ThoroughlyModernMiddy

T i m e t o p l a n t y o u r VICTORY GARDEN

Von Leadfoot’s Pinstripe

Artistry

Vinyl VibeThen & Now

Viva Las VegasWhat’s new, what to wear

Issue IIIMarch 2014

contents Issue IIIMarch 2014

ON THE COVER

67Fred Astaire ...like you’ve never heard him before

5Meet

pinstriperVon

Leadfoot

41Calling

all vinyl lovers

47Happy

30thGB!

FEATURES

11 Modern-Day Victory Gardens Made Easy Plant your own Victory Garden just like they did in the 1940s

5 Show Your Stripes Interview with master international pinstriper Von Leadfoot

18 Viva Las Vegas Preview What’s new at the world’s biggest rockabilly party, plus what to wear...and an interview with the soulful songstress Carmen Lee

41 You Spin Me Get in the groove! We drop the needle on the storied history (and bright future) of vinyl music

LIFESTYLE

65 Oh My Irish Eyes: Irish Potatoes Recipe 47 Ghostbusters Anniversary55 Happy Birthday Television61 A New Look at New Wave39 Meet the Middy67 Review: Fred Astaire – The Early Years at RKO

REGULARS

37 Take 2: Recreate the Looks in The Notebook49 Ask The Glamorous Housewife 3 Editor’s Note10 Color Crush51 Time Capsule: Dinner Party 192859 Covet: Gasp-Worthy Vintage Finds50 Cecilia & Bill Are Getting Married70 Runway Roundup

Get your vintage on at VintageVilleMag.com

Executive Editor Emily LuxManaging Editor Jon HechtmanContributing Writer Lee PowellColumnists The Glamorous Housewife Another Man’s Treasure Daphne DrakeDesign EHL CreativeContributing Photography JH Studios Megan Addie Photography

staff

© 2014 VintageVille Magazine and EHL Creative LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Vintagevillemagazine

VintageVille Mag

18 Viva Las Vegas PreviewWhat to do, what to wear

31Carmen Lee Queen of the Honky Tonk Crooners

11Grow your own Victory Garden

51Throw a dinner

party...1928 style

Editor’s Note

Finally. Spring is near. And we’re greeting the season a little early around here at VintageVille (after this winter, who can blame us!).

March is the perfect time for planning – and planting – your Victory Garden. Best of all, many of the veggie varieties they munched on back in the 40s are still available for purchase in seed form today…check out page 11 and get your garden growing.

Viva Las Vegas is right around the corner. Get a preview of all the fun (and what to wear!) on page 18. Love cars? How about pinstriping? Well, we’ve got both in this issue, including an insightful interview with master pinstriper Von Leadfoot on page 5.

Enjoy the sunshine!

Cheers,

3 | VintageVille Magazine

Emily Lux, Editor

www.biffandbettys.etsy.com

Just imagine it: dedicated artists, alone in their studios. Toiling away slowly, painstakingly, using brushes whose design hasn't changed in years. Carrying on a great painting tradition, producing masterpieces once reserved for royalty. Striving for absolute perfection of color and line.

Now reimagine it. Because the time is today, not the Renaissance. These virtuosos aren't working on canvas. And their studios? They're likely to smell of engine oil and exhaust fumes. Because these "old masters" are auto pinstripers, practicing a craft that's rooted in history...and utterly contemporary.

It all started with the custom-built, horse-drawn coaches that carried monarchs and heads of state. No expense or effort was spared in making those vehicles as magnificent as possible. So it was only natural that the artisans of the day were asked to

decorate them with exactingly-painted pinstripes and flourishes.

Fast forward a few centuries, to postwar California. The tank of a custom chopper (or the deck lid of a hot rod coupe) may seem a world away from those coachbuilt carriages. But appearances can be deceiving. A young artist/motorcycle mechanic named Kenny Howard – better known by the monicker Von Dutch – was working in his father's sign shop, adding pinstripe decorations here and there. Just for fun, he started experimenting – pinstriping motorcycles, too, with increasingly elaborate, increasingly stylized patterns.

The word began to spread. And before long, the Von Dutch style became the signature look of the emerging California "Kustom Kulture." He wasn't alone, of course; there was a brotherhood of great pinstripers during this golden age, including Ed "Big Daddy" Roth and

show your

stripesThe rich legacy of pinstriping brought to life by

industry veteran Von Leadfoot

by Jon Hechtman

Left: Bryce Lien – AKA Von Leadfoot – at work. Photo: Tamara Lee Photography

VintageVilleMag.com | 6

Howard's friend Dean Jeffries. Today, their original work is sought after as passionately as the works of the most celebrated fine artists.

Those giants may have left us, but the torch – well, the paintbrush – has been passed to a whole new generation. We turned to one of today's greats, Bryce Lien – AKA Von Leadfoot, the "Patron Saint of Paint" – to learn more about this unique art form.

Bryce, an accomplished hot rod builder, has been pinstriping for five years.

But his fascination with custom paintwork goes back much further,. "When I used to go to shows as a kid," he says, "I was in awe of the stripe work." The decision to become a professional pinstriper, however, was the result of several factors, including a downturn in the economy and a little too much free time on his hands. "I was always hanging around my friend's garage, helping him wrench on motorcycles. I could build a car from the ground up but I couldn't stripe it! Since I'd always wanted to try striping, and I finally had the time to focus on it, it made sense to try it

out. The next day I bought some paint and a few brushes, and never looked back."

He's mostly self-taught, and proud of it. "I bought a couple of books which gave me some basics, but weren't as much use to me as I had expected. I'm more of a hands-on person, so in the end sitting down and using the brushes taught me more than any book ever had." He took inspiration from Howard and Jeffries, among others, but finally reached a point where he stopped looking at other artists' work, preferring to concentrate on developing his own personal style.

And that style is a highly traditional one, elevating subtlety, simplicity and purity of line above over-the-top effects. His work tends to have an Art Deco feel, and his palette is truly individual. "I do tend to use more muted colors, as they're my favorites. I love the old Ford factory colors, the drab grays, greens, blues, maroons, etc. They have a minimal contrast and blend in quite well to give more of a toned-down look. My goal isn't to take away from the natural lines of a car," he points out. "Only to highlight them and emphasize the vehicle's shape. Complement,

Photo: Tamara Lee Photography

7 | VintageVille Magazine

not overpower." That discipline extends to color as well; he favors ivory, deep green and metallic gold, along with combinations of gloss and flat black. "I also mix the majority of the colors I use, ensuring that every piece is unique to the last."

He's a purist about technique, too; he's very clear on what distinguishes top-quality pinstriping. "Line consistency: every line should be the same thickness throughout its length. Quality starts and stops in every line. And then there's balance and symmetry. If you were to draw a line through the center of the finished design, for example, you’d want to see the left and right sides match almost flawlessly. Look for the same even spacing in the gaps, as well from side to side and top to bottom. Everything should match and be even."

Although Bryce, like most pinstripers, focuses mostly on cars and motorcycles, he's had plenty of experience striping other things, too – from handbags to helmets. One of his favorite pieces was a blue metal flake Gretsch guitar (check out the pic on the right, and you'll see why). "The purpose of pinstriping," he says, "is to bring out the shape and definition of a form that's already there, and highlight it." But there are exceptions to the rule: "On the opposite end of the spectrum, you can also add that flowing shape to something that might otherwise go unnoticed, like a tool box. A big old boring boxy shape, with no beauty or definition, nothing great about it except that it keeps your tools safe. But add the right lines in the right places and you can transform it. The appeal of pinstriping any unconventional object for me is to bring forward the potential beauty of something that's typically overlooked – a common or mundane everyday item – all with the stroke of a tiny brush."

That's one reason he's taking an innovative step: opening an online shop where fans can purchase already-finished signs or panels, or order custom ones. "Not everyone who likes pinstriping has a hot rod or custom sitting around waiting to be striped, or a shop front they need hand lettered," he says. "But they still might want a piece of the paintwork because they like it so much! I figured the

Photos: Tamara Lee Photography

VintageVilleMag.com | 8

'shop' would be a good spot for anyone into pinstriping to get some original paintwork."

Bryce would rather talk about his work than his personal life, but he gladly spills the story behind his nickname. "My friends called me 'Leadfoot' for years, because I was always driving too fast and blowing up the engines in my cars; it was just an old-man kind of thing to call someone who always drove too fast. I loved it! When I was trying to think of a moniker for myself I looked back at the names of some of the old stripers of the past and added the name Von. It was out of homage and respect to Von Dutch that I ended up using it."

What about his current car...what's he driving now? "A '57 Ford pick up that I built myself," he answers. "It does have some pinstriping on it, but not as much as you'd expect. As much as I love pinstriping, it's hard for me stripe my own things. As soon as I line something of my own I always end up wanting to go over it with another design!"

He's seen a boom in pinstriping since the early years of the millennium, mirroring the general growing interest in vintage culture. "It happened at about the same time as the resurgence in the hot rod scene,” he says, “when people started building more traditional styled hot rods and customs. Since then there's been more and more stripers pinstriping bigger and more intricate designs...and all over the world, too, instead of just in America."

Like most working professionals, Bryce tends not to get too caught up in the big philosophical

questions. But when he's asked about pinstriping's status as an art form, he has a few thoughts to share.

"You may not see pinstriping in a fine art gallery or museum today," he reflects, "but I definitely consider it an art form. The majority of people in the world don't know what it is, and it takes a bit of explaining when they ask what you do for a living. It's definitely an underground thing to a vast majority of people, but at the same time, with the growing interest in vintage lifestyles, it's gaining more popularity. Pinstriping may be considered a low-brow form of art by 'art aficionados,' but I think it's only a matter of time before you see it in a gallery or legitimate art museum hanging next to the portrait of some old world King or Queen."

For more info, and to see even more of

Bryce’s work, visit vonleadfoot.com or Facebook at pinstripingbyvon

Photo: Tamara Lee Photography

9 | VintageVille Magazine

1. Green Heels $128.99 ModCloth | 2. S/6 Anchor Hocking Tumblers $18.52 A Piece of Conversation | 3. 1950s Dress $115 Daisy and Stella | 4. Emerald Lacquered Chinoiserie Sideboard $1,395 Luxe Artifacts | 5. 6.11 Carat Colombian Emerald Diamond Ring $28,000 Jack Weir and Sons | 6. Vintage Hand Blown Emerald Green Vase $37 Lakeside Cottage | 7. Grosgrain and Leather Belt $128 Brooks Brothers | 8. Bryce Chair $1,499 Crate & Barrel | 9. Happ & Stahns 1842 Rosa Alba Eau de Parfum $30-68 Anthropologie

3.

4.

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VintageVilleMag.com | 10

2.

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Get up and grow...

How does your garden grow?

During World War II, gardens grew out of necessity. The public food systems were strained and overburdened. Food and resources were being diverted to ensure adequate supply for troops at home and abroad.

As food supplies dwindled, government agencies, businesses, schools and seed companies stepped up to provide land, instruction – and seeds, of course – for individuals and communities to dig in and do their part to help in the war effort: grow their own Victory Gardens.

And dig they did. From California to Florida. Backyards, vacant lots, parks, baseball fields and schoolyards were transformed into glorious gardens. At the height of the war, there were more than 20,000,000 Victory Gardens planted across the United States. And by 1944, an incredible 40% of all veggies grown were harvested from Victory Gardens.

Modern-Day Victory Gardens Made E a s y

By Emily Lux

VintageVilleMag.com | 12

Today, Victory Gardens are seeing a resurgence. The appeal?

“The food supply and individuals' finances are under considerable stress,” says Randel Agrella, Seed Production Manager at Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co., which sells more than 1,400 heirloom, open-pollinated seed varieties. “Also, there's a trust factor, or rather a lack of trust, in the mainstream food system. When you grow your own, you know it's a pure product.”

So, ready to get growing?

You have a couple of options for starting your own Victory Garden: store-bought transplants or straight from seeds. If you go the store-

bought route, be sure to find out how the plants were grown. Today, many farm stands offer organic options.

But if you’re up for real fun, there’s nothing like the satisfaction of growing from seed. And it’s not hard to do.

“Seeds are just miniature plants,” says Agrella, “and like all plants, (you need to) give them the right conditions so they will grow. Seed starting can be a bit fussier than starting from transplants,

however, because brand-new seedlings can be a bit delicate.”

But if you’re patient and exercise care, you can grow your own veggie garden from seed – for a fraction of the cost of transplants.

Here’s how to start.

More than 1,000,000 tons of veggies were

grown in Victory Gardens during WWII

MARCHStart indoor plants Plant cool-weather greens

APRILBegin harvesting early greens

MAYPrepare soil for summer cropsPlant warm-weather plants

Images: Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co.

Cherokee Purple White Wonder

Gardening To-Dos(depending on your area/zone, of course)

Pick the place. Before you put shovel to dirt, you need to decide where your garden is going to go. Veggie gardens need full sun (6+ hours a day), unless they're located in very hot summer conditions – like the deep south or California's central valley – where they would benefit from some afternoon shade. Good drainage and soil are necessities. Can you conveniently place your garden near a water source? Even better. (It’s no fun trudging back and forth with heavy watering cans or snaking soaker hoses throughout the yard!).

“Right outside the back door is great if that's workable,” adds Agrella.

Pick the zone. Where are you located? Not all plants are suited to all environments. And be sure to check your area’s last frost date before planting outdoors.

Pick the plants. That's simple – what do you and your family like to eat? Start by looking at the fruits, veggies and herbs you eat regularly

to make the biggest impact on your grocery bill.

Start indoors or out? Well, it depends. Some plants need a longer growing season…longer than an outdoor direct-sow method can accommodate. Tomatoes and eggplants fall into this category. They need to be started indoors and then set outdoors as transplants when temperatures warm.

Managing just the right amount of water and light is often a challenge for novice indoor seed starters. “(Beginners) often underestimate how much light their seedlings need for good growth,” says Agrella. “They also overwater, which can stunt growth or cause disease outbreaks.”

Other veggies, like beans and lettuce, can be directly sown outdoors.

Regardless of whether you start indoors or out, you need the right environment to grow

JUNEWeed gardenContinue planting warm-weather plants

JULYWeed gardenMulch around plantsWatch for garden pests

AUGUSTWeed garden Begin harvesting cropsPlant cool-weather greens

California Wonder Black Beauty

healthy seedlings: the right temperature, the right amount of light and moisture, plus the right space. And all types of seedlings are not the same.

“Some, like tomatoes, peppers and eggplants, need really warm conditions,” says Agrella. “Others, like onions, lettuce and the cabbage family, prefer cooler conditions.”

Victory Gardens came in practically every shape and size. How big your garden should be depends on multiple factors, including your climate, crop choices and how many will be munching from it. A couple of 4’ x 8’ beds can yield a surprisingly large harvest. “A family of four, who may also want to can or freeze veggies, might do well to plan at least a 1500 square foot garden,” says Agrella.

Beginners, though, should start small, broadening their footprint as they gain confidence and experience. A small garden, well maintained, is often more productive than a large one managed poorly, advises Agrella.

Feeling the pinch of limited real estate? Space-challenged gardeners could try a

rotation system. Start transplants in a separate area to have them ready for planting in your garden at just the right time all season long.

According to Agrella: “By quickly removing plants whose productivity has run its course and replanting in the vacated spot, it's possible to get several crops per year from a single piece of ground.”

Or you can do what folks did back in the 1940s. Plant small-scale Victory Gardens in window boxes. Or turn high-rise rooftops into lush,

productive gardens that the whole building can pitch in and enjoy.

Are you the kind of gardener who can kill even a plastic plant? Then try easier-to-grow varieties, like beans, peas, lettuce, turnips, summer squash and beets. Celery, onions, salsify and melons are a bit fussier. But if you take the time to determine – and provide – the right conditions each crop needs, most veggies and fruits are pretty easy to grow.

“There's no such thing as a brown thumb,” says Agrella. “There are only would-be gardeners who haven't learned the basics yet!”

I’ll  have  what  they’re  having...

TomatoBrandywineMortgage LifterCherokee Purple

PepperCalifornia WonderMarconi

EggplantBlack BeautyRosa Bianca

CucumberLemonSuyo Long

BeansKentucky WonderGood Mother Stallard

WatermelonMoons and StarsWhite Wonder

Victory Gardens were responsible for bringing easy-grow Swiss chard and kohlrabi to dinner

tables everywhere

The veggies & fruits of a 1940s Victory Garden – plant ‘em today!

15 | VintageVille Magazine

A Garden-Fresh Recipes a

Okra Fritters

3 cups diced okra1 cup diced onion2 cups corn1 small jalapeno pepper, minced2 cups diced tomato, do not drain3 cups corn meal1 cup all purpose flour1-1/2 teaspoons egg replacer2 teaspoons salt

Put corn into blender with a little soy milk to make creamed corn. Mix all together very well. Batter will be thick. Drop by tablespoon into hot oil. Fry until golden brown. Drain. Makes approximately 40 fritters.

Harvard Beets

2 tablespoons vegan sugar2 teaspoons cornstarch1/4 teaspoon salt1/4 cup vinegar2 tablespoons non-hydrogenated vegan margarine1 16-oz. can sliced beets (or own beets from the garden – cooked, peeled & sliced. Use juices from cooking them for liquid)

Combine vegan sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir in beet liquid, the vinegar and margarine. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly. Stir in beets and cook until heated through. Serves 4.

Eggplant Cake

2 cups Ping Tung eggplant (peeled, cooked & pureed)1 cup vegetable oil2 teaspoons vanilla1/2 cup brown sugar1-1/2 cups white sugar1 teaspoons baking powder1 teaspoons baking soda1 teaspoons salt1-1/2 tablespoons egg replacer3 cups all-purpose flour

Preheat oven to 350ºF. Wash, peel, cook and puree the Ping Tung eggplant. Pour puree in colander and press out excess liquid. Mix dry ingredients together in a separate bowl. Mix wet ingredients together and add to dry. Pour into a well-greased 9”x13”baking dish. Bake for 30 minutes.

Courtesy of Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co.

