More custom-tailored stories coming my way – this cute cotton summer frock practically lets me follow the seamstress’s journey as she made this dress for herself. It’s so fun to think of a girl or woman, way back in the day, going to the fabric store and finding a pattern she loves – picking the material she wants and using her sewing skills learned in Home Ec class and the dreams in her imagination to create a dress that she’ll love to wear.
Wish Stella were here to model it for me, but if you know anything about sewing, all the details of this dress make it crystal clear. Although I love finding gorgeous designer frocks from the 1940’s, Fifties and before, a simple homemade garment is one of the sweetest surprises. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Another favorite, the ’50s styles with nipped waists. Love ’em! – who doesn’t – they’ve remained a fashion favorite for many years and a style that keeps on repeating itself. The bateau neckline is also a favorite – SO flattering. I call it a summer dress, but the cotton material is heavy, so it’s perfect to wear almost all year.
The skirt on this one has a bell shape, too – an unusual feature that is somewhat unique. This dress was custom-tailored and the construction is very unusual. I’ve never seen anything like it. Although it zips up the back, there is also an inner bodice that hooks together. It may have been the design of the woman who sewed it – in place of a bra(?)
Sometimes you’ll find a garment like this that is as interesting on the inside as it is on the outside. The tailoring details can sometimes be elaborate, even on commercially-made items. Not to mention what seamstresses can come up with on their own when they’re being creative –
I actually bought this at a shop, which is unusual for me. There are lots of great ones that I have visited and included in my book references – no better place to see a collection of wonderful things in one spot and get the wisdom of the owner’s knowledge. It pays to know all the different types of places where true vintage likes to hide – because you just never know .. . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Oh, boy! It happens all the time, but I’m still always thrilled into ecstasies when I discover a garment like this one. A simple, summer-weight woven rayon shirtwaist frock by R & K Originals.
I so love finding original wartime-era dresses in wonderful condition.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Pretty easy-wear polished cotton sundress from the early to mid-1950’s, in the New Look style. Bit of an atomic thing going on with the applique’ design. Somebody had a lot of fun with it! Perfect Summer frock for a street party.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Gotta have for summer! Original vintage low-heeled pumps found in the Miami area. From the late Sixties – early Seventies. One pair more casual, one pair a bit dressy.
Both a little bit mod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I’m ready for the BBQ – maybe not the volleyball or badminton game. This gown was custom-tailored of a beautiful fabric (look at those colors to die for). Prettier than the black and white from yesterday, but they’re all wonderful. Lovely feminine style with an easy-wear feel. Sixties or Seventies chic.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
Blog: Magicvintagespy.com
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