Hi Vintage Inn Readers, I am now at www.vintageinn.ca! Please bookmark this new address and visit me over there. Lots of NEW content.
Liz
“Very Inspiring Blogger Award”-A Little Bit Of Fun Facts About Me
(Note: This Saturday I have a fun book give-way happening and guest blog post by the author of “Birds Eye View” so make sure you pop by again on Nov 8th.)
It is with great “Fun honour” that I hereby accept this award given to me by the “Toronto Vintage Society“. Thank you dear TVS you are truly a wonderful and fun society that I LOVE being part of 🙂
Now upon receiving this “just for fun” blog award, I must now share seven random facts about myself and then share the love with other bloggers that inspire me.
Here we go!
Random Fact # 1:
My father was born in Germany and because of this I’m heavily involved in German Karneval.
Traditional German Garde Girl-Funkemariechen
What is German Karneval you ask? Well basically it’s like Mardi Gras but instead of just one day or week it runs for several months, November 11th till Rose Monday in March. In Germany it is celebrated in the Rhineland (several areas of Western Germany along the Middle and Lower Rhine) and is a time of much merriment (and lots and lots of parties). They even have Prince and Princess of Karneval (I was once a Princess,years ago)!
I also German danced in a Karneval group since the age of 6 and stopped after 16 years when I moved away from home (fun fact: my mom danced in a Karneval troupe as well and that is how she met my dad). Here is an example of the kind of dancing I did called “Garde Dancing”. This video is from Germany and these women are outstanding!
Random Fact # 2:
I’m not actually a blonde…natural Brunette. sssshhhhhh 🙂 I have been a Blonde for gosh…14 years I believe and I don’t think that will change anytime soon.
My Grade 12 Prom-1995
Random Fact # 3:
I can’t ride a bike without crashing into things. I’m like bambi on 2 wheels when I get on one. So I let my bike collect dust in our garage.
I wish I looked this cute on a bike-Getty Image
Random Fact # 4:
I have being watching the same Soap Opera “General Hospital” for around 20 years. I have very rarely ever missed an episode (thanks goodness for PVR) and have even gotten my husband a tiny bit into “my stories”.
Random Fact # 5:
I have a degree in Fashion Marketing from Ryerson University but I work as Marketing Coordinator at an IT company. Super far away from the fashion world (thank goodness for my vintage blog).
Random Fact # 6:
I own probably around 40 pairs of shoes and every week I wear the same ones. Why? I live in such a small apartment that my shoes are packed away nicely (to make room for other items) and it’s too much of a bother to search for what I want. One day they will have their time to shine…one day!
Random Fact # 7
I went thru a stage while in High School where I listened to nothing but the music of Metallica. Yes for about 5 mins of my life, this 1940s loving gal was obsessed with Heavy Metal.
And there you have it. I hope you enjoyed learning a few fun facts about dear old Liz of the Vintage Inn.
Onto the Other Blogger Nominations….
Now should blog awards not exactly be your favourite cup of tea (or if you’ve already received this one before and have no desire to post a “round two” of your own), fear not, you’re under zero obligation to play along. These kinds of posts are intended to be nothing but lighthearted fun, and should they not feel that way to you, by all means bow out of taking part in this one. I think blog awards are fun and a great way to find out a bit more about the blogs you adore but I understand not everyone loves them.
If though, you would like to take part, then all you have to is whip up a post of your own about receiving The Very Inspiring Blogger Award in which you link back to this post, share seven random facts about yourself, and bestow the award on folks whose sites you find to be a continual source of inspiration.
Have a wonderful day friends!
Liz
Vintage Halloween Candy Ads-1940s and 1950s
It’s that time of the year…Halloween!
One of the great things about Halloween is all the goodies you can get (even if you don’t hand any out) and since this is a vintage blog I thought we could browse some of the vintage ads of all the yummy candies that would have landed in kids bags during the 1940s and 1950s.
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First up-WOWE-E.
I have never heard of this candy before, but the fact that it whistles fills my heart with joy.
Source: Flickr-Val
mmmmmm Cracker Jacks. I’m positive you would have been the favorite on the block if you handed this treat out.
FULL Candy bars! Nothing teeny tiny here. Wow can you imagine the sugar high these kids would have been on after eating multiples of those?
I will take the Butterfinger please…and maybe the Baby Ruth too while we are at it.
Souce: Flickr-Christian Montone
Woolworth’s, your one stop shop for all things Halloween.
Source: retroist.com
Milky Way Candy Bars are still a favorite of mine today.
Source: Flickr-Val
I have heard of Snickers, and Milky Way but never the “Forever Yours”. Have you?
