McCall’s magazine was a real stand-by for our thrifty and talented Grandmas who wanted to keep up with the latest fashion trends. They could knit and crochet wardrobes that kept them feeling stylish at a fraction of retail costs, and have a lot of fun doing it!
From what I’ve seen online, the well-known pattern makers for seamstresses like Butterick and Simplicity did the same and were even more popular. Practically every home had a sewing machine, but some women probably still had the skills to do everything by hand if necessary.
Although it was a lot of work and must have felt like another chore in times of necessity like the Depression, it also gave women a lot of creative freedom. When they had the time and the funds to be choosy about fabrics and to adapt their own touches to a pattern or add decorations, knowing how to do this and having the support of companies that sold the things that they needed was a real relief from economic and social limitations that may have faced them every day.
Today, people find that creative freedom by doing things online and go to Walmart to ease their financial hardships during tough times, but it’s not the same. Somehow, the old way seems more attractive in some ways. Your thoughts?
By the way, I’ve got several fabulous “new” discoveries and am preparing them to show you . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Need something to wear for dancing around the Maypole?
Easter is past (for another year) but Spring isn’t over yet and tomorrow is May Day. Although it might not be a day for teas or luncheons or other events which call for a dressy frock, it is still celebrated in some places. If you know about any May Day celebrations, I’d like to hear!
Shown over a slip, this dress is made of a semi-sheer cotton (maybe a blend) in a blue and violet floral print. It has a vintage nylon zipper mid-back. The skirt length is mid-calf to ankle, depending on the height of the woman wearing it. The gathered bodice and high waist (again, depending on the wearer) are so pretty.
Not quite semi-formal – just a pretty frock for a special occasion. I was so thrilled to find it! Someone kept it for many years. It’s always important to have at least one of these in…
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Although it’s of a simple cut, the novelty sleeves, lovely fabric and excellent tailoring make this a special gown for a relaxed day at home or casual event. The sleeves are slit to the shoulder with purple lining.
I’m guessing that this dress was made in the early 1960’s and has a Hawaiian maker’s label inside. Certain details hint at it’s correct age.
I always admire how well women of the past looked after their clothing. Add that to the superior quality of the garments to begin with, and many are preserved today in wonderful condition for us to wear, study and enjoy. With apologies to a few designers who continue to believe in elegance and quality, I’m not sure that women 30 or 40 years from now will find much of anything made after 1990 that has lasted that long, and it won’t be much of a loss . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Doesn’t look like much on the hanger, but this dress will be stunning on Stella and is a knockout when it comes to quality tailoring. It may also have been custom-made. Little details tell the story.
The color, which does not show well in this photo, is a mid-range gold and the fabric is some kind of blend – probably rayon/acetate maybe with some polyester. The straps and skinny belt are crafted perfectly with clean lines and lie nice and flat, which really takes some sewing skill.
There is also a full lining of silky fabric in a matching color. Although the style is really plain, it is superbly elegant because of the quality and would look great shortened to knee length or mini length without violating the mid-60’s era that it is from. That would make it wearable as a casual-chic day dress, too.
Changing a hemline is a simple thing to do or have done, if your own skills are not good. Remembering little alterations like that can open all kinds of possibilities . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
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