Yes, it’s a summer dress but how could I resist? We don’t usually find them with all these pretty details – a very Victorian Prairie thing for a hot-weather girl. Looks like it was commercially-made, but there are no tags. I may end up selling it next year but, you just never know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Fun find today! A custom-made prairie-girl dress that can go all year round. Just put a blouse, t-shirt or t-neck underneath and there you go. The fabric is a woven synthetic of the late-mid-century time so it’s a Sixties take on a much older style. There are Amish in the area where I discovered it, but I’m not sure this is their style. May be some other groups who wear slightly less modest clothing and would be allowed to show their arms. ? It’s got an old metal CC zipper and hardly any wear so, who knows. The sash ties in back and there’s ric-rac all around.
Just fun, so true vintage and cute! Another mystery, which I love. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
While I was having a run on ’60’s cocktail LBDs, this one presented herself. Same chiffon drape detail idea, but very sassy chic instead of tailored and ladylike. So much fun!
I also love discovering these frocks that were worn once or not at all. And even the ones that saw many the party are often still in quite beautiful condition, as our grandmothers were not in the habit of trashing their clothing. You won’t see the next one for a while, though, because she needs a zipper replacement. A breeze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In the meantime, there’s lots more to show you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
With all the casual elegance of the mid-1960’s, this metallic frock is the greatest! I was just thrilled to find this. It’s fully-lined and in great shape. I had to tack up the hem and give it a light cleaning – that’s all!
More perfect party-wear. Couldn’t ask for more this holiday season. I enjoyed this one on New Year’s Eve. Simply-made and easy to wear, that’s the best of the best when it’s also high quality.
Love true vintage . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This custom-tailored dress is really special for several reasons. The style and color are not unusual – a shaped sheath with back metal zipper in a lovely olive (not as grayish as the photo seems). BUT, the fabric (probably a rayon or blend) has interesting slubs and visible weave throughout. The most fascinating part, though is the cummerbund . . . . . .
it is not a machine-made trim that came from a sewing store. The treatment at the waist is completely hand-crocheted in fine thread and then was attached to the dress, probably while the person worked. It’s backed with cheesecloth to protect the attachment. Very carefully done – no wonder it has lasted so long.
One of the most fun aspects of my sleuthing is the original and astounding details found in many of the garments and accessories that I uncover. Love delightful surprises!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
All those keywords in the title say it – just look at this frock All the elements of mid-Sixties fashion are incorporated in this style, as well as the common mid-century feature of having been home-sewn. What a fun discovery! I’ll really enjoy it come summer.
Again, casual conservative styling in that flattering A-line shape. Pretty trim detail and a Mod print. So Sixties! Just the kind of simple dress that so many women made when first learning to sew, though this one displays some skill by the well-done attachment of the neckline trim.
Back to the future again – and we’ll stay there for a while . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This Kennedy era, Mad Men sportswear ensemble was custom-tailored for fun in the sun, conservative-style. High waist Bermuda shorts with a tunic top is dressy – casual and more versatile than a one-piece romper playsuit. Kind of Preppy, without being too stuffy.
It’s always fun to see the vintage brand metal zippers plus the hand-tailored details. As much as I love the most casual play-suits, it’s always good to have separates which can be worn so many ways and in interesting combinations.
This is just one of the hand-made garments that I just found – more to come . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I have a couple of corded purses, but they’re all different and naturally one can never have too many. . . . . . . . . Although Garay purses are still not scarce, they are a very good true vintage brand so I’m always glad to find one. This clutch looks as though it was never used and has the nice feature of a center zip compartment, with an open pocket on either side. Still very slim, and more convenient than some little bags that will only carry a lipstick, a small wad of money and a key.
So, it’s a keeper.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Heavy synthetic knit and great colors. Again, fabulous graphics on this one with a metal zip up the back. The lacing tie and empire waistline are fun style features, too.
I know, I get a little excessive with my enthusiastic descriptions sometimes but that’s how I feel when discovering great true vintage garments. Keep on cleaning out your closets, grandma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
With polka dots, a flouncy neckline and full metal back zipper this rayon & acetate blouse is pure 1950’s – early 1960’s. Can’t wait to wear it with my “new” black pencil skirt!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Magicvintagespy 