Sashay Magazine / Spring 2011 / Time for Tea

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Time for Tea

I love to imagine. And there’s just something about springtime that conjures in my mind whimsical and dainty scenes from Alice in Wonderland—dioramas of garden galas and tea parties, of croquet on the fresh cut grass, of roses in such robust bloom that maybe, just maybe, they could’ve been painted by a Queen of Hearts card guard while you weren’t looking.

One of my Sashay business partners, Grace Belangia, has prepared her home and garden for the city’s annual spring tour, and she’s invited me to spend that day with her at the house, greeting people as they come and go and relaxing on the terrace. A perfect setting to foster the indulgences of wonderland! There’ll be tea, flowers, guests, and (hopefully) sunshine. And I’ll have to wear something appropriate, something bright, light, and free flowing. While surfing the net, I found the perfect closet to sort through: DeLaBelle Vintage www.delabelle.etsy.com. Here I found a darling collection of nostalgic frocks, pinafores, and tea dresses in an array of patterns, cuts, jewel tones and pastels. Below I've showcased some of my favorites. I hope you, too, will celebrate spring and peruse Victoria’s shop for a piece that will transform you into a spirited Alice at one of your local garden or social events. Send me a picture of you dressed for your springtime affair: monica@sashaymagazine.com! 

 

1. Vintage 1960s Raw Silk Dress in Yellow and Green Damask Print, circa 1960s
This slenderizing, vintage raw silk dress is fully lined, with a damask print in rich golden yellow and jade green.

2. Vintage Strapless Sweetheart Party Dress in Kelly Green, Circa 1980s
This shimmering strapless beauty is made with two pieces of boning in the bodice, a sweetheart neckline, and lightweight taffeta-like fabric.

3. Vintage 1950s Dreamy Salmon Pink Chiffon Party Dress, circa late 1940s –1950s
This ballerina-length number features off-the- shoulder gathered straps, pleated front detail, and a boned bodice. The layers of this dress contribute to the fullness and start with a layer of taffeta, another of tulle, and finally topped off with a frothy and sheer nylon chiffon.

4. Vintage 1950s Dress with Flocked Cosmo Flowers on Robins Egg Blue, circa 1950s. Features a rounded neckline that dips to a “V” in the back, short capped sleeves, a tiered crinoline underskirt, an oversized bow on the back, and a fitted waist that leads to a very full rockabilly skirt. The light blue, taffeta-like lining with white sheer overlay is covered in velvety flocked flowers highlighted in pink and green.

5. Vintage 1960s Pink Lace and Pleated Chiffon Party Dress, circa 1960s – 1970s. Features a lace overlay on the bodice, long see through sleeves, full accordion pleated sheer chiffon skirt, and an extra-long chiffon sash belt.

6. Vintage Sweetie Pie Dusty Rose Dress, Circa 1980s, handmade
Accented by a criss-crossed “V” neckline with pleating detail and short frilly sleeves. Lots of pleating in the waistband to allow for a full circle skirt.