Fabulous in the 1950's and even more today

There's no better place in the U.S. to buy vintage clothing than LA. Every time I'm there, visiting American Rag, my favorite store, is a must.

A year ago I bought five dresses - three from the 1950's and two from the '60's. I have worn and adore them all. They're beautiful, well made and inexpensive. Most have needed a little tailoring that leaves them fitting like they were made for me. And no one will ever show up wearing the same dress.

This year I found one more 1950's dress - this rich red damask satin that I can't wait to have altered down to my size.

There was also a gorgeous dress I bought for my friend who was watching Lucy while I was away. I won't describe it until I give it to her. That would totally spoil the surprise (so come back in a couple of days and I'll add a pic).


Then I found a real treasure. Another friend had asked me to check out their vintage jewelry collection. She likes vintage turquoise, but their collection was only the big plastic 1970's-style necklaces and bangles.

Nestled in the orange, blue and white chunky jewelry was this early 1950's evening bag by Pierre Cardin. Its ecru patent leather with the most exquisite pewter and bronze beading made me have to have it - even though it cost well over $200. The bag looks almost brand new and it's likely about sixty years old.

Just imagine the smartly dress women who carried this beautiful bag one evening. I wonder where she went and who she was with. I hope she was a single girl who bought this amazing accessory to accent a new outfit for some special occasion. And I hope the people or person she was with was more special than the occasion.

Every single girl should splurge if she can.

Love to the single girls,
Addison