October 13

If you enter the words, "Hattie Carnegie" in the search engineat eBay,you are likely to get hundreds of peicesbof jewelry, yet very few clothes. Hattie Carnegies couturier was and is treasured by those lucky enough to own articles of her clothing, and these garments don't change hands very often. Zippered throughout the back and fully lined, this lovely Hattie Canegie suit dress flares so at the hips from a nipped 30" waist creates the illusion of an hour glass figure for women like myself who don't have one!

This garment has but two notable flaws: two tiny flea bites, one to the back of the left sleeve and one two the front of the skirt. I am unable to discern either of them. I wouldn't give a second thought about the flea bites, but the seller reports there is an area of the bodice showing wear. This is a very respectable seller who is probably going the extra yard of full disclosure, still, I might ask for a photo of that area before committing to money changing hands.

Offered by Maria92001 for the Buy It Now price of $399.00, provided the area of "wear"on the boddice of this dress can be assured a quality garment which will be the certain source of pleasure and pride for years to come, if not for decades.

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I never list a garment without seeing a seller's other goods. This allows me to know if I am dealing with a non-professional who got lucky, or if I have been fortunate enoughto stumble upon a seller who truly has "the eye". Marie92001 has been on my saved sellers list for quite some time, and I'm never surprised to find that zi've fallen for a garment of hers, nor do I ever hesitate to go to her for source material if my blog is lacking for merchandise.

Today when I checked her other items for sale, there were the usual great party dresses to fall in love with. The superbly cut suits, and my-oh-my an opera coat from the 20's that simply took my breath away!

Oh my! Look at it! Aren't those lines heavenly! Made of a heavy rich black velvet (the heavy is my contribution. It's important you know Marie did not say that! But look how this beauty hangs. That velvet must be heavy!), this coat is fully lined and the seller does report some stains to the lining. I can't imagine caring if, after almost 100 years, the lining is still pristine, but if you are one of those that do, well, this is not your coat.

This coat is kind of ananachronism. Clothing in the 20's had a tendency to hide a woman's curves. In fact, it may well be the only time in history where being small chested was a desirable thing. Yet this coat clings to and celebrates the curves of the feminine silhouette. I won't try to figure out why it was an exception (maybe the woman who ordered it had a bombshell body?). I shall just appreciate it for the garment it is.

Available for a stunning $278.00 or best offer, this amazing coat is waiting to hang in your size medim closet.

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This lovely, and especially feminine necklace and earring set was made by Coro probably in the mid to late 50's. It features cotton candy pink aurora borealis beads with clear crystal spacer beads in between.  The perfect thing to tone down a red dress,  to add some color to a white outfit,  or to wear with that pink tweed Chanel suit of the same vintage,  these lovely beads can be found at Etsy from Zephyrvintage,  a seller with whom I have had the pleasure of doing business and in whom I would not hesitate to place the utmost faith.  One can hardly afford not to buy these lovelies as they are on sale for an amazing $19.00,  probably less than they cost when new!  They are assured of growing in value, and their beauty is self evident.  Run, do not walk to Etsy to order these lovely beads for your neck.  Do it quickly because I'm thinking I may have to have these myself.

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The lovely cocktail / party dress above is a triumph of design by Ceil Chapman, Elizabeth Taylor's favorite designer.  Ms. Chapman's grasp on how to make fabric do exactly what she wanted, and her talent to wish it to do the right things is almost unparalleled.  The dress is weighted in the bodice and has boning around the bust-line.  It is made of a deep midnight blue satin crepe and is in fabulous condition. Ceil Chapman gowns in this condition don't just come along every day. Mostly, such gowns are kept within a very small community in Hollywood who keeps the best vintage garments for the stars.

The shape of the bodice is formed by a deep "V" created by twisting the fabric over at the waist.  The result is stunning:

This trick also creates a lovely swag of material on the left hip.  The resulting asymmetric profile of the dress makes for a stunning garment with tremendous presence.  Measuring 36" at the bust and a mere 23" at the waist,  be sure you are right for the dress before hitting that "Buy-It-Now" button.  Seller, Retrochicvintage is justifiably asking $899.99 for the dress.  Even at that price, I don't expect to see it on the market long. 

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The stunning dress shown above is a 50's bombshell from a designer I'm not familiar with:  Jonathan Logan.  Familiar or not,  it's obvious the man can make a dress.  I just adore this simple presentation of the Basic Little Black Dress,  and with the right accessories, this dress could be a man killer.  The dress features double spaghetti straps on each shoulder (which I suspect could be tucked in if you wished to go "strapless"), has a two layer skirt (though you should note that it is shown, and should be worn with an additional, not included, crinoline), and the dress secures with a metal zipper up the back.  It is as lovely in profile as it is straight on:

The seller, Etsy's Aiseirigh, reports the dress to be in excellent vintage condition.  It is a size small,  with a 36" bust and a 26" waist.  

If you're looking for a place to do some one stop shopping, you could do no better than Aiseirigh.  This is one seller who definitely has "the eye", and you're bound to find tons of things that catch your fancy.

As with anything black and low cut,  what you wear at your neck is crucial.   You can go a lot of directions. A simple ribbon with a cameo or a flower pinned to it would be lovely.  Pearls are always a good choice. The better the pearls, the better the choice.  If you have pockets deep enough, you could chose these Chanel pearls with their incredibly mother of pearl camellia pendant.

Cut and presented with all the perfection one would expect from the house of Chanel, this lovely necklace is certain to make all eyes centered on you!  The pearls themselves are enormous,  each measuring around 7/8" x 5/8".  The necklace closes with a small line of smaller pearls, and an extra is included in the box.  

