Today, on a more-or-less routine survey, I had wonderful good fortune. I’m just about to re-examine and photograph my newest acquisitions and get them ready to post on the blog. Because I have already scheduled postings for the next three days, expect to begin seeing these on Sunday, Nov. 13.
Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
In the early to mid-fifties there was a fad of putting Egyptian motifs on all kinds of fashion items, and I have several. This Egyptian style craze had also happened in the 1920’s – especially with furniture.
This is a costume set and it’s a lot of fun. Not really my colors, but it’s a family item and I enjoy it. Very unique.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Reminiscent of the 1920’s and ’30’s, on up through the Fifties, this metal mesh purse was made by an Australian company that was started by an emigrant couple in 1959. They closed shop in the mid-eighties, but children opened up again ten years or so ago. This is one of their original designs.
With a serpentine metal handle and enameled beige color, it’s very smart and perfectly Aussie!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
These beauties are quite large and they’re works of art. They’d be suitable (no pun intended) on a jacket a or coat like the one shown yesterday. Although they look like costume jewelry and are set with rhinestones or semi-precious stones, they are hand-made of sterling silver and could be classified as fine jewelry.
Back in the ’40’s – ’50’s there were “walking suits” made, which had jackets almost like small coats and substantial enough to be worn in cool or cold weather without an outerwear coat on top. A beautiful art piece like this on a lapel would be the perfect finish.
These are some of the most gorgeous statement pieces I own . … . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I love these jewelry items so much! Some might be earlier than Forties, too. If you’re not familiar with them they have a snap clip that attaches them to the neckline of a dress, sweater, jacket or coat.
Only the ones on top are small enough to wear on a lightweight dress – the others would only work on wool or heavy knit as they are quite substantial in size and weight. Very popular items during the wartime and post-war years and these are costume jewelry, without precious metals or stones.
To me, the look is feminine and dashing at the same time. That so much epitomizes the 1940’s woman who really developed a lot of strength during the second World War. We were never the same after that . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Glass beads, rhinestones, crystal, topaz, mother of pearl and silver, Lucite and nickel – these gorgeous pieces span from, I believe, the Twenties to perhaps as late as the early Fifties. It’s worth taking a close-up look.
Many of the chains are of silver. Most of the stones are semi-precious. The lobster claw clasp seen on the second to the left is a replacement for the original. The silver serpentine chain on the topaz pendant is also modern.
The large pink glass bead necklace was handmade in the ’20’s or ’30’s, with a brass chain. The rhinestones and Lucite are set in nickel or pot metal.
So pretty any time of year . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
FRENCH COTTON ROBE IN A NOVELTY PRINT
Originally purchased from a store on the Champs Elysee (the label testifies!), this mid-century wrap has tons of personality! The colorful motif of rajas, elephants, umbrellas and pennants is humorous like so many of the novelty designs of the early mid-century. It’s always a real plus to unearth one.
Dresses are always wonderful, but a garment like this one is unique and special. The open, kimono styling makes me think of lazy days in a Paris apartment with aromas of cooking, the taste of good cheese and wine and the laughter of friends and lovers. I might even add a snap, hook and a belt and wear it as a dress.
So much fun to find it! Giselle agrees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
LOOSE SHEATH IN CUSTOM-TAILORED SILK
I absolutely love this! The seamstress was almost finished with it, only needing to remove some basting stitches and do a little final finishing. It has loops for a belt, and there’s no way to tell if one ever existed. After a final fitting, I’ll see if and where some extra fabric exists that could make one.
Love the collar, and the pocket trim – the whole vintage styling. It will be very attractive and comfortable to wear. With the right finishing, it could be a day-dress or a simple house-dress. And it’s French! From Paris!! What more could I ask . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
FABULOUS RAYON GOWN FROM THE 1920’S – 1940’S
First, let me introduce Giselle, the latest addition to my group of models. She is from France, possibly via Montreal. Just look at that attitude! Although she’s new at this, she was born for it. Today she is wearing one of my first Paris finds. I absolutely LOVE discovering true vintage fashion from pre- to post-WWII and what could be better than Paris fashion?
This butter-yellow gown has ruching on the sleeves and bodice, plus bias cutting which makes for the great fit. The peachy beige lace at the neck is an unusual color combination, and very effective. Leave it to the French!
Yes, from an out-of-the-way place, but not if you do your homework. Thanks, Theodora! More on the way . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Staying in the early 20th Century for a brief while, here are two costume bead necklaces from the 1920’s. Longer length, which was popular then, twirling and bouncing down the front of ladies’ Spring frocks.
Although these are certainly not a dime-a-dozen all over the place, fortunately for us they have survived the years better than their clothing counterparts from that day.
Wonderful finds!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
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