Inspired by Rita: Golden Age, Emerald Muse
Some style icons transcend time, and Rita Hayworth remains one of them to me. The Hollywood legend, born Margarita Carmen Cansino, captivated audiences with her undeniable charm, signature red waves, and an elegance that felt both effortless and commanding. She wasn’t just a star; she was an aesthetic, a mood, and an embodiment of vintage glamour that continues to inspire me today.
A Style Ahead of Its Time
During the 1940s and early 1950s, Hayworth’s style struck a delicate balance between classic femininity and sultry sophistication. At a time when structured silhouettes and demure looks dominated, she effortlessly redefined Hollywood elegance with:
✨ Figure-Hugging Satin Gowns – Whether draped in silk or shimmering in sequins, she embodied Old Hollywood luxury, making fitted evening gowns a signature look.
✨ Voluminous Waves – Her perfectly coiffed side-swept curls became one of the most iconic hairstyles of all time and one of the styles I try to emulate from time to time!
✨ Chic, Effortless Daywear – From high-waisted trousers to tailored blouses, she proved that daytime style could be just as captivating as evening wear. I love mixing a silk collared blouse and a pleated trouser.
Her Heritage & Lasting Influence
Born to a Spanish father and an Irish-English mother, Hayworth’s journey to stardom wasn’t without challenges. Early Hollywood demanded a specific kind of beauty, and to fit in, she was pressured to alter her natural features, including lightening her dark hair and reshaping her hairline. Despite this, she broke barriers and became one of the most celebrated faces in cinema.
But beyond her beauty, Hayworth elevated women in film and fashion by showcasing a powerful mix of allure and intelligence. Her characters exuded confidence, control, and charisma, reshaping the image of women on screen.
Rita & Fred - The Shorty George
“Rita danced with trained perfection and individuality… She was better than I thought she was, and I knew she was good.”
Oh, and did she dance! Her foundation in classical Spanish and flamenco dance gave her an unmatched grace and precision, which later translated beautifully into ballroom and tap dancing in Hollywood. Fred Astaire considered Rita Hayworth one of his all-time favorite dance partners.
Why She Still Inspires
Rita Hayworth’s fashion influence lives on in the details—the sumptuous fabrics, the romantic silhouettes, and the quiet confidence her style exuded. Her legacy is stitched into the pieces I curate at Emerald Era Vintage—garments that tell stories, evoke elegance, and celebrate timeless beauty.
– Michelle
Meet Our Shop Dog!
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Meet Our Shop Dog! 🐾
Keaton’s Style Tip of the Day
Even one great accessory can elevate any outfit… and treats are always the answer!
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Introducing Keaton Holiday, the real boss behind the scenes at Emerald Era HQ. His name is inspired by two icons, Buster Keaton and Billie Holiday. When he’s not supervising photoshoots or fulfilling his role as Head of Security, you might just spot him stealing the spotlight in front of the camera.
This was an extra special shoot because it features Keaton’s favorite walking path in our Guerneville neighborhood. And for the occasion? He dressed to impress—with a bow tie, of course. 🎀
Let her style inspire you.
Explore pieces that channel Rita’s essence in my latest collection:
Photos: "Golden Age, Emerald Muse" by Benjamin Miles | Camera: FujiFilm X100V