The Camellia is a work of art,  a true mark of the house of Chanel.  It can be worn with this chain or pearls, or on a chain, as shown below,  or even on a simple black ribbon.

Even on the simplest of gold chains, it's stunning, isn't it?  Offered for sale on eBay by ilovemygirls3 for the Buy-It-Now-Price of $1,500.00.  Of course, this isn't a simple piece of jewelry.  This is an investment, a stake as it were, in the history, the glamour, the chic, that is Chanel.

And now kittens,  if you'll forgive me for a short post, I am recovering from surgery.  And while I've had little to do but lie about and look at lovely things for you,  it does take a bit of energy to tell you about them.

I promise to bring you more soon.  Until then...

Happy Shopping!

Second Hand Roze

Deep in the Heart of Uncertain Texas

Finds on the Fly: September 19, 2011

I've done it again. I've accumulated an impossibly large set of things to blog about, and well, we shall just have to muddle through as best we can. In the immortal words of Bette Davis, "Fasten your seat-belts. We're in for a bumpy ride."

In addition to shopping my poor little self to death for you, I've also been reviewing this falls designer collections for the fall. In my notes for one particularly striking Prada suit, I wrote in my notes that I wanted those stilleto heeled pumps, but I wasn't willing to pay a Prada price for them. Good black pumps can be found everywhere, and the discerning vintage shopper can fing great black pumps, complete with dizzying stilletto heels, for much less than the Prada price (which I didn't even look at, but I can almost imagine without fainting). Well, here are some great, I mean really spectacular vintage stilletto pumps:

A current size 7A, these shoes are from the 1950's, and though there is obvious wear to the insoles and the bottoms, the outsides are all buttoned up and ready to dance! I just adore the fanned leather (or is it satin?) design across the toes, and the shoes sport a healthy height to their stilletto heels too!

Found at Etsy from vendor Schmoo1515 for a mere $ 52.00. A price I'm sure Prada would faint before considering meeting.


Schmo1515 is new to me, but she's got quite the eye for a good blouse or take a look at this pencil skirt!  Now, I could love me some of that! 

With those body hugging curves and the timeless window pane plaid.  She says this is more of a dark grey than a black.  The skirt has pockets, zips up the back, and has a pencil skirt, so you can have that curve hugging appeal and still be able to walk.  It would best fit about a size 12. At Schmoo15's shop in Etsy,  this could be yours for a mere $32.00.

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These "psych out" (faux) thigh high leggings delight me in their practicality; all of the sexiness with none of the constant pulling up. I think they are simply wonderfully chic. While obviously not vintage, they do have that vintage appeal and will do your vintage wardrobe proud -- especially those 60's and 80's mini skirts! Not only are these leggings sewn into a sort of nude pantyhose material, they feature black bamboo/jersey short shorts! If the wind catches that miniskirt, or if you forget yourself and bend over, you may weather these mishaps with dignity intact! Offered at Etsy from Iheartnorwegianwood for $69.00.

This shop offers everything from leggings to jewelry, to recycled clothing, to new clothing in the minimalist, eco-friendly style of what I've come to think of as "Etsy Chic". This includes environmentally friendly fabrics in simple, yet elegant garments such as this black column skirt($59.00):

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I just adore the handmade twenties velvet and lace dress shown above. Featuring a fabulous "vintage bling" belt, don't you know this was the pride of some girls wardrobe?

I'm unsure if the lace has darkened with age or was always this color, but it is a soft ecru bordering on beige color which adds to the vintage charm of the garment.

Offered by Etsy favorite Vera Vague, this gorgeous bit of history coulf be yours for a mere $360.00 -- an absolute bargain for a peice of clothing of this quality.

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This wonderfully feminine peach linen jacket from the early 1990's is one of Karl Lagerfield's creations.  With it's tie closures and fabulous ruffles, I think it has endless possibilities for any woman's wardrobe, my favorite of which is to throw it over a dark-wash pair of jeans.  It would be timeless and chic over any long light colored linen skirt, or... well, the possibilities are as great as the woman's style and imagination.  Found on Etsy at Violent Vintage,  this lovely jacket could be yours for $108.00.

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This incredibly modoliscious scooter / stewardess dress in lipstick dress is being offered on eBay by lovespyvintage.  I love the mod hair style of their model! Perfect for the coming cold weather,  this gorgeous dress is made of a heavy weight wool or wool blend knit.  That lovely belt is none other than Persian lamb! Sized medium to large (and please, please, please compare the garments measurements to something to fits you well), this luscious gown can be your for $94.99 or the best offer.

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We haven't talked about making offers in a long time, so I'm going to repeat my spiel about making offers. Those of you who have heard all this before, skip on down to the next vintage item, but if you're new to vintage shopping, bargaining skills can prove essential to the acquisition of good vintage items at sometimes bargain basement prices. Making an offer is a little like a box of chocolates: you never know what you're going to get. I've had offers for less than half the asking price be accepted, and recently made an offer for $5.00 short of the asking price of an item that's been on eBay for a year rejected! The most important thing to remember is that you never want to insult the merchandise or the vendor! That dress you're offering a buying price for may have belonged to the seller's beloved grandmother! Never try to justify a low offer by suggesting the item is less valuable than the seller thinks. I've found it best to take the approach of being absolutely in love with an item, but unable to pay more than $x.xx right now. Still, never be shy about asking for a garment at your dream price! A seller willing to accept offers is giving you a tremendous opportunity. Start with your dream price, and have a clear idea of just how far you're willing to negotiate before you walk away. The seller will likely sense your resolve and take that into consideration when they are trying to balance their desire to get a good price with the need to move merchandise.

