News » Pin Up
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Beauty and the Belle
Published Aug 20 2020 in Cherry Velvet Dresses, Made In Canada, Pin Up, plus, Plus Model, Veronica Belle, Vintage Inspired
She’s one of the most familiar faces here at Cherry Velvet and for good reason: Veronica Belle’s iconic style – a blend of old-school glamour and pin-up bombshell – is a modelling match made in heaven.
It’s been five years since Veronica’s first Cherry Velvet shoot, which took place near Robson Square in downtown Vancouver in October 2015. That shoot saw her in a pair of now-retired styles that were a great match for her classic style: the Tatyana dress in “Burgundy Tiger” (a unique criss-cross bust design with a stylized tiger pattern) and the Aurora dress in “Guitar Picks” (a multi-coloured fabric with a sweetheart neckline, cap sleeves, and a side bow at the waist.) Both dresses were popular additions to the lineup, offering Cherry Velvet’s unique approach in creating dresses that fit curvy and plus-size customers in flattering and fun designs.
But the plus size model and body positivity advocate doesn’t just wear our dresses on photo shoots. She’s also a long-time customer herself, with plenty of our most popular designs hanging in her own closet. As a plus size 0X (about mid-range in Cherry Velvet’s inclusive sizing that runs from XS to 3X) she’s one of countless curvy women who have fallen in love with Cherry Velvet’s fun designs, retro charm, and classic elegance.
And it’s no surprise the camera loves her: a self-described “total ham” and huge fan of all things Disney, she grew up doing theatre and today is an accomplished singer. She performs with her husband, Ben Klein, a well-known international Elvis impersonator. With her 'Snow White' colouring and his matching black hair, they make a striking couple on the stage – a flashback to the classic looks from an old black-and-white film.
So when Cherry Velvet launched a dress that was equal parts old Hollywood glamour and retro pin-up – with a sprinkling of happily-ever-after princess – it was easy to decide who to name it after. The “Veronica” dress is a satin pin-up style wedding dress with a full circle skirt (with lots of room for a matching crinoline) and a banded waist with a picture-perfect bow.
If plus modelling and performing with her spouse don’t keep her hopping all day, Veronica has a host of hobbies to occupy her time: she’s artistic and loves to both paint and draw. She’s also a book worm (current read is the long-awaited new Twilight series book Midnight Sun by Stephanie Meyer) and she’s a big fan of true crime, from podcasts to books.
And she’s always been a little bit quirky: not too many kids have a Jaws-themed birthday cake – but she did, on her fourth birthday. Sharks are still one of her favourite animals today.
We love you Veronica Belle! Thanks so much for being uniquely, wonderfully you and such an amazing model for our brand ❤️
Christina Meyers for Cherry Velvet
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Spot Picks For Retro Clicks
Published Aug 14 2020 in Diners, Parks, Photography, Pin Up, Retro, Vancouver, Vintage
Sharing the joy of your vintage-inspired outfit is just as much fun as putting it together. And choosing a special location to snap your share is just another way to extend the fun, right? For inspiration, here's our insider's list of photo shoot locations and favourite spots in and around Vancouver.
Stanley Park Rose Garden
610 Pipeline Rd, Vancouver
Established in 1920, this is a perfect place for some true vintage romance, which makes it a popular photoshoot location. Visit between June and August to catch the beautiful floral displays, and get your picture among the blossoms or under the vintage gazebos.
Burnaby Art Gallery
6344 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Burnaby's art museum is located at the historic Fairacres Mansion, a 1910 Edwardian style building. Outside are beautiful staircases and grounds surrounded by a pictureque garden as well as the lake nearby. This whole location has many photo-worthy spots!
Sophie's Cosmic Cafe
2095 West 4th Ave, Vancouver
This diner was opened in the '80s, and its style is pure retro glory. The kitschy artwork, eclectic decor, bright red barstools and pink booths will have you snapping pictures the whole time!
Gastown's Hotel Europe
43 Powell St, Vancouver, BC
Incredibly picturesque, this six-story heritage building from 1909 resembles a tiny version of a "flat iron" building. Stand on Gastown's cobblestone streets and have your picture taken with Hotel Europe in the background for a super vintage look!
Lucy's Eastside Diner
2708 Main St, Vancouver
This spot opened in 2010, and it's been an absolute gem ever since. It's open 24-hours (omg right?), and the decor is perfect inside and outside. The turquoise on the wall is one of our favourite colours, and the orange countertops have retro boomerang patterns!
Locomotive 374 at Roundhouse Community Centre
181 Roundhouse Mews, Vancouver
This antique engine was retired in 1945 after many decades of transporting passengers, and has since been renovated and placed on permanent display at the Roundhouse Community Centre. It is open to the public, and you can even climb on it for some beautiful vintage shots!
Paramount Theater
652 Columbia St, New Westminster
This historical location was first opened as the Edison Vaudeville Theatre in 1910, and was later renamed. Currently it offers adult entertainment, but you might recognize it from the movie Twilight or shows like Sabrina. The beauty of this location is the gorgeous neon sign outside, fun to pose with.
Hopefully we've inspired you to take some photos of your own. Make sure to wear your favourite Cherry Velvet dress and share your photos with us!
And if you're not from Vancouver, we would love to know - what retro spots should we make sure to visit in your city?
Stay safe & get clicking!
XOX Cherry Velvet
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Our Original Paper Pin-Ups
Published Apr 09 2020 in Cherry Velvet, Craft, Isolation activity, Paper Dolls, Pin-Up, throwback
Our long-time fans might remember our darling Pin-Up Paper Dolls, fun crafts for you and/or your little ones. Take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about some of our own "vintage" Cherry Velvet styles, and learn a little about the beauties who modelled them for us - and who were featured as our Paper Dolls.
Ahh, the 2010's... It's modern vintage nostalgia!
Ruby Roxx
Ruby was one of our original models, way back when we did our very first "diner" themed photoshoot. She's a Vancouverite, and a body positivity and mental health activist. As a model, she's been published countless times - including over two dozen covers for magazines and books! Ruby sincerely believes that beauty is not determined by a number on a scale or on a clothing tag. Her message is that all women are beautiful, no matter their size or shape.
Bianca Bombshell
Bianca comes from Vancouver Island, BC, and has been published plenty of times here and abroad too! Her work as a plus-size model included Lingerie, Pin-up and Fashion - which is how she came to work with us. Currently, Bianca is a mom with a passion for fitness, and works inspiring others through her YouTube channel as well as a lingerie model.
Do you love these? Make sure to head on over to our Pin-Up Paper Art page and download large sizes of all our paper dolls, as well as our coloring pages!
We hope these brought back good memories, or that you love them if it's the first time you see them! In these stay-at-home times, paper dolls are a fun nostalgic pastime. Please share photos with us if you cut these out and tag us on social media! #cherryvelvet
Miss your visits and love to you all from a safe distance!
XOX Cherry Velvet
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Holiday Party Outfits for the Vintage Vixen
Published Dec 13 2019 in Christmas, Fashion, Holidays, Outfits, Party, Party Dress, Party Outfit, Pin Up, Vintage Inspired
The holiday season is upon us, and with it, the most fun part (for many): Parties! Offices, families and friend groups alike are organizing merry celebrations for the end of the year. Gift exchanges, delicious dinners… And dressing up! It's all part of the fun. How many of us wait all year for this time to shine?
Here at Cherry Velvet, we have some beautiful dresses to give you vintage flair and retro style as you dazzle at your functions! Whether you’re looking for kitschy fun, glamorous glimmer, or flattering classics, we have options for you.
These outfits were prepared to showcase a bit of what we have, but there is so much more available at our online store and during our Studio Shops!
And without much ado... The outfits!
Hot Stuff
Are you a bond girl, femme fatale, or a smoke show bombshell? This is the outfit for you! A glimmering black dress - our Lana in Black Shimmer. With its seductive curved V neckline, when paired with our red chiffon crinoline... It's like the Louboutin of party dresses. Add our red Samantha shrug for warmth; and to really set things ablaze: the Light My Fire matchstick necklace and earring set!
Yuletide Sensation
When traditional, magical Christmas captures your heart, you'll be perfectly suited for out Brigitte in Festive Fairies print! Magical folks frolicking amongst poinsettias, perfectly evoke the ancient traditions of the season. A black chiffon crinoline gives this dress lovely volume, and our Claire capelet will cover your shoulders in whimsical, magical drape. Accessorize with the subtle accent of a black necklace, such as our Black Atomic necklace and earring set.
Glimmering Goddess
For the glamour of a silver screen diva, look no further than our shiny, metallic frocks. The Norma in Silver Filigree, for example, captures light beautifully in its regal silver pattern. A chiffon crinoline gives your dress a glamorous shape, and our Samantha shrug in black sparkle will cover your shoulders in warmth and shine. For that final twinkling touch, use the Atomic Galaxy necklace and earring set, and you'll shine on all night long!
We hope to have inspired you to find your perfect holiday outfit, be it for a casual party at home, or for a glamorous night out on the town!
And make sure to share your photos with us by tagging #cherryvelvet or sending them by email to info@cherryvelvetdresses.com for a chance to be featured on our social media!
Browse all our dresses online,
Or Shop in person at 1635 Powell Street, Vancouver BC on our next Studio Shop dates:- Dec 13 from 2-7pm
- Dec14 from 11-5 pm
- Dec 20 from 2-7 pm
- Dec 21 from 11-5 pm
XOX Cherry Velvet
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Dresses with Sleeves
Published Jan 31 2019 in Dress, New Arrivals, Pin Up, Roxy, Shelly, Stacy, what's new
One of the advantages of being a small business is getting to know your customers. We love meeting you, seeing your photos on social media, and hearing your feedback. You told us that you want dresses with three-quarter sleeves, so here they are!
Craving Coverage
Many women tell us they feel more comfortable with covered arms, often because of perceived flaws. Those wonderful upper limbs that we use to carry and dance and hug get subjected to endless scrutiny. Of course, we love your arms (and all your other beautiful body parts!), but feeling confident is paramount. If you feel your best with coverage between your shoulders and elbows, we’re here to help.