This ad makes me giggle that a tree is eating a chocolate bar.
Source: Flickr-Val
Curtiss Treats! Another candy I have not heard of “Saf-T-Pops”. They look really interesting though, don’t you think?
I was not a 50’s child but I remember in the 80s getting small boxed cereal in my treat bag and loving it! Cereal for dessert?? Yes I will thank you.
1950s Kellogg’s ad – Source: http://www.grayflannelsuit.net/
I was actually craving Dubble Bubble just yesterday, and now after seeing this adorable 1952 ad I really want some.
Source-Layla Jones
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So my friends, if you were able to go out on Halloween what was your favorite treat? What did your home pass out to kids?
Happy Halloween!
Liz 🙂
Vintage Glamour-The Historic Royal York Hotel, Toronto Canada
This Sunday I am going for High Tea at the Beautiful and Historic Royal York Hotel in Toronto.
I have been to this hotel many times in my life (staying there a couple of times with my family before I moved to Toronto) and every time I’m blown away by its grandeur. It truly is a sight to see when visiting Toronto, a vintage lovers dream.
Source: Wikipedia
History
The Royal York opened it’s doors on June 11, 1929. It was the tallest building in the British Commonwealth and quickly set the hospitality standard of the day. The magnificent hotel became known as a city within a city, rising in 28 floors of architectural splendor and replete with mechanical genius and opulence never before seen in Toronto.
It boasted 1,048 rooms – each with radios, private showers and bathtubs. The 1.5 acres of public rooms included a 12-bed hospital, 12,000-book library and ten ornate passenger elevators. The Concert Hall featured a full stage and mammoth pipe organ weighing 50 tons, which surpassed anything else in Canada with 300 miles of copper wire. There was a glass-enclosed roof garden, the largest hotel kitchen in Canada with a bakery that could produce over 15,000 French rolls a day, a 66-ft.long switchboard manned by 35 telephone operators, its own bank and golf course (now known as St. George Golf & Country) (Source).
1929 Ad for the opening of the hotel. Source: AdClassix.com
The Hotel on Front Street, 1930s. Source: Toronto Archives
Thank you to the Fairmont Royal York for finding this AMAZING sketch of the fashions wore during the opening Gala Ball on June 11, 1929.
I will take…all the outfits!
Source: Fairmont Royal York Hotel
Vintage Image of the Lobby
The Lobby Today..pretty similar.
Below is a sketch of the Royal York Hotel ballroom, clearly in the year that it opened from the outfits I see.
According to the Fairmont Royal York Pinterest Page:
When the Royal York hotel opened its doors on June 11, 1929, it brought about a new social era, attracting a true “who’s who” list of royalty, celebrities, dignitaries and leisure travellers to the city of Toronto. On opening night, the Royal York hosted four grand balls where guests dined and danced until the wee hours of the morning. It set a new standard in luxury, elegance and entertainment.
Source: Fairmont Royal York Hotel
The Ballroom looks exactly like it did when it first opened-Stunning!
Royal York Ballroom Toronto
The Hotel did everything top-notch. Look how stylish the Bartenders look in the 1940s?
I wonder what they are making, it looks delightful whatever it is.
Source: Toronto Archives
What a Buffet! Can you see the Ice Sculpture Deer in the background? I love fun details like that.
Source: Toronto Archives
Image of the 66 foot long telephone switchboard that required 35 operators to run it.
Source: Fairmont Royal York Hotel
Of course a hotel on this grand of scale also had to have amazing entertainment.
Quote from the Fairmont Royal York Pinterest Page:
The Imperial Room was once the most sought after show room in North America, when it opened in the hotel in 1929 it was the city’s newest and most elegant dining and dancing establishment. It defined the Toronto social scene as the meeting site of high society functions and big band shows. The stage of the Imperial Room has seen headlining acts such as Peggy Lee, Ella Fitzgerald and Bob Hope.
Source: Fairmont Royal York Hotel
The early bands often were employed by hotels, and many bore their employers’ names, eg, in Montreal, the Windsor Hotel Orchestra and Andy Tipaldi and his Ritz-Carlton Orchestra. The largest hotels in Canada had successions of orchestras which, by the 1950s and 1960s, also came to be used as showbands to accompany individual performers. Leaders at the Royal York Hotel (Toronto) have included Charles Bodley, Fred Culley, Rex Battle, Don Romanelli, Billy Bissett, Horace Lapp, Stanley St. John,Moxie Whitney, and Howard Cable (Source).
The band below is clearly the house band of the Royal York as the signs say “RY”. What kind of music do you think they are playing if the first row is all Violins?
