J.Crew Tall-high heel boots in faux snakeskin
Hello, Beauties🌸 Today’s post, posing another question. Do You Want A Killer Look?  Wear python.

Lafayette 148 NY Wool Aline Dress with Lafayette 148 Fur Collar

We probably all agree that leopard is a daring and simultaneously the most versatile trend for fall 2018. I say it’s chic and timeless.

Lafayette 148 Black A-line Dress

Verizon Building Gold Door on Downtown Harrisburg, PA; J.Crew Tall-Heel Boot in Faux Snakeskin; Python Tall Boots
Wearing: I shopped my closet for this Lafayette 148 NY A-line Black Wool Dress similar here but short sleeve, the Lafayette 148 NY dyed rabbit fur neck warmer similar here, my first Gilt purchase, Portolano Black Silk-lined Long Classic Leather Gloves with  new 40% off J. Crew Tall-High Heel Boots in Faux Snakeskin

Leopard, make room for a full-blown throwback. The exotic skins have crawled back onto the catwalks and street fashion. The python slithered onto the scene amidst the natural animal beauty of cheetah, zebra, tiger, and giraffe to name a few.

Rihanna in Custom Atlier Versace

Milan Model Wearing Snakeskin
Fall 2018 Milan Fashion Show, model wearing snakeskin.

 

Photo of Actress Singer Eartha Kitt wearing snakeskin
Eartha Kitt is wearing Ossie Clark python dress.

This season’s look is all about the calculated statement: check out these edgy looks: singer Rihanna, a model at the Spring 2018 Milan Fashion Show and a vintage photo of Eartha Kitt all sporting snakeskin.

Snakeskin is fashion forward and on trend. Perhaps I or we all have a wild side. The python accessories carry an adventurous vibe.  From what I see on all the digital publications,  all the fashion girls across the globe are wearing reptile prints in clothes, bags, and accessories.  

1971 photo of Ossie Clark and Celia Birtwell
Ossie Clark and Celia Birtwell. 1971 photo.

In the 1970s, British fashion designer, Raymond “Ossie” Clark (1942 – 1966) emerged on the Swinging Sixties scene in London with his creative flair.  Clark graduated from the Royal College in 1965, the only student in his class to complete the course with distinction.

Clark met and married British romantic textile and fashion designer, Celia Birtwell in 1969; they divorced in 1974.

According to online sources, the Clarks began the modern catwalk show;  the previous procession of modeled clothes now with music, the London glitterati invited, and the shows became events. 

Birtwell still designing, did collaborations with Topshop in 2006, the four collections sold out. Today, her vintage pieces are a hot ticket item.  The designer awarded the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2011 Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to the fashion industry.

1969 Ossie Clark Design of the Year
1969: Ossie Clark/Quorum: Satin and chiffon trouser suit, Botticelli print by Clark’s wife, textile designer, Celia Birtwell. The Times image credit.

In the late 1960s, Clark became known as the King of Kings Road. Mainly for his supremely cut yoked, bib-front 30s-and-40s flavored dresses that dipped at the back and peaked at the shoulders, all the while revealing the décollete and flowing with sensual movement and sometimes transparency.

Raymond "Ossie" Clark Snakeskin Coat, circa 1967-68.
Ossie Clark snakeskin coat, circa 1967-68.

In 1966, Ossie Clark discovered rolls of leftover python and watersnake fabric sitting in a warehouse; the skins lay untouched for 20 years.

Ossie Clark Snakeskin Rocker Jacket
Ossie’s snakeskin rocker jacket. Circa 1966-1967 from the private collection of Celia Birtwell,

The same year, Clark introduced his fitted leather rocker jacket, think moto. A step away from his stark contrast to the effortlessly feminine attire for which he became known.  HIs client list included the rich and famous as well as designing costumes for the Beatles, Mick Jagger, and Jimmy Hendrix.

Models Linda Keith, Chrissie Shrimpton, Suki Poitier, and Annie Abroux wearing Ossie Clark designs. 1967 Getty image.

Among the first articles, he made from the material was a suit for model Linda Keith, who modeled it for Clark in London on April 14, 1967.  As part of Clark’s presentation of his A/W 67 Collection alongside models Chrissie Shrimpton, Suki Potier, and Annie Abroux wearing creations which included snakeskin. 

Large Burmese Python
Nonvenomous Burmese Python

My post title mentions a killer look. I must say, pythons do not attack humans by nature but will bite and possibly constrict if they feel threatened, or mistake a hand for food.  While not venomous, large pythons can inflict serious injuries, sometimes requiring stitches. 

The faux python boots I’m wearing are the closest I’ll come to any snakeskin. Why? I’m deathly afraid of snakes of any kind.

What say you about snakeskin? Do you think the exotic skins have a quintessential rock ‘n’ roll vibe?  Let me know in the comments section.

Thank you for reading.  Have a fabulous week.