
Here are two more beauties from Hawaii. The same fabulous construction and fabric, but slightly more modern art prints. Don’t you love those colors? Whenever I find one, I grab it!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

Here are two more beauties from Hawaii. The same fabulous construction and fabric, but slightly more modern art prints. Don’t you love those colors? Whenever I find one, I grab it!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

Since I’ve started getting out the patio frock, here we go – – – – – – Nothing rivals the beautiful workmanship and fabulous fabric found in true vintage Hawaiian fashions from the early Seventies and before. The colors are incomparable. The cottons and rayons are practically indescribable. Men’s shirts are also incredible.
Since at least the 1940’s, dresses made in Hawaii were very desirable for their quality and fit. Some are exceptionally comfy and relaxed. Others are high-volume sexy or very chic.
Think Mata Hari of the islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Today, on a more-or-less routine survey, I had wonderful good fortune. I’m just about to re-examine and photograph my newest acquisitions and get them ready to post on the blog. Because I have already scheduled postings for the next three days, expect to begin seeing these on Sunday, Nov. 13.
Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

Good with almost anything, a variety of jewelry items for women and men with polished semi-precious stones were really popular in the mid-century. Necklaces, bracelets, pins, sweater clips,cuff links, tie pins, rings – you name it.
Generally, these pieces were not of fine construction in gold or silver, but they lasted a long time anyway. Sometimes they came in sets, as the pendant and bracelet pictured at top. Often people would purchase them at vacation sites as souvenirs. Hobbyists sometimes made them at home, too.
I like to wear mine with many outfits, from casual to semi-dressy. It’s a real iconic mid-century touch.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

What a surprise! At a party where we all contributed “white elephant” gifts, guess what turned up? After some swapping, this was one of my prizes. True vintage decorated tote bag or purse from the 1960’s/’70’s. Near mint condition.
How do I know it’s original vintage? 1. the style 2. the types of decoration used 3. the construction 4. in this case, some minor signs of age.
How do I know where it (probably) came from? The Cardinal and the Dogwood are the official state bird and flower of North Carolina. Eat your heart out, Sherlock.
It’s so beautifully done. Love the colors. Fun!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
I’m on a roll finding mid-century dresses and there’s more to come, but first –
Let me show you the neatest thing that also revealed itself . . . . . . . . . . .

COTTON SCARF PRINTED AS A COMMEMORATIVE ITEM FOR QUEEN ELIZABETH II’S CORONATION IN 1953
It’s written in the right-hand lower corner. Love the kitchy illustrations. Perfect for my 1950’s home!! Not to mention the closets . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM


From the West and Down East – a vacationer’s mid-century mementos of a fun holiday!
Fun cotton linens for the kitchen and dining table were big favorites during the 1950’s and 1960’s. Many a traveler picked them up as souvenirs, too. I just love the funky and funny prints!
As always, these items tell a story. You could have practically driven through California without a map after buying this muslin tablecloth. Although the apron doesn’t have any words, the cute illustrations of pilgrims/immigrants in their native dress and the border designs contain a lot of information about the communities or cultures that they came from.
Also, if you can do a close-up look, you’ll see a small vintage safety pin stuck in the waistband. I always like to leave things like this in place because that’s just how the cook or housekeeper wore it during her daily routine.
These linens will last forever if they’re looked after well – remove stains quickly and wash gently. I’ll bet that I can channel some very interesting vibrations with these in my kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM
I picked this up because I love old silk scarves with pictures on them. This one is also in perfect condition, with a hand-rolled edging – as all the best scarves should have.
It’s sometimes hard to find one that doesn’t have stains, tears or hemming problems, so this is a great discovery. Funky and cute!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Hand-painted on 100% cotton in “fast colors”, this skirt will swirl and twirl with a gazillion different blouses and tops, depending on your mood. It’s typical of the souvenir garments available then, but different from the ones my older relatives had collected in the 1940’s and 1950’s – each one is unique!
I love the typical scene of tropical nature, a small dwelling and workers resting in the shade. Perfect to wear while sipping a Margarita or Mojito under a palm tree (or on the back patio – Patio Party, anyone?)
Handcrafted pieces are always collectible, gorgeous and make nostalgic mementos of travel back in the day.”South of the border – down Mexico way” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
BOOK: HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM