Today, on a more-or-less routine survey, I had wonderful good fortune. I’m just about to re-examine and photograph my newest acquisitions and get them ready to post on the blog. Because I have already scheduled postings for the next three days, expect to begin seeing these on Sunday, Nov. 13.
Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This was another surprise discovery and I was absolutely amazed! Someone safeguarded this lovely outfit for decades in the back of her closet. It’s hardly been worn, if at all.
Aside from the killer ’40s fit, look at the tailoring details on the jacket – the piping on cuffs and collar and the little “pocket” at each shoulder, just for fun!
There is a maker’s label on the jacket facing. Lightweight wool material in a tattersall check of ivory, black, sky blue and cranberry. The jacket is lined. The skirt swings. Love it! I have lots of suits from the ’40s – ’60s and love to mix and match the jackets and skirts with other items from my wardrobe, as well as wearing them as a suit for certain occasions – there’s nothing more arresting and pulled-together-looking. Great way to make an impression.
Love fun surprises! but, ah well, it’s all just in another day of sleuthing . . . . you just never know. .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
A mini-length lingerie slip. What caught my eye most, after the usual evidence of age and quality, was the wide and heavy lace band at both top and bottom.
It has embroidery and applique treatments there and will be a pleasure to wear. Plus, so important to have a variety of lengths, colors and styles in order to have a perfect fit for every dress that might need one.
Often the shorter ones are difficult to find in true vintage examples. So, I’m thrilled!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Pictured sideways, because rotating this photo on the blog page introduces all kinds of warping of the image, due to the check pattern in the fabric. Tilt your head, please and use your imagination . . . .
This is such a cool discovery! In 100% nylon with a tiny, tiny black and white hounds-tooth check pattern – this is a mid-century ladies’ stylish answer to the basic rain poncho. True vintage raincoats in this type of upscale design are rare finds, indeed!
The usual, plain versions of this coat were common at least since the Forties and Fifties in uni-sex styles – usually somewhat heavy, clear or dull, grayish vinyl – to be thrown over your entire outfit in rainy weather, right along with vinyl “rubbers” over your shoes and a black umbrella. Pretty ugly.
This one is lightweight with decorative buttons and this black and white check pattern that was so popular in 1950’s wool coats, but on most coats the pattern was in a much larger size. I’ve never seen a vintage raincoat of this style that is printed in an attractive pattern. Still completely practical, but very chic! Also, nicely made – even down to the embroidered fabric tag at the neckline.
What a fun find!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Although we do Christmas marketing almost year-round, back in the mid-century time no one thought seriously about Christmas stuff until after the American Thanksgiving in late November. But, if you’re making lots of your gifts . . . . .
McCalls needlework magazine promoted doing just that – to economize as well as adding a personal touch. Can you imagine getting all that done ?!
For many of our grandmothers, that was just part of the day-to-day. And, they did produce beautiful things – from hats, gloves, sweaters, socks and scarves to dolls & their clothing, tablecloths & bedspreads, just to name a few.
I love discovering some special true vintage handmade item that was probably made as a gift or a table decoration for a special family holiday. . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Although you may say that the copycats made in the last few years look just like these, you would be mistaken. In almost all cases, the quality of the true vintage pieces is superior in some way or another – either materials, workmanship or design. Even these budget-type examples . . .
True vintage has features that are quite unique and tell a different story, both about the person who owned and wore them and about history. It’s fascinating. 
When you find the real thing, you may never want to buy modern retro “vintage” again.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
I love this one so much! Beautiful, soft suede in a luscious red. As always, wonderfully tailored – great buttons, lovely lining, nifty, elegant style. Forties shoulders are always a favorite of mine.
This one was originally purchased at the Holiday House in Estes Park, Colorado (also in Scottsdale, Arizona). I have found many more wonderful leather and suede jackets in my vintage-hunting expeditions, and always at great prices.
It pays to be a magicvintagespy!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
These McCalls magazine needlework ads would make you think that our grandmas’ lives were all about simple fun in the kitchen and scheming to get their husbands to give in to their wishes.
That’s the stereotype, isn’t it? I wonder how much of that is true? Don’t think I want to go back there, but the sweater is gorgeous!
Hand-knits from that era are really special, sweet and innocent styles . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This one is a favorite of mine. It is of a heavy cotton-type material with a quilted lining. Warm, but not too heavy. Fabulous Forties style and, also, very practical.
The colors are ivory, green and red. It’s perfect for spring and fall weather. The attached belt across the front and some elastic in back give the nipped waist feature that I really love. And, of course, pads in the shoulders. So flattering!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Another “new” Australian discovery! Although they’ve been making lots of look-a-like retro fakes for a while now, this one is undeniably true vintage, right down to its label.
I just LOVE this print. Again, not my own best colors but I can’t help enjoying it so much anyway. Even the true vintage labels are delights in themselves – often so artistic and interesting. Sometimes they’re funny!
In your standard poly/synthetic blend fabric of that day, it’ll be easy-care as long as treated gently. . . .
MORGANA MARTIN,THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Magicvintagespy 