Remember that true-life wartime spy who became famous for her espionage during World War 2? A woman after my own heart and a mentor, for sure. Asian and Asian-inspired fashions became really popular back in the day because of her. I have another dress almost like this one, but I think I’ll keep both. Rayon, again, and oh, so flattering.
The makers also got something else right – the sleeves are made of sheer fabric. This style feature was quite popular in the Forties on bodices, sleeves, shoulders and inserts near the waist. And, of course, there’s nothing like a black and scarlet combo. Perfect for a little intrigue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This dress was made by Liz Claiborne back in the Eighties day. Rayon again, of course. The fabric print colors say more Fifties to me, but the styling is right for a salute to styles from the middle of the Forties decade. The shoulders are padded substantially and the classic shirtwaist styling is very mid-1940’s. I especially like the slightly-dropped waist which gives a great fit on the hips. Love it – come on, summer!
While not a sarong style a la Dorothy Lamour, it’s still got that Pacific vibe which became popular after Japan joined the fight. Exotic island colors and little palm trees so we could forget about the actual horrors taking place halfway across the world. . . . . . . A sad memory for the day after Veterans Day, but thanks to the Liz Claiborne designers for getting a lot of it right!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Patriotically short and with minimal sleeves in observance of wartime rationing, this drapey frock still looks fashionable and sweet for day. Belted, with a bow at the neckline and cute little apples all over. I’ve been itching to photograph it on Stella for almost 2 years and I knew it would suit her to a T. I love Forties rayon dresses – they fit like a dream.
That means I can probably wear it, too, but first it needs attention to a couple of tiny holes on the back of one shoulder. No sweat for the Magicvintagespy and it will be ready for next summer!
During this series, I’m going to do something a little different from the usual. Garments will be posted in the order of their style decade, even though that might not be when they were actually made. All are true vintage, at least from the 1980’s – ’90’s or before, but I picked up several well-done retro pieces 1 or 2 years ago that I’d like to show you. So, stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Yes, I’m off assignment and back at Headquarters for a short time. That’s not to say that there are not a huge backlog of organizational tasks to be done! However, photographing and documenting the finds from the Covid lockdown stretch is one of them and has commenced.
The first post will be published shortly after midnight tonight, CST. So, warm up your set and stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
It’s a banner day for the Magicvintagespy and I have YOU to thank for it.
This blog was started in September or early October of 2012. I had published my book on how to source and identify true vintage fashion earlier in the year and was itching to spread and share my love of vintage garments and accessories and the skills and fun of discovering and wearing them. I’m not particularly tech savvy or profit-motivated so, other than linking to several popular sites like Twitter and Facebook, never used online techniques to maximize views. Aside from linking to my book on Amazon, I’ve never affiliated myself with any products or marketers.
As a result you, my loyal following and viewers, have been a relatively small, select group which has built up slowly and visited regularly. Most of you have stuck with me for a long time. No 25,000 hits-a-day as I’ve seen on other sites!
However, How to Find the Best in Vintage Fashion passed the 500 follower mark this summer and today it has topped 50,000 hits and most of them will have been actual views. Quality, not quantity, is the best and I’m shouting out a big THANK YOU to all of you who have enjoyed my sleuthing right along with me. Stay tuned and have a SPOOKY AND HAPPY HALLOWEEN!! . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
Magicvintagespy 