Categories
costumes halloween

Halloween costumes- Get ’em while you can!

October is an amazing time of year  in the Crescent City. The weather is perfect and there is lots to do. This year alone, Voodoo Music Fest, a Saints game, and Halloween all take place on the same day.  This means lots of people will be in town, both locals and tourists alike, and everyone will be shopping for the same thing: costumes. I know that Halloween is more than a week away but hear me out: 

YOU NEED TO START PLANNING YOUR COSTUME NOW!


Our Aztec warrior costumes last year were a hit. I hand sewed practically everything y’all see here from recycled fabrics.






Whether you are hitting up Frenchman St. or trick or treating with the kids, a costume is a necessity. This is one of the few times of year you can get away with dressing crazy and not getting stared at (wait…this IS New Orleans), so why not take advantage?
Personally, my year revolves around two holidays–Halloween and Mardi Gras–and as any good New Orleanian knows, having a closet of costumes at the ready is a sign of a true local. Just in town visiting? Don’t sweat it, there are plenty of options for you.  Just don’t go the easy route by getting a “costume in a bag.”  There are several stores in town that cater to creative types as well as people who need help, and lots of it.

PARTY STAR Headdress
Party Star Headdress from Carnival Couture

Buffalo Exchange– Used and new costumes.
Miss Claudia’s– Used and new costumes, specializing in vintage.
Uptown Costume– THE costume shop in town. Gets packed the closer it gets to Halloween so don’t wait!
Fifi Mahony’s– The best wig shop in the city. Shop now for the best selection.
Funky Monkey– Used and new costumes, carries wigs year ’round and has a sizable men’s section.
Ragin’ Daisy– Funky and fun vintage picks, perfect for any occasion or Halloween.
Bloomin’Deals– Thrift store with a decent selection of formal wear, perfect for craftier types that can create something out of nothing.
Le Garage– French Quarter staple with a steady supply of vintage, often has a surplus of old Mardi Gras costumes and military gear.

Destroyer Leather Mask
Destroyer leather mask from Mr. Hyde’s Leather

Still in need of some inspiration? Y’all can view all of my previous costume posts here. Might I suggest perusing Miss Malaprop and Dramatis Personae for even more glittery, sequined goodness.

Twitter: slowsouthstyle Facebook: Slow Southern Style
Categories
costumes halloween secondhand show and tell

Show & Tell

Here in New Orleans we experienced two days of nasty weather as remnants of a tropical storm passed through town. I met someone for coffee at the Rue de la Course on Friday and since it was pouring after we met I ducked into Funky Monkey to try to wait it out.

I discovered this gem on the sale rack marked down to a measly $5.00. My iced cappuccino and banana were almost as much as the dress I bought that day.

I present to you Morticia Adams, if she were on the t.v. show Dallas that is. If you don’t know what Dallas is then shame on you.

Check out those massive shoulder pads! The dress is a little too big for me but at that price I really couldn’t pass it up. This will be perfect for Halloween, since I actually need multiple costumes to get me through the last week of spook season.

So now that I have two costumes* almost all ready to go y’all need to get jumpin’ and catch up! Halloween will be here before y’all know it.

Do you have a fantastic item that needs to be shown off? E-mail me at nolagurl@gmail.com and I’ll feature it here.

*I own way more costumes than just two. I think the last wig count was over 12.

Twitter: slowsouthstyle Facebook: Slow Southern Style
Categories
costumes house katrina new orleans Welcome

How’s your home life?

I’ve  been really busy with some exciting projects, both related and unrelated to Slow Southern Style.  That said the heat has been ridiculous and all I want to do is drink lemonade, play with my food dehydrator and read. I’ve been working on potty training with Nadia, the newest addition to the family
I realized I’ve never shared pictures of my house, mainly because interior design is not my forte. However my sister keeps telling me to share the story of how we bought our house with a home improvement show.  While money for a makeover would be nice I have yet to heed her advice.  The story is a good one so it’s about time I shared it here. 
However first item on the agenda is pictures. 
My fabulous Mardi Gras hat collection is too good not to leave out year ’round. This is the mantle in the office aka my closet. Two of the hats are my husband’s and the rest are mine.

I managed to nab a mannequin from a shop that was getting rid of theirs. Basically this is an adult Barbie doll and I fully plan on giving her a new outfit every week. She’s currently sporting this year’s Halloween costume. Now y’all see why I have to hit the gym every week?  
Archway in the upstairs hallway, there is another just like this in the living room downstairs.

