Very elegant. Not as luxe a label as Gossard, but still very nicely made. Mid-century women loved these kinds of pretty sets for sleeping and then enjoying morning coffee and newspaper, with maybe a pastry. Watch the movies from about 1950 to 1965 and you’ll see a lot of them. Looks so innocent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVITAGESPY.COM
Just yesterday I delved into the sleepwear file. Police always find bedrooms to be prime locations for crime scenes, but they’re also a hot spot for hidden evidence. Some of the most bewitching things I’ve come across have been stored away in this archive. The Gossard label was one of the best and these photos show why. Not as deeply lovely as some of the silk gowns produced in the 1930’s and 1940’s, but the decoration is always beautiful and the colors so vibrant. I’ll probably be showing more to you . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Another pretty pink lingerie item with an impressive pedigree. Although this particular piece was made late in the company’s history and was probably one of the final batches, it’s still beautifully constructed and made from one of the company’s proprietary fabrics, Blendaire.
I understand why these special fabrics were so distinctive and important to the popularity of Barbizon garments. Blendaire is a batiste made of cotton, nylon and rayon. The look and feel of it is so special that I’ll treasure it forever. If you have followed me for some time, you’ll know that I have enjoyed collecting many styles of bed jackets from the 1930’s through to the time of this one.
Although the maker’s label has been made and attached in a modern, ordinary and ugly way, this bed jacket has still been constructed with the precise care and tailoring of older Barbizon pieces. The tiny crystal pleats are perfect, the lace and embroidery trim is carefully stitched, the hem is perfectly finished, the elastic at wrists is stretchy and all the buttons are present. There are even two sets of snaps discreetly sewn at the neckline and mid-bodice to enhance the fit and prevent gapping. I always sigh with joy when finding this kind of careful tailoring and attention to detail.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Now we’re talkin’! Setting the mood here for Cupid’s Day. Some are relatively demure, but all are beautiful nylon and silk sleepwear from a time when those things were really special.
Whether a young girl heading off to college, or a young woman on her honeymoon, one (or two) of these would surely be stowed in her luggage.
Madge likes that cute robe with the double button closure at the waist. It would work well over the little short-sleeved gown – perfect for dorm room dreams. As for the silk number in the center, well, it is Valentine’s Day so forget the robe . . . . . . . … . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG; MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
There’s nothing like a silk or fine nylon gown against the skin. These also have beautiful lace on the bodices.
If you dream of being in the movies, here’s your wardrobe. These are real special prizes of mine.
Forget all the lace and frills on anything modern; one of these gowns will give you complete amnesia.
Have a lovely day, and night . .. . . . . . . . . . . ..
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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I came across a whole bunch of classic nylon sleepwear pieces that are ALWAYS worth adding to your collection – even if you already have several. My rationale? :
1. if you’ve never slept in mid-century nylon pj’s or gowns (just about 1950’s to very early 1970’s), you don’t know what you’re missing! There is nothing (including silk) that is more comfortable as well as practical in bed and for lounging. They add warmth and are also cool, plus luxuriously smooth and soft. The fit is forgiving. 2. well-made and classically stylish, you won’t find anything equal in modern garments. 3. often you may find single pieces – these are great for matching later, with an identical or similar mate, or as an accessory, such as the black sleeveless cape pictured above. I plan to wear it over a black nightgown.
Not to forget, photo 3 is of a satin storage bag I discovered. These have been staple pieces in women’s undie drawers and storage chests for decades. Not sure if they are still being made to the same standard, but this one is great. Pretty peachy pink and brown in the classic style with inner pocket and fold-over styling, plus ribbon closure ties. Nothing is better for keeping hosiery and delicate garments safe from snags and dust. Grab these, too, whenever you see one. A girl can never have too many . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
This little nightie can also double as a housedress. It’s made in two layers, so no need to feel your modesty is compromised. What a girly, pretty thing to wear around the house and I doubt anyone would complain if you ran out for a quart of milk.
Like my other recent finds, it’s early mid-century and has a label that I have rarely seen, which makes it all the more fun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Nothing better than Sanforized cotton flannel pajamas on cool nights. Although these were made for men, the Medium size would be OK for lots of women today. At first, I thought that they were “new”, but one of them was probably worn a little. They were made in Hong Kong, so the workmanship is up to a higher standard. I love all of the old details and vintage buttons. They were sold by Sears back in the day, under the stores’ own label.
Not the most flattering or delicate of sleepwear, but still wonderful!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Fabulous late 1930’s – early 1940’s styling details, hand-tailoring and original(?) fabrics??? I know the design (a relative had one similar). The embroidered mesh on the bodice is similar to the wartime dressing gown shown a couple of days ago. The synthetic(?) fabric is like nothing I’ve felt before. The gusset at the hemline is a period feature.
IS THIS AN ORIGINAL WWI – WWII GOWN OR AN EXPERTLY-MADE REPRODUCTION? I can’t be sure. It’s in almost-perfect condition, but has been around for a while. No label, of course. Would love to know it’s story. Any ideas, you well-trained experts out there? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
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