Shades of a vintage summer

Marilyn looks a tad concerned, perhaps she’s heard that ‘men rarely make passes at girls who wear glasses’. Actually, spectacles are practical accessories that can add great character to a face and tons of style to any look. There’s only one thing that’s more stylish than plain old specs – and that’s a pair of fabulously glamorous sunglasses.



At ShopCurious, we’ve an eclectic selection of elegant retro shades for all manner of summer occasions – from the 1940s rhinestone encrusted movie star variety, to ‘50s vampish vintage horn rims, leopard print safari-style stunners and ‘60s glitter glam rock (see below).
































































If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, how about these quirky hand painted Chinese inspired shades (below right). Or why not go for the classic Jackie O look with vintage Versace to add a touch of class and sophistication to any outfit. Remarkably, these shades (above right) are also in our sale.















































Okay you stylistas, I’m going to offer a special prize for the best caption to this photograph - I’m really curious to know what Jackie and Ari are thinking or saying in this shot...

Are you?

(to enter the competition, please reply directly to this blog, or send answers to info@ShopCurious.com).

Viva vintage Versace

I imagine that avid members of the style tribe are already trotting down to Sotheby’s, curious to view the splendid spoils of Versace’s villa that are due to go under the hammer next Wednesday.

Versace wasn’t just a designer, he was a major trend-setter and a key contributor to the culture of bling. His glitzy and glamorous fashions and interiors defined the ‘loadsamoney’ luxury lifestyle of the late ‘80s and early ‘90s.


We’ve some rare vintage Versace treasures in the form of perfect examples of what Gianni did best – fashion. This original vintage fluffy pink cable knit sweater appeared in Versace’s Autumn/Winter 1994-95 catalogue, both of which are now available at ShopCurious.

The stunning photographs of Versace’s iconic ‘94-5 collection were taken by Richard Avedon. Featuring a sea of supermodels, this collectable catalogue showcases peak-of career-Versace designs – including this stylish black halter dress (below left), which happens to be my favourite. One of the images shows a doe-eyed and innocent looking Carla Bruni in a hot red boucle suit (below right).
























The ultimate in look-books, this will definitely appeal to you if you’re into the cult of the body-beautiful. Of course, I’m only interested from the point of view of fashion and fashion as art.














It wasn’t that long ago, but the models’ figures appear to be rather more normal sized and wholesome than those of today … and the statuesque poses displaying bulging muscled thighs are pure neo-classical-style Versace – the phrase ‘in Versace veritas’ springs to mind.
Are you?

Collectable curiosities

A present shouldn't just be for Christmas ... think of the recipient's regard for you, think of the memories that would be associated with something really special, think of the future investment potential and the lasting value of an heirloom for generations to come ... a Christmas gift should be for life.

Okay, now we're done with the marketing spiel, here are some ideas of collectable curiosities you might like to bestow upon your loved ones to help them remember you forever:




How about this original 1960s Swoboda pendant (above right) with semi precious stones? It's one of a kind and it's also kinda cool, don't you think? We've also got an iconic vintage Fiorucci Minnie Mouse sweatshirt at ShopCurious that might need taking out to celebrate boyfriend Mickey's recent 80th birthday. What's more, we're offering this rare retro rediscovery at a special recession conscious price.







If your friends are into designer names and unique accessories, we've some ultra-desirable vintage Versace shades - that's sunglasses to us Brits - in two separate shades (sorry, am I repeating myself?) and these are also supplied with their original cases.






Other stateside curiosities include an exotic selection of bags from Timmy Woods of Beverly Hills - including a stylish and somewhat surrealist telephone bag - and a masterfully minimalist version of the Eiffel Tower (held by Carrie Bradshaw, left) ... I guess that's how big the famous French monument looks to Americans?







If you're not buying for a handbag-worshipper, you could always settle for a limited edition sculpture, expertly carved by Hacene Sadoune. Or perhaps you'd prefer a more classically inspired piece, in which case we've just the thing.







Finally, if you know any fashionistas who are trying to quell their portable property habit in these financially strained times, why not consider investing in the fashion of art in the form of a limited edition signed sketch by legendary British fashion designer, Bill Gibb. You won't be able to wear it, but at least it's not going to be consumed by moths in your wardrobe and one day it could be worth a lot more than you paid for it. We have some tips on how to look after your clothes by the way, of which more later ...

Just a few ideas. I hope you are at least mildly curious?

Are you?