The Queen of Disco died today - May 17, 2012 - so I decided to republish this fun "get the look" post I did a few years back that I'm sure she would have liked! Her stylish good looks and amazing pipes resulted in nineteen #1 dance hits - second only to Madonna. "Bad Girls", "Live and More" and "On the Radio" burned up the charts, making her the only artist to have three consecutive double-LPs hit No. 1. She was also the first female artist with four No. 1 singles in a 13-month period according to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, where she was a nominee this year.
The original diva of sexy disco is releasing a new album, Crayons, and is celebrating in true Donna Summer style with a chi chi launch party at Mansion New York. We like to celebrate with, what else, fashion...so why not channel her iconic floral frock look? To keep from looking like a museum piece, skip the satiny mules in favor of something like python snakeskin - the current must-have neutral - and add a sexy pendant necklace, statement ring, and a clutch.
Here's how to get the look:
FLORAL PUFF-SLEEVE 70s DISCO WRAP DRESS To really get the look, get one made. PenelopePupsVintage.com carries fab retro patterns...all you have to do is pick a floral silk or polyester fabric (try FashionFabricsClub.com) and let your tailor do the rest. For off-the-shelf, try the Vivienne Westwood Anglomani Nymphs shirtdress, a pleated floral frock from Marni or the Pelego floral jersey dress by DVF.
SNAKESKIN CLUTCH A python or python-look clutch transitions easily from day to night, and goes with almost any outfit or shoe, without looking to matchy or precious. Give this version from Carlos Falchi a test run at BagBorrowOrSteal.com.
NEUTRAL KICKS To keep vintage fresh and modern, never ever pair with vintage accessories or shoes. Instead of the spring-o-lators on the album cover, opt for snakeskin, like the super-affordable Boutique 9 Everless. Alternatively, the Christian Louboutin Catenita caramel/nude slingback would lend a ladylike feel, while a peep toe bootie like the Acne Jeans Iman keeps it edgy and fashion-forward.
STATEMENT ACCESSORIES Finish off with a bold statement ring like the Alexis Bittar lucite and crystal-studded Flame ring, and a pendant or tassel necklace (Zoe & Morgan tassel necklace).
- Lesley Scott
("Disco Diva" is written in the Rubber Vloeren font from Fonts.com)
