1920s yellow, 1940s peach, and plenty of cute feathered friends at Lion's Park

Outfit details

1950s pinky-peach & white scarf: etsy (the shop has since shut down)
Faux pearl stud earrings: Claire's
1940s sheer peach blouse: etsy seller JL Vintage
1920s white and yellow Czech glass bead necklace: Jewelry seller in Okanagan Falls
1950s yellow pencil skirt: eBay
Vintage bamboo and straw handbag: Yard sale
White vintage bangle bracelet: Thrifted
Peach rose bangle bracelet: Forever 21
White pumps: Payless
Lip colour: MAC Russian Red

Photography by

Antonio Cangiano

 

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There are days in each season where, if one is lucky, the light is so very perfect, that, looking back on it later, you can scarcely believe how gorgeous it was. This occurrence isn’t limited to the warmest months of the by any means. I've experienced it in the winter, spring, and fall, in addition to sunshine's pet season, summer.

Not all sunlight is created equal by any stretch of the imagination, and there are days when it's golden moments of unmatched loveliness are so short lived, that you've scarcely removed the lens cap before it's vanished. But then there are those that linger, where you could take your sweet, sweet time while shooting, stopping to fill your lungs with a gigantic dose of bath tub warm air, try to lure a duck over to you (so as to photograph it), and all but becoming hypnotized by the glistening twinkle shimmering off of a small pond's surface. There is poetry and magic in certain kinds of lights, and when the opportunity arises to shot in them, I cannot help but beam ear-to-ear.

On the day not too long ago when we captured these photos, just such a light was out in radiant abundance, and it made for an ideal companion for the outfit I had on. An absolute scorcher of a summer afternoon, this was not the time for long sleeves, heavy skirts or multiple layers. Instead I reached for what is probably my absolute sheerest blouse, a thin cotton 1950s yellow pencil skirt (which, much like these jeans and some of my other garments, can only be worn when certain circumstances pertaining to my health permit), my trusty straw and bamboo handbag, and a featherweight peach and white scarf wrapped around my locks.

Eschewing stockings to try and remain a wee bit cooler, I slipped on my beloved white pumps, a couple of bangle bracelets, and an absolutely charming c. 1920s Czech glass beaded necklace that I bought back at the start of the summer (from the same wonderful jewelry seller that I purchased this green 1930s necklace and a few other pieces from). The beads are in terrific shape, and if you look closely on the square yellow ones you can see that they depict faces which look to me to be quite Babylonian in nature, though given the Egyptian revival of the era, I wouldn't rule out that they were supposed to channel the spirit of ancient Egypt instead.

These images were taken at Lion's Park in the neighbouring community of Okanagan Falls, just a few hundred feet away from where we captured this series of photos, on a bone chilling cold winter's day earlier this year. Stacking the two side-by-side, they really couldn't be more opposite to one another in terms of the weather, but each was an absolute joy, no matter if we were baking or freezing our buns off in the process.

I love taking photographs outdoors in serene, gorgeous settings like this. The unexpected shots (like a darling little quail, my all-time favourite bird, popping up on a ridge for a fleeting moment), the gentle breeze that seems to embrace your soul with each rustle of a leaf, and the extraordinary wonder that is simply being alive are all illuminated by taking pictures under the wide open sky.

And that, my dears, is why, come +40C or -30C, you'll always find me ready and waiting (circumstances permitting) to take pictures on the next glorious day of perfect sunlight.

Ten warm weather vintage wardrobe staples

For most us in the western hemisphere, the chilly, rain soaked days of early spring are quickly fading faster than a mud puddle in the hot June sun. The sweltering weeks that will hit-mid summer are still a little ways off, but in all likelihood, the prospect of snow - at the very least – is no longer a particularly big threat (says the girl who has experienced snow in June here in Canada before).

You've probably already carefully and lovingly packed away your winter coats, thickest sweaters, heavy duty boots, and woolen scarves (or soon will). In their place come the garments of summer and the prospect of several gorgeous weeks - or months, depending on whereabouts you live - of weather that would cringe at the mere thought of a toque, snow boots or long underwear.

This is the season for linens, cottons, jerseys, silks, and lightweight knits. It's a time to have fun with what you were, dress gorgeously and with gusto, and when one often feels as though their closet can do know wrong.

Be that as it may, it's always wise to take a moment before we really and truly launch headfirst in summer and access the state of your current vintage summer wardrobe. You may have a swimsuit (or ten!), which is a great start, but beyond that, how just how well are you faring? Even if (like me) your warm weather togs outnumber your winter ones, that doesn't mean that there aren't still garments that you're missing or which you could do with more of.

