Just found this mid-century custom-tailored frock that is modeled after Marilyn’s famous costume in the 1954 movie The Seven Year Itch. Although it’s a bit too sweet, made of cotton poplin flocked with cotton candy pink and green, the style is close to the original.
Some gal got carried away by that sidewalk scene above the subway grate. It’s always fun to find something that tells a story, like this.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Yes, I’m back at Headquarters now – unpacking and taking care of business. Although these finds are out-of-season right now, despite the heat, I like to show brand-new discoveries ASAP.
What makes these worthy of my closet? The styles are simple, but the vintage fabrics are REALLY NICE. Also, the hand-done tailoring touches, like a full lining, well-cut facings and hem allowances make them special garments.
I always pick up pieces of exceptional quality. They are rare treasure, not seen in the marketplace today. Stay tuned for more . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I’ll be showing highlights of my vintage jewelry collection, along with the shoes and dresses. Here are three pieces which were very characteristic of the Sixties decade.
Enameled pins were very popular – especially in flower shapes. Also, large pendants that hung to the chest were a big thing.
The pin is not marked, nor is the middle pendant but I think that the chain which came with it said it was by Trifari. The gold-color pendant with chain is by Sarah Coventry. Modernistic shapes were really popular.
Any one of these really sparks up an outfit and gives it a mod, mid-sixties flair.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
These, again, are a favorite pair of shoes and look great with that little suit from yesterday. So classic, they can be worn any time of year. In fact, they look great with many of the dresses coming up . . . . . . .
They were made by Life Stride, with leather uppers and synthetic soles (but that very long-wearing stuff). This company also made purses to match, as did many of the other mid-priced shoemakers then.
Very flattering fit and the bows on the back straps are so sweet! I wear them a lot. Mid-heels make them super comfortable and practical for shopping to dancing, but sexy-looking, too. . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Probably my favorite 3-season skirt suit (Spring, Summer, Fall)! It has a GREAT fit (very saucy) and neat 3/4 sleeves. It’s so light that you can ditch the jacket during really hot weather.
In this picture it looks like Madge’s dresser was having an “off” day, but I have left the blouse un-tucked in order to show it better – it is NOT true vintage, but was made by Trashy Diva in New Orleans. Her couture deserves special mention because she designs with vintage features and uses vintage fabrics. I have referenced her shop in my book.
This lightweight little suit is as versatile as a little black dress. It can be dressed up or down, with or without the jacket. Any variety of tops can be worn and changes the presentation completely, from work to shopping to cocktails, to dinner, etc., etc. It also shows off jewelry beautifully against the black fabric.
This garment was never a high-end item, but was worn by a very fashionable woman who I knew. I was so pleased to find it at her friend’s yard sale across the street one day! As always, it goes to show that you just never know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I have found several of these elegant black and white styles from the ’60’s and ’70’s – and wear them a lot. As versatile as a Little Black Dress for day and fun to accessorize. If made by a well-known clothing company or designer, the workmanship was good .
Polyester knits made up until the early 1970’s were usually very nice – good quality and with a substantial feel and nice drape. A well-made dress or pant-suit could take you through 3 seasons of the year. Although similar-looking dresses are made now, the older ones almost always have superior tailoring and fabric.
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
Talk about fussy and pretty .. . . . .! Although they’re similar in some ways to the blouses shown yesterday, I like these so much better. In spite of the high neckline on the left, they’re less prim and will look great with jeans and peasant skirts.
These styles go way back, from the 1890’s (with long gloves or a jacket, of course. Can’t show those arms!) to the 1940’s and 1950’s when peasant-style was all the rage. As always, the fashion came back in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s and was just as iconic then.
As I’ve said, it’s rare to find blouses and shirts this old in fabulous condition. The things that make this possible are the high-quality construction and fabric plus the fact that people used to care for their clothing much better than we do now. For modern vintage sleuths, our gain!
So, never give up – just learn how to sneak smarter . .. . . . . . . . . . .. ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
A MOD PRINT IN RARE ARNEL FABRIC!
Moving forward in time 20 years or so, this iconic ’60’s dress is an unusual discovery. In virtually perfect condition, what a find!
The fabric, Arnel triacetate, was a biggie for a few years but soon gave way to acrylic and polyester. Granted, there are a few care issues that would have made the change more convenient but we’ve always lost something when those older fabrics were replaced with the “new and improved”. The sheen and the feel of this material has never been duplicated, as far as I can tell.
Of course, the rarity and special qualities of these old pieces are what give me the biggest kick when I find one! It would be boring if things made today looked and felt the same. Some day we’ll be able to see this only in museums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
FRENCH COTTON ROBE IN A NOVELTY PRINT
Originally purchased from a store on the Champs Elysee (the label testifies!), this mid-century wrap has tons of personality! The colorful motif of rajas, elephants, umbrellas and pennants is humorous like so many of the novelty designs of the early mid-century. It’s always a real plus to unearth one.
Dresses are always wonderful, but a garment like this one is unique and special. The open, kimono styling makes me think of lazy days in a Paris apartment with aromas of cooking, the taste of good cheese and wine and the laughter of friends and lovers. I might even add a snap, hook and a belt and wear it as a dress.
So much fun to find it! Giselle agrees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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