Category Archives: 1940′s

A Call to Arms: All Balboa Weekend 1940′s Fashion Show

Posted on May 6, 2013 by Lindy Shopper | Leave a comment

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

Do you have a 1940′s outfit? Are you attending All Balboa Weekend 2013? If the answer to both of these questions is yes, I would encourage you to participate in this year’s 1940′s fashion show at All Balboa Weekend! After the success of the 1930′s fashion show in 2011, Valerie Salstrom & Co. are bringing back the fashion show, highlighting a different swinging decade of fashion.

If you are interesting in appearing in your ensemble or modeling else’s clothing, please email me at caab241@hotmail.com. If you are wearing your own outfit, please email me a photo of the outfit (or outfits, we’re always up for a wardrobe change), preferably with you wearing it. If you are interested in modeling, please email me with your sizes (bust/waist/hip for women, jacket/waist/inseam for men).

Any ensemble will do – work-wear, military, gowns, nightgowns, swimwear, you name it, we’ll show it.

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Posted in 1940's, Events, Gentlemen, Ladies, WWII

Tagged 1940's, ABW, All Balboa Weekend, fashion show

The Slipperie

Posted on March 22, 2013 by Lindy Shopper | 4 Comments

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

1930′s teddy = full slip with built-in bloomers

One of my complaints, and one that I hear come up over and over, is that there are no really good slips being made, at least not ones that compare to vintage slips in terms of materials, function, and beauty. I always keep my eyes open at vintage stores for good slips – full, half, camisole, tap pants, whatever, just because the quality of these items is just far superior to anything I’ve purchased that was produced in my lifetime. But what if you didn’t have time to go to all the vintage stores?

If you need a gorgeous slip RIGHT NOW, The Slipperie on Etsy could be the answer. While the undergarments of yesteryear tend to be fairly plentiful, finding them all in one place can be difficult, and finding truly special ones (as with anything vintage) is even harder. I love that these beautiful undergarments are really meant to be worn, not just saved for special occasions. Add them to your dance wardrobe for a pop of color or lace with your twirl or swish (or other functions discussed in a prior post)…here’s what I love from the shop:

1960′s hot pink slip – 60′s slips are hella durable and generally have a good shape, details, and lace. I may or may not have confiscated a 60′s slip from my mother’s chest of drawers and never given it back…

Powder blue 1950′s pleated tap pants

If only more things were cut on the bias – so flattering and comfy, as this 30′s/40′s rayon slip probably is…

Tap pants with little bows – OMG

Another great 1960′s slip

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Posted in 1920's, 1930's, 1940's, 1950's, Ladies, Undergarments

Tagged 1920's, 1930's, 1940's, 1950's, 1960's, antique, Balboa, Charleston, clothing, full slip, Lindy Hop, slip, slips, swing dance, tap pants, undergarments, underwear, vintage

The Original Inspiration and the Reproduction

Posted on March 8, 2013 by Lindy Shopper | 3 Comments

The reproduction

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

I often wonder what inspired certain reproduction dresses – shapes and motifs are obvious, but what about the specifics? I love finding those rare inspiration pieces and found what I believe to be Trashy Diva’s inspiration for their fall collection Lilian Dress (which I immediately began panting over upon seeing it) – this wonderful 1940′s dress on eBay. The embroidery is spot on. While the dress has undergone some Trashy Diva modifications, I think they made some great choices like moving the embroidery closer to the shoulder, changing the embroidery colors to more peacock blues and greens, losing the hip seaming/detail, and giving it an overall, sleeker and Asian-inspired silhouette. The charm is not lost, though, as the embroidery in the original is just as magnificent as the repro, and that little row of buttons is divine on both.

The original inspiration? What say you, Trashy Diva?

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Posted in 1940's, Dresses, Ladies

Tagged 1940's, Balboa, dance, dress, embroidery, inspiration, Lindy Hop, original, peacock, reproduction, swing, swing dancing, Trashy Diva

Swell Farewell Vintage

Posted on February 20, 2013 by Lindy Shopper | Leave a comment

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

I am happy to announce that Lindy Shopper has a new supporter in the form of Etsy store Swell Farewell Vintage – owner Kate Blank has put together a lovely little shop with items from all of our jazz age and swing era decades, and beyond. Kate’s love of all things vintage began early in her childhood and she even ran her vintage clothing business out of her dorm room in college! You can see her experience in her collection, which includes quintessential items from each decade represented. I also love that she has clothing items listed by waist size, which is so helpful in initially narrowing down what will fit from the shop.