Source: Fairmont Royal York Hotel
Guests from all walks of life stayed at the hotel, like Bob Hope, Cary Grant, Frank Sinatra, Gene Kelly (swoon) and even….Queen Elizabeth II (seen below).
Source: Fairmont Royal York Hotel
Here is an adorable image of an Ice Follies performer in the 1940s who was staying there. How cute is that outfit??
Source: Toronto Archives
Royal York also had various advertising campaigns over the years. Here are some great vintage ads.
I adore this cute early 1960s ad (I think) for their meeting rooms. Reminds me of a Mad Men episode.
Source: Fairmont Royal York Hotel
Looking to get married? The Royal York I will do the job nicely.
This ad is clearly from the same illustrator as above, love it.
Source: The Fairmont Royal York
The Royal York has even hosted fun events like this Direct Broadcast party of the Grey Cup (superbowl of Canada) in November 1956.
Source: Toronto Archives
Complete with Marching Girls.
Source; Toronto Archives
Many clubs and companies hosted events at the Hotel over the years, like The Electric Club from the 1930s-50s. Who apparently liked their menus to have pretty girls in swimsuits on the front (and lassie).
Source: Fairmont Royal York
After looking thru all these photos, reading stories on the Royal York I’m thrilled the Fairmont and Toronto has seen value in keeping it standing after all these years because this truly is a fantastic piece of Toronto History.
Source: Fairmont Royal York Hotel
So Friends..have you been to the RY? Or do you have a favorite vintage hotel? Do Tell!
Liz 🙂
1940s Women’s Fashion Ideas For Your Next Vintage Dance
One of my very first blog posts I ever did was for a yearly big band 1940s dance we have in Hamilton (outside of Toronto) called “Swing Out To Victory“.
My post was about what to wear to a 1940s vintage dance and I showed “vintage images” from magazines, catalogues and patterns for inspiration. None of the images I presented were actually for sale though, so I thought since the dance is right around the corner (Nov 8th-Tickets HERE) that I would supply my readers with ACTUAL pictures of outfits you could own tomorrow if you wanted (unless they get purchased before you can hit buy).
Now obviously if you don’t live in Toronto you won’t be attending this dance BUT you can certainly purchase these outfits for your own 1940s vintage dance where you live. Happy Shopping!
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To start off here is what I have worn to last years Swing Out To Victory’s….
2013-I’m helping with the candy toss and wearing my Vintage 1940s Gown I found for $30 in Toronto
Image Courtesy of Jessica T.
Now here are ideas on what YOU can wear to your next Vintage Dance….right now!
Lets just start with a beautiful 1940s Crepe Beaded Gown. Wearing this at your next dance will 100% get you noticed that is for sure!
For Sale on Etsy-TrueValueVintage
Since you might be dancing you want to make sure that you can move in what you are wearing (see my post on “real life vintage images of swing dancers“) and this dress looks like it would fit the bill while looking immensely stylish.
I love the Peplum Detail!
For Sale on Etsy-shopKLAD
I do adore a good green dress! Especially around the Holiday season and this 1940s Taffeta Cocktail Party Dress with the black accents would fit that bill nicely. How lovely would it look on the dance floor, spinning around?
For Sale on Etsy: TrueValueVintage
I kind of want the below dress in my life..right now because it would be so fantastic for SOTV. Sadly it won’t fit, so someone else take it home and wear it dancing..Please!
For Sale on Etsy: TrueValueVintage
I’m a sucker for a good floor length gown, like this beauty below.
Can’t you just imagine yourself being Ginger Rogers and dancing with Fred Astaire in this dress? I sure can.
For Sale on Etsy: dethrosevintage
Keeping with the “Gowns” theme, this black sequin gown with the swooping skirt is Gorgeous with a capital G!
For Sale on Etsy: SmallEarthVintage
If dancing is not your thing and you just want to stand around oozing glorious drama then this stunner needs to be in your closet. Oh la la is all I have to say 🙂
For Sale on Etsy: MinxVTG
Now for a little novelty in our lives. The braided detail is delightful and so different right?
For Sale Etsy: alleycatsvintage
Lastly lets not forget about the Shoes Shoes Shoes! Oh so important and if you are looking for a vintage pair there are lots out there. Here are small sampling of some for sale right now.
1940s..ohhhhhh the blue is so pretty and the strap will ensure your shoes don’t go flying off your feet during that song you just love to dance too.
For Sale on Etsy-honeytalkvintage
Peep toe shoes are a vintage 1940s must! and the sensible heal could work for a night out on the town.
For Sale on Etsy: honeytalkvintage
Now here is a good sensible BUT stylish shoe for dancing.
