American Gothic

No, not inspired by the painting! I don’t actually celebrate Halloween, but I thought it was an appropriate evening to share this gothic-style, vintage 1970s jersey knit gown with you.

I bought it a few years ago in an op shop for $12, and the only thing it had wrong with it was that it was missing a button on the rather punkish attached choker. I remembered some rhinestone bow-shaped buttons I had bought on eBay many, many years ago simply because I thought they were sweet. I never had any use for them, but finally they came into their own, or at least one of them did.

I rather enjoy the secret pleasure of buying little trifles and just letting them bide their time, and bide their time, until suddenly they become perfect for some unexpected vintage rescue. Another recent instance of this was acquisition of a 1930s nautical style dress that had lost, somewhere during its history, its belt. I just happened to have a blue pin-striped 30s belt buckle – also bought years ago – that is a serendipitous perfect match, for the dress has a pattern of checks formed by overstitched pin-stripes.

The chandelier earrings and silver sandals are also thrift-store purchases. I don’t think I have actually worn this dress out yet: it too is waiting for the right occasion.

Happy Halloween, kids!

Photos: March 2018