Right now the shop features mostly women’s clothing, but Kate has plans to add more men’s ties, as well as more inventory overall. Not everything is listed, so if you are looking for something specific, Kate encourages you to message her with your sought-after items to see if she has anything in her inventory that would fit the bill.

At the moment, Swell Farewell Vintage is running a 15% off coupon – enter the code 15OFF at checkout – it applies to all items!

Here’s what I love from the store:

1950′s plaid peep toe heels

1940′s dress with peplum and sequin applique

So this is adorable…

This beyond sweet 1920′s dress…

Black 1940′s shoes

The use of the fabric print on this 1950′s dress is pretty fascinating – excellent neckline, as well

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Posted in 1920's, 1930's, 1940's, 1950's, Accessories, Dresses, Gentlemen, Hats, Jackets, Ladies, Pants, Shirts, Shoes, Skirts, Suits, Swimwear

Tagged 1920's, 1930's, 1940's, 1950's, applique, Balboa, Charleston, clothing, dance, dress, Etsy, heels, Lindy Hop, peplum, plaid, Shoes, ski sweater, Swell Farewell, swing dancing, ties, vintage

1930′s and 40′s Suiting on eBay

Posted on January 26, 2013 by Lindy Shopper | Leave a comment

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

All of a sudden, there was an influx of men’s 1930′s suits on eBay, including some lovely summer weight suits. Let’s get started:

Linen suit with belt back, size 36, starting bid $49.99

Palm Beach suit, size 40, bidding at $9.00

Another size 40 belt back suit, with accompanying cigar from that era? Gross…LOL

Summer belt back suit, size 38, bidding at $86.00

1936 three-piece suit, size 38, bidding at $168.01

Navy tux, size 42, Buy it Now for $135.00

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Posted in 1930's, 1940's, Gentlemen, Jackets, Pants, Suits, Vests

Tagged 1930's, 1940's, belt back, eBay, linen, men, Norfolk, suit, Summer, swing dance

Corn Applique Dress

Posted on January 14, 2013 by Lindy Shopper | 1 Comment

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

That’s right, I said corn – I found this great 1940′s sequin applique dress, but instead of the typical bows or flowers, this one features what could either be corn or yellow grapes. For our purposes, I’m going with corn and this is the sparkly equivalent of a novelty print. If I were heading to the Hawkeye Swing Festival or the Heartland Swing Festival, I would pick this up in a second. Adorable!

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Posted in 1940's, Ladies

Tagged 1940's dress, Balboa, black, dance, Lindy Hop, sequin applique, swing

EBC 2012 Vendors

Posted on November 9, 2012 by Lindy Shopper | 5 Comments

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

Merch upgrade: the Mint Julep Jazz Band was selling logo shoe bags and buttons at EBC and Creations by Crawford decided to take the buttons to the next level – available as a pin or hair flower.

The 9th annual Eastern Balboa Championships was another rousing success, with perhaps even more shenanigans, planned and unplanned, than usual. A highlight of the weekend was dressing in tweeds for the mock English hunt, led by Bobby White, where the tweeded and costumed EBC gentry gave organizer Chris Owens a sporting head start before we unleashed the Nerf guns on him. Perhaps the best part of the weekend for me was performing with my band, the Mint Julep Jazz Band, for the Friday night dance, receiving rave reviews for our performance, and launching a Kickstarter for our first CD.

Molly McGowan picked up the wonderful 1940′s dress on the right from Raleigh Vintage, and I had ideas that Adam Speen might like this sweater vest.

