This week we looked to the film world for our inspiration icon, and who better to select than the beautiful Dorothy Dandridge?

Her Carmen Jones role is so iconic that it served as the main inspiration for the styling and the shoot.

The styling imitates images of the actress wearing primarily curve-hugging clothing that always highlighted her figure.

Miss Jamaica Universe 2009, Carolyn Yapp, our model for the feature, allowed us to further indulge by shooting on location at her Beauty Bar – Nylorac. Resident make-up artist, Paul March helped us achieve the look of Carmen Jones. Carolyn’s shoulder-length hair was curled and pinned up to appear shorter.

Steps: skirt

1. Cut front (2) and back pieces of fabric.

a. The outer lap is 6″ wider than the inner in order to get three 1″ pleats.

b. The width of the inner lap piece is 3″ less the front waist measurement

2. Cut waistband: 3″ wide the length of the waistband is back waist + 2 x (front waist – 3″) – which is the width of the front pieces.

3. Insert back darts.

4. Join front and back at the sides.

5. Attach the waistband.

6. Attach fastenings (closures) to the waistband.

7. Finish edges and hem.

Fabric for the Carmen Jones look provided by Pablo’s

Make-up: Paul March, Nylorac