Heart of Haute Blog

 

Just who is this stunning lady?  You may recognize her as one of the models on our website!  This is Teer Wayde - plus size model, fashion blogger, and body positivity advocate.  Teer's aim is to help ladies of all sizes dress for their bodies and be comfortable with who they are.  In her blog, Curves To Kill, she reviews clothing from companies near and far, showing them off with her modeling skills.  She gives an honest opinion on each piece and styles them with accessories and some awesome shoe finds!  Teer has been published several times and is a part of the real size model movement.

 Teer in the Maxine Dress in Rosa Even though Miss Wayde is all the way in Melbourne, Australia, we manage to join forces and get her expert opinion on many of our garments.  She and our founder Mandie Bee even got to meet and shoot together last year when Teer came to the US for Viva Las Vegas!  Here's just a few of the shots she's done in Heart of Haute pieces.

The Jolene Dress in On the Dot Most recently, Teer and Katherine Davis Photography braved the heat of the Australian summer and took a drive out to a gorgeous backdrop to shoot in some of her favorite Heart of Haute frocks. And don't we just adore the results!  You can read all of her reviews on her blog. The Etta Dress in Blue Anchors Teer started pinup modeling as a hobby, and since then her career has taken off.  She loves pinup fashion and all things vintage inspired. This fashionista is an expert at picking a wardrobe that fits her body type perfectly, and is well known and loved for her work.

The Monique Dress in Amber Rose There are definitely still not enough body positive images in the media today.  We're sick of the skinny vs. plus size debate. All sizes are beautiful, and we're all for happy, healthy models! Teer is a role model for gals of all shapes and sizes who want to change the definition of beauty in the fashion world today.  

The Super Spy Dress in Navy Before we changed our name from Heartbreaker Fashion to Heart of Haute, Teer reviewed quite a few of our dresses and separates.  Read Teer's previous blog post where she reviews the Hilary Dress, Tara Top, Beverly Dress & Monte Carlo Dress. Also read Teer's first blog post featuring Heart of Haute where she reviews the Marilyn Tee, Vogue Pencil Skirt, & Super Spy Dress.

The Monte Carlo Dress in Lake Want more Teer?  Follow her on Facebook, Tumblr, &  Twitter, Teer Wayde is represented by Bella Models, and can be contacted at her official website  www.TeerWayde.com <3 Ali for HoH <3

Hey there Haute Honeys! Hope you are all enjoying the first month of the year!  We've been busy bees here making tons of new products, and revamping the favorites with fresh & fun fabrics! Let's talk all about them...

  It's finally here! The long awaited 'It's Raining Cats' print has made it onto the Matey Dress, Ella Top, and Moxie Skirt by Mandie Bee.  I just can't resist these adorable topsy turvy felines. Mandie Bee's collection is form fitting for a gorgeous silhouette, and remember the Moxie Skirt & Matey Dress are slightly shorter than the rest of the Heart of Haute products!  A perfect fit for you flirty rockabilly babes to accessorize with your favorite ballet flats if you're running around all day, or a great pair of pumps for a night out! If you're not a cat lady, don't fret - we are on the lookout for a just as cute puppy print for all the dog mamas out there!               The Amanda Dress is one of those timeless dresses that make a unique addition to any retro-loving gal's wardrobe.  It's a vintage inspired dress that fits like a dream, and this particular print is just gorgeous.  A striking tableau of cerulean, dark blue and bright white flowers with spectacular detailing.  This sophisticated floral print is eye-catching and flattering on all skin tones.               Florance is a one of a kind print, it reminds me of picnics in the meadow, a fun, flirty date maybe? Especially when on the Beverly Dress, oh Bev is such a flirt! The fabulous Florance print is an array of teeny tiny blue and red flowers. Also available in the popular Sweetie Dress and the Amanda Dress.  I think they are best accessorized with the Pinup Couture Wicker Purse in black. I can't resist that adorable dainty fruit charm!             Winter Blossom is sure to make any lady the belle of the ball!  Stunning shimmery ice blue with golden florets that glisten as your skirt twirls.  Sound too good to be true?  It only seems like a dream, but it's the truth!  It reminds me a little of an ice fairy, but really it's a piece that can work in any season.  The fabric has a bit of a pearly sheen to it also, so if you're keen on standing out in a crowd, this dress is sure to make you shine your brightest. Also available in the Amanda Dress for those gals who don't like halters.         Just as a reminder dear Haute Honeys - join us on Facebook through the end of January as we are doing another Test Kitchen.  That's where we show you all the new prints and styles we've been working on and get your opinions on which we should keep!  As always we really appreciate your feedback! Here's just a little sneaky peeky of what could be coming your way! It's up to you!  <3 Ali for HoH <3

  [caption id="attachment_1551" align="alignleft" width="300"] The Monique Dress in Midnight Peacock[/caption] I am very excited to announce the arrival of our newest fabric print - Midnight Peacock.  As the cool sister to our famous Peacock Royale print, this one features a stunning color scheme of dark navy and light blues with the same lovely peacock surrounded by flowers.  This dress will truly stand the test of time as it is classically gorgeous.  Now available as one of our popular Monique Dresses, which has a lovely bateau neckline, a-line skirt, built in belt and side zipper.  Snag yours while supplies last! Let your inner peacock strut her stuff loudly and proudly this new year!

[caption id="attachment_1532" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Heart of Haute Holiday Gift Guide[/caption] The holidays have snuck up on some of us again!  For those of you who have been prepared for months now - good for you!  Teach me your ways!  I however am a notorious gift shopping procrastinator.  There's so much pressure to get something creative, something they don't already have, something special that shows them how much you care.... right?  I've put together a useful little guide that's full of fun, flirty gifts for any retro loving ladies in your life.  Whether you're shopping for mom, sister, group of best buddies, girlfriend, or wifey!  Every pin up cutie could use a little Heart of Haute in their stocking this holiday! [caption id="attachment_1533" align="alignleft" width="150"] Pin Up Couture - Amoeba Bag in Champagne[/caption] 1. My personal favorite - the Amoeba Bag by Pin Up Couture. Nothing says I care about you like a gorgeous sparkly vinyl handbag!  It's curvy, eye-catching, classic and basically goes with anything.  Makes a great gift because the neutral champagne color can go from Winter straight into Spring!  This bag is also available in Aqua Glitter for the adventurous spirit and Black Glitter for the classy gals.   [caption id="attachment_1534" align="alignleft" width="150"] Tres Noir Ultra Lux Sunglasses[/caption] 2. Oh la la - every doll needs a perfect pair of cat eye sunglasses. No doubt about it!  The Tres Noir Ultra Lux Sunglasses are an elegant accessory and protect her beautiful eyes with 100% UVA UVB protection.  She'll feel like a diva every day!  These sunnies are available in Gold Sparkle or Black & Pearl.     [caption id="attachment_1535" align="alignleft" width="150"] Betty Bolero by Heart of Haute[/caption] 3. The Betty Bolero - just enough of a sweater, not too light, not too thick!  Perfect for over our Sweetie Dress on a lovely summer night.  In red, navy, white or black, a must have in any retro-inspired wardrobe!     [caption id="attachment_1539" align="alignleft" width="150"] Mitzi and CO 2014 Pinup Calendar[/caption] 4.  What about the men in our lives?  The Mitzi and Co 2014 Pinup Calendar is full of perfect pinups and hot rods!  A great gift for all those brothers, uncles, cousins, and mechanics you have to shop for!  Besides, who doesn't love a colorful pin up girl calendar?     [caption id="attachment_1540" align="alignleft" width="150"] Fancy Rose by Heart of Haute[/caption] 5.  Let's face it, every lady loves roses!  And every lady deserves roses, no matter the occasion!  The Fancy Rose comes in black, red, navy, purple, and ivory - so there is one to match every one of our dresses!  They are the perfect size and make a wonderful accessory to any retro inspired or modern outfit. So sassy!  For twice the sass - Check out our extra large Viva to the Diva Rose!   [caption id="attachment_1542" align="alignleft" width="128"] Seahorse Pendant by Heart of Haute[/caption]  6.  Stocking stuffer!  An adorable aquatic buddy on a long gold chain, is just lovely with any outfit.  This sweet little Seahorse Pendant is a great gift for any of the gals on your list!  With just the right amount of nautical charm.  This necklace is made in the U.S.A. with love!  Check out our whole collection of Jewelry.       7.  Still can't decide? No worries!  If you have no idea, you can always give her the gift of shopping!  That way you can be sure she'll get something she loves!  Thanks to you! We have Gift Certificates available anywhere from $25-$2,500!  You can choose to have the Gift Certificate e-mailed directly to you so that you may print it out and give it to the lucky lady in person OR we can e-mail it to her directly!   Make this holiday shopping season easier on yourself by checking out the Gifts Section at Heart of Haute!  There are plenty of handbags, shoes, jewelry, hair bows, sweaters, and more to choose from!  A gift from Heart of Haute is sure to make her smile.

