
Coming your way starting Wednesday. Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

Coming your way starting Wednesday. Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

When I don’t find the real 1940’s thing, this will do. When a dress is as nicely done as this one, I collect it and wear it with no worries.
In a pretty true-to-Forties style, of 100% rayon with an abstract leaf print, this frock wraps in front and ties to one side. Well-fitting with some smocked elastic in the waistband behind and well-placed buttons and snaps inside to prevent gaps. This is a design that rivals the best vintage styles with attention to tailoring detail and makes any garment a pleasure to wear.
Modest-sized shoulder pads and a midi-hemline add to the figure-enhancing final result. Easy, worry-free wear and flattering style never came any better. Although it’s only baby vintage, just about 35 years old, I’m pleased and will wear it a lot!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

In lustrous black nylon and lace, this is one of those wonderful slips that feel like heaven to touch. What you can’t see well in this photo, is that the bodice and hemline ruffle are in tiny accordion pleats.
The original label was removed, which I’m always sorry to see, but for a seventy-year-old she’s in marvelous shape. I have reinforced some places in the stitching that had become weak and re-set one of the straps. That’s all. I suspect that the “brown” lace was originally black and that it’s fabric has faded with age. I kind of like it this way, but may also dye it back to the original – easy to do with most slips because nylon stands up well to hot water.
I love it that we can now wear wonderful lingerie as dresses in the summer, for evening or as sleepwear. It’s also perfect under midi-length dresses from the late ’30’s to the early ’50’s, of course, (and 1980’s – wait till tomorrow).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This is such a WONDERFUL find (aren’t they all?)! It’s a bit of a mystery, which I love. . . .
The style is late 1930’s – early 1940’s and it’s been custom – made. There’s no label or sign that there ever was one. The bodice has embroidered netting (similar to the 1930’s house-dress I found a few months ago in Montevideo – remember?). It’s finished almost entirely with french seams. Little bow detail on the bodice – lots of hand-work.
The fabric is some kind of synthetic which isn’t like vintage fabrics I’m familiar with NOR modern ones!?# There is virtually no sign of wear and just a little bit of age or storage-related damage, which was easy to fix. The conundrum is – – – – – – – – — – – – – – – – – – :
it’s either true vintage from the WWII era OR a reproduction (not retro-style fashion) which has been expertly made to be identical to the originals. Whoopsie doo! Either way, it’s a fabulous gown and a rare and unique discovery which will look stunning on Stella. More to come . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

You’ll begin seeing them in a day or two. Stay tuned. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

Fun and interesting mid-century and antique table and bed linens often show up during my investigations. The prints are humorous, colorful and pretty. Modern copycats can’t come close! If there is handwork like embroidery or lace, it’s beautiful. I collect them, too. The mending and stain removal that is sometimes required is no big deal and anything with too much damage can be made into pillow covers and cloth napkins. I love using these things at home in my kitchen and bedroom, but there’s more . . . . . . . . . . .
Big pieces of fabric are also wonderful made into clothing and accessories. Trim can sometimes be added to other garments or a big piece of crocheted or tatted lace makes a beautiful dress or blouse. Can’t you just imagine this cloth made into a summer dress, skirt or blouse, maybe with a matching handbag? Can’t wait to use this cute tablecloth!
Potential vintage fashion treasures abound everywhere! Use your imagination and you never know what you may uncover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM