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
It’s pretty gaudy, but somebody loved it back in the day! It can be worn off the shoulder, peasant-style, too. There’s nothing expensive about it, with simple workmanship and “cheap” fabrics so it makes me wonder if this was a wartime frock. If not, it was post-war early Fifties.
Anyway, it’s fun and the second dress I’ve come across in the past couple of years in this style. Must have been at the back of someone’s closet or basement for a long, long time – just safeguarding those special memories of a dance or party date. Hmmm, you just never know. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This is a really nice little nightwear combo. The early ’60’s is just about the last time we’ll find the truly beautiful things. With the exception of some exclusive designer or handmade item, the trims are not nearly as lovely as during the ’50’s and before and the quality of the nylon or silk is noticeably inferior when you get into the mid ’60s and ’70’s.
As I’ve said before, in my opinion you can’t improve much on 1930’s, 1940’s and 1950’s lingerie/sleepwear when it comes to overall quality and luxurious beauty. The fabrics from that time and the craftsmanship of the trimming detail is the best!
This is not a va-va-va-voom ensemble, but it is lovely and, if you wish it to be, very sexy in its own way. The embroidery trim is done well and the buttons are the nice, sturdy and well-formed little pearlized ones that I always love on true vintage nightwear and sweaters.
Sorry I can’t tell you the maker as I write this, that is, if the tag is still in – since many of the similar items I find no longer have theirs. Sometimes it’s easy to trace their identity despite that – when you’ve been in this racket for a while you know ’em by sight . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
More mid-century lingerie – this one from the Post-war era in run-proof nylon tricot. By Rogers, it is a quality item and I don’t think I’ve EVER seen this style before! It has no sleeves, and is made to wear as a cape over the shoulders which ties at the neckline.
What a pretty way to spend a while over coffee in the morning, or reading in bed when there’s a chill in the air?
Pale pink color (the whole thing is prettier in reality than in this photo) and delicate accordian pleating with a ruffle at the neck and wrist areas. Perfect condition, and in my size. What could be better? It’s definitely a keeper. Wonder who wore this beauty in 1950 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
There are already at least a couple of dressing gowns in my collection that date from the 1930’s – 1940’s and are made in a similar style. So, although this was was made 30 to 40 years later and the fabric isn’t as nice, it’s pretty true to the design.
I’ll sometimes pick up retro items made by famous vintage makers because they do a pretty good job. This one still qualifies as “true vintage” because of being at least 30 years old, but the real 1940’s would always be my favorite!
Anyway, a pretty find and worth adding to my treasures.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Isn’t this an absolutely stunning color? Combine that with the sophisticated tailoring, elegant simplicity and gorgeous fit and we have an incomparable dress that rivals anything available today. In my opinion, it wins hands-down on quality and unique design.
Heavy taffeta like this almost has a presence of its own when the wearer walks into a room. In spite of the color, this is not a flashy dress but it will draw many eyes to it.
Although it has no maker’s label inside, I am sure that it was made by a clothing company rather than by an individual seamstress. The tailoring details are complex in the bodice and achieves the excellent and eye-catching fit.
Where would you wear this? – a party, dance, dinner, special event – it would even make a great part of a bridal group. Jewelry? – rhinestones, pearls, the real thing. Nothing too flashy or “too much”, but this dress can support something outstanding!
Shoes? I favor a pair in the same color, with your jewelry accents taking the attention. At another time, in another place I found a pair from the same era that coordinates perfectly – stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
I regret that WordPress or Microsoft did not correct the orientation of this photo, but we are grateful for what they do –
Here is the lovely bride in her gown (and high heels). In 1944 it was a rare blessing to be able to find a wedding dress to purchase since wartime rationing and restrictions were so stringent – especially in Britain, where the wedding took place.
Look at that train! In satin (probably rayon), with puffed sleeves (no pads) and points at the wrists (love those!). What a beautiful, figure-hugging fit this fabric provides. I was able to see the original photographs of her in it, with a LONG veil, borrowed from an in-law but no flower bouquet because they couldn’t be bought then. Her attendants carried lilacs from a neighbor’s garden and she carried a prayer book (like Grace Kelly 11 years later). The groom was also extremely handsome in his army uniform.
What a treat! Can’t go into the story of her betrothal and marriage, but it is fascinating and she is writing a memoir. At 94, she enjoys a good party and has worn the dress on occasion, just for fun. May we all be so blessed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
A mini-length lingerie slip. What caught my eye most, after the usual evidence of age and quality, was the wide and heavy lace band at both top and bottom.
It has embroidery and applique treatments there and will be a pleasure to wear. Plus, so important to have a variety of lengths, colors and styles in order to have a perfect fit for every dress that might need one.
Often the shorter ones are difficult to find in true vintage examples. So, I’m thrilled!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Here’s my main collection of true vintage white rhinestone collars. From simple and sweet to sassy and sophisticated. These were made between 1940 and 1960, I’d say. Some might be older, or slightly newer.
To be worn alone, or almost alone. Unless you’re doing a period costume from a time when overkill was the usual fashion and everything was worn as a set, these lovelies shine most brilliantly when standing alone.
Just my opinion, for what it’s worth . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This is one of my favorite little necklaces, from the 1950’s or early Sixties. Very sweet – love the rhinestone bow and the faux pearl drop. The chain, also, is studded with rhinestones all the way.
The earrings are a bit later – late Sixties or Seventies, but they coordinate nicely. A parure like this would have been perfect with a formal pouf dress – depending on the age of the wearer and the occasion.
Definitely costume jewelry, but so pretty . . . .. . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Magicvintagespy 