MID-CENTURY EVIDENCE CACHE OF HANDBAGS

Whole lotta packin’ goin’ on. These are a few of the items which I have selected to send into the Cloud. 1920’s/’30’s through the 1960’s. Not enough, but it’s a start. Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

1970’S FAUX CASHMERE LONG COAT IN AN UNUSUAL COLOR

The last “keeper” of the vetting process. I’m giving it the space due to its practicality. There’s a big nod to 1950’s styles (look at the molded buttons), looks and feels almost like cashmere (really!) but requires no protection from moths. It’s also a funky color that is particularly flattering to my complexion. Sounds like solid logic to me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

IT’S TIME FOR SOME MID-CENTURY VALENTINE’S DAY FUN

These novelty hankies from the ’40’s – ’50’s are so cute. One of them even has the sales tag still attached. Initials on a tree, sipping at the soda shop – very iconic images from that time. And, of course, just HEARTS. The white linen square was carefully appliqued with heart designs by hand. Almost all girls used to learn some sewing skills but now we just throw something away if a button comes loose. So wasteful and bad for the planet – don’t get me started.

Anyway, what a sweet way to say “Will You Be My Valentine?”. Very, very VINTAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGAA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

OH, MY. HOW COULD I POSSIBLY PART WITH THIS 1940’S CAPE – COAT?

Oh, well. It won’t take up much room (excepting for those shoulder pads!) Once I tried it on again, there was no question. It’s even got pockets! Easy wear over slacks as well as eveningwear (and jeans). We’re almost done with the coat closet. Stay tuned.

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

UH – OH! ANOTHER MID-CENTURY SWING COAT THAT I CANNOT PART WITH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

OK. I had very good intentions to clear out the evidence locker but, sometimes, a file turns up in the vetting which just has too much forensic value to let go. What features of this garment are important? 1. The nubby texture of the wool fabric is unusual and adds warmth 2. 3/4 length is very comfortable, stylish and convenient 3. Bracelet length sleeves look great with gloves and make it easier to read my watch 4. The plastic buttons have a few of the nubs that are faceted and reflect light like little crystals – BRILLIANT! 5 It was sold in one of my favorite vintage-era department stores 6. Silky black lining is perfection 7. The wide lapels are perfect for displaying my collection of vintage brooches 8. It fits me beautifully.

There. No one can argue with that logic. The project goes on. Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

“HEY, LUCY . . . . .!” EARLY 1950’S SWING COAT IN FAUX BEAVER

I was thinking I would sell this coat, so I tried it on again and said “Nuh-uh!”. It’s SO neat. Just couldn’t think of parting with it yet. It’s completely open from the button closure at top, with a swing shape. But, also very warm. The synthetic faux fur looks like beaver and is very snuggly, as well as absolutely cruelty-free. Couldn’t be better – this is the future!

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

1950’S FORMAL GOWN

For a little relief from these wool coats, thought I’d show you one of my favorite discoveries. This pretty confection contains a lot of evidence and the case is closed. I’d love to keep it but it also takes up too much space in the file locker. Three layers of skirt plus boning in the bodice make it a bit awkward to store compactly! Since I won’t be going to the Prom this year . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

FINALLY, A TRULY “UPTOWN” COAT FROM THE 1950’S

This wool beauty has a label which says “The Parisian”. It has a true silk lining and very stylish design. No fear of using some extra fabric here. And, of course, great pockets. This one just says “Lady of leisure” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

OPEN-FRONT COAT FROM THE FIFTIES OR EARLY SIXTIES

This is a casual coat from post-WWII mid-century that closes with one hidden button and loop at the waistline. It’s got specialized tailoring details that are my favorite part. The wool fabric is a great “tweed” with fall colors, so a good choice for September. The brown lining is shiny and silky but it’s also got a decorative border above the hem that is embroidered in glossy brown thread. Hidden, but pretty!

See above how the pockets are accented with fabric-covered buckles that don’t do anything but look smart. Unfortunately, the pockets are only deep enough for a tissue or a small coin-purse, but that’s OK. I’ll enjoy wearing it on walks and I can still stop at the corner store. The neckline area, just above the collarbones, is accented with tabs and buttons which also don’t do anything but look stylish. And, the back vent in the hemline is practical but adds the look of good design. A winner!

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

SOPHISTICATED SPRING COAT FROM THE MID-CENTURY

Despite the uptown appearance, this coat is made of humble fabric but expertly done. Not sure when it was created – could be anywhere from the 1940’s to the very early 1960’s – but it follows the pattern of economy that my recent posts have been showing. However, though it has no labels, I suspect that it was not made at home but was made commercially. It is really well-done and beautifully-designed with seaming that gives it a special fit and flare shape. It’s still got great shoulders, too.

And, of course, the hip pockets that are so important and useful on a good coat. The best ones are made like these last three I’ve shown which hide the pockets so well in the design that they are almost invisible.

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

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