Sunday, August 21, 2011

rare vintage finds from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s

Karl Lagerfeld "Memphis Print" Dress from 1980s, made in France
This Karl Lagerfeld v-neck, wrap-style slip on silk dress features kimono sleeves and an elastic waist is perfect for dinner dates. Instead of heels, I'd pair it with jeweled sandals to create a less formal and more casual yet sophisticated look. 


YSL Rive Gauche One-Shoulder Dress from the 1980s, made in France
No one can say no to wearing this. A textured one-shouldered silk dress with a bow on the covered shoulder and a self-tie sash at waist creates no complication other than the fact that there's a hidden side zip which eases movement and the hold of the dress. Perfect for the gala opening of a movie premiere, gala dinners, wedding receptions or even wear on days you feel the need to. This dress should not be a reason why you shouldn't wear it. Other than heels, pump shoes would create a more complete look.

YSL Rive Gauche Cocktail Dress from the 1970s, made in France
This two-tiered YSL Rive Gauche cocktail dress features gold leather straps and a wrap-around self belt. Made from silk jersey, it's perfect for post-wedding dinner, a resort club opening, night out in Paris and a perfect dress to slip on when you just feel pampered. Instead of heels, pair it with gold sandals go crazy with a pair of wedged platform heels. 


Givenchy Nautical One-Shoulder Dress from the 1970s, made in France
This blue and white striped one-shoulder dress from the Givenchy Nouvelle Boutique quickly had me to my knees with the excellent structure and hold to the dress. The attention to details to basics works with the working white buttons down one side and the option to create no hassle to the wearer of this dress. Personally, I'd wear the dress with booties and a leather distressed jacket for a fun night out-and-about in town! 

Geoffrey Beene Strapless Gown  from the 1990s. made in USA
Jersey and chiffon has a way to work itself to create a comfort chic appeal. This navy jersey and chiffon strapless gown screams "date dress" or for that special occasion with your special someone. With details such as a solid bodice with shiny black striped under bust and a pleated ankle-length skirt creates such a "comfortable" look to the eyes. A hands-down winner. 


Oscar de la Renta Apricot Caftan from the 1990s, made in France
Not the biggest fan of the colour - Apricot. But, I must say I love the embroidered button placket with gold trim and breezy sleeves and orange/gold embroidery detail at the back. Ultimately, the textured silk caftan is a must-bring to holiday destinations or quick getaways to exotic islands and places within the tropics region. Throw on a pair of your favourite Havaianas and a straw bucket tote, you're on your way to your perfect island retreat. Don't forget your sunblock and sunnies!

Givenchy Orange Cherries Cocktail Dress from the 1980s, made in France
Rather an off-beat selection to have orange cherries print on a dress. This caught my eye - firstly, the pop-colours, whimsical option to create a fun yet individualistic choice of wardrobe to have in your closet. The cocktail dress features a crew neck, elbow-length sleeves and a fitted skirt with asymmetric ruffle hem. What's clever is the tonal belt with orange buckle at the waist to create that chameleon-effect or hide-and-seek feel to it. Throw on a gold pair of miu miu pumps and you're on the dancefloor the next minute!

Versace Couture Metal Tunic Dress from 1987, made in Italy
The word 'Couture' sends chills to my spine when I saw this Versace couture vintage dress. The sleeveless tunic dress is made out of an oroton metal mesh and features hollow studded detail throughout. I wouldn't even think twice about wearings this dress with spiked heels from Christian Louboutin and some really, really dark smokey-eyed makeup.

Malcolm Starr Beaded Paisley Dress from 1960s, made in USA
I always pair paisley with picnics. Do not ask me why. In retrospect, I would wear this out on a day to the gardens for a picnic. The empire waist , a bell-shaped skirt and the intricate beaded detail at the bust could easily put you from having a picnic party with friends and off to having dinner with your special someone. Having been made of cotton, you don't have to even break a sweat. Just swop your nude sandals to a pair of ankle strap heels for the night. 

Donald Brooks Halterneck Jumpsuit from 1966, made in USA
I would agree to say that jumpsuits aren't for everyone. But that doesn't mean you have to listen to me. Listen to what your body tells you. However, the trick to wearing a jumpsuit is to choose a lively one like this. Jumpsuits like these features a cinched waist with extra material which creates a "tucked-in" look which seems like you're wearing two separate pieces altogether. How genius is that. Footwear of choice, if you're seeking comfort, spare your heels and opt for a comfortable option of sandals or even a pair of espadrilles.

Zandra Rhodes "Spain Collection" Dress from 1986, made in England
I love the fact that this dress has a rather Asian twist to it despite having a Spanish influence to the design of the dress. It reminds me of the Batik-print and inspires me in helping me have an idea of how I'd want my festive dress to be. Made of silk, the dress features a curtain ruched skirt with Swarovski rhinestone trimming and a thick satin waistband which pulls the look together. Any traditional-themed function, I would wear this in a heartbeat. A simple ankle-strapped heel or open-toe heel accompanied with an envelope clutch helps too!

Zandra Rhodes Indian Feather Border Caftan from 1970s, made in England
This two-piece caftan is perfect for a lazy day at the beach or even a day at the spa. Fuss-free and excellent for a day to run errands. The dress features a small keyhole opening at the neck with self-tie, ruched long sleeves and orange/yellow/maroon striped velvet trim throughout to create a robust feel to the dress. A slip-on dress like this is your go-to for Saturdays/Sundays. 

Marc Bohan for Christian Dior Tie Dye Caftan Gown from 1970s, made in France
This blue and white ombre tie dye caftan gown works well with women of all walks of life e.g. with hijab. Featuring flowly chiffon over an ivory crepe column dress as well as a geometric cut out at the back with self-tie at neck. Throw on a pair of wedged clog heel, there's no excuse. 

Photos courtesy of Moda Operandi from the Rare Vintage Catalog 

I swear I would live in all of the clothes above. 

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