The vendors were out again this year, but in spite of not having a shoe vendor, the vendor area certainly looked full. Raleigh Vintage was back with their fabulous trunk show of 1920′s, 1930′s, and 1940′s clothing, as well as a full rack of tweed for some last-minute-pre-hunt shopping. Some of my favorite pieces from the collection are shown below, and I managed to do some Christmas shopping for my husband, as well. My favorite purchase for him was a 1933 World’s Fair tie clip and Raleigh Vintage had a set of three of them, in blue, white, and black. They also had some excellent ladies’ jewelry this time, bakelite, Art Deco necklaces, and clever pins. There was a hilarious pin with maracas and a plaque that said “Hasta Manana” that I loved – but what do you wear with this? I am pondering…

Red beauties from The Cleveland Shop

Following the success of their booth at All Balboa Weekend, The Cleveland Shop made the long journey to North Carolina with an impressive display of vintage dresses, separates, menswear, shoes, hats, and other vintage sundries. I especially appreciate that they brought books on vintage make-up and hair, which can be a chore to figure out without a tutorial. Favorites included the red shoes pictured at left, tons of wonderful rayon floral 30′s and 40′s dresses, and a plaid suit that I would wear loud and proud if I were a dude. I do hope their trip down here was fruitful and that they will return to us next year from the land of vintage with even more goodies.

Last, but certainly not least, Sharon Crawford of Creations by Crawford is the hardest working vendor at these events – most of her creations are custom made for you, during the weekend, and are sometimes being made for a dance that night. Sharon’s vendor table is also a social hub, so you can enjoy the warm, friendly conversation as she creates wonderful pieces made from vintage jewelry, feathers, ribbon, and other tiny pretty things. I’m willing to say that Sharon gets a lot of business from men, as well, and can create the perfect boutonniere to go with any jacket or ensemble.

Don’t miss out on the 10th anniversary party next year, the celebration is going to be huge and full of pranks, I’m sure!

Usually, one of Sharon’s creations begins with a piece of jewelry…

Ms. Crawford and her workstation

One of the books on vintage makeup at The Cleveland Shop’s table

I love the smocking on this dress from The Cleveland Shop

Plaid!

My GAWD the shoes – at Raleigh Vintage

Raleigh Vintage’s table of gentlemanly accoutrements

The jewelry case at Raleigh Vintage’s ladies’ table

This dead stock tie came with a matching pocket square!

Beautiful beading on this 1940′s dress

I do love a Peter Pan collar – at Raleigh Vintage

I REALLY wanted this dress, and it really didn’t have a zipper, snaps, or any way to get into the dress other than over the head – someone smaller than me should come crawl in and enjoy.

Another lovely green item, this time for the gents, from Raleigh Vintage.

Dress with matching necklace – how often does that happen? At Raleigh Vintage.

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Posted in 1920's, 1930's, 1940's, Accessories, Art Deco, Books, Dresses, Events, Gentlemen, Hats, Jackets, Jewelry, Ladies, Pants, Shirts, Shoes, Skirts, Socks, Suits, Sweaters, Vintage Stores

Tagged 1920's, 1930's, 1940's, Balboa, Cleveland Shop, clothing, Creations by Crawford, Eastern Balboa Championships, EBC, event, jewelry, men, NC, North Carolina, Raleigh, Raleigh Vintage, Sharon Crawford, Shoes, swing dance, vendors, vintage, women

Cutouts, Insets, and Embroidery

Posted on September 3, 2012 by Lindy Shopper | 1 Comment

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

This is such a hot little 1940′s dress and manages, at the same time, to be really beautiful – the shape and the black satin make it foxy, while the amazing floral cutouts with pink insets soften the look, tied together by tone on tone embroidery. Delicious! Auction ends tomorrow, someone snap this beauty up!

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Posted in 1940's, Dresses, Ladies

Tagged 1940's, Balboa, black, cutouts, dance, dancing, dress, embroidery, hourglass, inset, Lindy Hop, satin, swing, vintage

Field Trip: Amalgamated Classic Clothing and Dry Goods, Alexandria, VA

Posted on September 2, 2012 by Lindy Shopper | 6 Comments

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

I have anticipated checking out Alexandria’s Amalgamated Classic Clothing and Dry Goods since April, when I heard of its opening shortly prior to DCLX and the wonders that awaited me – rumors that the owners have a warehouse where items are pulled for Hollywood movies, that the inventory has real swing era stuff, GOOD stuff, and I was salivating. As I ditched the Saturday afternoon DCLX dance to head over to Alexandria I got a text message from Bill Speidel that the shop was closed. Oh, the disappointment!

Thankfully, I had already planned to attend the International Lindy Hop Championships in August, so I knew I’d get a second chance. I messaged the store’s Facebook page a few days prior to the event to make sure that they would be open and should I send my measuremnets. The answers were yes and yes, and I was elated.

