A very pretty example of mid-century style and tailoring.
From shopping, to work, to date – meeting or picnic, this dress is very simple, but stylish and feminine, too. In pale blue, there are two layers of fabric. The outer layer is somewhat sheer with embroidery all over.
The bodice has an interesting shape, with deep pleats along each side that give it some fullness and a cap sleeve effect. This frock definitely has style and could be dressed up or down – very versatile.
Many of the dresses from late ’50’s to early ’60s have elegant details like this. The form-fitting cut of that era seen in sheath dresses is so flattering! True vintage garments are rarely run-of-the-mill and often show these style surprises and very pleasing lines.
That’s one reason why they’re so much fun to find. Each one is a surprise and you just never know . . . . . . . . . …
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Summer, here we come – Yes?
Here we have two beautiful sundresses, in similar colors. Not really my colors – I’m a Summer skin-tone, rather than Spring or Fall, but who’s going to quibble when faced with these!
The one on the right has more detail on the bodice and even has bows fixed to the shoulder straps in back. It has a covered belt, whereas the other dress just has piping at the waist.
They’re both lovely, in a beautiful cotton. Madge wears it very well, don’t you think? Such exceptional fit and tailoring.
Either of them could go from simple daytime activities to work (probably with a sweater or jacket), dinner, dancing, a party or date.
I often see dresses like this in movies from that era. Wear them and step into a time warp . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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This is an LBJ rather than an LBD – a Little Black Jacket. One of my very favorite surprise finds! And, just perfect for shoulder-season wear – when it’s not too hot or too cold outside yet.
Late ’50’s – early ’60’s – just about First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy’s time. She could have worn one like it over a dressy LBD or evening wear. Look at the trim around the collar and the heavy, glossy fabric.
It has 3/4 length sleeves with bows at the cuff, large covered buttons and a bow at the neck and falls straight in a boxy cut. Two side pockets at the hips. The length of the hem would also be 3/4 on a taller person.
From a Chicago clothier – maybe tailor-made and very distinctive. Never run across one like it before, or since, but I have seen pictures of them from that time.
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Here’s the flip-side of sweet – my favorite strapless number from the 1950’s. Rayon with beading and a killer fit.
I love to imagine where this one has or could have been. Smokey nightclubs come to mind. Maybe she was a singer.
It was a dark night in the city. The story you are about to see . . . . . . . ….. . .. . . . . … . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Yes, I keep pulling out my red dresses for St. Valentine’s, but hey – who cares if it’s “traditional” – they’re FABULOUS!
This luscious dress is another that Madge can’t wear, because of the side zipper at the waist. Soon, I want to put it (and several others like it) on Stella! A hanger doesn’t do it justice, but imagine it as it fits – with a fitted waist and very full skirt.
Of 100% silk, with gold accents all over. I believe that it is Asian silk and was probably custom-tailored there for someone from the “West” who was vacationing or living there for a time.
It’s a beautiful dress and I gasped when I discovered it – it also fits me! What a perfect frock for a Valentine’s party or a really special date.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Can’t wait to put this on Stella some day, now that I’ve got a model who can wear it!
Now we’re getting REALLY serious – this velveteen sheath with a cowl neckline and fabulous shoulder tails is the ultimate chic. Dark red with a rayon lining – it’s one of a kind.
Imagine an entrance in THIS! Aside from the color, it’s not in-your-face, but would initiate and hold stares of wonder and disbelief.
You must be prepared to wear a dress like this, and it’s not for anyone without PRESENCE. Your date had better have some, too. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