FYI the oxford below has never been worn…score!
For Sale on Etsy: diggerodellvintage
1940s Red Wedge Shoes Alert! Now these are shoes for a night of dancing…oh yes they are.
For Sale on Etsy: honeytalkvintage
Then you have it my friends. I hope you found something you liked or maybe inspired you to go on the hunt for.
If you do go to a vintage dance, please share some pictures with me! I love seeing how everyone styles their clothes (especially from the 40s, but it can be any era).
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P.S. I have news! I will be hosting my very first ever Guest Blogger post AND Contest in a couple of weeks..Yuppers a Contest is coming your way so don’t go away.
Liz 🙂
Toronto Pin Up Fashion Store Celebrates 20 Years!
-Repost from Toronto Vintage Society–
DAMZELS have been helping Toronto celebrate our inner Pin Up girl for 20 Years!
The Damzels Themselves!
That is 20 years of designing and procuring women’s clothing for alt/vintage/pin up/rockabilly/repro scene. Not only has their presence helped to solidify a place for us in Toronto, but they have given back to their alt/cult community time and time again.
Brief History (more info in the interview below)
Damzels in this Dress; designed by Kelly Freeman and Rory Lindo, were a vintage/rock n roll inspired dress label that before opening retail stores in Leslieville and Roncesvalles (popular neighbourhoods in Toronto), sold their dress brand wholesale to boutiques. Their dresses were sold across Canada, the US, and internationally. The Damzel collections have been shown during Toronto Fashion Week, featured on Fashion Television, Canada’s Next Top Model and even Much Music (Canadian Version of MTV).
Damzels – past and present!
The Vintage Reproduction World Comes to Toronto
The ladies knew that by opening their brick and mortar stores it gave them not only a chance to build their house brand up locally but also bring great clothing, shoes and kitsch brands to Toronto. Why pay for shipping when you can get brands like Pin Up Girl Clothing, and Trashy Diva right around the corner…while you are at it – pick up some fab shoes, accessories and cheeky gift items all in one shopping trip!!
Girlie and Kitschy greatness!
The accessibility to these unique brands, allows us to live and breathe this unique style daily! Damzels also gives the “curious” (aka those who don’t dress regularly in retro styles) a chance to dress up and add a little sass to their lives.
Some of their amazing (and loyal) clientele!
Damzel Events are always the talk of the town
You would think that running 2 stores and an international online business would keep them too busy to breathe…well Kelly and Rory never cease to amaze with their in-store events that help keep that cult community strong. Their Back Lot Bonanzas, Beat Caves and Seasonal Extravaganzas give their clients, friends and fans a chance to celebrate what they’ve built on an intimate level.
Everyone should attend a Damzels event at least once in their life!
Fantastic Designers/Owners and all around Cool Ladies
The Damzels let TVS get to know them…and if you have been lucky to meet these great, energetic, generous and often wacky ladies…then you will see why everything they have built is so infectious. They are are as lovely and unique as the brand and community they have built.
Kelly and Rory!
The Toronto Vintage Society sat down with Kelly and Rory to asked them a couple questions about turning 20:
1. How did you meet and how did Damzels get started?
We met in the fashion program at George Brown College Kensington Campus in 1991. We had sewing machines next to each other and shared the same taste in rock n’ roll, vintage clothing and beer! In 1993, we started buying rolls of fabric together and making clothing that we would sell at outdoor festivals, craft fairs…even a Medieval Festival (yes, when we went vintage we went really vintage like 1500’s ) We started building a following of gals that would come out specifically to buy our dresses. Next thing we knew we were getting orders from local clothing stores so we decided to open our first design studio on Spadina and the birth of Damzels in this Dress in 1994.
2. What did the “scene” look like when Damzels got started?
That was 1994! Grunge, rave, glam, it was all part of the scene at that time.
However, around ‘96 we started Lindy Hop lessons and it became a way of life for us for several years. Our line had always been inspired by the past, and we fell in love with the fashions of the 30’,40’s and 50’s while part of the dance community. We were very fortunate because at that time the originator of swing dance, Frankie Manning, and his dance partner the “Queen of Swing” Norma Miller were regularly apart of Lindy Hop workshops that we attended. It was an incredible and special experience to get the opportunity to learn from the folks that basically invented the dance.
Pretty crazy because at the same time, the bright shabby chic of rave culture was in full force, so it was a fun challenge to try and incorporate our love of vintage into the mid 90’s mayhem of wide leg pants and soother necklaces.