I planned to go on Friday of ILHC and at the Thursday night dance I met Beth Midavaine, who had also planned to take a trip to Amalgamated with Bill Speidel, but Bill had bailed on her, so it seemed that fate would have it that we go shopping together. We headed to Amalgamated the next day with Jason Sager and arrived at the store at noon on the dot. The store was closed. I was frantic. We went next door to a knick knack store owner, who didn’t know why the shop wasn’t open. As we regrouped on the sidewalk, the door opened to Amalgamated and it was, after all, open for business. *phew!*

It took us three hours to get through everything in the store and try on the rack of clothes that Beth and I accumulated through our collective digging through the store. The store itself is small is square footage, but packed with everything good – there was no small rack where the few swing era items were delegated – the entire store was pre-1960′s, so 100% of their inventory was everything that you would want to see in a vintage store. It was glorious! The men’s section rivaled the women’s section in size and magnificence (who has an entire rack devoted to two tone Ricky Ricardo jackets?) and a men’s shoe section that took up an entire table, and included children’s shoes (tiny leather and mesh oxfords!). Owner Shelley White took us through boxes in the back room filled with delicate 1920′s beaded dresses, there were racks of glorious dresses and gowns, plus some very practical items that would be perfect for dancing. The women’s shoes had a good selection of larger women’s sizes, which was great for Beth, who picked up a pair of fantastic 1940′s heels.

I don’t think words or photos will do this place justice, so you’ll just have to go and see for yourself. Until then, check out some of our finds below:

The more choice men’s shoes behind glass.

The more choice women’s shoes behind glass – if you wear a size 5, those green t-straps could be yours!

On closer inspection, the print on this adorable 1940′s suit with giant lucite buttons features winged puppies! Does it get any cuter than freakin’ winged puppies???

Love this green 50′s dress, with a white scalloped stripe across the upper torso to draw the eye up and GIANT POCKETS.

Tie rack includes dead stock ties as well as used vintage ties.

Men’s shoes…

…and more men’s shoes…

Wide leg high waist women’s pants with adorable trim.

Ricky in purples

Ricky in brown and white

A shirt Jason considered…

Beth in a snappy hat

Jason snuggles with a vintage cat pillow.

A school spirited hat

A 1920′s beaded dress in my favorite color.

My find of the day – a 1930′s day dress in green. I’m holding the back because it will have to be taken in a bit, but I can’t pass up a green 30′s dress…

Beth’s find of the day – a gorgeous 1940′s gown with floral appliques and overlays

Love this Asian-inspired shape in a cotton leaf print.

Just about died when this almost-but-didn’t-quite fit

Gorgeous embroidery on this peach 1920′s day dress

A men’s vignette in the store

Another display at Amalgamated

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Posted in 1920's, 1930's, 1940's, 1950's, Accessories, Dresses, Gentlemen, Hats, Jackets, Jewelry, Ladies, Pants, Shirts, Shoes, Shorts, Skirts, Socks, Suits, Sweaters, Swimwear, Undergarments, Vests, Vintage Stores

Tagged 1920's, 1930's, 1940's, 1950's, Alexandria, Amalgamated, blouse, classic clothing, DC, dead stock, dress, dry goods, flapper, gown, men's, pants, Ricky Ricardo, shirt, Shoes, skirts, socks, suits, ties, tops, trousers, VA, vest, vintage clothing, Virginia, women's

Asian Print and Peplum

Posted on August 14, 2012 by Lindy Shopper | Leave a comment

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

I am still on a peplum kick and fell in love with this 1940′s Asian novelty print dress with a lovely peplum. The combination of the cheerful color, the shape, that amazing cutout at the neckline, and this whimsical Asian print featuring little boats makes this dress. The only drawback is that this dress is from a NYC seller, which means it has a NYC price tag. Still…pretty fabulous. Perhaps a tongue-in-cheek wardrobe selection for the upcoming Eastern Balboa Championships?

This print is just adorable!

