Vintage and antique items from the forties, fifties, and early sixties are often celebrated for their aesthetic appeal and durability. Many of these pieces, including luggage, can be re-purposed for modern use. The author was thrilled to recently acquire a set of vintage hard suitcases, originally purchased in Manhattan in 1947 by a German immigrant to transport her belongings to Connecticut.
For crafters, like the author who knits and crochets, these vintage suitcases offer practical storage solutions. One suitcase now holds a crochet project, while another is used for storing extra yarn, effectively utilizing space under a coffee table or in a playroom.
The author also found a vintage, silvery-blue train case, inspired by a friend who uses one for her knitting. This 1950s American Tourister train case has become the author's go-to knitting bag. Its interior still carries a faint scent of Chanel No. 5. The case is easy to transport, can hold more projects than a typical tote bag, and is significantly more durable. The author meticulously cleaned her find using homemade glass cleaner, a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, and an old toothbrush for the crevices, after testing the cleaning agents in an inconspicuous spot.
While some vintage train cases are adorably "glammed up," the author's 1950s case was in such good condition that it only required cleaning and a vintage handkerchief tied on for a decorative touch.
Vintage train cases can also serve as charming decorative pieces with hidden storage, as exemplified by a friend's mother, Brenda Clinton. Brenda, a former flight attendant from 52 years ago, received her first train case as a teenage birthday gift. Her matching pieces were added on other occasions, and she now uses one of these train cases as a decor piece with hidden storage, appreciating its red lining.
The Golden Age of Air Travel and the Flight Attendant's Role
Brenda Clinton recounts that in her time as a stewardess, casual attire was unheard of for air travel. Everyone dressed up to fly, as it was considered a special event. The profession of a flight attendant was glamorous, provided certain requirements were met. These included a height range of 5'2" to 5'9" with a proportionate weight, a mandatory girdle under the uniform, and white gloves. Airlines provided training in hair and makeup, along with summer and winter uniforms, while flight attendants were responsible for their own shoes, which had to be kept shiny.
Despite the strict regulations, being a flight attendant was a highly sought-after profession. Brenda describes the planes of that era, such as the DC6 and DC7, as luxurious and glamorous, accommodating 64 passengers and featuring lounges for card games. These were propeller-type aircraft, alongside the turbo-prop Viscount.
Earning silver wings signified graduation from the program. Brenda shared an anecdote about being late for a flight from Newark, New Jersey. It is also noted that the Supreme Court later ruled that men should be permitted to serve as flight attendants, reflecting societal changes.
A Lifelong Companion: The Samsonite Beauty Case
The author shares a personal story about her Samsonite beauty case, a high-school graduation present received in 1977. This oversized (10"x13"x8") beige case with red, white, and blue-striped piping became a cherished travel companion for over a quarter-century. It cost $40, a significant sum at the time, and was an incredibly valuable gift.
The beauty case was ideal for organizing lotions, potions, and other toiletries, which seemed like a novel idea then. It was kept packed in the bathroom and also served as an extra drawer for beauty essentials. The author used her Samsonite throughout college, graduate school, and during her tenure as an Editor at Robb Report Magazine. As a luxury travel writer, this "little bag that could" has accompanied her on numerous international trips.
The case's durability has been remarkable, enduring significant wear and tear. It is creased with grime, the mirror is missing, and the blue silk lining is stained from spills. Although a few exterior seams ripped during a trip to Bora Bora, they were repaired with glue and duct tape, a testament to its resilience and the author's resourcefulness.
Ms. Pittenger is quoted as stating, "As long as beauty products and toiletries remain travel essentials, beauty cases aren’t going anywhere." She further notes that TSA regulations have not diminished the need for beauty cases. Despite the current TSA rules regarding liquids, which limit her frequent use of the Samsonite for local trips, the author still cherishes her sturdy beauty case, which can even serve as a portable footrest or chair during flights.