Fossicking around a second hand shop in Mogo Town, I felt an instant pep when I stumbled across some very special 40’s/50’s lingerie. The pieces were lightly tattered and had a warm discolouration that made me feel nostalgic about an era I wasn’t even a part of. The lacy girdle, beige corset and frilly bloomers were thrown in the bottom of a timber chest.
The middle aged woman behind the counter was wearing Avon earrings and clearly didn’t know the worth of her gorgeous treasures. My first thought wasn’t a thought as such, it was alarm bells. FABULOUS! My emotions said.
I lined up in front of a velvet red curtain, waiting my turn to to try the girdle on, which was delightful with lace bows and in-built garter belt. My cousin emerged from piles of dusty books and Japanese fans. “That’s disgusting,” was all he said, as he looked down at my ‘find.’ I glanced down to find I was clutching a pair of soiled Nanna knickers, yellowed with age and sweat.
This got me thinking. Where is the line with buying vintage? I’m partial to a sprinkle of the past and a handmade corset…but is a girdle too close for womanly comfort?
I thought of all the things my bargain vintage girdle had seen in her long life, and decided my conflicting emotions meant simply, vintage is not always cool – especially when it’s knickers.
Hunting for good quality vintage in Canberra? Look for handpicked and restored frocks at Itrip Iskip in Braddon or for pre-loved Louis Vuitton and Chanel bags and shoes, Sybil’s Closet in Kingston promises well taken care of, unique pieces.
