This dress was worn to a semi-formal event in 1955, in Europe. Lace overlay, dropped waist and double-layer chiffon skirt.
No cutesy business going on here – just serious fashion, quality, classic elegance and glamour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This dress is feminine and alluring in the best way. It makes the most of the female figure but is very tasteful – not a bit in-your-face.
The neckline and bodice treatment are quite unusual – something I’ve not seen done like this before or after.
The kind of fashion that makes you truly unforgettable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This luscious dress is another that Madge can’t wear, because of the side zipper at the waist. Soon, I want to put it (and several others like it) on Stella! A hanger doesn’t do it justice, but imagine it as it fits – with a fitted waist and very full circle skirt.
Of 100% silk, with gold accents all over. I believe that it is Asian silk and was probably custom-tailored there for someone from the “West” who was vacationing or living there for a time.
It’s a beautiful dress and I gasped when I discovered it – it also fits me! What a perfect frock for any dress-up party or a really special date. With the generous hem let down to below-the-knee, it could even go to the Prom!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This one is my very favorite – in a silvery plum. I think Peggy Lee would have loved performing in this. Definitely a dance dress, maybe even for Prom. Who knows – cocktails and a fancy dinner . . . . . . . . . . .?
One thing I love so much about true vintage garments is the specialty fabrics. This one has the floral pattern embroidered on the black background, with metallic highlights. And, of course, the fabric is cut to drape beautifully.
Your regular boyfriend can escort you around in this one, but he’d better be prepared for the competition . .. . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Here’s the flip-side of sweet – my favorite strapless number from the 1950’s. Rayon with beading and a killer fit.
I love to imagine where this one has or could have been. Smokey nightclubs come to mind. Maybe she was a singer.
It was a dark night in the city. The story you are about to see . . . . . . . ….. . .. . . . . … . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
UNION-MADE IN THE U.S.A. FOR THE CHRISTIAN DIOR LINE
This traditionally-styled wrapper comes from the Fifties or early 1960’s. It’s got the hallmark generous hemline, two on-seam pockets, carefully-constructed bodice with lace and eyelet, ribbon, elaborate decoration and pearlized plastic buttons on stems. Take a close-up look.
I can’t believe the perfect condition! Hardly looks worn at all. It’s a feather-light cotton blend to be washed by hand. I’ll love this one for a long time . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
–
There’s nothing more eye-catching on a plain tailored dress, coat or jacket lapel than an outstanding piece of jewelry. These costume brooches are each signed, by different designers. Whimsical and elegant, women hardly felt dressed without one on back in the day.
From the 1950’s – 1960’s, they are either glamorous or fun. I love the turtle!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Beiges are always a smart alternative when you don’t want to go the black route for some dressy or special occasion.. This frock is a beautiful, glowing mocha that flatters like crazy. With a big crinoline underneath, it might even have gone to the Prom! It’s rockabilly – swing done elegantly.
The fabric is unusual – some kind of rayon or blend with a nice drape and gorgeous sheen. Wide scoop necklines and nipped waists are favorites of mine and I absolutely adore this dress. Perfect for cocktails, dinner, a dance party, etc., etc..
Although not a set, I might combine this little lace-overlay bolero jacket with it for some venues when it’s going to be chilly inside or out. The color is a perfect go-with. A simple cashmere cardigan, beautiful shawl or a true vintage fur would all work nicely, too.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVITAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Slightly longer lengths for wearing with your lovely post-war and Kennedy era Spring dresses, which usually come to the knee or slightly below. These have the same beautiful quality that make them such a joy to wear!
Substantial creamy nylon in beautiful colors with gorgeous detailing – some hand-worked . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
A very favorite find, custom-tailored in the early 1950’s after one that Grace Kelly’s character, Lisa, wore in the classic Alfred Hitchcock movie, Rear Window. Lisa’s dress had a yellow printed skirt, rather than blue. I even know the woman who made this frock in 1954!
The black fabric in the bodice is stretchy and the neckline very unusual. It fits perfectly, no matter how your own curves go! The skirt is of three layers, with sheer fabric on top and netting underneath. The little black “leaves” are embroidered on the sheer overlay.
What could be more fabulous? – a costume similar to one worn by one of my all-time favorite actresses in a favorite movie by a favorite director! How intriguing . . . . . .. . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Magicvintagespy 