This “walking suit”, with large braided buttons and a big shawl collar is made of heavy boucle’ knit in wool. The jacket is longish and the skirt (before I folded the hem up) is below the knee. It was sold during the post-war era 1945 – 1955.
Many suits like this have fur collars, a lot like coats, because they were made to almost double as outerwear in colder weather. Since women had become more active in the work-force, they were out and about more and their clothing had become less “dainty”, though still very beautiful. These might also be called “city suits” – made for walking the long blocks in downtown urban areas.
I’ve removed the fur collar, which had been hand-tacked on, and could certainly see wearing this today! With a pretty sweater and scarf, maybe a hat, it would be plenty warm – saves the bulk of a coat. Just right for window-shopping or errands in the city. Elegant and practical, too. Best of both worlds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Here’s the perfect shirt to go with those 1940’s pants, right here on the left – ivory silk by Lady Manhattan. Nothing more classic and beautiful – unless . . . . .
We move center to a waist-length linen blouse that buttons up the back. Look at that fabulous lace neckline. How feminine and chic! Under a little suit or just with a skirt . . . . . .
And, the blouse far right can do the same job in sumptuous rayon. It shows more of the gorgeous hand-done tailoring detail that is so characteristic of true vintage garments.
They’re all treasures . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
What a surprise it was to run across these! Finding true vintage slacks is rare – especially any that are this old. Finding nice slacks, with their belt, hardly worn and a perfect fit is a miracle!!! Just like they were made for ME (maybe they were . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .) though I feel just like Katherine Hepburn . . . .
These are a small plaid weave in grey and ivory. They are “man-tailored” with a zip fly, front and back pockets. But, the fit is NOT man-tailored!
Notice the straight legs and cuffs. The other pairs of ’40’s pants I own have a very long crotch or very wide legs. They’re lovely fun, but I like the sexy fit of these. I suppose it’s possible that they were men’s pants, though they button in the wrong direction. But, I’ve got hips for sure, and a small waist so I would doubt it. Anyway, who cares!
I treasure mid-century blouses that are perfect with my true vintage skirts and slacks. Always on the lookout for just the right jacket and, you just never know . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
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