     Bust..Waist..Hips..Shoulder..Inseam..Arm

• SIZE DOES MATTER!

• Sizing charts have changed throughout the years. It's important to be aware and careful when dealing with the size listed on vintage items.

• An Yves Saint Laurent dress circa the 1970's in a size 12 will be a smaller cut and fit than today's equivalent of the same size,some where near a modern 6/8 even! Blame it on vanity sizing or evolution, we're just built bigger nowadays!

• IMAGE IS EVERYTHING!

• A site worth its weight in vintage will provide a smorgasbord of images of their wears.

• You want to ensure there are close up pictures of the item and shots from varying angles.

• A clothing item on a human form helps to provide you with a visual on the fit and fall of a particular item,although not necessary,it sure does seem to help!

• WHATCHA GOT THERE?

• Take a peek in your closet. Whip out that trusty measuring tape, compare site measurements to some of your favorite pieces currently holding court a mere inches away from you. Chances are if you can get them to match up as close as possible...you've got yourself a winner doll!

• WHO'S THAT GIRL?

• Are you a trendy, of the moment kind of gal who knows what's hot and fills up her closet with copious amounts of the latest trends?

• Or maybe you're that educated consumer who makes thoughtful purchases based on your current wardrobe and how well new items will work within it?

•  And my personal favorite - the impulse buyer! Do you buy regardless of season, price or style simply because YOU HAVE TO HAVE IT?

• Regardless of where you fall along this shopping spectrum, knowledge of self will take you a long way in your decision making process and will undoubtedly yield that perfect addition to your wardrobe.

I'm keeping my eyes peeled for more online shopping tips to share
But for now, keep using those fingers to virtual shop til' you drop!!!

Spunky Til I Die,
FeistyFanny

GOLD MONEY YALLLLLLLL!

We'll be here how bout you?

SPOTLIGHT: Claude Montana

Claude who???? I said the same thing when I first heard of this amazing designer a few years ago.
Many of the 'it' trends we see on runway and even the streets are inspired by Claude Montana. Read on to find out what a significant impact he made in one of my favorite eras--the 1980's!


French native Claude Montana started out designing papier-mache jewelry at 20 years old. A few years later, he began designing biker's leathers and mastered the technique. His very first collection came alive in 1976.


In 1979 House of Montana was born. His affinity for sharp silhouettes in luxurious fabric like cashmere, leather, and silk made him a huge success. Throughout the 80's he was hailed an innovator of high fashion, most notably for sparking the shoulder pad trend alongside Thierry Mugler. Montana's shows were elaborate and full of energy, everyone who is everyone flew in to see them. Including me....in my dreams of course.


In 1992 Claude Montana designed a haute couture collection for Lanvin, winning two consecutive awards.

House of Montana closed up shop in 1997 but it's influence lives on in every shoulder pad, every leather glove, and every sharp tailored jacket. Here's to you Mr Montana!

xoxo Ferocious Fanny.

Vintage Trend: Color Block

Color Block, is a pattern that consists of two or more colors in geometric shapes. It's origins lie in 1960's London where mod fashion was all the rage amongst British youngsters.

The term 'Block' refers to various sized squares and rectangles that were used in original Color Block garments. Think of the building blocks you used in Kindergarten, I loved those!

One of the most recognized Color Block patterns is from a painting by abstract artist Piet Mondrian. Yves Saint Laurent used his creative brilliance to whirl it into fashion by putting this gorgeous painting on an elegant dress.

The 'Mondrian' shift was a part of YSL's famous Fall 1965 collection. Doesn't it remind you of a Rubix cube?

Since then Color Block has been a classic that returns to the spotlight every once in a while. Currently we are experiencing a revival in this trend but in a subtler way with simpler shapes and hues more vibrant than primary/pastel shades in the past.

Remember those Herve Leger dresses that were so popular in the late 00's? Yep, those were a rendition of Color Block.

