Here we have a Lanz Originals cotton flannel gown from the 1960’s. Yes, the hearts & flowers print is too sweet but for this kind of quality and warmth, I bit and bought. I always trust their true vintage clothing to be well-made and classic – in fact, they’re very traditional. Not my favorite, but on a blustery winter night by the fire . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Just fabulous! Custom-made by the same woman, of ultra-soft cotton in a wonderful 1940’s – early 1950’s style that I just love. And, in my size!!!!!
Nipped waist, flirty skirt, shoulder pads and cute sculptured plastic buttons. What could be better? Perfect condition, washed to incredible comfort. I don’t usually go for floral prints, but who can quibble? . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Just found this mid-century custom-tailored frock that is modeled after Marilyn’s famous costume in the 1954 movie The Seven Year Itch. Although it’s a bit too sweet, made of cotton poplin flocked with cotton candy pink and green, the style is close to the original.
Some gal got carried away by that sidewalk scene above the subway grate. It’s always fun to find something that tells a story, like this.
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
We’re working our way from the Fifties into the Sixties here, starting with a beautiful nylon shorty nightgown with embroidered bodice. This was standard nightwear back in the day.
Second, a lightweight cotton smock, with embroidered pocket. It is even older, and was very common as a morning house-dress. Delicate and sheer, they are quite feminine and usually in pastel colors.
The brown checked house-dress, which can even be belted and worn to town, is early Sixties leisure wear, with the big flower applique’ detail that was popular then.
This was the kind of thing women wore at home early in the morning or between changes of clothing. You often see examples in old movies. They’re fun to have for those hang-around-the-house times. I always pick up good examples when I find them . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Found yesterday! A beautiful cotton sundress with matching bolero jacket. These lady-like dresses were popular in the early 1960’s for everyday wear. Perfect for a day at the county fair.
Another reason for the good condition is the quality of the fabric and the workmanship. A maker’s tag is still at the neckline and indicates that it was from an upscale mid-priced clothing line.
It’s another rare find. I’m always so thrilled with the lovely tailoring details on these older dresses. As usual, someone cherished this one and took excellent care – there’s hardly a bit of wear. Just another day in the life of . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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
Gearing up for summer with a pair of true vintage men’s swim briefs. I think this is a really flattering length – not too short nor too long.
Simple construction with a button at the waist. These were a hand-me-down from a family member and I’m so glad to have them in my collection!
Just think of all those vintage beach photos with surfboards and old movies and TV shows – didn’t the guys look so much more hot?
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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This dress was custom tailored at home, I’m sure – though some simple items like this were commercially made then, too. Many women who wore these day – in and day – out as house dresses and for working were accomplished seamstresses and made most all of the family’s clothing.
I love the pretty plaid cotton here, and the cute sculpted buttons at the neck and the pocket flaps. Since the original belt was missing, I made a tie belt by taking a couple of inches off the hem, which was mid-calf length. Easy.
Probably, this one belonged to a woman who farmed – and I imagine that a small blue stain on the skirt happened when she made a blueberry pie. So many of these pieces tell a story, and you just never know . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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Not as elegant as the item posted yesterday, but wonderful in its own way. This sturdy cotton housecoat with a cheery floral print was just an everyday item, it has survived all these years primarily due to it’s quality fabric and solid construction.
In one way, it was a mess when I found it – covered with brownish spots that had undoubtedly been there for years. But, I know a gem in the rough when I see it and said “I can fix that!” And, with confidence and experience, I did.
It was well worth the gamble. Often this is true – sometimes it’s not and it is better to walk away. Knowing when to walk away is one of the skills I have picked up over the years and has saved me a lot of trouble and expense.
This one, because of its age, was a rare find – but not so awfully rare for the Magicvintagespy .. . . . . . . .poof!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
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