The Cottager
Jessica Wagner
Seventies Vintage
I pulled this vintage beauty out of my parents attic. Maybe it's the old soul in me, but I've always been drawn to clothing that tells a story. Dreamy pieces in creamy white, like this natural frock, speak to my sensitive nature. I love the lived-in feel from another time and place.
My sisters and I used to have a big wooden box of dress up clothes and this 1970s dress was one of our favorites. Back then it would fall three feet too long, dragging across the floor, and take us to an imaginary world of royal tea parties and secret gardens -- or dark alleyway dealings as British spies in disguise.
Fast forward to today, it's the perfect fit for picking wild flowers on a rosé picnic at the cottage. I love the soft worn-in linen feel of the dress. The tag actually reads "The Cottager for the Junior." I couldn't find much about the brand, but it breaths like a warm summer night. The empire waist and detailed buttons up the back add a charming vibe that makes it stand out from today's fashions.
I believe a good vintage dress has the ability to transport you... the more ethereal the better. I have a soft spot for our weekend escapes to our family cottage. Our happy place. <3 Life slows down and we usually just enjoy eachothers company or get lost in nature. Fishing on the lake, walks on the beach, running through wild flower fields or picking berries from the local farm. I've been coming up to the lake since I was born. t's a place that holds childhood memories and peaceful nostalgia. BBQs, late nights around fires. Sunning like little sand crabs on Papa's dock. Canoe rides and getting pushed on the swing {or into the pond!} The sound of crickets and the hum of nature. A place for wild strawberries and wild freedom.
We discovered this quarry down an old dirt path, and this dress just felt right for whispered dreams and special moments. Earth-goddess hair, bare feet and free flowing fabrics where staples of the seventies. In full hippie-chic mode I added a few Queen Anne's Lace to my braid for added effect. {Interesting fact: Queen Anne’s Lace is in actuality, a wild carrot!}
When looking to add vintage clothing to your wardrobe, don't be afraid to shop around in antique shops, or your own auntie or grandmothers dresser drawers. Hats, baskets and scarves are a few accessories I usually walk away with for a steal!
When it comes to making a decision on to buy or not I like to try and envision wearing it in a countryside flower field, full of eyelet lace, and creamy shades of dancing white. Little stone cottages and over-grown ivy. Lost dirt roads and hidden wishing wells. If the dress fits the scene - (and fits!) or can be easily altered, into the bag it goes! Always check for stains, holes, and missing pieces.
Long maxi dresses or even midi styles will serve as versatile summertime wear and will evoke an "imperfect" elegance. Shabby chic at it's best, out in the open sky among the singing reeds. Unabashedly feminine, and whimsical.
If you are also enchanted by history and vintage style, where are you favorite places to find additions to your wardrobe? I would love to hear in the comments below!
Outfit Details:
Dress: Vintage The Cottager For The Junior Shoes: Vintage Huaraches - House of Dow Picnic Basket: Vintage Hat: My grandmother's <3 Lips: Le Marc Lip Crème Kiss Kiss Bang Bang