While there may not be as many well-known black cowgirls from the 1800s-1950s (because of racism) as there are famous cowboys, there were certainly notable women who made their mark in the rodeo and Western world during those eras. Some of them include:
Mary Fields, better known as "Stagecoach Mary," was a remarkable African American woman who defied societal norms in the late 1800s. Born into slavery in Tennessee, she went on to become one of the Wild West's most enduring legends. With a reputation for her incredible horsemanship and unflinching courage, Mary Fields became the first African American woman employed as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service. Her story is a testament to resilience, breaking barriers, and leaving an indelible mark on the history of the American frontier.
Tad Lucas was a trailblazing cowgirl who made her mark in the rodeo scene during the mid-20th century, including the 1950s. Her exceptional rodeo skills and fearless spirit garnered her recognition and admiration across the United States. Lucas competed in various rodeo events, showcasing her mastery of riding, roping, and barrel racing. Her achievements helped break down gender barriers in a male-dominated sport, and her legacy as a pioneer in women's rodeo endures as an inspiration to cowgirls and rodeo enthusiasts to this day.
Ola Watson was a remarkable cowgirl who left an indelible mark on the rodeo world during the 1950s. Known for her extraordinary horsemanship and rodeo prowess, she competed in a variety of events, including barrel racing and roping. Ola Watson's agility, determination, and undeniable talent made her a standout performer in rodeo arenas across the country. Her achievements served as an inspiration for aspiring cowgirls and helped pave the way for women in rodeo during a time when the sport was predominantly male-dominated. Sadly, there are no photographs of her to immortalize her contribution to the rodeo world.
Rose Smith was a celebrated cowgirl who made her mark in the rodeo world during the 1950s. Known for her fearless spirit and exceptional horsemanship skills, she was a force to be reckoned with in rodeo arenas across the United States. Rose Smith competed in various rodeo events, showcasing her agility and determination. Her achievements and tenacity inspired countless aspiring cowgirls, and she played a vital role in breaking down gender barriers in the male-dominated world of rodeo. Rose Smith's legacy as a pioneer in women's rodeo continues to shine brightly, reminding us of her enduring impact on the sport.
Please note that information about black cowgirls from the 1950s may not be as well-documented as that of famous cowboys, but these women made important contributions to the rodeo and Western riding traditions of their time.
]]>In the glittering world of entertainment, where norms and boundaries are constantly challenged, there are luminaries who stand out as true pioneers. One such trailblazer is Tongolele, a name synonymous with the art of burlesque. Her captivating performances, daring spirit, and cultural fusion made her an icon who transformed the landscape of entertainment. Let's delve into the life and legacy of Tongolele, the queen who redefined burlesque.
Tongolele, born Yolanda Montes, entered the world on January 3, 1932, in Tabasco, Mexico. Little did the world know that this young girl would grow up to become a symbol of empowerment and a harbinger of change. The origin of her stage name, a fusion of "Tonga" (a Polynesian garment) and "Lelé" (meaning "dizzy" in Spanish), foreshadowed the intoxicating allure and cultural blending that would define her career.
Tongolele's impact on the burlesque world was revolutionary. At a time when conservative values held sway, she boldly embraced her sensuality and defied societal norms. Her performances celebrated the human form, emphasizing empowerment over objectification. With her magnetic presence and artful dance routines, she challenged perceptions and paved the way for performers to come.
Tongolele's performances were a kaleidoscope of cultures and influences. Drawing inspiration from her Mexican heritage, Polynesian aesthetics, and the allure of burlesque, she created a unique and unforgettable persona. Her costumes were intricate tapestries that reflected her diverse background, captivating audiences with their beauty and originality.
Tongolele's fame transcended borders. From the stages of Mexico and the United States to Europe and beyond, she enchanted audiences worldwide. Her ability to connect with people from various backgrounds showcased the universal language of entertainment. Her legacy was one of unity, proving that art could bridge cultures and bring people together.
