Tales From A Vintage Wardrobe

What Some Girls Want

Horse~loving gal that I am, I was quite amused to learn that Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy used her rights as wife of Commander in Chief in a most plausible way--to get her gift~horse home to her stable...and that is, apparently, what some women really want...and pretty yet comfy lingerie.  Refreshing, tasteful, isn't it?  First time I wore my husband's pajama top I knew menswear had it's place in our world ladies, take note. 

(Photo Credit:  Victoria Magazine/March 1990)

Victoria's Secret No. 10 Margaret Street, London W1

(Victoria Magazine - February 1990)

After a look at The Trad's post from M Magazine-1985,  I was motivated to dig out some of my beloved old Victoria magazines for a look-through.  Sigh.  To quote Karen in Out of Africa:  "How good it all was..." 

A BIT OF GREAT GATSBY~NESS

Looking for a great summer flick to watch with some great vintage clothing inspiration?

Look no further!

I realize many would be insulted to think those are the reasons to watch this amazing film, but I humbly admit that when I am not feeling scholarly, these are my reasons.  (Seeing some 2008 CE  fashion disaster roaming around a famous taking~over~the~planet discount store is another very good reason to watch this film~~it reminds one of a time when people actually cared about what they looked like and they looked very fine, indeed.)

I read this wonderful post over at Hemingway's Paris and decided it was time to read this book again, or at the very least, watch the movie. . .which I have done numerous times. . .and while searching for some images I came across this:

An A&E version of The Great Gatsby!  I never knew it existed and am now on the hunt for it. . .not that anything could replace the Robert Redford version but I would still enjoy seeing it. . .

To go along with the whole Gatsby theme, here is one of my favorite issues of Victoria magazinge. . .(there are a few available on eBay if you like what you see!)  It's the July 1990 issue and it is wonderful for 1920's inspiration! 

This photo was taken at the Dunsmuir Historic Estate where they host an annual Gatsby Afternoon, be sure to scroll down on the link page for some great photos from those who have been fortunate enough to attend!  And if you are enjoying the whole 1920's fashion theme, check out this link for some more Great Gatsby~ness!

What a way to spend a summer afternoon. . .

TREASURE HUNTING 101 ~ ANTIQUE CARD TABLE & BEADED VINTAGE CARDIGAN

Check out this great Vintage cardtable my mom scored at a yard sale for $5.00!  "Thou shalt not covet" I keep telling myself!  I love the picture~~it looks like a Farmer's Market in Europe.  And I just love the red dress on the lady walking the dog~~so vintage!

This is the back of it.

Does anyone recognize anything in the picture?  I'd love to find out how old it is so if you have any info please leave a comment! 

And look at this Vintage sweater I scored at a little shop that I frequent:

The bead work is amazing and in excellent condition.  What a perfect time of  year to wear something so pretty & feminine!

(If spring ever actually arrives, that is!)

Here are some goodies I've found lately. . .the book is French which I cannot read to save my life but it has beautiful photographs and it is my favorite shade of blue!  The note cards are taken from the book  Lawrence Alma~Tadema by RJ Barrow and are titled "Luxury & Decadence". . .there are 16 different images and they are all stunning! 

Of course the Spring issue of Victoria which I am very pleased is back however I must quietly admit there is something missing this time around with it's publication. . .has anyone else thought/felt so?  It's well done but it just seems, or should I say, it feels like there is something missing and I am not sure what.  Any thoughts?

I found the labels at Homegoods for under $5.00 each and just had to bring them home. . .my daughter and I used some to tag our luggage when we traveled in February.  I love to find pictures of old suitcases covered with stickers from all around the world!  They don't stick quite as well to nylon, though.  Another downside of modern travel gear, I guess.

Hmm, what else can I find?

Oooooh, this is a good one!  A few years ago I bought a beautiful little black suede Vintage purse made in Spain.  When I got home I looked in the tiny pocket and found this stamp inside. . .why did she save it?  Who is John F. Donovan?  Did she meet him in Hong Kong?  Did they ever meet?  Was it a last love letter before her wedding to another?

I think the mystery of it all is delightful!  This is another goodie I would like to find out about.  Maybe the postal mark has a date on it?  Once again I find myself wishing I spoke another language!!

My curiosity about the past of Vintage treasures is probably the most intriguing part of collecting.  That and wondering how in the world a size 12 in the 1950's came with a 26" waist!  Where would that put a modern size 12 in that era?  Yikes!  How Americans have grown! 

Have a great week everyone,

Michelle