Monday, September 26, 2011

Art : Edward Gorey

Edward Gorey

Edward Gorey is one of my favorite writer/illustrators. I came to know him as many in my generation did, through the animated intro to PBS Mystery ( during the 80's it was just called Mystery. Now its Mobil Masterpiece Mystery) . Gorey was one of those artists/writers that many were a fan of without knowing. This intro is a pop culture classic. Many PBS geeks such as I , will attest to this whole heatedly. Its dark and Edwardian a dark humor at its most ghastly, let's take a look at the original opening. Then talk a little more about Gorey. A brief bio of this man who had influenced such icons as Tim Burton. I can see it ...




Edward Gorey was born Edward St.John Gorey in Chicago Illinois on February 22,1925.

Education: Army, Studied at Harvard University , The School of The Art Institute of Chicago ( he did a brief semester there. he has said that he is mostly self taught)

Most Recognised Work: Gashlycrumb Tinies, Doubtful Guest, Animation introducing "Mystery" on PBS, Dracula stage production

Genre : Literature/ Surrealist

Awards : Tony Award

Here is a look at Gorey's most famous illustrations in the book Gashlycrumb Tinnies know to some as the Gorey Alphabet.



  • Factiods : Gorey loved anagrams would reference them frequently in his works. ( Pop Trash Beauty-A BERTHA YOST PUP )
  • Pop Culture lover known to follow soap opras, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Cheers, Batman the Animated series to name a few
  • Some of his pen names were anagrams of his own name
  • Published over 100 works in his life time
  • Jane Austen was one of his influences in his work

Edward Gorey Tattoo




We merely scratched the surface of this legend. Wanted to give you a taste of the amazing Edward Gorey. I could look at his illustrations all day. "Surreal but Nice " Do you have a favorite illustrator ?

Monday, September 19, 2011

The Mod Invasion ( 1960's Fashion )

1960 ... Jackie Kennedy

Photo via http://www.flickr.com/photos/x-ray_delta_one/5470193990/

I decided to do a little post to put you in the know this fall. You'll hear allot of these terms mentioned. Fall / Winter of 2011 -2012 is slated to be a resurgence of the 1960's . Jackie O Kennedy was a style icon of 1960's.  Jackie Kennedy made popular the french manicure , pillbox hats, thick false lashes. Of course the A-line dress to be amongst the most iconic. Even though she favored mostly french designers prior to being first lady. The first lady was ordered to wear American designers only. Hollywood Costumer Oleg Canssini  would become her designer. Designing over 300 outfits for her as first lady.  She became a style icon through out her life. Large black sunglasses were called Jackie O glasses. Are a staple in most fashionista's handbags.  So when you hear the fashion folks saying " Your going to see allot of Jackie O " youll know what there refrencing. She is really causing a buzz this season. Now let's talk Mod darlinks .. ( Im so green in the gills with the fashion writing )



Can you spot the Jackie O inspiration ?



 I did spy some Mod in the above youtube.On the other end of the spectrum. You may hear people  referring to the Mod era. So what is Mod you ask ? Mod from Modernist is a sub culture originating in London in the 1960's. Mod Style spread through out the world. Centred around London's thriving pop music, art and fashion scene, the mod lifestyle focused on innovation and the 'new'.  Large geometric paterns and bold color emerged . The clothes were slim fitting and mass produced materials everyone could wear.  The Warhol scene of the 1960's was very mod . Eddie Sedwick and The Velvet Underground were very Mod indeed my little groovy Pop Trash Beauties . Here is a look at Mod makeup





So wear the 60s any way you want . I always look at trend not as the rule but a suggestion. Let's have fun in the 1960s . Groovy beauties . What 1960's trend do you love ?

This was just really fun to watch litle inspiration if you will

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Pop Trash Beauty :Exclusive Interview Jemma Kidd

Since I've created Pop Trash Beauty, never have I had such an honor. Jemma Kidd granted us an interview. I've been a fan of Jemma for years. Well respected in every facet of the cosmetic industry. She is a mogul, makeup guru, teacher, mummy, author to name a few things on her stellar resume. A former model  who was more comfortable behind the camera. She emerged to become one of the most talented makeup artists in the world. In 2008 she launched her JK Kidd line with Target. Bringing her cosmetic line across the pond. Off the runway and into your handbag. Her makeup is wearable the price point is reasonable. Id like to thank Jemma for talking to Pop Trash Beauty.One thing you'll learn about this makeup guru, not only talented with the makeup brush. She has some seriously amazing taste in music.










Q: How did you get started in the makeup business?

I started out in the industry as a model, but I was never really comfortable – unlike my little sister Jodie! When I discovered what it was like being on the other end of the make-up brush, I knew I'd found the right career. I was lucky to work as an assistant to make-up supremo Mary Greenwell for five years and was then spotted by Premier Hair & Make Up Agency and taken on their books in 1999. Since then I've worked with leading fashion designers, photographers and a host of prestigious magazines, including American and British Vogue, Vanity Fair and Elle. I have also written a weekly beauty column in the Mail on Sunday’s YOU magazine for the past six years. In 2003 I founded an academy in London to train professional make-up artists and to offer a range of make-up workshops for women of all ages. I have also created three distinctive make-up ranges – Jemma Kidd Make Up School (launched 2005), Jemma Kidd PRO (launched 2008) and JK Jemma Kidd (launched 2008) – which are sold throughout the UK and US as well as in Australia and Hong Kong.

Q: What do you see being the next big trend for fall makeup?