On rare occassions, I've had offers accepted on eBay by sellers who were not listing their willingness to entertain offers. This is rare and really a gamble. That blouse I offered $5.00 short of the asking price was from a sale with a firm Buy It Now price. It's possible I offended the dealer by offering less when she had not indicated a willingness to entertain offers, and in retrospect, I regret making the offer. However, on Etsy, there is no formal protocol for making offers, and that situation is more fluid. I've written dealers just to tell them how much I admired an item, and had them offer me a reduced price. Beyond that, I've never made a "below list price" offer to an Etsy vendor, but I know it is done, and probably often done successfully. Remember, provided you don't alienate the seller, the worst you risk is a polite email explaining, "I really couldn't let this go for that price." If they offer you an alternate price, begin negotiating. If all they do is decline your offer, it's best to make a choice between paying list price and simply walking away. An email wishing them a succesful sale is always a kind gesture if you have reached the end of your willingness to negotiate.

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From the 1920s,  these Art Deco gold lame Mary Jane shoes feature a button closure on each side.  I think I actually squealed when I fell across them.  They are so much the perfect thing to wear with your flapper dresses!  I bet my grandmother had a pair rather like them!  I just love the triangular holes created by the closures.  The shoes are 10 1/2" long and 2 3/4" wide with 3" Louis XV heels.  They are in remarkable vintage condition, with a bit of tarnish in their patina.  Available at 1860-1960 for $125. 

Also from 1860 - 1960 is this incredibly well preserved Titanic Era ladies hat:

Okay, so the flower droops a little.  Cut off the flower and add a new one.  They sell tons of them on Etsy, and I featured a great one just days ago.  This fabulous women's hat is made of a plush velvet fabric, and is lined with polished cotton.  It's upturned brim was made in anticipation of sitting atop a high Gibson Girl hairdo.  Let your imagination run wild with how you could wear your hear with it today!  It's lines are just splendid as this side view will testify.

(You can see how badly the flower droops, but this is so easily fixed!!!)  Hats were large in those days, and this one measures an astonishing 42" in circumference. This treasure is available from 1860-1960 for $150.00.

As luck would have it,  I stumbled upon that hat just moments after discovering this fabulous forest green tulle party dress at Etsy:

Made for a very special evening, this 1950's cocktail dress has a matching scarf/shawl and even includes the flower at the waist.  The tight fitting bodice is sequined and scalloped and includes a lettuce edged floral motif throughout.  Perhaps you could move the flower to the hat and have one fabulous vintage outfit!  The tulle skirt is so full one doesn't even need a crinoline in order to keep that wasp figure!  Offered by Petrune for $350.00.

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This fabulous avant garde black heavily rouched cocktail dress from the late 50's is in such good condition it could almost have just come off the racks. Oozing Hollywood glamour, there is something about this dress that reminds me of Wynona Ryder;  maybe it's just that this neckline would be so appealing with her jawline.  

This fully lined dress feels like silk.  The buyer is not going to do a burn test because the dress is too pristine to mar. (I completely agree).  While there is no label,  it's current size would be approximately a 6/8.  It's being offered by Aiseirigh for $410.00.

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Also from Aiseirigh is this "lovely lush" black cocktail dress from the 50's.

I'm afraid the model is just a tiny bit small for this dress, so don't think it's badly made,  it's just made for more of a Jane Russell type.

The sweetheart neckline is embellished with beads and rhinestones.  The dress features a side metal zipper, a shelf bust, and what should be a tight fitting bodice.  It also has a full circle skirt, so girls break out those crinolines!  The fabric is something of a mystery.  I would have guessed taffeta, but the seller says it makes no rustling sounds.  Nonetheless it is a full bodied fabric, smooth to the touch, and with a matte sheen (faile maybe?).  Yours for $403.00.

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If you enter the word "stratton" into an Etsy search engine right now, you'll get a whole slew of matches in the compact department.  I think this one is the crown jewel of the bunch: 

The beautifully executed, enameled top of this jeweled compact is exquisitely rendered. There is even a bit of powder left in the compact!  I love vintage accessories like this.  There is nothing in modern life that caters to a woman's femininity the way a compact, or perhaps a cigarette case did in the time period from 1920 through 1960.  I look at these and I see genteel dressing tables with silver comb, brush and mirror sets, and women who brush their hair 100 strokes before bed each and every night of their lives.  These items are imminently collectible.   Offered by Simplysuzula for only $14.00.

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These fabulous and timeless Ferragamo mules have actually never been worn!  You can be the first to slip your feet into these black silk slippers with the low heels and the beautifully executed Ferragamo bow.

Ah!  Look at that stitching.  That's Ferragamo.  I'm simply in love with these shoes, and if I could only shink my foot a size and a half, you wouldn't be getting this opportunity.  As it is,  you can get these at Archive Vintage for the bargain price of $175.00.  Run, darlings, run!  

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While I'm in black dress mode,  I just couldn't stop myself from including this fabulous striped sheer ribbon net cocktail dress from the 50's.  Take a look at the close up of this bodice:

Is that a bombshell dress?  Or is that a bombshell dress?  This sheer overlay of illusion netting intermixed with stripes of grosgrain ribbon is rare and gorgeous!  A completely red carpet ready dress.  To keep that lovely fullness,  this dress actually has four layers!  The seller warns it's quite heavy to wear, but completely worth the effort.  Aside from a slight repair to the metal zipper, this dress is in excellent vintage condition and ready for it's next night out. Unfortunately,  the belt is not included with the dress,  but darlings,  the world is full of black belts,  there's only one of this dress!  


Found at Etsy, this dress is offered from SpoonbreadVintedge for the amazing price of only $325.00.

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This amazing tomato red silk wiggle dress is made of raw silk.  It features a scalloped V Neck and wide shoulders to hide those torpedo bra  shoulder straps  To aid wiggling,  their is a 4" slit in the back and a back metal zipper.  There are even pockets at each side to add to the illusion of full hips and a wasp waist line.  Can't you just see Joan Holloway in this dress?  The matching red silk belt is decorated with a bow and backed in leather.  We are so lucky it survives!  So often belts are lost along the way!  With the exception of some very slight underarm discoloration (which I never worry about,  who's going to be lifting your arms to inspect your dress?) this dress is in great vintage condition.  

As the owner of several silk dresses of this age,  I feel I must warn you that you should be sure this dress will fit you before you even try it on!  Old silk is fragile, and can't take tugging!  So please, please, please read the dimensions at the website!  

Offered at Etsy by SeaHoney1 for only $50.00,  this may be the real steal of this blog issue!

And to wear with this lovely dress?  Just so happens I've found some killer, and I do mean killer ruffled up and looking current red shoes!

I think these are so adorable I'm considering having my feet altered to a size 8.5.  These 1980's shoes are 100% suede (except the sole of course) and it's nap is all in good condition, and those little ruffley rosette things are so cute I could just die.

Here's a look-see from the back:

I tell you!  They're perfect!  Well, okay, so in 30 years they've gotten some  minor scuffs, but they are so perfect the scuffs don't matter!  

Found also at Etsy, you can be styling in these for only $30.00 thanks to DearGoldenVintage.

And on that beautiful note,  I'm going to wish you farewell and good shopping!  

I'm having major surgery next week, so I'm not sure when I'll get back to you, but I will be back.  If I'm not too goofy from the hospital and they let me have my modem,  I may just post from my hospital bed!

Take care darlings!

Second Hand Roze

Catch of the Day: August 30, 2011

I was so excited when I got the email saying the following item is on sale (15% off) at Etsy!



A fabric or paper floral brooch is something no woman's wardrobe should be without, and this one is simply lovely. Use it to adorn a hatband! Pin it to your dress like a corsage! Or, use my favorite trick and wrap a scarf around your waist and secure it with this lovely felted wool brooch. This brooch is lovingly made by hand, will fit seamlessly into your vintage wardrobe, and will be shipped to you in it's own special hand-crafted box. Offered by Ing00te of Lithuania for a prediscounted price of $29.00.

Happy Shopping!

Second Hand Roze

Find of the Day: August 23, 2011

I simply had to jot off a quick note when i found this fabulous original 60's Emelio Pucci tunic up for auction on eBay.


Made in Italy of 100% silk knit, I just adore the watery color pallette Pucci chose to use with this piece. It's a size XS, which I am so not, so I shall have to worship this beauty from a distance. Perfect over cigarette pants, trouser jeans, or that just right pencil skirt! This beauty is being offered by 2TryHard at a current price of $34.66 with three days plus of bidding to go.

Just the thing to wear with that Judith Hendler bracelet shown below. Oooohhh! Modolicious!

Happy Shopping!

Second Hand Roze


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

The Rest Of The Story

I shall no more attempt to press order on the chaos that remains. I shall instead merely seek to present the lovely garments and jewelry I found during the pertinent weeks' perusals.

I should warn you: I keep three files of blog material, "current", "later" and then "after that". Even "after that" is rather full, and were I so situated as to do little but blog, I would still be lucky to get this all written in a meaningful time-frame.

But enough of this lamentation! There is fashion afoot! Let us not put it off a moment longer!

I'm going to start off this post with this madly chic Pucci bag.

Found on SenseoFashion from perenial favorite TheKaliman. I am unsure of the era of this bag; (Anyone more knowledgable is urged to contact me). The presence of all that wonderfully abundant whipstitched fringe naturally brings to mind the 1960's, but I'm uncertain if the bag is from that era, or a retro bag produced in the 80's, or even last week. The bag is obviously sizable enough to be the cache of any well funded runaway, be that a debutant turned hippie headed for the Haight in 1968, or a busy executive flying off to Martha's vineyard for the weekend.



In addition to the roomy interior, there is a wonderfully convenient flap pocket at the side for your sunglasses and cell phone, and, if you absolutely insist, your cigarettes.

The bag is guarenteed authentic and sells for $2,000.00. If you have the money, this chic bag is worth every penny and will give you years (if not decades) of pleasure.

Twinsets were introduced in the 1950's and have been a wardrobe staple ever since. This 1970's twinset from Fred Rothschild is as fashionable today as it was the day it came off the rack. Made of polyester rib-knit, I was surprised to learn that the v-neck shell includes a back zipper. Perhaps this accounts for the garment having kept it's shape so well? The black fabric with white piping is as much a fashion staple as the twinset, and you're bound to find yourself reaching for this lovely set again and again.

Found at The Rusty Zipper for the bargain price of $24.00.

The following garment is not vintage, but I have given myself permission to include it because it is vintage inspired and is hand made. Also, I love it, something that never hurts!