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Posted in 1940's, Dresses, Ladies

Tagged 1940's, Asian, Balboa, boats, clothing, dance, dress, Lindy Hop, novelty, print, rayon, swing

Snakeskin Oxfords

Posted on August 6, 2012 by Lindy Shopper | 1 Comment

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

Ever since my grandmother told me about dancing a hole through the sole of her red snakeskin pumps in one night of dancing during WWII, I have been pining for a pair of my own. While these are neither pumps nor red in color, this pair of snakeskin (or “python” as the seller lists) 1930′s oxfords is a pretty awesome curiosity (although, with the slight platform, would you place them as 1940′s?). The condition is remarkable and so is the pattern and the way the pattern is placed on the shoe.

I also love hearing about companies that are still in business from the swing era, with this pair originating overseas:

“This is an extraordinary find – a pair of vintage 1930s real python skin shoes, made by the famous bespoke Hong Kong shoemakers Kow Hoo. The company opened in Shanghai in 1928, and moved to Hong Kong in 1946. They still make bespoke, handmade shoes today – the last firm to do so in Hong Kong: www.kowhoo.com/hk“

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Posted in 1930's, 1940's, Ladies, Shoes

Tagged 1930's, Balboa, dancing, heels, Lindy Hop, oxford, python, Shoes, snake, snakeskin, swing

A Vintage Sole

Posted on July 27, 2012 by Lindy Shopper | Leave a comment

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

Aside from Re-Mix Vintage Shoes‘ retail location, I was not aware of a retailer specializing in dead stock shoes – until now. I happened upon A Vintage Sole and was delighted to find an entire website devoted to dead stock shoes from many eras, including the swing era. I was immediately awash with questions of “how…?” “where…?” “what..??!” Just amazing.

This site is also a haven for irregular widths – it is apparent that the buyer found whole sets of stock for a certain shoe, sometimes in multiple colors, and almost always in multiple widths. You can search their inventory by size, width, and color. The only criteria missing would be decade.

So, back to my questions – thankfully, there’s FAQ page to satiate my curiosity:

“Where do you buy your shoes? We find people with vintage shoes to sell. If they are in mint condition, we’re interested. We’re pretty open-minded when it comes to our sources. Keep in mind that all of our shoes are still in the box and have never been worn.”

The owner, Libby, sounds like a kindred spirit – “A Vintage Sole began with a love of shoes. From there it grew into a bit of an obsession. I searched high and low for authentic vintage shoes. One pair became two. Two pairs became four. Four pairs became eight until I had so many shoes I had to pass them on to you…Growing up in the Midwest, I also loved the thrill of spending weekends driving around the many small towns filled with antique shops hiding vintage gems. Have you ever been to a garage sale, second-hand store, or antique shop and found something that was so amazing you had to get it even though it wasn’t quite right for you? When you picked it up you thought, “My friend would love this!” That’s how I feel. I know you’ll love what I’ve found for you. Who wouldn’t love an authentic pair of gorgeous, vintage shoes? The shoes I sell have never been worn! It’s time they had their moment in the spotlight because they are too beautiful to stay boxed up forever. a Vintage Sole offers footwear in limited quantities that enables your shoes to be as unique as you are. We celebrate individuality and flair. Love for great shoes is a passion to share. From me and the rest of the staff of a Vintage Sole, we hope you truly enjoy your shoes!

There’s also a standing 15% discount if you elect to donate 10% of your order to the P.E.O Educational Loan Fund or Interlochen Arts Academy Scholarship Fund – you save money and help A Vintage Sole make a difference.

Now for the shoes! Here are some favorites from A Vintage Sole:

Princess – 1930′s heel, looks narrow but some sizes have regular and slightly wide widths!

Licorice Whip – mid-1940′s shoe

Narcissus – late 40′s shoe, also available in black and white combo

Irene – early 40′s shoe, also available in black

Beatrice – black suede early 40′s shoe

Joyce – mid-40′s shoe

Mimi – late 30′s heels, also available in brown

Missie – early 40′s shoe, also available in black

Jacqueline – early 40′s shoe

Dot – late 30′s heel

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Posted in 1930's, 1940's, 1950's, Ladies, Shoes

Tagged 1930's, 1940's, Balboa, Charleston, dance, dead, deadstock, heels, ladies, leather, Lindy Hop, pumps, Shoes, stock, swing, women

Rocket Originals

Posted on July 9, 2012 by Lindy Shopper | Leave a comment

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

In my search for a new pair of 1940′s wedges I came across Rocket Originals, a UK-based company specializing in 1940′s and 50′s clothing, shoes and accessories for men and women. While the gorgeous wedges they offer didn’t work out (rubber soles!?), there are a bunch of other really great items on the website, namely those wonderful short sleeved ski bunny sweaters, men’s two tone cap toes, wingtips, and loafers, blue suede oxfords, diamond and argyle socks, argyle belts, and repro men’s dress shirts with short and long sleeves,

I do admire the efforts Rocket Originals has taken to supporting local manufacturers in the UK. From their website:

“The men’s shoes are all made here in England, as are our men’s socks. We’re proud to be doing our bit in helping keep our British industries alive and try, whenever possible, to have our stock manufactured in good old blightly.

Our ladies sweaters are also manufactured in England. All the designs are taken from vintage knitting patterns, and one of the companies we use still has a vintage mechanical knitting machine, so we have some of ours knitted on that (very authentic!) We get asked “don’t you knit them yourselves” – well, no we don’t (we can’t knit that well, it would take forever and wouldn’t look nearly as neat!)”

Keep those sweaters coming! Here’s what I’m loving from Rocket Originals:

Fairisle sweater in green, also available in blue and grey

Diamond jacquard sweater in red, also available in black

Something about these blue suede oxfords is reading awesome to me…

I do love a brown and cream cap toe

Diamond pattern socks

Argyle sock 4-pack

White diamond belt to go with your white cap toes

Cream short sleeve dress shirt with a sort of cross hatch and fleck

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Posted in 1940's, 1950's, Accessories, Gentlemen, Ladies, Shirts, Shoes, Socks, Sweaters

Link

Rosy Gingham and Scallops Dress

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

There is so much to love in this adorable rosy gingham 1940′s/50′s dress with fantastic rose and white scallop detailing at the hem and sleeves. I could do without the cheesy pink 80′s belt the seller added, where a ribbon would have done more, but overall the effect is fantastic. Measurements are 42/37/52 and the starting price is right at $19.99.

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Posted on July 2, 2012 by Lindy Shopper in 1940's, 1950's, Dresses, Ladies

Tagged 1940's, 1950's, clothing, dance, dress, gingham, scallop, sundress, swing

Tap Pants and Pettipants

Posted on June 25, 2012 by Lindy Shopper | 1 Comment

This post was written by Lindy Shopper.

I’m always on the lookout for dancing undergarment solutions. Like the effect of My Heinies, it’s always nice to see a bit of color under a twirly skirt (and that things are covered), and it’s also nice to see a bit of a slip, or in the case of my new acquisition, a little satin and/or lace with full coverage.

I picked up a pair of 1930′s tap pants at All Balboa Weekend and am in heaven. They just don’t make the lace like they used to and the overall effect with the high waist, comfortable leg opening, and the peach silk and lace combo is very elegant. I could wear them under just about any dress, but where I found them particularly useful was under very short dresses, like those that you may pick up from Forever 21 that are just at mid-thigh (or higher, if your legs are longer than mine). I have had trouble with slips and short dresses because, at some point, the dresses are just so short that the slip becomes a liability, either sticking out the bottom when you are standing or peeking out when you sit down. I couldn’t go without because any good Southern girl wouldn’t be seen in a dress that showed the outline of her legs and getting a shorter slip would be an exercise in futility. The tap pants worked like a champ. Where I generally despise shorts because they ride up when I sit down, the tap pants rode up enough to not stick out from under the dress when I sat down and were still comfortable because of the silk. There’s all this going for the tap pants, plus the twirl factor will be lovely!

I started seeking out other forms of tap pants and there are also pettipants, although pettipants may also refer to longer versions of the slip pant. I found the Wikipedia entry on pettipants quite amusing:

“When pettipants were fashionable, they were usually worn under skirts, dresses, culottes, or walking shorts for modesty or comfort. However, they are not considered a modern or popular style; currently they are most likely to be worn by square dancers or persons involved in historical reenactment. Unlike other types of underwear, pettipants will not ride up and eliminate hot-weather chafing.”

Well, then. Like the petticoat’s evolution into the slip, the pettipants have also evolved (although the square dancer and reenactment versions still exist). When you search for pettipants online, something akin to the 1930′s tap pants appears in the search results. The modern tap pants I found are a bit scantier, but there are some potential candidates for dancewear. Here’s what I’m thinking may work: