Late last year I was asked to produce a vintage swimwear parade as part of the 75th anniversary celebrations of North Sydney swimming pool. When it was opened in 1936, North Sydney Olympic Pool was hailed as the ‘wonder pool of Australia’ because of the high standard of its facilities and the sophistication of its modern filtration system – at that time one of the most advanced in the world.
Vintage swimsuit parade for North Sydney Swimming Pool photos Louise Whelan
In a country such as Australia public pools are not just recreational facilities but a space that allows communities to combine swimming with other leisure pursuits . North Sydney Olympic pool is in a spectacular location, with its fantastic views and facilities it is a well known Sydney landmark overlooking Sydney Harbour, next door to Luna Park and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. What a perfect environment for a swimsuit parade.
Vintage Allsorts Models in action - photos Louise Whelan
Vintage Swimsuit Parade - photos Louise Whelan
The 20th century revolutionised swimwear with designers, inventors, and retailers developing new silhouettes and textiles for all types of swimming activities so I wanted to create a retrospective parade which paid tribute to the wide spectrum of fabrics , colours and designs encompassed by Australian swimsuit fashions.
Model Meelah Hamilton in a fabulous 60's ensemble - Photos Louise Whelan
All of the costumes for the parade were sourced from the incredible array of vintage garments housed in the private archives of THE VINTAGE CLOTHING SHOP. Owners Lorraine Foster and Grayson Cole have a particular love for vintage swimwear so the resource of outfits available to work with showcased the different styles and designs in active leisure wear , meant to both conceal ,display and to excite. Designs have seemed to have gotten smaller along with the ability and desire to show more skin.
Selecting only original and authentic garments from the 1980s through to the 1930s, The styles seen in this parade run the gamut from gamine to vixen. Some are relatively modest, others full-on pin-up girl worthy beguiling, leaving just a hint to the imagination. All, however, share in common the fact that they are beautiful, well-tailored, elegant, feminine, and marvellously appealing.
Swing Dancing as part of the vintage swimsuit parade photos Louise Whelan
Kira Hu-la-la performing as part of the parade -photos Brendan Mcmullan from BJMphotography
Vintage Allsorts models -photos Brendan Mcmullan from BJMphotography
Vintage Allsorts models - photos Louise Whelan
As women’s swim wear witnessed a gradual evolutionary process, men’s swim wear also underwent many changes over time. From the beginning men’s swim wear was distinctly different from the female’s suit, with pronounced characteristics of boxiness and uniformity keeping the gender properties defined in contrast with the exaggerated curves of the women’s wear. However with women’s suits becoming more flamboyant than ever during the 1950′s and beyond, the male bathing costume was not to be outdone, resulting an explosion of colour patterns and fancy detailing which began to blur the gender lines.
Vintage Allsorts Models - photos Louise Whelan
Vintage Allsorts Models - photos Louise Whelan
Kira Hu-la-la performing as part of the parade PhotosBrendan Mcmullan from BJMphotography
Vintage Allsorts’ team of talented performers really brought the parade to life ,creating a fun and , sentimental splashback story, set to a quirky soundtrack and taking you on a time travelling trip ‘backwards through the looking glass’ – with a few surprises in store thanks to the Go-Go talents of the Go-gettes , Kira Carden’s Hula Hoops and a swing dance display from Swingtime Dancers. Thank you to all involved.
Did you like this? Share it:
Apr 10, 2012 | Categories: Events, Fashion Parade, Latest News, Louise Whelan, Performances, Vintage Allsorts | Tags: 75th anniversary North Sydney Pool, North Sydney Pool, Swimsuit, Vintage Fashion, Vintage Hair and Make Up, Vintage models, Vintage Styling, vintage swimsuit | Leave A Comment »
Party Location for Mad Men christmas party Sergeants Mess, Chowder Bay Sydney
Vintage Allsorts was lucky enough to work on lots of wonderful events late last year including a fabulous Mad Men themed christmas party for Henry Davis York.Held at Sergeants Mess in Chowder Bay , the night was a luxurious and decadent cocktail soiree taking it’s inspiration from the television series and all things early 1960′s.Early evening classic cocktails were served in the Manhattan Bar upon arrival , soon after the main room was opened to reveal an elegantly styled setting complete with Ice Swan Sculpture and champagne tower.
