Love Letter to Paris and French Style

Posted on November 15, 2015November 26, 2015 by stilettocity

The terrorist attacks on Paris hit close to home for many of us in the nightlife and music community in Los Angeles. Just a regular Friday night out on the town turned into a nightmare nobody expected. This, in the City of Lights, that I have had the pleasure of visiting twice. I fell in love with Paris for its beauty, its wealth of artistic spirit and its legendary French style. In my visits, there was nothing I enjoyed more than wondering the streets and just feeling a sense of passion for creativity among the people there. I had meals in the many lively cafes and cherished the undeniable pure romance of the scenery. When I learned of of Friday’s tragedy, my heart broke and I was sickened by the attacks on this beautiful city and its people.

Feeling helpless so many miles away, we sought solidarity in one of our favorite cafes in LA, The Figaro Bistrot in Los Feliz.

We arrived and found this little French restaurant and bar packed, many having the same idea as we did – to not cave to the fear, to go out, have dinner in a café, be among friends and neighbors and live life to fullest despite the attempts of evil-doers who try to scare us.

The restaurant had a candle-lit memorial burning outside its doors, which moved us greatly. While having a meal doesn’t make up for the many lives lost, we hoped it would make a small statement in a huge tragedy.

The Figaro Bistrot is lovely inside, which its checkered floors, cast iron chandeliers, French antiques, patisserie bar, cocktail bar and little, red, banquette booths. There is seating out on the sidewalk, as well as an intimate annex room. The place is so gorgeous that designer Marc Jacobs had Madonna photographed wearing his collection there. See the photos. And yes, the food is delicious. I indulged in red wine, Coq au Vin and coffee and sweets for dessert.

What I Wore

As my personal tribute to Paris, I wore a dress and necklace I picked up on my travels there. Wearing all black seemed appropriate on this night of mourning, but I wanted to add a pop of color as a show of hope and optimism. The A-line dress is delicate like an elegant, baby-doll nightie, detailed with romantic ruffles on the neckline, sleeves and hemline. My one, glamorous, rhinestone, bib, statement necklace was enough jewelry so I didn’t add any other pieces to prevent looking overdone. I punctuated the look with bright pink from my retro style handbag and hair flower made by my pal Nicole of NiccocoCreations. My vintage leopard coat kept me warm on this chilly fall night.

Dressing with French Style

French style has always been known for being chic and looking effortless. Classic lines and simplicity are key, with an undeniable cool factor and subtle sex appeal. A romantic, vintage style, mesh overlay dress detailed with florals and scallops will bring Parisian charm to your look, while a coat with a strong A-line silhouette and pop of color adds sophistication. Keep accessories to a minimum with just one bold statement necklace in a color that blends with the outfit rather than adding more color or complexity. And of course, an Eiffel Tower charm bracelet doesn’t hurt to show your solidarity and love for the amazing city of Paris.

Then go out, enjoy life and visit a French-inspired place near you.

If you would like to contribute to the victims, donate to The Sweet Stuff Foundation or the memorial fund for Nick Alexander, the merchandise manager for the band Eagles of Death Metal who was killed in the attack.

The Figaro Bistrot is located at 1802 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

We love you Paris. Stay strong.
Kastle

Tags: bars in Los Angeles, Kastle Waserman, restaurants in Los Angeles, where to go in Los Angeles

Dress like a Boss in Pinup Style for Drinks at Little Dom’s

Posted on November 8, 2015November 30, 2015 by stilettocity

There aren’t many places you can walk around in Los Angeles because it’s so spread out, which is why I love the Los Feliz area. Lots of cafes, bars and shops to make the district your runway to show off some pinup style while out in the action.

My BFF and I recently popped into Lil’ Doms for a drink. This Italian restaurant has a New York City feel, bustling with hipsters seated in railroad booths taking in the sumptuous Italian grub, while we hung by the vintage wooden bar. Upstairs, the dining room looks like a place the Rat Pack might have held court with circular booths and retro touches of black and white photos on the walls. Lil Dom’s owner also owns the 101 Coffee Shop and Dominick’s, which have similar classic Hollywood vibes.

