About two years ago, I decided it was time to capture my gorgeous, vivacious essence in a vintage-style pin up photo shoot with Dynamite Dames Photography. I was living in the DFW area at the time, and thought it would be a fun, fabulous opportunity to have my hair and makeup done and encapsulate my 20-something year old self.
Turns out, it totally was! It was awesome, laid back, but professional, and everyone there shared my passion for vintage styles. They offered a varied set of clothes, however, I chose to make a dress specifically for the occasion. (Interestingly enough, it matched to photography set exactly!) I chose Butterick’s vintage reprint pattern B4919 and made the ballerina-length version, since I’m a petite lady. The theme was supposed to be a “Tea Party.”
This dress was decidedly simple to make (shocking, considering how flattering it is), and I’ve actually made another since then out of a sparkly silver jersey fabric. The bodice is straightforward, and the skirt, although full, had only four seams!
I had to make slight adjustments for length (again, I’m a petite little hobbit), and I ended up with an enormous brooch as a necessity. (What a lucky life!) Since I’m also busty, and vintage styles are complimented by a corset, I needed said brooch to cover any possible peeking of my undergarments. It worked beautifully AND I came away with a gigantic pearl brooch, but the second attempt at this dress involved a decrease in the plunging of the neckline by adjusting the bodice pattern.
In May, I submitted a few pictures from the shoot to Butterick’s Facebook “contest,” and they featured it on their page! (See them here.)
It was a delightful experience, and I would absolutely do it again. I know the Dames travel all over the Southern US, and change themes all the time. Their Facebook page boasts: cowgirl, Santa baby, party, retro home, roller girl and even 30s-40s glam pin up sets. Something for every secret, or brazen modern Betty.
Have you ever done a vintage-style photo shoot? If so, when and through who? If so, please feel free to share! If not, would you? Why or why not??
