Mary Magpie by Joey Versaw

For someone as jaded as this writer, it takes magic and soul to create a doll that moves me. And Mary Magpie by Joey Versaw moves me in so many ways. Mary Magpie combines the play of fashion dolls with the power of engagement of an art object.

Handmade and hand painted by this 21st Century Geppetto,  Mary is sturdy in her construction and undeniably beautiful when displayed. This Mary Magpie, wearing the Dolldom favorite Louise Brooks' bob, is a perfect example of Joey's sensibilities as an artist.

 Mary's profile photo shows her exquisite pout

When compared to several of Joey's other models, it is easy to see the artist's style of painting and also the integration of several references to vintage boudoir dolls.

 Mary arrived at our studios and immediately went to be dressed for her photo portfolio.  But after the commotion, it became clear that Mary looks best in her lovely and very special gown made by Joey.

Mary wears Mark G. Harris' pastel tweed coat, a vintage dress, and a hat by Tess Barton. 

But in true Dolldom style, here is Mary Magpie wearing the deluxe fashions of Liz Cole, Mark G. Harris, and Franklin Lim-Liao.

Mary models a sexy and chic brocade set by Franklin Lim Liao

Joey joins a growing number of artists creating handmade uniqueness that proves to the world yet again that the future of dolls is handmade.

For her Ana May Wong moment, Mary wears a fab qipao by Liz Cole for Retros

Dolldom looks forward to welcoming Mary's friends in the near future. 

Mary Magpie

Forever Elegance: Musings on Mode de M.

The delights of a few can become the envy of many. But despair not! Magnificent couture is a right to all. To all who know a heirloom when they see it. Today, it is easy to gather items that give the impression of couture but that upon close examination fail to meet the standards of beauty and craftsmanship that will render it a treasure and yes, in many ways, a work of art. The throw-away abounds and is easy to acquire. Liked today for its edge, abhorred tomorrow for its crassness. The true test of time will only be passed by the beauty of a garment created by a skillful hand, an intelligent mind, and an inspired heart.

Mark G. Harris, designer of Mode de M., has been regaling us at Dolldom since the inception of this forum and we'd like to say that this is a love affair for the ages. Mark's latest creation (a beaded sheath in purple silk shantung and a fly-away jacket in exquisite pastel tweed) is truly wearable art and a most precious acquisition for our Gallery of Masterpieces.

Mark has opened his boutique and all of us at Dolldom can now embody the epitome of chic and elegance in his couture. We look forward to the many future beauties to come. Bravo Mark!

Mode de M.

Ivy Jordan, Director

The connection between film and fashion is well exemplified by Miss Ivy Jordan, celebrated director and friend of Miss Gene Marshall. Both visited Dolldom recently and posed for our photographers. Ivy looked smashing in the exotic Mandarin Mood fashion, circa 1946, designed by the über talented Tim Kennedy.

 

 For this last photo, Ivy chose a recycled mink fur by Liz Cole for Retros and a green silk satin cocktail dress. A strong face and character have made Miss Jordan a force in Hollywood.

 Retros by Liz Cole

Great Stars Shine Forever

  Gene Marshall, eternal star and style icon makes her Dolldom debut wearing a fabulous cocktail dresses designed by Tim Kennedy and Liz Cole, circa 1956, and a charming wool suit, circa 1948, also by Mr. Kennedy.

 We all agree that it has been too long since Miss Marshall last visited us and we look forward to many more fashion bouquets such as this one. Viva Gene!

Mode de M by Mark G. Harris

For a while, we at Dolldom have been touting the talents of our friend, designer Mark G. Harris. His love of classically designed and tailored clothes has made him the man to go to when the occasion calls for drop-dead glamour. Mark's eye for color, fit, and above all embroidery and beading make his dresses, coats, gowns and jewelry undeniable heirlooms. These are the real deal, ladies and gentlemen, fashions for the ages, wonders to amaze you and to give your ladies the chic and cachet that can only come from talent and soul. And Mr. Harris is gifted with a gargantuan talent and an equally gigantic heart. 

It is not surprising that Soraya decided to accept an offer to model one of his most recent creations: Ciel d' été. Ciel d'été (Summer Sky) is a silk wonder in soft periwinkle blue with an undertone of garnet threads, beaded to leave everyone breathless. While Soraya was proud of her silk caramel fashion, also beaded with abandon in Paris, she was immediately captivated (and some of us think liberated) by the soft and breezy blue gown.

Paired with her pink chiffon veil, silver lamé gloves, and a Mode de M gemstone necklace, Soraya went from adored beauty to grand deity of beauty.

To celebrate the upcoming opening of Mark's Mode de M Boutique, Soraya salutes her favorite designer Mark G. Harris and invites all women of her size to be on the fashion alert as no one else designs for them. And even if anyone else did, we at Dolldom doubt that they could ever come close to this level of exquisiteness.

 Here's to Mode de M. Here's to the talent of of Mark G. Harris

Mode de M. by Mark G. Harris
Soraya in Mode de M.