I haven’t been quite as productive with the blog recently as I would like–I seem to keep falling down rabbit-holes while doing some research for another post! So I decided I may as well share some of what has been keeping my attention these last couple of weeks. It’s been a rather toasty week (month), so why not have an excuse to stay in the air conditioning? Enjoy!
Barbie Girl
This video from Insider was posted 4 years ago, but with all the Barbie movie hype it worked it’s way back up the algorithm and into my feed. So. Worth. It. Spend 4 minutes with Carol Spencer, who designed Barbie’s clothes for 35 years. I started grinning when she talks about people watching for inspiration–absolutely one of my favorite things to do when out in public! Oh, and that book that flashes on the screen a few times: It’s Dressing Barbie by Carol herself. It’s on the wishlist now.
From designing for a 12″ tall doll, to life-sized real humans (who play 12″ tall dolls): this fabulous interview with costume designer Ann Roth will take you through some amazing Hollywood and Broadway history. Yes, a secret weapon for sure, but also a fabulous gem!
Breaking It All Down
Distressing costumes is one of my favorite things. You get to be creatively destructive and it is so. much. fun! This Insider video (yeah…another. I’m kind of obsessed with their little mini-documentary format. You’ve been warned) profiles Sarah Blostein and how she created some very iconic beat-up looks.
Knights in Not-So-Shining-Anymore Armor
I’m a huge Mythbusters fan. So needless to say, Adam Savage’s Tested keeps me in great supply of geeky rabbit-holes. He takes the best field trips. There are several videos in this series where he visits the armor department at the MET. But my two favorites involve gauntlets and how to restore armor. I absolutely love anything to do with extant garments, and the detailing that was put into a knight’s armor is simply exquisite! The craftmanship will just make your jaw hit the floor.
This Entire Playlist
This playlist of Extant Garment Examinations was shared in one of my costume groups. I’m still working my way through it. I’m super excited that it includes videos from some of my favorite historic costume people: Izabela Pitcher of Prior Attire, and Bernadette Banner. As well as a great one from the V&A to kick of the list.
Ramblings of a Costume Nerd 