Oooh, I had so much fun going through this file. It was hard to separate out the redundancies, but the case is now closed. Gold and silver beauties from the 1950’s U.S., several from WWII Japan and one that probably came from eastern Europe at about the same time. So much history here. Next I’ll be examining some files from the era of post-war prosperity, the Cold War, domestic tensions, Korea and Vietnam.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
For a little relief from these wool coats, thought I’d show you one of my favorite discoveries. This pretty confection contains a lot of evidence and the case is closed. I’d love to keep it but it also takes up too much space in the file locker. Three layers of skirt plus boning in the bodice make it a bit awkward to store compactly! Since I won’t be going to the Prom this year . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
The best thing about this dress is that it was given to me by the (now deceased) mother of a dear friend who wore it to a gala while her husband was in the military. So, I know its exact year and ownership history. It is beautifully-made and I suspect that it was custom-tailored for her. If laid out flat, the skirt is almost a full circle. Rhinestones, lace, yards of taffeta and netting and a fit to die for.
MORGAA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Gowns by Alyce are always so beautiful.. Many for sale are newer than this one, but I love the fabrics and tailoring detail on the older versions. The bodice has boning and lovely beading. The skirt is swishy with two layers. It would be a keeper but, alas, is too large for me (and for Stella, too) so it’s time to pass it on.
Black is always classic and stunning, but I’ve seen Alyce gowns in many colors. When you’re looking for a special formal dress, I recommend this brand and especially if you can find one that is true vintage. The older the better!
AND, TO ALL YOU SPOOKY SLEUTHS, HAPPY HALLOWEEN! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
It’s rare to find these true old ones in great condition anymore. 20 years ago they were coming out of the closet when the former debs and prom queens were moving house or retiring. Now anything that looks like this on the surface was probably made in China yesterday.
However, when you look a little more closely at a true vintage gown you’ll see the careful construction and quality materials that these older garments were made from. Even those that aren’t top-of-the-line are still distinguished and built to last!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
A beautiful formal party frock just made for dancing. It was constructed in a Junior size, so that is why it fits Giselle better as Stella is too tall to show the dress off properly. The company label is missing, but the size tag remains so we know that this garment was commercially made. Several of the expected style elements and tailoring details of that era are present – a bow, lace overlay and a sheer overskirt, hooks and eyes at neckline and waist, wasp waist and full skirt with a below-the-knee hemline.
When I found this beauty, it was suffering from some stain problems but that was short-lived. The metal zip still works well. It’s still got many a Prom in its future.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Daytime into evening glamour for some well-dressed women back in the day. I just love the details and distinctive style of these.
Unmistakably true vintage, they’re extremely versatile today when we might wear them with anything from jeans to evening clothing. And, of course, a perfect final touch to any period costume.
Naturally, they’re beautifully finished inside, with the original owner’s initials sewn to the lining. The little pockets on the front of the cape are an interesting feature – and that BIG button closure – AND the huge cuffs on the ’40’s jacket – LOVE!
Since supporting the current market for new furs is a major no-no for anyone who values animal rights, as I do, I’m grateful for the excellent imitation furs that are being made now and that the sales of new real furs seem to be diminishing – at least in the U.S. I hope that’s true.
It’s OK to enjoy these pretty designs from a half-century ago for their place in fashion history and beautiful craftsmanship. I never get tired of wondering and imagining about the origins and histories of the lovely garments I find, and how to wear them now . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This example is one of the few cases where picking up a more modern garment is worthwhile. Although it’s definitely retro and not expensively made, this gown has so many of the true-to-style elements that evening frocks from the 1930’s and 1940’s did – I was delighted to see how much of the styling the designers had gotten “right” and couldn’t resist it as a great costume.
For Halloween or a historical play it will be lots of fun and fits me well.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Here’s a find that I can’t quite figure out! It’s somewhere in the mid-century and not likely a costume, because of all the detailed buttons in back. But, wouldn’t it make a great one for Halloween?
The illusion neckline is an interesting touch, though it is very modest with long sleeves. Not a child’s dress, but maybe for a teen. One way or another, it was made for a special occasion and seems to have been custom-tailored.
It’s beautiful with a soft green fabric underneath the sheer ivory. I’ve never seen one quite like it even though I’ve found things similar in some ways. ALWAYS love a mystery . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
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