FLOWER POWER! Staying in the Sixties, I love this style! Half caftan/half gown; it accents the waist but hangs free behind and is almost like a cape or a kimono, with a little Nehru collar. Fun!
Haven’t found a piece of lounge-wear quite like this in a while, so I’m thrilled. The fabric, the print and the design are so iconic from about 1965 – about 1970. Fondue Party to Patio Party, here I come!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Another “new” Australian discovery! Although they’ve been making lots of look-a-like retro fakes for a while now, this one is undeniably true vintage, right down to its label.
I just LOVE this print. Again, not my own best colors but I can’t help enjoying it so much anyway. Even the true vintage labels are delights in themselves – often so artistic and interesting. Sometimes they’re funny!
In your standard poly/synthetic blend fabric of that day, it’ll be easy-care as long as treated gently. . . .
MORGANA MARTIN,THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Rare fabric, rare makers, rare designs. Men’s shirts, but small – for me! Love these!! I have a few, but these are unique. So fun to find labels that I rarely or have never seen, fabric that I had to research and these great prints that just pop out like nothing else.
And, as always, at a fabulous bargain . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Yes, I’m back at Headquarters now – unpacking and taking care of business. Although these finds are out-of-season right now, despite the heat, I like to show brand-new discoveries ASAP.
What makes these worthy of my closet? The styles are simple, but the vintage fabrics are REALLY NICE. Also, the hand-done tailoring touches, like a full lining, well-cut facings and hem allowances make them special garments.
I always pick up pieces of exceptional quality. They are rare treasure, not seen in the marketplace today. Stay tuned for more . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
A MOD PRINT IN RARE ARNEL FABRIC!
Moving forward in time 20 years or so, this iconic ’60’s dress is an unusual discovery. In virtually perfect condition, what a find!
The fabric, Arnel triacetate, was a biggie for a few years but soon gave way to acrylic and polyester. Granted, there are a few care issues that would have made the change more convenient but we’ve always lost something when those older fabrics were replaced with the “new and improved”. The sheen and the feel of this material has never been duplicated, as far as I can tell.
Of course, the rarity and special qualities of these old pieces are what give me the biggest kick when I find one! It would be boring if things made today looked and felt the same. Some day we’ll be able to see this only in museums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
JUST MADE FOR SWING DANCING – AND DON’T YOU LOVE THE NOVELTY PRINT?!
This discovery came from a different arrondissement, but still within the city of Paris. It is another treasure that only Stella can fit into. I’ll get her to model it after returning to headquarters. Also will be busy scouting out belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Couldn’t be more pleased, though, to find another wartime rayon frock in a fun, fun print. These are some of my favorite garments. This one tells the story of WWII as it was custom-tailored and shows the signs of saving on fabric and notions. The design is very simple with no extra decoration and a very narrow hem allowance, though the tailor did indulge in a big sailor collar with piping.
Such fun to find another rare novelty print – atomic squiggles with goofy birds and other animals. The color combos are also unique. Won’t ever find another one like it . .. . . . . . . . .
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
A PRACTICAL BUT CUTE MID-CENTURY COTTON FROCK FOR MAKING THE DAILY RUN TO THE MARKET . .. . . . . . . . .
In the same color(?) palette as yesterday’s dress, this one seems more down-to-earth but still has important elements of style. It was probably custom-tailored, too. The buttons are clear plastic with a Deco design. Like the other it needs a belt, but that’s not a big challenge.
Although knock-your-socks-off styles and fabrics send me over the moon, I never pass up a simple true vintage frock that is well-made. The material, notions and tailoring are always interesting. Plus, they usually look really good on, because the cuts tend to be so superior.
Giselle is feeling right at home and we’ll be getting a bit more exotic tomorrow . . … . . . . .
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
MID-CENTURY PRIMITIVE ART PRINT BATHING SUIT
Before leaving the Baltic, I couldn’t believe it! (Oh, yes, I could) . . . . A rare find of this mid-century swimsuit in near-perfect condition. It’s got that pretty-but-sporty look that was so popular then, in a classic sleek tank style with a mini-skirt effect right at the hips.
Adjustable button straps. molded bra cups and a back metal zipper. Just perfect for one of those tropical island movies of the 1950’s. And, of course, I carried it away for a mere song. You just never know . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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