Shaved Brussels Sprout Radicchio Salad w/ Toasted Walnuts

1/2 lb Brussels sprouts1 small or 1/2 large head radicchio 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard1/2 teaspoon maple syrup1/2 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper5 tablespoons walnut oil1/2 cup toasted chopped walnuts

Using a mandolin slicer or a food processor, thinly shred the Brussels sprouts and radicchio. Transfer to a large bowl.

Whisk together the vinegar, mustard, maple syrup, salt and pepper in a medium-sized bowl. Slowly whisk in walnut oil until dressing is creamy and opaque. Toss with shaved Brussels sprouts and radicchio and sprinkle with toasted chopped walnuts.

17 | VintageVille Magazine

Had a vintage-inspired wedding?

Well, we want to talk to you for our upcoming wedding issue.

Email editorial@VintageVilleMag.com and tell us a little about how you did your special day,

vintage style.

www.bidding.pt

Viva Las Vegaspreview

What happens when you combine fantastic music, cars, cat eyes, pompadours, plus 20,000 new-found friends? The biggest rockabilly party in the world. And it’s happening next month in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Viva Las Vegas, aptly named after the Elvis musical, runs April 17-20 at The Orleans Hotel and Casino. Now in its 17th year, the rockabilly love fest draws crowds from across the U.S….and the world.

Tom Ingram is the puppeteer of the weekender. He organized countless

weekend rockabilly events in the

U.K. before

moving to the U.S. How did he know that the U.S. was ready for a serious rockabilly celebration?

“I didn’t,” he says. But the event’s pull was irresistible. Viva Las Vegas and the USA were made for each other…like James Dean and pomade.

And this year promises to be more spectacular than ever. Perennial favorites like the pool party, fashion show and Burlesque Bingo are returning. The car show – with 800 specimens of drool-worthy eye candy – ups the fun with a first-ever visit from iconic Hollywood

April 17-20Las Vegas, Nevada

movie cars.

But the soul of Viva is the music. More than 65 bands are performing over the weekend. Headlining is Imelda May, a Dublin-born singer-songwriter known for her eclectic stage presence and sassy vocal stylings.

What differentiates Viva from other rockabilly events out there? “Our tight criteria for participation,” says Ingram, who wants to preserve the integrity of the rockabilly lifestyle.

For example, only pre-1963 period-correct cars are allowed to partake in the car show. And the band selection is just as stringent. More than 1,000 bands applied to play this year. But they need to have the right look and sound to be Viva bound.

Eventually, Ingram would like to expand the car show, and possibly add a film festival

component.

First timer?

Throw some sunscreen into your suitcase and consider bringing an umbrella or parasol, especially for the car show. Even though it’s April, the sun can be deceptively strong in Vegas.

And pack for comfort. Sure, you may want to strut your lurex and fancy duds. But don’t forget there are a ton of things to see and do (read: lots of walking) and you want to be comfy.

Also, take a few minutes to study the schedule so you don’t miss a bit. Viva offers

a handy dandy mobile app that’ll alert you when your fave bands are about to play.

Tickets are $50 and up. For tickets, info and more visit vivalasvegas.net

APRIL WEATHER IN VEGAS

High: 78° F (26° C)

Low: 51° F (11° C)

Not your grandma’s

bingo!

Viva Must-sees

Burlesque Bingo

Pool Party

21 | VintageVille Magazine

Imelda May HeadliningPerforming Saturday, April 19th

5:30 p.m.

Photos: Viva Las Vegas

Bands

VintageVilleMag.com | 22

Car ShowPhotos: Mike Harrington

23 | VintageVille Magazine

VintageVilleMag.com | 24

Poolside

ShowstoppersLadies’ “What to Wear” Guide

Halter Playsuit$54.95 Rebel Circus

Heart Fan$29.99 ModCloth

Fresh Sandals$78 Kate Spade

25 | VintageVille Magazine

Fruit Hair Clips Set$20 Real Andys Eye Candy

1950s Cole of California Swimsuit$250 Revival Vintage Boutiq

Polly Playsuit$89 Stop Staring Clothing

Black Wicker Bag$78 Sourpuss Clothing

Outer Bank on It Sandal$39.99 ModCloth

Cat Necklace$17 Sourpuss Clothing

Polka Dot Hair Scarf$7.99 ModCloth

Paige Polka Dot$98 Lolita Girl Clothing

VintageVilleMag.com | 26

Day

I Heart Cupcake Dress$76 Sourpuss Clothing

Denim Peddle Pushers$61 Grease Gas & Glory

Rockin' Tiki Stiletto$105 Lucky Lou Shoes

1960s-Style Sunglasses$12 House of Hades

Preserves Necklace$24.99 ModCloth

Leopard Tube Top$29 Grease Gas & Glory

27 | VintageVille Magazine

1950s Polka Dot Blouse$69 Ballyhoo Vintage

Hottie Mini Dress$165 Trashy Diva

Tooled Leather Purse$119 Trashy Diva

Poetic Licence Wedge$69.95 DSW

Out to Sea Dress$49.95 Rebel Circus

1950s Green Tailored Capris$59 Ballyhoo Vintage

Evening

Love Fitted DressCA$179 Blame Betty

Betsey Johnson Clutch$38.99 ModCloth

Poetic Licence Platform$49.95 DSW

Eyelashes$7.99 ModCloth

Pinup Girl Necklace$16 Juicy Lucys

Sweet Structure Clutch$49.95 ModCloth

Plumeria Hair Flower$7 Sourpuss Clothing

Caparros$89 Zappos

Metallic Platform Pump$39.95 DSW

1950s Tiki Dress$288 Raleigh Vintage

Lola Dress$119.95 Rebel Circus

Carmen Lee

Meet the Queen

of the Honky Tonk

Crooners

Her name means “song” in Latin.

Even before Wisconsin-native Carmen Lee could talk, she was part of the band, sitting in on her father’s jam sessions.

And while other kids her age were learning to write their names, she was writing songs. At the age of four. In fact, Carmen’s first song, “It’s a Hard Way of Livin’”– a bluesy tune – caught the eyes and ears of those who heard her perform.

“I never had singing lessons – I just always sang,” she says.

At 12, Carmen bought her first cassette tape with her own money: Elvis’ Christmas Album. She was completely mesmerized. She searched out every Elvis tune she could find. Watched his movies, too. Carmen practiced until she had all the lyrics and inflections down. She was hooked. And officially bitten by the rockabilly bug.

“My parents would tease me”, laughs Carmen, “because [Elvis] was someone their parents would have liked.”

Four years later, Carmen took a job as a lounge singer performing at a nearby restaurant. You know: the kind of place where you lose count of the requests for Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” on any given Friday night. Her tip jar was a wine glass duct taped to her keyboard and she made only five dollars an hour.

Meanwhile, her musical inspirations were broadening. Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, Tom Waits and Billie Holiday were powerful influences.

"My favorite? Any good vocalist is my favorite,” the 28-year-old singer/songwriter jokes.

Soon though, Carmen longed to return to her rockabilly roots. So, at the ripe old

age of 18, she started performing her own original stuff. In 2007, her band – Carmen Lee and the Tomorrow River Two -– was born.

The band’s sound? A wonderful blend of country, rockabilly and

honky tonk, full of memorable melodies, dusky, earthy vocals and haunting lyrics that pay homage to the 50s classic Sun

Records sound of Elvis and Johnny Cash.

And it’s no wonder Carmen is known as the Queen of the Honky Tonk Crooners. Her voice is deliciously soulful. Rich. Full of

VintageVilleMag.com | 32Photo: Photography by Joe

depth. Kind of like caramel…with a sound that sticks with you. In fact, she’s been dubbed a female Johnny Cash. Close your eyes and you’d swear she was an old-time country blues songstress of yesteryear.

The band’s debut album Big Star (2011) is a fave of both Two River and its fans, including 13 original songs ranging from upbeat rockabilly to lonesome country to darker ballads. The album features Carmen on vocals and piano/organ, her father Orlow on vocals and acoustic guitar and Elliott Abbott on upright bass. Special guest artist Clint Jameson (on electric and steel guitar) joins in

on several songs.

The album’s title track “Big Star” (it's sometimes mistaken for an early Johnny Cash tune) explores the path of success…and the reality of leaving behind those who are less than kind.

As the song goes: “I’m gonna be a Big Star, now you can shine my shoes.”

And shine they will. Carmen and Tomorrow River Two will be performing at Viva Las Vegas next month. See them live on Thursday, April 19th at 7 p.m. at Brendan's Pub.

VintageVilleMag.com | 34

Left: Carmen Lee; Photo Trent Sherrill PhotographyAbove: Carmen Lee and Tomorrow River Two; Photo Penny Marlene

www.weararetheynow.etsy.com

Visit www.TheGlamorousHousewife.com

• Shop the boutique• Style your life• Discover new passions• Find new friends in The Glamorous Housewife Forum

Get your daily dose of glam!

www.theglamoroushousewife.com

From the big screen …to your closet.

Got a favorite vintage movie or TV show? Here's how you can get the look today.

Our  featured  Take  2:The Notebook

Directed by Nick Cassavetes, The Notebook, which spans six decades, follows the sweeping romance of Noah (Ryan Gosling) and Allie (Rachel McAdams) who plunge headfirst into love. After a brief separation in the midst of World War II, the couple later reunites, unable to resist the draw of a second chance. Allie’s style shows off 1940s tailor-made sophistication (plus a few playsuits and polka dots thrown in)…and the perfect bright red lippy. Meanwhile, Noah is more dressed down, with khaki work pants, button-down shirts and flannels, topped with a classic herringbone hat.

Allie

37 | VintageVille Magazine

New Line Cinema

353 Grove Street | Jersey City, NJ 07302 | 201.860.9990 | www.amtvintage.com

Brought to you by Another Man’s Treasure

A USA Today “Top 10 Great Places to Shop” for vintage clothing, Another Man’s Treasure is a true mecca of fantastic vintage finds for men and women. The boutique offers a kaleidoscopic of vintage fashions, accessories, shoes and jewelry from the 1940s-1980s with a special focus on classic, high-fashion vintage trends.

Noah

Fun Fact:A number of actors were considered for the role of Allie, including Britney Spears, Ashley Judd and Reese Witherspoon

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353 Grove Street | Jersey City, NJ 07302 | 201.860.9990 | www.amtvintage.com

Meet the MiddyThe quintessential cut for most 1940s hairstyles. The Middy was created by Ivan Anderson, a renowned hairstylist for Warner Brothers Studios, who realized the need for a cut that provided a solid foundation for the glam hairstyles of the time while embracing a war-weary world’s need for simplicity. The cut consists of even layers (traditionally 4”L) and a U-shaped bottom, but there are many variations nowadays.

The lovely Kitty Kadillac recently got a shiny new Middy cut...and shows us how simple – and fun! – it is to style.

Divide hair into 1” sections. Curl hair with curling iron toward your face. Keep the curls in place with a clip as they cool.

Repeat until all your hair is curled and clipped.

My hair...straight, brushed and ready for styling.

39 | VintageVille Magazine Photos: Megan Addie Photography

Hairspray the heck out of it! Take out each roll out and lightly brush all the curls in towards your face. This gives my hair the traditional Middy style and makes nice big swirls around my face.

I brush out my hair even more which gives my locks a light, feathery look with big rolls that bounce as I walk.

VintageVilleMag.com | 40

Vintage Vinyl, Retro Record Players & More

It didn’t all start with the words “That's All Right, Mama.” But when a young Elvis Presley’s debut hit the airwaves in 1954, it signaled a shift in the whole demographic of the music buying public – from the more conservative audience of adulthood to the emerging teenage generation.

At the same time, it gave birth to the mainstream popularity of vinyl records.

VintageVilleMag.com | 42

Records, in one format or another, have been around since the late 1800s. And as the century advanced, so did the technology of playing back music – starting with the innovative jump from clunky wax cylinders to the earliest designs of vinyl records as we know them today. With this change of format came an increase in productivity and an exponential rise in sales. Translation: more and more people were able to enjoy this mode of entertainment. However, at this point the records and their players were still “family property,” belonging to the adults of the household. During the postwar era of the late 1940’s and 50s – whether the grownups liked it or not – teenagers started to gain their own voice, their own independence, their own incomes. And their own music.

Sam Philips started his ‘rhythm and blues’ Sun record label in the 50’s, initially releasing music recorded by black artists whose danceable tunes carried forward the legacy of the blues. In its early years, the music of the Sun label was still reaching a niche audience in the Southern American states.

That all changed when a 19-year-old Elvis Presley started to work with Phillips and laid down his first single “That’s All Right” (he dropped the “Mama” from the title). That electrifying song fused together rhythm and blues with country to create an entirely new sound known as rockabilly. Rockabilly captured the imagination of teenage listeners, who typically didn't share their parent's attitudes; they cared about the music – not whether the artist singing was black or white. What mattered was the music.

From this point on, the record-buying audience relocated from the living rooms of the adults into the inner sanctums of the teenagers. To coincide with this shift, record players were gradually redesigned with this new audience in mind. They made the move from near semi-functional pieces of furniture – with the turntables all but hidden away – to smaller, portable units which could be more easily moved around. Where the record

players went, the music followed; the new rockabilly sound reached a far greater audience then the radio stations of the time. It became the soundtrack for the rise of the 50’s teenager. Fast forward 60 years or so…and records are back, in case you hadn’t noticed. During their decline in the 90’s, when the big push was a move to CDs, it was difficult to find vinyl records. Not impossible, mind you; there were always specialist record stores dedicated to keeping vinyl purists and collectors happy. But your average music shop was quick to empty its record bins and fill its racks with the more “modern” CDs.

Then, as the new millennium came upon us, MP3s soon became the favored format for many people who had become accustomed to instant gratification: they wanted their music now, and quality took a back seat to convenience. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a Luddite; times change, and MP3s do have their place, especially when you’re on the move. But as a main source of media presentation, MP3s and CDs lack so much! They’re convenient, yes. And they’re even packaged with artwork, real or virtual. But let’s be honest: they still lack the certain charm that vinyl has. The look of the record sleeve and its artwork; the physicality of the vinyl; and, most importantly, the sound. Vinyl music has an overall presence that other media formats simply can’t aspire to.

And it seems like record companies, and bands themselves, are paying attention. They’ve noticed that there are huge legions of music fans out there who agree about the merits of vinyl. The proof? Over the last few years, new releases are getting a pressing on vinyl, back catalogues are getting repressed and record stores are reorganizing to incorporate storage for the once-obsolete long players. To mirror this growing re-interest in vinyl, there is the increasingly popular ‘Record Store Day’ event, when countless extremely limited edition records, by bands big and small, mainstream and independent, are simultaneously released in the U.S. and the U.K. Vinyl fans to

Right: Model Dayna DeluxPhotography & Design: revolutionfoto.com & Dayna Delux43 | VintageVille Magazine

queue up for hours before stores open, just to have a chance to get their hands on the latest treasures.

With this increase in vinyl’s popularity, it goes without saying that there has been an unparalleled increase in record players. They’ve moved from the shadowy, elitist world of the audiophile to that of the music fan, who wants to enjoy the music locked away in those black vinyl grooves. As the vintage and retro worlds have become hugely popular once more, manufactures have looked back to the golden age of the 50’s and 60’s for inspiration, producing a myriad of reproduction turntables. And in a dramatic return to the spirit of that age, a vast number of these record players are portable. Not only are they good-looking; these immensely functional record players offer the chance for music to be fun again. It can be listened to with ease, shared with friends and enjoyed as it was intended: in an analogue format, with the pops and crackles of the vinyl forming part of the record’s charisma.

There is nothing more satisfying than looking through the sleeves, enjoying the artwork, selecting the record and physically playing it. It’s a tactile sensation with a more substantial feel than the CD experience (and let’s not even think about the throw away commodity of MP3s). That said, the manufactures of these record players realize that these two latter-day formats have a place in the modern world; and so some retro turntable models come with CD players built in, as well as the functionality to convert records to MP3s for on-the-go enjoyment.

While these reproduction record players may not be to everyone’s tastes, for those who have an interest in the vintage world they are full of retro charm and a kitschiness which has become a cool commodity once again. So put your dancing shoes on, grab a record and satisfy that black vinyl lust, with the volume cranked up high and a smile on our face.

Happy listening!

Above: Voice of Music Record Players; model 562 (L) & 566(R)45 | VintageVille Magazine

There’s a huge number of retro-inspired turntables available – here are our picks*

The Pyle Home PTR8UR Retro Turntable. Comes with radio, USB and SD slots for MP3 playback and features vinyl-to-MP3 encoding, so you can convert those much treasured records to MP3

Electrohome Signature Retro Hi-Fi Stereo System with record player, CD player, MP3 playback and vinyl-to-MP3 conversion

Electrohome Archer Vinyl Turntable Stereo System – a more basic, straightforward retro-inspired record player. But with looks this good, what more could you want?

Crosley CR8005A-BL Cruiser Portable – again, like the Electrohome Archer, the Crosley is stunning-looking portable record player for those who want to do nothing more than to spin those vinyl discs

GPO Stylo 3 Speed Stand Alone Turntable with Built In Speakers. A sleek and stylish little

unit, ideal for playing vinyl without any fuss.

GPO Memphis Turntable 4-in-1 Music Centre with CD and FM Radio. This beautifully designed record player has EVERYTHING you could need – CD player, radio, turntable, MP3 input and recording function from record and CD to MP3 or USB

Steepletone SRP025 3-Speed Record Player with Detachable Speaker. A straightforward

beauty for spinning those discs

Get Playin’

* Makes and models vary from country to country – visit Google or Amazon.com to see what’s available where you live

It may be hard to believe, but 2014 marks the 30th anniversary of Ghostbusters – the film that gave us such memorable phrases as "I've been slimed!" and "Who you gonna call?"

What made Ghostbusters so enduringly entertaining? It was more than the mashup of comedy and the supernatural; that genre goes all the way back to movies like Topper, in 1937. No, the real magic here had less to do with ghostly spirits and more to do with team spirit. We're talking about the chemistry among the lead characters – from Bill Murray's nearly-out-of-control zaniness (he improvised much of his dialog) to Sigourney Weaver's cool Upper-West-Side style, from Dan Aykroyd's good-natured clownishness to Ernie Hudson's roll-up-your-sleeves solidity. Add great supporting turns from Annie Potts and Rick Moranis, a witty script packed with pop-culture references, cutting-edge special effects and a great theme song…and you've got the ingredients for a true blockbuster. No wonder the American Film Institute ranked it 28th on its list of 100 greatest all-time screen comedies.

