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:

Curtise said...

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

Witchcrafted Life said...

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

Goody said...

@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?