Asymmetrically Adorable
Our Shelly dress has been one of our favourites in recent years. With a deliciously full skirt, Shelly has excellent twirl potential, and the buttoned cuffs finish the sleeves perfectly. The star of this design is the neck detail – three sweet buttons and a two angled straps draw the eye. This dress is currently available in three lovely prints.
Ravishingly Retro
Roxy joined our collection last year. This dress has a wonderfully vintage vibe, with an open portrait collar and a crinoline-ready skirt. The Roxy comes in five solid jewel tones, and blends beautifully with a multitude of accessories.
Flattering Fit
Our newest 3/4 sleeve dress is the Stacy. This cut was created to highlight your assets, with a ruched bodice and a chevron shaped underbust design that emphasizes your waistline. Right now, you can get Stacy in a spicy, fire-engine red, and a deep, regal purple – stay tuned for black and navy pinstripe versions coming soon!
Remember, we also sell shrugs, so sleeves can be added to any of the dresses you love. And please keep telling us what you want to wear, because we’re listening!
XOX Cherry Velvet
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Bring on the Bling!
Published Jan 11 2019 in jewelry, New Arrivals, Pin Up, what's new
A fabulous necklace or pair of earrings can add just the right finishing touch to any of our vintage-inspired dresses. When that retro style jewelry is handmade right here in beautiful British Columbia, it just makes sense for us to offer it on our website and in our studio. Choose your favourite!
Signature Sparkle
It’s no secret that we love cherries. Our new Cherry Bling set celebrates this iconic fruit with a truly delicious dose of glitter. The red version is available now, and the pink and maroon versions will be online soon.
Hot Stuff
For a truly “striking” look, check out our Light My Fire necklace. Inspired by matchstick-themed textile prints from the 1940's, the metal pendants and earrings have hand-enameled red tips.
Captivating Shades of ShimmerThere’s definitely some magic in our Atomic Lights set. This dazzler captures the eye, reflecting shades of purple, magenta, blue, turquoise, and green.
Awesome AtomicIf you keep an eye on our website, you’ll have noticed that many of our models have been wearing our Atomic necklaces. The Black Atomic is infinitely versatile, and we also adore the Burgundy, Hot Pink, and Ruby Red versions. With mid-century modern design and lustrous glass beads, you’ll want them all!
(If you’re wondering about that adorable bowling fabric, stay tuned... It’s a sneak peek at our upcoming Strikes & Spares dress.)Whichever set you choose, remember to snap a photo and tag us on social media – we love to see how you make these pieces your own!
XOX Cherry Velvet
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It's lit: The Green Goddess Dress
Published Sep 24 2018 in 420, 420 Friendly, Bill-C45, Canadian Legislation, Cannabis, Dress, Green, Legal, Limited Edition, marijuana, New Arrivals, New Dress, Norma, Pin Up, Plants, Pot
Here's to you, Bud.
On Oct 17, Bill-C45 (the federal legalization of recreational marijuana) comes into effect, making it legal to light up all across Canada. We've decided to recognise this occasion by creating a colourful, limited edition cannabis-inspired dress called Green Goddess.
Bill-C45 marks a historic change in law and viewpoint towards marijuana and the marijuana industry (in Canada) as a whole. This "little green dress" is our way of commending all those who helped make this new freedom possible. You can read our official press release for the Green Goddess dress below.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SEPTEMBER 17, 2018
BC DESIGNER CELEBRATES OCT. 17 WITH LIMITED EDITION CANNABIS-THEMED DRESS
Cherry Velvet brings old-school glamour to Canada’s party
A celebrated Lower Mainland fashion designer is marking Canada’s historical decision to legalize recreational marijuana with a beautiful cannabis leaf-themed vintage style dress that is perfect for celebrating the big day, but any fashionista that wants to be the centre of attention at the party needs to move fast!
Diane Kennedy, owner, and designer-in-chief at Cherry Velvet, was inspired by the historic change in law to create the Green Goddess dress, an eye-catching take on the classic ‘50s look that is expertly cut to accentuate the curves and lend some old-fashioned glamour to any modern setting. The epitome of mid-century panache, it features more than a nod to modern aesthetics and comfort. Slimming at the waist, the dress has an invisible back zipper, hidden side seam pockets, and a full skirt.
Diane, who is native to Vancouver, said, “Just like the best bud, all of our dresses are ethically produced here in beautiful Vancouver, BC. I choose Cherry Velvet’s fabrics not only for their luxurious feel and high quality but also for their attitude. I love florals, polka dots, plaids, and old-school tattoos, but when I saw this material, I knew that I had to create something memorable.”
In fact, the Green Goddess is so special that it’s a strictly limited-issue dress, with only 15 up for grabs for any girl wanting to commemorate the big day in classic Cherry Velvet style. They are available for purchase at Cherry Velvet’s studio by appointment at 1635 Powell Street, Vancouver, where customers can receive personal attention from Diane, or online at cherryvelvetplus.com.
