Date check on this 'Shapely' Ruffle front blouse?

retro ruth

retro ruth

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Date check on this \'Shapely\' Ruffle front blouse?

By style I had thought this to be around the early 80s New Romantic / Princess Di kind of thing, or just maybe 70s Edwardian/Victorian revival, which I thought was a mid-late 70s trend? Then I noticed the lack of care symbols. Am I right that puts this no later than 1971? So now I'm wondering if it's very early 70s or even late 60s.

Although I'm in the UK this is an US blouse. With the RN number I found out that the Shapely label is made by the Mack Shirt Corporation, and I've seen adverts online for 'Shapely' going back to 1958.

Apart from dating this blouse, I'd be really glad to add to my understanding of later 20th century fashion trends!

Many thanks for any input.

Ruth

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Ruth, I agree with your early '80s dating - I'm not sure when the care symbol thing became set but I've certainly seen many garments from that era that do not have them.

I think the care instructions are detailed enough that the blouse is unlikely to be any earlier than mid '70s.

Nicole
 
I agree with Nicole--I think late 70s to early 80s. The slight additional gathering with resulting slight "puff" at the shoulder-to-sleeve seam makes me think more late 70s, but I don't remember those days well enough, so could be into the 80s.
 
Thanks very much for that. Very nice to know my first instincts were probably about right!

It was the label that threw me, so good to know too for future reference, that care symbols don't necessarily appear in later labels.

It's worth saying again: this forum is so great!

R
 
I just wanted to add,,, If I remember correctly, that care symbols were standardized in 1983, so between the early 70s and early 80s there were basic care instructions... that is the difference you are thinking of. Also in the early 70s a contents lable became mandatory. I can not remember the exact dates right now..... if you would like to know for sure I can go look it up

:-)
 
Oh Marty, thanks so much!

That's really nice of you. You do mean the blouse, rather than my avatar? I look at others amazing photos, especially with models, and don't think mine are so good, so that's really encouraging. Rx
 
I have a question about a few items, but one of which is something that Hass to be around the Victorian era it’s exquisite I will take pictures. Beautiful, dark fabric with small crimson print, beaded, hand sewn extremely delicate lace, interior might be Muslin or linen. Not sure? it does have a few tears, both in the inner lining. With some stays. But also here and there with the lace, but none of this would be unfixable.

It also has a matching choker. I have other things but I’m really curious about this because 15 years ago someone told me it was worth 400+ dollars! But seriously, this is exquisite. it may need some steaming and minor repairs. I would’ve parted with it before if I didn’t love it, and I might be willing to sell it because let’s just say the one area that doesn’t fit me is the bust. I will take pictures. Also, any advice on vintage kimonos? and 30s peach, silk and lace nightgown? And white and Warren mesh tops?any of it would be really welcome
 
Laura Downing said:
I have a question about a few items, but one of which is something that Hass to be around the Victorian era it’s exquisite I will take pictures. Beautiful, dark fabric with small crimson print, beaded, hand sewn extremely delicate lace, interior might be Muslin or linen. Not sure? it does have a few tears, both in the inner lining. With some stays. But also here and there with the lace, but none of this would be unfixable.

It also has a matching choker. I have other things but I’m really curious about this because 15 years ago someone told me it was worth 400+ dollars! But seriously, this is exquisite. it may need some steaming and minor repairs. I would’ve parted with it before if I didn’t love it, and I might be willing to sell it because let’s just say the one area that doesn’t fit me is the bust. I will take pictures. Also, any advice on vintage kimonos? and 30s peach, silk and lace nightgown? And white and Warren mesh tops?any of it would be really welcome
Click to expand...

Hi Laura, welcome to the Forums! My recommendation is to start a new ask thread within the Public Vintage, ask and answer, for each of the pieces you are wanting more information about. Be sure to take good photographs of the complete garment, and any labels - those will help more than descriptions. We will never be able to assist with valuation, as that is we cannot give an appraisal - you would need to find an appraiser local to you so that they may handle the piece. Damaged pieces are far less valuable than perfect, and most vintage pieces have been worn and fall somewhere in between. We have many active members with varying eras of expertise, and we are happy to help solve fashion mysteries!

Here is a link to helpful info for participating in the forums - Forum FAQ
 
Hello thank you for the welcome and sorry about the rookie mistake!!! Was trying to take pictures. I will look at other forums, and I am so sorry if I wasted anyone’s time. Still deciding on whether I should steam anything.
as a new to this I appreciate the advice, and anyone else is welcome to send me any as far as how to navigate.
 
Laura Downing said:
Hello thank you for the welcome and sorry about the rookie mistake!!! Was trying to take pictures. I will look at other forums, and I am so sorry if I wasted anyone’s time. Still deciding on whether I should steam anything.
as a new to this I appreciate the advice, and anyone else is welcome to send me any as far as how to navigate.
Click to expand...

You are absolutely welcome here! Sometimes things get lost or missed because they are inquiries attached to completed inquiries. Just wanted you to have a little info for what we would ask in any thread, if it is missing and we are trying to help or narrow down the possibilities! This site is a really wonderful learning tool (already printed and a living document), as well as an outlet for all of us vintage nerds to gain knowledge from each other.
 
Thank you! Awesome! Everyone has wonderful information. I had some question earlier and that’s how I found this site. I will read everything because I love vintage clothing (used to work in a vintage clothing store) and read. Plus Antique jewelry, etc. I’m not an expert but I would love to learn.

Thank you again for the additional information.
 
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