Of course everyone's summer wardrobe needs will vary depending on where they reside, the kind of life they live everyday, how often they travel during the summer, and myriad other factors. Only you know best what you need more of and which summer fashion items you can easily do without.

No matter your lifestyle and location though, there are certain items of clothing that are always fantastic to have on hand for this sunny, glorious time of the year, ten of which I'm going to shine the spotlight on in today's post with the help of a vintage fashion photo or illustration for each one.

{Sundresses}

{The workhorses of many a vintage gal's summer closet, sundresses can be as practical or fanciful as your heart desires. Look for cute novelty prints, pinafore styles with ruffled sleeves, and cute pockets to stash sunny weather essentials in.}

{Capri pants}

{Also known as clam diggers, crop pants, and capris, these cute 3/4 length pants generally hit anywhere from below the knee to mid-calf, and are the perfect answer to those summer days that call for pants (such as a morning of yard saling or an evening of fishing).}

{Sunglasses}

{Equal parts practical and stylish, sunglasses are an absolute must as the sun glares down on us this season. Whether you opt for vintage or vintage appropriate sunnies, make sure that you get a pair (or two!) that fit well, don't allow much sunlight in on the sides, and which are your correct prescription, if you were glasses due to a vision problem. Extra vintage style bonus points if you go with an adorable cat eye pair!}

{Peasant blouses}

{At first glance one might think that the looser cute of many peasant style blouses could be unflattering, however on the majority of figure types, nothing could be further from the truth. Whether sleeve-less (tank top style), short sleeve, 3/4 or even long-sleeves, peasant blouses are an airy, wonderful vintage wardrobe staple that work well with everything from pencil skirts to high-waisted repro jeans.}

{Sun hats}

{Much as in the case of sunglasses, a great wide-brimmed sunhat - in straw or any other summer weight material - a must both for sun protection and also for enhancing just about any summer outfit you can dream up. Whether you opt for an understated classic sandy straw hued number or prefer something more elaborate, the key is to keep your neck and face shaded from the sun, especially if you're venturing out near - or on - the water, or if you plan on being in the direct sunshine.}

{Playsuits}

{These really have to be one the most charming vintage ensembles ever dreamed up, and the array of style variations they come is pretty much limitless. You can go for anything from a wee little pair or bloomer shorts and a crop top, to a swimsuit with a matching skirt and blouse. No matter the degree of coverage you prefer, there's a vintage - or reproduction - summer playsuit out there to suit nearly everyone.}

{Summer weight shawls}

{Certainly one of summer's biggest draws is its sublime sunshine, but on those overcast days or when the sun sinks come dusk, it never hurts to have an extra layer on hand to help you stay nice and toasty. One of the most elegant options to do just that this time of the year is with a lovely vintage - or vintage appropriate - lightweight shawl. You can go with anything from cotton to satin, jersey to crochet yarn, depending on the rest of of your outfit and how much warmth you're expecting your wrap to provide you. I for one really like the look of gauzy crochet and knit shawls for when the sun sets on a hot summer's day. ***Calling all crochet fans*** this image is from a page with a free crochet pattern to make this pretty 1950s shawl.}

{Patio/squaw dresses or sets}

{A beloved wardrobe staple of many a gal during the 1950s and early 60s, patio and squaw dresses both take their styling cues from Southwestern Native cultures, though with a wholly twentieth century twist. Both are available as one-piece dresses or two-piece sets generally consisting of a skirt and matching top. After years of dreaming about owning a 1950s patio dress of my own, I finally bought a cute dusty rose one with silver trim earlier this year that I just know is going to see tons of play this summer!}

{Beach/bathing suit cover up}

{Whether you love to swim, like to dangle your tootsies in the pool, or simply bask in the rays on the sand, it's always a good idea to bring some form of cover-up with you when you go to the beach. Terrycloth is a great option, but don't discount cotton and linen options either, especially if you're packing for a trip and have limited space in your luggage. }

{Breezy a-line and circle skirts}

{If you're anything like me, you love to feel a warm summer breeze waltz across your skirt, ruffling the hem and warming you through and through. On those days when you want a change of pace from sundresses, shorts, or capri pants, a wonderful vintage a-line or circle skirt is just the answer. I often toss a crinoline under my fuller skirts for extra swish, fullness, and style, but if the mercury is really boiling and you can't bear to think of wearing two layers, don't feel obliged to go the pettiskirt route. A sweet a-line skirt and peasant blouse (perhaps partnered with a straw sunhat) is an especially charming warm weather look that channels the 1940s in particular.}

{To learn more about a specific image, please click on it to be taken to its respective source.}

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This is by no means a complete list of every possible summertime vintage garment of course, nor does it encompass each option that various decades offered up (for example, if you're a big 1930s fan, you'll likely want to add in a pair of beach pajamas), but it's a handy jumping off point - and potential shopping list - as you access your warm weather vintage wardrobe both this year and for future summers to come.

