The Way We Were - Vintage Magazines
October 28th, 2009A little while ago, I came across quite a magnificent find: an original copy of The Australian Home Journal from 1954!

I just adore real vintage magazines. They are a true snapshot of not only the fashions of the day, but of the societal attitudes and cultural norms - so fascinating!
This one edition contained so many interesting stories, articles and advertisements that I want to share with you, kittens, that I have decided to do a series of posts on the "Way we were" topic.
The magazine was also a reinforcement of the fashion cycle theory - that past era styles come back into fashion every so often and that some are always in vogue (and thus, 'classics').
For example: The shirt dress:
First seen in the 1940's the shirt dress has been a staple fashion classic ever since. Above, we see the 1954 take, including the belted waist and flared skirt, as well as a more tailored look.


Here are two examples of the modern shirt dress, from Spiegels in the US and Dorothy Perkins from the UK.
What styles do you think never go out of fashion, Kittens?




November 9th, 2009 at 3:20 am
AHHH! Dorothy Perkins - I love that shope in the UK !! Great post - keep up the good work …
January 9th, 2010 at 1:25 pm
I am loving 20s and 30s evening gowns, bias cut anything, and the classic femininity of 40s tailoring. meanwhile, and forever, gwen stefani pulls old and new glamour together with aplomb!
January 9th, 2010 at 1:50 pm
Totally agree Maggie! Gwen Stefani rocks the vintage looks but I think my favorite was the harajuko girls (sp)! So cool and wow - she looks amazing after baby number 2.
My favorites though are 70s inspired vintage, I am always drawn to 70s frocks whether it’s a maxi or a gorgeous cocktail dress.
January 27th, 2010 at 1:26 pm
What about a blog on vintage patterns. What a great way to customize your vintage wardrobe!