We’re still in the same time frame – the Camelot days of the pre- and early Kennedy era This frock by the mid-priced vintage label Vickie Vaughn has the same basic styling as yesterday’s formal dress but toned down for everyday. No less pretty, however, with an abundance of the feminine detailing which was so popular at that time.
Alas, she does show some wear and tear in the fact that her color has faded in a couple of places and there are even two bleach spots on front. So, that means the blue will have to be refreshed. Not a big deal, and all the other aspects of her construction are sound. Definitely worth picking up, as it’s a relatively rare find.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
A beautiful formal party frock just made for dancing. It was constructed in a Junior size, so that is why it fits Giselle better as Stella is too tall to show the dress off properly. The company label is missing, but the size tag remains so we know that this garment was commercially made. Several of the expected style elements and tailoring details of that era are present – a bow, lace overlay and a sheer overskirt, hooks and eyes at neckline and waist, wasp waist and full skirt with a below-the-knee hemline.
When I found this beauty, it was suffering from some stain problems but that was short-lived. The metal zip still works well. It’s still got many a Prom in its future.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I think this sweater is from the Fifties, but it might even be from the 1940’s. Never have I seen a decorated cardigan with stellar novae (or atomic bomb blasts?), stars and comets stitched on in beaded handwork. Looks a little more like Sputnik time than Hiroshima time. Anyway, I love it and what a fun find!
The material is, I think, Orlon or something similar so it won’t need protection from moths. Seems like most sweaters from the Forties were made of cashmere or other wool, until that was rationed. It needed some stain attention and has a little pilling, but those are minor issues and easy to deal with. A pale, neutral pink like this one also goes with almost anything so will be very versatile. These pretty sweaters which fit almost like a blouse can be worn in so many ways. Can’t wait to try one out . . . .. .. . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This camp shirt is 1940’s in design, with the wing collar and dolman sleeves. You can’t see it on Stella, but they are almost bat-wing cut. Made by a company that was popular for a while in the 1970’s, it’s a very good retro reproduction. Love the colors and the lightweight woven fabric – poly/cotton blend.
Casual clothing, especially, seems to span the decades sometimes with very little change. Something I can enjoy for a long time!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
The first midi blouse appeared around 1910, according to fashion archives, and was styled after sailors’ uniforms. Over the years the style stayed with us but the design was modified. This version looks reminiscent of the 1940’s or 1950’s but was made in the 1980’s by Esprit. The classic blue and white nautical colors are iconic and always seen in Spring. I also love polka dots – another favorite vintage print.
I like this particular style and have a pair of white pants, styled after those that sailors wore, with wide legs and buttons at the hips. So, perfect! Maybe I’ll add some modest shoulder pads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Magicvintagespy 