Beyond the spotlight, Tongolele's influence reverberated in the hearts of those who aspired to follow in her footsteps. She shattered glass ceilings for women in the entertainment industry, reminding them that their bodies were instruments of empowerment, not objects of shame. Her legacy lives on in the modern burlesque revival, where performers continue to draw inspiration from her audacity and self-assuredness.
Tongolele's impact on the world of burlesque is immeasurable. She left an indelible mark on an art form that continues to evolve and redefine itself. Her legacy is a reminder that innovation and courage can change perceptions and open new avenues for self-expression. As we celebrate Tongolele's contributions, we honor not only her artistry but also her resilience in the face of adversity.
Tongolele, a name that echoes through the annals of entertainment history, remains a beacon of empowerment and creativity. Her ability to fuse cultures, challenge norms, and captivate audiences with her magnetic performances solidified her status as a true trailblazer. In a world that often seeks to confine individuals to predefined roles, Tongolele reminds us that the stage is where we can break free and shine as our authentic selves.
Sarita Montiel was born in Campo de Criptana, Spain, in 1928. She started her career as a dancer, but her passion for singing and acting led her to perform in popular Spanish theaters. In the 1950s, Hollywood came calling, and Montiel was offered a contract by Columbia Pictures. Montiel made her Hollywood debut in the movie “Vera Cruz”, alongside famous actors Burt Lancaster and Gary Cooper. The film was a box-office hit, and Montiel received critical acclaim for her performance.
Montiel was a sex symbol of her time, known for her beauty and sultry voice. She was not only a leading actress, but also a singer, and released several albums throughout her career. Her 1958 movie “The Violet Seller” earned her the title of the most commercially successful Spanish actress in Hollywood history. Montiel’s talent and charm didn’t go unnoticed, and she starred in several Hollywood movies including “The Last Torch Song” and “La Violetera.”
Montiel’s impact on Hollywood was significant, as she was one of the first actresses to conquer the American film industry without speaking English fluently. Her success paved the way for other Hispanic actors to follow in her footsteps, and Montiel was considered a pioneer and an inspiration for many. She was also a feminist icon during her time, as she fought for gender equality and the right of women to express themselves in a male-dominated society.
Montiel’s contribution to the film industry was not only limited to her performances. She also participated in the production process, writing and directing some of her movies. The film “Carmen, la de Ronda”, which she directed and starred in, was a critical success and proved her ability to excel in different aspects of filmmaking.
Sarita Montiel’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and talent. She was an actress, singer, feminist, and a trailblazer for women and Hispanics in Hollywood. Montiel’s contribution to the film industry and her impact on Hollywood continues to inspire generations, and she will always be remembered as a legend in the Hollywood history. Montiel’s journey shows that with hard work, determination, and talent, one can break through barriers and achieve success, regardless of their background, language, or culture.
When it comes to influential Latinx figures in the entertainment industry, there are a few names that come to mind: Selena Quintanilla, Desi Arnaz, Celia Cruz. But one name that often gets left out of the conversation is Rita Moreno. This Puerto Rican powerhouse has had a career spanning over 70 years, winning countless awards and breaking down barriers for Latinx performers along the way. In this blog post, we'll dive into just how Rita Moreno paved the way for Puerto Ricans in Hollywood and beyond.
Let's start from the beginning. Rita Moreno was born in Humacao, Puerto Rico in 1931 and moved to New York with her mother at the age of five. She entered the entertainment industry at a young age, becoming a regular on "The Children's Hour," a TV show for kids. While her talent was undeniable, Moreno faced a roadblock that many Latinx performers still face today: a lack of roles written specifically for them. This led Moreno to take roles that perpetuated harmful stereotypes, such as her portrayal of "Indian maiden" characters on TV.
