Isn’t this just to die for? Of course, the little bolero jacket comes off to reveal a sleeveless gown with slim straps – that’s for after the ceremony when the party really starts!
The tulle, lace and embroidery plus the poufy skirt are so Fifties and wonderful as can be. Don’t make ’em like this anymore . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I’m determined to stay in a Spring and Summer mood right now. Here’s a cute little bag that just lets me do that! Made in Italy!!
Hand-decorated with beads and constructed with the attached-coin-purse-feature that was common in many vintage bags; plus all the fashion fun that was built in.
And, you would not have been likely to run into anyone carrying the same handbag. If you carried it today, the chance might be one in a billion or less . . . . . . How’s that for a fashion statement!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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Box bags were quite popular during the mid-century. Here’s an example from the 1960’s or 1970’s.
This one was made in Italy, where many beautiful handbags were, and still are, made. It doesn’t have a smidge of leather on it, which Italy is usually famous for, but it is still very well constructed.
After all these years, the hardware remains shiny and unblemished. The woven exterior looks almost new, as does the interior. Although it helps that this purse was used little if at all, age and storage can wreak havoc on many items – especially if they are not of good quality.
So, if you haven’t stored your treasures with care, they can deteriorate simply from sitting still while they wait for you to enjoy them. Keeping them dust-free and clean, inside and out, is important. Don’t store them in places where the temperature or humidity are too high or too low. If the item is made of natural materials, using a quality conditioning lotion made for the material once in a while will make a big difference in their appearance and durability. Lotions and sprays made for leather, skins and wicker are available. Even vinyl can be conditioned with products made for car interiors. That’s my wisdom for the day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Look! I found another woven metal mesh Glomesh bag – this time a black one. Photographed on two different backgrounds to enhance the details. So nice to have two colors. Also, love this wonderful macrame’ bag in a similar style.
The Glomesh purses were very popular here – a real Australian company. The white bag doesn’t have a brand name inside. Sixties or early Seventies, both of these purses have survived in great condition. I will really enjoy using them!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Soft, supple leather inside and out – these bags were made in Mexico and probably picked up by vacationers who used them very little, if at all, after their trip. Both have vintage hardware, but the designs – especially on the left-hand purse – are more modern.
On the right, we see a traditional floral/cactus pattern similar to those made in the western United States while the left-hand one has a farm worker pictured and, on the back, the Mayan calendar.
What I like best about these handbags, whether made in the ’40’s or the ’80’s is that they are 100% hand-made and usually the workmanship and quality of the leather are excellent. Plus, they are SO distinctive and unusual . . . . . . . . . . always a priority for me.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Although this kind of carry-all has never lost popularity in general, it seems like the 1960’s was a really big time for smart, tailored bags like this. Many were used to carry needlework, like knitting and crochet. No matter the use for it, totes like this are always SO handy. In this case, a very elegant design . .. . . . . . . .
Not sure why, but fashion needlework was kind of a “fad” in the Sixties among everyday women even though lots of people have always done it and certain people still do. I picked this bag up when I found it because it is beautifully made, in pristine condition, and just spoke to me of that Mod time in fashion.
The tortoise shell plastic handles were really “in” then, as well as the printed lining. I’ve left the closure flap turned up so that you can see the lovely lining material, too. It’s fully-lined, with metal hardware.
Just a simple bag, but with a shift dress and flats (or a sheath and pumps if you’re at the Club or an appointment) you’d look just like any photo from a popular magazine of 1964 or so. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Finding true vintage handbags in almost-new condition is always a treat. When summer’s almost over this year, the old-fashioned rule of “Don’t Wear White Wardrobe Items After Labor Day” is also dead and gone!
Ande’ was another company that made popularly-priced purses in the mid-century era. Usually small, and more often made of vinyl, but always cute, sturdy and stylish.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Both these little ladies were made in Hong Kong, of similar basic design, but there is a world of difference between them. Lady Right was made for the uptown market, while Lady Left was sold downtown. Though they’re both clean and well-put-together, Lady Right grew up with all the best, while Lady Left’s beginnings were more humble.
It’s obvious “in person” that these bags were made for different markets. The styling in both is superior, but the materials and extra attention to detail show that Lady Right brought a higher price. Just comparing these two pretties, found at the same time, was a fun chance to evaluate a number of “clues” about their backgrounds.
I don’t have a favorite. Their stories are equally interesting to me (maybe Lady Left’s is a little more so . . . . .). Each one is perfect with the outfit that coordinates with it. While Lady Left could be much more casual, she is no less elegant – maybe even more so, if you don’t look too closely. Lady Right could seem a little tasteless if she showed up everywhere dressed like that.
I see one for holiday festivities or a very gala occasion (maybe tonight?), while the other would be lovely with a pretty summer dress. Both would be gorgeous for a bridal venue. It can all be so fascinating . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Another wonderful find. This is an iconic purse style from the early 1960’s. I always love the fun prints used for the linings. You can see in the second photo that it also has a clear vinyl layer covering the fabric to protect the inside of the purse from spills and wear. What a great idea!
Several of these wait for summer in my closet, and the hardware and shapes can vary so I don’t mind collecting whatever I find. Many were made in British Hong Kong, which always meant quality workmanship.
When traveling incognito, of course, it’s important to have seasonal clothing and accessories to help me blend in with the scenery. These bags are big enough for all I need, but not too conspicuous . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This little handbag shows the best of the trademarks of it’s time. Crocheted cover and full lining. Handmade. The natural bamboo frame is lovely and the medium size with inside pocket makes it very practical.
Although I have others similar, this example was special enough to make me snap it up. One this clean and undamaged, especially with a needlework cover, is a super-rare find! But, doesn’t surprise me – you just never know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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