This dress is SO Fifties. Ric-rac was a big deal on casual clothing and day dresses. Classic style, classic tailoring and classic fabric. A “Renee Original”.
Love it!!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
What a fun and versatile dress! I’ll enjoy wearing this one lots of places. It’s another pretty faithful re-creation that made it worth picking up. Lovely floral print rayon, a flouncy neckline ruffle, side zip, midi hem and, of course, shoulder pads.
Most retro fashions are not worth much more than for the rubbish heap, but a few makers paid some attention to quality and authentic design. Well done!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Here’s that play-suit discovery I made several months ago, modeled properly. 100% cotton with ric-rac trim and big plastic buttons. Not only is it the cutest thing in the world but the ingenious design makes it so convenient to wear, unlike most jumpsuits both old and new.
Button straps, elastic waist and snap crotch closures make it easy-on, easy-off. Although retro versions have been made in recent years, true vintage versions are rare, rare, rare. It also fits me perfectly, unlike the one I came across several years ago which is a bit big. So, I couldn’t be happier. C’mon summer .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
While I was having a run on ’60’s cocktail LBDs, this one presented herself. Same chiffon drape detail idea, but very sassy chic instead of tailored and ladylike. So much fun!
I also love discovering these frocks that were worn once or not at all. And even the ones that saw many the party are often still in quite beautiful condition, as our grandmothers were not in the habit of trashing their clothing. You won’t see the next one for a while, though, because she needs a zipper replacement. A breeze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In the meantime, there’s lots more to show you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Isn’t this one a beauty?! Another of my “new” finds this winter, when I had a sudden rush of discovering little black dresses from this particular era, most with these interesting drapes of black chiffon.
It’s a keeper for sure! Though a little long, it fits like a dream and, of course, is very well-tailored. Love the bodice treatment and little cap sleeves. The very svelte sheath fit makes up for the poufiness around the hips. Now I just need to find a cocktail party . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Don’t know where this was made, or exactly when, but it’s so classic and beautiful. White on white hand-done embroidery. Whisper-light fabric – so cool and delicate.
It does need a slip, but a pretty cotton one in a very plain style would be just right. Hard to find now, but they used to be made for the warmer seasons.
Again, it’s a versatile thing that could even be a bridal dress. I’ll just LOVE it this summer!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Love the cap sleeves and superb fit. The fabric is luscious – medium heavy with glossy stripes. I wonder what kind of blend it may be? Those vintage mystery blends created some of the most fabulous materials ever.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Love polka dots and polished cotton! Stella’s off to the State Fair.
Although this dress isn’t way old, it is true vintage and the classic and fun styling made it worth picking up and wearing. It’s very reminiscent of summer dresses from the 1950’s and early 1960’s and is made well.
As we go up and down, back and forth through the decades, stay tuned!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
A perfect little black dress for day – wonderful find! The classic elements – 3/4 sleeves, decorative detail and shantung weave – make it very fun and versatile. A best of the best everyday garment to discover.
Always an adventure!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Isn’t this print gorgeous? And, the cotton is super, super soft – probably due to age and washings as well as a high-quality fabric.
Another mystery for me! Can’t date it exactly – there is no label and signs say that it was hand-tailored. The style is not traditional Hawaiian, but certain details, such as the pleat in the back of the skirt and the fabulous material, make me think of other vintage gowns made there.
No matter. It’s lovely and tiny but, if I can comfortably wear it it’s a keeper! We’ll see . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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