3. How does vintage inspire what you choose for your stores?
Our passion is being able to bring modernity to vintage styling. We love mixing periods to make something fresh and fun. Ultimately, we’re looking for styles that are going to be flattering on women of all shapes and sizes, and the vintage aesthetic fits the bill. Our brand specializes in dresses because we love the simplicity of being able to put on a single garment, and look great from head to toe effortlessly.
4. What has changed for Damzels over the last 20 years?
We opened our retail shops Doll Factory by Damzels in 2006 and now only produce the Damzels label for our stores instead of selling wholesale to other retailers. This gives us the opportunity to do small, unique runs, really get to know our customer base, and offer something that is exclusive to our locations.
5. What is up next for Damzels?
More dresses, more parties, more rock n’ roll!
This picture of Kelly kinda sums it up!
Party Time!
Join in the 20th Anniversary celebration in-store on Thursday, October 23rd at Damzels East or Damzels West and enjoy 20% off your purchase from 11am to 9pm. Treats to be served after 6pm.
You can also submit a picture of you wearing Damzels (the older the better) to their Facebook page #Damzels20th
…AND if you were lucky enough to RSVP in time for their Gala Event…then TVS will see you there (P.S. Vintage Inn will be there, so be sure to follow me on Instagram to check out up to date pictures of this fashionable evening).
A Damzels timeline of awesome!
Social Media Tags: #Damzels #Damzels20th #DollFactorybyDamzels #HappyAnniversary
It’s Thanksgiving! Putting The “Vintage” Into The Holiday
Here in Canada we are about to celebrate our Thanksgiving on Monday and then I know my lovely neighbours to the south will be celebrating their’s next month. So I thought it would be fun to put together a post on items you could purchase to add some “Vintage” to your Thanksgiving holiday.
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First up..Table Decor.
Table Decor is a MUST to bring your Thanksgiving table to next level, starting with a pretty themed tablecloth.
Source-Etsy: NewtoUVintage
Source-Etsy: LinensandThings
As for what goes ON the Tablecloth how about these delightful 1940s Vintage Anagram Letters?
Source-Etsy: JustSmashingDarling
If you love the Turkey in the image above, then you can take them home below- 2 Morton Pottery Turkey Planters circa 1940s.
Oh I love them!!!
Source-Etsy: CRCRUMSEY
Having lots of guests over? Here is a nifty idea on how to remember where everyone should sit-Place Cards!
Source-Etsy: FeraliaVintage
Cooking Time!
Need some help with your turkey or thanksgiving recipes? Then Butterball has you covered with their 1950s advertisement and informational pamphlet for Swift’s Premium Butterball Turkey.
Source-Etsy: ThirstyOwlVintage
Source-Etsy: ThirstyOwlVintage
Now how to take the turkey out of the oven? How about with this Thanksgiving Kitchen Towel? This is funny, cute and vintage all at the same time. I’m guessing this towel has to be late 1930s by looking at her hair and shoes but that is just a guess.
On another note, I would totally cook the turkey if my husband would pull me around on a trolly to bring it to the table lol!
Source-Etsy: NeatoKeen
Your holding the turkey now what to put it on?? This 1950’s vintage Turkey Platter should do the trick.
Source-Etsy: FrancesAttic
Mmmmm Dessert
A vintage cookbook is always the way to go for authentic recipes from a bygone era. This particular gem was made in 1958. It features 61 pages of recipes and illustrations.
Source-Esty: cocoskitchen
After your dessert decisions have been made I’m SURE one of those is pumpkin pie and you will need just the right plate to serve it on.
This plate is from the 1970’s but I don’t mind at all because I just think it is fantastic and so perfect for your thanksgiving table. It even has the recipe for pumpkin pie in case you forget. Just don’t put the pie on it till your done WITH the recipe 🙂
Source-Etsy: VLDDecorandHome
You could also use the Blue Ridge Southern Potteries ‘Thanksgiving Turkey’ plate for some of your goodies. The image on the plate is a bit quirky which I like.
Source-Etsy: PastPiecesVintage
Kids…
Like my household (I have 2 nephews and niece) there might be kids at Thanksgiving so what can you do to keep them entertained? How about reading a Thanksgiving story like this wonderful 1954 book Written by Esther M. Schenk?
I know I know! this idea will only keep them amused for 5 mins but it falls into the “vintage” theme and so therefore perfect for this blog post.
Source-Etsy: grandmothersattic
Source-Etsy: grandmothersattic
Lastly what to wear? Well that could be anything from a cute vintage dress, slacks, vintage apron or a vintage novelty skirt like the one below.
Can’t get any more “Thanksgiving” then Cornucopia baskets.