Like lots of other hit movies, Ghostbusters became a franchise of sorts, spinning off a big-screen sequel, several animated TV shows, video games, toys and more. Those efforts had their moments, sure. But the passage of time has made one thing abundantly clear: there's something truly special about the original.

It's a sad irony that 2014 is also the year we bid farewell to Harold Ramis, who passed away on February 24. Ramis co-wrote the screenplay and starred as the unforgettable Egon Spengler – the character Murray refers to in the film as "the heart of the Ghostbusters." Of course, Ramis's résumé includes much more than his Ghostbusters role. His writer/director credits include such films as Caddyshack, National Lampoon's Vacation, Groundhog Day and Analyze This. His unique voice will influence filmmakers and comedians for generations to come.

To commemorate this anniversary, we've put together a quick Ghostbusters trivia quiz. Just how well do you know your Full-Torso Apparitions, Focused Non-Terminal Repeating Phantasms and Class 5 Full-Roaming Vapors?

The paranormal powerhouse marks a major anniversary …and a tragic loss

Images: Columbia Pictures47 | VintageVille Magazine

Harold Ramis passed away February 24, 2014.

2

3

4

7

10

1

6 What happens if you "cross the streams"?a) Total protonic reversalb) Armageddonc) A thermonuclear explosiond) They cancel each other out

The architect who designed Dana Barrett's apartment building was:a) Eero Saarinenb) Baron Mordoc) Ivo Shandord) Lamont Cranston

Egon compares the increasing psychokinetic energy in the New York area to:a) A gathering thunderstormb) A black holec) A balloond) A Twinkie

Which actor was originally intended to play the role of Louis Tully?a) Robin Williamsb) John Candyc) Garrett Morrisd) Rodney Dangerfield

The team's headquarters is located in:a) An old warehouseb) An old television studioc) An old department stored) An old firehouse

Ray talks about spending his childhood summers at "Camp Wakanda." That name comes from:a) His real lifeb) A 1950s science fiction moviec) A Saturday Night Live skitd) A Marvel comic

Where does Dana see her first demonic apparition?a) In the elevatorb) In the laundry roomc) In her mirrord) In her refrigerator

Winston's last name is:a) Zeddemoreb) Zagnutc) Zimmermand) Zoltan

9

8

Annie Potts, the team's secretary, went on to star in:a) Seinfeldb) Designing Womenc) Murphy Brownd) Cheers

5When the team arrives to trap the ghost haunting a midtown hotel, a guest asks if they are:a) Movie extrasb) An improv groupc) Cosmonautsd) Super heroes

ANSWERS1: c; 2: d; 3: b; 4: d; 5: c; 6: a; 7: d; 8: b; 9: a; 10: d

Q

Q

Q Dear  Glamorous  Housewife,I’m  an  accountant.  Needless  to  say,  we’re  pretty  corporate.  I’m  a  vintage  newbie  and  I  want  to  incorporate  more  vintage  style  into  my  wardrobe.  Any  tips  on  how  to  integrate  more  vintage  into  my  look...and  complement  the  corporate  culture  at  work?Thanks,Style  Stuck  in  New  Haven

Dear  Style  Stuck  in  New  Haven,The  good  news  is  that  there  are  plenty  of  ways  to  incorporate  vintage  into  a  corporate  wardrobe.  I  always  suggest  starting  with  accessories  because  you  don’t  want  to  be  spending  too  much  money  on  a  complete  closet  overhaul.  Why  not  add  a  vintage  brooch  to  a  suit  lapel?  Or  how  about  a  pair  of  vintage  earrings  to  compliment  a  tasteful  dress?  You  can  also  find  plenty  of  retro-­‐inspired  shoes  to  soften  the  sometimes  stiff  feeling  of  office  attire.  

Dear  Glamorous  Housewife,My  wife  thinks  it’s  fine  to  send  an  email  “thank  you”  when  you  get  a  gift.  I  was  taught  that  you  should  always  send  a  written  “thank  you”.  Who’s  right?Kindly,A  Note  of  Thanks  in  Austin

Dear  A  Note  of  Thanks  in  Austin,I  believe  an  email  thank  you  is  appropriate  in  this  day  and  age  for  most  gifts  received.  The  two  main  reasons  to  write  a  thank  you  note  is  to  let  the  gift  giver  know  your  gratitude  at  the  thoughtfulness  of  the  gift,  as  well  as  let  them  know  that  you  received  the  gift.  Both  of  these  can  be  done  with  an  email.  

However,  if  the  gift  was  given  for  a  wedding  or  other  large  event  then  a  handwritten  note  is  more  appropriate.  

Dear  Glamorous  Housewife,I’m  a  working  mum.  Some  days  it  feels  like  I  work  from  morning  ‘til  night.  I  know  I  need  to  take  some  time  out  for  myself,  but  I  don't  know  how.  And  then  I  feel  guilty  when  I  do  take  time  for  myself.  How  do  you  do  it?Cheers,Working  8  Days  a  Week  in  Killarney

Dear  Working  8  Days  a  Week  in  Killarney,Taking  time  out  for  yourself  can  be  quite  difficult  when  you  are  mom.  We  tend  to  put  other’s  needs  ahead  of  our  own.  So  the  first  thing  you  can  do  is  schedule  “me  time”  into  your  daily  

routine.  When  I  had  infants,  I  always  used  their  nap  time  to  focus  on  relaxing  and  taking  a  break.  The  second  thing  you  can  do  is  let  some  things  go.  Do  the  dishes  really  need  to  be  done  or  can  they  wait  30  minutes  while  you  take  a  bath  and  read  a  magazine?  My  guess  is  the  dishes  can  wait.  By  letting  some  things  go  you  can  find  the  time  to  focus  on  yourself,  which  is  much  more  important  that  having  a  perfectly  spotless  home.  

As  for  the  guilty  feelings,  you  need  to  let  those  go,  too.  By  law  all  workers  are  entitled  to  breaks  during  the  work  day.  Why  shouldn’t  moms?  In  addition  you’re  teaching  your  children  that  mothers  are  people  too  and  their  time  needs  to  be  respected.  

And  when  push  comes  to  shove,  which  would  your  children  rather  have  –  a  happy  relaxed  mum  or  a  stressed  out  mum?  I  think  all  children  want  their  parents  to  be  happy  and  would  trade  off  30  minutes  of  time  for  a  smile  on  their  mother’s  face.  

g

Ask Q Glamorous

Housewife

Have a question for The Glamorous Housewife? Email AskGHW@VintageVilleMag.com Want even more of The Glamorous Housewife? Check out www.TheGlamorousHousewife.com for style, fashion and more ways to embrace your glamorousity! 49 | VintageVille Magazine

The date’s been set: August 9, 2014. The location for this Gatsby-esque affair? The Horticultural Hall in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.  

“When I saw the building,” Cecilia says, “I knew it would be perfect because it was lovely in -25ºF weather. Just imagine what the garden will look like in August! 

The Horticultural Hall was built in the early 1900s and was recently placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside is a main hall with a secret garden in the middle – the ideal place for the ceremony and a Gatsby-inspired garden party reception that channels all of the glamour of the 1920s.

And Cecilia’s mad wedding skills could give professional planners a run for their money. In just 8 weeks, all major vendors are booked. Dresses for her

six bridesmaids are picked. Save-the-dates are ordered. Wedding rings are purchased. Whew…

Another item checked off: the wedding dress.

“I tried on lots of dresses,” she laughs. An entourage of seven accompanied her on her dress-finding mission. “The dress I picked was the most vintage-inspired one I tried on…lots of lace!”

Next up is picking out Bill's suit and the groomsmen's attire, as well doing some cake tasting.

One of the most challenging parts of the wedding planning?

“Getting people to see my wedding vision,” Cecilia says, “There are so many different interpretations of Gatsby and the 1920s in general. Lots of ideas fall under ‘vintage-inspired’ so I've been having to weed out the ones I really like and try to keep true to our original idea.”

Follow Cecilia and Bill along as they plan for their big day.

Cecilia & Bill

are getting married

1 The Dress & Venue 2

The Horticultural Hall in Lake Geneva, WI

Engagement photosPhotos: Rustic Roots Photography 

VintageVilleMag.com | 50

It's late October, 1928, and the twenties are still in full roar. Flappers are "jazzing." Gin mills are jumping. The celebration, it seems, will go on forever.

It won't, of course. (What a difference a year will make!) But the spirit of the decade – its pure energy, its sheer excitement, its sense of freedom – will change our society in some very fundamental ways. So let's forget about the crash to come, turn back the clocks and put on the Ritz. Here's your invitation to a swanky 1920s dinner party. What would have been on the menu…or on the gramophone? What would you have worn, driven or drunk?

Let's find out, dames and dappers. Maybe you’ll be inspired to put on a roaring-twenties-themed party of your own. It'll be the cat's meow!

Dinner Party1928

By Jon Hechtman

The era of opulent coach-built motorcars – improbably large, improbably grand – is at its height. The ultimate in automotive distinction? The Duesenberg, a vehicle so magnificent that it gives to the English language the enduring phrase “Its a Duesie!” Prefer something just as elegant, but a bit quieter? This Packard is, as always, a faultlessly correct choice. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a sportier carriage, the Stutz Bearcat is the bee’s knees.

YOUR WHEELS

VintageVilleMag.com | 52

YOUR SCENT

Why, none, of course. It’s prohibition, don’t you know.Oh, all right, let’s get real. We’ll skip the bathtub spirits, though, and concentrate on the more interesting drinks of the day. How about the sophisticated French 75 – gin, lemon, simple syrup and plenty of champagne? Or try a Southside, said to be a favorite of Al Capone: gin, simple syrup, lime juice and mint. The Mary Pickford, named for the silent film star (and created in Prohibition-free Cuba), combines rum, pineapple juice, maraschino liqueur and a touch of grenadine. Cheers!

YOUR COCKTAIL

QUICK TIPMany prohibition-era cocktails were created to mask the harshness of the low-quality spirits then available; the sweet, fruity flavors made the concoctions palatable. Why not try replicating some of these speakeasy classics using today’s high-quality artisan liquors? Odds are you’ll be delighted with the results.

His: It’s a daring decade, but not for everybody: lots of gentlemen are still sticking to traditional after-shaves like bay rum or witch hazel. But for the more open-minded, Guerlain’s Imperiale, citrusy and crisp, is a suave, civilized choice. (Some dandies go even further, dabbing a bit of ladies’ perfume behind their lapels.)

Hers: It’s hard to imagine Chanel No.5 as the new fragrance on the block, but it’s true; this instant classic debuts in 1920. But it's Lanvin's Arpège, in the iconic black bottle, that reigns as the decade's most popular perfume. Seeking something a little naughtier? Try Jicky by Guerlain – introduced in 1889 and still hugely popular in the 20s.

Adventurous diners are discovering the delights of Italian, Chinese and Mediterranean cooking. But most upscale menus are solidly grounded in the French/American “Continental” cuisine served at fine hotels and clubs. In keeping with the unrestrained spirit of the decade, there’s an unapologetic emphasis on luxurious ingredients. Shrimp cocktail is a favorite appetizer. Sole meunière – a delicate filet in a browned-butter-and-lemon sauce – is a popular fish course, often preceding a heavier entrée: saddle of lamb, perhaps, or roast duck.

Salads include everything from mayonnaise-dressed Waldorfs, to Romaine with French dressing, to elaborately-stuffed tomatoes. Simple vegetables are treated to lavish preparations: potatoes Hollandaise, Brussels Sprouts risolée and asparagus tips au gratin, to name just three examples. Desserts, however, revert to tried-and-true American standbys: baked Alaska, Neapolitan ice cream and lemon meringue pie.

YOUR MENU

QUICK TIP

How about a menu makeover? Use some of these classic recipes as a starting point, but replace heavy sauces with lighter accents.

Keep the salads, but lose the rich dressings – try something citrusy instead. Promote the

fish course to entrée duty. And liberate those veggies to shine on their own, simply steamed

or roasted to bring out their natural flavors.YOUR TUNES

What's your pleasure? There are scads of styles available, and the radio and the phonograph have made home listening easier than ever. Dance music, of course, is a huge craze (Charleston, anyone?)…and Paul Whiteman's orchestra always seems to be riding the top of the charts. (Whiteman's success earns him the nickname "King of Jazz.") But that's just the beginning. Cole Porter's elegant melodies and urbane lyrics perfectly reflect the Art Deco glitter of the era. Rudy Vallee is the first of the big-time crooners – and the very first "teen heartthrob" pop star. But there's also country, courtesy of Jimmie Rodgers. Ragtime. Hawaiian steel guitar. And George Gershwin is bringing blues and classical together to create a new, uniquely American voice.

53 | VintageVille Magazine

QUICK TIPThanks to the Internet, much of this music is more accessible than ever. Why not create a party playlist that reflects the astonishing diversity of 1920s music? Mixing up the genres will transform your soundtrack from background sound to conversation starter.

n

Dethrose  Vintage,  $385  

YOUR HAIR

His: Think Rudolph Valentino. Long hair, slicked back with brilliantine and carefully parted. (This style is sometimes referred to, in contemporary publications, as “patent-leather hair.”)

Hers: The short, harsh bob (the shingle cut) is still on the scene. But for you trend-right gals – let your locks grow out an inch or two and use a curling iron to create classic Marcel waves. Waves are now a little looser, but still short and stylish – perfect for wearing your favorite cloche. Got long tresses? Don’t stress…simply part hair in the center and pull back from the face to create a camouflaged bob.

His: Men's clothing is getting a bit more relaxed, finally losing its turn-of-the-century stuffiness. Suits are double or single breasted, with high, generously wide lapels. Trousers – secured by suspenders, naturally – rise well above the natural waist. Fabrics are substantial wool saxonies and flannels, often in checks, plaids and stripes. Shirts are still separate-collar affairs, sometimes pairing a white collar with a striped body. Two-tone spectator shoes? Yes, please.

Hers: Fashions this year are among the flashiest of the decade. Hems are rising – so go ahead and show off those calves, ladies! Bodices are still long, but are slowly climbing up to show off the natural waistline (with the help of belts and sashes, of course). Ties, V-necks, scarves and capes at the neckline draw attention upward. Don your ankle-strap Mary Janes or T-bar shoes…and you're set to step out.

VintageVilleMag.com | 54

YOUR STYLE

The twenties didn't just roar; they talked, too, in a ragtime-rhythm language all their own. Think that's all just applesauce? Well, just wait till you put on your glad rags, pick up your tomato in your flivver, and head over to the juice joint for some giggle water…only to find out the fire extinguisher is coming along. Maybe you should settle for a cup of java and a sinker. Everything jake? Good – now you're on the trolley!Translation:Applesauce: nonsenseGlad rags: going-out clothesTomato: girlFlivver: old carJuice joint: bar, speakeasyGiggle water: alcoholic drinkFire extinguisher: chaperoneJava: coffeeSinker: donutJake: OkayNow you're on the trolley: now you've got it!

YOUR SLANG

The theme of the 1939 New York World's Fair said it all. The World of Tomorrow – that's where visitors thought they were going they walked through the gates. They expected to be dazzled by all the whiz-bang technologies of the modern age; and they weren't disappointed. The roster of new innovations was enough to make your head spin: futuristic cars, air conditioning, nylon and dozens more.

But surely the most remarkable breakthrough introduced at the fair was a little something called "television." How awesome was it? Well, RCA had to build a special transparent lucite model (check out the photo), just to showcase the internal components – and convince fairgoers that the flickering images on the screen weren't some sort of trick or illusion.

To be sure, the development of television had started decades earlier. Way back in 1880, Alexander Graham Bell had introduced the Photophone – a device that could carry sound on a beam of light. Four years later, an inventor named Nipkow was sending pictures through wires, using a system based on a rotating disk. By 1907, there were working cathode-ray-tube television units. But the 1939 RCA exhibit was really television's coming-out party: the event that told the world this new technology was (pardon the pun) ready for prime time.

Seventy-five years have passed since then, with television right in the middle of the action – helping to record (and write) an amazing chapter in the life of the world. So we thought it might be fun to "rerun" a few of the most notable moments in TV history. Stay tuned…

the big 75Happy Birthday

TELEVISION

The transparent lucite television set displayed at the RCA building

55 | VintageVille Magazine

RCA executive David Sarnoff dedicates the RCA building at the Fair

A photograph of an actual 1939 broadcast from the Fair

A 1939 booklet, offering a "preview" of television, issued by RCA to its dealers

Eager fairgoers crowd a "television

information" kiosk

Visitors to the RCA building received cards certifying that they had been "televised"

VintageVilleMag.com | 56

1960:  The  first  televised  U.S.  presiden7al  debate.  Radio  listeners  think  Richard  Nixon  is  the  winner,  but  

television  viewers  are  dazzled  by  the  young,  handsome  John  Kennedy  –  the  first  poli7cal  TV  star.

1962:  Telstar,  the  first  TV  transmission  satellite,  is  launched.  Within  months,  the  instrumental  "Telstar,"  featuring  futuris7c  electronic  sound  

effects,  becomes  a  #1  Billboard  hit.

1900:  The  name  "television"  is  coined  by  a  Russian  gentleman  named  Perskyi,  at  the  1900  Paris  World's  Fair…decades  before  the  first  sets  would  be  sold.

1948:  Cable  TV  makes  its  debut  in  Pennsylvania,  USA.  The  iden7ty  of  the  first  

cable  guy  is  not  recorded.

1927:  Inventor  Philo  Farnsworth  takes  out  the  first  patent  on  a  complete  television  system.  He  dubs  it  the  "Image  Dissector."  (For  some  reason,  

that  name  doesn't  s7ck.  Wonder  why?)

1956:  The  first  TV  remote  is  introduced,  and  the  couch  potato  is  born.

TV

Milestones

57 | VintageVille Magazine

1964:  73  million  Americans  watch  the  Beatles'  appearance  on  The  Ed  Sullivan  Show.  The  Bri7sh  

Invasion  has  begun.

1980:  The  "Who  Shot  J.R.?"  episode  of  Dallas  becomes  the  most-­‐watched  program  in  U.S.  history.  (Three  years  later,  the  M*A*S*H  series  finale  shaeers  

that  record.)

1969:  600  million  people  watch  the  Apollo  11  moon  landing.  The  live  event  is  covered  

con7nuously  for  over  30  hours.

1981:  750  million  people  worldwide  tune  in  to  watch  a  real-­‐life  fairy  tale  unfold:  the  wedding  of  Lady  Diana  

Spencer  and  Prince  Charles.

2009:  The  U.S.  officially  switches  to  all-­‐digital  television,  and  the  analog  TV  era  

comes  to  an  end.

VintageVilleMag.com | 58

59 | VintageVille Magazine

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It’s 1976, and pop music is sounding a bit…well, tired. Disco is starting to show signs of early senility. Glam rock is looking just plain silly. Southern rock is beginning its metamorphosis into modern country. And stadium prog rock, with its fog machines, lasers and album-length suites, is turning into the kind of ponderous excess so brilliantly skewered in This Is Spinal Tap.

It was time for a change.

And this time around, the hot new trend turned out to be something old: a rediscovery of the garage rawness, punchy verse-and-chorus song structures and rebellious spirit that had fueled the first rock-n-roll revolution, a couple of decades earlier. Listeners and critics struggled to give this loose, grass-roots movement a name. “Punk” was certainly a viable option, but from the outset it was too narrow to embrace the diversity of this electrifying new music, much of which was too melodic – and too accessible – to fit easily into that category. “Power Pop” had a similar problem, but in reverse: it was a little too sunshiny, a little too lightweight. In the end, the only useful tag was the broadest, the most inclusive of them all: New Wave.

It was an explosive time. The epicenter of the

action might have been CBGB’s in New York, but the phenomenon was truly a nationwide – check that, international – one. New bands were springing up everywhere, in little towns, cities and suburbs. Tiny indie labels were being founded in lofts and basements. The majors, desperate not to miss out on the next big thing, were signing acts that had barely a dozen live shows under their belts. Fans traded albums, searched record store bins for the week’s new releases, got together for listening parties. In many ways, it was almost a replay of the heyday of classic 1960s rock.

Looking back, after almost four decades, some of the excitement now seems a trifle overwrought. Some of those brand-new bands turned out not even to be one-hit wonders, sinking back into instant obscurity. Some of the arrangements and productions sound lamentably dated. And some of the attitude may strike us as puerile posturing…a little bit forced. But in fairness, you could say that about the acid-rock or psychedelic pop of the 1960s, too; and none of that would invalidate the originality or power of the music.

We think it’s time to rediscover the best of New Wave music. So we’re presenting our own personal list of the five absolutely essential New Wave albums, in no particular order…

by Jon Hechtman

Talking Heads: 77

When you think of this band, you may recall the elaborate stage shows of its later years (Big Suit, anyone?), along with the densely-layered “world” rhythms that became so central to its sound. And there’s some great music there. But for us, the iconic Talking Heads album is the debut offering. It’s spare and stripped down, with David Byrne’s high-pitched voice adding a sort of strained, nervous edge. Three of the members first met at art school, and it shows; this was clearly a band with intellectual chops. Proof? Just check out the poker-faced ironies of “Don’t Worry About the Government,” the studied detachment of “No Compassion” or the way the unexpected French lyrics transform the neurotic heartbeat of “Psycho Killer.” The album sometimes threatens to topple over into overly self-aware seriousness, but it’s saved, ultimately, by its surprisingly melodic quirkiness – that, and the fact that the songs are just plain fun. It was smart, modern music you could dance to. It’s not yesterday anymore – but this album is still a great listen today.

Television: Marquee Moon

When Ahmet Ertegun, president of Atlantic Records, auditioned this New York band, he is reported to have said: “I can’t sign this band. This is not Earth music.” He may have meant the comment as a criticism, but many Television fans regard it as high praise. One thing’s for sure: Television sounded like nobody else, before or since. Where other New Wave bands were tossing off three-minute (or one-and-a-half-minute, in the case of the Ramones) songs, Television was building extended compositions driven by searing solos from the band’s two lead guitarists, Tom Verlaine and Richard Lloyd. These weren’t Cream-style blues jams. They weren’t Hendrix-esque psychedelic extravaganzas. They were architectural, hard-edged, crystalline sonic structures – visceral and intellectual at the same time. The lyrics were otherworldly, too, and the strangled lyricism of Verlaine’s voice suited them perfectly. Marquee Moon was their first album, and its ten-minute title track sums up the signature

Television style very nicely. But it isn’t all guitar heroics; there were carefully-constructed, smart, surprisingly melodic verse-and-chorus songs as well.

We don’t often find ourselves agreeing with Rolling Stone; but we were pleased to see that that magazine ranked this masterful album #381 among the 500 greatest rock albums of all time. (This case is closed.)

Blondie: Parallel Lines

Most new wave artists were at their best – arguably – when their music was most raw and garage-ish. Blondie is one conspicuous exception to that rule. To our ears, the band peaked with their third album. The tough-girl sneer is still there, but it's layered into more elaborate arrangements and overlaid with a glossy production sheen. That might not sound like a successful combination, but it works. The band's songwriting skills are in high gear here, and the less familiar songs ("Fade Away and Radiate") are every bit as good as the radio-friendly hits. Killer cuts include "11:59," “Sunday Girl” and "One Way or Another.” And picture this: Heart of Glass" marries two arch-enemy genres – New Wave and disco – and makes it look effortless.

VintageVilleMag.com | 62

Ramones: Anthology

We're not normally big fans of greatest-hits packages, but we're convinced that this album is the best way to enjoy the unique Ramones experience…assuming that "enjoy" is the proper verb for this amped-up, dumbed-down sonic assault. The thing is, when you want to listen to the Ramones, you want to hear their classic songs – and those cuts are scattered across a handful of albums, interspersed with less interesting material. This compilation replicates, in some ways, the energy of a live Ramones set: relentless, driving, incredibly fast. When we're in the mood, we love the band's blend of goofy Three-Stooges-esque lyrics and radically reductive three-chord rock 'n' roll. The song "Rockaway Beach" sums it all up: if there were such a thing as urban surf rock, the Ramones would be its leading exponents. (As an aside, the Ramones' music is startlingly close, in spirit at least, to the surf-garage sound of the early Beach Boys.) Other classics here include "Cretin Hop," "Blitzkrieg Bop" and "I Wanna Be Sedated." Hey, ho, let’s go!

Joe Jackson: Look Sharp!

This debut album has held up very well over the years. Maybe it's the relatability and

honesty of its themes; maybe it's the crispness of its arrangements; or maybe it's the punchy, catchy, hook-laden melodies (most likely, of course, it's all of the above). "Sharp" is a perfect description of this music: it's taut, focused and direct. Highlights: "Is She Really Going Out with Him?", "One More Time" and "Throw It Away."

Beach Boys: Love You

What, you may ask, are the Beach Boys doing on a list of New Wave albums? An

excellent question. And this very odd album, unique in the band's catalog, is the answer. The trademark harmonies are still here, but the lead vocals are often gruff and shouty; and the arrangements are dominated by blatting, blaring synthesizers. The lyrics alternate among uncomfortable frankness, conventional romance, quirky humor and out-and-out dorky weirdness; it's as if Brian Wilson was channeling Jonathan Richman or Flansburgh and Linnell.

The B-52s

Long before the phrase "mid-century modern" was coined, this quintessentially quirky band was mining the

culture of the late 50s and early 60s to create a unique blend of kitsch, camp and geeky danceability. This first album didn't (and doesn't) sound like anything before or since. There's cheesy-movie science fiction ("Planet Claire"), a new take on "The Name Game" ("52 Girls")…and, of course, the slightly demented surf-rock of "Rock Lobster," which became the soundtrack for thousands of parties.

Honorable

Mention

Know new wave? 1. The Ramones band name was inspired by:a) The band’s favorite pizza jointb) The lead singer’s girlfriend, Ramonac) A pseudonym used by Paul McCartney while touringd) Graffiti on a New York City wall

2. Debbie Harry’s very first recordings were made with a band called:a) The Stilettosb) Platinum Blondec) KGBd) Wind in the Willows

3. Which unlikely cover song was often performed by Talking Heads in the band’s early days?a) “1-2-3 Red Light”b) “Some Enchanted Evening”c) “Incense and Peppermints”d) “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida”

4. Tom Verlaine was born Tom Miller. His stage name was borrowed from:a) His mother’s maiden nameb) A French Symbolist poetc) His guitar teacherd) His home town

5. Which artist once described himself as “surfing on the New Wave”?a) Graham Parkerb) Rick Ocasekc) Jonathan Richmand) Elvis Costello

6. The Cars recorded a tune that shared a name (but nothing else) with an Everly Brothers hit. It was:a) “Bye Bye Love”b) “Wake Up Little Susie”c) “All I Have to Do Is Dream”d) “Crying in the Rain”

7. The influential album Blank Generation was recorded by:a) Rockpileb) Richard Hell and the Voidoidsc) Squeezed) The Neon Boys

8. Which of the following was not considered a British neo-Ska band?a) Madnessb) The English Beatc) The Specialsd) The Rubinoos

Answers: 1) c; 2) d; 3) a; 4) b; 5) d; 6) a; 7) b; 8) d

Devo: Are We Not Men? We Are Devo!

Very few rock bands have had manifestos or mission statements; but Devo was an extremely unusual rock band. Once asked to articulate the Devo philosophy, co-founder Jerry Casale answered: "We represent healthy robot rhythms in a world of drugged-out, spineless wimps." That pithy comment comes close to capturing the experience of listening to the band's first album. "Robot rhythms," to be sure; but the rhythms are jerky and spastic, as if the robots are intermittently malfunctioning. And "spineless wimps" certainly reflects the band's view of modern society as a de-evolved, conformist "herd" culture. Of course, none of this intellectualizing would mean a lick if the music weren't any good. And the songs here – with their deliberately odd time signatures, lyrics dipped in double meaning, yelping vocals and sharp, angular arrangements – give expression to the Devo vision in memorable, exciting style. Iconic tracks include a radically reinterpreted "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" and the anthemic "Jocko Homo." Devo would go on to big hits and bigger production values, but they never bettered their debut effort.

PREP10 mins

CHILL15 mins

READY IN25 mins

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter, softened1/4 of an 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract2 cups confectioners sugar1-1/4 cups flaked coconut1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Oh my Irish eyes....

By Daphne Drake

If you’re not from the east coast, you may not have heard of these delicious mini potato look-alikes.Part of a century-old Philadelphia tradition, these tasty lil’ taters show up on store shelves every year around St. Patty’s Day. 

The origin of these bite-sized candies is a mystery. Rumor has it that they were created by a penny-wise Irish immigrant who didn’t want to waste his excess coconut cream. So he rolled the coconut balls in loads of cinnamon…and had an instant hit on his hands.

Irish potatoes may or may not be Irish. But one thing’s for sure: there’s no potato in ’em. Instead, they have a smooth, creamy, coconut-y center that’s generously covered in cinnamon. Coconut, confectioner’s sugar, vanilla, cream cheese and, of course, tons of cinnamon (yum!). That’s all it takes. They are oh-so easy to make (though you’ll likely end up with cinnamon-covered fingers). So why are they so darn so expensive in the grocery store, anyway?

Irish PotatoesMakes about 30 candies

Directions 1. In a medium bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth.

2. Add the vanilla and confectioners sugar; beat until smooth.

3. Add the coconut (the mixture will be very thick – you may need to use your hands to mix in).

4. Roll into 1” balls.

5. Roll in cinnamon to cover. (For an extra cinnamon-y taste, roll in cinnamon a second time).

6. Chill for 15 minutes to set.

VintageVilleMag.com | 66

Baker’s Tip

Irish potatoes are very easy to make, but also

very messy. Have a wet paper towel at the

ready to clean off hands in a jiffy.

If somebody were to ask you what Fred Astaire did for a living, you wouldn't have to think long or hard before replying. He was a dancer – one of the greatest that ever graced a soundstage. Naturally, that wouldn't be the only thing on his résumé. He was a fine actor and a gifted choreographer; you wouldn't want to leave those out.

But where, in his list of accomplishments, would you place his singing? This new two-disc collection from Turner Classic Movies pointedly raises that question; and at the same time, it offers a uniquely satisfying answer.

To get the obvious out of the way: Astaire was not a powerful singer, or a versatile singer, or a technically faultless singer. In fact, when you think about his singing roles, you may bracket him with other actors and actresses who were able to put a song over without necessarily singing it "well." You know the kind of performer we're talking about: Rex Harrison in My Fair Lady, or Robert Preston in The Music Man, or Glynis Johns in A Little Night Music. Not that we're finding fault; can you imagine a “better” singer crooning Henry Higgins's irascible little ditties? We can't either.

That said: if it would be unfair to hold Astaire to the standards of a Caruso, it's also unfair to lump him in with Harrison and Preston. His voice, although slight, had a nonchalant, easy elegance that perfectly suited the stylish songs featured in the great early films he made at RKO Pictures. When Astaire sings about flying down to Rio, or putting on his top hat, white tie and tails…well, you believe

REVIEW

67 | VintageVille Magazine

Fred Astaire: The Early Years at RKO

Sony Masterworks

Number of Discs: 2

Release date: 2013

ASIN: B00FNRA1D6

Price: $11.88

Above:  Fred  Astaire  and  Ginger  Rogers  in  Swing  Time    (1936)  RKO  Radio  PicturesBelow:  Fred  Astaire  and  Rita    Hayworth  in  You  Were  Never  Lovelier  (1942)  Columbia  Pictures

him. He sounds like he belongs in those swanky surroundings. And there's real precision in his phrasing – not that you'd expect anything less from a man who was such a driven perfectionist when it came to his dance steps.

It helped, to be sure, that he had such splendid songs to sing. The numbers featured in those films are iconic, and the roster of songwriters responsible for them reads like a who’s who of American popular music. Cole Porter; Jerome Kern; Irving Berlin; George and ira Gershwin. They’re all magnificently represented here.

But you may be surprised to learn that these are not the performances heard in those films. These are full-on studio recordings, made by Astaire from 1932 through 1938, with the backing of some of the most accomplished orchestras of the day. In other words, Astaire took his singing seriously enough to record these songs as stand-alone performances.

And what sublime performances they are. We have our favorites among them, of course. To our ears, Astaire’s voice best fits the sort of sophisticated, understated love song that mixes genuine affection with just a touch of wistful regret. That’s the devastating combination that makes “They Can’t Take That Away from Me” and “The Way You Look Tonight” so unforgettable. If these aren’t the definitive readings of these songs, they’re awfully close.

But singling out two of these songs is, ultimately, an arbitrary exercise; there are dozens of wonderful moments here. And hearing these songs with fresh ears, as this collection invites us to do, reveals a profound, unexpected truth.

Our modern sensibilities have been shaped by listening to an entire generation of singer-songwriters: artists whose imperfect voices are nevertheless capable of conveying nuanced emotion with directness and honesty. So for us, ironically, Astaire still sounds fresh, genuine and timeless; while some of his more technically proficient contemporaries – Rudy Vallee, anyone? – tend to sound dated and artificial. To put it another way: if you had never watched a Fred Astaire movie, never seen one of his dance routines, you would still be moved, charmed and entertained by these performances.

This set is nicely (if simply) packaged, with excellent liner notes by Michael Feinstein and a marvelous photo of Astaire at the piano, sitting next to George and Ira Gershwin. More importantly, the sound, for the most part, is excellent: clear, well-defined and warm. You won’t mistake this for a modern production job, but there’s little of the flat tinniness often associated with this kind of archival release. This is a welcome celebration of Astaire the singer, and we give it an enthusiastic recommendation.

Top  Hat  (1935)Everett  Collection

VintageVilleMag.com | 68

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WRITERSI’ve been involved in the Rockabilly/Psychobilly scene since I was first introduced to the Cramps some 25 years or so ago and I was blown away by the distorted, primal rock n roll of their Smell of Female album. I was instantly smitten. In a time when rock ‘n roll was whitewashed chart-friendly fodder, it was like discovering gold.

I have a huge passion for all things ‘billy’ and Teddyboy, and I’m fortunate to live my life immersed in all of that, albeit with a contemporary twist (it’s not the 50’s anymore guys – can you really live without the luxuries of modern life?). I’m fortunate to share my world with my wife and two young daughters. My eldest who is six can proudly explain the difference between rockabilly and psychobilly and loves Imelda May and rockabilly compilations (she makes dad so proud!).

I adore 50’s styled suits, Teddyboy drapes, brogues and Creeper shoes and I have sourced a nice little collection of them all over the years. I spend way too much time on my quiff and looking at vinyl records, as well as trying to find that perfect pair of selvedge jeans and thinking about that next tattoo.

Blog:www.cleepowell.tumblr.com

Runway Roundup

MODELS Greetings from Pin-Up Model Kitty Cadillac!

I am a vintage Pin-Up Model who has been modeling for over 5 years now. As a Pin-Up Model, I have always looked up to Bettie Page and Bunny Yeager. For the majority of my modeling career, I have been a rowdy red head, but I recently made the jump to being a blonde bombshell. Apart from constantly being asked if I'm Marilyn, I love being a blonde. We really do seem to have more fun!

My Pin-Up name comes from my love of cats (I currently have 6) and my dream car – a pink ‘57 Cadillac.

Along with being a vintage Pin-Up Model, I specialize in selling 1950's clothing in my Etsy shop. I focus on vintage showgirl costumes and beautiful dresses! I look forward to what the future has in store for me in the world of Pin-Up!

XoXo,Kitty Cadillac

www.facebook.com/PinUpModelKittyCadillac www.etsy.com/shop/NaughtyKittyVintage

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You could be exactly who VintageVille Magazine is looking for. Check out www.VintageVilleMag.com for more information and submission guidelines.

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