Fashion Ads from the 40's to 60's

[billm50]

Fashion Ads from the 40\'s to 60\'s

I am the oldest grandson of Marjorie Montgomery. My wife and I are finally getting around to being really curious about her fashion background. I grew up playing in her factory; learned to box dresses for shipment; ate lunch with her and her team of designers. I recall she sold through many of the large department stores, and would like to track down some of their ads showing her dresses; also, any newspaper articles. Somewhere in my files I have a research paper on her that a UCLA student wrote back in the early 80's (she died in '86). Any suggestions on where we can look would be appreciated. Thank you -- Bill and Francie Montgomery

 

[thevintagebungalow]

You came to a great place to find this type of information. There are lots of members who love to hunt down fashion history!

 

[cotmyey]

and hunt down we do! you might have already found these?

Here is an ad from 1947:

1947 Fabric Ad showing MM Dress.

lovely light pink yellow and black striped material with full-skirts and halter neckline by Marjorie Montgomery

Would this be your Grandma?

http://www.vintageclothesline.com/vintage_fashion_labels

Also one of numerous links using Google News Archives:

"Marjorie Montgomery" 1944-49 I don't have a subscription? to see further into the article.

Hope this helps and is a good start for you.

 

[billm50]

Yep, that's my grandmother, Nana Gray.(she was married four times....)

I stumbled upon that ad about an hour ago. TX-bm

 

[Jonathan]

I dont' have any advertisements for her work but I do own two garments from her - one mid 40s, the other early 50s. The mid 40s outfit is one of those mix and match poolside sets she was known for. I used that outfit as an illustration in my book 'Forties Fashion: From Siren Suits to the New Look'. Its a great outfit - a wonderful example of American Sportswear at its best.

 

[billm50]

Can you point me toward your book? She spoke about that style, but I don't believe we ever saw an example. TX-bm

 

[Jonathan]

It should be available at all major book stores, like Borders. Or you can orderit through Amazon -- http://www.amazon.com/Forties-Fashion-Siren-Suits-Look/dp/0500514291

 

[amandainvermont]

Here are a few things -

 

[billm50]

Thank you, Amanda and Jonathan (that is my grandmother's great grandson's name, too) for your input. This is very exciting. The picture of her in the Daily Plainsman was taken probably just a few years before she had a formal portrait painted, of her standing, hand on the back of a chair, in a women's business suit. I almost gave it away a few years back....

I'll look for your book, Jonathan.

--bill and francie