OLD HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR

The image “http://www.independent.ie/multimedia/archive/00161/Hollywood_161122t.jpg” cannot be displayed, because it contains errors.

Lights, camera, fashion! Welcome to the wonderful world of the screen goddess and put your hands together for the wardrobes of the leading ladies of Hollywood.

Veronica Lake, Katherine Hepburn, Barbara Stanwyck and Ava Gardner were just a few of the sultry starlets that graced the silver screen during the Golden Age of film. Draped in satin, bejewelled cocktail dresses and trouser suits, they oozed style and sophistication, never needing to flash anything but a smile.

The look is high society elegance; think Keira Knightley's look in Atonement. Supermodel Claudia Schiffer stole the show at the Golden Age of Couture gala at the V&A in London last month, wearing a breathtaking white gown teamed with '40s hair.

Ladies of the 21st century take note; the High Kings of the catwalks have resurrected this stunning style. For sheer indulgence, look to investment dresses by Roberto Cavalli, Marchesa, Rodnik, Galliano and Rachel Roy. Although pricey, anything up to e5,000 a dress, these timeless classics will put you in the spotlight for years to come.

Designer of the moment, Giles Deacon, has created a stunning copper silk satin troubador dress with square neck and pleated shoulders, €1,634.89, available at www.net-a-porter.com. And you can find a fabulous floor-length jersey dress with embellished belt and ruched shoulder seams by Vera Wang Lavender in Harvey Nichols for €580.

But you don't have to splash the cash because this high-glam look can be achieved on a budget. Scout vintage stores for the real deal, where accessory bargains can be had.

No comments: