Projects

Sunday, February 02, 2014

Late 30's, Early 40's Dress and Hat

 
This dress is due for a complete take-apart, and repair. It has been sewn back together so many times, I feel the beat way to deal with it is to start over. I've had it close to thirty years, and it wasn't in the best shape when I bought it. Still, I can't imagine being without it, so like a classic car, it needs to go into the shop for an overhaul.
 

I love the tiny breast pockets, and embroidery. The dress has side-buttons rather than a zip, which is also a nice feature. Those have stayed in good condition as the dress is large enough that I've always just slipped it over my head.
I can't even remember where I bought the dress. Brimfield, maybe? It was a long time ago. The hat I bought on Cape Cod. It is marked, Exters, Hyannis-Wellesley.
Ignore the pin. It didn't show away from the harsh glare of the camera flash.
This dress clip, marked Germany (no mention of West, so Pre-46) was being sold as an odd earring for .99 cents.
These shoes were sitting at the thrift store, brand new, tags still on. They seem to fit the era, but I must say they are the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned. It seems a shame to save them for vintage outfits-hell, I'd wear these with jeans.
Outfit Particulars:

1930's-40's Rayon dress-Brimfield? I Can't remember.
Satin-lined velvet coat-Filene's 90's
1930's hat-antique store in Sandwich, Mass
Assorted bangles-thrifted here and there
Siam earrings-Thrift America
1940's handbag-Thrift America
Flower pin-Tiff and Tam
Clarks shoes-Hand Me Ups Store, Omaha


Have lovely week 'ya fuckers!

3 comments:

  1. And I thought you were such a lady.... It's the gorgeous frock and sassy hat that gives that impression! Hope you can get it fixed up so you can wear it for another 30 years. xx

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  2. Pieces like that truly become like kindred spirits in our closet. They've seen us through so much - the good, the bad and everything in between, and parting with them, even if the can no longer be salvaged further, is all but a cardinal sin. I love that you've had this timelessly elegant frock for so many years and that it's wearable still to this day. That is such a testament to the quality of mid-century garments (let's see a tee shirt from Walmart do the same in 70+ years!!!).

    Love this whole sophisticated ensemble - the delightfully chic hat very much included.

    Big hugs & happy Tuesday wishes,
    ♥ Jessica

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  3. @Jessica
    I had to laugh at the thought of a Wal-Mart t shirt being treasured, and carefully mended.

    I have so many "projects" waiting for attention that I'm determined to deal with. I'm not crafty, or I'd try to recycle the fabrics into handbags or something.

    @ Pastcaring:
    Me? A Lady?

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