July is Vintage month and we're starting our journey into this packed subject early. I'm fortunate to live in San Anselmo, christened by some as the antique capital of California. One of my favorite shopoholic stops here is French Nest, a vintage furnishings and accoutrement's store run by two bright and talented women, Holly Hopper and Silke Solomon. Amid some gorgeous country French style furnishings you'll also find vintage hats, shoes, jewelry and dresses. Once I laid eyes on these actual vintage frocks, I just had to share them with you.
I was taken by the eyelet organdy on this late 1940s gem. I can't find fabric like this and I've been looking allover. The quality is unbelievable and at closer inspection the dressmaking techniques impeccable. Also this dress is totally intact-- no rips, yellowing or stains. The former owner must have packed it away with the utmost care for years.
The dress above is a perfect example of mid-seventies and what traditional bridal wear looked like the years between Trisha Nixon and Lady Di's wedding. We often think of the seventies as funky-funky and it certainly was, but remember bridal wear took a long time to move out of the restricted zone of high collars and long sleeves only and into the realm of high-fashion.
Both these dresses are under $300.00. Given the amount of lace and exquisite fabric, going vintage here would be a real bargain.
If you're lucky enough to live in the San Francisco Bay Area, stop by French Nest at 500 San Anselmo Avenue in San Anselmo. If you're planning a visit to the area, definitely put this one on your itinerary.