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
True vintage from the 1950’s, this one was not made for a lunch date at the local diner. We’re in to Spring-weight fabric here, but black and white is always season-less (or is it dark navy? It’s close . . . .)
Just look at the beautiful drape on the bodice, and the sweet cap sleeves. The jacket, again, has 3/4 sleeves to show off the elegant gloves and fine bracelet or watch.
Another of those outstanding ensembles which can take you almost anywhere . .. . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This is a real pure silk, fully-lined knock-your-socks-off wiggle dress. I’ve been encountering a lot of those lately. Naturally, the fit is a bit snug behind.
In addition, it’s beautifully-tailored, with all the elegant and sophisticated touches that would be expected in a higher-end well-made garment. However, I don’t think that this was clothing only for the elite. Many of our mothers and grandmothers might have had one like it hanging at the back of their closets.
So, it’s just been one delight after another, as usual. I’m still not done showing things that were found during the past few months when my models were nowhere in sight so, stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
For dinner or after-work cocktails, this little number would fill the bill. Pair it with some matching blue pumps and you’d really be swank.
Simple as can be, but with the neckline decoration and the little vents at the waist, it’s very stylish. And, like a sheath dress, the fit is classic and really flattering.
If you are a DIYer, this style is very simple to sew. I have another very similar in lightweight soft green wool – made by the grandmother of a friend in mid-century, as a 3-season dressy day dress.
Just the thing to have in your closet for that unexpected invitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
What a beautiful find! Because of the traditional styling I can’t date it exactly, but it’s old. Rayon satin with lovely floral embroidery. Like the silk Cheongsam dress I found last week, this garment is so gorgeous and timeless – I’ll love wearing it for decades.
There’s another similar one of red silk hanging in my closet. It looks wonderful with dressy black crepe pants, a skirt or dress for cocktails or a special dinner party.
It’s off to the cleaners after I check the lining for any messages Mata Hari might have left behind . … . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
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
Oh, I LOVE this! Been looking for just the right one for a long time and here it is – in my favorite color (or one of them . . . . . . . . .).
This style dates from the 1920’s in Shanghai, China and the custom-tailoring is so classic and timeless that I can’t date this dress exactly. It could be true vintage or made recently – but – one rarely sees the pure classic style done so well in recent years. And, it is 100% embroidered silk, which is also a rarity. This may not be the case with garments made for Chinese women, but anything on sale for tourists or the larger market is usually of a lower quality, in my experience.
Anyway, I’m totally thrilled! So perfect for a cocktail party. I’ve had this frock in my sights for several 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
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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This dress is regal and majestic. The material is a heavy rayon with sheen – almost satin. It has black beaded designs around the neckline and each sleeve.
It’s an example of the design introduced by Christian Dior in 1947, I believe, called the “New Look” because it was so different from the severe, short and relatively plain clothing that women wore during WWII in order to conserve resources. Tiny waists, long skirts, luxurious material and extravagant decoration were “in” again.
Enough history lesson! It’s just a beautiful, feminine and stunning dress. The original owner had shortened it by 2 – 3 inches, so it was definitely mid-calf length when new. Fortunately, she didn’t cut off any material, so it could be let down again.
This is certainly something that you might wear to see the Queen, or the King, or the President or just your favorite prince . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This frock is in black crepe, with sheer netting on the bodice to give the illusion of a bare neckline. I have seen this feature on one other dress of mine – demure, yet stunning. Where the decoration begins, it is also lined. The shape skims the body and the whole effect is very flattering.
These dresses have side zippers or unusual back zippers which open only about a foot in the middle of the back, but don’t come to the top of the neck. I’ve seen this on ’40’s dresses only. It allows you to wiggle into the dress over your head but no hope if it’s too small for you! There’s no way that Madge could get into it, so I’ll have to re-photograph it on Stella some time.
Anyway, it’s beautiful and you can probably picture it. Perfect for dining and dancing, or even a dressy movie date. Put this beauty on and you just never know . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
