The Skinny -- Doris and Romance

It's time for another classic movie lesson, kids!  I'm still griping about the other Blackbird leaving me for two whole weeks to traipse through Ireland.  While she was gone, I had to entertain myself, and what better way to do that than to watch movies on Turner Classic.  Music, fashion, and movie romance can comfort like nothing else can.

August is TCM's Summer Under the Stars Month, and the second day of the month -- right smack dab in the middle of her trip -- was Doris day.  That is, Doris Day day.  Hmmm, I thought.  This will make me feel better...

Now, we Blackbirds have some very particular inside jokes with this movie that I cannot divulge, but just know that Doris' spunky, slang-y, nightclub singin' character is one of our faves.  Plus, the clothing is just divine!  Like this beaded bow adorned dress:

Doris plays Georgia Garrett, a nightclub singer that plans lavish vacations she can't afford.  She meets high society lady Elvira Kent at the travel agency, and their passport photos get mixed up.  Elvira is certain that her husband is cheating on her, so she hires Georgia to take her trip in her place when she returns the photo.  Meanwhile, Mr. Kent hires a private detective to follow Elvira on her trip -- because he thinks she's cheating!  Of course, Georgia falls for the detective, and the romantic mix-ups begin. 

This was Doris' first movie role, and she got the part only after Judy Garland turned it down and Betty Hutton found out she was pregnant.  She was 23, and was known as a vocalist and band singer.  The role catapulted her into stardom, and earned an Academy Award nomination for her ballad, "It's Magic."  The song became a huge hit, and sold over a million copies.

The fashion is incredible.  Georgia got to travel with Elvira's wardrobe to make it believable, and I am envious!  Gowns, jewelry, accessories...it's a visual feast.  The costumes were designed by Milo Anderson.  Amazing!

Here's a clip of "It's Magic" for your enjoyment! 

And this is for the other Blackbird...