Let’s start with the simplest little day dress from Buenos Aires, Argentina, home-sewn in a breezy floral print. A blended fabric of the day is easy-care, according to their standards of the time. Nothing could be easier to wear, either. What a great classic style!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Mid-century Montevideans (yes, Montevideo, Uruguay!) from the upper classes had exquisite taste and deep pockets. This pretty rayon at-home fashion is the most wonderful find! Although I found a similar gown when in Paris, this one is more pristine and of a slightly different style.
LOVE the little built-in trains that the lingerie often had then. Pretty, pretty, pretty. Tiny red roses on a pink background. What could be sweeter? Someone loved this dress very well ! We’ve only just begun – more to come . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Two beautiful hand-crocheted or knitted shawls for party-wear or any festive occasion. In neutral pastel shades with metallic yarn accents.
Items like this were especially popular in the years moving from the 1950’s to the 1960’s. Many women made these garments at home. Nothing dresses up a little black dress in such a feminine and beguiling way as a needlework accessory.
If you like doing handiwork, look for old pattern and instruction books from the ’50’s and ’60’s. Although many types of scarves and shawls are sold now, nothing compares to a handmade item in a soft, genuine wool yarn.
And, if you can find a true vintage shawl – go for it!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
With this photo, I’ve shown most of my true vintage bed jacket collection. But, as always, you just never know . . . . . . . .
The one on the left is obviously the most unusual, and the oldest (probably 1940’s), but look at the gorgeous lace, ribbons and embroidery, the feminine styles, the soft and flattering blues of the 1950’s versions. And, even quilting, for a morning that’s colder. No wonder I love them and do a happy dance when I find another.
All of these were probably owned by women from middle-income families and were part of an average wardrobe – frequently used. Oh, the charm of it all . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Imagine gliding around the house in these, wearing your newest peignoir and gown or a lovely hostess ensemble. At-home leisure wear became a significant part of many North American and European women’s wardrobes in the 1900’s. In the mid-century decades when movies gained popularity sophistication and glamour were very important to the average gal.
These are so much fun! Platform shoes have always been a favorite of mine (since they came out in a fashion revival for the 3rd or 4th time in history!) For me, nothing can beat 1940’s and early 1950’s footwear. And, to find a pair in excellent condition is always a dream come true.
Although these are a decade or two older than the hostess gowns I’ve found lately, their classic elegance would make them wearable with either of them. That’s the beauty of the best . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Nothing “Lady of the Manor” about this dressing gown – a little bit more Carnaby Street. Still a perfect hostess gown or leisure wear garment.
Lovely, heavy nylon with cute button trim at the neckline and the Sixties bell sleeves. I love the print and the colors in this gown!
It’s always such fun to find beautiful clothing that is 50 years old but still in perfect wearing condition. I breeze around the house in this one a lot!!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Magicvintagespy 