Finding true vintage handbags in almost-new condition is always a treat. When summer’s almost over this year, the old-fashioned rule of “Don’t Wear White Wardrobe Items After Labor Day” is also dead and gone!
Ande’ was another company that made popularly-priced purses in the mid-century era. Usually small, and more often made of vinyl, but always cute, sturdy and stylish.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I just LOVE this dress with its big hem allowance, like the sundress from yesterday, vintage metal zip and beautiful color palette. The photo doesn’t do the fabric justice – tones are a bit darker and more vibrant in person. It’s a cotton twill with just enough heft to hang well. The dress fits me perfectly and the cut is very flattering. This photo makes it look as though something a little wonky is going on at the sides of the bodice, but that is not the case. The dress is seamed in a way to define the waist a bit and make the upper body fit more closely.
This combo of deep red, scarlet and turquoise is one of my favorites. The addition of orange, yellow and greenish accents make a really lovely color experience that almost seems to draw me into an interesting landscape or a Moroccan souk full of beautiful carpets, fruits and vegetables. It’s wonderful to discover handmade garments made in ways that follow the techniques of excellent construction. Can’t wait to try this one, in particular, on Stella. She always does justice to my fitted finds. Take a look at previous posts and see what I mean.
Tomorrow we’re in for fabulous fun with dress discovery #3. Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Needlepoint totes and sassy little clutch purses were very popular in the late 1950’s – mid-1960’s. I’m tickled to find these great examples that will be so practical and fun to carry! Love the touch of asymmetry in the designs of both.
Although modern shoulder straps can make today’s monster purses quite handy when only a large handbag will do, I often prefer the design of older ones – and they’re better-made, too, unless you want to pay hundreds of dollars (and even then, it’s no guarantee – shame, shame on modern makers).
Anyway, these pretties got tucked into my closet and will come out soon – so perfect for the season . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This is the first item I discovered on Wednesday. It’s not the best of the 3 dresses, but I love it and will start here. There’s no label, and only a manufacturer’s tag in the side seam. A budget-priced item, it was originally unlined but the previous owner put in a perfect lining adapted from a vintage lingerie slip. Now it’s not see-through in any way and hangs better. See what a little ingenuity can do?
The colors and chevron stripes were what caught my eye to begin with. The lightweight fabric, easy fit and pull-over style make it a perfect summer frock or swimsuit cover-up. I’ll get a lot of use out of this one. Stay tuned for the rest of the line-up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Yes, although I liked the torpedo-shaped clasp and the almost-leather vinyl body I nearly passed on this because there are so many – but, then I decided to look inside. Whoa! Love it!!
Back last May I found a brownish handbag with this rainbow lining and fell in love, too. It goes without saying, ALWAYS look inside (if only to check the condition). Because, you just never know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Both these little ladies were made in Hong Kong, of similar basic design, but there is a world of difference between them. Lady Right was made for the uptown market, while Lady Left was sold downtown. Though they’re both clean and well-put-together, Lady Right grew up with all the best, while Lady Left’s beginnings were more humble.
It’s obvious “in person” that these bags were made for different markets. The styling in both is superior, but the materials and extra attention to detail show that Lady Right brought a higher price. Just comparing these two pretties, found at the same time, was a fun chance to evaluate a number of “clues” about their backgrounds.
I don’t have a favorite. Their stories are equally interesting to me (maybe Lady Left’s is a little more so . . . . .). Each one is perfect with the outfit that coordinates with it. While Lady Left could be much more casual, she is no less elegant – maybe even more so, if you don’t look too closely. Lady Right could seem a little tasteless if she showed up everywhere dressed like that.
I see one for holiday festivities or a very gala occasion (maybe tonight?), while the other would be lovely with a pretty summer dress. Both would be gorgeous for a bridal venue. It can all be so fascinating . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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