With September not too far off, we'll soon be saying “So long!” to Sweet Summer.  Warm nights will turn into crisp evenings as Autumn makes its way in.  To ease the transition into the next season, add a bit of fashion heaven to your wardrobe with our Angelica Collection.   Summer doesn't officially end until the Autumnal Equinox on September 22^nd, so there's still plenty of time to take advantage of “bare shoulder weather.”  The Sweetie Dress, in Angelica Purple (top) and Angelica Pink (bottom) is perfect for enjoying the still warm evenings at the end of summer.  Show of your tanned shoulders with this halter dress which has princess seams and ties in the back for a great fit.     Though our Sweetie Dress is one of our best-selling styles.  Don't worry, we have other styles to choose from!  The Hillary Dress in Angelica Pink also has princess seams and ties in the back.  This dress also has an empire waist (for an even better fit) and a bow tie at the collar for a finishing touch (I don't know about you, but I LOVE bows!)   Not a fan of an empire waist?  Or maybe you're looking for a more simple silhouette?  The Monique Dress in Angelica Turquoise might be more to your liking.  This dress has a bateau neckline with an A-line skirt – simple, but equally as flattering.  It even comes with a matching belt!     Once the summer heat starts to fade, the cooler air might have you wanting a bit more coverage.  Pairing these dresses with a cute cardigan usually does the trick, or you might opt for a style that will cover your shoulders.  The Beverly Dress in Angelica Purple has those same features for a great fit – princess seams, ties in the back, and an empire waist – all in one fantastic dress (with sleeves!)  Another one of our best-sellers, this dress also has a rounded collar with a cute self tie.     Want even more coverage? Then the Mallory Dress in Angelica Turquoise is the dress for you. This dress has a full skirt, empire waist, and ties to cinch in the middle. Its overlapping V-neckline is also great for Haute Honeys with a more voluptuous figure. It even has cute little bows at the sleeves for an added detail (more bows!)   My favorite part about this line, is that the fabric itself has a subtle metallic detail that shimmers in the light.  Whether it reflects the sunlight during summer when the days are longer, or glows under the moonlight in the crisp fall air, the Angelica Collection will have you looking heavenly.     With Love & No Regrets, Katrina Marie

Model, Stephanie Jay from the United Kingdom, wears our infamous Diner Dress in Olive on the cover of Delicious Dolls magazine!

Summer's in full swing, Heart of Haute-lovers, and we have great new styles perfect for all the fun in the sun you'll be having! To help you stay true to your style, and stay cool in the heat, take a peek at our new Sugar Stripes Collection.  

The Maybeline Dress (shown below in Purple Stripe and Blue Stripe) is the perfect dress for your next BBQ, beach party, or even a night out at the local county fair. This sleeveless dress, with adjustable straps, is perfect for those hot summer days and warm summer nights. The Maybeline Dress even has pockets (and who doesn't love a dress with pockets?!)

Model: Stephanie Weber

Summertime is known for concert season! Headed to go see your favorite artist or band? Whether you're off to see a hot act at the Hollywood Bowl, or the LA Philharmonic at the Walt Disney Hall, you'll be a show stopper wearing the Regina Dress (shown below in Purple Sugar Stripe.) It's just casual enough to be comfortable, but dressy enough for any special occasion. (If you're anything like me, fantastic live music is always a special occasion!) For a fancier venue, dress it up with your favorite pumps, or keep it simple, and more on the casual side, with a cute pair of ballet flats.

Model: Dollie Deville (www.therockabillysocialite.com)

  My favorite part about summer is that it stays light out later into the evening. Take advantage of the extra sunshine and show off the Vee Dress. Reflect the blue summer skies in the Blue Sugar Stripe fabric (shown below.) This dress has pockets, also! (Have I sold you on the pockets yet, ladies?)

Model: Dollie Deville (www.therockabillysocialite.com)

    Step into the sunshine and off to your next adventure while showing off your fabulous sense of style with our new Stripes Collection.  Don't forget the sunscreen!

Models: Stephanie Weber (left,) Dollie Deville (right, www.therockabillysocialite.com)

    With Love & No Regrets, Katrina Marie =^.^=      

The country girl is a staple of mid century pin up imagery. The sweet and sexy rural cowgirl is an icon of American style. Often dressed in gingham, denim, bandanas, and a cowboy hat, it is a look that combines innocence and toughness. A general fascination with the American West has been an enduring staple of international pop culture.

