French Tarts

The above event happened this past weekend in Paris.

 I read about it in
this fab free weekly on the metro.

I started to think about the history of Montmartre and the French music-halls

From the photo above It seems apparent that the American born burlesque artist  Dita Von Teese has had  a big impact on the burlesque scene here in Paris. Her shows at the Crazy Horse have her signature vintage style. 

She is now full-fledged member of the fashion world with with her own lucrative licenses. 

  Paris still has its  Oh La La-ness

from the absinthe-crazed 19th century right up to the present day.

David Lachapelle Art + Commerce

Image from Grazia 28.10.2011

Made in France.

From Jenny Carre L'age d'or du music-hall et de l'operette

1937 le Casino de Paris

 Tarts by  Marcel Vertes.
"Vertes was described as more recklessly, casually spontaneous than ever Christian Berard would dare to be. He gleefully fixes foibles and vanities of the beau monde with his deliciously spiteful brush."  Quoted from Fashion Drawings in Vogue

 Assorted  French Tarts

Jenny Carre L'age d'or du music-hall et de l'operette

This is a wonderful book

Pigalle is the home of the Moulin-Rouge

Music hall society in the late 19th century.

Adelaide Hall who was American born and British by marriage.
 immortalized by Paul Colin in 1928

Poster for the Moulin Rouge by Rene Gruau



Pigalle is still living up to its lascivious reputation.  Last week I had the occasion to go up there.  My son and I  went to  a music shop. He explained (and he is just a teenager) that it depends which side of the street you are on, as to the exact nature of your business.
They must discuss these things in French high school.

  By Ranson

I have always been fascinated by  the remarkable degree of creativity involved in staging of the reviews at the famous  Parisian music halls.  in 2001 we started collecting original gouache costume designs from the Follies Berger, and Casino de Paris etc. Circa 1925-1929.
They are colorful, exotic, and whimsical, full of fantasy, humor, and frivolity.   

 Another place where you can look for lovely French tarts,

Any good patisserie.