A beautiful example of a Shadowline housecoat from the 1960’s – early 1970’s. I’ve seen and owned many similar, but this one is special with full length sleeves and hemline. Made from that wonderful mid-century slinky knit nylon, and it also has the small embroidered rosebuds at the neckline which I prefer to the larger variety seen on later styles. Another plus is the fabric-covered buttons. Perfect condition, and in my size!
Shadowline lingerie company was started in 1946 and is still making quality lingerie, but merged with another company in 2008. They have tried to stay true to earlier designs, but apparently many archives were lost in the merger. Some of the 1940’s – 1950’s examples are truly lovely and can still be seen on vintage clothing sites, Ebay and Etsy. Fortunately, they are still using their proprietary 100% nylon fabric “Opacitrique”, which allows for excellent coverage. They also have a version which is sheer for styles which require this and customers who prefer it.
I’m not too familiar with Shadowline’s more modern products so can’t be fair, but I suspect that I haven’t paid attention to them when sleuthing because they just weren’t up to the standard of the older designs. Maybe I’m wrong. At any rate, it’s truly a vintage manufacturer which still makes a good product and should be recommended.
In any case, I will enjoy my mid-century piece and keep eyes open for more – because you just never know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM