Tag Archives: vintage accessories

EXCITING “NEW” TRUE VINTAGE HANDBAG FINDS!

Let’s start with a deja’ vu item (for me) – I call it this because I discovered a nearly identical one and posted it just two weeks ago! However, the exciting thing is the different clues involved in their stories. Always SO interesting! Plus, one new item which is a rare find and always makes me do an extra happy dance. . . . . . . .. . . . . ..

Oh, Ho hum you may say. Another black cocktail clutch. Yes, I have many of these in my case archives (and closet), but each one is unique in some way. The fun thing about this one is the similarities to the other one recently found; 1. Both are rectangular and designed to be hand-held. 2. Both are made of black rayon satin. 3. Both have hand-done beading on the front AND back. 4. Both have an additional pocket (or two) inside. 5. Both are from the mid-century, probably post-WWII.

HOWEVER, the one found two weeks ago is more finely made. It was constructed in Hong Kong (while it was still British Hong Kong) while this one above was probably made in North America but is an iconic brand name (Soure’). The first found has more elaborate beading on the front. It is a sac design with no stiffening and simply folds over to close, while this one has stiffening between the layers, probably some form of cardboard, and a metal snap closure (more common and less elegant). These clues lead me to decide that the first find is 10 – 20 years older even though they are so similar. Investigations are so fun! You can check out the previous post and see what I mean.

The final item, just found, is the one that really gives me happy feet – see the little coin purse? I LOVE FINDING THESE!!!!! Not too many of them exist anymore and they are SO convenient and iconic inside a true vintage handbag. This one, also, is navy blue rather than black. It will definitely have a home in one of my purses at Headquarters.

OK, that’s the first of my recent deja’ vu finds, but there is another one which I will put in a separate post because it is in a different category – Men’s true vintage accessories! Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

Another MUST for a True Vintage Wardrobe – Authentic Costume Jewelry

No matter what else you’re wearing, or even if your jewelry is the only vintage piece in your outfit, it will stand out strongly. That’s especially true of these colorful and unique examples. Though cheap copy-cats are being made now, I still recommend the originals.

Fine true vintage jewelry in gold and silver is always special and wonderful but can be pricey. Costume jewelry is easier to find and softer on the budget. Collect a variety of styles and items – you’ll have something different for every day and just the perfect thing for every outfit.

Of course, it needs care but is exceptionally durable in general. Simple protection from scratches, rough handling and strong UV light for prolonged periods will do the trick. Compact and easy to store, though if you’re a sleuth with an extensive archive the files can become pretty heavy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . More accessories tomorrow. Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

A FEW TRUE VINTAGE PURSE ACCESSORIES FROM THE 1950’S TO ADD TO FALL HANDBAGS

A FEW TRUE VINTAGE PURSE ACCESSORIES FROM THE 1950'S

Yes, September often means it’s time to switch out some of the Summer wardrobe for warmer clothing.  Traditionally, it was also the time to put away anything white, including accessories.  That means I’m looking over my collection of true vintage handbags and selecting a couple that coordinate well with my Autumn fashion choices.  Not only does that mean switching out a matching wallet, but other handy purse accessories from back in the day can be included.  What savvy dame would forget to equip her handbag with smart and handy accessories?  Here are just a few.

It’s so fun to look back into our mothers’ and grandmothers’ handbags to see what they used to carry on a daily basis.  These are just a smattering of the interesting items I’ve seen.  Mirrors, combs and tiny brushes, lipstick cases, foldable rain hats, key cases and key-rings all came in different sizes, styles and designs.  An emery board and an orange stick were usually tucked in somewhere.  Smokers also had special accessories – cases, lighters and interesting matchbooks.  Little pillboxes were very decorative and pretty.  I’ve got a few of those.

Above we see two note pads (with attached pen or pencil), a manicure set, sewing kit, mirror set (with normal and magnifying glasses), and an attractive case for a comb.

The intelligent and fashionable woman is always well-prepared when stepping out, no matter what her mission may be.  Efficiency and style – that’s my motto . … . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

MID-CENTURY NIGHTHAWK NIGHT DRIVING GLASSES

Classic rectangular frames in heavy black plastic (but not Bakelite), with the metal screw details expected on many true vintage eyeglass frames but rarely seen now. I also love the carved detail on the temples.

