Power of the Suit
What makes a grander entrance: a beautiful gown, or the striking confidence of a well-tailored suit?
For me, it’s always been the latter. I’ve loved the feeling of slipping on a suit jacket ever since my days conducting orchestras at the podium. The structure, the lining, even the shoulder pads gave me a kind of quiet power, helping me step into a role of command and emotion, even as an introvert most of the time.
Women in film’s golden era were among the first to push against the taboo of wearing pants on screen. The earliest and most iconic moment came in Morocco (1930), when Marlene Dietrich appeared in a man’s tuxedo as a cabaret singer. That look didn’t just challenge gender norms; it defined her.
Soon after, stars like Katharine Hepburn and Jean Harlow made trousers and smart tailoring part of their signature style. Hepburn, known for her independence, famously wore a velvet smoking jacket and slacks in Woman of the Year, a wardrobe designed by Adrian that has become legendary.
Beyond Hollywood, the 1940s brought the bold rise of the pachucas. These Mexican-American women embraced the zoot suit, rejecting expectations of traditional roles. Their sharp tailoring wasn’t just fashion, it was rebellion, feminism, and cultural pride stitched into every seam.
And then, there’s my personal holy grail: Lilli Ann. Founded in San Francisco in 1940, the label is synonymous with sharp silhouettes and dramatic elegance. I’ve dreamed of one day finding a true Lilli Ann suit, especially now that I call Northern California home. The ads alone make my vintage-loving heart skip a beat.
The day finally came when I discovered not only a Lilli Ann suit, but a complete three-piece set—blazer, skirt, and pants—in the most perfect mauve pink. The cursive lettering on the label felt like holding a golden ticket. Why not keep it for myself? Because as much as I love the thrill of the find, I also love the thought of someone else feeling that same rush of discovery.
So here she is: The Lilli Ann Blush Moment Suit. A piece I might have dreamed into existence and I feel like it was made for The Birthday Collection. Miles and I traveled to Monte Rio and Korbel Winery to capture the shoot, which made the experience feel all the more celebratory.
To me, vintage fashion is more than clothing. It’s about those moments when you feel powerful and completely yourself. And with Monte Rio Revival on October 3rd celebrating the legacy and future of this historic downtown, it feels especially meaningful to honor timeless style in such a place.
Word on the street is that The Family Gold will be performing at the event too, a fitting reminder that power comes not just from what we wear, but how we carry it into the world.
Lovingly,
– Michelle
Inspired Pieces from The Birthday Collection
Photos: "Mauve Boss" by Benjamin Miles | Camera: FujiFilm X100V