What I Wore

I was feeling very much like an Italian gangster’s moll in my pinup style wiggle dress and fascinator hat. To soften the look, I added a delicate, black beaded necklace. When the evening got chilly, I pulled on a little short sweater that ties in front. I just happened to come across a cool, classic car to pose in front of. I think this ride goes nicely with my outfit – wish I could’ve taken it home with me!

Dressing in Sexy Pinup Style for Cocktails

Dressing pinup style shows the world you’re in charge and can you can rock the retro look in a fierce red wiggle dress with flirty peplum detail. A hat always commands attention and this cocktail hat with net overlay is no exception. Add some ladylike charm with a dainty beaded necklace and we all know red lipstick means business, so why not carry a tube as your purse with this fun novelty bag! Click the links to shop* this look!

So reach for some pinup style next time you want to feel in charge and head out on the town. Everyone will know who’s boss!

Little Dom’s is located at 2128 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Wear it like you mean it,
Kastle

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Tags: bars in Los Angeles, Kastle Waserman, pinup style, restaurants in Los Angeles, where to go in Los Angeles

Comfortable Retro Style for Movie Night

Posted on November 1, 2015November 8, 2015 by stilettocity

Whether I’m going out with my man or with some gal pals, movie nights are always a great time to relax and escape into a fantasy world. One of my favorite movie theaters in Los Angeles are the Arclight Cinemas. With a sophisticated atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to put on a little retro style and make it a night on the town.

One thing I’ve always hated about most movie theaters is they are filled with rambunctious groups of teenagers or noisy kids who disrupt my experience. The Arclight offers a more adult atmosphere. It may be because the ticket price is a little higher than most or that they have a restaurant and bar right in the theater that draws a more elegant crowd. Some of their locations even have theaters that allow you to take a drink in from the bar – that’s my kind of movie watchin’! They also often feature costumes from current films on display, which are always fun to see while waiting for your film to start or strolling out after.

The Arclight has several locations around Los Angeles – Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, Culver City, Pasadena. Each one maintains the same world class environment. The one in Hollywood is a standout since it was built onto the historic Cinerama Dome theater where the 86-foot wide screen is curved and huge!

What I Wore

I’m all about adding a little retro vibe to any outfit to make it stand out in sea of people dressed overly casual or super trendy, and to bring back a little glamor of some of the icons of the silver screen. On this night, I put on a comfy black t-shirt with pinup-inspired keyhole detail. I paired it with a colorful pencil skirt in royal purple and added a pop of leopard print – my go-to neutral! Lastly, I put on some statement jewelry with chunky earrings and cuff bracelet featuring movie starlet.

Put On A Retro Style Movie Night Outfit

Movie night means getting comfortable – but never sacrifice style. This casual little black dress with keyhole cutout has a touch of retro style and works both for a night out with the girls or a date. Jazz it up with some dramatic statement earrings, a purrrfect leopard print purse and chunky cuff bracelet for a look the can take you through drinks, a movie and dinner! Click the links to shop* this look!

The Arclight Cinemas are located all around Los Angeles. Check their website for addresses and movie times.

It’s showtime!
Kastle

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Tags: Kastle Waserman, retro style, things to do in Los Angeles

Dress Up Date Nights with Pinup Style and Ice Cream

Posted on October 25, 2015October 26, 2015 by stilettocity

Every time my man and I passed by a little ice cream shop called the Salt & Straw on Larchmont Boulevard, there was a long line out front and loads of people sitting around chatting and taking selfies with their ice cream. ‘What is it about that place?’ we asked ourselves. Finally one night we decided to try it out.

We waited in line and finally got in the door to see the menu. They had a regular menu of all kinds of delicious sounding, and unusual, combinations such as sea salt ice cream with caramel ribbons, honey lavender and avocado and strawberry sherbet. Plus, they had a monthly menu of specialty flavors. The month we came it was all fruity combos as summer fruits were just coming in season. We got to the counter and got to try as many flavors as we liked then order our pick in a cup or cone. The ice cream was fresh, delicious and so unique. Yum! So THIS is what the fuss is about!

The Salt & Straw started in Portland Organ as an entrepreneurial business by two people who wanted to make good quality ice cream in lots of interesting flavors. Judging by the lines and our own taste test, they’ve definitely succeeded and thank goodness they brought it to LA! It’s so fun to get all dressed up pinup style for a date and cap the night with the childlike indulgence of ice cream – especially these wild flavors with something new to try each month! Be sure to check out October’s menu, which has lots of Halloween candy inspired flavors!

What I Wore

Date nights seem to call for a sexy, yet playful pinup look. On this night I brought out one of my fave dresses, the Alika classic swing dress from Tatyana. I just love the crisscross detail around the neckline and the way the dress feels on. I got it in black so I can work it pinup style or rocker style. I paired it with a pop of color with a burgundy rose comb in my hair, and shopped by closet to rediscover a purse I purchase in Italy a few years ago that has the same color and feathery texture. My shoes are another treasure from my travels, actual Tango shoes from Buenos Aires. They are so comfortable because they are made for dancing! And I love the leopard print on the heel! I took a moment to pose with the mural on Larchmont by graffiti artist Punk Me Tender.

How to Wear a Swingin’, Date Night Pinup Look

Date night means a little romance and lots of fun so why not combine both in your outfit? Show your sultry pinup style in a lace swing dress like this one in stunning eggplant with beige lining. Beige vintage style heels play off the dress color without being overpowering. Bring along an ice cream purse to show you don’t take life too seriously. Who knows, your date just might take you to taste some new taste sensations at a place like the Salt & Straw! Click the links to shop this look!

Hope you get to taste al the flavors life has to offer!

The Salt & Straw is located at 240 N Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004

I scream, you scream
Kastle

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Tags: date night look, Kastle Waserman, pinup style, things to do in Los Angeles

Dressing Vintage Style to Historical Union Station

Posted on October 18, 2015March 3, 2016 by stilettocity

When dressing in vintage style, there’s nothing like a historical landmark to provide the perfect setting for your outfit. Luckily, Los Angeles still has a few beautiful buildings that have been preserved insteand of torn down to make way for ugly development projects.

One of them is LA’s Union Station, which opened in 1939 and is the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States. Conceived on a grand scale, it became known as the “Last of the Great Railway Stations.” It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

Designed by John Parkinson and Donald B. Parkinson (the Parkinsons) with the assistance of supporting architects. Union Station’s look combines Art Deco, Mission Revival, and Streamline Moderne style, with elements of Dutch Colonial Revival architecture.

The waiting area has the feeing of elegant grandeur of a time long ago. Nestled in the corner is a place for passengers to grab a drink and rest a spell at Traxx bar. The bar is a comforting repute and also opens up to a fabulous view to appreciate the station’s lovely architecture. Across the way is a full restaurant for those on long layover from their train rides or just wanting to escape the bustle of downtown LA.

What I Wore

For this night of having a drink at one of America’s great crossroads, I put on some comfortable yet elegant, vintage style that seemed appropriate for visiting a historical landmark. I opted for a vintage dress in warm fall colors. I actually purchased this dress from Pinup Girl Clothing’s Micheline Pitt who noted how much she loved the details of circus characters in the print and the pearl studded details in the front. I paired it with a vintage cigar box purse and t-strap vintage inspired heels. It set nicely against the background the Union Station’s tile and for a drink at the bar.

Dressing Vintage Style for a Night Out with History

If you’re headed out to your own local historic landmark or any place that makes you feel transported back in time, bring a bit of vintage style just as ladies did a few decade ago when looking classy and feminine was de rigueur. This classic 1940s inspired chiffon swing dress features a vintage caped bodice with a teasing and pleasing keyhole, fitted waist with sash tie, and crepe lined swing skirt. A cream-colored, vintage style purse and t-strap shoes complete the look. Click the links to shop* the look!

Hope you get a chance to take in a bit of history at a landmark near you!

Union Station is located at 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Traxx Bar is just inside the main front doors in the waiting area.

To the past,
Kastle

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Tags: bars in Los Angeles, Historical Sites, Kastle Waserman, things to do in Los Angeles, vintage style

Ladies Tea Party with Vintage Style

Posted on October 11, 2015November 21, 2015 by stilettocity

Ladies who get together for afternoon tea time is a classic social tradition that dates back to royal Britain’s Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, who started drinking tea and eating light snacks when she became peckish in the afternoons.

Now it’s a great excuse to get dressed up with some vintage style and get together with the girls. Recently, a bunch of us got together at one of Los Angeles’ prettiest tea rooms at the Biltmore Hotel.

About 20 of us graced into the Biltmore’s glorious Rendezvous Court in full vintage outfits, including hats and gloves . The hotel patrons didn’t quite know what hit them as we snapped photos and took our seats at the round tables. The waiter served us tiered trays of little fingers sandwiches of salmon and egg salad as well as so many yummy cakes, cookies, scones and macaroons! We chose from a generous selection of black, white, green, oolong and herbal teas that made it all go down heavenly!

And we all really enjoyed the beautiful surroundings – and I don’t just mean all my lovely gal pals! The Biltmore’s Rendezvous Court was designed by Anthony Heinsbergen. The three-story ceiling is Moorish plaster with hand-painted beams, carved wood and 24-carat gold accents. The bronze and crystal chandeliers were imported from Italy in 1923; the fountain was added in 1986 and is made of Tennessee rose marble.

The grand bronze doorway is designed in the Spanish Baroque style, with an astrological clock installed in 1923. It’s been seen in films “Daredevil,” “The Nutty Professor” and “Beverly Hills Cop” as well as TV shows “Without a Trace, ““Mad Men” and “Heroes.”

What I Wore

Our ladies tea was clearly a vintage style, dress-up event with hats and gloves recommended. We wanted to go back to a time when people dressed in their best for a special occasion. I paired a red lace vintage dress with some dramatic black accessories including a vintage, wide-brimmed hat and black silk short gloves. I added some red flower hair clips to the hat band to tie the look together.

How to Dress for a Vintage Style Tea Party

Plan a tea party with your girls and use it as an excuse to put on some glamorous vintage style of your own. This stunning dress is both feminine and unique with a beige lining topped by a black mesh overlay and velvety swirls. While it is new, vintage reproductions style, you can also search for an authentic vintage dress on eBay. Add in some color with burgundy accessories such as a feathered hat and gloves with a black bow detail to tie back into the color of the dress. Click the links to shop* this look!

Hope to get a chance to take in an afternoon tea soon!

The Millennium Biltmore Hotel is located at 506 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90071-2607. Traditional afternoon tea is served here Saturdays and Sundays. 2-5 p.m.

Tea time!
Kastle

Photos courtesy of the Biltmore Hotel.

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Tags: Kastle Waserman, retro style, vintage style, where to go in Los Angeles

Doing Donuts with Rocker Style

Posted on October 4, 2015October 5, 2015 by stilettocity

I recently attended a dinner party and offered to bring a dessert. Since my pal was a friend from my rock ‘n’ roll club days, I knew there was one place I had to go to bring some rocker style to the event – Donut Friend on the now-trendy York Blvd., where the donuts are unique concoctions named after alternative bands.

The quaint little donut bar smells instantly of the sugary goodness when you walk in the door. And it’s hard to choose between picking your favorite band and all the yummy flavors. With names like the S’Morrissy and Stiff Little Butterfingers, it’s a rocker’s dream and clearly run by some pretty cool people with good taste in music! You won’t find boring ol’ glazed and sprinkles, but rather a taste-bud tingling mix of inspired ingredients. Got an idea for a donut? Tell ‘em! They’ll even custom make it for you from their collection of fillings and toppings.

What I Wore

I put together a rocker style look with my favorite Ramones t-shirt and pencil skirt. Some rockin’ accessories pulled the look together with leopard print hair clips, spikey statement necklace, silver bracelets and strappy buckled heels.

Put On Some Rocker Style

Show off your rocker spirit with a t-shirt featuring your favorite band, like this one with Billy Idol, paired with a slinky pencil skirt that plays off the colors in the shirt. Don’t forget the details such as this bold, silver statement necklace, cute, rockin’, leopard-print hair bows, multiple silver bracelets, and studded, strappy high heels. Click the links to shop* the look!