The brand name NIGHTHAWK is stamped inside along with another unusual stamp: FOREIGN. I suspect that this indicates that the frames, at least, were imported. I can find no other explanation. Some similar glasses from that time were made in West Germany and these may be knock-offs, assembled in North America.

I’ll keep these forever – love the styling but they’re also very practical. There’s only minor to moderate wear on the frames and the lenses are almost perfect, even though they are made of a plastic material. So interesting to wonder about the origin details. If anyone has specialized knowledge on this topic, I’d love to hear from you. I’ll post the second pair of eyeglasses tomorrow, so stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

AN ELEGANT TRUE VINTAGE EVENING CARDIGAN SWEATER FROM THE 1950’S – EARLY 1960’S, MADE IN HONG KONG

AN ELEGANT TRUE VINTAGE EVENING CARDIGAN SWEATER FROM THE 1950'S - EARLY 1960'S, MADE IN HONG KONG

Here’s a beautiful decorated sweater meant, mostly, for evening wear.  It is fully lined in silk with black beads and spangles decorating front and back.  Many mid-century women had one of these – it was a classic standard.

Made in Hong Kong, the quality is a cut above many garments made elsewhere. This seems to have been the case for many decades.  It’s another one of those iconic garments that is a must-have for any vintage wardrobe and, maybe, more than one since the colors and decorative patterns were varied and unique.

Though high-quality tailoring was particularly true for vintage garments made several decades ago, I still take special note when I find modern clothing that has been made in Hong Kong.  The materials and tailoring are still almost always excellent in garments made there..

There is no wrap more elegant, excepting perhaps a wonderful vintage fur, than a beautifully-made hand-decorated fine wool cardigan thrown over your shoulders. It can be worn in many ways and will never let you down.

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

FLORIDA FEET!

FLORIDA FEET!

Gotta have for summer!  Original vintage low-heeled pumps found in the Miami area. From the late Sixties – early Seventies. One pair more casual, one pair a bit dressy.
Both a little bit mod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

TRUE VINTAGE 1960’S STILETTO SLING-BACK HEELS FOR 3-SEASONS – FABRIC AND LEATHER FROM JOHANSEN

STILETTO SLING-BACK HEELS FOR SUMMER - FABRIC AND LEATHER FROM JOHANSEN AGAIN

This is one of my favorite true vintage styles in warm weather shoes.  The fabric uppers and openness are so breezy, cool and feminine.   They are such a cross between dressy and casual that they are very versatile and will look just right almost any time.

I’ve found lots of lovely true vintage shoe styles by Johansen since I’ve been sleuthing and they’re always dependably elegant and well-made. Such a pleasure to find and to wear . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . ..

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

TRUE VINTAGE SHOES BY JOYCE – 1960’S COLORFUL FLATS

TRUE VINTAGE SHOES BY JOYCE - 1960'S COLORFUL FLATS

I’ve found a number of mid-century true vintage sporty-type items by Joyce.  One label said Joyce of Chicago, so maybe the same company.  Some companies have changed their labels somewhat over the years.

These flats are leather, of course, but only the uppers and interiors.  The soles are a good synthetic like Vibram (will last for decades).  I always love cut-out styles and these carnival colors are so much fun!

Just the ticket to wear with capris, cigarette pants, a cute dress or skirt – or shorts.  ’60’s casual fashions were all about playful and surprising.  The ’50’s certainly have those moments, too, in a BIG way but, overall, there’s more loyalty to the conservative classics in the 1950’s.

With the closed toe and elegant styling, these  “summer” shoes are easily worn Spring through Fall.  My main challenge here  is finding the right clothing  and colors to accompany them.  But, there is always black or white . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

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

PERFECT TRUE VINTAGE AUSTRALIAN HANDBAGS – IN BLACK AND WHITE

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERALook!  I found another woven metal mesh Glomesh bag – this time a black one.  Photographed on two different backgrounds to enhance the details.  So nice to have two colors.  Also, love this wonderful macrame’ bag in a similar style.

The Glomesh purses were very popular here – a real Australian company. The white bag doesn’t have a brand name inside.  Sixties or early Seventies, both of these purses have survived in great condition.  I will really enjoy using them!

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

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