Explorers wanted…

Watercolor by Livy Long  https://www.behance.net/gallery/16241801/Watercolor-Lettering

Hello Darlings, Madame X here, the weeks have flown by and we are now in the midst of April…sometimes it feels like the year flies by quicker every year.  I for one have been enjoying the mild climate of SoCal, neither too hot nor too cold. This year I have yet to make my way over to the lovely beaches of this region, for shame! It’s important not to take things like that for granted.  Many years ago my family lived near Atlantic City and after a few years, the only time we ever went to Atlantic City or the famous boardwalk was when visitors were in town.  I suppose it is human nature to become accustomed to one’s surroundings and take for granted the beautiful enjoyments their area has to offer.

Realizing this, I have been taking more day trips in order to explore and take in the sights I may have overlooked.  Last week I was able to go to beautiful Palm Desert and take in a show, Dame Edna’s Farewell Tour.  Dame Edna has got to be one of my all time favorite DIVAS!  I know no one else who can sport a rhinestone encrusted dress, blinged out cat eye glasses and “wisteria” hue lilac hair!  I suppose, Darlings, the moral of this story is to get out and explore your world, no matter what corner of it you inhabit. I don’t know about you, but I sometimes get stuck indoors too long and before you know it, the time has flown!

Dame Edna and her lovely hair in a shade of wisteria.

…’til next time Darlings, back next week with some pretty new items in the shop.

xoxo

Madame X

http://madamexapparel.storenvy.com

 

A hedgehog on my desk…

Oops…the hazards of the work space!

Greetings from Madame X, Darlings!  Today’s topic may seem a mundane one, but I for one think it’s fascinating!  Have you ever wondered what other people’s living and work spaces look like? The curious girl in me is always looking for ideas to spruce up my surroundings and it’s always inspirational to see what others do.  Today I present you with a “behind the scenes” peek at my work space…which resides in my living room.  It is a hodgepodge of thrifty finds residing on top of a small table on which I write, draw, eat, sew, craft, edit and do research.

My daily work space (cleaned up just for you, Darlings!)

 

Probably the most expensive item on my desk is my laptop/camera.  The mason jars that house my scissors and pencils were spray painted with gold.  My brushes sit in a tiki mug that i decorated…there is a large chip in the back but I think that adds character and it’s perfect for holding my brushes.

The flowers are silk (because I can’t keep plants alive to save my life) and matches my point and shoot camera perfectly…I LOVE purple, Darlings, it’s my favorite color!  The ribbon board was a thrift shop find and the flower pot was picked up at a farmer’s market.

A Carmen Miranda inspired vintage toy on the board over my desk.

My ribbon board holds several quirky postcards, cut outs, business cards and this vintage “noisemaker” inspired by Hollywood entertainer Carmen Miranda, I acquired it at an outdoor flea market, i love it!

Harris the hedgehog pencil sharpener.

This is “Harris the hedgehog”… my trusty pencil sharpener, because Darlings, I love to journal and do it the old fashioned way, pencil and paper!

How about you, my Darlings? What does your work/creative space look like?  What are some favorite items on your desk? Do you even work at a desk, if not, where do you do your best work? Do tell…

xoxo

Madame X

http://madamexapparel.storenvy.com/

Stars can’t shine without darkness…

Stars…

Hello Darlings…lately I have had a lot to ponder, which sometimes gets me into trouble, admittedly.  My thoughts tend to spiral at a fever pitch and before I know it, I am writing them down to share with those who happen upon them.

Of late, I have been revisiting my love of film, especially the classics…and it is on these occasions that I wax nostalgic for all things past.  It feeds into my obsession for all things vintage, hand made and one of a kind.  When I watch films, my senses soak in all the details, from the sounds of the background, the decor of the sets, the beautiful costumes and fashions of the time.

