The colorful, naive graphics of true vintage souvenir scarves and hankies are SO much fun!! It’s wonderful to find one in silk, or any high quality vintage fabric like rayon or fine 100% cotton.
The designs are always so cute and bright. Not a good disguise, though, unless I’m wanting to look like a tourist . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Sorry I didn’t get this photo into my St. Patrick’s Day series. Can you imagine that dress worn under the emerald green satin evening coat I showed then? Perfect!
Both these garments are in a lightweight fabric. The blouse is probably a rayon georgette and the dress in a crinkly rayon or poly that is lined with acetate. Pearl buttons on the blouse and a rhinestone detail on the bow belt of the dress. Stella is wearing my favorite leather Deliso – style pumps from the Eighties. 
The dress has a well-known label of the time which I have shown before – L’Aignon (the spelling might be a bit off). A bright jewel tone like this and filmy fabric could be worn any time of year, but I like it in Spring or Fall.
These are not new finds – I’ve had them for a while and they are keepers!
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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When I discovered this purse, it was the clasp as well as the fabric that hooked me. I discovered several dark green velvet garments around the same time and you could almost think that that they were made to go together. So, this was a re-purposing & recycling triumph as well as a true vintage score.
Just right with your dressy St. Pat’s party dress. Doesn’t get better than that . .. . . . . . .. well, yes, it does, but that will be another story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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This amazing slip (or dress?) is something I have seen only once. It is of all-over lace, with a red nylon lining, side zip and a side slit. It has construction features of a slinky dress but in all other ways is made like other lingerie slips of that era.
Imagine wearing this under your party frock or, if you are more daring, alone. Perhaps you won’t want to wear it until after the party . . . .
In any case, it’s a true vintage knock-out item with that great Cat-on-a-Hot-Tin-Roof feeling. Would be a nice little anniversary or Valentine’s Day surprise. When I found it I certainly couldn’t resist.
It was a bit too small for me and I no longer have it (sob). My only regret now is that I can’t photograph it on Stella, who it would fit to a “T”. Eat YOUR heart out, Elizabeth Taylor . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Accessories are EVERYTHING to an ensemble, so what to carry on an impromptu dressy occasion? A true vintage bag, of course. This one doesn’t steal the show but demonstrates your exquisite taste and knowledge of quality. I have many dressy bags, but this one is often my go-to choice.
It’s of gold leather and is lined in black rayon. The inside pocket, of course, contains its own little make-up mirror for touching up your lipstick throughout the night. No self-respecting true vintage handbag would come without one. If you’re a really successful sleuth, it will still be in it’s original little paper envelope.
The accessories that you carry or wear (this includes shoes) raise or lower the impression of your entire outfit. Genuine leather is always a preferred material, and quality construction. Remember the phrase “well-heeled” to describe a person who is well-dressed and tasteful, referring especially to their choice of footwear? That’s what it means!
It’s not the point to look for something expensive or flashy (better NOT flashy) if you are successful in the hunt for true vintage fashion. It’s so much fun to spot that perfect bag hiding and waiting . . . . . you just never know . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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This dress is of heavy taffeta. It looks so Spring-like, but in this substantial fabric and vibrant color it could stand on its own (almost literally!) any time of year. The photo is of the back view, because of the cute bow. In front, there is simple seaming at the waist for a cummerbund effect. Very elegant and sweet, but also quite flattering with the shaped fit.
Love the salmon pink color! The material, 3/4 sleeves and netting under the skirt are so common for that time. Such a beautiful fabric – I’ve found several dresses made of heavy taffeta from the late ’50’s to early ’60’s, in beautiful jewel tones. Would be perfect with a true vintage or modern FAUX rabbit stole ~ true vintage mink if you’re a real debutante.
As I’ve said before, when going for fur I choose true vintage (at least 50 years old) or faux/fake fur. It is getting so good these days that you can have the look without the cruelty. However, if I find a fur that is so old that buying it won’t support the current market for the fur trade, I go for it. There’s nothing like True Vintage.
This gown turned up a few years ago during one of my investigations. You just never know . . . . . .!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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Stella is doing a 1950’s Janet Leigh thing this time (she loves her wigs). Just perfect in this custom-tailored red velveteen frock with rhinestone buttons and buckle. It’s a little warm for this time of year – probably best for Christmas or Valentine’s Day – but, how could I resist?
It’s got those little pointy cuffs on the 3/4/ sleeves that are so stylish, and a very full skirt. No lining or slip needed with this cotton velveteen fabric, as it’s very opaque and will be cuddly in cool weather.
The buttons and belt buckle are very nice, too. Would be lovely to still have notions like this available at the corner store . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Bored in Miami? Snowbound in your photography studio? How about livening things up with a little vintage cheesecake?
Look at those cups on this classic ’50’s Jantzen maillot! If you didn’t have the figure, these suits would do their best to give it to you.
I’ll bet you can think of all sorts of ways to pose in this bubblegum pink cutie, and with all the necessary accessories.
Snowstorms – That’s why your mother wanted you to learn how to play by yourself.
Valentine’s Day – That’s why it’s good to know how to play nice with others . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
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A BIG change from yesterday’s styles – we’re leaping ahead to Easter with these statement hats, which had a real heyday in the early-mid Sixties. Each one is completely covered in feathers of one principle color, with accent tones sprinkled in. Marlene and Celia are oh, so chic and smart.
Very flattering, eh? Hats were always popular in the mid-century, but Spring hats had a special place after a long, cold winter and heavy, dark clothing. Feather hats are especially dramatic and these two are no exception to that rule! I may be showing some more later on . .. . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
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