History notoriously repeats itself.

When it comes to fashion, that can mean good news (wedge sandals), a risky undertaking (preripped jeans), or, occasionally, a frightening, terrible mistake (stirrup pants).

Jessica Ciarla gets the reappropriation of the past just right in her fall 2005 collection, which takes its cues from the Edwardian era. Meaning cinched waists, rich colors, and flowing skirts in fabrics like crinkled silk chiffon, French lace, and Italian wool, as well as details from beading to vintage-inspired trim. Even a few of the period’s high necklines are thrown in for good measure.

If ’50s glamour is more your style, you’ll find Ciarla’s Marilyn halter dress, inspired by you-know-who, custom made at Pamela Mills boutique. Order yours in any (or every) color, and you’ll be doing a little air-vent dance of your own in two to three weeks. 

Ciarla wisely leaves some relics of the past (pesky corsets, feathered hats, and ’50s-era spectacles) where they belong.

In fashion history.


Available at Pamela Mills, 3375 Sacramento Street, at Walnut Street (415-474-8400). To see styles, go to ciarla.com.