However, Moreno refused to be confined to these limiting roles. She landed a breakthrough role in 1961 as Anita in "West Side Story," becoming the first Latina to win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. But even after this historic win, Moreno still found herself facing discrimination and stereotyping in Hollywood. In a recent interview with NPR, she recalled a casting director telling her, "Well, you know, you're not quite the type. You don't speak Spanish very well. You don't have an accent." Despite this, Moreno kept pushing and continued to take on challenging roles that showcased her talent.
Moreno's influence didn't just stop with her own career. She also used her platform to advocate for the representation and fair treatment of Latinx performers. In the 1970s, she served on the board of the Screen Actors Guild and pushed for more opportunities for women and minorities. She's also been vocal about the importance of representation and telling authentic stories, stating in a 2018 interview with Vogue, "If you don’t tell your story, it doesn’t get told… Our lives are rich, and we have so many stories to tell."
Beyond her work in Hollywood, Moreno has also been an advocate for the Puerto Rican community. In the wake of Hurricane Maria's devastation in 2017, she spearheaded the creation of the Unidos Disaster Relief Fund, which provides aid to those affected by natural disasters in Puerto Rico and other Latin American countries. She's also been vocal about the ongoing struggle for Puerto Rican independence and has lent her voice to movements fighting against colonialism and oppression.
Rita Moreno's impact on the entertainment industry and the Puerto Rican community is immeasurable. She's shown that perseverance and talent can break down even the toughest of barriers, and she continues to be an inspiration for Latinx performers today. As she stated in her 2018 Emmy acceptance speech, "I stand here tonight because of you. And I know, I know this isn’t just about me. This is about reaching out to those young girls, that are watching right now, to say that you can do it too." Here's hoping that Moreno's legacy of trailblazing continues for generations to come.
Barbie burst onto the scene when the fashion landscape was primarily dominated by traditional, conservative styles. However, this pint-sized style icon brought a breath of fresh air and challenged the status quo. With her ever-changing hairstyles, glamorous outfits, and diverse range of accessories, Barbie provided an avenue for young minds to explore their creativity and experiment with fashion. By encouraging imaginative play and personal expression, Barbie became a catalyst for aspiring fashion enthusiasts, setting the stage for a new era of fashion exploration.
Throughout her history, Barbie has effortlessly reflected the fashion trends and cultural shifts of the times. From her mod ensembles in the swinging '60s to the power suits of the '80s and the athleisure craze of the 21st century, Barbie's wardrobe has mirrored the prevailing styles of each era. As a result, she has become a time capsule of fashion, allowing us to look back and trace the evolution of clothing, hairstyles, and accessories over the decades.
In recent years, Barbie has made significant strides towards inclusivity and diversity. Recognizing the importance of representation in the fashion industry, Barbie has introduced dolls of different ethnicities, body types, and abilities. This shift has had a profound impact on fashion, encouraging designers to embrace a more diverse range of models and challenging traditional beauty standards. By showcasing dolls that reflect a broader spectrum of society, Barbie has become an advocate for inclusivity and has propelled the fashion industry towards greater acceptance and celebration of diversity.
Barbie's influence on fashion extends beyond her own wardrobe. Over the years, she has collaborated with numerous renowned designers, bringing high fashion to the miniature world. Collaborations with fashion powerhouses like Oscar de la Renta, Christian Dior, and Moschino have resulted in limited-edition collector dolls adorned with exquisite couture creations. These collaborations not only elevate Barbie's fashion status but also bridge the gap between the world of high fashion and the everyday consumer, inspiring fashion enthusiasts of all ages to appreciate and engage with designer aesthetics.
Barbie's influence is not limited to the toy aisle. Her impact can be seen on runways, movies, red carpets, and street style around the world. The bold color combinations, daring silhouettes, and playful accessories that Barbie has embraced throughout the years have undoubtedly influenced the choices of real-life fashion designers and trendsetters. The doll's ability to seamlessly transition from classic elegance to contemporary trends has made her an eternal muse for designers seeking inspiration.
