If you’ve been watching while I share my closet, you know that some of the items are astounding, some may not appeal to you, some might look better modeled by a person, rather than Madge or Stella (my mannequins – they work very hard), or that some could use a steaming or a press to look their best.
Keep in mind that I have loved true vintage clothing and accessories forever because of their special characteristics, and even the most humble item has some very unique qualities.
In decades past, consumers looked for excellent design, quality materials, fine workmanship, durability and value when they shopped and manufacturers produced goods to these standards. It was more important to have a few lovely, well made and dependable things that felt good to own than a couple dozen mediocre items that were economical but lacked real style and wouldn’t last. Today we seem to have settled for cheaper, flashier, disposable fashion with the result that everyone looks more or less the same (even those who are trying to be different) and few people are truly stylish or elegant.
That is why I have loved to collect and wear true vintage since I was in college and really enjoy sharing my passion. There is no comparison to the quality of materials used, the beautiful designs and superb workmanship in even very simple styles. The humblest garment is a champion of durability and has a certain cache’ that can’t be found elsewhere. Most everything you buy will be one-of-a-kind, at least for all practical purposes. You’re unlikely to see anyone else wearing your outfit and some were truly one-off when they were made.
When I post my photos, I’ll tell you about the lovable features of these pieces and share the magic and excitement of finding and wearing them. When you’re on the hunt for vintage fashion, amazing things are always just around the corner . . . . you just never know!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This one is a beauty – look at that fit! It’s just been washed in the photo, so a steamer press or quick trip to the dry cleaners for a really professional job is in order. Sorry that I can’t post the photo of the back, too. Go to my site at Morgana Martin – Google+ to see it, in the archives.
It’s a lined jacket with covered buttons and lovely detail. There is a welt on the back. Another nipped waist – heaven! It had some fade when I found it, but with my know-how I was able to rehab it easily and inexpensively.
I usually wear this with a swingy print skirt (a pencil skirt or even a dress would work well, too. Depends on what suits your mood and the occasion.)
Didn’t really look like much when I found it, but you just never know . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This is a great true vintage jacket that I love. It is unlined, so I can start wearing it now in the evenings.
Easy zip but stylish, too. The so-retro pointed collar is great and my hat’s off to the designer who placed those welts on the shoulders. They’re very flattering to most women and, along with the fitted waistline and slash pockets at the hips, really improve the looks of almost all figures.
That’s what I like best about true vintage fashion – the tailoring is usually so good with surprising designs! Though this is not a high-end item, touches like that make it superb.
The style is so classic in it’s lines that I can pair it with almost any casual clothing and can snazz it up with accessories, too. Final favorite feature? – It reminds me of old movies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This lined jacket, labeled “Young Girl”, is full of nautical style details. Epaulets, double-breasted and the bright navy color make me think of Spring styles, which have often had a nautical theme, but it works equally well in the Fall. Classic but cute – it really calls for a hat or cap like the ones I’ve seen from the late 1960’s.
The oversize breast pocket is interesting and there are also slash pockets with welts at each hip, which can’t be seen in the photo. Button tabs at the hip allow for a small size adjustment. Buttons at the sleeve cuffs also allow for an adjustment. Since this is a Girls’ size 18, perhaps it was styled to accomodate some growth – a very practical idea and always workable on such a classic style which never goes out of fashion.
I wish that clothing-makers still used that kind of quality, care and creative thinking today! However, my gain because this one has lasted for 50 years and fits a small Misses size, (such as moi!). Another unexpected find while I was sleuthing – you just never know . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This true vintage coat doesn’t get the showing it deserves in this photo. Imagine it on a larger figure and glowing in deep ruby red. It has just one small, hidden button closing it in front. This allows for movement on the body and an elegance different from a coat with buttoned front but is still very warm.
100% Virgin Wool, a beautiful lining and deep slash pockets are common quality elements in these vintage garments.
It is definitely a “statement” coat and will last for years.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Magicvintagespy 