Western films have been popular since the era of silent movies, but they had a surge in popularity in the 1940s and 1950s. Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Jane Russell and many others starred in Western films - pinup images from these movies were popular during World War II. Soldiers and Sailors got tattooed with the image of the sexy cowgirl, a motivation for and reminder of home in the American countryside. In addition, as cities and suburbs grew, I think that many people felt a fascination with and idealization of the "good old days."

 

 

Whether you are going to the "Hulabilly" themed Tiki Oasis, or just looking for some vintage American summertime style, we have the unique - and American made - pieces that can make your retro look! For a complete outfit, try our Sweetie sundress in all American gingham or the Peggy Sue Dress in picnic-perfect ketchup and mustard prints.

Our Heart of Haute halter tops will help you create the ideal country heat. Available in  many colors and patterns, including the bandana-influenced Annie print. Our Ellie Tie Top in red gingham or Mustard picnic print has a sweet, cropped casual look with a little more coverage than a halter. Don't forget our matching headbands and bows! Our Gretta gingham blouses will bring a Western element to any outfit - even at the office! Our Gigi tee - in white or black - matches perfectly with our print skirts or your cowgirl jeans - right out of Jane Russell's "The Outlaw" wardrobe!  

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to shoot Miss Dinah DeRosa  in my home for Heart of Haute. I've recently had to take photography into my own hands for our company and I'm learning more and more as I go along.  It's a lot of fun, creative, and also a ton of work. I have a GREAT appreciation for photographers as well as models. I've been on both sides of the camera and I know how much work goes into a shoot for both parties. *whew* Dinah has been modeling since she was 17 and she's a natural. In addition to modeling, you can find her managing the Unique Vintage store in Huntington Beach or dancing on stage for The Hula Girls.  To be graced with Dinah's presence, you'll find yourself not only looking at a very attractive lady, but a very attractive soul. This girl is one of my favorite models to work with for a reason. Very genuine, kind and just a really cool chick! Here's just a few shots from our photo shoot...       With Love & No Regrets, Mandie Bee!

Mid century America was crazy for all things tropical and Hawaiian. Many served in the South Pacific during World War II, and returned home with tales of palm trees and rum. Hawaii's 1959 statehood and the advent of quick and more affordable jet travel made it a popular - yet still exotic - travel destination. "Trader Vic" Bergeron opened his first restaurant in California in 1934, serving an approximation of Cantonese food and concocting cocktails like the Mai Tai. All over the country, Polynesian pop culture spread - tiki bars, backyard luaus, and Exotica albums and movies were everywhere. Those who still still celebrate the sips, styles and sounds from this era meet up at various tiki weekend parties all over the country. Two of the biggest are the Hukilau (June 6-9th in Fort Lauderdale) and Tiki Oasis (August 15-18th in San Diego).

Me (on the right) with friends at the Mai Kai

Heart of Haute will help you pack your bags to arrive as the perfect retro tiki pin-up! Having attended a few of these events, here are my tips:

• Bring more than one bathing suit. A lot of the events are poolside, and you don't want to be pulling on a soggy suit after a midnight dip in the Ocean. A stylish swimsuit cover up, like our quick drying Knotty Dress, is also a must.
• At the Hukilau, the Mai Kai can be quite warm inside. I like a cocktail dress that will still keep me cool. The Sweetie Dress in Hip Kitty has an authentic vintage shape, and a print that will help you stand out in the sea of floral aloha wear. Get to the Mai Kai with plenty of time before your dinner show reservation to enjoy the gardens and the great happy hour prices in the Molokai Bar. The Moonkist Coconut is my favorite drink.
• The Paradise Dress has a great retro wiggle dress shape in a perfect tropical pattern, with a faux sarong front that ties at the waist.
• There is a lot of standing, dancing, and walking around. I like wedges for just a little more comfort.
• Tiki Oasis has a theme each year - for 2013, it's "Hulabilly." For this mix of Hawaiian and country rockabilly style, bring our Ellie Tie Front Top in Red Gingham, a sweet Heart of Haute top, or gingham headbands and hair bows. Our best selling Sweetie Dress comes in red, blue, olive, and black gingham - the perfect fit for this "Hawaiian Hootenanny."
• Accessories! These parties are not the time to be subtle. I always bring tons of hair flowers, sunglasses, and jewelry. A few extra to loan to your best friend is always a good plan.
• I don't actually stay at the official Hukilau hotel(s). I like the Best Western Oceanside. It's right next door and has a cute little pool and free breakfast.
• Don't overdo it! Take a nap every afternoon and alternate drinks with water. Have some snacks in your room and wear sunscreen.

Love & Moonkist Coconuts, Mrs. V