This wonderfully turned out zebra jacket with the hand crocheted detailing in the peplum and flaired sleeves was created lovingly by hand by the artist (and what else can one call such a seamstress?) Annie Briggs. The empire waist closes with two beautiful wooden buttons, and to nice low scooped neckline leaves room for you to show off your favorite necklace. Currently on sale (my two favorite words); you may find this fabulous jacket at Etsy for $135.00.

Ms. Briggs crochet work is really quite unique and wonderful. I beg you to view her work! Who knows but that you may miss that special something for which you've been searching for years!

Have you ever wanted a dress so badly that it hurt, as in caused physical pain, not to own it? I've felt that way about the spaghetti strapped, tea stained,and rosette adorned dress towards the end of the June 24th edition, and I feel that way about this amazing early 60's black and white ruffle dress. Even before I knew it's navy blue cousin had appeared on Mad Men!

My God.  Is that a dress, or is that a dress?  Made of polyester (not my favorite fabric, but also the reason the dress has survived so well!) this fabulous dress uses the contrast between the black and white to emphasize it's voluptuous ruffles.

This dress could comfortably go from the office to a museum opening with a simple change of jewelry and a different handbag. What do you think girls? A tripple strand of pearls coupled with a set of dangling earrings?

With a size 44 bust, this is a true bombshell dress! Alas, I don't have a true bombshell figure so I shall have to worship this from a distance. Maybe I could have it taken in? It certainly looks smashing on the model, and she doesn't appear to be Jane Russell!  I think it's so wonderfully feminine.

Found, naturally, at Etsy, this knock-out dress is available from VeraVague for $185.00

Ms. Vague is a new find to me and she has The Eye. Rack upon rack of the chicest vintage clothing you could hope to find. I simply implore you to peruse her inventory.

Next, I just happen to have stumbled onto a pair of cuban heeled spectator shoes in black and white which would look simply spectacular with the ruffled dress shown above.

These smashing shoes hail from the 80's and were a nod to the 60's even then. I remember my mother wearing shoes like this when she'd get all dressed up for a bridge party or some other special affair. The shoes look just as chic to me today as they seemed on my mother way back then.

Despite their age, these shoes are positively immaculate, look at the inside of them! And here's the back of the heels:

One could almost swear they are old dead stock! The shoes are size 6.5 and the label reads "Bravo by Browns"

The shoes are offered by Aiseirigh for $75.00' a bargain for timeless shoes that will see you fashionably though decades!

Also from Aideirigh is this beautifully cut and constructed dress with a full and fluffy houndstooth skirt.

Created by one of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis' favorite designers, Morton Myles. Prior to going out under his own label, Mr. Myles worked with such heavy hitters as Larry Aldrich and Herbert Sondheim.

The fabulously lined and fluffy cotton skirt is topped with some fabric with lots of give, but that still retains it's shape. The seller compared this fabric to Lycra, which of course didn't exist in the 1950's. I should mention, however, that the 1950's is an assumption on my part. This could be an '80's retro piece,which puts lycra back in play.  Does anyone know if Myles was still designing in the '80's? If you know, please comment for us!

The dress sells for $235.00 the buyer should be warned that wearing this lovely cocktail dress may lead to spontaneous twirling!

This seller ( Aiseirigh) is another seller to watch!

This amazing hat with the Parisian heart is so lovely, I may simply pine away without it. Designer Stella Dottir made obvious nods to the past, but still managed to create a Bohemian original. My only complaint is that the lovely jacket it is shown with is not available for purchase as well.

The designer was inspired by Clara Bow and created the hat to convey a "speakeasy" feel. I think she succeeded brilliantly. The feathers on top can also be arranged to a "standing" pose, as shown below:

This look reminds me of Jack McConnel's hats, but in no way diminishes the originality of the design, especially as this look is combined with a modified version of a 1960's floppy flower child hat. Truly an inspired milliner.

This lovely creation is offered on Etsy by Ms. Dottir for $140.00.

Think how stunning such a hat would look when paired with a black and gold brocade dress...

This lovely black silk metallic dress from the late 40's or early 50's is onsale for 25% off list price if you enter the code: SWING25. The seller indicates that the metallic gold silkscreen may be real gold as per a vinegar test. I must admit complete ignorance as to how one uses vinegar to test for gold, but I wish to present the facts to the best of my ability. I frankly have no vested interest as to whether the threads in my garments are of precious metals, but perhaps you do?

The dress features a plunging (but not too deep!) "V" in a very fitted bodice with princess seaming, and a network of other seams used to acheive an almost "painted on" look for the bodice. The dolman sleeves are three quarters length, my personal favorite for sleeve lengths. A three quarter length sleeve will allow you to show off your favorite bracelet, as - naturally - the "V" neck invited you to chose your favorite necklace.

The slightly dropped waist then flairs to a very fullskirt which could accomodate a crinoline if one were to so chose. (Naturally Roze wishes you to so chose!)

The back of the dress is reported to gather at the center of the waist, producing something of a tiny bustle effect. Sadly we have no photographs of the back of the dress to illustrate this point.

I would estimate the size of this garment to be a size 8-10, as the bust is a snug 38" and the waist is 28". The skirt then flairs and the hip measurements go to a full 94" sweep.

The dress is reported to be in very good condition, though the seller does note that it appears that sections of the boddice seams near the waist apoear to have been let out two inches,but this effects neither the pattern,nor the "wearability" of the dress.

This stunning dress is offered for sale at Etsy by Swingkatsvintage for what I calculate to be $161.25 after the 25% discount. The pre-sale price of the dress is $215.00. Please check my calculations before committing yourself to make a purchase!

This shop has a small but truly lovely inventory and is certainly an assett to the Etsy community.  I've made some real finds in my recent browsing.

To really bring out the gold in that dress, I can think of nothing better than this lovely, very retro, sizable bronze pearl necklace:

The longer strand is 19" long, so it would hang on the neck like so:

Reported to be in "excellent" condition, the necklace has a nice weight to it, and the box clasp is simply classic.

Offered at Etsy by Rosepetalpie for a bargain $17.00! Rosepetalpie has a lovely selection of vintage costume jewelry, including a Vendome bracelet I am quite envious of.

Also perfect for the black and gold dress, are these lovely "golden glam" sparling pumps:

These appear to be reptilian to me, but no mention is made of the materials, so I could well be mistaken. They are gold tone with gold and silver sparkles, and could easily become that pair of shoes where you turn to again and again. Called "Dolce" (sweet) by Pierce, these shoes are a size 7 medium width and are in spectacular condition.

The shoes have 2.5" heels and are as chic today as they were when they rolled of the assembly line in...1950? 1960? 1970? These shoes are timeless!

Regularly priced at $28.00, these lovely pumps are on sale by adVintageous for $23.80, an absolute bargain! AdVintageous has long been a favorite of mine, and currently, the have a sheer floral blouse, and a peacock blue peignoir set for which garment I would happily wrestle in the mud. Please don't cheat yourself by not taking the time to review their current selections.

Next we have a wonderfully chic silver grey Kimono dinner jacket. Sadly, it's lost its label along the way, so we'll never know the fabric content (suspected nylon), the designer,  nor the intended size of the garmment. The fabric is a sparkling, glittery silver grey, and the seller feels the one size should fit all.

 

It's a lovely jacket but I can see it swallowing anyone below a size two. I hesitate to put an upper limit on it, but I do believe there is one! The jacket secures with a hook and eye closure at the waist.

I have to admit that I'm less than wild about the belt they've paired it with. Almost any black belt would be preferable, but I've chosen a special belt below. The jacket is offered by luvstonevintage for $44.00.

This shop has a very chic, hip vibe despite its small inventory that includes a floor legnth burned velvet dress I would stomp on someone to get to! (I wouldn't really stomp on someone, but I could practice my sneaky skills, which are pretty finely honed!)

To solve the belting problem for the jacket above,one could get a long simple black scarf,wrap it around the waist and secure it with a floral fabric brooch. I do this all the time and women stop me on the street to ask where I found that gorgeous belt. I just smile enigmatically and say,"a little shop in Santa Fe." This is not where I found that scarf (I think that may have been a thrift store find), but it is where I found the floral fabric brooch. (Etsy,by the way, is simply over-loaded with floral brooches, and every women should own at least one of these!)

However, I was lucky enough to find a floral bridal belt that would make this jacket simply smashing:

The use of the rhinestone embellishments should enhance the sparkling, shimmering quality of the kimono jacket, and there's nothing I love more than sparkle! The basic ribon is about 2" wide and more than 2 meters long, with the embellished part being around 9" long. This is made in Lithuania, and will arrive to you via airmail. Available at Etsy from Floralworld (home to many of those floral brooches) for $146.00.

Should you want to find something a bit less formal and more playful than black, I found this treasure of a floral sash at rosyposydesigns (also at Etsy):

I just love their incorporation of vintage jewelry into their designs! This fabulous multicolored floral sash is made of hand cut and hand sewn fabrics in a variety of textures, prints, and vintage lace. The center of each flower is a lovely re-purposed costume jewelry pin. Ivory and sage velvety leaves peek out from behind the flowers. The corsage is attached to a 90" long, 1" wide off white vintage lace sash. If this is not to your liking, the artist has a selection of satin ribbons which may be substituted (Roze implores you to go with the vintage lace!). A custom brooch or corsage may also be ordered to complete the look if you want to go all out. This lovely sash is available for $168.00.

The artists at Rosyposydesigns have a large selection of floral sashes, brooches and necklaces that should allow you to see your wardrobe in a whole new light.

Leaving Etsy for a moment and dropping in on eBay, I found this amazing and gorgeous Edwardian Wedding Kimono:

This stunning marriage Kimono is from "The Yamamoto, Inc." in Los Angeles. The lovely over-Kimono is 100% pale pink silk and beautifully embroidered in pastel tones depicting leaves and flowers. The under-kimono is also 100% beige silk and is free of ornamentation. Finally, the silk embroidered sash is also embroidered in the same motif on both sides and is fringed.

Sadly, there is light staining and small moth holes throughout the garment. These are not visible from the photos provided, and thus must be very small indeed. Additional photographs are available upon request.

If the condition of the garment warrants it (and with this single photo, I have no way of knowing one way or another) this would be a lovely gown for a non-traditional wedding, or with a straight dowl through the sleeves, would make a lovely wall hanging.

Offered for auction by TheSelvageYard for the Buy It Now Price of $975.00.

The SelvageYard has such a collection of genuine surviving Victorian garments that I was left simply stunned.  Any connoisseur of vintage clothing simply should not miss this once in a lifetime chance to see these garments that have survived over a century.

Back at Etsy, I found this simply stunning and classic vermeil and rhinestone solitair costume ring:

The ring is marked 925, so it is most certainly sterling silver underneath it's coat of shining gold.  The stone sits a full 3/8" above the finger emphasizing the ring and making it the focal point of the wearer's hand.  This is a ring which will not be missed!  It is a size five, which is a pinky ring for most of us.  It is decidedly not a pinky ring, and I implore you to be sure your fingers are small enough to wear the ring on the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th finger as it was intended.


