Genuine mink fur novelty jewelry had a bit of mid-century popularity during the 1950’s. Kind of a fun idea at the time, BUT –
if we could go back in time to advise our young grandmothers, we might say “Be careful what you ask for!” This whimsical little mink “brooch” may not be exactly what Ethel had in mind. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Here are great nylon slips for Spring into Summer wear. When the weather has us in the doldrums, these will pick up the spirits and coordinate with the lovely pastels we are beginning to wear again.
Gorgeous lace and embroidery – the slip on the left may even be 1940’s. We know we’re getting into the 1960’s with the one far right because of the fabric and construction – not just the length – .some pre-WWII slips were short, too, depending on the style.
It’s fun to know all the details but I love each one . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Here’s Marlene in a great hat – might look good with that bright red ’40’s suit shown a few days ago . . . . . . .. It’s a beanie style with a tassel, all in Valentine red wool.
This is another example of what I call “witty” vintage style – fun, even amusing, details or designs that just make us smile. True vintage is full of that in a much better way than I ever see it done now.
Take a look at the necklace, too. I’ve got another picture of it coming later, but this one might even have better detail resolution.
Time to switch a bit, away from the truly Wintery-looking things. The hat collection is coming, plus some jewelry – though most of that will be later – maybe this summer. Got to get through the LBD’s first, and the shoes, some more Springy things plus the odd this and that which always turns up. In other words, stay tuned . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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I’m on a roll finding mid-century dresses and there’s more to come, but first –
Let me show you the neatest thing that also revealed itself . . . . . . . . . . .
COTTON SCARF PRINTED AS A COMMEMORATIVE ITEM FOR QUEEN ELIZABETH II’S CORONATION IN 1953
It’s written in the right-hand lower corner. Love the kitchy illustrations. Perfect for my 1950’s home!! Not to mention the closets . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Wow again. Tons of fun! This one didn’t cause the mystery and the “a-ha” moments that the dress did, but it was just an immediate Back to the Future experience!!
The moment I spied these crazy cats, I was transported to the early 1960’s. There is a cartoon show from that time called The Jetsons, still available to watch online. I can see Mrs. Jetson wearing this in the kitchen or, maybe, their pet cat looked like this. It just made me laugh. And, guess what else I found – the elusive but ever-present safety pin inside. Seems like no mid-century homemaker wanted to be caught without one at hand.
Lots of clues here – no mystery about getting it right. . . . . . . . I take back what I said yesterday – it is just as fun to get knocked over the head with all the information as it is to solve a mystery, just not the same fun. But, hey – fun is fun, right? Sounds like a silly argument to me . . . . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Very tidy and elegant, these small hats would look lovely with many outfits, from black to pastels. From the Fifties or early Sixties, they are a quintessential lady-like finish to your ensemble. Beautiful face-framers – perched on the crown.
They are made of cellophane straw, a popular mid-century hat material. Subtle and chic, but oh, so glamorous. . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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From the West and Down East – a vacationer’s mid-century mementos of a fun holiday!
Fun cotton linens for the kitchen and dining table were big favorites during the 1950’s and 1960’s. Many a traveler picked them up as souvenirs, too. I just love the funky and funny prints!
As always, these items tell a story. You could have practically driven through California without a map after buying this muslin tablecloth. Although the apron doesn’t have any words, the cute illustrations of pilgrims/immigrants in their native dress and the border designs contain a lot of information about the communities or cultures that they came from.
Also, if you can do a close-up look, you’ll see a small vintage safety pin stuck in the waistband. I always like to leave things like this in place because that’s just how the cook or housekeeper wore it during her daily routine.
These linens will last forever if they’re looked after well – remove stains quickly and wash gently. I’ll bet that I can channel some very interesting vibrations with these in my kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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The diva who owned these knew what she liked, in two colors. Sold by J.C.Penney’s back in the day; no well-dressed woman would be caught without her high heels.
These are sassy little numbers, aren’t they? Just right for the next cha-cha party. Highball anyone?
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Thrill, thrill, thrill – I love finding these guys!! Bless your hearts, 1940’s women. You took such good care of your shoes!!!!!!!!!!!!
With leather soles, so that they can be repaired as-needed forever. Visible wear of the uppers and insoles is practically non-existent.
These were more-or-less everyday shoes for a town gal who would wear them in the house and on errands. They could pass nicely for modest dress-up occasions, too. (Weddings, funerals, a dinner date).
Ever practical and always aware of the deprivations of the Depression and war, war-time and post-war era ladies got in touch with their courage and capability. It was only after the soothing and reassurance of the Fifties economic boom that they allowed themselves to be slipped back into their “place” as model housewives and mothers who became trapped in their new, modern homes.
The rest is history, which we’ve all contended with since. But, I am proud to step into this woman’s shoes . . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Though not purely the best of the best, this is a good example of faux fur that has been available for several decades. I have others from the 1950’s. It’s a reliable true vintage brand, and is a fabulous alternative to real fur – has to be seen up close and touched to be sure. Some made now require a second look and feel. Vive les animaux . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
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