It’s the details and the fit that make these things so wonderful! That’s what I love about true vintage and hand-constructed clothing. Check out these photos from a 1950’s needlework magazine, given to me by a woman who did this every year.
For a woman who had the skills to make these, it must have been so much fun to look through the new knitting magazines. These weren’t runway styles that were out of her reach!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
When I found this cutie, it was one slim dress – probably about a size 2 – 4, but very tight and petite in the bodice, so hard to squeeze into. It also had a little wear on some of the seams.
I mused and pondered about how to save the dress so that I could wear it because I love the style and, especially, the pink/brown/ivory printed material. It feels so wonderful – can’t explain it – you’d have to experience it yourself. Some kind of synthetic or poly-knit, which was popular then and I’ve never seen any quite like it. Love the color combo!
So – brainstorm! There was a seam right at the waist and I separated the top from the bottom. A stretchy band of matching brown knit lengthened the top just right for my torso and a simple elastic waistband in the skirt made it very easy to wear. It works!
I opened a seam along the left side of the top for more ease and added some hooks and eyes. A little hand-done repair here and there salvaged this find for many more wearings. Can’t wait to wear it with some of my Forties shoes!
Just goes to show that there are gazillions of possibilities . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Yes, it’s that time of year again. I don’t know how many of you had mothers or grandmas who made most of your wardrobe, all year long – BUT, it was not at all unusual back in the day. And, aren’t these cute and good-looking! I’ll bet no one else would have had one like it.
These kinds of needlework magazines with patterns were really popular and there used to be little knitting shops around that sold all the necessary supplies. When I was cleaning out some of the OLD family stuff recently, I found a lot of knitting needles of every size and configuration you can imagine. I couldn’t begin to understand how they were used . . . . .
In these old magazines that were given to me, I’ve seen ads for knitting machines, too – something small that you could set up and use at home. Although I can’t imagine devoting the time it would take to make these garments really well, they are SO beautiful that it seems it was well worth it.
I’d love to hear about your own family stories . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Can you imagine?! You’re planning to set sail in a few weeks. Why not spend that time knitting and crocheting your entire wardrobe for the trip? Sound like a good idea? Think of the money you’ll save! Imagine the compliments and envious looks when other women see your gorgeous, custom-made outfits. Just pull out the instructions in your latest issue of the McCall’s needlework magazine.
Such ambition those mid-century women had! My pillbox is off to them . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Couldn’t find any record of having shown these to you before, but I’m not sure. If you’ve seen them, have patience. I’ll be getting the most recent treasures photographed very soon.
This is the stash that I found just before leaving for the European adventure – mid-century day-dresses, secretary and pretty styles, plus an early 1960’s Wedding gown!
You just never know . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
A most lady-like sweater-jacket, lined in acetate. The heavily-beaded design is repeated on the back, as well. 3/4 sleeves add to that vibe – so Kennedy Era . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
Jackets like this were worn over sheath dresses, with slacks and skirts. This one is by Banff, a former maker of fine knits. Remember the yellow summer sweater I showed a couple of months ago? Same maker.
These were available for sale at fine department stores and in small specialty shops, sometimes in popular vacation areas.
Again, not my color but, hey, the right necklace or scarf/blouse/dress underneath can take care of that in no time . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This pretty Seventies sweater is made by Banff – a company that has made high-quality knit clothing for women for several decades. Sweaters, suits, jackets, ponchos, etc. I picked this up very recently, mostly on the strength of the brand name (and, it’s awfully cute, too . . . . . .. )
I can never resist (nor do I want to!) beautiful lingerie from the Fifties and Sixties, especially when the brand name is not one I see frequently. This lovely half-slip was made by Dorsay. The nylon has a wonderful feel and quality, and the applique’ embroidery is gorgeous.
Last, but not least, is a 1960’s bed jacket by Shadowline. Their mid-priced lingerie and sleepwear is never over-the-top, but their designs are attractive and I can always count on the quality. Worth it, every time.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Magicvintagespy 