Of the ten items highlighted here, I for one am on the hunt for a lovely warm weather shawl, more capri pants, and a great all-purpose vintage straw sunhat. Which are you in need of and what items not mentioned on this list of summer staples are you shopping for as we round bases on our way to greet summer once again?

Though there are elements of the season - like all others - that can be less than ideal, one thing that I do love with a passion about summer is the clothing it allows me to wear. Free from the shackles of heavy overcoats, seven layers of clothes, and utilitarian footwear, my vintage loving Canadian soul is free to reach for the lightest, dreamiest, most enchanting garments in my closet once again.

I may miss my velvets, corduroys, tweeds, and industrial strength knits a touch at some point over the course of the season (say, when Labour Day rolls around). Right now however, I'm far too busy deciding which sundress and pair or sandals to wear this morning to give cold weather clothes another thought for many a week to come! :)

15 photos of terrific real world 1940s summer fashions

While there is much to be gleaned from the sartorial inspiration provided by yesteryear starlets and staged mid-century fashion shoots in magazines (and goodness knows I adore both of these things unceasingly), my biggest source of vintage fashion inspiration has - and I believe always will be - the looks that real everyday women like myself were sporting during my favourite decades.

I'm intrigued to see how those on a budget dressed, to know how they did their hair, what shoes they opted for, and how they interpreted the trends and timeless looks of the era alike. Oftentimes when one sees an old photograph we know little to nothing about the person in it, and so must form a backstory for that person in our minds (a topic I chatted about in this post last year).

Then, as now, even though we swoon over the looks that most ladies sported during the time, it's interesting to keep in mind that not every gal we see would have been a fashionista, a clothes horse, or perhaps (unthinkable as this may be to many of us now) even the biggest fan of the styles of the decade. Many however, were, as us gals have always veered towards harbouring a significant love for fashion and clothing, no matter what year it was.

The 1940s aren't exactly known for being the easiest decade of all time. For most, clothing rations were in place for most of the forties, and even when items were available, many often could not afford to buy them frequently. This wartime culture created the famous make due or mend mentality which truly helped to steer people from all walks of life through the challenges of the decade and ensured that what little there was to go around was able to provide for everyone - and to last for years. I myself have often adopted this same principle, guided and inspired, by those of both the tumultuous thirties and the harrowing forties.

One season that - in the western hemisphere at least - rarely calls for the need for too much in the way of clothing is summer (a point which I'd venture to guess women of the 40s liked a whole lot). And so this week as we head into June and summer looms ever closer, I wanted to share a selection of vintage fashions - sported by real world ladies of the 1940s - with all of you that will definitely be providing a hefty dose of guidance for own fashion choices this season.

{Love the array of patterns on the skirts and dresses, as well as the middle gal's beautiful flower adorned hairstyle.}


{Stripes, cuffs and saddle shoes while sitting on the sand - that's a look I could easily see myself sporting, as I like to remain fairly well covered at the beach most of the time.}


{The caplet-esque collar and generously sized plaid pattern make this summer dress a real standout.}


{A trio of classic 1940s warm weather button front daywear dresses and three very pretty smiles, to boot.}


{A ruffled neckline and cute plaid pattern don't discuss the sense of plucky spunk I see radiating from this cool gal's face.}


{It's short shorts and strappy sandals for this stylish pair of girlfriends. (Love the overall/jumper style of the shorts on the right!)}


{In part because I rarely expose my bare arms completely, I often includes lightweight knits in my outfits during the warmer months, and could totally see myself wearing this sweet little short sleeve sweater all summer long.}


{Two gals munch on something yummy on a stick - taffy perhaps - while out camping. One sports shorts, the other pants, and both look completely cute - and comfortable - for a day spent out in the wilderness.}


{The tunic-like quality of this tie neck (and waist) blouse is so airy and appealing for the dog days of summer.}


{I love longer hemlines on my vintage dresses, and would happily don either one of these pretty summer frocks - as well as the adorable (and highly practical) wide brim straw hats.}


{Plaid Bermuda shorts, a short sleeved knit top, saddle shoes, and dark red lips add up to one thoroughly terrific warm weather casual look.}