We are so excited for the new Barbie movie launching in theaters July 21st! The genius marketing has the world hooked on #Barbiecore! Barbie's impact on fashion cannot be overstated. From providing a platform for fashion imagination and personal expression to championing diversity and collaborating with top designers, Barbie has left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. Her influence goes far beyond the realm of toys, extending into our everyday lives and the way we perceive style. As Barbie continues to evolve, she remains an enduring symbol of fashion, empowering individuals to embrace their own unique sense of style and celebrate the diverse beauty that exists in the world.
Fashion is one of the most dynamic industries in the world. Over the years, we have seen many designers who have contributed immensely to the evolution of fashion. However, there are very few who have had a significant impact on the industry, like Zelda Wynn Valdes. As an African-American woman, Valdes was a trailblazer in the fashion world. Her contribution to the industry is awe-inspiring, and today we’ll take a closer look at the legacy she left behind.
Zelda Wynn Valdes was born in 1905 in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Her family had a background in fashion, which served as a motivation for her to pursue a career in design. In the 1940s, Valdes opened her own boutique, where she made clothes for elite clients, including Josephine Baker, Carmen Miranda, and Dorothy Dandridge. Valdes was known for her ability to accentuate a woman's curves with the use of fabric draping techniques. Her designs were luxurious, bold, and expressed a sense of confidence and impeccable style.
Valdes’s biggest breakthrough came in 1948 when she designed the iconic Playboy Bunny costume. Hugh Hefner was looking for a stylish and flattering costume for his waitresses but couldn't find anything suitable. That is until he met Zelda Wynn Valdes, and they came up with the ultimate design. The Playboy Bunny costume was a huge success and became a cultural phenomenon.
As a black designer in a predominantly white industry, Valdes faced many challenges with racial prejudice. Discrimination meant that she could not join the Fashion Designer Association due to her race. However, she did not let that discourage her. In fact, she went on to create the National Association of Fashion and Accessory Designers (NAFAD). The organization allowed for talented designers from various ethnic groups to showcase and promote their work, forging a path for future diversity.
In 1964, Valdes designed the iconic dress worn by Dorothy Dandridge in the film, ‘Carmen Jones.’ The dress was a sensation and is still considered one of the most elegant in cinema history. Valdes’s dedication, tenacity, and professionalism made her a favorite of the African-American elite and mainstream Hollywood stars.
Valdes’s contributions to the fashion industry paved the way for diversity and inclusivity, bringing new perspectives and talent into the industry. Throughout her incredible career, Valdes influenced designers like Patrick Kelly, who once mentioned his admiration for what she accomplished. Her legacy continues to inspire many young designers from different backgrounds and ethnicities to pursue a career in fashion.
Zelda Wynn Valdes was a fashion visionary, a pioneer, and a trailblazer. She challenged the barriers in the fashion industry and carved a path for future generations of designers. Her life and work should be celebrated for the prejudices she overcame, the opportunities she created, and the diversity she brought to the industry. Zelda Wynn Valdes’s life is a beautiful example of strength, talent, and resilience, and her impact will forever be felt in the fashion world.
Jasmin Rodriguez, Designer & CEO of Vintage Vandalizm, was asked to share her favorite fashion trends of the past on E-Networks, Access Hollywood! Jasmin had to create 7 looks from head to toe that embody the best trends of the best eras in fashion. The 20s, 40s, and 50s looks are directly from Vintage Vandalizm and the rest are from Zara, Amazon, and Bait Footwear.
As seen on the Show:
The dress Jasmin is wearing is our best selling Magdalena dress in black which will be available again in October. The 1940s leopard set is called the Harlow set in Leopard Silk which is now available for purchase. The 1950s Gingham set is called the Frenchy set and is now available in both red and black gingham. The 1960s, 70s, and 80s look is from Zara. The 1990s look is from Amazon. Most accessories can be found on Amazon but most of the shoes are from Bait Footwear.
Big thanks to Access Hollywood for featuring our leading lady! We are so happy to have been a part of such an amazing show!