Source-Etsy: SavvySpinsterVintage
BUT I think a must for whatever outfit you chose, there should be a themed vintage brooch on your lapel.
Now as Canadian’s we don’t have “Pilgrims” in our Thanksgiving story but this pin is too cute to pass up!
Source: Etsy-Desert Gemstones
Pilgrims not your thing? How about a Vintage Turkey Brooch?? Yup, this is awesome!
Source-Etsy: roseluv
Here is the Cornucopia basket again-Kitschy and fun!
Source-Etsy: AllureofJewels
And that my friends is some of my “Vintage Thanksgiving” ideas. I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving whenever you are celebrating it 🙂
Question: I would love to know if you have vintage items that you already incorporate into your holiday decor? Please Share!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Liz 🙂
My Recent 1940s and 50s Vintage Finds
This past weekend I attended a new event in Toronto called “The Toronto Antique & Vintage Market” at the CNE grounds. I was attending on behalf of the Toronto Vintage Society and also for my own pleasure..hello Vintage Shopping! The event was a pretty good size with booths selling everything from vintage clothing to vintage postcards and antique furniture.
I had a very limited budget so I knew that I was not going to go all hog-wild on buying things, plus my closet is getting so jammed I really have no space to store any new clothing items until I do a purge (which is going to be almost impossible). So my plan..keep it small and easy to store. Well the show had lots of that so I scored a few awesome finds, and here is what I found….
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One of my favorite finds from the show-a 1940-41 Fall & Winter Eaton’s Catalogue (stay tuned for a post on all the goodies inside!).
Eaton’s was once Canada’s largest department store retailer. It was founded in 1869 in Toronto by Timothy Eaton, and it grew to become a retail and social institution in Canada. With stores across the country, buying offices around the globe, and a catalogue that was found in the homes of most Canadians (we always had one in my home). Sadly in 1999 the company went bankrupt, so now finding pieces of history like this is means just a little bit more for vintage history lovers like me (Source).
The jacket is absolutely DIVINE!
Find # 2: 1950’s Rosanna Knit Sportswear Bolero
This sweater has the most wonderful details as you can see below and is in MINT condition. I got it for a steal AND it’s small so it will fit in whatever remaining space is left in my closet.
Next Purchase a Vintage Brooch-It needs a bit of TLC but I actually don’t mind the fact that there is only a bit of green left on the palm trees. Adds Character 🙂
Now my small but mighty finds-Several Vintage Photos from the 1940s and 1950s:
The below image has a story to tell and I love it! I believe that the couple is going on their honeymoon or something very important because air travel in the 1940s was not something you just up and did like we do today. Plus they look really really nice, which is nothing out of the norm for air travel in the early days but they just look like it’s a special occasion.
I think it is also great that the plane in the background is actually a Canadian airline (no longer around) called “Canadian Pacific Air Lines“. I love finding images like that this have a bit of Canadian history tied to them.
Lastly, lets talk about her outfit. Her hat is just amazing and so very different from what I normally see. She also has great peep toe shoes purse and her classic suit goes a long long way in the “simple but stylish” department.
1940s couple in front of Canadian Pacific Airplane
Next up we have this 1940s cutie in a double-breasted winter jacket, that just looks soooo warm! Hopefully warm enough to keep her exposed head and toes warm too. Aren’t her shoes great?!
I was drawn to this picture for the simple beauty coming off the paper. She looks very happy smiling for the camera, and I wonder what her story is? Maybe off to see a loved one return from war?
1940s Beauty
When I saw this picture my girlfriend and I tossed back and forth whether she was wearing a playsuit or not and finally after both agreeing that is was VERY clear that she was, I had to buy it!
Her playsuit is just great and looks totally comfortable. I love how she paired the simplicity of the outfit with nice big flowing 40s hair, some sort of brooch and big bow peep toe heels. Future Pinup Model? I think so 🙂
I am curious on where she is though? Those heels don’t look to easy to walk in for a stroll in the woods.
1940’s Playsuit for the Win!
Next up is a early 1940s (maybe late 1930s) beach photo from my hometown of Sarnia, Ontario. The beach was at Canatara Park a frequent hangout for those who wanted to catch some rays and go swimming in Lake Huron. I was super excited to find this picture because I have never really seen any cool “life images” from my hometown. So to stumble upon a postcard with this image was a wonderful surprise for me.
I’m totally digging the swimsuits and hair in this photo.
Next up we have the most stylish 1950s Housewife on the block. Lets call her Marge 🙂 Isn’t she just lovely?
What colour do you think her dress is? I can’t seem to decide personally.
1950s Housewife
I also found this super funny postcard that from what I can see was mailed in the 1950s (according to the back) from one woman friend to another. Isn’t it hilarious??!!