Wish I could get a better picture of the stairwell and the stained glass window. The stairs are probably my favorite feature, aside from the stained glass and exposed brick. 
Hannah Stouffer blik wall decal above the sofa. This wasn’t exactly easy to put up. I hate the wall color but this is such a large room painting it is overwhelming. The snakes give the beige an edge, at least that’s what I tell myself.
Reading nook with our rocking chair that is over 100 years old. I just bought the antlers at an antique shop. We keep threatening to turn Nadia into a reindeer with them. 
Mantle in the living room. The waterfall is Havasupai, where we got married. The rest is an homage to the Grand Canyon and more snake paraphernalia. 
Am I the only girl who gets excited about vintage prints of anacondas killing other animals? Probably so. 
 The Anthony Turducken paint can art was purchased at DuMois gallery. Yes, that is a termite. Back in late April we discovered we have a termite problem. Awesome. We’re actually evicting our little house guests within the next two weeks and plan on writing RIP and the date on the back of this piece. 
Still with me? Good. 
In 2001 when Thomas decided to move to New Orleans he rented the house we are in now. Eventually we met, got engaged, shacked up for a year, then got married. We celebrated our first wedding anniversary with this house, then a week later Katrina hit. We evacuated and reluctantly left the house he lived in for 5 years and some feral cats. More on them in a minute. 
We lived in Scottsdale, AZ for 3.5 years. It was rough being away for so long but our careers really took off and moving is annoying and expensive. Finally we had it with the cultural wasteland that is the Phoenix metro area (sorry) and decided to make the move back home.  
Long story short we were back in New Orleans a little over a year. One day we were driving past the house, saw the for sale sign, and the rest is history. Now when we first lived here the house was in some disrepair and needed serious updating. The previous owner (who purchased it from our old landlord) did some major renovations so all we had to do was move in and enjoy. 
What makes this story even more special? Two words:
Runty
and
Tigre
A momma cat had 6 kittens on the front porch of the house 9 years ago. One of  Thomas’ roommates and I had all the cats spayed/neutered and fed them. All of them slowly disappeared except Runty and Tigre remained for years. We tried evacuating with them but they were too feral and we feared they’d hurt themselves from the stress. Even after Katrina brought water right up to the porch these cats still stuck around. Now they are inseparable from us and hang out on the back porch, waiting for us to feed and pet them. Oh yea and they remember their names after us being gone for over 4 years.
So if any TV execs want a New Orleans home improvement story, it doesn’t get much better than that. 

Twitter: slowsouthstyle Facebook: Slow Southern Style
Categories
costumes etsy interviews

Playing dress up

 Anyone who regularly follows this blog realizes I have a penchant for costumes and re purposed items. Mairi runs two shops on Etsy, Baboo Babeau and Trapped In Time Designs, based out of Lacombe, LA. She specializes in costumes and reworked vintage pieces.





You run two shops on Etsy. What is the difference between the two and how do you decide the inventory for each?


My  shops vary quite a bit from each other, though both offer items that I love. BabooBabeau was the first shop I started. It holds vintage clothing & accessories, handmade felt objects for the home (wreaths, dolls, ornaments), and knit baby booties. I have a master plan to start some kids clothing/costume sewing and I believe those things will be in BabooBabeau as well.
 I opened my other shop, Trapped In Time Designs six months after BabooBabeau. I’m a costume designer by education and quit my  day job to focus more on my stores. It quickly became obvious to me that my custom and ready made costumes, accessories and clothing needed a venue all their own so they now live in Trapped In Time Designs.
Roman Holiday 50s Re-Made Skirt Roman holiday skirt
 

 I love the idea of taking something old and repurposing it into a better version of the original. How did you get started with this?

 I went to college for theatre and stumbled  into a work study job in the Costume Shop. One of my favorite parts of the job  was managing the extensive costume stock. I quickly fell in love with all the vintage items, trying on those that fit, and drooling over those that didn’t. (and they PAID ME TO DO THIS–I still can’t get over it!) 



Some items had to be discarded for various reasons; usually they were too damaged to be worn or we had too many of that particular item. I snatched up a number of things that were labeled too damaged because I simply couldn’t send them to the dumpster. I held on to them over the years, meaning to do something with them. When I opened up BabooBabeau, it dawned on me that I could re work some of these pieces and give them a brand new life with someone who would love them as much as their original owners. Now I keep an eye out at  thrift and antique shops for those well-loved items that could find a new home with just a little effort on my part.


The Jackie Oh-No-You-Didn't Cropped Jacket The Jackie “oh no you didn’t” jacket

 I love that you make costumes in addition to everyday clothes. Do you have a typical customer? Do they buy both?

I  don’t really have a “typical” customer. People from all across the board–and the world–have purchased costumes and clothing from me. One thing they have in common is the desire for something different and unique. I also tend to have a higher following of  women that are looking for a fabulous costume that doesn’t show their boobs or bum, especially during Halloween season.  Your typical store bought costume is short, tight and low cut. While that can be fun, not every  woman wants to wear that. Plus you really can’t beat a  costume custom made your  your specifications. The right color and fit makes a world of difference.



The Alice--A Gothic Lolita Dress--Custom Made For YOU The best selling Alice dress


The Candy Cane Peplum The candy cane peplum


The Dorothy Bustier--Custom Made for YOU-- The Dorothy bustier, custom made for you
 


 Does the town you live in (Lacombe, LA) affect your designs?

 Honestly, my town doesn’t affect what I create.  Despite being just an hour from New Orleans Lacombe is still a sleepy little town.  I love Lacombe and have since I was a child. I’m from Minnesota but spent my summers here since the age of four.  I always felt at home in Louisiana and am so happy to have been able to move here.  Lacombe, while not being a fashion or costume capital of the world, is a great place for me to be right now.  While it doesn’t directly affect what I create, it does offer me the peace and tranquility that I need TO create.


I’d say old movies, vintage photographs, fairy tales and some fashion designers (Alexander McQueen, John Galliano) are where I gather most of my inspiration.  I also love any kind of costume play that’s happening out there.  Gothic Lolita styles are currently my favorites. There’s something about all that frill and poof that seems so very perfect.



Baby booties Hand knit baby booties

Define southern style.

To me, Southern style is the perfect juxtaposition of elegant and casual.  There are so many different people and cultures in our amazing area that I simply cannot pin point a particular style that defines us.  Southern style is a state of mind, darling!

In addition to her two Etsy shops Mairi also does theatrical costuming. Custom orders are always welcome and she would love to start selling items in local shops.


Also any Slow Southern Style reader that makes a purchase from either store from now until May 15th will enjoy 15% off any item.  Enter the promo code  “SlowSouthernStyle” in the Note to Seller section of the transaction and you will receive a refund for the difference.

Twitter: slowsouthstyle Facebook: Slow Southern Style
Categories
costumes local flavor st patty's day

green it like you mean it

St. Patty’s day is fast approaching and there is no rest for revelers from Superbowl, Mardi Gras, and now the Irish Channel’s mega block party and parade.

Celebrate in style instead of relying on that same faded green tee you wear every year. The t-shirt gets a makeover from Repurposeful Punk

Green Beer Drinking ...Tank Dress My Lucky Irish Reconstructed Sweater Tank Dress

Keep hydrated with this sleek water bottle from Kor, available at Revolve Clothing.

The studs on these Frye flats give them a fun edge without being too punk.

Frye Emma Flats with Honeycomb Studs

It never hurts to have a “just in case” umbrella stashed in your bag. This one from Mod Cloth is suited for celebration.

Twitter: slowsouthstyle Facebook: Slow Southern Style
Categories
costumes mardi gras

Mardi Gras

I present to y’all Mardi Gras 2010! With all of our free time getting sucked into house buying and moving I was afraid that we wouldn’t really get a chance to pull our Mardi Gras costumes together. Due to time constraints and the  effort that went into our Halloween getups I needed to keep the sewing to a minimum. Fortunately we were able to pull together some pretty great looks.
In the courtyard at Pravda

Our front yard, hoping that banana plant comes back.


At Cafe Envie

His costume: Top hat and pants from Miss Claudia’s. Wig from Uptown Costume. Socks from American Apparel. Shirt and cummerbund from Funky Monkey. Tailcoat and scarf from Buffalo Exchange . 
My costume: Hat, gloves and necklace from Buffalo Exchange. Corset is custom made. Skirt handmade by me. Wig from Uptown Costume. Paillette sequin shorts from Miss Claudia’s. gold shimmer tights from Reservoir. Melissa + Campana Shoes from Nordstrom Rack.
Twitter: slowsouthstyle Facebook: Slow Southern Style
Categories
costumes mardi gras

true colors

With Mardi Gras only weeks away it is time to get into the spirit by wearing our favorite color combination of purple, green, and gold. Mardi Gras is steeped in tradition and this seasonal color way is no exception.  Purple represents justice, green represents faith and gold represents power.

 For a sophisticated look this beautiful silk scarf from Inspiring Color is more of a silent shout than an in your face proclamation.

 It doesn’t get more provocative than this purple burlesque costume from OlgaItaly.

Even if it’s cold outside you can still sport these short shorts from Perlis.

RSAC306 If you are looking for something really eye catching these gold lame leggings from American Apparel are sure to turn heads.

 Locals and tourists alike love NOLA t-shirts. Get this king cake t-shirt at Storyville.