Most of all I am obsessed with the beautiful starlets and goddesses that fill that silver screen with their magic, drama and softly glowing faces…they even make teary eyed scenes seem surreal…no ugly crying…just dew drops glistening against skin as they weep reservedly in their white gloves, bouffant hairdos and couture gowns.  It’s smoke and mirrors of course, but when I look deeper, the idealism of films of those times masked the harsh realities that many of these beauties lived.  Marilyn Monroe had her addictions, Liz Taylor gambled at love and lost many times, Jayne Mansfield died young…the list goes on and on. Yet, despite the darkness they dealt with, they shone so bright.

Screen legend Anita Ekberg…photo by Georg Oddner 1953

This week, the world lost beautiful blonde bombshell Anita Ekberg, the star of Frederico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita…who could forget Anita in her black strapless gown and flowing locks as she splashed about the water fountain.  I watch that scene over and over and I think how lovely she was, captured forever in a timeless moment, youthful and strong in spirit, indomitable and perfect. That magic is what a lot of the greats had and their star power is what makes them special…and I believe we need stars to look up to… we all carry that magic in ourselves and that is the connection we feel when we are in the presence of greatness.

xoxo

Madame X

http://madamexapparel.storenvy.com

What’s the news, Darlings?

Hello Darlings! I hope everyone is enjoying their first week of the new year! While I do so love the holidays, it does bring a touch of madness to it all and I for one am glad to be getting back to business.

Though Madame X is still a new and budding venture, there is so much to do and learn!  I am excited about all the possibilities…my mind reels Darlings!  Admittedly it is quite difficult to remain focused with so many ideas brimming in my mind.  Madame X is poised to bring more lingerie and embellished items to the online store.  However, Madame X plans to partake in trunk shows and pop ups with fellow creatives, maybe even branch out to home decor, accessories and one of a kind tea parties…oo-la-la…I am getting ahead of myself…but we must dream big Darlings and visualize in order to manifest our desires…

 

Oh, to live in a world surrounded by glitter and golden moments…I think to myself, how all these years that is what was missing in my life…so I will continue to follow this passion for magic and when the patina has set in, I can at least say I have danced, Darlings…and whether big or small, remember to DREAM!

Sparkle and magic…always a part of Madame X dreams… http://www.madamex.co

xoxo

Madame X

 http://madamexapparel.storenvy.com/

 

Magic … smoke, mirrors and not much more…

Day 7 of the blog challenge…controversy! Much has been written about the fashion and beauty industry’s use of editing, especially in photographs of models, celebrities and society figures.  With the advent of social media the “selfie” rules and they can be tweaked with filters to help us look “better.”  The truth is editing and manipulation of imagery is nothing new…even paintings that are centuries old were made to convey royalty and high society in the best light.  With the advent of photography, even prints were hand painted to improve upon the subject in the photo.

 

Hand colored Victorian portrait

That being said, some use of photoshop and other software took techniques to a new level.  As a photographer, it’s up to each individual to set standards how it is used, when it is used and to what extent.  I don’t believe one can set parameters to creative tools.  However, if consumers are not happy with the effect of standards set forth by the media and fashion publications, it is their right to demand disclosure that tells them the image has been manipulated.  There has been a detrimental effect on younger men and women that think they must live up to these standards, they do not always understand that what they see is fantasy, not the “freckles and all” daily realities of being human. It is up to parents and teachers to help reinforce positive self image and a healthy sense of self esteem.

The Dove campaign ads sum up this point beautifully…

Remember, Darlings…we are ALL beautiful and always be YOUnique.

xoxo

Madame X

http://madamexapparel.storenvy.com/

Belly dancers, shamans and weirdos, oH mY! 10 things about me…

Madame X here Darlings! Day 4 of the Feel Good Blogging Challenge … 10 things about “moi.”

 1. Early in my teens I developed an OBSESSION interest in James Dean which I still have.  I’ve seen the films, read the books and articles and know all the histories.  My birthday is one day shy of the date he died, so one year I dragged my cousin and brother on a road trip to see his grave in Indiana. Most people know him as the “Rebel” but he was an artist, poet, musician and way ahead of his time.

