Now that we’re beginning to feel like getting out of sweaters and wool . . . . . . . Whether you’re clubbing or out for a very elegant dinner, this beautiful beaded shell would steal the show. Bead decoration was still done beautifully in the late ’50’s- early ’60’s.
Not the same as beading in the 1920’s and earlier, but equally nice. Dance the night away . .. . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
From a New York clothier, this frock with a shimmy-shake beaded bodice is classic 1960’s. The fully-lined black crepe dress with a knee-length hemline was a standard of 1950’s and early 1960’s cocktail party attire.
Fun elements of beading and flirty design were common in the Sixties. I love finding one of these – so wearable and always playful, while toeing the line with classic couture. You can wear it (almost) anywhere without raising eyebrows.
And, as always, quality and excellent condition for the past 45 – 50 years . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Here is a collection of several vintage handbags for parties and semi-formal to formal occasions. The significant features of these are pave’ rhinestones on clasps, faux pearls, plush velvet, gold-finished leather, double-sided box construction and a telescoping convertible handle.
Though tons of retro-style purses are made now, a true vintage one will have features that put it above the crowd. Anyone who knows, will realize that you are carrying something special.
These purses are from the Fifties and Sixties. They are simple, but of quality design and construction. A keen eye can spot the difference in materials and style elements.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Another pretty, pretty black crepe frock from the mid-century, embellished with bugle beads. Perfect for a cocktail party or a dressy date, etc., etc.,etc. When I tried it on size 2 Stella, it really had a 1920’s to 1930’s feel to the fit, with a slightly dropped waist and bow at the hip, plus drapey fabric and a slouchy fit on top.
Moving on to size 4 Giselle, the fit is still stunning but a little more trim and very classic. Grace Kelly would have been gorgeous wearing this in the 1950’s.
Put the dress on size 6 Madge and it gets very sassy, more of a mini-length and much more Mod – this is the size it was designed for – or was it? . . . . . . . . . The label would suggest so, but –
Isn’t this a good example of how a well-designed, garment that has been well-made of good-quality materials could look equally-beautiful on 3 different-sized women! It’s a keeper!! More finds to come . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
These bracelets are so distinctive-looking – so interesting, to pair with any casual or daytime outfit. They’d also go well into the night, with the right ensemble.
I’ve always pounced when I spotted something like this – rare and fabulous! Though they’re often made of pot metal and plastic (or bakelite), cast rather than hand-made, they are so unusual and will last a long time if you don’t mistreat them.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This is so bizarre – more true vintage white leather shoes with magnificently clean uppers. Moccasin booties are especially rare and fun to find.
A BIG fad for women in the 1950’s, they were often brought back from vacation as Southwestern U.S. souvenirs. People have been fascinated with the American West and the Native American culture for decades.
Just the thing to wear with jeans and they were perfect with Native American-made circle skirts and dresses, which were also very popular among more adventurous white American housewives in the Fifties and Sixties. These were probably made a decade later, but the style is classic. Also, with the Thunderbird – my personal totem . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
TRUE VINTAGE 1960’S FROCK FOR A HOLIDAY GALA IN VELVET & BROCADE
Isn’t this one a pretty thing? A perfect 10 – vintage size 10, that is. Of course, it’s got the classic styling of the early Sixties but with a fun touch of beaded fringe at the midriff. All the required tailoring touches make it a well-made garment – full lining, hanging loops, hooks and eyes and a deep hem, however . . . . . . .
the nicest thing, to me, is the beautiful fabric. Plush, sumptuous red velvet on top and a lovely brocaded material in the skirt. I can just imagine Jacqueline Kennedy hosting a Christmas party at the White House 55 years ago, dressed in a style like this. So glad that someone else loved it enough to keep it preserved in such wonderful condition for this sleuth to uncover today. The investigation continues – stay tuned .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Necklaces like these are not uncommon in thrift stores and lots of copies have been made more recently, BUT these are the real deal from the Fifties, give or take a few years.
In this case, the beads are plastic or composite, glass and metal. Sometimes you will find natural stone, including crystal. Sometimes they are nicer pieces, which you can pick out because of the construction, and sometimes very cheap or mid-priced costume.
For me, the deciding factor is always quality and appearance, as well as age. So-called “statement necklaces” are very popular now in mainstream fashion and these work well that way because they’re showy and draw attention.. Although they were very de rigueur back in the day, they are distinctive and stand out now and add a very definite vintage touch. These colors can work year-round, but I’d like them best in the Fall.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I have lots of mid-century beaded bags but this one’s a bit older and I especially like the shape of it, soooooo . . . . . . . . . . . .
of course I had to pick it up. This iridescent beige/gold color is so versatile to go with anything and everything. So pretty – it makes me think of Grace Kelly.
Perfectly clean inside and with beads intact, what could be better? .. . . . . . . .
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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