Lastly I did NOT buy this at the show but I had to share it. I stumbled upon a 1930s Hair Perming Machine and had to take a picture of it. It was crazy cool and crazy scary at the same time! Can you imagine sticking your head under this thing?
1930s Perming Machine-Made in Hamilton
And that was my finds friends! Did you do any recent shopping this weekend or week? If so what was your favorite find?
Liz 🙂
“Morgans Department Store”-Little bit of Canadian Vintage History
Recently I went and visited an antique show here in Toronto at a local mall called “Cloverdale“, there was lots and lots of items for sale but nothing mid-century for this gal until I saw a really cool hat box at one of the tables. Seen here…
The box was not in great condition but after quickly searching the name on the box “Morgans” I discovered that it was a little bit of Canadian history, so I ran back and scooped it up for a steal and a history lesson from its owners.
Apparently, Morgan’s (formally Henry Morgan & Company) was a Montreal-based Canadian department store chain. The first store was opened in Montreal in 1845 by Scottish immigrant Henry Morgan with a second store not appearing till the early 1950s in the Snowdon section of Montreal. Other stores subsequently opened on the island of Montreal, and several Ontario cities (Wikipedia).
After being open for over 100 years, in the 1960s the Hudson Bay Company purchased Morgans and quickly converted the Ontario stores to “Bay’s”. By the early 1970s the Quebec stores followed suit and that was the end of the brand Morgans….until I found my box! Now we can share in a moment of Canadian history together and bring to life the department store once more.
The Early Days:
Morgans 1890
Morgan’s department store in Montreal decorated for the 1939 Royal Tour of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. So Elegant.
I wish we could see setups like this again when royalty comes to visit.
Here are some images of other Morgans in the 1950’s
Hamilton’s Greater Shopping Centers-Morgans
Source: henleyshamilton1.wordpress.com
Interior shots of the Hamilton store being prepared for opening
A miniature milk bar for the kids. Oh my how cute!!
Source: henleyshamilton1.wordpress.com
Male Mannequins for the store. Kind of creepy I think. Actually Really Really Creepy!
Source: henleyshamilton1.wordpress.com
Group of Sales women attending a class to be able to work at Morgan’s.
What marvelous hair all these ladies have.
Source: henleyshamilton1.wordpress.com
Learning how to use the Cash Register.
Source: henleyshamilton1.wordpress.com
Morgans 1950’s ad for Schiaparelli Hats. Love this! How do I get this hat?
Hungry anyone? I will have the Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding (my fav!).
Gosh could you imagine if a Buffet (then called a Smorgasbord) was $1.19 today? Yikes!
Source: torontoist.com
“As new as tomorrow”….How exciting, I love things that are as new as tomorrow!
Source: torontoist.com
Logo Designs:
1950s Morgans
Source: The Department Store Museum
1970s Morgans after the Hudson Bay took it over (this would be its last logo change)
Source: The Department Store Museum
Interesting Fact: It looks like Morgans was the first department store to move into family neighborhoods, as opposed to making a trip downtown to go shopping (as seen below). I’m sure this made many a family lives easier.
This ad makes me giggle. What is with the triangle people??
Source: torontoist.com
And that interesting fact ties in with the knowledge that where I bought the hat box was actually where a Morgans Department store once stood in the 1960s at Cloverdale Mall. It was under my nose the whole time and I never knew! How exciting!
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There you have it friends, a little bit of Canadian History.
Do you have a department store where you live that has been around for years or maybe know of one like Morgans that has come and gone? I would love to hear about it.
Liz 🙂
Toronto’s “Rockin” Rockabilly Scene
If you have never visited Toronto then you might not be aware that we have an AMAZING music scene. It is 100% true that you can come and visit our city on ANY Night and find first class live music to listen too. As a Lindy Hopper I’m so spoiled on the live swing music I can dance to almost every night (especially in the summer time). As a Rockabilly fan I’m also equally lucky to have several amazing bands right on my door step and currently a regular monthly rockabilly night as well!
Our next Rockabilly Night-Sept 26th
For my blog post today I want to shed the light on some of the amazing Rockabilly Music right here in Toronto and surrounding cities (some are ones I know well and some are ones I don’t but they are all amazing).
(Note: I’m sure I missed some bands and I do apologize)
I love the Millwinders and have blogged about them before when they played at VIVA this past year. They have this great traditional rockabilly sound that is just fantastic. If you ever get to see them live they are loads of fun (and they are all super nice!) and if you like vintage style then Sarah (the only lady in the band) is your gal. Her vintage style is drool worthy AND she is a Toronto Vintage Society member too.