Then party on! Hope you get a chance to check out the rocker style treats of Donut Friend soon!

Donut Friend is located at 5107 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90065

Rock out,
Kastle

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Tags: Kastle Waserman, rocker style, things to do in Los Angeles

Bringing Retro Style for Cocktails at the Idle Hour

Posted on September 26, 2015March 3, 2016 by stilettocity

There’s nothing like a drink with a good gal pal to help you blow off steam from a long week and provide an excuse to get dressed up in some cute retro style and gab about clothes, makeup and upcoming events.

Recently, a very cool bar opened in the North Hollywood area and you can’t miss it driving down the street. Shaped like a huge wooden barrel, Idle Hour was originally built in 1941 following on the heels of “programmatic architecture,” in which buildings were designed in unusual shapes to catch the attention of passersby.

It served as a tap room for several decades, then a Flamenco bar in the 1970s. The place then began to fall into disrepair. It wasn’t until LA Magazine columnist Chris Nichols petitioned to get the venue historical status in 2010 that it was set to make a comeback.

Purchased by the 1933 Group in 2011, the place underwent a massive renovation and emerged this past February with a shiny new look both inside and out. Pull up a seat inside the huge barrel and you’ll feel as though you want to drink the whole thing when you see the variety of beers and ales on tap. The place also serves light meals, lunch and brunch. There is a lovely patio out back surrounded by twinkling lights. Looking over everyone is a giant bulldog structure, a replica of the 1920’s era Bulldog Café.

The place is perfect for getting an eyeful of the beautiful architecture and the crowd of hipsters that frequent it.

What I Wore

For this historical landmark that spans several decades, I put on a little retro style with a Tiki-inspired ‘60s look. I paired a bright green vintage shift dress with bamboo hoop earrings with matching bracelets and a colorful swirl colored Bakelite bracelet. My purse has a Tiki print with bamboo handles, and gold mule slide shoes kept me light on my feet.

What to Wear to a Hipster Bars in Los Angeles

In LA, it can be tough to stand out in a crowd of beautiful people. For a long time, wearing black was a way to look cool but I say make a statement in a bright color and a bit of retro style to show your fun personality on a night out. This bright green dress with very California palm tree fronds will catch the light in a dark bar as will your colorful heels. Keep accessories simple with a textured black clutch and gold bracelet that says your in for a good time day or night!

Hope you get a chance to check the Idle Hour. Want to try out some other bars in LA? Be sure to hit the tag below for more blogs on bars!

Idle Hour is located at 4824 Vineland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 91601

Cheers,
Kastle

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Tags: 1960s fashion, bars in Los Angeles, Historical Sites, Kastle Waserman, retro style, things to do in Los Angeles

Glam Rock Style at the Bowie Mick Rock Photography Exhibit

Posted on September 18, 2015October 5, 2015 by stilettocity

Wham! Bam! Thank you Ma’am! It’s a glam rock feast for the eyes at the Taschen Gallery with its current exhibit, “Mick Rock: Shooting for Stardust. The Rise of David Bowie and Company.”

As a lover of glam rock style and music, I had to go check it out and get an eyeful of Bowie in his prime during the 1970s. So many photos of Bowie, with his shock of bright red hair, colorful suits and wild makeup, as well as candid moments backstage and having a meal. Photographer Mick Rock is known as “The Man Who Shot the Seventies” because he and his lens seemed to be around during rock ‘n’ roll’s most pivotal time, shooting everyone from Bowie to the Sex Pistols. During Bowie’s legendary Ziggy Stardust period, Rock was his official photographer. The exhibit also features some of Bowie’s glam rock peers including Iggy Pop, Debbie Harry, Queen and Lou Reed, all shot by Rock. The whole gallery is a rock ‘n’ roll oasis. Want to keep the glitter in your eyes long after you leave? Then you can take home one of Taschen’s amazing coffee table photography books featuring all kinds of pop culture icons, which are for sale in the gallery.

