Back in the ‘ 50’s and ’60’s, purses made of woven materials like reeds, wicker, raffia, synthetic strands and other natural and natural-looking things were really popular. Some were decorated with whimsical designs and were very casual. Some were trimmed in leather and were almost dressy. Most were in-between, for everyday use.
I’ve found a ton of these over the years because they were so popular and are not really old, as vintage fashion items go. So, it did not really tax my sleuthing skills but, finding the best of these items in good condition can still be a challenge.
This one is a real cutie, with just enough attitude because of it’s structured shape and leather trim to have some high-fashion aspirations like lunching and club-prowling, which it may realize under some conditions.
However, it’s still just basically a small-time, hand-crafted little purse, even though it is from British Hong Kong. I don’t hold that against it one bit. Every wardrobe should have at least two or three of this genre, as they’re very versatile.
And, just like my example here, they often come from some pretty exotic places . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
I just love this thing! It’s not way old nor of any specific style, but it’s so cool.
I’m not sure if “hostess gowns” are a thing anymore, but certainly in the 1960’s they were a BIG thing. Maybe it’s because the patio and outdoor entertaining became a big deal in the early 1960’s.
Aside from the fact that your sleeves would always be in the punch bowl, this would be a lovely outfit in which to welcome guests.
Navy blue cotton blend, with little white polka dots and a fabric flower on the bosom. Plus, those witchy Stevie Nicks sleeves. I haven’t seen things like this in a long time .. . . .. . . . . . .
Morgana Martin, the Magicvintagespy
Blog: Magicvintagespy.com
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I just loved it when I found this! I still have two decorated circle skirts that relatives had picked up in Mexico. They were very popular in the ’50’s as souvenir items from a trip south of the border. Also, I’ve found several Native American blouse and skirt sets from that time. My mother had one which she, sadly, gave away without thinking I’d want it(!?#+!)
These were all the rage(?) in the late ’50’s – early ’60’s and lots of women bought them during a trip out west. Those who were fortunate to live out west often made them at home. They were made and sold by the Navajo tribe primarily, I believe – decorated in bright colors with yards of ric-rac, braid and ribbon.
If this one was not from the southwest, it was a take-off on that style. Always made of cotton,- this one is, too, with silver ric-rac and braid trim.
Tons of fun to wear! Although the native costumes would have a matching blouse, a sleeveless or short-sleeved white blouse looks really good. In the ’50’s, peasant blouses with elasticized necklines that could be worn off-shoulder were a big thing.
This is really an iconic style from back in the day. I’m glad to have several of them. As I said, they originated from aboriginal peoples in various countries and the gringos fell in love with them. Can’t argue with that!
Morgana Martin, the Magicvintagespy
Blog: Magicvintagespy.com
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Book: How to Find the Best in Vintage Fashion available on Amazon.com
This one might seem prim and unexciting by our standards today, but it was very normal everyday wear for women 60 or 70 years ago.
If you look at it in an unprejudiced way, it is really quite flattering and comfortable-looking. Let me tell you – the slinky synthetic poly or whatever fabric is like wearing your nightgown all day long!
These little prints were very popular on everyday dresses back in the day. They were almost as common and neutral as a solid color.
A homemaker could wear this, or a “career girl” – it would look appropriate on almost anyone almost anywhere. It was one of those no-fail outfits that you always want to have at least one of in your closet in case you suddenly have to go to a dicey appointment, or meet a scary person or blend in without being noticeable.
Do you have one or two? Because, you just never know .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Morgana Martin, the Magicvintagespy
Blog: Magicvintagespy.com
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Book: How to Find the Best in Vintage Fashion available on Amazon.com
This one is just pure smiles, to me. It’s only an everyday dress, but so cute!
Love those pockets and all the little details. And also, so well-made. This is not a fine garment, but it’s a sturdy one!
I expect that this dress was worn during the war years. No shoulder pads, but it’s got a kind of no-nonsense way about it, as did a lot of the clothing during rationing. This is something that Rosie the Riveter might have worn at home.
Many looked similar later on and even into the ’50’s, but they tended to be a bit more feminine and “designed” after the war was over.
I’m no university-trained costumer, but I think I’m right. Undercover investigators learn on the job and I’ve trained in the field – hunting down the elusive cloak (no daggers, yet, but you just never know) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Morgana Martin, the Magicvintagespy
Blog: Magicvintagespy.com
Google+, Facebook, Twitter & Pinterest
Book: How to Find the Best in Vintage Fashion available on Amazon.com
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