The ring is offered by PurpleDaisyJewelry as part of their extensive and fabulous inventory.  Any true lover of costumer jewelry would wish to spend a nice cup of coffee perusing their wares.

You can imagine the squeal that escaped my lips when I found these earrings! These simply amazing and modolicious acrylic/lucite earrings are also from PurpleDaisyJewelry at Etsy and naturally stopped me cold. I just love the look created by the three lucite square connected into one long earring. These are so 70's mod, that they should not be missing from any mod to disco collector's collection.  And these days when vintage lucite pieces are often going for hundreds of dollars, these are a bargain at a mere $14.00.  Put these on with your favorite go-go boots and get out there and boogie!


Lucite lovers!  Stay with me!  I have another couple of surprises in store for us!

This luscious 1920's flapper gown was found at Etsy shop Vera Vague. Almost a century later, this is still the perfect little black dress.  Made of sumptuous silk,  the asymetrical "V" neckline is lined in black velvet with a drape cape at the shoulders.  The double hankerchief hemline is made to flutter as you as walk.

The dress is reported to be in "amazing" condition and to be from small to medium size.  (The models measurements are on file at the Vera Vague policy page).  This stunning silk gown is available for $340.00.

While we're in a Jazz Age frame of mind,  take a look at this amazing art deco rhinestone headdress by RoseOfTheMire of Etsy.  This one of a kind piece was made entirely of vintage rhinestone elements that were repurposed to create this amazing Mucha worthy headdress.  Be prepared to be the belle of the ball in this amazing retro-jewelry!  Painstakingly created for beauty, balance and comfort.  Includes a keepsake storage box.  Available for $190.00.

And to complete the look:

This fabulous art-deco handflower bracelet is called "Josephine" which melts my heart, because that was my grandmother, the flapper's name!  Also made meticulously of vintage rhinestone jewelry and silver chain. This lovely piece too was brought to us by RoseOfTheMire.  A Swarovski crystal ball hangs from the end with a dainty signature tag. Available for $148.00.

The dress above is from my favorite Sense of Fashion vendor, The Kaliman.  I have never turned to them and not found something lovely and fresh, and as is so much the case for this lovely 80's-does-the-40's suit, feminine.   The skirt has a flattering fishtail,  the pattern of the fabric is very late 30's early 40's, and the lines of the suit are the lines of a lady.  Made of Rayon, this is a 3 season suit and will see you wonderfully dressed through all except the coldest of winter days.  A size 4, the suit sells for $175.00.

I stumbled upon this dress at Etsy when the dress I had chosen to feature had been sold.  I think the splendid simplicity of this dress gives it a timeless chic.  The mini is not a 60's mini, an 80's mini, it's a now mini.  And I adore the belt they've chosen to pair with it.  The fabric appears to be a silk or rayon crepe, and is available in sizes 6 through 16.  Offered by RiverofRomansk for a mere $44.80.

I just happened to have run across these accessories for this dress:

This lovely grape colored lucite bracelet put the purr in purple.  I just absolutely adore it.  It's part of Judith Hendler's Acrigems collection from the 1980's, though - like all of her work it is timeless!  And oh-so-collectible! It features a perfectly curved amethyst center surrounded by a spiral of clear lucite Hendler's jewelry was sold at many high end department stores, and has been featured in many television shows, as well as many high end couture shoots.  This lovely bracelet was found at The Beboparoo Shop at Ruby Lane.  It sells for $280.00 and is a steal for the notoriously hard to find work of Judith Hendler.

And that Rose embellished belt I admired so much?

I just happened upon it at Etsy! Antique brown dye was hand applied to the hand cut leather to create a vintage look  The antique silver rose flower buckle snaps on easily, making this belt unique and perfect for that lovely dress.  Offered by 4mLeatherDesign for $72.00.

If you wished to take accessorizing that dress in a slightly different direction, here are some lovely Pink Mother of Pearl and Glass Pearl necklace that walk that fine line between "matching" (which they do not) and "going with" (which they emphatically do).

This lovely necklace comes from the south seas around the Phillipines and the gem stones are rumored to help maintain the bodies metaphysical balance against the barrage of negative energy caused by today's plethora of electronic devices. I don't understand all that. I just think it's lovely.  The longest strand hanging at 26", this necklace will flatter most necklines,  though is much too long to stay within the confines of a "V" neck. Offered at Etsy by BeadsAndPearls for a bargain $5.25.

In much the same fashion mood is this lovely vintage embroidered evening bag. 

Worn together,  the necklace and this handbag could grant that purple dress a whole new feeling!  This bag is beautifully handcrafted in a floral embroidered dupioni silk with a chain that incorporates glass beads that go beautifully with the necklace above.  The bag is tiny: 3.5" x 2.5", just enough to carry your mad money, and is lined with pure black silk.  Offered by hummingbirdministries for $35.00.

In this day of "boy friend jackets" and "boy friend shirts", I found this actual shirt from someone's boyfriend. I think it's perfect. Just the thing to throw over those black cigarette jeans, or even the deep denim wide leg trousers.  

The shirt can be worn with or without belt.  I think it would look smashing with the rose belt shown above.  The button down collar can be worn open as shown, or buttoned down with or without a tie.  (I think women look fabulous in ties!)  

This is an Arrow shirt, made in Bangladesh, medium size, 15-15, 34/35.  It is machine washable and is in flawless vintage condition.  The shirt is offered by MagpiesShop of Latvia for $25.00.

