What a great find! This dress makes me think of the ones the dancers wear in performances of West Side Story. Too bad it’s a size too small for me. So, it goes up on eBay. Maybe someone will want to make a splash at the Prom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
If you look very closely you can see the many design details included in this lovely garment. The only feature you may not see in this photograph are fabric tabs with buttons at each hip, just behind the pockets. They’re just for style – no function at all – but that’s usually what fashion is all about. If you find a garment that looks absolutely great, with every detail enhancing the fit and the utility as well, that’s gravy and BUY IT!
That’s not to dis this jacket at all. Lightweight wool with a full lining. The pockets are real and there’s even a hanging loop at the back of the neckline. Did I mention that it’s in pristine shape?
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
The best thing about this dress is that it was given to me by the (now deceased) mother of a dear friend who wore it to a gala while her husband was in the military. So, I know its exact year and ownership history. It is beautifully-made and I suspect that it was custom-tailored for her. If laid out flat, the skirt is almost a full circle. Rhinestones, lace, yards of taffeta and netting and a fit to die for.
MORGAA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Red velveteen on a very sophisticated lady. Yes, it’s home-sewn but by a real expert. She was the mother of a friend (and became a friend, herself) who gave me several of her own vintage creations. Lots of careful tailoring details like covered buttons and fabric loops at the nape of the neck. The draped neckline is also an unusual and flattering design feature. Perfect for hosting a Christmas cocktail party.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Super-fun find! A gorgeous, comfy dress, yes, but the fur-trimmed sleeves put it right in a narrow fashion season. In the Kennedy era – late 1950’s to early 1960’s – fur-trimmed cuffs and hems were a short-lived fad. I have discovered several different types but not often. Always a thrill and perfect for the season. Ho, Ho, Ho . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Pretty by the fire. This pine green beauty was home-tailored and even has a matching velvet shoulder bag which I discovered in a completely different location. Amazing!
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Yes, V is for Vintage and also for Vegan. Just posted new intelligence on my Twitter account about a list of companies that sell vegan clothing items and accessories. This is a fabulous tool since it can be difficult to source those things successfully without insider information. The list is recommended and approved by PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) which has high standards for the credentials of any company they will include. Companies on the list should also have a label on each garment, shoe, etc. which reflects the PETA approval – PETA-APPROVED VEGAN. This resource makes it much easier for those of us who love all creatures to shop with a clear conscience and the goal of improving the ethical standards of the worldwide marketplace.
Alas, many true vintage wardrobe items were not made in ways which we would call humane today, but their quality, beauty and historical value are still unsurpassed by the things which are manufactured now. If we support the modern market for humane and sustainable goods, we can continue to enjoy clothing and accessories from bygone eras without worry for as long they last. As we humans continue to attain higher consciousness and grow in our compassion and understanding, as well as the technical ability to produce goods of high quality in a sustainable way, it is my vision that this gap will be closed. Kudos to PETA for helping us to get there and can’t wait!
By the way, my archive clean-out is about to begin. Watch for coming posts and stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
From about the late 1950’s to the mid-1970’s a classic jacket like this one would go almost anywhere, day or evening, over your slacks, skirt or dress. Not meant for formal wear, but always part of a “well-dressed” woman’s wardrobe. Leather items were considered to be “quality” garments. Well-crafted and elegant in style, outerwear like this replaced the previous “car coat” when longer hemlines were not the daily standard anymore.
We’ve continued to love leather jackets of various styles over the decades since the “bomber jacket”, developed by the military during WW1, became popular as a fashion item after the 1940’s. Although it requires some extra care, properly tanned leather is durable and maintains its good looks. Now, however, we are better-informed about how leather for clothing is produced and have the dilemma of choosing to go vegan in our clothing selections. As you know, I’ve made my choice.
Less vulnerable to the elements than fur, my leather jackets will continue to serve me for the rest of my life if I look after them. I’ll probably never have to make the choice between authentic and faux leather. True vintage leather garments and accessories made before 1980 are investments and still an ethical choice.
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Here are a couple of very practical dresses which are super-authentic but easy to wear for everyday. They also wash well (excepting for the dreaded oil-based spot which can be stubborn on polyester fabrics – but there are effective ways to manage stains). Outfits like this are very sturdy and durable for work, school, shopping or just taking in a matinee’.
When you want to wear true vintage garments but don’t have time to be especially careful of them and don’t want to worry about wrinkles, a few pieces like these are very handy and also demonstrate your vintage savvy. Tomorrow, the perfect “wrap” for this. Stay tuned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
I just LOVE rare finds of these early mid-century robes with gorgeous medallion prints and satin trim. As Madge illustrates, they look just as good on a girl as a guy though sizing is sometimes a barrier. In this example, I have to concede that it’s true for me and send it along to someone of larger stature.
Anyway, it’s a fabulous example of early mid-century men’s night-wear in Sanforized cotton. The design is classic, of course, but the trim, print and fabric verify it’s age and fashion era. I’d love to wear it with my men’s pajamas of similar age and design, but can’t bear the idea of cutting into it in order to alter the size. Ah, well, such is the plight of the true vintage sleuth, but well worth the peril. We always live to spy another day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY
BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM
Magicvintagespy 