 I’m loving the Sixties aesthetic that was seen on so many of the fall 2011 catwalks, from Anna Sui and DKNY in New York, to Moschino Cheap & Chic and Blumarine in Milan. This season the trend has been reworked through modern eyes: simple feline flicks, sultry winged eye shadow and doe-eyed Bambi lashes. To recreate the look try my new Sixties-inspired JK Jemma Kidd I-Sculpt Shadow & Liner featuring an innovative slanted liner to create precise lines and a complementary shadow perfect for sculpting the socket line. Finish with feathery, fluttery lashes for a full-on Sixties revival!

Q: Is there currently a product in your JK line that you are “addicted to” that you use on a daily basis?

My JK Ultra Plush Mascara and Mannequin Skin Complexion enhancer are my ‘can’t live without’ beauty products. The complexion enhancer is such a multipurpose product and can give skin an instant lift and the mascara is a must have for everyday glamour




Q: A lot of my readers are over 30. How does makeup change for us at this age? Are there products we used in our 20’s that we should avoid?

As you reach your later 30s, switch from out-and-out glitz to subtle shimmers that are more flattering and wont point out any fine lines around the eyes. There’s no need to stop wearing strong colors though. Pale skin, dark smoldering eyes and red lips can look inappropriately ageing when you’re 20, but in your mid to late 30s the Hollywood seductress style comes into its own for evening. Explore the benefits of high-tech anti-aging ingredients. Crème blushes and undereye concealers in hydrating and firming formulas will help to retain a youthful radiance

Q: Where do you look for/find inspiration for your fall JK makeup line for Target? What are your influences? Do you have specific styles that you enjoy more than others?

I draw inspiration from everywhere: fashion shows, films, books, design, art, nature, different cultures, people, photography…  I find inspiration all around me.

Q: Name five songs that are always in rotation on your iPod.
1. Adele – Turning Tables
2. Bob Marley – Is This Love
3. Radiohead – Paranoid Android
4. Mark Ronson – Bang Bang Bang
5. Coldplay – Fix You


Mark Ronson The Business INTL - Bang Bang Bang from Olivier on Vimeo.



Q: Do you have a favorite Duran Duran song or video?  (Duran Duran is an inspiration behind the blog. Many readers are fans of the band and Jemma Kidd.)

I love Duran Duran! Simon Le Bon is a friend of mine and I was sitting with John Taylor and his wife Gela at Wimbledon this year, as we were both invited by Ralph Lauren. I went to the Duran Duran reunion concert years ago. My favorite songs are Girls On Film, Rio and Ordinary World.

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Monday, September 5, 2011

Lanvin's Valley of the Dolls - Telegraph

Lanvin is realeasing a limited edition doll to help benefit. Women living with HIV/ AIDs in Africa. You can snuggle up with a little Lanvin on crisp fall nights. Here is excerpt to an article written by Tasmin Balnchard of the Telegraph UK. Click on the link below to take a look at the dolls read about the women who are making them. Here is a look at Fall Lanvin 2011 since I cant post pics of the dolls




"We are always looking for an excuse to buy a little piece of Lanvin and here's one with a feel good factor attached. The French fashion house has enlisted the help of women in Swaziland who are diagnosed as HIV positive to hand stitch and embroider four limited edition fabric dolls each dressed in its own Lanvin Petite outfit. The dolls will go on sale in November to coincide with the launch of Lanvin's first luxury childrenswear range " ( by Tasmin Blanchard)
Read full article and pictures here -- > Lanvin's Valley of the Dolls - Telegraph

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Women Rocking Adrogyny Chic ( Iconic Women)


Romaine Brooks 1924: Una, Lady Troubridge

Romaine Brooks 1924: Una, Lady Troubridge via Flickr Deflam

British sculptor and writer Una, Lady Troubridge (1887-1963) is best remembered for her numerous translations from French and Italian, and is credited with introducing the French novelist Colette to English readers. She also wrote a biography of her longtime partner, Marguerite "John" Radclyffe Hall, author of the 1928 classic The Well of Loneliness ( via Smithsonian American art muesem )
 Lady GaGa caused quite a stir with her gender bending onsom at the VMA's this past weekend. I admire a the women for always pushing the envelope. You may not know this but our dear Lady Gaga is now can add her name to a list of very impressive  women. It all started in the 1920's the suffragette movement was releasing women from there tightly bound corsets. They were cutting there hair into very sexy bobs . Also there hem line was coming up showing some leg . They were called vamps, flappers they were smoking and drinking loving like there male counter parts. Here are some of the women who took it to the next level with a little gender bending appeal.Most predominant in the artist in literary circles in 1920's Paris.  The women in this posts are some of my favorite  Movie Stars, Artists , Writers , Models , who also rocked Androgyny chic.


marlene dietrich top hat, for morocco
Marlene Dietrich - German Born American Actress and Singer
Dietrich in her trademark tuxedo, inspired by a notable scene in the 1930 film 'Morocco'
Dietrich was a fashion icon to the top designers as well as a screen icon that later stars would follow. She once said, "I dress for myself. Not for the image, not for the public, not for the fashion, not for men." ( via wikipedia )

Katharine Hepburn she was the daughter of a doctor and a suffragette. Who became a silver screen legend .
Katharine didn't play the Hollywood game . She did Hollwood on her own terms .
Often wore slacks instead of dresses, decades before it became fashionable for women to do so. Even today she is
still inspiring designers young and old as a fashion and Acting Icon .






Annie Lennox
Annie Lennox is a Scottish recording artist . She was best know
as lead singer of the British pop band the Eurythmics . Annie became a solo artist in her own right.
She is an advocate for women's rights and a style icon for her androgynous style.



Grace Jones
Grace Jones is  a Jamaican-born performer, is better known as a model and singer. Her androgynous appearance, and outrageous musical act employing live lions and leopards, has made her a cult favorite, and propelled her into several acting roles. ( via IMDb)






There are so many more ladies I could of mentioned we have merely scratched the surface . So is there a lady that rocks out the menswear who you love ?