Tag Archives: special occasion

Let’s Go to the Formal Dance 1953 – Here’s the True Vintage Prom Dress, Pretty in Pink

It’s the real deal, which belonged to a family member. With ruching on the bodice and tulle overall it looks confining but the full skirt and midi-length let her rock around the clock to her heart’s content. This was an off-the-rack confection to make her special day perfect. It was probably the Prom, but could easily have been a for a St. Valentine’s Day event. A shawl or little bolero jacket would have carried her through to midnight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

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Another Frothy 1950’s – Early 1960’s Formal Dress

I’ll keep jumping around here a bit between formal and special occasion dresses and wedding costumes. In some cases there’s such an overlap that the archives are mixed. This very pale green frock is notable for the unusual bodice treatment which makes it look like an earlier version from this time frame. Look how the sheer fabric is ruched around the neckline and makes cap sleeves. The huge front bow is very Fifties.

However, some of the more conservative styles or those targeting younger buyers tend to look older than their more modern counterparts even when they were made at the same time. Otherwise, the tailoring and general style puts it right in the Post-war/Kennedy era time frame. It all adds to the mystery.

This dress is just too sweet for words and, I’d guess, was designed for teenagers. Might have been a Prom dress or an early ’50’s party dress. It could even have been worn by a bridesmaid. Although it might have been worn in the winter, looks to me like it’s definitely for Spring. Back to the mid-century weddings tomorrow, if that’s your fave. Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

Sweet 1960’s Long Dress for a Special Occasion – Wedding?

A really pretty formal gown with a wasp waist, cummerbund effect, scooped neckline and short sleeves. I’d put it in the 1960’s, but could be slightly older or slightly newer. Very classic. I’d also guess that it was made for a Teen or young woman, but who knows. Bridal, Prom or other special event – there’s no other clue; just absolutely beautiful tailoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

Heading Toward Spring – Another Pretty Party Frock from the Mid-Century

Still from the same genre and general Post-war Mid-century era as the dresses I’ve been showing since before Christmas, but this frock is so much more Spring-like because of the color. Feels like we’re already looking toward Easter or Prom. I suspect that this one might be just a little bit newer than the one shown yesterday, but it has some conflicting clues with regard to the tailoring and fabric. Unlike yesterday’s, it does have attached stiffening in the skirt and a slightly shorter hemline, though still below the knee. Dating it right between 1955 and 1962 would be accurate.

The butter yellow is different but the most distinctive feature is the neckline. Love the drape in front and the LONG tails in back. The wasp-waist fitting is always stunning on those who wear it well. As we begin to get away from the darker colors and heavier fabrics, the undergarments become critical. Stay tuned . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

ANOTHER FABULOUS FIND FROM THE FORTIES

Stella looks fabulous in this frock, as she does in everything, but actually it’s several sizes too large for her and, so, for me, too. I can’t get away with the things that she does! Therefore, this file is to be retired. However, it’s been fun to review, with all the great features of the dresses in that era. This is a specialty design also, with the dressy velvet bow that pigeonholes it for some type of non-everyday event. Very unique and intriguing clue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

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TRUE VINTAGE FUR CAPE FROM THE 1930’S – 1940′ S – EARLY 1950’s

TRUE VINTAGE FUR CAPE FROM THE 1930'S - 1940'S - early 1950's

I just love this cape and it’s little details.  I’m an animal rights activist and don’t approve of the fur trade in any way, but I have collected old ones from back in the day.

Not sure what the origin of this fur is.  The stripes are clearly dyed, probably to resemble mink.  It’s got these funny little tabs to “close” the bottoms of the arm slits, for a better appearance and added warmth.

Of course, it had patches sewn inside with the owner’s initials embroidered on, along with the maker’s label, both of which are gone now.  Surprisingly, it’s in great condition for its age – still soft and radiant.

These garments are so full of history that they intrigue me as much as any other vintage fashion.  I wear them, too.  Some people would say this is hypocritical but  I would disagree – buying or wearing antique fur or leather does not support the current market for these things unless someone makes an irresponsible decision.  I suggest that we should all be responsible for our choices in the marketplace – so, if you like my vintage fur, don’t use that as an excuse to go out and buy a modern one.  Search for another vintage fur at least 50 or more years old or buy an imitation fur replica and do something kind for wildlife or your pet.

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

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HEY, MOM – I NEED A HALLOWEEN COSTUME! NO WORRIES FOR OUR 1950’S HOMEMAKER . . .

IMG_0966 IMG_0963     She’d just pull out the latest edition of her McCalls Needlework magazine.  And, of course, there is the Christmas Pageant, too . .. . .

I can’t believe the intricacy of these home-sewing DIY patterns.  Women used to do this all the time!

Once when I was a kid, my (I thought) non-sewing grandmother did  whip up a very convincing 1960’s black collarless jacket for me when I wanted to be a Beatle for Halloween.  Who knew?  . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

INCREDIBLE TRUE VINTAGE DRESSY COCKTAIL SWEATER FROM THE 1950’S – MAYBE EARLY 1960’S

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Completely different from yesterday’s cardigan but so much fun!  It’s another must-have vintage sweater to wear with cigarette pants.  A pretty open-weave  Orlon sweater knit with metallic thread design to be worn with a black skirt or slacks at some mid-century party event.  It is absolutely amazing that it’s survived for 60 years in almost unworn condition!

Just like the women of the 1940’s onward, I’m grateful for these lovely acrylic yarns that can be washed in a machine (with care) and don’t have to be stored in a moth-proof container.  Orlon was a revelation and major time-saving blessing to wartime and post-war ladies who still did most of their housework by hand.

Although we’re so used to acrylic fibers now, these early ones were really special in terms of their quality or, perhaps, it is the garment itself that is made so well that the fabric looks great after more than half a century.  I’m sure that I also, again, have to thank the first owner of this elegant top for taking such good care of it.

I’m over the full moon again, and wondering what will turn up next . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . ..

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

ICONIC TRUE VINTAGE 1950’S MINK-TRIMMED BLOUSE – ANOTHER TREASURE FOUND NEW ZEALAND

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAAnother rare find!  This one was not a high-end item when it was made, but it is an iconic piece with mink-trimmed sleeves.  I have a few of these garments with sleeves like this but don’t find them often.

Metallic thread on sheer black fabric, with “Autumn Haze” mink cuffs.  Buttons up the back.  Back in the day, companies that produced medium-priced clothing still made some “luxury” items that the average woman could afford, and they made them well.

What a pleasure to discover this one!

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

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TRUE VINTAGE 1960s – 1970s PATIO HOSTESS GOWN

TRUE VINTAGE 1960s - 1970s PATIO HOSTESS GOWN

Now that the weather hotter and sunnier we’re all thinking (or dreaming), of outdoor activities.  The idea of giving or going to casual parties (and what to wear) is all part of it.

In the early 1960’s patios and “patio parties” became the big rage.  People built patios onto their houses like crazy and all kinds of decorative lighting, furniture and dinnerware were sold especially for hosting these gatherings of neighbors and friends.

Hostess gowns in very casual styles and materials were all part of this wave, and they persisted into the mid-1970s.  Of course, long casual dresses have been around for a long time and still are, but the “hostess gown” is kind of a separate breed.

This one is typical.  Most of the earlier ones had a defined waist and, often, a belt.  They are a floor-length style that would also look good as a knee-length dress (hint-hint: if you find one you like but don’t want a gown, think about shortening it to a day dress).

I just love finding these dresses.  They really say summer fun in a very true vintage way. Get out the Tiki lanterns and the barbecue grill and have a blast!  If your patio is big enough, don’t forget the cha-cha and bossa nova records.  The girl from Ipanema might show up – you just never know . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

BOOK:  HOW TO FIND THE BEST IN VINTAGE FASHION – AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM