Lost Treasures......and New Treasures

...So, clearing away the cobwebs in anticipation of Spring being just around the corner, I found these little postcards I picked up from the Jersey Museum a while ago, when I was on that lovely island for a short break. They were exhibiting some of Marilyn Monroe's garb from a couple of her films, including 'Bus Stop' and 'How to Marry a Millionaire'. Some lucky person had acquired the clothes for their private collection!

....perfectly waspish waistline!...

....the beading on this dress was awe-inspiring...

 Anyway, I was struck by how tiny all the garments were, I'd always thought of her as big and buxom! Then I remembered about something that reminded me of her basques which I'd won in a raffle a few years ago, so I brushed away some more cobwebs (Miss Haversham's got nothing on me!) on top of my wardrobe until I eventually found it......

.....'what the heck'?, I hear you say, has Nana gone Gothic?.....

...ok, I'd better explain that the raffle prize was a bespoke item of your choice, handmade by a lady who makes....Boned Corsets!! All made up to your own specifications,measurements and colours.....so I chose.....

....some lovely pink satin for the lining.....

 ...and of course, no self-respecting corset would be complete without lots of feathers!.....

......and some fabulous beading.....

 ....more feathers!....

......beautiful black satin.....

.....a low-ish cut neckline.....

...and even more beads!.....And there we have the most beautiful basque you ever did see....well, I liked it at least!

I have to say, though, that I've never actually been brave enough to be seen in public wearing this beautiful piece of work - ladies of a certain age and all that! - (nor in private for that matter, thanks very much), my sister said I looked like a funky chicken when I tried it on....so my dressmaker's dummy will have the privilege of wearing it for a while to show it off (she's the only one in the house with a waistline at the moment!)and be admired for the hours of creative work which went into making it.....it really is a piece of art in itself......hope you like it too.

.....to be continued....

New treasures later....I must away and be a dutiful daughter......

Happy Mother's Day 

xxx

ps will you let me know whether my header pic is too big and in yer face? I can't seem to reduce the size, even though I ticked the 'shrink to fit' box! Any suggestions gratefully received. x