The Swingin’ Blackjacks was the first Rockabilly band I had ever seen live in Toronto and they quickly became a favorite of mine. With their sound being a blend of Rockabilly and Jumpin Blues you can easily dance the night away to them…and I have! Matt and the band always put on a top-notch show and you can usually catch them playing somewhere in the city, several times a month. Very hard-working band.
Once again another favorite band of mine with an outstanding rockabilly sound that will keep the party going all night long. I try not to miss these guys when they are playing as they don’t play a ton of shows and they really are a must see band. Their sound touches on many genres of music-rockabilly, rock and roll, hillbilly jazz, surf, and rhythm and blues to name just a few. Also 2 of the members “Teddy Fury” and “Danny Bartley” have deep musical roots stretching back to the early ’80s, playing in key bands such as The Bop Cats and Shotgun Shack (source). So this band has a strong Rockabilly background.
I think I’m going to become a broken record here in a minute…another favorite band! SEE how lucky Toronto is?? I’m only on band # 4 and I have already gushed so much. Anyways TVC is a band I have danced to and seen live too many times to count. They even performed at VIVA LAST Year and they were so good! TVC is headed up by the very talented and charismatic “Big Rude Jake” who has had a long and successful career in Rockabilly, Jazz, Swing etc. and it shows in his music. This band is always putting on a good show.
Video Note: The dancers in the “dark” in this video are friends in the scene.
Self described as the “Reigning Canadian champion of “Hillbilly Bop” – a style that combines the best of Honky tonk, Country Swing, Roots Rockabilly, Jazz and Blues Alistair is another show stopper. I have seen him play the Rockabilly Brunch at the Dominion on Queen many times (as well as many other events) and he always impresses every time. He is super fun to dance too as well.
The Kat Kings have this great Bluesy/Rockabilly (Bluesabilly?? lol) sound that is just so sweet to listen too and dance too. They are another hardworking band that perform all over the city and beyond. One of my favorite performances was a couple of years back at the Elvis Tribute night at Hughs Room. Kevin the lead singer was just so perfect to lead this tribute night and I think Elvis would have been proud.
I have only seen Ginger play once and it was awhile ago but I plan to change this very soon because she is an outstanding vocalist and great performer. To sum up her style there is a great quote on her website that says: “Raunchy, sassy, bluesy, rockin’ with a good-sized dash of jazz AND country, this is a total delight to the ears of any connoisseur of great music. – Tara Jennings”
The Hell Bent Rockers are an awesome band from just outside of Toronto in the city of Hamilton. There sound is high-energy mix of classic rock & roll and authentic 50’s rockabilly. Just the kind of Rockabilly I personally love and have enjoyed every time I have seen them perform. I’m looking forward to seeing them next Friday at the 3030.
The Greasemarks according to their website describe themselves as “Leaving a trail of stained pillows, broken hearts and busted amps in their wake.The Greasemarks have been doin’ 50’s rockabilly loud, nasty & right since 2007″. I have seen this band a few times and have to say this statement is true 🙂
Another great band from Hamilton, the Diamond Drapes are a well dressed band with a classic Rockabilly sound. I only recently saw this band perform about a year ago and I was kicking myself for not seeing them sooner, they are so good! I stayed on the dance floor all night long.
Ronnie has been playing his rockabilly brand of hobo country for years now. Prior to forming his own trio in 1989, he had already played and written songs on several albums and had been a member of Jimmy Roy’s 5 Star Hillbillies, Herald Nix, The Nervous Fellas, The Bughouse Five and countless other rockabilly and roots-based bands. He has released eleven albums of his own, nine of which are on European labels (Source).
I will be honest I had not heard of Heather till I started writing this post, and that is a real shame because she has a beautiful voice and amazing retro style! Her signature sound appeals to country, rockabilly and bluegrass audiences alike. Check her out below, I know I’m a new fan now.
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Extra Music Note: Toronto has also a number of Psychobilly Bands that have a real following as well and are very good if that is your favourite style. Bands like:
The Howling Bullets
Christian D and the Hangovers
Buzz Deluxe
Evil Elvis
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For regular updates on the scene here in Toronto make sure you visit “Toronto Rockabilly” or like the Facebook page “Rockhouse T.O.” AND of course make sure you follow the “Toronto Vintage Society” who is always up to date on all events Rockabilly and beyond in Toronto.
Do you have a favorite band? And it does not have to be in Toronto. I always love hearing about other bands in other cities (that is why I love VIVA for the chance to see new bands). Do Share!
Liz 🙂
The Vintage Inn 