 

2. I have several degrees, one of which is in Anthropology.  At one point I was living in South America.  As part of  my studies, I was researching ethnobotany, the scientific study of the relationships that exist between peoples and plants. I studied Shamans and their use of local plants for cultural and medicinal purposes, one of which was the sap of the Dragon Blood tree, which oozes a thick blood-like sap said to have miraculous healing powers!

 

Christian Lacroix Illustrations

 

Christian Lacroix couture

3. I met my fashion idol CHRISTIAN LACROIX…Darlings…I am usually not a girl who gushes…but, LACROIX!! Before Galliano, before Alexander McQueen it was Lacroix, the French Couturier who had the wildest and most beautiful colors and textures making their way down the catwalks.  I was a fashion design student in Chicago at the time and he was in town to present his fashions for a museum benefit.  As fashion students, we were asked if we might want to help backstage at one of the shows and we were able to meet him, he was very gracious and polite.

 

4. Had I chosen a different path in life, I really believe I would have been a belly dancer!

 

The 1920’s

5. I’m obsessed with the 1920’s…the fashions, architecture, stories, films and books of the time seem to resonate with me for some odd reason…I always thought I was born too late.

 

 6. I earned a first degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do when I was 15. I still remember a lot of the forms and sparring techniques, let’s just say I can hold my own if needed.

 

Yak butter tea

7. When I traveled to Kathmandu, Nepal, I tried yak butter tea…it was…ummmm…interesting…an opaque yellow/brown salty tea with frothy bubbles of buttery fat floating at the top. It took me a half hour to sip it down…indeed.

 

8. I am a weirdo magnet! No matter where I go, where I am or what I’m doing, inevitably a complete kooky stranger will come up to me and start divulging the most heartfelt or intimate details about themselves.  I can’t have a quiet cup of coffee at a cafe without hearing about someone’s tragedies, illness, sex life, history and odd occurrences when I haven’t prompted them at all or even know them.  I think it’s my calming energy and exotic looks that attract these “lost souls” and random encounters, I don’t even bat an eye, just quietly accept it and then carry on.

 9. I ABHOR mayo…something about the smell, color and texture of it makes me want to lose my cookies! I don’t care if you call it “aioli”, dressing, spread, tartar sauce, secret sauce or whatever…it’s NOT going in my mouth! I always double check all sandwiches to make sure they do not include it when I order it without, and half the times, yup, you guessed it, slathered in mayonnaise.  I once had a waiter re-serve me the SAME sandwich, only they had just scraped off the mayo and re-used the soggy bread, yuk, like i wouldn’t notice.

 

10.  I have an infinite fascination with the paranormal…no, really! When I was studying psychology in college, I asked the professor about parapsychology and he laughed at me, as if I was being frivolous.  All my life I’ve been fascinated with “the Other Side” and voraciously devoured books, films and information on apparitions, spirits, hauntings, mediums, telekinesis, angels, reincarnation, etc. I’ve had strange experiences that could not be explained away easily but I do also balance it out with a healthy dose of skepticism.

‘Til next time, Darlings!

xoxo

Madame X

http://madamexapparel.storenvy.com/

 

 

 

 

Madame X’s Tea-lightful Soiree Guide…

Tea for 2 … time spent with friends is time well spent!

Darlings, let me tell you, whether you are 5 or 95, we can all enjoy the benefits of time well spent with friends over a cup of tea. And while Madame X prefers a good “cuppa Joe”, I never pass up the opportunity to throw a tea party every chance I get! Even if you don’t drink tea, it is a good idea to share and bond with friends and family on a consistent basis, you never know who may need a friendly ear.

There are so many types of tea and as many traditions surrounding its use.  Whether you prefer the rules of British “high tea”, the austere Japanese Tea Ceremony,  the smoky infusions of Turkish tea served in tulip shaped glass, or the sweet and minty herbals of Morocco, there is something for everyone’s taste!  Teas come in a variety of flavors and range, both caffeinated and decaffeinated.  You can choose bagged tea, loose leaf, or tea bundled into flowers.  You can have green, white, herbal, chai or black teas…the combinations are endless!