While you may know Bowie, if you’re not familiar with glam rock, here’s a quick crash course – it’s a style of music that erupted in the 1970s, mostly out of England. Gender-bending performers wore wild, colorful outfits with lots of sparkles and glitter, chunky furs and platform shoes, for an over the top spin on glamour. It was theatrical, sexy and shocking at the same time. If you want to make a glam soundtrack, be sure to include Bowie, T-Rex, Queen, Slade, Sweet and Mott the Hoople. It’s sure to be the best party music you’ve ever heard!

What I Wore

I had to slip into a little glam rock style to check out this exhibit so I reached for my hot pink pedal pushers and mule heels, topped with a cut-out top and spikey, sparkly, rhinestone hoop earrings. I accented with a cuff bracelet paired with a chain bracelet with rhinestone star.

How to Dress Glam Rock Style

You have to think like a rock star to pull off a glam rock look. Think bigger than life, shiny, sparkly, sexy and fun loving. Star icons are big for the glam rock look and this starry bomber jacket is perfect for a night out. Pair it with a very glam, bright pink furry top. If midriff exposing isn’t your thing, opt for a rocker chick T-shirt with your favorite glam rock band, like this one featuring T-Rex. A silver, sequin mini skirt will make those hips shake to the beat. Ground the look with a pair of chunky, platform shoes. (Click the links to shop* this look!) Don’t be shy with your makeup either. This isn’t time for the natural look. Add some glitter to your eyeshadow and a pop of bright lip color.

Hope you get a chance to catch the Bowie photo exhibit or go out dancing to some glam rock music!

The exhibit Mick Rock: Shooting for Stardust. The Rise of David Bowie and Company runs through Oct. 11, 2015.

Taschen Gallery is located at 8070 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048

Rebel, rebel,
Kastle

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Tags: '70s fashion, glam rock, Kastle Waserman, rocker style, things to do in Los Angeles

Putting Together a Retro Style Day to Night Outfit

Posted on September 7, 2015October 5, 2015 by stilettocity

I had the great pleasure of guest blogging recently for the Pinup Persuasion blog and I shared how to use a vintage dress in a day to night outfit – because we all know what it’s like to get into a time crunch and you still want to look good! (Read the article here.) I shopped my own closet for what I had in my retro clothing collection to create a day to night outfit and I wanted to put together some tips for how to dress with style in a similar look, even when you don’t have time to go home and change.

How to Put Together a Vintage Inspired Day to Night Outfit

Pick a rockabilly style retro dress. There are many vintage inspired dresses available such as this floral one, or search eBay for a 1950s dress. (Click the links to shop* the look!)

Putting Together a Daytime Vintage Look

Grab a light sweater in case you catch a chill or the AC is cranked up somewhere you happen to be. A classic cardigan always works or even this little cropped sweater is perfect if you have a full circle skirt.

Black flats are always a sure bet if you’re running around town, they’re comfortable and will take you through work or a day of shopping. Add some pizzazz to your outfit with a pop of color such as this bubblegum pink purse. Use accessories to add more vintage style to the look with this matching earrings and brooch set.

Don’t forget your makeup, your lipstick color can totally change your fashion look from day to night. Partner this sweet retro outfit with soft pink lipstick.

Take Your Outfit Day to Night

When the sun goes down it’s time to add some sparkle and drama to your retro fashion. Swap the sweater for a beaded cardigan. Carry just your essentials in a little deco style clutch. Catch the light with some rhinestone earrings and put your best foot forward in shimmery, rhinestone t-strap heels. Gloves make the look even more dramatic. Opt for satin gloves (available in the most bridal sections) or go to eBay to find a pair of vintage gloves for an even more authentic look.

Don’t forget to change out your lipstick, a perfect red shade says classic rockabilly girl. Maybe put your hair into evening updo.

Then you’ll be ready for a night on the town. All dressed up and nowhere to go? Be sure to check out the Where to Go section of Stiletto City for nightclubs in LA and other hot spots!

Stay stylish,
Kastle

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Tags: Kastle Waserman, pinup style, retro style, rockabilly style, vintage style