Also from the MagpiesShop is this fabulously retro woven rafia women's handbag: 

The inside of this roomy handbag is a single compartment but includes a pocket.  It is natural colored and could go with almost any outfit. Though it has no tag, or no documentation of it's provenance, it was apparently made in the former Soviet Union.  Not just a great fashion accessory, but a great conversation piece as well.  Measures 12" x 10", and is priced at $ 25.00.

With my penchant for little black dresses,  there was no way I could pass up this 80's vintage mermaid cocktail dress:

I just love the flounce at the hemline and the ruffles around the neckline. The asymetrical hem will show off your shoes,  so find the perfect black heels before you step out!  This gorgeous dress is offered by Lovespebblesvintage of South Texas for $36.00.  They have a simply amazing collection of vintage clothing including an 80's vintage Armani skirt suit a girl could die for and Ike Connor linen sheath dress that is tres mod.

Designed for use as a bridal piece, this unusual bib necklace would be just the thing for the dress above or anytime you really wished to make a real statement:

This bib necklace is a veritable gold mine of pearls, beads, and bits of jewelry.  It is wonderfully excessive, beautifully eclectic, and completely modern, an absolute work of art. So much like the jewelry you see on cat walk's today,  this fabulous piece is as much a collage as a necklace.  The necklace is beaded around half of the neck and the other half has a white ribbon and is finished off with a silver clasp.  The shorter part of the necklace measures 16" and hangs an additional 7" from there at it's longest part.  Offered at Etsy by FleuredeliseDesigns for $59.00.

For some slightly more traditional pearl neck wear,  one might turn to FleuredeliseDesigns for something like this:

I just adore the rhinestone ball in the center.  These delicate seed pearls are so feminine, and just the thing so often when a woman needs to accessorize.  The fit a snug 15" around the neck, which is not quite a choker, but certainly leaves no hanging room to spare.  Yours for $64.00.

The necklace above would look stunning with this rare and oh-so-sexy Lilli Ann Designer Evening Dress.  Lilli Ann is famous for the meticulous tailoring of their suits and coats, and that same attention to detail is shown in this incredible cocktail dress.  From the 1950's this dress is cut with curves to spare and, as with any Lilli Ann garment, made to present an hour glass figure even where one does not exists.  The dress is made of a fine faille which is most probably rayon or silk, and is fully lined.  Beneath the bustline is a series of pleats, and - to accentuate the femininity of the woman lucky enough to be wearing it - a lovely bow just under the left bust.  The pleating of the bustline is reflected in the wide pleating of the straps, and the back of the close fitting skirt has a kick pleat for ease of movement.  The garment closes with a metal zipper.  The measurements of the dress would lead me to size it at a size 12, but as always, you are encouraged to compare the measurements reported at the website to those of a garment which fits you well.  In excellent condition,  this rare dress sells is offered by Fabgabs for $348.00. 

Fabgabs has some incredibly "MadMen" clothing that is so true to the period, that you'll find it hard to believe you aren't seeing these garments on the backs of Bets, Mona, Peggy and Joan.  And they have men's clothes too!





The next piece I've found is from a jewelry line I've discovered called Rock n' Rolaylty Jewelry of San Francisco.

I just love her use of watermelon stones,  the festoons, and the genuine vintage inspiration of the piece.  This piece is named "Victorian Fantasy" and sells for $186.00.  Please take the time to view all the luscious jewelry at the site!  You'll be so glad you did!


Finally today,  I'd like to introduce you to a lovely rose colored satin damask party dress.

(I should mention that I believe the crinoline they've shown this with is just about 5" too short, causing that funny drop in the hemline.  The right sized crinoline will fix that right up!)  I just adore the fabric of this dress.  You can look at it and know that it feels smooth and cool the way satin is supposed to feel.  And the dainty embroidered flowers are perfection! Made for a woman with a true Bombshell figure,  very generous in the bust (about 38") and tiny in the waist (about 26").  Perhaps a corset is in order?  This would be a truly lovely bride's maid dress for the bride who didn't want a cookie cutter wedding!  If not that,  then it's the perfect thing to wear to the wedding,  especially if you don't mind stealing just a touch of the limelight from the bride!  The bust is made to fit snugly,  to narrow to that tiny waist and then poof! out at the hips.  The skirt has wide box pleats to assure it hangs properly, the sign of a truly master tailor or dressmaker.  The dress closes with a side metal zipper.  There is no label on this dress, and that doesn't surprise me.  I believe this is the work of a master seamstress and is a one of a kind dress.  It's currently on sale for 40% off!!!  Offered on Etsy by Revolvingstyles,  another shop with a to-die-for inventory.

While looking through Revolvingstyles,  I just couldn't stop myself from including this incredible Christian Dior Hat from the 1960's: 

Okay,  I will admit I worship at the House of Dior,  but this hat is truly something special. Navy blue straw with a nice wide brim, the hat features an off-center straw daisy.  The inside of the hat is white.  Can't you just see yourself sporting this hat with your favorite navy suit?  The label reads, "Christian Dior Chapeaux Paris New York".  The hat is described as being in "excellent" condition, and straw hats tend to age better than their felt counterparts.  Offered by Revolvingstyles for $48.00.

Would you believe I still haven't exhausted my "current" list for this blog?  Nonetheless, I have exhausted myself,  so I am taking this moment to call it a day, or a blog, or to stop anyway.   


Happy shopping to you all darlings!


Second Hand Roze