Black, herbal and loose leaf teas

For quite some time now I have been having tea parties, ranging from a simple tête-à-tête to a more elaborate themed soirée for a dozen friends who came dressed to impress. Yet, it’s so easy to prepare for and just requires a few items.

1.  Tea of choice… please remember to provide non-caffeinated options for your guests. Some alternatives are mineral water, infused waters, juice, and milk/creamer to add to tea.  Remember to use fresh filtered water as most tap water is not suitable for consumption and may not let the true flavor of the tea shine through.

2. A variety of both sweet and savory treats, such as cookies, cupcakes, chocolates, crackers with cheese, olives, finger sandwiches and healthy options such as fruit and fresh cut up veggies.  Don’t forget honey and lemon wedges to add to tea.

3. Tea cups, tea pots, plates, silverware and napkins. It can be simple (whatever you have on hand in the cupboard) or if you are a collector, break out the good stuff, that’s what it’s for! Don’t worry if it doesn’t match…I have matching tea sets as well as a collection of mismatched vintage pieces and they are all beautiful.  A great place to pick up some pretty pieces are at yard sales, thrift stores, estate sales or online shops.

Pink vintage tea cup

Regency style tea set

Tea cup with fruit decor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. A tea party can be an impromptu affair, which means it can be as spontaneous as having a friend over for an afternoon.  If you wish to have a larger gathering make sure to send out invites with the time and date. If you suggest a theme, give your guests ample time to ask questions and put together their outfits.  Some themes you can try are “Mad Hatter Tea Party,” Vintage wear, All Pink, Hats and Gloves, Faeries…whatever stirs your imagination! I myself have been known to don pink wigs and long dresses to drink a cup of strawberry tea. Encourage your inner diva, Darlings!

5. Don’t forget to smile and enjoy the company of friends, it’s all about sharing your time with them!

Sharing tea with friends!

 

xoxo

Madame X

http://madamexapparel.storenvy.com/

 

 

 

Crazy as a PASSIONfruit…

Hello Darlings! Madame X here for the 2nd installment of the Alex Beadon Feel Good Blogging Challenge. The topic, Darlings is PASSION…OoLaLa…my favorite!

Let me tell you, I have roamed this Earth in search of it for many years…but you know that saying…the road will always lead you home.  I cannot remember a time when I was not actively engaged in drawing, painting, creating projects … my mind swirling with a thousand ideas at once!  My passion for colors, textures, lines, form, shadows provided such  joy for me…and to know that I could engage that energy via the creative process, it was like having the universe on tap!

But something happened along the way and I became mired by seeking others’ approval and meeting expectations.  In an attempt to please others and appease, I set about studying and attaining a variety of degrees so I could have a “proper” career…I amassed many years of study that led to inconsistent corporate jobs and little reward.  Every time I moved to a different city, or finished another degree, I was miserable and kept bumping into a wall.

Throughout I would still create, whether it was photography, fashion, illustrating, painting, writing, dancing.  I felt most happy and productive when doing so.  In short, deep down I knew early on I was a “creative” … if there is such a label,  that is what I am…I am a gypsy, a free spirit … and when I kept denying that which was at the core of me, it was disastrous!  I guess you could say I am crazy for creative adventures, a “PASSION FRUIT!”

When I think of a “Passion Fruit” I think of the fiery ecstatic passion of multi-talented Carmen Miranda who carved a career out of being colorful and different in Hollywood.

 

In my latest creative manifestation I have created Madame X, one of several alter egos, she is my joy, and the face of my e-commerce business brand.  I am happy indulging my “passion for fashion” by creating one of a kind shoes, accessories and lingerie.  My creations have a hint of glamour, pin up revival, French boudoir, touches of goth, sparkle and lots of bright happy colors to round it off!