Mad Men - Roger Sterling and his bevy of beauties
Mad Men styling - Guests after visiting the Vintage Allsorts styling Parlour
Lucy Topp in action in the Vintage Allsorts Mad Men - styling parlour
Vintage Allsorts styling parlour was a highlight of the evening with our hair and make up stylists helping to bring out everyones Joan or Betty. Guests were lined up and lashed , curled and coiffed with a touch of vintage glamour and sophisticated style.
Lulu and the Go-gettes taught everyone how to shake a tail feather 60's style.
Lulu held an inspired and entertaining Go-Go lesson assisted by the beautiful Go-gettes and Roger Sterling even made an appearance , flirting with all the ladies and generally causing trouble.The evening was a wonderful success and as always the staff at the Sergeants Mess an absolute pleasure to work with.
Mad Men Roving Party Models
Roger Sterling and the Go-gettes
Did you like this? Share it:
Apr 06, 2012 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Performances, Vintage Allsorts | Tags: Christmas Party, Lulu, mad men, Roger Sterling, Sergeants Mess, Sydney, the Go-gettes, Vintage Alsorts Styling Parlour | Leave A Comment »
Life in the land of Vintage Allsorts has been busier than ever. The rise in popularity of vintage culture meant that end of 2011 truly flew past at record speed.We worked on so many wonderful events and projects that we haven’t yet had time to share them all, so I am slowly revisiting the archives and catching up on some blog entries to keep you up to date with all of the wonderful things we have been fortunate enough to take part in.
In November last year I was asked to work on the launch of The Australian Women’s Weeklys new Retro Cookbook. Written by food director of ACP books Pamela Clark, the beautifully designed book is a trip down memory lane. It features pages from old cookbooks, recipes and advertisements showing what we used to eat and buy. With particular homage to the 1950′s when the kitchen was a woman’s domain and the dinner party reigned supreme.
Vintage Allsorts Models with Author Pamela Clark
The launch was held at the Famous AWW test kitchen. An industrial working space with modern appliances and plenty of stainless steel. My design brief was to transform the kitchen into a soft , feminine , vintage space. Whereby guests would be transported to the look and feel of ‘At Home’ 50′s entertaining.
The Australian Women's Weekly test kitchen,
This task was easier said than done as I only had access for a few hours before the event to make the transformation happen. I used lots of soft furnishes , warm lighting and original vintage kitchen props to take away the functioning modern edges and create a sophisticated personal mood.
Vintage Allsorts roving models provided a meet and greet installation. Dressed as perfect 50′s housewife’s the ladies showcased traditional tasks associated with vintage life at home. Serving Hors d’oeuvres with a smile they truly were hostesses with the most.
The event was a wonderful success and the team at ACP books were an absolute pleasure to work with. Video footage of the launch shows just how much fun was had……
Retro cookbook Launch Video
Fabulous fifties indeed.
Fabulous 50's Fun in the AWW Test kitchen
Miss Pia Andersen plays housewife at the launch.
Vintage Allsorts Roving Models
Did you like this? Share it:
Mar 27, 2012 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Magazines, Vintage Allsorts | Tags: 50's housewife's, ACP Books, Australian Women's Weekly, Cointreau, Pamela Clark, Retro Cookbook Launch, Vintage Styling | Leave A Comment »
ROCKAFILLIES
A TRIBUTE TO THE FEMALE PIONEERS OF ROCK’N'ROLL
It’s time to iron your wiggle frock, pull on your peep-toes and shimmy on down as Miss Pia Andersen in conjunction with The Vanguard presents Rockafillies, a night filled with good girls gone rocking, good girls gone bad and rock n’roll mamas de luxe.
Featuring tracks from the women who pioneered jump blues, rockabilly, rhythm & blues, soul and rock’n'roll including Etta James, Ruth Brown, Big Maybelle, Ella Mae Morse, Wanda Jackson, Aretha Franklin and Nancy Sinatra.
Performed by Sydney’s leading line-up of sassy, seductive ladies of song:
Kira Peru
Carrie Phillis (The Booby Traps)
Sally Street
Pia Andersen
Sally Marett
Kitty Van Horne
Sarah J Hyland
Sara O’Connor (The Velvet Set)
* Just added to the bill DJ ‘Pigfoot Pea’ playing all your hard to find but easy to please rare and rockin filly tunes.
More special guests to be announced to feed your chick habit and get your heart racing faster than forty cups of coffee.
General admission
$18.00 (plus booking fee)
Meal & show package
Admission + reserved seating + main meal$53.00
(plus booking fee)
Tickets available here :
http://www.thevanguard.com.au/shows/2012/02/26/rockafillies/10528
|
Did you like this? Share it:
Jan 30, 2012 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Miss Pia and her Lonesome Playboys, Music, Performances, The Vanguard, Vintage Allsorts | Tags: Carrie Phillis, Kira Peru, Kitty Van Horne, Pigfoot Pea, Sally Marrett, Sally Street, Sara O'Connor, Sarah J Hyland | Leave A Comment »
Well, what a night! It was a rainy, steamy hot January Sunday evening in Newtown, but still we managed to fill the Vanguard theatre to capacity with faithful Elvis fans, all dolled up and ready for a rockin’ dose of The King, from Sun Studios right through to Vegas.
Everyone came out in their Sunday best. No gold suits or flares but there were a few rhinestones and a whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on as the night got underway, with an early performance by Drew Fairley followed by all the best from Elvis’ Sun years as performed by Wes Pudsey and guitar legend Robert Taylor, it fast became a hot mess of dancers and shaking legs. The second set was finished off by local favourite Ezra Lee, master of the keys, hammering out great renditions of ‘Hound Dog’ and ‘I Got a Woman’.
Mikelangelo , Pia Andersen , Christian Power and Drew Fairley Backstage at the Vanguard
After some trouser swelling go go dancing by seductive groovers The Go-Gettes, it was time for some serious action, from the man with Action as a middle name, no less, Mikelangelo. Opening with the slow ‘Loving You’ gelatinized the romantic fats of every girl in the audience, just soft enough before grabbing us all firmly by the hand and leading our hearts to be seared on the coals of an energetic ‘Blue Suede Shoes’ and ‘Suspicious Minds’ (Mikelangelo will surely approve of such an over-the-top description.)
The Go-Gettes
Above :Mikelangelo , Ezra Lee, Pia Andersen and Drew Fairley Below: Frank Bennett and the Go-gettes
With a short set by Christian Power including a couple of fun duets with me, I had the honour of being Frank Bennett’s music stand, holding up his lyric sheets for an impromptu performance of a few famous tunes including a hilariously fast ‘Bossanova Baby.’
As the night wound-down with an all-in finale of ‘Viva Las Vegas’ and an encore of ‘Johnny B. Goode’, it was great to see so many people braving the heat and humidity on the dance floor.
Above : Mikelangelo Below : Christian Power and Pia Andersen
Special thanks to Russall , Nigel and The Vanguard team for making the night possible, Edith for her costume contributions and Darren the sound guy for his ever wonderful aural mastery.
Also a huge thanks to all who performed and all who came to see, overall it was a great way to spend a balmy Sunday, there were so many familiar faces and a lot of new ones, all helping celebrate a worthy birthday in a manner truly fit for a king! I hope to see you all again at the end of February for my next night, Rockafillies, a celebration of the chicks that pioneered rockabilly, jump blues and rock n roll.
Elvis fans in their finery enjoying a hunk a burnin' humid night out.
Did you like this? Share it:
Jan 30, 2012 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Music, Performances, Vintage Allsorts | Tags: Christian Power, Drew Fairley, Ezra Lee, Mikelangelo, Pia Andersen, Robert Taylor, The Vanguard, Wes Pudsey | Leave A Comment »
What an amazing team of Vintage Allsorts I have the pleasure of working with……
Last September 15 of my favourite creative allsorts accompanied me to a wonderful location for a very special and surreal event. I was asked to art direct , style and produce a vintage fashion parade to help celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Wanganella Merrino Stud which is the original home of one of Australia’s most influential merino sheep breeds in the industry.
The journey to this famous Australian property located north of Deniliquin, meant a little bit of creative logistics and planning which resulted in private charter fights being the best way to access the event. The Vintage Allsorts team are used to travelling for shows but his journey was quite an adventure and had some of the ladies either squealing with delight (or perhaps a touch of fear ) as our small planes took off the runway ‘Boonoke’ Bound.
When we arrived at the property it was every bit as beautiful as I had imagined it to be, using the homestead as a backdrop for the parade provided a picture perfect iconic setting to display beautiful examples of vintage wool garments.
I worked closely with Lorraine Foster and Grayson Cole from the Vintage Clothing Shop to showcase the incredible array of original and authentic wool garments from the 1920s through to the 1960s housed in their private archives. Together we curated a captivating retrospective parade ,which paid tribute to the wide spectrum of colours, designs and uses encompassed by Australian wool fashions.
We collaborated with Vintage Allsorts’ team of talented performers to create a fun and frolicking, sentimental sheep story romp, set to a quirky soundtrack and taking the guests on a time travelling trip ‘through the looking glass’ – with a few surprises in store…
The amazingly talented Lisa Toyer was responsible for the choreography and dance concepts which perfectly executed my vision and brought to life the characters and colour I wanted to add to the parade , including a Mad Men style secretary routine which lead into an a beach leisure wear party with all models wearing fine examples of vintage wool. Hula-hoop wonder woman Kira Carden truly stole the show with a high energy surf style routine that had the crowd gasping with glee and begging for more.
The intelligent , interested and animated feedback I enjoyed throughout the day was so incredibly satisfying. I had all demographics of people , curiously asking relevant and varied questions about specific elements of the parade and the most rewarding part was that it had them all talking about wool fashion, the history , design , culture and clothing. The parade sparked peoples imagination and they were desperate to know more. So for me asides from the obvious entertainment value we provided it had people looking deeper into the reason behind the parade and for me that is much more important as this is ultimately what the client wanted so we satisfied on all levels.
The night ended with some impromptu Go-Go dancing for Kate Cebrano and a whole lot of Rock’n'Roll.
I was so grateful for all of the individual efforts and commitment of Lorraine and Grayson and the Vintage Allsorts team to make the parade what it was.I am so proud to work with such a wonderful team of talented , multi-skilled , humble creatives. Looking forward to the next adventure…..
Did you like this? Share it:
Jan 17, 2012 | Categories: Events, Fashion Parade, Latest News, Performances, Vintage Allsorts | Tags: Kate Cebrano | Leave A Comment »
ELVIS 77th BIRTHDAY BASH
Elvis’ 77th Birthday Bash
Preen your quiffs, starch your jumpsuits and dust off your blue suede shoes as The Vanguard invites you to a very special night celebrating Elvis’ 77th birthday in a manner fit for a king!
From Sun Studios to Soundtracks to the ’68 Comeback Special, let Miss Pia Andersen and her Lonesome Playboys take you to Graceland, Memphis Tennesee with a huge list of guests including:
• Mikelangelo (MEL)
• Frank Bennett
• Christian Power (Lonesome Train)
• Wes Pudsey
• Ezra Lee
• Robert Taylor ( Sonic Aces )
• Drew Fairley
…and many more, performing all their favorites from the King himself. Performances also by the Go-Gettes and a few surprise acts will ensure a night filled with entertainment hotter than a fried banana sandwich.
TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE……….
ttp://www.thevanguard.com.au/shows/2012/01/08/elvis/9578
Did you like this? Share it:
Jan 01, 2012 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Music, Performances, Vintage Allsorts | Tags: Christian Power, Drew Fairley, Elvis, Frank Bennett, Mikelangelo, The Vanguard | Leave A Comment »
Another winter almost over, another 50′s fair passes by……..The annual Historical Houses Trust 50′s fair has been a highlight on Sydney’s Vintage Calendar for as long as I can remember. This year marked the 16th Birthday of the event and the ‘Sweet 16′ theme appropriately hallmarked the occasion.
I have worked on the event in various ways for the last 11 years. Throughout that time I have produced fashion parades, co-ordinated roving entertainment , assisted with endless marketing campaigns, radio interviews , newspaper articles , judged the best dressed awards, styled staff, sung , danced and promoted the event sharing it’s story and encouraging people to celebrate all of the things that I love about 50′s culture.
Selection of Various 50's Fair Press Clippings
Advertising Images for 50's Fair 2003
Earlier this year the rumours started to circulate that this would be the last time the HHT put on the 50′s fair in it’s current format. Devastated lovers of the day have approached me to ask questions and shared opinions over the last few months. Some agreeing that perhaps it is time to move on and others so very saddened by the thought that their favourite day might no longer exist.
Well the truth is nothing as yet has been firmly decided and we will all have to wait and see what happens with the event. I adore the Rose Seidler House and think it would be sad to not have a day to remember it’s historical significance but when the day is so crowded and intense can you really appreciate the well chosen colour scheme , the romantic atmosphere and the original features of this brilliant example of Mid- Century Design ? And wasn’t that the motivation for the event in the first place ?
The first time I really fell in love and valued the beauty of this house was during a day of shooting there for the ABC collectors program quite a few years ago. Between takes I lounged leisurely , enjoying the afternoon sunlight, absorbing all of the finer elements of the location.
I encourage everyone who has been to the fair and not had the opportunity to wander through the house, to return on a Sunday when the house is open for tours and take some time to enjoy it’s glory away from the hustle and bustle of an energetic fair.
Perhaps it is time to look beyond a one day event and see what other interesting ways the HHT can celebrate vintage culture not just at the Rose Seidler house but at it’s other properties. I for one am excited about the possibilities.Watch this space , soon as news reaches me about what the HHT has planned i will be sure to pass it on.
In the meantime here are some fabulous images captured at this years fair by my favourite photographer Louise Whelan. I spent a fun day singing and roving with the Hollywood Honeys and some of the gents from the Black and White Big Band. Despite the patches of rain and the fact that it all ended with a heavy downpour , we all had a fantastic 50′s day of fun.
The Hollywood Honeys - Photos Louise Whelan
Familiar faces at the Fair - DJ's Limpin Jimmy and the Swingin Kitten, Chrissy and Daughter Delores, Ben and Elvis from Porteno and Danny, Damo and Pat. All photos Louise Whelan.
Swingtime Dance Troupe - Photos Louise Whelan
Roving with the Honeys and Gents of the Black and White Big Band- Photos Louise Whelan
Sarah Doyle from Porteno Shopping for treasure- Photos Louise Whelan
Rove with me Honeys- Photos Louise Whelan
Sterling and Atomic Life shared a space selling pomade , shaves and styled cuts. Photos Louise Whelan
For anyone interested in visiting the Rose Seidler House is open for tours every Sunday from 10am-5pm. There are more details here………….
