This style, popular in the 1950’s and early 1960’s, looks like it’s never been carried! Mid-century ladies often had two or three treasured handbags carefully stored in a dresser for specific occasions, from semi-dress to formal. I love these pretty dressy purses that add an elegant touch to evening or better day dresses. They used to be a staple of city-wear for well-dressed women . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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In the 1950s, this style of shirt-dress in a very sheer printed material was popular. I have found several of them here and there. Although the photo doesn’t do it justice, it’s one of my favorites. The fabric drapes really well and is very flattering. Bits of pink in the print help it to go with my skin-tone.
Usually, dresses of this type were belted and, of course, would be worn over a slip. Imagine this one with a lovely true vintage nylon slip underneath (but not a fussy slip). and a covered buckle belt or tie belt. . . . . . . . . . .your skirt swaying in the breeze as you walk down main street on your shopping errands for the day. A pretty little ’50s bag and peep-toe sling-back sandals might be nice. Or, you can mix it up. I love a full-on vintage look, especially with dresses, but mixing decades is also fun.
Vintage accessories with modern clothing really works for me sometimes. I find the mixing easy with casual looks. The great thing about many true vintage items is that their styles are very classic and elegant. Therefore, if you do go 100% true vintage in an outfit that is very elegant, it won’t look overdone or too much like a movie set. Be careful not to over-do things like jewelry or hat and gloves unless you want to aim for the kitchie look. That’s fun, too. And, to me, fun is what it’s all about.
I love the elements of history, mystery, style and aesthetics and recycling – but it’s all fun to me! Everyone loves a treasure hunt, because you just never know . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Never can have too many of these! Shoulder pads, matching belt and midi length – of course, I like my true 1940’s ones best but the ’80s did some very fun versions, too.
This one, in a soft cotton blend, was worth picking up. Nice print, good styling, excellent condition. Someone loved it 35 years ago . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Here’s a mid-century Prom or dance party dress for Spring. I’ve had this frock for several years and it is in wonderful shape EXCEPT that the bodice had some old perspiration damage under the arms. No fixing that . . . . . . . .SO, I replaced the overlay fabric on the bodice with a nearly – identical modern material.
To the naked eye in normal room light, the dress looks perfect. Only the digital camera with flash shows the difference – that aging of the fabric over 60 – 70 years has slightly changed its color.
I’m pleased with my repair, but here’s a good example of why saving any old fabrics left over from sewing or hem changes makes a lot of sense. You might need them some time and, you just never know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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In a pretty blue & white print cotton or cotton blend knit, this dress has classic fit and style characteristics i.e. cap sleeves & a keyhole neckline. It falls to mid-calf.
This one will take you into Spring and right on into Summer. There is no identifying info inside and I’m placing it 1950 – 1970. I have seen others similar from those times.
With such an attractive silhouette and pretty fabric, I’m not going to nit-pick. Sometimes the clue trail is tantalizingly inconclusive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
If you find a good deal on a vintage dress with stains like these, don’t let it worry you. I’ve had great success learning how to deal with them . . . . . . . . .
In heavy rayon or a blend, with its own rhinestone pin and a sassy fit, this dress has 1950’s party written all over it. In a pretty robin’s egg print, it’s just right for Spring. Try it with a little bolero jacket or sweater.
A frock such as this one is too good to pass up, if you feel confident about your skills. . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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These are just so pretty and Spring-y that they’re my choice for this holiday. With embroidered flowers and a good dose of green, they stand above plain colors today.
I love the fact that they’re in such good condition – it’s always a treat to see the names of small, privately-owned shoe stores printed inside, as was often done in the mid-century. This was true of clothing, hats and purses, too.
Pretty shoes like this just don’t seem to be made anymore. The vintage-style substitutes just don’t make the grade. And, of course, these are 100% leather excepting for the fabric uppers.
So, trip off to a party or the light fantastic just like a fairie . … . . . . . . . … .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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What’s special about this find? Aside from being about 40 years old, it is made in Hawaii – which used to mean beautiful, quality cottons and rayons and lovely workmanship. This one doesn’t disappoint. It has a back zipper with a small bow trim there. The neckline has piping around it and the heavy cotton material drapes nicely. As usual, the print and color saturation are wonderful in these fabrics.
A straight, mu-mu style is very versatile and flattering to most figures.
Are you planning to attend or host some casual event this weekend, or just a laid-back day at home? In keeping with the green spirit of this St. Patrick’s holiday, I suggest a dress like this one. As long as it’s warm enough where you are, a dress like this can be worn almost anywhere, to do anything. It’s even possible to dress it up with jewelry, shoes and bag.
Vintage made in Hawaii has always been so distinctive – it’s a special look all its own. It does tend to follow style trends a bit, but some of the classic looks don’t change. I’ll be showing others that are older, too. These have been so popular over the years that they sometimes turn up in my searches and I’m always thrilled to find them. Just putting one on takes me to an exotic time in my mind and then, well you just never know . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
“Styled by Cinderella New York” – a classic wool brimmed hat with a sophisticated schoolgirl look. The crown is stamped “Berkshire – Mohn Brothers Co. 100% Wool”. Love the plaid ribbon band that forms a bow with streamers in the back. There is also a little elastic chin strap attached!
Picture this with a little suit, skirt and blouse, dress, or whatever you like. Hats were SUCH a big thing in the ’40s with imaginative and flattering styles. Some of them were way over-the-top, but this one is understated and just too cute. Look carefully for gems like this one.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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As many of the hats from the ’40s, this one is pretty dramatic. It sits on the back of the head and is all brim in front, with none in the back. This is one of the decades when hats were super-important – – sometimes the most central part of an outfit.
I must admit that some hats from the ’40s are a bit too wild to be my favorites, but they were always fun and interesting. And, some are absolutely beautiful . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
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