This lovely little frock might have been worn by some young lady at a recital, coming-out party or first formal occasion. I say that because it is small and very demure.
The only decoration are two petite bows at the waistline in back, next to the metal zipper. I suspect that it was specially made for her by a tailor. If commercially-made, it came from a small, exclusive shop.
The dress is a very pale beige taffeta, with lace overlay on the bodice. Moderate scoop neck front and back. Ruched cummerbund waistband,semi-full skirt with attached netting crinoline.
Very proper and very lovely. I actually found another one alongside it, possibly of the same owner. It has a bit more dramatic decoration, but is very much the same and from the same era.
Can you imagine needing a dress like this every year, or maybe more than one! Did her family move in an upper-class social circle, or was she just a creature of time and place who was required to dress up like this for certain occasions that she attended?
That’s what I love about these adventures – you just never know … ……. …. . .. . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
This one might seem prim and unexciting by our standards today, but it was very normal everyday wear for women 60 or 70 years ago.
If you look at it in an unprejudiced way, it is really quite flattering and comfortable-looking. Let me tell you – the slinky synthetic poly or whatever fabric is like wearing your nightgown all day long!
These little prints were very popular on everyday dresses back in the day. They were almost as common and neutral as a solid color.
A homemaker could wear this, or a “career girl” – it would look appropriate on almost anyone almost anywhere. It was one of those no-fail outfits that you always want to have at least one of in your closet in case you suddenly have to go to a dicey appointment, or meet a scary person or blend in without being noticeable.
Do you have one or two? Because, you just never know .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Morgana Martin, the Magicvintagespy
Blog: Magicvintagespy.com
Google+, Facebook, Twitter & Pinterest
Book: How to Find the Best in Vintage Fashion available on Amazon.com
OK, here’s the other men’s robe in my collection and, dare I say, it’s better than the last one! Same styling; marvelous black satin sash and trim but . . . . . . ..
look at that fabulous silky rayon(?) fabric and the really cool abstract/atomic pattern!! That’s what makes me suspect that it could be older than the last one.
This one really hangs out in the library with a cigar and a glass of cognac. Maybe you’re listening to Dick Tracy or The Shadow on WSPY.
Never mind. If the sleeves weren’t way too long, I’d probably be wearing it right now. Fixing that little issue would not be a big thing, but I also love it just as it is. Madge doesn’t care. Maybe one of these days . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
Odette Barsa designed especially beautiful sleepwear for women. The family apparently kept the company on the go into the 1980’s – after the designer’s death.
The thing I’ve noticed most about these gorgeous creations is her use of ribbon, woven into trims. I also have a bed jacket by this company with the same kind of decoration.
What a pleasure it is to look at and wear true vintage lingerie and nightwear. Nothing today can compare to the sumptuous feel of the fabrics, usually heavy silk or nylon, and the exquisite craftsmanship.
At some point I’ll be taking you on a tour of my gowns, robes and other interesting little what-nots from years ago.
Morgana Martin, the Magicvintagespy
blog: Magicvintagespy.com
Google+, Facebook, Twitter & Pinterest
Book: How to Find the Best in Vintage Fashion available on Amazon.com
Magicvintagespy 