Sarah Beall dresses like she’s straight out of the 1950s — but while Betty Draper might approve of Sarah’s white lace gloves, full skirts and nipped-in waists, she would likely be shocked by her career.
Sarah is the curator for MakeLoveNotPorn.tv, a website that curates and rents sex videos “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” In our latest issue, we talked with Sarah about her fashion inspiration, favorite vintage finds and her advice for girls developing their own personal style.
Tell me about your outfit.
I’m wearing a handmade 1950s dress that I bought at the only vintage clothing store in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. As soon as I saw this dress, I was in love. It has incredible details, like a perfectly nipped-in waist and a hemline that’s excellent for twirling. It’s sweet and sexy and ready to party, just like me. My shoes are red suede from a dear friend’s vintage clothing store (Citizen Vintage, in Montreal) and my bag is vintage 1950s red vinyl from Etsy.
Describe your style.
Classic 1950s New Look vintage with a mix of ladylike and bombshell elements.
When did you become interested in fashion?
My love of dressing up came at a very young age. When I was five, I became enamored with the idea of being a Victorian girl, and wore lots of petticoats and pinafores, along with a burgundy wool dress coat and these little old-fashioned shoes I found in my Nana’s attic. Even back then I was fully committed to creating a “look”. Then and now, fashion for me is about expressing and feeling joy.
Where do you get your style inspiration?
My friends, photographs of my Grandma JoAnne in the 1950s, French New Wave films, film noir, old Hollywood starlets, vintage advertisements, Joan and Betty from Mad Men, and scrolling through Etsy.
Tell me about your favorite piece of clothing.
I have a beautiful vintage dark blond mink stole that belonged to my great-grandmother. Her initials are embroidered on the lining. Having a fur like this one would have been a source of pride for my great-grandmother and I imagine she would have only worn it a few times before gently packing it away. When I wear it, I feel connected to her and the beautiful, strong women on that side of my family.
What advice do you have for girls developing their own personal style?
Have fun! And don’t be afraid to play with color and texture. Black is classic, but can also be boring. Invest in a nicely tailored coat in a bright color, and you won’t believe the compliments you’ll get!
In love with Sarah’s vintage style? Check out these classic pieces for classy dames!
1. Lady Mayra “Monica” Pink English Rose Sarong Wiggle Dress, $39.90
2. Castiglione Earrings, $90
3. Pastel Floral Tapestry Purse, $61
4. Seychelles Like You Mean It Wedge In Bronze, $99.99
5. Vintage 1960s Aqua Rhinestone Dress Coat Set, $54.92
Interview By Marissa Dubecky
Photographed by Sonja Georgevich
This article originally appeared in the Aug/Sept 2015 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!