Twitter: slowsouthstyle Facebook: Slow Southern Style
Categories
costumes mardi gras

Fat Tuesday Preview

Typically I have my Mardi Gras costume planned, sewed, and done by now. The home buying process has eaten up all of my free time but rest assured our costumes are going to be good. Somehow we miraculously acquired a few key items today turning ho hum to holy shit!

And that’s all y’all get for now.


Twitter: slowsouthstyle Facebook: Slow Southern Style
Categories
costumes wigs

Wigging Out

I just bought two new wigs, which can only mean one thing. It’s officially carnival season!
I have a serious, serious addiction to wigs and fortunately I live in the best city for costuming so there are many opportunities to wear them.  Words can’t really describe the deep affinity I have for my hometown and everything associated with Mardi Gras. Even during my extended evacuation 3.5 year stint in Arizona I always took time off work for the most special day of the year.
Ya can’t really do Mardi Gras justice without a costume and ya can’t do a costume justice without a wig.
 I take my costumes and my fun seriously so listen up for how to do it right.
Wig buying:
A cheap wig will always look cheap but don’t be fooled by a high price tag either. Pick wigs that have a skin top (flesh colored plastic at the crown) and that are full, not thin to the point where your real hair shows through. Most synthetic wigs are made from  kanekalon which has a realistic look. Unless your hair piece is of the human variety don’t attempt to heat style it! Anything besides a blow dryer on a low setting will melt the plastic fibers.
For idiot proof shopping Fifi Mahony’s in the French Quarter can’t be beat. Uptown Costume & Dancewear on Magazine St. and Napoleon has a wide variety but their quality varies. Never buy a wig from a drugstore, especially if we are blood related.
Style It:
A hairpiece is much more presentable when it is styled. You probably aren’t going for a realistic look for a costume but little additions to your noggin will make the look more believable. Headbands, barrettes, scarves, and a strategically placed bobby pin can make a big difference. Even just two simple pigtails can really transform the piece.


Nurture it:
A good wig will last you a long time with proper care. Gently brush your wig before and after use to maintain its shape and don’t just wad it up and throw it in the closet when you are done!  I always store my wigs in a wig cap and/or the box they came in. If they get soiled or stinky you can wash them in warm water with a mild soap and let it air dry.
Make an outfit:
I typically think of a costume and then add the wig but you can certainly gain influence from the wig. If you have an outfit already picked out think about the style. Playing the part of a mermaid? Curly blue or green locks makes more sense than a fire engine red bob.
You don’t have don an entire costume but don’t just wear jeans and a t-shirt either. Make it a point to dress up a bit.
When you are trying on party wigs keep in mind that you can’t just throw one on and go! In order for it to really look good makeup is essential. Keep in mind you’ll want to wear more makeup than usual. Have a crazy colored eyeshadow? Now is a great time to test it out.  I typically wear faux lashes for added oomph.
 

You can also get more wig and costume ideas by checking out the costumes tag in the sidebar.

Twitter: slowsouthstyle Facebook: Slow Southern Style
Categories
costumes eco friendly halloween show and tell

Halloween

Now that I’ve fully recovered from Halloween festivities I can show y’all our costumes. We were Mayan king and queen, inspired by these images I found with a little Googling.
The first picture was the most prominent inspiration in terms of color and style. I put many hours into hand sewing these and was really pleased with the way they turned out. The best part is 80% of the costumes are recycled materials.


His: The leopard print on his outfit was a women’s furry jacket. I lopped off the sleeves and turned them into boot covers and the centerpiece of his skirt/loincloth. The leggings underneath are women’s plus sized lounge pants that I took in so they were fitted. The shirt is an American Apparel nude tank top. I added leopard print patches on the back and red tail feathers, which you can’t see here. The chest piece is a women’s extra small beaded tank top. I hand sewed colorful wooden beads and then made pieces of leaf shaped fabric I found at the thrift store. His armbands are from a women’s leopard print sweater that I lopped off and the blue fringe is actually place mats.

Top of a wicker laundry basket that I made into a shield.

Mine: The skirt is a leopard print pillowcase with blue leggings underneath that I already owned. The skirt has a lot going on. All of the gold sequins was a Banana Republic shrug (trust me it was hideous) that I used for the trim of the skirt and the main front fringe. I also used the same blue placemats for pieces of this. The back (not pictured) also had black feathers on the bum. The top was purchased as is and I didn’t have to do much to it. I added the black feathers to each shoulder, took in the sides and added green fringe to the back. The shoes are old flip flops decorated with green fabric and I took the gold sleeves from the shrug and made foot covers with them.

All clothing items are from Pelican thrift store and Buffalo Exchange. Wigs and eye makeup are from Fifi Mahony’s, eyelashes from Buffalo Exchange and all other makeup from Uptown Costume & Dancewear.

Twitter: slowsouthstyle Facebook: Slow Southern Style