Tag Archives: fur

A PERFECT “WRAP” FOR YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY NIGHT

I love posting this stole because it is a winner on at least 3 counts: It’s true vintage from the 1970’s. It’s CRUELTY-FREE! and It looks great. Even many of the faux furs available as far back as the 1950’s (and a few in the 1940’s) are beautifully-done fakes. Those available today are as good or better.

So, although I have many gorgeous and some unusually-styled actual fur garments from the early 1960’s and before, FAUX FUR IS THE GOLD STANDARD TODAY. I have nothing against buying and wearing a true vintage fur as long as they last, but please do not support the people who are trapping, raising and killing animals now by buying their products. Be wary of bits of fur trim on modern garments, too. By our responsible actions as consumers, the market for fur from living animals will die out and become only a part of our fashion history.

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

MAJOR GLAM IN TRUE VINTAGE FURS – STOLE/CAPE AND JACKET FROM THE 1940’S / 1950’S

MAJOR GLAM IN TRUE VINTAGE FURS - STOLE/CAPE AND JACKET FROM THE 1940'S / 1950'S

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

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TRUE VINTAGE FUR CAPE FROM THE 1930’S – 1940′ S – EARLY 1950’s

TRUE VINTAGE FUR CAPE FROM THE 1930'S - 1940'S - early 1950's

I just love this cape and it’s little details.  I’m an animal rights activist and don’t approve of the fur trade in any way, but I have collected old ones from back in the day.

Not sure what the origin of this fur is.  The stripes are clearly dyed, probably to resemble mink.  It’s got these funny little tabs to “close” the bottoms of the arm slits, for a better appearance and added warmth.

Of course, it had patches sewn inside with the owner’s initials embroidered on, along with the maker’s label, both of which are gone now.  Surprisingly, it’s in great condition for its age – still soft and radiant.

These garments are so full of history that they intrigue me as much as any other vintage fashion.  I wear them, too.  Some people would say this is hypocritical but  I would disagree – buying or wearing antique fur or leather does not support the current market for these things unless someone makes an irresponsible decision.  I suggest that we should all be responsible for our choices in the marketplace – so, if you like my vintage fur, don’t use that as an excuse to go out and buy a modern one.  Search for another vintage fur at least 50 or more years old or buy an imitation fur replica and do something kind for wildlife or your pet.

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

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ICONIC TRUE VINTAGE 1950’S MINK-TRIMMED BLOUSE – ANOTHER TREASURE FOUND NEW ZEALAND

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAAnother rare find!  This one was not a high-end item when it was made, but it is an iconic piece with mink-trimmed sleeves.  I have a few of these garments with sleeves like this but don’t find them often.

Metallic thread on sheer black fabric, with “Autumn Haze” mink cuffs.  Buttons up the back.  Back in the day, companies that produced medium-priced clothing still made some “luxury” items that the average woman could afford, and they made them well.

What a pleasure to discover this one!

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

BOOK:  HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION

TRUE VINTAGE CASHMERE & MINK FOR WINTER WHITE NIGHTS

TRUE VINTAGE CASHMERE & MINK FOR WINTER WHITE NIGHTS

Pure luxury in these beautiful and elegant coats with mink fur collars. Both have easy silhouettes and showcase necklines.

The collar on the left hooks in front to form a closed cowl. It also has bracelet-length sleeves to show off some lovely dark gloves.

Both coats make a sumptuous impression with effortless chic. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Morgana Martin, the Magicvintagespy
Blog: Magicvintagespy.com
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Book: How to Find the Best in Vintage Fashion available on Amazon.com

MORGANA MANIFESTS MORE! TRUE VINTAGE FIFTIES FUR JACKET – ELEGANCE FOREVER

 True vintage (at least 40 – 50 years old) furs are some of the most fabulous examples of elegance in tailoring. I’m avid for animal rights and welfare, so I’ll start by saying that the wonderful imitations today make it unnecessary and morally criminal to support the market for fur by buying real fur that is still in production.

That said, lets explore some of the thrilling features of this old piece.  Of black curly lamb, with a black mink collar and full silk lining; a high quality fur coat, jacket, stole or other garment always had a label from a good furrier attached. This one was in New York, N.Y..  The stylist also had her own label inside.  Final touches included the initials of the original owner sewn in the lining and a hook and eye closure in front, plus a decorative button and little shallow pockets at the waist.

Aside from the luxurious material and obvious style, the best and most elegant pieces never were flashy or garish.  As with this one, a look told the story of the value and high price tag without having to shout.

So glad that it’s easy for me to find the best of this kind of classic wardrobe staple by going vintage . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

BOOK:  HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM

TRUE VINTAGE FUR ACCESSORIES FROM THE ’30’S, ’40’S, ’50’S & ’60’S

TRUE VINTAGE FUR ACCESSORIES FROM THE '30'S, '40'S, '50'S & '60'S

It’s still not too late to glam it up with fabulous fur accessories, especially during the variable March weather . . . . . . . our mothers and grandmothers had to be prepared to look chic no matter what!

Marlene and Celia have been waiting for another chance to get into the picture.  Here you see them modeling a variety of mink accessories, with the exception of the black muff far left, which I believe is of rabbit fur and has a small zipper compartment and the black hat, which is curly lamb.

Whole skinned animals, with heads, feet and tails (and little glass eyes) were popular as stoles in the 1930’s & 1940’s, maybe the ’20’s, too.  Big “Eeew!” factor for a lot of people now.  I’ve already covered the fur issue so, if you love real furs (and animals) stick to 1960’s and before.

There’s a dark brown mink scarf that closes with a big mink-covered button (very elegant) and a blonde mink “dickie” to wear at the neckline under your coat.

The hats are probably the most visible accessory when you’re first seen – these are super-flattering but also will be warm. So, when you’re forced to take to the sidewalks, just remember —- to be well-dressed at all times is a gift to yourself and everyone who sees you.

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

PRETTY TIE-ON FAUX FUR COLLAR – A REAL TOUCH OF TRUE VINTAGE ELEGANCE

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Whether over a dress, blouse, sweater or coat collar, this removable “fur” accessory provided lots of glam and a little extra warmth.  Sweet and sophisticated, without the expense and care demands of real fur.

Our mid-century gal found this addition to her wardrobe to be one that she could wear with many outfits and on different occasions, for many years to come.  I’m so glad that she preserved it so well for me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM