This super-fun summer version of the classic Weejuns is still true vintage but a more recent incarnation – made in the 1980’s or 1990’s, sometime before 1993. As we would expect, they are completely of leather excepting for some parts of the insoles. So, that means that they can be repaired forever when some wear appears.
Completely classic. How could I resist?
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Naturally, I collect true vintage pearl necklaces, real or faux, but in this case my attention is on the rhinestone clasp. The finish on the beads is worn in places, so they aren’t keepers, but the closure can easily be used on another necklace. That will add a perfect Fifties finish to any costume jewelry neck-wear. Worth having!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This pair could be a mate to another that I found last spring. The other was tortoiseshell, so these black ones would be a nice switch-off. I like the pearlized inside, too.
Although they may be only 20 – 30 years old, they were retro-style when made, designed after the styles of the 1950’s and early 1960’s. Good, heavy construction, though, and strong metal hinges. These will last a long time, too.
Definitely a worthy addition to the collection.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I have found lots of lingerie slips lately but haven’t published them because, though beautiful, they were not the most interesting or fine examples of vintage underclothes. In this case, you should see these pretty features.
Pretty pastels are always a favorite. Bright pastels, red and black are major favorites but I don’t think I have ever seen a mid-century nylon slip in royal purple!!!!!!!!! Maybe the previous owner dyed it to match a favorite dress?. . . . . . . Could have been, (nylon takes dye really well) but NO – the maker’s tag is attached as originally, with no evidence of exposure to fabric dye.
In the second close-up photo of the pale pink half-slip shows a beautiful applied design on the center front. I LOVE these, and don’t find them often anymore. Details done on lingerie up to the early 1960’s was often absolutely gorgeous.
Finally, on the oldest piece in this photo I’ve pictured the seaming detail that carefully shapes the bodice. Most items sold today are almost a one-size-fits-all construction, within a broad category such as S, M or L and don’t fit really well. This sacrifices a lot of their purpose (after all, these are supposed to be FOUNDATION GARMENTS which used to be designed to give support to and accentuate the fit of the clothing worn on top).
So, that’s a little session about the neat features of true vintage lingerie slips. I’m always on the look-out for them . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I’m including a little close-up photo here of the essential features of these wonderful hand-made belts from the 1940’s, 1950’s and 1960’s. The best were made by artisans in the Southwest U.S. and Mexico but many home-leatherworkers became quite good at the craft and could rival them, or almost.
Handbags, purses, wallets and belts were the most common items made but once I saw a full set of luggage at an auction. Almost got it.
The features that distinguish these pieces from newer and less worthy ones are primarily three: 1. high quality leather 2. deep carefully-done tooling in traditional designs, with nice finishing and 3. an adjustable snap-on/off at the buckle end and high quality silver or silver-plate buckle.
Rare enough to be worth pouncing on whenever seen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I have a couple of corded purses, but they’re all different and naturally one can never have too many. . . . . . . . . Although Garay purses are still not scarce, they are a very good true vintage brand so I’m always glad to find one. This clutch looks as though it was never used and has the nice feature of a center zip compartment, with an open pocket on either side. Still very slim, and more convenient than some little bags that will only carry a lipstick, a small wad of money and a key.
So, it’s a keeper.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
A gorgeous 1950’s nylon full slip by Dorsay. Such beautiful lingerie! The workmanship and materials can’t be rivaled by modern versions.
Just look at the tiny pleats on the bodice and embroidery at the hem – plus lace, etc. and wider straps. the heavy fee of the nylon fabric is a delight, too. I’m sad that it’s too big for me, but I have many lovely others and, I’m sure, more on the way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
HAPPY TURKEY DAY EVERYONE! We have so much to be thankful for, and I’ll think of all the excitement and happy times that this mid-century smock has probably seen over the years while I enjoy a beautiful meal at sea.
This is probably the oldest smock I’ve discovered, of delicious cotton that is SOOOOOOOOO soft now. Of course, it was meant to wear while cooking or doing housework, but I may wear it as a summer top, too. Over pants, shorts or a skirt it will be very cute!
I love to imagine the stories that my true vintage garments could tell and, if I look closely, I can find clues. This one tells of how hard it worked, but still held up for many, many years. It tells of how meticulous it’s wearer was in preventing stains, burns or tears. The only damage, which I fixed, was caused by the number of times that sash had been tied on . . . . . . . .
Thank you, also, to you – my faithful followers – who have stuck with me for years and to all who have enjoyed the fun and surprises with me.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Just found a trove of custom-tailored summer fashions, plus some accessory goodies. Wow, posts are going to be up to mid-December now so, stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Love the lines of this heel, and the leather construction. Heel caps are nailed on and materials all quality. When true vintage (at least 30 years old) and retro are combined in one piece, it’s all about style and quality to decide whether they’re a good choice or not.
Apparently made by a higher-end line of a popular brand from Brazil, which has done a lot of good vintage/retro styles. I’m guessing these are late ’70’s, ’80’s or maybe early ’90’s. It’s a skill to find old retro items now, that still have some of the good quality.
Rivaling the real 1950’s thing enough to be worth picking up. Such fun!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Magicvintagespy 