Vintage Prairie Dresses

Craving a simpler time? Cottagecore or Prairiecore are trends inspired by nostalgia and the dream of greener spaces, getting back to quant county life. Not only is it popping up in fashion, people are decorating their homes around this trend as well. Cottagecore is characterized by flowy dresses, floral prints and embracing the dream of nature and farm life. We can’t think of a style that embodies this trend more than feminine prairie dresses of the 70’s and 80’s.

One of the most famous designers of that time was Gunne Sax, this clothing label was one of the first originators of this trend. It originated in San Francisco in 1967 during the “Summer of Love.”The line focused on dresses for hippies and rising feminists who wanted to get away from the short mod styles, choosing to wear looser fitting clothing with oversized puff sleeves and long hemlines, a departure from clothing catering to the male gaze. It was a huge contrast from the ultra mini skirts of the mod era. The clothing line connected with followers of the Women’s Movement offering them a feminine option that still felt liberating.

Shortly after the line started, Jessica McClintock came onto the scene and within a few short years had bought out the original owners. She was known to focus on the rich details of the garments. The over the top lace, delicate buttons, miles of satin ribbon, calico prints and florals were staple characteristics that were reminiscent of both Victorian styles and rural country life that was being romanticized in TV and films during the 1970s and early 1980s.

We’ve found these amazing prairie style dresses that will be featured in our vintage drop next Friday! 

Here is a delicate floral and lace dress with an empire waistline, long hem and perfectly puffed sleeves. Made by Wiggle Worm.

This style is a true Gunne Sax by Jessica original! It has sheer lace insets, button details and a sweeping midi skirt. We’ve paired it with a pair of vintage cowboy boots to sweeten the look.

This creamy eyelet number is so romantic with its high collar and empire waist. It would be perfect for frolicking in the countryside while picking the dreamiest wildflowers. Made by Couriers of California.

Now this showstopper is absolutely jaw-dropping. It's dramatic lace sleeves, high lace collar, gorgeous lace inlay and floor length hem are the unique elements that make a prairie dress so romantic. I can’t imagine a dreamier dress exists.

This skirt is also a Jessica McClintock Original! Maxi length with shiny ribbon details and calico cuteness in every inch, this would be perfect for a country picnic or a simple morning at the farmer's market.

Laura Ashley was a British designer also famous for her prairie vibes, so keep a look out for a rare find. In Japan there are several designers from the 1970’s that are coveted currently by diehard Lolita lovers that were carried in shops like MILK and Mitsukoshi.

Sometimes in the crazy urban world we live in we all want to escape and find solace in something beautiful, fantastical and idyllic. Find a puff sleeve blouse, a tiered maxi skirt or cozy up in with one of our granny sweatshirts for a little taste of Cottagecore. Our website has so many pieces that can give you a little morsel of the Cottagecore trend.

Don't miss our monthly Vintage Drop hitting the web for your shopping pleasure Friday April 14th. These dresses and curated Cottagecore pieces will be all in one place for easy picking!