Two days ago I had the privilege of talking with two of the owners of vintage clothing stores in Melbourne who have been doing business for years there. Both of these stores were included in my book’s reference section two years ago, but I hadn’t had the opportunity of meeting these women in person until now.
Nicole Jenkins, owner of CIRCA, is a true ‘grande dame’ of the vintage trade and has written several books. One was awarded a bronze medal by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Trained as a costume designer, she really knows her stuff down to the most technical details. I certainly learned new things during our short visit and her passion for the care and conservation of true vintage fashion items plus her wealth of knowledge earn my respect. She has lovely items for sale, plus a huge inventory behind the scenes – ranging from 1820’s to the present day. Well worth a visit.
“Annie” and her husband have operated RetroStar for eleven years and are real veterans among vintage-hunters. They have a delightful collection of remodeled true vintage and original true vintage, plus a smattering of new merchandise. Jewelry, accessories and clothing of all types – dresses galore. I especially enjoyed their relatively new “Forties/Fifties Room” that is filled with gems from those decades, in beautiful condition. No matter what you’re seeking, there’s sure to be something of interest. They bring in large numbers of “new” items every month. Don’t miss it – lots of fun.
So there – what a treat! Just another of the “perks” of my sleuthing investigations . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
These pumps are a perfect cross between cute and stylish shoes and sensible footwear for an office or on-your-feet job. They’d go great with the slacks, skirts or dresses of that mid-century time.
By Air Step, one of the earlier makers of mid-priced shoes and purses that were sold all over the U.S. – almost like chain stores do now, but with a bit more personal feel. There was a whole basket of them then, some with a little more prestige than others.
I just love finding items that are hardly worn – it tells me such a story about the former owner, who cared for her wardrobe and used it lightly. Of course, there could be other explanations, but I’ve seen so many examples of this with older items that it seems like the most plausible explanation. The attitude toward clothing before 1970 was very different than what it is today.
This pair reminds me of the Mod British influence in the late ’60’s, with the short tie vamp and no tongue – it’s just decorative – they slip on. I also like the combination of smooth and suede leather and always love dark brown.
It’s a good work shoe, too. Comfortable to stand and walk in. Just right to wear with that pleated skirt or secretary dress . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Seventies shirts are always fun – polyester holds colors so vibrantly and the ’60’s & ’70’s were a time for great prints and designs. Some of the graphics were kind of ugly, too, but that’s part of what makes them so fun to wear. And some are really cute!
They’re good in cooler weather, but not for summer! Polyester was one of the “miracle fabrics” in some ways, but it has its limitations.
These are recent finds which I have added to my everyday closet. Not haute couture by any means, but I enjoy these easy wear/easy care items. However, no matter how “ordinary”, never mistreat your vintage treasures! I still care for them as if they were gold . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
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