Remember to be YOU-nique Darlings!

xoxo

Madame X

http://madamexapparel.storenvy.com/

 

Madame X … a simple (re)introduction

Hello Darlings, c’est moi Madame X … Darlings, I am always up for a challenge, especially one that might empower and encourage my Madame Xers…so when fellow blogger Alex Beadon (www.alexbeadon.com) posted her 7 day blog challenge, well, I had to acquiesce!  Simply put, I shall answer 5 questions…please feel free to comment, subscribe or share!

1. Who are you? 

This question reminds me of the caterpillar in Alice In Wonderland… Whooo Arrre Yoooou? 

Who Are You?

My name is Lissette, I was born in the tiny country of El Salvador and I have lived many places, have several degrees (art & design, museum studies, photography, anthropology)  and wear many hats.  Of late I reside in Southern California and the latest hats I wear are of that of  entrepreneur and full time creative.  I am a designer, illustrator, photographer, all around artist with too many skill sets to mention. I love film, fashion, antiques, costumes, cats, travel, books and tea parties.

I am the creator of Madame X (no, not the original painting by John Singer Sargent) but of the persona behind my brand.  Madame X is an alter ego, a raven haired sexy, sassy corseted femme fatale who is happy to share her musings with her fans, whom she calls her “Darlings”…Madame X is a mix of Hollywood pin up glamour and European boudoir. She’s very feminine but with a little hint of a dark streak, meee-ow!  Madame X is the caricature used in this blog and my online shop.

 

2. Why did you start blogging

I decided once and for all that I was going to work for myself and I realized the importance of sharing that vision through social media.  It took some time to sift through all the information available online, but finally decided that Word Press was the best option for me to get the word out and link it to the online shop.  I am happy sharing ideas, photos and information with a larger audience, especially as I am a bit of an introvert, but Madame X…well…she is a total extrovert!

3.  Who is your blog for?

My blog is aimed at anyone who enjoys being in the company of Madame X, be it male, female, transgender…ALL are welcome to peruse my musings on fashion, film, trivia, DIY or whatever the topic may be…the store has a variety of unique shoes, beautiful hand embellished items, jewelry and soon…lingerie…it may or may not be your cuppa tea, but Madame X is evolving all the time.  Sometimes the subject matter runs to the tongue in cheek, double entendre or may be a bit sexy, so it’s not really for kids.

4. Something you’ve been working on you’re really proud of…

Madame X is what I am proud of!  I’m a one woman  operation, i curate the shop items, make a lot of the merchandise, do the photography, branding, marketing, research, designing, blog, illustrations and social media!  The other project I continue to do is my monthly self portrait project, I do all the props, styling, makeup, lighting, photography and editing…it keeps me on my toes and the skills I use with Madame X as well!

Here are a few of my elaborate “selfies.”

In Rollers (copyright Lissette Guzman)

Fuchsia portrait (copyright Lissette Guzman)

Ice Queen (copyright Lissette Guzman)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. What’s the ONE MESSAGE that you hope people take away from your blog?

It’s okay to be YOU-nique! Be yourself, I know it sounds cliché but by comparing yourself to others, you will always sell yourself short!  The world needs more free thinkers, weirdos and people who march to the beat of their own drum, and if you can do it in a way that helps lift others and spreads positivity, well then, what are you waiting for Darlings!!

xoxo

Madame X

http://madamexapparel.storenvy.com/

Lights, camera…action!

` Madame X presentation cards

 

Hello Darlings and a happy day to you all…and goodness has it been a busy week thus far!  It is good to be productive and that is exactly what Madame X has been…this week will go towards photographing our creations for the store site.

It’s shaping up to be a challenge but one that looks to be fun!  The session will include our accessories and shoe line, customized with hand embellished touches, and made in short runs and one of a kind editions.  Our look isn’t for everyone, and that’s quite all right Darlings, because Madame X loves for people to be YOU-nique!  So if you don’t mind splashes of color, flaunting your femininity and a nod to glamour, then you’ve stopped by the right place!

…getting ready to shoot some shoes, Darlings!