Isn’t she sweet? The early Sixties were still so precious, with their knee-length princess dresses. And, they brought shoulder tails back again for dressy frocks. So unusual. With sequins decorating the midriff, too . . . . . . . .
I’d be confused whether I was going to get married or going to the Prom . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This frock is another of my stupendous finds in Australia! Made somewhere between the 1940’s and 1950’s, it’s a gorgeous dress and I suspect that it really is from the Forties.
Looks like it’s hand-tailored, but by someone who was REALLY good. The collar is reinforced with hidden wire that is soft to wear, but holds the shape and lets you reshape the neckline as needed – an unusual tailoring feature that emphasizes the irreplaceable value and uniqueness of true vintage clothing and accessories.
It’s a demure style, despite the neckline plunge, and could be full-length on a petite figure. I wonder if it was made as a wedding gown? Although some were very fancy, many of that time did not have a lot of frill and fuss and were actually very tailored styles.
No matter what, I’m sure that this gown has at least one fabulous story to tell! I wonder . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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Isn’t this just to die for? Of course, the little bolero jacket comes off to reveal a sleeveless gown with slim straps – that’s for after the ceremony when the party really starts!
The tulle, lace and embroidery plus the poufy skirt are so Fifties and wonderful as can be. Don’t make ’em like this anymore . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
At first you might think that it’s the same dress I showed yesterday, but no – very different. Eyelet and lace and peep-through panels and flounces. One of the best of this genre had been hiding out for a long time. So glad I nabbed it – and so pristine!
As much as I love the old formals, this frock has a lot more versatility from day to night, though it probably could have gone to the Prom at some smaller school in it’s day. It would also make an interesting wedding dress.
That’s what’s so much fun about vintage fashion finding (well, one of the things) – the ideas and possibilities are almost endless. No rules!!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
What a stunning dress in linen white with old ivory lace sleeves and applique’ decoration. A little bit Mod and a little bit ethnic. LOVE the hourglass fit and the button and loop closures all the way down the back. It looks summery, but the weight of the fabric and full lining lets you do 3 seasons with it. Extremely well-tailored by Alfred Angelo. Could go to a formal dance or a wedding.
True, I’ve not been on the prowl as much lately – been involved in other business and maintaining my inconspicuous profile. However, this time I just couldn’t resist. So keep an eye out, because you just never know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Here’s a mid-century Prom or dance party dress for Spring. I’ve had this frock for several years and it is in wonderful shape EXCEPT that the bodice had some old perspiration damage under the arms. No fixing that . . . . . . . .SO, I replaced the overlay fabric on the bodice with a nearly – identical modern material.
To the naked eye in normal room light, the dress looks perfect. Only the digital camera with flash shows the difference – that aging of the fabric over 60 – 70 years has slightly changed its color.
I’m pleased with my repair, but here’s a good example of why saving any old fabrics left over from sewing or hem changes makes a lot of sense. You might need them some time 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
So typical between the mid-Sixties and mid-Seventies. In spite of all the frou-frou Edwardian/Prairie/Hippie stuff that was popular, plain knit dresses with clean lines were also a staple – more elegant and timeless, but still very fashionable.
This ensemble is a polyester or poly blend with an empire seam that rises from waist level up under the bust-line in front, fold-over neckline, back zip and a princess cut. The long-sleeve bolero jacket echos the military trend that was also popular then with it’s metal buttons.
Otherwise, the design is plain and undecorated. The fabric has a slight ribbed texture to add interest. It’s hard to call this dress “semi-formal” because it is so tailored, but at that time the style would not have been a day-dress.
Especially good for Spring or Fall. What a treat!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Still for cooler weather, but a pretty, peachy color. It’s hard for me to classify this dress. It’s kind of a hybrid style with an unclear purpose. Part Boho prairie, part Victorian lady, part Prom dress, part hostess gown. Got me!
The prairie-style and long Victorian/Edwardian-style dresses became really popular again in the late Sixties and early Seventies; plus the construction and materials give lots of clues to it’s original era.
Made of a heavy nylon-feeling fabric and has an embroidered makers’ tag. Never seen anything quite like it, but I was intrigued.
Could even be a Spring party dress! Good idea . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
What’s special about this find? Aside from being about 40 years old, it is made in Hawaii – which used to mean beautiful, quality cottons and rayons and lovely workmanship. This one doesn’t disappoint. It has a back zipper with a small bow trim there. The neckline has piping around it and the heavy cotton material drapes nicely. As usual, the print and color saturation are wonderful in these fabrics.
A straight, mu-mu style is very versatile and flattering to most figures.
Are you planning to attend or host some casual event this weekend, or just a laid-back day at home? In keeping with the green spirit of this St. Patrick’s holiday, I suggest a dress like this one. As long as it’s warm enough where you are, a dress like this can be worn almost anywhere, to do anything. It’s even possible to dress it up with jewelry, shoes and bag.
Vintage made in Hawaii has always been so distinctive – it’s a special look all its own. It does tend to follow style trends a bit, but some of the classic looks don’t change. I’ll be showing others that are older, too. These have been so popular over the years that they sometimes turn up in my searches and I’m always thrilled to find them. Just putting one on takes me to an exotic time in my mind and then, well you just never know . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Love, love, love this beautiful dress! It’s all handmade in elegant simplicity, with gorgeous fabrics. The black velvet bodice is off-set by the pale sage green satin skirt and trim.
What a lovely surprise – and it wasn’t the only one. Wait till you see the fabulous gabardine jacket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Magicvintagespy 