Category Archives: mid-century

VINTAGE ASIAN SHEATH, MADE IN THE EAST CIRCA?

Here’s a little number to shake you up!

Morgana Martin, the magicvintagespy's avatarMagicvintagespy

ImageThis dress is one of my Mata Hari outfits and  came from a shop in, probably, British Hong Kong – maybe Taiwan or somewhere in China.  It has a label with the shop’s name, but no further info.  It is possibly custom-made, as so many of the dressmakers will do in those countries.

Because it is a classic oriental style and a heavy jacquard material, I am unable to date it really closely – also has none of the identifiers that clothing made in the U.S. often will.

In any case, I love Eastern styles and the beautiful silks that they are often made from.  The older dresses are still found.  Some, like this one, are made from a synthetic blend.  Many contemporary dresses are still being made in the traditional styles, so you have to know how to identify the older ones, if that is what you are seeking.  Kimonos…

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A VERY PRETTY TRUE VINTAGE DRESS, HOME-SEWN IN THE 1950’S

Put on a sweater or jacket and look pretty in this one, no matter how cold it is!

Morgana Martin, the magicvintagespy's avatarMagicvintagespy

A VERY PRETTY TRUE VINTAGE DRESS, HOME-SEWN IN THE 1950'S

Another favorite, the 50s styles with nipped waists. Love ’em! – who doesn’t – they’ve remained a fashion favorite for many years and a style that keeps on repeating itself. The wide neckline is also a favorite – SO flattering.  I call it a summer dress, but the cotton material is heavy, so it’s perfect to wear almost all year.

The skirt on this one has a bell shape, too – an unusual feature that is somewhat unique. This dress was custom-tailored and the construction is very unusual. I’ve never seen anything like it. Although it zips up the back, there is also an inner bodice that hooks together. This may have been the design of the woman who sewed it – in place of a bra(?)

Sometimes you’ll find a garment like this that is as interesting on the inside as it is on the outside. The tailoring details…

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TRUE VINTAGE HANDBAGS FOR HOLIDAY PARTIES AND SPECIAL EVENTS

TRUE VINTAGE HANDBAGS FOR HOLIDAY PARTIES AND SPECIAL EVENTS.

TRUE VINTAGE HANDBAGS FOR HOLIDAY PARTIES AND SPECIAL EVENTS

One of these will go with your outfit tomorrow . . . . .

Morgana Martin, the magicvintagespy's avatarMagicvintagespy

TRUE VINTAGE HANDBAGS FOR HOLIDAY PARTIES AND SPECIAL EVENTS

Here is a collection of several vintage handbags for parties and semi-formal to formal occasions. The significant features of these are pave’ rhinestones on clasps, faux pearls, plush velvet, gold-finished leather, double-sided box construction and a telescoping convertible handle.

Though tons of retro-style purses are made now, a true vintage one will have features that put it above the crowd.  Anyone who knows, will realize that you are carrying something special.

These purses are from the fifties and sixties. They are simple, but of quality design and construction. A keen eye can spot the difference in materials and style elements.

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

BOOK:  HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM

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A LOVELY TRUE VINTAGE 1940’S DRESS FOR DINNER AND DANCING

A LOVELY TRUE VINTAGE 1940'S DRESS FOR DINNER AND DANCING.

LATE 1940’S – EARLY 1950’S NEW LOOK TRUE VINTAGE GOWN

LATE 1940'S – EARLY 1950'S NEW LOOK TRUE VINTAGE GOWN.

LATE 1940’S – EARLY 1950’S NEW LOOK TRUE VINTAGE GOWN

How’s this for holiday dressing? . . . . .

Morgana Martin, the magicvintagespy's avatarMagicvintagespy

LATE 1940'S - EARLY 1950'S NEW LOOK TRUE VINTAGE GOWN

This dress is somewhat majestic. The material is a heavy rayon with sheen – almost satin. It has black beaded designs around the neckline and each sleeve.

It’s an example of the design introduced by Christian Dior in 1947, I believe, called the “New Look” because it was so different from the severe, short and relatively plain clothing that women wore during WWII in order to conserve resources. Tiny waists, long skirts, luxurious material and extravagant decoration were “in” again.
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Enough history lesson! It’s just a beautiful, feminine and stunning dress. The original owner had shortened it by 2 – 3 inches, so it was definitely mid-calf length when new. Fortunately, she didn’t cut off any material, so it could be let down again.

This is certainly something that you might wear to see the Queen, or the King, or the President or just your favorite male person …

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TRUE VINTAGE FULL-LENGTH CRINOLINE HALF-SLIP FROM THE 1950S

Here’s one way to look REGAL, even in a plain dress.

Morgana Martin, the magicvintagespy's avatarMagicvintagespy

TRUE VINTAGE FULL-LENGTH CRINOLINE HALF-SLIP FROM THE 1950S Even if you don’t have a Fifties dress to wear with it, put it under any long dress with a full-enough skirt and it becomes a GOWN.  Just perfect to make an entrance at a holiday party. . . .

The full length, high-waist elastic slimming panel and back zipper are all unique. Crinoline netting is sandwiched between two layers of fabric for comfort and a smooth line.

Foundation garments were so important in the past – usually more issues to be considered than even now, like garters and boning.  Their design was a real art and a science.  There are companies now which make “foundation garments” and hosiery in the old style, if you want them.  I ran into one in Australia!

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

BOOK:  HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM

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TRUE VINTAGE 1960s COCKTAIL PARTY DRESS BY CAROL CRAIG

TRUE VINTAGE 1960s COCKTAIL PARTY DRESS BY CAROL CRAIG.

TRUE VINTAGE 1960s COCKTAIL PARTY DRESS BY CAROL CRAIG

Early 1960’s LBD – just perfect right now!!

Morgana Martin, the magicvintagespy's avatarMagicvintagespy

TRUE VINTAGE 1960s COCKTAIL PARTY DRESS BY CAROL CRAIG This is a timeless, year-round-wearable black crepe dress with a full rayon acetate lining. The decorative band at the bottom is of alternating iridescent and black sequins. It has a vintage nylon zipper in back..

By Carol Craig, a popular maker of the ’50s and ’60s, this dress in classic black crepe can be worn all year long. The simple A-line style suits almost any figure and is form-fitting enough to be very attractive while not overly tight. So, anywhere that sleeveless dresses are considered acceptable, so would this dress be. Pretty versatile!

What sets this apart from the tons of black crepe dresses from the 80s, 90s and 2000s that are out there? 1. the fabric (a little heavier) 2. the lining (full – nice material) 3. the workmanship (zipper put in very well, no loose threads everywhere, small hooks and eyes in the right places) 4. the design…

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