When I come across a pretty one, I’ll always snap it up. This example, quite different from the one I showed a few days ago, was machine-made and not as old. Although hankies began to lose popularity to Kleenex paper tissues in the 1930’s (for those who could afford to buy them), many women continued to carry fabric handkerchiefs into the 1950’s and even the early 1960’s. Men, of course, for much longer.
For a special occasion, the use of a handkerchief is more elegant than using a paper tissue – especially for drying tears. A productive cough and runny nose, on the other hand, call for something more hygienic (disposable) and sturdy than a delicate lace pocket square.
When did manufacturers stop making fabric hankies? Maybe they still do. No doubt a supply of both hankies and paper tissues are on hand in many dresser drawers today, along with the dress gloves, purse mirrors and other accessories that every sophisticated woman has at the ready for whatever event may come up on her calendar.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
What a neat discovery! I have 2 or 3 lingerie bed jackets from this era already, but haven’t found another for a long time. Rare, rare, rare. This one may have been part of some woman’s trousseau, which she stored away lovingly for decades. Some were made of silk. This one is glossy rayon.
Pretty bed jackets from the post-war 1950’s are also fabulous, but much different from the older wartime ones. Notice in the detail close-up the embroidered mesh decoration. Remember that from the nightgown I showed just a few days ago?
Oh, I’m over the moon again and will also store this garment away lovingly, probably for decades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Coming your way starting Wednesday. Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
When I don’t find the real 1940’s thing, this will do. When a dress is as nicely done as this one, I collect it and wear it with no worries.
In a pretty true-to-Forties style, of 100% rayon with an abstract leaf print, this frock wraps in front and ties to one side. Well-fitting with some smocked elastic in the waistband behind and well-placed buttons and snaps inside to prevent gaps. This is a design that rivals the best vintage styles with attention to tailoring detail and makes any garment a pleasure to wear.
Modest-sized shoulder pads and a midi-hemline add to the figure-enhancing final result. Easy, worry-free wear and flattering style never came any better. Although it’s only baby vintage, just about 35 years old, I’m pleased and will wear it a lot!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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