Hmm what will the future bring in this colorful trend? I can't wait to see :)

xoxo Ferocious Fanny

Ad of the Month

The epitome of elegance aka Iman meets Yves Saint Laurent for his Rive Gauche collection in 1980.
Sweet ruffles and hair flowers plus a sassy facial expression and hoop earrings equal feeyuhhcceee. Snaps!

xoxo Ferocious Fanny

Funky Fanny's Tip of the day: Thriftin' 101

These days being Foxylicious and spreading free hugs comes easy to a gal like me...

So I've invested time in other awesomeness!

Like learning how to be a

* thriftin' vintage junky queen!! Say that 5x's real fast * ;-)

From thrift stores, vintage boutiques,

and my personal favorite flea markets!!

I'll give you a few tips on how to make it through all that wonderful vintage

in one piece, find a treat, and not go broke!

1. Shop with a budget! Or have an idea of how much you'd like to spend, because you don't want to regret it later!

I often limit myself to 5 pieces of vintage each shopping trip.

Keep in mind: Thrift with the intentions that you will wear your vintage again and again because most places don't do returns or exchanges.

2. Check condition of vintage! No matter the price you should check every vintage item for damage.

This is important because you want to make sure you're getting good quality for the price you're paying.

The worst is buying a piece to find out it has severe damage and you can't return it!

It prohibits you from wearing said killer piece and that my friends is the pits!

Clothing: Check seams for holes and tears.

Any stain damage especially around underarm area, missing buttons, and zippers.

Shoes: Analyze for peeling, missing heel and taps.

Bend the shoe to make sure it's sole is secure and not cracking.

You don't want your shoes to snap, crackle and pop!

Purses: Test strap durability and any hardware damage, scuff marks, and general wear 'n tear.

Jewelry: Analyze the clasps are secure and for any designer markings.

You never know it might be an authentic Anne Klein, Chanel or Weiss piece!

Could be worth some money honey!!

* On a side note bring Hand Sanitizer or wash your hands after thriftin'

It can be a messy job but don't be afraid to roll your sleeves up and dig deep into those racks of clothing!

It's all for love in the vintage game! *

3. Research Vintage Boutiques and Thrift stores.

The Internet has an unlimited amount of information on vintage.

If you love vintage then visit your local thrift stores, boutiques

and find vintage pop up shops!

Goodies are often found in the most obscure places!

4. Flea Markets!! I attend flea markets on the regular!

Mainly for the wonderful experience and great finds. You never know what amazing "junk" you can find while at the Flea. Most are held outdoors, so you get to enjoy the fresh air!

Prices are reasonable and not to mention all the wonderful food you can indulge in!!

You can always find something that you're looking for, or just enjoy a cheap thrill!

*One time I found a mini disco ball for a $1!!

I Stopped right in my tracks and had an E.D.P.!! (Emergency Dance Party)*

This Fanny has tips, dips, tricks and stories for days!!

Till next time

XoXo

~Foxy Fanny~

Reminization: Selena

A little over ten years ago 'Selena' came to the big screen.
Dang it feels like just the other day when I was sitting at home watching this!

Portrayed by a young Jennifer Lopez, 'Selena' was a successful Tejano singer from Texas.
She rose to fame at the age of 12 and her popularity soared during the 90's. She was dubbed the 'Mexican Madonna' and was loved worldwide.


J.Lo did such an awesome job. My favorite part....costumes and makeup! The dark red lipstick, pencil thin eyebrows, long nails, racy outfits, and huge earrings were perfection.
I couldn't wait til 'Selena' went on tour to see her all dolled up. She really was that glamorous in real life.



Selena embodied early 90's glam with her own latin flavor. We will never forget that sweet voice and fabulous over the top wardrobe!

xoxo Ferocious Fanny

H.F.I.C - Head Fanny In Charge

It's that special time of the month we enjoy so...
Time for our H.F.I.C. - Head Fanny In Charge spotlight!
(and the crowd goes wild!)

This month...
dazzling Jewelry Designer Annie Basulto of Cubannie Links

This Miami bred, Cuban designer glitters from the inside out,
which has served her well when it comes down to the business of crafting her
delectable Cubannie Links pieces.

What started off as a hobby to help outfit friends and family
with unique accessories
has swiftly evolved into a bonafide jewelry brand.

By the time CL celebrated it's 2nd "Cubannie-versary",
Annie's exceptional pieces had already graced the likes of
Alicia Keys, Tyra Banks and the editorial pages of
Ocean Drive, Essence, Missbehave and XXL magazines to name a few.

As if that wasn't enough!
She's turned her jewelry crafting prowess into a custom nail design service, collaborating with Cure Beauty Bar to create "Minx and Links"
 Minx Nails via Cure...Nail art designs via Annie
Talk about multitasking!

Let's take a peek inside her treasure chest of trinkets

to find out what makes this gem of a gal tick!

1. NAME/AGE/STOMPING GROUNDS
Annie Basulto
A child of eras past
Currently in Brooklyn, but my heart belongs to the (305)

2. EVERY DAY I'M HUSTLIN'...HUSTLIN'...HUSTLIN' AS..
Jewelry designer and owner of Cubannie Links

3. MY DAILY UNIFORM CONSISTS OF..
Something comfortable like harem pants,
tanks, loose boyfriend jeans and a bikini top.
I always finish it off with a Vintage Fendi or Gucci bag

4. FAVE ACCESSORY EVER?
My favorite accessory I can't do without
excluding my own CL jewelry
because it just wouldn't be fair to choose...
are my shades!
OMG!! My collection is growing and kind of totally amazing...
if I do say so myself, but that's for another conversation.

5. WHEN DID YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH VINTAGE AND WHY?
It's in my DNA!
I grew up going to flea markets with my parents
in Miami and all over the East coast.
My parents were and still are avid collectors.
I was always around antiques, used and vintage items.
I was the only kid that took most of her class pictures in a
Coca-Cola t-shirt.

My grandmother had the bomb 70's wardrobe
but she was 4'11" and a size 0...
so I could only admire from afar.
I didn't realize then how lucky I was to be around an abundance of it!

6. WHAT'S YOUR "TO DIE FOR" FF PIECE CURRENTLY IN YOUR WARDROBE?
Funky Fanny's has amazing pieces!
My faves are summer jumpers and dresses.

The selection is kinda amazing!
In the winter, OMG I get the bomb knits and sweaters
so unique and freshly washed by Miss Funky Fanny herself!

7. WHAT ELSE WOULD YOU BE DOING IF YOU DIDN'T CHOOSE THIS PATH?
Living at my mama's house...LOL!

8. ANY PEARLS OF WISDOM FOR THE YOUNGINS ON THE COME UP?
Nothing is easy...
Take advantage of every opportunity..
Never sit on the toilet of a public restroom...
and always carry hand sanitizer.

9. WHAT WERE YOU WEARING IN HIGH SCHOOL?
Probably my basketball uniform...
or sweats with one leg up like LL Cool J
thinking I was soooo cool!
I did have a preppy stage...
where I wore alot of tucked in plaid button down shirts.

10. BIGGIE OR JAY-Z?
Stalemate

11. YOUR ULTIMATE PLAYLIST FEATURES WHAT SONGS AND/OR ARTISTS?
Celia Cruz, Stevie Wonder, Blondie, Bob Marley, Wu-Tang,
The Fugees, New Kids On The Block, The Doors and De La Soul

12. IF THERE'S 1 THING YOU COULD DO BEFORE DYING, YOU WOULD...?
If I actually had time to make that decision
I would be at my mom's house where I grew up...
where everything is familiar.
The air in Miami just makes me feel at home.
That's exactly where I want to be...
with the people I love.

13. WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
The goal of taking care of my family very soon.

14. I CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT THIS WHEN I'M MAKING JEWELRY...
Reality TV

15. IF YOU WERE ON TEAM FUNKY FANNY'S, WHAT FANNY WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?
Fendi Fanny!
because of my Vintage Fendi collection of course!

With a huge heart of gold (LITERALLY!)
Annie shines like no other!

Stay acquainted and get some CL sparkle here:

shop: cubannielinks.com
blog:  cubannielinks.blogspot.com
myspace: myspace.com/Cubannielinks
facebook:   facebook.com/Cubannielinks
twitter:  twitter.com/AnnieCubannie


Spunky Til I Die,
Feisty Fanny