http://www.hht.net.au/museums/rose_seidler_house
Did you like this? Share it:
Aug 23, 2011 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Louise Whelan, Music, Performances, The Hollywood Honeys, Vintage Allsorts | Tags: 50's Fair, Atomic Life, Limpin Jimmy and the Swingin Kitten, Rose Seidler House, Sterling | 2 Comments »
Swing into Spring - Saturday 8th October
Watch our last event the \’Mid Winter Warmer\’ Teaser Video on You Tube
It’s time to put some swing in your Step ! “Following their sold out “ Mid Winter Warmer”, Function Entertainment Group and Vintage Allsorts are proud to present “Swing into Spring”
Catch a dose of Spring fever with the ‘Cocktail Cabinet’s’ Peggy Lee Tribute Set featuring Vintage Blonde Miss Pia Andersen and the Senator then get some ‘Black and White Big Band’ treatment to sooth your soul. Featuring Vocal Trio ‘The Hollywood Honeys’ with Kitty Van Horne , Miss Pia and special guests ‘Sarah J Hyland’ and ‘Wayne Cornell Jr’ . A Dapper Thorn between the roses the vocal stylings of this musical garden will have you in full bloom.
Special Guest just added to the bill is Melbourne’s own Homegrown Rockabilly sensation ‘Scotty Baker’
We are thrilled to have you in the garden young man, looking forward to hearing your rich vocals backed by the Black And White Big Band.
-There will also be prizes for best dressed Mid Century Spring Ensemble, Judged by Sydney’s Vintage Minx Kelly Doust.
-Get Spinning in the knockout dance contest hosted by Swingtime.
-Culinary Creativity provided by a Love Grub Pop Up Bar and a confectionary stall by Jepska filled with Danish Inspired delights.
-For the fashion hungry you can purchase treasure at Coco Reposes boutique stall
-Decorate yourself at Vintage Allsorts Accessory Parlour with New Stock and Spring Specials especially for this event.
Polish up on your pomade with Atomic Life’s mens den.
 Coco reposes Pop Up Vintage Shop
 Sweet Treats from the Jepska Confectionary Stall
DETAILS:
When: Saturday 8th October 2011
Where : Balmain Town Hall
Time : 7.00pm – 11.30pm
Tickets : Pre Sales $25 + Booking Fee Available Online at
Daisy Tickets – Follow this Link!
https://secure.daisytickets.com/Event/Sydney-SWING-INTO-SPRING-ticke.aspx
$30 on the door if Available
( We sold out last time so get in early online)
So don’t be a wallflower come with us and
“Swing into Spring”.
 Swing into Spring Flyer Design by Red Pepper Retro
*Flyer Design By Sue from Red Pepper Retro.
|
Did you like this? Share it:
Aug 23, 2011 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Music, Performances, The Cocktail Cabinet, The Hollywood Honeys, Vintage Allsorts, Vintage Allsorts Boutique | Tags: Coco Repose, Jepska, Kelly Doust, Sarah J Hyland, Wayne Cornell Jnr | Leave A Comment »
Children's Vintage Fashion Display
Vintage Allsorts Fashion Boutique loved having a stall at the Newcastle Vintage Fair last week. Organised by Jeanette Luke from Here to Eternity the fair is held in the beautiful Newcastle City Hall and was another great success. Not only was there an abundance of top quality treasure for sale , there was a vintage fashion parade , an adorable children’s Vintage Clothing fashion display , a best dressed competition , vintage hair styling and book readings from the Crafty Mix herself the wonderful Kelly Doust.
Models paraded beautiful pieces from Jeanette Luke's Private Collection
Vintage Fashion Parade -Produced by Jeanette Luke
It was delightful to spend some time with fellow Sydney Antique Centre Shop owner Jessica Guthrie from Coco Repose and Kelly. Their shared love and appreciation of vintage clothing and culture provided for some incredibly inspiring conversation and much laughter. Thank you to all involved for making it such a pleasant and memorable day. See you next year ! Xxxx
The beautiful Jessica Guthrie and Kelly Doust, Jacinta from Circa Hats, Vintage hairdressers.
Pia Andersen and Siobhan Lowthe of Vintage Allsorts
Did you like this? Share it:
Aug 19, 2011 | Categories: Events, Fashion Parade, Vintage Allsorts, Vintage Allsorts Boutique | Tags: From Here to Eternity, Jeanette Luke, Newcastle Vintage Fair | 1 Comment »
