I love these! They’re so typical of the day-dresses from the early to mid-Sixties that said “Fall is Here”, mostly for professional women. Anyone who wanted to look nicely tailored, but casual, wore styles like these.
So, I’ve seen lots of them on TV but not in person. It’s great fun to find this blast from the past that probably belonged to the same woman. Wonder what her everyday story was about . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
TRUE VINTAGE 1960’S FROCK FOR A HOLIDAY GALA IN VELVET & BROCADE
Isn’t this one a pretty thing? A perfect 10 – vintage size 10, that is. Of course, it’s got the classic styling of the early Sixties but with a fun touch of beaded fringe at the midriff. All the required tailoring touches make it a well-made garment – full lining, hanging loops, hooks and eyes and a deep hem, however . . . . . . .
the nicest thing, to me, is the beautiful fabric. Plush, sumptuous red velvet on top and a lovely brocaded material in the skirt. I can just imagine Jacqueline Kennedy hosting a Christmas party at the White House 55 years ago, dressed in a style like this. So glad that someone else loved it enough to keep it preserved in such wonderful condition for this sleuth to uncover today. The investigation continues – stay tuned .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I have lots of mid-century beaded bags but this one’s a bit older and I especially like the shape of it, soooooo . . . . . . . . . . . .
of course I had to pick it up. This iridescent beige/gold color is so versatile to go with anything and everything. So pretty – it makes me think of Grace Kelly.
Perfectly clean inside and with beads intact, what could be better? .. . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
The perfect casual circle skirt for summer! Cotton candy colors, ruffles and beads. Someone made this for fun the the 1950’s or 1960’s. I’ll do it justice next summer!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I’ve really been scoring the RARE finds over these past few weeks – older garments and accessories, iconic styles and items in great condition! Can’t wait to get back to Headquarters and put this wartime bridal ensemble on Stella, who is the only one of my models who will be able to wear it. Until then, I’ll tell you the story of this lovely gown and it’s matching veil. As an additional blessing, the tale comes directly from the original family.
Although many brides were wearing suits and shorter dresses to be married in 1940, this bride chose the traditional full-length gown and veil for her ceremony. It was purchased through a well-known department store, where her father was a buyer, and may have come from Europe. The rayon dress is not a high-end item, but is an iconic design of the time and elegant in it’s simplicity. An unusual feature is the antique ivory color, which is original. The full-length veil of fine netting with embroidery flows from a delicate headband decorated with dried flowers and vines.
The gown was stored away after the wedding and cherished by the family for many years. Now, I will continue to care for it with the love and respect it deserves.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Found yesterday! A beautiful cotton sundress with matching bolero jacket. These lady-like dresses were popular in the early 1960’s for everyday wear. Perfect for a day at the county fair.
Another reason for the good condition is the quality of the fabric and the workmanship. A maker’s tag is still at the neckline and indicates that it was from an upscale mid-priced clothing line.
It’s another rare find. I’m always so thrilled with the lovely tailoring details on these older dresses. As usual, someone cherished this one and took excellent care – there’s hardly a bit of wear. Just another day in the life of . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
JUST MADE FOR SWING DANCING – AND DON’T YOU LOVE THE NOVELTY PRINT?!
This discovery came from a different arrondissement, but still within the city of Paris. It is another treasure that only Stella can fit into. I’ll get her to model it after returning to headquarters. Also will be busy scouting out belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Couldn’t be more pleased, though, to find another wartime rayon frock in a fun, fun print. These are some of my favorite garments. This one tells the story of WWII as it was custom-tailored and shows the signs of saving on fabric and notions. The design is very simple with no extra decoration and a very narrow hem allowance, though the tailor did indulge in a big sailor collar with piping.
Such fun to find another rare novelty print – atomic squiggles with goofy birds and other animals. The color combos are also unique. Won’t ever find another one like it . .. . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
MID-CENTURY PRIMITIVE ART PRINT BATHING SUIT
Before leaving the Baltic, I couldn’t believe it! (Oh, yes, I could) . . . . A rare find of this mid-century swimsuit in near-perfect condition. It’s got that pretty-but-sporty look that was so popular then, in a classic sleek tank style with a mini-skirt effect right at the hips.
Adjustable button straps. molded bra cups and a back metal zipper. Just perfect for one of those tropical island movies of the 1950’s. And, of course, I carried it away for a mere song. You just never know . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Another treasure from the 1960’s. Sorry my camera/laptop is playing tricks on me again – can’t edit the photo.
This pretty Spring dress was custom-tailored with lots of nice features. Love the Mod bell sleeves – I’ve run across several of these in the past 2 years, all of a sudden. It’s fully lined, with raglan sleeves and an invisible zipper center back.
The seamstress knew her stuff and did a very good job. Although it’s plain, it’s very well-made. The first thing she did right was selecting the fabric – a good quality polyester and/or acetate. The print and colors are gorgeous – SO SIXTIES!!!
Sorry that this isn’t my color palette (makes me look jaundiced) but I’m sleuthing for true vintage fashion – not only things I can wear. So, that didn’t stop me. Never does . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Was I ever thrilled to run across this beauty! Sleek and slinky, it’s got great film noir presence. Another dress that Madge can’t wear, but I can’t wait to photograph it on Stella because it would fit her just right!
With a side zipper at the waist and fabulous design, it’s such a neat wartime style.. The color is tricky to photo – a medium mauve, grayish purple. Very unusual and lovely.
The best thing is the bead trim – and especially the trailing streamers that hang from the hip area. You’ll see more of these rare & interesting tailoring features in some future posts.. . . . . .
No, it’s not a dirty camera lens and Yes, there is a flaw on the front, with a funny stain or fade on the left bodice that can’t be remedied. However, it’s just the right place for a pin, a flower or corsage which early mid-century women often wore for a night out. I think I’d love a piece or two of markasite jewelry with this frock . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FAHSION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
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