Not a really finely-made example, but a really rare one that I’ll have lots of fun with. Just because of the similar color, I’ve paired it in this photo with a well-made 1980’s gored skirt in 1940’s style.
Whenever I feel like hanging out in jeans and penny loafers or saddle shoes on a fall day, I’ll reach for this top. Great disguise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
These are all great, but I always love peasant blouses and Sixties cotton blouses. The true ones are becoming more and more rare and are so fun to encounter. They are always a go-to for me in the summer.
Nothing could have been more iconic in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s. Some of the little-white-blouses had embroidery on them, too, but not big and bold like the peasant variety. Although popular back to the Forties, these examples come from the Sixties and, maybe, early Seventies.
Yes, another trio to find closet room and happy wearing come next May . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I’ve left the shirt un-ironed to show that it is 100% cotton, rather than poly or a blend. And the feel of true vintage cotton – so soft and wonderful after being washed, worn and loved for a while!
The close-up shows some of the detail that covers the front, with tucks and crocheted lace. A 1/2 inch ruffle goes all the way around the hem. Few blouses made in the U.S. have this amount of gorgeous, high quality decoration – even the old ones!
For that reason, I wonder if this one was made in Europe where they routinely made glorious cotton garments like this one – maybe still do . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
What could be more classic than a sailor collar? These have been popular fashion for decades and always come back. Side vents, detachable “modesty panels” in necklines, and tartan plaid have also been important details found in iconic true vintage styles. This blouse was made in the 1940’S
to early 1950’s. The label says it is made of “Sanforized” cotton – Sanforization was a process developed in the 1930’s. It’s so unusual to find a blouse from that time that is in wonderful condition!
White cotton blouses used to be a major staple in every woman’s (and man’s) wardrobe. Men still wear them, more than women do, because they usually don’t do any of the ironing that is required!
Yes, they require more care in some ways, but it’s well worth it. Nothing can compare to this fabric. Also, if you do get a stain, it’s often easier to remove than from easy-care synthetics because cotton can withstand hot water.
Discovering a garment like this is always a high point of any investigation, for me.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
With polka dots, a flouncy neckline and full metal back zipper this rayon & acetate blouse is pure 1950’s – early 1960’s. Can’t wait to wear it with my “new” black pencil skirt!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This is a beautifully-made piece from a smaller, upscale company from the ’50’s and ’60’s “down under” – Hibodress. It’s been fun doing research on the vintage clothing labels that I encountered there.
The woman who started this business really appreciated smart design and quality construction. It shows in this garment and made it such a pleasure to own and wear. Kudos to her!
That’s still true today, of course, if you can find clothing of that caliber . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This one is made by Brooklin, the same maker of the mink-trimmed cocktail blouse that Stella modeled recently. I love the way the hem is finished, and, though it’s hardly visible, the fabric is embossed with a crocodile pattern!
It’s so rare to find true vintage blouses in wearable condition that I just flip with happiness when I do. This one is very versatile and a lovely, neutral mocha tone.
Doesn’t get much better . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Since I haven’t shown this top in a LONG time, thought I’d give it a showcase today since it’s so perfect now (still needs a pressing). A wonderful rayon or acetate fabric with gloss and a fabulous print. Made by Alex Coleman.
Last week, I got this blouse out to wear and decided to do a few modifications to the hemlines and add light shoulder padding, just to tweak the fit and got so excited about it again. That’s the fun of classic, quality vintage clothing – it’s good to go forever and can even be refurbished a little with great success – because it starts out so wonderful . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Here’s a nice picture of that great rayon blouse that I found there. Love the fitted shape, which is a rare find in itself.
I suppose that this shirt could go all the way back to the Forties. Somewhere between 1940 and 1970, with my bets on the late Sixties. As much as I love being able to pinpoint the age of my discoveries, there’s also some fun in the things that keep you guessing a bit.
Won’t this look GREAT with the jacket I showed yesterday? A perfect combo!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Stella rocks this wonderful find from my recent trip. Can’t wait to wear it over a long black skirt or with black cigarette pants!
This was not a high-end item, in spite of the mink trim – like so many lovely things from mid-century, the average woman was able to buy and wear it. It is open-weave in a glossy synthetic material, lined with black fabric. The floral fantasy pattern reflects the colors of most, if not all, of the treasures I found in that country. Stay tuned to see more . . . . .
It was made by a New Zealand clothing company back in the day. I was told by other vintage experts there that New Zealand used to have a very excellent clothing industry which has, sadly, gone now.
But, so much more FUN for a modern sleuth . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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