{Romance and style abound in this heartwarming photograph of a 1940s couple. He in his military uniform, she is a wonderfully pretty summer dress and ankle strap sandals.}


{Though casual, there is an undeniable sense of elegance to this beautiful woman's outfit which comes through in the timelessness of the trousers and blouse, as well as her sweet little watch and voluminously curly hair.}


{Another excellent pants based 1940s summer look, this time partnered with a short sleeve suit jacket.}

{A quintet of fashionably fabulous 1940s dresses, each stylish and highly covetable to this day. I'm especially fond of the ruffled pinafore number in the middle and the bow collared floral number on the far right.}

{All images above are from Flickr. To learn more about a specific image, please click on it to be taken to its respective Flickr page.}

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Whether humble and simple, or fancy and elegant, there is such a timelessly wonderful appeal to the looks of this era. Interestingly, even though the 1950s are often seen as being a decade filled with youth culture (and it certainly was), I've always thought that there was a beautifully youthful quality to many of the looks of the 40s, too.

Perhaps that stemmed from the way many of the 1940s classically tailored pieces hugged the figure, the fact that for much of the decade hemlines were relatively high, or that handmade and mass produced garments mingled side-by-side in most peoples' wardrobes.

Whatever the case, whether gaily youthful or starkly sophisticated, the forties are a decade I never tire of looking to - and dressing from. I hope that today's images of fashionable gals just like us will provide you with as much inspiration as they will for me this summer - and well, well beyond.

Beat the heat in this beautiful vintage reproduction cotton eyelet sundress

✯ Day 214 of Vintage 365 ✯

 

Toronto - and indeed many other parts of the North American continent - recently went through a heat wave that made the Sahara seem like a winter paradise. The lethal combination of heat and humidity that this part of Ontario gets hits with means that you can add about ten degrees (Celsius) to the temperature the thermostat read to get the "feels like" temperature, which hit a staggering 50C  for a few days here.

During those smelting (especially for those like myself who do not have A/C and must rely on fans, cool drinks, and as I turned to at absolute toastiest moments, ice packs from the freezer) days, the only thing in my wardrobe that I wore was vintage sundresses. The notion of pants or a two garment ensemble like a skirt and a blouse, was just as unbearable as I'd been asked to don a parka.

As the sun beat down unmercifully and the city sizzled like a collective piece of bacon, it was the cool, crisp cotton of these feminine frocks that clothed me day after day. Not, of course, that I'm complaining (about wearing dresses, I'll grip about the heat though ).

Dresses in general are my very favourite garment and I'll happily sport one, in the right seasonal fabric, any time of the year - whether it's +50 or -50 (and yes, Canadian vintageista that I am, I have worn dresses when the mercy dipped nearly that low).

I find that sundresses allow air to circulate more freely around your body than shorts, pants, blouses or t-shirts. If they're sleeveless (or, for those who enjoy the look, even strapless), as some of mine all, all the better. I know that for many of you, this beloved and classic item of clothing is a tried-and-true favourite, too.

Thus, I simply had to share a delightful vintage reproduction sundresses that I spied over at Blue Velvet Vintage recently. Just as sundresses are the summer wardrobe choice du jour, so too is timeless white eyelet one of the season's most integral fabrics. It's been in use for decades (if not centuries) during this piping hot season and remains as elegant and fitting today as a frosty class of ice tea.

 

At first glance one might think this dress channels a late '50s Marilyn Monroe vibe, and indeed it does, but I also see in it a sense of the 40s, thanks to the sweetheart neckline and simple, yet very becoming, tailoring.

Few hues can compare with white when it comes to helping keep at least some of the heat at bay, and this snowy coloured dresses will definitely help in that regard. It's neutral tone also ensures that you can dress it up or down and accessorize it to your heart's content.

Though a bit more structured than some vintage sundresses (it has some  boning in the bodice), the fact that it's strapless and not too long (it's tea dress length), ensures that you should still be quite comfortable on this days when the temperature shows no sign in slowing down its quest to break the record.

Available in modern ladies sizes 4 - 14 (though, at the time of writing, a couple of sizes are out of stock), this chic, wonderfully fresh, completely pretty white cotton eyelet sundress (which is available for $140.00 from Blue Velvet Vintage), is one of those pieces that is sure to get scores and scores of mileage summer after sunny summer.

While the absolute worst of the heat wave has slackened up here, we're just kicking off August and I know that I've got at least a few more weeks of wearing vintage sundresses to look forward - and that, sweet dears, is a positive side of this sweltering season, in my books.