]]>On February 26th, The incredible film United States vs. Billie Holiday premiered on Hulu starring singer & actress, Andra Day. Her incredible performance made Golden Globes history as Andra won the Golden Globe for best actress in a motion picture drama. For those who don't understand how important this win really is, Andra is the second black woman in history to win a golden globe. Also, this was Andra's first film! What an incredible achievement, and within just a weeks time!
Variety Magazine: "In a tearful acceptance speech surrounded by her family and friends, Day thanked “the amazing, transformative, dynamic Billie Holiday, who just just transformed me with this role and with her presence and with her spirit.”
This isn't just a film about Billie's struggles with racism during the 1940s, this sheds a light on the racism that still exists today and how the U.S Government still does nothing (or the bare minimum) to keep Black lives safe.
If you haven't seen United States vs. Billie Holiday, give it a watch, you'll see Billie's light shine right through Andra Day. And if you haven't heard Andra Day sing, you need to give her a listen too!
Last week while touring to promote the film, Andra Day wore our Carmen set for the Wendy Williams show! We were flooded with screenshots and dm's of the star who looked gorgeous by the way (Her hair was done by our talented friend @hisvintagetouch !). We can't begin to explain the magnitude of the gratitude we have for Miss Day and the fact that she has been shopping with us since we started our brand in 2019.
Thank you Miss Andra Day, for your support, your voice, your music, this film, and your incredible influence on not just POC, but the WORLD. May you continue to shine bright and light the way for the youth of today.
We love you!
*Our Carmen Sets in our big leaf print will be available for preorder Friday 03/05 at 11am PST.
]]>We are having our first Pop-up Shop!✨ Join us along with @tatyanaboutique & @atomicbeautycosmetics for a fun Sip, Swim, & Shop Luau event in sunny San Diego on September 15th at the gorgeous & historic @thelafayette hotel.
Mingle with @vintagevandal, the designer of Vintage Vandalizm. Snap a selfie looking fabulous in Atomic Beauty cosmetics. Then take a swim too cool off after all that shopping! We will be bringing the Resort collection & Tatyana Boutique will be bringing a few of there sample racks as well as fall previews so come out and bring the gang for a glamorously fun day out! 🌴💖
Jean Harlow is the inspiration behind our beloved Harlow set. Our Paris Satin Wash two piece set is so glamorous, we imagine it would have been a part of Jean's extensive wardrobe of silky satin treasures.
Jean Harlow was a popular American film actress and sex symbol of the 1930s most known for her beautiful platinum hair and 1920s eyebrows.
Harlow was signed by director Howard Hughes, and her first major appearance was in Hell's Angels (1930), followed by a series of critically unsuccessful films before she signed with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in 1932. Harlow became a leading lady for MGM, starring in a string of hit films, including Red Dust (1932), Dinner at Eight (1933), Reckless (1935), and Suzy (1936). Harlow's popularity rivaled and soon surpassed that of her MGM colleagues Joan Crawford and Norma Shearer. By the late 1930s, she was one of the biggest movie stars in the world. Often nicknamed the "Blonde Bombshell" and the "Platinum Blonde"; she was also popular for her "Laughing Vamp" movie persona. Harlow's life may have been cut short but her style lives on forever!
]]>Horne started her journey as a star pretty early when she joined the chorus of the Cotton Club at the young age of 16. She was driven and unstoppable and became a nightclub performer before moving to Hollywood.
Returning to her roots as a nightclub performer, Horne took part in the March on Washington in August 1963 and continued to work as a performer, both in nightclubs and on television while releasing well-received record albums. She was also one stylish peach! Horne announced her retirement in March 1980, but the next year starred in a one-woman show, Lena Horne: The Lady and her music, which ran for more than three hundred performances on Broadway. She then toured the country in the show, earning numerous awards and accolades. Horne continued recording and performing sporadically into the 1990s, disappearing from the public eye in 2000. However, she will always live on as one of the greatest performers of her time paving the way for other women of color to be seen as the beautiful, talented, and smart women they are.